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Purple Alien OG is an exotic and highly potent hybrid strain that has gained popularity among both medical and recreational cannabis users. This strain is a cross between Alien Kush and Tahoe OG, resulting in a well-balanced hybrid with Indica-dominant effects. Known for its deep purple hues, resinous buds, and pungent aroma, Purple Alien OG delivers a powerful full-body high combined with euphoric cerebral stimulation.
This article explores Purple Alien OG in detail, covering its genetics, cannabinoid profile, terpene composition, medical benefits, recreational uses, and scientific insights.
Genetics and Lineage
Purple Alien OG is a hybrid strain that comes from two legendary parent strains:
- Alien Kush (Indica-dominant hybrid): Known for its relaxing body high and psychoactive effects, Alien Kush contributes to the heavy Indica effects found in Purple Alien OG.
- Tahoe OG (Indica-dominant hybrid): A phenotype of OG Kush, Tahoe OG is famous for its strong sedative properties and earthy, citrusy aroma.
Because both parent strains have strong Indica genetics, Purple Alien OG leans more towards the Indica side (approximately 70% Indica, 30% Sativa) while still retaining some uplifting Sativa characteristics.
Cannabinoid and Terpene Profile
The potency of Purple Alien OG is primarily due to its high THC content, which generally falls between 19% and 25%, with some phenotypes testing over 26% THC. The CBD content is relatively low, usually below 1%, though it contains minor cannabinoids that contribute to the entourage effect.

Cannabinoid Breakdown
- THC: 19% – 25% (can reach up to 26%)
- CBD: <1%
- CBG: 0.5% – 1%
- CBC, CBN, THCV: Present in trace amounts
Terpene Profile
Terpenes contribute to the strain’s aroma, flavor, and therapeutic effects. The dominant terpenes in Purple Alien OG are:
- Myrcene (Earthy, Musky, Herbal) – 0.5% to 1.2%
- Known for its sedative, anti-inflammatory, and muscle relaxant properties.
- Limonene (Citrus, Lemon) – 0.3% to 0.8%
- Provides uplifting effects, mood enhancement, and stress relief.
- Caryophyllene (Spicy, Peppery) – 0.2% to 0.7%
- A potent anti-inflammatory terpene that interacts with CB2 receptors, making it beneficial for pain and stress.
- Pinene (Pine, Woody) – 0.1% to 0.5%
- Known for anti-inflammatory, bronchodilatory, and cognitive-enhancing properties.
- Linalool (Lavender, Floral) – 0.1% to 0.3%
- Contributes to calming and anti-anxiety effects.
These terpenes work together in the entourage effect, enhancing the strain’s therapeutic potential.
Appearance, Aroma, and Flavor Profile
Appearance
Purple Alien OG is visually stunning, featuring:
- Deep purple hues mixed with forest green buds
- Bright orange pistils (hairs) that contrast against the purple backdrop
- Dense, resinous buds covered in a thick layer of trichomes, giving them a frosty, almost white appearance
Aroma
The strain has a complex and pungent aroma that combines:
- Earthy Kush notes
- Sweet grape-like undertones
- Hints of citrus and pine
- Slight peppery spice due to caryophyllene
Flavor Profile
The taste of Purple Alien OG mirrors its aroma, offering a rich and layered smoking experience:
- Sweet grape and berry flavors
- Earthy and pine-like undertones
- A smooth, citrusy finish with a hint of spice
The smooth smoke makes it a favorite among cannabis connoisseurs.
Effects and Benefits
Recreational Effects
Purple Alien OG delivers a well-balanced high, making it ideal for both daytime and nighttime use (depending on dosage).
- Euphoria & Mental Clarity: The initial cerebral rush uplifts mood, enhances creativity, and relieves stress.
- Relaxation & Sedation: The strong Indica effects kick in after 20–30 minutes, leading to deep relaxation and couch-lock in high doses.
- Increased Sensory Perception: Enhances appreciation for music, food, and artistic activities.
- Mild Psychedelic Effects: In high doses, users may experience enhanced visual and auditory perceptions.
