Why does weed smell skunky?

Weed has a giveaway odor. It clings to car interiors, lingers in rooms long after the joint has been smoked, and hangs around people who smoke it regularly. Most plants emit a unique smell, but cannabis carries a particularly potent odor, an unmistakable calling card. If there’s one adjective to describe it, it’s skunky.

Many of us remember the day we got our first whiff of weed: For me, it was crossing the university quad late one night during orientation week. That pungent, heady, musky scent assaulted my nostrils like few smells ever have, permanently etching itself into my olfactory memory.

Let’s look at the compounds responsible for weed’s skunky smell, discuss the science of whether they hold unique benefits, and explore some tips for getting rid of weed’s characteristic scent (or at least subduing it).

The source of weed’s skunky scent

Cannabis contains more than 200 cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds that contribute to its idiosyncratic scent. However, the chemical basis of weed’s skunk-like smell has long eluded scientists.

“Previously, researchers associated the terpenes known as myrcene, which is present in hops and mangoes, and caryophyllene, found in black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon, as being partly responsible for the skunky smell in cannabis,” said Roger Brown, founder and president of ACS Laboratory.

However, recent landmark research has found that weed’s musky, skunky scent isn’t due to terpenes, but another set of compounds entirely. In 2021, a research team based in California led by Dr. Iain Oswald, PhD, ran a study to find out whether cannabis contained volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs). VSCs are infamous as the compounds that skunks release in their defensive spray.

However, VSCs also play a role in plants with pungent aromas and flavors, including garlic, hops, and durian, which smells so strong it’s actually banned on public transportation in some Southeast Asian countries. Suffice to say, VSCs are powerful odor bombs that can deliver heady aromas and flavors in small amounts.

“[Volatile sulfur compounds] can possess extremely pungent aromas even in very small concentrations—orders of magnitude more pungent than many terpenes,” said Oswald. “A small amount goes a long way when it comes to VSC odors.”

To determine if cannabis contains VSCs, Oswald and his team measured cannabis flower and concentrates using state-of-the-art gas chromatography technologies. Their research uncovered a revelation: Not only does cannabis contain VSCs, but it also contains some that have never been seen in nature. As it turns out, VSCs are largely responsible for weed’s signature stench.

“Even a skunk’s aerosol spray, which can have a similar aroma to cannabis, does not have identical compounds,” explained Oswald. “They are, however, very similar in their chemical structures, hence why they do smell somewhat the same.” The researchers also found that the family of VSCs identified in cannabis are structurally similar to those found in garlic.

One particular VSC—3-methyl-2-butene-1-thiol, or VSC3, as it has come to be known—appears to be influential in shaping the smell of cannabis. It produces an “intense, sulfuric, skunky aroma even in extremely dilute concentrations,” that was also linked with skunky beer, the research team stated in the study.

Oswald and team confirmed that VSC3 is the primary source of the characteristic scent of cannabis, while other VSC compounds further intensify or modulate the aroma.

Moreover, the intense smell isn’t limited to cannabis flower. The team found that cannabis concentrates can retain VSCs through the extraction process and maintain a strong skunky aroma in the final product too.

Do other compounds play a role in cannabis’ aroma?

Before the discovery of cannabis VSCs, terpenes and flavonoids had long been touted as the key players that influencing the scent profile of weed. VSCs have now been established as the heavy hitters in the skunk smell, but terpenes and flavonoids still contribute to the distinctive, subtle aromas of different cannabis cultivars.

“Terpenes are organic compounds that are responsible for a plant’s aroma,” said Kat Andrews, Senior Director of Cresco Labs. “Over 100 different terpenes have been identified in cannabis. While some terpenes promote sweet or fruity smelling aromas, others may be more pungent or odorous.”

For instance, OG Kush possesses a strong, pungent, petroleum-like aroma that arises from high concentrations of myrcene and caryophyllene. At the other end of the spectrum, Jack Herer boasts high concentrations of terpinolene and pinene, which lend a woody, citrusy aroma.

