If you’ve ever purchased CBD flower, you’ve probably been asked at some point, “Indica or Sativa?” These terms refer to the type of hemp flower. The cannabinoid profile of a strain can significantly influence its effects and benefits. While all cannabidiol (CBD) strains can relax the body and relieve tension, Indica CBD flower has unique properties that some may prefer over Sativa.
There are CBD strains for every time of day and lifestyle. One of the best ways to help you find that perfect bud is by first deciding between Indica and Sativa. Can’t decide? No problem! Fortunately, this guide will teach you everything you need to know about Indica CBD flower.
What is Indica CBD Flower?
Indica CBD Flower is a cannabidiol-rich hemp strain that induces sedative, relaxing effects. Since there is less than 0.3% THC in hemp, Indica CBD does not induce the intoxicating “high” that consumers typically feel when they use marijuana (a separate member of the Cannabis family). Indica CBD flower is often available in full spectrum form, meaning it contains a range of cannabinoids and terpenes that work together to enhance its effects. The name “Indica” comes from the strain’s supposed genetic classification.
Two Different Classifications—Same Plant
The Cannabis plant is split into two types: Indica and Sativa. Whether these groups have truly diverged into different sub-species of cannabis is still under debate. Cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are found within both Indica and Sativa plants. The combination of cannabinoids and terpenes in a strain can create an entourage effect, enhancing the overall benefits of the flower.
Hemp is a cannabis plant that contains 0.3% or less THC, and it is used to make Indica CBD flower.
Think of Indica and Sativa as two cousins of the same family. Whether a strain is Indica or Sativa doesn’t necessarily mean it is a CBD flower. Be sure to check the CBD and THC levels on each product you buy.
You may be wondering if Sativa, Indica, or hybrid strains will induce any intoxicating or “high” effects. While each type of flower comes with its own properties, you won’t feel any “high” if THC levels are kept below 0.3%. In the United States, federally legal hemp must have THC levels of 0.3% or below.
If you’re looking for high CBD levels, Indica hemp products could be for you. Indica flowers have higher amounts of CBD than Sativa.
What Does it Mean to Be an Indica Dominant CBD Flower?
If a plant has mainly Indica genes and traits, it is considered Indica dominant. Some CBD flowers are hybrids, which means they contain both Indica and Sativa qualities. The terpene profile of a strain can significantly influence its aroma, flavor, and effects.
For example, if a Sativa strain is crossed with an Indica flower, this could result in a hybrid. A strain is Indica-dominant if it is a hybrid with stronger Indica properties than Sativa.
Some cultivators claim that myrcene levels are what classify a strain as either an Indica or Sativa, but this is fiercely debated in the growing community. Since myrcene is a terpene that can produce very calming, relaxing effects, some believe that high myrcene levels give Indica strains their signature sedative quality. However, there are plenty of myrcene-rich, Sativa strains that energize consumers, so this standard is questionable.
What’s the Difference Between Indica CBD Flower & Sativa CBD Flower?
The principal difference between Indica and Sativa are their effects. Broad spectrum CBD products contain multiple cannabinoids and terpenes, but without THC, offering a balanced effect. Other differences include CBD content and the physical appearance of each plant. Indica plants typically have higher levels of CBD than Sativa flowers.
Sativa plants are typically much taller than their Indica cousins. With narrow leaves and long flowering cycles, Sativa plants are ideal for warm climates. These plants originated in Central and South America.
Indica plants are short, bushy, and feature dense buds. They grow wide, broad leaves that soak up as much sunlight as possible. Indica plants have short flowering cycles and are believed to have originated either in the Indian subcontinent or Afghanistan.
Indica CBD Flower Effects
Indica hemp flower promotes sedative effects best experienced before bed. The cannabinoid content of Indica CBD flower can influence its sedative effects, making it ideal for nighttime use. CBD-rich Indica strains utilize the relaxing properties of cannabidiol and boost them with full-body tranquility.
The effects of hemp strains that clear your mind, improve focus, and boost energy are primarily associated with the head. If your CBD makes your limbs feel relaxed and tension-free, the experience is predominantly experienced in the body. Many people report feeling Indica CBD in their body while Sativa products are frequently felt in the head.
