• Sativa CBD is an active compound in a sativa-dominant strain Cannabis sativa plant. Cannabidiol (CBD) extracted from the hemp plant and found in hemp products like CBD oil lacks the “high” effect of a high-THC cannabis plant. 
  • Studies have shown the potential therapeutic effects of CBD in reducing seizures(1), relieving pain and inflammation(2), and addressing nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy(3). 
  • Reports suggest that sativa hemp or sativa strain causes an uplifting and energizing effect, while the indica plants induce a relaxing and sedating effect. However, researchers have proposed that the different effects perceived by the user depend on the terpene content, not CBD(4).
  • Understanding the content and interaction between cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other chemical compounds in cannabis plants is essential in learning the effects of hemp strains. 
  • Consumption of sativa CBD alone does not produce the “high” effect(5). However, it may still affect particular brain activity, such as those associated with psychosis and anxiety(6).

Understanding What Sativa CBD Is

Sativa CBD (cannabidiol) is a compound extracted from the sativa-dominant strain of the Cannabis sativa plant. 

“Sativa” plants reach heights of 5-18 feet or more. It has thin leaves, a fibrous stalk, and few branches. It also has a higher THC content than CBD(7). 

The two most common subspecies of Cannabis sativa are Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica(8). However, the division into subspecies has been a source of disagreements and confusion among experts.

One study recommends categorizing all cannabis species into one and dividing them into narcotic and non-narcotic subspecies instead(9).

Even the vernacular names “indica” and “sativa” deviate from the characteristics of the taxonomic subspecies C. sativa and C. indica. Pervasive interbreeding and hybridization blurred the distinction between the two subspecies(10). 

Currently, researchers classify cannabis strains as THC-dominant, intermediate, and CBD-dominant based on their THC and CBD ratio content. 

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the active chemicals derived from the Cannabis sativa plant. It is directly extracted from the hemp plant and lacks the “high” effect associated with THC contained in marijuana.

The hemp plant and marijuana are genetically related. However, the hemp plant contains not over 0.3% THC. Marijuana may have an average of about 25% (or 15-30%) THC(11).

CBD products may come in various forms, such as CBD oils, tinctures, gummies, other edibles, capsules, topicals, and vape juices. 

How the Endocannabinoid System Works

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) regulates and maintains critical physiological functions, including sleep, appetite, pain control, memory, mood, and immune responses(12).

It consists of three key components: endocannabinoids (anandamide and 2-AG), enzymes, and cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2). When endocannabinoids bind with the receptors, the latter activates proteins and overall affects bodily processes.

Endocannabinoids have a similar function as cannabinoids found in the Cannabis sativa plant. Researchers continuously study the therapeutic effects of hemp-derived cannabinoids, such as CBD.

What Does Sativa Do?

Reports suggest that sativa has uplifting and energizing effects. It also has been recommended to help address headaches, loss of appetite, nausea, and depression(13).

However, an expert suggested that the perceived differences, falsely attributed to CBD content, come from the concentration of a particular compound present in cannabis, including terpenoid, myrcene, and terpene(14). 

What Is Sativa CBD Good for?

Several studies have shown the potential therapeutic benefits of cannabinoids such as CBD from Cannabis sativa. However, research on its potential benefits to humans is still ongoing and has been limited by the subjects’ sample size and individual reactions.

Some of the initial research involving CBD is as follows:  

  • A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study on the safety and efficacy of cannabidiol showed a decrease in the number of seizures in the participants(15). 
  • A study on rats published in the European Journal of Pain suggested that topical CBD may relieve pain and inflammation related to arthritis(16). 
  • Initial studies on rats and mice showed that CBD and other cannabinoids may have the potential to address nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy and other treatments(17).  

Can CBD from Sativa Get Users High?

Consumption of sativa CBD alone will not cause the high associated with THC.

CBD itself does not produce euphoria or “high” effects(18). However, CBD may affect brain activity important to psychosis and anxiety, which may relate to the compound’s therapeutic effects(19).

