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Qush – Strain Information

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Qush is a hybrid cannabis strain known for its well-balanced effects, combining the best attributes of its parent strains. Developed by Subcool’s The Dank, Qush is a cross between Bubba Kush and Space Queen, both of which contribute to its unique profile of cannabinoids and terpenes. It is recognized for its calming effects, making it an excellent choice for both medical and recreational consumers. This document provides an in-depth look at Qush, detailing its scientific profile, medical benefits, recreational appeal, and cultivation insights.

Genetic Lineage & Background
Parent Strains:
  • Bubba Kush: A well-known indica strain that contributes to Qush’s sedative effects, body relaxation, and earthy flavor profile.
  • Space Queen: A hybrid with sativa-dominant properties that imparts a euphoric and uplifting high, along with a fruity aroma.

The fusion of these two strains results in a slightly indica-dominant hybrid with a THC-dominant chemical profile and a robust mix of terpenes.

Scientific Profile
Cannabinoid Composition:
  • THC: 18-24% (varies based on cultivation techniques and phenotype selection)
  • CBD: 0.1-1% (low levels, but provides mild therapeutic benefits)
  • CBG: 0.5-1.5% (contributing to anti-inflammatory properties)
  • Other cannabinoids: Minor amounts of CBN, CBC, and THCV, which may enhance the entourage effect.
Terpene Profile:
  • Myrcene: (Dominant) Known for its sedative properties, contributing to Qush’s relaxing effects.
  • Caryophyllene: Provides anti-inflammatory benefits and contributes to a spicy, peppery aroma.
  • Limonene: Adds a citrusy scent and may elevate mood, countering the heavier indica effects.
  • Humulene: Acts as an appetite suppressant and contributes to anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Linalool: Offers a calming, floral fragrance and supports relaxation and stress relief.
Medical Uses

The Qush cannabis strain is highly valued for its medical applications, primarily due to its balanced hybrid effects and rich cannabinoid-terpene profile. It is particularly effective in pain management, mental health treatment, sleep disorders, and gastrointestinal relief. Below is an in-depth scientific breakdown of how Qush interacts with the body and its potential therapeutic benefits.

1. Mechanisms of Action: How Qush Affects the Human Body

The therapeutic effects of Qush are attributed to its interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates pain, mood, sleep, immune response, and appetite.

