Hindu Kush? An incredibly popular old strain
These sedative landrace strains, with Indica dominant genetics, hail from Central Asia. Kush strains contribute to the genetic profile of many well-known modern strains, and the word itself is a commonly used term in cannabis culture. Here is the story of this strain and why kush is so loved around the world.
Where does Kush come from?
Hindu Kush is the founding member of the Kush family. It is a variety native to the region of the same name. The Hindu Kush Mountains cross present-day Pakistan and Afghanistan. Interestingly, the introduction of this plant genetics to the western world took place in the 60s and 70s. North American hikers brought back seeds after encountering this strain on the 'hippie trail' that was going from Europe to Southeast Asia via the Hindu Kush region.
By crossing Hindu Kush genetics with existing strains, including landrace sativas from other parts of the globe, kush has become synonymous with modern cannabis cultivation. Years of crossbreeding have allowed the underlying genetics of Hindu Kush to be found in a wide variety of genetics. However, although the name is still synonymous with growing cannabis, it is surprisingly difficult to find pure kush genetics.
Unfortunately, due to the high genetic quality of Landrace strains, the word "kush" is now used to describe any form of premium cannabis. Some strains don't even have the slightest hint of kush.
What is distinctive about Kush?
The genetics typically showcase deep green colas with hints of purple in dense buds growing on thick plants that still exhibit the underlying genetics of the Indica Landrace breed. The effects of these cultivars are generally sedating. It is most often used by patients who need pain relief and relaxation. In addition, they tend to induce the "couch-lock" effect or in French " lock on her couch In many patients.
The Kush strain is also strong and resilient. When grown on its natural mountain terrain, it naturally resists the cold and light rains it receives in its harsher native climate.
The term “indica” doesn't mean much when it comes to modern cannabis cultivars. Yet the original terrestrial cultivars from Central Asia are renowned for their indica attributes. In modern times, many cultivars that contain the term "kush" do not exhibit the effects or phenotypes directly attributable to this indica strain.
What is the terpene profile of the Kush strain?
It depends on the strain. There are countless landraces with this name. Many of them are the result of selection with genetics from distant lands. True strains tend to exhibit earthy, pine, fruit, pepper, and citrus scents due to the presence of several dominant terpenes.
As with all cannabis genetics, it is the powerful synergies between the different compounds in the plant that tend to dictate the effects. The interaction of terpenes with THC, CBD, and other minor cannabinoids can cause a wide range of effects. The terpene profile of many famous kush breeds exhibits a striking pattern, and many of them have predictable illicit sedative effects coupled with more stimulating properties.
La Kimbo kush and Kosher Kush are both particularly rich in the sedative terpene called myrcene. They contain constant amounts of limonene which can work to relieve stress.
THEOG Kush, perhaps the most well-known strain of kush, contains high amounts of caryophyllene in addition to myrcene and limonene. Caryophyllene has anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety properties. The Bubba Kush, on the other hand, contains large amounts of caryophyllene, but only traces of myrcene.
The oldest is the Hindu Kush. Its terpene content includes caryophyllene, limonene, and pinene, known for its pain-relieving properties and memory-boosting properties.
There are dozens of strains that bear this name. Here are five of the most famous among the most popular Kush grape varieties:
- OG Kush : is the most famous strain. A cross between Hinduism and Northern California, it combines the sedative effects of the original genetics with an uplifting euphoria that leads to a happy and relaxed vibe thanks to its complex terpene profile.
- Banana : A cross between Ghost OG and Skunk Haze, the banana has a lemony and peppery scent due to the abundance of limonene and caryophyllene. Banana can bring relaxation, combined with a slight euphoria. It is common in patients looking to manage symptoms of stress and depression.
- Bubba : Known for its tranquilizing effects, Bubba often provides deep relaxation combined with mild euphoria that cancels stress and improves mood. The stocky structure of the plant is reminiscent of the early days of the Afghan breed, and the cultivar itself is a cross between OG and an unknown cultivar.
- Critical : Cross between critical mass and OG, it induces calm and relaxation in patients. With copious amounts of myrcene, Critical is a great nighttime option for those struggling with insomnia, pain, or stress.
- Master
Master is unique as it is a direct cross of two landrace indica varieties from the famous Hindu mountainous region. Its peppery and lemony scent helps fight stress and improve mood.
Overall, these genetics tend to have sedating effects. Basically, a more uplifting mood, based on the nature of the selection, can also accompany sedation. And of course, they also represent an important link to the founding movement associated with modern cannabis cultivation and will undoubtedly play a role in the development of the drug market.