THC is the active chemical accountable for the psychoactive effects of the cannabis plant. Depending on the dose, THC may inhibit locomotor activity and hypothermia and impair short-term memory(20).

What to Look for to Understand Strain Effects

Cannabis contains over 500 compounds responsible for the overall effects of different strains. Some of these compounds include cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. 

The interaction between terpenes, flavonoids, and other classes of plant chemicals creates synergy and enhances the effects of cannabinoids in a mechanism known as the “entourage effect(21).” 

The said process suggests that the compounds in cannabis work better together than if they are isolated from one another.

Cannabinoids

Cannabis contains more than 100 cannabinoids primarily responsible for the positive and negative effects of cannabis use.  

Some of the common cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant are as follows(22):

  • Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is mainly responsible for the “high” effect, in addition to it being an analgesic, muscle relaxant, and antispasmodic (relieves spasms)(23). 
  • Cannabidiol (CBD) lacks the psychoactive effects of THC, and its therapeutic effects are still subjects of numerous research. However, CBD has shown potential benefits in reducing seizures and relieving pain, anxiety and inflammation(24).
  • Cannabichromene (CBC) is another compound in the cannabis plant that has shown potential benefits with anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, and antifungal effects(25). In the study, CBC reduced the intoxication of mice to THC. 
  • Cannabigerol (CBG), as shown in the same study above, has potential muscle relaxant properties. CBG also demonstrated analgesic, anti-erythemic (skin redness due to dilated capillaries), and moderate antifungal effects. 
  • Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) lacks psychoactive effects. In a study conducted on mice, THCV showed potential benefits against obesity-associated glucose intolerance(26). 

Terpenes

Terpenes are groups of naturally-occurring compounds responsible for the aroma of cannabis and other flowering plants.

Studies suggest that it may also have diverse physiological effects that contribute to the observed effects of cannabis(27).

Below are common examples of terpenes found in cannabis and their corresponding effects(28).

  • Myrcene offers a musky aroma and is the most common terpene found in most cannabis varieties. Animal studies involving myrcene showed promising therapeutic benefits, such as its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic (reduces anxiety), and antioxidant properties(29).
  • Β-caryophyllene, another significant component in cannabis, gives off a peppery aroma(30). A study conducted on mice demonstrated its potential anti-inflammatory properties(31). 
  • Limonene provides a citrusy aroma and has been reported to increase the levels of serotonin and dopamine, which may help induce CBD’s anti-stress and sedative effects(32). 
  • Pinene has shown potential benefits related to oxidative stress, inflammation, neuropathic pain, insomnia, anxiety, and brain damage in several studies(33). However, its therapeutic effects on humans still need more robust evidence. 
  • Linalool has a floral, spicy wood fragrance. Existing data suggested possible positive effects of linalool on Alzheimer’s disease, inflammation, stroke, pain, and ischemia (restrictive blood flow)(34).

Flavonoids

Flavonoids have shown potential medical benefits, including anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties(35).

Cannflavins, such as cannflavin A and cannflavin B, are flavonoids derived from the Cannabis sativa L. and exhibited anti-inflammatory properties in animal studies(36). 

However, there is still a need for a more extensive study on the effects of cannflavins on humans to understand its therapeutic benefits fully. 

Potential Side Effects and Risks of Sativa 

Sativa cannabis plants contain cannabinoids, and several studies have suggested their therapeutic benefits. However, there are also reports on its possible side effects and associated risks. 

Epidiolex, the only FDA-approved drug that contains CBD, aims to address seizures associated with severe forms of epilepsy(37). While studying Epidiolex’s safety and efficacy, human participants reported the following side effects(38):

Aside from Epidiolex, no other drugs and products containing CBD are approved by the FDA. Therefore, one needs to be fully informed before taking and purchasing any sativa CBD products from a dispensary.

It is essential to consult a medical specialist first to learn more about the uses and risks of sativa CBD and other cannabis products.  

Other Types of Strains

Other types of strains, aside from sativa, are indica, hybrid, and ruderalis.  

Indica 

“Indica” refers to the 2-4-ft-tall cannabis plant characterized by broad leaves, short woody stalk, and compact branches. It also gives off a distinct acrid aroma.

