strains Archives - Weed Reader

Analysis/OpinionAugust 10, 2018 by WeedReader

What are the Top Cannabis Strains for Pain?

Many people use medical or recreational cannabis to remedy pain. Marijuana is definitely a great choice but it’s also a very diverse drug. The properties of the bud will decide how effective it will be for relieving your pain. Most importantly, whether it’s an “indica” or “sativa” strain will serve as a telling factor of what you can expect.
Let’s evaluate the top indica & sativa strains for pain relief…

Indica Strains for Pain Relief

Indica is often joked as being “in da couch” because it gives a full body high that essentially shuts off your brain’s ability to send pain signals. For the most severe cases, indica weed is the way to go — many medicinal users religiously stick by indica for its strong pain relief effects.
Some top-rated indica cannabis strains include:

Blue Cheese
Critical Mass
Granddaddy Purple
Hash Plant
Hindu Kush
Master Kush
Northern Lights
Purple Kush
Sensi Star

Notice a recurring theme in that list?
“Kush” is included in many of the names. If you’re new to marijuana, you might believe people use this term loosely — as if it’s a codeword in the streets like “green” or “herb”. The truth is, kush is always either an indica or indica-dominant hybrid strain.
Therefore, most users seeking pain relief results will find happy results from one of the kush strains. The other strains on that list are also very effective choices for pain relief. Many of these strains have very high THC levels as well, such as Purple Kush which measures in at 17 to 27 percent.

Sativa Strains for Pain Relief

The problem with sativa strains is that they provide more of a head high than a body one. The result is more relief to head-related pains such as chronic headaches or migraines. However, general pain relief in the body does occur when using sativa strains. Further, if you medicate through a vaporizer — even if it’s sativa, the pain relief impact will be long-lasting.
Even so, users seeking pain relief symptoms are highly recommended to focus their medicating experience on indica-based strains. If you wish to avoid the “energy dragging effects” that sometimes happen, go ahead and use an indica-dominant strain instead. That said, if your pain symptoms are minor — and supposing you like the head high effect — a sativa or sativa-dominant hybrid strain would be a solid choice.
Some top-rated sativa cannabis strains include:

AK-47
Amnesia Haze
Green Crack
Hawaiian Snow
Jack Herer
Laughing Buddha
Sour Diesel
Strawberry Cough

If you do go the sativa route, try microdosing first. Some users find that a high THC sativa strain can cause pain relief without any cloudiness when taken at lower levels.
One more note — if you go for a hybrid strain, remember there are two types: indica-dominant and sativa-dominant. For pain relief purposes, an indica-dominant will typically provide superior results. If you still find the body effect to be too much, the sativa-dominant alternative will at least keep some of the major pain relief benefits due to the partial indica content.

Final Verdict

Both medical and recreational marijuana heals pain in such a fashion that prescription painkillers are no longer required. Being dependent on a natural, herbal remedy like cannabis is a game-changer.
The opiate addiction epidemic our world is facing right now is well-known. You don’t want to become another statistic — but if you keep smoking a strain that doesn’t effectively provide pain relief, it’s possible you’ll give up on a weed as your painkiller and look for something else.
Don’t be afraid to explore the strains out there before you decide what works.
Use coupons and watch for marijuana deals and promotions to do a small bulk order on different strains. Research them beforehand and keep track of their effects on you, while noting their measurements, so you can figure out what strains relieve your pain the most.
A great tip: Find a few marijuana strains that work for you. Keep switching between them every so often so your body doesn’t fully adapt to the effects. The changeup will keep the pain relief symptoms working strong instead of weakening over time.
Note:
This post is meant to help users find and understand general information on cannabis strains for pain. Please get professional advice from your doctor before using any cannabis strain.
Sources:
https://greencamp.com/marijuana-for-migraines/

Analysis/Opinion, ListJune 22, 2017 by Adam Rhodes

10 Best Summer Time Strains to Smoke

Summer is the best season for weed.

Summer is the only season that encourages people to be outside. Maybe it is because summer brings about long days, short nights and plenty of heat. BBQs, fireworks, festivals and parades happen frequently during the summer.
Being outside and active requires a special kind of cannabis to improve the experience. Nobody wants couch-lock when you plan to go on a hike (unless you are trying to get out of it). But having a nice indica with some CBD will go a long way in reducing recovery time after getting home.
Adventures don’t happen alone either. Journeys can go from Harold and Kumar to Rubber real quick with the wrong kind of smoke. People need to converse and follow directions which can be hard with some strains. This list focuses on strains that won’t leave you saying “Dude, Where’s My Car?”

