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Exodus Cheese – Strain Information

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  • Exodus Cheese – Strain Information

Exodus Cheese, often referred to as simply “Cheese” in cannabis circles, is a renowned cannabis strain known for its unique aroma, potent effects, and rich history. Originating in the United Kingdom in the late 1980s to early 1990s, Exodus Cheese has garnered a loyal following and a reputation for its distinct characteristics. This document delves deeply into the strain’s history, genetic composition, medical and recreational uses, and scientific insights.

Origins and Genetics

Exodus Cheese is believed to be a phenotype of Skunk #1, a strain that was developed by Sacred Seed Co. in the 1970s. Skunk #1 itself is a hybrid of three landrace strains: Colombian Gold, Acapulco Gold, and Afghani. Exodus Cheese was reportedly discovered and propagated by the Exodus collective, a group of cannabis enthusiasts in southern England.

skunk 1
Skunk #1

Key genetic traits of Exodus Cheese include:

  • Lineage: Skunk #1 phenotype
  • Genetics: Hybrid (approximately 60% Indica, 40% Sativa)
  • THC Content: Typically ranges from 17% to 22%, with some phenotypes reaching higher levels.
  • CBD Content: Low, usually below 1%.
Aroma, Flavor, and Appearance
Aroma:

Exodus Cheese is best known for its pungent, cheesy aroma. This distinctive smell is a blend of earthy, musky, and tangy notes reminiscent of aged cheese, with subtle undertones of skunk and spice.

Flavor:

The flavor profile of Exodus Cheese complements its aroma. Users often describe it as a mix of creamy, tangy cheese with hints of earthiness and sweet citrus.

Appearance:

The strain features dense, medium-sized buds with a bright green hue, orange pistils, and a thick layer of trichomes, which makes it look icy. The bud structure is compact and sticky, indicative of its Indica dominance.

Exodus Cheese trichomes
Effects and Potency

Exodus Cheese delivers a balanced high that combines cerebral stimulation with physical relaxation. Its effects are often described as uplifting, euphoric, and deeply calming.

Onset:

The effects typically onset within minutes, with an initial cerebral rush that uplifts mood and enhances creativity.

Peak Effects:

As the high progresses, the Indica traits emerge, providing a soothing body relaxation that can help alleviate tension without causing couch-lock.

Duration:

The effects usually last between 2 to 3 hours, depending on the dosage and individual tolerance.

Medical Uses

Exodus Cheese is highly regarded in the medical cannabis community for its therapeutic properties. The strain’s balanced effects make it versatile for treating a variety of conditions.

Pain Relief:

The strain’s moderate THC levels and relaxing effects are effective in alleviating chronic pain, muscle spasms, and migraines. Its analgesic properties are particularly beneficial for patients seeking non-opioid pain management.

Stress and Anxiety:

Exodus Cheese’s uplifting and euphoric effects help mitigate symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. The cerebral high promotes a positive mindset, while the body relaxation reduces physical tension associated with anxiety disorders.

Insomnia:

The calming Indica effects can aid individuals struggling with insomnia. Consuming Exodus Cheese in the evening can help users unwind and achieve a restful night’s sleep.

Appetite Stimulation:

This strain is known to induce “the munchies,” making it beneficial for patients experiencing appetite loss due to chemotherapy, eating disorders, or other medical conditions.

Nausea Relief:

Exodus Cheese has shown promise in reducing nausea, making it a suitable option for individuals undergoing treatments like chemotherapy.

Recreational Uses

For recreational users, Exodus Cheese offers a multifaceted experience that caters to various preferences. Its effects are enjoyable for socializing, creative endeavors, or relaxation.

Socializing:

The uplifting and euphoric effects make Exodus Cheese a popular choice for gatherings. It promotes laughter, conversation, and a general sense of camaraderie.

Creativity:

Artists and creatives often turn to Exodus Cheese for its cerebral stimulation. The strain enhances focus and imagination, making it suitable for brainstorming, writing, or other creative activities.

Relaxation:

The body high provides a soothing effect, making it an excellent choice for unwinding after a long day. Many users enjoy Exodus Cheese while watching movies, listening to music, or simply relaxing at home.

Versatility:

Exodus Cheese is adaptable to various recreational settings, from daytime adventures to evening relaxation. Its balanced effects ensure it caters to diverse preferences.

