Common Cannabis Strains in Thailand

The plant genus commonly known as cannabis exists in three distinct species: cannabis sativa, cannabis indica, and cannabis ruderalis. This article will focus on two of the three species most commonly consumed for recreational and medicinal purposes, sativa and indica. Although possession and consumption of cannabis are illegal in most countries, the Netherlands being a notable exception, many growers of cannabis are successful in the cultivation and distribution of this remarkably versatile plant.

The term cannabis refers to a genus of flowering plants comprised of three species; each taxon contains its own unique characteristics. The three species of cannabis are cannabis sativa, cannabis indica, and cannabis ruderalis. These taxa are all native to central and south Asia. All cannabis-related extracts are produced from these three species, including hashish and hash oil. Due to its low THC content, cannabis ruderalis is not usually cultivated for recreational or medicinal use. However, its hardiness and resistance to insects and disease make ruderalis ideal for industrial use, in products as diverse as rope, oil, and animal feed. The remainder of this article will focus on the other two species of cannabis, sativa and indica.

Sativa plants are tall and thin. Sativas are better suited for outdoor cultivation because some varieties can reach over 25 feet in height. Strains which are sativa dominant tend to have an aroma similar to grass or hay, providing an energizing effect, best suited for daytime consumption. Many sativa users report elevated creativity and energy, with increased imagination and creation of ideas. Many artists and musicians benefit from the effects of a sativa high. Medical benefits of sativa include pain relief, muscle relaxation, reduction of seizures, relief from migraine and other severe headaches, and relief of anxiety and stress.

Indica plants are short and stocky. Many indoor growers prefer indica strains because of their short, compact size. Heights of three to four feet are typical for indicas. Strains which are indica dominant tend to have an aroma that is very strong; sweet and sour notes can both be present. Indicas produce a deep, relaxing, sleepy feeling which some refer to as “couch-lock”. Many indica users report a very relaxing, strong body high that is helpful in alleviating sleep disorders. Other medical benefits of indica strains include relief of pain, muscle spasms, and insomnia.

Cannabis is native to central and south Asia. In Southeast Asia, the kingdom of Thailand imposes strict penalties on cannabis possession. For example, Thailand’s Narcotics Act of 1979, marijuana is a category five narcotic. This means that anyone caught producing, exporting or importing cannabis will be sentenced to imprisonment of two to fifteen years, and/or a fine of 200,000 to 1.5 million baht. (Section 75). Supply and possession with intent to supply in quantities of less than 10 kilograms is punishable with two to ten years incarceration, and/or a fine between 40,000 and 200,000 baht. If someone is caught with more than 10 kilograms, the penalty is between two and fifteen years of incarceration, and/or a fine of up to 100,000 baht (Section 76). Nevertheless, there are many operations in Thailand in which growers cultivate cannabis for distribution. The remainder of this article will focus on strains of cannabis grown in Thailand.

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) defines a landrace breed as a breed that has largely developed through adaptation to the natural environment and traditional production system in which it has been raised. One of the most common strains of cannabis grown in Thailand is simply known as Thai cannabis, a landrace which is a local ecotype of cannabis that has mainly been developed through adaptation to its native environment. Specimens of a landrace vary within their genotype and phenotype; more so than members of a formal breed. Landraces are different from ancient wild species of a plant or animal, and from unique species or subspecies descendant from the same ancestor.

Thai cannabis, reputed to be one of the finest strains in the world, is a landrace commonly known as Thai stick. The strain acquired that nickname from the fact that most Thai cannabis introduced to the Western world was dried and strung onto wooden sticks. From this original strain of Thai cannabis, many different strains have been cultivated, with names like Voodoo, Juicy Fruit and Haze.

Another common strain is Thai Haze. This is a hybrid comprised of the original Thai cannabis and the classic Haze strain. Thai Haze requires a relatively lengthy growing period, typical of most sativa strains. Thai Haze is not recommended for the novice grower, as its growth cycle can be unpredictable. The plants of this strain are very tall, up to 20 feet when grown outside. Patient growers are rewarded with an extraordinarily potent product.

The Chocolate Thai strain is famous in Thailand. Chocolate Thai is noted for its terpene profile. Terpenes are compounds in cannabis that give the plant its characteristic aroma. THC and other components in cannabis are odorless, so the aroma of any given strain of cannabis depends on which terpenes are strongest. Terpenes are also known to enhance the potency of tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. Chocolate Thai sticks are so potent, that some have rumored it was first soaked in water rendered from opium production, but this is not the case. The flavor of Chocolate Thai is similar to Haze; so much so that the two are often confused. The psychoactive effects of Chocolate Thai can be much delayed. Consumers of Chocolate Thai report the effects can be so slow in coming that they are only noticeable after they wear off, which can be several hours.

Another strain commonly seen in Thailand is Chocolope. This is a hybrid of two strains, Cannalope and Chcolate Thai. This strain is noted for its slight chocolate taste and strong psychoactive properties. Chocolope is useful in relieving anxiety, and stimulating the appetite.

Despite strict penalties and zealous law enforcement, the business of cultivating and distributing cannabis in Thailand continues to thrive.