What is a Sativa Cannabis Strain?

Cannabis sativa was first classified by Carl Linnaeus in the mid-18th century, but its role in human history began long before that. Like cannabis indica, the first sativas originated in Eastern Asia but quickly spread all over the globe. Early humans used Sativa plants for a number of different purposes, from food and fiber to religious services and more. Eventually, every single part of the plant was harvested for a unique purpose. Compared to Indica plants, cannabis Sativa plants tend to be larger with leaves that are much more narrow. Sativas also take on a lighter green color than their Indica relatives. Their flavors and aromas tend to be relatively earthy and musky. In addition, sativas usually contain more CBD than THC, while indicas and certain hybrids tend to hold more THC. This is the reason sativas are often used for relieving anxiety. In addition to CBD and THC, Sativa plants can hold nearly 500 other compounds. Today, cultivators classify sativas into three main groups. The first is plants grown for producing fiber, and these plants typically consist of long stems with few branches. The second group of plants are for producing seeds. The seeds of these plants can be used to produce hemp oil, which can then be used for hundreds of different products. Finally, there are plants grown specifically for medicinal and recreational use. These are the plants that contain the highest amounts of THC and CBD and produce psychoactive effects. The most popular Sativa strains in the industry include Durban Poison, Acapulco Gold, and Panama Red.  

Sativa Weed Positive Effects:

Cannabis sativa often produces an uplifting and stimulating experience. Many claims increased happiness and overall mood.  Some Sativa strains provide an energetic, focused and creative high that will get you through your day. While Indicas and hybrids can produce prominent body highs, the effects of sativas tend to stay in the mind. Consuming Sativa may help you feel productive, more alert, and less anxious. It may also help you feel more comfortable in social situations by easing your mind and letting the conversation flow freely. Many people even claim that Sativas help enhance the benefits of certain physical activities such as yoga. Stronger sativas have been known to produce mildly hallucinogenic or “spacey” effects. The energy-boosting effects of sativas are why they are usually more ideal for daytime use, as consuming before bed may lead to trouble sleeping.

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Sativa Cannabis Strain Medical Benefits:

Cannabis, whether it’s a Sativa, Indica, or hybrid, has a massive variety of important medical benefits and can treat a number of both physical and psychological ailments. Sativas, in particular, are very beneficial in treating symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other psychiatric conditions. These strains are also great for relieving mild chronic pain as well as mild aches and inflammation. Sativas are even effective in promoting focus and motivation in those who struggle with certain attention disorders. In addition, nausea and appetite loss are other common symptoms that can be helped by marijuana. Sativa-dominant hybrids are another great choice for those who want the mood-boosting effects of a Sativa while still receiving the body high associated with most indicas. 

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Sativa Vs Indica:

The difference between Indica and Sativa are quite large in how it affects the user. Sativas are more of a head high whereas Indicas are more of a sedating type of weed.  Indica plants tend to grow much shorter and bushier than Sativas, and Sativas tend to take longer to grow, thus making many Sativa strains do much better in warmer climates with longer summers. These strains also differ in terms of how they affect the brain. Indicas increase your brain’s levels of dopamine, a chemical responsible for reward, pleasure, and certain aspects of movement. This is why indicas have such prominent physical effects. Sativas, on the other hand, increase the levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin helps regulate things such as mood, appetite, anxiety, and so much. It’s for this reason that sativas are so effective in treating mood disorders like depression and anxiety. For many cannabis lovers, choosing between sativas and indicas is easier said than done. Luckily, the development of hybrid strains means users no longer have to choose between the two. Hybrid strains involve crossing an indica with a Sativa to produce a strain with “the best of both worlds.” Depending on which parent strains are used, hybrids can have indica-dominant or Sativa-dominant effects, but some hybrids manage to achieve a perfect balance. Some people choose a Sativa-dominant hybrid over a pure Sativa because this allows them to experience Sativas effects in addition to mild indica effects. This can also help reduce the likelihood of experiencing the negative side effects that can come with a pure Sativa. 

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How to Grow Sativa Marijuana Plants?

