A Quick, High-Minded Guide to Understanding Sativa, Indica, and Why the Old Labels Don’t Tell the Whole Story.

Once upon a time, every dispensary trip started with one question: Sativa or Indica?
But as cannabis culture evolves, so does our understanding of what those words really mean. High Frequency breaks down where those categories came from, what they actually describe, and how to find the vibe you’re really looking for.

What Sativa and Indica Used to Mean

In the early days of cannabis classification, Sativa and Indica referred to plant structure, not how they made you feel.

• Sativa plants were tall and thin with narrow leaves, thought to deliver an energetic, cerebral high.
• Indica plants were short and bushy with wide leaves, known for body relaxation and couch-lock effects.

Those physical traits made sense for growers — not necessarily for consumers.

What We Know Now

Modern cannabis genetics have blurred the lines completely. Nearly everything on the market today is a hybrid, meaning it’s a mix of both plant types. What really determines how a strain feels comes down to:

• Terpenes — the aromatic compounds that influence mood, flavor, and effects.
• Cannabinoid ratios — THC, CBD, CBG, and others working together in what’s called the entourage effect.

So instead of asking “Sativa or Indica?” a better question might be: “How do I want to feel?”

How to Choose Your High

When you’re shopping or rolling up, focus on experience over label.

• Looking to focus or energize? Try strains rich in limonene or pinene (think citrus or pine aromas).
• Need to relax or sleep? Go for strains with myrcene or linalool (earthy or floral scents).
• Want to balance anxiety and creativity? Look for mid-range THC with a touch of CBD.

The High Frequency Take

Sativa and Indica are cultural shortcuts, not scientific truths. They’ll stick around because they’re easy — but as education spreads, so should your curiosity. Pay attention to your body, track what works, and don’t be afraid to experiment.

Because at the end of the day, the best strain isn’t Sativa or Indica. It’s yours.