The Canna-Classifieds: Breaking Down The Big 3

Cannabis has long been classified into three main types.

“Three, Vanjalic?”

These categories have been used for decades to help consumers understand what kind of experience they might expect from cannabis, but how accurate are these classifications, really? As cannabis knowledge evolves, it’s clear that much of what we've been taught about these types may not reflect the full complexity of the plant.

Most people are familiar with the first two—Indica and Sativa—and likely have a general understanding of what each one offers. But what many don't know is that there’s a third type: Ruderalis. Often overlooked or entirely unfamiliar to most cannabis consumers, Ruderalis plays a crucial role in cannabis genetics, especially in the development of autoflowering strains. Unlike Indica and Sativa strains that rely on light cycles to flower, Ruderalis flowers automatically based on age, not light. Breeders often cross Ruderalis with Indica or Sativa plants to create hybrids that have faster flowering times and are easier to grow, especially for beginners or colder climates. Originally found in Central and Eastern Europe and parts of Russia, Ruderalis is a wild, naturally occurring cannabis variety that has adapted to survive in harsh conditions. It also tends to have very low THC content, meaning it's not usually grown for recreational use.

While these terms still get used widely, they are rooted in outdated information that oversimplifies what cannabis can do for us. As the plant evolves and more research emerges, it's time to rethink what we think we know about these categories—and dive deeper into what really sets them apart.

SO LET’S GET INTO IT!

For years, the cannabis world has been split into two distinct categories: Indica and Sativa. You’ve probably heard the familiar line: Indica = In Da Couch, or that Sativa strains give you wings. But the truth is, these labels are much more about the plant’s structure than its actual effects, and they don’t paint the full picture.

The terms Indica and Sativa actually refer to the physical characteristics and growth patterns of the cannabis plant, not necessarily the effects they produce. Indica plants tend to be shorter, bushier, and have broad leaves, while Sativa plants are typically taller, with narrower leaves and a more elongated structure. These differences come from the climates in which the plants evolved—Indicas originated in colder, mountainous regions, while Sativas thrived in warmer, equatorial climates.

This distinction is super important for growers because it impacts how the plant is cultivated. Indicas usually grow faster and are better suited for indoor environments, while Sativas often require more space and longer grow cycles. But when it comes to effects, the physical traits of the plant aren’t a reliable indicator of how the cannabis will actually make you feel.

The truth is, most of what you’ll find on the market today is some kind of hybrid—a blend of Indica, Sativa, and sometimes even Ruderalis genetics.

Now, you might be thinking, "Okay, well, if Indica and Sativa are more about the plant’s looks than how it makes me feel, then what should I be looking for when I pick a strain, Vanjalic?" The answer: Cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. These are the real keys to understanding the kind of experience you’re likely to have with cannabis.

While the old Indica vs. Sativa labels might give you a general starting point, they don’t tell you the full story. That’s where cannabinoids (like THC, CBD, CBG, and CBN) and terpenes (like linalool, pinene, and humulene) come into play.

Cannabinoids are the compounds in cannabis that interact with your body’s system to affect things like mood, pain, appetite, and sleep. Over 100 cannabinoids have been recognized in the plant so far! Here’s the need-to-know:

THC: The one that gets you high. Think euphoria, relaxation, and creativity, plus help with pain and appetite.

CBD: Non-psychoactive and great for calming, reducing anxiety, and pain relief—without feeling “out of it.”

CBG: Known for promoting gut health and anti-inflammatory benefits. Sometimes called the "mother of cannabinoids."

CBN: A go-to for insomnia and sleep support thanks to its sedative properties.

Terpenes are aromatic compounds that not only give cannabis its flavor and smell but also contribute to how you feel.

Limonene: Smells citrusy and helps boost mood and ease anxiety. Great for a mental refresh.

Caryophyllene: Has a spicy, peppery scent and can help with stress and inflammation.

Myrcene: Earthy and musky. Known for deep relaxation, often found in more "couch-lock" type strains.

Flavonoids don’t just add color to plants—they have their own therapeutic benefits too. In cannabis, flavonoids can help with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and even neuroprotective effects. They also work together with cannabinoids and terpenes to enhance the overall experience (this is part of the entourage effect).

Reading the label is key for every shopping experience, whether it’s at the grocery store or the dispensary. Don’t just grab what’s familiar. Just like you’d read the ingredients list of your skin care products to know what you’re putting in/on your body, take a minute to read the label on your cannabis. It’ll tell you way more than just "Indica" or "Sativa." Focus on what really matters: the cannabinoid profile and terpene content. This is what will actually help you predict how you’ll feel—and tailor your experience to meet your needs, not just get you high (although we definitely support that too).

Whether you’re trying to unwind after a long work week, get energized to clean the kitchen, increase your appetite, or ease a migraine, understanding these key components will help you choose the right strain for your body, your needs, and your lifestyle.

So next time you’re at the dispo, look beyond the basic classification. Dive into the cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids—and start shopping smarter for a cannabis experience that’s as unique as you are.

The Canna-Classifieds: Breaking Down the Big Three