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What's The Difference Between Sativa & Indica? | ThrivePOP

Written by Lindsey Griffith | Mar 9, 2023 2:34:01 PM

With over 1,000 strains of Cannabis being farmed worldwide, it's essential to differentiate the two main strains of Cannabis being sold at your local dispensary, which include Sativa and Indica strains. Differentiating these strains is crucial since they cause different side effects and may lead to health problems if misused.

In this article, we'll highlight the importance of educating your audience when selling to them and marketing cannabis products.

Let's dive in!

Physical differences between Sativa and Indica explained

It's easy to differentiate between these two strains. You can start by looking at their physical appearances to tell them apart, which include the following:
  • Sativa is a slim plant about 10 feet high with slender light green leaves, while Indica is a short bushy plant with broad dark green leaves to grow and produce buds.
  • Sativa does well in hot, humid climatic conditions hence taking longer to mature, and Indica does well in cold climatic conditions and takes a short time.
  • Because of their short nature, Indica strains have a woody stalk with compact branches, while Sativa strains have a fibrous stem with fewer branches.
These differences can help you choose the right strain for you on your next visit to a dispensary. 

What's the chemical composition of Sativa and Indica strains?

Marijuana strains contain cannabinoid and terpene chemicals that influence and affect your body's endocannabinoid system (ECS). ECS's primary function is to maintain the normal functioning of your body by controlling internal processes like temperature, mood, and immune response.

What are cannabinoids?

Cannabinoid contents can be used to distinguish the two varieties of marijuana. Cannabinoid components are classified into two groups, namely:
  • Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) 
  • Cannabidiol (CBD) 
THC and CBD are found in Cannabis Sativa and Indica strains, but their concentration levels differ. Indica plants produce more CBD than THC, while Sativa plants produce more THC than CBD. So, if you want to purchase weed that will suit your needs, you can always ask your cannabis marketing agency about the ratio of CBD to THC to know whether you're buying Sativa or Indica.

What are terpenes?

Terpenes are compounds that influence the smell of marijuana. They produce a unique aroma that acts as a defense mechanism against animals. Each strain of Cannabis has its distinctive smell due to the different structures of terpenes.

The 4 major types of terpenes found in marijuana plants and their roles in your body include;
  • Limonene- Marijuana plants high in limonene have a citrus-like aroma, like in rosemary or citrus. 
  • Linalool- This terpene gives off a floral scent that enhances relaxation, as seen in lavenders. 
  • Myrcene- Myrcene has an earthy smell similar to eucalyptus and lemongrass.
  • Caryophyllene- Produces a woody or spicy aroma, just like black pepper. 

If you're unaware of the concentration of CBD: THC, don't fret. You can put your nose to the test to tell what effects you'll be expecting from purchasing weed. 

5 different effects of Cannabis Sativa and Indica 

The use of marijuana can result in different side effects ranging from mild to severe, depending on the type of strain. 
Generally, CBD-dominant strains like Afghan Kush, Hindu Kush, and Granddaddy Purple have mild side effects since they are intoxicant compared to THC-dominant varieties like Panama Red, Acapulco Gold, and Durban Poison.

Also, it's worth noting that how you use Cannabis may result in different side effects. With such side effects of marijuana, dispensaries, and cannabis marketing agencies should educate their customers on the best weed, depending on their needs. 

ARE YOU EDUCATING YOUR AUDIENCE? DISCOVER WHY YOUR MARKETING MIGHT BE FAILING:

The importance of educating your audience on marijuana

Once you educate your audience on the best weed to use, depending on their needs, you'll set yourself as an industry leader. Therefore, your dispensary will gain more customer trust and loyalty. Additionally, you'll be conducting cannabis brand-building and marketing through your educational materials, thus increasing your organic search reach.

Another critical aspect of educating your audience is that they can make informed decisions on the best strain to buy when visiting your dispensary.

How ThrivePOP can help with cannabis dispensary marketing!

At ThrivePOP, we understand the dynamics of cannabis marketing right from legalization to customer reach.
If you're a start-up dispensary in cannabis marketing, we can help you grow through the following:

ThrivePOP will ensure that we reach your target audience and convert them into life-long clients. Get in touch with our cannabis marketing professional to get your dispensary headed in the right direction.  Contact us today!

Bottomline

With this guide, you should now be able to differentiate between Sativa and Indica. It also improves your knowledge of the different effects of weed to guide your clients on the best weed to purchase based on their needs. 
Remember, one surefire way of maintaining happy clients for your dispensary is by improving the customer experience through educating them.

CONTACT US TODAY!