The question of whether Indica or Sativa is considered an “upper” relates to the most common way people predict their cannabis experience. Historically, the two main subspecies, Cannabis indica and Cannabis sativa, were classified based on physical characteristics and geographic origins. While this botanical distinction still exists, the modern market simplifies these terms to represent two different types of effects.
The Traditional View of Sativa and Indica
Traditionally, Sativa strains are associated with being an “upper,” providing a stimulating and cerebral experience. These effects are often described as uplifting, energetic, and conducive to creativity and focus, making them popular for daytime use. Sativa plants are typically taller and lankier with narrow leaves, originating from warmer, equatorial climates.
Conversely, Indica strains are widely considered the opposite, often described as a “downer” that promotes deep relaxation and full-body effects. The perceived effects are generally sedating and calming, frequently leading to “couch-lock.” These plants are physically shorter and bushier with broader leaves, originally thriving in colder climates.
The Chemical Reality of Effects: Cannabinoids and Terpenes
The actual experience a person has with cannabis is determined not by the plant’s physical structure but by its unique chemical composition, known as its chemotype. Effects are driven by a complex interaction between cannabinoids, such as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), and aromatic compounds called terpenes. THC is the main psychoactive component responsible for the “high,” while CBD is non-psychoactive and can modulate THC’s effects.
The most significant modulators of the “upper” or “downer” sensation are the terpenes, which are responsible for the plant’s distinctive aromas and flavors. For instance, the common terpene Myrcene is strongly associated with sedation, often mistakenly attributed to CBD content in traditional Indica strains. A strain high in Myrcene is more likely to cause relaxing effects, regardless of its Sativa or Indica label.
Other terpenes like Limonene (citrus aroma) and Pinene (pine scent) are often linked to the uplifting and energizing effects traditionally associated with Sativa strains. This combined action of various compounds is referred to as the “entourage effect,” where the whole plant extract produces a more nuanced effect than any single isolated compound. The concentration and ratio of these cannabinoids and terpenes truly dictate whether a specific flower will feel stimulating or sedating.
Why Relying Solely on Strain Type is Misleading
In the modern cannabis market, relying on the Sativa or Indica label is often misleading because the vast majority of available products are hybrid strains created through extensive cross-breeding. The original botanical lines have been so intermixed that the genetic distinction between a plant labeled “Indica” and one labeled “Sativa” is often inconsistent or nonexistent. Studies show that these labels poorly reflect the actual chemical composition of the plant, including its cannabinoid and terpene profile.
The same strain name can be classified inconsistently over time, demonstrating the subjective nature of the categorization. A plant with a high-THC, low-CBD ratio and abundant Myrcene might be sold as an Indica, while another with the same lineage but a different terpene profile could feel more stimulating. For an accurate prediction of effects, consumers are better served by looking past the arbitrary Sativa/Indica label. They should instead prioritize the detailed chemical testing results, or chemotype, provided by the producer, focusing on specific cannabinoid and terpene percentages.