Royal Medic, a sativa-dominant hybrid strain developed by Royal Queen Seeds, is the result of crossing Critical with Juanita la Lagrimosa, offering a unique 1:1 ratio of THC to CBD that provides medicinal benefits with a mild psychoactive effect.
History
Royal Medic was developed by Royal Queen Seeds as a medicinal strain combining the best qualities of its parent strains. Critical, known for high yields, was crossed with Juanita la Lagrimosa, prized for its high CBD content and medicinal effects. This breeding resulted in a sativa-dominant (75% sativa, 25% indica) hybrid with a balanced 1:1 ratio of THC to CBD, both around 10%. The goal was to create a strain with potent medicinal benefits while maintaining some psychoactive effects. Royal Medic inherits Critical’s robust growth and high yields, along with Juanita la Lagrimosa’s CBD-rich profile and therapeutic properties.
Genetics
Royal Medic’s genetic lineage combines the best traits of its parent strains, Critical and Juanita la Lagrimosa. Critical contributes high yields and a more indica-like structure, while Juanita la Lagrimosa provides medicinal effects and elevated CBD levels. This cross results in a sativa-dominant hybrid (75% sativa, 25% indica) with a balanced 1:1 ratio of THC to CBD, both around 10%. Royal Medic inherits a fruity, hazy aroma from Juanita la Lagrimosa, along with its medicinal properties, while Critical’s genetics enhance yield potential and add a more robust plant structure. This unique genetic combination produces a strain with potent therapeutic benefits and mild psychoactive effects.
Growing
Royal Medic is a versatile strain that can be grown both indoors and outdoors, offering good yields in both environments. Here’s a comparison of key growing characteristics for Royal Medic:
| Characteristic | Indoor | Outdoor |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 80-120cm | Up to 150cm |
| Yield | 500-550g/m² | 475-525g/plant |
| Flowering Time | 9-10 weeks | Early October harvest |
| Climate | Controlled environment | Mediterranean-like |
Indoor plants respond well to training techniques like LST to manage height and maximize yield. Outdoor plants are hardy and can handle unfavorable weather, but thrive in warm, sunny conditions. In both settings, Royal Medic benefits from regular feeding and pest control to ensure optimal growth and cannabinoid production.
Optimal Growing Conditions
Royal Medic thrives in specific environmental conditions that optimize its growth and cannabinoid production. Here’s a summary of the optimal growing conditions for this strain:
| Factor | Optimal Condition |
|---|---|
| Climate | Mediterranean-like |
| Temperature | 70-80°F (21-27°C) |
| Humidity | 40-50% during flowering |
| Light | 18-24 hours during veg, 12 hours during flowering |
| Soil pH | 6.0-6.5 |
| Nutrients | Moderate feeding, calcium and magnesium supplements |
Royal Medic prefers a warm, sunny environment reminiscent of Mediterranean climates. While it can tolerate cooler temperatures, it should be protected from frost and extreme conditions. The strain performs best with moderate humidity levels, especially during the flowering stage. It responds well to both organic and hydroponic growing methods, with a slightly acidic soil pH for optimal nutrient uptake. Regular feeding with a balanced nutrient solution, supplemented with calcium and magnesium, helps support robust growth and high yields.
Harvesting and Curing
Royal Medic requires careful attention during harvesting and curing to preserve its balanced cannabinoid profile and unique terpene composition. Here are key practices for harvesting and curing Royal Medic:
- Flowering period: 9-10 weeks indoors, early October harvest outdoors
- Optimal harvest time: When trichomes are mostly cloudy
- Indoor yield: 425-550g/m²
- Outdoor yield: 475-525g per plant
- Drying: Hang plants upside down in a dark, cool room with 50% humidity for 7-10 days
- Curing: Store buds in airtight glass jars, opening daily for first 2 weeks
- Curing duration: 2-4 weeks minimum for optimal flavor and potency
- Storage: Keep cured buds in a cool, dark place to maintain quality
Proper harvesting and curing practices are crucial for preserving Royal Medic’s medicinal properties and ensuring a smooth, flavorful smoke with notes of citrus, fruit, and herbs.