As previously mentioned, Sativa plants generally take longer to flower than Indicas. They are also generally more difficult to grow, and this even applies to Sativa-dominant hybrids. Therefore, it is recommended to do the research before picking a Sativa strain to grow and make sure it can thrive in the growing environment. It’s important to have the proper grow space, lighting, nutrients, and all of the other equipment you may need. Sativas are extremely sensitive to temperature and nutrients, but the payoff is well worth the effort. Click here to learn more about how to grow a top-shelf Sativa from the comfort of your own home. 

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How to take Sativa Weed?

Smoking weed in a joint is by far the most common.  Bongs, pipes, vapes are also common methods. You can also consume sativas in the form of concentrates or edibles. Weed edibles and concentrates take a few extra steps, but they are indeed ways to take your weed, but recommended for experienced users. This is because they are far more potent than unrefined flower, and can contain up to 90% pure THC. For reference, the average Sativa strain contains anywhere from 20-30% THC. Different methods of consumption can influence both the length and intensity of your overall experience. 

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How to Store Sativa Weed?

It’s best to store weed is sealed in an airtight bag or glass jar and stored in a cool and dark area of the house. It is advised to keep it out of the reach of children, or others who might try to steal your stash. It’s also important to keep your weed in an area with the proper temperature and humidity levels. This helps prevent the growth of molds and bacterias as well as any rot, all of which can ruin your precious bud. If storing multiple strains, you must keep them separated in order to prevent aromas from mixing. Storing your weed properly will preserve the original aroma, flavor, and effects of your strain. 

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Sativa Cannabis Side Effects:

Fortunately, cannabis is a relatively safe substance to consume. It has a very low toxicity level and rarely results in the need for medical attention. However, this doesn’t mean there aren’t a host of side effects you should be aware of before consuming. Dry mouth and dry/red eyes are the main culprits. Drink plenty of liquids and you will be fine. If you are new, start off slow, as some have reported bouts of dizziness, paranoia and nausea.  Just remember that these effects don't last long and sometimes are so minor that they go unnoticed because you are having such a great time. However, it is important to note that in rare instances, long-term cannabis use can have certain side effects in certain situations. Sativas are more likely to cause anxiety and paranoia than other strains, but this can be easily prevented by using a Sativa-dominant hybrid with mild indica effects. 

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References

• Holland, Kimberly. (2019, April 8). Sativa vs. Indica: What to Expect Across Cannabis Types and Strains. Healthline. Available At: https://www.healthline.com/health/sativa-vs-indica
• Grinspoon P MD. (2020, April 10). Medical Marijuana. Harvard Health. Available at: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/medical-marijuana-2018011513085
• Stamberger, Jeffrey. (2019, August 5). How to Store Marijuana. Medical Marijuana Inc. Available At: https://www.medicalmarijuanainc.com/marijuana-storage/
• Hall W, Renstrom M, Poznyak V. The health and social effects of nonmedical cannabis use. World Health Organization: Geneva. Available at: https://www.who.int/substance_abuse/publications/msbcannabis.pdf
• Bonini et al. (2018). “Cannabis sativa: A comprehensive ethnopharmacological review of a medicinal plant with a long history.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology. Accessed January 12th, 2021 at https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378874118316611 
• Haze, Nebula. “A Guide to Growing Sativa Strains Indoors.” Grow Weed Easy. Accessed January 12th, 2021 at https://www.growweedeasy.com/guide-to-growing-sativa-strains-indoors 
• Richter, Nicole. “Medical Uses for Sativa Strains: Understanding the Benefits.” Way of Leaf. Accessed January 12th, 2021 at https://wayofleaf.com/cannabis/ailments/medical-uses-for-sativa-strains 
• Sales et al. (2018) “Antidepressant-like effect induced by Cannabidiol is dependent on brain serotonin levels.” Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry. Accessed January 12th, 2021 at https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0278584618301167?casa_token=UYUex1_6YXgAAAAA:Fk1FPQfvdo2FG2JB0UN4rarQTOYBP8oulxgf-e0_IJST14k2WZES3fzhrNZGgXTEYCcILmlq 
• Santos-Longhurst, Adrienne. “Which Weed Strains are Highest in THC?” Heathline. Accessed January 12th, 2021 at https://www.healthline.com/health/highest-thc-strain 
• “Sativa Side Effects: Everything You Need to Know and More.” Way of Leaf. Accessed January 12th, 2021 at https://wayofleaf.com/cannabis/101/sativa-side-effects