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Cherry AK-47 – Strain Information

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  • Cherry AK-47 – Strain Information

Cherry AK-47 is a unique and rare phenotype of the well-known AK-47 cannabis strain. Recognized for its sweet cherry aroma and high potency, this hybrid strain has gained popularity among both recreational and medicinal users. It offers a balanced combination of cerebral stimulation and body relaxation, making it an attractive choice for various therapeutic and recreational purposes.

This document provides a detailed exploration of Cherry AK-47, including its genetic lineage, cannabinoid and terpene profile, medical and recreational uses, cultivation guidelines, and scientific insights into its effects.

Genetic Background & Origins
Parent Strain: AK-47
  • Cherry AK-47 is a phenotypic variation of AK-47, which was first developed in the 1990s by Serious Seeds.
  • AK-47 itself is a sativa-dominant hybrid (65% Sativa / 35% Indica) that originated from a mix of Colombian, Mexican, Thai, and Afghani landraces.
  • The Cherry phenotype emerged due to its unique sweet cherry-like aroma and flavor, which differentiates it from the original strain.
Strain Type & Appearance
  • Type: Hybrid (Sativa-dominant)
  • Appearance: Medium to large buds with dense structure, dark green leaves, and reddish-orange pistils.
  • Trichome Coverage: Frosty, resin-coated buds with a high THC concentration.
Cannabinoid & Terpene Profile
Cannabinoids

Cherry AK-47 is known for its high THC levels, generally ranging between 16% and 22%, with some phenotypes reaching up to 24% THC. The strain contains low CBD levels (~0.1%-1%), making it more psychoactive than therapeutic in nature.

  • THC: 16-24% (Primary psychoactive compound)
  • CBD: 0.1-1% (Minimal presence)
  • CBG: 0.5-1% (Anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects)
  • CBC, CBN: Trace amounts (Potential sedative and anti-inflammatory benefits)
Terpene Profile

Cherry AK-47’s distinct aroma and effects stem from its rich terpene profile:

  1. Myrcene (~0.5%-1.2%) – Provides sedative and muscle-relaxing effects.
  2. Limonene (~0.3%-0.8%) – Offers mood-boosting and stress-relieving properties.
  3. Caryophyllene (~0.2%-0.7%) – Acts as an anti-inflammatory and interacts with CB2 receptors.
  4. Pinene (~0.1%-0.5%) – Enhances focus and alertness while reducing inflammation.
  5. Linalool (~0.1%-0.4%) – Contributes to relaxation and anxiety relief.
Effects and Experience
Recreational Effects
cherry ak 47 effect

Cherry AK-47 offers a balanced high, providing both cerebral and body effects:

  1. Euphoria & Mental Stimulation – Uplifting effects that enhance mood and creativity.
  2. Increased Sociability – Encourages conversation and social engagement.
  3. Body Relaxation – Mild muscle relaxation without heavy sedation.
  4. Energy Boost – A moderate energy boost makes it suitable for daytime use.
  5. Mild Sedation at Higher Doses – Can become more calming and sleep-inducing at high doses.
Common Side Effects
  • Dry mouth and dry eyes
  • Paranoia and anxiety (when consumed in high doses)
  • Dizziness in beginners
Medical Benefits
Psychological Benefits
  1. Anxiety and Depression – The uplifting and mood-enhancing effects of Cherry AK-47 make it ideal for individuals dealing with mild-to-moderate depression and anxiety.
  2. PTSD and Stress Relief – The calming yet non-sedating effects are beneficial for PTSD patients.
  3. ADHD and Focus Enhancement – The presence of pinene helps improve concentration and cognitive clarity.
cherry ak 47 med
Physical Benefits
  1. Chronic Pain Management – Useful for conditions like arthritis, migraines, and muscle spasms.
  2. Inflammation Reduction – Caryophyllene and CBG contribute to anti-inflammatory effects.
  3. Appetite Stimulation – Can aid those dealing with appetite loss due to medical conditions.
Neurological Benefits
  • May help with neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s) due to the antioxidant properties of its terpenes and cannabinoids.
Cultivation Information

Cultivating Cherry AK-47 successfully requires scientific precision and environmental control to ensure maximum yield, potency, and terpene retention. Here’s a deep dive into advanced scientific cultivation techniques for this strain.