Scientific Insights

The unique characteristics of Exodus Cheese can be attributed to its terpene profile, cannabinoid content, and genetic lineage. Scientific research has provided insights into how these elements contribute to the strain’s effects.

Terpene Profile:

Terpenes are aromatic compounds that influence the flavor, aroma, and effects of cannabis strains. Exodus Cheese’s terpene profile includes:

  • Caryophyllene: Known for its spicy and peppery aroma, this terpene has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
  • Myrcene: Responsible for the strain’s earthy aroma and sedative effects, myrcene enhances the relaxing properties of Exodus Cheese.
  • Limonene: Adds citrusy notes to the flavor profile and contributes to stress-relieving and mood-enhancing effects.
  • Humulene: Provides subtle earthy and woody aromas and may have appetite-suppressing properties.
Cannabinoid Synergy:

Exodus Cheese’s moderate THC levels and low CBD content create a balanced high. The entourage effect—the synergistic interaction between cannabinoids and terpenes—enhances the strain’s therapeutic benefits.

Optimal Growing Conditions for Exodus Cheese

Exodus Cheese is a moderately challenging strain to cultivate, known for its preference for controlled environments and specific care requirements.

Climate Requirements:
  • Temperature: Ideal temperature ranges from 70-80\u00b0F (21-27\u00b0C) during the day. Nighttime temperatures should not drop below 65\u00b0F (18\u00b0C).
  • Humidity:
    • Vegetative Stage: 50-70% relative humidity.
    • Flowering Stage: Gradually reduce humidity to around 40-50% to prevent mold and mildew on dense buds.
  • Light: Exodus Cheese thrives under full-spectrum grow lights with 18-24 hours of light during the vegetative stage and 12 hours of light during flowering.
  • Air Circulation: Proper airflow is critical to prevent mold and ensure even distribution of CO₂.
Soil and Growing Mediums
  • Soil Cultivation: High-quality organic soil enriched with nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium promotes robust growth and enhances flavor profiles.
  • Hydroponics: Growing Exodus Cheese in hydroponic systems allows precise nutrient delivery and faster growth rates. Preferred setups include Deep Water Culture (DWC) and nutrient film techniques.
  • Coco Coir: This medium provides excellent aeration and water retention, giving growers better control over feeding schedules.
Nutrient Requirements
Macronutrients:
  1. Nitrogen (N):
    • Critical during the vegetative stage for leaf and stem development.
    • Recommended PPM (parts per million): 100-200.
  2. Phosphorus (P):
    • Required for flower development during the flowering stage.
    • PPM recommendation: 50-70 during veg, increasing to 150-250 during flowering.
  3. Potassium (K):
    • Supports root development and bud density.
    • PPM recommendation: 100-200 in veg, rising to 200-300 during flowering.
Micronutrients:
  • Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, and Sulfur should be present in trace amounts to support overall plant health.
Feeding Schedule:
  • Use a balanced nutrient solution with a N-P-K ratio of 3:1:2 in the vegetative stage.
  • Transition to a 1:3:3 ratio during the flowering stage to boost bud production and resin development.
Cultivation Techniques
Topping and FIMing:
  • Topping entails trimming the primary stem to promote additional colas and bushier growth.
  • FIMing is a similar technique but leaves part of the main growth intact, creating a denser canopy.
  • Both techniques improve light penetration and maximize yield.
Low-Stress Training (LST):
  • Bending and tying down branches ensure even light exposure to all parts of the plant.
  • LST is particularly effective for Exodus Cheese due to its dense bud structure.
ScrOG (Screen of Green):
  • Place a horizontal screen above the plants to guide branches into an even canopy.
  • This method optimizes light distribution and enhances yield in limited spaces.
Defoliation:
  • Remove excess fan leaves during flowering to improve airflow and focus energy on bud production.
  • Be cautious not to over-prune, as Exodus Cheese plants rely on healthy leaves for photosynthesis.
Watering Practices
  • pH Levels:
    • Maintain a pH of 6.0-6.5 for soil grows.
    • For hydroponics, adjust the pH to 5.5-6.0 for optimal nutrient absorption.
  • Watering Frequency:
    • Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering to prevent overwatering and root rot.
    • In hydroponic setups, monitor water levels and refresh the nutrient solution every 1-2 weeks.
Pest and Disease Management

