Frosted Kush Strain Guide
Master Kush × The White — A heavy-hitting indica built for nighttime relief and deep relaxation
- Genetics: Master Kush × The White
- THC Range: 18–23% | CBD: <1%
- Top Terpenes: Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Pinene
- Main Effects: Deep relaxation, sedation, euphoria, body melt
- Medical Uses: Insomnia, chronic pain, muscle spasms, stress, anxiety
- Yield (Indoor): 400–500g/m² | Outdoor: 500–600g per plant
- Flower Time: 8–9 weeks indoors; late September–early October outdoors
- Best For: Evening and nighttime use; experienced consumers
- Availability: Legal dispensaries in states where adult-use or medical cannabis is permitted
Origin & Genetics
Frosted Kush is a purpose-built indica cross that brings together two of the cannabis world's most celebrated cultivars: Master Kush and The White. The result is a strain that combines the sedating, hash-heavy legacy of Kush genetics with the extreme resin production and trichome density that made The White famous. Understanding each parent helps explain why Frosted Kush consistently impresses both consumers and cultivators.
Master Kush is a classic indica originally developed by White Label Seed Company in the Netherlands using landrace genetics from the Hindu Kush mountain range — a region spanning Afghanistan and Pakistan that has produced some of the most iconic cannabis varieties in history. Master Kush is revered for its old-school earthy, citrus-spice aroma, its deeply relaxing body effects, and its compact, resinous growth structure. It has been a backbone genetics contributor to dozens of successful modern strains.
The White, sometimes called "Triangle" or "White" in Southern US cannabis circles, is an almost legendary cultivar known primarily for one defining characteristic: an absolutely extraordinary density of white trichomes that coats every surface of the plant. The White itself has relatively neutral, mild aromatics, which breeders found useful as a blank canvas for amplifying other qualities — in this case, stacking resin production on top of Master Kush's rich terpene and effect profile. The cross was designed to produce plants with heavy yields of high-potency, visually stunning flower that delivers a quintessential indica experience without sacrificing the flavor complexity that Kush lovers expect.
Explore more on our cannabis strain index or dive deeper into related indica heavyweights like Master Kush, White Widow, and Granddaddy Purple.
Cannabinoid & Terpene Profile
Frosted Kush's appeal extends well beyond raw THC numbers. Its terpene composition plays a decisive role in shaping the strain's distinctive aroma, flavor, and effects. The interplay between cannabinoids and terpenes — often called the entourage effect — means that understanding what's inside the flower gives you a much clearer picture of what to expect from your session. Learn more about how terpenes work in our terpene guide.
| Compound | Type | Typical % / Concentration | Primary Contribution |
|---|---|---|---|
| THC (Delta-9) | Cannabinoid | 18–23% | Euphoria, sedation, pain relief |
| CBD | Cannabinoid | <1% | Minimal direct effect at this level |
| CBG | Cannabinoid | ~0.5–1% | Potential anti-inflammatory support |
| Myrcene | Terpene | ~0.45–0.65% | Earthy musk; sedation amplifier; body relaxation |
| Caryophyllene | Terpene | ~0.30–0.45% | Spicy, peppery; CB2 receptor activity; anti-inflammatory |
| Pinene | Terpene | ~0.20–0.35% | Pine aroma; potential alertness balance, bronchodilation |
| Limonene | Terpene | ~0.10–0.20% | Citrus brightness; mood elevation; secondary note |
Myrcene dominates the terpene profile, which is consistent with the Kush lineage and helps explain the strain's characteristic couch-lock tendency. Caryophyllene adds a spicy backbone and is the only terpene known to interact directly with the body's endocannabinoid system as a CB2 agonist, potentially amplifying the physical relief effects many users seek. Pinene provides a subtle counterbalance, contributing a forest-fresh lift that prevents the aroma from becoming one-dimensional. Read more in our explainer on what THC does in the body.
Effects
Frosted Kush is an evening and nighttime strain. Its effects are best described as a slow, deliberate wave of relaxation that builds from the head down through the body, eventually settling into a state of deep, comfortable sedation. This is not a strain for productivity or social engagements — it's built for unwinding, pain relief, and sleep.
Onset: Effects typically begin within 2–5 minutes when smoked or vaped. The initial onset is gentle — a subtle warmth behind the eyes and a softening of mental tension. Unlike some sativas that announce themselves with immediate cerebral intensity, Frosted Kush's arrival is measured and calm. Edible forms, when applicable, can take 45–90 minutes to onset and produce significantly longer-lasting effects.
Peak: The peak experience arrives around 20–40 minutes in and is characterized by full-body relaxation, a pleasant euphoric haze, and progressive physical heaviness. Many consumers describe a sensation of being "glued" to their seat — comfortable, warm, and utterly at ease. At higher doses, the peak can tip into sedation and sleep. Anxiety and racing thoughts tend to quiet considerably during this phase.
Duration: Effects typically last 2–3 hours when inhaled, with residual relaxation extending the overall experience to 4+ hours. Individual duration varies based on tolerance, metabolism, and consumption method.
Mental Effects
Frosted Kush produces a gentle, hazy euphoria rather than sharp cerebral stimulation. Users report a noticeable quieting of anxious or intrusive thoughts, a calm sense of well-being, and mild mood elevation. Creative or philosophical thinking may occur at lower doses, but high doses tend to quiet cognitive activity in favor of pure physical rest. The mental effects feel warm and dreamy rather than energizing — ideal for decompressing after a long or stressful day. See our full cannabis effects guide for more context on indica mental states.
Physical Effects
The physical experience is where Frosted Kush truly distinguishes itself. Body relaxation is profound and pervasive, spreading from the shoulders and neck down through the limbs. Muscle tension dissolves, physical discomfort recedes, and a characteristic "body melt" sensation takes hold. Many medical patients target these physical effects specifically. At higher doses, heavy eyelids and a strong pull toward sleep are very common. Munchies are also notable — Frosted Kush tends to stimulate appetite significantly, so having snacks nearby is advisable.
"Frosted Kush is the kind of strain that reminds you why indica genetics have been celebrated for centuries — it's all about letting go. The body relaxation is thorough, the mental quiet is real, and the sleep that follows is some of the best you'll have."
Frosted Kush vs. Similar Strains
How does Frosted Kush stack up against other popular indica and indica-dominant strains in the market? The comparison below helps you identify which option best fits your needs. Browse our full strain library for complete individual guides.
| Strain | Type | THC Range | Top Effect | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frosted Kush | Indica | 18–23% | Deep body relaxation + sedation | Insomnia, pain relief, nighttime wind-down |
| Master Kush | Indica | 16–20% |