Effects and Medicinal Benefits
Royal Medic offers a unique combination of mild psychoactive effects and significant medicinal benefits due to its balanced THC:CBD ratio. Here’s a summary of its effects and potential therapeutic applications:
| Effects | Medicinal Benefits |
|---|---|
| Mild cerebral high | Anti-inflammatory |
| Clear-headed focus | Pain relief |
| Gentle relaxation | Anxiety reduction |
| Mood elevation | Muscle spasm relief |
| Increased creativity | Stress management |
The 1:1 ratio of THC to CBD (both around 10%) in Royal Medic produces a subtle, energetic head high that boosts optimism and creativity while providing stress relief. This balanced profile makes it suitable for daytime use without causing significant impairment. Medicinally, Royal Medic’s high CBD content contributes to its effectiveness in treating chronic pain, inflammation, anxiety, and muscle spasms. The strain’s anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anxiolytic properties make it popular among patients seeking therapeutic benefits without intense psychoactive effects.
Terpene Profile
Royal Medic’s terpene profile contributes significantly to its aroma, flavor, and therapeutic effects. Here’s an overview of the dominant terpenes found in this strain:
- Myrcene: Provides earthy aroma and calming effects
- Beta-Caryophyllene: Offers spicy, peppery notes and anti-inflammatory properties
- Limonene: Contributes citrusy flavor and mood-elevating effects
- Beta-Pinene: Adds fresh pine scent and may enhance focus
- Linalool: Imparts floral notes and potential anxiolytic effects
The combination of these terpenes results in Royal Medic’s complex flavor profile, described as fruity with hints of citrus, berries, and herbs. This terpene blend also synergizes with the cannabinoids to enhance the strain’s therapeutic potential, particularly for pain relief and anxiety reduction. The total terpene content has been reported at around 1.24% in some batches.
Cannabinoid Profile
Royal Medic is known for its balanced cannabinoid profile, with relatively low THC levels and high CBD content. Here’s a breakdown of the THC and CBD levels typically found in Royal Medic:
- THC content: Around 10%
- CBD content: 10-12%
- THC:CBD ratio: Approximately 1:1
- Total cannabinoid content: 20-22%
This balanced profile results in mild psychoactive effects while providing significant medicinal benefits. The low THC content makes Royal Medic suitable for daytime use without causing intense intoxication, while the high CBD levels contribute to its therapeutic potential for treating conditions like chronic pain, inflammation, and anxiety. The 1:1 ratio of THC to CBD is particularly valued by medical users seeking relief without strong psychoactive effects.
Flavor and Aroma Profile
Royal Medic offers a complex and enjoyable flavor and aroma profile that contributes to its overall appeal. Here’s a summary of its sensory characteristics:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Flavor | Fruity, citrus, earthy, hash-like |
| Aroma | Sweet, earthy, spicy, herbal |
| Dominant Notes | Berries, mint, pine |
| Aftertaste | Fruity, hash-like |
The strain’s flavor is described as rich and full-bodied, with a fruity backbone complemented by citrus notes and earthy undertones. Users often report a pleasant hash-like aftertaste that lingers after smoking or vaping. The aroma profile is equally complex, featuring sweet and fruity scents balanced by earthy and herbal notes. Some users also detect hints of pine and spice in the bouquet. This combination of flavors and aromas makes Royal Medic an enjoyable strain for those who appreciate a nuanced sensory experience.
Medical Applications
Royal Medic’s balanced cannabinoid profile makes it a versatile medicinal strain, offering therapeutic benefits for various conditions without intense psychoactive effects. Here’s an overview of its medical applications:
- Chronic pain management (e.g., arthritis, fibromyalgia)
- Anxiety and stress reduction
- Anti-inflammatory effects for conditions like IBD
- Muscle spasm relief, beneficial for MS patients
- Mood elevation for depression and PTSD
- Potential neuroprotective properties
- Sleep aid for insomnia sufferers
The high CBD content (10-12%) combined with moderate THC levels (around 10%) allows patients to experience relief while maintaining mental clarity and daily functionality. This makes Royal Medic particularly suitable for daytime use. The strain’s effectiveness in treating polyneuropathy and cancer-related pain has been noted, with some patients reporting significant relief when vaporizing 2g twice daily. Its balanced effects make it a popular choice among medical cannabis users seeking therapeutic benefits without strong intoxication.
