Since cannabidiol (CBD) is a molecule derived from cannabis, it can be extracted from any variety of hemp. In fact, you may have heard of the two main varieties of this plant, Sativa and Indica? But do you know what the differences are between Sativa and Indica CBD flowers? We'll explain it all today.
What is cannabis sativa?
Cannabis, and in particular the discovery of its various varieties, is nothing new. As long ago as 1753, Swedish botanist Carl Von Linné identified psychoactive hemp plants. It was in 1785 that French biologist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck discovered that Cannabis Sativa had different characteristics in its own right.
The plant was originally cultivated in India, on the plateaus known as the Hindu Kush to the west of the Himalayas. Today, the name is used to refer to varieties grown in warmer climates (e.g. Mexico, Ecuador), dry climates with long, sunny days. Sativa plants are tall and relatively robust, resembling small shrubs from which grow elongated, hand-shaped leaves.
In terms of aromas and fragrances, Sativa is considered spicy thanks to its varied terpene profiles, giving rise to citrus aromas with earthy, even pungent notes.
What is Indica cannabis?
Native to northern India, Pakistan, Afghanistan and parts of North America, Indica cannabis is a high-altitude plant that is also widely found in the highlands of Nepal, Turkey and Morocco.
Visually, it bears no resemblance to the Sativa variety. The plants are small (no more than 90 cm high, compared with 1.80 m for Sativa) and the leaves are short and broad. In terms of aroma, we're also in a totally different league. Often known as Kush, Indica cannabis is renowned for its generous flavours. Often fruity, Indicas also have a strong woody smell.
Another attribute specific to this variety is its flowering time, which is between 8 and 10 weeks, whereas Sativas can take twice as long. Indica cannabis also contains a higher CBD content than Sativa cannabis.
What are the differences between Sativa and Indica CBD flowers?
From appearance to taste and olfactory profiles, as well as molecular composition, the differences between CBD Sativa and Indica flowers are significant. I've just confirmed that, visually, the two plants have nothing in common. Their aromas and scents are also different. Apart from these minor differences, the real difference lies in the composition of the plants and the way they impact the human organism.
Indica cannabis is, on average, slightly lower in THC than Sativa, but higher in CBD. Sativa plants, on the other hand, are renowned for their extreme THC content, which is the psychoactive molecule found in cannabis. CBD is also recognized for its calming and anti-stress effects, while THC is more stimulating and euphoric.
Indica should be taken in the eveningfor its sedative action, to relieve muscle pain and spasms, help with insomnia, nausea and chronic pain. Cannabis Sativa, on the other hand, has a more stimulating action, and is therefore best taken during the day to help with anxiety, ADHD, depression, anorexia, etc.
Which varieties are right for you?
While one variety is not necessarily better than the other, choosing the right CBD flowers for your needs is essential to getting the most out of CBD.
Both varieties contain CBD and THC, but with relatively different cannabinoid profiles. Cannabis Sativa is preferred for all mental ailments, whereas cannabis Indica is more suited to physical ailments. Today, hybrid flowers are predominant, especially those with a high CBD content.
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