Iranian Cannabis: The Epic Mag Landrace Strain from Iran

The sprawling mountains of Iran bloom with native flora every year: elms and ironwood trees, tulips and daffodils, even something called Dwarf Eelgrass. But scattered throughout the forests and flowerbeds, like in neighboring Afghanistan and Pakistan, another flower has been thriving for thousands of years: cannabis.

Through Iranian genetics sourcing, cannabis in Iran is collected from specific regions, emphasizing the unique and wild plant varieties. Mag Landrace is just one of the Persian nation’s homegrown strains, beloved for its intense indica effects, deep green and purple hues, and abundance of trichomes, resins and oils that make it ideal for smoking and hash-making. It’s finally in the states and available for patients and casual users alike to discover and delight in, and here’s why.

What is the History of Mag Landrace in the Iranian Landrace Region?

A cannabis landrace is a strain that has grown wildly or with minimal human intervention for an extended period of time, often for thousands of years. They are also often more resistant to pests and environmental stressors than hybrid plants.

Mag Landrace has not been bred or crossed with any other cultivar, so it has no parents and retains its original pure indica genetics. Plant seeds sourced from various regions in Iran exhibit unique genetic diversity and characteristics, contributing to the variability in growth patterns, flavors, and aromas of the plants that emerge from them. It’s easily identified by its thin, dark green and purple buds, fiery orange pistils and sticky coatings of trichomes.

The use of cannabis in Iran was documented as early as the third century as an integral part of religious practice, included in a beverage that was said to open “the eye to the soul.”

The Iranian landrace region is known for its diverse phenotypical expressions and unique terpene profiles. Many of these cannabis plants are thought to be derived from wild plants, highlighting their genetic diversity and unpredictability, with unique growth patterns influenced by their natural environments. Plants sourced from various areas in Iran exhibit characteristics ranging from stout and hardy structures to various flowering patterns, and possess a rich array of aromas influenced by their wild and unpredictable growth in distant, pollution-free environments.

Most landrace strains have passed from their native countries in Asia and Africa into the Western world through the seed banks of Holland with little genetic intervention, but this strain is an exception. While other landrace strains like Durban Poison and Afghani #1 have been grown in the U.S for decades, Mag Landrace was only recently brought over for industry-scale cultivation.

The Mag Landrace available in the United States is straight from the source, likely from a clone acquired in Iran by the Illinois-based medical marijuana company Ataraxia (now part of Verano Holdings). Only Nevada and Illinois currently carry Verano products, but the company has plans for multiple states and Puerto Rico in the works.

What are the Medicinal Effects & Uses of Mag Landrace for Chronic Pain?

Mag Landrace is a pure indica and provides a bouquet of sedating and mellowing effects, with a euphoric twist.

Many report a giggly, social high soon after smoking or vaping Mag Landrace that gradually eases into a relaxed body buzz. This makes it ideal for treating physical ailments like chronic pain, nausea and insomnia, but due to the mental euphoria it imparts, this strain has also been recommended for easing symptoms of anxiety, attention deficit disorder and stress. It will also definitely give you the munchies.

Mag Landrace is a highly resinous plant and produces a relatively high amount of THC, with testing indicating a consistent range of 25 to 30 percent. Seasoned smokers and patients seeking intense relief will have a great time, but new users may find it too sedating or intense for day-to-day consumption. The potency and immediate effects experienced by users highlight its classification as drug cannabis.

What are the Primary Terpenes in Mag Landrace?

This pungent landrace strain is naturally saturated in trichomes, and lab results prove high cannabinoid and terpene content. Mag Landrace’s profile exhibits a rich and diverse plant aroma, featuring a diesel-laden earthy scent with an herbaceous flavor to match.

• Beta-Caryophyllene: Mag Landrace’s peppery and musky aroma comes from an abundance of beta-caryophyllene, a terpene also found in cloves, rosemary, hops and black pepper that is also FDA-approved for use in food products.

Beta caryophyllene has shown potential for mitigating pain and inflammatory conditions like colitis. Even though it is not a cannabinoid, caryophyllene has been proven to bind with CB2 endocannabinoid receptors in the body, which manifest primarily in the immune and gastrointestinal systems.

While research is limited, this terpene may also prove effective fighting cancer cells.

• Humulene: Humulene, also called alpha-humulene or alpha-caryophyllene, is a terpene found in a variety of cannabis strains as well as hops, cilantro, ginseng and sage.

Studies indicate humulene has anti-inflammatory abilities when administered both topically and internally; this terpene can also help fight off allergies. Humulene-rich essential oils, like balsam fir oil, have shown potential for fighting cancer cells in animals and aid in wound healing.

There is also evidence to suggest humulene acts like an antioxidant when applied topically, possibly combating photo-aging from sun exposure.

• Myrcene: Myrcene is one of if not the most abundant terpene in cannabis, manifesting primarily in indica strains like Grandaddy Purple and Cherry Pie, as well as lemongrass, cardamom, parsley and mango fruit.

Myrcene has a musky aroma, hopsy taste and contributes to the intense body highs of many cannabis strains.

Like many other terpenes, myrcene naturally combats inflammation in the body and has shown to fight and destroy breast cancer cells, albeit it has yet to be tested on humans.

