“Flavonoids – What are they and what do they do?”

What are landrace strains?

Where do landrace strains come from?

Why is it challenging to find landrace strains?

Heirloom strains

Popular landrace strains

What is Pinene & what does it do?

What is Pinene?

Terpenes in Cannabis Plants

Terpenes in Cannabis

Machine Trim vs. Hand Trim

Machine Trimming versus Hand Trimming Cannabis Plants

The Importance of a Proper Flush and Cure

The Importance of a Proper Flush and Cure.

The Importance of a Proper Flush and Cure.

Flavonoids – What are they and what do they do?

Identifying landrace strains

Today’s cannabis customers have more options than ever before. While there is a cultivar for every situation, all of the cannabis strains that are currently accessible can be genetically linked to a small number of landrace strains.

Cannabis cultivars, known as landrace strains have developed stable genetics over millennia of natural selection and extended exposure to their native habitat. Breeders have never crossed them.

Being a highly adaptable plant, cannabis expanded around the globe with human generations, becoming a “native” of many areas in the Middle East, Africa, the Americas, and Asia.

One of the oldest crops in human history is cannabis. The Chinese monarch Shen-Nung first made mention of the plant in written records in 2900 B.C. Shen, regarded as the founder of Chinese medicine, included references to cannabis in the Pen Ts’ao, an encyclopedia of plant remedies.

Cannabis was already being used in China throughout the Neolithic period, around 10,000 B.C., according to other archaeological evidence, such as hemp rope imprints on shattered pottery.
One of the oldest crops in human history is cannabis. All cannabis genetics may be traced to a single plant that originated in the Hindu Kush region of what is now Afghanistan and Pakistan, according to botanists.

The first wild cannabis strain was utilized for everything from religious and therapeutic purposes to the production of textiles and rope.

The very beneficial cannabis plant was brought west by the ancient Greeks and Romans to the Middle East and Russia. Later, Germanic tribes transported it further west, and the Ottomans transported it south to Africa. African cannabis species arrived in the Caribbean and Central America in 1545 with the first colonial voyages, when they were utilized for rope, animal feed, painting oils, and a variety of other things.

Many of these areas saw the flourishing of the very adaptable cannabis plant, which organically evolved growth traits that were best suited to the varied environments of Asia, Africa, and Central America. These were the first landrace strains, identified by traits adapted to their unique growth circumstances and called after their nation or region of origin.

It might be challenging to locate authentic landrace strains outside of their native habitat. Cannabis growers started experimenting with hybridization in the 1970s and 1980s, combining landrace strains to produce the first hybrids like Skunk #1 and Chemdawg. The breeding of new cannabis generations diluted the original landrace genetics as many breeders competed to have the most significant strain possible.

Cannabis growers started experimenting with hybridization in the 1970s and 1980s, combining landrace strains to produce the first hybrids.

Because many of the strains we refer to as landraces all descended from a single genetic origin, the term “landrace” is likewise problematic. Technically, the strain cultivated in the Hindu Kush region, where humans first discovered cannabis, is the only true landrace strain.

However, according to Merriam-Webster, the term “landrace” is simply “a local variety of a species of plant or animal that possesses distinctive features deriving from development and adaptation over time to conditions of a confined geographic location.” This makes it challenging to grow an Afghan landrace strain, for example, in Southern California because the growth environment is very different.

Landrace strains create phenotypes or variations of the plant with similar genetics but different features when their seeds are grown outside the region in which they evolved.

These variations can be observed in the size, growth, and chemical composition of a heritage cannabis plant. It could lead to changes in terpene levels, cannabinoid profiles, and flowering dates. In keeping with the previous illustration, even though an Afghan landrace seed may still be from the original plant, its phenotype will be very different from that of a seed cultivated in the Hindu Kush Mountains due to Southern California’s drier and sunnier climate.

Cannabis strains classified as “heirloom” are landrace varieties with genetics that have undergone at least 50 years of human cultivation outside the landrace’s natural habitat. When landrace strain phenotypes acquire genetic stability in their new growing habitat, they become heirlooms.

Cannabis strains classified as “heirloom” are landrace varieties with genetics that have undergone at least 50 years of human cultivation outside the landrace’s natural habitat.

Finding authentic landrace strains is more challenging because the line between heirloom and landrace strains is sometimes blurred in the cannabis world. Even though many people believe Angola Red to be Latin American landrace cannabis, Angola Red is a Latin American heritage developed from a cultivar initially discovered in Africa.

Landrace strains are frequently given their geographic origins as names. They are simple to spot. For instance, songs like Acapulco Gold (South America) and Durban Poison (Africa) flourished close to the equator in warmer, drier regions. These plants have protracted flowering periods that take advantage of abundant sunlight, massive, dense fan leaves,

and enormous heights. Shorter plants with broad fan leaves that are better adapted to greater moisture levels and higher altitudes with less sunlight are produced by cultivars like Afghan (Middle East) and Hindu Kush (Asia).

