Indica

Indica refers to short, dense cannabis plants with characteristically broad leaves that evolved naturally in areas with cooler climates near the 30th parallel, like Afghanistan and Morocco. Indicas typically grow faster and begin flowering sooner compared to narrow leaf equatorial sativas. Their compact size also tends to produce higher yields per square footage under artificial growing conditions compared to more lanky sativa varieties. Traditionally, purported indica effects include powerful relaxation of both mind and body, sedation, pain and anxiety relief - but scientifically, a strain's actual effects correlate more directly with its underlying cannabinoid and terpene contents rather than merely its hereditary indica categorization. Subjective experiences differ. Popular classic indica strains prized by growers and consumers include Granddaddy Purple, Northern Lights and Afghani #1. However, labeling all indica effects as heavily sedating or narcotic drastically oversimplifies the incredible complexity and variability that exists among modern hybridized polyhybrid crosses. Ultimately, different individual body chemistry plays a major role affecting how a person responds to any given strain, whether labeled indica, sativa or hybrid. So while indicas suit some consumers excellently, more energizing sativas or balanced hybrids may better serve other needs.