Does Indica Make You Tired?

Wondering why the Indica variant gives that deep, relaxing feeling, where you want to just lie loose? Well, the reason behind that lies beyond the variant. The association of Indica with sleepiness and calmness is not only dependent on the variety but is actually due to the unique mix of cannabinoids and terpenes present in it.

The interaction of these cannabinoids and terpenes with the body affects your natural endocannabinoid system, giving you that calmness and tranquility. These compounds have a great influence on your muscles, mood, and mind, which gives you that ‘chill’ feeling. This article discusses the various types and the chemistry behind Indica’s soothing effects on the human body.

What is Cannabis Indica?

Among other Cannabis species like Sativa, Cannabis Indica is also one of them that is mainly found in cool mountain regions of Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Northern India. Thriving in such harsh conditions has caused them to evolve into short bush-like plants. You can identify these plants by their characteristic short stem, broad leaves, and resin-rich buds.

As reported by researchers, the Indica strain is well known for its unique and balanced chemical composition. Compared to Sativa, Indica variants have a higher level of CBD content and a moderate level of THC content. This unique combination results in calming and deeply relaxing effects. The results are opposite to the energizing and focus-oriented effects of the Sativa strain.

The signature calm effect of the Indica strain comes from the blend of terpenes present in the plant. These are natural aromatic oils found in the Indica strain. The following terpenes are commonly found in this strain.

Myrcene: This type of terpene has an earthy and musky aroma. It is involved with muscle relaxation and sedation when consumed.

Linalool: It has a floral aroma that helps with releasing stress and reducing anxiety.

Caryophyllene: This type has a peppery and spicy aroma. It is mainly responsible for soothing discomfort and tension in the body.

These terpenes are also a major reason why the Indica strain has a reputation as the “nighttime strain”. These terpenes are best suited for a relaxing and calming effect on the body.

What is the Difference Between Indica vs Sativa?

Although both are related to the Cannabis family, Indica and Sativa have completely different profiles and effects on the body. Some of the major differences are discussed in the table below.

In the human body, the network responsible for maintaining balance in sleep, mood, and stress responses is known as the endocannabinoid system, otherwise known as ECS. When Indica is consumed, it interacts with the ECS, resulting in a sensory calmness.

The Sativa variant contains terpenes like limonene and pinene that offer alertness and focus. On the other hand, Indica consists of terpenes such as Linalool and Myrcene that promote calmness and relaxing responses.

How Does Indica Work?

It is essential to understand how Indica works in the body. The major interaction as soon as you ingest any kind of Indica products is with the Endocannabinoid system, also known as the ECS. The ECS is involved in regulating a myriad of biological processes, including circadian rhythmicity.

On consuming Indica-dominant products, the THC and CBDs present in the variant bind to the receptors CB1 and CB2, signalling the ECS to take action. These receptors act as communication points that are controlled by the ECS in order to maintain overall balance.

Here are the details of the process:

• When consumed, the THC from the Indica variant binds to the CB1 receptors that are mainly present in the brain. This signals the ECS to produce a sensation of relaxation or sedation.
• To reduce anxiety and tension, CBD binds to CB2 receptors to balance the sedative effect produced by THC.
• Terpenes, along with cannabinoids and flavonoids, work synergistically to enhance the overall therapeutic or psychoactive effects of the plant, also known as the entourage effect.
• CBN, recognized as the ‘sleep-enhancing cannabinoid’, is found mainly in significantly aged Cannabis indica. Due to the non-enzymatic oxidation of THC into CBN, its percentage becomes higher. This makes you feel sleepy or drowsy.

These reactions simultaneously slow down muscle activity, giving you that relaxed and calm feeling. This creates a deep soothing sensation for your body.

The Role of Terpenes in Relaxation

Terpenes are the compounds that give cannabis plants their signature fragrance. Depending on the variant, these fragrances can be a zesty scent, a rich, earthy scent, or a lavender scent. They are also said to have various therapeutic attributes that include analgesic, anti-anxiety, and anti-inflammatory properties.

