Have you ever noticed how different sauces change the flavor of a dish? While you could have a plate of pasta, the differences between a bright, spicy tomato-based sauce and a rich, creamy alfredo sauce are staggering. The same goes for cannabis. While it’s all cannabis, one strain could provide a vastly different buzz than the other. Some varieties relax your body, while others stimulate your mind. Let’s dive into a body high vs. head high comparison to help you determine which type of cannabis products will be best for your goals.
The Debate of Indica Vs. Sativa
Before we get into body high vs. head high, let’s take a look at the two categories of cannabis: Indica and Sativa. Indica plants are short and bushy with broad leaves. Sativa ones are tall and thin with narrow leaves.
Many dispensaries, and users, use these categories as a way to separate strains by the types of effects they have. In general, Indicas are those that produce the “bedtime buzz.” They relax you, make you feel calmer, and get you ready for bed. Sativa plants, on the other hand, are the more stimulating strains. They’re the ones that increase your focus and enhance your creativity.
The thing to keep in mind here is that not all Indicas are relaxing, and not all Sativas are stimulating. Today, there’s a broad array of hybrid strains. So, even though one might be Indica-dominant, it may still energize you and spark creative thought. These categories may not speak to the type of experience you can expect in all cases, but they do provide a good idea.
Body High
Indica strains are the ones said to produce what’s called a body high. They tend to result in a relaxed, chilled experience. The tension in your muscles often melts away, enabling you to unwind in ways you might not be able to do otherwise. Some strains trigger what’s called “couch-lock,” which is when your body is so relaxed, you’re unable to move from your position. You’re so mellow and so at ease that your body doesn’t want to go anywhere.
How does this happen? Well, the cannabinoids in the cannabis plant calm the rapid communications between your central nervous system. When this happens, you get intense relaxation and feelings of euphoria. Even though it’s a “body” high, your mind (and your muscles) get a chance to unwind.
Head High
Sativa strains are the ones connected to the head high. These are the strains that trigger increased energy levels, motivation, and creativity. Varieties of cannabis that boost your energy make you feel more alert. They can help you to make quicker mental connections and prime your brain for getting in the zone.
Is One Better Than the Other?
A body high isn’t necessarily better than a head high, nor is a head high better than a body high. The right type of experience depends on the effects you’re hoping to feel. If the goal is to relax, you’ll want a strain that provides a body high. On the other hand, those looking for some extra focus and creativity for a project may benefit more from a strain that provides a head high. Once you know what you need, you can take a look at the products available on the Strain menu. If you’re still not sure what to choose, a budtender can offer some expert advice.