Whether "Hits from the Bong" or "Purple Haze" – the cannabis world knows the terms "Sativa" and "Indica" well. But science increasingly questions these traditional categories. Latest studies clearly show: this distinction is not scientifically tenable.
But where do the terms "Sativa" and "Indica" come from?
Hemp is one of the oldest cultivated and useful plants of humanity. Despite its long history, the exact origin of cannabis remains unclear. Due to a lack of fossil evidence, it is difficult to determine the origin precisely. However, studies suggest that cannabis originally arose in southwestern China.
The categories Sativa, Indica and Ruderalis developed over centuries. Sativa plants are tall and slender, grow in tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and South America, and are known for their euphoric effect. Indica plants are more compact and originate from Central Asia and India. They are especially valued for their calming effect. Ruderalis is a wild, robust subspecies that is particularly resilient and often flowers automatically.
Where do the terms "Sativa" and "Indica" come from?
Originally, Carl von Linné classified cannabis as Cannabis Sativa in the 18th century. Later, Jean-Baptiste Lamarck described Cannabis Indica as a separate species due to morphological differences. These distinctions have remained popular to this day, although they are scientifically outdated.
The latest scientific findings
New studies show that the terms "Sativa" and "Indica" have little genetic significance. Researchers at the University of British Columbia and the Dutch company Bedrocan found that terpenes rather determine the effect of cannabis. Terpenes such as myrcene, limonene, or linalool significantly influence the aroma and effect of different cannabis strains.
A study by Bedrocan confirms that there is no genetic basis for the traditional Sativa/Indica classification. Likewise, a large-scale investigation from 2022 shows that the chemical composition of cannabis does not correspond with the categories "Indica," "Sativa," or "Hybrid."
The most important terpenes and their effects:
- Myrcene: calming and relaxing
- Limonene: mood-enhancing and stress-relieving
- Linalool: calming and relaxing
- Pinene: promotes focus and memory
- Caryophyllene: anti-inflammatory and stress-reducing
Conclusion: The future belongs to terpenes
The distinction between Indica and Sativa is outdated. Terpenes play a much greater role in the effect of cannabis. In the future, both consumers and producers will have to orient themselves more strongly to terpene profiles in order to achieve desired effects specifically.
