Understanding CBD and THC Dosage

CBD and THC Dosage

The most common components of marijuana are CBD and THC. Beginners may not know the difference between the two, but it is quite significant. For instance, you may smoke one joint and feel fine, but half of another one may have even stronger effects. This happens because people often confuse the entire amount of the joint with the number of active ingredients. Simply put, quantity and potency both play a role in the effects of a cannabis strain.

Therefore, if you are wondering what quantity you should consume so as to not experience any side effects, how often you can have marijuana, and other questions related to CBD and THC dosage, keep reading.

Dosing THC Products

5 mg of THC is the “standard dose.” However, that is acquired from researchers and may differ in individuals. For a complete newbie, it would be advisable to start at 2.5 mg of THC and slowly build up. This amount may help some individuals instantly but for some, they may not even feel the effects.

So, how will you know how much THC is in a product? When you purchase a flower, you should be aware of the strain you pick, as that will help you determine the contents of different compounds. However, when you buy products like gummies, they should have all the information on their labels. Moreover, reading labels has many benefits so you should make it a habit.

Also Read: Why Is It Important To Read Labels on Cannabis Products?

Most importantly, keep the following in mind and you should be good to go:

  • 2.5 mg THC is perfect for beginners.
  • Intermediate users can consume up to 5 mg THC.
  • Experienced users with an increased tolerance can use up to 10 mg THC, but it is better to see if smaller doses work first.
  • Cancer patients with tumors often consume more than 30 mg THC, but those with less severe ailments shouldn’t. Consuming such a high amount will only have adverse side effects and few extra benefits.

As someone who consumes around 5 mg of THC in one sitting, you should not let the day’s limit go over 15 mg. The basic idea is that you should consume it less than or equal to 3 times a day.

Dosing CBD Products

A study showed that the highest quantity of CBD people can tolerate is 1500 mg. However, this is a pretty heavy dose and seeing that the research on CBD is still ongoing, it is best to get in touch with your doctor before you decide on the dose yourself. 20 mg of CBD is considered the perfect amount for beginners.

But why is the tolerable quantity for CBD so much higher as compared to THC? These two compounds affect different receptors in the brain, and as a result, have varying effects. Moreover, THC is responsible for providing the high, while CBD is mainly used for its medicinal properties without the intoxicating effect.

Things you need to keep in mind when ingesting CBD:

  • You should not take it with medication that may contain grapefruit, as it is known to cause problems.
  • Do not consume too much if you don’t feel the effects right away.
  • As a beginner, start by taking 20 mg of CBD and increase it by 5 mg after a week.

If you consume 30 mg of CBD a day and feel like it isn’t enough to treat a condition like chronic pain, you may increase the dose to 35 mg after a week. If that helps, do not increase it any further. Keep track of how much CBD you’re consuming and what quantity helps relieve your symptoms.

Now that you have a general idea of how much CBD and THC dosage you should consume, you must be wondering why some people require a much higher dose than others. Well, there are a few factors that determine the suitable dose for each individual. Let’s take a look at these factors.

Factors That Impact Effectiveness of CBD and THC Dosage

  • If the THC product you’re consuming also has CBD, it may decrease the effect of THC, increasing your tolerance to it. CBD content may also help reduce or remove anxiety induced by THC.
  • On the other hand, you may have already built a tolerance to THC, regardless of how long you have been in taking it. Your endocannabinoid system mainly influences your tolerance.
  • The way of consumption dramatically impacts the effects, for instance, you may be able to smoke a full joint of cannabis, but when you have gummies, they will have much stronger effects. Similarly, vaping may waste almost half of the THC content in a flower.
  • Age is another important factor that people tend to be unaware of. As you grow older, your tolerance is bound to decrease. This may happen as the receptors that marijuana acts upon getting weak over time.

Dose According to Consumption Method

Are you familiar with the term “onset of action?” It refers to the time from when you first consume the cannabis product to when you start feeling its effects. It primarily depends on your chosen method of consumption. Let’s look at the ways different delivery methods produce results:

Inhaling

When you inhale cannabis through smoking/ vaping, the effects are almost instant. You may feel them within minutes, and they usually last for 2-4 hours. So, take one puff and feel its effects before you take more.

Oils

Oils/ tinctures often kick in after 20-40 minutes of administering them. Their effects will last for around 7 hours. You will feel the effects after a minimum of 45 minutes, so keep your applications an hour apart.

Ingestion

Orally consuming cannabis is a popular method, perhaps because it is quick and easy. You do not have to prepare anything and you still get potent effects. However, they take a while for your body to absorb, so you’ll feel them kick after an hour or two.

Also, remember that some edibles impart their effects much later than others, so don’t consume any more until you feel something. After all, their effects are very strong and last for 7-8  hours.

As you should be careful about the CBD and THC Dosage, you also need to be aware of your state’s laws regarding marijuana. For instance, if you have a medical condition as a New York citizen, it is best to have a NY medical marijuana card right now. As of now, you may not be able to get cannabis without a card, and they also help you save a lot of money at medical marijuana dispensaries. You can get a quick and affordable MMJ recommendation at NY Medical Card.

