Indica vs. Sativa: 12 Easy Ways to Tell Them Apart

PDF download Download Article
Spot sativa vs indica strains by the buds, effects, & more
PDF download Download Article

If marijuana is legal where you live and you've ever stepped inside a dispensary, you might be overwhelmed by the sheer number of different strains available. These strains can be split into 2 main types: indica , which is more of a downer, and sativa , which is more of an upper. These strains are different in many ways, including their appearance, effects, and medical uses . Keep reading to learn more about indica and sativa’s basic characteristics , and what hybrid strains are like.

How to Tell the Difference Between Indica and Sativa

Indica is known for its relaxing effect on the body. It has an overall calming effect, can relax muscles and tension, relieve pain, and promote sleep. Sativa is associated with focus and creativity, provides more energy than indica, assists with depression and anxiety, and offers a traditional “high.”

Section 1 of 5:

What’s the difference between indica and sativa?

PDF download Download Article
  1. Indica buds are thicker than sativa buds and produce more flowers. When trying to identify hemp buds by looking at a jar of buds, you can typically tell indica apart from sativa simply by the shape of the buds. Sativa buds are long and cylindrical compared to indica buds, which are more round. Indica buds are also incredibly dense compared to sativa buds. [1]
  2. Indica strains have earthy, skunky odors, while sativa smells sweeter. If you stick your nose in a jar of fresh buds or catch a whiff of someone's smoke, you might be able to tell the type by smell alone. Indica produces a heavier, mustier smell compared to sativa, which can smell fruity or spicy. Terpenes (organic compounds found in cannabis) can also affect the smell and taste, especially if you’re making weed edibles . [2]
    • Limonene is a terpene that's heavy in sativa strains, resulting in the energy you get from the strain. It also gives many sativa strains their fruity scent.
    • Linalool and pinene are terpenes with relaxing effects that are found in indica strains. Pinene is also found in pine needles and contributes to indica's earthy aroma.
    • Terpenes can also interact with cannabinoids like THC and CBD to alter the effect felt when smoking a joint you rolled or ingesting edibles. [3]
    • Cannabis researcher and educator Riley Kirk notes, “If you're looking for a more indica-type smell, you're looking for something that smells really earthy (like lavender), while sativa often smells more citrusy, almost like a cleaning agent.” [4]
    Advertisement
  3. Sativa increases focus and creativity more than indica. Sativa is typically considered more of a daytime cannabis because it can give you energy and improve your focus. Indica instead has a calming effect that relaxes your mind and promotes sleep. For that reason, most people prefer to use indica strains at night. [5]
    • Different people can have different experiences depending on their mental state. For example, if you have ADHD, you might find that sativa calms you.
    Jorge Cervantes, Bestselling Marijuana Author

    Indica strains tend to provide a more relaxing, sedative effect that can help relieve pain, anxiety, and sleep issues. Sativas usually deliver a more energetic, uplifting high that sparks creativity and focus. But the reality is more nuanced, with countless hybrid strains exhibiting mixed traits.

