Table of Contents
Motavation is a highly regarded indica-dominant hybrid strain known for its potent relaxing effects, sedative qualities, and uplifting euphoria. Developed by Magus Genetics, this strain is a cross between Sensi Star and Warlock, two legendary strains in their own right. It is praised for its ability to induce a deeply relaxed state while maintaining a cerebral high, making it a favorite among medical and recreational users alike.
Genetic Lineage and Background
Parent Strains
- Sensi Star: An award-winning indica-dominant strain known for its exceptionally high THC content and strong physical relaxation effects.
- Warlock: A hybrid strain with a well-balanced effect profile, offering cerebral stimulation and physical relaxation.
By combining these two strains, Motavation inherits both the powerful body sedation from Sensi Star and the mildly euphoric cerebral high from Warlock. Because of this, it is the perfect strain to utilize in the evening or at night.
Appearance, Aroma, and Flavor Profile
Appearance
- Dense, compact buds with a tight structure typical of indica-dominant strains.
- Deep green hues, often accompanied by purple and blue undertones when grown in cooler temperatures.
- Thick trichome coverage, giving the buds a frosty, resinous appearance.
- Amber-orange pistils, weaving through the dense nugs.
Aroma Profile
- Pungent and skunky, with earthy and herbal notes.
- Hints of sweet citrus and fruit, inherited from Warlock’s genetics.
- Undertones of spicy, woody, and floral aromas that develop as the bud is broken apart.
Flavor Profile
- Earthy and woody inhale, with spicy notes.
- Subtle sweet and fruity flavors, similar to mango or citrus.
- A hash-like, skunky aftertaste, common in indica-dominant strains.
Terpene Profile and Chemical Composition
The flavor, aroma, and medicinal properties of the strain are all influenced by terpenes. The dominant terpenes in Motavation include:
Dominant Terpenes
- Myrcene (0.5%-1.2%) – Sedative, relaxing, and muscle-relaxing properties.
- Limonene (0.3%-0.8%) – Uplifting, mood-enhancing, and anti-anxiety properties.
- Caryophyllene (0.2%-0.6%) – Anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.
- Pinene (0.1%-0.4%) – Enhances alertness, bronchodilator properties.
Cannabinoid Content
- THC: 18-24% (can reach up to 26% in optimal conditions).
- CBD: < 1% (typically around 0.2-0.5%).
- CBG: 0.5%-1.2% (anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects).
Motavation is a high-THC, low-CBD strain, making it suitable for potent psychoactive effects and pain relief rather than conditions that require CBD-dominant strains.
Effects and Recreational Uses
Onset and Duration
- Effects typically set in within 5-10 minutes after smoking or vaporizing.
- Peak effects last 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
- Residual effects may linger for 3-5 hours, particularly in novice users.
Recreational Effects
- Euphoric Lift – Motavation initial cerebral buzz induces happiness and a light, uplifting mood.
- Deep Relaxation – Heavy body relaxation follows, easing physical tension.
- Creative Thought – Despite its indica dominance, it provides mild creative stimulation.
- Couch-Lock – In higher doses, users often experience sedation and a heavy body high.
- Increased Appetite – Commonly triggers hunger, often referred to as “the munchies.”
Ideal Recreational Use Cases
- Evening or nighttime relaxation
- Watching movies, listening to music, or creative brainstorming
- Post-work unwinding and stress relief
- Social settings where a relaxed, giggly atmosphere is preferred
Due to its strong sedative effects, it is not ideal for daytime use unless the user has a high THC tolerance.
Medical Applications and Therapeutic Benefits
Motavation has a broad spectrum of medical applications, primarily due to its sedative, anti-inflammatory, and mood-enhancing effects.
Neurological and Psychological Conditions
- Anxiety & Stress – The high myrcene and limonene content in Motavation promotes relaxation and mood stabilization.
- Depression – Induces euphoria and reduces negative thoughts.
- PTSD & OCD – Helps calm racing thoughts and reduces hypervigilance.
- Insomnia – The sedative effects make it one of the best strains for sleep disorders.
Pain Management
- Chronic Pain – Effective for conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and neuropathic pain.
- Muscle Spasms – Relieves muscle tension, beneficial for multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Migraines & Headaches – The anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties help with tension headaches.
Gastrointestinal & Appetite Disorders
- Nausea & Vomiting – Useful for chemotherapy-induced nausea.
