Table of Contents
Genetics and Origin
LA Ultra is an 80% indica and 20% sativa hybrid created by the skilled breeders at Resin Seeds. It is a cross between two legendary strains: MK Ultra and LA Confidential. Both parent strains are well-regarded for their potent effects and rich terpene profiles, traits that LA Ultra inherits and amplifies.
- MK Ultra: Named after the infamous CIA mind-control program, MK Ultra is a cross between OG Kush and G13. It is renowned for its hypnotic, cerebral high and is frequently used for relaxation and stress relief.
- LA Confidential: This pure indica strain, a staple in the cannabis community, is celebrated for its tranquilizing effects, making it ideal for evening use or combating insomnia.
The resulting hybrid, LA Ultra, embodies the best of both worlds. It has a high THC content, typically ranging from 18% to 23%, with minimal CBD levels. This profile makes it an excellent choice for those seeking intense psychoactive effects.
Scientific Composition
Cannabinoid Profile
The cannabinoid content of LA Ultra is dominated by THC, making it one of the more potent strains available. Here is a breakdown of its primary cannabinoids:
- THC: 18-23%
- Responsible for the strain’s psychoactive effects, THC in LA Ultra contributes to its ability to induce euphoria, relaxation, and a sense of calm.
- CBD: <1%
- The low CBD content means LA Ultra is less suited for conditions requiring non-psychoactive relief, such as epilepsy or severe inflammation, but it excels in other areas, as discussed below.
- CBG: 0.5-1%
- Cannabigerol (CBG) may contribute to anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects.
Terpene Profile
LA Ultra’s rich terpene profile is a significant factor in its therapeutic and recreational appeal. The dominant terpenes include:
- Myrcene
- Found in high concentrations, myrcene is known for its earthy aroma and sedative effects. It enhances the “couch-lock” effect often associated with indica strains.
- Limonene
- Contributing a citrusy note, limonene is associated with mood enhancement and stress relief.
- Caryophyllene
- The analgesic and anti-inflammatory qualities of this spicy terpene are well-known. It interacts with CB2 receptors in the body to modulate pain and inflammation.
- Pinene
- Pinene adds a hint of pine and supports focus and memory retention, counterbalancing the sedative effects.
- Humulene
- With woody and earthy undertones, humulene is an appetite suppressant and has potential anti-inflammatory benefits.
Medical Uses
LA Ultra is a versatile strain with applications across various medical conditions. Its high THC levels, combined with its terpene profile, make it particularly effective for addressing mental health disorders, pain, and sleep-related issues.
Mental Health
- Stress and Anxiety Relief
- The calming effects of myrcene and limonene, combined with THC’s euphoric properties, make LA Ultra an excellent choice for reducing stress and anxiety. It induces a sense of well-being and relaxation without being overly sedating.
- Depression
- The mood-enhancing qualities of limonene and THC’s ability to stimulate dopamine production can help alleviate symptoms of depression. LA Ultra provides users with a sense of contentment and positivity.
- PTSD
- For individuals dealing with PTSD, LA Ultra’s ability to induce relaxation and reduce hypervigilance is invaluable. Its sedative properties help promote a state of calm, making it easier to manage intrusive thoughts and anxiety.
Chronic Pain Management
Pain relief is one of LA Ultra’s most prominent medical benefits. The high THC content interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system to reduce the perception of pain. Additionally, caryophyllene enhances its analgesic effects by targeting CB2 receptors.
Conditions that may benefit from LA Ultra include:
- Arthritis
- Fibromyalgia
- Neuropathy
- Migraines
- Lower back pain
Sleep Disorders
As an indica-dominant hybrid, LA Ultra excels in promoting restful sleep. Its sedative effects, driven by myrcene and THC, make it ideal for:
- Insomnia
- Interrupted sleep cycles
- Restless leg syndrome
Patients report falling asleep faster and staying asleep longer when using LA Ultra.
Appetite Stimulation
While humulene has appetite-suppressing qualities, the strain’s high THC content counterbalances this effect, making it beneficial for individuals with:
- Anorexia
- Cachexia
- Loss of appetite due to chemotherapy
Inflammation
The anti-inflammatory properties of caryophyllene and humulene make LA Ultra effective in managing conditions like autoimmune diseases, Crohn’s disease, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Recreational Uses
Psychoactive Effects
LA Ultra is renowned for its intense psychoactive effects, which can be both cerebral and physical. Users typically describe the experience as follows:
- Initial Uplift
- The first effects are cerebral, characterized by euphoria, creativity, and mental clarity. This makes LA Ultra suitable for artistic endeavors or social interactions.
- Deep Relaxation
- As the high progresses, the indica effects take over, leading to profound relaxation. This phase often includes a sense of detachment from physical discomfort and stress.