“Terpenes are now thought to be more closely associated with the citrus and floral notes in cannabis,” explained Brown. However, Brown believes that there are other, lesser known compounds that may also contribute to the complex scent of weed—ketones and esters, which may influence the scent from terpenes by chemically altering their composition. He also points out that these compounds may interact with our endocannabinoid systems.

Ketones are aromatic organic compounds that are characterized by a very sweet smell, such as vanillin, which gives the aroma of vanilla, and cinnamaldehyde, which gives the scent of cinnamon. Esters are organic compounds that tend to have a pleasant, fruity smell.

“They have both been shown to increase the functionality of cannabinoid receptors and may play a role in the entourage effect, despite their inability to bind directly to our cannabinoid receptors,” he commented.

In other words, the interactions of terpenes, flavonoids, esters, and ketones may all affect the smell of weed, and might also influence how weed interacts with our body.

Are there any benefits to weed’s skunky compounds?

Terpenes, flavonoids, and VSCs all contribute to the functioning of the cannabis plant: They can repel predators, attract pollinators, and play a protective or adaptive role in the face of certain environmental stressors such as drought or UV light.

When humans ingest these aromatic compounds, they can evoke unique therapeutic responses. While research unpacking the applications of terpenes is still in its infancy, data suggest that they may ease anxiety, soothe pain, and fight off viruses. Flavonoids are also pharmacologically active compounds that boast many health benefits, so it’s not a stretch to think that VSCs may also hold beneficial properties for humans.

“Scientists have linked the taste, smell, and health benefits associated with garlic to the VSCs that occur naturally inside of it,” commented Brown. Garlic contains VSCs such as diallyl disulfide, which has been linked to anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, cardiovascular protective, neuroprotective, and anticancer activity. The structural similarity between the VSCs found in cannabis and those found in garlic suggests that cannabis VSCs could also deliver therapeutic effects, according to Oswald’s study.

“We are still not entirely sure of the function of these compounds,” said Oswald. “The discovery of this class of compounds opens some doors for future research directions—such as whether they play a part in modulating the psychoactive effects of cannabis.”

How can you manage the smell of weed?

While some of us revel in the robust musk of cannabis, others are less enthused by its loud fragrance. When Denver legalized weed, for example, myriad complaints about odors led to the creation of a full-time job to investigate and resolve said complaints.

Part of the secret to managing the smell of weed is knowing when it will be at its most pungent. Happily, Oswald and his team also set out to answer this question. Using an indoor greenhouse, they monitored the evolution of VSCs throughout the cannabis plant’s life cycle and the curing drying process.

“Age appears to be the most important factor in the strength of the skunky smell attributed to VSCs,” said Andrews. “It wasn’t until the seventh week of flower that the researchers were able to detect these unique cannabis VSCs, which continued to increase in strength as the cannabis plant reached the end of its flowering stage and peak during the curing process.”

After one week in storage, however, the concentration of VSCs began to decrease dramatically due to their volatility. The data show that cannabis tested four days after packaging had a VSC concentration nearly three times that of cannabis tested 46 days after packaging.

There are tried and tested methods to soften the smell of ultra-skunky fresh weed. Open windows to allow ventilation, light up incense sticks or scented candles, or purchase a portable air purifier. However, the best way to reduce an assault on your nostrils is to store your flower correctly. Proper containers or stash boxes can really dial back the scent. And, it goes without saying, that one of the best ways to avoid the smell of cannabis is to ingest it in the form of edibles.

“The trick is to limit the amount of air transfer between the container with the cannabis and the air outside,” recommended Brown. “This means that an airtight jar or container will subdue or conceal the skunky smell of the cannabis much better than a normal container or plastic baggie.”

CBD Oil: 9 Science-Backed Benefits

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a chemical compound found in the cannabis sativa plant. When applied topically or consumed through smoke inhalation or edible consumption, CBD interacts with neuroreceptors in your endocannabinoid system, which sends signals between your cells to help regulate your movement, mood, homeostasis and immune system.