1. Optimized Growing Medium Selection
Soil vs. Hydroponics vs. Aeroponics
  • Soil (Organic Super Soil):
    • Best for flavor and terpene preservation due to microbial interactions.
    • pH Range: 6.0 – 6.8 for nutrient uptake.
    • Organic compost (bat guano, worm castings, and kelp) improves cannabinoid production.
  • Hydroponics (Deep Water Culture – DWC, Ebb & Flow, Drip Systems):
    • Maximizes yield due to direct nutrient availability.
    • Requires pH control between 5.5 – 6.5.
    • Nutrient solution should contain Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K) in balanced proportions.
    • EC Levels: Maintain between 1.0 – 2.0 mS/cm for optimal growth.
  • Aeroponics (NASA-Developed Technology):
    • Highest yield potential with fastest vegetative growth.
    • Uses misted nutrients, improving root oxygenation and reducing pathogens.
    • Requires a closed-loop environmental system for precision control.
2. Climate & Environmental Control
Temperature & Humidity Optimization
  • Vegetative Stage:
    • Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
    • Humidity: 50–60% for ideal transpiration rates.
  • Flowering Stage:
    • Temperature: 20–26°C (68–79°F) to prevent terpene degradation.
    • Humidity: 40–50% to reduce risk of mold/bud rot.
    • CO₂ Levels: 900–1200 ppm enhances growth rate and trichome production.
  • Drying & Curing:
    • Dry at 18–22°C (65–72°F) with 50% humidity for 7–10 days.
    • Cure in airtight jars at 60–65% humidity for 2–4 weeks to enhance terpene retention.
cherry ak 47 cultivation
3. Advanced Light Spectrum Manipulation

Cherry AK-47 responds well to specific light spectrums during growth phases:

  • Vegetative Growth:
    • 400-500 nm (Blue Spectrum) – Promotes vegetative growth.
    • LED lights with full spectrum white + UVB stimulate root expansion.
    • Light Schedule: 18/6 (18 hours light, 6 hours dark).
  • Flowering Phase:
    • 600-700 nm (Red Spectrum) – Enhances flower production.
    • UVB Light (280-320 nm) boosts trichome density and THC production.
    • Light Schedule: 12/12 (12 hours light, 12 hours dark).
  • Supplemental Light Techniques:
    • Far-Red Light (730 nm): Speeds up flowering transition.
    • Green Light (500-550 nm): Reduces plant stress in dark cycles.
4. Precision Nutrient Management
Essential Macronutrients for Cherry AK-47
Growth StageNitrogen (N)Phosphorus (P)Potassium (K)Calcium (Ca)Magnesium (Mg)
SeedlingLowLowLowModerateModerate
VegetativeHighMediumMediumHighHigh
FloweringLowHighHighHighModerate
  • Silicon (Si): Enhances resistance against pests and fungal infections.
  • Amino Acids & Beneficial Microbes: Improve nutrient absorption efficiency.
  • Flushing: In the final 2 weeks before harvest, use pure water or a mild flushing agent to remove excess nutrients and enhance the flavor.
5. Scientific Pest & Disease Control

Cherry AK-47 is moderately resistant to pests and mold but benefits from Integrated Pest Management (IPM):

