Forget Indica vs. Sativa: It’s Time to Talk Terps
- May 21
- 2 min read
Break the Myth
For decades, cannabis has been marketed in three basic categories: Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid. Indicas supposedly make you sleepy, Sativas energize you, and Hybrids do a bit of both.
But here’s the truth:
That classification is outdated—and scientifically meaningless when it comes to how cannabis actually affects you.
The Science Says Otherwise
The labels “Indica” and “Sativa” refer to the plant’s physical traits—like leaf shape and growth structure—not its chemical makeup or effects.
According to studies from organizations like Project CBD, Leafly, and peer-reviewed publications, the effects of cannabis are more accurately predicted by its chemical profile—specifically, its terpenes and cannabinoids—not the plant’s name or type.
So What Actually Dictates Effects?
Meet the real MVPs: Terpenes.
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in cannabis (and many other plants). They affect flavor, smell, and—when paired with cannabinoids—your experience.
Here’s how they break down:
Terpene | Smell/Flavor | Common Effects |
|---|---|---|
Limonene | Citrus (orange, lemon) | Uplifting, mood-boosting |
Pinene | Pine, fresh forest | Alertness, mental clarity |
Myrcene | Earthy, musky, mango | Sedative, calming |
Caryophyllene | Spicy, peppery | Body relief, stress-reducing |
Think of terpenes as the steering wheel, while THC is the engine.
The terpene profile gives direction to the high—not just intensity.
How Indigo East Does It Differently
We get it—Indica, Sativa, Hybrid are still how a lot of people shop. That’s why you’ll still see those labels on our strains—for now.
But if you ask us?
That’s the least important thing on the label.
At Indigo East, we prioritize the full profile—the terpenes, the cannabinoids, the effect, and the flavor. We give you that info up front so you can start choosing your cannabis based on how it actually makes you feel, not just what it’s called.
We’re here to educate, not alienate—so while we still label our strains the traditional way, we’re doing the work to help evolve the way people shop, talk about, and experience weed.
Our goal? A future where “Indica or Sativa?” is the last question anyone asks.
Terps > Labels. Always.
It’s time to shop smart. Don’t let a strain name or a label decide your experience.
Instead, ask questions like:
What are the dominant terpenes?
Is it a clear-headed or body-heavy high?
What does the flower smell and taste like?
That’s how cannabis should be approached—and that’s how we roll at Indigo East.
Explore Our Strains
Ready to find your flavor? Tap the button below to browse by effect and terpene.
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