Myth or Method : The Truth Behind Indica and Sativa
I need something that’s pure Indica.”
“No Sativa — it gives me anxiety.”
“Why does everything say Hybrid-Indica?”
We hear this dialogue all the time at Starbird. And while we’re proud to offer top-shelf flower, we’re just as committed to clearing up some of the biggest misconceptions about cannabis. The truth? Those familiar labels of Indica, Sativa, Hybrid often do more to confuse than clarify.
Most strains on the market today are hybrids, whether labeled that way or not. Decades of crossbreeding for potency, aroma, and stability have blurred the genetic lines. That’s why something labeled “Indica” might hit totally different than expected — or even feel uplifting to one person and sedating to another.
If you’ve ever questioned the accuracy of strain types or felt like weed affects you differently than it "should," you're not imagining things. The way we talk about cannabis needs to evolve — and understanding why might change the way you shop, consume, and connect with your favorite strains. Let's explore the authenticity of these terms, and see how well they actually define the effects we seek.
Why Don’t Dispensaries Have 100% Indica or Sativa Strains?
You’ll see it all over our menus. Hybrid-Sativa and Hybrid-Indica, but it's rare to stumble upon something that’s labeled as 100% of either. That’s because they rarely are.
Most people devoutly believe that smoking Indica gives you a strong body high, and a relaxed mental state. Sativas are thought to be more for daytime, inducing a bright and active buzz. However, the effect of cannabis is not solely based on the species. Nearly all strains on the market are some type of Hybrid, and its not always an even split. Even if you’d been smoking weed since before our budtenders were, you should know that cannabis has been bred together for increased potency since before Woodstock. Growers marry the strains, producing Hybrids, to give it that great punch that wasn’t found in landrace genetics.
Authentic landraces , the original strains that existed before modern crossbreeding, tend to be low testing in THC and have unstable structure to grow commercially. A grower would have to source seeds from their native land, which would result in a low THC strain with fluffy, unrefined buds. That’s most likely not what you’re looking for.
Since cannabis has been crossbreed heavily for stability and potency, it’s not correct to say something is 100% Indica when it truly isn’t. But having Sativa genetics doesn’t mean it's an ineffective strain for sleep, pain, or relaxation. Look at Northern Lights #5 for example. It's a classic strain, loved for its pain relieving qualities and its ability to mitigate anxiety. Although this strain is considered an Indica, it has heavy influence from its Thai and Mexican Sativa genetics. So if you’re under the impression that only 100% Indica delivers those effects, you’d be very mistaken. Furthermore, you’ve probably missed out on a lot of effective options because you think that Sativas don’t work for you.
Since this is the model that has led the industry and what stoners are familiar with, dispensaries have aligned with the terminology. It makes sense to people and it gives some rationality to your selection.
Does a 100% Indica strain automatically mean it’s the most relaxing or calming option? Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. While Indicas are often associated with sedative effects, those effects actually depend more on the plant’s chemical makeup—specifically its cannabinoid and terpene profile—than its species label. Historically, Indica and Sativa referred more to growth patterns and geographic origin than specific psychoactive effects, and it wasn’t until modern breeding practices that strains were tailored for targeted experiences. A well-bred Hybrid could be far more relaxing than a pure Indica, depending on how it was cultivated. That’s why understanding selective breeding is key when choosing a strain that fits your desired experience.
So it's long overdue that we redesign how we choose our weed.
"Cannabis leaf diagram" by Mikael Häggström, MD – Own work.
Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons.
How Did the Indica vs. Sativa Myth Begin?
Indica and Sativa classification is practiced by speculation and experience, not strictly science.
This classification was first used by botanists in the 18th century to differentiate the types of cannabis plants. They are indicative of their plant structure and geographic home, not their psychoactive effect. Cannabis Sativa was first named by the Swedish biologist Carl Linnaeus in 1753, which described the lanky and slender leafed plants from Europe and Asia. Cannabis Indica was first identified afterwards, by Jean-Baptiste Lamarck in 1785. Indica refers the short, bushy plants indigenous to Northern India, Pakistan and Afghanistan.
The psychoactive effect of the different cannabis species surfaced much later than the original classifications. While cannabis remained illegal in most parts of the world, underground breeding was necessary in the 1970s-1990s. During this time, growers and stoners began to associate Indica with strong body effects and relaxing buzzes, while Sativa was thought to be more energizing and cerebral. These generalizations did often align somewhat with the species of cannabis, but the strains quickly hybridized.
