Cannabis is a complex plant that has documented use over 10,000 years and was used as medicine from Chinese dynasties to the young country known as the U.S.A. There are cannabinoids such as CBNs, CBDs, CBGs and THC that has a vast array of health benefits with minimal side effects in comparison to prescription and over the counter "medicines". Given the stigma placed on the plant and being moved from the United States government requiring all farmers grow Hemp to being listed as a drug as dangerous as Heroin as it is listed as a Schedule I controlled substance. Because of this much of the research that could save even more lives has been prohibited. There are cannabinoids that scientists are still trying to understand and many others yet to be discovered. Sativas, Indicas, and Hybrids may look similar once it's time to medicate but it's important for medical users understand the plant to better serve their needs.
As the picture shows when growing Sativas and Indicas look very different; Sativas stretch and grow upward, while Indicas grow outward and normally are short and bushy. Sativas are cerebral and provide a head high good for daytime use, while Indicas are more sedative and provide a body high that is great for night time use. Sativas have higher THC level while Indicas have higher CBD levels. The beauty in hybrids are strains can be breed to create focused strains with THC, CBD, and CBN's to treat many different ailments specifically. For those using cannabis for medical needs some stray away from Indicas because of the couch lock while others may avoid Sativas because of the paranoia. Indica strains and Hybrids are a great option for PTSD, anxiety, and depression because they can quiet the mind and reduce memories of nightmares. Each person is different so the same strain may have different effects on each user and it can be tricky determining the dosage especially for those that smoke their meds exclusively. Those that are Sativa fans stand behind the creativity and Euphoria the plant brings while Indica fans enjoy the pain, anxiety, and insomnia relief. Hybrids can provide the best of both worlds depending on the strains and many have Indica and Sativa qualities. Not to ignore ruderalis but many afghani strains may have crosses with this, however with lower THC levels they are not common in the United States.