Exodus Cheese is moderately resistant to pests but can still face challenges from:

Exodus Cheese neem
  • Spider Mites: Use neem oil or predatory mites as natural control methods.
  • Aphids and Thrips: Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs or use organic insecticidal soap.
  • Powdery Mildew: Prevent with proper humidity control and airflow. Treat outbreaks with potassium bicarbonate sprays.
Flowering and Harvesting
Exodus Cheese flowering
  • Flowering Time: Exodus Cheese typically flowers within 8-9 weeks.
  • Signs of Maturity:
    • Trichomes need to have a milky, slightly amber appearance.
    • Pistils transition from white to orange-brown and curl inward.
  • Harvesting:
    • Perform a final flush with plain water 1-2 weeks before harvest to remove residual nutrients.
    • Harvest when 70-80% of trichomes are cloudy for a balanced effect or wait for more amber trichomes for a sedative high.
Post-Harvest Curing
  1. Drying: Hang buds upside down in a dark, well-ventilated space at 60\u00b0F-70\u00b0F (15\u00b0C-21\u00b0C) with 50% humidity for 7-10 days.
  2. Curing:
    • Transfer dried buds to airtight glass jars.
    • Store jars in a cool, dark place and “burp” (open for airflow) them daily for the first two weeks.
    • Continue curing for 4-6 weeks for optimal flavor and potency.
Methods of Ingestion

Exodus Cheese can be consumed through various methods, each offering distinct onset times, duration, and bioavailability. Here’s an in-depth look:

Smoking
Exodus Cheese smoking
  • Description: The most traditional method, involving combustion of the flower in joints, pipes, or bongs.
  • Onset: Effects typically begin within 2-5 minutes as cannabinoids are rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs.
  • Duration: Lasts approximately 1.5 to 3 hours, peaking within the first hour.
  • Pros:
    • Fast onset makes it easy to gauge dosage.
    • Full flavor profile of Exodus Cheese, including its signature cheesy, earthy aroma.
  • Cons:
    • Combustion can release harmful byproducts.
    • Not ideal for individuals with respiratory sensitivities.
Vaping
  • Description: Uses vaporizers to heat cannabis flower or concentrates to a temperature that releases cannabinoids and terpenes without combustion.
  • Onset: Similar to smoking, effects are felt within 2-5 minutes.
  • Duration: Effects last slightly longer than smoking, typically 2-4 hours.
  • Pros:
    • Cleaner inhalation with fewer harmful byproducts.
    • Retains the terpene profile more effectively than combustion, enhancing flavor.
  • Cons:
    • Requires specialized equipment.
    • Initial cost can be higher.
Edibles
  • Description: Cannabis-infused foods or drinks containing extracts or decarboxylated flower.
  • Onset: Delayed onset of 30 minutes to 2 hours due to digestion and liver metabolism (first-pass effect).
  • Duration: Effects are prolonged, lasting 4-8 hours.
  • Pros:
    • Long-lasting effects make it ideal for sustained relief.
    • Discreet consumption method.
  • Cons:
    • Dosage can be challenging to control.
    • Risk of overconsumption due to delayed onset.
Tinctures
  • Description: Liquid cannabis extracts administered sublingually (under the tongue) for quick absorption.
  • Onset: Effects begin within 15-30 minutes due to absorption through oral mucosa.
  • Duration: Effects last 2-6 hours, depending on dosage and tolerance.
  • Pros:
    • Precise dosing with droppers.
    • Faster onset compared to edibles.
  • Cons:
    • Taste might be unappealing to some users.
    • Requires consistent shaking for uniform dosing.
Topicals
  • Description: Cannabis-infused creams, balms, or transdermal patches applied directly to the skin.
  • Onset: Effects felt within 15-30 minutes (localized relief), but systemic effects from transdermal patches may take 30-60 minutes.
  • Duration: Topicals provide localized relief for 2-4 hours, while transdermal patches can last up to 12 hours.
  • Pros:
    • Non-psychoactive when used as topicals (does not cross the blood-brain barrier).
    • Effective for localized pain and inflammation.
  • Cons:
    • Limited effects for systemic conditions unless using transdermal delivery.
Onset and Duration of Effects

The onset and duration of Exodus Cheese’s effects depend on the method of ingestion and the user’s physiology (metabolism, tolerance, body weight).

