Strain Review: Chemdawg

If you're a fan of heady strains, chances are Chemdawg is a vital part of your medicine cabinet. It's a supercharged, sativa-dominant hybrid of unknown origins—an online legend traces the lineage to a Grateful Dead show in 1991, but it's possibly apocryphal. You can expect an instant mental rush and body high. However impressive Chemdawg's consistently uplifting effects may be, they fall in the shadow of its famous scent. The sharp citrus smell fills the room, slightly earthy to make for a Diesel-like aroma. You'll recognize the same pungent scent in Chemdawg's varied, legendary descendants, from OG Kush to Original Diesel. The flavor has a similarly refreshing tang, with floral notes that render the taste sweeter.

It's become a numbers game in the medicinal cannabis community. With the past year's new rules fully established, patients are now accustomed to knowing the lab results of each nug. There's a trend of shopping by the percentages; pushing aside smell, taste, and nuanced effects for the exclusive consideration of THC content. A previous batch of this Chemdawg flew off the shelves when it tested closer to 29 percent THC, while this 24 percent batch has been less popular. Patients should think twice when seeking product just for the THC content, because some labs are capitalizing on this shift and producing better results for additional fees. 

For higher-tolerance smokers, this strain would be ideal for attending a lecture or town hall debate—newbies might think someone slipped them an Adderall. I experienced a lengthy buzz of mental stimulation, but wasn't too mired in spiraling trains of thought to appreciate my cat chasing his own tail for 10 minutes. At 24 percent THC, it's still very potent, and it isn't hard with the cerebral high to sincerely focus all your energies on the craftsmanship of South Park. Treat Chemdawg like a shot of espresso: effective when you need it, but too much will leave your heart and inner dialogue racing at uncomfortable speeds.

WWeek 2015