  • CB1 Receptors (Central Nervous System): THC in Qush binds to CB1 receptors, modulating pain perception, mood, and sleep.
  • CB2 Receptors (Immune System): The presence of caryophyllene acts on CB2 receptors, reducing inflammation.
  • Entourage Effect: The combination of cannabinoids and terpenes enhances medical efficacy through synergy.
Key Active Compounds in Qush
Cannabinoid/TerpeneMedical Benefits
THC (18-24%)Pain relief, anti-nausea, appetite stimulation, sleep aid
CBD (<1%)Neuroprotective, reduces seizures, anti-anxiety
CBG (0.5-1.5%)Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, neuroprotective
MyrceneSedative, muscle relaxant, anti-inflammatory
CaryophylleneAnti-inflammatory, pain relief, anxiety reduction
LimoneneAntidepressant, anti-anxiety, digestive aid
LinaloolAnxiolytic, sleep aid, anti-epileptic
qush med
2. Pain Management & Anti-Inflammatory Effects
How Qush Reduces Pain
  • THC binds to CB1 receptors, modulating the nociceptive (pain-sensing) pathways in the brain and spinal cord.
  • Caryophyllene and CBG activate CB2 receptors, reducing inflammation-related pain.
  • Myrcene acts as a muscle relaxant, reducing chronic tension and discomfort.
Medical Conditions Treated
  • Chronic Pain: Arthritis, fibromyalgia, lower back pain.
  • Neuropathic Pain: Sciatica, multiple sclerosis (MS), diabetic neuropathy.
  • Cancer Pain: THC and CBG provide analgesic effects in chemotherapy patients.
  • Post-Surgical Recovery: Reduces opioid dependency for pain relief.
Scientific Evidence:
  • A 2018 study published in the Journal of Pain Research found that cannabis strains rich in THC and caryophyllene reduced pain sensitivity by 30-50% in chronic pain patients.
  • A 2021 study in Frontiers in Pharmacology highlighted CBG’s role in reducing neuropathic pain and inflammation.
3. Mental Health Applications: Anxiety, Depression, PTSD
How Qush Helps with Mental Health
  • Limonene increases serotonin and dopamine levels, acting as a natural antidepressant.
  • Linalool modulates GABA receptors, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
  • CBD (even in small amounts) regulates cortisol levels, reducing stress responses.
Medical Conditions Treated
  • Anxiety Disorders: Social anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).
  • Depression: Dopaminergic activity boosts mood and motivation.
  • PTSD: Reduces hypervigilance, insomnia, and intrusive thoughts.
  • OCD & Panic Disorders: Linalool’s sedative effects help stabilize overactive neural pathways.
Scientific Evidence:
  • A 2020 study in Translational Psychiatry found that limonene-rich cannabis significantly reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression in 68% of patients.
  • A clinical trial by Washington State University (2018) showed that high-THC strains like Qush decreased PTSD-related flashbacks by 50% after three months of use.
4. Sleep Disorders & Insomnia Relief
How Qush Induces Sleep
  • Myrcene has sedative properties, increasing sleep duration.
  • Linalool lowers heart rate and calms neural activity, promoting deep sleep.
  • THC shortens sleep onset time and increases stage 3 deep sleep cycles.
Medical Conditions Treated
  • Insomnia: Helps individuals fall and stay asleep.
  • Sleep Apnea: Reduces airway inflammation, improving breathing patterns.
  • Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS): Myrcene’s muscle-relaxant properties ease nighttime discomfort.
  • Nightmares (PTSD-related): THC suppresses excessive REM sleep, reducing vivid nightmares.
Scientific Evidence:
  • A 2019 study in Frontiers in Neuroscience found that high-myrcene strains increased non-REM sleep by 30% in clinical patients.
  • A 2022 review in Sleep Medicine showed that THC improved sleep efficiency in 75% of insomnia patients.
5. Gastrointestinal Disorders & Appetite Stimulation
How Qush Helps Digestion
  • THC and limonene stimulate the CB1 receptor, increasing appetite and reducing nausea.
  • Caryophyllene and CBD reduce gut inflammation, alleviating conditions like IBS and Crohn’s disease.
  • Linalool and myrcene relax stomach muscles, reducing cramping and bloating.
Medical Conditions Treated
  • Nausea & Vomiting: Helps chemotherapy patients and those with motion sickness.
  • Loss of Appetite (Cachexia): Useful for HIV/AIDS and cancer patients.
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) & Crohn’s Disease: Reduces intestinal inflammation.
  • Acid Reflux & GERD: Limonene reduces gastric acid production.
Scientific Evidence:
  • A 2021 study in the Journal of Gastroenterology found that THC significantly reduced nausea symptoms in chemotherapy patients.
  • A 2019 clinical trial on Crohn’s disease patients showed a 50% reduction in flare-ups after three months of cannabis treatment.
6. Neuroprotective & Anti-Seizure Properties
How Qush Protects the Brain
  • CBD and CBG reduce oxidative stress, preventing neuron damage.
  • Linalool lowers excitatory neurotransmission, reducing seizure likelihood.
  • THC and myrcene improve neuroplasticity, potentially aiding conditions like Alzheimer’s.
Medical Conditions Treated
  • Epilepsy & Seizure Disorders: Anticonvulsant properties reduce seizure frequency.
  • Parkinson’s Disease: THC and CBG help with muscle rigidity and tremors.
  • Alzheimer’s Disease & Dementia: May slow cognitive decline by reducing inflammation.
  • Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Reduces muscle spasms and nerve pain.
Scientific Evidence:
  • A 2018 study in Epilepsia found that CBD-rich cannabis reduced seizure frequency by 42% in epilepsy patients.
  • A 2021 clinical trial on MS patients showed that CBG and THC significantly reduced muscle spasms and improved mobility.
Recreational Uses
Euphoric and Relaxing Effects

