GRADE: AAAA

CATEGORY: Flower / Hybrid

TYPE: Hybrid 50% Sativa /50% Indica

THC CONTENT:  17% – 22%

CBD CONTENT: < 1%

EFFECTS: Creative, Energizing, Euphoria, Focus

FLAVORS: Apple, Lavender, Lemon, Pine, Sweet

AROMAS: Apple, Earthy, Sweet

RECOMMENDED USE: Afternoon

MEDICAL USES: Anorexia, Arthritis, Depression, Fatigue, Gastrointestinal Disorder, Hypertension, Insomnia, Nausea, PTSD, Stress

DESCRIPTION: Biddy Early is a well-balanced hybrid created by the Amsterdam-based seed company Magus Genetics. This strain’s quaint name may refer to a 19th-century Irish woman whose talent for folk healing led to accusations of witchcraft. Biddy Early is a cross between Early Skunk and Magus’ own Warlock. The strain’s THC content ranges from 17% to 22%.

Biddy Early stands out with large flowers that adhere in chunky, irregular shapes. These nuggets have an indica-leaning internal structure, with a very dense core. The wide leaves, which coil tightly inward, are a medium shade of olive green and are twisted through with pale orange hairs — which are actually reproductive structures called pistils. Finally, Biddy Early is crowned with a high concentration of snowy white trichomes that make the buds very sticky to the touch.

When properly cured, Biddy Early carries a sweet floral aroma, tinged by hints of lemon. There are also some pungent diesel-like fumes lurking underneath, possibly passed on from Early Skunk. Grinding up or breaking apart these solid buds yields more of an objectionable, skunky odor. This scent may intensify when Biddy Early is combusted in a pipe or a joint, burning with an acrid smoke that’s liable to irritate the palate and sinuses. On the exhale, this searing smoke has some traces of citrus flavor.

Biddy Early has a high that sets in fairly quickly, exercising head-focused effects like an increased pulse around the temples and cheekbones and a possible increase in salivation. As they become accustomed to these odd sensations, though, consumers are apt to notice a change in their patterns of thinking. Thoughts may assume a new clarity and focus, allowing smokers to find fascination in topics that might not otherwise interest them. Similarly, ideas may jump from one to another in a kind of hyper-connected free association. In the right set and setting, this cerebral buzz can lead to productivity on detailed tasks requiring deep analysis. For those who aren’t feeling as motivated, though, Biddy Early’s head high can be an enjoyable way to get through a mundane daily agenda.

Within a little over an hour, smokers begin to feel Biddy Early’s considerable physical effects take over. A heaviness may creep into the eyelids and limbs alike, allowing for deep and easy breathing and eliminating any lingering muscular tension. While users are typically still able to maintain a lucid mental state and carry on detailed conversations, some of their early energy and motivation may taper off. At this stage, the strain’s unique combination of physical and mental simulation can enhance pursuits that require the coordination of both mind and body — to that end, it can be a potent aphrodisiac. Due to its two-stage high, Biddy Early is recommended for afternoon through early evening use; if toked right before bed, though, it may keep users wide awake.

Biddy Early’s versatile effects can have a wide range of application for medical cannabis patients. The tuned-in way of thinking that comes with its onset can help those with attention deficit disorder to work on single tasks. Additionally, the strain’s mood-boosting qualities can temporarily improve some symptoms associated with mild to moderate stress and depression. On the physical side of things, Biddy Early (much like the wise Irishwoman herself) can soothe aches and pains, whether short-term or due to chronic conditions like fibromyalgia or arthritis. It may also take the sting out of inflammation-related discomfort like headaches and cramps. Because its feelings of “mindrace” can be overwhelming or disorienting in the wrong set and setting, though, Biddy Early is not recommended for patients who are prone to paranoia or panic.

Those looking to grow Biddy Early at home have the option of buying seeds through online retailers. The strain can be grown indoors or out, although successful outdoor cultivation depends on a hot, humid climate with daytime temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The plants, which grow short and bushy, may have a natural resistance to adverse growing conditions like mold. Biddy Early has a short flowering period, reaching maturity within just 7 to 8 weeks. At harvest time, the strain offers only an average yield of up to 37 grams (1.3 ounces) of flower per square foot of plant.

Rooted in cultivation research and herbalist traditions, Biddy Early is an excellent holistic strain for all kinds of ailments. It’s also just a pleasant way to unwind after a long, busy day.