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Cannabis has been cultivated and used for thousands of years for medicinal, recreational, and industrial purposes. Two primary subspecies of the cannabis plant—Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica—have long been distinguished based on their physical characteristics, growth patterns, and reported effects. However, modern research suggests that these classifications may be oversimplified, particularly in the context of their chemical composition and therapeutic potential. A key area of interest within cannabis research is full-spectrum CBD oil, which contains a broad range of cannabinoids and terpenes. Understanding how the classification of cannabis species relates to full-spectrum CBD oil requires a closer look at both the historical distinctions between sativa and indica, as well as their chemical compositions.
The classification of cannabis into sativa and indica originates from the 18th century when botanists began categorising plants based on their physical traits.
These early classifications were based on morphology rather than the plant's chemical properties, which, as modern research suggests, are the key determinants of cannabis' effects.
Traditionally, sativa and indica plants have been distinguished by their physical characteristics:
| Feature | Cannabis Sativa | Cannabis Indica |
| Height | Tall (up to 18 feet) | Short (2-4 feet) |
| Leaf Structure | Long, thin, and narrow leaves | Broad, dense, and short leaves |
| Growth Time | Longer flowering cycle (10-16 weeks) | Shorter flowering cycle (6-8 weeks) |
| Climate Suitability | Prefers warm, humid environments | Thrives in cooler, drier climates |
However, due to extensive hybridisation, modern cannabis strains do not always adhere to these traditional distinctions.
While cannabis users often associate sativa with energising effects and indica with sedative effects, these assumptions are largely anecdotal. Scientific studies show that the plant’s chemical composition, rather than its classification as sativa or indica, plays the primary role in its effects.
The two most well-known cannabinoids in cannabis are:
Both sativa and indica strains can contain varying amounts of THC and CBD, making their classification less relevant than the actual cannabinoid profile.
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in cannabis that contribute to its effects by interacting with cannabinoids—a phenomenon known as the entourage effect.Common terpenes and their effects include:
| Terpene | Aroma | Potential Effects |
| Limonene | Citrus | Mood-enhancing, anti-anxiety |
| Myrcene | Earthy, musky | Sedative, relaxing |
| Pinene | Pine | Alertness, anti-inflammatory |
| Linalool | Floral, lavender | Calming, anti-anxiety |
As such, a cannabis plant’s terpene and cannabinoid profile provides a more accurate predictor of its effects than whether it is classified as sativa or indica.
Full-spectrum CBD oil contains a variety of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids extracted from the cannabis plant. Unlike CBD isolate, which contains only pure CBD, full-spectrum CBD oil takes advantage of the entourage effect, where multiple compounds work synergistically to enhance therapeutic benefits.
Since full-spectrum CBD oil retains many of the plant’s natural compounds, the source plant’s composition matters. However, the classification of the plant as sativa or indica does not necessarily determine its effectiveness. Instead, the relevant factors include:
Many full-spectrum CBD oils are derived from hemp, a cannabis plant variety that contains less than 0.3% THC, making it legally permissible in Australia.
Studies suggest that full-spectrum CBD oil may help reduce chronic pain and inflammation by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS) (Citti et al., 2018).
CBD, combined with terpenes such as linalool, has shown promise in reducing anxiety and stress-related disorders (Ferber et al., 2020).
Indica-dominant full-spectrum CBD oils, often rich in myrcene, are believed to aid in sleep induction (Baron, 2018).
The sativa vs. indica distinction is less significant than previously thought when considering cannabis' therapeutic potential. Instead, the cannabinoid and terpene profile of the plant determines its effects.For full-spectrum CBD oil, the focus should be on chemical composition rather than plant classification. As research progresses, a better understanding of the entourage effect will continue to refine the use of cannabis-based therapies.
