There are three main types of cannabis subspecies: sativa, indica, and ruderalis. The first two are the most commonly used why ruderalis is less commonly cultivated or used due to its low THC content. Aficionados love cannabis indica and sativa since they have a more pronounced cannabinoid profile.
Out of these two, cannabis sativa is generally used for entertainment even though it has great medicinal effects as well. meanwhile, most people love to use the indica type of cannabis for wellness due to its well-balanced cannabinoid profile. It also produces the renowned entourage effect and this makes it ideal for dealing with pain and inflammation. To help you understand everything better, here is a cannabis indica review with everything you need to know.
What is Cannabis Indica?
It is a stout and broad-leafed plant that’s known to produce relaxing and sedative effects. That’s why it’s popularly associated with the couchlock effect. Its origins can be traced back to Central Asia but it has evolved and it can now be grown in most parts of the world.
Indicas produce full-body effects including happiness, euphoria, sleepiness, and relaxation. While its THC to CBD ratio is close to 1:1, it generally has a higher CBD content than cannabis sativa. The high CBD content makes indica strains ideal for medicinal use.
Characteristics Cannabis Indica
You can easily identify cannabis indica by its physical characteristics. Its strains are usually short and stocky with chunky leaves and bushy greenery. The plants also tend to grow wide and broad. Compared to sativa, indica grows faster and each of its plants will generally produce more buds.
- Produces intense relaxing effects
- Ideal for increasing appetite, reducing pain, and treating nausea
- Suitable for nighttime use since it induces deep relaxation effects
Types of Cannabis Sativa Strains
Indica strains are generally known to produce a calming effect. that’s why most people who are seeking alternative sources of medicine usually use this cannabis variety to treat pain, ease inflammation, and aid in sleep. The most popular types of indica marijuana strains include:
- Ice Cream Cake
It’s one of the most popular indica strains that’s made by crossing Wedding Cake with Gelato #33. Its flavor and aroma are quite sweet while its top effect is sleepy. It’s a powerful sedative that usually leaves the mind and body fully relaxed. If you are going to incorporate it into your wellness regimen, then you will enjoy the sugary dough with the sweet vanilla hints. It’s ideal for use by patients suffering from anxiety, pain, and sleeplessness.
- Purple Punch
It produces significant highs but it also has great relaxing effects. Purple Punch’s flavor and aroma is grape candy with some shades of blueberry muffins. Its profile features the breeding combination of Larry OG with Granddaddy Purple. This is what results in the trichome-laden strain that quickly results in a 1-2 punch after consumption. Generally, it’s mostly used as a dessert strain, after dinner. This makes it ideal in handling issues such as sleeplessness, stress, nausea, and minor body aches.
- Northern Light
It’s the favorite indica strain among cannabis growers and connoisseurs worldwide. Northern Light is made by crossing the Afghani strain with Thai. Its top effect is sleepy with a feeling of euphoria. It has an earthy flavor with a sweet and spicy profile. Generally, Northern Lights are quite easy to smoke and that’s why this strain is usually used to promote therapeutic effects. you can use it to manage symptoms of stress, depression, insomnia, and pain.
- Hindu Kush/ Hindi Kush
It’s another pure indica weed that was named after the vast mountain ranges between Pakistani and Afghanistan, where it originated. Its original harsh homeland climate is responsible for its thick and protective coat that’s composed of crystal trichomes. However, it’s loved by hash makers thanks to its sweet, earthy flavor with sandalwood aroma. It has a sleepy effect and normally produces a deep sense of calmness. This makes it suitable for treating conditions such as stress, pain, and nausea.
- Granddaddy Purple
Its also known as Grand Daddy Purp, Grandaddy Purple Kush, or GDP. It’s a cross that features Mendo Purps, Afghanistan, and Skunk. It has a grapey flavor and a berry aroma from its first two parents respectively. GDP is known to produce a sleepy effect with a fusion of physical relaxation and cerebral euphoria. You might also find yourself in a fixated position during the duration of the effects as it makes your thoughts float. This indica strain is ideal for treating conditions such as muscle spasms, pain, stress, appetite loss, and stress.
Cannabis Sativa Growing Information
Cannabis Indica’s growth cycle features 4 main stages including germination, seedlings, vegetation, and flowering. They usually occur at different developmental stages and their probability of happening successfully depends on the plant’s requirements.
- Germination: This stage usually takes up to 7 days. generally, Indica usually germinates faster than Sativa. But if the temperatures are extremely low, then the germination process will It’s delayed the emergence of the plant. successful germination usually manifests itself with the plant forming the first two leaves and losing its seed husk. The next stage starts from here.
- Seedlings: Once the plants have germinated, you need to transplant the seedlings into the appropriate growing medium. At this point, indica plants will continue to develop more traditional-looking cannabis leaves. This stage normally lasts a maximum of weeks.
- Vegetation: At this stage, the roots and leaves of the plant continue to grow larger and bigger. The rapid growth requires the plant to receive around 12 hours of light and this should last for 2-8 weeks. Your plant also needs an adequate food supply that will facilitate its growth and lead to maturity.