What do we mean by hybridized? Once an Indica and a Sativa are bred together, their offspring is considered a Hybrid — a plant that may carry visible or experiential traits from either side. Some Hybrids lean one way more than the other, but over time, these crosses became the base of almost all the cannabis we consume today. That’s why relying on labels like Indica or Sativa to predict how you’ll feel isn’t very reliable anymore. With so much blending over generations, those terms are more about tradition than truth.
Dr. Ethan Russo put it best.
“There are biochemically distinct strains of Cannabis, but the sativa/indica distinction as commonly applied in the lay literature is total nonsense and an exercise in futility. One cannot in any way currently guess the biochemical content of a given Cannabis plant based on its height, branching, or leaf morphology. The degree of interbreeding/hybridization is such that only a biochemical assay tells a potential consumer or scientist what is really in the plant. It is essential that future commerce allows complete and accurate cannabinoid and terpenoid profiles to be available.” (Russo, 2016)
It's best to say this classification of cannabis is more entrenched in cannabis culture than exact science. Relying on these definitions is really like judging a book by its cover. If you don’t delve into the genetic history, cannabinoid profile or terpenes present, you are just getting a general idea of what the high might be like.
Ethanol, a beautiful Hybrid-Indica by Trifecta Farms
Why Do Indica Strains Make You Relaxed and Sleepy?
Do you love those relaxing, tingly, and anxiety-reducing qualities of Indica? Great! The best part? You don’t need to smoke exclusively Indica to get those blissful results. So what is responsible for those easygoing effects?
Indica plants themselves are bred to have higher concentrations of the terpene Myrcene. Myrcene has a very sedative, analgesic effect that has been famed for treating insomnia and chronic pain. This terpene is responsible for that deep relaxation that’s associated with those classic Indica strains. However, be aware that Myrcene is the most common terpene found in all cannabis strains.
Another popular terpene present in many Indica strains is linalool. Linalool is also found in lavender plants, which is loved for its anxiety-reducing and sleepy effects when used in aromatherapy. Linalool has the same potential in cannabis, producing a chill, tranquil high with a delicious floral taste.
While these terpenes have always been present in cannabis, the specific relaxing, pain-relieving, and sleep-supportive effects we associate with many modern Indica strains are the result of selective breeding. These traits aren’t exclusive to Indica plants—you’ll find plenty of Hybrids and even Sativas with similar terpene concentrations that can deliver the exact effects you're after. The idea that Indica strains are inherently more sedating, chill, or better for pain only became widespread after breeders began intentionally enhancing those characteristics. Before crossbreeding became common practice, Indica wasn’t uniquely tied to these tranquil effects. It's an association shaped more by cultivation techniques than by botanical classification.
Why do Sativas make me Anxious?
Sativas have a bad reputation of inducing anxiety, panic or inducing a jittery high. For the Sativa lovers, an ideal result is a high that's productive, bright and energizing. However, just like Indica, these effects aren’t inherent or guaranteed when you smoke a Sativa.
Many Sativas have been bred to have high amounts of Limonene, Pinene and Terpinolene. These terpenes are mostly responsible for that distinct citrus forward, sharp and fruity profile of Sativa strains.
Limonene is loved in the cannabis community for producing an impactful, citrus fruit taste and aroma. This terpene is also present in orange peel, lemon rind and juniper. It is believed that it has the ability to elevate mood and reduce anxiety, and it also has anti-bacterial effects. The stimulating effects are ideal for many, but for some these may produce discomfort.
Pinene is a multifaceted terpene, especially because it has two structural isomers. Alpha-Pinene is known for its fresh scent, like strolling through a forest of evergreens. Beta-Pinene possesses a softer, sweet and herbal aroma. Both of these are believed to induce a high that is alert, focused high that promotes mental clarity. Pinene also is a bronchodilator, meaning it opens up the airways and could be helpful to those who find smoking affects their breathing. Pinene is also found in rosemary and of course, pine trees.
Pinene may contribute to anxiety with some users, especially coupled with low CBD and high THC strains.
