Afghani

Hailing from the Hindu Kush Mountains (Yes, there is such a place!) the “Afghani” strain is one of the most influential “landrace strains” to have ever hit the market. When a strain is labeled a “landrace strain” it means that this was a strain that was indigenous to a certain area and that it had grown without any human intervention. Nowadays, however, these strains are often very hard to find in their genetically unadulterated form, due to the extensive amounts of cross-breeding that has been the norm in the cannabis industry across the world for the past 30 years.

Afghani is an interesting landrace strain because it comes from a place where many believe the first predecessors of marijuana came from. In true form, Afghani is a pure indica. Its genetics have come to be included, at least in part, in many contemporary strains, including various Cannabis Cup winners (Blueberry and Northern Lights). Many growers have sought out and used this plant’s genetic make-up to produce indicas and hybrids that are both potent and reminiscent of its original glory. Afghani’s THC content usually hovers around 16%-18% while CBD remains relatively minimal.

Afghani (also known as Afghan Kush) consistently delivers exactly what users would expect. Its effects begin with a powerful body buzz that is capable of creating strong couch lock, even among experienced and hyper-active users. It has strong sedating effects and medicating with this strain is recommended for evening use and mainly in relaxed and comfortable environments. Needless to say, it’s an amazing sleep aid for people with insomnia or those who simply just need to gear down from a stressful day. Since it is such a calming buzz, patients have reported that is does wonders for PTSD, anxiety, or general jitters. These types of potent indicas are also known to help with bodily pain and aches.

There’s an interesting flavor profile going on with this strain, combining strong earthy notes with an aromatic body. Both the aroma and flavor dominate the senses as you sink into wave after wave of tingly relaxation. Depending on which strain you’re lucky enough to receive, it may taste of diesel and skunk, or it’ll give you a sweet, kush-like kick. Either way, this landrace strain will remind you of the many descendants it has spawned over the years all over the world.

Having a small, bushy appearance and being relatively quick to grow (about 45 days), Afghani is a popular strain among today’s cultivators. It should never pass 4.5 feet high and produces highly consistent yields. This plant produces highly condensed buds with ample trichome coverage, as well as a lot of resin, making it an excellent candidate for hash or wax.