From Crouching Tiger to Alaskan Thunderfuc*: How to Know What You're Really Smoking

By: Jessica C.

Determining the true identity of a cannabis strain can be challenging due to the industry's dynamic nature and the proliferation of creatively named strains. However, there are several methods and best practices you can follow to get a better understanding of the strain you're consuming:

1. Purchase from Reputable Dispensaries

• Trusted Sources: Buy from well-known dispensaries or brands that have a reputation for providing high-quality, accurately labeled products.
• Certificates of Analysis (COAs): Reputable dispensaries often provide COAs from third-party labs, which include detailed information about the strain's cannabinoid and terpene profiles.

2. Look for Third-Party Lab Testing

• Cannabinoid Profile: Check the levels of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids.
• Terpene Profile: Terpenes contribute to the strain's flavor, aroma, and effects. Common terpenes include myrcene, limonene, and pinene.
• Purity Tests: Ensure the product is free from contaminants like pesticides, mold, and heavy metals.

3. Use DNA Testing Services

Genetic Testing Kits: Some companies offer DNA testing kits for cannabis, allowing you to send in a sample to verify its genetic identity.

These services can confirm the strain's lineage and identify potential mislabeling.

For DNA testing services that can help verify cannabis strain identities, you might consider the following options:

1. Phylos Bioscience - Offers genetic testing for cannabis strains, helping to confirm their identity and track their lineage. Visit Phylos Bioscience
2. Leafly - Offers information and reviews about strains, and has partnerships with testing labs for strain verification. Visit Leafly

These services can provide insights into the genetic makeup of cannabis strains and help verify their authenticity.

Research and Compare

1. Online Databases: Use resources like Leafly, Weedmaps, or SeedFinder to research strains. These platforms provide information on strain lineage, effects, and user reviews.
2. Strain Reviews: Compare the strain's reported effects, flavors, and aromas with your own experience to see if they match up.

Understand Common Strains and Hybrids

• Landrace Strains: Familiarize yourself with classic landrace strains like Afghan, Thai, and Durban Poison, which serve as the genetic foundation for many modern hybrids.
• Popular Hybrids: Learn about popular hybrids and their parent strains to better understand the possible lineage of newer strains.
• Understanding Cannabis Strains: Landrace Varieties and Popular Hybrids
• Landrace Strains: The Genetic Foundation

Afghan

• Origin: The Afghan strain, often referred to as Afghan Kush, originates from the mountainous regions of Afghanistan.
• Characteristics: It is renowned for its potent, sedative effects and robust, resinous buds. Afghan strains typically have a deep, earthy flavor with hints of pine and spice.
• Genetic Contribution: Afghan genetics have significantly influenced many popular indica strains and hybrids. Its resilience and high resin production make it a foundational strain for breeding.

Thai

• Origin: Thai cannabis is a landrace strain from Thailand, particularly from the northern regions.
• Characteristics: Thai strains are known for their uplifting, energetic effects and sweet, fruity flavors. They often produce tall, slender plants with long flowering periods.
• Genetic Contribution: Thai strains have contributed to the genetic makeup of numerous sativa-dominant hybrids, known for their stimulating and euphoric effects.

Durban Poison

• Origin: Durban Poison hails from Durban, South Africa, and is renowned for its pure sativa lineage.
• Characteristics: This strain offers a sweet, spicy aroma and a clear, focused high. It is often chosen for its stimulating and creative effects.
• Genetic Contribution: Durban Poison has played a key role in the development of various sativa hybrids and has influenced strains known for their invigorating and uplifting qualities.
• Popular Hybrids: Exploring Lineages

OG Kush

• Parent Strains: A mix of the Hindu Kush landrace and a classic California strain, often thought to involve elements of Chemdawg.
• Characteristics: OG Kush is known for its potent effects, often providing a balanced mix of euphoria and relaxation. It has a distinctive aroma with earthy, pine, and citrus notes.
• Genetic Influence: OG Kush has been a pivotal strain in creating numerous hybrids, contributing to the lineage of many popular indica and hybrid strains.

Girl Scout Cookies (GSC)

• Parent Strains: A combination of OG Kush and Durban Poison.
• Characteristics: GSC is celebrated for its sweet, dessert-like flavors and potent, balanced effects. It produces a euphoric high followed by relaxation.
• Genetic Influence: The GSC strain has spawned various phenotypes and hybrids, influencing the development of strains with complex flavors and balanced effects.

Blue Dream

• Parent Strains: A cross between Blueberry and Haze.
• Characteristics: Blue Dream offers a sweet berry aroma and a balanced high that provides both mental stimulation and physical relaxation.
• Genetic Influence: Blue Dream is a widely recognized hybrid that has influenced many subsequent strains with its pleasing flavor profile and versatile effects.

