Indica strains are popular among cannabis smokers who want to take their relaxation to the next level, and indicas are sometimes called “in da couch” for their sedating, “body-high” effects. So what are the best indica strains in Canada? Let’s take a closer look so you can find the best that indicas have to offer; whether you’re looking for the best indica for pain relief or the best indica for sleep, this guide is for you.
What are indicas?
The cannabis plant has two main variations, namely Indica and Sativa.
Cannabis Indica is a short plant with thick, broad leaves that grows well in warm, dry climates. With lengths of no more than six feet, Indica is the strain of choice for cultivators who need to grow their plants indoors.
Indica plants generally have a shorter flowering cycle than sativa strains, and they produce more buds, resulting in a higher yield per plant.
Sativa plants, on the other hand, tend to be long-leafed and narrow, with more energizing and mentally stimulating properties.
How accurate are the indica/sativa/hybrid classifications?
Some argue for abandoning the whole sativa/indica/hybrid classification system entirely because generations of growing and crossbreeding cannabis strains mean there aren’t any pure indicas or sativas left. Pretty much everything you find on the market these days some form of hybrid between sativa or indica.
A more accurate description of the strains, or cultivars, is indica-dominant or sativa-dominant. However, we still use the sativa/indica/hybrid classification here at Budmail because it’s convenient for our members and the terms are so prevalent in the cannabis industry.
When choosing strains, we recommend that you pay special attention to the strain descriptions, which will give you a much more detailed and accurate rundown of what you can expect. These descriptions are created in-house by the Budmail team, and each strain is personally tested by our Quality Assurance Manager who has decades of experience sampling and reviewing some of the best cannabis cultivars in Canada.
Most common cannabinoids
The most common cannabinoids in cannabis include:
- Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): a psychoactive compound responsible for the psychoactive effects of weed
- Cannabidiol (CBD): interacts with both CB1 and CB2 receptors to promote healing
- Cannabigerol (CBG): a non-psychoactive compound with antibacterial effects
- Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV): a minor cannabinoid found in some strains with no psychoactive effects that may help suppress appetite
The cannabinoid and terpene profiles of indicas typically have a sedative effect on users. For example, if you smoke an Indica strain, you are more likely to become “couch-locked” and passive. You may also feel sleepy and deeply relaxed.
The high concentrations of CBD in Indica strains can produce several health-related benefits, including:
- Pain relief
- Alleviation of anxiety, depression, and chronic stress
- Reduction of cancer-related symptoms
- Treatment of skin conditions such as acne
- Promotion of cardiovascular health
If you wanted to use cannabis to reduce stress or relieve chronic pain without getting high, CBD capsules, edibles, or tinctures are probably your best bet. We’ve got all of those at Budmail, so make sure to check out our extensive CBD menu!
The Effects of Sativa vs. Indica
The most significant difference between sativa and indica cultivars are visible in the effects these strains have on the body after smoking.
Sativa and indica strains have different concentrations of cannabinoids, and the compounds listed above (THC, CBD, CBG, and THCV) interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system and its receptors to induce various effects. Consumption method may also have an effect, such as MOTA Indica Gummies.
The categorization of a strain as indica or sativa also depends on the terpene content of each.
Terpenes are the aromatic oils responsible for the aroma of many plants and flowers. In the cannabis plant, terpenes and cannabinoids often work together, and certain terpenes can even enhance or inhibit the effect of cannabinoids like THC.
Myrcene is a common terpene with a sedative effect, and its concentration in cannabis strains is significant. If this terpene’s concentration is higher than 0.5%, the strain is an indica. However, if myrcene’s level in the strain is lower than 0.5%, you have a sativa strain.
Generally speaking, the cannabinoid and terpene profiles of indica strains have a sedative effect on users, while sativa strains uplift and energize.
Top Indica Strains
Northern Lights
- Genetics: 90% Indica, 10% Sativa
- Cannabinoid Profile: 18.5% THC
- Parents: Afghani, Thai Sativa
- Flavours: Candy, earthy, pine
- Effects: Relaxing, sleepy, euphoric
Northern Lights is one of the purest indica strains available. It’s the perfect option if you are looking to take the edge off after a long day. This strain’s origins are uncertain, but most agree that it dates back to the late 1980s in the Netherlands.