Best for:
- Evening relaxation
- Watching movies
- Creative activities
- Socializing in small groups
Not ideal for:
- Tasks requiring high focus or energy
- Morning use (unless in small doses)
Medical Benefits
Purple Alien OG is highly valued in the medical cannabis community due to its powerful therapeutic effects.
- Pain Relief
- The high THC content and caryophyllene provide potent analgesic effects, helping with conditions like:
- Chronic pain
- Arthritis
- Migraines
- Fibromyalgia
- Muscle spasms
- The high THC content and caryophyllene provide potent analgesic effects, helping with conditions like:
- Anxiety & Stress Reduction
- The Myrcene + Linalool + Limonene combination helps:
- Reduce anxiety and stress
- Improve mood
- Combat symptoms of PTSD
- The Myrcene + Linalool + Limonene combination helps:
- Insomnia Treatment
- The sedative effects make it an excellent strain for sleep disorders and insomnia.
- Appetite Stimulation (Anti-Nausea)
- THC + Limonene help increase appetite and reduce nausea, making it ideal for:
- Chemotherapy patients
- Those with eating disorders
- THC + Limonene help increase appetite and reduce nausea, making it ideal for:
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects
- Caryophyllene & Pinene work together to reduce inflammation, benefiting those with:
- Autoimmune diseases
- Multiple sclerosis
- IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)
- Caryophyllene & Pinene work together to reduce inflammation, benefiting those with:
Methods of Ingestion & Their Pharmacokinetics
The method of ingestion plays a critical role in how THC, CBD, and terpenes are absorbed, metabolized, and distributed in the body. Below is a comparison of different ingestion methods.
A. Smoking (Combustion)
(Joint, Blunt, Pipe, Bong, Dry Herb Vaporizer at High Temps)
- Onset: Seconds to 2 minutes
- Peak Effects: 15–30 minutes
- Total Duration: 2–4 hours
- Bioavailability: 20–37%
- Metabolism: Absorbed in alveoli (lungs) → bloodstream → brain
- Primary Effects: Immediate euphoria, relaxation, and cerebral stimulation
Scientific Breakdown:
- THC is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs.
- Peak plasma concentrations occur within 3–10 minutes.
- Effects decline rapidly after peaking, as THC is metabolized in the liver (CYP2C9, CYP3A4 enzymes) into 11-hydroxy-THC (11-OH-THC), a more potent metabolite.
Why It’s Popular:
Fast onset for immediate symptom relief
Full terpene and cannabinoid profile is retained
Combustion destroys some cannabinoids & terpenes
B. Vaporization (Dry Herb or Concentrate)
(Vape Pens, Dab Rigs, E-Rigs, Portable Vaporizers)
- Onset: 30 seconds to 3 minutes
- Peak Effects: 10–20 minutes
- Total Duration: 3–5 hours
- Bioavailability: 50–80% (higher than smoking)
- Metabolism: Lungs → Bloodstream → Brain
- Primary Effects: Euphoric, relaxing, smooth onset
Scientific Breakdown:
- No combustion means that cannabinoids and terpenes are not degraded, leading to higher potency and smoother effects.
- Lower temperatures (315–450°F or 157–232°C) preserve terpenes like Myrcene, Limonene, and Caryophyllene, enhancing flavor and entourage effects.
Why It’s Popular:
Higher bioavailability (more THC absorbed)
Less lung irritation compared to smoking
Stronger effects per hit due to vapor purity
C. Edibles (THC-Infused Foods, Gummies, Capsules, Tinctures)

- Onset: 30–90 minutes
- Peak Effects: 2–4 hours
- Total Duration: 6–12 hours
- Bioavailability: 4–20% (lower than inhalation)
- Metabolism: First-pass metabolism in liver → 11-OH-THC (more potent psychoactive metabolite)
- Primary Effects: Deep body high, sedation, long-lasting euphoria
Scientific Breakdown:
- THC is processed by the digestive system, passing through the liver before reaching the brain.