- Sedation
- In higher doses, LA Ultra’s sedative properties dominate, resulting in “couch-lock” and a tranquil state the ideal way to relax at the end of the day.
Activities Paired with LA Ultra
- Evening relaxation: Ideal for unwinding after a long day.
- Creative pursuits: During the initial cerebral phase, users may find inspiration for writing, painting, or music.
- Socializing: At moderate doses, LA Ultra can enhance social interactions by reducing inhibitions and promoting a sense of euphoria.
Consumption Methods
Methods of Ingestion
Different methods of ingestion affect the onset time, intensity, and duration of LA Ultra’s effects. Here’s a breakdown of the primary consumption methods:
Smoking
- Mechanism:
- When LA Ultra is smoked, cannabinoids like THC are heated to their vaporization point, converting inactive THC-A into psychoactive THC. The THC is then rapidly absorbed through the alveoli in the lungs into the bloodstream.
- Onset: 2–10 minutes.
- Duration: 2–4 hours.
- Key Characteristics:
- Smoking provides near-instant relief, making it ideal for acute conditions such as migraines or sudden anxiety episodes.
- Terpenes (like myrcene and limonene) are preserved when smoked, contributing to the strain’s distinctive flavor and synergistic effects.
- Considerations:
- Smoking may irritate the lungs and throat, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions.
Vaporization
- Mechanism:
- Vaporizing heats LA Ultra to a temperature that releases cannabinoids and terpenes without combustion, typically between 315°F and 430°F (157°C and 221°C).
- Onset: 2–5 minutes.
- Duration: 2–4 hours.
- Key Characteristics:
- Vaporization is a healthier alternative to smoking as it avoids harmful byproducts of combustion.
- It enhances the terpene experience, preserving delicate flavors and aromas.
- Optimal Temperatures for Cannabinoids/Terpenes:
- THC: 315°F (157°C).
- Myrcene: 332°F (167°C) for sedative effects.
- Limonene: 349°F (176°C) for mood enhancement.
Edibles
- Mechanism:
- When consumed as an edible, THC is metabolized in the liver, converting it into 11-hydroxy-THC, a more potent and longer-lasting metabolite.
- Onset: 30–120 minutes.
- Duration: 4–8 hours (can extend to 12+ hours for some individuals).
- Key Characteristics:
- Edibles provide a slow onset but produce prolonged effects, making them suitable for chronic pain and sleep disorders.
- Effects may feel more intense due to 11-hydroxy-THC’s increased potency compared to delta-9-THC.
- Considerations:
- Proper dosing is critical to avoid overconsumption. Start with 2.5–5 mg of THC and wait 2 hours before consuming more.
Sublingual (Tinctures and Oils)
- Mechanism:
- Sublingual administration involves placing tinctures or oils under the tongue, allowing cannabinoids to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream via the mucous membranes.
- Onset: 15–30 minutes.
- Duration: 4–6 hours.
- Key Characteristics:
- Provides faster onset than edibles while avoiding gastrointestinal metabolism.
- Precise dosing is possible, making it suitable for beginners or medical users needing controlled effects.
- Considerations:
- Holding the tincture under the tongue for 60–90 seconds maximizes absorption.
Topicals
- Mechanism:
- Topical products infused with LA Ultra are applied directly to the skin. Cannabinoids bind to local CB2 receptors without entering the bloodstream, avoiding psychoactive effects.
- Onset: 5–20 minutes.
- Duration: 1–3 hours.
- Key Characteristics:
- Ideal for localized pain, inflammation, or skin conditions.
- Common forms include balms, salves, and transdermal patches (which can allow THC absorption into the bloodstream for systemic effects).
- Considerations:
- Non-psychoactive unless used as a transdermal patch.
Dabbing (Concentrates)
- Mechanism:
- Involves vaporizing concentrated forms of LA Ultra (like wax, shatter, or live resin) using a dab rig or electronic device. Concentrates contain high levels of THC (70–90%).
- Onset: Instant to 2 minutes.
- Duration: 1–3 hours.
- Key Characteristics:
- Provides a highly potent experience, suitable for experienced users.
- Retains the strain’s terpene profile for a flavorful and aromatic experience.
- Considerations:
- Due to its high potency, this method can easily overwhelm new users and should be approached cautiously.
2. Onset and Duration
The onset and duration of LA Ultra’s effects are influenced by both the method of ingestion and individual factors, including body weight, metabolism, tolerance, and previous experience with cannabis.
Onset Times by Method
- Smoking/Vaporizing: 2–10 minutes (fastest onset due to pulmonary absorption).
