Alien OG AAA+

Although it has roots in California’s very own OG Kush, Alien OG is an out-of-this-world strain with a reputation all its own. This sativa-leaning hybrid was created by seed company The Cali Connection as a cross between Tahoe OG Kush (itself a phenotype of the original OG Kush) and Cali Connection’s very own indica Alien Kush. Alien OG offers a soaring psychedelic high with roughly equal parts cerebral stimulation and and physical relaxation.

Buds of Alien OG are packaged as small, nugget-like clusters. Although the flowers often have a dense, compact bud structure, some phenotypes lean more sativa and have looser, fluffier leaves. The leaves themselves appear light green and are offset by orange to vibrant red pistils, which are structures that allow the female plants to catch pollen for fertilization. As evidenced by their high THC content, flowers of Alien OG are resinous, covered in trichomes that make them appear moist and frosty. This strain has a surprisingly sweet, citrus-like smell, with notes of lemon wafting up from the cured buds. There are also more subtle notes of earth and fresh pine. When combusted, flowers give off a more spicy, hashy scent typical of the OG family. The smoke is lung-expanding but very smooth. Smokers may taste hashy incense and a faint tang of ammonia on the exhale. This is one pungent strain, and its odor can linger for a while after it’s smoked; this might not be the right choice for any smokers trying to keep their consumption discreet.

The high from Alien OG is said to come on quickly as a bracing pressure behind the eyes. This head rush is accompanied by a sudden change in cognition, as thoughts race in rapid-fire association. The intensity of this cerebral effect is often determined by user’s set and setting or by their individual tolerance. In cases where a smoker is able to comfortably settle into Alien OG’s altered state, the high can take on psychedelic proportions: visual distortions like enhanced colors or peripheral flashes can happen, as can the trippy sensation of time moving more slowly. Physical relaxation sets in as the high progresses, or as users consume greater amounts. This strain can be as energetic or as relaxing as smokers intend — as easily enjoyed out among friends as it is vegging out alone. Alien OG’s well-rounded high also lends itself to several medical applications. Its euphoria can be a boost for those struggling with depression, while its ever-present cerebral nature can be grounding and mindful for those with stress, anxiety, or PTSD. Its palpable body stone, while not immobilizing, can be helpful in relieving chronic aches and pains and even nausea. In high enough doses, Alien OG can even be an effective means of banishing insomnia and lulling users into a deep, refreshing sleep. Because of its “racey” properties, however, this strain can sometimes lead to a kind of paranoid, recursive thinking for smokers who are inexperienced or prone to anxiety.