When you step into Union Chill for the first time, there is a good chance one of our budtenders will greet you with, “What can I help you find? Are you looking for an Indica, Sativa or Hybrid?” If you’re new to the cannabis world and just expecting to pick up some edibles or a pre-roll, this question be a bit confusing or overwhelming.
For the newbies out there, Indica, Sativa and Hybrid are the three main types of cannabis strains. Understanding their differences will help you learn and identify the products for your preferred experience. We’ll give you a full breakdown to guide you on your journey in discovering the product that is just right for you!
Indica
Cannabis Indica is a subspecies of the cannabis plant characterized by its short and bushy leaves. While the flavors and aromas of Indicas can vary widely depending on each strain and its terpene profile, they generally tend to have sweet or fruity notes. To learn more about how terpenes play a role in cannabis, check out our blog post, How Terpenes Can Transform Your Cannabis Experience.
Indica strains are primarily associated with relaxing and sedative effects, making them a preferred choice for those seeking pain relief, anxiety relief or sleep support.
Just like all cannabis, you can find Indica strains in a variety of products for different consumption methods, including edibles, flower, pre-rolls, vape carts, concentrates, topicals and tinctures. One of our favorite Indica strains is Animal Face by Rythm, a beautiful blend of limonene and linalool, producing a unique mix of sweet, nutty and citrusy flavors while offering relaxing and uplifting effects. Union Chill offers this strain as a live resin vape cart, flower and flower littles.
Sativa
On the other side of the “cannabis spectrum” is Cannabis Sativa, a subspecies of the cannabis plant characterized by its tall, dark green leaves. Sativas usually have a longer flowering period than Indicas and are best grown in warm climates.
Sativa strains tend to have a lighter, more refreshing aroma and are often associated with uplifting and energizing effects. For those seeking to enhance their creativity, focus or sociability, a Sativa strain may be the perfect fit. L’Orange by Garden Greens is an excellent Sativa strain that offers the “full package” of energetic, happy, creative, focused and inspired effects.
Hybrid
As its name suggests, a Hybrid strain is a crossbreed between Indica and Sativa plants. Hybrids can be selectively bred to combine distinct traits from each plant. Thus, there are endless possibilities of Hybrid strains, all with differing characteristics and effects!
Hybrids are generally categorized as Indica-dominant, containing a higher ratio of Indica strains, Sativa-dominant, containing higher levels of Sativa strains, or balanced, a harmonious, 50/50 blend of both.
All that being said, a Hybrid plant’s appearance and its aromas, flavors and effects can vary widely depending on its genetic makeup. An Indica-dominant strain may produce more relaxing, sedative effects while a Sativa-dominant strain may generate happy feelings and a spark of creativity. Some Hybrids are even bred to emphasize a combination of select effects such as pain relief and enhanced focus.
Due to their diversity, Hybrid strains are very popular at Union Chill amongst a variety of shoppers. And because of their ability to tailor experiences based on desired effects, they are a great choice for cannabis newbies.
Cherry Slushee by Kind Tree is a great example of a Hybrid strain that produces calming sensations while igniting a surge of energy. For those that prefer pre-rolls, we recommend you try Z Pie by Garden Greens, a perfectly blended Hybrid that conjures a mix of happiness and relaxation. Afternoon Delight by Rythm is another customer favorite, characterized by its high level of limonene producing a balanced sense of happiness and serenity.
Union Chill budtenders are happy to help you explore our extensive selection of products, each with its own distinct benefits and effects, so you can find the perfect match for your individual needs. Stop by our shop so we can connect you with the product that will offer you the experience that just feels right.
