Back when I first started smoking weed, I didn’t know about the differences in cannabis strains. As cannabis became more mainstream, I grew to appreciate the nuances in smell and effects from different cannabis cultivars. I was no expert, but with the little knowledge I did have, I zeroed in on one particular strain: Sour Diesel.
Touted as a potent sativa-leaning hybrid strain, Sour Diesel has a cool name and a diesel-like aroma. It took me a while to appreciate the pungent nature of this strain, but I always loved Sour Diesel’s accessibility and effects. This common strain can be found in most pot shops, albeit with minor differences in smell and potency.
Sour Diesel’s Hazy History
The details about the origins of this popular strain are shrouded in mystery. Many growers have claimed the Sour Diesel strain their creation. This hybrid sativa and indica strain became popular during the mid-1990s in the East Coast.
Its genetics have been rumored to come from Chemdog and Chem 91 as well as Northern Lights and other Diesel strains. Despite its hazy origins, Sour Diesel has been loved by many including myself for many years.
A High-Octane Diesel Kick
Sour Diesel’s gasoline scent comes from its unique terpene profile. Terpenes are essential oil compounds found in many plants and herbs. Sour Diesel’s most common terpenes include:
- Myrcene
- Limonene
- Beta-caryophyllene
- Pinene
- Humulene
- Linalool
- Terpinolene
Sour Diesel’s terpenes combine in a blend of sweet orange, lavender, pine, woody, earthy, peppery, and skunky notes. When smoking Sour Diesel, be prepared to have a strong a lingering smell around for a while.
Uplifting and Relaxing
I found that Sour Diesel was a formidable strain to medicate with. Its THC levels start around 15% and can go above 20%. With low CBD and CBG levels, this sativa strain will definitely get you baked. For me, Sour Diesel elicited immediate calmness and euphoria.
I’ve used Sour Diesel to wind down or give me energy for a productive day. Not only is this strain a treat to consume, but it had strong mood-elevating effects. It’s the ideal strain for consuming alone or sharing with your smoke buddies.
Sour Diesel’s effects are typically cerebral in nature. Expect to feel a pleasant and slightly detached feeling when smoking Sour Diesel. The strain is not heavy on the body high, but it has enough potency to relax the mind and muscles.
Vibrant and Fiery Colors
Sour Diesel’s cannabinoid content, scent, and bag appeal can vary from plant to plant. My strains were consistently studded with trichomes, the resinous glands that contain THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids. The flower buds are often spindly and fluffy with tufts of orange hairs.
Sour Diesel is one of the most popular strains across the nation. It’s sweet and slightly acrid smell is beloved by many. It can be an acquired taste. Sour Diesel provides a boost of energy and focus for me. Although I don’t smoke it quite as much anymore, it’s always a strain I can depend on to relax and enjoy a form of entertainment or be creative.
