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This week we take a look at the Northern Lights strain, a truly classic cannabis strain known for its body-led effects.
Genetics & History
Lineage: The exact origins of Northern Lights are a bit mysterious, but it’s widely believed to be a blend of landrace Afghani and Thai indica strains.
History: Popular legend places the initial development of Northern Lights somewhere on the West Coast of the US in the 1970s/80s. From there, it was brought to the Netherlands and further stabilized by Sensi Seeds, now considered one of the classic cannabis strains.
Appearance & Aroma
Buds: Dense, resinous buds with a frosty coating of trichomes. They tend to exhibit a range of greens, from vibrant lime to darker forest hues, sometimes with streaks of purple.
Aroma: A pungent, earthy aroma is the hallmark of Northern Lights. You’ll often find notes of pine, spice, and a hint of sweet citrus. Its terpene profile includes myrcene, pinene, and caryophyllene.
Effects
Indica-Dominant: Northern Lights is a classic indica, with a reported 90-95% indica dominance.
Relaxation: Its primary effect is a powerful body-focused relaxation that may melt away tension and muscle aches.
Mental Effects: Users frequently describe a dreamy, euphoric headspace, ideal for winding down and easing into sleep. However, some reviewers note its sedative effects can occasionally leave you “couch-locked”.
Potential Medical Uses: While further research is needed, anecdotal evidence suggests people may use Northern Lights for:
- Pain relief
- Insomnia
- Anxiety reduction
- Stress relief
- Growing Notes
Difficulty: A good strain for beginners – Northern Lights is known for its hardiness and forgiving nature.
Indoor/Outdoor: Adaptable to both indoor and outdoor cultivation.
Climate: It performs well in a variety of climates, although may be better suited for drier environments.
Flowering Time: A relatively fast flowering period, typically around 7-9 weeks.
Legacy: Northern Lights has left a lasting mark on the cannabis world and its genetics are found in many popular hybrid strains.
Individual Tolerance: As always, personal reactions to cannabis strains can vary. Start with a low dose and go slowly, especially if you’re a less experienced user.
Disclaimer: I’m providing this information based on general sources and aggregated user reports. While I strive for accuracy, individual experiences or batch variations may exist.
Let me know if you’d like to explore other strains or have any specific questions about Northern Lights!
