Ether -- also known as the “Ether” cut of Alien Dawg -- is an indica-dominant hybrid with potent effects. This distinct phenotype of Alien Dawg was selectively bred by Cali Connection (also the purveyors of Deadhead OG) and has intensely sedative effects. Ether is also known for its incredible pungent aroma. Possibly named for the 19th-century nickname for nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, Ether has a THC content of between 14% and 21%.

Ether is marked by impressively large and solid flowers. The buds tend to be shaped like miniature pinecones, tapering down from a broad base to a sharply pointed tip. The curly, overlapping leaves maintain the densely-packed structure often associated with other indica-leaning strains. Ether’s leaves appear to be yellowish-green and are twisted through with hairy, rust-colored pistils. Finally, a blanket of sticky trichomes makes these big buds difficult to break up without the aid of a quality grinder.

When properly cured, Ether’s flowers give off a fruity berry scent. On closer inspection, there is also a tangy and sour aroma at play, possibly passed on from the Chemdawg in the bud’s background. Grinding up these flowers gives off some notes of pine that are passed on from parent strain Alien Tech. When it is burnt, Ether can give off a very thick and acrid smoke that can tickle the palate and sinuses. On the exhale, this harsh smoke tastes like sour pine. Smokers who want to maintain discretion may want to take some precautions, as these buds can be very pungent.

Ether’s high is a creeper that may take as many as 15 minutes after users have finished coughing on its thick smoke before revealing its effects. At first, Ether makes its presence known with heady sensations like a flushing in the cheeks or an increase in salivation. Soon afterward, the strain begins to work on its consumers’ cognition. It may make for some changes in sensory perception, including an intensification of certain external stimuli or an uncanny feeling of time dilation. It’s up to the smoker to choose how to enjoy these early psychedelic vibes -- reading or watching a movie can inspire some bouts of deep, reflective thinking, while putting on a moody album may create some intense, mind-bending ambiance. In any case, Ether’s high eventually becomes hazy and dreamy. Sustained concentration may be difficult, and work on complicated, analytical tasks may be totally impossible. Instead, consumers ought to kick back and enjoy the pervasive body high that emerges on Ether’s backend. It’s not unheard of for the already-relaxed smoker to totally sink into their surroundings and lose track of time or their train of thought. At this point, Ether may also relieve any lingering muscular tension or may facilitate deep, restorative breathing. In the right set and setting, the strain can even lull users into a fulfilling sleep. Because it is mostly lazy and relaxing, Ether is recommended for evening or nighttime enjoyment.

Ether’s strong, almost narcotic sedation can have benefits for medical cannabis patients as well. It's easy going energy make temporarily relieve the harsh symptoms of stress, depression, and anxiety. It can also soothe physical pain, whether it’s temporary, as due to injury, or chronic, as due to conditions like lupus or fibromyalgia. As noted, Ether can even work against insomnia, granting deep and therapeutic sleep. Because it is not known to bring about the sort of deep, analytical thinking that comes with more sativa-inflected strains, Ether is a good option for patients who are prone to panic or paranoia or who have a low tolerance for THC.

Unfortunately for home growers, seeds of Ether are not available for sale online. Instead, those looking to cultivate the strain should obtain clippings of mature plants that can be grown as genetically identical “clones.” While there’s little info available on specific best practices for growing Ether, we know that it can be grown indoors or outdoors in a hot and humid climate. We also know that its indica roots suggest short, bushy crops that may require occasional pruning. Feelings of disorienting “mindrace” are rarely reported with Ether -- nevertheless, consumers who are prone to panic should consume this potent but with some caution and moderation.

Ether is a must-try for diehard fans of indicas. While its flavor may be divisive, its soothing, mellow effects are indisputable.