What Are The Key Compounds In Cannabis?

The cannabis plant is a unique and complex being. With literally thousands of different cultivars around the world, it’s also incredibly diverse from strain to strain. According to a 2012 study, there are more than 400 distinct chemical compounds present in cannabis and medical marijuana. This includes cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, lipids, and other plant material such as chlorophyll. But how do these components come together — and how do they work in perfect harmony to produce your desired health benefits?

Read on for the Green Flower guide to the key compounds in cannabis.

Cannabinoids — The Basics

The defining compounds within cannabis are cannabinoids, more precisely phytocannabinoids — meaning they come from a plant (unlike synthetic cannabinoids). They enter the body through the endocannabinoid system (ECS) via CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors and are expressed through the central nervous system. Mammals naturally produce endocannabinoids — endo meaning inside — and it’s believed that phytocannabinoids may mimic these. There are over one hundred cannabinoids although only a handful have been explored scientifically. Let’s dive deeper into the nine most common types of cannabinoids you’ll find in cannabis products:

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) — THC is the most plentiful cannabinoid and arguably the most famous. It is responsible for the psychoactive “high” associated with consuming cannabis. In addition to its psychoactivity, this cannabinoid has also been shown to have analgesic and pain-killing properties. The easiest way to deliver THC to the bloodstream would be via smoking or vaping cannabis bud, but a wide range of THC products from concentrates to edibles to tinctures to topicals exist in legal markets.

Tetrahydrocannabinol Acid (THCA) — THCA is the precursor to THC and a slew of other cannabinoids. It is found in raw cannabis and converts to THC when heated, however, it’s far less psychoactive on its own. This cannabinoid has been studied for a variety of uses, including as an anti-inflammatory, neuroprotectant, anti-convulsant, nausea reducer, and anti-proliferative. Tinctures and “diamonds” (a type of concentrate for dabbing) are the most popular THCA products available.

Cannabidiol (CBD) — Another megapopular cannabinoid, CBD is typically sourced from industrial hemp plants. It has exploded in popularity, thanks in part to the passing of the Farm Bill in 2018, which effectively legalized its production and sale in all 50 states. The non-psychoactive compound has been touted for its myriad of potential wellness benefits, including its abilities to ease anxiety, pain, and inflammation. Most notably, CBD has shown great efficacy at reducing seizure activity with the FDA approving the first cannabidiol-based medication, Epidiolex, in 2018 which is used to treat two forms of severe childhood-onset epilepsy. The cannabinoid can be found in virtually any form, from smokable flower to gummies to salves to tinctures to pet treats.

Cannabidiolic Acid (CBDA) — Similar to THCA, CBDA is the precursor to CBD in strains with high amounts of the cannabinoid (mostly hemp). Like its cousin THCA, CBDA transforms to CBD when exposed to heat. It’s thought to contribute to hemp’s anti-inflammatory properties thanks to its ability to inhibit enzymes called COX-2, which the body produces after injury. Research also shows CBDA may help ease nausea and depression. It’s readily available in liquid, topical, and soft gel form.

Cannabigerol (CBG) — CBG has been growing in popularity as of late thanks to its different potential benefits. This non-psychoactive cannabinoid is known as an antibacterial, a blood pressure regulator, an anti-inflammatory, and a sleep aid. While only accounting for about 1% of the average cannabis plant’s cannabinoid makeup, breeders have been honing in on developing strains with higher CBG content. Its precursor, CBGA, is known as the “mother of all cannabinoids,” as it begets THCA, CBDA, and CBCA. CBG comes in flower form as well as tincture.

