What is Kush? and 10 Great Strains

Kush genetics are some of the most quintessential cultivars in the cannabis world. Originating from the Hindu Kush mountain range that runs between Afghanistan and Pakistan, the lineage has spread worldwide through generations of crosses, creating a never ending web of weed that continues to gain acclaim. The High Guide shares 10 of our favorite Kush strains.

The Landrace Originals

Hindu Kush | The pure landrace indica originating from the Hindu Kush mountain range between Afghanistan and Pakistan, it has effects reported to be relaxing and euphoric, with stoney-smiley vibes.

Afghan Kush | Another pure landrace indica, originating in the Middle East between Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. Users report a relaxing and sedative high with a classic couch lock from this foundational cannabis cultivar.

The Kush Classics

Purple Kush | Another pure indica, the infamous PK is a cross of Hindu Kush and Afghani Purple. A heavy-hitting cultivar that’s great for pain relief and a good night’s sleep – and yes, purple as the day is long.

Master Kush | This extremely resinous and potent indica is a cross of two Hindu Kush landrace cultivars. Enough said? Indeed, expect a heavy hitter and a solid couch lock should you cross paths with the Master.

OG Kush | The weed world really changed with this one. Widely considered to be one of the top strains of all time, OG Kush has dominated West Coast cannabis for decades. Lineage is a bit murky, but its Kush roots are undeniable and it’s believed to be a cross of Hindu Kush, Chemdog and Lemon Thai. It blasted onto the scene in the ‘90s in California by way of Florida, via the collaboration of Matt ‘Bubba’ Berger and Josh D.

Bubba Kush | Another classic from Matt ‘Bubba’ Berger, again with Kush roots and slightly mysterious genetics. Rumor has it that an OG Kush plant pollinated some Northern Lights – creating the massively stoney BK, perfect for tranquilizing yourself to sleep or fighting pain.

Headband | Crossing OG Kush with Sour Diesel created the cerebral stunner better known as Headband. As its name suggests, the effects can provide a stoney and cerebral high focused in the mind – while also relaxing the body for hours.

The Cookies Craze

GSC | The Cookies Fam phenomenon has placed the brand, and founder Berner, at the top of today’s weed world – where their dessert-y flavor profiles and potent effects keep people in a perpetual state of stoney bliss. While exact genetics remain up for debate, their famed GSC is believed to be a cross of OG Kush and Durban Poison. It is considered by many to be one of the top cultivars of our modern legalization era – and one of the only from this day and age to be making appearances on the all-time great lists. GSC ushered in a new era for cannabis, with a flavor-forward approach that has us all talking about terpenes.

Sunset Sherbet | Say hello to Sherbinski – the mastermind who took GSC and crossed it with Pink Panties to create the creamy and citrusy treat known as Sunset Sherbet (or Sherbet). Potent and indica leaning in effects, it’s recommended in small doses for novices.

Gelato | As smooth and sweet as the name suggests, Gelato and its many phenotypes have been winning the hearts and minds of stoners for the last few years. Crossing Sunset Sherbet with Thin Mint GSC resulted in a ridiculously sweet and smooth smoke, with a euphoric and relaxing high that’s as tasty as the cultivar’s namesake.

GMO Cookies | We’ll leave you with a Cookies cross that’s not so sweet – much less dessert-y smooth and way more garlic-infused confusion. This funky strain, sometimes referred to as Garlic Cookies or simply GMO, gets dosed with Kush genetics from both of its parents: GSC and Chemdog. Loud and offensive in its fragrant blend of pungent terps, the effects will likely sit you down for a potent cruise through couch lock land.

While we only scratched the surface of the Kush genetics and the generations of chronic crosses, there’s no debating the influence of the lineage. If you’re unsure on which cultivar to turn to next, consulting your budtender is a great way to weed through the offerings and find one that expresses the Kush lineage with authenticity. Obviously, not all cultivars bearing the same name are created equal, nor will they effect each individual in the same manner – but as you peruse the generations of Kush genetics available today, you’re bound to find your perfect high.