Researchers have found that currently, there are more than 700 strains in the world of weed. These strains were traditionally categorized into three groups: indica strains, Sativa strains, and hybrid strains. However, decades later, another category named “cannabis ruderalis strains” was classified by a botanist in 1924. Many argue that ruderalis plants are just a sub-division of Sativa. But that’s another story!

Today, we’ll discuss one of the OG species, i.e. Sativa. What is Sativa? What are its characteristics? How does it affect a user? Let’s dive in!

What Is Cannabis Sativa?

Cannabis sativa was first classified in 1753 by a Swedish botanist, Carl Linnaeus. It’s an annual herbaceous flowering plant hailing from Eastern Asia. However, today, Sativa plants are widely cultivated in the warmer regions of South and Central America and Southeast Asia.

Sativa strains are generally known for their head high. They’re popularly used in the mornings to get pumped for the day. Words like “motivating, energizing, and uplifting” are often used to describe the effects of Sativa strains. 

Note that different Sativa strains may slightly vary in nature and efficacy, depending on their amount of terpenes (the compound responsible for flavour and smell), THC and CBD.

Key Difference Between Sativa and Indica Strains:

Generally, cannabis Sativa strains are known for their mood-boosting abilities. They make an ideal pick for your Wake N’ Bake sessions in the mornings. Or any time during the day when you need a boost of energy. Unlike indica dominant strains, a Sativa strain will not sedate you or lock you to your couch.

However, recent research shows that some Sativa strains may have similar indica effects on users and vice versa. But all in all, the best Sativa strains contain high amounts of limonene. Hence, they’ll have uplifting effects. In contrast, indica strains will offer relaxation and calming effects.

Sativa Plants: Common Characteristics

Appearance:

Appearance-wise, Sativa plants are taller than their indica counterparts, usually 10-12 feet tall. They’re further marked by slender, pointy leaves and sparse foliage, the ones that you usually see in movies and music videos. They grow slower than indica plants and thrive in warmer environments or under intense grow lights. Besides, the buds (female flowers) on Sativa plants tend to be longer and exhibit a lighter green hue than other cannabis strains.

Aroma:

Due to the strong presence of limonene in Sativa plants, many strains contain sour and tangy aromatic notes. If you’re planning to smoke a Sativa strain discreetly, think twice! Most Sativa strains tend to have a pungent, sour, and fuel-like smell which can tickle your sense of smell from miles away. In addition, some Sativas may also contain subtle hints of sweet, fruity, and spicy notes.

Flavour:

Sativa strains tend to taste similar to their aromas. Most strains have pungent, diesel, and sour flavours, while others may carry faint notes of sweetness, floral, or fruity.

Effects of Sativa Strains

Highly sought after for their uplifting and energizing effects, Sativa varieties are a hit among both rookie and seasoned cannabis users. A Sativa strain will hit you with a high that’s mostly cerebral and creative. This means it’ll stimulate your mind, making it ideal for daytime use or activities that require you to be alert and social. Some users have also reported improved mood and an increase in concentration.

However, not all Sativa strains produce the same effect. While a potent Sativa strain such as Green Crack will produce an invigorating mental buzz, one with low THC content like In The Pines (5-7% THC) will slightly sharpen your mind for productive afternoons.

Note: Sativa strains have more THC content than CBD; hence they may show psychoactive effects and potential risks when over-used.

Sativa Strains: Medicinal Purposes

Cannabis connoisseurs popularly use Sativa strains for both recreational purposes and medical effects. Since it’s an uplifting strain, medical marijuana patients can potentially treat mood disorders and chronic pain with the use of Sativa. Other positive effects of Sativa in the medical sphere include improved appetite, reduced anxiety, depression, and stress.

4 Best Sativa Dominant Strains

So, what do you think? Is Sativa up your alley? If so, here are some of the most popular strains to get you started!

Strawberry Cough

True to its name, Strawberry Cough smells and tastes like fresh strawberries, and its potent smoke will make you cough. With an 80% Sativa composition, this cannabis plant can be considered an almost pure Sativa strain. It has an average THC content of 21%, which falls on the higher end of the spectrum.

Super Silver Haze

Super Silver Haze is a Sativa dominant hybrid that’s a cross between Northern Lights, Skunk, and Haze strains. This strain is known for its skunky taste and high THC percentage of up to 23%. Along with recreational uses, the strain can be used for alleviating health conditions like chronic depression by promoting feelings of happiness and contentment.

However, overconsumption of this strain can lead to a psychedelic experience, which is common with almost all Haze cannabis products like Super Lemon Haze, Purple Haze, Amnesia Haze, etc.

Durban Poison

Durban Poison is one of the few 100% landrace Sativa strains that has stood the test of time. Ironically, this high THC Sativa is completely non-toxic and rather delectable, with notes of orange, cream, vanilla, and spice. It is an energizing strain that still gives tough competition to new and unique strains when it comes to quality, potency, and effects.

Jack Herer

Named after a notable cannabis activist, Jack Herer is a slightly Sativa dominant strain with a rough composition of 55% Sativa and 45% cannabis indica. It has an average THC level of 21% with 0 CBD. If you’re looking for a pick-me-up weed, the Jack Here cannabis can be a suitable choice!

Apart from these four OG Sativa cannabis strains, other notable mentions include Pineapple Express, Lemon Skunk, Blue Dream, Sour Diesel, and Sour Breath.

If you’re looking for any other information in regards to cannabis Acreage Pharms is here to help! Our customer service team will be ready to work with you!