While the name sounds slightly unsettling, the XXX strain is most commonly used to relax the mind and body to lessen symptoms of anxiety, depression, and pain.
This indica-dominant strain is either phonetically called “X-X-X”, or it is known as the “Triple X strain”.
If you’re new to the world of cannabis strains, or perhaps you’re looking for more information about this elusive strain, here is everything you need to know about the XXX strain!
Strain History
Genetics
The official genetics of the XXX strain are somewhat unknown due to the strain’s elusive history, so it mostly depends on the grower’s or breeder’s personal opinion or what they use to make the strain.
Some of the strain’s genetics include OG Kush and Skunk-derived XXX, ‘98 Aloha White Widow and The White, and Pre ‘98 Bubba Kush and Master Kush.
With such unclear genetic parentage and the suggestion that multiple well-loved strains have been previously introduced into the XXX strain’s genetics, it can be hard to confirm its exact parentage.
These combinations mean that the XXX strain typically has an indica to sativa ratio of 60:40 or 70:30.
Origin
While the origins of the XXX strain are quite unclear, it is believed that the original breeders of the strain are Hazeman Seeds.
The founder of Hazeman Seeds has been growing since the late 70s until he became an established breeder and seed seller in the early 2000s, with an ethos that promotes reasonable and ethical production of cannabis strains.
However, if we consider the confusing genetic parentage of XXX strain, its exact origins are also somewhat clouded.
Strain Appearance
XXX strain flowers are chunky and fairly large with a dense spherical structure that is commonly associated with indica-dominant strains. These flowers feature orange pistils and forest green-colored leaves, giving the flower an overall moss-like appearance.
Due to its dense structure and the white trichomes that cover the whole flower (including the inner part of the flower), it can be hard to break the XXX strain by hand.
When grown in colder conditions, it’s common for the XXX strain to exhibit streaks and tones of purple throughout the flower and its leaves.
This is as a result of pigments called anthocyanins found in the strain, which are agitated by the cold and turn parts of the flower slightly purple – kind of like when leaves on trees start to turn orange and brown in fall and winter.
Strain Flavor
The XXX strain features a remarkably smooth smoke, which is part of the reason why it’s so popular amongst new smokers.
The flavors of this strain aren’t exactly anything special, as it mostly tastes earthy and like pine needles. This is ideal for those who aren’t interested in fruity or fragrant flavors.
Strain Aroma
As with its flavor, the XXX strain is notoriously bland in its aroma. This strain is simple in its taste and scent, both of which give hints of freshly-dug earth and a pine needle-laden forest floor.
However, the aroma might vary slightly depending on the strain’s genetic parents. For example, if one of the parent strains is ‘98 Aloha White Widow, you might smell tones of ammonia.
Strain Cannabinoids
- Type: Indica-dominant strain
- THC: 14-20% (largely unknown)
- CBD: 0.25-0.73%
- CBG: 0.38-1.75%
- CBC: 0.24-1.1%
- CBN: 0.05-0.21%
- THCV: 0.45-1.74%
The reason why the THC levels of the XXX strain are largely unknown is due to the strain’s unclear parentage. With a variety of potential genetic parents, the THC level could easily vary from a mid-range to high-range level.
Strain Terpenes
The XXX strain is filled with several popular terpenes, including Pinene, Carene, Bisabolol, Camphene, and Geraniol.
Pinene is known for its distinctive pine scent, which is why it’s so commonly used in the cosmetics industry. Carene also features an earthy, pine-like scent, plus it is responsible for allowing the strain enough time to soak into the mainstream.
Bisabolol is produced in trichomes, which helps to provide a natural layer of defense against pests. Camphene features a pungent wet-woodland-floor smell as well as natural pain-relieving properties.
Finally, Geraniol works as an allergen, a fragrance, and improves the user’s metabolism.
Strain Side Effects
The XXX strain is known as a creeper, as it often takes a while for the user to feel its benefits. However, once the strain has hit the user, the high first starts as a tingling sensation in the head and face.
