Cannabis, a versatile plant cultivated for both medicinal and recreational purposes, has a wide range of strains, each with unique characteristics, flavors, effects, and therapeutic potential. One of the most well-known strains in the cannabis world is Critical Plus (often stylized as Critical+). This strain has gained popularity due to its well-balanced effects, strong growth characteristics, and potent aroma. Let’s dive into the world of Critical Plus, exploring its history, genetics, growth characteristics, chemical composition, therapeutic potential, and effects.
Table of Contents
History and Origin of Critical Plus
The history of Critical Plus dates back to the early 2000s. It is a hybrid strain developed by crossing Big Bud, a strain famous for its high yields, and a carefully selected Skunk #1. The intention was to develop a strain that provided excellent yields, a strong and robust plant structure, and a balanced effect profile that could be enjoyed by a variety of users.
Big Bud: The Parent of Abundance
Big Bud, one of the parent strains of Critical Plus, is well-known in the cannabis community for its massive yields. As the name suggests, this strain is capable of producing some of the largest buds of any cannabis plant, making it highly sought after by cultivators looking to maximize their harvest. It began in the 1970s in the United States, but its genetics were refined and stabilized in the Netherlands during the 1980s. Big Bud is predominantly an indica strain, and it contributes to Critical Plus‘s high yield and fast-growing properties.
Skunk #1: A Skunky Pioneer
The other parent strain, Skunk #1, is one of the most influential strains in modern cannabis breeding. Developed in the 1970s, Skunk #1 is a balanced hybrid with a unique skunky aroma and potent effects. It has been used to create countless hybrids due to its resilience, consistency, and powerful high. Its lineage can be traced to a mix of Afghani (indica), Acapulco Gold (sativa), and Colombian Gold (sativa), giving it a rich genetic background. Skunk #1 imparts its strong, pungent aroma to Critical Plus, making it one of the more aromatic strains available.
Genetics of Critical Plus
Critical Plus is a balanced hybrid, with a genetic composition that is roughly split between 50% indica and 50% sativa. This genetic balance makes it a versatile strain that provides the most tranquil and soothing aspects of both worlds. effects of indica, combined with the uplifting and euphoric effects of sativa. Its genetic lineage includes:
- Big Bud (Indica-dominant)
- Skunk #1 (Hybrid, balanced indica and sativa)
The outcome is a strain renowned for its potency, strong growth characteristics, and an aroma that is both skunky and sweet.
Growth Characteristics
One of the reasons why Critical Plus is so popular among cannabis growers is its ease of cultivation. It is considered an ideal strain for both novice and experienced growers due to its fast flowering time, high yields, and resilience. Here are some of the key growth characteristics of Critical Plus:
Fast Flowering Time
Critical Plus is known for its fast flowering time, which typically ranges between 45 to 50 days. It is therefore a great option for growers who are looking for a quick turnaround time between planting and harvesting. Its short flowering period allows for multiple harvests in a single growing season particularly in climate-controlled interior settings.
High Yields
Thanks to its Big Bud genetics, Critical Plus is capable of producing large yields. This strain can yield up to 600 grams per square meter when grown indoors, and outdoor plants can yield up to 1,300 grams per plant in ideal conditions. The high yield makes it a favorite among commercial farmers and those trying to get the most out of their crop.
Resilience
Critical Plus is a resilient strain that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. Because of its resistance to common illnesses and pests, it an easy-to-grow strain for those who may not have extensive experience in cannabis cultivation. However, it is important to note that Critical Plus is particularly sensitive to high humidity, and growers should ensure that their plants are kept in a well-ventilated environment to avoid mold and mildew.
Outdoor and Indoor Growth
It is possible to grow this strain both indoors and outdoors, however it tends to thrive best in outdoor environments with a warm and Mediterranean-like climate. When grown outdoors, Critical Plus plants can reach impressive heights, sometimes exceeding two meters. Indoor growers can control the size of the plant by using techniques such as topping and pruning to encourage lateral growth.
Appearance
The appearance of Critical Plus is quite striking, with large, dense buds encased in a substantial layer of resinous trichomes. Usually green in color, the buds have a smattering of orange and amber pistils. Because of the high resin content, the buds have a sticky texture, and they are often coated with a frosty layer of trichomes, which is an indication of the strain’s potency.
The leaves of the plant are broad and lush, indicative of its indica heritage, though the plant itself has a more sativa-like structure, with long branches and an open canopy. This combination of characteristics makes Critical Plus a visually appealing strain that stands out in any garden or grow room.
Aroma and Flavor
One of the defining features of Critical Plus is its strong and distinctive aroma. The strain has a pungent, skunky smell that is instantly recognizable, thanks to its Skunk #1 genetics. This skunky aroma is often accompanied by sweet and citrusy undertones, which add a pleasant complexity to the overall scent profile.
When smoked or vaporized, Critical Plus has a smooth and flavorful taste. The dominant flavors are skunk and citrus, with subtle hints of pine and earth. The smoke is often described as smooth and easy on the lungs, making it a favorite among users who appreciate a strain with a pleasant taste and aroma.