Iranian Cannabis Diversity

Iranian cannabis is a treasure trove of genetic variability, showcasing a rich tapestry of unique characteristics across its diverse regions. From the lush northern provinces to the arid southern landscapes, Iranian cannabis varies significantly, each area contributing its own distinct traits to the overall gene pool. This regional diversity is a testament to the adaptability and resilience of Iranian cannabis, making it a highly prized source of genetic material.

The landrace strains of Iran are particularly noteworthy. These strains have evolved over centuries, adapting to their specific environments with minimal human intervention. This has resulted in a robust genetic makeup that is highly valued for its unique properties and adaptability. Preserving this genetic diversity is crucial, not only for maintaining traditional varieties but also for the development of new strains that can benefit from these unique genetic traits.

Efforts are underway to preserve the genetic diversity of Iranian cannabis. This is essential for the global cannabis industry, as the Iranian genepool provides a unique source of genetic material for breeding and research. By safeguarding these traditional varieties, we ensure that the rich heritage of Iranian cannabis continues to contribute to the development of new and innovative strains.

Cultivation and Growth of Mag Landrace

Cultivating Mag Landrace is no small feat. This strain is known for its sensitivity to environmental factors, making it a challenging yet rewarding endeavor for growers. To thrive, Mag Landrace requires warm, dry climates with low humidity, conditions that are ideal for outdoor cultivation in regions with similar climates.

For those opting for indoor cultivation, careful attention must be paid to temperature, humidity, and lighting. Mag Landrace is prone to mold and mildew, so maintaining optimal growing conditions is crucial. The strain exhibits classic indica growth patterns, characterized by bushy plants and deep dark green leaves, making it an attractive option for growers who prefer compact, high-yielding plants.

One of the standout features of Mag Landrace is its pungent, earthy aroma and flavor, a characteristic trait of many Iranian landrace strains. This, combined with its high yield and potent buds rich in THC and other cannabinoids, makes Mag Landrace a popular choice among both growers and consumers.

Selecting high-quality seeds is essential for the successful cultivation of Mag Landrace. Plant seeds sourced from various regions in Iran offer unique genetic diversity and characteristics, leading to variability in growth patterns, flavors, and aromas. The strain’s sensitivity to genetic variation and environmental factors means that starting with the best possible seeds can make a significant difference in the final yield and potency.

Additionally, Mag Landrace is often used in breeding programs to create new hybrid strains, combining its unique characteristics with those of other popular varieties. This not only preserves the genetic heritage of Mag Landrace but also contributes to the ongoing evolution of cannabis cultivars.

What Iranian Strains are Similar to Mag Landrace?

• Mag 91 (Mag Landrace x Chemdawg 91)
• Afghani 1 (landrace)
• Hindu Kush (landrace)
• Grandaddy Purple (Purple Urkle x Big Bud)
• Kosher Kush

These varieties are part of a broader group of marijuana cultivars, known for their genetic diversity and unique characteristics. Iranian cannabis, in particular, may be remnants of cultivated varieties from other regions, highlighting the importance of preserving this gene pool for both drug and medical uses.

Characteristics and Effects of Mag Landrace

Mag Landrace stands out as a unique and potent cannabis strain, celebrated for its pure indica genetics and a host of therapeutic benefits. This strain is particularly renowned for its deeply sedating and mellowing effects, making it a go-to option for those seeking relief from chronic pain, nausea, and insomnia. Users often report a euphoric twist that accompanies the physical relaxation, which can be especially beneficial for alleviating symptoms of anxiety, attention deficit disorder, and stress.

One of the most striking features of Mag Landrace is its high resin production, which contributes to its relatively high THC content. Lab tests consistently show THC levels ranging from 25 to 30 percent, making it a powerful choice for seasoned smokers and patients in need of intense relief. However, new users might find its potency a bit overwhelming for everyday use.

In terms of aroma and flavor, Mag Landrace does not disappoint. The strain exudes a diesel-laden earthy scent complemented by an herbaceous flavor, a profile that is naturally saturated in trichomes. The primary terpenes—beta-caryophyllene, humulene, and myrcene—play a significant role in its distinctive aroma and therapeutic effects. Beta-caryophyllene adds a peppery and musky note, humulene contributes to its anti-inflammatory properties, and myrcene enhances the intense body highs typical of many indica strains.

Availability of Mag Landrace

Mag Landrace is a rare and exotic gem in the cannabis world, not widely available but highly sought after. In the United States, this strain has been introduced by the Illinois-based medical marijuana company Ataraxia, now part of Verano Holdings. Currently, it can be found in select dispensaries, particularly in states like Nevada and Illinois, with plans for broader distribution in the future.

For those interested in cultivating their own Mag Landrace, sourcing high-quality seeds is crucial. This strain is a wild plant that has not been bred or crossed with other cultivars, retaining its original pure indica genetics. This purity makes it a bit more challenging to grow compared to other strains, as it requires specific environmental conditions to thrive. However, for dedicated growers, the effort is well worth it, as Mag Landrace offers a unique combination of high yield, potent buds, and a rich, earthy aroma.

Reputable breeders and seed banks are the best sources for obtaining Mag Landrace seeds. Given its sensitivity to genetic variation and environmental factors, starting with the best possible seeds can significantly impact the final yield and potency. Additionally, Mag Landrace is often used in breeding programs to create new hybrid strains, combining its unique characteristics with those of other popular varieties. This not only preserves the genetic heritage of Mag Landrace but also contributes to the ongoing evolution of cannabis cultivars.

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