  • Biological Control:
    • Introduce ladybugs, predatory mites (Phytoseiulus persimilis), and nematodes to prevent spider mites and root aphids.
  • Natural Repellents:
    • Neem oil, diatomaceous earth, and companion planting (basil, marigold) deter insects.
  • Fungal Control:
    • Trichoderma fungi inoculation in soil protects roots from pathogenic fungi.
    • Sulfur burners maintain a mold-free environment.
6. Genetic Stability & Cloning
  • Cherry AK-47 can be propagated through cloning or feminized seed breeding.
  • Best Cloning Practices:
    • Cut clones from healthy mother plants at 45-degree angles.
    • Use rooting hormones (IBA or NAA) to accelerate root development.
    • Maintain humidity at 70–80% in the cloning dome.
  • Genetic Stability Techniques:
    • Backcrossing (BX) method ensures strain consistency.
    • Tissue culture micropropagation provides virus-free, uniform clones.
7. Harvesting, Drying, and Terpene Preservation
  • Harvesting Window:
    • Optimal time: 60-65 days after flowering begins.
    • Use trichome observation (milky-white with some amber trichomes indicate peak THC).
  • Drying Conditions:
    • Slow dry at 18–22°C (65–72°F) with 50% RH for 7–10 days.
    • Maintain minimal light exposure to prevent cannabinoid degradation.
  • Curing Method for Terpene Enhancement:
    • Store buds in airtight glass jars at 60–65% RH for 2–4 weeks.
    • Burp jars daily for the first week, then weekly afterward.
Final Takeaways for Scientific Cultivation of Cherry AK-47

Hydroponics & aeroponics increase yield, but soil cultivation enhances flavor.
Precise pH and nutrient balance ensure optimal THC and terpene production.
Light spectrum manipulation plays a critical role in resin and trichome development.
Biological pest control and IPM methods minimize chemical dependency.
Tissue culture propagation ensures genetic consistency for high-quality crops.

Methods of Ingestion, Onset, and Duration

The effects of Cherry AK-47 vary depending on the ingestion method, which influences absorption, bioavailability, onset time, peak effects, and duration. Below is a scientific breakdown of its different ingestion methods.

1. Methods of Ingestion

Cherry AK-47 can be consumed through multiple delivery methods, each affecting cannabinoid absorption and metabolism differently.

A. Inhalation (Smoking & Vaping)

Route: Pulmonary (lungs → bloodstream → brain)
Onset: 1-5 minutes
Peak Effects: 10-30 minutes
Duration: 2-4 hours
Bioavailability: 25-55% (higher with vaporization than smoking)

Smoking (Combustion)
  • Method: Burning dried Cherry AK-47 flower in a joint, pipe, or bong.
  • Pros: Immediate onset, easy dosage control, rapid THC absorption.
  • Cons: Inhalation of combusted plant material releases polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which may be harmful.
  • Scientific Fact: At >230°C (446°F), combustion degrades some terpenes (limonene, myrcene, pinene), altering the effects.
Vaporization (Vaping)
  • Method: Heating cannabis at 160-220°C (320-428°F) to vaporize cannabinoids without burning.
  • Pros: Higher bioavailability, reduced toxins, and better terpene preservation.
  • Cons: Requires a vaporizer, effects fade quicker than edibles.
  • Scientific Fact: Vaporization at 185°C (365°F) preserves THC and terpenes, optimizing both potency and flavor.
B. Oral Consumption (Edibles & Tinctures)

Route: Gastrointestinal (digestive tract → liver metabolism → bloodstream)
Onset: 30-90 minutes
Peak Effects: 2-3 hours
Duration: 6-8 hours (sometimes up to 12 hours depending on metabolism and dose)
Bioavailability: 4-20% (lower than inhalation due to first-pass metabolism in the liver)

Edibles (THC-Infused Food & Beverages)
  • Method: Consuming Cherry AK-47 in baked goods, gummies, capsules, or drinks.
  • Pros: Long-lasting effects, steady psychoactive experience.
  • Cons: Delayed onset, higher risk of overconsumption due to delayed psychoactivity.
  • Scientific Fact: THC is converted into 11-hydroxy-THC in the liver, which is 2-3 times more psychoactive than delta-9-THC, leading to stronger and longer-lasting effects.
Sublingual (Tinctures & Sprays)
  • Method: Placing cannabis oil under the tongue for direct absorption into the bloodstream.
  • Onset: 15-45 minutes
  • Duration: 4-6 hours
  • Bioavailability: 12-35% (higher than edibles, lower than inhalation).
  • Scientific Fact: Sublingual absorption bypasses first-pass metabolism, leading to faster onset and more predictable dosing.
C. Topical Use (Transdermal Patches, Lotions, and Creams)

