Since Ancient times, cannabis sativa’s role has been a prominent plant utilized in wellness, culture, and society. It has evolved significantly over time – before prohibition, it was used for centuries for industrial and medical purposes. The unjust war on drugs may have interrupted the positive growth and recognition of cannabis sativa. Still, the science of cannabis has been true all along: the plant has the power to alleviate pain, stress, and every ailment in between.
So, while cannabis is unraveling into a complex plant, full of cannabinoids, terpenes, and compounds, this general cannabis classification distinguishes general experiences and effects you’d expect from cannabis sativa.
Defining Cannabis Sativa: Its Early Discoveries & Uses
Compared to hemp and cannabis indica, which come from the same Cannabaceae family, sativa plants are often more tall and slender in their plant structure. Cannabis sativa plants thrive in warm, tropical climates, where they were originally found in Southeast Asia by Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus. Linnaeus’ work laid the foundation for understanding cannabis as a distinct plant species, discovering its cultural significance in an ancient era.
In Southeast Asia, the cannabis sativa plant was a versatile resource for many elements of life – its fibers were woven into ropes and textiles, its stalk and branches to make household utensils, and the flower’s medicinal properties were harnessed to treat ailments or in ritual ceremonies.
Sativa Landraces
A landrace strain is a cannabis cultivar that has developed naturally in a specific geographic region over a long period. The term “landrace” refers to a plant variety that adapted to its native environment. This means that a landrace cultivar has acclimated to local soil, altitude, and other external conditions. It results in distinct flavors, aromas, and physical characteristics for cannabis sativa plants.
The outcome of landrace sativa strains makes them genetically unique and balanced, and some are considered the purest forms of cannabis (before they were used to formulate modern hybrid strains). Landrace cannabis strains have originated across regions of Asia, Jamaica, the Caribbean, Africa, and Latin America – where strains like Thai, Lamb’s Bread, and Acapulco Gold have been discovered.
As time goes by, preserving these landrace cultivars has become a priority for those preserving or breeding cannabis genetics.
General Effects of Sativa Cannabis
Cannabis sativa is famed for its invigorating and cerebral effects. Originally, sativa strains contained a higher THC-to-CBD ratio, resulting in that “heady high” feeling people gush about in their first-time cannabis experience.
- Nowadays, a true sativa cultivar may be harder to find than one realizes. With genetic breeding of cannabis to leverage specific effects and a cultivar’s characteristics, hybrids are a common result.
- Sativa-dominant hybrids mean the strain leans towards sativa effects but classifies as a hybrid based on its genetic lineage. (Such as in a hybrid flower that’s 60% sativa, 40% indica)
What Are The Effects of a Sativa Strain?
A general sense of uplifting energy, creativity, and euphoria, makes sativa the ultimate ‘daytime’ strain or choice for on-the-go activity. Depending on the further cannabinoids and terpenes included in a specific sativa, some cultivars have been associated with mood enhancement, focus, and regulating stress or anxiety.
Classic Sativa Strains You Should Know About
Today’s legal cannabis market has opened access to hundreds of different sativa cannabis strains – here are some classic sativa strains every stoner should know about.
Sour Diesel
A legendary strain, Sour Diesel is a cross between Chemdawg x Super Skunk. It’s a sativa strain renowned for its pungent aroma of diesel and pine, delivering a dreamy, and energizing high. It’s a fan favorite for relief from the blues, pain, and stress.
Durban Poison
Originating from South Africa, Durban Poison is a pure sativa with a sweet and earthy flavor profile. This sativa’s effects are both energizing and calming, making it suitable for creative endeavors or relaxation.
Super Silver Haze
A favorite among cannabis enthusiasts, Super Silver Haze is celebrated for its uplifting effects and robust flavor. This strain combines genetics from Skunk, Northern Lights, and Haze, offering a well-balanced sativa experience.
Green Crack
Named for its energetic effects, Green Crack is a pure sativa with a fruity flavor and vibrant orange buds. Its stimulating high makes it a great alternative to a morning cup of coffee.
Acapulco Gold
With its golden appearance and uplifting effects, Acapulco Gold is a classic sativa cannabis cultivar with a rich history and origin. Its effects offer a unique blend of earthy and citrus flavors that complement its invigorating high.
Cannabis sativa has a rich history, stemming from its discovery by Carl Linnaeus and the plant’s widespread use in ancient and modern times. With infamous energizing and cerebral effects, cannabis sativa is the go-to classification for those seeking a boost in energy, creativity, or overall mood.
