Indica And Sativa: A Comparison of the THC and CBD content

Currently, a large number of common ailments are being treaded using medicinal Cannabis and CBD products. In general, medicinal Cannabis improves sleep, increases appetite, reduces pain, and enhances both physical and mental relaxation.

It’s important to understand that medicinal Cannabis is derived from two popular varieties (or strains) of the cannabis plant, each of which has its unique advantages and disadvantages.

The Sativa and Indica strains are the two most popularly cultivated species of the cannabis plant, and most research has concluded that they both affect the body in different ways.

In this piece, our experts here at Enecta will discuss the differences between the Indica and Sativa plants with an emphasis on the CBD and THC content of each strain.

Cannabis Indica

The Indica plant, in comparison to the Sativa strain, is shorter and bushier, with broader leaves. Indica grows faster and provides a higher yield then her sister stain.

Cannabis sativa

The Sativa plant is taller and thinner than the indica species, with much narrower leaves. These plants take longer to grow, and they have a much lighter shade of green coloring than their Indica counterparts.

What are THC and CBD?

THC: THC is an abbreviation for Tetrahydrocannabinol, and it is the primary cannabinoid molecule that is derived from the cannabis plant. That said, there are over 100 other cannabinoid molecules present in the cannabis plant.

THC is the psychoactive element in Cannabis that creates a ‘high’ in users when it is smoked or consumed.

THC can affect hunger, fertility, pain, and depression. Many users of medical marijuana prefer cannabis strains that are high in THC due to its potent medicinal benefits.

CBD: CBD is another significant molecule that is derived from Cannabis. Unlike THC, it offers no psychoactive effects on humans. When extracted, refined, and processed into oils, tinctures, and edibles, and caplets, High quality CBD is used for many medicinal purposes. It’s especially useful in treating epilepsy, diabetes, nausea, arthritis, and anxiety.

Comparing THC and CBD content in Indica and Sativa:

Whether you are using medical Cannabis or smoking for personal use, the THC content is what matters the most.

The primary psychoactive compound in the plant is THC; this is what gives people the sensation of feeling ‘high.’

Both Sativa and the Indica have very high levels of these molecules.

The general consensus is that the Indica cannabis strain contains more THC than Sativa. However, genetic research has revealed that the two strains have similar levels of THC molecules.

CBD can also be found in both Indica and Sativa strains, but it is non-toxic, unlike THC.

THC can slow down people’s reaction times, and cloud their sense of time. It’s even been said to create a feeling of euphoria and elevation. CBD, on the other hand, has been proven to boost mood, ease anxiety without cognitive or physical impairment

Just as with THC, there are similar levels of CBD in both the Indica and Sativa strains of the cannabis plant.

Recent research has revealed that the type of cannabis strain does not in any way affect the level of THC and CBD and other molecules in the plant.

How are Indica and Sativa Strains Different?

If you compare CBD and THC, the similarities that you’ll get are pain negating effects and compounds that can aid in reducing inflammation in the muscles.

CBD rich cannabis can be harvested from the Cannabis Sativa Strain. This strain is the most popular because of its use for medicinal purposes. Also, the Sativa strains contain a high concentration of CBD.

However, the Indica strain has a much higher concentration of THC, the psychoactive ingredient found in Cannabis. For this reason, Cannabis Indica strains are more popular with recreational cannabis users.

Which Cannabis Strains is Better for you?

If what you are looking for is a strain that will put you to sleep, then we advise that purchase a high CBD strain or a premium CBD product. But if you crave for an energetic, stimulating strain to keep you alert for the entire day, then you should opt for a Sativa strain.

Chemical Structure

Due to the similar origins of both plant species, CBD and THC have barely any difference at all in their chemical structure.

Both strains inhibit the same compounds, which are made up of 2 oxygen atoms, 21 carbon atoms, and 30 hydrogen atoms. The only difference is the layout of how these atoms are arranged. This distinction in the chemical formula makes THC and CBD have different effects on the body.

Both compounds target the neurological part of the brain that helps people cope with mood, rest, and sleep.

Psychoactive Components

The psychoactive component of marijuana is well known all over the world. The only difference is that THC is the prominent compound that has any psychoactive effect on our brains.

CBD products are much safer than THC medicines as they have all of the positive benefits associated with cannabinoids, without any adverse mental side effects.

For this reason, we recommend CBD products over THC products for those who wish to alleviate a problem or a disease. CBD products that contain terpenes and flavinoids will help to heighten the positive effects that the compound has on the body. This is known as ‘The Entourage Effect.’

The ‘Entourage Effect’ is scientifically backed and will help to trigger responses within your endocannabinoid system, encouraging homeostasis and reducing inflammation throughout your body.

For additional information, or to order some of our premium CBD Products, click here to contact a member of our team today.