This Puzzled Life is a mental health and recovery blog exploring addiction, trauma healing, LGBTQ experiences, humor, and the strange moments that shape us.
“Sativa makes me productive. Indica makes me forget what I was supposed to be productive about.”
-Unknown
Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to tell you about another widely known strain that will give you that attitude adjustment and the want to get up and go. Its name is Super Lemon Haze.
Super Lemon Haze is an 80/20 sativa-dominant strain. It is a cross between Lemon Skunk x Super Silver Haze. Lemon Skunk is a cross of two distinct Skunk phenotypes that were selected by the breeder specifically for their lemon traits. And those names are unknown. Super Silver Haze is a cross between Skunk x Northern Lights x Haze. When the two sides of this strain came together, it was a match made in heaven. It was developed in the late 1990s and popularized in the late 2000s by breeder Franco Loja.
If you go solely on the names in the lineage, then we all know those “skunky” strains. And the Haze strains are the ones that taste a lot like mildew in your purple strains. What I can tell you about this strain is that the lemon flavoring is so strong that the strain taste is very enjoyable. I will caution you about the chance of increased anxiety is it’s overused. So, beware if you have anxiety issues.
The top terpenes in this strain are Limonene, Terpinolene, and B-Caryophyllene. Patients report relief from mood swings, stress, fatigue, and mild pain management. Please keep in mind that each grow will be different and the flower’s effects will differ depending on which region of the country that the plant is grown. Thanks for reading! Keep blazin.’
Affirmation: I release tension, fear, and the stories that weigh me down.
“I’m high on life. Oh, wait, sorry, that’s just marijuana.”
-Unknown
Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to talk to you about cannabinoids. And with terpenes this medicine is saving lives.
What are cannabinoids? They are a group of chemical compounds found primarily in the Cannabis sativa plant. And the plant contains about 540 chemical substances. They interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates various functions that include mood, appetite, pain, and sleep. And there are also different types of cannabinoids (https://www.nccih.nih.gov, 2025).
Types of Cannabinoids
· Phytocannabinoids: Naturally found in the cannabis plant such as THC and CBD
· Endocannabinoids: Cannabino9ids produced by the human body, as anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG).
· Synthetic cannabinoids: Man-made cannabinoids designed to mimic the effects of phytocannabinoids such as “K2” and “Spice” (https://nida.nih.gov, 2025).
What are specific phytocannabinoids and their functions?
· Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): psychoactive compound that produces euphoric “high:. It also helps with nausea, pain, and appetite stimulation.
· Cannabidiol (CBD): Non-psychoactive compound known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties.
· Cannabigerol (CBG): Known as the “mother of all cannabinoids” because others are synthesized from its acidic form CBGA. It is non-psychoactive and is being researched for potential neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial effects.
· Cannabinol (CBN): A minor cannabinoid that forms as THC ages and degrades. It is mildly intoxicating but primarily known for its sedative properties and p[potential use as a sleep aid. I can tell you that I search for strains high in CBN for severe insomnia. The strain that almost instantly puts me to sleep is Purple Cheisel.
· Cannabichromene (CBC): A non-psychoactive cannabinoid that’s being studied for its potential effects on pain and inflammation. This one will definitely help with chronic pain.
· Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (THCA): The non-psychoactive precursor to THC, found in raw cannabis. When heated it converts to THC. It has potential anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.
· Cannabidolic Acid (CBDA): The raw, unheated precursor to CBD, found in fresh cannabis. When heated it converts to CBD. It may have stronger anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea effects than CBD in its raw form.
· Delta-8 THC: A psychoactive compound similar to THC, though its effects are less potent. It occurs in small quantities in the cannabis plant but can be synthetically produced from CBD (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, 2023). I don’t personally have a problem with the idea of delta-8 and delta-9 products. What I do have a problem with is the fact that they are not regulated and are sold in gas stations to people making them sick. Those products are not safe at all. Because we don’t know what all is in them.
The topic of cannabinoids has a lot of information available. And I won’t bore you with all the very distinct information. As I have said about terpenes, get to know your cannabinoids. It’s imperative when seeking to fine tune your cannabis regimen. Thanks for reading! And keep blazin.’
Affirmation: My mind, body and spirit are my top priority. Cannabis aids with each.
“Some strains roar. Some strains whisper. AK‑47 just taps you on the shoulder and says, ‘Relax, sweetheart.’”