Cannabinol (CBN) — Another minor cannabinoid gaining steam, CBN is mildly psychoactive and mostly used as a dose-dependent sedative. It is produced via the degradation of THC, tending to turn up in older cannabis. However, outdoor grows will produce plants with higher CBN content as a result of their exposure to natural light. Like many of the other cannabinoids, CBN is also showing efficacy as an anti-inflammatory while also being researched as a treatment for epilepsy, osteoporosis, cancer, bacterial infections, glaucoma, and nausea. It’s available in several forms including vape pens, tea, tinctures, and capsules.

Cannabichromene (CBC) — CBC is the third most prevalent cannabinoid, yet the non-psychoactive compound is still somewhat of a rarity. It comes from the CBDA lineage, giving it anti-inflammatory properties. CBC has also been researched as a potential neuroprotectant, pain reducer, and tumor inhibitor; it has shown promise as a treatment for Crohn’s and irritable bowel syndrome. Currently, CBC is mostly found in topicals, edibles, and oils.

Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) — THCV is extremely close to THC, with only a slight molecular difference. However, this mild variation leads to some major differences. Most notably, THCV is known as an appetite suppressant, the complete opposite of its more psychoactive relative THC. The cannabinoid is additionally touted for its anti-anxiety potential as well as its ability to promote bone growth. THCV is currently available in vape pen form, as well as flower, tinctures, and edibles.

Cannabidivarin (CBDV) — Like THCV, CBDV differs from its cousin CBD ever so slightly in the molecular structure. While little is known about this non-psychoactive cannabinoid, it is being examined as a possible treatment for epilepsy. It has also been known to be effective at reducing nausea and inflammation. It mostly comes in tincture or capsule form.

Terpenes — The “Other” Active Ingredients

If cannabinoids are the meat and potatoes of the cannabis plant, terpenes are the special sauce. Terpene profiles are responsible for the aroma and flavor of all plants, including cannabis. Additionally, they are believed to play a role in how a particular cultivar affects you, in a phenomenon known as the “entourage effect.” There are hundreds of these compounds found in nature, but there are eight main terpenes in cannabis plants:

Myrcene — The most prevalent cannabis terpene, earthy myrcene has a calming effect. It is also found in some varieties of mangoes as well as lemongrass. Myrcene is present in several cannabis cultivars but is especially rich in the classic strains Blue Dream and White Widow.

Limonene — Reminiscent of citrus fruits, limonene is known for its stress-relieving abilities. This terpene is found in both sativa and indica-dominant strains, including Miracle Alien Cookies (MAC) and Hindu Kush.

Humulene — Extra dank is the best way to describe this terpene, which is also present in hops. Humulene is believed to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s abundant in strains such as GSC and Headband.

Terpinolene — Terpinolene is the least common of the main terpenes, but one of the most sought after thanks to its almost psychedelic effects. Also found in tea tree essential oils and nutmeg, this herbal-leaning terpene is found in strains such as Jack Herer and Dutch Treat.

Linalool — Floral and fragrant, linalool is a popular ingredient in aromatherapy. Also present in lavender, this terpene is known for its relaxing effects. Cannabis strains with higher linalool content include Zkittlez and Do-Si-Dos.

Caryophyllene — With notes of spice, stress-relieving caryophyllene is notable for its ability to act as both a terpene and a cannabinoid. It’s present in black pepper as well as cinnamon. Find it in gassy cannabis strains like Chem Dog and Sour Diesel.

Pinene — Featuring a scent that transports you into an evergreen forest, pinene is also found in — you guessed — coniferous trees. It tends to be uplifting while promoting memory retention, present in many sativa-dominant strains. It’s also prevalent in CBD-rich strains, such as Cannatonic and Harlequin.

Ocimene — Ocimene is rarely the top terpene in any given cultivar, but even as a backup singer, this compound could easily be a star. Sweet yet woodsy, ocimene has shown efficacy as an anti-inflammatory as well as a potential treatment for diabetes. It can be found in strains like Amnesia Haze and Green Crack.

