Sunshine #4

Sunshine #4 is a hybrid strain with an ideal balance between mental and physical effects. Created by Bodhi Seeds, this bud is a cross between Sunshine Daydream and perennial favorite Chemdawg 4. Its unique aroma and potent effects have earned Sunshine #4 the title of Best Hybrid Flower in the 2015 High Times Cannabis Cup held in Michigan. Sunshine #4’s THC levels have been measured at between 18% and a shocking 31%.

While flowers of Sunshine #4 are only small to medium in size, they are solidly formed, holding together in tapered, spade-like shapes. The buds have an apparently hybridized internal structure, with the dense core one might expect of indica varieties but with wispy leaves that spiral outward in a more sativa-typical fashion. The leaves themselves are a dark shade of forest green — and occasionally, even show off patches of dark purple. Curly orange pistils and translucent white trichomes make these eye-catching buds even more colorful.

The aptly-named Sunshine #4 gives off a mostly bright citrus aroma. A closer whiff, meanwhile, may pick up on some dank, earthy scents that undercut this citrus sweetness. Grinding up or breaking apart the flowers can give off more of an herbal odor that may bring to mind sativa staple Haze. When combusted, Sunshine #4 burns with a smooth and easily palatable smoke. On the exhale, this smoke tastes like fresh citrus mixed with a grassy, herbal kick.

Sunshine #4 can be a creeper, only unleashing its high on the user after as long as 15 minutes after consumption. Initial signs of action may be focused on the head and face, including a tingle around the temples and cheekbones and some flushing in the cheeks. Within a few minutes, these strange tics melt away and reveal changes in the smoker’s cognition and senses. Phenomena like slight visual and auditory hallucinations may occur; an eerie sense of time dilation is also commonly reported. Those who are so inclined can push these psychedelic effects to the max with atmospheric enhancements like a moody playlist or an engaging movie. While Sunshine #4 also provides a bit of a cerebral edge, it isn’t likely to bring about the kind of brainy intensity associated with more purely sativa strains. As a result, this bud is a great way to attain a mellow head buzz for brightening up an otherwise boring day, but may not be as helpful for getting through complicated, analytical tasks.

An hour or so into this high (or sooner, if dosage is increased), Sunshine #4’s physical effects can become notably stronger. Consumers may feel waves of relaxation roll through the core, soothing any muscular tension and facilitating deep, restorative breathing. At this stage, the strain’s slow body melt can eliminate any earlier preoccupations, helping smokers to appreciate their immediate surroundings. When shared with like-minded friends, Sunshine #4 can encourage rambling conversation and camaraderie. Because of its slow progression into trippy relaxation, this strain is recommended for late afternoon through evening use.

Sunshine #4 can also have several applications for medical cannabis patients. Its euphoric character may temporarily distract from the symptoms and difficulties associated with stress, depression, and anxiety. It can also dull physical pain, whether due to minor inflammations like headaches and cramps or to serious conditions like lupus or arthritis. In sufficiently relaxed circumstances, Sunshine #4 can even be an antidote to insomnia, lulling users into a restful sleep. Because it comes with a lower-than-average risk of intense, recursive thinking patterns, this strain is a good option for patients who are prone to panic or paranoia or who have a low THC tolerance.

Although Bodhi has previously made seeds of Sunshine #4 available for sale online, supplies do not appear to be regularly stocked. Prospective home growers may be able to locate mature, healthy plants of the strain in order to obtain clippings. These can be propagated as genetically identical “clones” and may be grown indoors or outdoors in a hot, humid climate. Plants are of average height and reach maturity within 9 weeks when grown indoors. The strain is said to offer a high yield of flowers at harvest time.

An ideal hybrid for indica fans, Sunshine #4 provides soothing, long-lasting relaxation. Its uniquely tropical aroma only serves to enhance these mellow effects.