- Appetite Stimulation – Helps with appetite loss in cancer or HIV/AIDS patients.
Other Medical Applications
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) – Reduces muscle spasticity and discomfort.
- Epilepsy – Though THC-dominant, its sedative effects can help in seizure control (not a primary treatment).
Methods of Ingestion
The method of ingestion affects the rate of cannabinoid absorption, the intensity of effects, and the duration of action. The three primary methods for consuming Motavation are:

Inhalation (Smoking & Vaporization)
How It Works:
- THC and other cannabinoids enter the lungs and are rapidly absorbed into the pulmonary circulation.
- The cannabinoids reach the brain within seconds to minutes, leading to fast effects.
- Bioavailability: 25-30% of THC reaches systemic circulation (depends on inhalation technique).
Methods of Inhalation

- Smoking (Joints, Blunts, Pipes, Bongs)
- Pros: Immediate onset, potent effects.
- Cons: Potential lung irritation, lower terpene preservation.
- Vaporization (Dry Herb Vaporizers, Dab Rigs, Cartridges)
- Pros: Higher terpene retention, fewer combustion byproducts, more efficient THC absorption.
- Cons: Requires specialized equipment, may not produce the same sensation as smoking.
Onset and Duration (Smoking & Vaporization)
- Onset: 30 seconds – 5 minutes
- Peak Effects: 15-30 minutes
- Total Duration: 2-4 hours
Oral Consumption (Edibles, Capsules, Tinctures)
How It Works:
- THC is metabolized by the liver into 11-hydroxy-THC (11-OH-THC), which is more potent and has a longer half-life.
- This method has slower onset but produces stronger and longer-lasting effects.
- Bioavailability: 4-20%, varies based on metabolism and digestion.
Types of Oral Consumption
- Edibles (Gummies, Brownies, Chocolates, Drinks)
- Pros: Stronger, long-lasting effects.
- Cons: Delayed onset, risk of overconsumption.
- Capsules/Pills
- Pros: Precise dosing, no taste, no inhalation required.
- Cons: Slower absorption, less flexibility in dosing.
- Sublingual Tinctures (Placed Under the Tongue, Absorbed via Mucosal Membranes)
- Pros: Faster onset than edibles, avoids first-pass metabolism.
- Cons: Some may dislike the taste of cannabis extracts.
Onset and Duration (Edibles & Oral Consumption)
- Onset: 30-90 minutes (depends on metabolism and stomach contents).
- Peak Effects: 2-4 hours after ingestion.
- Total Duration: 6-8 hours (some effects may last up to 12 hours).
Topical and Transdermal Application
How It Works:
- Cannabinoids are absorbed through the skin and interact with CB2 receptors in the skin and muscles.
- Does not produce psychoactive effects unless using a transdermal patch designed to deliver THC into the bloodstream.
- Bioavailability: Low unless using transdermal patches with enhancers.
Types of Topical Application
- Lotions & Creams: Used for localized pain relief and inflammation, but do not enter the bloodstream.
- Transdermal Patches: Deliver THC systemically for slow, consistent effects.
Onset and Duration (Topicals & Transdermal Patches)
- Onset:
- Topical Creams: 10-30 minutes (localized relief only).
- Transdermal Patches: 30-60 minutes (systemic absorption).
- Peak Effects:
- Topical Creams: 1-2 hours.
- Transdermal Patches: 4-6 hours.
- Total Duration:
- Topicals: 2-4 hours.
- Transdermal Patches: 6-12 hours.
Bioavailability of Different Ingestion Methods
Bioavailability refers to the percentage of THC that enters systemic circulation and determines the intensity of effects.
| Ingestion Method | Bioavailability (%) | Onset Time | Peak Effects | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smoking | 25-30% | 30 sec – 5 min | 15-30 min | 2-4 hours |
| Vaporization | 30-40% | 30 sec – 5 min | 15-30 min | 2-4 hours |
| Edibles | 4-20% | 30-90 min | 2-4 hours | 6-8 hours |
| Sublingual (Tinctures) | 20-35% | 15-45 min | 1-2 hours | 4-6 hours |
| Transdermal Patches | 30-50% | 30-60 min | 4-6 hours | 6-12 hours |
| Topical Creams | <5% (Localized) | 10-30 min | 1-2 hours | 2-4 hours |
Factors Affecting Onset, Intensity, and Duration
Individual Physiology
- Metabolism: A faster metabolism results in a shorter duration yet a speedier beginning.
