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Cannabis: How-to

by Gary Oak
March 20, 2023

Starting at the Start:

Cannabis has been used for medicinal and recreational purposes for thousands of years. Today, there are several ways to consume cannabis, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Here are some different methods of consuming cannabis:

1. Smoking

Smoking is perhaps the most traditional and popular way of consuming cannabis. This method involves rolling the dried flower into a joint or packing them into a pipe or bong and inhaling the smoke. Smoking cannabis allows for quick absorption of its psychoactive compounds, providing an almost instant high.

2. Vaporizing

Vaporizing, or “vaping,” is a newer way of consuming cannabis that avoids the harmful effects of smoke. This method heats the cannabis to a temperature that releases its psychoactive compounds into a vapor that is then inhaled. Vaporizing can be a more discreet and convenient option for those who want the benefits of inhaling cannabis without the smoke. It can also produce a smoother experience.

3. Edibles

Cannabis can also be consumed through edibles, such as baked goods, gummies, and chocolates. This method allows for a longer-lasting and more intense high, as the cannabis is absorbed through the digestive system. It can be a great way to consume cannabis discreetly and without the need for smoking or vaporizing.

Note, edibles can take much longer to take effect, often up to an hour or moresso start low and go slow.

4. Tinctures

Tinctures are liquid extracts of cannabis that are typically placed under the tongue for fast absorption. They can also be added to food and drinks for a discreet and easy way of consuming cannabis. Tinctures are often preferred for their fast onset time and precise dosing.

5. Topicals

Topicals are cannabis-infused lotions, balms, and oils that can be applied directly to the skin for localized relief from pain and inflammation. This method does not produce a psychoactive effect and is often used for medicinal purposes.

However, topicals are not effective for all types of pain and inflammation, and can be expensive compared to other methods of consumption. Additionally, they may not be as widely available as other forms of cannabis.

6. Dabbing

Dabbing is a method of consuming cannabis concentrates that involves heating a small amount of concentrate on a hot surface and inhaling the resulting vapor. This method can be very potent and should be approached with caution

In Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many different methods of consuming cannabis, each with its own unique benefits and drawbacks. It’s important to explore different methods and find the one that works best for your individual needs and preferences. Always remember to consume cannabis responsibly



Cooking with Cannabis?

by Gary Oak
March 11, 2023

Cannabutter!

Cannabis butter, also known as “cannabutter,” is a popular ingredient in many cannabis-infused recipes. It is made by infusing butter with the psychoactive compounds found in cannabis. Here’s how to make a basic cannabis butter:

Ingredients:

· 1 cup unsalted butter

· 1 cup ground cannabis flower

· Water

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 245°F. (Important, never more than exactly 245°F)

2. Spread the ground cannabis flower evenly on a baking sheet.

3. Bake the cannabis in the oven for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is lightly toasted and fragrant. This process, known as decarboxylation, activates the psychoactive compounds in the cannabis^1.

4. In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.

5. Add the toasted cannabis to the melted butter and stir to combine.

6. Add enough water to the saucepan to create a water-butter-cannabis mixture.

7. Simmer the mixture over low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the cannabis has infused into the butter.

8. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

9. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a container, squeezing out as much liquid as possible.

10. Discard the leftover plant material and refrigerate the cannabis butter until it solidifies.

Side Note...

The potency of your cannabutter will depend on the strength of the cannabis you use and how much you use. It’s important to start with a small amount and test the potency before using it in larger quantities.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, making cannabis butter is a simple process that can be used to create a variety of cannabis-infused recipes. By following these instructions, you can create a potent and delicious ingredient that will enhance your culinary creations.



Topicals 101

by E. T.
January 8, 2023

Cannabis topicals are becoming increasingly popular as a non-psychoactive way to manage pain, inflammation, and skin conditions. Topicals are products such as creams, balms, and salves that are infused with cannabis extracts and applied to the skin¹𝄒². Here are some general instructions on how to apply cannabis topicals:

7 Easy Steps

1. Choose the right product: There are many different types of cannabis topicals available, each with different ratios of THC and CBD, as well as other active ingredients. It’s important to choose a product that is appropriate for your needs and preferences.

2. Clean the affected area: Before applying the topical, make sure to clean the area of skin where you will be applying it. This will help ensure that the product is absorbed properly and will reduce the risk of infection.

3. Apply the topical: Squeeze a small amount of the topical onto your finger or a cotton swab and gently rub it into the affected area. Start with a small amount and increase as needed.

4. Massage the area: Massage the area gently for a few minutes to help the product absorb into the skin.

5. Wash your hands: After applying the topical, wash your hands thoroughly to avoid accidentally getting the product in your eyes or mouth.

6. Wait for the effects: It may take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour for the effects of the topical to be felt. If you don’t feel any relief after an hour, you may consider applying more.

7. Store the product properly: Cannabis topicals should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and the reach of minors.

Reminder

A reminder that it’s always a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider before using any new product, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking medications.

References

1. Russo, E. B. (2018). The Case for the Entourage Effect and Conventional Breeding of Clinical Cannabis: No “Strain,” No Gain. Frontiers in plant science, 9, 1969.

2. Millar, S. A., Stone, N. L., Yates, A. S., & O’Sullivan, S. E. (2018). A systematic review on the pharmacokinetics of cannabidiol in humans. Frontiers in pharmacology, 9, 1365.



Our Endocannabinoid System

by Gary Oak
January 2, 2023

Cannabis & Our Endocannabinoid System

Cannabis contains numerous active compounds called cannabinoids¹. These cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system², which is responsible for regulating various physiological processes such as appetite, mood, pain sensation, and inflammation.

When cannabis is consumed, the cannabinoids enter the bloodstream and travel to various parts of the body, including the brain. The main psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis is delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)³, which binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and produces the characteristic “high” associated with cannabis use.

In addition to THC, cannabis contains other cannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD)⁴, which does not produce a “high” effect but may have therapeutic properties such as anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anxiolytic effects.

The body recognizes cannabinoids through the endocannabinoid system, which consists of two main types of receptors: CB1 receptors, which are primarily located in the brain and central nervous system, and CB2 receptors, which are mainly found in immune cells and peripheral tissues⁵.

When cannabinoids bind to these receptors, they can produce a variety of effects depending on their location and concentration. For example, activation of CB1 receptors in the brain can produce the euphoric effects of THC, while activation of CB2 receptors in immune cells may lead to reduced inflammation and pain.

Overall, the interaction between cannabis and the endocannabinoid system is complex and not fully understood. However, research has shown that cannabis can have a wide range of effects on the body, both positive and negative, depending on factors such as the type of cannabis consumed, the dosage, and the individual’s genetics and physiology

References

1. Grotenhermen, F. (2003). Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of cannabinoids. Clinical pharmacokinetics, 42(4), 327-360.

2. Di Marzo, V., & Piscitelli, F. (2015). The endocannabinoid system and its modulation by phytocannabinoids. Neurotherapeutics, 12(4), 692-698.

3. Mechoulam, R., & Gaoni, Y. (1967). The isolation and structure of delta-1-tetrahydrocannabinol and other neutral cannabinoids from hashish. Journal of the American Chemical Society, 89(17), 4550-4554.

4. Ibeas Bih, C., Chen, T., Nunn, A. V., Bazelot, M., Dallas, M., & Whalley, B. J. (2015). Molecular targets of cannabidiol in neurological disorders. Neurotherapeutics, 12(4), 699-730.

5. Mackie, K. (2008). Cannabinoid receptors: where they are and what they do. Journal of neuroendocrinology, 20(s1), 10-14

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