5 Reasons CBD Is Not Working for You!

CBD

Why is CBD not working for me? Does it even show any effects? If you have questions like these, you are not alone and we understand you. CBD is the most talked and used term in cannabis culture. Though it is used by a wide range of patients, it might not work for you sometimes. And just because CBD is not working for you, it does not necessarily mean that the whole health industry is fraud. There might be some reasons why CBD is not working for you. Before jumping into the reasons, let’s understand what CBD is and what role does it play-

CBD or cannabidiol is one of the most active components of the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, that gives you a mind high, CBD has some really amazing therapeutic properties. A lot of patients across the US state use CBD as a treatment for the following conditions – 

  1. Chronic Pain 
  2. Anxiety
  3. Depression
  4. Arthritis
  5. Inflammation
  6. Cancer
  7. Wasting Syndrome
  8. Seizures, etc. 

CBD is legal in almost all the US states, however you require a medical card to access other cannabis products. Every state follows different guidelines regarding the issue of medical cards. Let’s say you are a New Yorker, then you need a NY medical card to access cannabis near your area and in the state. CBD, however, is easily accessible on online stores and dispensaries. Now, coming back to the main topic, here are 5 possible reasons why CBD is not working for you – 

You are Impatient and Not Giving It Enough Time 

One of the major reasons why CBD might not be working for you is because of your attitude towards it. You might have tried some CBD oil for your chronic joint pain but you did not feel any relief. And all of that is okay as CBD takes time to display its effects on your mind and body. The instant effects from CBD are not that common. It is advised to take CBD for a few weeks and in some cases, a few months in order to get the ultimate effects. So, make sure you are patient with your CBD treatment. 

Check the Right Dosage for You 

Finding the right dosage is a practice that needs time, be it any treatment. Your body may have a different requirement for CBD depending on the unique biology that we all have. And your wrong dosage might be one of the reasons you are not feeling the CBD effects. So, the main question is how do you find the right dosage for you? 

It’s simple. Start off with a low dose and see how it works for you. If you feel you’re not getting the desired results, then you can increase the dosage accordingly. After a few weeks, you will eventually figure out what works for you and what not! Also, make a note of how you have been experimenting with the dosage and then analyse what works the best for you. 

Your Consumption Method 

The next possible reason could be your consumption method. So, CBD comes in different forms including CBD oil & tinctures, edibles, topicals, pills, vapes, etc. The safest and effective method of consuming CBD is CBD oil. We take oil sublingually, which makes it go directly into the bloodstream, showing quicker results. On the other hand, edibles like gummies and chocolates take a maximum of 2 hours to get into your system and show out the effects. This is one of the reasons the majority of the people prefer CBD oil rather than edibles. So, if CBD is not working for you, you might want to change the delivery system. 

Is Your CBD From a Trusted Source?

This has to be the most crucial and concerning reasons behind CBD not responding for you. Where did you purchase your CBD products? Did you check the brand properly? Are you sure it was from a trusted source? 

Well, with the growing demand for CBD, so many CBD products are hitting the health market. Taking advantage of the situation, there are some scammers who are circulating low-quality CBD in the market without proper labeling, in order to make profits. And some of you might be buying that low-quality CBD just because of your lack of knowledge. And that is why your CBD is not showing the effects. So, be aware of the scammers and gain knowledge about how to recognize the trusted brand.

Maybe CBD Is Not for You 

Last but not least, this could be the major reason why CBD is not working for you. Maybe CBD is not the right treatment for you. There are people who are not even aware about their health condition and are taking CBD treatment just because of the hype around the subject. But is that how you should take care of yourself? Absolutely not. Firstly, analyse yourself and see if there’s a problem or not. If there is, then probably consult a doctor and get guidance on whether you need cannabis or not. If yes, then only go on about purchasing CBD. Though CBD is not harmful, it is not an option. 

Bottom Line 

CBD has become a vast topic in the cannabis culture. Owing to its amazing healing properties, an increasing number of people are choosing CBD as the right treatment for them. Having said that, it is extremely vital to first acquire knowledge about CBD and then move forward towards its consumption. As mentioned earlier, though CBD is legal in almost all of the states of America, consulting your primary doctor about it would not be a harmful choice.

CBD: The New Beauty Ingredient on the Block

CBD and Skincare

CBD is an extraordinary ingredient with several therapeutic benefits. 

It’s needless to doubt CBD’s remarkable powers. 

To prove what I just said, here’s a factful explanation. 

Have you ever heard of Sephora? 

If yes, you are pretty much aware of the worldwide recognition this brand receives. 

For those who are unsure, let me help you understand why CBD is a huge trend.

Sephora introduced a wide range of CBD skincare products in 2018. 

Since then, it has seen a significant shift in how people buy skincare products. 

Especially those that treat skin care problems. 

And without a doubt, CBD is one component that helps skin junkies deal with several skin conditions. 

To name a few, eczema, acne, dry skin, itchiness, pain, etc. 