  4. Indica has more of an effect on the body than sativa and can help relax muscles. While sativa is used to treat chronic pain, its effects are more mental than indica's. Indica is the strain that provides a "body high," relaxing your muscles and reducing tension. [6]
  5. Indica can help with insomnia, while sativa is known to make ADHD and depression more manageable. Looking at the mental and physical effects of each strain type can give you a good idea of the medical benefits—just think in terms of what medical condition might be improved by that effect. [7]
    • In addition to providing much-needed energy and focus for people with ADHD, depression, and related conditions, sativa is also used as an appetite stimulant.
    • Because indica is also a muscle relaxant, it’s used to treat pain, inflammation, and muscle spasms.
  6. Indica strains contain CBD, while pure sativa strains only contain THC. The specific amount of the compounds depends on the strain. Some indica strains only contain CBD, while others contain THC and CBD. [8]
    • CBD (cannabidiol) does not produce an intoxicating high like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) does. [9]
  7. Indica plants grow to about half the height of sativa plants. Sativa plants are tall and thin, with branches that reach upward. When cultivated outdoors, sativa plants may grow up to 12 feet (3.7 m) tall. Indica plants seldom grow more than 6 feet (1.8 m) tall but are wider at the base than sativa plants, and their shape is similar to a pine tree. [10]
    • The usable part of the sativa plant tends to be about halfway up the plant, while indica buds flourish all the way down to the bottom of the stalk.
  8. Sativa leaves are long and skinny compared to indica leaves. Sativa leaves are the model for the stereotypical pot leaf icon you see on T-shirts, hats, and stickers. Indica leaves are fat, wide, and flat. [11]
    • Although the leaves of both types grow in the same pattern, this is typically the easiest way to distinguish the two types of cannabis. Indica leaves are usually double or even triple the width of sativa leaves.
  9. Sativa strains tend to have more energetic names than Indica strains. With sativa strains, you'll see words like "diesel" and "power" that capitalize on the energetic and uplifting nature of the sativa high. Indica strains tend to have more mellow names that may include “purple” or “grape.” Sativa strains are also more likely to have fruits like pineapple or strawberry in their names, due to the plant's fruity aroma when smoked. [12]
    • Many popular indica strains include the word "kush" in their names since indica originates in the Kush mountains, which span the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan. [13]
  10. Sativa plants originated near the equator, while indica plants thrive further north. Indica plants originated in central Asia and the Indian subcontinent, and sativa is native to countries like Thailand, Mexico, Cambodia, and Colombia. Sativa varieties are more likely to be grown in Central and South America. [14]
    • Since indica comes from mountainous areas in Tibet and Nepal, it grows easily at high altitudes.
  11. Sativa plants grow in warmer climates than indica plants. Sativa plants grow tall in temperate, almost tropical zones. In colder climates, they're typically grown indoors. In contrast, indica plants thrive in cooler climates and at higher altitudes. [15]
    • Growers tend to prefer indica plants because they're more hardy than sativa varieties and produce higher yields despite being smaller plants.
  12. Sativa plants take longer to flower than indica plants do. An indica plant will flower in 45 to 60 days, whereas sativa plants take 60-90 days. Sativa plants have less chlorophyll than indica, which is why they take longer to finish blooming. [16]
    13. Advertisement
Section 2 of 5:

What is indica?

PDF download Download Article
  1. 1
    Indica is a strain of marijuana known for its therapeutic effects. Indica plants are shorter in appearance and tend to grow in drier climates. They typically have more of a “skunky” smell and are sometimes referred to as hemp. [17]
  2. 2
    Using indica can bring about a sense of calm and relaxation. Indica strains are more often used at nighttime when you’re ready to wind down, chill out after a hard day’s work, and fall asleep. Overall, they’re more focused on a body high than a mind high. Some common effects include: [18]
    • Relaxation
    • Soothing body high
    • Sleepy feeling
  3. 3
    Indica is a top choice when you’re experiencing physical pain. Conditions can range from headaches and joint/muscle pain to nerve issues. Indica is also sometimes used when people experience a lack of appetite, insomnia, or feelings of fatigue or spasms. Those experiencing most types of chronic pain use indica to help with their ongoing symptoms, such as: [19]
    • Headaches
    • Joint pain
    • Nerve pain
    • Insomnia
    • Fatigue
    • Low appetite
    • Insomnia
    • Chronic pain
    • Arthritis
    • Spasticity
  4. 4
    Indica strain names express relaxation, pain relief, or sleep. They often include the word “kush” because many indica strains grow in the Kush mountain range in Central and South Asia, where a lot of indica strains grow. Words like “purple,” “guru,” and “sunset” also express a feeling of relaxation, calm, and ease. Here are some common types:
    • Afghan Kush
    • Skywalker OG
    • Purple Sunset
    • Northern Lights
    • Afghan Kush
    • L.A. Confidential
    • Guru #10
    5. Advertisement
Section 3 of 5:

What is sativa?

