The Cannabis indica plant originated in the Middle East, in places such as Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Tibet.
It generally has a higher CBD content than Cannabis sativa, though the CBD to THC ratio is very close to 1:1Trusted Source.
The general perception is that indica is an effective pain reliever, with a flat and relaxing high. Many medical marijuana strains contain a hybrid form of this strain.
That said, it is important to note that little scientific evidence backs these ideas. There are far more variations within the indica vs. sativa categorization, and many scientists believeTrusted Source that we should not generalize the psychoactive and other effects of different strains.