Here is a list of strains that are sure to provide a great summer high!

Sour Diesel

Sour Diesel has a distinctly pungent fuel aroma and provides a motivating burst of energy. Sired by an unknown Skunk strain, Northern Lights and Chemdawg, the sativa dominant high reflects its strong lineage. The high is mentally dominant, leaving the body free to enjoy the hot weather. Just be sure not to get lost following festival music because getting distracted is easy on this strain

Strawberry Cough

Coming in at about 80% sativa, this strain provides enough pep to keep any step light. Kyle Kushman developed this strain for Buds and Roses in Los Angeles, California. This is a clone-only cross of Strawberry Fields and Haze. The skunky, berry tones capture the olfactory senses while the cerebral high uplifts in a euphoric way. Users can feel social anxiety melt away as this strain courses through the body.

Amnesia Haze

This is the quintessential strain for a long-lasting, uplifting, energetic high that courses though the body. This number is also known to improve creativity and may result in spontaneous outbreaks of the giggles. Amnesia Haze also has an impressive pedigree which includes two Cannabis Cup wins. The first win was in 2004 and the second was in 2012. It’s easy to see why it is so popular in the Amsterdam coffee shops.

Blue Dream

Blue Dream is available almost anywhere. But due to genetic instability within the strain, it can come out several different ways. Ranging from sativa-dominant to indica-dominant and anywhere in between, this one can be tricky. The sativa dominant variety is the most common and provides the best high. This strain is mainly known for its ability to boost mood, inspire creativity and relaxes the body. All without the couch-lock feeling.

Pineapple Express

This was named after the legendarily rare flower from the movie with the same name. Available across the world, this strain provides a hard-hitting, long-lasting, hybrid high. The energetic buzz is perfect for productive afternoons doing yard work, weekend projects or reaching the next prestige level on a game. The increased focus and awareness provided by this high can be calming or stimulating.

Summertime Squeeze

This sativa-dominant strain has a fresh citrus and tropical fruit smell. Properly cured flower produces a bouquet fit for a tropical paradise. Even low THC cuts provide an intense high though. The energetic high comes on quickly and makes muscles crave getting out and doing something fun. Perfect to pair with a mojito or a hike, this high-energy strain is perfect for people looking to get moving.

Cheeseburger

Who doesn’t love cheeseburgers in the summer? Cannasol Farms of Omak Washington created this amazing strain. This indica-dominant hybrid is sumptuous and heavy like a real burger. While the genetic history of this strain has been lost, it provides everything a summertime smoker could want. Plus, the insane yields it produces makes it a great option for commercial cultivators.

Strawberry Banana

DNA Genetics collaborated with Serious Seeds to produce this 70% indica-dominant hybrid. The companies started with Banana Kush and the ‘strawberry’ phenotype of Bubble Gum. After stabilizing the genetics, the sweet and fruity flavor of the Bubble Gum carried over with the heavy indica effects of the Banana Kush. The high feeling is extremely happy and peaceful but heavy enough to induce a food coma if smoked right after BBQ.

Pineapple Kush

Not to be confused with Pineapple Express above, this is a heavy indica. The breeders name has been lost to history but the strain was cultivated from Pineapple and Master Kush. This provides it with a fruity, almost minty flavor.
Capable of producing high THC and CBD, this strain is great for treating seizures, inflammation and fatigue. The high is heavy, but not overwhelmingly so. It leaves users able to be creative, social or simply active without a lot of headaches.

Sunset Haze

A combination of Tangerine Haze and Rocky Mountain Blueberry, this is a true hybrid. With one parent on each end of the sativa-indica divide, this plant provides a great balance of effects. The flower also bursts with summer colors. The flowers are full of pink, purple, and red hues, in addition to inheriting a medley of flavors.
Ripe berry, and sweet fruit flavors compete for dominance of the aroma. Strong citrus notes play olfactory support which add an invigorating element to the scent. The smell highlights and exemplifies the high as well. It can provide and active and uplifting high that is highly creative and intensely focused. Overindulging feels like getting a heavy blanket pulled over your head. Yet it never seems to result in falling asleep.

Honorable Mentions:

The world of weed is vast but this list is not. There are lots of strains that could have made it on this list. Strawberry Fields, Arjans Ultra Haze, Blueberry, Tangie, and Orange Creamsicle are just a few of the amazing strains that didn’t make this list but could have.

Do you agree with this list?

