Not to be confused with the boba tea or soap brands of the same name, Dr. Bubbles is an indica-leaning hybrid. The strain gets its name and its powerful effects from a cross between Gupta Kush (named for Dr. Sanjay Gupta) and tasty Bubblegum. A pleasantly sweet, candy-like flavor comes along with a nice, slow melt of indica relaxation. The strain’s THC content has been measured at between 10% and 12% while its CBD levels range from 1% to 5%.

Flowers of Dr. Bubbles are marked by their small to medium sized flowers that adhere in tapered, almost conical formations. These buds have the dense structure typical of other indica-dominant varieties and are a dark shade of forest green. The compact and tightly-curled leaves are twisted through with curly red hairs -- which are actually pistils, structures meant to catch pollen from fertilizing male plants. Finally, translucent white trichomes coat the nooks and crannies of these dense flowers.

When properly cured, flowers of Dr. Bubbles emit a powerfully sweet aroma. On closer inspection, this slightly fruity sweetness has some traces of sourness and fermentation as well. Grinding up or breaking open the buds, on the other hand, yields woodsy, smoky notes, possibly passed on from Gupta Kush. When combusted in a pipe or a joint, Dr. Bubbles gives off a smooth smoke that’s easy to pull on. This smoke tastes sweet and earthy on the exhale.

Dr. Bubbles begins to unleash its dynamic effects soon after users have ingested its smoke, exerting a head rush that can result in odd sensations like some pressure behind the eyes or a flushing in the cheeks. As they acclimate themselves to these tics, consumers may be struck by some mental irregularities -- at first, the senses may be slightly distorted, resulting in an intensification of sights and sounds. Additionally, thoughts may seem to have a new depth, with smokers dwelling on concepts or even objects that might not otherwise seem interesting. This cerebral mindset can be useful for getting work done on all kinds of tasks, whether they’re detailed and analytical or simply mundane chores like doing laundry. The strain may also lift inhibitions of creative expression, making it a great enhancement for freewheeling nebulous projects.

After an hour or so, Dr. Bubbles’ indica side creeps in, taking away some of the energy that came with its onset. While not entirely incapacitating, effects like weighty limbs and slowed-down breathing can inspire those who may have been standing or active to seek some comfortable repose. And although Dr. Bubble’s lucid mental properties remain in place, smokers may be stripped of any earlier motivation. In these latter stages, the strain is best suited to calm, passive indoor activities like snacking or binge-watching. It’s a fun way to unwind whether you’re enjoying it alone or with some likeminded friends. Because of its slow decline into deep relaxation, Dr. Bubbles is a good option for evening or nighttime consumption when it can be fully savored.

Thanks to its high levels of CBD, Dr. Bubbles can be very useful for medical as well as recreational cannabis users. The strain’s mental focus can help those with attention deficit disorders to sustain concentration on single tasks. Additionally, its euphoria may temporarily distract from the tough symptoms associated with stress, depression, and anxiety. Physically speaking, Dr. Bubbles can eliminate physical pain, whether it’s temporary, as due to injury, or chronic, as due to conditions like lupus or arthritis. Although it isn’t known to induce intense, recursive patterns of thinking, patients who are prone to panic or paranoia may still want to consume this bud with some caution and moderation.

Seeds of Dr. Bubbles are not available for sale online. Instead, home growers should obtain clippings that can be fostered as genetically identical “clones.” These can be grown indoors or out, although outdoor success calls for a semi-humid, Mediterranean-like climate. Plants tend to grow short and bushy and may require occasional trimming of their broad fan leaves. Dr. Bubbles flowers within 9 to 10 weeks.

If spotted, Dr. Bubbles is worth snatching up for its one-two punch of mental and physical stimulation. It’s a fun smoke whether you’re enjoying it alone or in the company of good friends.