Recreational Uses
Royal Medic offers a unique recreational experience characterized by mild effects and clear-headed functionality. Here are some typical experiences reported by recreational users:
- Gentle relaxation without intense intoxication
- Improved mood and mild euphoria
- Enhanced creativity and focus
- Stress relief and anxiety reduction
- Subtle body buzz without couch-lock
- Increased sociability and conversation
- Mild pain relief and muscle relaxation
The balanced 1:1 ratio of THC to CBD (both around 10%) in Royal Medic produces a subtle high that allows users to remain functional and clear-headed. This makes it popular among those seeking a mild, daytime-friendly cannabis experience. Users often report feeling uplifted and creative without the anxiety or paranoia sometimes associated with higher-THC strains. The strain’s ability to provide relaxation without sedation makes it suitable for social situations or creative pursuits.
Indoor vs Outdoor Growing
Growing Royal Medic cannabis indoors and outdoors each have distinct advantages and challenges. Here’s a comparison of the key pros and cons:
| Aspect | Indoor Growing | Outdoor Growing |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Control | Better control over temperature, humidity, and light | Subject to natural climate variations |
| Yield | 500-550g/m² | 475-525g/plant, potentially higher |
| Plant Size | More manageable, 80-120cm | Can grow larger, up to 150cm |
| Pest Management | Easier to control | More challenging, requires vigilance |
| Cannabinoid Production | Consistent CBD levels | Natural sunlight may enhance overall cannabinoid profile |
| Cost | Higher initial setup and ongoing energy costs | Lower costs, but weather-dependent results |
| Discretion | More discreet | Less discreet, potential legal concerns |
Indoor cultivation offers precise control over growing conditions, allowing for optimization of CBD production and management of plant height. However, it requires careful humidity and airflow management to prevent mold issues in Royal Medic’s dense buds. Outdoor growing can result in larger plants and potentially higher yields, especially in sunny Mediterranean-like climates. While outdoor cultivation benefits from natural sunlight, which may enhance terpene and cannabinoid production, it also faces challenges from pests and unpredictable weather conditions.
Seed and Clone Availability
Royal Medic seeds are widely available from various seed banks and cannabis retailers. Here’s an overview of obtaining Royal Medic seeds and clones:
- Feminized seeds available in packs of 1, 3, 5, or 10 seeds from Royal Queen Seeds and other retailers
- Seeds can be purchased online from European seed banks that ship internationally
- Prices range from €6 for a single seed to €25 for a 5-seed pack
- Clones may be available from some dispensaries in regions with legal medical cannabis
- Seeds have high germination rates, with some users reporting 100% success
- Many retailers offer discounts for bulk purchases (e.g. 5% off for 3 seeds, 10% for 5 seeds)
- Always check local laws before ordering, as cannabis seeds may not be legal in all jurisdictions
Royal Medic’s popularity as a medicinal strain with balanced THC:CBD ratios makes it relatively accessible through various seed banks and cannabis retailers, especially in Europe where it was developed.
Pest and Disease Management
Royal Medic, like many cannabis strains, can face various pest and disease challenges during cultivation. Here’s an overview of common issues and management strategies:
- Spider mites: Tiny arachnids that feed on plant cells, causing stippling on leaves
- Aphids: Small insects that suck sap from plants, potentially transmitting viruses
- Powdery mildew: Fungal disease appearing as white powder on leaves, thrives in high humidity
- Root rot: Fungal disease affecting roots in overly wet conditions
- Bud rot: Fungal infection that can destroy flowers, especially in humid environments
To manage these issues:
- Maintain proper airflow and humidity levels, especially during flowering
- Regularly inspect plants for signs of infestation or disease
- Use organic pesticides like neem oil for pest control
- Implement integrated pest management (IPM) techniques
- Ensure proper nutrition to boost plant immunity
- Prune and defoliate to improve air circulation
- Consider beneficial insects like ladybugs for natural pest control
Proper pest and disease management is crucial for maintaining the quality and yield of Royal Medic plants, especially given its medicinal applications. While specific pest control products for Royal Medic aren’t mentioned in the sources, general cannabis cultivation practices apply to this strain.