- Edibles: 30–120 minutes (slow onset due to liver metabolism).
- Sublingual: 15–30 minutes (rapid absorption via mucous membranes).
- Topicals: 5–20 minutes for localized effects.
- Dabbing: Instant to 2 minutes (highest potency and quickest effects).
Duration of Effects by Method
- Smoking/Vaporizing: 2–4 hours.
- Edibles: 4–8 hours (can extend to 12+ hours in some cases).
- Sublingual: 4–6 hours.
- Topicals: 1–3 hours for localized effects.
- Dabbing: 1–3 hours (shorter duration but intense effects).
3. Pharmacokinetics
The pharmacokinetics of THC and other cannabinoids in LA Ultra help explain the variation in onset and duration:
- Smoking/Vaporizing:
- THC is absorbed directly into the bloodstream via the lungs, peaking in plasma levels within 5–10 minutes.
- Rapid distribution to the brain and other tissues results in near-immediate effects.
- Edibles:
- THC is transformed into 11-hydroxy-THC in the liver during first-pass metabolism.
- 11-hydroxy-THC crosses the blood-brain barrier more effectively, leading to a delayed but more intense and longer-lasting high.
- Sublingual:
- THC avoids first-pass metabolism by being absorbed into the bloodstream through mucous membranes, resulting in faster onset and more predictable effects.
4. Factors Affecting Onset and Duration
Several factors influence how long it takes for LA Ultra to take effect and how long the effects last:
- Metabolism:
- Individuals with faster metabolisms may process THC more quickly, reducing the duration of effects.
- Tolerance:
- Frequent cannabis users may have a higher tolerance, leading to delayed onset and reduced intensity of effects.
- Dosage:
- Higher doses typically result in longer-lasting effects but may increase the risk of side effects such as paranoia or dizziness.
- Empty vs. Full Stomach:
- Consuming edibles on an empty stomach can accelerate onset, while a full stomach may delay it.
5. Scientific Insights on Cannabinoid Bioavailability
Bioavailability refers to the proportion of THC and other cannabinoids that enter the bloodstream and are available for therapeutic or recreational effects. It varies significantly by ingestion method:
- Smoking/Vaporizing: 25–30% bioavailability due to direct pulmonary absorption.
- Edibles: 4–20% bioavailability due to first-pass liver metabolism.
- Sublingual: 20–35% bioavailability through mucosal absorption.
- Topicals: Minimal systemic bioavailability (unless using transdermal patches).
Potential Side Effects
Like any cannabis strain, LA Ultra comes with potential side effects, especially when consumed in high doses. These include:
- Dry Mouth and Eyes
- Common among high-THC strains, these effects can be mitigated with proper hydration and eye drops.
- Paranoia or Anxiety
- In rare cases, especially in individuals sensitive to THC, LA Ultra may cause heightened anxiety or paranoia. This danger can be reduced by starting with a low dosage.
- Dizziness
- The potent sedative effects may cause lightheadedness in some users, particularly beginners.
- Couch-Lock
- While this is often desirable for medical users, recreational users seeking a more active high should moderate their dosage.
Scientific Studies and Research
Although specific studies on LA Ultra are limited, research on its parent strains and dominant cannabinoids/terpenes offers valuable insights.
- THC’s Analgesic Effects
- A 2010 study published in The Journal of Pain demonstrated that THC effectively reduces pain in patients with chronic conditions, supporting LA Ultra’s role in pain management.
- Myrcene’s Sedative Properties
- A 2002 study in Phytomedicine highlighted myrcene’s ability to enhance sleep duration and reduce muscle spasms, aligning with LA Ultra’s sedative effects.
- Limonene and Anxiety
- Research published in Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology & Biological Psychiatry in 2013 showed that limonene has anxiolytic properties, explaining LA Ultra’s calming effects.
- Caryophyllene and Inflammation
- A 2008 study in The European Journal of Pharmacology revealed that caryophyllene acts as a CB2 receptor agonist, reducing inflammation and pain.
Cultivation Information
1. Growing Mediums
LA Ultra thrives in a variety of growing mediums, each with its specific benefits:
- Soil: Rich organic soil enhances the terpene profile, bringing out the earthy and citrus notes of LA Ultra. Amend soil with nutrients like compost, bat guano, and worm castings to create a fertile environment.
- Coco Coir: This medium provides excellent aeration and root growth while retaining water efficiently. Coco coir ensures faster growth and allows for precise nutrient control.
- Hydroponics: Hydroponic systems (such as DWC or drip irrigation systems) allow for accelerated growth and greater control over nutrients. However, they require expertise in monitoring pH and electrical conductivity (EC).