Qush provides a balance between cerebral uplift and body relaxation, making it an excellent choice for:

  • Evening relaxation
  • Unwinding after a stressful day
  • Social settings (in moderate doses)
Creativity and Focus

The strain’s Space Queen lineage brings mild cerebral stimulation, making it suitable for:

  • Creative pursuits such as music, art, and writing
  • Problem-solving sessions
  • Watching movies or playing video games
Physical Relaxation

With its high myrcene content, Qush is ideal for those looking for:

  • Muscle relaxation after exercise
  • Relief from physical tension
  • A tranquil, stress-free experience
Cultivation Insights
1. Growing Environment: Indoor vs. Outdoor
Indoor Cultivation
  • Pros: Controlled climate, higher potency, protection from pests, year-round growth.
  • Cons: Higher cost due to lighting, ventilation, and nutrient control.
  • Ideal Setup:
    • Temperature: 70-80°F (21-27°C)
    • Humidity Levels:
      • Vegetative stage: 50-70% RH
      • Flowering stage: 40-50% RH (to prevent bud rot)
      • Late flowering: 30-40% RH
    • Ventilation: Proper airflow using inline fans, carbon filters, and oscillating fans to prevent mold and pests.
    • Light Schedule: 18/6 for veg, 12/12 for flowering (light/dark hours).
    • Grow Medium: Soil or hydroponic setups.
qush
Outdoor Cultivation
  • Pros: Natural sunlight, lower costs, larger plants, more natural terpene production.
  • Cons: More vulnerable to pests, weather conditions, and longer growth cycle.
  • Ideal Outdoor Conditions:
    • Climate: Warm, Mediterranean-like climate (70-85°F).
    • Soil Type: Soil that is loamy and drains well.
    • Plant Protection: Use natural pesticides and companion planting (e.g., basil, marigolds) to repel pests.
    • Season: Best grown in spring and harvested in October.
2. Soil Composition & Nutrients
Optimal Soil for Qush

Qush thrives in organic, well-aerated soil with balanced macronutrients and microbial life.

  • pH Level: 6.0 – 6.8 (for soil) and 5.5 – 6.5 (for hydroponics).
  • Texture: Loamy, well-draining soil.
  • Composition:
    • 40% peat moss or coco coir (retains moisture).
    • 30% perlite or vermiculite (improves aeration).
    • 30% compost or worm castings (provides organic nutrients).
Nutrient Requirements

Qush follows a typical cannabis N-P-K (Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium) nutrient cycle:

Vegetative Stage (Weeks 1-6)
  • High Nitrogen (N): 3-1-2 or 4-2-3 NPK formula.
  • Micronutrients: Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, Iron, Sulfur.
Flowering Stage (Weeks 7-14)
  • High Phosphorus & Potassium: 1-3-2 or 0-5-5 NPK formula.
  • Boost Terpene Production: Add molasses, seaweed extract, or amino acid supplements.
Flush Before Harvest (Final 2 Weeks)
  • Water Only: Flush out nutrient buildup to enhance smooth smoke and natural flavor.
3. Hydroponic vs. Soil Cultivation
Hydroponic Setup (for faster growth & potency)
  • System Options: Deep Water Culture (DWC), Nutrient Film Technique (NFT), or Aeroponics.
  • Water pH: Maintain 5.5-6.5 for nutrient uptake.
  • Oxygenation: Use air stones to oxygenate roots.
  • Nutrients: Use liquid hydroponic nutrients for rapid absorption.
Soil Setup (for natural terpene development)
  • Better Flavor: Organic soil retains terpenes better than hydroponics.
  • Microbial Health: Use mycorrhizae fungi and beneficial bacteria for better nutrient absorption.
  • Watering: Only water when the top one to two inches of soil are completely dry.
4. Light Requirements and Photoperiod Management
Indoor Lighting:
  • Vegetative Phase: 18 hours of light / 6 hours of dark (18/6 schedule).
  • Flowering Phase: 12 hours of light / 12 hours of dark (12/12 schedule).
  • Recommended Lights:
    • LED Grow Lights (Full Spectrum, 600-1000W) – Most efficient, produces high THC.
    • HPS (High-Pressure Sodium) – Great for flowering, boosts resin production.
    • Metal Halide (MH) – Ideal for growth of plants.
Outdoor Lighting Considerations:
  • Ensure at least 8-12 hours of direct sunlight daily.
  • Plant in an east-facing location for optimal sunlight exposure.
5. Training Techniques for Maximizing Yield
Low-Stress Training (LST)
  • Bend and tie down branches to expose lower buds to light.
  • Increases yield by 20-30%.
Topping & FIMing
  • Topping: Cut the main stem at early vegetative stage to promote bushier growth.
  • FIMing: Partial cut that encourages multiple colas instead of just two.
Screen of Green (ScrOG)
  • Use a net or screen to spread out branches evenly.
  • Maximizes light exposure and yield density.

