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Critical Mass

Critical Mass is an indica-dominant strain (cultivar) renowned for its large dense buds, hence, the name. The big buds get so huge that some have been known to snap branches. Critical Mass also has relatively high tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content, which is impressive for a plant with such huge buds. Critical Mass has been described as having relaxing, sleepy effects, making it ideal for chronic pain, stress, and insomnia.

Furthermore, if you’re looking for a strain that prefers indoors over outdoors, then Critical Mass is ideal; when this strain is grown outdoors, the buds are more susceptible to mold.

This strain was created by Mr. Nice, a cultivator who has won several awards in the High Times Cannabis Cup by crossing Afghani indica and Skunk #1 strains. Critical Mass is 80% Cannabis indica and 20% Cannabis sativa. 

The THC content tests around 20%, and the CBD is usually quite low, with some phenotypes measuring up to 5%. Critical Mass’ heavy bud production and high-CBD phenotypes have made it a cornerstone of many breeding projects. A CBD-rich version of Critical Mass is available, called “CBD Critical Mass.” This cultivar generally has a 1:1 THC:CBD ratio, regularly measuring between 5% and 10% THC and CBD.

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Cannabinoids

Tetrahydrocannabinol

THC

18%-20%

Cannabidiol

CBD

1%-5%

Cannabigerol

CBG

1%

Strain types

  • 80%Indica
  • 20%Sativa

Aromas

  • Berry
  • Fruity
  • Skunky
  • Spicy

Flavors

  • Citrus
  • Earthy
  • Fruity
  • Herbal
  • Skunky

Terpenes

Terpenes are an abundant chemical compound found across all plant species, and specific properties of these compounds contribute to the plant’s aroma, flavor, or pigmentation. All cannabis plants contain several terpenes, and some varieties have different compositions.

  • Beta-Caryophyllene

  • Humulene

  • Myrcene

  • Pinene

Flavonoids

Flavonoids have similar properties to terpenes but have different chemical compositions. Like terpenes, they contribute to the cannabis plant’s aroma and flavor. However, some have additional roles, such as assisting plant reproduction or sending information between plant cells.

Like all cannabis plants, the major flavonoids in Critical Mass are cannflavins A, B, and C. Cannflavin A has been studied the most and may interact with cannabinoids like THC and CBD to contribute to their ability to reduce inflammation.

Effects

Critical Masss has been reported to have the following effects:

  • Appetite-Inducing
  • Relaxing
  • Sleepiness

The following adverse effects have also been reported:

  • Appetite Loss
  • Couch Lock
  • Depression
  • Dry Eyes
  • Dry Mouth
  • Headaches
  • Paranoia

Many users claim that large doses of the Critical Mass weed strain make them feel very sleepy and cause “couch lock.” In other words, it can induce such a relaxing and lethargic state that it’s near impossible to move from the couch after using this strain.

Medical Applications

Research has demonstrated that cannabis offers a vast range of health benefits. As a result, some formulations that contain THC are now available via prescription. Like all plants that contain large amounts of THC, Critical Mass makes you high. However, its therapeutic effects are worth considering, and some claim that Critical Mass has a minimal psychoactive impact. Critical Mass also contains CBD and CBG alongside its prominent cannabinoid, THC. Therefore, this strain can potentially offer a broader range of health benefits.
closeup critical mass marijuana nugget
Chronic Pain, Muscle Pain and Other Types of Pain

Cannabis contains anti-inflammatory and analgesic compounds that can help reduce or distract from pain, including THC, CBD, and beta-caryophyllene.

Organ Systems

  • Brain & Nervous System
  • Muscular
  • Skeletal
Nausea & Vomiting

A combination of THC and CBD can help reduce the frequency and intensity of muscle spasms and any related neuropathic pain.

Organ Systems

  • Digestive
Insomnia

THC can stimulate the release of the sleep neurotransmitter, adenosine.

Organ Systems

  • Brain & Nervous System
  • Mental / Emotional
Loss of Appetite

THC can stimulate the production of the hunger hormone ghrelin.

Organ Systems

  • Endocrine
  • Other
Inflammation

Cannabis contains THC, CBD, and many other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids that can beat stress and inflammation.

Organ Systems

  • Immune System
  • Other
Anxiety, Panic Disorders

Cannabis contains many anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) compounds that can beat stress and reduce the production of the stress hormone cortisol.

Organ Systems

  • Brain & Nervous System

Dosing

Relief from stress and anxiety is temporary, and Critical Mass could have the opposite effect when overused. Its dominant terpenes include myrcene, pinene, and humulene, so the strain is ideal for aiding relaxation and getting to sleep. Some people may prefer to utilize this cultivar at night.

Growing

growing strains

Critical Mass is an indica-dominant plant and will not grow very tall. Indica plants are typically short and bushy, whereas sativa plants are tall. Because of this, Critical Mass is a great indoor plant, and keeping it indoors is best since the massive buds are prone to mold after rainfall. In other words, it grows to its best potential when kept indoors away from the rain.

Critical Mass is pest-resistant, but it’s prone to diseases like mold. Pruning the plant facilitates airflow, which prevents moisture from collecting on the buds, thus protecting it from some diseases that are attracted to moisture.

When grown outdoors, growers can expect 21 ounces (595 grams) per square meter. However, the yield could increase to 27 ounces per square meter when grown indoors. This high yield is remarkable for an indica strain, and it will certainly exceed your expectations for an indica if you grow it yourself.

If you grow Critical Mass indoors, remember to provide the plant with regular feeding, water, and sun. Also — this can’t be stressed enough — stay on top of the humidity and temperature to prevent mold from growing on the buds.

Height

Critical Mass grows between 32-80 inches (1.1-2 meters).

Humidity and Temperature

Unlike most cannabis varieties, Critical Mass doesn’t like high humidity. Therefore, keep the humidity levels at around 50% during the vegetative stage and reduce it to 35% or even as low as 30% when the buds form.

Ideal temperatures are between 68 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (20 to 26.7 degrees Celsius) and no lower than 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (15.5 to 21 degrees Celsius) at night. If grown inside, a heat lamp is helpful in maintaining the correct temperatures at all times.

Flowering

The time for Critical Mass to flower is eight weeks or longer. Most indicas typically finish flowering in about six to nine weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s Critical Mass good for?

The Critical Mass marijuana strain is great for inducing relaxation and sleep, and many users claim that it helps them sleep better on occasional nights when needed.

Is Critical Mass an indica or a sativa?

Critical Mass is 80% Cannabis indica and 20% Cannabis sativa. Therefore, this plant is an indica-dominant strain.

How does Critical Mass make you feel?

Critical Mass makes you sleepy, and some users report "couch lock." This strain promotes deep relaxation and helps you unwind after a busy day.

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