White Widow

• Parent Strains: A hybrid of Brazilian Sativa and South Indian Indica.
• Characteristics: Known for its potent effects and abundant trichome production, White Widow offers a balanced high with a pungent, earthy aroma.
• Genetic Influence: White Widow has contributed to the development of numerous hybrids, celebrated for its potent and well-rounded effects.

Why Understanding Strain Lineages Matters

Knowing the lineage of cannabis strains helps consumers make informed choices and understand the effects they might experience. Classic landrace strains offer insights into the genetic foundation of many modern hybrids, while popular hybrids demonstrate how breeders blend these genetics to create diverse and complex cannabis profiles.

Engage with the Community

• Forums and Social Media: Join cannabis forums, Reddit communities, and social media groups where enthusiasts and experts share their knowledge and experiences.
• Industry Events: Attend cannabis cups, expos, and other industry events to network with breeders and growers who can provide insights into strain genetics.

Ask Budtenders and Experts

• Budtenders: Engage with knowledgeable budtenders at dispensaries who can provide information about the strains they carry.
• Experts: Consult with cannabis experts, breeders, or growers who have in-depth knowledge of strain genetics and characteristics.

How to Verify Strain Identity: Engaging with Budtenders and Experts

Engaging with Budtenders

Budtenders are often the first line of contact in dispensaries and can be invaluable resources for understanding cannabis strains. Here’s how to make the most out of your interaction with them:

Questions to Ask:

What Can You Tell Me About This Strain?

Ask for detailed information about the strain, including its lineage, effects, and flavor profile. Budtenders can provide insights into the genetic background and how the strain might affect you.

How Is This Strain Cultivated?

Inquire about the cultivation practices used for the strain. Understanding whether it’s grown organically, hydroponically, or through other methods can give you clues about its quality and potential effects.

What Are the Terpene Profiles?

Terpenes significantly influence the aroma and effects of a strain. Ask about the dominant terpenes in the strain to better understand its scent and potential benefits.

Do You Have Lab Test Results?

Many dispensaries offer lab-tested products with detailed reports on potency, cannabinoid content, and contaminants. Ask if the strain has been tested and if you can view the results.

What Are the Common Effects?

Budtenders can share common experiences users have with the strain. They can provide anecdotal evidence based on customer feedback.

Are There Any Similar Strains You Recommend?

If you like a particular strain, ask for recommendations for similar strains with comparable effects or flavor profiles.

Consulting with Cannabis Experts

Cannabis experts, breeders, or growers can offer deep insights into strain genetics and characteristics. Here's how to make the most out of consultations with these professionals:

Questions to Ask:

What Is the Genetic Lineage of This Strain?

Ask about the strain’s parentage and genetic background. Understanding its lineage can help you trace its characteristics and predict its effects.

How Has This Strain Been Developed?

Inquire about the breeding process used to create the strain. This includes the selection of parent plants, cross-breeding methods, and any genetic modifications.

What Are the Typical Growth Characteristics?

Ask about how the strain grows, including its preferred climate, flowering time, and yield. This information can be useful if you’re interested in growing the strain yourself.

What Are the Key Terpenes and Cannabinoids?

Get details on the specific terpenes and cannabinoids present in the strain. This can help you understand its effects, flavor, and aroma.

How Does This Strain Compare to Other Similar Strains?

Experts can provide comparisons with other strains, highlighting similarities and differences in effects, flavors, and genetics.

Are There Any New Developments or Trends in Strain Genetics?

Ask about current trends or innovations in strain development. This can provide insight into emerging strains and evolving breeding techniques.

What Are the Common Misconceptions About This Strain?

Understanding common misconceptions can help you avoid pitfalls and make more informed decisions.

Additional Tips

Attend Cannabis Events: Cannabis expos and conferences are great opportunities to meet breeders and industry experts who can provide valuable insights.

Online Forums and Communities: Engage in online discussions with other cannabis enthusiasts and professionals to gather diverse perspectives and experiences.

Educational Resources: Utilize educational materials from reputable sources, such as books, articles, and scientific journals, to deepen your understanding of cannabis strains.

By engaging with knowledgeable budtenders and consulting with experts, you can gain a clearer understanding of cannabis strains, their effects, and their origins.

This knowledge will enhance your overall cannabis experience and help you make more informed choices.

Before you go, I am curious and really would enjoy some interactions...

What is the craziest name you've seen for a cannabis strain?

With so many creative and outlandish names popping up, it’s always interesting to hear which ones stand out to you.

Share your wildest finds in the comments!