2. Nutritional Requirements
LA Ultra benefits from a nutrient regimen tailored to its growth stages:
- Vegetative Stage:
- High nitrogen (N) levels are essential for robust foliage development.
- Suggested NPK ratio: 3-1-2.
- Add secondary nutrients like calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) to prevent deficiencies.
- Flowering Stage:
- Shift to higher levels of phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) to support bud formation and density.
- Suggested NPK ratio: 1-3-2.
- Boost micronutrients like sulfur (S) for terpene production.
- pH Levels:
- Soil: Maintain a pH of 6.0–6.5.
- Hydroponics/Coco Coir: Keep pH between 5.5–6.0.
3. Lighting
LA Ultra requires sufficient light intensity to maximize yield:
- Indoor Cultivation:
- Use LED grow lights with a full spectrum (3000K–5000K) for both vegetative and flowering stages.
- Recommended light cycle:
- Vegetative stage: 18/6 (18 hours light, 6 hours darkness).
- Flowering stage: 12/12 (12 hours light, 12 hours darkness).
- Ideal light intensity: 600–1000 µmol/m²/s during flowering.
- Outdoor Cultivation:
- Choose a location with 8–12 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Ensure the climate mimics a Mediterranean environment—warm days (70–85°F or 21–29°C) and cool nights.
4. Temperature and Humidity
LA Ultra is sensitive to environmental conditions, making temperature and humidity control crucial.
- Temperature:
- Vegetative stage: 70–80°F (21–26°C).
- Flowering stage: 68–78°F (20–25°C) to prevent heat stress and enhance resin production.
- Night temperature: Avoid drops below 60°F (15°C).
- Humidity:
- Vegetative stage: 50–60%.
- Flowering stage: 40–50% to reduce the risk of mold and mildew.
- Late flowering: Drop to 30–40% to enhance trichome production.
5. Training Techniques
To optimize yields, apply these scientific training methods:
- Low-Stress Training (LST):
- To achieve a uniform canopy, bend and secure branches. This maximizes light penetration and increases bud sites.
- Screen of Green (ScrOG):
- Use a net to train the plant horizontally, ensuring optimal light exposure and airflow.
- Defoliation:
- Remove excess fan leaves to improve light distribution and airflow, particularly during the flowering stage.
6. Pest and Disease Management
LA Ultra can be susceptible to pests and diseases if not monitored closely:
- Common Pests:
- Spider mites, aphids, and fungus gnats.
- Use neem oil or insecticidal soaps as a preventive measure.
- Diseases:
- Powdery mildew and root rot are the primary concerns.
- Prevent by maintaining proper humidity, adequate airflow, and a sterile growing environment.
- Biological Controls:
- To organically manage pest populations, introduce beneficial insects such as predatory mites or ladybugs.
7. Flowering and Harvesting
LA Ultra has a relatively short flowering period, making it an attractive option for growers:
- Flowering Time: 7–8 weeks indoors or late September to early October outdoors.
- Signs of Maturity:
- Trichomes turn cloudy with some amber hues.
- Pistils darken and curl inward.
- Harvest Window:
- For maximum THC: Harvest when trichomes are predominantly cloudy.
- For a more balanced effect: Wait for 20–30% of trichomes to turn amber.
8. Drying and Curing
Post-harvest handling is crucial to preserve LA Ultra’s potency and terpene profile:
- Drying:
- Hang buds upside down in a dark, well-ventilated space with a temperature of 60–70°F (15–21°C) and humidity of 50–60%.
- Drying time: 7–10 days.
- Curing:
- Put the dried buds in glass jars that are airtight.
- Open jars daily for the first week (“burping”) to release moisture.
- Cure for a minimum of 2–4 weeks for optimal flavor and smoothness.
9. Enhancing Cannabinoid and Terpene Production
To maximize the potency and aroma of LA Ultra, consider the following:
- UV Light Exposure: Introducing UV-B light during the late flowering stage can stimulate trichome production and enhance THC levels.
- Stress Techniques: Mild stress, such as controlled drought, can trigger the plant’s defense mechanisms, increasing resin and terpene production.
- Flushing: In the last 1–2 weeks before harvest, flush the medium with pH-balanced water to remove excess nutrients. This enhances flavor by preventing harsh, chemical tastes.
Conclusion
LA Ultra is a powerful indica-dominant hybrid that offers a unique combination of therapeutic and recreational benefits. Its high THC content, complemented by a robust terpene profile, makes it effective for managing pain, stress, and sleep disorders while delivering an intensely relaxing and euphoric experience for recreational users. Though it comes with potential side effects, proper dosing and responsible use ensure that LA Ultra remains a top choice for both medical and recreational cannabis consumers.
For a complete directory of cultivars, visit our Cannabis Strain Reviews.