Not only this, but according to a report, the  CBD skincare market will be $1.7 worth by 2025

And I think it’s safe to say that the CBD industry has successfully managed to make a significant impact. 

Be it chocolates, mocktails, or clothing, CBD is everywhere. 

So, if you wish to jump on the CBD skincare bandwagon, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind. 

CBD Is Considered Safe for the Skin

Owing to the therapeutic benefits, CBD is largely considered beneficial in the treatment of mild to normal skin conditions. 

In particular, those who either have sensitive skin or problems such as dryness, acne, and redness. 

CBD also showcases anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties. 

This indicates that CBD can easily help fight the signs of aging while alleviating pain and inflammation. 

To add more, here’s a study that will help you understand the other benefits of hemp or CBD-derived hemp. 

According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, hemp acts as an emollient, cleanser, and surfactant. 

And these properties further allow users to apply CBD in areas that are dry and itchy. 

So, CBD definitely has some potential otherwise, why would you see thousands of Americans buying CBD skincare products from online stores. 

Nanotechnology and CBD 

Let’s not forget that nanotechnology plays a huge role in increasing the absorption capacity of a product. 

One of the biggest reasons why the skincare industry believes in nanotechnology. 

What’s the motive? 

Well, it’s simple – to build effective products with 100% reliability. 

So, in order to meet the customer requirement, more and more brands are leaning towards nanotechnology. 

In fact, some famous brands, such as CBD Living, use nanotechnology to enhance skin retention properties. 

And the best part is that nanotechnology has helped a lot of companies attain the traction they desire. 

While also helping them gain an edge over competitors. 

Hemp-Derived CBD Is Noncomedogenic 

Hempseed oil or CBD oil is one of the two main oils to attain a zero rating on the non-comedogenic scale. 

In contrast, oils such as olive, coconut, and almond are rated very high on the comedogenic scale. 

What does this mean for the CBD skincare industry? 

It simply means that CBD is a good skincare ingredient for people who suffer from acne and sensitive skin problems. 

In addition to this, its non-comedogenic nature allows users to apply oils without having to worry about blocking skin pores. 

CBD Helps Your Skin Produce Its Own Moisture 

There are several skincare products out there. 

Some will lure you into believing that they can help lock moisture.

The others will work for a few hours and cause the skin to dry again. 

But that’s not the case with CBD. 

CBD is a unique component.  

It allows your skin to produce its own moisture.

And the best part is that it does not drive your sebaceous glands crazy. 

CBD locks enough moisture and helps improve skin retention properties. 

Which, in turn, allows you to feel more comfortable in your own skin. 

Hemp-Derived CBD Is Legal

Yes, you hard it right, CBD derived from the hemp plant containing at least 0.3% THC is federally legal.  

All thanks to the Hemp Farm Bill

The bill was passed in 2018, allowing manufacturers, processors, distributors, and sellers to conduct legal CBD businesses. 

However, there’s a twist here.

Because cannabis is still illegal on the federal level, there are certain things that you have to keep in mind. 

For instance, products containing more than the legal THC limit naturally fall under the illegal category

So, make sure that you get a medical marijuana recommendation or check in with the state rules. 

To put things into perspective, here’s an example: 

New York marijuana program allows only patients with a qualifying condition to purchase medical marijuana. 

In particular, products that contain high concentrations of CBD. 

On the other hand, states like California allow patients to buy CBD over the counter. 

To be honest, it’s best if you consult a doctor and get medical advice before treating a specific medical condition. 

Final Thoughts

Regardless of what the anti-cannabis community may suggest, the wave of CBD is real and trending. 

From New York marijuana to California legal cannabis, we have it all. 

In fact, you can look at the statistical data or approach people who are benefiting from CBD. 

Every data and example points towards CBD’s therapeutic potential. 

And to say the least, the CBD skincare industry has a bright future, especially in terms of skincare. 

So, anyone looking for a skin-soothing ingredient must give CBD a try. 

It may not work as expected, but it will definitely not have any side effects. 

Moreover, CBD will not let you down or make you high. 

Nothing to lose here! 

Why Is It Important To Read Labels on Cannabis Products?

CBD Label

How many of you take time to read the labels before buying your groceries? I’m sure the number of people with an affirmative answer is not that high. 

Reading labels is a necessary step that most of us often find irrelevant. But while ignoring labels on groceries may still give you some slack, the same cannot be said for medical cannabis products. 

Medical cannabis is basically an unconventional medicine for a lot of people suffering from debilitating conditions. Ensuring that they have access to the best medication is very important. This is why even your medical marijuana doctor might advise you to not ignore reading labels on cannabis products. 

Now, why is it important to read labels on your cannabis products? Let’s take a look.

Guarantee of Safety and Quality

One thing that every cannabis, as well as CBD consumer, must remember is that neither of the two is FDA approved. What does this mean? It means that the FDA has not given a green light to any cannabis product that claims to have medicinal properties. 

This non-approval status allows many companies to not skip the consequences of producing and marketing potentially harmful products. 

But, if you are buying cannabis products from a state-licensed dispensary, you can rest assured that the products will be safe. To be extra cautious, the labels can give you an idea of whether or not a product promises quality and safety or not. 

Better Decisions

As the cannabis market is growing, the competition to deliver the best product is on with full glory too. If you are someone who’s very picky and wishes to have the best for yourself, reading labels can help you. 

The best brands in the market will put every information about their product on the labels or online. From the cannabinoid analysis to growing conditions, you can find every detail on the label. Use this information to compare different products. This way, you will be able to find the right product that not only meets your requirements but also delivers them at the best price. 

Points to Look For on the Label

Now comes the most important part- what do you need to look for in a label. Like any other product, you will find the necessary details like the weight, quantity, lot or batch number, company details, etc. on the cannabis products. You’ll have an easier time going through these details as an average consumer is already aware of such information. 

However, if you are a beginner or buying your cannabis products for the first time, there are other details that are more worth noticing. 

Test Report 

Every company that produces cannabis products is required to partner with a third-party testing lab that is responsible to check every batch of the products and run different tests on them. Each of these tests is created to ensure that the final product is safe, of high quality and matches the claims on the label. Here are a few of these test: 

Strain Details (if applicable) 

Cannabis comes in hundreds of different strains. Each has a different composition and can deliver different effects too. You might want to learn about the type of strain you are investing in before choosing a product. 

The most general classification of strains is Sativa, Indica and Hybrids. But, if you are looking at the labels, you will most probably find the name of the strain in the product. It gives you some idea about the effects that you can expect from the product.

Residual Solvents

Every cannabis product involves some sort of extraction process that may use one or the other solvent. However, if high amounts of these solvents remain in the final product, it may be harmful to your health. 

For this reason, companies get each batch tested for residual solvents and even pesticides that may be left behind in the product. 

Cannabinoids and Terpene Analysis

A test report gives a detailed analysis of the cannabinoid and terpene analysis in the product. This is important because people can have a better idea about the concentration of major cannabinoids like THC and CBD as well as the minor ones like CBN and CBC. 

Additionally, the terpenes analysis can further indicate the effects, flavor and aroma you can expect from a product. While there may not be a detailed analysis on the label, you can always visit the website or scan the batch number or QR code to have a detailed COA online. 

Microbial Growth

You would not want to consume a load of E Coli or other microbes with your medical marijuana. This is why every single batch of cannabis products is tested for microbes. Additionally, they also test the moisture content of the cannabis or hemp flowers to make sure that the risk of fungus or any microbial growth is minimum. The moisture content for quality products should be between 5% to 15%.9

Date of Manufacture and Expiry

This goes without saying that you need to always check the date of manufacture and expiration of every product you buy. In the case of medical cannabis, the importance level increases because, with time, the potency and quality of the cannabis product may also degrade. As a result, the effectiveness can also reduce. It can be a problem for people suffering from severe medical conditions.

Instructions for Use

Cannabis products have different concentrations which may affect people differently. This is why you can find detailed instructions for proper use or serving sizes on the labels. You can also find warnings or special instructions on the label to ensure that every consumer has a safe experience. 

Additionally, you can find instructions for proper storage too to keep the product fresh for longer. 

So, will you read the labels this time?

I’m sure you will take the time to read the labels on your cannabis products before paying your hard-earned money for them. After all, it’s a matter of your health. 

So, spread the word and allow every medical cannabis patient to become a more aware consumer.

Growing Medical Marijuana in New York: A Guide For Beginners

New York recently witnessed a historic moment in its existence. The Marijuana Legalization and Taxation Act (MRTA) was signed by the New York Governor on March 31st, 2021 which legalized marijuana in the state. 

Now, the new Act had a lot of changes in store for recreational cannabis as well as medical marijuana New York. Apart from legalizing cannabis in the state, the MRTA act promises a long list of changes for the advantage of the citizens including the right to grow cannabis at home. 

So, will you be taking advantage of the new law and have your own little cannabis harvest at home? If yes, then here’s a detailed guide that can help you begin. 

Legal Restrictions in New York

Before you get excited and start looking around for the best cannabis seeds for your homegrown cannabis garden, it’s essential that you are familiar with the legal boundaries set by the state government regarding this law. 

For starters, the law isn’t in effect at the moment. When the MRTA Act was passed on March 31st, there were only a few provisions that were implemented for the citizens immediately. This includes the higher possession limit, expungement of people convicted on marijuana charges and the inclusion of smoking as a method of administration. 

The legalization of homegrown cannabis is mentioned in the Act as one of the many new provisions. As per the law, every citizen of the state who is 21 years or older can grow 3 mature and 3 immature plants at home or 6 mature and 6 immature plants per household irrespective of the number of people. But, it is not in effect yet. 

It will require the state to set up a regulatory body to lay the necessary rules and regulations in regards to growing cannabis at home. But, you can expect for all the formalities to be complete in 2022. 

So, what can you do until then?

Well, growing cannabis at home, especially for medical uses, involves a little effort. If you are interested in harvesting cannabis at home, you can start your preparations until the law allows you to legally have your plants at home. 

How to Prepare for Growing Cannabis at Home?

cannabis at home

Cannabis is not like your normal indoor house plants. It requires special attention and a few more care tips than you would implement on your house garden. Until the regulatory body is set up and the laws are in place, you can prepare yourself with the basic knowledge about homegrown cannabis to have the best harvest at home. 

Learn About The Growth Stages of the Plant

In order to have a cannabis plant that bears the best cannabis flowers for you to harvest, it’s important that you understand the needs of the plant. 

A cannabis plant has different needs in terms of nutrients, light, water, etc. during different stages of its growth. There are four primary stages of growth of a cannabis plant:

  • Germination (5-10 days)
  • Seedling (2-3 weeks)
  • Vegetative (3-8 weeks)
  • Flowering (6-8 weeks)

Take your time to learn about each stage and everything you must do at each level to have the best harvest. 

While you learn about the growth stages of a plant, take your time to understand the plant’s anatomy too. Excess or deficiency of nutrients, light, etc, can change the anatomy of the plant. You must be able to identify these changes to make the necessary additions or subtractions to the caring routine of your plant. 

Understand the Importance of Nutrients

Your cannabis plant will need food or nutrients to grow. Cannabis plants have a long list of macro and micro nutrients that they need at different stages of their growth. 

Macronutrients: Nitrogen, Potassium, Phosphorus, Calcium and Magnesium. 

Micronutrients: Boron, Iron, Manganese, Copper, Molybdenum and Zinc. 

Now, you can stick to the traditional way of manure and learn to make your own manure at home. Or you can feed your plant with fertilizers. In the end it’s your call. 

However, you should know about which nutrient to feed your plants and when. For instance, a cannabis plant in its vegetative state needs a higher level of nitrogen and a lower amount of potassium whereas it needs the reverse ratios during the flowering stage. 

Excess or lack of a specific nutrient can cause disorders and you may end up with an unhealthy plant. 

Water is another important thing that plants need to survive but it needs to be fed in a balanced way. If you go beyond the limit, you’ll have a plant with rotting roots. And if you water too little, you’ll have a dying or unhealthy cannabis plant. 

And while you learn about the nutrients, you also need to understand the perfect pH for cannabis plants for proper absorption of nutrients and water. 

Learn About Light and Dark Cycles

Light is very important for the growth of a cannabis plant. The right color (spectrum) of the light and a higher the exposure to light, the higher will be the yield. However, it’s essential to mark the light and dark hours of your plant at home. 

While the first three stages of plant calls for 24-18 hours of sunlight, the flowering stage also known to be the most important stage requires the plant to have only about 12-13 hours of light. So, while light hours are essential, the dark hours of pitch black darkness is necessary to avoid cannabis plants from turning into an intersex plant. Even the smallest light leak can prevent them from flowering.

Know About the Seed Selection Process

After you are familiar with the important aspects of growing a cannabis plant it’s time to familiarize yourself with the seeds. 

Once the laws are in effect, you will have to buy good quality seeds by carefully selecting the best ones. For starters, you need to go for feminized seeds to harvest flowers. Additionally, you must ensure that the seeds are new and of high quality. The choice of strain will depend on your preference. 

If you are ready to have your own cannabis garden at home, start preparing yourself for the same. Research about the important aspect we’ve discussed above to have a healthy flowering plant once the state of New York allows growing cannabis at home. 

Edibles vs. Smoking: Which One’s Better For You?

Edibles vs. Smoking

Cannabis smoking vs. edibles- The topic has been on a debate in the marijuana community for a very long time. Both these consumption ways are quite famous among cannabis users today. And they both carry their own list of pros and cons. But which one of these is the better choice for you after you’ve got your medical marijuana card in NY? Well, the answer to this question may be unique to every individual. However, we may help you decide by telling you about the major differences between the two. So, let’s begin the learnings.

Potency

Potency is perhaps one of the most important factors by which people decide on their preferred marijuana consumption method. And this is where smoking and edibles differ the most. As per the experts, edibles are a lot more potent than smoking. The simple science behind this is when you ingest cannabis, the THC gets transformed into 11-hydroxy-THC in your stomach. And this induces the feeling which is a lot stronger. So, if you want your way of consumption to be more potent, edibles are your clear choice.

Now, you must not forget that the potency of your marijuana also depends on the strain you are consuming. But if we talk about consuming the same strain with both methods, edibles will get you more high.

Control

Now, potency surely isn’t the only deciding factor here. I mean what’s the fun in being high if it’s out of control? And if we take this into account, edibles perhaps won’t be your first choice.

See, the problem with edibles is that they take a lot more time to get you high as compared to smoking. And because of this property, they can be quite unpredictable. On the other hand, with smoking, the effects show up within minutes. And thus, you can control them easily. This may also be one of the deciding factors in the contest between edibles and smoking.

Risks For Health

It’s perhaps given that smoking carries a lot of health risks in the bucket. And it’s not just harmful to the lungs but many other body parts too, including the heart. For this reason, some states have even banned the act of smoking completely, as it may put the patient at even more risk. You must note, though, it’s not cannabis that is the source of risks here but the act of smoking.

But hey, if you think edibles are completely off the risk charts, you should think again. Edibles too have some side effects. Sure, they aren’t as extreme as lung cancer. But still, they are worth considering while choosing a way to consume the herb.

Cost

Cost is again one of the significant factors while deciding your way of consuming cannabis. Now, here we have two scenarios here. Either you get the edibles from a dispensary. Or you prepare them at home.

In the first scenario, you are bound to spend more on edibles, as it involves an additional cost of professional preparation and handling. However, if you decide on making them at home, you may save some money by using the parts of the marijuana plant that you usually don’t use for smoking, such as the stem. But here too, you may be able to get the cost pretty much the same as of the flower. So, if the cost is your priority while buying marijuana, smoking can be your first choice.

Taste

In this war between edibles and smoking, we just cannot forget the taste. And with so much variety, edibles pretty much seem like winners.

But is it really that simple?

Well, for some, it may be. But there are others that prefer the subtler, simpler taste of the bud itself. In fact, if you are a fan of smoking cannabis, no edible can do justice in terms of taste. The sweet and light notes of marijuana can be enjoyed the best while smoking only.

However, you must also note that while some marijuana strains may offer you citrusy or sweet notes, others may prove quite harsh on your taste buds. And thus, you must be very careful with your strain choice.

While a medical marijuana card NY may allow you to buy cannabis for medical purposes, in the end, it’s in your hands how you want to use it. Smoking and edibles are usually the top choices of new users. But sometimes, people have to choose from them. The differences given above may help you make the right choice for yourself.

Different Ways to Consume Cannabis Concentrates

Different Ways to Consume Cannabis Concentrates

Concentrates are products obtained from the marijuana plant. They contain the most desirable plant materials, such as phytocannabinoids. Cannabis concentrates contain high levels of cannabinoids and terpenes, thus they deliver more potent effects than flowers. Like cannabis buds, you require a medical marijuana card NY to access concentrates legally from state-licensed dispensaries.

Related- How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in NY?

Cannabis concentrates are distinguished by the type of plant materials used, processing technique, and textures. In this post, we are going to discuss the options for medical users to consume concentrates.

How to Consume Concentrates?

Smoking Methods

Smoking is the most common method of cannabis consumption. The best part is—it delivers instant medicinal effects. You can add concentrates to the joint to increase potency. Here are some common methods of smoking concentrates-

Topping The Flowers

By topping the flowers, you can easily increase the potency of your smoke along with adding extra taste. You can simply wrap wax around the joint to use concentrates. Or, you can make fine pieces of concentrates, and add them to the pipe bowl. Well, it totally depends on the texture of the concentrates you are using and your personal preferences.

Dabbing

Dabbing is a popular method of consuming concentrates. It involves heating the nail using a torch until it turns red and applying the dab to generate smoke. You don’t need a torch if you are using an e-nail. Using the mouthpiece, you can inhale the smoke, and receive therapeutic effects instantly. It’s good to rotate the dabber so that all of the concentrates are used.

Regular cleaning of the nail is necessary to avoid carbon or other matter build up. You can use isopropyl alcohol for cleaning purposes.

Vaping

Vaping is considered as a healthier alternative to smoking. This is due to the fact that combustion of the substance doesn’t occur when you vape marijuana. The American Lung Association says that cannabis smoke contains many of the same carcinogens as tobacco smoke. In other words, smoking can cause lung irritation, inflammation, etc.

Pre-Filled Vape Pens

Vape pens are portable devices used for vaping cannabis concentrates. A pre-filled cartridge attaches to a battery, which heats the concentrates after the device is turned on. This generates vapors, which can be inhaled through the mouthpiece. So, using a vape pen is very easy. Just press the button, and deliver vapors comprising cannabinoids directly into the bloodstream. The pre-filled cartridges aren’t refillable. However, you can use the battery multiple times.

Handheld Vaporizers

Another portable vaping method is to use a handheld vaporizer. It comes with a chamber attached to the battery. You can manually fill the chamber with concentrates and heat it to generate vapors, which are then inhaled through the mouthpiece. Unlike a dab rig, you don’t require an extra element for consuming marijuana. Handheld vaporizers allow you to refill the chambers with any type of concentrates.

Dosing Cannabis Concentrates

The major difference between concentrates and flowers is potency. In cannabis concentrates, THC content ranges between 50 and 80 percent while it’s 10-25 percent in the case of flowers. So, dosing is very important when you are using concentrates.

For beginners, it’s good to start with CBD-rich concentrates. CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid present in marijuana. However, you can try concentrates with different levels of cannabinoids and terpenes, and see what works for your condition the best. Always start with a low dose, and increase gradually.

Related- 5 Facts You Must Know About CBD

Final Thoughts

Concentrates deliver more potent effects than flowers. This is due to the fact that they contain a higher concentration of cannabinoids. The common methods of consuming concentrates are—topping the flowers, dabbing, and vaping. Each method works differently and delivers different effects.

When using concentrates, always start with a low dose. This will help you avoid that unexpected high, thus making you uncomfortable. You can increase the dose gradually until you get the required health benefits. Additionally, buy concentrates with optimal levels of cannabinoids and terpenes.

To buy, possess, and use concentrates legally, apply for your medical marijuana card NY online. It’s very simple-

  • Fill a simple form
  • Talk to a licensed doctor through the HIPAA-compliant software
  • Receive MMJ recs in PDF format via email

4 Ways CBD Concentrates Can be Useful For You

4 Ways CBD Concentrates Can be Useful For You

You must be familiar with the many medical benefits of cannabis. It can help in managing various medical conditions such as arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, cancer, HIV/AIDS, and many more. A medical marijuana card in NY provides you the opportunity to get access to medical cannabis. There are over 100 cannabinoids found in cannabis, but the two major compounds are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). THC is the main psychoactive compound that causes the “high” associated with cannabis. CBD, on the other hand, does not cause any high. But there are a lot of benefits of CBD that can enhance your overall health.

The best part is that you can use CBD products every day. Incorporating CBD concentrates on daily routines have become popular among a lot of people. There are many products of CBD such as – CBD vape oil, CBD wax, CBD e-liquid, cannabis oil, and more. Today, we are going to focus on some of the top benefits of CBD isolate concentrate. This will help you get familiar with the most common ways people can use CBD concentrates. So, let’s dive into it.

Get Relief From Pain

CBD is known for its pain-relieving properties. It can help you manage your chronic pain and CBD concentrate is often used for this. In fact, many rheumatoid arthritis sufferers use CBD concentrates to get relief from the symptoms of their condition. CBD interacts with CB1 receptors in the nervous system. This way it affects the neurotransmitters, which impacts the transmission of information (such as pain) across the body.

Fight Inflammation

The biggest reason behind the effectiveness of CBD oil against pain is its ability to reduce inflammation. The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD make it a very effective treatment for arthritis. CBD and cannabinoids in our body have a similar genetic makeup. This allows CBD to bind well with the cannabinoid receptors in the body. It is the reason why CBD oil can effectively help in reducing or stopping pain. CBD oil reduces inflammation by preventing the activation of the cannabinoid receptors of the body.

Manage Anxiety And Depression

As I mentioned before, CBD oil can affect neurotransmitters in the brain. It also affects the production and distribution of serotonin and helps in the regulation of certain hormones. Studies show that CBD oil can help in increasing mental clarity, and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. In fact, CBD concentrates are a safer and more effective alternative to other pharmaceutical medications for anxiety and depression.

CBD Concentrate Can Also Help in Reducing Acne

Acne can be very irritating, but now you can get rid of them with the help of CBD oil. You can apply CBD oil topically for reducing acne. The antioxidants and antibacterial properties of CBD oil can help in fighting off free radicals in the skin. It can also kill harmful bacteria, thanks to these properties of CBD oil. CBD oil helps in shutting down the production of oil by binding to receptors in the skin on a cellular level. Another advantage of CBD oil is that it is non-comedogenic. So, you won’t have to worry about clogging of the pore or worsening skin conditions.

5 Facts You Must Know About CBD

5 Facts You Must Know About CBD

Marijuana has been slowly getting out of its reputation as a gateway drug. And is increasingly being used in healthcare and medicine. People can now easily get a medical marijuana card in New York and visit their nearest dispensaries to buy their doses. Such widespread use and positive results promoted more research on the marijuana plant. And led to different discoveries including that of the trending cannabinoid, CBD.

Lately, CBD has been all over the place. Literally. At least once during the day, I see these three letters somewhere on the internet. And why not? It has proven to be of great benefit in different spheres. You can now find CBD in food, beverages, beauty items, and even in pet products. Everyone has been hopping on this bandwagon of CBD. Most of which are celebrities and athletes. So before you also start using this cannabinoid. Here are 5 facts about CBD that you must know.

CBD is Non-Intoxicating

All the high that is usually associated with Cannabis is due to the cannabinoid called Tetrahydrocannabinol or THC. As for CBD, you will not experience any sort of high or intoxication. Even if you overdose on it. This is mainly because of the different ways these two components react to the CB receptors. While THC activates the receptors and causes a euphoric feeling. CBD actually blocks the same CB receptors. Hence not really impacting your cognitive performance. Also, because of the different ways THC and CBD behave in the body. CBD is actually used to reduce the intoxication caused by THC. So, if you wish to get the benefits of marijuana. CBD is the way to go as it has a good safety profile.

It is legal but also illegal

The confusion is the statement can be extended to the legality of CBD. Here’s why. As per the 2018 Farm Bill passed by the federal government. The threshold amount of THC for any marijuana product is 0.3 percent. Anything beyond this amount is classified as a Schedule 1 drug. Now, the CBD products that you find in the market are extracted from industrial hemp which qualifies the criteria of the Farm Bill. So, CBD is legal under federal law. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve of including the drugs in food, beverages, and other products.

So, you must always make sure that CBD products have third-party test results on their labels. Or just always buy from a trusted and licensed dispensary.

It has different types

Depending upon the extraction process and the parts involved in the making of CBD. There are 3 categories. Full-spectrum CBD, Broad Spectrum CBD and CBD isolate. A full-spectrum CBD is made from the entire hemp plant and has the same chemical profile as is found in the plant. So this type may have some traces of THC but not enough to get you high. Broad-spectrum is also made from all plant matter but does not contain THC. A CBD isolate only contains pure CBD which has been separated from other plant components.

CBD oil and Hemp oil are different

CBD oil and hemp oil are two different things. Though both are derived from the hemp plant. But, CBD oil is made from the stem, leaves, flowers and stalk of the plant. Whereas organic hemp oil is made from hemp seeds. And the only part of the hemp plant that has no traces of CBD is its seeds. So while CBD oil obviously has CBD. Hemp oil has does not have any traces of it.

CBD has side effects

CBD has its set of side effects just like every other medication. You can experience nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite, dry mouth etc. after consuming CBD. Also, some people can be allergic to this cannabinoid which can be identified with similar symptoms. This is why it is important to find the right dose with microdosing and consult a professional before using CBD.

Final thoughts

CBD is loved by thousands in America for various reasons. Mainly because it is safe and gives all the benefits without giving you the high. So if you are one of those people who wish to know what the hype of marijuana is all about. Begin your journey with CBD. And experience the benefits.

The Use of Cannabis For the Treatment of PTSD

cannabis-for-ptsd

We live in fragile times. There are more than 40 million Americans that suffer from a mental health condition. Maybe it is our lifestyle or work culture, but the staggering number clearly calls out for us to make some changes. PTSD or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a mental condition that affects people who have witnessed or experienced a traumatic incident like a violent assault, war, serious accident, natural disaster, or a terrorist act.

Earlier, PTSD was only associated with war veterans. But gradually, people understood that it could happen to anyone. The condition affects almost 3.5 percent of American adults that means one in every eleven Americans is diagnosed with PTSD atleast once in his lifetime. Statistics show that women are twice more susceptible to the condition than men.

Symptoms of PTSD

People who have post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD often experience intrusive thoughts like distressing dreams and flashbacks of the incident. These flashbacks can be very vivid and may even feel like you are reliving that moment again. Negative thoughts and feelings corrode the mind and people often feel much less interested in activities that they previously enjoyed. Also, people with PTSD become irritable and behave recklessly or in a self-destructive way.

Medical Marijuana For Treatment

Cannabis has made quite a journey from being considered as an immoral part of the society to now getting legalized in most of the states in the country. And deservedly so! Cannabis has proven to be effective in the treatment of several conditions, including PTSD.

In 2014, the New York State passed the Compassionate Care Act that legalized cannabis for medical use. The medical marijuana program allows people suffering from severe medical conditions to use marijuana for their treatment. All you need is a medical marijuana card in new york to access quality MMJ products to manage your health.

Chemical compounds in cannabis called cannabinoids show therapeutic effects for people with PTSD. CBD and THC are the two main cannabinoids found in the plant. While CBD is responsible for its medicinal benefits, THC concentrates more on the psychoactive effects of cannabis. Cannabis is known to provide relief from conditions like anxiety, pain, and insomnia, which makes it more effective in treating PTSD.

Cannabis will help you relax and get your mind off the stress. PTSD often leads to a change in appetite and sleeping patterns. The plant helps regulate these as well. So, if you feel you suffer from PTSD, approach a licensed doctor, and get yourself a medical marijuana card in New York.

How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in New York

Yes, it is legal to use cannabis for medical use. And all you require is a medical marijuana card to buy the herb legally. With telemedicine, the process has become convenient, inexpensive, and easy. Fill an online application and get connected with a medical health professional via video call. If the doctor feels you qualify for the medical marijuana program, then you will receive your medical marijuana card through email within a few minutes. And once you receive this certification, you are required to register with the New York Department of Health. Voila! Now, you are a valid medical marijuana patient and are entitled to buy cannabis in the state legally.

But these benefits come at a cost. Medical marijuana is legal in New York, but you still can’t light a smoke. Wait! But you still get to access a plethora of other canna products like capsules, oral sprays, vaporization, and oils. Find what you feel most suitable and manage your condition effectively.

Bottomline

Cannabinoids like CBD can empower your body’s endocannabinoid system and promote your overall wellbeing. PTSD affects every individual uniquely. Its devastating effects can leave you mentally and physically in shambles. Cannabis can help patients regain control and hold of their lives. One of the most important things is to identify and acknowledge that you are suffering from PTSD. Most people don’t get treated because they try and ignore their symptoms. If you feel any of your loved ones or even yourself suffer from the condition, approach a mental health professional. Getting timely help and support is essential or things may turn for worse.