As a cannabis consumer, you may wonder what makes different strains of cannabis provide varied effects. For example, you may wonder, what is Indica, and why does it make me feel relaxed while Sativa strains have energizing effects? A big part of it is where it’s grown and how it develops, which in turn, impacts the dominant compounds and terpenes in the plant.
This may be starting to sound a little jargon-heavy and sciency for you, but don’t worry. This article will explore everything you need to know about Indica plants, their effects, highlight standout strains, and what’s behind them in a non-confusing manner. By the time you finrish, you may be able to teach a class yourself!
What Is Indica?
Indica (Cannabis indica)strains are a type of cannabis known for their deeply relaxing and soothing effects. They are effective in reducing physical discomfort and anxiousness and can sedate you into a restful sleep. Many people use Indica to help them relax, release tension, or as a nighttime sleep aid to help them fall asleep faster.
You can recognize Indica plants by their short, bushy, broad leaves. However, once ground down into buds, they are difficult to discern from Sativa strains. Yet, certain strains have unique characteristics that make them more recognizable.
Indica is also unique due to its growing conditions. The plant thrives in the cooler climates of Eastern Europe, India, and Afghanistan. Cannabis growers recognize that various factors, including soil type, composition, sun exposure, humidity, elevation, and cultivation practices, impact the plant’s chemistry, specifically the levels of cannabinoids and cannabis terpenes.
Indica cannabis plants are believed to have originated in the Hindu Kush region, where they adapted to harsh mountain climates with shorter, bushier growth patterns. First classified in the 18th century by French biologist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck, Indica strains were noted for their dense buds, fast flowering time, and deeply relaxing effects.
Indica vs Sativa vs Hybrid Strains
When shopping for cannabis strains, you will also encounter Sativa and Hybrid strains. You may wonder, what’s the difference between Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid?
Indica and Sativa plants differ in that Sativa provides more energizing effects, while Indica cannabis strains are relaxing. Sativa (Cannabis sativa) tends to have higher THC levels, contributing to a more euphoric effect. They also have tall, thin, narrow leaves as opposed to Indica’s thick, broad leaves. Sativa plants typically grow in warm climates, such as those found in Central and South America, as well as Southeast Asia.
Hybrid strains feature a mix of Indica and Sativa strains. Often, one strain will be dominant. An Indica-dominant Hybrid strain will offer sedative effects balanced by Sativa characteristics, so you may feel relaxed but not fall asleep. Similarly, a Sativa-dominant strain will be energizing but may also help reduce anxious feelings and provide relief from physical discomfort. Hybrid strains with 50/50 cannabis labeling will have an ideal Sativa-Indica balance.
Cannabis systematics is all about how different types of cannabis are classified. When it comes to Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid strains, here’s a quick breakdown of what sets them apart:
| Feature | Indica | Sativa | Hybrid |
| Origin | Afghanistan, India, Eastern Europe | Central and South America, Southeast Asia | Mix |
| Appearance | Short, bushy, wide leaves | Tall, thin, narrow leaves | Mix |
| Growth Time | Fast growing | Slow growing | Mix |
| Effects | Relaxation, discomfort relief, reduced anxiousness | Energizing effects, promotes creativity | Mix |
| Common Uses | Stiffness, soreness, discomfort relief, anxiousness | Promotes focus, energy and creativity | Mix with results depending on the dominant strain |
| THC to CBD Ratio | Low THC/ high CBD (Note: hemp strains will have 0.3% or less THC and are rich in CBD) | High THC/ low CBD (Note: hemp strains will have 0.3% or less THC and are rich in CBD) | Variety (Note: hemp strains will have 0.3% or less THC and are rich in CBD) |
| Best Time to Use | Evening or before bedtime | Morning or daytime | Varies depending on the dominant strain |
Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid strains comes down to what effects you’re looking for. Sativa is ideal when your goal is enhancing creativity. It will energize you and help you explore various possibilities. Indica is perfect for optimal relaxation. Use it to calm your nerves, relieve discomfort, or fall asleep faster at night. Cannabis Hybrids offer a balance that provides benefits without extreme outcomes.
Common Effects and Benefits of Indica
As mentioned earlier, Indica’s unique growing environment impacts its balance of terpenes and cannabinoids to support the cannabis plant experience. Let’s explain how terpenes and compounds function to deliver Indica’s overall effects.
Cannabis Compounds
Indica cannabis strains tend to be high in non-euphoric CBD, providing various wellness benefits without mind-altering results. Other cannabinoid levels may vary to ensure the relaxing results this particular strain provides.
