Frankenstein is an indica-leaning hybrid with a heavy body stone and a particularly pungent flavor profile. Like its namesake, Frankenstein is a mysterious patchwork of genetics, rumored to be crossed from Maui Waui and what’s thought to be an indica native to the Pacific Northwest; still other sources report that this bud is descended from OG Kush. Whatever its background, this potent bud was clearly created by a group of mad scientists -- cannabis testing lab Analytical 360 has measured its psychoactivity at between 13% and a staggering 29%.

Frankenstein is marked by medium-sized flowers that hold a spade-like shape, tapering down from a broad base into a pointed tip. Buds cling together in a dense, solid structure, as is characteristic of indicas. The leaves are a mossy shade of green and are twisted through with curly, rust-colored hairs -- which are actually pistils, meant to catch pollen from would-be fertilizing male plants. A high volume of trichomes covers the inner and outer surfaces of these buds, accounting for their psychoactivity and making them very difficult to break up without the use of a grinder.

When properly cured, Frankenstein’s flowers burst with a strong skunky pungency, accented by some notes of fresh pine. On closer inspection, there is also some citrus hiding underneath the skunky dankness. Meanwhile, grinding or breaking open these dense buds yields some spicy, hashy, odors, lending credence to the idea that Frankenstein is descended from OG Kush. When combusted, Frankenstein burns with a heavy, cough-inducing smoke that tastes lemony and slightly tropical on the exhale.

Frankenstein’s high hits quickly for an indica. Almost immediately, smokers detect a heavy feeling of relaxation falling on the eyelids and limbs. Deep breathing may happen more easily as muscular tension begins to evaporate. Rather than bringing about intense cerebral effects, this bud confers a cloudy mental state. Some sensory warping like auditory or visual distortions may lead to a slightly trippy mindset and facilitate creative brainstorming or daydreaming. This hazy feeling is just the thing for distracting users from any lingering stresses of the outside world. Nevertheless, Frankenstein allows smokers to maintain some mental agility and leaves them fully capable of carrying on conversations or interacting with one another. This makes it a good choice for social settings, where its giddy energy may result in fits of giggling. As the high wears on, users may find themselves walking as stiffly or uneasily as Frankenstein himself. In high enough doses, this strain can lull smokers into a deep, restful sleep. Because of these sedative properties, the strain is better suited to nighttime than to daytime enjoyment.

Frankenstein may also have several applications for medical cannabis patients. Its deep and thorough relaxation can relieve aches and pains, whether they’re temporary and injury-related or chronic, due to conditions like lupus or fibromyalgia. Furthermore, anti-inflammatory effects may soothe more common irritations like headaches or indigestion. Psychologically speaking, the bud’s mood-altering effects can provide temporary improvement in the symptoms of stress, depression, anxiety, and even PTSD. Finally, as noted, Frankenstein can be an antidote to even stubborn cases of insomnia. Because it is unlikely to trigger intense, paranoid, this strain is a good choice for those who are prone to panic or who have a low tolerance for THC.

No commercial breeders have claimed responsibility for this pungent strain, and none have made its seeds available for sale online. As such, prospective growers must obtain clippings of Frankenstein from a trusted source in order to grow “clones” of this monster. It can be grown indoors or out, although successful outdoor cultivation calls for a semi-humid climate with daytime temperatures between 72 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Frankenstein is known to offer a lower than average yield of flowers come harvest time.

With roots in the Pacific Northwest, Frankenstein is most likely to be found in Washington state and Oregon dispensaries. This mellow strain is great for solo unwinding; it’s also enjoyable with friends -- but don’t share it with anyone who’d be quick to point out that the green-faced, bolt-necked literary creature is actually called Frankenstein’sMonster.