GI001

GI001 is a hybrid strain that’s exceptionally high in CBD, the cannabinoid that’s better known for its therapeutic than its psychoactive effects. This bud was devised by Northern California-based growers Growth Industries, who have kept its genetic background proprietary. With a strong citrus flavor and bright green leaves, GI001 has serious bag appeal for those in search of a high-grade medical strain. The strain’s CBD content has been measured at as high as 24%.

After being trimmed and cured, GI001’s medium to large flowers adhere in tapered, pinecone-like formations. These buds have a characteristically indica appearance, with leaves turning inward in a dense bud structure. These relatively small leaves are a vibrant shade of spring green and are twisted through with contrasting orange and yellow pistils. Because of the strain’s higher levels of CBD than THC, very few glassy trichomes dot the surfaces of GI001’s flowers.

Although it isn’t particularly complicated, GI001’s flavor is nonetheless refreshing. Flowers give off a pleasant citrus tang that is undercut by some sour notes. The strain’s dank odor is intensified when flowers are ground up or broken apart. When combusted in a pipe or a joint, it burns with a pungent but smooth and easily ingested smoke. On the exhale, this smoke carries a distinct lemon-lime flavor.

Because it has significantly higher levels of CBD than THC, GI001’s onset of effects may not feel familiar to consumers of more THC-laden strains. Although smokers may feel a bit of a headrush, they won’t typically experience a surge in cerebral thinking or a dissociative body high. Instead, users can expect to feel palpable relaxation, characterized by a lessening of tension in joints and muscles. And while not couchlocked per se, those who make use of GI001’s soothing properties may become so sedated as to lose motivation for any demanding physical tasks. Similarly, the bud’s uncommonly calming effects can strip away the stresses and preoccupations of everyday life while still allowing smokers to maintain lucidity and focus. As such, GI001 is ideal for those who can’t or don’t want to become “high” in the conventional sense.

With a stated CBD to THC of 24:1, GI001’s medical applications far outweigh its recreational uses. The strain’s unraveling of tension and stress can make it an effective temporary treatment for the havoc wrought by depression, anxiety, and even PTSD. GI001 can also soothe deep-seated aches and pains, whether they’re temporary, as due to injury, or chronic, as due to serious conditions like cancer or lupus. Anti-inflammatory properties, meanwhile, make the bud a solid treatment for everyday discomforts like headaches or cramps. This strain can also stoke patients’ hunger and serve as an appetite stimulant for those dealing with gastrointestinal issues (which leads us to wonder whether the GI in GI001 refers to this benefit?) or with the side effects of harsh medications or treatments like chemotherapy. Because it has little THC and is not likely to induce intense cerebral states that can lead to recursive thinking or paranoia, GI001 is a great option for patients who have a low THC tolerance or who are prone to panic.

Growth Industries has not yet made seeds of their potent creation available for sale online. As such, those looking to grow the strain at home must somehow obtain clippings from a mature, healthy plant. Such clippings can be fostered as clones, either indoors or outdoors in a hot and humid climate. Although no information has been made available regarding cultivation of GI001, its indica-typical flowers suggest that its plants grow short and bushy. The buds’ indica characteristics also imply that plants have a short flowering time of about 8 to 9 weeks, although the longer crops are left to flower, the more THC-laden trichomes will proliferate, cutting down on the strain’s CBD influence.

Although somewhat difficult to come by, GI001 is a promising new CBD-rich strain for those suffering from both physical and mental afflictions. Its surprising citrus flavor is an added benefit for those taking advantage of the bud’s medical properties.