Yield Expectations
Royal Medic is known for producing moderate to high yields when grown under optimal conditions. Here’s an overview of typical yield expectations for this strain:
- Indoor yields: 500-550g/m² (17.6-19.4 oz/m²)
- Outdoor yields: 475-525g per plant (16.8-18.5 oz per plant)
- Yield can be influenced by factors such as lighting, nutrients, and growing techniques
- Indoor plants typically reach heights of 80-120cm (31-47 inches)
- Outdoor plants can grow up to 150cm (59 inches) tall
- Flowering time is 9-10 weeks indoors, with outdoor harvest in early October
- Proper training techniques like LST (Low-Stress Training) can help maximize yields
- Moderate feeding with balanced nutrients supports optimal growth and bud development
These yield estimates assume optimal growing conditions and proper care throughout the plant’s life cycle. Actual yields may vary depending on the grower’s experience, environmental factors, and cultivation methods employed.
User Reviews and Experiences
Royal Medic has garnered positive feedback from users for its balanced effects and medicinal benefits. Here’s a summary of common user experiences and testimonials:
| Aspect | User Feedback |
|---|---|
| Pain Relief | Effective for chronic pain management |
| Anxiety Reduction | Helps alleviate stress and anxiety |
| Functionality | Allows users to remain clear-headed and productive |
| Flavor | Sweet and fruity taste appreciated by many |
| Growing Experience | Relatively easy to grow with good yields |
Users consistently praise Royal Medic for its ability to provide relief from various conditions without causing intense intoxication. Many report feeling relaxed and uplifted, with improved focus and creativity. The strain’s effectiveness in treating anxiety, depression, and chronic pain is frequently mentioned. Growers appreciate its resilience and manageable size, with some reporting yields of up to 4 ounces per plant. The balanced THC:CBD ratio is particularly valued by medical users seeking therapeutic benefits without strong psychoactive effects.
Comparison with Similar Strains
Royal Medic stands out among high-CBD strains due to its balanced cannabinoid profile and unique genetic lineage. Here’s a comparison of Royal Medic with similar strains:
| Strain | THC:CBD Ratio | Dominant Effects | Yield (Indoor) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Medic | 1:1 (10% THC, 10-12% CBD) | Clear-headed, relaxing | 500-550g/m² |
| CBD Critical Mass | 1:1 (5% THC, 5% CBD) | Relaxing, pain-relieving | 500-550g/m² |
| ACDC | 1:20 (1% THC, 20% CBD) | Calming, non-psychoactive | 400-500g/m² |
| Medical Mass | 1:1 (10% THC, 10% CBD) | Calming, physically relaxing | 500-550g/m² |
Royal Medic distinguishes itself with its balanced 1:1 ratio of THC to CBD, offering mild psychoactive effects alongside significant therapeutic benefits. Its genetic lineage, combining Critical’s high yields with Juanita la Lagrimosa’s medicinal properties, results in a versatile strain suitable for both medical and recreational use. Unlike ACDC, which is almost purely medicinal due to its very low THC content, Royal Medic provides a more balanced experience. Compared to CBD Critical Mass, Royal Medic offers higher overall cannabinoid content, potentially providing more potent effects.
Legal Status and Availability
The legal status and availability of Royal Medic cannabis strain vary significantly across different regions due to its unique cannabinoid profile and medicinal properties. Here’s an overview of its legal status and availability:
- Legal in many European countries for medical use, particularly due to its balanced THC:CBD ratio
- Available through licensed dispensaries in countries with legal medical cannabis programs
- Often classified as a medicinal strain due to its high CBD content (10-12%)
- Legal status in the United States varies by state, with some allowing its use for medical purposes
- Seeds can be purchased legally from European seed banks in many countries
- Cultivation may be restricted to licensed growers in some regions
- Some countries may allow CBD-dominant varieties of Royal Medic with THC levels below legal limits
- Availability in dispensaries depends on local laws and demand for balanced THC:CBD strains
The strain’s popularity for therapeutic use has led to its inclusion in many medical cannabis programs. However, potential users and growers should always check local laws, as cannabis regulations can vary widely and change frequently.