Flavonoids, Fats, & Other Cannabis Compounds

Cannabinoids and terpenes aren’t the only cannabis compounds responsible for the plant’s defining characteristics. As mentioned earlier, there are hundreds of unique components. Let’s review a few more:

Flavonoids — Flavanoids are similar to terpenes in that they also play a role in a plant’s odor and taste. However, they go one step further by providing color pigmentation and protection from the elements. A number of cannabis-specific flavonoids have been identified, referred to as cannaflavins, and are thought to play into the so-called entourage effect.

Lipids — A broad term for a variety of non-water-soluble fats and waxes, cannabis lipids are naturally occurring within the plant material. They are heavily concentrated on the outer cell membranes. During the extraction process, lipids are typically removed through a process called winterization. Some cannabis consumers believe lipids, particularly in concentrates, are undesirable due to their tendency to create a harsher hit. On the flip side, having a full-spectrum of cannabis compounds may promote the entourage effect.

Omega Fatty Acids –– Omega fatty acids have long been promoted in health and wellness settings thanks to their heart-healthy attributes. Raw cannabis contains a ratio of 3:1 omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids, and while you may not get their benefits from smoking, they may come through in products like oils.

source:https://news.green-flower.com/what-are-the-key-compounds-in-cannabis/

15 terpenes in cannabis explained

Myrcene

Myrcene is the most abundant terpene in cannabis, which is where it’s mostly found in nature. In fact, one study showed that myrcene makes up as much as 65% of total terpene profile in some strains. Myrcene smell often reminds of earthy, musky notes, resembling cloves. Also, it has a fruity, red grape-like aroma.

Strains that contain 0.5% of this terpene are usually indicas with sedative effects. It has also been reported that myrcene is useful in reducing inflammation and chronic pain, which is why it’s usually recommended as a supplement during cancer treatments.

Strains that are rich in myrcene are Skunk XL, White Widow, and Special Kush. Bonus tip: If you want to experience a stronger buzz from marijuana, get yourself a mango and eat it about 45 minutes before smoking.

Mango contains significant amount of myrcene, so eating it before consuming cannabis will strengthen the effects of THC and increase its absorption rate

Limonene

Limonene is the second most abundant terpene in all cannabis strains, but not all strains necessarily have it.

As its name says, limonene gives strains a citrusy smell that resembles lemons, which is no surprise as all citrus fruits contain large amounts of this compound. Limonene is used in cosmetics and also in cleaning products.

For therapeutic purposes, limonene is known to improve mood and reduce stress. Researchers also found it to have antifungal and antibacterial properties and one research even found it to have a role in reducing tumor size.

Strains that have “lemon” or “sour” in their name are usually rich in limonene. High levels of limonene can be found in strains like O.G. Kush, Sour Diesel, Super Lemon Haze, Durban Poison, Jack Herer, and Jack the Ripper.

Linalool

This terpene is the most responsible for the recognizable marijuana smell with its spicy and floral notes. Linalool is also found in lavender, mint, cinnamon and coriander. What’s interesting is that just like those aromatic herbs, it has very strong sedative and relaxing properties.

Patients suffering from arthritis, depression, seizures, insomnia and even cancer, have all found aid in this amazing terpene. Some well known linalool strains are Amnesia Haze, Special Kush, Lavender, LA Confidential, and OG Shark.

Caryophyllene

Best known for its spicy and peppery note, caryophyllene is also found in black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and spices like oregano, basil and rosemary. Beta-caryophyllene binds to CB2 receptors, which makes it an ingredient in anti-inflammatory topicals and creams. Caryophyllene is the only terpene that binds to cannabinoid receptors.

Besides its analgesic and anti-anxiety properties, some studies have found that caryophyllene has some very promising properties when it comes to alcoholism rehabilitation.

A group of scientists performed research on mice and found that this terpene reduces voluntary intake of alcohol. They even recommended caryophyllene for treating alcohol withdrawal symptoms.

You can benefit from caryophyllene by using strains like Super Silver Haze, Skywalker and Rock Star.