- Body Fat Percentage: THC is stored in fat cells, affecting duration and clearance.
- Tolerance Level: Regular users may experience weaker effects and shorter durations.
Stomach Contents (For Edibles and Oral Consumption)
- Empty Stomach: Faster onset but potentially stronger effects.
- Full Stomach: Slower onset but more gradual and prolonged effects.
Cannabinoid and Terpene Interactions (Entourage Effect)
- Myrcene (Sedative Terpene): Enhances THC’s effect, leading to stronger relaxation.
- Limonene (Mood Enhancer): Can make the high more euphoric and uplifting.
- Caryophyllene (Anti-Inflammatory): Enhances pain relief and interacts with CB2 receptors.
Best Ingestion Method for Different Uses
| Use Case | Recommended Ingestion Method | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Immediate Relaxation & Stress Relief | Smoking/Vaping | Fast onset, instant relaxation. |
| Long-lasting Pain Relief | Edibles or Transdermal Patches | Prolonged effects, systemic relief. |
| Sleep Aid (Insomnia) | Edibles (High-THC, High-Myrcene Strains) | Strong sedative effects lasting all night. |
| Daytime Pain or Anxiety Relief (Non-Sedating) | Sublingual Tinctures or Microdosed Edibles | Long-lasting relief without heavy sedation. |
| Localized Pain (Arthritis, Muscle Pain, etc.) | Topical Creams or Lotions | Targeted relief without psychoactive effects. |
Scientific Studies on Motavation’s Effects
While Motavation itself has not been the subject of clinical trials, the individual cannabinoids and terpenes in this strain have been widely studied:
- THC & Chronic Pain: A 2015 review in The Journal of Pain found that THC-rich cannabis strains were effective in managing pain, especially for neuropathic conditions.
- Myrcene & Sleep: A study published in Frontiers in Pharmacology (2021) indicated that myrcene enhances sleep by interacting with GABA receptors.
- Limonene & Anxiety: A study in Psychopharmacology (2018) found limonene to have significant anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties.
- Caryophyllene & Inflammation: Published in The Journal of Neuroinflammation (2020), this study showed that caryophyllene acts as a CB2 receptor agonist, reducing inflammation.
Cultivation Information
Understanding Motavation’s Growth Characteristics
- Indica-dominant Hybrid: Grows short and bushy, ideal for indoor cultivation.
- Flowering Time: 7-9 weeks, relatively short compared to some hybrids.
- Optimal Yield: 400-500g/m² indoors, 500-600g per plant outdoors.
- Resilience: Resistant to pests and molds due to dense bud structure but needs good airflow to prevent bud rot.
Optimal Growing Conditions
Light Spectrum and Photoperiod
Motavation thrives under optimized lighting conditions, leveraging the principles of photosynthesis and photomorphogenesis.
- Vegetative Stage:
- Light Spectrum: 450-500 nm (blue light) promotes compact, vigorous growth.
- Light Cycle: 18-24 hours of light per day.
- Intensity: 400-600 PPFD (Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density) for healthy development.
- Flowering Stage:
- Light Spectrum: 600-700 nm (red light) enhances bud development.
- Light Cycle: 12 hours light / 12 hours darkness (induces flowering).
- Intensity: 800-1,000 PPFD for maximum THC and terpene production.
Best Light Source:
- HPS (High-Pressure Sodium) or Full-Spectrum LED with adjustable wavelengths for maximum efficiency.
Temperature and Humidity Control
- Vegetative Phase:
- Temperature: 22-27°C (72-80°F)
- Humidity: 55-65%
- CO₂ Enrichment: 900-1,200 ppm for faster growth.
- Flowering Phase:
- Temperature: 18-24°C (64-75°F) to encourage resin production.
- Humidity: 40-50% (reduces mold risk).
- CO₂ Enrichment: 1,200-1,500 ppm (boosts bud density).
- Late Flowering (Last 2 Weeks):
- Temperature: 16-20°C (60-68°F) to enhance anthocyanin production, potentially bringing out purple hues in the buds.
- Humidity: 30-40% to prevent botrytis (bud rot).
Soil vs. Hydroponic Cultivation
Soil Cultivation (Organic Method)

Soil provides a rich microbial ecosystem, improving terpene and flavonoid expression.