Indica-dominant strains have a nearly equal ratio between THC and CBD.

Traditionally, indica strains are recommended for their purported relaxing and sedating effect(39). Anecdotal reports suggest indica may positively affect insomnia, pain, inflammation, and muscle spasms.  

Hybrid 

Hybrid strains result from combining sativa and indica strains. Cultivators produce hybrid strains to vary the THC content. 

However, the ratio of cannabinoids and other chemical compounds in a plant may be difficult to determine based only on appearance. Therefore, a detailed chemical profile is required(40). 

Ruderalis 

Ruderalis rarely grows by itself and is commonly used to produce hybrids due to its autoflowering property. This characteristic refers to its ability to make flowers due to age, not light(41). 

Its height does not exceed two feet. It also has distinct low amounts of THC and has no potent effects(42). 

Research suggests that strain names do not necessarily correlate to the compounds present in the cannabis plant(43). 

Experts suggest that the cannabis industry should provide detailed chemical profiling instead of vague names. Chemical profiles may provide patients with more in-depth information regarding the chemical composition of cannabis(44).

Is CBD Better With Sativa or Indica?

Reports suggest sativa being uplifting and energizing and indica inducing a relaxing and sedating effect. 

However, an expert also mentioned that the differences in the psychoactive effects of indica and sativa are because of the plant’s terpenoid content, not CBD(45). 

In addition, experts mentioned that the distinction between sativa and indica using only their morphology is meaningless(46). Another study also showed that the chemical composition of cannabis did not correlate with the leaf shape and visual appearance(47). 

 Therefore, even if the cannabis plant can be categorized as either sativa or indica, it neither provides a definite value of CBD nor determines whether it has better CBD content.  

The Legality of Sativa CBD

The 2018 Farm Bill distinguished the hemp plant from marijuana and made the plant Cannabis sativa L., along with its extracts and derivatives, federally legal in the United States. However, hemp-derived products’ THC content should not exceed 0.3% based on dry weight(48).

Different states have independent regulations on using hemp- and cannabis-derived products. In addition, even if a specific sativa CBD product is legal in a state, it does not mean it is FDA-approved. 

The only FDA-approved drug derived from cannabis is Epidiolex, prescribed to reduce seizures associated with rare and severe forms of epilepsy(49). 

