Glossary

Sativa

Cannabis Sativa is one of the three main cannabis species. When consumed, sativa strains are known to boost serotonin levels and have up-lifting effects on a person's overall mood.

What is Cannabis Sativa?

  

Sativa plants are characterised by their tall and narrow structure and long and thin leaves. They typically grow between 8 and 12 feet in height and have a longer flowering time compared to other subspecies of cannabis, usually between 12 and 16 weeks.

 

How is Sativa used in medical cannabis?

 

Sativa cultivars are usually associated with more cerebral, energising, and uplifting effects, and are usually prescribed to be taken during the day to treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, and chronic pain.

 

What are the active ingredients in Sativa cultivars?

 

Sativa plants contain high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the cannabinoid responsible for the "high" associated with cannabis. They may also contain elevated levels of cannabidiol (CBD), another cannabinoid known for its potential therapeutic properties without any psychoactive effects, along with a range of minor cannabinoids (CBG, CBN, THCV, etc.)

The terpene profile of Sativa cultivars is also distinctive, with higher levels of limonene, pinene and bet. The exact concentrations of both cannabinoids and terpenes will vary depending on the specific cultivar and growing conditions.

 

Can Sativa cultivars be legally prescribed in the UK?

 

Yes, medical cannabis treatment was legalised in the UK in November 2018. Sativa cultivars are among the types of cannabis that can be legally prescribed by specialist doctors for certain medical conditions.

To find out if you are eligible for medical cannabis treatment in the UK, check out our fast and free medical cannabis eligibility checker.

If you would like to learn more about medical cannabis in the UK, Releaf is here to help. In addition to this medical cannabis glossary, we have an extensive blog and education hub to explore, both filled with resources that UK medical cannabis patients, prescribers, and educators have been asking for.