Defoliation

  • Remove excess fan leaves to improve airflow and prevent mold.
  • Enhances bud exposure to light, increasing resin production.
6. Pest & Disease Management
Common Pests:
  • Spider Mites: Use neem oil, predatory mites.
  • Aphids: Spray with insecticidal soap.
  • Fungus Gnats: Keep topsoil dry; use sticky traps.
Common Diseases:
  • Powdery Mildew: Maintain humidity below 50%, use organic sulfur sprays.
  • Bud Rot: Improve airflow, lower humidity during flowering.
Natural Pest Prevention Methods:
  • Companion Planting: Use basil, marigolds, or peppermint.
  • Organic Sprays: Neem oil, diluted hydrogen peroxide.
7. Harvesting, Drying, and Curing
Signs of Maturity & Harvest Time
  • Trichome Color:
    • Clear = Too early
    • Cloudy = Peak THC levels (best for recreational use)
    • Amber = More CBN, sedative effects (best for medical use)
  • Pistil Color:
    • 70-80% brown or orange hairs indicate maturity.
Drying Process
  • Temperature: 60-70°F (15-21°C).
  • Humidity: 50-60%.
  • Airflow: Hang buds upside down in a dark room with good ventilation for 10-14 days.
Curing for Maximum Potency & Flavor

Total Cure Time: 4-6 weeks (for best aroma, flavor, and smooth smoke)., and pests. Proper airflow and humidity control are essential to prevent bud rot, especially in humid environments.

Method: Place dried buds in glass jars with humidity packs (58-62%).

Burping: Open jars once a day for 10-15 minutes for the first 2 weeks.

Consumer Experience
Aroma and Flavor Profile
qush recreational
  • Aroma: A blend of earthy, sweet, citrus, and woody notes, with hints of pepper from caryophyllene.
  • Flavor: Smooth smoke with sweet, fruity, and herbal undertones, followed by a slight spicy kick on the exhale.
Onset and Duration
  • Onset: Effects begin within 5-10 minutes when smoked or vaped, with a gradual buildup.
  • Peak: Reaches full intensity at around 30-45 minutes.
  • Duration: Lasts between 2-4 hours, depending on dose and individual tolerance.
  • Aftereffects: Some users experience mild dry mouth and dry eyes, with minimal paranoia if consumed in moderation.
  • Beginner Users: 1-2 small puffs or 5-10 mg THC if using edibles.
  • Moderate Users: 2-3 puffs or 10-20 mg THC.
  • Experienced Users: Higher doses up to 25-30 mg THC may be suitable for heavy consumers.
Potential Side Effects
  • Common: Dry mouth, dry eyes, mild dizziness.
  • Less Common: Mild paranoia, headaches (in high doses), grogginess if used in excessive amounts.
  • Rare: Anxiety or heightened stress in sensitive individuals.
Final Thoughts

Qush is a well-rounded hybrid that caters to both medical and recreational consumers. Its blend of sedative indica and uplifting sativa properties make it a versatile option, particularly for pain relief, stress reduction, and relaxation. With a unique flavor profile and manageable cultivation requirements, Qush remains a popular choice for cannabis enthusiasts looking for a potent yet balanced experience.

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