There are still a lot of landrace strains available in dispensaries and as seeds from respectable breeders on the cannabis market today.

Taller plants with elongated buds, high calyx-to-leaf ratios, and an abundance of lateral branching characterize Latin American landraces, including Acapulco Gold, Colombian Gold, and Jamaica’s Lamb’s Bread. These strains often include more significant amounts of caryophyllene and limonene compounds, which give them a peppery, lemony scent.

Landraces from the Middle East, such as Afghan and Hindu Kush, are small, stocky plants with broad leaves and big, fat buds known for their high resin content. Due to the presence of caryophyllene and pinene in these strains, they emit the distinctive pepper and pine scent of Kush.

Durban Poison, the most well-known African landrace strain, was developed in South Africa by local tribes. Durban Poison has long, fluffy buds and reaches a medium height. The song is well-known for its sweet, fruity flavour and is also vital in THC, myrcene, and limonene.

Near the equator, Asian landraces like the Thai and Nepalese flourished as tall plants with numerous dense branches, long, serrated leaves, and fluffy blooms coated in resin. High concentrations of caryophyllene and humulene in these aromatic varieties provide their sweet and spicy scents.

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Pinene is a terpene found in many plants, including pine trees and certain cannabis strains. It is known for its woodsy, piney aroma and has shown potential therapeutic benefits. Pinene is a monoterpene, which means it is composed of two isoprene units and has the molecular formula C10H16. It is one of the most abundant terpenes in nature and one of the oldest known terpenes, with a history of use in traditional medicine.

Pinene has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects and may help treat conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It may also have the potential as a cognitive enhancer and memory aid. In addition to its potential therapeutic benefits, pinene is believed to enhance the absorption of other terpenes and cannabinoids in the body, making it a potentially valuable component of cannabis-based medicines.

In terms of its effects on the user, strains of cannabis high in pinene may have more alerting and uplifting effects, making it a good choice for those looking for a more energetic and focused experience. Overall, pinene is an important terpene found in many plants, including cannabis, and it has a wide range of potential therapeutic benefits.

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Terpenes are a diverse class of organic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. These compounds are responsible for the distinct aromas and flavours of many plants, including the characteristic scent of cannabis. In addition to their role in providing unique bouquets of cannabis strains, terpenes also have a range of potential therapeutic benefits.

The term “terpene” is derived from the word “turpentine,” which is produced from the resin of certain pine trees. Like turpentine, terpenes are hydrocarbons, meaning that they are composed of only carbon and hydrogen atoms. They are produced by many plants, including cannabis, and play a crucial role in the plant’s defence mechanism, as they can repel insects and other predators.

There are over 100 different terpenes found in cannabis plants, each with its unique scent and potential therapeutic benefits. Some of the most common terpenes found in cannabis include myrcene, limonene, and pinene.

Myrcene is a common terpene found in cannabis plants and other plants such as mangos and hops. It is known for its earthy, musky aroma and has been shown to have potential sedative effects. Limonene, also found in citrus fruits, has a citrusy scent and may have antidepressant and anti-anxiety effects. Pinene, found in pine trees and certain other plants, has a woodsy, piney aroma and may have anti-inflammatory effects. These are just a few examples of the many different terpenes found in cannabis plants, each with its unique scent and potential therapeutic benefits.

In addition to their potential therapeutic benefits, terpenes also play a role in the effects of cannabis when it is consumed. The specific combination of terpenes in a particular cannabis strain can affect the strain’s overall potency and impact on the user. For example, a strain with high levels of myrcene may have more sedative effects, while a strain with high levels of limonene may have more uplifting effects.

The potential therapeutic benefits of terpenes have led to a growing interest in their use in medical cannabis. Many medical cannabis products, such as oils and tinctures, are designed to provide specific ratios of terpenes for specific therapeutic effects.

One study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychiatry found that a combination of terpenes and cannabinoids, the active compounds in cannabis, may have potential as a treatment for depression and anxiety. The study found that a combination of the terpene limonene and the cannabinoid CBD had an antidepressant effect in mice. In contrast, a variety of the terpene linalool and the cannabinoid THC had an anxiolytic effect.

Another study published in the journal Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research found that terpenes may have the potential as a treatment for pain. The study found that the terpene beta-caryophyllene, found in cannabis and other plants, had a potent analgesic effect in mice. The authors suggest terpenes may be valuable to current pain management strategies.

In conclusion, terpenes are a diverse class of organic compounds found in cannabis plants responsible for different strains’ unique aromas and flavours. In addition to providing the characteristic scent of cannabis, terpenes also have potential therapeutic benefits, including the treatment of depression and anxiety and pain management. The specific combination of terpenes in a cannabis strain can also affect its overall potency and effects on the user. Further research is needed to understand the potential therapeutic benefits of terpenes in cannabis fully.

