Indica Or Sativa? The Real Factors Influencing Your High
In the world of cannabis, the terms “indica” and “sativa” have long been used to describe the effects of different strains. Indica is often seen as the relaxing, sleep-inducing option, while sativa is touted as an energizing, uplifting choice. However, as cannabis research evolves, the validity of this traditional dichotomy is increasingly questioned. As National Geographic reported, experts now argue that the real factors influencing your cannabis experience are far more complex than a simple label.
Origins Of Indica And Sativa Labels
The distinction between indica and sativa dates back to the late 18th century, when French biologist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck proposed categorizing cannabis plants based on their physical characteristics. According to Lamarck, indicas were shorter plants with woody stems and broad leaves, while sativas were taller with fibrous stems and thin leaves. This classification system, however, was based purely on the plant’s appearance, not its chemical properties or effects on the human body.
Neuroscientist Nick Jikomes, formerly the director of science and innovation at Leafly, points out that the way a substance makes you feel is due to its chemistry, not its physical structure. “You can’t just look at a plant and predict how it will affect your body and mind,” Jikomes says. Yet, the indica-sativa labeling system persists and is deeply …