Alpha-pinene and Beta-pinene

These two cannabis terpenes smell like pine trees and that’s also where they can be found in large amounts. Other plants rich in pinene include rosemary, orange peels, basil, parsley and cannabis of course.

Like many other, pinene terpenes have an anti-inflammatory effect on humans. But more importantly, they help improve airflow and respiratory functions, while also helping to reduce memory loss related to THC. I know that this can sound weird because we’re talking about cannabis, but if the strain is rich in alpha and beta pinene, it can actually help with asthma.

Pinene also helps patients with arthritis, Crohn’s disease and cancer. You can find pinene in strains like Jack Herer, Strawberry Cough, Blue Dream, Island Sweet Skunk, Dutch Treat and Romulan.

Alpha-bisabolol
Alpha-bisabolol (also known as levomenol and bisabolol) has a pleasant floral aroma and can also be found in chamomile flower and candeia tree. This terpene found its use primarily in the cosmetics industry, but lately it has caught the attention of researchers since it showed medical benefits, especially in cannabis.

Alpha-bisabolol proved to be effective in treating bacterial infections and wounds and is a great antioxidant with anti-irritation and analgesic properties. It can be found in strains like Harle-Tsu, Pink Kush, Headband, OG Shark, and ACDC.

Eucalyptol
Also known as cineole, eucalyptol is the primary terpene of the eucalyptus tree. It has recognizable minty and cool tones in its smell but most cannabis strains do not contain large amounts of it. It usually makes up around 0.06% of a strains complete terpene profile.

This terpene has been used in cosmetics as well as medicine. When it comes to its medical value, eucalyptol relieves pain but also slows the growth of bacteria and fungus.

Although it is still in the early stages in research, this terpene has shown some promising effects on Alzheimer’s as well. Eucalyptol can be found in Super Silver Haze and Headband.

Trans-nerolido

This one is a secondary terpene found mostly in flowers like jasmine, lemongrass, and tea tree oil. The smell of trans-nerolidol reminds of a mixture of rose, citrus and apples and can be described in general as woody, citrus and floral.

Trans-nerolidol is best known for its antiparasitic, antioxidant, antifungal, anticancer and antimicrobial properties. Strains like Island Jack Herer, Sweet Skunk, and Skywalker OG are rich in nerolidol.

Humulene
Humulene was the first terpene found in hops. Its aroma contains earthy, woody and spicy notes.

Besides cannabis, it can be also found in clove, sage, and black pepper. It has a variety of medical properties. Early research has shown humulene to be anti-proliferative, meaning it prevents cancer cells from growing. Also, it proved to be effective in suppressing appetite, making it a potential weight loss tool. Furthermore, like many other cannabis terpenes mentioned above, it also reduces inflammation, relieves pain and fights bacterial infections.

You can find humulene in strains like White Widow, Headband, Girl Scout Cookies, Sour Diesel, Pink Kush and Skywalker OG.

Delta 3 Carene

This terpene is found in a number of plants like rosemary, basil, bell peppers, cedar and pine. Its aroma is sweet and resembles the smell of cypress tree. When it comes to the medical side of carene, it seems to be mostly beneficial in healing broken bones. That gives hope to patients suffering from osteoporosis, arthritis and even fibromyalgia.

What is also interesting about this terpene is that it stimulates our memory and helps memory retention. This is a major point in finding a cure for Alzheimer’s disease.

Camphene

The best way to describe the smell of camphene is fir needles, musky earth and damp woodlands. Camphene aroma is often mistaken with myrcene, which is that trademark marijuana smell as most of us know it. From the medical point of view, camphene has great potential. When mixed with vitamin C, it becomes a powerful antioxidant.

It is widely used in conventional medicine as a topical for skin issues like eczema and psoriasis.

Its greatest potential lies in its ability to lower the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood, further lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Camphene is present in Ghost OG, Strawberry Banana, Mendocino Purps.

Borneol
Borneol, with its herbal minty scent, can be found in herbs like rosemary, mint and camphor.