Terpinolene has very nuanced effects. Its flavor profile is also very layered, and can be anywhere from fruity, woody, herbal or even mint! It can be relaxing or energizing, depending on the cannabinoids and other terpenes present. It is also present in unique plants like lilac, sage, and rosemary. It’s best describes as a fresh scent and taste in cannabis, and is also used commonly in perfumes. Coupled with high THC, Terpinolene can be lifted and stimulating. Paired with high CBD, it can be very sedative and chill. And when Terpinolene is matched with CBG, it has a great mentally clear effect.
Many Sativas are bred to have high THC and lower amounts of CBD. This was intended to result in a perkier, less groggy high. However, CBD naturally counteracts the anxiety-inducing effects of THC by modulating receptors in our brain. Without the balance that CBD provides, it can make the high more intense. This can lead to increased heart rate, racing thoughts and anxiety.
So panic and anxiety aren’t supposed to be attributed to Sativa. This is unfortunately a detriment of selective breeding. For the longest time, it was believed that high levels of THC was going to provide the best high. With more research about cannabis and more accessible education for stoners, it is common for budtenders to speak about the entourage effect. THC, other cannabinoids like CBD, and terpenes all play a vital role in the showcase that is your perfect high.
If you’ve been fearful of Sativa due to bad experiences, you are not alone! Many people have been apprehensive about these strains, but they truly do not bite. For example, finding a Sativa with high amounts of CBD or terpenes like linalool and myrcene could help you find a perfect balance between racing thoughts and a blissful daytime high.
What Should I Ask My Budtender Instead of “Is This an Indica or Sativa?”
Try asking about the terpenes, that’s where the real answers are. Contrary to popular belief, there are no terpenes that are exclusive to Indica or Sativa strains. You may find a great Sativa that has high amounts of terpenes like Limonene, Humulene and Nerolidol. It could still have a very uplifting, happy effect but might be more balanced and better for unwinding after a long day.
Not every grower provides a whole list of terpenes on their products, but many are starting to include these vital details. Since this is newer information, it will take a bit of time for the industry to adopt these details as more important than THC percentage and species.
Some growers, like Trifecta Farms, offer full terpene breakdowns, while others just give the dominant terpene. Both are useful details that our staff will gladly help you decode.
You can still get a lot of information about your weed based on aroma. This is why we always keep a selection of flower available-so you can explore aroma profiles firsthand! You might find there's a certain profile that really suits your preference. Cannabis can have notes of diesel and skunk, or alternatively be earthy and herbal. You can also find strains that have very complex and layered profiles too! There’s always something new on the market to try.
Terpenes profiles can be very intricate, and they all interact with each other and THC in different ways. It’s good to take note of the strains that have worked well for you and see which terpene they have in common . This way you have more of a precise idea of what you’re looking for, and aren’t boxed into just selecting from the general Indica, Sativa and Hybrid.
Cannabinoid profile is another important thing to consider. Many strains have higher concentrations of CBD or CBG, which will work with the terpenes to make the effects more relaxing, or more uplifting. CBD is well known for its therapeutic applications, like pain management and anti-inflammation. CBG on the other hand, is great at reducing anxiety and is less sedative than CBD. It provides a more clearheaded high when paired with THC, but without the jittery side effects. At Starbird, we always advocate for CBG for those that desire a bright, perky high without feeling nervous or panicked.
And of course, trust the staff! The budtenders at Starbird will give honest recommendations based on their experiences. We enjoy connecting with our guests about our personal favorites. Instead of asking if you’d prefer Indica or Sativa, our budtenders will often simply just ask what kind of vibe you’re going for. Our recommendations will change depending on if you want a chill night with a movie, a fun and productive morning, or something to send you to dreamland.
In short, you should always consider terpenes, cannabinoids and the sincere opinion of your budtender. At Starbird, we value the intricacy of weed and we always aim to make sure you understand exactly what you're smoking.
Why it’s Time to Stop Using These Indicators
This method is outdated and relied on with too much trust. Using Indica and Sativa as the primary way to categorize cannabis is very simplistic and often misleading. The strong differences in effect we associate with Indica vs Sativa today are not rooted in pre-breeding landrace strains, but rather created, amplified, and mislabeled by decades of intentional breeding and consumer expectation. It is much more a cultural understanding, not rigorous science.
Cannabis is a very complex plant, and it seems everyone has unique experiences. Although this system is familiar and still widely used by dispensaries and growers, many are beginning to realize it no longer holds much value when choosing a product. Understanding the real factors behind what you enjoy — and what you don’t — gives you way more clarity when choosing your cannabis.
Fly high!