Although most of us are familiar with CBD and THC, various other cannabis compounds present in multiple strains can impact the plant’s effects. For example:
- CBN is non-euphoric and promotes better sleep
- CBG is non-intoxicating, ideal for inflammation
- CBC also does not have psychoactive effects. It is still being explored, but it may offer discomfort relief and possess properties that can help combat environmental stress on the body and joints.
Cannabis Terpenes
The effects of Indica are also dictated by its various terpenes, the compounds in cannabis plants that are responsible for a strain’s flavor and aroma. Terpenes found in Indica strains may include:
- Beta-caryophyllene. Known for its grounding, soothing aroma.
- Linalool. Brings a soft, floral scent that promotes calming effects.
- Beta-pinene. Offers a fresh, piney scent often associated with clarity and focus.
Effects
Overall, when consuming Indica cannabis products, you can look forward to the following effects:
- Body High. Some people describe the effects of Indica as a body high. It reduces tightness and loosens muscles.
- Relaxation. Indica promotes optimal relaxation and can even help you fall asleep faster.
- Couch-Lock. If you take Indica, you may find it challenging to get off your couch because it’s so soothing and relaxing!
Medical Benefits
Many medical cannabis (medical marijuana) patients appreciate Indica for its deeply relaxing effects. Here are some of the most commonly reported benefits:
- Reduced Physical Discomfort. Most cannabis products interact with the receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS) to increase serotonin and dopamine and reduce discomfort signals that travel from the body to the brain. Indica strains, especially those of hemp, are especially effective in reducing chronic physical discomfort due to their high CBD content.
- Stress Reduction. Indica’s ability to increase serotonin and dopamine also provides stress-relieving effects. Its high CBD content makes it effective in taking the edge off.
- Sleep Support. Cannabis research provides mixed results regarding Indica’s ability to reduce sleep issues. However, it is effective in decreasing sleep onset latency—a fancy way of saying that it will help you fall asleep faster.
- Appetite Stimulating Effects. Indica contains THC, which increases ghrelin levels, a hormone that promotes hunger. It may benefit people who have difficulty eating due to medications or illness. However, Sativa may be even more beneficial as it has more THC.
Best Times to Use Indica
Since Indica has sedative effects, it is best to use it at nighttime. Take it about an hour before bedtime for optimal sleep support. It should help you unwind and fall asleep faster.
You may also be tempted to use Indica to destress after work or when you feel anxiousness and stress taking over. In these instances, an Indica-dom strain or microdose may be best. You can take small doses during the day to alleviate the effects, or opt for a Hybrid product for the ideal balance of outcomes.
List of Popular Indica Strains
Indica is a major, overarching strain, but once you begin exploring cannabis products, you will find various “substrains,” if you will. They provide different results based on their terpene and compound components. Here are some you may consider trying.
Grandaddy Purple
This strain is a California staple popularized by Ken Estes in 2003. So-called for its vibrant purple hue, it possesses a sweet, fruity aroma. Some claim it’s a cross between Medo Purps, Skunk, and Afghanistan, while others say it’s a combination of the parent plants Big Bud and Purple Urkle. It is known for its discomfort-relieving and deeply relaxing effects.
Northern Lights
This strain was believed to have developed in the Pacific Northwest in the 1970s. It is a cross between Afghan and Thai strains, offering a sweet and spicy flavor with earthy undertones. The cannabis provides sedative effects and is known to promote couch lock.
Hindu Kush
This strain is named for the Hindu Kush mountain range in Central and South Asia, where it has been cultivated for centuries. However, it was introduced to America through the Hippie Trail in the 1960s and 1970s. It has a sweet and earthy aroma. Potential benefits include its ability to relieve discomfort, quell an upset stomach, and fight stress.
Bubba Kush
This strain is believed to have been discovered by Matt “Bubba” Berger in the 1990s in California. The cannabis enthusiast was known to experiment with Kush genetics and may have come across it when combining Afghan landrace and an unknown Indica. Bubba Kush can be used for therapeutic effects and offers powerful tranquilizing properties. It has a floral aroma with earthy undertones.
Purple Kush
Cannabis consumers believe this strain was first cultivated in Oakland, CA, as a result of combining two strains of Indica, Hindu Kush and Purple Afghani. It is known to produce euphoria, reduce discomfort, and promote relaxation. The strain has a distinct purple hue and an earthy, sweet aroma.
