Charlie Sheen is a sativa-dominant hybrid that combines the best of both indica and sativa varietals. The strain is a three-way cross between three household names: Green Crack, OG Kush, and Blue Dream. Like its volatile namesake, the bud explodes with fast-paced energy. Fortunately for indica fans, Charlie Sheen also has a soothing, relaxing vibe as the high wears on. Psychoactivity has been measured at between 15% and 24%.

Charlie Sheen sets itself apart with large, conical flowers. These long cones have the loose bud structure usually associated with sativas. The fluffy, ragged buds are composed of leaves that are easily torn away from their central stems. The leaves themselves are a dark shade of forest green. Some phenotypes of the strain also boast patches of muted purple; these surprising colors come about when pigments called anthocyanins are agitated by cold weather during vegetation in a process similar to the changing of foliage in autumn due to depleted chlorophyll levels. These already-colorful buds are coated on their inner and outer surfaces in cloudy white trichomes, giving them a silvery sheen.

Cured flowers of Charlie Sheen burst with a bright lemon and orange aroma that is faintly redolent of citrus-scented cleaning products. Closer inspection also reveals a grassy, vegetal character. Meanwhile, breaking these loose flowers up yields some skunky and incense-like notes that betray the strain’s Kushy roots. Charlie Sheen burns with a smooth, palatable smoke when combusted; this smoke tastes like overripe sweet fruit with a slightly dank, piney undercurrent.

Charlie Sheen takes effect quickly, bringing about a rush of uplifting energy. Users may find themselves in the midst of strong cerebral thinking; this mindset can be good for finding analytical solutions to problems, as well as creative brainstorming. The strain can also be uniquely social and can serve as a conversational lubricant. In the right set and setting, these early phases of the high may create a soaring feeling of euphoria. After an hour or so, users are struck by a strong body high. Eyelids may droop while the limbs and core start to feel heavy, leading many to seek refuge in the closest comfortable surroundings. This deep relaxation can feel disorienting and may cause users to feel depersonalized or disconnected from control of their bodies. Although fun and psychedelic, these sensations may prove scary for some. As smokers become couch-locked, their minds can wander and enter a foggy, cloudy state -- don’t plan on getting anything done a few hours after consuming. Charlie Sheen is most appropriate for use during the late afternoon or evening.

This strain can also have application for medical cannabis patients. Its ability to boost mood can be beneficial for those with mild to moderate stress or depression, helping them to spend their time more presently and consciously. Charlie Sheen’s later numbing effects may soothe aches and pains, whether they’re temporary, as due to injury, or chronic, as due to conditions like lupus or fibromyalgia. Finally, in high enough doses, the bud acts against even stubborn cases of insomnia. Because its early cerebral effects are associated with an out-of-control feeling of “mind race,” Charlie Sheen is not recommended for those who are prone to panic or who have a low tolerance for THC.

No commercial breeders have taken credit for creating Charlie Sheen, and as such, no seeds of the strain are available for sale online. Prospective growers must obtain clippings from mature, healthy plants in order to grow genetically identical “clones.” Although there is little specific information available on best practices for cultivating this hybrid, we know that it can be grown indoors or outdoors in a semi-humid climate with daytime temperatures between 72 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, growers looking to bring out Charlie Sheen’s striking purple hues should expose their crops to cold (but not freezing) nighttime temperatures just before flowering begins.

It may not be as potent as tiger blood (whatever that is), but Charlie Sheen nevertheless delivers considerable mental and physical effects. It’s a great option for squeezing in some productivity before winding down at the end of a long day.