  1. Efficacy and Safety of GWP42003-P for Seizures Associated With Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome in Children and Adults (GWPCARE3)
    https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/study/NCT02224560
  2. Transdermal cannabidiol reduces inflammation and pain-related behaviours in a rat model of arthritis
    https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ejp.818
  3. Regulation of nausea and vomiting by cannabinoids
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3165951/
  4. The Cannabis sativa Versus Cannabis indica Debate: An Interview with Ethan Russo, MD
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5576603/
  5. CBD products are everywhere. But do they work?
    https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/cbd-products-are-everywhere-but-do-they-work
  6. Cannabidiol use and effectiveness: real-world evidence from a Canadian medical cannabis clinic.
    https://jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-021-00078-w
  7. Cannabis Systematics at the Levels of Family, Genus, and Species
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6225593/
  8. Ibid.
  9. Evolution and Classification of Cannabis sativa (Marijuana, Hemp) in Relation to Human Utilization
    https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12229-015-9157-3
  10. Cannabis Systematics at the Levels of Family, Genus, and Species
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6225593/
  11. Ten Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Cannabis
    https://extension.usu.edu/crops/research/ten-frequently-asked-questions-about-growing-cannabis
  12. The endocannabinoid system: Essential and mysterious
    https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-endocannabinoid-system-essential-and-mysterious-202108112569
  13. Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica versus “Sativa” and “Indica”
    https://www.researchgate.net/publication/318024824_Cannabis_sativa_and_Cannabis_indica_versus_Sativa_and_Indica
  14. The Cannabis sativa Versus Cannabis indica Debate: An Interview with Ethan Russo, MD
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5576603/
  15. Efficacy and Safety of GWP42003-P for Seizures Associated With Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome in Children and Adults (GWPCARE3)
    https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/study/NCT02224560
  16. Transdermal cannabidiol reduces inflammation and pain-related behaviours in a rat model of arthritis
    https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ejp.818
  17. Regulation of nausea and vomiting by cannabinoids
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3165951/
  18. CBD products are everywhere. But do they work?
    https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/cbd-products-are-everywhere-but-do-they-work
  19. Cannabidiol use and effectiveness: real-world evidence from a Canadian medical cannabis clinic. https://jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-021-00078-w
  20. Cannabis, a complex plant: different compounds and different effects on individuals.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3736954/
  21. Flavonoids in Cannabis sativa: Biosynthesis, Bioactivities, and Biotechnology
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7931196/
  22. Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3165946/
  23. Ibid.
  24. Cannabidiol
    https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Cannabidiol
  25. Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3165946/
  26. The cannabinoid Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) ameliorates insulin sensitivity in two mouse models of obesity
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23712280/
  27. Cannabis and its Compounds.
    https://cannabis.semel.ucla.edu/compunds/
  28. Terpenes/Terpenoids in Cannabis: Are They Important?
    https://www.karger.com/Article/FullText/509733
  29. Myrcene—What Are the Potential Health Benefits of This Flavouring and Aroma Agent?
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8326332/
  30. The Cannabis Terpenes
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7763918/
  31. Beta-caryophyllene is a dietary cannabinoid
    https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.0803601105
  32. The Cannabis Terpenes
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7763918/
  33. A Review of the Potential Use of Pinene and Linalool as Terpene-Based Medicines for Brain Health: Discovering Novel Therapeutics in the Flavours and Fragrances of Cannabis
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8426550/
  34. Ibid.
  35. Important Flavonoids and Their Role as a Therapeutic Agent
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7697716/
  36. Cannflavins – From plant to patient: A scoping review
    https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0367326X2030294X
  37. FDA Approves First Drug Comprised of an Active Ingredient Derived from Marijuana to Treat Rare, Severe Forms of Epilepsy
    https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-drug-comprised-active-ingredient-derived-marijuana-treat-rare-severe-forms
  38. Cannabidiol Drugs Clinical Trial Outcomes and Adverse Effects
    https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2020.00063/full
  39. Discriminating the Effects of Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica: A Web Survey of Medical Cannabis Users
    https://www.researchgate.net/publication/
  40. Cannabinoids and Terpenes as Chemotaxonomic Markers in Cannabis.
    https://www.iomcworld.com/open-access/cannabinoids-and-terpenes-as-chemotaxonomic-markers-in-cannabis-2329-6836-1000181.pdf
  41. An Overview of Products and Bias in Research
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4604179/
  42. Ibid.
  43. Cannabinoids and Terpenes as Chemotaxonomic Markers in Cannabis.
    https://www.iomcworld.com/open-access/cannabinoids-and-terpenes-as-chemotaxonomic-markers-in-cannabis-2329-6836-1000181.pdf
  44. Ibid.
  45. The Cannabis sativa Versus Cannabis indica Debate: An Interview with Ethan Russo, MD
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5576603/
  46. Ibid.
  47. Analysis of Morphological Traits, Cannabinoid Profiles, THCAS Gene Sequences, and Photosynthesis in Wide and Narrow Leaflet High-Cannabidiol Breeding Populations of Medical Cannabis
    https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpls.2022.786161/full
  48. FDA Regulation of Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Products, Including Cannabidiol (CBD).
    https://www.fda.gov/news-events/public-health-focus/fda-regulation-cannabis-and-cannabis-derived-products-including-cannabidiol-cbd#farmbill
  49. FDA Approves First Drug Comprised of an Active Ingredient Derived from Marijuana to Treat Rare, Severe Forms of Epilepsy.
    https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-drug-comprised-active-ingredient-derived-marijuana-treat-rare-severe-forms
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Written by 

Stanley Clark

Stanley Clark is a community development volunteer and writer. He had worked on several commercials, events, and campaigns before writing full-time in the area of natural health and wellness. He has a particular interest in reviewing CBD brands for their...

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