What strains do you think should have made it on the list? Which would you have cut? Let us know in the comments below!
Featured image: Medical Jane

Strain ReviewsNovember 11, 2016 by WeedReader

Strain Review: Trainwreck

Ideally, this sativa-strong hybrid will leave you in a state appropriate to its name. Said to be cerebral and ‘mind-bending’, Trainwreck is a blend of Mexican and Thai sativa, with Afghani indica for the sweet mellow qualities. It’s true genetic origins are a bit unknown, however, with constant debate about whether or not it’s a clone, its grow/flowering time, etc. With some batches you might be able to philosophize the end to world hunger, others, you might be land-locked to your living room. Regardless of it’s origins, with this top-shelf strain, you may find relief from anxiety, focus to control symptoms of ADHD, ADD, and PTSD, and great pain relief, due to its high THC content.
Bring yourself back to nature with a whiff of the buds; said to be both spicy and lemony sweet, Trainwreck smells of pine needles and soft earth. It is quite strong, and permeates a room, so choose your container appropriately if smell is something you need to be concerned over. The look of the buds is gorgeous, often bright electric green and plenty of fuzzy orange or brown hairs. They range from tight and compact, to decent, palm-sized logs. It all depends on the batch, which can also vary in strain effects due to its hybrid nature.
The worst you might feel from a puff of Trainwreck is dry mouth and eyes. Time dilation may also occur the higher the dose, so start small and see how you feel and how it handles. The last thing you’d want to do when looking for pain relief or a euphoric feeling is smoke too much, go overboard and land yourself in a state of paranoia or confusion. But that’s just a warning for first-timers! Go ahead and try the strains that interest you, and experiment to get the best results.
Medically speaking, many patients have sought Trainwreck for stress relief and to alleviate symptoms of depression. Migraines, arthritis, and joint pain are other ailments that may find peace after a few tokes. Others have found relief from eye pressure and fatigue, with Trainwreck being a top choice among medical patients. Many feel it to be a very euphoric high, and long-lasting. One user claims to feel “as if I am living my life in 3rd person, it kinda just unstressed everything in your current life.” I agree completely. With the experience of time moving strangely, or even backwards, it’s easy to separate from yourself and the causes of stress for just a little while.
You may feel hazed from indica-strong batches, but otherwise, look forward to a lack of fatigue and soreness. Others feel great increase in creativity and mental clarity, even leading to self-empowerment. I recall feeling like I could complete all of my projects, and even start new ones with fleshed out ideas and real, achievable goals. One user says, “I was even able to pass trigonometry while stoned.” So if that’s not indication of Trainwreck’s magical powers, I don’t know what else to say.
Chemical makeup —
TCH: 12-21%
CBD: 0.02-0.1%
CBN: 0-0.03%
CBG: 0.3-1.2%
THCV: 0.03-0.2%
CBC: 0-0.03%
CBL: 0-0.3%
β-Linalool: 0-0.1%
β-Myrcene: 0-0.4%
a-Pinene: 0-0.2%
D-Limonene: 0-0.5%
β-Caryophyllene: 0-0.4%
image: medicaljane.com

Strain ReviewsAugust 30, 2016 by GGG

Strain Review: Sour Diesel

Tried-and-true, Sour Diesel is high among the most popular strains out these days. Belonging to the sativa family, Sour D is a strain ready to provide a dreamy, happy euphoria. Medical patients claim feeling relief from stress, pain, and depression in particular after consuming Sour Diesel. The aroma is quite pungent, earthy, and as the name says, a thick cloudy diesel. Many say they reap the benefits of a dreamy high with no couch-lock.
The strain first appeared in the early 90s and was made popular by cannabis breeder Chem Dog, and many believe Sour D to be descended from the classics Northern Lights, Chemdog, and a Skunk phenotype. Understandably, Sour Diesel is among many users favorites, and is sure to be found in any dispensary in either its original form, or one of its hybrid descendants.
Buds are dense, cheesy, and vary in color from bright greens to orange, lemony yellows. The taste has been reported with mixed reviews–some enjoy, others find it unbearable. It means it with the name ‘Diesel’ – expect the pungent, fuel-like flavor when you toke it. The scent is strong and skunky, so be aware if you’re lighting up and needing to be sneaky.
Sour Diesel strain often provides a fast-acting head high and a mild body high, so it’s ideal for cannabis users who enjoy being active. Hiking, swimming, sports, or dancing would all be boosted to the max with a hit or two of Sour D. On the flip side, more sedentary users can enjoy a lift in creativity and an absence of social anxiety (though this may vary from person-to-person). Most report feeling relief from depression with continued use of the strain, and its effects are often perfect for those who enjoy a wake-n-bake but still need to function throughout the day.
As with any strain, reactions will be different per person. Start slow and take notice of the smell, taste, and feeling after the first hit to see if Sour Diesel is right for you.
Other strain qualities reported are feelings of relaxation, energy, and overall mood uplift, decrease in fatigue, depression, and stress. Excellent for those with chronic pain or those in need of a creative energy boost. THC content ranges typically from 19-25%, and about 0.1-0.3% CBD content.

