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Author: sam bruton

Can CBD Show Up On A Drug Test?

Yes, it is possible for CBD to result in a positive drug test under certain conditions. While pure cannabidiol (CBD) itself should not show up on a drug test, many CBD products contain trace amounts of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). If enough THC is present in the product, it could trigger a positive drug test. The likelihood of this happening depends on the quality, source, and composition of the CBD product.

Here’s how to minimize the risk of failing a drug test while using CBD:

1. Understand the Different Types of CBD

  • Full-Spectrum CBD: Contains all compounds naturally found in the cannabis plant, including trace amounts of THC. Full-spectrum products are more likely to contain THC, even if derived from hemp.
  • Broad-Spectrum CBD: Contains multiple cannabinoids and compounds from the cannabis plant but with all THC removed.
  • CBD Isolate: The purest form of CBD, containing no other cannabinoids, including THC. This is the safest option for avoiding THC contamination.

2. Choose Products Carefully

  • Opt for products labeled as broad-spectrum or CBD isolate to reduce the risk of THC exposure.
  • Check Labels and Lab Reports: Look for products that list the amount of CBD and ensure they are third-party tested for THC content. Reputable manufacturers will provide lab reports confirming the absence of THC.
  • Source of the CBD: Hemp-derived CBD is less likely to contain significant THC levels, but always verify that the product is sourced from a reputable state or manufacturer with rigorous testing standards.

3. Potential Causes of THC Exposure

  • Cross-Contamination: THC may unintentionally contaminate CBD products during manufacturing. Choose products from brands that handle only CBD or use separate facilities for THC-containing products.
  • Product Mislabeling: Studies have shown that some CBD products may be mislabeled, containing more THC than claimed. Stick to well-reviewed brands with transparent testing practices.
  • Secondhand Smoke: In rare cases, secondhand exposure to THC via marijuana smoke could result in a positive test, although this is uncommon.

4. Drug Testing Sensitivity

  • Urine Tests: Detect THC-COOH at a threshold of 50 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL). Heavy or frequent exposure to THC may extend the detection window to over 30 days.
  • Blood Tests: Rarely used for workplace drug screening; THC is only detectable for a few hours in plasma.
  • Saliva and Hair Tests: These are less common, with saliva detecting THC up to 72 hours and hair tests detecting THC metabolites for up to 90 days.

5. The Bottom Line

  • Routine drug tests typically don’t screen for CBD, only THC and its metabolites.
  • To avoid testing positive, use CBD isolate products and confirm their quality with third-party lab results.

While CBD itself shouldn’t cause a positive drug test, it’s important to remain cautious, as the unregulated nature of the industry can lead to unintended THC exposure.

What Is A Dab Rig and How Do They Work?

Dabbing has transformed the way cannabis enthusiasts enjoy concentrates, and with the emergence of the electronic dab rig, or e-rig, the process has become easier, cleaner, and more precise. Let’s explore the world of e-rigs and why they’ve become an essential tool for concentrate lovers everywhere.

What is an Electronic Dab Rig (E-Rig)?

An e-rig represents the latest in dabbing innovation. It’s a battery-powered device that allows you to vaporize concentrates without the need for a torch. E-rigs combine the potent and flavorful experience of traditional rigs with the convenience and precision of modern technology, making dabbing more accessible than ever.

How Do E-Rigs Work?

E-rigs function by heating a coil or similar element to vaporize cannabis concentrates like thca badder strain or at controlled temperatures. Powered by batteries or direct electricity, these devices allow you to personalize your dabbing session through temperature settings, often displayed digitally. This level of control ensures you can fine-tune your experience, balancing intensity and flavor.

Benefits of Using an E-Rig

E-rigs are changing the game for cannabis concentrate enthusiasts, offering several key advantages:

  • Precise Temperature Control: Customize your session with adjustable temperature settings, preserving the perfect balance of flavor and potency.
  • Convenience & Portability: Compact and battery-operated, e-rigs eliminate the need for a torch, making them ideal for home use or on the go.
  • Enhanced Safety: With no open flame required, e-rigs are a safer alternative to traditional methods, reducing the risk of burns or fire.
  • Efficient Consumption: E-rigs ensure even vaporization of concentrates like wedding cake concentrates, maximizing usage while minimizing waste.
  • Rapid Heating: Many e-rigs heat up in seconds, allowing for immediate enjoyment without lengthy waiting times.
  • Cleaner Experience: Producing pure vapor, e-rigs provide a smoother and cleaner inhale compared to combustion methods.
  • Durability: High-quality materials make many e-rigs durable, built to withstand regular use.
  • Ease of Maintenance: Designed for simplicity, e-rigs are often easy to clean and maintain, ensuring optimal performance with each use.

