When it comes to cannabis, a strain is (generally) either an indica, a sativa, or a hybrid. While sativas spread more widely than their indica cousins for centuries, that’s no longer the case. In this post, we’ll look at the rise of indica strains, and explore the high THC levels of their strongest genetics. We’ll also look at some indica strains with legendary names like OG Kush.
Indicas: Effects, Appearance, and Origins
There’s plenty to love about indica strains. With their relaxing, down-to-earth vibes, the experience you get from indica strains is what many would call a classic cannabis experience. A single puff is enough to take that racing, jumbled stream of consciousness roaring through your brain and slow it down into a nice, ordered flow of thoughts.
As a result, indicas are the perfect way to unwind at the end of a long day. Make sure you don’t have any major responsibilities afterward, though. Indica strains can lead to a serious case of couch lock. You should also stock up on snacks if you’re going to be inhaling any indicas, since they can also trigger the munchies.
Medical Patients and Medical Benefits of Indica Strains
In addition to the recreational use of indica strains, medical marijuana patients use this genetic line to help manage several qualified conditions. Common uses for indica strains with a high THC level include:
- Chronic Pain: Indicas are a common choice for many medical patients trying to relieve chronic pain. In fact, researchers found that patients statistically preferred indicas for joint pain.
- Stress and Anxiety: Especially when consumed in smaller quantities, research suggests that THC can help relieve stress.
- Sleep Disorders and Insomnia: Some indicas are so relaxing that they start making you feel sleepy. They’re a great nightcap to tuck yourself in if you’re having trouble falling or staying asleep.
- Low Appetite: We mentioned the munchies earlier as a byproduct of indica strains. But for medical patients with low appetite (from cancer, chemotherapy, or any other reason), the appetite increase from an indica can help them get the nutrients they need.
- Nausea/GI problems: Sour stomach? Indicas can help soothe it and alleviate other tummy issues.
Which Is More Popular, Sativa or Indica?
Plenty of people out there love sativa strains for a number of reasons. They’re the yin to an indica’s yang, energizing and cerebral instead of an indica’s typical “stoned” feeling. And they’re great for getting out and going to a party or on an adventure.
But the numbers are in, and they paint a pretty certain picture. Out of all 50 US states, the vast majority of cannabis users prefer indica strains to sativas.
Part of the reason for that is OG indica strains’ impact on popular culture. Everyone who’s ever heard Get ‘Em High by Kanye West has heard of Bubba Kush, for example. And genetics with last names like “OG” and “Kush” usually fall in the category of indica strains. Sativas simply can’t compete with that kind of PR.
However, that kind of reputation does need something of substance to back it up. Once you become more familiar with how the individual effects of indicas vs sativas feel, you’ll understand why the former has become so popular. And there’s no better way to do that than by exploring with some of the best indica strains at our dispensaries.
List of Top Indica Strains at Mission Dispensaries
Searching for names of some of our favorite indica strains? We’ve compiled a few for you here!
OG Kush
If you want to dive into indica strains with legendary names, start with OG Kush. A Florida-based breeder developed this strain in the 1990s by crossing an unknown strain from California with Chemdawg, Lemon Thai, and Hindu Kush. The end result has become one of the most notorious strains in this history of cannabis. It combines the trademark “incense” scent typical of Kush varieties with the distinctive aroma of dirt that you get with most OGs.
Cookies
One of the hottest strains of the 2010s, Cookies (also called “Girl Scout Cookies” or “GSC”) has ascended to the same level of notoriety as OG Kush. It’s actually an OG Kush descendant, crossed with Durban Poison. That makes it an indica-dominant hybrid, which mellows out some of its heavily sedative properties. It should definitely be on your short list of strains to try!
Do-Si-Dos
Here’s another more modern indica strain. Do-Si-Dos is a cross between OGKB (OG Kush Breath) and Face Off OG, making it another indica-dominant hybrid. It has an aroma that combines both earthy and flowery elements, invoking the essence of its OG Kush genetics. One of the biggest strains of the last few years, it’s definitely a strain that everyone should experience at least once.
What’s the Strongest of All Indica Strains with the Highest THC Level?
If you’re searching for one of the strongest indica strains out there, don’t sleep on Mission’s Private Reserve Mendo Breath. Testing above 30% THC in most cases, this OGKB and Mendo Montage mix has one of the highest THC levels of any indica strain at any Mission dispensary. It’s definitely not for newbies, and even experienced consumers should go low and slow with Mendo Breath.
Indica Strains: The Takeaway
While those are definitely some of our favorite indica strains at Mission, it’s by no means an exhaustive list. If you want to experience indicas for yourself, stop by your local Mission dispensary!
Our knowledgeable staff will help you explore the many indica strains we currently have in stock. Or, you can always peruse our online menus from the comfort of your own home. Either way, we look forward to serving you!