Effects of Critical Plus
The effects of Critical Plus are well-balanced, making it an adaptable strain that’s great for recreational and medicinal purposes. Being a hybrid, it provides a blend of the two, sativa and indica effects, which makes it suitable for a variety of situations and experiences.
Uplifting and Euphoric
The sativa side of Critical Plus shines through in its uplifting and euphoric effects. Users frequently describe experiencing a rush of joy and positivity shortly after consuming this strain, making it an excellent choice for those who are looking to enhance their mood or alleviate feelings of stress and anxiety. The cerebral effects of Critical Plus can also help to spark creativity and focus, making it a good option for tasks requiring concentration or creative endeavors.
Relaxing and Calming
While Critical Plus has uplifting effects, it also has a strong indica influence that provides a deep sense of relaxation and calm. As the initial cerebral effects begin to fade, users will often experience a soothing body high that helps to melt away tension and stress. This makes Critical Plus a great strain for unwinding at the end of the day or for alleviating physical discomfort.
Balanced High
Among Critical Plus’s most notable features is its balanced high. It provides the best effects from both indica and sativa strains without skewing too much in one direction. Because of its balance, it’s a flexible strain that you can use in a range of contexts, whether you want to socialize, unwind, or get some work done.
Potential Side Effects
Like most cannabis strains, Critical Plus can cause some side effects, particularly if consumed in large quantities. The most common side effects include dry mouth (commonly referred to as “cottonmouth”) and dry eyes.Occasionally, users may also feel a little lightheaded or paranoid, particularly if they take too much THC at once or are sensitive to it. But by drinking plenty of water and using the strain sparingly, these negative effects are usually tolerable.
Medical Benefits of Critical Plus
In addition to its recreational appeal, Critical Plus also has a range of potential therapeutic benefits, making it a popular choice among medical cannabis patients. It can be used to treat a range of medical conditions because of its well-balanced effects and modest THC levels. conditions and symptoms.
Stress and Anxiety Relief
One of the most common uses of Critical Plus is for managing stress and anxiety. The uplifting and euphoric effects of this strain can aid in improving the mood and alleviating feelings of tension and worry. At the same time, the calming body high can assist in promoting mental and physical relaxation, which facilitates stress relief and relaxation.
Pain Relief
Critical Plus is also known for its analgesic properties, making It’s a viable choice for people with persistent pain or discomfort. The strain’s relaxing body high can help to alleviate muscle tension, headaches, and other types of physical pain. Some users have also reported that Critical Plus can help with conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and migraines.
Insomnia
Thanks to its relaxing and calming effects, Critical Plus can be an effective remedy for insomnia or other sleep disorders. The strain’s ability to induce a sense of calm and relaxation can help users to fall asleep more easily and enjoy a restful night’s sleep. It is optimally consumed in the evening or prior to bedtime for those who are using it to address sleep issues.
Depression
The mood-enhancing effects of Critical Plus make it a potential option for those who are dealing with symptoms of depression. The strain’s ability to promote feelings of happiness and positivity can help to counteract feelings of sadness or hopelessness, providing temporary relief from the emotional burden of depression.
Appetite Stimulation
Like many cannabis strains, Critical Plus can also stimulate appetite, making it a potential choice for people who experience an appetite loss as a result of illnesses or therapies, such as chemotherapy.
Chemical Composition
The chemical composition of Critical Plus includes a range of terpenes and cannabinoids that enhance its flavor, effects, and aroma. The primary cannabinoids in Critical Plus are THC and CBD, though THC is the dominant cannabinoid.
- THC Content: Critical Plus typically has a THC content that ranges between 16% and 22%. This makes it a moderately potent strain that offers strong effects without being overwhelmingly intense.
- CBD Content: The CBD content of Critical Plus is generally low, usually below 1%. Consequently, it is not generally utilized for conditions that require high doses of CBD, such as epilepsy.
Terpene Profile
The terpene profile of Critical Plus is responsible for its distinctive aroma and flavor. This strain’s predominant terpenes include:
- Myrcene: This terpene smells earthy and musky, known for its relaxing and sedative effects. It is one of the most common terpenes found in cannabis and contributes to the calming effects of Critical Plus.
- Limonene: Limonene has a citrusy aroma and is associated with uplifting and mood-enhancing effects. It is responsible for the sweet, citrusy undertones in the flavor and aroma of Critical Plus.
- Caryophyllene: With a spicy, peppery aroma, this terpene is well-known for its analgesic and anxiolytic effects.
Conclusion
Critical Plus is a versatile and well-balanced cannabis strain that has gained popularity among both recreational and medical users. Its combination of Big Bud and Skunk #1 genetics gives it a unique profile that offers the best of both sativa and indica effects. Whether you’re looking for a strain to enhance your mood, relieve stress, alleviate pain, or simply relax, Critical Plus has something to offer. With its fast-growing characteristics, high yields, and distinctive aroma, it’s no wonder that Critical Plus has become a staple in the cannabis world.
