In the early days of legalization, the terms Indica and Sativa were adopted by budtenders who were trying to describe the effects of cannabis—not how the plants grew or where they were from. Growers knew better, because they saw skinny Sativa leaves on a squat, earthy-smelling plant and fat Indica leaves on a tall that produced buds that smelled like fresh lemon. They knew the lineage of their plants, and that 99% of the strains were hybrids.
Today, the terms Indica and Sativa are almost always used incorrectly. Though we know it would be more accurate to classify strains using words like “awaken,” “ground,” “create,” and “relax,” most cannabis consumers and dispensaries prefer to stick to good ole Indica and Sativa. So after much debate, we’ve decided to adopt these terms as they are used today: “Indica-effect” strains are experienced as physically heavier and more conducive to relaxation and possibly sleep. “Sativa-effect” strains are experienced as more uplifting and energetic. “Hybrid-effect” strains are those which bridge the middle ground between the two, and are usually great for both daytime and nighttime use—for quiet or activity.