Chemical Makeup
THC: 19-25%
CBD: 0.1-0.3%
CBN: 0-0.04%
CBG: 0-1%
THCV: 0-0.2%
CBC: 0-0.5%
CBL: 0-0.6%
β-Linalool: 0.01-0.1%
β-Myrcene: 0.06-0.5%
a-Pinene: 0-0.4%
D-Limonene: 0.01-0.6%
β-Caryophyllene: 0-0.5%
Image credit: medicaljane

Strain ReviewsAugust 11, 2016 by GGG

Strain Review: Bubba Kush

The true origins of Bubba Kush are unknown, but most recognizable is its DNA in OG Kush. Bubba Kush is a hybrid with OG and supposedly Northern Lights, but its mother has not been determined for certain. BK, regardless, is a contender to be a favorite for people who like a heavy and powerful relaxation with their high. Described as the “poor man’s GDP [Granddaddy Purple]”, you can probably expect great and long lasting pain relief, and similar effects to GDP. (But let’s be real, most all cannabis is great cannabis.)
The flavors and physical structure of Bubba Kush buds are reminiscent of Afghani breeds, strongly hashish and subtly chocolate, roast coffee, and rich earth. It provides head to toe tingling and muscle relaxation like no other. Light up some BK on a day off, where you can wake up and ease into the morning without feeling groggy, or like you need that extra cup of coffee. Bubba Kush could be perfect for easing any stomach tension or helping to forget anxieties. Why not use it to make the biggest, best-tasting breakfast for yourself and getting all the benefit with none of the worries? It might even make doing the dishes afterward more bearable.
Nuggets of BK tend to be quite dense, dry, and bulky. It breaks apart in these little leafy pearls, with deep burnt-orange hairs, occasionally dark purple to light brown leaves, and a dusting of resiny crystal. The taste of the smoke inhaled is often sweet and hash like, very rich and clean, with the exhale giving hints of cocoa and spice. Pair together with your favorite morning beverage, or try Bubba Kush alongside a few pieces of chocolate or a cappuccino.
The THC content in most batches of Bubba Kush are on the lower side, ranging from 15% to 22%. Definitely look out for higher-range strains and batches of BK if you love the taste but want more of a psychoactive effect. Has a rich terpene profile high in limonene and pinene. Both are accounted for in the sweetness and tangy pine scent you sometimes get in batches of BK. Look for higher CBD content wherever you get your bud from, and you’ll be more likely to feel strong pain relief and ease from insomnia or nausea.
Chemical makeup
THC: 14-22%
CBD: 0.06-0.1%
CBN: 0-0.05%
CBG: 0.01-1.0%
THCV: 0-0.3%
CBC: 0-0.1%
CBL: 0-0.03%
β-Linalool: 0.01-0.2%
β-Myrcene: 0-0.2%
a-Pinene: 0-0.3%
D-Limonene: 0.07-0.4%
β-Caryophyllene: 0-0.4%
image: theweedblog

List, Strain ReviewsJune 15, 2016 by Ben Neal

15 Most Popular Cannabis Strains

Have you ever wondered what the most popular cannabis strains are? The best of the best. What the cannabis connoisseurs are smoking.
Well, wonder no more! Feast your eyes on 15 of the most legendary, most potent, most aromatic and delicious cannabis strains on the planet:

1. Blue Dream

Blue Dream has been named the most popular strain in the U.S., for a variety of reasons — it’s easy to find, easy to grow, yields an abundant crop, etc. But the biggest reason why it’s so well loved, is that it is a pure delight to smoke. This sativa-dominant strain is a cross between the popular Blueberry and Haze strains. The result is an extremely balanced, berry-scented bud, which offers the best of both worlds: the body high and symptom relief of an indica, and the uplifting and euphoric effects characteristic of a strong sativa.

2. OG Kush

OG Kush is the common ancestor of many, if not most, of the most popular West Coast strains — including several on this list. It’s been around for more than 20 years, and yet it continues to be a favorite. It’s lineage is uncertain, but most believe it to be a cross between the Chemdawg and Hindu Kush strains. The result is an intoxicating hybrid with a strong earthy and piney scent, that delivers an intense, euphoric and relaxing high.