PDF download Download Article
  1. 1
    Sativa is known for its energizing and sometimes euphoric effects. Sativa strains usually stimulate enough to produce a mind high. Sativa is a taller plant that is often grown in more humid climates. Sativa is usually referred to as “recreational marijuana.” [20]
  2. 2
    Using sativa can uplift your mood and help you focus. Sativa is known to stimulate the mind and provide a traditional “high” feeling more than indica does on its own. It can inspire creativity in some and a more alert feeling in others. It’s usually reserved for daytime use in more public or social situations, since it isn’t likely to induce sleep by itself. Here are some common effects: [21]
    • Mind-altering
    • Anxiety reduction
    • Focus
    • Alertness
    • Increased mood
    • Creativity
  3. 3
    Sativa positively affects your mental state and some health conditions. Whether you experience depression, anxiety, or stress, sativa is known for improving your mental state (or recovering from PTSD). It can also affect conditions like glaucoma, nausea, and a general lack of clarity or focus. Here are some common issues sativa may alleviate: [22]
    • Anxiety
    • Depression
    • Nausea
    • PTSD
    • Migraines
    • Glaucoma
    • Low mood
    • Acute pain
    • Stress
    • Lack of clarity
  4. 4
    Sativa strain names include energizing buzzwords. These names may contain words like “diesel” or “trainwreck” or words that convey an uplifting feeling. Additionally, they often include a description of the strain’s fruity, citrusy flavors, like “pineapple,” “strawberry,” or “lemon.” Some common names are:
    • Dutch Hawaiian
    • Super Silver Haze
    • Maui Waui
    • White Buffalo
    • Sour Diesel
    • Dream N’ Sour
    • Trainwreck
    5. Advertisement
Section 4 of 5:

What are hybrid strains?

PDF download Download Article
  1. 1
    Hybrid strains are a combination of sativa and indica plants. Hybrid strains are especially useful when you’re looking for a combination of physical and mental effects. Their bud shape looks more like whatever the dominant strain is. So if those buds have a sausage shape, you know the dominant strain is sativa. Using hybrid strains can offer a balanced experience that can be adjusted to your personal preferences. [23]
    • Hybrids can contain different combinations of THC and CBD depending on the dominant type. Different combinations produce different effects, so experiment until you find a blend that you like!
    • Hybrid strains usually have names that reflect the dominant type. For example, "Pineapple Express" is a sativa-dominant hybrid, while "Cookies Kush" is an indica-dominant.
  2. 2
    Indica-dominant hybrids have more traits from indica varieties. This hybrid usually has THC content ranging from 10% to 15%, while the CBD content can range between .01% to 5%. The CBD in the indica will mellow out the THC for a more relaxed buzz than you'd get with sativa alone, but you'll still get more of a buzz than you would with pure indica. Indica-dominant hybrids often provide a body high while promoting relaxation, pain management, and sleep. [24]
  3. 3
    Sativa-dominant hybrids have more characteristics from sativa varieties. This hybrid is known for its high THC content, which usually ranges from 18% to 28%. Sativa-dominant hybrids typically have a lower percentage of CBD (usually around 1%). The effects include a more energetic focus and creativity. They’re often used for daytime activities and have a moderate effect on the body. The way sativa-dominant hybrids make you feel can differ according to the specific strain and your individual circumstances. [25]
    4. Advertisement
Section 5 of 5:

Indica and Sativa FAQs

PDF download Download Article
  1. 1
    Which is better: sativa or indica? There is no better choice when deciding between indica vs. sativa strains. The strain you choose depends on what your personal needs and desired effects are. Though not true for everyone all the time, sativa is generally linked to daytime use for focus and enhanced mood, while indica is associated with body relaxation and sleep. There is no difference in the time it takes for smoking or edibles to kick in , so try different strains (including hybrids) to find out what works best for you. [26]
  2. 2
    Does sativa increase sexual libido more than indica? While sativa is typically associated with increased energy and mood, it’s not directly linked to sexual libido, but may increase arousal. The higher THC content found in sativa may lessen libido in some users, while indica’s higher CBD content could provide the relaxation necessary for increased sexual satisfaction. Ultimately, it all depends on the individual using the particular strain. [27]
  3. 3
    Which strain gives you the giggles? Sativa and sativa-dominant hybrids may be more likely to give you the giggles because of their euphoric effects on your mind. However, certain indica and indica-dominant hybrid strains can produce laughter in some people. Sativa often wins out, mainly because people tend to take sativa strains when in social situations, which might be more likely to cause giggles and laughter. [28]
  4. 4
    Do you feel higher with indica or sativa? How “high” you feel when taking indica vs. sativa depends on your tolerance and how you respond to it. Sativa is known to produce a traditional “high,” while indica’s relaxation effects may feel less “high,” but it varies from person to person. Speak to a knowledgeable representative or health care professional about what strain and dosage are right for you. [29]
    EXPERT TIP

