Almost all strains are technically hybrids.
There are three classifications of cannabis. Sativa, indica, and hybrid. A hybrid is a mix of both. Sativa is uplifting and energizing with a head high. Indica is the exact opposite. It is sedating with a body high. This is outdated science, but we will discuss that later in the article.
If you read our sativa 101 and indica 101 articles, you learned that most strains are hybrids. Since that is the case, dispensaries usually label strains as hybrid when they are a 50/50 mix. Strains labeled sativa are usually just sativa-dominant and vise versa.
Some fan favorite strains around the world! (according to leafly)
Blue Dream
OG Kush
Runtz
Common Effects
It was believed that a perfect hybrid would give the energy of a sativa and the relaxation of an indica. One would happen before the other. As stated before, the research shows this isn’t really the case.
The chemical makeup of each strain is what truly gives it unique effects. Indica-dominant hybrids can uplift you and sativa-dominant hybrids can put you to sleep. The true indicator of whether you will be tired after smoking is the myrcene content.
If a strain has over 0.5% myrcene, you will get the “couch lock” effect and get tired. Lower levels of myrcene (less than 0.5%) mean you will most likely have a more energetic high. To learn more about terpenes and their effects, click here. You can also check out our terpene library.
Plant Structure
The plant structure of a hybrid will highly depend on the parent strains. They can have characteristics of both a sativa and indica. Some plants may be short and bushy with thin leaves. Others may be tall and thin with thick leaves. Since most plants are hybrids, they will rarely look like their ancestors did.
The Truth About Hybrids
We stated this in the indica and sativa strains 101 articles, but please note that not all sativa strains will make you energetic. All indicas won’t make you tired either. Rather, a lot more goes into the makeup of each strain that includes different percentages of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.
Body chemistry plays a role as well. In fact, everyone reacts differently to every strain. No one person is alike. Trial and error is your best friend in finding what strains you enjoy most!
Overview:
- The classification of cannabis is outdated.
- Hybrids at dispensaries will usually be a 50/50 mix
- Myrcene (terpene) levels dictate your high
- Other terpenes, cannabinoids, and flavinoids dictate strain effects as well
References:
- Hanuš LO, Hod Y. Terpenes/Terpenoids in Cannabis: Are They Important? Med Cannabis Cannabinoids. 2020 Aug 10;3(1):25-60. doi: 10.1159/000509733. PMID: 34676339; PMCID: PMC8489319.