"Hey man, am I driving okay?"
"I think we're parked, man."
Cheech and Chong in "Up in Smoke" (1978)
Users have repeatedly reported that some strains of cannabis tend to make them feel stoned, with the metaphor "stoned" referring to a strong relaxing and sedative effect, making them tired and having little energy for physical activity.
On the other hand, users report that other strains tend to induce a mental high that doesn't cause drowsiness or physical relaxation, and even gives them a boost of energy that allows them to perform physical activities. The "stoned" feeling is then stereotypically attributed to indica strains, while the mental "high" is attributed to sativas.
So is it enough to choose a strain based on the labels Indica and Sativa if you want to get stoned or high?
Indica, Sativa, Ruderalis: What do the terms mean?
Let's first take a closer look at the labels "Indica" and "Sativa" to clarify this question. Historically, most botanists divided cannabis strains into two or three types:
· Cannabis Sativa , originally from equatorial regions such as Thailand, Mexico or Jamaica.
Cannabis Indica : from regions such as Afghanistan, India or Nepal.
Cannabis Ruderalis : Native to Central Asia and Eastern Europe, it has very low THC levels. Ruderalis strains are often crossed with other genetics to create so-called "autoflowering" varieties. Ruderalis enters flowering independently of the annual light cycle, making it particularly easy to grow indoors. However, some botanists have long considered Cannabis ruderalis merely a "subspecies" of cannabis.
Today, botanists describe cannabis as only one species, namely Cannabis sativa L., with proposed subspecies and several varieties. According to Donald Partland and Ernest Small, indica and sativa strains, for example, would be varieties. However, this reclassification is not particularly important for us, because even as varieties, indica and sativa strains could have specific effects as described above.
Why the distinction between Indica and Sativa is no longer meaningful
Decades of prohibition and the black market have led breeders around the world to create countless hybrid strains. These were specifically bred for traits such as short flowering times, high yields, and discreet growth, resulting in massive genetic mixing. Scientists such as Dr. Ethan Russo and Dr. John M. Partland therefore criticize the fact that the terms "Indica" and "Sativa" are now hardly reliable for predicting the actual effects of a strain.
So-called "landraces" - original, locally adapted varieties - have also almost disappeared worldwide: even in remote regions, hybrids with Dutch genetics are now mostly found.
So why do even large cannabis seed banks still classify their genetics as "Sativa" and "Indica" and use statements like "70% Sativa content" to explain certain potency characteristics? A while ago, I spoke with a content manager at a cannabis company who was very aware of the problem and had very clear words for this practice: "Buyers google "Indica" or "Sativa" when looking for seeds. If we abandon the classification, we will simply lose massive amounts of customers and revenue!"
Synergistic effects
Therefore, we need to look at the composition of individual strains if we want to know whether they have a sedative effect or not. We know that in addition to the more than 140 cannabinoids, cannabis also contains approximately 200 terpenes, over 20 flavonoids, and other substances that potentially act synergistically (see the article "How Plant Compounds Work Together"). Different cannabis strains have widely varying proportions of these substances, which suggests that some substances, when combined with THC or CBD, lead to sedative or other effects.
There are already some candidates for which preclinical studies and reports suggest that they tend to produce sedative and calming effects, including, most notably, the terpenes myrcene (more sedative in synergy with THC) and linalool (more calming and anxiolytic). These are terpenes that are also found in higher concentrations in classic pure Indica landraces (before heavy hybridization).
Neurologist and cannabis expert Ethan Russo describes myrcene as the dominant terpene in many cannabis strains, highlighting its sedative, muscle-relaxing, and sleep-inducing properties. He also points out that myrcene increases the permeability of the blood-brain barrier, potentially enhancing the effects of THC. Russo also believes that terpenes such as alpha-pinene could lead to increased alertness and improved memory.
Many users have reported that aged or highly heated cannabis tends to produce a "stoned" effect. Until now, many have suspected that the breakdown product of THC, cannabinol (CBN), could be responsible for this, which Ethan Russo believes is possible. While this isn't sedative in its pure form, it could have a sedative effect synergistically with THC. Russo suggests, however, that monoterpenoids in aged THV have evaporated, leaving behind the more sedative oxygenated sesquiterpenoids.
Biphasic effects
Furthermore, the biphasic effects of THC and CBD play a central role in the individual effects of cannabis. This means that the effects can be dose-dependent and inverse: Low doses of THC often have a stimulating and mood-enhancing effect, while higher doses can lead to sedation, anxiety, or paranoia. Similarly, there is evidence that CBD may have more activating effects at low doses but calming effects at higher doses.
Individual effects: genetics and other factors
Cannabis affects individuals very differently, which can be explained by several factors. First, genetic variants, particularly in the endocannabinoid system, influence how strongly and in what way people respond to cannabis. Women are often more sensitive to THC, experience stronger psychoactive effects at lower doses, and benefit more from pain-relieving properties, which is attributed to hormonal influences. Other factors also play a role in explaining the individual effects of cannabis, such as (mind)set and setting—i.e., mood and character—as well as the specific context of consumption, and tolerance development.
Practical tips
So how can I influence whether I'm more likely to get "stoned" or "high" with a particular strain of cannabis?
· In this regard, it is no longer useful to base your choice of strain on labels such as Sativa/Indica.
As a working hypothesis, it makes sense to look at the terpene profile of the variety and pay attention to the proportions of the terpenes myrcene or linalol.
· Degradation products of TCH or CBD, which arise, for example, from exposure to high heat or from outdated products, are suspected of having a sedative effect in synergy with THC. I would generally recommend choosing the intake method and products so that they are not overheated if you don't want to become drowsy.
· Company reports on cannabis genetics of well-known strains should be treated with caution. There is still a lot of variation and little standardization on the market. Companies like HEIMAT, which cultivate cannabis themselves in a regulated and legal context, can provide more reliable information about their strains.
Dosage plays a key role, as THC and CBD have biphasic effects; here, too, you should experiment for yourself to achieve the best results. Start low, go slow, and gradually increase the dosage.
Since the effect of a strain also depends on your own genetic constitution and other factors, you should experiment with different strains to see how a particular strain affects your organism.
· Keep a consumption diary: Note the type, dose, method of consumption and effects to identify patterns and optimize your experiences.
· Avoid mixed use: The simultaneous consumption of cannabis with alcohol or other substances can unpredictably change the effects and increase risks.
Store cannabis properly: Keep cannabis products cool, dark, and airtight.
Conclusion
Choosing the right cannabis strain is more complex than the distinction between indica and sativa suggests. It's more important to focus on the individual's terpene and cannabinoid profile, as well as personal factors such as genetics, dosage, and consumption environment. Those who approach cannabis consciously and are willing to experiment can find the strain and application that's right for them. Ultimately, informed, reflective use is the key to a positive and safe cannabis experience.
Note: The information presented here is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. For the treatment of any medical condition, please consult a medical professional.
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