- Flowering: Indicas generally have shorter flowering periods. This means that if you grow your strain indoors, then you can have several annual cycles. The flowering period typically happens around 8 weeks but this can stretch up to 12 weeks.
Cannabis Indica Benefits
Taking indica cannabis usually triggers compound chemistry in the body. The almost equal presence of CBD and THC compounds usually results in the entourage effect. This usually happens in the endocannabinoid system that’s responsible for promoting wellness and homeostasis. So, the top health benefits of using a cannabis indica strain include:
Ease Pain and Inflammation
This cannabis is one of the most effective treatment options for pain and inflammation. It should be first noted that Americans for Safe Access (ASA) has been championing the advanced legal use of medical marijuana for therapeutics and research. Educational resources by ASA indicate that indica cannabis can be highly effective in treating pain and reducing inflammation.
The effectiveness of indica in treating pain and managing inflammation could be due to the presence of full-spectrum CBD. Taking such a product can help how the body responds to pain and reduce the level of inflammation.
Relieve Stress and Anxiety
Generally, a high-CBD strain is highly effective in treating anxiety. It’s clear that indica has more CBD content than sativa and this makes it ideal in eliminating worry and easing the symptoms of social anxiety. The relaxing and therapeutic effects of CBD improve mental and behavioral acts that are usually triggered by anxiety. Besides that, CBD has potent anti-stress properties.
Relax Muscles
Indica strains are usually the best muscle relaxers. Research studies indicate that indica strains such as Romulan, Critical Kush, Northern Lights, and Platinum Kush are the most ideal for use for muscle-relaxing effects. These strains work because they inhibit the release of neurotransmitters that usually trigger muscle spasms and rigidity.
Cannabis Indica Side Effects
Cannabis Indica is a top-rated type of marijuana. Even though it has a good safety profile and people enjoy taking it, too much of it can be bad. That’s why most of its downsides are caused by overindulgence. The most common side effects of Indica include:
Couchlock
Indica’s CBD to THC ratio is almost 1:1. However, taking too much of it means that you are generally increasing your THC intake. High levels of THC compound in the body are more likely to bind with CB1 and CB2 receptors in the body, leading to the release of neurotransmitters.
The interaction between THC and CB1 receptors that are found in the central nervous system and the brain is what usually leads to the intoxicating effects of this type of cannabis. Note that with such an effect, it will be impossible for you to do anything and you’re bound to spend the whole day sitting on the couch or doing nothing at all.
Anxiety
The almost balanced THC and CBD combination in this cannabis strain make it ideal for treating mental and emotional issues that affect moods. However, taking high amounts of this cannabis can trigger feelings of anxiety and worry. In some instances, it may result in panic attacks and paranoia.
Cottonmouth Effect
It’s a common side effect that’s found in both indica and sativa strains. Dry mouth is also known as the cottonmouth effect and it usually occurs when the THC compound binds with the receptors in the salivary glands. This usually slows the production of saliva, leading to a dry mouth. However, you can combat this side effect by drinking plenty of water and other fluids throughout the day.
It’s a side effect that almost all cannabis products produce when consumed in excess. The Cottonmouth effect is also known as dry mouth. This side effect usually occurs when the cannabinoids affect the salivary glands’ receptors. As a result, it becomes impossible for the glands to produce adequate saliva to lubricate the mouth.
Loss of Appetite
It’s also known as “the munchies”. It’s a phenomenon that’s popular with indica strains and it usually causes loss of appetite. While for some people the loss of appetite may be beneficial for weight loss, it might not be effective for those eating problems. This may also be a negative effect on those who don’t have a problem with their eating habits.
Long-Term Side Effects of Cannabis Indica
If you are going to use indica for the long term, then you need to know about the long-term side effects. While it may benefit you in the long run, some potential risks may be associated with it.
While cannabis has a good safety profile compared to tobacco, smoking it for a long time can result in chest and throat problems. This is because it can cause lung irritation and throat pain. However, you can avoid this by using alternative cannabis products such as tinctures, edibles, and topicals.
Those who have been using cannabis from a young age are at a high risk of suffering from psychiatric problems. however, you can avoid this issue by choosing a low THC/high CBD indica strain with fewer chances of altering the way the mind functions. It should be noted that minors shouldn’t use cannabis unless it’s a prescription drug that has been approved by the doctor first.
If you are under medication, then cannabis can interact with certain drugs. This is because the cannabinoid compounds found in cannabis, just like the compounds found in these medications, are usually metabolized in the liver. This could mean that there could be an increase or decrease in the dosage effect. that’s why you should talk to your doctor first before using cannabis alongside any other medication.
The Bottom Line
Cannabis Indica’s profile is quite diverse but one thing that’s clear about it is that it has more CBD content. This makes it suitable for promoting wellness. It’s known for its sedating and relaxing effects and you can use it to address conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia, and inflammation among others. however, you have to be cautious when using indica strains since they can still cause unwanted side effects. dose your intake and ensure that you start with a lower dosage until you find what works for you.
