Sativa is a subspecies of Cannabis that has thin and pointed leaves. Sativa plants also tend to be tall. Indica and Ruderalis are the other subspecies of the Cannabis plant. Ruderalis is not common while Indica and Sativa are the most popular in the Cannabis family . Indica and Sativa are complete opposites in terms of physical appearance and physiological effects. Sativa has been cultivated for a long time, used as a source of recreation and medicine among other uses.
Sativa strains are a slight variation of the Sativa, developed and selectively cultivated to achieve specific characteristics. Narrowing down the Sativa strains is tough since this is a vast field with numerous selections. Here is a list of various handpicked top strains of Sativa.
Haze
Haze is among the most popular and nearly pure Sativa strains in the world developed by “The Haze Brothers” during the 1970s. It has an earthy smell and a sweet-spicy taste. It is a proud parent to countless hybrids around the globe like in Mexico, Thailand, Colombia, and South India. Although Haze takes long to grow (about 14 weeks), very few strains can match the high energy and creative buzz it provides. It has about 21% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) with too little cannabidiol (CBD) content to mention. Those who suffer from chronic stress or depression might use haze for its high THC content and mellow effects.
Jack Herer
This strain is named after the famous Cannabis advocate Jack Herer. It is a cross of Shiva Skunk, Northern Lights, and Haze. This Sativa-dominant plant has a THC level of 23% and 1% CBD. It was produced in the Netherlands during the mid-1990s and was termed as medical-grade Cannabis after commercialization by Dutch pharmacies. This spicy, pine-scented strain takes about 50 to 70 days to flower indoors. Its cooling sensation makes it good for people with lung problems. Jack Herer is an instant energy booster and mood picker.
Amnesia Haze
It is a descendant of Jamaican Sativa (80%) and Indica-dominated Afghan Hawaiian (20%). Amnesia Haze has a THC OF 20%-22% and 1% CBD. This makes it suitable for relieving anxiety, depression, and fatigue. It has a fresh and fruity taste, earthly smell with hints of spicy pepper. Despite leading to feelings of euphoria and uplifted mood, it should be used with caution since it is incredibly strong.
Sour Diesel
Sour Diesel as the name suggests has a pungent and gasoline-like smell but there is a hint of orange. It came from the 1990s when Cannabis was illegal hence very impossible to trace its origin. The only sure information is that it is Sativa dominant, 80%-90%. Sour Diesel induces appetite which can be helpful to people with eating disorders. It contains 16%-25% THC and 1% CBD. The flowering time is 10-12 weeks. This strain leaves the user feeling more energized and positive.
Moby Dick
This 75% Sativa strain is explicitly cultivated to provide a robust medicinal benefit. It scores high on the THC levels which is up to 27%. Moby Dick is a cross of Haze and White Window. The aroma and flavor are citrusy, sweet and earthy similar to its parent Haze. It can help users with fatigue and muscle spasms, eating disorders and depression.
Conclusion
Sativa strains have very many health benefits. However, they have very adverse effects like dryness of mouth and eyes and could lead to death in extreme cases. The journey of finding what works for you is long but be sure to always consult with a professional healthcare provider. One final note, Cannabis is still illegal in most countries!