Delta-8 Hybrid or Sativa or Indica: Which is Right for You? Understanding the Differences

Have you ever noticed how different your mood can be depending on the type of music you listen to? Plants are (kind of) the same. They change their properties based on where and how they grow. Of course, whether a cannabis plant grows to be an Indica, Sativa, or Hybrid is determined by its genetic makeup, its environment can definitely modify how strong that effect is or what particular therapeutic benefits it has.

That is why we at Laughing Buddha always stress the importance of reading the labels. Whether you are buying a Delta 8 THC vape juice or flower, read the label to know what the dominant strain in it is. If it is a Sativa, it will spark your creativity and keep you energized; an Indica will help you calm down and melt your stress away like a warm blanket on a chilly evening; if you do not want to feel too wired or too sleepy, a Hybrid offers the best of both worlds.

👉Also Read: Elevate Your Mind: Unveiling The Uplifting Power of Delta-8 Sativa Strains by Laughing Buddha

Is Sativa Right for You?

Popular strains: Sour Diesel, Jack Herer, Green Crack, Durban Poison, Super Silver Haze, Strawberry Cough, Lemon Haze, Amnesia Haze.

Want to kick away your habit of chugging multiple cups of coffee in the morning? Try starting your day with a puff (or a bite) of a Sativa-rich Delta 8 product. Sativa strains flourish in warmer climates with lengthy growing seasons, allowing them to soak up more sunlight. We like to think this extra sunshine is what makes them so potent at uplifting your mood and sharpening your focus.

Sativa’s effects are more cerebral, i.e., they affect your mind more than your body. As such, these strains are great for daytime use when you need a pick-me-up to get through your tasks or want to go on a hike with your friends. It is like having caffeine without the jitters.

Sativa strains generally contain higher levels of THC compared to Indica strains, but with Delta-8 THC, you get a milder, more controlled high. Delta-8 provides the benefits of Sativa strains without the intensity that sometimes comes with Delta-9 THC. So, if you are a beginner, you can have an enjoyable experience without feeling overwhelmed.  

To give you an idea, here is what you can expect with a Sativa:

1. A surge of energy that really wakes you up.
2. Increased focus on tasks like reading or work projects.
3. Ability to think more creatively and generate new ideas or solutions.
4. More vivid perception of sounds, colors, and textures.
5. Noticeable improvement in mood.
6. Heightened self-confidence when engaged in social activities.
7. Increased motivation and drive to get things done.
8. Increased awareness of the present moment.
9. Body feels lighter and more agile.
10. A mild euphoria.

Miley Cyrus is said to use Super Lemon Haze, a Sativa-dominant hybrid to bring her signature exuberance to the recording sessions. Although Seth Rogen has never confirmed his favorite strain, he is the brains behind Pineapple Express, another Sativa-forward blend that is so loved today for its stimulating nature.

Is Indica Right for You?

Popular strains: Northern Lights, Granddaddy Purple, Bubba Kush, Blueberry, Purple Kush, Hindu Kush, Strawberry Banana, Purple Punch, Gorilla Glue.

Indica strains come to you from the harsh mountain climates of the Hindu Kush region, where they evolved to be short and bushy, with broad leaves and dense buds. Cultivators love them because of how naturally resilient they are. If you want to unwind after a long, hectic day, and maybe get a good night’s sleep, Indica should be your pick. They allow every muscle in your body let go of the tension so you can slowly melt into your couch (or bed!).

Beyond that deep sense of tranquility, Indica helps you feel:

1. A strong urge to sleep, perfect for nighttime use
2. Reduction in aches and pains
3. An ease in anxiety and stress
4. A gentle wave of happiness and contentment
5. Heightened enjoyment from simple activities (like watching a movie or listening to music) more deeply
6. Increased appetite
7. A sense of grounding (heavier limbs)

The term “couch lock” was probably invented by an Indica connoisseur. It is that feeling when you are so comfortable, you do not want to move a muscle. Granddaddy Purple, an Indica strain, is apparently one of the all-time favorites of Snoop Dogg, who has never been shy about his penchant for smoking.

Indica strains have higher levels of CBD (cannabidiol) compared to Sativa strains and CBD is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It does not make you high, so if you want relief from chronic pain without intense psychoactive effects, look for a Delta 8 product with Indica or Indica-dominant strain. It could reduce your perception of pain by altering the pain signals reaching your brain.

Just remember, because Indica strains are so good at inducing a stillness to your entire being, they are not the best choice if you need to stay active or alert. As long as you are content to sit quietly or go to bed, Indica is great. But stay away from it if you have deadlines to meet or heavy machinery/vehicle to operate.

Is a Hybrid Strain Right for You?

Popular strains: Girl Scout Cookies, Blue Dream, OG Kush, Pineapple Express, White Widow, AK-47, Gelato, Bruce Banner, Chemdawg, Trainwreck.

Hybrid strains are the result of crossbreeding Cannabis Sativa plant and Indica plant to create a balanced experience. Depending on the hybrid, you might get the drowsiness of an Indica coupled with the cerebral high of a Sativa. These strains adapt to what you need, when you need it: a touch of leisure without nudging you into a nap or boosting your energy levels without tipping you into feeling overwired.

You can use Delta 8 hybrid effects to gently sharpen your focus and keep you engaged with your tasks throughout the day, yet as the sun sets, it will smoothly transition to soothe your mind and body for a relaxed evening. This makes hybrids a great choice for those who want a well-rounded experience.

11 Questions to Ask to Clarify Your Preferences

If you are still not sure which strain you should start with, ask yourself:

1. Do I want mental or physical effects primarily? (Indica offers more physical relaxation, while Sativa provides mental stimulation.)
2. Am I seeking creativity or calm? (Sativa can inspire you; Indica tends to settle you down.)
3. Do I have responsibilities after consuming? (Sativa may be better if you need to remain alert; Indica might be too relaxing if you need to stay active.)
4. What is my reaction to anxiety or paranoia? (Sativa might increase anxiety in some; Indica is usually more calming.)
5. Am I looking to treat chronic pain? (Indica-dominant strains are preferred by many for its strong physical pain-relief properties.)
6. Do I need help sleeping? (Indica is much more beneficial for sleep.)
7. Am I managing appetite issues? (Indica may give you the case of munchies.)
8. Do I want to avoid getting too high? (If you prefer milder effects, start with a Hybrid or a low-THC Indica.)
9. What kind of social setting, if any, will I be in? (Cannabis Sativa is good for socializing; Indica could leave you feeling too mellow.)
10. Do I need to be mindful of cannabis odor? (Most Sativas have stronger scent profiles.)
11. Do I want a consistent experience that does not lean too heavily towards sedation or stimulation? (Hybrids are your answer.)

👉Also Read: Unlocking The Aromatherapeutic Power: Understanding Terpenes in Delta-8 THC

Find Your Perfect Delta 8 Match at Laughing Buddha

We offer all three varieties of Delta-8 THC strains – Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid – using US Farm Bill Compliant hemp plants. Each product is infused with a blend of Indica or Sativa cannabis-derived terpenes as well for authentic flavor, aroma, and therapeutic profiles. You get a Certificate of Analysis from an ISO-certified, third-party lab to guarantee the absence of any potentially harmful chemicals and 100% purity of all products. Click here to check out our collection of premium-grade Delta-8 products online.