– This Puzzled Life
Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Tap the ash twice for the ancestors who absolutely did not expect you to be out here reading a strain review with this much chaotic Southern energy. But here we are, thriving anyway. Today’s Budtender Moment is dedicated to a strain with a name so unnecessarily dramatic it sounds like it should come with a seatbelt and a liability waiver. And yet it’s one of the gentlest, most “baby, breathe” strains on the shelf. Welcome to AK‑47. The flower that sounds like a felony but feels like a weighted blanket.
AK‑47. A strain named like it wants to fight me in the parking lot of a Waffle House at 3 a.m. But it actually hits like a soft‑spoken librarian who just wants you to hydrate and stop overthinking your entire existence. If trauma had a dimmer switch, this strain would be the one gently turning it down while whispering, “Hush now, baby, we’re not doing all that today.” It walked in like a cousin who wasn’t invited to the cookout but somehow brought the best potato salad. You know the one that is loud, chaotic, but beloved.
This strain is the botanical equivalent of a blended family that somehow gets along at Thanksgiving. It was created in the early 1990s by Serious Seeds, a Dutch seed company known for being meticulous, scientific, and just a little bit dramatic in the best way. The breeders wanted something uplifting, balanced, and reliable. And a strain that could hit the sweet spot between clarity and calm. So, they pulled genetics from all over the world like they were assembling the Avengers.
The breeders said the name came from its “one‑hit knockout” reputation. And not because it’s harsh or overwhelming, but because it delivers fast, noticeable effects with surprising smoothness. Like a gentle slap from someone who loves you. It’s one of the earliest successful multi‑continental hybrids. It helped define the modern hybrid era in the 90s. It became a competition darling, winning over a dozen awards. And its genetics influenced countless strains that came after it. AK‑47 is basically the Beyoncé of early hybrid breeding. It’s influential, consistent, and still relevant decades later. It tastes like a plant that’s been through things but came out wiser.
Top terpenes in this strain are Myrcene, Limonene, Caryophyllene, and Ocimene. Patients report relief from stress, anxiety, mild depression, focus & mental clarity, muscle tension, mild chronic pain, headaches, and social anxiety.
And that is AK‑47. The strain that sounds like a felony but behaves like a weighted blanket with a college degree. If you need me, I’ll be over here floating three inches above the couch cushions, contemplating absolutely nothing of importance while pretending I’m productive because my eyes are open. May your bowl be full, your peace be protected, and your group chats stay quiet. And remember: If anyone asks why you’re this calm, just tell them you’re practicing “radical Southern stillness.” Now go forth and inhale responsibly, you magnificent chaotic angel.
Please keep in mind that each grow will be different and the flower’s effects will differ depending on which region of the country that the plant is grown. Thanks for reading! Keep blazin.’
Affirmation: “I honor my mind, even on the days it feels like it’s doing donuts in a parking lot. I am still here, still steady, and still worthy of calm.”
“My cats said CBD won’t get me high. But it will keep me from acting like a Walmart parking lot Greek tragedy. And honestly, that feels like growth.”
-This Puzzled Life
Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Let the ancestors lean in the doorway with their arms crossed. The moment that smoke hit the ceiling fan, my household convened an emergency session of the Feline Administration to discuss CBD Awareness Month. And the cats had notes.
Piper, Coco, and Tinkerbell marched in like three county commissioners who did not read the briefing packet. But absolutely intend to argue about it. Piper arrived first. She’s was dragging a legal pad she stole from my desk. She hopped onto the coffee table. Cleared her throat and announced, “CBD Awareness Month is important because humans are stressed, chaotic, and prone to hollering at inanimate objects. We must intervene.”
Coco strutted in next. And late on purpose. She believes time is a social construct. And also because she was busy knocking something off a shelf. She plopped down. Tail flicking and said, “CBD is fine. But why do y’all keep buying the expensive treats and then acting surprised when I eat the whole bag?”
Tinkerbell arrived last with the energy of a Southern auntie who already decided the meeting was foolish. But came for the snacks. She sat like a sphinx and declared, “CBD is the plant spirit that keeps y’all from crying in the Walmart parking lot. We support it.”
The Cats’ Official CBD Purposes
According to the Feline Administration, CBD has three sacred functions.
Stress & anxiety relief-“Because y’all vibrate like a microwave on popcorn mode.”
Chaos reduction-“In theory, though, I’ve seen no evidence.”
Increased compliance with feline demands- Tinkerbell insists this is scientifically proven by staring at me until I give her treats.
