Strains & products

Strain Highlight: Headband and Its Halo Effect

Published on November 26, 2014 · Last updated July 28, 2020

Have you had a chance to try Headband yet? If not, let me introduce you to the sativa-driven hybrid that is regularly near the top of the Leafly Strain Explorer with hundreds of ratings and reviews. Headband crosses two renowned strains, OG Kush and Sour Diesel, to create a powerful, stimulating effect on the mind. This high-flying hybrid is also known as Sour Kush and has developed a reputation for the halo of cerebral activity it produces.

Cannabis strains often have silly names, everything from Cat Piss to Green Crack, but Headband’s name serves a purpose. The name Headband foreshadows the heady effects of the chunky green buds that are known to produce an immediate sensation around the crown of your head.

This crop of Headband I tried epitomizes what I have come to expect from the strain; a potent, day-time smoke that is full of citrus zest and a pungent note of diesel fuel. As soon as I open the container the room is filled with the scent of sweetlemons, like Pine-Sol but without the tinge of ammonia. The buds are compact and relatively uniform with swollen calyxes dripping with resinous oils. When ground or broken down by hand the sharp gasoline fumes of Sour Diesel reveal themselves.

The first toke from a dry pipe produces a hot, dense smoke that rings with earthy, floral tones and pepperyspice. I prefer to use a water pipe, with which Headband produces a much smoother finish and a creamier smoke. The percolation also emphasizes the citrus zest this strain provides, a component that is further amplified when vaporized.

The unparalleled effects of Headband take hold almost immediately when I begin to feel a slight pressure just above my brow, orbiting my entire skull. While some find this sensation to be unsettling, it is a sign of quality Headband genetics and one I happily embrace. Once you familiarize yourself with the aura that Headband simulates, a rush of creative, cerebral energy erupts and sparks you into imaginative action. Eventually, the racing brain activity mellows to provide a relaxing and clearheaded body buzz. Leafly users applaud Headband’s happy and euphoric effects.

Test data from the Headband Strain FingerprintTM, provided by Steep Hill Labs show that high concentrations of the terpenes Limonene and Myrcene are common with this strain. Headband’s zesty flavors of lemon and grapefruit can be attributed to Limonene which is known to produce a bitter citrus aroma and can help suppress bouts of anxiety. Myrcene, on the other hand, creates tranquil effects that relax the body and enhance the psychoactive effects of other cannabinoids like THC. The relatively high myrcene content for a sativa-dominant strain can be attributed to the influence of OG Kush in Headband’s bloodline.

If you enjoy powerful sativas that provide an uplifting and energetic buzz then you should give Headband a shot. And if you’ve already fallen in love with the unique head effects of this hybrid, let the Leafly community know how you feel by leaving a review of Headband on the strain’s details page. Here are a few of my favorite Headband reviews:

Willir97:

“Fluffy strain, produces lots of kief for me, really has that headband aura effect around the head. Very uplifting, very happy and euphoric, relaxing but not couch-locked. Able to still function and do daily tasks. Definitely takes the edge off depression, relieves stress and anxiety, and just calms the body.” 

DailyLoudmouthToker:

“This strain is by far the best tasting and power punching combination i have ever consumed … Before i even exhaled i felt it and when i exhaled it felt like someone grabbed a headband from my forehead and pulled it back and let it go knocking me into another dimension” 

Hoobear:

“This hybrid is amazing. I felt completely relaxed but not couch locked. There was an incredible amount of euphoria with my mind going every which way. The calming effects lasted well after the high had dissipated. I suggest this strain especially for stress. You will be calm but able to carry out normal functions. A top shelf strain for sure.”

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Will Hyde
Will Hyde
Will is a brand builder, product expert, and storyteller with 2 decades of experience in the cannabis industry. The former co-host of Leafly's "What Are You Smoking" podcast has dedicated his life to sharing his passion for cannabis with anyone who will listen. Follow him on Instagram at @the.avid.dabber
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