What is Sativa? Understanding the Cannabis Species

You’re bound to encounter the word “sativa” when you come to any Curaleaf dispensary. What does it have to do with the products you want to buy? This guide will explain where the term comes from, what it means, and why that matters when shopping at a cannabis dispensary.

Understanding what sativa is

Cannabis sativa is a plant species in the Cannabaceae family first classified by Carl Linnaeus, a biologist, physician, and the creator of binomial nomenclature, in 1753. Cannabis sativa is an annual flowering plant native to eastern Asia.

There are numerous varieties of Cannabis sativa called cultivars (also called strains). These cultivars developed naturally in various regions. Each has its own unique genetic and chemical makeup, resulting in slightly different effects when consumed by humans.

Sativa vs. indica vs. hybrid

You may hear sativa strains compared to indica or hybrid strains of cannabis, usually in terms of effects. However, it’s important to understand that sativa or indica genetics is not an accurate indicator of how a plant may affect you when consumed, especially if the plant is a sativa- or indica-dominant hybrid.

Sativa strains tend to have high levels of delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis plants, relative to Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-intoxicating cannabinoid. Cannabis indica strains tend to have a more balanced ratio of THC and CBD. However, it should be noted that the chemical composition of individual cannabis plants can vary depending on environmental factors and is not a genetic guarantee.

Why do people associate sativas with energizing effects?

Cannabis sativa is generally associated with energizing effects, although this generalization should be considered a guideline and not a concrete rule. Sativa strains earned this reputation for energizing effects because pure sativas tend to have higher levels of THC and lower levels of CBD, and this balance may result in a “heady” high rather than a body high. Additionally, sativa strains contain lower terpenes associated with relaxation and sedation, like myrcene and linalool, than indica strains.

5 famous sativa strains

These five Cannabis sativa strains are pure sativas that developed naturally in the wild, otherwise known as “landrace strains.”

1. Durban Poison

Originating in the South African city of Durban, Durban Poison is notable for its moderate potency and energetic, euphoric effects. This sativa strain is noted for significant levels of Cannabigerol (CBG), a minor cannabinoid often associated with uplifting effects. In addition to a burst of energy and a buoyant mood, you may experience feelings of inspiration and creativity. This strain generally contains high levels of the terpenes terpinolene, myrcene, and ocimene.

2. Thai

Thai is a strain that comes from Thailand, as the name suggests. It’s widely reported to support an energizing high that many consumers say is great for a creative boost. Thai contains significant levels of CBG, which contributes to its euphoric properties. Its terpene profile generally contains high levels of caryophyllene, limonene, myrcene, and terpinolene.

3. Malawi Gold

Malawi Gold originates from its namesake country. Like many other pure sativa strains, Malawi Gold is associated with energizing and focused feelings, and some consumers report an arousing property as well.

Interestingly, the dominant terpene in Malawi Gold tends to be myrcene, which is often associated with relaxing and sedative effects. However, it also contains high levels of limonene, a citrus terpene associated with energizing and uplifting feelings.

4. Acapulco Gold

Acapulco Gold might be your choice if you’re looking for a reportedly mood-lifting and energy-boosting strain. Expect some pep in your step, as many consumers report Acapulco Gold as highly motivating — you may want to tackle a new project or clean your space. This strain’s terpene profile typically contains high levels of caryophyllene, myrcene, and limonene.

5. Colombian Gold

Like the other sativa strains on this list, Colombian Gold is associated with energizing, euphoric, and creative effects. This strain is notable for its skunky, earthy aromas and citrus flavors. The dominant terpene in this strain tends to be limonene, which explains the citrus influence and significantly uplifting effects. It also contains high levels of myrcene and caryophyllene. Sativa as a starting guide: What to look for when shopping for cannabis

Sativa as a starting guide: What to look for when shopping for cannabis

When shopping for cannabis products, think of “sativa” as a starting point and not an end goal. For example, if you know you prefer energetic, heady highs, you may narrow down your search to primarily sativa or Sativa-dominant strains. However, it’s important to know that this shouldn’t be the only factor you consider.

A more reliable indicator of the type of experience you might have with a particular strain is the genotype, which informs the strain’s compound profile. The compound profile contains cannabinoids and terpenes, among other compounds, which are your experience's primary drivers. One sativa-dominant product may affect you very differently from another, so it’s important to understand these compounds and how they affect your experience.

For example, in the list of sativa strains above, you may notice that all these cultivars contain significant levels of CBG. This minor cannabinoid is often thought to produce the uplifting, euphoric characteristics that many consumers associate with sativa strains or sativa-dominant hybrid strains. If you like these mood-boosting qualities, look for products with higher amounts of CBG, even if they say “indica” or “hybrid” on the label.

All products we carry at Curaleaf are tested and labeled, so you can easily examine what’s in the strain or product you’re considering. Familiarizing yourself with the most common cannabinoids and terpenes and noting how they affect your experience as you try them can help you better choose the right strains and products for you. And if you’re not sure about which products are best for you, a Curaleaf associate will be happy to help walk you through everything we have to offer.

Shop sativa strains and products at Curaleaf

If you’re in the market for sativa or sativa-dominant cannabis products, Curaleaf has you covered. Check out our online menu for a Curaleaf location near you, or stop in for a visit and chat with our associates about what’s available at your local Curaleaf. We’ll ensure all your questions are answered, and you’ll go home with a cannabis product that’s just right for your needs.