Indica vs Sativa vs Hybrid: Medicinal Cannabis and the Differences Explained

What is the difference between Indica, Sativa and Hybrid?

Traditionally, the terms Indica and Sativa have been used to describe different types of cannabis plants, with Hybrid referring to plants containing genetics from both. These labels have also become widely used to describe the expected characteristics of different cannabis cultivars.

However, modern cannabis research suggests that Indica, Sativa and Hybrid labels don't reliably tell us exactly what is in you medicine or how it will affect you. A large 2022 study analysing more than 89,000 commercial cannabis samples found that these labels did not consistently correspond with the products' actual cannabinoid and terpene profiles. [1] Another study found that cannabis samples labelled Sativa and Indica were genetically very similar overall, although some differences in individual terpene concentrations were identified. [2]

So, while the terms remain commonly used, they shouldn't be treated as a straightforward guide to the effects of medicinal cannabis.

What matters more than Indica or Sativa?

When prescribing medicinal cannabis, there is more to consider than the Indica/Sativa label.

Medicinal cannabis contains cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, as well as naturally occurring compounds called terpenes. These contribute to the plant's characteristics, including aroma and flavour, and may also influence how a product is experienced.

This means two products carrying the same Indica or Sativa label can have quite different chemical profiles.

At Medicann, our clinicians consider factors including your condition, medical history, previous treatments and individual response when deciding whether medical cannabis is appropriate.

What about Hybrid medical cannabis?

Hybrid medication is generally a cultivar containing genetics associated with both Indica and Sativa.

However, the word “Hybrid” doesn't mean that the effects will necessarily be halfway between the two. The specific cannabinoid and terpene profile of the product is much more informative than the label alone.

Indica, Sativa and Hybrid are useful terms to understand, but they don't tell the whole story.

When it comes to medicinal cannabis, the individual product, its cannabinoid and terpene profile, dose and your own response all matter. The endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate functions such as sleep, mood and pain, also varies from person to person, meaning individuals can respond differently to the same medicinal cannabis product.

At Medicann, treatment is personalised around you, not simply a label on a product. If you're considering medicinal cannabis, check your eligibility and take the first step towards speaking with a prescribing doctor.

References

1. Smith AD et al. The phytochemical diversity of commercial Cannabis in the United States. PLOS ONE, 2022.

2. Sawler J et al. Cannabis labelling is associated with genetic variation in terpene synthase genes. Nature Plants, 2021.