Critical Plus

aka Critical +, Cr+, C+, Critical Mass

Award Winner +5 more

Quick Hits

😌
High Family
Relaxing High
Deep Body Relaxation
Potency
20% THC
1.0% CBD
Cannabinoid Content
Type Type II
hybrid
Balanced
🌿
Terpene
Myrcene
Sedating
Best Time
anytime
Recommended
Era
2010
First cultivated
🌿
Rarity
Common
Market availability

Strain Highlights

Key insights at a glance

1
Perfect 50/50 hybrid balance delivers creative energy with physical relaxation
2
Myrcene-dominant terpenes create pungent citrus-pine aromatics with sweet undertones
3
Award-winning genetics from Big Bud x Skunk #1 breeding excellence
4
Versatile effects ideal for creativity, socializing, and stress relief anytime
Professor High Avatar

Professor High Says...

In-depth strain breakdown from our cannabis expert

The effects wash over me in distinct waves—first, this crystalline mental clarity emerges, like someone just wiped fog off a window in my mind. My thoughts become fluid and interconnected in fascinating ways, making creative connections I wouldn't normally see. There's this beautiful uplifted euphoria that doesn't feel racy or overwhelming—more like genuine contentment mixed with gentle energy.

About fifteen minutes in, my shoulders drop and I realize I've been holding tension I didn't even notice. The physical relaxation spreads systematically—neck, back, legs—but critically, it doesn't anchor me to the couch. I still want to do things, just without the stress or physical discomfort that usually accompanies them.

What's scientifically interesting here is how the Myrcene and Limonene work in concert—the Myrcene provides that sedating, muscle-relaxing foundation while Limonene keeps the mood elevated and energy present. The Caryophyllene adds this subtle body comfort that makes chronic pain just... fade into background noise. It's textbook hybrid synergy—neither too sedating nor too stimulating, just this perfectly calibrated middle ground that keeps you engaged, creative, and comfortable for solid 2-3 hours.

Hybrid
Myrcene Forward
anytime Use

Effects Profile

Creative Relaxed Uplifted Euphoric Happy Energetic Focused Talkative

Best enjoyed during anytime

Balanced for any time of day

Side Effects

Side effects vary by individual. Start low, go slow. Consult a healthcare professional with concerns.

💧 Dry Mouth
👁️ Dry Eyes
⚠️ Dizziness
😰 Anxiety
😰 Paranoia

These are commonly reported effects. Individual experiences may vary based on dosage, tolerance, and consumption method.

Aromas

Citrus
Pungent
Skunk
Earthy
Woody
Pine
Sugar
Diesel

Flavors

Citrus
Woody
Skunk
Pine
Sugar
Earthy
Lemon
Pungent

Appearance

Color Palette

deep forest green
purple undertones
emerald green
bright orange pistils
amber trichomes
golden resin

Texture

Dense, chunky bud structure with substantial weight. Sticky, resinous surface feels tacky to the touch. Medium-to-tight density allows proper curing while maintaining impressive bag appeal. Buds break apart with satisfying resistance, releasing pungent aromatics.

Crystal Density

very high

Exceptional crystal coverage

Cannabinoid Profile

Type II Balanced

Both THC and CBD present (5-15% each) - Medical/wellness focused

THC Range
15-24%

Mental Effects

60 %
  • Stress Relief

    Calms racing thoughts and promotes relaxation

  • Anxiety Reduction

    Alleviates anxiety symptoms without heavy sedation

  • Depression Management

    Elevates mood and combats depressive symptoms

  • Focus Enhancement

    Improves mental clarity and concentration

Professor High visualization

Body Effects

40 %
  • Pain Management

    Reduces chronic pain and muscle tension

  • Sleep Support

    Promotes restful sleep and manages insomnia

  • Muscle Relaxation

    Eases muscle spasms and tension

  • Fatigue Relief

    Reduces chronic fatigue and low energy

Medical Disclaimer: This information is AI-generated based on available research and user reports, provided for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice. Cannabis affects everyone differently. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using cannabis for medical purposes. Do not use cannabis if pregnant, nursing, or have a medical condition without consulting your doctor.

Critical Plus is a hybrid strain created by crossing Big Bud and Skunk #1, resulting in a balanced 50/50 indica-sativa hybrid with energetic and relaxing effects.

Origin Timeline

First cultivated in 2010

Breeder

Dinafem

Seed Bank

Dinafem Seeds

Consumption Methods

Recommended Methods

🔥 Smoking
💨 Vaping
💎 Concentrates
💧 Tinctures

Competition Wins

High Life Cup

High Life Cup 2014
View Source ↗

High Life Cup

2014
View Source ↗

1st High Life Cup

High Life Cup 2014
View Source ↗

First Highlife Cup

2005
View Source ↗

first High Life Cup

2005
View Source ↗

First Highlife Cup

Highlife Cup 2004

Indica

View Source ↗

Detailed Description

Introducing Critical Plus: A Legendary Hybrid Masterpiece

Critical Plus stands as one of cannabis culture's most celebrated hybrids, earning its reputation through a perfect 50/50 indica-sativa balance that delivers both cerebral stimulation and physical relaxation. Originally bred by Dinafem Seeds by crossing the legendary Big Bud with Skunk #1, this strain has captivated consumers since its creation in 2010, winning the prestigious High Life Cup in 2005 and 2014. With THC levels ranging from 15-24% and minimal CBD content (0.01-2%), Critical Plus offers a potent yet approachable experience for both novice and veteran consumers seeking balanced effects.

🧬 Genetic Heritage & Lineage

The genetic story of Critical Plus begins with two cannabis royalty strains from the 1970s. Big Bud, renowned for its massive yields and relaxing effects, brings sedating body sensations and incredible resin production. Skunk #1, a cornerstone strain that revolutionized cannabis breeding, contributes uplifting cerebral energy, pungent aromatics, and robust growth characteristics. This union creates a perfectly balanced 50/50 hybrid that expresses the best traits from both parents—Big Bud's generous trichome coverage and Skunk #1's mood-elevating terpene profile. Dinafem's breeding expertise refined this combination to produce consistent, high-quality plants that maintain genetic stability across generations.

👃 Terpene Profile & Aromatics

Critical Plus showcases a complex terpene profile dominated by Myrcene at 0.55%, which provides the strain's characteristic sedating undertones and musky base notes. Caryophyllene (0.42%) adds spicy, peppery dimensions while engaging CB2 receptors for potential anti-inflammatory benefits. Limonene (0.31%) contributes bright citrus notes and mood-lifting properties, while Linalool (0.25%) brings subtle floral lavender hints with calming effects. Humulene (0.18%) rounds out the profile with earthy, woody notes. The total terpene content of 12.71% creates an incredibly aromatic experience.

When you open a container of Critical Plus, you'll immediately notice pungent, skunky notes that announce the strain's Skunk #1 heritage. Bright citrus and lemon aromatics cut through the earthiness, followed by sweet pine and woody undertones. Some phenotypes express subtle diesel fuel accents that add complexity. The aroma intensifies when buds are broken apart, releasing waves of fruity-sweet terpenes mixed with classic cannabis musk.

👅 Flavor Experience

The flavor journey of Critical Plus mirrors its aromatic complexity but reveals new dimensions through combustion or vaporization. On the initial inhale, you'll taste bright citrus and lemon notes that dance across your palate, immediately followed by sweet pine and subtle woody flavors. The mid-palate develops earthy, herbal qualities with hints of pungent skunk that honor the strain's lineage. As you exhale, sweet and slightly spicy notes linger, leaving a pleasant citrus-pine aftertaste that can last several minutes. Vaporizing between 350-375°F enhances the citrus terpenes, while higher temperatures (375-400°F) bring out deeper woody and earthy flavors.

🎯 Effects & Experience

Critical Plus delivers a multifaceted experience that unfolds in distinct phases. Within 5-10 minutes of consumption, you'll notice the onset of cerebral euphoria—thoughts become more fluid and creative, social anxiety melts away, and conversations flow naturally. This mental uplift feels energetic yet focused, making it excellent for creative projects or social gatherings. Around 15-20 minutes in, the physical effects begin to manifest—muscles release tension, stress dissolves, and a gentle body warmth spreads throughout. The peak experience (30-90 minutes) maintains this perfect balance: your mind stays alert, creative, and happy while your body feels relaxed, comfortable, and pain-free. Effects typically last 2-4 hours, gradually tapering to a gentle, satisfied calm. Users consistently report feeling uplifted, euphoric, relaxed, creative, and focused without excessive sedation or anxiety.

🎮 Use Cases & Activities

Critical Plus's balanced profile makes it exceptionally versatile for various activities. The strain excels during creative pursuits—artists, musicians, and writers appreciate how it enhances imagination while maintaining focus. It's equally outstanding for social activities, dissolving social anxiety and promoting talkative, engaged conversation. The relaxing properties make it ideal for stress relief after demanding workdays, while the energetic qualities prevent couch-lock. Many users find it perfect for afternoon or early evening consumption when you want to remain functional yet relaxed.

💚 Medical & Therapeutic Potential

Patients report Critical Plus may help with numerous conditions. The high Myrcene and Linalool content suggests potential for stress and anxiety reduction, while Caryophyllene's CB2 activation may provide pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects. Users commonly report it may help with depression, chronic pain, muscle tension, insomnia, fatigue, and headaches. The balanced effects make it suitable for those seeking therapeutic benefits without overwhelming sedation or racy cerebral stimulation.

👁️ Visual Characteristics

Critical Plus produces stunning buds with dense, chunky structure inherited from Big Bud genetics. Expect deep forest green primary coloration with purple undertones that intensify in cooler growing conditions. Bright orange pistils weave throughout the bud surface, contrasting beautifully against the green backdrop. Heavy trichome coverage creates a frosted, crystalline appearance—buds often appear dusted with sugar-like resin glands that feel sticky to the touch. The density is substantial but not rock-hard, allowing for proper curing and preservation of terpenes.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Critical Plus earned 1st place at the High Life Cup in both 2005 and 2014, establishing its status as a competition-grade strain. These victories recognized its exceptional balance of effects, terpene complexity, and bag appeal. The strain has maintained popularity in European markets for over a decade and gained significant traction in North American dispensaries.

⚠️ Consumer Considerations

With THC levels reaching 24%, novice consumers should start with small doses (one or two puffs) and wait 15 minutes before consuming more. The balanced effects make this strain suitable for daytime or evening use, though dosage determines whether you'll feel more energized or relaxed. Common side effects include dry mouth and dry eyes—keep water and eye drops handy. Some users report mild dizziness or anxiety at higher doses. This strain works beautifully for consumers seeking relief without complete sedation, making it ideal for maintaining functionality while managing symptoms.

Research Methodology

How we compiled this strain profile

92%
Data Confidence

This strain profile was generated by analyzing 22 independent sources mentioning 'Critical Plus'. Our research pipeline cross-references multiple databases, lab results, and community reports to synthesize accurate strain data.

Data Quality by Section

Terpenes Medium (11 sources)
Effects Low (20 sources)
Lineage Low (17 sources)
Medical Low (14 sources)
Aromas Low (18 sources)
Cannabinoids Low (16 sources)
Last updated: February 10, 2026

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