Cannabis is often categorized as indica, sativa, or a hybrid of the two. Consumers commonly associate indica with relaxation and a “body high,” while sativa is thought to energize and provide a “head high.” Hence the classic saying: indica leaves you “in da couch,” while sativa "keeps you on the dance floor."
But is this classification really accurate? Not quite.
While the indica vs. sativa framework is useful for understanding plant morphology, it’s not the best indicator of how cannabis will make you feel. In this blog, we’ll unpack the differences between these categories, explore the rise of hybrids, and highlight the real hero behind cannabis effects: terpenes.
What’s the Difference Between Indica and Sativa?
Originally, all cannabis plants were classified as Cannabis sativa L., based on Carl Linnaeus’ botanical system in 1753. But in 1785, French biologist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck introduced Cannabis indica to distinguish plants from India with different physical characteristics.
Cannabis Indica
- Shorter, bushier plant structure
- Broad leaves and dense branching
- Grows well indoors (2–4 feet tall)
- Commonly associated with full-body effects and sedation
Popular Indica-Dominant Strains:
Ice Cream Cake, Granddaddy Purple, Bubba Kush, Northern Lights
Cannabis Sativa
- Taller plants with long, thin leaves
- Fewer branches and a “lanky” structure
- Can grow 5–18 feet tall
- Associated with uplifting, cerebral effects
Popular Sativa-Dominant Strains:
Sour Diesel, Jack Herer, Durban Poison, Strawberry Cough
Indica-Sativa Hybrids: The New Normal
Thanks to decades of crossbreeding, pure sativa and indica strains are now rare. Most strains on the market are hybrids—genetic combinations of both.
That’s why you’ll often hear strains described as “indica-dominant” or “sativa-dominant” rather than pure types.
Popular Hybrid Strains:
Blue Dream, Gelato, OG Kush, Wedding Cake, GSC
But even these labels fall short. Why? Because plant genetics alone don’t determine a user’s experience. That depends on cannabinoids and—more importantly—terpenes.
Cannabinoids: THC and CBD Basics
Cannabinoids like THC and CBD are well-known active compounds in cannabis. They’re produced in trichomes, the sticky, crystal-like structures on the surface of buds.
- THC (Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is psychoactive and binds to receptors in the brain to produce euphoric and pain-relieving effects.
- CBD (Cannabidiol) is non-psychoactive and known for its calming, anti-inflammatory properties. It modulates the effects of THC.
The ratio of THC to CBD can shape your experience—but it’s still not the full story.
The Real Key: Terpenes and Their Effects
So what actually dictates whether you’ll feel calm, energized, or creative? The answer is terpenes—the aromatic compounds that give cannabis its scent and flavor profile.
Terpenes are produced in the same glands as cannabinoids and directly influence mood, body effects, and even medicinal benefits.
Top Cannabis Terpenes to Know
- Myrcene: Earthy, musky, sedative effects. Common in “indica” strains.
- Limonene: Citrus aroma, uplifting and stress-relieving.
- Caryophyllene: Spicy, peppery terpene with anti-inflammatory properties.
- Terpinolene: Floral and herbal; often energizing and cerebral.
Pro Tip: A strain with more than 0.5% myrcene is often associated with “indica” effects, while a lower percentage leans sativa.
Why Terpenes Matter in Cannabis Packaging
Terpenes are volatile compounds—they degrade quickly with exposure to oxygen, heat, and UV light. That’s why proper packaging is essential to preserve a strain’s aroma, flavor, and therapeutic profile.
The Entourage Effect: When Compounds Work Together
The cannabis experience isn’t dictated by THC or terpenes alone. Instead, it’s the entourage effect—a theory that cannabinoids and terpenes work synergistically to create unique effects.
Compounds like CBN, CBG, and CBC, along with THC and CBD, interact with each other and your body’s endocannabinoid system to shape the overall experience. This is why two strains with similar THC levels can feel vastly different.
How to Choose the Right Strain for You
Relying on “indica” or “sativa” is no longer the most accurate approach. Instead, try this:
- Read lab results for terpene and cannabinoid profiles
- Ask your budtender for specific terpene content, not just strain names
- Experiment and track which profiles work best for your needs
Preserving Terpenes With Calyx Containers
At Calyx, we design packaging to help protect the compounds that matter most—like terpenes.
One of our OG favorites, our patented Calyx Drams feature:
- Airtight seals to reduce oxygen exposure
- UV-blocking additives to prevent terpene degradation
- Moisture-optimized materials to maintain freshness
- CR-certified cannabis packaging for compliance without compromise
So... Which Strain Is the Best?
There’s no universal answer. The “best” cannabis strain depends on your goals, tolerance, and body chemistry.
The key takeaway: look beyond indica and sativa. Focus on:
- Terpene profiles
- Cannabinoid ratios
- Storage conditions
And don’t forget—great packaging preserves great cannabis. Whether you’re a cultivator, brand, or consumer, investing in terpene-retaining packaging will ensure quality from the moment of packaging to the moment of consumption.
Whatever your cannabis strain of preference, ensure its in packaging that will preserve quality.
