Astral Works

Astral Works is a CBD-heavy strain with a good balance of physical relaxation and mental stimulation. With roots in Humboldt County, California, this strain was created by breeder Lawrence Ringo as a cross between fruity Tangerine Haze and Ringo’s own Harle-Tsu. A valuable bud for recreational and medical consumers alike, Astral Works’ THC content ranges from 5% to 7% while its CBD levels have been measured at between 9% and 11%.

Astral Works stands out with large flowers that adhere in a tapered, pinecone-like formation. The buds have a indica-influenced internal structure, with broad leaves that twist tightly inward to form a solid core. The leaves themselves are a bright yellowish green and are punctuated by several curly orange hairs (which are reproductive botanical structure called pistils). Because this strain is selectively bred for minimal THC, its flowers have a relatively low volume of sticky trichomes.

When properly cured, flowers of Astral Works give off a tangy, fruity scent with distinct notes of citrus. A closer inspection may detect an herbal, Haze-like odor as well. Breaking apart or grinding up these buds, meanwhile, yields more of a rich, piney scent. When Astral Works is combusted in a pipe or a joint, it burns with a smooth smoke that’s easy on the lungs and sinuses. On the exhale, this smoke mingles flavors of pine and orange, somewhat like the popular hybrid Jack Herer.

Because of its proportion of CBD to THC, Astral Works may not exert a “high” in the traditional sense; in fact, some research suggests that CBD actually works to nullify the psychoactive effects of THC when they coexist in high quantities. If consumers do sesne this strain taking effect, they may feel a subtle pressure around the cheeks and temples as well as some flushing in the cheeks. The strain’s mental properties tend to manfiest as an elevated mood, pushing stressors and other preoccupations to the margins and helping smokers to spend their time more consciously and intentionally. Certain mildly psychedelic effects, like a strong sense of time dilation, are also possible. Some consumers may also find that Astral Works’ pervasive feeling of relaxation lifts their typical mental inhibitions, allowing for creative inspiration.

As they become accustomed to this strain’s subtle head high, smokers begin to pick up on its even stronger physical effects. A weighty feeling may settle into the limbs and core, untying any knots of muscular tension and allowing for deep, restorative breathing. While it might not lead to total couchlock, this sensation can certainly take the edge off of a busy, stressful day. In the right set and setting, Astral Works’ full-bodied effects can even prove to be a potent aphrodisiac. Because of its slow decline into sedation, this strain is recommended for late afternoon or nighttime consumptoin.

Thanks to its CBD content, Astral Works’ medical applications may actually outweigh its recreational usefulness. The strain’s smooth, even mood can temporarily relieve sympotoms of stress, depression, anxiety, and even PTSD. It can also be an analgesic for physical pain, whether minor or deep-seated and chronic. Anti-inflammatory properties, meanwhile, may lessen the severity of irritations like nausea and headaches. In totally realxed circumstances, Astral Works may even coutneract entrencehd cases of insomnia. Because it doesn’t often lead to intesne, obssessive thinking patterns, Astral Works is a good option for patients who are relatively inexperienced with THC or who are prone to panic.

Seeds of this rare strain can not be purchased online. Instead, those looking to grow Astral Works at home should seek out a source with access to mature, healthy plants of the strain; clippings of these plants can be propagated as “clones.” The strain can be grown indoors or out, although outdoor success aclls for a semi-humid, Mediterranean-like climate. Astral Works may reach flowering maturity within about 8 to 9 weeks, with the caveat that the longer crops are left to flower, the greater chance they have of developing higher concentrations of THC.

With a name that brings to mind singer Van Morrisson’s moody art-rock album Astral Weeks, Astral Works is a soothing and slightly trippy strain that may appeal to indica and sativa fans alike.