At Molly Ann Farms, I get two questions all the time. First, people want to know if a strain is sativa or indica. Second, they ask if I’m Molly Ann. Well, I’m Gaby. Our dispensary is actually named after the Molly Ann Brook, which runs next to our parking lot. It’s a fun reminder that names don’t always tell the whole story—just like how “sativa” and “indica” don’t quite capture the full picture of cannabis strains these days.

For years, we’ve been told that sativa gives you an energetic, heady high, while indica leaves you feeling relaxed and ready for bed. But with modern cannabis, almost every strain is a hybrid of the two, which makes those labels a lot less helpful than they used to be. So, what’s really going on when you’re choosing between a sativa or an indica? Let’s dig in.

A Quick History of Sativa and Indica Here’s how it started: Sativa and indica were originally used to describe the physical traits of the cannabis plant. Sativa are tall with thin leaves, thriving in warmer climates. Indica are shorter, bushier, and adapted to cooler areas. Over time, people started linking these physical traits to specific effects—Sativa’s were thought to be uplifting, while indica’s were seen as more calming.

But the truth is, modern cannabis has evolved a lot since then. Thanks to decades of crossbreeding, most of the strains you’ll find today are hybrids, blending both sativa and indica genetics. So while those labels might give you a general idea, they’re not as accurate as they once were. Just like how I’m not Molly, a strain called sativa might not act exactly how you expect.

Here’s the thing: the effects of cannabis are determined by much more than just whether it’s labeled sativa or indica. It’s really all about the cannabinoids and terpenes in the plant. These are the compounds that interact with your body and shape your experience.

• Cannabinoids: These include THC (the part that gets you high) and CBD (which has calming, therapeutic effects without the high). But there are other cannabinoids too, like CBG and CBN, each offering its own benefits.
• Terpenes: These are the aromatic compounds that give cannabis its smell and also affect how it makes you feel. For example, limonene has a citrusy smell and can make you feel uplifted, while myrcene has an earthy scent and tends to be more relaxing.

So, when you’re trying to figure out how a strain will affect you, it’s these cannabinoids and terpenes you want to pay attention to, not just the sativa or indica label.

Why Do We Still Use Sativa and Indica Labels? Even though the sativa/indica labels aren’t as accurate as they used to be, they’re still common because they’re familiar. They’ve been part of the cannabis world for so long that most people still use them as a quick reference point. If you want something that helps you unwind, you’re probably used to asking for an indica. If you’re looking for a boost in creativity or energy, you might look for a sativa.

But here at Molly Ann Farms, we want to help you go beyond the labels. That’s why we focus on giving you detailed information about each strain’s cannabinoid content and terpene profile. That way, you’re not just guessing based on an old label—you know exactly what you’re getting.

When customers ask me whether a strain is sativa or indica, I explain that there’s a lot more to it. At Molly Ann Farms, we make sure to provide all the info you need, from the cannabinoid breakdown to the terpenes in each strain. This helps you pick the strain that will give you the experience you’re after, whether it’s energizing, relaxing, or somewhere in between.

Here are a few tips when choosing a strain:

1. Look at Cannabinoid Content: Check the THC and CBD levels to get a sense of how strong the effects might be. More THC means a stronger high, while CBD can balance things out.
2. Consider the Terpenes: Terpenes like limonene and pinene are more uplifting, while myrcene and linalool are better for relaxation. The terpenes are often a better clue to how you’ll feel than just “sativa” or “indica.”
3. Try a Few Strains: Cannabis affects everyone differently, so experiment and see what works best for you. Keep track of your experiences to find the strains that make you feel your best.
4. Ask for Lab Results: At Molly Ann Farms, we provide lab results that break down the cannabinoids and terpenes in each strain. This transparency helps you make informed choices and find exactly what you need.

So, What’s in a Name? At the end of the day, just like my name isn’t Molly, the sativa and indica labels don’t tell you everything about a cannabis strain. What really matters is the chemistry inside—those cannabinoids and terpenes that actually shape how you’ll feel.

Next time you’re shopping for cannabis, don’t just rely on sativa or indica. Look at the full profile, talk to us, and get the right advice for your needs. At Molly Ann Farms, we’re here to help you go beyond the labels and find the best experience possible—whether it’s for creativity, relaxation, or just spreading happiness.

And if you’re still curious about Molly? Come ask for Gaby.