This terpene is a good natural insect repellent which makes it great in preventing diseases like the West Nile virus, being passed by ticks, fleas, mosquitoes etc. One study found that borneol kills breast cancer cells. It’s also widely used in Chinese traditional medicine, in acupuncture to be precise. Strains high in borneol are Amnesia Haze, Golden Haze, K13 Haze.

Terpineol

The aroma of terpineol can be best described as floral-like, reminiscent of lilacs, apple blossom, and a little bit citrusy. Terpineol tastes like anise and mint. Terpineol has a pleasant scent, similar to lilac, and is a common ingredient in perfumes, cosmetics, and flavors.

It relaxes heavily and it’s usually the one responsible for the notorious couch lock effect. Medical benefits of terpineol also include antibiotic and antioxidant properties. It can be found Girl Scout Cookies, Jack Herer, and OG Kush strains.

Valencene

This terpene got its name from sweet Valencia oranges — where it’s been found in large amounts. With its sweet citrusy aromas and flavors, it’s used as an insect repellant, too. Valencene can be found in strains like Tangie and Agent Orange.

Geraniol

Besides cannabis, geraniol can be found in lemons and tobacco. Its smell reminds of rose grass, peaches and plums. It’s usually used in aromatic bath products and body lotions. Geraniol has shown a lot of potential as a neuroprotectant and antioxidant.

It is present in strains like Amnesia Haze, Great White Shark, Afghani, Headband, Island Sweet Skunk, OG Shark and Master Kush.

By Helena Miles, Content Manager, Greencamp. About Greencamp: Greencamp is a cannabis advocacy, education, and informational service. They have created an impressively complete informational regarding cannabis terpenes and their varied effects alone and in conjunction.

8 strains for morning jogs

There are two types of people: Morning People and Everyone Else. For Everyone Else, waking up several hours before necessary requires determination, commitment, and a subconscious-shattering alarm. Especially when that wake-up call is at the behest of a morning run. But Everyone Else might be pleased to learn that for discerning stoners, whether bright-eyed in the AM or sleepwalking till noon, waking and baking with just the right strain can make an early morning sprint feel like a neighborhood trot.

As a reluctant morning runner/fitness enthusiast myself, I’ve found that partaking in a pure sativa or an energizing hybrid an hour or so before my morning workout can be both electrifying and zen. But years of weed-fitness trial and error have also taught me that many pure sativas or sativa-dominant cultivars bred for physical stimulation aren’t killer wake and bake workout strains. Many left me too cognitively spastic to focus on running. I’ve learned that phenotypes bred for specific, therapeutic effects can be super effective at supporting muscle recovery.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, I learned that getting astronomically high before going outdoors for a jog-walk is ill-advised; I wake and bake to extinguish the morning doldrums, not to disassociate from the reality of street running.

My trick to successful AM weed jogs is to first plan the route, then consume the herb with my morning shake and a cup of tea. I give my high all the time it needs to swell, plateau, and gently evaporate before attempting to maneuver my city streets — or treadmill. This formula ensures I keep my senses and my chill while I ascend past psychotropia to one of the greatest highs of all: the runner’s high.

Green Crack (AKA Green Cush)

Consumers wax poetic about Green Crack’s deep head high and uplifting body high, a combo that, under the right conditions, has the potential to send its fans into the perfect mindstate for meditative sunrise runs. This strain is also lauded for its anti-anxiety effects, and as such can level up any jogging/plant-medicine-as-self-care routine.

Green Crack is a phenotype of Skunk #1, a 1989 Super Sativa Seed Club, and an Afghani landrace strain. Cecil C, the strain’s breeder, originally named it Cush, but it was rebranded as Green Crack after world-famous rapper/actor/activist/celebrity chef Snoop Dogg referred to it as such. It can typically be found in shops under either name. Expect a tropical fruit perfume and bright, citrusy exhale.

