Kush: everything you wanted to know about this variety
What is Kush and where does it come from?
Most people will probably be familiar with the classic division of cannabis into indiku, sativu and hybrids. Kush is a hybrid variety, encompassing countless strains and variants, but historically it originated in the area known as Hindu Kush, hence the name of the strain.
The Hindu Kush is a mountain range located in Afghanistan and north-western Pakistan.
Although the Hindu Kush is an inhospitable mountain range, the Hindu Kush cannabis plant has thrived in the valleys between the rocky slopes. Thus, in the harsh mountain landscape, this hardy variety has grown and survived for centuries, despite the cold climate, lack of water and arid terrain. Hindu Kush was characterised by its natural hardiness and unique genetic characteristics.
The Kush cannabis journey
The hippie movement in the 1960s and 1970s was responsible for the spread of Kush seeds to other parts of the world. Known as the Hippie Trail, hippies from the USA, Canada and Europe embarked on the journey. The route started in London and Amsterdam, continued through Europe to Turkey, Iran, Pakistan, India, Nepal and ended in Bangkok. Hippies along the way sought adventure, entertainment, "spiritual enlightenment" and many returned to the West with the seeds of Hindu Kush.
Kush: Appearance and characteristics
Kush strains are usually characterized by deep green leaves, sometimes with a slight tinge of purple. The flowers are dense and covered with trichomes. The pistils may be orange, bronze or rusty in colour.
The scent can be earthy, floral, piney and slightly spicy, citrusy or herbaceous.
Effects and cultivation
Kush is characterised by its high THC content, between 20-30 %. It also contains many other cannabinoids such as CBD, CBG and others. The effects are usually described as highly sedative, meditative and euphoric at the same time.
It is very likely that the (Hindu) Kush strain no longer exists in its original form and the exact genetics will not be traceable. Currently, the predominant strains are mainly indica-dominant, but there are countless hybrids and varieties that have arisen as a result of crossbreeding and experimentation by experienced growers. These varieties may then have different characteristics.
The best known varieties of Kush
There are many varieties of Kush that can vary in cannabinoid content and quantity, aroma, effects and other characteristics. Some of the best known and most popular are:
- OG Kush: the most famous strain, originally high in THC and potent, with a piney, peppery and earthy aroma
- Bubba Kush: an indica-dominant variety known for its calming effects; the aroma is earthy with hints of coffee and cocoa
- Purple Kush: a pure indica variety with relaxing effects, earthy aroma and bright purple colour
- Master Kush: an indica-dominant hybrid with an earthy and citrus aroma and strong relaxing effects
CBD and HHC flowers, liquids, sweets and extracts with Kush terpenes are available on the market. These products are allowed as long as they do not exceed the current legal limit for THC content. Each such product must be correctly labelled and contain information on its composition and origin.
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