Critical Mass
15.1%
THC
Top flavors
Terpenes
Critical Mass effects are mostly calming.
Critical Mass potency is average.
Critical Mass
15.1%
THC
Top flavors
Terpenes
Critical Mass effects are mostly calming.
Critical Mass potency is average.
Critical Mass is a classic hybrid-indica strain bred from the lineage of Afghani and Skunk #1. Its physical development is characterized by a high yield and a swift 47-day flowering period, making it a notably easy variety for indoor cultivation. The strain gained a reputable status in commercial cultivation circles for its consistent output and rapid turnaround times.
The terpene profile is headlined by myrcene, followed by limonene, caryophyllene, humulene, linalool, pinene, beta-pinene, guaiol, bisabolol, terpinene, camphene, ocimene, and terpinolene. This complex chemical composition results in an aromatic profile defined by these primary constituents. The balance of its dominant myrcene and limonene suggests a sensory experience grounded in earthy musk and bright citrus top notes.
As a THC-dominant strain, Critical Mass is utilized for its capacity to induce feelings of relaxation and sleepiness, while also promoting hunger. These physiological effects render it a functional choice for users seeking assistance with sleep, pain management, and appetite stimulation. The strain has served as a prolific foundation for subsequent hybridization, contributing its genetic markers to diverse offspring including CBD D Diesel, 20 Guage, Lemonade Haze SWAG, Auto Biodiesel Mass XXL, Auto Cream Mass, Auto Diesel Mass, Barbie Q, BCN Critical XXL, BCN Critical XXL Fast, Big White, Blueberry Pot Tart, and Candy Ice.
Terpene Profile
Synergies (+) and conflicts (−) are relative to each other within this profile.
| Terpene | Share | Character | Likely role |
|---|---|---|---|
| myrcene | ~60% | earthy | relaxing · solo |
| limonene | ~28% | citrus | social · creative |
| caryophyllene | ~12% | spicy | relaxing · social |
Research notes below describe isolated terpene mechanisms and early findings. They do not guarantee effects from this strain and are not medical advice.
Russo 2011: naloxone-sensitive analgesia, potentiates barbiturate sleep; dominant sedating terpenoid; blocks hepatic carcinogenesis by aflatoxin.
Russo 2011: increases serotonin in prefrontal cortex + dopamine in hippocampus via 5-HT1A; Johns Hopkins 2024: significantly reduced anxiety vs THC alone.
~12%
spicy
●●○○
Russo 2011: only terpene that is a selective full CB2 agonist (100 nM); Gertsch et al. 2008: acts as dietary cannabinoid; unique anti-inflammatory and gastric cytoprotective properties.
Effects
Reported effects — derived from terpene chemistry and cannabinoid profile.
relaxed
eveningPrimary endpoint of myrcene+linalool sedating combinations; GABA modulation is the dominant mechanistic driver.
sleepy
eveningMyrcene potentiates barbiturate sleep (Russo 2011); CBN 2024 RCT reduces nighttime awakenings at 20 mg; nerolidol+myrcene+linalool GABAergic compounded effect.
hungry
eveningTHC-driven CB1 agonism in hypothalamic hunger centers; humulene (anorectic) and THCV (CB1 antagonism) directly conflict; myrcene potentiates THC-induced hunger.
Genetic Profile
Indica-dominant
Primarily indica with sativa influence. Relaxing body with some cerebral lift.
THC-Dominant
High THC, trace CBD. Psychoactive. Full CB1 agonism — euphoria, appetite, analgesia.
Mr. Nice Seeds' Afghani × Skunk #1 bred for extreme yield; heavy indica dominant with a sweet earthy flavor.
Genealogy
Parentage, ancestry, and genetic relatives of Critical Mass.
Ancestry
Grandparents
Offspring — 30 strains bred from Critical Mass
Composite Traits
Where to buy Critical Mass
No verified dispensaries on file — find it on Leafly.
Dispensary Locator
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Community Reviews
Critical Mass is a lifesaver for my chronic back pain. A few hits from the bong and I'm melting into the couch, ready to finally get some sleep without tossing and turning all night. Serious munchies though, have snacks ready.
Was hoping for something to help with my anxiety during the day but this just put me straight to sleep. Good for winding down, but totally KO'd me when I tried to use it for a lunchtime session. Definitely a nighttime strain.
What would Critical Mass × ? produce?
Predict the terpene profile, effects, and growing traits of a cross. Our gene weaver engine votes on dominant traits from both parents.
Build a cross with Critical Mass →Similar strains
Same primary terpene with overlapping effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Critical Mass indica or sativa?
Critical Mass is modeled here as a indica-dominant (primarily indica with sativa influence).
What terpene is dominant in Critical Mass?
Myrcene is shown as the dominant terpene at approximately ~60%. Limonene follows as the secondary terpene.
Is Critical Mass good for daytime use?
Critical Mass is versatile and works across different times of day depending on dose and individual response.
How accurate is this data?
See the "Data confidence" card in the sidebar. Terpene profiles and effects are chemistry-informed estimates — individual responses depend on phenotype, source, and personal chemistry.