Route: Skin absorption
Onset: Varies (15-60 minutes for transdermal, 1-2 hours for creams)
Duration: 4-12 hours
Bioavailability: Low (topicals don’t enter the bloodstream except for transdermal patches)

Topical Creams & Lotions
  • Method: Applied on the skin for localized pain relief.
  • Effects: Non-psychoactive, targets inflammation, arthritis, and muscle pain.
  • Scientific Fact: Cannabinoids interact with CB2 receptors in the skin, reducing localized inflammation.
Transdermal Patches
  • Method: THC or CBD patches adhere to the skin for systemic delivery.
  • Effects: Long-lasting (up to 12 hours), steady cannabinoid release.
  • Scientific Fact: Transdermal patches penetrate the bloodstream, making them a non-inhalation alternative for steady pain relief.
2. Onset Time, Peak Effects, and Duration of Cherry AK-47 by Ingestion Method
MethodOnset TimePeak EffectsDurationBioavailability
Smoking (Joint/Bong)1-5 min10-30 min2-4 hours25-35%
Vaporization1-5 min10-30 min2-4 hours40-55%
Edibles30-90 min2-3 hours6-8 hours4-20%
Sublingual (Tinctures)15-45 min1-2 hours4-6 hours12-35%
Topical Creams1-2 hoursLocalized4-8 hoursLow
Transdermal Patches15-60 min2-4 hours8-12 hoursHigh
3. Factors Affecting Absorption & Metabolism
A. Individual Physiology
  • Metabolism Speed: Faster metabolism = quicker onset, shorter duration.
  • Body Fat Percentage: THC is lipophilic (fat-soluble), so higher body fat = longer THC retention.
  • Tolerance Level: Regular cannabis users may require higher doses for the same effect.
B. Food Intake & Dietary Factors
  • Empty Stomach vs. Full Stomach:
    • Taking edibles on an empty stomach leads to faster onset but stronger effects.
    • High-fat foods enhance THC absorption due to its fat-soluble nature.
C. Genetic Factors (CYP Enzymes)
  • The CYP2C9 enzyme in the liver metabolizes THC.
  • Fast metabolizers experience shorter durations, while slow metabolizers have prolonged effects.
Scientific Insights
Pharmacological Mechanisms
  • THC binds to CB1 receptors, causing psychoactive effects and mood enhancement.
  • CBD interacts with serotonin receptors, offering mild anxiolytic properties.
  • Caryophyllene acts on CB2 receptors, providing anti-inflammatory benefits.
Research-Based Medical Applications
  • Studies suggest that limonene may contribute to stress reduction and improved mood by influencing dopamine and serotonin activity.
  • Myrcene’s sedative properties are supported by research showing its ability to enhance sleep quality.
  • Caryophyllene’s anti-inflammatory potential is being studied for its role in pain management and immune system regulation.
Potential Risks and Contraindications
  • Avoid in patients with a history of psychosis due to its high THC levels.
  • Not recommended for individuals prone to anxiety disorders in high doses.
  • May interact with blood thinners and sedatives, necessitating caution in medical use.
Comparison with Other Strains
StrainTHC (%)CBD (%)EffectsAroma & Flavor
Cherry AK-4716-24%~0.1%Uplifting, relaxing, euphoricSweet cherry, earthy
Original AK-4717-20%~0.5%Cerebral, creative, energeticPungent, skunky
Cherry Pie16-23%~1%Relaxing, mildly sedatingSweet cherry, vanilla
Blue Dream17-24%~1%Uplifting, balanced, creativeSweet berry, herbal
Conclusion

Cherry AK-47 stands out as a unique sativa-dominant hybrid that offers a well-balanced combination of euphoria, relaxation, and therapeutic benefits. With its sweet cherry aroma, high THC content, and versatile effects, it is suitable for both medical and recreational users. Scientific research continues to explore its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and neuroprotective properties, making it an intriguing strain for future cannabis-based therapies.

Whether you’re seeking mental stimulation, stress relief, or mild pain management, Cherry AK-47 proves to be a powerful and versatile strain worthy of attention.

For a complete directory of cultivars, visit our Cannabis Strain Reviews.