Considerations for Electronic Dab Rigs

While e-rigs offer many benefits, there are some things to keep in mind:

  • Upfront Cost: E-rigs can be more expensive than traditional rigs, requiring a larger initial investment.
  • Maintenance: Regular cleaning and upkeep are needed, including battery charging and occasionally replacing parts like coils or atomizers.
  • Learning Curve: New users may need time to familiarize themselves with temperature settings and operation.
  • Battery Dependency: Since e-rigs run on batteries, you’ll need to ensure they’re charged, which can be inconvenient if power runs out mid-session.
  • Portability Concerns: While some e-rigs are portable, others may be bulkier and less discreet than simpler setups like pen vapes.
  • Technical Issues: As with all electronics, e-rigs can experience malfunctions or glitches, potentially disrupting your sessions.

Top Electronic Dab Rigs

The best e-rig for you depends on your needs—whether you prioritize portability, battery life, or specific features. Popular brands like Puffco, Carta, Dr. Dabber, and Focus V are known for their high-quality designs and innovative features, catering to a range of preferences.

Choosing the Right E-Rig

If you’ve decided to make the switch to an e-rig, here are a few factors to consider when choosing the perfect setup:

  • Temperature Control: Look for adjustable settings to suit different concentrates and preferences.
  • Battery Life: Opt for a device with strong battery life if you plan on longer sessions or frequent use on the go.
  • Portability: Consider the size and weight if you’ll be using the e-rig outside your home.
  • Durability: Ensure the e-rig is made from sturdy materials that can handle regular use and travel.
  • Ease of Use: Simple controls, easy loading, and straightforward cleaning are essential for a smooth experience.
  • Brand Reputation: Research reliable brands with positive reviews and solid customer support.
  • Price: Find an e-rig that offers good value based on its features, build quality, and performance.
  • Warranty & Support: Check for warranties and support services to protect your investment and troubleshoot any issues.
  • Innovative Features: Explore advanced features such as Bluetooth connectivity, LED displays, or haptic feedback for enhanced control and enjoyment.

Purchasing E-Rigs

If you’re ready to elevate your dabbing experience with an e-rig, Kanna Collective a great place to start. We offer a range of electronic rigs tailored to your preferences and style. Our knowledgeable team is available to guide you through the selection process, helping you find the perfect device to enhance your cannabis concentrate experience. Need oil to use? Shop our concentrates. 

Too High? 8 Ways To Sober Up

We’ve all been there: you lit the perfect joint, took an expertly timed dab, or munched on an artisanal edible. Then suddenly, those fuzzy feelings turn prickly, your laughter shifts to panting, and you’re thinking, “Dude, am I dead?” No, you’re just realizing, “I’m too high.”

Whether that edible kicked in three hours late, you held the bong rip too long to impress your friends, or you’re a low-tolerance consumer caught off guard by concentrates, it can sneak up on you. Once it does, the experience may become uncomfortable enough to turn off even the most seasoned cannabis lover. Thankfully, cannabis is not lethal, and its effects dissipate within a day. Here’s how to come back from the edge of greening out.

How Long Does it Take to Come Down from a Weed High?

The duration of a cannabis high varies based on consumption method, dosage, and individual factors like tolerance, age, and metabolism. Higher potency products (high THC percentage or milligram amount) typically result in longer-lasting highs, though not necessarily more intense ones. Concentrates are the most potent, followed by flower and edibles.

Generally, the average cannabis high lasts between 30 minutes to 2 hours at its peak, with lingering effects for some time after. New studies indicate a “window of impairment” across consumption methods ranging from three to 10 hours, with most people experiencing around 4 hours. Here are ways to help sober up when you feel too high or uncomfortable.

