The cannabis world is on the cusp of a significant shift that seeks to move away from the historical Indica-Sativa binary classification and venture into a more nuanced and accurate understanding of cannabis strains. The 2022 Emerald Cup, a renowned cannabis competition held in California, piloted a unique approach, classifying entries based on their terpene profiles, flavors, and effects rather than the conventional Indica/Sativa/Hybrid labels. This new perspective promises a more precise and consumer-friendly approach to cannabis.

The Indica-Sativa Dichotomy: A Simplified Narrative

For many years, the cannabis market has clung to the Indica and Sativa distinction. These labels, derived from the plant’s physical characteristics and anticipated effects, have been widely accepted and utilized in the industry. Indica strains were popularly associated with physical relaxation and a calming influence, while Sativa strains were linked with cerebral high and invigorating effects. This dichotomy, however, is becoming increasingly scrutinized due to its oversimplification and inaccuracies.

In reality, the physiological effects of cannabis are not that black and white. The influence a particular strain has on an individual depends on a multitude of factors, including the person’s endocannabinoid system, the strain’s chemical composition, and the consumer’s tolerance level. As a result, this long-standing binary classification falls short in accurately reflecting the complex nature of cannabis effects.

Cannabis is More than Just THC

The focus on the psychoactive compound THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) has dominated cannabis discussions and selections for a long time. Consumers have been conditioned to equate higher THC levels with better quality or stronger effects, leading to a misguided preference for high-THC strains.

Emerging research, however, has challenged this notion by demonstrating that cannabis’s overall effects result from a synergy of various compounds, including cannabinoids and terpenes, often referred to as the “entourage effect”. This discovery highlights the importance of other cannabis compounds, particularly terpenes, that have mostly added to the confusion for consumers due to the existing classification methods.

Embracing the Terpenes and Effects-Based Classification

Acknowledging the limitations of the THC-centric perspective and the Indica/Sativa classification, the Emerald Cup introduced a novel classification system for cannabis flowers in its 2022 competition. The system leverages PhytoFacts® data powered by SC Labs, relying on a comprehensive database of over 250,000 terpene tests. The classifications cover six distinct classes, based on their terpene profiles, effects, and tasting notes, including “Jacks + Haze,” “Tropical + Floral,” “Sweets + Dreams,” “OGs + Gas,” “Desserts,” and “Exotics.”

These classes aim to reduce the consumer confusion resulting from whimsical strain names, irrelevant THC/CBD percentages, and vague Indica/Sativa labels. They promote a more accurate understanding of cannabis strains, focusing on their unique attributes, such as their aroma, flavor, and effects. As a result, consumers, growers, and dispensaries can make more informed choices about the strains they grow, sell, or consume.

Implications and Potential of the New Classification

This shift towards a more sophisticated understanding of cannabis is expected to revolutionize the market. It allows strains with similar profiles to be compared and contrasted more accurately, creating a fairer and more balanced competition arena, not just for the Emerald Cup, but for the entire cannabis industry.

Much like the nuanced categorization in the wine industry, this new cannabis classification system seeks to become an open-source, globally recognized grading solution. It is set to enhance consumer understanding and appreciation for cannabis, leading to a more mature and knowledgeable market.

The move towards a terpene-based classification system is an encouraging step forward in the quest for a more nuanced and accurate understanding of cannabis. As our knowledge about cannabis compounds continues to grow, so too will our ability to classify, differentiate, and appreciate the myriad of strains available to us. The next phase in the evolution of cannabis is here, and it promises to be as diverse and intricate as the plant itself.