Then they expanded the list like they were reading off a menu.
Calms the humans-“Because y’all vibrate like a cheap motel air conditioner.”
Inflammation & pain-“Your knees sound like a haunted rocking chair.”
Sleep support-“You need it. We need you to need it.”
Mood regulation-“You get dramatic,” all three say in unison.
General human foolishness-“Self-explanatory.”
They also want it noted that CBD helps humans stop doom scrolling. Stop overthinking texts. Stop reorganizing the pantry at 3 a.m. and stop crying at dog food commercials. It gives you the ability to forgive yourself for eating an entire sleeve of cookies. And the mystical moment when you realize you are the drama. But also the solution.
Piper hopped onto the table with a binder labeled CBD: A Non‑Psychoactive Situation. Coco dragged in a whiteboard she absolutely cannot read. Tinkerbell arrived late again, ready to deliver a TED Talk titled Calm Down, Human: The Plant Is Legal Now.
Piper began: “CBD is federally legal as long as it comes from hemp and contains less than 0.3% THC. Which means, human, you can stop whispering like you’re buying contraband behind the Piggly Wiggly.”
Coco: “It does not alter your mind. It alters your attitude. And frankly, we support that.”
Tinkerbell: “It’s non‑psychoactive. Which means you’re not getting high. You’re getting functional. You’re getting emotionally moisturized. You’re getting less likely to cry over a dropped chicken nugget.”
The Guidelines (Because Apparently I Needed Rules)
Piper, now self‑appointed Director of Human Regulation, laid out the official policies.
Do not give CBD to cats without a vet’s approval. “We are perfect as‑is.”
Humans should use CBD responsibly. “Meaning don’t take it and then try to assemble furniture.”
CBD is not a personality trait. Tinkerbell says this while staring directly at me.
If CBD helps you chill, hydrate, and mind your business, the cats approve. Especially the “mind your business” part.
Then they sat me down like I was on trial.
Piper said, “We’ve observed the pacing. The muttering. The dramatic sighing. And the emotional support snacks. Clearly, CBD awareness is overdue.”
Coco added, “And while we support your journey, we would also like to know why you get the calming treats and we get vibes.”
Tinkerbell stared at me unblinking, like she was reading my aura and finding overdue library books in it. She then hopped onto the altar (my coffee table). Placed one paw on my forehead, and proclaimed:
“May your joints be loose. Your sleep be deep. Your snacks be plentiful. And your spirit be unbothered. May CBD soften your edges but not your boundaries. And may you never, ever forget to refill the treat jar.”
The sage crackled. The ancestors nodded. And the cats declared CBD Awareness Month officially adjourned. Piper knocked over a plant. Coco demanded lunch. Tinkerbell stole my pen. The plant is innocent. The human is the problem. Thanks for reading! Keep medicating.
Affirmation: “I am calm, collected, and legally compliant. I soften my edges, not my boundaries, and I do it with the confidence of a cat who just knocked something over on purpose.”
“Terpenes can enhance the effects of cannabinoids when combined or take with them.”
-Montana Department of Revenue
Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy, go away. Today, I want to talk to you about terpenes. I am going to do my best to break it down in the easiest way possible.
In plants, terpenes are a natural defense against herbivores and pests. They also play a part in the attraction of beneficial organisms ensuring plant survival and reproduction. Some terpenes protect the plants from environmental stressors like heat and UV radiation. They also function as signaling defense mechanisms (www.nature.com, 2025).
Terpenes are organic compounds responsible for the aromas and flavors of cannabis strains and other plants. And cannabis has over 150 identified terpenes in the plant. However, many exist in such low concentrations that there may not significantly contribute.
Beyond aromatic qualities terpenes are also studied for therapeutic benefits like pain relief, anti-inflammatory, and anti-anxiety effects, among others. The factors that influence terpene profiles are genetics, growing conditions and the plant’s developmental stage. Here are a few terpenes and explanations.
§ Myrcene: known for earthy flavors and associated with pain relief and relaxation. This is one of the main terpenes that I look for in my medicine. It is a big one that helps with chronic pain.
§ Caryophyllene: has the “pepper like” flavor that also helps with pain relief.
§ Limonene: responsible for the citrusy aroma. And helps with mood elevation.
§ Pinene: correct! This one is responsible for the pine scent which can also help to elevate mood. I will tell you that most of the negative anxiety experiences that I have with cannabis is due to this “panic attack provoker.” And that is why I tend to enjoy hybrids.
