Cannabis Sativa is a species of cannabis that originated from areas around the equator. The Cannabis Sativa plant typically grows tall in structure, has narrower leaves, and has a longer flowering cycle better suited for warmer climates with a longer growing season. The Cannabis Indica species originated in the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan. Cannabis indica plants tend to grow shorter in stature, have broader leaves and have a shorter flowering cycle suitable for colder climates with a shorter growing season. Humans have intentionally cross-bred a hybrid cannabis plant to have both Cannabis Sativa and Cannabis Indica in their genetics. Most varieties of cannabis today are hybrids. Sativa vs. Indica In the commercialization process of cannabis, we use the terms Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid to define the effects a person will experience after consuming that cannabis labeled as such. For example, it is a common misperception that all Indica strains will give a more soothing, relaxing effect, while Sativa strains have come to be known as uplifting and energetic. Scientifically speaking, this is an inaccurate application of the terms Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid. The accurate way to deduce the sort of effects a cannabis strain will have is to look at the cannabinoid and terpene content. Our page, Cannabis Education: cannabinoids and terpenes, is here to help you better understand how these cannabis compounds work to define your experience. If you use the terms Indica and Sativa to describe the effects you seek in a cannabis strain, no worries! The Urban Farmacy team understands the commercialized meaning of these words and can translate that into helping you find a cannabinoid and terpene profile that is just right for you!