Strain of the Month: LA Cookies

When you enter a retail cannabis store, it’s usually for one purpose: To find something to get high, stoned, relaxed or energized. But as you learn more, there are opportunities to go beyond THC, and discover how the terpenes, or natural flavors and aromas, contribute to the experience. For instance, myrcene, one of the two main terpenes in LA Cookies from Experience Organics Premium Cannabis (EXO), activates powerful effects on cell membranes and opens the blood-brain barrier, which increases the transport of cannabinoids to the brain. Myrcene can provide pain relief, sedative and anti-inflammatory effects. You often know it’s present by a spicy or peppery aroma. Likewise, a citrus smell can be a tip-off that limonene is also present; its beneficial properties help with anxiety and depression. Some studies show that limonene can be helpful in fighting cancers. During my research I learned that EXO grows its plants indoors in real, living soil, rich in natural amendments. This Tier 3 operation uses low-power LED lighting to further expand on its commitment to less impactful practices. Appearance: It’s nice to see such full, plump buds in a glass jar. This is positive sign shows that EXO is avoiding the plastic waste many producers use. The color is a pale lichen green made lighter by a generous dusting of trichomes. Reddish tufts of pistils emerge from behind the nicely trimmed leaflets. Buds spring to the touch, and not crumbly, which indicate freshness. Aroma: The spicy myrcene comes through as minty with a slight marigold scent from the female parent, LA Pure Kush. The male side, EXO Cookies, provides a nice citrus background, not an ‘out front’ orange or lemon, but a subtle makrut lime that lends a mysterious brightness. Upon ignition a smooth smoke releases a burnt sugar flavor, like torched sugar on creme brûlée. Effects: It’s hard to say if you taste that delicious burnt sugar or a relaxing wave moves in first. By the second toke, you are well on your way to a heightened awareness of your surroundings. Sights and sounds become clearer as everything comes into a new focus and anything that came before is forgotten. These ‘cookies’ are great for a sociable time with friends, or the feeling can change to a work mode using a balance of mental energy and a relaxed body high.