MethodOnsetDurationPeak Effects
Smoking2-5 minutes1.5-3 hours30-60 minutes
Vaping2-5 minutes2-4 hours30-60 minutes
Edibles30-120 minutes4-8 hours2-4 hours
Tinctures15-30 minutes2-6 hours1-2 hours
Topicals15-30 minutes (local)2-4 hours (local)N/A for psychoactive effects
Effects: A Scientific Overview

Exodus Cheese delivers a complex combination of effects that are influenced by its cannabinoid and terpene profile. Here’s a breakdown:

Cerebral Effects (Dominated by Sativa Traits):
  • Euphoria: Thanks to its THC content (17-22%), Exodus Cheese provides a mood-elevating cerebral high that combats stress and anxiety.
  • Mental Clarity: In moderate doses, the strain enhances focus and creativity, making it suitable for artistic or problem-solving activities.
  • Sociability: Users often report increased talkativeness and laughter, making it ideal for social gatherings.
Physical Effects (Dominated by Indica Traits):
  • Relaxation: The strain induces a calming body high that relieves physical tension and promotes relaxation.
  • Pain Relief: The analgesic properties alleviate chronic pain, muscle spasms, and migraines.
  • Appetite Stimulation: Commonly induces the “munchies,” which can be beneficial for those with appetite loss.
Entourage Effect and Synergy

The effects of Exodus Cheese are enhanced by its entourage effect, a phenomenon where cannabinoids and terpenes work synergistically to amplify therapeutic benefits.

Key Cannabinoids:
  1. THC (17-22%):
    • Primary psychoactive compound responsible for euphoria, pain relief, and appetite stimulation.
  2. CBD (<1%):
    • Though present in low concentrations, CBD may moderate THC’s psychoactivity, preventing overwhelming effects.
Terpene Contributions:
  1. Caryophyllene:
    • Anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties contribute to pain relief.
  2. Myrcene:
    • Sedative effects enhance physical relaxation.
  3. Limonene:
    • Uplifts mood and reduces stress.
  4. Humulene:
    • May suppress appetite, counterbalancing THC’s “munchies” effect.
Factors Influencing Effects
  1. Tolerance: Regular cannabis users may require higher doses to achieve the same effects as occasional users.
  2. Metabolism: Individuals with faster metabolisms experience quicker onset but shorter duration.
  3. Set and Setting: The user’s mood and environment can significantly influence their experience.
  4. Dosage: Overconsumption, especially with edibles, can lead to unpleasant effects such as paranoia or anxiety.
Potential Side Effects

While Exodus Cheese offers numerous benefits, it may also cause side effects, especially when consumed in high doses.

Common Side Effects:
  • Dry Mouth (Cottonmouth): A common side effect of THC-rich strains, easily mitigated by staying hydrated.
  • Dry Eyes: Can cause slight discomfort, which can be alleviated with lubricating eye drops.
Less Common Side Effects:
  • Dizziness: Some users report lightheadedness, particularly when standing up too quickly.
  • Paranoia: High doses may exacerbate anxiety or cause paranoia in sensitive individuals.
Pairing:

Exodus Cheese pairs well with activities that require relaxation and focus. It complements artistic pursuits, nature walks, or casual social events.

Cultural Significance

Exodus Cheese is more than just a cannabis strain; it’s a cultural phenomenon in the UK and beyond. The strain’s association with the Exodus collective symbolizes community, resilience, and the shared passion for cannabis cultivation. Its unique characteristics have made it a staple in the cannabis market and a favorite among enthusiasts worldwide.

Conclusion

Exodus Cheese stands out as a strain with a rich history, distinctive aroma, and versatile effects. Whether used for medical purposes or recreational enjoyment, it offers a well-rounded experience that appeals to a broad audience. Its therapeutic potential, combined with its unique flavor and aroma, solidifies its status as a classic strain that continues to thrive in the modern cannabis landscape.

As research into cannabis continues to evolve, Exodus Cheese remains a prime example of the intricate interplay between genetics, terpenes, and cannabinoids. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its exceptional qualities and the dedication of those who have cultivated and preserved its legacy.

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