Usually it is taught that Indica is a nighttime strain of weed because of its sedative properties, while the Sativa strain of cannabis has the opposite effects (provides us with a burst of energy rather than sedation).

So, the question arises - which one is a better option for anxiety? Sativa, Indica or Hybrid? Let’s take a closer look at them.

Indica

It is basically a cannabis subspecies and originates from South Asia and East India.  The plant of Indica marijuana is short and has broad leaves that grow in dark hues of green, with shades of pink and purple. It is known for its calming effects and pungent smell.

Effects of Indica

Indica strains have a strong sedative effect on the body, thus making the user feel lazy or sluggish. It is extremely relaxing and hence it is often recommended to use at night. It is also known to increase an individual’s appetite.

Medical benefits of Indica

Indica strains of weed have tons of medical benefits, especially for individuals dealing with physical sickness such as inflammation, chronic pain, various form of cancer, multiple sclerosis, nausea, gastrointestinal issues etc. Some of its benefits include appetite stimulation, spasm reduction, and sleep aid.

Additionally, Indica strains of weed are used to treat mental issues such as anxiety, stress, ADHD, seizures, and depression, which at times can be aggravated by Sativa strains.

Popular strains of Indica

Some of the most common Indica strains of cannabis include the Kush varieties such as Bubba kush, Purple kush and Hindu kush (as well as White Rhino, Hash plant, Northern Lights etc.)

Sativa

Sativa is basically a cannabis subspecies that is found in South America and near the equator, as it is cultivated in warm temperatures. The plant of Sativa marijuana is very tall and has long leaves and grows well outdoors. As compared to Indica, a Sativa strain usually contains higher concentrations of THC in them, though this is not always the case.

Effects of Sativa

Sativa strains usually provide the user with an energetic feeling. Hence, it is recommended that Sativa is taken during the day when a quick burst of energy is required, as it helps to maintain focus and concentration. Also, this strain is good for athletes as it provides them with a boost of inspiration.

Medical benefits of Sativa

Sativa has many medical benefits such as appetite stimulation, anxiety relief, anti depression etc. In some cases it has also shown significant mental benefits with those who are dealing with social anxiety, ADD, ADHD and chronic depression. When it comes to marijuana each strain will affect its user in a different manner.

Popular strains of Sativa

Some classic Sativa strains include Sour diesel, Maui wowie, Jack herer and the Haze varieties (which include Super Silver Haze and Lemon Haze). Some of the popular strains in Canada are Green Crack, Strawberry Cough, Charlotte's web, Alaskan thunder ****, Durban poison and Moby dick.

Hybrid

Hybrid cannabis strains are a blend of Indica and Sativa that is bred in order to provide weed users with the attractive traits of each of the above subspecies.

Effects of Hybrids

Hybrid strains are specifically grown to blend the desirable effects from several genetic strains of weed, and to develop a feeling that usually one could only get from smoking multiple varieties.

Cross-breeding allows breeders to decrease the undesirable effects in a particular strain, thus the new hybrid strain can offer a range of various highs. At times, the best strains are the result of some breeding "accidents." Other forms, though, such as Charlotte’s Web (a high CBD strain that is used to treat children with epilepsy) is the result of careful breeding.

Medical benefits of Hybrids

Hybrid strains of marijuana are specifically bred to produce certain effects for medicinal purposes. An example of medical benefits of hybrids includes Blue Dream, which is beneficial for treating anxiety so that the individual can feel comfortable in social situations.

Popular Hybrid strains of cannabis

Some of the most popular ones include Cinderella 99, OG Kush, Blue Dream, Gorilla Glue 4, Dutch treat, Banana kush, ACDC, Juicy Fruit and Girl scout cookies.

Conclusion

As each strain of weed has its own set of genetics, it ultimately has different effects on an individual’s body. While the effects may be more or less similar, cannabis affects every individual differently whether it may be the length of the buzz, effectiveness or intensity of the high, or the pain-relieving ability of the strain. All in all, the best way to find out whether an Indica, Sativa or Hybrid strain is best for you, is to try out each of them and evaluate their overall effectiveness.