§ Linalool: responsible for flora aromas and relaxation. Helps with the ability to combat stress and ease body aches, reduce muscle spasms, relieve pain, and anxiety.
§ Humulene: is used for inflammation and weight control. And helps to tame those terrible munchies.
§ Terpinolene: has been shown to help inhibit tumor growth and have positive effects on cardiovascular disease (www.cannaflower.com, 2021).
Terpenes and other medical benefits:
§ Aromatherapy and Flavoring: Terpenes are used in essential oil, perfumes, and food.
§ Potential Therapeutic Effects: Research indicates potential health benefits include:
o Anti-inflammatory: Helps with chronic inflammation
o Analgesic: pain relief
o Anti-anxiety and antidepressant:they promote calming effects and improve mood. Linalool is found in lavender.
o Antioxidant: Protects cells against damage
o Antimicrobial and antifungal combat bacterial and fungal infections
o Sleep improvements: Terpenes like myrcene have sedating effect and promote relaxation.
o Neuroprotective effects:Potentially help protect neurons from damage and degradation.
o Cancer research: Early studies suggest potential anticancer properties (www.medicalnewstoday.com, 2025).
All these points describe how the terpenes in cannabis and other plants can be so helpful to us and to our ecosystem. I invite you to know the terpenes that work best for you even if you are not personally use cannabis. They are an essential part in healing and management of various debilitating conditions. Thanks for reading! And Know Your Terpenes!
Affirmation: I will allow myself to accept my pain today and embrace the things that relieve it.
Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to stay with the self harm awareness color by highlighting strain names and colors. The strain is called Orange Kush.
Orange Kush aka Orange OG was developed by Green Devil Genetics in the 1990’s by combining Orange Bud x OG Kush. You can definitely smell and taste the citrus with a mixture of that fuel paternal line. And don’t worry, the citrus tones down the somewhat overpowering diesel of the OG Kush. While it’s not what I would consider as a “heavy hitter,” it is still a very relaxing strain.
I am using the full spectrum dab syringe by Midsouth Extracts. The THC is at 59%, which is the typical range per state requirement. The top terpene profile is p-Myrcene, Limonene and Linalool. While this product is labeled as an indica, it’s more of a creeper hybrid. The effects come on somewhat slower and aren’t too heavy. This is a concentration that could be used with novice users. I have eaten this out of the syringe and dabbed this strain both ways give you a nice taste of this plant’s terpenes. However, don’t overdo it.
The strain is considered both an indica and a hybrid. The majority of Kush are indicas. The more citrus strains I have found to be more sativa. And this concentrate is definitely the best of both worlds. The sativa side is strong enough to still be functional. And the indica side is enough to muffle out any potential panic attacks. The medical effects pain relief, depression, sleep, relaxation. anxiety, ADHD, inflammation, loss of appetite, PMS, migraines and muscle spasms. And it is a strain that has been popular in Arizona and the Pacific Northwest. (allbud.com.) Definitely, a really good one for completing a task. It is sort of a little creeper initially so don’t go crazy until you know your tolerance. It’s about 70% Indica-30% Sativa in my opinion.
Wherever you’re celebrating Pride, stop into a legal dispensary and ask Orange Kush by name without worrying about it being too heavy. And definitely one to complete your awareness of self-harm. Thanks for reading! Keep blazin’.
Affirmation: No matter how I identify, I am beautiful.
“Cannabis doesn’t take you away from reality. It changes how you look at it.”
-Unknown
Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to tell you about a strain called Purple Punch.
Purple Punch is an 80/20 indica-dominant hybrid. It is a cross between Larry OG x Grandaddy Purple. Larry OG is a cross between OG Kush x SFV OG (San Fernando Valley). And what powerful strains those genetics are. Grandaddy Purple is a cross between Purple Urkle x Big Bud. All of these genetics are well known historic strains.
The most prominent terpenes in this strain are Myrcene, Caryophyllene, and Pinene. Patients report relief from conditions such as stress, anxiety, insomnia, appetite loss, and body aches. What I can tell you about this strain is that you will feel like you got purple punched. It is a very potent strain as flower. But in this vape cart, it’s not long before you get that punch. I can attest to the above relief from stated conditions. This one will put you out and give you some much needed pain relief.
Please keep in mind that each grow will be different and the flower effects, terpenes and genetics will differ depending on which region of the country that the plant is grown. Thanks for reading! Keep blazin.’
Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to give you a list of the stop cannabis strains of 2025. I know. I have smoked acres of weed this year. And I always enjoy seeing the top weed strains of the year.
It’s that time of year where we find out top strains from across the country. I manage my healthcare by researching strains that work best on my symptoms. And then, I look to see if any of the strains are found locally. See if you recognize any of these strains.
1. Blue Dream: a hybrid that gives you that nice balanced high. This strain works very well for PTSD.
2. Gelato 41: Abalanced hybrid known for sweet flavoring.
3. Cocolato: A daytime use with chocolate and coconut flavoring.
4. Sour Diesel: This is a classic sativa-dominant hybrid strain used to help with anxiety and fatigue.
5. Lemon Cherry Gelato: An uplifting hybrid popular for citrus and berry flavors.
6. White Runtz: A good strain to help with both relaxation and mental clarity.
7. Pink Certz: Uplifting hybrid that I tried recently that is very impressive with its balanced effects.
8. Godfather OG: A potent indica-dominant strain that has the potential to grant you a “couch lock” session.
9. Ice Cream Cake: I love this strain! It works well on pain, stress, anxiety, and insomnia. And it will make sure you drift off into a nice little cannabis coma.
10. OG Kush: Another classic blend of indica-dominance. This is just a good all-around strain.
11. Permanent Marker: I tried this indica-dominant strain this year. It definitely has the potency and stink that aims to please.
12. South Diesel: Classic sativa-dominant hybrid that is sure to give you some “get-up-and-go” effects while putting a the sour and stink flavors in one luscious bud.
13. Biscotti: This is an indica-dominant hybrid that is known as a “dessert strain” flavoring.
14. Super Boof: This is a stain that is sativa-dominant that didn’t push my anxiety into a panic attack. But use sparingly if you’re really sensitive to sativa strains. Just a “WOW” strain in my opinion.
15. Cereal Milk: This strain is known for its sweet and creamy taste profile. It’s said to be sativa leaning. However, it feels like a balanced hybrid. A must try for anyone!
16. Blueberry: A classic indica dominant strain that is known as a suppressor for many conditions and rich berry flavoring. This strain is often crossbred to many different strains. And a big genetic factor for strains that work is known to work well on PTSD.
I can say with certainty that these are not the only strains that have been spotlighted for 2025. But it is a list that maybe you have tried and can attest to the power of their medicine. Thanks for reading! Keep blazin.”
Affirmation: Love flows to me, through me, and around me.
Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to tell you about a strain that reminds me of cold mornings when I was a kid. The strain is called Blueberry Muffins.
Blueberry Muffins is an 80/20 indica-dominant hybrid that many stoners love. It is a cross between Purple Panty Dropper x Blueberry. Purple Panty Dropper is a cross between Purple Haze x Oregon Grape x Matanuskan Mist. Blueberry is a cross between Purple Thai x Afghan. This strain is just loaded with great genetics. And it’s one that I really enjoy.
The major terpenes in this strain are Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Limonene, Humulene, and Bisabolol. Patients report relief from conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, stress, nausea, headaches, and migraines. This strain is just an all-around good strain. It’s good for both day and nighttime. It’s still a very indica strain that is what I need with overstimulation. If you are used to smoking heavy indicas, this one is not that potent. Beware of the dreaded “couch lock” if not used in moderation though. But it is still strong enough to use at night. This is a very popular strain in the area in which I live. And I would highly recommend this strain for potency and that wonderful berry flavoring. Thanks for reading! Keep blazin’.
Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy, go away. Welcome again! Today, I want to review a strain known as Polar Plunge. I thought that while we are in a cooler season of the year, I would pick one to reflect that.
Polar Plunge is an interesting strain. Parent strains are a cross between Early Riser x Ice Box Pie. Early Riser is a 50/50 hybrid. However, the exact lineage is unknown. Ice Box Pie is a 70/30 indica-dominant hybrid. The genetics are a cross between Wedding Cake x Freeworld Chem. This strain has a little more sativa than what I like. However, it’s not too much to induce anxiety. Thank you, indicas.
Patients report relief from depression, nausea, stress, mood swings, chronic fatigue, and pain relief. This strain would be a good one for lunch break. It feels like a good balance. If you are sensitive to sativas, make sure and use in moderation. The terpene profile for these strains are B-Caryophyllene, a-Humulene, B-Myrcene. THC percentage is about mid-range. Thanks for reading. Keep blazin’.
This Puzzled Life 