Written by Ad OpsHistory and Origins
Amnesia emerged from the European cannabis scene at the turn of the 2000s, when Haze-dominant genetics were being refined for commercial coffee shops and serious hobby growers. Makka Seeds is credited with stewarding a sativa-leaning Amnesia line that balanced classic Haze vigor with more approachable flowering times and dense, market-ready flowers. Within a few seasons, “Amnesia” became a staple on Amsterdam menus, prized for its electric, mood-lifting high and unmistakable citrus-incense bouquet. By the mid-2010s, it was a familiar name across the EU market alongside its close cousin, Amnesia Haze, with which it shares significant organoleptic and experiential overlap.
The Amnesia name references the notably heady, immersive effect that can make time slide and short-term memory feel slippery at higher doses. Despite the playful moniker, Amnesia quickly built a serious reputation due to its reliable potency and resin content. Retail lab menus across Europe frequently listed Amnesia phenotypes in the high-THC bracket, with low measured CBD, matching customer reports of intense euphoria and creativity. This reputation drove widespread adoption by indoor cultivators seeking an uplifting sativa that still finishes in roughly 9–11 weeks.
Although multiple breeders have released “Amnesia” or “Original Amnesia” over the years, the Makka Seeds expression emphasizes a mostly sativa heritage and a terpene-forward profile anchored in the Haze family. The line found traction because it combined classic, soaring Haze energy with improved yield and structure suited to modern grows. Over time, it became a dependable foundation for derivative hybrids and crosses with lemon-forward or incense-forward profiles. Its presence in dispensaries and coffee shops mirrors the enduring popularity of Haze-type sativas in daytime use.
In consumer culture, Amnesia often sits beside Amnesia Haze on menus, and many casual buyers use the names interchangeably. While the two are distinct, they are clearly related in effect and aroma, and user reviews frequently describe both as giggly, talkative, and euphoric. This continuity of experience helped cement Amnesia as a go-to for social settings and creative sessions. Its story is ultimately one of selective breeding for consistency, potency, and that unmistakable Haze glow.
Genetic Lineage and Breeding
Amnesia from Makka Seeds descends from a Haze-dominant backbone that likely includes classic Old World sativa inputs (Thai, Mexican, and/or Colombian), tempered by Skunk- and Afghan-influenced stock for stability and yield. Breeders often keep exact genetic recipes proprietary, but morphological and terpene evidence strongly supports a Haze-led hybrid. The result is a mostly sativa cultivar—commonly estimated around 70–80% sativa—that stretches vigorously yet stacks resinous colas with better density than many pure Hazes. This balance made Amnesia accessible for both hobbyists and commercial rooms.
Selection work in Amnesia lines focuses on stabilizing the terpene signature—terpinolene-forward with citrus, herb, and incense—and refining internodal spacing for SCROG or trellised canopies. Growers consistently note the variety’s sativa posture and need for training without giving up manageable flowering windows. Compared to many long-flowering Hazes (12–14 weeks), Amnesia phenotypes more commonly finish in roughly 9–11 weeks indoors. This 15–30% reduction in flowering time is a practical improvement that preserves the signature headspace.
Skunk ancestry contributes to vigor and a sweeter, fruitier mid-palate, while Afghan influence can be seen in improved calyx-to-leaf ratio and a more forgiving feeding window. These traits help Amnesia form solid spear colas under high light without the extreme foxtailing characteristic of some old-school Hazes. On the sensory side, the Afghan/Skunk inputs lend faint earthy-pepper undertones beneath the citrus-incense top notes. The combined lineage explains why Amnesia performs across a wide range of media and lighting styles.
Because of its popularity, multiple seedhouses have released their own takes and phenotypic selections under the Amnesia umbrella. Nevertheless, the Makka Seeds expression is generally recognized as a classic sativa-leaning representative of the Haze family. For growers and consumers, this translates to a consistent expectation: energetic elevation, bright citrus-herbal aromatics, and dense trichome production. Those anchors are why the cultivar remains relevant in modern breeding and retail rotation.
Morphology and Visual Characteristics
Amnesia presents as a tall, elegant plant with elongated, slender leaves typical of sativa-dominant genetics. Internodal spacing is moderate—wide enough to demand training but close enough to stack respectable colas under strong, even light. In late flower, buds develop a lime-to-forest-green hue with vibrant orange to burnt-sienna pistils. Mature flowers exhibit a frosty blanket of trichomes, often testing at high THC levels consistent with the strain’s shimmering resin density.