Durban Poison

Durban Poison is a pure sativa with South African landrace origins. Brought stateside by legendary strain hunter Ed Rosenthal in the mid-70s, Durban Poison has since become a pillar of contemporary cannabis genetics. The high is almost universally regarded as uplifting, energizing, and amply euphoric without crossing the threshold into paranoia or anxiety.

Naturally, it’s a favorite of wake and bake joggers and serious stoner athletes alike.

Durban Poison’s THC levels tend to hover between 17% and 20% THC, but exercise caution when buying your grams, as many cultivars top out over 24%. Expect a sweet, grassy inhale and a mild piney perfume.

Bruce Banner

This hybrid strain gets its name honestly; Bruce Banner is a powerhouse hybrid with a hurricane-intense onset that builds in volume before mellowing to a cushion-soft cerebral high. Fans of this strain support its nod to its superhero transformation effects, both embracing the excitement of the blastoff and cozying into the softer plateau of the head high.

Bruce Banner is one of five phenotypes of OG Kush and Strawberry Diesel parents. Inherited effects include effective pain, anxiety, and depression relief in addition to the strain’s unique powderkeg activation. Expect a stank perfume and citrus sweet exhale.

Island Sweet Skunk

Consumers revere Island Sweet Skunk for a litany of positive effects, but the favorite by far is the strain’s ability to boos euphoric energy. This hybrid phenotype is genetically sativa dominant and described as perfect for day use. But beware, the cultivar’s effects can be dynamic enough to cause overexertion, so practice safe jogging while Island Sweet Skunking.

Bred from a cross of Grapefruit and Northern Lights x Haze, Island Sweet Skunk was exclusive to Canada and the Pacific Northwest until recently reaching the greater west coast. Expect a skunky, tropical fruit perfume and an exhale to match.

Lemon Meringue

Lemon Meringue’s reported effects include creative motivation and, of course, a zippy, knee-slapping energy. Those folks who fall into the “Everyone Else” category of early risers will appreciate the crisp, clarifying onset and the efficient dispersing of any AM blues.

Lemon Meringue was bred from a cross of Lemon Skunk and Cookies & Cream. And the expected profile is as confectionary as one would expect. Anticipate a candy-sweet perfume and creamy citrus exhale.

Sunshine

Folks seeking an energetic high that’s more geared toward an easy-going run than an all out sprint should consider the 14% – 17% THC Sunshine. It has an effect that is euphoric with a mild energy boost that supports the strain’s summery vibe. Also, if you’re going to wake and bake, why not light up a strain named for the actual sunrise?

Sunshine was reportedly bred from a cross of Chemdawg and Sunshine Daydream, and the resulting flavors are predictably citrusy sweet and stanky dank. Expect a pineapple funk perfume and a lemony-diesel exhale.

Snowcap

Snowcap is a sativa dominant hybrid strain known for its giggly delirium and fizzy body buzz. Consumers love that it’s both introspective and vivacious, lending itself equally to cerebral pursuits and physical action. Snowcap is also a popular therapeutic strain, lauded for its efficacy in quelling symptoms related to depression and anxiety. Snowcap fans looking to compound their runners high into something even more transcendental should consider packing a bowl as part of their pre-workout ritual.

Snowcap was bred from Snow White and Cat Piss parents. The resulting flowers are dense and slow burning, with a fruity, menthol perfume and a spicy lemon exhale.

Royal Highness

For those looking to medicate their muscles before jumping into strenuous physical activity, Royal Highness’s CBD/THC 1:1 ratio is a great daytime strain to audition. What this strain lacks in psychoactivity, it more than makes up for with a clear-headed euphoria, velvety soft body buzz, and deliberate recovery support. Whether your AM jog is a fierce sprint or an invigorating jog-walk, Royal Highness’s cannabinoid balance and entourage effects may ensure a not just a satisfying workout, but also a super-comfortable recovery period.

Royal Highness was bred from high-CBD strain Respect and 1:1 balanced strain Dance Hall. Expect sugary, dark green nugs with a skunky perfume and berry sweet exhale.