This tingling sensation slowly travels down the body, resulting in a low hum that often feels numbing. Users will typically get into a comfortable position and not move for several hours once this sensation hits them, which is known as “couchlock”.
This is why people mostly smoke the XXX strain before going to sleep or when they don’t have plans for the rest of the day, because it doesn’t offer productive-inducing effects.
As for the mental side effects, the XXX strain slows down the user’s mind and encourages them to focus on things in a rational and uplifted manner.
While it doesn’t come with the cerebral mindrace found in sativa strains, the XXX strain works to clear the mind with an overall feeling of positivity and relaxation.
The more that is smoked or consumed, the more relaxed the mind becomes, which works to encourage sleep.
Interestingly, for those with a moderate to high THC tolerance, the XXX strain is also used as a sociable strain as it promotes an easy conversation amongst friends.
The XXX strain also features pain-relieving properties, which is why it is commonly used by those requiring medical cannabis. As well as lessening the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and insomnia, this strain can improve headaches, stomach problems, and chronic pain.
As with any cannabis strain, the XXX strain comes with some negative side effects.
These side effects include the classic dry eyes and cottonmouth (which can be cured by frequently drinking water), headaches, nausea, and paranoia – particularly if the user has a low THC tolerance.
It’s also common for people with a low THC tolerance to feel drowsy, which is often seen more as a benefit than a negative side effect due to the strain’s ability to help people fall asleep faster and better.
Medical Benefits
Due to its list of terpenes and the nature of the dominant indica presence, the XXX strain is commonly used by those who rely on medical cannabis.
his strain is known for its full-body relaxing benefits and anti-inflammatory properties, both physically and mentally, making it suitable for people with the following conditions:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Insomnia or fatigue
- PTSD
- Chronic pain and autoimmune diseases
- Headaches and migraines
- Stomach distress
- Cancer
- Arthritis
- Injuries
Of course, no cannabis strain can act as the sole cure for an illness or painful disease, but the XXX strain is commonly used alongside other treatments to provide some mental and physical relief.
Strain Review
The XXX strain is undoubtedly one of the most pleasant indica-dominant strains available. It is probably most beneficial for smokers who don’t enjoy the flavor or scent of fruity or floral tones found in a lot of other strains – instead, the XXX strain is simple and earthy in both taste and aroma.
The smooth smoke, likewise, is satisfying for smokers of all tolerances.
The strain’s medical benefits and positive side effects are the reason why the XXX strain is so popular amongst those with anxiety, depression, insomnia, and people who struggle with pain.
As it is an indica-dominant strain, it doesn’t promote productivity, so it’s best to consume this strain at nighttime or when you know you don’t have any immediate plans. Otherwise, be prepared to try and peel yourself away from your bed or couch!
Strain Grow Info
Strain Seeds
Unfortunately, it’s not easy to find XXX strain seeds. This is most likely due to the ambiguity of the strain’s origins and genetics, as each breeder will have their own opinions on the parents genetics.
However, seeds are available to buy online alongside clippings from mother plants – you’ve just got to know where to find them.
Strain Flowering Time
The XXX strain features a fairly reliable and reasonable flowering time of 9-10 weeks. It can be grown either indoors or outdoors, though indoor set-ups are recommended for experienced growers.
Outdoor set-ups should have a semi-humid climate and an average temperature of 70 °F in the daytime.
Strain Yield
When pruned regularly, the XXX strain produces an average yield. Indoor cultivation can expect to yield 14 to 18 ounces per square meter, while outdoor set-ups tend to yield 18 ounces per plant.
Trimming away broad leaves towards the bottom of the short plant will not only allow better access to sunlight and humidity, but it will also expose the plant to colder temperatures, giving the strain those beautiful purple streaks.
Just make sure the cold temperatures aren’t too cold, as this can prevent growth in the long run. This won’t technically affect the quality of the plant, but it is nice for buyers and cultivators who enjoy colorful buds.
This website will serve as the ultimate guide and record for various different cannabis strains that are available, from melon gum and golden goat, to wookie and hog strains. There is so much to learn about each strain, and each has its own benefits and medicinal properties.
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