- The liver converts THC into 11-hydroxy-THC (11-OH-THC), which is 2–3 times more psychoactive.
- The delayed onset leads to prolonged, intense, full-body effects.
Why It’s Popular:
Longer-lasting effects (ideal for chronic pain, insomnia)
Stronger sedative properties compared to smoking
Difficult to dose due to delayed onset
D. Sublingual (Tinctures, Sprays, Dissolvable Strips)
- Onset: 15–45 minutes
- Peak Effects: 45–90 minutes
- Total Duration: 4–6 hours
- Bioavailability: 20–35% (higher than edibles but lower than vaping/smoking)
- Metabolism: Partially bypasses liver, enters bloodstream via mucous membranes
- Primary Effects: Balanced cerebral and body high, quicker onset than edibles
Scientific Breakdown:
- Absorbed through the mucous membranes under the tongue, bypassing the digestive tract for faster onset than traditional edibles.
- Less THC is converted to 11-OH-THC, making effects less sedative but still potent.
Why It’s Popular:
Fast onset without smoking
Longer-lasting than vaping but shorter than edibles
Precise dosing available
Some THC still metabolized in the liver, reducing efficiency
E. Topicals (Creams, Balms, Transdermal Patches)

- Onset: 10–60 minutes
- Peak Effects: 1–2 hours
- Total Duration: 4–12 hours
- Bioavailability: <5% (localized effects, no high)
- Metabolism: Absorbed through the skin, does not enter bloodstream unless transdermal
- Primary Effects: Localized pain relief, anti-inflammatory benefits
Scientific Breakdown:
- THC binds to CB2 receptors in the skin, reducing inflammation and pain without psychoactive effects.
- Transdermal patches allow cannabinoids to enter the bloodstream, producing systemic effects (mild psychoactivity in high doses).
Why It’s Popular:
Ideal for pain relief, arthritis, inflammation
No psychoactive effects unless transdermal
Long-lasting relief
Not effective for mental or systemic effects
Duration of Effects by Ingestion Method
| Method | Onset Time | Peak Effects | Total Duration | Bioavailability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Smoking | 30 sec – 2 min | 15–30 min | 2–4 hours | 20–37% |
| Vaporization | 30 sec – 3 min | 10–20 min | 3–5 hours | 50–80% |
| Edibles | 30–90 min | 2–4 hours | 6–12 hours | 4–20% |
| Sublingual | 15–45 min | 45–90 min | 4–6 hours | 20–35% |
| Topicals | 10–60 min | 1–2 hours | 4–12 hours | <5% (localized) |
Scientific Considerations for Choosing the Right Method
Best Methods Based on Medical Use
Chronic Pain: Edibles, Vaporizers, or Transdermal Patches
Anxiety & PTSD: Sublingual Tinctures or Vaping
Insomnia: Edibles (strongest), Vaporizers (faster onset)
Nausea & Appetite Loss: Vaporization or Smoking (fastest relief)
Muscle Spasms & Inflammation: Topicals or Edibles
Scientific Insight:
- Inhalation methods (smoking, vaping) are best for immediate symptom relief but have shorter durations.
- Edibles & tinctures offer longer-lasting relief, ideal for chronic conditions.
- Topicals are localized and non-psychoactive, great for targeted pain relief.
Scientific Insights: How Purple Alien OG Works in the Body
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a vital role in the strain’s effects.
- THC binds to CB1 receptors in the brain, leading to euphoria, relaxation, and pain relief.
- Caryophyllene interacts with CB2 receptors, offering anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.
- Limonene influences serotonin and dopamine levels, helping with mood disorders.
- Myrcene enhances THC absorption, increasing the potency of effects.
Scientific research suggests that Indica-dominant hybrids like Purple Alien OG could be more effective for chronic pain and stress-related disorders compared to pure Sativas.
