What is Skunk?

Skunk #1 is a strain of a cannabis with a lineage which can be traced back to landrace strains from Central and South America, Afghanistan and Thailand. From selective breeding in the late 1970s, this strain was stabilised into the first true-breeding Indica-Sativa hybrid, resulting in the classic Indica-dominant Skunk #1.

The potency of this strain of cannabis is so notorious that ‘skunk’ has become a term used to described all high-THC strains of cannabis, more often than not within a negative context in the UK. This strain has been regarded, however, as a benchmark by breeders who appreciate the uniformity and reliable performance, which has influenced many modern hybrids. (en.seedfinder.eu/strain-info/SkunkNr1/Sensi_Seeds/)

The United Kingdom is the biggest producer of cannabis in the world for scientific and medical purposes. However, access to cannabis medicines is still restricted by cost, bureaucracy and stigma.

For some individuals, high-THC cannabis is not appropriate for them in regard to their mental health. This is a serious issue which cannot be ignored, however the use of the term ‘skunk’ has not been helpful in understanding this further, as it has oversimplified things within a prohibitionist world where access to proper education has been limited.

Does skunk cause psychosis? Or can THC help people with depression recover? Skunk: The Documentary will meet the patients on both sides.