Happy Indica Day! 🌿

“Indica,” a word we hear often in the Cannabis Industry, but what is it? The Cannabis Indica plant is thought to have originated from the Middle East.

To differentiate between the Indica and Sativa plant, botanists often rely on the physical differences. The Cannabis Indica plant is known to be shorter and bushier than the Sativa plant. The leaves are broad and dark green, and the buds are often dense.

There is little evidence to support the effects people claim the Indica plant has versus the Sativa plant. However, we often use the term “Indica” as slang to represent what effects we are seeking or looking to avoid when choosing cannabis strains. Indica (“in-da-couch”) is correlated with being sedative, pain relieving, calming and more of a body experience that can be “heavy.”

What we are referring to when using the term “Indica” as slang are the terpenes and flavonoids found within the cannabis plant. Terpenes and flavonoids are found in the resin glands (the hairs) on the cannabis plant. These resin glands are known as trichomes. Terpenes are a combination of hydrogen and carbon atoms. They are the organic compounds responsible for the fragrances, flavours, and therapeutic properties of plants—initially produced to protect the plant. Think: essential oils. Flavonoids are thought of to be similar to terpenes in the way they contribute to the fragrances and flavours of the cannabis plant, but they possibly provide their own distinct therapeutic benefits. Flavonoids are also known for contributing to the cannabis plant’s pigmentation.

So, what terpenes are we seeking when asking for “Indica” strains?

🍃 Strains with high levels of Myrcene are known for their “couch lock” effect. This terpene is fruity and clove like. It’s also found in hops, cardamom, mangos, etc.

🍃 High levels of Beta-Caryophyllene may also indicate an Indica strain. Beta-Caryophyllene is a spicy and peppery terpene found in cloves, black pepper, oregano, etc. This terpene directly interacts with the CB2 receptors within the endocannabinoid system. It is effective in reducing inflammation and pain.

🍃 Humulene, also known as alpha-caryophyllene, is hoppy and herbal (also found prominently in the hops plant) and known for decreasing inflammation and pain.

🍃 Linalool is a relaxing terpene that is also found in lavender! It has floral, herbal notes and is known for being sedative and stress relieving.

🌿 Popular “Indica” dominant strains that we carry:

· Animal Cookies

· Bubba Kush

· Gelato

· Gorilla Glue

· OG Kush

· Purple Paradise

· Godzilla (delta 8 THC)