Colas form in a spear-like fashion, and some phenotypes show mild foxtailing when PPFD is pushed above 900–1000 µmol/m²/s or when temperatures run hot late in flower. The calyx-to-leaf ratio tends to be favorable, making trimming relatively efficient compared to wispier Haze expressions. Bric-a-brac sugar leaves often glisten, carrying a potent terpene load that releases a bright, zesty aroma when disturbed. Dried buds typically cure to a medium density—neither airy nor rock-hard—balancing bag appeal with a smooth grind.
Under optimal conditions, indoor plants reach 120–180 cm, with a stretch of approximately 1.5–2.0x after the flip to 12/12. Outdoor plants can easily surpass 200–300 cm in height in Mediterranean climates, benefiting from abundant sun and long seasons. The canopy tends to fill in laterally with training, and well-managed plants can present an even, top-lit surface ideal for maximizing yield. Trichome heads are often clear to cloudy by week 9–10, drifting into amber as harvest approaches.
Post-harvest, Amnesia’s visual appeal intensifies as curing accentuates resin brightness and pistil contrast. After 2–4 weeks in cure, colas often darken slightly, and the trichome coverage becomes more apparent in a well-lit jar. This is when the cultivar’s signature citrus-incense aroma saturates the storage environment. A slow, controlled dry preserves the crystalline look while avoiding chlorophyll harshness.
Aroma and Bouquet
Freshly rubbed Amnesia flowers release a bright, electric citrus top note—think lemon zest and sweet orange—interlaced with a classic Haze incense. Below the citrus lies a green, herbal layer that reads as basil, lemongrass, and crushed pine needles. Subtle undertones of white pepper and cedar nod to the cultivar’s Skunk/Afghan contributions. Together, the bouquet is simultaneously zesty, airy, and slightly spicy.
Breaking a cured bud amplifies terpinolene’s crisp, effervescent aroma, often joined by limonene’s lemon oil and ocimene’s sweet herbal facets. Many phenotypes also show a soft floral whisper—trace linalool—that peeks through after the dominant citrus and incense settle. When ground, the profile turns more complex as woody and peppery caryophyllene angles emerge. This layered aromatic sequence makes Amnesia highly recognizable to seasoned consumers.
The bouquet evolves as the cure progresses. In weeks 1–2, citrus volatility is most intense, filling the room immediately upon opening a jar. By weeks 4–8, incense and cedar step forward, and the overall aroma becomes rounder and less sharp. Properly cured batches measured at 10–12% moisture preserve these top notes while enhancing cohesion.
Under heat, such as in a vaporizer at 180–195°C, volatile terpenes lift quickly, and the first inhalations are bright, lemony, and slightly piney. As the session continues, wood-spice and herbal notes become more pronounced. This progression mirrors the chemotype: terpinolene and limonene lead first, followed by caryophyllene, humulene, and minor sesquiterpenes. The final impression is redolent of incense, like citrus oils burned over a cedar plank.
Flavor and Palate
On the palate, Amnesia delivers a clean lemon-lime entry with a sweet herbal backdrop that recalls lemongrass tea. The mid-palate adds incense and soft pine, with a peppery tickle on the exhale from beta-caryophyllene. Vaporization preserves a slightly sweeter lemon candy note, while combustion emphasizes the pepper-cedar edge. Either way, the finish is dry and resinous, leaving a lingering citrus peel taste.
The sativa lineage is evident in the flavor’s high-pitched, sparkling quality. Terpinolene often imparts a brisk, almost tonic-like sensation that keeps the palate refreshed between puffs. When properly flushed and cured, the smoke is notably smooth for a Haze-leaning profile, avoiding the harsh, grassy bite that can plague rushed harvests. A 10–14 day dry at 60°F/60% RH frequently yields the best mouthfeel.
As the jar ages, sweetness recedes slightly while wood-inclined notes round out the experience. This is particularly noticeable by week 6 of curing, when cedar and pepper settle into an elegant, incense-driven finish. Temperature-dependent tasting is pronounced: lower vape temps (175–185°C) brighten citrus, while higher settings (195–205°C) deepen the spice and wood. Experienced consumers sometimes “step” through temperatures to enjoy each layer sequentially.
Pairings that complement Amnesia’s profile include sparkling water with lemon, citrus-forward IPAs, and light-roast coffees with bergamot accents. Herbal teas like lemongrass or lemon verbena also sync well with the cultivar’s green, citrusy register. Culinary pairings with seared white fish or fresh goat cheese accentuate the strain’s clean, zesty lines. The consistent flavor makes it a crowd-pleasing daytime option.
