Did you know the number of American adults who used cannabis at least once in the past year is approximately 60 million? And more than half of them smoke marijuana weekly. According to recent studies, almost as many Americans smoke marijuana as they smoke cigarettes right now. Choosing the right strain can be difficult; many people don’t know the difference between Indica, Sativa, and Hybrids.
Continuing to read, you will learn how each strain is used and which is best for you.
Sativa Strains

In warm climates and high humidity levels, Sativa cannabis strains thrive.
As far as the physical appearance is concerned, Sativa strains are tall, slender plants with thin leaves. Their leaves are usually light green.
People find that smoking Sativa makes them feel more energized and focused. The effects of Sativa are primarily focused on the mind, which is why people describe it as a “head high.” Sativas are best used during the day, as they can cause insomnia at night.
What are the most common reasons people use Sativa?
Using Sativa cannabis strains has its benefits. Some people prefer the heady high versus the “body high” dominant in Indica plants. Sativa strains may also be chosen due to the following reasons:
- Reduce the symptoms of depression
- Relieve headaches
- Reducing nausea
- Aid in preventing appetite loss
- It is generally easier to focus.
Popular Sativa Cannabis Strains
The following strains are popular:
- Sour Diesel
- Acapulco Gold
- Lemon Haze
- Sour Diesel
- Durban Poison
- Jack Herer
- Super Silver Haze
Indica Strains

Short and bushy plants with broad, green leaves characterize Indica plants. Buds on Indica plants are typically much denser than those on Sativa plants.
In addition to causing a body high, it is also known to cause “couch lock.”
Using Indica strains during the day can lead to drowsiness. Since they are relaxing, they are best used at night.
Why Do People Commonly Use Indica Strains?
Indica strains are popular for many reasons. The body high is preferred over a head high by many cannabis users. Indica strains are commonly used for the following reasons:
- Pain relief for the body
- Mitigation of nausea
- Enhance appetite
- Assist in relieving insomnia symptoms
- Stress-reduction
Popular Indica Cannabis Strains
The following strains are very popular:
- Northern Lights
- Granddaddy Purple
- Bubba Kush
- Purple Kush
- Blue Cheese
Hybrid Cannabis Strains

Indica and Sativa strains become hybrids when crossed; sometimes, three or more strains are combined to form Hybrids.
Indica or Sativa dominance is sometimes visible in Hybrid cannabis strains. Alternatively, the two can be combined almost equally. Depending on how the parent strains are mixed, these strains have different effects on people.
Why Do People Commonly Use Hybrid Strains?
There are many reasons for using hybrid strains, but their effectiveness depends on their Indica or Sativa proportion.
Some people use hybrids because they may not produce as potent of a head high or body high. However, Hybrids can sometimes have a more powerful high than a typical strain.
Popular cannabis hybrids
A few of the most popular include:
- Blue Dream
- AK-47
- OG Kush
- White Widow
What Strain is Right for You?
Both Sativa and Indica strains have their uses. For example, you can use a Sativa to feel energized during the day before using an Indica in the evening to wind down.
You can choose a hybrid if you want a balanced high that offers relaxation and a little focus. Ideally, you’d like to find one with a mix of almost equal amounts of Sativa and Indica.
It is best to decide what to use the strain for before choosing it.
Do you have more questions about Indica vs. Sativa vs. hybrid strains?
Please refer to our other blogs, which discuss specific strains for daytime vs. nighttime. If you’re looking to find strains which you can acquire through sharing rather than purchasing, check out our main page and click “start sharing” to become a member of our cannabis-sharing community. If you would like to converse with other cannabis enthusiasts you can do so at Toke and Talk.