Northern Lights is a highly sought-after indica strain that is known for its strong, sedative effect that can leave you feeling drowsy. This strain is one of the most popular of all time and has a reputation for bringing a sense of positivity and ease to the mind while relaxing the body.
It’s also used to help with a range of health problems, including chronic pain, anxiety, and insomnia. Northern Lights is also relatively easy to grow and yields high amounts of flower, making it ideal for both novice and experienced growers.
Origins And Experience
Northern Lights was created in the 1980s by crossing Afghani with Thai, and was popularized by a man named Nevil Schoenmakers. Although it shares many effects with its Afghan lineage, the Thai element in its ancestry also contributes to a wave of euphoria and creativity.
The sedative nature of this strain is its most well-known effect, which can lead to a mellow, numbing sensation, and even couch lock if consumed in excess. Northern Lights produces a strong body high, followed by euphoric waves and a slower headspace.
Appearance and Flavor
The buds of this strain are dense, dark olive in color, and coated with frosty trichomes. When grown well, it can also have streaks of purple and blue, reminiscent of the Northern Lights. This strain doesn’t grow very tall and usually reaches a height of around five feet.
Its earthy, piney aroma is pungent and has a traditional herbal ganja scent. Its spicy, earthy flavor profile is accompanied by sweet undertones, with myrcene, beta-caryophyllene, and pinene being the main terpenes in this strain.
Medical Benefits
Northern Lights is ideal for those who struggle with anxiety, pain management, and insomnia, and is well-suited for alleviating depression and negative thoughts. This strain can promote relaxation and peace, both mentally and physically, and provide a source of comfort for anxiety and stress.
Its deep relaxation effects can help users drift peacefully off to sleep, ease racing thoughts, and reduce pain. Additionally, Northern Lights can induce appetite, which is helpful for those with eating disorders, and its anti-inflammatory properties soothe digestion and alleviate any discomfort.
Growing
Northern Lights is relatively easy to grow and yields high amounts of flower, making it an ideal strain for growers of all experience levels. It can be grown indoors or outdoors, but hydroponic growing systems are the most ideal for this strain.
Its flowering period is relatively short at around 8 weeks, but a hydroponic setup can shorten it to about 6 weeks. Northern Lights is naturally resistant to mold, disease, and pests, so keeping your plants safe and healthy is relatively easy.
It yields around 18 ounces per square meter when grown indoors and over 22 ounces per plant when grown outdoors, and is usually harvested around mid-October in a fairly dry and warm climate.