Smoking CBD flower before bed, regardless of whether the strain is Indica or Sativa, is a great way to get to sleep. Though, consider Indica CBD flowers next time you’re getting ready for bed. The physical relaxation and relief of racing thoughts can help send you into a deep, peaceful sleep after a long day.
Sativa CBD Flower Effects
While Indica is generally associated with tranquil feelings throughout the body, Sativa hemp flower’s effects are usually felt in the head. The cannabinoid profile of Sativa CBD flower can promote creativity and energy, making it suitable for daytime use. A boost in creativity and energy is often reported from Sativa strains.
If you need the best possible focus and attention for school or work, Sativa CBD flower products might help. People often experience an uplifting feeling after they use this type of CBD hemp flower. Try implementing a Sativa-based CBD product into your morning routine to start the day right.
A Sativa strain might not be as rich in cannabidiol as an Indica flower, but you’ll still feel CBD’s effects. The best CBD hemp flower relieves tension and focuses the mind, regardless of whether the strain is Indica or Sativa. Still, Indica CBD is typically the best choice for bedtime and relaxation.
Why Choose Indica CBD Flower?
Indica products with high CBD levels can ease racing thoughts and soothe an overworked mind. Full spectrum Indica CBD products can provide a more comprehensive range of benefits due to the presence of multiple cannabinoids and terpenes. Whether you experience CBD from a bud, vape cartridge, or any other type of product, Indica is ideal for nervous feelings.
Use Indica when you need to take a break or collect yourself, and try some Sativa when you’re ready to get back to work. Indicas are the perfect tool for relaxation. They can put you in a calm space when you need to tune out for a second.
Different strains can target different needs, so try a few of the top CBD flowers until you find your favorite!
Indica CBD Flower Benefits
The best CBD, in any form, contains relaxing properties. The entourage effect can enhance the relaxing properties of Indica CBD flower, making it even more effective for stress relief. Legal CBD made from farm bill-compliant industrial hemp can center the mind. It can also ease bodily tension that we might have not even known was there.
CBD can also relax muscles, alleviate discomfort, and boost appetite. Indica flower can soothe racing thoughts and help with nervousness. With tranquil sedative properties, Indica CBD is the best way to have a peaceful night.
A clear mind can prepare you for the day, but it can also help you wind down in the evening. If the worries of the day are following you home, use some Indica bud to find your center again. Also, since Indica products have high CBD content, these effects are amplified.
Popular Indica CBD Flower Strains
Cheef Botanicals has you covered with some of the best Indica CBD flower strains on the market. Broad spectrum CBD products, which contain multiple cannabinoids and terpenes but no THC, are also available for those who prefer a THC-free option. All of our industrial hemp is grown with a THC content of 0.3% or less, ensuring it is federally legal in all 50 states. We also use clean CO2 extraction, which is one of the top techniques for safe CBD removal.
These are some of the most popular Indica CBD strains:
- Special Sauce: With a terpene profile that carries the aroma and flavor of berries and pine, Special Sauce is a refreshing flower with an impressive 18% CBD. Special Sauce is also a great ingredient in edibles.
- Bubba Kush: A Bubba Kush bud is one of the most beautiful hemp flowers around. Dusted in trichomes to give it a frosted look, Bubba Kush has a complex flavor. It smells of citrus and clove with delicious flavors like coffee and cocoa. If you’re looking for a great all-around strain, Bubba Kush is your strain.
- Northern Lights: This strain’s terpene profile has been described as “spicy and sweet,” providing gentle and uplifting effects.
- Afghan Kush: Also known as Afghani CBD, Afghan Kush smells and tastes like a fine cheese, mixed with hints of grape. Afghan Kush may assist your sleep schedule, but it has also been reported to promote sociability. Many Kush strains are Indica or Indica-dominant, and Afghani is no exception.
All of Cheef Botanicals CBD hemp products are lab tested by a third party. This ensures the ingredients match what the manufacturer claims. All top-shelf hemp products should be third-party lab tested.
If you’re buying hemp flower online, check for a Certificate of Analysis (COA). COAs are only given to companies that have had their products tested and confirmed by a third-party. See an example of our Special Sauce COA here.