When you first light up the Northern Lights strain, it releases intense earthy and pine-like aromas and flavours. As you keep smoking, the flavours transition into prominent candy notes that complement the woodiness.
The Northern Lights strain has a high THC concentration ranging from 15% to 22%, and it induces an intense euphoria that will make you feel relaxed, lazy, and inherently happy. The best time for smoking this bud is when your workday is over. This strain causes no hangover effects, and you can smoke it if you have to be productive the next day.
Bubble Kush
- Genetics: 80% Indica, 20% Sativa
- Cannabinoid Profile: 19% THC, 0 – 1% CBD
- Parents: Bubble Gum, OG Kush
- Flavours: Pine, earthy, sweet
- Effects: Couch-lock, relaxing, body high, happy, relaxing
Bubble Kush is an Indica-dominant strain with a THC concentration at the higher end of the spectrum. True to its genetic makeup, this strain induces a tranquillizing euphoria with a body high to help you relax and lose yourself in your thoughts.
Lighting this strain releases a pleasant but intense pine and earthy aroma, similar to the initial aroma. Within a few minutes, the natural tones taper off, and you’ll start tasting the sweeter underlying gum flavours.
Bubble Kush is a couch-lock strain, not a pick-me-up. Smoking this strain will improve your mood, but your energy levels will drop, so choose an appropriate time—preferably before going to sleep. Bubble Kush is the best Indica for deep sleep and the alleviation of anxiety.
Purple Kush
- Genetics: 100% Indica, 0% Sativa
- Cannabinoid Profile: 21.5% THC, 0% CBD
- Parents: Hindu Kush, Purple Afghani
- Flavours: Pepper, citrus, herbal
- Effects: Relaxed, sleepy, happy, hungry
With vibrant buds, medicinal uses, and a distinct terpene profile, Purple Kush is one of the best pure Indica strains.
The most notable attribute of Purple Kush is its unique and striking appearance, with lavender buds and water leaves that range from orange to deep purple. Interestingly, the aromas of this strain reflect its purple hues. The buds have a prominent grape aroma with subtle, earthy notes.
When you light up, you’ll find that the flavours are true to the strain’s scent, but with an additional tangy or acidic undertone – similar to dry red wine.
Purple Kush has a high THC concentration and is quite potent. Smoking this strain will induce a couch-locking body buzz, but it will stimulate your mind and can even have a hallucinating effect.
Purple Kush is a classic for a reason.
Sherbet Queen
- Genetics: 85% Indica, 15% Sativa
- Cannabinoid Profile: 24% THC, 1% CBD
- Parents: Pink Panties, Sunset Sherbet
- Flavours: Candy, tropical, fruity
- Effects: Body high, cerebral high, calming, relaxing, happy
Sherbet Queen is a true Indica strain with distinct aromas, flavours, and effects. If you are looking for a unique smoking experience, this strain is a worthy option.
The Sherbet Queen strain has a subtle woody scent with sweet and natural notes. When you light up, the weed emits a caramel-like sweetness. You also get the sharp sour flavour this strain inherited from the Sunset Sherbet.
With a THC concentration of around 24%, the Sherbet Queen strain has a high potency and may be overwhelming to newbie smokers. Smoking this strain induces an initial cerebral high that makes you feel euphoric, creative, and giggly. As the cerebral high tapers off, a body buzz sets in that slows you down and helps you relax.
Critical Kush
- Genetics: 90% Indica, 10% Sativa
- Cannabinoid Profile: 29% THC, 2% CBD
- Parents: Critical Mass, OG Kush
- Flavours: Woody, Earthy, Lemon, Citrus, Spicy
- Effects: Euphoric, relaxing
Critical Kush is an Indica dominant strain that has won several awards. The strain combines all the best attributes of its famous parent strains, Critical Mass and OG Kush.
The Critical Kush strain has a pungent diesel smell with earthy undertones. When you inhale, the flavour closely resembles the aroma, but it is not as striking, and you’ll find enjoyable, subtle undertones of citrus, lemon, and spices on the exhale.
