The type of Delta-8 strain you choose plays a massive role in the overall effects of your high. A Delta-8 indica could make you feel more relaxed, laidback, and easy-going, while a Delta-8 sativa strain might leave you feeling pumped, productive, and full of energy. The typical set of experiences boils down to strain classification: sativa vs. indica vs. hybrid.
Which strain causes which effects? And what is the best Delta-8 strain based on your needs? All these answers and more are below, so let’s dive in.
Is There a Difference Between Delta-8 Indicas, Sativas, & Hybrids?
This is a question often up for debate in both the cannabis and hemp communities. Some believe that the definitions of indica, sativa, and hybrid have become too skewed to see a noticeable difference, whereas others believe one particular classification is exclusively part of hemp while the other is exclusive to cannabis.
It’s still up in the air as to which of the hundreds of studies shows the truth. We simply go off what people have known and believed for decades. Let’s touch on the key differences between the three classifications.
Delta-8 Sativa Strains
As far as appearances go, sativa strains are known to have longer, much-thinner leaves. The plant is taller, slimmer, and often has a lot of bright greens or one uniform color. The effects a sativa provides are invigorating and energizing.
Users often report a head high and an uplifting sense of euphoria. One might even feel their creative juices flowing and feel more motivated to tackle tasks. Sativas are typically recommended as a daytime strain, as they tend to leave users feeling more alert.
Delta-8 Indica Strains
In contrast, indica strains are the wider, shorter bundles of cannabis. They’re bushier and the leaves are overall shorter than sativas. An indica is also more likely to have orange or purple tendrils throughout its buds. Most often, indica strains are used to produce that much-desired body high.
Delta-8 indica strains might not make you feel couch-locked, but they’re likely to help you feel relaxed. They’re also known to help stimulate the munchies. With more sedative-like characteristics, indicas are recommended more for nighttime use. They promote a mellow high that many use to improve rest or simply promote a sense of calm.
Hybrid Strains
Some people consider hybrids to be the best of both worlds. As the name might suggest, a hybrid strain is a cross between a Delta-8 indica and a Delta-8 sativa. Some hybrids lean more towards both classifications, while others can skew towards a particular direction while still maintaining their hybrid classification. Think of it as a nice in-between!
Hybrids are the reason some believe there is a lack of pure sativa or pure indica strains out there. When a breeder typically tries to develop a new strain, a hybrid is what is created. These strain crosses can vary wildly, creating entirely new compositions for us to consume. In fact, a massive number of strains used today are hybrids, at least to some degree. You’ll still notice the difference between a Delta-8 strain that’s indica-dominant and one that’s sativa-dominant, though.
The Entourage Effect
Discovered in the 1990s, the Entourage Effect is a theory that active cannabis (and hemp) compounds can work in synergy together. When active compounds are consumed at the same time as inactive compounds, it can enhance the overall experience. Two or more compounds can work together by modulating the human Endocannabinoid System (ECS) to improve the experience. This is a better overall option than strictly relying on an isolate compound.
When you get a Delta-8 product, for example, it’s more than just Delta-8 that is present in the final product. Regardless of the Delta-8 being an indica, sativa, or hybrid strain, you’re getting a variety of cannabinoids and terpenes into the mix. It’s a more powerful way to enjoy your Delta-8 buzz. Many users believe an Entourage Effect offers a better experience with less product than with an isolate product by itself. In short, the Entourage Effect helps the full spectrum you’re consuming deliver an even greater effect. In addition, it is worth noting that the introduction of other compounds can make or break the experience, as well.
Caffeine
Caffeine, for example, may cause the ensuing Entourage Effect to react differently. Instead of just relying on the content in cannabis and/or hemp, your body is also reacting to the caffeine. In fact, some research suggests that low amounts of caffeine make smaller doses of THC more effective, meaning you might not need as much Delta-8 to get high.
Keep in mind, though, that this effect builds up over time. If you consume high levels of THC regularly, the body may consistently require higher levels to achieve the same result.
Terpenes
As we said, the Entourage Effect happens when cannabis compounds work together. There’s more than just cannabinoids contained within cannabis and hemp, though.
Other compounds, called terpenes are aromatic molecules that make the flavor and taste of each strain. Each terpene delivers a unique aroma, flavor, and taste, which helps to differentiate each strain, with the perfect terpene combination ultimately determining your unique experience.
A happy bonus? By incorporating terpenes into our Delta-8 indica, Delta-8 sativa, and Delta-8 hybrid products, we’ve found that a little can go a long way. Using less than usual of a product can still produce a strong effect with the right combination of compounds.
How to Choose the Right Delta-8 Strain
We hope you understand more about the differences between Delta-8 strains thanks to this guide. The Entourage Effect plays a heavy role in how each strain will affect you. Now, it’s time to narrow in on the right strain for your needs. The first step is to ask yourself the following questions to start zooming in on which THC strain is best (sativa vs. indica vs. hybrid):
- What are your overall desired effects with Delta-8?
- Do you want something for use throughout the day?
- Are you looking for something to use at night?
- What are your goals with Delta-8?
- Do you want to feel a buzz, or are you looking for something that doesn’t make you feel as high?
These are all valid questions to ask yourself before you pick a strain. If you are looking for a daytime strain, Delta-8 sativa or sativa-dominant hybrids are two options. Their energetic appeal makes these both go-to strains for those that want a boost throughout the day.
If you’re looking for something to help you rest at night, others use Delta-8 indica, or indica-leaning hybrids to achieve greater relaxation. Indica strains are used often by those trying to finish up their day, thanks to their mellow terpene profiles.
Testing Delta-8 Products
Now that you know more about all the differences, it’s time to start testing out different Delta-8 products. Before you do, we want to help you consider a few other factors. Though you may know which type you want to try, know that flavor also plays a role. Pay attention to the flavors associated with each Delta-8 indica, sativa, and hybrid strain so you know what you’ll be experiencing during the testing phase.
Finally, pay attention to the recommended dosage of each product. Start by taking less than the suggested dosage and work your way up from there. Over time, you’ll find the serving size that fits your needs the best.
Just know that it’s best to start low and go slow. This will also help you prevent your Delta-8 tolerance from rising too fast. Ultimately, this saves product, which means you save money — you and your wallet can thank us later.
Breaking Down the Delta-8 Strain Classifications
Which Eighty Six Delta-8 product is ideal for you? We offer a variety of Delta-8 indica, Delta-8 sativa, and Delta-8 hybrid strains to give you plenty to choose from. There are also a variety of gummies, as well as our new line of Delta-8 edibles, called SUGAR.
Which Delta-8 product calls out to you the most?
Sativa Delta-8 Strains
- Berry Slush Delta-8 THC Disposable
- Boo Berry Delta-8 THC Disposable
- Strawberry Cough Delta-8 THC Vape Cartridge
- Apple Jack Delta-8 THC Vape Cartridge
- Blue Dream Delta-8 THC Vape Cartridge
- Orange Soda Delta-8 THC Vape Cartridge
Indica Delta-8 Strains
- Cereal Killer Delta-8 THC Disposable
- Grape Soda Delta-8 THC Disposable
- Purple Punch Delta-8 THC Vape Cartridge
- F.P. OG Delta-8 THC Vape Cartridge
Hybrid Delta-8 Strains
- Do-Si-Dos Delta-8 THC Vape Cartridge
- Gelato Delta-8 THC Vape Cartridge
- Pineapple Express Delta-8 THC Vape Cartridge
