Since it’s named after the highest-ranking deity on Mt. Olympus, you might expect some big things out of Zeus OG. Luckily, you won’t be let down, as this well-balanced hybrid -- a cross between Pineapple OG and Deadhead OG -- offers deeply relaxing effects alongside a classically dank flavor profile. Zeus OG’s appeal was confirmed when it won the title of Best Medical Hybrid in the 2014 High Times Cannabis Cup held in Washington state. The strain’s THC content has been measured at between 17% and 23%.

Zeus OG stands out with medium-sized flowers that maintain a tapered formation, somewhat like miniature pinecones. The buds tend to have a sativa structure, with leaves that grow outward and away from each other more than they curl inward toward their central stems. These leaves are a yellowish green and are twisted through with dark brown pistils. Translucent white trichomes finish off these flowers, accounting for their high psychoactivity.

When properly cured, Zeus OG carries a decidedly skunky aroma that’s evident on a first sniff. Closer inspection reveals some berry-like sweetness as well. Grinding up the buds, meanwhile, releases a mellow, earthy scent. When combusted, Zeus OG gives off a harsh, acrid smoke that may cause coughing or watery eyes. This smoke finishes with a combination of mint and skunk on the exhale. If you’re consuming this pungent strain in public, take any needed precautions, as its stink can carry for quite a distance and attracted some unwanted attention.

Zeus OG begins to work its magic somewhat quickly. As they inhale its pungent smoke, consumers may feel an increase in blood pressure, particularly around the temples and jaw. A flushing in the cheeks is also possible, as is an increase in salivation. Soon after, the strain exerts its cerebral effects, intensifying the smoker’s perception and leading them to dwell on certain ideas or external stimuli that might not otherwise strike them as interesting. This feeling of mental engagement can be a good way to work on complicated, task-based jobs, as well as on freewheeling creative pursuits. Alternatively, Zeus OG’s stimulation of the user’s thought process makes it a good way to enhance boring activities like chores or errands. In social settings, the strain’s buzzy head high can lend itself to free-flowing conversation, even among new acquaintances. As time passes, Zeus OG’s indica side begins to emerge, sending waves of relaxation down through the core and spine and undoing any knots of physical tension. While it may not put your directly to sleep, this newfound peacefulness may make you want to collapse on the couch; it can also take the edge off of the strain’s earlier cerebral effects, helping smokers feel at peace. In these later stages, Zeus OG lends itself to passive activities like binge-watching or playing board games. That said, the strain’s eventual combination of mental and physical engagement can be a good way to enjoy pursuits that involve both brain and body, like exercising, gaming, and even sex. Thanks to its slow decline in pepiness, Zeus OG is recommended for consumption between late afternoon and evening.

Zeus OG can also have several applications for medical cannabis patients. The zoned-in feeling that comes with its onset can allow those with attention deficit disorders to concentrate on a single task. Its upbeat euphoria can temporarily improve the symptoms of mild to moderate stress and depression. Zeus OG can also work against physical pain, whether it’s serious and disease-related, or more common, like a headache. Patients who are prone to panic or who have a low THC tolerance should consume this strain with some caution, as its initially thoughtful effects can veer into paranoia in sub-ideal circumstances.

Seeds of Zeus OG are not available for sale online. Prospective growers should seek out a trusted source from which to obtain clippings that can be grown as “clones.” Zeus OG, which may be a difficult grow for a newcomer, can be cultivated indoors or out, although success outdoors depends on a semi-humid, Mediterranean-like climate. The strain flowers within 9 to 10 weeks when grown indoors. Zeus OG can also be very pungent in its vegetative stage, so growers trying to stay discreet should invest in odor control measures like carbon air filters.

Zeus OG is just right for some daytime productivity. Its animated but easygoing high is fun whether you’re alone or surrounded by some likeminded friends.