Symptoms of Being Too High

Signs that you may need to dial down your intake include:

  • Anxiety
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Panic
  • Paranoia
  • Confusion
  • Excessive perspiration

Tips on How to Sober Up from Weed Fast

1. Don’t Panic

The infinite wisdom of Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy: DON’T PANIC. YOU ARE FINE AND EVERYTHING IS OKAY. Most symptoms of “greening out” will dissipate within minutes to hours. Despite how freaked out you may feel, you won’t expire from excessive consumption.

2. Try Water and Light Snacks

Hydrate with water or juice (avoid caffeine). Eating light snacks like fruits, nuts, or cheese may help you feel more grounded. Some research suggests terpenes in food can mitigate the high.

3. Know Your Limits Before Consuming

Prepare for your cannabis session according to your tolerance level. Consume with trusted friends and avoid pushing past your comfort zone. Take it slow, especially with edibles, and wait at least an hour before increasing your dosage.

4. Chew Black Peppercorns

Combat paranoia and anxiety by sniffing or chewing on a few black peppercorns. Terpenes in black pepper may contribute to its grounding effects.

5. Keep Calm and Rest

Find a calm, quiet place to rest and breathe deeply. Sleep it off if you can. If sleep is elusive, just get comfortable until you feel better.

6. Try Going for a Walk

A change of scenery and fresh air can help. Stay close to familiar surroundings and bring a buddy. Avoid walking if you’re too woozy or light-headed.

7. Take a Shower or Bath

Showers and baths relax the mind and body. A cold shower may increase alertness and help you feel more grounded.

8. Distract Yourself

Engage in familiar activities that bring you joy: watch a funny cartoon, listen to your favorite album, play a video game, talk to friends, or snuggle with a loved one.

Sobering Up from Edibles

Edible highs differ from smoking, vaping, or dabbing highs. Because edibles are metabolized via different systems, their effects last longer. Stay calm, hydrate, and distract yourself. Eating a large meal or taking CBD edibles may help lessen the effects. A long nap can also do the trick.

Sobering Up from Delta-8

Delta-8 THC, derived from hemp, offers a milder high than delta-9 THC, making it less intense and harder to overdo. Contributor Dante Jordan found delta-8 edibles gave him a good time without the intensity of delta-9.

Remember, it’s all about finding what works best for you and your body. Stay safe and enjoy your cannabis experience responsibly!

What Is Cannabis Tolerance?

Cannabis doesn’t kill brain cells like methamphetamine, nor does it cause the connections between brain cells to wither away like alcohol. However, repeated cannabis consumption does lead to a phenomenon known as “tolerance.”

If you stop using cannabis, the brain can recover impressively quickly, generally within weeks.

What is Tolerance?

Tolerance to THC can be explained by the cannabinoid type I (CB1) receptors in the brain, which decrease with continued cannabis use. Essentially, you need to consume more THC to achieve the same high. Over time and with continued use, it may seem impossible to get high at all. However, if you stop, the brain can recover quickly.

How Tolerance Develops

THC activates CB1 receptors to make you feel stoned. The high results from an abnormal increase in CB1 receptor activity. Once THC is gone, this activity usually returns to normal. However, repeated exposure to THC over days or weeks causes the brain to minimize the increase in CB1 receptor activity, fighting back to preserve normal activation patterns. This is achieved by reducing the number of CB1 receptors, weakening their effects, or altering genetic expression.

Mechanisms of Tolerance

Repeated activation of CB1 receptors by THC leads to desensitization (a weakening of the response to THC) and internalization (removal of CB1 receptors from the cell’s surface). When these processes occur, you’ll need to consume more THC to get high.

Desensitized receptors are still available for THC to bind, but their impact is lower than it once was. Internalized receptors are no longer available for THC to bind, as they are removed from the cell’s surface and either stay inside or are broken down.

As CB1 receptors are frequently activated, they become less associated with the components that carry out the receptors’ effects. Proteins in the cell act like a coach to detect weak receptors and pull them from the game. Desensitized CB1 receptors are tagged with a phosphate group, signaling their removal from the cell’s surface.

The Timeline of Tolerance

The speed at which tolerance to THC develops depends on the dose and frequency of consumption, use history, and individual DNA. Studies in mice show that tolerance to THC’s effects can develop within 36 hours of twice-daily injections. After a week of THC exposure, behavior normalizes in less than two weeks of abstinence, with tolerance to THC’s sedative effect recovering quicker than its effect on pain.

Recovery from Tolerance

Compared to other recreational drugs, cannabis is unique in the speed at which the brain recovers following abstinence. A study of daily cannabis users reported that CB1 receptor levels increased to near-normal levels after just two weeks of abstinence.

Since internalization of CB1 receptors is the predominant consequence of excessive THC consumption, this explains why the brain recovers faster with cannabis abstinence than with many other drugs. CB1 receptors can be reproduced and sent back to the cell’s surface to recover normal brain function.

Cannabis vs. Other Substances

Excessive alcohol consumption can be toxic to the brain, causing injury or death to brain cells. Abstaining from alcohol can lead to some recovery, but it is often slower and less complete than with cannabis. Methamphetamine, on the other hand, offers little recovery of brain functioning even after a year of abstinence and can kill brain cells.

Given these comparisons, sticking with cannabis seems to be a safer choice.

Guide To Concentrates

There are numerous types of concentrates available, making it challenging to understand their distinctions, production methods, and applications. Let this guide serve as your go-to resource for further insight!

Click here to view all of our Concentrates! 

 

What Are Concentrates?

Concentrates are similar to the orange juice concentrate you may have in your freezer – the concentrated product of extracting the most desirable parts of the plant. They contain all the cannabinoids and terpenes present in cannabis while being free of excess plant materials.

 

What is Shatter, butter/budder, wax, sugar, sauce, and crumble…?

All of these terms reflect the consistencies of the cannabis concentrate extract itself. Certain extraction methods and post-processing techniques are more suitable for making some of these concentrates like purple legend concentrate and king louis concentrate, but these extracts can be made in multiple ways. One thing is true: these products are much more potent by volume than cannabis flower. Cannabis concentrates contain anywhere from 60 percent to more than 90 percent THC, while cannabis flower typically contains anywhere from less than 10 to more than 30 percent THC. If you haven’t used concentrates before, it’s important to start with a very small amount! Read this guide to learn more about each specific concentrate and how they are made.

KIEF

What is it? An un-refined particle containing cannabis flower trichomes. It is more potent than cannabis flower and can be sprinkled on a bowl or in a joint. It can also be decarboxylated and added to food. Keif can be further refined into many other concentrates as well.

How is it made? By agitating dry and cured flower to allow for the dry and brittle trichomes to separate from the flower or trim and be collected separately. Kief does not require the use of solvents and can be further refined into a dry sift kief by using different-sized screens and filtering trichomes and resin glands by size.

 

Dry Sift Hash

What is it? A refined kief that is usually pressed into a ball and has a more solid consistency compared to a powdery kief. It can be added to a bowl, decarboxylated, and added to food.

How is it made? By taking kief and refining it through filter screens, then compressing it into a solid form. It does not require the use of solvents and can be further refined into other concentrates.

 

Bubble Hash

What is it? A concentrated solid hash with a similar consistency to dry sift hash. It can be dabbed, vaped, added to a bowl or joint, or decarboxylated.

How is it made? By using cold water and ice to knock the trichomes off of dry and cured cannabis plant material. The ice agitation breaks the fragile trichomes off the flower material and then passes through a series or micron filters. Once filtered, it needs to be properly fried. A well-refined bubble hash, called full melt, is a potent hash that will bubble when heated, hence the name “bubble hash”

 

Hash Rosin

What is it? A rosin that is made using hash as the starting material. It can be more potent than regular flower rosin. It can sometimes have a shatter, pull and snap, or taffy consistency and is a perfect product to be dabbed or vaporized. It can be added to a bowl, decarboxylated, and added to food.

How is it made? By taking already extracted has and adding heat & pressure to extract just the oils and terpenes from the has. No solvents are used to make hash rosin. It can be further refined to make other concentrates like thca hash rosin.

 

Rosin

What is it? A solventless concentrate containing cannabis oils, terpenes, and lipids. Rosin is stickier in consistency and can produce a higher cannabinoid potency. Typically used in dabbing and vaping, but can also be added to a bowl/joint or decarboxylated.

How is it made? Using heat and pressure to extract cannabis oils from plant matter. Usually pressed through a micron screen for a cleaner consistency Rosin. No solvents are used in the extraction of Rosin, and it can be further refined into other concentrates.

 

Live Rosin

What is it? Using the same extract processes as normal rosin, but instead of using dried and cured cannabis material, a fresh frozen material is used instead. It contains more terpenes than normal rosin, making it more flavorful and representative of the living plant. It can be dabbed, vaped, added to a bowl or joint, or decarboxylated.

How is it made? By taking fresh frozen cannabis products and usually making a bubble hash out of the live fresh frozen plant material. It is then freeze-dried and pressed into live rosin. Solvents are not used during any of the extraction process.

 

Resin

What is it? A sticky cannabis oil with terpenes that is extracted using a solvent. It can be a very potent extract and terpene-rich. It great for dabbing and vaping, but can also be used to dress up a joint or bowl, or be decarboxylated.

How is it made? By using a solvent to extract the cannabinoids from the plant material. Typical solvents used are CO2, alcohol, propane, or butane. The solvent will extract the cannabinoids, and the solvent is then removed, leaving behind only the cannabis oils that are desired. Further refining can be done to make more pure forms of resin.

 

Live Resin

What is it? The same as Rosin, except instead of using dried and cured cannabis material, a fresh frozen material is used and extracted using a solvent. It can be very potent and terpene-rich. Great for dabbing and vaping but can also be used to dress up a joint/bowl or be decarboxylated.

How is it made? By taking fresh frozen cannabis material and extracting the cannabinoids with a solvent, usually butane or propane. The solvent is then ‘removed’ leaving behind the desired extract. It can be further refined to make more pure forms of live resin. Testing is recommended to ensure no solvents are leftover.

 

Distillate

What is it? Oil that can be refined using distillation. The process does not use any solvents and is used to further refine the oil into a more pure form. Typically, distillates are already decarboxylated and can be dabbed, vaped, added to a joint or bowl, or eaten. Sometimes terpenes are added back into distillates to improve taste; during the refining process, a majority of the terpenes have been removed.

How is it made? By placing an extracted oil under a vacuum and heat to vaporize the desired cannabinoids to then condense and separate them from heavy residues. Knowing the vapor points of cannabinoids, extractors can fraction off and collect pure oil while the heavy residues are left behind.

 

Diamonds

What is it? Isolated THCA crystals are made from a resin or live resin.

How is it made? By using certain solvents to assist in the crystallization of THCA. THCA is a crystalline structure and can attract more THCA crystals to grow and form into larger crystals that have now been called diamonds. The process is often called ‘diamond mining’ and takes time for the THCA crystals to stack on top of one another. Pentane is usually the solvent of choice when washing diamonds.

What Are Adaptogenic Mushrooms? Benefits, Risks, and More

What Are Adaptogenic Mushrooms? Benefits, Risks, and Types

Capsules, powders and more containing adaptogenic mushrooms have become popular in the world of health and wellness! At Kanna CBD, we offer gummies infused with these powerful mushrooms, bringing their potential benefits directly to you.

Click here to check out all of our adaptogenic gummies!

You may wonder whether adaptogenic mushrooms offer health benefits and if you should be adding them or related products to your diet. This article explains everything you need to know about adaptogenic mushrooms, including the types, potential benefits, and possible risks.

What Are Adaptogenic Mushrooms?

Adaptogenic mushrooms are a special category of mushrooms that may help reduce the effects of stress on your body. Unlike hallucinogenic mushrooms, adaptogenic mushrooms do not act on the mind or perception. Instead, they work to support the body’s resistance to stress, promoting balance and normal functioning during stressful times.

The body’s stress response involves multiple systems, including the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which releases glucocorticoids like cortisol to activate the stress response. Adaptogens help by influencing the HPA axis and other key stress response mediators, enhancing resistance to stress and promoting recovery and stability in the body.

Researchers have identified certain plants and fungi, including some mushrooms, that possess adaptogenic properties. Research suggests that several types of mushrooms have beneficial effects on the body’s stress response. While many mushrooms have medicinal effects, adaptogenic mushrooms specifically help with the body’s response to stress.

Here are some mushrooms known for their adaptogenic effects:

Cordyceps

Cordyceps is a fungus studied for its potential to reduce stress. Although research in humans is limited, rodent studies suggest it may reduce stress-related markers and increase resistance to stress-inducing activities.

Lion’s Mane

Hericium erinaceus, commonly known as lion’s mane, may offer adaptogenic effects. Rodent studies have shown that lion’s mane extract can help reverse stress-related changes in neurotransmitters and reduce levels of inflammatory markers associated with stress. Benefits can also include improvement of nerve development and function, memory improvement, and can slow down the progression of Dementia. Customers need to consistently take Lion’s Mane and will feel benefits within 2-3 weeks.

Reishi

Ganoderma lucidum, or reishi, is known for its adaptogenic properties. Reishi supports adrenal gland function, helping to manage the body’s cortisol levels and stress response. Benefits can include help boosting the immune system, reducing inflammation, promoting relaxation, and stress/anxiety management. Some customers can feel an immediate effect but for most it can take up to 2 weeks.

Turkey Tail

A fungus that grows on the trunks of dead hardwood trees, has a long term history of medicinal use in Asia. Benefits can include help boost the immune system, boost exercise performance, help with reducing inflammation, and aid patients who are in chemo recovery.

Chaga

A fungus that grows on the bark of birch trees, Chaga has been used since the 12th century in Eastern Europe. From past history, Russian Prince Vladimir Monomakh had a lip tumor and got rid of the disease thanks to the treatment of Chaga. Benefits can include help with boosting the immune system, fight the production of cancer cells, and lower your blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

Are Adaptogenic Mushrooms Safe?

Research shows that these mushrooms are generally safe and well-tolerated when taken in supplement form. They are available in various forms, including capsules, tinctures, teas, powders, and now, in Kanna CBD’s gummies.

However, side effects can occur, and certain populations should avoid these mushrooms. For example, reishi may cause dizziness and headache and should be avoided by people with bleeding disorders, those taking blood-pressure-lowering medication, and pregnant or breastfeeding women. Additionally, some documented cases of liver toxicity and allergic reactions exist.

It’s important to consult your healthcare provider before taking adaptogenic mushrooms to ensure they are safe and appropriate for you.

Should You Try Adaptogenic Mushroom Products?

If you’re considering adding adaptogenic mushrooms to your diet, consult your healthcare provider first. While these mushrooms may be safe for many people, they’re not suitable for everyone.

At Kanna Collective, we provide a holistic approach to stress management. However, it’s essential to use other stress reduction techniques as well, such as identifying stress causes, getting adequate rest, following a nutrient-dense diet, and using methods like therapy, massage, exercise, and meditation.

Adaptogenic supplements, including those containing mushrooms, can be expensive and often contain proprietary blends without revealing the dose of each ingredient. This means the amounts of adaptogenic mushrooms you consume may be too small to have noticeable effects on your stress levels.

If you’re experiencing significant stress, seek advice from your healthcare provider.

The Bottom Line

Some mushrooms, including reishi, Cordyceps, and lion’s mane, may have adaptogenic properties and help reduce the negative effects of stress in the body. However, more research is needed to fully understand how these mushrooms affect stress response in humans.

At Kanna Collective, our gummies with adaptogenic mushrooms offer a convenient and enjoyable way to incorporate these benefits into your daily routine. Always consult with your healthcare provider to ensure they’re safe and appropriate for your needs.

So Many Strains: Which One Do I Choose?

Understanding the Endocannabinoid System

Named after the plant that led to its discovery, the endogenous cannabinoid system plays a vital role in human health. It encompasses endocannabinoids and their receptors distributed throughout the body, including the brain, organs, connective tissues, glands, and immune cells. The system’s primary function is to maintain homeostasis, ensuring stability in the body’s internal environment despite external fluctuations.

Cannabinoids facilitate homeostasis across all levels of biological life. For instance, they regulate processes like autophagy, wherein cells recycle their contents, aiding in both normal cellular function and the destruction of malignant tumor cells. Moreover, cannabinoids facilitate communication between different cell types, enabling coordinated responses to injuries, such as reducing inflammation and stabilizing nerve cells to alleviate pain.

This complex system acts as a bridge between the body and mind, influencing states of consciousness and their impact on health. Beyond internal balance, cannabinoids also affect how individuals interact with their external environment, promoting behaviors like sharing, humor, and creativity. By influencing neurogenesis and learning, cannabinoids may facilitate adaptive responses to changing circumstances.

Cannabinoid Receptors: Key Players in Health

The endocannabinoid system is ancient, present across various species for over 600 million years. Cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, are integral parts of this system, distributed widely throughout the body and linked to different physiological actions. Endocannabinoids like anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol naturally stimulate these receptors, while phytocannabinoids from plants like cannabis can also activate them.

Cannabinoids exhibit diverse therapeutic properties, with compounds like THC and CBD showing promise in treating conditions ranging from nausea to chronic pain. Beyond medicinal use, cannabinoids possess antioxidant properties, aiding in cellular protection against free radicals. However, the therapeutic potential of herbal cannabis surpasses that of synthetic cannabinoids due to the synergistic effects of its numerous compounds.

Harnessing the Healing Power of Cannabis

Research suggests that small doses of cannabinoids can enhance the body’s endocannabinoid system, leading to increased receptor sensitivity and heightened physiological response. This supports the idea of cannabis as a tonic for overall health, potentially serving as a preventative measure against disease.

Despite the growing evidence supporting the medical benefits of cannabis, many healthcare providers remain unfamiliar with its therapeutic potential. However, as public demand for natural and effective treatments grows, there’s a rising need for education and awareness among both patients and healthcare professionals regarding the scientific basis for medical cannabis use.

In conclusion, while further research is warranted, the existing evidence underscores the potential of medical cannabis as a versatile remedy for various human ailments and as a component of preventative healthcare. By embracing this natural solution, individuals can tap into the body’s innate ability to heal and improve their quality of life.

So Many Strains: Which One Do I Choose?

Navigating the vast array of strains available at most dispensaries can be daunting. Here, we address common questions about cannabis strains, their characteristics, and which ones are worth exploring.

Understanding Strains: To begin, let’s delve into a bit of cannabis history. Originating in central Asia, cannabis spread across the globe and adapted to various climates and conditions. This adaptation led to changes in the plant’s physical and chemical makeup, resulting in what are known as landrace strains.

As time progressed, individuals began experimenting with these landrace strains, crossbreeding different male and female plants to create new varieties. This experimentation ultimately gave rise to the diverse range of strains.

What makes each cannabis strain unique is a combination of factors:

Cannabinoid Content: Each strain has a distinct cannabinoid profile, with varying concentrations of compounds like THC and CBD. For instance, strains high in THC provide a more potent and intoxicating experience, whereas those with a higher CBD to THC ratio tend to offer relaxation without intense intoxication. Seeing a strain higher in THC than others may make you assume that it means it’s a better strain choice for you. But that isn’t always the case: terpene content plays a big role in your experience.

Terpene Content: Terpenes contribute to a strain’s flavor, aroma, and effects. With over 200 types, terpenes interact with cannabinoids to produce unique experiences. Different terpene profiles result in varying flavors, aromas, and effects. People react better to certain terpene profiles; your body chemistry and ailments can help determine your preferences.

Environmental Factors: Cultivation conditions, including soil nutrients and climate, influence a strain’s terpene and cannabinoid composition. The same strain grown in different environments can exhibit different characteristics.

Understanding Indicas, Sativas, and Hybrids: The terms indica, sativa, and hybrid categorize the physical structure of the cannabis plant as well as its effects. There are very few strains that exist that are 100% Indica or Sativa; many existing strains are considered a hybrid, meaning a combination of both indica and sativa mixes. Hybrid strains could be 50/50, 60/40 and higher mixes.

Choosing the Right Strain: Consider these factors when selecting a strain:

  1. Flavor and Aroma: Terpene profiles dictate the taste and scent of a strain. You nose knows! Choose a strain that you react positively when smelling.
  2. Desired Effects: Look for strains likely to produce your desired effects based on cannabinoids and type (indica, sativa, hybrid)
  3. Potency: Different strains vary in THC levels, offering varying intensities of high. Some may contain different levels of CBD and CBG.
  4. Growing Method: Preference for indoor or outdoor-grown cannabis may influence strain choice. Indoor strains tend to have a more potent terpene profile.
  5. Medical Benefits: Certain strains may offer specific medicinal properties based on their cannabinoid and terpene composition. Ask your budtender for recommendations based on relief for a specific medical ailment.
  6. Budget: Strains are available across price ranges, catering to different budgets!

The Role of Lab Testing: Legal dispensaries rigorously test cannabis strains for cannabinoid and terpene profiles, as well as to ensure they are free from harmful chemicals. Lab testing provides consumers with critical information to make informed decisions about which strains to try. Always view and check lab testing before purchasing a strain.

CBD and Anxiety: A Comprehensive Guide

CBD has gained significant attention in recent years, particularly for its potential to alleviate anxiety and depression, among other physical and mental health issues.

 

What is CBD?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound extracted from the industrial hemp plant. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), another compound found in cannabis, CBD does not cause intoxication or euphoria.

 

How Does CBD Help with Anxiety and Depression?

The human body has an Endocannabinoid System (ECS) that plays a role in regulating various bodily functions, including stress, pain perception, and sleep. CBD interacts with the ECS, potentially helping to regulate these functions and manage symptoms like anxiety and stress.

 

Does CBD Really Work for Anxiety?

Anxiety and depression are prevalent in the United States, yet many individuals do not receive proper treatment due to various reasons, including stigma or concerns about pharmaceutical medications. CBD offers a natural, plant-based alternative that some individuals find effective.

Scientific studies have shown promising results. For example, a study in Japan involving depressed teenagers found that CBD had similar effects on symptoms as a commonly prescribed antidepressant and anti-anxiety medication.

 

How to Use CBD Oil for Anxiety and Pain

CBD can be consumed in various forms, including edibles, topical creams, or tinctures. Sublingual application (under the tongue) is a common method for using CBD oil, allowing for quick absorption into the bloodstream.

 

How Soon Does CBD Oil Work for Anxiety?

Results can vary from person to person, but it’s recommended to allow several weeks for the full effects to be felt. Some individuals may notice changes in mood or behavior within a week of consistent use.

 

Choosing the Right CBD Product

When selecting a CBD product for anxiety and depression, look for organically sourced CBD with clear labeling indicating the CBD content and full ingredient list. Trustworthy companies like Kanna Collective offer high-quality CBD products with transparent labeling.

In conclusion, if you’re seeking a natural approach to managing anxiety and depression, consider incorporating CBD oil into your wellness routine. Kanna CBD provide reputable options for plant-based solutions to alleviate symptoms holistically.

How April 20th Became a Cannabis Holiday

April 20th, or 4/20, has emerged as a significant day in cannabis culture, drawing enthusiasts together for festivities that celebrate the plant. This day is marked by music festivals enveloped in smoke, special deals on munchies, and discounts at dispensaries across the United States.

Where Did The Term ‘420’ Come From?

The origins of “420” were once shrouded in mystery. Some believed it referred to a police code for possession, or was derived from Bob Dylan’s song “Rainy Day Women No. 12 & 35.” However, the consensus now points to a group of friends from San Rafael High School in California, known as “the Waldos.”

 

Legend has it that a friend’s brother planted cannabis in the woods at Point Reyes and shared a map with the Waldos to harvest it. They would meet at 4:20 p.m. near a statue of chemist Louis Pasteur, sparking the term “420” to signify their plan. Though they never found the crop, “420” entered their vocabulary and eventually became synonymous with cannabis culture.

 

Spread of ‘420’

One of the Waldos had a brother who was friends with Grateful Dead bassist Phil Lesh, further popularizing the term within the band’s community. By the early 1990s, a flier circulating at a Dead concert solidified “420” as a rallying call for cannabis enthusiasts, eventually turning April 20th into a widely recognized holiday.

 

Celebrations and Traditions

Modern-day 4/20 festivities vary in scale. San Francisco’s Hippie Hill draws thousands, while Seattle offers “dank double features” at movie theaters and pottery parties in Boston provide an opportunity to craft cannabis paraphernalia. Pot shops offer discounts, and breweries release special beers in honor of the occasion.

Political Landscape

Despite increasing legalization at the state level, progress on federal cannabis reform has been sluggish. Congress has struggled to agree on modest reforms, leaving many cannabis businesses dealing primarily in cash due to banking restrictions. President Joe Biden’s administration has pardoned prior federal cannabis offenses, but advocates continue to push for broader reforms, including removing cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act and addressing the impact of the drug war on communities of color.

As 4/20 rolls around again, it serves as a reminder of the evolving landscape of cannabis policy and culture in the United States.

 

Tell your NC state legislators to vote YES on medical cannabis!

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