References:

Russo, E. B. (2011). Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7),

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Hand-trimming cannabis refers to removing the excess leaves and branches from the buds of a cannabis plant by hand, using scissors or a similar tool. On the other hand, machine trimming involves using a specialized machine to trim the buds automatically. Both methods have advantages and disadvantages, and the best approach will depend on various factors.

One of the main advantages of hand-trimming cannabis is the level of control and precision it allows. When trimming by hand, the trimmer has complete control over the process. It can carefully remove only the excess material, leaving the bud’s delicate trichomes and other cannabinoid-rich parts intact. This can result in a higher-quality final product with better aroma, flavour, and potency.

Another advantage of hand-trimming is that it allows for better visual inspection of the buds. This can be useful for identifying any issues such as mould or pests and ensuring that the trimming is done evenly and consistently. Hand-trimming also allows for greater flexibility, as the trimmer can easily adjust its approach based on the specific characteristics of the buds.

One of the main disadvantages of hand-trimming is that it is a slow and labour-intensive process. It can take a long time to trim even a tiny amount of cannabis by hand, and it can be physically demanding. This can make hand-trimming expensive and impractical for large-scale operations.

On the other hand, machine trimming is a much faster and more efficient process. Specialized trimming machines can trim a large amount of cannabis quickly, making it a more cost-effective option for large-scale operations. Machine trimming can also be less physically demanding than hand-trimming, as the trimmer does not need to hold their arms in the same position for long periods of time.

However, there are also disadvantages to machine trimming. The main disadvantage is that the machines can be less precise and can cause damage to the buds. The device’s blades can sometimes remove trichomes and other cannabinoid-rich parts of the bud along with the excess material, resulting in a lower-quality final product. Machine trimming can make it more difficult to visually inspect the buds, as the machine may cover any present issues.

In conclusion, both hand-trimming and machine-trimming have their advantages and disadvantages. Hand-trimming allows for greater control and precision, resulting in a higher-quality final product, but it is a slow and labour-intensive process. Machine trimming is a faster and more efficient process, but it can be less precise and can cause damage to the buds. The best approach will depend on the specific needs and circumstances of the grower.

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Flushing and curing are important steps in the cannabis growing process because they can significantly impact the quality and potency of the final product.

Flushing refers to the process of removing excess nutrients from the plant’s soil or growing medium in the weeks leading up to harvest. This helps to prevent the buildup of excess salts and other nutrients that can affect the taste and potency of the final product. Flushing can also help to improve the appearance of the buds by making them more visually appealing and increasing the amount of trichomes (crystalline structures on the surface of the plant that contain many of the plant’s active compounds).

Curing is the process of slowly drying and aging the harvested cannabis buds in a controlled environment. Proper curing helps to preserve the potency and flavor of the buds, as well as improve the overall smoking experience. It involves maintaining a specific humidity and temperature range, as well as “burping” (opening the containers to allow the buds to “breathe”) on a regular basis to prevent the buds from becoming too moist or too dry.

Overall, flushing and curing are important steps in the cannabis growing process because they can help to improve the quality and potency of the final product, as well as enhance the overall smoking experience.

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Flavonoids are a class of plant-based compounds that have gained increasing attention in recent years for their potential health benefits. Found in a wide range of foods, including fruits, vegetables, tea, and wine, flavonoids are believed to play a role in the prevention of certain diseases and conditions. But what exactly are flavonoids and how do they work?

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There are over 6,000 known flavonoids, which are classified into six main groups: flavonols, flavones, flavanones, isoflavones, catechins, and anthocyanidins. Each group has its own unique set of properties and potential health benefits.

One of the most well-known flavonoids is quercetin, a type of flavonol found in onions, apples, and red wine. Quercetin is known for its antioxidant properties, which means it can help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress in the body, leading to the development of certain diseases and conditions.

Another group of flavonoids, known as catechins, are found in high concentrations in green tea. Catechins are also powerful antioxidants, and have been shown to have a variety of potential health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease, improving brain function, and aiding in weight loss.

Isoflavones, which are found in soybeans and other legumes, are a type of flavonoid that has received particular attention for its potential to improve women’s health. Some studies have suggested that isoflavones may help to reduce the risk of breast cancer and improve symptoms of menopause.

Flavonoids have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which means they can help to reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation is a normal immune response to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation has been linked to the development of a number of diseases, including heart disease and cancer.

In addition to the potential health benefits listed above, flavonoids may also have other positive effects on the body. Some studies have suggested that flavonoids may help to improve cognitive function, reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, and improve skin health.

It’s important to note that while the potential health benefits of flavonoids are promising, more research is needed to fully understand their effects on the body. That being said, incorporating flavonoid-rich foods into your diet is generally considered a healthy choice. Some good sources of flavonoids include berries, apples, onions, tea, red wine, and soybeans.

In conclusion, flavonoids are a diverse group of plant-based compounds with potential health benefits. While more research is needed to fully understand their effects on the body, adding flavonoid-rich foods to your diet is generally considered a healthy choice.