Cultivation Information
Optimal Growing Conditions for Purple Alien OG
Since Purple Alien OG is an Indica-dominant hybrid, it thrives in controlled environments with the following parameters:

A. Climate & Temperature Requirements
- Ideal Temperature: 65–80°F (18–27°C)
- Vegetative Phase: 72–78°F (22–26°C)
- Flowering Phase: 68–75°F (20–24°C)
- Night Temperature Drop: A 10–15°F drop at night enhances anthocyanin production, bringing out its deep purple hues.
B. Humidity Control
- Seedling Stage: 65–70% RH
- Vegetative Stage: 50–60% RH
- Flowering Stage: 40–50% RH
- Late Flowering (Week 7–10): 30–40% RH to prevent mold and increase trichome production.
C. Light Requirements
- Indoor: Full-spectrum LED or HPS lights (600W – 1000W)
- Light Schedule (Veg): 18/6 (18 hours light, 6 hours dark)
- Light Schedule (Flowering): 12/12 to trigger flowering
- PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation): 600–900 μmol/m²/s in veg, 900–1200 μmol/m²/s in flowering.
Soil vs. Hydroponics: Best Medium for Purple Alien OG
Both soil and hydroponics work for this strain, but each has its advantages.
A. Soil (Organic Super Soil)
- Best for flavor & terpene production.
- Requires nutrient-rich organic soil with living microbes.
- Ideal Soil Mix:
- 30% Coco Coir (Aeration & water retention)
- 30% Perlite (Drainage)
- 30% Organic Compost (Nutrient supply)
- 10% Worm Castings (Boosts beneficial bacteria)
- pH Range: 6.0–6.5
B. Hydroponics (Deep Water Culture – DWC)
- Boosts THC levels & yield.
- Faster growth due to direct nutrient uptake.
- Nutrient Solution pH: 5.5–6.0
- EC (Electrical Conductivity): 1.2–1.8 mS/cm in veg, 1.8–2.4 mS/cm in flowering.
Nutrient Feeding Schedule
A. Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K) Ratios
- Vegetative Stage: N-P-K (3-1-2) or (4-2-3)
- Early Flowering: N-P-K (1-3-3)
- Mid-Late Flowering: N-P-K (0-3-4) or (0-4-5) (Higher P & K for resin & bud density)
B. Key Micronutrients
- Calcium (Ca) & Magnesium (Mg): Prevents bud rot & supports resin production.
- Sulfur (S): Enhances terpene synthesis.
- Silica (Si): Strengthens cell walls, preventing mold and pests.
C. CO₂ Enrichment for Maximized Yield
- CO₂ Concentration: 1000–1500 ppm in the flowering stage can increase yield by 20–30%.
- Best with Sealed Grow Rooms & High-Intensity Lights (1000W HPS or LEDs).
Pruning & Training Techniques for High Yield
A. Low-Stress Training (LST)
- Gently bend and tie down branches to increase light penetration.
- Results in higher bud sites & better airflow.
B. High-Stress Training (HST)
- Topping (FIMing): Cutting the main cola promotes multiple colas.
- Super Cropping: Slightly damaging branches boosts cannabinoid production.
C. Defoliation
- Remove excess fan leaves to enhance bud exposure & prevent mold.
5. Harvesting & Curing for Maximum Potency
A. When to Harvest?
- Trichomes: 70% milky, 20% amber, 10% clear.
- Pistils: 80% dark orange/brown.
B. Drying & Curing Process
- Drying Temp: 60–70°F (16–21°C)
- Humidity: 50–60% RH
- Curing Time: 3–6 weeks in glass jars, burped daily.
Final Verdict: Who Should Try Purple Alien OG?
Best For:
Chronic pain patients
Anxiety and stress relief
Insomniacs
Cannabis connoisseurs who appreciate exotic strains
Artists and creatives
Not Ideal For:
Beginners (due to high THC potency)
People with low THC tolerance
Those needing daytime energy boosts
Overall Rating: 9/10
Purple Alien OG is an exceptional hybrid offering powerful relaxation, pain relief, and a euphoric high—perfect for both medical and recreational users. Whether you’re seeking deep relaxation or a flavorful smoking experience, this strain delivers top-tier effects.
For a complete directory of cultivars, visit our Cannabis Strain Reviews.