What Is Kush? Your Complete Guide to Cannabis’ Most Famous Family
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Time to read 5 min
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If you’ve spent any time browsing a dispensary menu or listening to cannabis podcasts, you’ve probably asked yourself: What is Kush?
Is it a type of weed? A specific strain? A whole family of cannabis plants?
In this guide, we break down exactly what Kush is, why it matters, and why cannabis lovers around the world can’t get enough of these iconic strains. Whether you’re a total beginner or looking to deepen your weed knowledge, this post will help you navigate the world of Kush with confidence.
🌿 What Is Kush?
At its core, Kush refers to a group of cannabis strains that trace their ancestry to the Hindu Kush mountain range, which spans Afghanistan and Pakistan. This rugged, mountainous region gave rise to some of the world’s first cannabis landrace strains—plants that evolved naturally over centuries without human intervention.
When we ask what is Kush, we’re really talking about:
✅ A distinct genetic lineage of cannabis
✅ Known for strong indica effects (relaxing, sedating, body-centered)
✅ Characterized by dense, resinous buds and earthy, piney, sometimes citrus aromas
❓Kush FAQ
Q: What is Kush in cannabis?
Kush refers to cannabis strains that trace their lineage back to the Hindu Kush mountain range in Afghanistan and Pakistan. These strains are known for their dense buds, earthy aromas, and relaxing, euphoric effects, making them popular choices for both recreational and medicinal use.
Q: What makes Kush strains special?
Kush strains are prized for their potent body relaxation, stress relief, and rich terpene profiles. Common Kush varieties like OG Kush, Bubba Kush, and Master Kush deliver calming effects, making them ideal for pain management, anxiety, and sleep.
Q: Are Kush strains indica or sativa?
Most Kush strains are indica-dominant, known for their sedative and body-heavy effects, although many hybrids mix Kush genetics with sativa strains for a more balanced experience.
🌸 Why Does Kush Matter?
So, what is Kush beyond its geographic roots?
Kush is more than just a name—it’s a cornerstone of modern cannabis. Strains derived from the Kush family are some of the most popular and influential in the world, forming the genetic backbone of legendary hybrids like OG Kush, Bubba Kush, Master Kush, and countless others.
The Hindu Kush landrace plants are prized for their resilience, potency, and rich resin production (which makes them great for making hash). Over decades, breeders crossed Kush genetics with other strains, giving us the incredible variety of hybrids we enjoy today.
🌼 Key Traits That Define Kush
When people wonder what is Kush, they’re usually curious about how it feels, smells, and looks. Here’s what to expect:
✅ Effects: Deep relaxation, calming body buzz, mental euphoria, sedation at higher doses.
✅ Aroma: Earthy, piney, sometimes citrusy or sweet; dank and rich
✅ Appearance: Dense, often dark green buds; thick coating of trichomes; orange or rust-colored pistils
✅ Best Uses: Pain relief, stress reduction, insomnia support, anxiety calming
💗 What Is Kush for Women?
Many women turn to Kush strains for specific therapeutic effects. As April Pride, founder of The High Guide, shares on her Saturday Strains podcast, Kush offers:
Relief for menstrual cramps and pelvic pain (thanks to high levels of the terpene myrcene)
Support during menopause for mood balance and sleep
A reliable way to unwind after a stressful day or calm racing thoughts
In short, when women ask what is Kush, the answer is: a trusted, plant-based tool for body and mind wellness.
🌟 Popular Kush Strains
To fully understand what is Kush, it helps to explore some of its most iconic representatives:
✅ Hindu Kush - The original landrace strain, pure indica, known for earthy flavor and powerful relaxation.
✅ Afghan Kush - Another pure indica from the region, offering heavy sedation and classic couch lock.
✅ OG Kush - A cross of Hindu Kush, Chemdog, and Lemon Thai; one of the most famous cannabis strains worldwide, delivering euphoric highs and deep body effects.
✅ Bubba Kush - Known for tranquil, dreamy effects; often used for sleep and pain relief.
✅ Master Kush - A cross of Hindu Kush landraces; strong body high with introspective mental effects.
✅ Purple Kush - A stunning, colorful strain offering potent sedation and a sweet, earthy flavor.
🔬 What Is Kush Made Of? (The Science Bit)
From a scientific perspective, Kush strains are rich in:
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol): The main psychoactive compound delivering the “high”
Myrcene: A terpene responsible for sedative, muscle-relaxing, and anti-inflammatory effects
Caryophyllene: A spicy terpene that interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, supporting pain and stress relief
This chemical makeup is why Kush strains are beloved for both recreational and medicinal uses.
🌙 When to Use Kush
What is Kush best for? Think:
✅ Evening relaxation
✅ Bedtime sedation
✅ Stress relief after a tough day
✅ Enhancing creative or meditative activities
Pro tip from the Saturday Strains podcast: Pair your Kush session with cozy blankets, calming music, and a clear schedule. Expect couch lock—and enjoy it!
💬 What Is Kush’s Cultural Impact?
You can’t ask what is Kush without touching on its massive cultural influence.
From hip hop lyrics (hello, Snoop Dogg) to West Coast cannabis branding, Kush has become synonymous with top-tier weed. OG Kush, in particular, changed the game when it hit California in the 1990s, spawning countless iconic hybrids like Girl Scout Cookies, Headband, and Sunset Sherbet.
In cannabis culture, Kush is shorthand for quality, potency, and pedigree.
🧘 Why Should You Try Kush?
If you’re curious about what is Kush and whether it’s right for you, consider your goals:
Do you need help sleeping?
Are you looking to ease pain or anxiety?
Do you want a strain that delivers powerful body relaxation?
If you answered yes to any of these, Kush strains are worth exploring. Just remember: potency levels can vary, so start low and go slow.
📚 Final Takeaway: What Is Kush?
To sum it up, Kush is:
✅ A legendary cannabis family originating from the Hindu Kush mountains
✅ Known for potent indica effects, pain relief, and relaxation
✅ The foundation of some of the most famous strains in the world
✅ A go-to for women seeking plant-based support for stress, sleep, and wellness
So next time you’re at the dispensary wondering what is Kush and why it matters, you’ll know: it’s not just a strain. It’s a cannabis legacy.
April Pride
April Pride is a the founder of SetSet and hosts it's podcast. She is a Seattle-based creative entrepreneur and harm reduction advocate with over two decades of experience building brands at the intersection of lifestyle, cannabis, psychedelics, and women's well-being.