    Jamie Corroon, ND, MPH

    Medical Director of the Center for Medical Cannabis Education
    Dr. Jamie Corroon, ND, MPH is the founder and Medical Director of the Center for Medical Cannabis Education. Dr. Corroon is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor and clinical researcher. In addition to clinical practice, Dr. Corroon advises dietary supplement and cannabis companies regarding science, regulation, and product development. He is well published in the peer-review literature, with recent publications that investigate the clinical and public health implications of the broadening acceptance of cannabis in society. He earned a Masters in Public Health (MPH) in Epidemiology from San Diego State University. He also earned a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree from Bastyr University, subsequently completed two years of residency at the Bastyr Center for Natural Health, and is a former adjunct professor at Bastyr University California.
    Jamie Corroon, ND, MPH
    Medical Director of the Center for Medical Cannabis Education

    It’s best to ease in until you know how you’re affected. Start low and go slow. A low dose of CBD is typically less than 10 mg. If you are taking CBD to treat a symptom or medical condition, and you are also taking other medications, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before jumping in.”

    5. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    Is hemp or CBD better for pain?
    Jamie Corroon, ND, MPH
    Medical Director of the Center for Medical Cannabis Education
    Dr. Jamie Corroon, ND, MPH is the founder and Medical Director of the Center for Medical Cannabis Education. Dr. Corroon is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor and clinical researcher. In addition to clinical practice, Dr. Corroon advises dietary supplement and cannabis companies regarding science, regulation, and product development. He is well published in the peer-review literature, with recent publications that investigate the clinical and public health implications of the broadening acceptance of cannabis in society. He earned a Masters in Public Health (MPH) in Epidemiology from San Diego State University. He also earned a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree from Bastyr University, subsequently completed two years of residency at the Bastyr Center for Natural Health, and is a former adjunct professor at Bastyr University California.
    Jamie Corroon, ND, MPH
    Medical Director of the Center for Medical Cannabis Education
    Expert Answer
    CBD is most commonly used to reduce pain and improve sleep, while hemp oil is primarily used to supplement one’s diet with important fatty acids that may reduce inflammation.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 2 Helpful 14
  • Question
    Does topical CBD actually work?
    Jamie Corroon, ND, MPH
    Medical Director of the Center for Medical Cannabis Education
    Dr. Jamie Corroon, ND, MPH is the founder and Medical Director of the Center for Medical Cannabis Education. Dr. Corroon is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor and clinical researcher. In addition to clinical practice, Dr. Corroon advises dietary supplement and cannabis companies regarding science, regulation, and product development. He is well published in the peer-review literature, with recent publications that investigate the clinical and public health implications of the broadening acceptance of cannabis in society. He earned a Masters in Public Health (MPH) in Epidemiology from San Diego State University. He also earned a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree from Bastyr University, subsequently completed two years of residency at the Bastyr Center for Natural Health, and is a former adjunct professor at Bastyr University California.
    Jamie Corroon, ND, MPH
    Medical Director of the Center for Medical Cannabis Education
    Expert Answer
    Yes, but these products do not drive CBD deep enough into the body to reach the bloodstream. As a result, it is unlikely that this method of administration would help with things like anxiety, seizures, sleep problems and other symptoms or medical conditions.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 3 Helpful 13
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Video