With high levels of THC, CBD, and myrcene, Critical Kush is one of the more potent Indica strains. The strain also has several medicinal uses, including anxiety, chronic stress, and depression. If you have difficulty sleeping, take a puff before bedtime.
Platinum Kush
- Genetics: 75% Indica, 25% Sativa
- Cannabinoid Profile: 17% THC, 1% CBD
- Parents: Master Kush, OG Kush
- Flavours: Pine, herbs, earthy
- Effects: Body high, sedation, sleep
Like Critical Kush, Platinum Kush is a potent strain with a high concentration of THC. This weed has a unique terpene and cannabinoid profile, which makes it ideal as medical cannabis.
Platinum OG has an earthy aroma and flavour with hints of coffee. As your tastebuds grow accustomed to this predominantly earthy flavour, you’ll start picking up hints of herbs and pine.
After lighting this strain, you’ll experience a euphoric cerebral high in a wave that some may find overwhelming. As the euphoria subsides, you will experience an intense but relaxing body high. Platinum OG is a couch-locking strain that will help you fall asleep, so use it at the end of the day.
Many therapists and smokers agree that Platinum Kush is the best Indica strain for insomnia. You can also use this strain to alleviate chronic pain and muscle spasms.
Check out how our last batch of Platinum Kush shines!
Berry White
- Genetics: 65% Indica, 35% Sativa
- Cannabinoid Profile: 22% THC, 0.1% CBD
- Parents: White Widow, Blueberry
- Flavours: Blueberry, pine, sour
- Effects: Happy, relaxing, euphoric
The Berry White strain is Indica dominant and ideal for seasoned smokers looking for a quiet evening of relaxation.
Berry White is a fragrant strain with a scent combination of blueberries and earthy notes. On the inhale, you’ll find a strong presence of blackberries, pine, and sour flavours, with a sweet and pleasant aftertaste.
On average, Berry White has a THC content of 22%, and its effects are typical of an Indica strain. The initial cerebral high is intense but doesn’t last long. The body high that follows, however, is deeply relaxing and will improve your mood.
If you have an overactive and stressed mind, Berry White is a perfect strain. Smoking this weed can also provide relief from moderate pain.
Grape Ape
- Genetics: 100% Indica, 0% Sativa
- Cannabinoid Profile: 19.5% THC, 0.6% CBD
- Parents: Mendocino Purps, Skunk, Original Afghani
- Flavours: Grape, Skunk, Strawberry
- Effects: Cerebral high, focus, relaxing, sleep
Grape Ape is a potent Indica with a wide range of medical and recreational benefits. The large, multicolour buds have a sweet, inviting scent of candy and berries with subtle skunk undertones. The flavour of this strain is less complex, with the predominant taste of grape on the inhale.
The Grape Ape strain induces a substantial high that soothes and unwinds you. Many users find that Grape Ape gives them a clear-headed high. As is the case with most Indica strains, you should only smoke this pot if you have nowhere to be.
Grape Ape has pain-relieving attributes, and you can use it to relieve sore muscles after your evening workout.
9 Pound Hammer
- Genetics: 80% Indica, 20% Sativa
- Cannabinoid Profile: 19% THC, 0.3% CBD
- Parents: Hell’s OG, Jack the Ripper
- Flavours: Tropical, citrus
- Effects: Sedation, sleep, euphoric
The 9 Pound Hammer strain is highly sedative, hence the name.
How is it possible that a strain with only 19% THC can be so potent? In addition to a high concentration of THC, 9 Pound Hammer is also rich in myrcene, a terpene that enhances THC’s effect.
The 9 Pound Hammer strain gives you a mild euphoria and enhances your sensory perceptions, calming your down. The sedative effects of the strain are long-lasting, and you can expect to be couch-locked for the entire evening.
When the “9 Pound Hammer” looks this good, you’ll want to get pounds of it!
Conclusion
The effects of Indica strains differ significantly from those of sativa cannabis derivatives. If you want to enjoy a relaxing evening on the couch or unwind after a long day of work, browse the indica strains from Budmail. We offer a wide selection of popular strains as well as discreet delivery to your door.