The Indica variant has a unique set of terpenes that contribute to the soothing and sedative effects of the plant. Listed below are the major ones:

Myrcene

It is the most predominant terpene found in Indica. They are responsible for the earthy and musky aroma. It promotes muscle relaxation and sedation. It’s known for overall body relaxation, also known as “Couch-Lock.” Another fundamental property of myrcene is that it increases the number of cannabinoid substances in the brain, thus increasing the sense of euphoria.

Linalool

Linalool is well known for its unique lavender-like calming aroma. This improves sleep quality by reducing stress and anxiety. Its distinct floral scent not only helps in relaxation but also provides a soothing sensation.

Caryophyllene

Caryophyllene has a special peppery or spicy aroma. It directly interacts with the CB2 receptors, supporting physical comfort and relaxation. Since it interacts so well, it produces a full-body calming experience.

Indica Variant- Cannabinoid Profile

The unique analgesic and sleep-enhancing properties of Indica do not only come from terpenes. These effects are a perfect mix of cannabinoids and terpenes. Every variant comes with a unique set of these compounds, but there are a few common ones.

Terahydrocannabinol/THC

Abundantly found in the sativa variant, THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis plants. They are responsible for your euphoric experiences. The secret to Indica’s effects lies in the interaction between THC and terpenes. In the right balance, they create a body-centered experience, rather than giving an energized or focused effect.

Cannabidiol/CBD

Compared to THC, CBD is present at a higher percentage in Indica. It does not cause any intoxication; instead, it balances the effects of THC, reducing anxiety, restlessness, or racing thoughts.

Cannabinol/ CBN

CBN forms when THC undergoes non-enzymatic oxidation. This is present mainly in aged cannabis flowers. CBN is primarily used in sleep-inducing products, helping people fall asleep and unwind.

Factors Contributing to How Sleepy You Feel

Although Indica variants are responsible for relaxation, calmness, and sleep, other biological factors can contribute to determining the level of these effects on a person’s body.

Potency and Dosage

The amount of product consumed is directly linked to the effects that you will experience. When you consume low doses, it gives effects like muscle relaxation, tension release, and stress reduction, but when taken in high doses, it could lead to sedation and deep sleep. This is beneficial for people dealing with insomnia.

Potency depends on your biological mechanism. Sometimes the product claiming to have the same potency could show less or more effects based on the person’s metabolism.

Consumption

Depending on the method of consumption, effects can differ. When Indica is consumed through inhalation ( smoking or vaping), it shows faster effects, sometimes within minutes. When consumed in the form of edibles or tinctures, it takes longer to kick in but has a lasting and intense effect.

Tolerance and Metabolism

A lot is affected by your body chemistry. Depending on your metabolism and the interaction of cannabinoids and terpenes in your body, you will have distinct experiences. Frequent consumers might also build a tolerance to the effects, needing a higher dosage for the relaxation to kick in.

Time of Consumption

Due to its calming and relaxing effects, many consumers have testified that consuming it during leisure time or at night is the best option. People having trouble sleeping or who have chronic insomnia could use a prescribed dosage to temporarily deal with their issue.

Conclusion

So the answer to the main question: Does Indica make you sleepy? Well, it depends. The effects depend on your individual biology, metabolism, dosage, and the environment in which you take it. The secret of the effects of this plant also lies in the unique blend of cannabinoids and terpenes.

Understanding and familiarizing yourself with the right information could help you reach a decision in case you haven’t been able to trust cannabis products. Remember to always purchase products from trusted brands, so that authenticity and safety are maintained. Also, stick to what your body can tolerate. For consumers who want to use it as a sleep-inducing alternative, use prescribed doses for safe and controlled experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Do All Indica Variants Make You Feel Sleepy?

No, not all. Although most Indica variants do induce sleep, some might have a milder effect depending on the cannabinoid and terpene profile.

Q. Which Terpenes Cause Us To Feel Sleepy?

Terpenes such as linolool, myrcene, and terpinolene are said to have sedative effects on the body. They are also believed to help with muscle tension and reduce restlessness.

Q. What is a Better Option for Anxiety- Indica or Sativa?

This depends on your choice. If you want energized and focus-enhancing effects, choose sativa-dominant products. Whereas, for a more calming and relaxing effect, try indica-dominant products.