Girl Scout Cookies (GSC)

GSC, an indica-dominant cannabis strain, is a blend of OG Kush and Durban Poison, with about 60% Cannabis indica and 40% Cannabis sativa. It typically contains 19-20% THC and minimal CBD, occasionally featuring 1% CBG. Varieties may also include THCV due to Durban Poison lineage.

Developed by the Cookie Fam collective in San Francisco around 2009, GSC's original breeder is rumored to be Berner, although unconfirmed. Notable hybrids include Animal Cookies, Platinum Cookies, Thin Mint, Blue Cookies, Gelato, and Cookies n Cream.

The strain's exact lineage is a collective secret, with speculation about Florida OG Kush, F1 Durban Poison, and possibly Granddaddy Purple (GDP) as parents. GSC is recognized for its sweet, minty, vanilla, and chocolate flavors, delivering uplifting effects and aiding in various ailments like chronic pain, nausea, anxiety, and depression.

Overview

Cannabinoids

THC: 19%-20%

CBD: 0.1%-0.08%

Strain Types

Indica: 60%
Sativa: 40%

Terpenes

Beta-Caryophyllene
Limonene
Myrcene

Flavonoids

GSC may contain flavonoids like quercetin, rutin, kaempferol, and cannabis-specific Cannflavin A and Cannflavin B.

Effects

Girl Scout Cookies (GSC) has been reported to have the following effects:

  • Happy

  • Hunger

  • Laughter

  • Sociable

The following adverse effects have also been reported:

  • Dry Eyes

  • Dry Mouth

  • Dizziness

  • Paranoid

Medical Applications

Due to its effects, some users report it may help manage and treat the following:

 
Dosing

Due to its high THC content, individuals using GSC to address anxiety or depression should opt for low doses to capitalize on its anti-anxiety and antidepressant properties while minimizing adverse reactions. Conversely, those managing pain or chemotherapy side effects may require higher THC levels and may need to build a tolerance to fully benefit from its therapeutic effects.

For edible consumption of GSC, start with an extremely low dose, ideally 2-3 mg, or a maximum of 5.0 mg, as edibles can have stronger effects compared to inhalation.

Growing

GSC is popular but requires some growing experience. It yields about 10 ounces per square meter indoors with the "sea of green" method. Ideal for indoor or greenhouse cultivation, clones are recommended for consistent results.

Height

Grows between 2.5 to 5 feet tall, with some phenotypes reaching taller heights due to its sativa component.

Humidity and Temperature

During the vegetative phase, Girl Scout Cookies (GSC) thrives in temperatures ranging from 68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit (20 to 25 degrees Celsius) with 50% humidity.

Transitioning to the flowering stage, maintaining a similar temperature range of 68 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (20 to 26 degrees Celsius) during the day is ideal, while nighttime temperatures should drop to 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (15.5 to 21 degrees Celsius).

To promote healthy flowering, humidity levels in the grow room should be reduced to around 30%.

Flowering

Girl Scout Cookies typically require approximately 9 to 10 weeks to complete the flowering stage.

FAQ’s

  • GSC typically contains THC levels ranging from 19% to 20%, making it quite potent compared to other cannabis strains. It's important for users to start with low doses, especially if they are new to cannabis or have a low tolerance.

  • The effects of GSC are known to be uplifting and euphoric, often inducing feelings of happiness, increased appetite, and sociability. However, some users may also experience adverse effects such as anxiety, dry mouth, and dry eyes, particularly with higher doses.

  • While GSC is a popular strain, it's recommended for growers with some experience due to its specific cultivation requirements. Novice growers may find it challenging to achieve optimal yields without prior knowledge of plant training techniques and environmental control.

Headshot of Steven Fiore, MD

This article has been reviewed by Steven Fiore, MD.

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