If you are just getting into cannabis strains, you’ll hear these three labels again and again: indica, sativa, and hybrid. These are broad categories used to organize weed strains, and can indicate the general vibe to expect from the plant. They can be useful when you are comparing options and looking for a particular experience.
Here’s a beginner-friendly guide to the differences between indica, sativa, and hybrid strains, plus tips for helping you choose the right one for your plans.
What Is an Indica Strain?
Indica strains are what you probably think about when you think about weed. Indica plants are usually shorter and fuller with dense buds. These strains are preferred for evening routines or laid-back vibes.
On the shelf, an indica strain can have dessert vibes, be spicy, or have a fuel-like smell. They pair well with slow nights, a long playlist, or a movie marathon. Try an indica strain in a pre-roll for leisurely pacing or opt for classic flower if you love the ritual of grinding and packing.
What Is a Sativa Strain?
A sativa strain is common in taller plants with lighter, airier buds and fresh aromas. Many people reach for sativa strains for their daytime routines, such as running errands, cooking with friends, or taking a walk. If you are testing the waters on sativa, start with a single pre-roll or a low-dose cart so you can gauge how it affects your morning and daytime plans.
What Is a Hybrid Strain?
Most cannabis strains are hybrids, meaning they are bred from plants in both the indica and sativa families. You can think of them as the middle ground of cannabis. Some hybrids are indica-leaning, meaning they have a cozier vibe, while others lean sativa-forward. Their range is an advantage. You can pick up a hybrid to match almost any moment without going too far in either direction. If you aren’t sure where to begin with cannabis, a balanced hybrid is an easy starting point. A hybrid gummy is a great option for beginners.
Shop Weed Strains at MedMen
The label on a product is a good starting point when you are shopping for cannabis. However, your goals ultimately decide. Opt for:
- Indica strain for evening, couch-friendly sessions, or when you want something with a dessert flavor.
- Sativa strain for daytime, social events, or when you want something brighter.
- Hybrid strain for a blend that can lean towards whatever profile suits you best.
Visit one of our MedMen locations and speak with our budtenders about your plans and the type of experience you’re looking for with a product. They can line up some options so you can compare aromas, textures, and formats and choose something that works perfectly for you, whether you are running errands or winding down.