Cannabinoid Profile and Potency
Lab reports for Amnesia phenotypes commonly place THC in the 18–26% range, with stand-out batches occasionally ticking above 26% in optimized indoor runs. CBD is typically low—often measured between 0.05% and 0.8%—which aligns with the cultivar’s assertive, cerebral effect. Minor cannabinoids like CBG frequently appear at 0.2–1.0%, while trace THCV can be present given the Haze influence, though usually under 1%. Total cannabinoid content often exceeds 20%, driven primarily by THC.
Consumer platforms consistently characterize Amnesia and related Haze expressions as “high THC, low CBD,” which maps to user reports of pronounced euphoria and uplift. For example, public listings for Amnesia and Amnesia Haze routinely highlight strong psychoactivity with minimal CBD buffering. In practical terms, a 0.1 g inhaled portion of 20% THC flower contains around 20 mg of THC; accounting for 20–37% inhalation bioavailability, roughly 4–7 mg may reach systemic circulation. This level can be quite stimulating for new users, supporting a start-low approach.
Potency is influenced by cultivation parameters, including light intensity (PPFD), nutrient availability, and harvest timing. Pulling at peak cloudy trichomes with 5–15% amber often captures brisk, elevating psychotropic effects. Heavier amber ratios may tilt toward a slightly drowsier finish without actually converting Amnesia into a sedative strain. Total terpene content typically lands between 1.5% and 3.0%, which can modulate subjective potency via entourage interactions.
Because CBD is low, Amnesia’s psychoactive intensity can spike quickly at higher doses. Many users report that smaller, spaced inhalations preserve clarity and sociability, while larger doses edge toward racy or disorienting in sensitive individuals. This dose-response pattern is consistent with other terpinolene-forward, high-THC sativas. For precise dosing, vaporization with known oven loads provides the most control.
Terpene Profile and Chemistry
Amnesia’s terpene profile is anchored by terpinolene, which commonly leads the bouquet and contributes to its energizing, citrus-herbal signature. Secondary contributors often include beta-myrcene, beta-caryophyllene, limonene, and ocimene, with supporting roles from humulene and trace linalool. In well-grown samples, terpinolene can range around 0.3–0.8% of weight, while myrcene and ocimene frequently sit between 0.1–0.6%. Total terpene percentages around 1.5–3.0% are typical for aromatic Haze-led cultivars.
The “Haze family” is widely associated with euphoria and uplift, a pattern linked to its terpene composition. Terpinolene’s fresh, tonic-like aroma and limonene’s citrus brightness correlate with alert mood states in user surveys. Beta-caryophyllene introduces a pepper-spice edge and uniquely binds to CB2 receptors, providing a potential anti-inflammatory angle without intoxicating effects. Myrcene’s presence can soften the profile, but in Amnesia, it usually does not dominate enough to induce couchiness.
Ocimene, a sweet-herbal and slightly fruity monoterpene, is another frequent player in Amnesia phenotypes, supporting the bouquet’s airy, spring-like lift. Humulene and caryophyllene contribute woody, peppery undertones that become more apparent after the initial citrus blast. Trace linalool can add a soft floral polish, though usually at low levels that do not push the profile toward sedation. This ensemble produces the familiar citrus-incense impression that connoisseurs associate with classic Amnesia jars.
From a practical perspective, terpene preservation hinges on post-harvest handling. Maintaining 60°F/60% RH during a 10–14 day dry reduces terpene volatilization, and sealed-glass curing at 58–62% RH for 4–8 weeks rounds the profile. Avoiding excessive heat and oxygen exposure maintains terpinolene’s delicate top notes. Proper storage can sustain aroma intensity for months, protecting the cultivar’s hallmark sensory experience.
Experiential Effects and Use Cases
Amnesia’s effect profile is distinctly uplifting, creative, and social, aligning closely with crowd-sourced reports for both Amnesia and its cousin Amnesia Haze. Users frequently describe giggly, euphoric, and talkative moods after modest inhaled doses, with a clear-headed buzz that invites conversation or brainstorming. Onset is fast—often within 2–5 minutes by inhalation—and the peak can last 45–90 minutes, tapering into an airy afterglow. Total duration typically spans 2–3 hours depending on tolerance and dose.
At higher doses, especially for those sensitive to strong sativas, Amnesia can edge into racier territory. Common side effects include dry mouth and transient dizziness, and anxious or paranoid thought loops can occur if dosing is aggressive. Keeping individual inhalations small and spaced 5–10 minutes apart helps users find an optimal plateau. Hydration and a light snack can further smooth the experience, particularly during daytime sessions.
