Indica vs. Sativa FAQs

Which is better: sativa or indica? The effect a strain has on you depends on many things. The one that’s “better” for you largely depends on the effect you’re after. A large survey found that indica is preferred when treating symptoms and reducing pain. Sativa strains are the choice for recreational use, or a “high.”

Does sativa or indica make you sleepy? Indica has higher amounts of the terpene myrcene, which creates a sedative effect. Scientists call this the “couch-lock” effect. In general, if your strain of cannabis is more than 0.5% myrcene, your energy will be lower and you’ll feel calmer. If it’s lower than 0.5%, you’ll feel more energetic.

Is sativa an upper or downer? In general, sativa strains are known as stimulants that energize you as an “upper.” But experts are moving away from this simplification between the strains because they’re so often hybrids with varying amounts of THC, CBD, and other compounds. Sativa tends to have less of the terpene myrcene than indica, which energizes you.

Is indica a body high? In surveys of people who regularly use weed, indica strains are more likely to cause a “body high.” A body high changes the way your body feels, often resulting in a feeling of relaxation and sometimes pain relief. Another type of high is a head high, a state where you become more interested in the world around you and feel euphoric, or “trippy.” Sativas are typically considered more likely to produce a head high, meaning they stimulate your mind but don’t leave you feeling heavy or sleepy. 

Does sativa make you hornier than indica? In general, any strain tends to have a positive effect on your sexual satisfaction. But some studies show that too much THC can dampen your libido. Since sativa has a higher THC-to-CBD ratio than indica, it may not be the better bet for increasing your sexual desire. 

Which strain gives you giggles? Sativa is more likely to cause euphoria, along with an energy boost, so you may find yourself feeling more tickled on it than if you take the more relaxing indica.