All about indica strains of cannabis

There are some die-hard fans out there who think that indica is the most potent type of weed there is. What many don’t realize is that isn’t always the case. Did you know that many cannabis indica strains were once part of the sativa plant group? It is true, at one time many indica strains were considered to be sativa strains and the same is true the other way around, with many sativa strains originating from an indica plant. This is because these names that we have given these two particular groups of cannabis have slowly evolved to make them more understandable and helpful to growers.

What is indica?  

So what is indica exactly? Well, most indica strains have originated from Afghanistan, and slowly made their way to the rest of the world. However, some of the strains that we call cannabis indica today were not actually local, and instead, share many of the same physical characteristics as many of the species from that region. Indica strains tend to be bushier, shorter, and more robust while also focusing on flower production rather than fiber. They also tend to contain high amounts of THC, CBD, and hundreds of other cannabinoids that are used both recreationally and medically.

Indica physiology

Cannabis indica plants produce larger colas that tend to contain high amounts of the most active cannabinoids found in marijuana. An indica strain will usually require a longer daylight cycle due to the region it originally grew within. They also prefer warmer than normal temperatures and can be slightly more prone to mold than their sativa counterparts. Both female and male plants tend to remain on the shorter size with an average height of 3-4 feet with a wide girth that allows the plant to produce large amounts of bud flowers.

Indica strain uses

Though the is some history of indica strains being cultivated for manufacturing purposes, for the most part, it has been used for its powerful psychoactive inducing properties which can be useful for both recreational and medicinal users. Since cannabis indica strains do tend to produce more significant amounts of THC than their sativa counterparts they are often the recommended strain for treating chronic health conditions such as insomnia, anxiety, depression, MS, Crohn's Disease, or lack of appetite. They are also beneficial for those who are undergoing traditional cancer treatments and are experiencing other negative side effects from either radiation or chemotherapy.  

Indica effects

The effects of cannabis indica will depend on the specific strain you use. Some of them are capable of delivering a more motivating high, but for the most part, indica strains are known for their strong mind-altering effects that often act as a strong sedative that relaxes and takes away body aches and pains. Indica strains taste, smell, and cannabinoid content can vary so while this particular cannabis strain is known for these effects, it is entirely possible to experience something different in an indica or indica dominant hybrid.

Indica strains

Some of the world's most popular strains are either indica or indica dominant. They are the most utilized subtype of cannabis, particularly in the recreational world.

• Hindu Kush
• Orange Bud
• Lavender Haze
• LSD
• Nebula
• Lemon Diesel
• Ice Cream
• Millenium
• Skunk #1
• Mango Kush
• Jack Flash
• Girl Scout Cookies
• Blue Mystic
• Sensi Star
• Blue Cheese
• Kryptonite