Indica for Medical Use
Indica’s sedative effects make it ideal for those undergoing various medical treatments and in medical settings. For example, it may help to:
- Promote better sleep
- Reduce chronic discomfort
- Support muscle relaxation
- Decrease severe anxiousness and stress
- Promote appetite
- Decrease stomach upset and vomiting
If you are looking for the best Indica strains to use for medicinal purposes, consider trying the following:
- For relaxation… Grandaddy Purple will help you wind down. Consumers typically note its mentally relaxing effects.
- For better sleep… Bubba Kush for better sleep. Its couch lock qualities will help you achieve unconsciousness in no time.
- For physical discomfort relief… L.A. Confidential is ideal for reducing pain. It offers sedating, relaxing effects that ease tension.
- For increased appetite… Blue Cheese is preferred for its appetite-inducing effects. It also won’t make you too drowsy.
It’s always best to talk to a doctor about your treatment options. They will guide you on dosage information and ensure you use cannabis safely.
Indica Consumption Methods
You can find Indica cannabis in various products, ensuring a variety of consumption methods as follows:
- Flower. You can smoke flower in a joint, bong, or pipe, or vape it using a dry herb vape. It’s ideal for social situations as it’s conducive to sharing.
- Edibles. Indica flower can be baked into or added to various edible products, such as gummies and baked goods. Edibles pass through the digestive system, providing a slow onset and powerful effects. Go slowly when choosing this consumption method since it hits hard and the effects last long.
- Oils. These liquid cannabis products are typically dosed sublingually (under the tongue) and hit quickly. Oils are highly versatile, providing relief for a wide range of unique needs.
- Topicals. Apply topicals directly to affected areas to relieve soreness and discomfort. Because topicals don’t enter the bloodstream, they don’t deliver mood-related effects such as relaxation, stress relief, or improved sleep.
Growing Indica at Home
Indica is an ideal cannabis strain to experiment with if you are considering growing at home due to its short flowering time and small size. Here are some things to think about before getting started.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Environment
Some people prefer to grow Indica outdoors for space-saving reasons. However, growing indoors allows you to control various climatic factors, such as temperature, light exposure, and humidity. It may be a better choice.
Create the Ideal Environment
The environment will vary depending on the stage of growth. For example:
Temperature
- 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit during the vegetative stage and the germination stage
- 72-80 degrees Fahrenheit during the flowering stage
Humidity
- 80% during the vegetative stage and the germination stage
- 55% during the flowering stage
Light
Start with no light until the seeds reach germination. Then provide:
- 18-24 hours of sunlight, which continues through the vegetative stage
- Switch to 12 hours during the flowering stage
Water
Keep your Indica plants consistently hydrated, but avoid overwatering. Use well-draining, nutrient-rich soil to support healthy root development and prevent the growth of mold or root rot. Water gently at the base of the plant, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings to maintain the ideal moisture balance.
FAQs About Indica Cannabis
Is Indica Always More Relaxing Than Sativa?
Yes, Indica is typically more relaxing than Sativa. You may find some exceptions if you are using a Hybrid product with a high Sativa content or an Indica with energizing terpenes. However, for the most part, most Indica and Indica-leaning strains are known for their relaxing effects.
Can Indica Strains Have Energizing Effects?
Yes, Indica strains can have energizing effects, especially if they contain energizing terpenes like limonene. However, they are mostly relaxing. At best, more energizing strains will reduce couch lock and make you feel relaxed, rather than putting you to sleep.
How Much THC Is Typically in Indica Strains?
As compared to Sativa, Indica tends to have low THC content. However, some strains are high in THC, with levels close to 30%. However, when it comes to hemp, the THC content is very low. Hemp Indica strains have a THC content of 0.3% or less.
Is Indica Legal in My State/Country?
Indica may be legal in your state or country. The Farm Bill of 2018 made hemp-derived cannabis with a THC level of 0.3% and below federally legal. Many states adopted similar laws, although some cannabis laws are stricter or more lenient. Research to learn what’s legal in your state. Similarly, laws can vary significantly from one country to another. Research to learn the cannabis laws that apply.
Final Thoughts – What Is Indica? [The Full Breakdown + 5 Strains You Can’t Miss]
Indica is a cannabis strain that offers relaxation benefits. It can help reduce physical discomfort, promote better sleep, and support relaxation. Its unique biology provides distinct effects that set it apart from Sativa and Hybrid strains.
Although Indica cannabis tends to be mild, it is always best to start low and go slow, especially for new consumers. Wait to assess the full effects of the product before taking more. Explore your options to find the best strains based on your personal needs. Good luck achieving optimal wellness!
