Skunk is not, as many people seem to think, simply another word for marijuana. It is in fact a strain in its own right, with genetics dating back to the 70s, which just happens to have a rather high level of THC. In general however the term tends refer to a higher quality of weed that is considerably more potent than other strains, this is closer than the aforementioned misunderstanding but still not quite right. Skunk weed is usually assumed to give a rather extreme high as well as possibly being home grown or completely pure. This is not the true definition but rather an increasingly popular colloquialism.

The original strain known correctly as Skunk tends to have a very high level of THC. This is often referred to as the main ingredient in cannabis but it is simply the most popular. Most strains of marijuana will contain a medium to high level of THC which is what provides the mental effect of certain highs. It is certainly one of the more psychoactive ingredients and it is usually only in medical marijuana where the THC ratio is lower and the CBD ratio higher. This is so that people can use the medical marijuana without losing their focus and concentration.

Occasionally Skunk is also called so because it grows indoors, under lights or maybe in a greenhouse. Again this is relatively inaccurate, although many Skunk strains do grow in these conditions not all strains which grow this way are Skunk.

Since Skunk is a strain in its own right many companies do their bit to preserve and spread this information lest the genetic identity of the strain be lost forever. Some produce strains called Skunk #1 etc. to make it clear to the public that it is a strain and not just a nickname.

It is important to know the difference between run of the mill high THC marijuana and the true Skunk strain.

Real Skunk has in fact become rather difficult to find in its pure form. It was extremely popular during the 60s and 70s but unfortunately the increasing war on drugs has made it a little difficult for people to hold onto these genetics. Many people think that marijuana has been getting stronger and stronger over the years, this is completely inaccurate. It may be mixed with more nonsense on the illegal circuits but the actual THC levels of marijuana have dropped rather drastically. Hence the misunderstanding with most of the younger generations when it comes to the meaning of the term Skunk.