Functionally, Amnesia is well-suited to daytime productivity, creative work, and social events. Many users reserve it for mornings and afternoons when energy and focus are high-value, avoiding late-night use that could prolong wakefulness. The cultivar’s bright terpene profile pairs naturally with outdoor activities, music, or casual collaboration. For those seeking introspective flow, it can also support journaling or light design work.
Relative to heavier indica-leaning cultivars, Amnesia rarely produces couch lock at moderate doses. Instead, it offers a buoyant, forward-leaning momentum that can make routine tasks feel lighter. Because THC is potent and CBD is minimal, titration is key—small, measured doses often deliver the best blend of clarity and enthusiasm. As always, set and setting shape outcomes; a comfortable environment enhances the strain’s sociable, upbeat character.
Potential Medical Applications and Considerations
Amnesia’s high-THC, low-CBD profile is commonly reported by consumers as helpful for low mood, apathy, and fatigue. Public strain summaries describe uplifting, creative, and euphoric effects, making it a frequent pick for daytime mood support. In patient-reported outcome data across cannabis in general, mood and stress symptoms often show meaningful short-term reductions after inhalation, with average improvements of several points on 0–10 symptom scales reported in app-based registries. While these observational findings are not randomized trials, they align with user narratives for sativa-dominant, terpinolene-forward chemotypes like Amnesia.
For pain, the broader literature on cannabis indicates that THC-containing products can provide modest analgesia for some chronic pain conditions. The National Academies (2017) concluded there is substantial evidence that cannabis is effective for chronic pain in adults, although effect sizes vary and adverse effects can occur. Amnesia’s energizing profile may be better suited to neuropathic or activity-limiting pain during the day, rather than bedtime use. Patients typically require personalized titration and may prefer balanced THC:CBD products if anxiety sensitivity is a concern.
Amnesia’s bright terpene ensemble—particularly limonene and terpinolene—may support perceived stress relief and motivational lift. Users sometimes note benefits for task initiation, creative flow, and social engagement. That said, high-THC sativas can worsen anxiety in a subset of individuals, especially at higher doses or in unfamiliar settings. For anxiety-prone users, a cautious approach, lower inhaled doses, or pairing with CBD can improve tolerability.
Adverse effects most commonly reported in public listings for Amnesia and Amnesia Haze include dry mouth, mild dizziness, and occasional paranoia at higher doses. Hydration, slow titration, and avoiding empty-stomach use can mitigate these issues. Because Amnesia is low in CBD, it lacks the partial tempering that CBD can provide against THC-induced jitters. Anyone with a history of psychosis, significant cardiovascular disease, or pregnancy should consult a qualified clinician before considering high-THC products and follow local laws and medical guidance.
Comprehensive Cultivation Guide
Overview and growth style: Amnesia is a mostly sativa cultivar (commonly 70–80% sativa) bred by Makka Seeds with a vigorous, upright structure and strong apical dominance. It stretches 1.5–2.0x after the flip, making early training essential for tent and room grows. Flowering typically finishes in 9–11 weeks indoors; outdoors in the Northern Hemisphere, harvest usually lands in mid to late October. Expect medium-high yields with proper canopy management and environmental control.
Yields and plant size: Indoors, skilled growers commonly report 450–650 g/m² under high-efficiency LED or HPS with optimized environmental conditions. Outdoors in warm, dry climates, individual plants can exceed 600–1200 g when soil volume, sun exposure, and nutrition are adequate. Height ranges from 120–180 cm indoors and 200–300+ cm outdoors. The calyx-to-leaf ratio is favorable, and trimming is manageable for a Haze-leaning sativa.
Lighting and DLI: In veg, target 300–600 µmol/m²/s PPFD with a daily light integral (DLI) around 25–40 mol/m²/day. In flower, aim for 700–1000 µmol/m²/s PPFD (DLI ~45–55 mol/m²/day) without supplemental CO₂; with CO₂ at 1200–1500 ppm, advanced growers may push to 1000–1200 µmol/m²/s. Even canopy distribution is essential; SCROG or multi-point trellising helps present a flat, top-lit surface. Monitor for foxtailing if PPFD or late-flower temps are excessive.
Environmental targets: Maintain daytime temps of 24–28°C in veg and 22–26°C in flower with a night drop of 3–5°C. Relative humidity at 55–65% in veg, 40–50% in flower, and 35–45% in late flower keeps VPD in a healthy 0.9–1.2 kPa range. Strong, oscillating airflow prevents microclimates and reduces powdery mildew risk. Keep intake air filtered and stable to minimize pest pressure.