3. Girl Scout Cookies

This cross between Durban Poison (one of the few remaining strains of pure sativa) and OG Kush is not for lightweights. It has a sweet, earthy, often minty aroma, and some of the highest THC levels around. One hit will have soaring on an intense, cerebral high, that can result in anxiety — even paranoia — if you’re not careful or experienced. But manage your dosage, your set and setting, and you should enjoy the ride.

4. Banana Kush

This is an indica-dominant hybrid, born from the combination of Ghost OG and Skunk Haze. Easily recognized by it’s fruity, banana scent and flavor, it also delivers maximum euphoria and relaxation. A great choice for those dealing with stress and/or depression, this strain is sure to mellow you out and put a smile on your face.

5. AK-47

This award winning creation from Serious Seeds is a sativa-dominant mix of several different cannabis strains from around the world. The result is pungent, earthy and slightly sweet, while packing an uplifting and long lasting head high that will have you alert, creative and energized. But don’t let the scary-sounding name fool you; this bud is known for having pleasant, happy and relaxing effects.

6. “Green Crack”

Originally known as Cush (with a “C”), this strain was dubbed Green Crack by none other than Snoop Dogg. Descended from Skunk #1, this sativa-dominant hybrid has a hoppy, citrus taste and aroma. And as the name suggests, it delivers a powerful, energizing mental high that makes you intensely alert and focused.

7. Strawberry Cough

As you might have guessed, Strawberry Cough is most famous for the powerful taste and aroma of fresh strawberries. And while it is both a smooth and delicious smoke, it’s also known for an expanding sensation that tickles the lungs, that can wring a cough out of even the most seasoned smoker. This sativa-dominant hybrid delivers an uplifting and euphoric high, that is sure to leave you satisfied.

8. Flo

One of the most popular strains in the Colorado markets, Flo is a cross between Purple Thai (a potent sativa) and Afghani Indica — and offers the perfect blend of the two. Known for it’s purple coloration and sweet, piney scent, and loved for it’s light, pleasant and bubbly high. This is a true “feel good” bud, not at all heavy. Just pure relaxation, and gentle, uplifting euphoria… you can’t help but love it.

9. MK Ultra

Named after the covert mind control project of the CIA, this potent indica-dominant hybrid has been called hypnotic and mind bending. Bred from OG Kush and G-13, this is one of the strongest cannabis strains in the world, period. These dank, sticky buds will leave you laid out on the couch, super relaxed yet flying on an intense, cerebral high. Best not make plans to go out anytime soon.

10. Grand Daddy Purp

A West Cost classic, Granddaddy Purple (or GDP) is a heavy, indica hybrid that’s a cross between the famous Purple Urkle and Big Bud. It has distinctive color, and grape and berry scent characteristic of it’s parent. It also delivers one of the most powerful, relaxing body highs of any indica out there, combined with an intense cerebral high as well.

11. Trainwreck

This popular strain from northern California is one of the hardest hitting sativa hybrids on the market. It has a spicy pine and lemon scent, and is famous for it’s extreme, high energy head high, characterized by intense euphoria, creativity, time distortion, and overall blissed-out happiness.

12. Sour Diesel

Another classic hybrid, Sour Diesel has been around since the 90s. This strong and skunky sativa dominant strain gets it’s name from it’s aroma: the dank and pungent smell of diesel fuel. It also packs an intense, cerebral high that comes on fast and strong. Uplifting, energizing, and mind-expanding… it’s no wonder this strain has such enduring popularity and legendary status.

13. Golden Goat

This popular was created by accident, the story goes, by the unintended crossing of a Hawaiian sativa with Sweet Island Skunk. The result is complex, in scent, flavor and effects. Simultaneously sweet, sour and spicy, with a tropical citrus taste, and a full body high that is both uplifting and relaxing, happy and euphoric and altogether pleasant and enjoyable.

14. Skywalker OG

This cross between Skywalker and OG Kush is an indica-dominant hybrid, with the pungent, earthy, spicy scent characteristic of most kush strains. The effects are extremely relaxing, with a powerful body high and pleasant numbing, tingling sensation from head to toe. But there is also a good head buzz, that hits you right away. The perfect bud for when you just want chill, relax, and drift off while listening to some good music.

15. Bruce Banner

Named after the incredible Hulk, this cross between OG Kush and Strawberry Diesel can be found in at least 3 different varieties. It’s known for a sweet and pungent aroma, skunky diesel with berry undertones. It also gives an instant, energizing, cerebral high that is pleasant and euphoric — if a bit short on duration. But that can be a good thing, sometimes.

Well, there you have it! Have you tried any of these strains? What did you think? Did we miss any of your favorites? Tell us all about it in the comments below.
Save

strains