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      Warnings

      • Make sure that your dispensary is legal and licensed and that the products they sell are tested for any dangerous contaminants. Check out the dispensary's customer reviews and be aware of how knowledgeable the staff is about what they sell.
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      • The amount you take can also alter the effects you experience and can help avoid things like “greening out .”
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      • Check the specific laws surrounding marijuana use in your state before heading to a dispensary or trying to purchase it online.
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Make Cannabis Oil for Vape Pens
      How to
      Clone Cannabis
      How to
      Roll a Marijuana Joint
      7 Reasons Why Your New Vape Cart Is Not Hitting & How to Fix It
      A Beginner's Guide to Making Weed Edibles at Home
      How to
      Dry and Cure Cannabis
      DIY Cannabis-Infused Coconut Oil (The Ultimate Recipe)
      How to
      Grind Weed Without a Grinder Using Common Household Items
      How to
      Cleanse Your Body of Cocaine
      How to
      Get Pot Out of Your System
      Are Packman Carts Real or Fake? Everything You Need to Know
      How to
      Get Drugs Out of Your System
      What is Kief and How Do You Use It?
      A Guide to Cannabis Edibles: Recovery, Dosage Info & More
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.mic.com/articles/173973/indica-vs-sativa-what-s-the-difference-how-to-identify-them-and-which-is-better-for-you
      2. ↑ https://hightimes.com/health/science/which-weed-is-the-smelliest-indica-or-sativa/
      3. ↑ https://cen.acs.org/biological-chemistry/natural-products/Cannabis-industry-crafty-terpenes/97/i29
      4. ↑ Riley Kirk. Cannabis Researcher and Educator. Expert Interview. 21 Apr 2025.
      5. ↑ https://greenleafmc.ca/our-learning-centre/sativa-vs-indica
      6. ↑ https://greenleafmc.ca/our-learning-centre/sativa-vs-indica
      7. ↑ https://www.cnbs.org/cannabis-types/sativa-vs-indica/
      8. ↑ https://greenleafmc.ca/our-learning-centre/sativa-vs-indica
      9. ↑ https://www.cnbs.org/cannabis-types/sativa-vs-indica/
      1. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3736954/
      2. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3736954/
      3. ↑ https://hightimes.com/grow/understanding-the-effects-of-indica-vs-sativa/
      4. ↑ https://hightimes.com/grow/understanding-the-effects-of-indica-vs-sativa/
      5. ↑ https://thesourcenv.com/know-your-cannabis-eight-differences-between-indica-and-sativa/
      6. ↑ https://wayofleaf.com/cannabis/101/differences-between-indica-and-sativa-strains
      7. ↑ https://www.cnbs.org/cannabis-types/sativa-vs-indica/
      8. ↑ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5576603/
      9. ↑ https://greenleafmc.ca/our-learning-centre/sativa-vs-indica
      10. ↑ https://greenleafmc.ca/our-learning-centre/sativa-vs-indica
      11. ↑ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5576603/
      12. ↑ https://greenleafmc.ca/our-learning-centre/sativa-vs-indica
      13. ↑ https://greenleafmc.ca/our-learning-centre/sativa-vs-indica
      14. ↑ https://prestodoctor.com/content/education/sativa-vs-indica-vs-hybrid
      15. ↑ https://compcaremd.com/exploring-the-world-of-hybrid-marijuana-what-you-need-to-know/
      16. ↑ https://compcaremd.com/exploring-the-world-of-hybrid-marijuana-what-you-need-to-know/
      17. ↑ https://www.mmtcfl.com/blog/sativa-vs-indica-which-strain-is-right-for-you
      18. ↑ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9854104/
      19. ↑ https://www.420magazine.com/community/threads/which-one-makes-you-laugh-more-sativa-or-indica.120545/
      20. ↑ https://www.420magazine.com/community/threads/which-one-makes-you-laugh-more-sativa-or-indica.120545/

      About This Article

      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 156,161 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Lisa R.

        Jun 8, 2024

        "This article definitely helped me understand how to tell the difference between sativa and indica! It's an ..." more
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement