Cookie Monster is an indica-dominant strain that blends the rock-solid lineage of two famous strains. Not to be confused with the genetically similar Monster Cookies, Cookie Monster is a cross between the uber-popular Girl Scout Cookies and OG Kush. This strain delivers long-lasting and therapeutic relaxation; it has a potency that earned it the title of Best Indica in Seattle’s 2014 High Times Cannabis Cup. Cookie Monster’s THC content has been measured at between 14% and 23%.

Although only small to medium in size, flowers of Cookie Monster impress consumers with a vivid array of colors. The spring green leaves cling together in a dense, indica-typical bud structure and are shot through with vibrant orange pistis. More often than not, phenotypes of this strain boast streaks of dark blue and purple in their leaves — these colors come about when pigments called anthocyanins are agitated by colder than average weather during the growing process. Finally, cloudy white trichomes cover the inner and outer surfaces of these spherical buds, giving them a sticky texture and accounting for their high psychoactivity.

Cookie Monster’s flowers have a predominantly earthy aroma when properly cured, marked by notes of hashy sandalwood along with a faint, cheesy tang. Closer inspection reveals a biscuity odor that may be familiar to fans of parent strain Girl Scout Cookies. Meanwhile, grinding up or breaking the cured nugs yields some herbal scents, with hints of mint and pine. When combusted, Cookie Monster may burn with a harsh and acrid smoke that can tickle the back of the palate and cause eyes to water. This thick smoke tastes floral and slightly dank on the exhale. Cookie Monster can be a particularly pungent smoke, and those looking to keep their consumption discreet should take precautions before toking in public.

Cookie Monster offers what can be described as a creeper of a high. Initial effects may begin to emerge after about fifteen minutes, at which point users detect a pressure around the eyes and temples. This sensation is accompanied by some subtle mental stimulation — although the effects are more calming than energetic. Smokers may experience some sensory distortion as well as a strong sense of time dilation. This trippy, euphoric mindset can be a great way to explore creative visualization; it may also enhance low-energy activities like grocery shopping or doing the dishes. Otherwise, this high is mostly characterized by a weighty physical relaxation: users may detect a dissipation of lingering muscular tension, along with an increased capacity for deep breathing. As time passes or as dosage is increased, users may experience an intractable feeling of couch-lock (albeit while still maintaining a clear mind). More appropriate for nighttime than daytime use, Cookie Monster can also work against stubborn instances of insomnia.

This strain’s sedative effects can have wide-ranging application for medical cannabis patients as well. It can soothe aches and pains, whether they’re temporary as due to injury or chronic as due to serious conditions like fibromyalgia. Cookie Monster’s anti-inflammatory effects may also provide relief from more common annoyances like nausea and headaches. Finally, this strain can temporarily soothe the troubling symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. Because its mental stimulation is unlikely to tip over into paranoia, Cookie Monster is a good option for those who are prone to panic or who have a low THC tolerance.

A welcome addition to the Cookie family, Cookie Monster is sure to please indica fans. Although its flavor profile may prove divisive, its smooth and tranquil high is sure to be a crowd-pleaser when this bud is shared in social situations.