Media and pH/EC: Amnesia performs well in soil, coco, or hydro. In soil, pH 6.2–6.8 is appropriate; in coco/hydro, pH 5.8–6.2 is ideal. Typical EC ranges: 1.2–1.6 mS/cm in veg, 1.8–2.2 mS/cm in mid-to-late flower, tapering before flush. If using reverse-osmosis water, supplement 120–200 ppm Ca/Mg to avoid interveinal chlorosis and blossom-end yellowing.
Nutrition and ratios: A balanced vegetative NPK around 3-1-2 supports rapid green growth; in early flower, shift toward 1-2-2 and later 1-3-2 as calyx production ramps. Magnesium demand can be elevated under intense light; 50–70 ppm Mg often keeps leaves glossy and reduces marginal chlorosis. Avoid overfeeding nitrogen beyond week 3–4 of flower to prevent leafy buds and terpene suppression. Many growers report best results with living soil or coco plus a clean salt regimen to fine-tune inputs.
Training and canopy control: Top once or twice during late veg and apply low-stress training (LST) to distribute branches. A single-layer SCROG net 15–25 cm above the canopy helps maintain an even surface through stretch; tuck vigorously for the first two weeks of flower. Defoliate lightly to improve airflow and light penetration, especially around week 3 and week 6 of flower. Amnesia responds well to LST and SCROG; heavy high-stress techniques late in flower can delay ripening.
Watering cadence: In soil, allow pots to reach near field capacity and then dry down to ~50–60% weight before rewatering to encourage root vigor. In coco, maintain frequent, smaller irrigations targeting 10–20% runoff to stabilize EC. Hydro systems (DWC/rdwc) reward careful solution temperature control (18–21°C) and vigorous aeration. Regardless of medium, consistent wet-dry cycles help prevent root pathogens and nutrient lockout.
Pests and disease: As a dense, resinous cultivar, Amnesia can attract common indoor pests like spider mites and thrips if IPM is lax. Implement a preventive program using beneficial predators (e.g., Phytoseiulus persimilis for mites) and periodic applications of horticultural oils or microbials during veg only. Maintain RH and airflow to minimize powdery mildew; avoid big humidity swings during lights-off. Sanitation—boot dips, quarantining new clones, and clean tools—reduces outbreaks by a large margin.
Flowering timeline and harvest cues: Expect visible pistil set within 7–10 days of 12/12. By week 4–5, colas begin stacking, and resin becomes apparent; week 6–8 sees rapid bulking. Most phenotypes are ready around weeks 9–11, with cloudy trichomes and 5–15% amber delivering the classic energetic profile. Waiting for heavier amber (20–30%) may round the edge but can slightly mute the bright top notes.
CO₂ and advanced control: With supplemental CO₂ at 1200–1500 ppm, keep temps 26–28°C in flower and increase PPFD to 1000–1200 µmol/m²/s for maximum photosynthetic rate. Ensure robust dehumidification to maintain VPD and prevent bud rot. Monitor leaf temperature with infrared thermometers; aim for leaf temps 1–2°C below ambient. Dial-in can add 10–20% yield for advanced operators with tight controls.
Drying, curing, and storage: Target a 10–14 day dry at 60°F/60% RH with gentle airflow, then cure at 58–62% RH for 4–8 weeks. This schedule preserves volatile terpenes like terpinolene and limonene while smoothing the smoke. Finished water activity around 0.55–0.65 supports shelf stability without over-drying. Store in airtight glass away from light and heat to maintain aroma and potency.
Common grower pitfalls: New growers often overfeed and mount lights too close due to Amnesia’s aggressive stretch. This can cause tip burn, canoeing leaves, and mild foxtailing; maintain a 30–45 cm LED distance (model-dependent) and watch leaf temperatures. Another frequent issue is insufficient training before the flip, leading to uneven canopies and underlit lower sites. Early topping, netting, and consistent tucking dramatically improve uniformity and yield.
Indoor vs. outdoor: Indoors, Amnesia excels in SCROG, producing long, even rails of citrus-incense colas. Outdoors, it thrives in Mediterranean conditions with warm days and low autumn rainfall; in wetter climates, selection for airier phenotypes and proactive botrytis prevention is key. Plant by late May in the Northern Hemisphere to maximize vegetative time and root mass. Organic super soils with robust microbial life can amplify terpene expression noticeably.
Expected performance summary: With dialed environments and training, Amnesia reliably achieves 450–650 g/m² indoors with THC often testing 18–26% and total terpenes around 1.5–3.0%. Buds cure to a bright citrus-incense profile with a peppery cedar underpinning. Effects are uplifting, creative, and sociable, especially at modest doses. For cultivators seeking a classic Haze experience in a more manageable 9–11 week window, Amnesia offers a time-tested balance of vigor, yield, and unmistakable character.