- Ideal Soil Composition:
- 40% Peat Moss – Retains moisture while providing aeration.
- 30% Perlite – Improves oxygenation of roots.
- 20% Worm Castings or Compost – Rich in nitrogen and beneficial microbes.
- 10% Biochar or Mycorrhizae – Enhances root absorption of nutrients.
- Nutrient Feeding Schedule (Soil Method):
- Nitrogen (N) Heavy Diet (Veg Stage): High NPK ratio (4-3-3).
- Phosphorus & Potassium (P & K) Boost (Flowering Stage): Switch to 1-3-5 NPK for better bud development.
- Flush with Pure Water in the last 10-14 days to remove excess salts.
Hydroponic Cultivation (Advanced Method)
Hydroponic growing delivers nutrients directly to the roots, leading to faster growth and higher cannabinoid production.
- Best Hydroponic Systems for Motavation:
- Deep Water Culture (DWC): Maximizes oxygenation, accelerating growth.
- Aeroponics: Provides precise nutrient delivery and reduces water usage.
- Coco Coir + Drip Irrigation: Mimics soil but allows better control over feeding.
- Optimal EC and pH Levels (Hydroponic System):
- Veg Stage:
- pH: 5.8-6.2
- EC: 1.2-1.6 mS/cm
- Flowering Stage:
- pH: 6.0-6.5
- EC: 1.8-2.4 mS/cm (higher nutrient demand).
- Veg Stage:
- Key Nutrient Additives in Hydroponics:
- Silica Supplement: Strengthens plant cell walls and improves pest resistance.
- Amino Acids & Humic Acids: Enhance nutrient uptake and root development.
- Beneficial Bacteria (Bacillus subtilis & Mycorrhizae): Prevent root rot.
Advanced Growing Techniques for Maximizing Yield
High-Stress Training (HST) Techniques
- Topping (Apical Pruning): Cutting the main stem to promote multiple colas.
- Supercropping: Gently bending stems to increase light exposure and THC production.
Low-Stress Training (LST) Techniques
- SCROG (Screen of Green): Spreading branches across a net for better light penetration.
- LST Bending: Tying down branches to increase bud sites.
Defoliation and Lollipopping
- Defoliation: Removing excess fan leaves to increase airflow and light exposure.
- Lollipopping: Trimming lower branches to redirect energy to top buds.
Harvesting and Post-Harvest Processing
Identifying Peak Harvest Time
- Trichome Color:
- Clear → Too early (low potency).
- Milky White (Optimal THC Levels, Uplifting High).
- Amber (More CBN, Sedative Effects, Heavy Relaxation).
- Pistil Observation:
- 70-90% of pistils turn brown/red = Best time for harvesting.
Drying and Curing Process
- Drying:
- Temperature: 18-22°C (65-72°F).
- Humidity: 50-55% (prevents mold).
- Time: 7-10 days, slow drying preserves terpenes.
- Curing:
- Store buds in glass jars at 60-65% RH.
- Burp jars daily for the first 2 weeks to prevent moisture buildup.
- Curing Time: Minimum 2 weeks, but 6-8 weeks for full flavor and potency.
Pest & Disease Management
Motavation is resistant to pests and molds, but certain conditions may require IPM (Integrated Pest Management).
Common Threats and Solutions
- Spider Mites: Neem oil spray or predatory mites (Phytoseiulus persimilis).
- Powdery Mildew: Apply potassium bicarbonate or increase airflow.
- Fungus Gnats: Use yellow sticky traps and diatomaceous earth in the soil.
- Root Rot: Beneficial microbes like Trichoderma and proper drainage.
Potential Side Effects
- Dry Mouth & Dry Eyes – Common due to high THC content.
- Dizziness & Lightheadedness – Occurs in new users or those sensitive to THC.
- Paranoia & Anxiety – Rare but can occur at high doses.
Conclusion
Motavation is a powerful indica-dominant hybrid with a unique balance of cerebral uplift and full-body sedation. Its strong therapeutic benefits, including stress relief, pain management, and insomnia treatment, make it an excellent medical strain. Recreational users appreciate its euphoric yet deeply relaxing effects, making it a great strain for nighttime enjoyment.
Whether you’re a cannabis connoisseur, medical patient, or grower, Motavation offers high potency, excellent flavor, and versatile benefits, making it a valuable addition to any collection.
For a complete directory of cultivars, visit our Cannabis Strain Reviews.