Black Velvet is an even blend of indica and sativa (sativa/indica ratio of 50:50), and that genetic balance shows. The high is equal parts physical and mental, with a pleasant, lazy body buzz and sleepiness countered by cerebral effects that include euphoria and a peppy mood boost.
This strain is an effective tool in treating low mood, anxiety, nausea, chronic pain, insomnia, and stress. It's also a good choice for alleviating eating disorders and wasting conditions, as it induces a powerful case of the munchies. THC levels are on the upper end of modest, at least 15% in publicly available tests, so the effects are certainly noticeable.
But CBD levels are much lower, less than 1%, so Black Velvet shouldn't be used as an exclusive treatment for epilepsy or other conditions alleviated by CBD. Red eyes are widely reported as a negative effect of this strain, along with dry mouth and more limited paranoia. Black Velvet isn't especially popular, perhaps in part because of its moderate THC levels, but it can be found in Arizona, Colorado, Oregon, and British Columbia.