Some types of indica weed strains have the most powerful effects of any marijuana available. Their CBD content and complex terpene profile produces gripping “body highs” that relax, destress and help relieve pain.

The notorious nature of the indica high has caused some to make the joke that indica really means stuck “in da couch.”

But at the same time, many types of indica weed strains are extremely beneficial to those suffering from medical symptoms. Chronic pain, stress, anxiety, insomnia and poor appetite are typically treated using types of indica weed strains or indica-dominant hybrids.

Besides, many of us smoke bud specifically to stay “in da couch” and unwind after a stressful day.

So what is indica bud, exactly, and why is the indica high unique? And also, what are the best types of indica weed strains to try?

Answer all these questions — and find some of your new favorite weed to buy online in Canada — by reading on.

Exactly What Is Indica Bud?

What is indica bud?

It’s a type of marijuana strain that originally hails from central Asia. The name “Indica” comes from an Ancient Greek root meaning “India.” Botanists have traced the origins of the plant to the Hindu Kush mountainous region in Afghanistan.

Unlike sativa strain marijuana plants, indica plants grow in cooler, dry climates. They tend to get inconsistent, seasonal light in the wild, so they will quickly flower and then remain dormant until the right conditions emerge.

Indica marijuana plants grow lower and more-bushy compared to sativa plants, as well. Their leaves are broader and tend to fan out whereas sativa leaves are usually skinny.

Another tell-tale sign of pure indica plants is that they have chunky nugs when dried. You can also often find bright orange or brown “hairs,” which are actually plant parts called stigma.

Because indica plants are used to specific growing conditions and narrow flowering seasons, they do not adapt well to outdoor climates. Instead, they must be grown indoors, usually using hydroponic technology.

The expense of hydroponics meant that most types of indica weed strains were not seen in North America until the 80s, when indoor growing became more feasible.

Since that time, indicas have been heavily crossbred into sativa plants, creating hybrids that share both of their properties. Indicas’ quick-flowering abilities have helped dramatically increase the yield of most modern bud strains.

What Makes the Indica High Different?

Most types of indica weed strains and indica-dominant hybrids have a relatively high content of CBD and other cannabinoids to balance out the effects of THC. In other words, they have a lower THC:CBD ratio.

Sativa marijuana strains and sativa-dominant hybrids can be grown to produce a tremendous amount of THC. Some strains, like Ghost Train Haze, have THC percentages of 25-28% and up.

Most true indicas not only lack this super-powered THC generation capability, but their CBD content actually tempers the effects of THC. As a result, you feel the prototypical “stoned” high of being deeply relaxed, euphoric, and possibly a bit sleepy.

The indica high is therefore extremely useful for people wanting to relax deeply or who want to relieve intense medical symptoms. Most medical marijuana strains now have dominant indica qualities, such as a low THC:CDB ratio.

However, some sativa-dominant hybrids have both a high THC content and the cannabinoid profile of indicas. Smoking this type of weed strain makes you feel cerebral but not necessarily active. Laughing Buddha would be a great example.

The 6 Best Types of Indica Weed Strains

If you find yourself wondering “what is indica bud, really?” or what the best examples of the quintessential indica high are, you can look to the following six strains.

All of these types of indica weed strains have great properties that make them perfect for relaxation, helping you sleep, or helping alleviate chronic pain.

Northern Lights

Developed in the late 80s, Northern Lights helped kick off the “designer weed” crossbreeding boom that continues today.

It is a pure indica strain noted for its high THC content. Unlike other indicas, it can pack anywhere from 18-26% THC depending on how it is cultivated. Even at its lower strength, it delivers powerful relaxation that obliterates pain and stress. It also helps you feel happy and uplifted with just a modest hint of sleepiness.

Bubba Kush

Another legendary indica strain, Bubba Kush has helped seed breeders temper the THC effects of sativa-indica hybrids while amping the effects of pure indica hybrids. The bud itself is glorious: sweet-smelling, earthy, spicy and covered in trichomes and orange hairs. It has a low CBD content, but it still offers deep relaxation, pain relief, and the ability to sleep like a baby.

Granddaddy Purple

Another prime example of a pure indica strain, Granddaddy “purp” has rich grape and berry flavors and a deep purple tinge. It offers intense euphoria and relaxation, but at the expense of severe sleepiness. Those looking to boost their appetite or improve their sleeping habits would benefit from sampling some Granddaddy Purple before bed.

Blueberry

This fruity flavored treat turned people’s impressions of indica strains upside down when it won the Cannabis Cup in 2000.

Breeder and bud legend DJ Short slowly perfected this strain over 30 years, starting in the late 70s. The results of his labor were a extremely fruity smelling and tasting bud that offers near unrivaled relaxation and happiness.

Super Skunk

Super skunk provides two famous indica qualities in spades: intense skunky scents and deep relaxation that just might induce “couch lock” when you take a few too many puffs. Despite its pungent aroma, it actually has a sweet, slightly earthy taste. It also yields relatively quickly and in huge volumes, making it a popular plant for crossbreeders and growers.

God’s Gift

You won’t wonder how this strain got its name once you take a few puffs. Huge clouds of sweet grape and earthiness envelop your head as you sink into a happy, almost transcendental state. People who smoke this strain report feeling strong medical symptom relief and a general pleasant attitude.

Try the Best Types of Indica Weed Strains When You Order Canada Weed Online

Use the list above to pick out some indica strains worth trying. They certainly come in handy when you’ve had a stressful day from work or want to enjoy a movie or video game on the couch. They can also relieve your medical symptoms without inducing anxiety and paranoia.

So go ahead and keep a jar of indica nugs close by for nights in — and keep your favorite album or video game handy nearby for good measure!