Why is it Important to Understand the Difference Between Cannabis Strains?

If you have recently started your cannabis treatment, I’m sure you must have realized that there are a number of different aspects that you still need to learn about cannabis. It is a relatively new addition to the medical world which is why it’s crucial that the consumer follows every step to enjoy the best experience. One such step that a medical patient needs to understand is the difference between cannabis strains.

If you got the chance to have a conversation with your marijuana doctor in San Diego, you may have come across the term ‘strain’.

Well, just like your chocolate bars, cannabis also comes in different types. The difference here is that they are not only different in taste but also effects. This is why it is important for a patient to determine a strain that best suits their needs. 

Main Classifications of Cannabis Strains: Indica, Sativa and Hybrids

I understand the confusion when it comes to deciding a cannabis strain. There are more than a thousand different varieties. How can you choose one? Trying one at a time is definitely not an option.

Well, in this case, starting from the basics can be a good idea. The thousands of cannabis strains are broadly classified into three primary categories called Indica, Sativa and Hybrids.

Each of these varieties deliver different therapeutic effects for the consumer. So, understanding the effects of each category can give you a headstart into choosing the strain that will be your best pick. Here’s a closer look into the three strain types. 

Indica

If you enjoy the high of cannabis and other effects related to a psychedelic feeling, Indica is your best choice. This type of strain is perfect for obtaining the physical effects. It is known to calm the body, reduce muscle tension and relieve pain or any physical discomfort. For example, for people who are unable to sleep due to chronic pain, Indica strain can provide the best relief. On the other hand, Indica strains are also the type that tend to cause dry mouth and couch locking high if not consumed properly.

It is advised to use the strain during night time. Since it can cause a strong high, it’s unsafe to use it during day time or while doing daily chores. Some of the popular Indica cannabis strains are Bubba Kush, Northern Lights, Granddaddy Purple and Ice Cream Cake. 

Sativa

On the opposite spectrum of cannabis strains is Sativa. While Indica is able to put a consumer to sleep, Sativa is more appropriate for someone who seeks to uplift their energy levels. It is more helpful in providing cerebral effects that can impact your mood and emotions. People suffering from mental health issues prefer Sativa strains. It is also a good pick if you need to improve your creativity or focus.

Since Sativa doesn’t create strong high feelings, these can be used in day time while performing daily activities. Some of the popular Sativa cannabis strains are Sour Diesel, Durban Poison, Harlequin and Lemon Haze.

Hybrids

As the name suggests, it is a variety that offers you best of both worlds. It delivers a mixture of Sativa as well as Indica effects. Some of the popular hybrid cannabis strains are Blue Dream, OG Kush, Wedding Cake and Pineapple Express.

Understanding the basic effects of each strain category is a good way to anticipate the effects of your choice of strain. However, one thing to remember is that not all cannabis strains deliver the effects as mentioned. Due to extensive breeding, strains may not exhibit pure characteristics of Indica, Sativa or Hybrid. 

Difference in Chemical Compositions

It’s true that cannabis strains have different effects based on the strain type but do you know what makes them deliver such varying effects? It’s their chemical composition. Choosing the right strain will also depend on the presence or absence of the following chemicals. 

Cannabinoids

The primary work force of cannabis are the cannabinoids. These are the chemicals that bind with your CB receptors and alter the body and brain functions to deliver a variety of therapeutic effects.

Now, there are hundreds of cannabinoids in a cannabis plant. The most popular ones are THC, CBD, THCV, CBN and CBG. Each strain has a different combination of these cannabinoids and in different ratios. You can ask your marijuana doctor San Diego to give you an idea about the concentration of cannabinoids you need so that you can pinpoint the cannabis strain that is best for you. 

Terpenes

The next set of chemicals that are important are the terpenes. These are responsible for the flavor and smell of a cannabis strain. However, they also play a crucial part in exhibiting the entourage effect or enhancing the healing properties of the cannabinoids.

Now you know why it is important to find a strain that’ll deliver the best effects for your health condition. So, keeping these major differences in mind, go ahead and find the best match for yourself.

The Best Ways to Break up Your Cannabis Without a Grinder

Everyone wants to have a perfect experience when it comes to smoking cannabis. And you should be prepared with everything to have a great smoking cannabis session. Whether you smoke cannabis for medical purposes or recreational purposes, you want everything to go smoothly. You can easily buy medical cannabis after getting an MMJ card from a licensed marijuana doctor in San Diego. Now suppose, you have your buds and you are in a perfect setting for a great smoking session. But then you realize that you can not find your grinder to break your cannabis. Do not let this small problem ruin your mood.

If you are not able to find your grinder to grind your cannabis, don’t worry, we are here to help you. There are a few tips and tricks that can help you break up your cannabis buds without the help of a grinder. There is no denying that grinder is a very useful tool that makes everything easier for a cannabis smoker. But you need to realize that it is an accessory and not the only way to break up your cannabis. Today, we are going to look at some of the best tricks that will help you break up your cannabis without a grinder. Here is the list of the best tricks to break up your buds without a grinder.

Trick 1. Break Your Cannabis Apart With Your Hands

It is time to get back to basics. One of the oldest ways to break up your cannabis buds is by using your fingers. This method that gives you a rewarding experience is very simple. You just have to make the shape of a bowl with one hand. Then use your other hand to start picking away at your cannabis to break them apart.

It is a rewarding experience but it does have its downsides. Cannabis can be sticky and it can be a bit tedious to break your cannabis down with your hands. When you break up your cannabis with your hands, the resin begins to build up around your hand. But I really don’t think that it is a downside as you can use this resin to get some extra kick. Use a credit card or keys to scrape it off your hands. Then smoke it in a bong or joint. Also, scraping the resin off your hands is one of the most traditional ways to make hash.

Also, using your hands to break up your cannabis will help you build a relationship with it. This gives you the chance to get close to the structure of your buds. You can get personal with the unique aromas of your cannabis.

Trick 2. Using a Piece of Parchment Paper

If you don’t wish to deal with the resin, you can use a piece of parchment paper for the process. You have to use parchment paper as a barrier between your cannabis and your hands. This way you will not have to worry about getting your hands sticky with the resin. This removes the burden of removing the resin from your hands after breaking up your buds.

You can use other paper products for this job, but it is still advisable to use parchment paper. The reason for this is that parchment paper has a waxy surface that helps in keeping everything from sticking. You just have to cut the parchment paper into a few pieces. And then before you begin, place them between your fingers. If you’re thinking of smashing your cannabis with a heavy object, you can use parchment paper to create a barrier.

Trick 3. Using Pestle And Mortar

Well, this one is one of the very popular methods among cannabis enthusiasts. A pestle and mortar are very handy and easy to use when it comes to grinding cannabis. You simply have to break your cannabis apart a little using your hands. Then put it into the mortar and with the help of a pestle start crushing it. Keep crushing it until your cannabis reaches the consistency according to your preference.

Before you begin to use this tool, it is important to wash and dry your mortar and pestle. You have to wash it after the use as well. This is important to avoid any contamination. This method works best if you have drier cannabis buds.

Trick 4. Using Scissors And a Shot Glass

Trimmers are already familiar with scissors, but you can also use them post-processing. They can be used to break down your larger cannabis buds. So, get some sharp scissors and a shot glass. Pop your buds in the shot glass and start chopping away your cannabis with the scissors.

It is a little tedious method, but in the end, you will get nice and evenly cut cannabis to smoke. The reason that a shot is preferred is that it has high walls that don’t let any cannabis fall out. Another advantage of using a shot glass is that it has a small diameter.

This helps in confining cannabis, which makes it very easy to cut through. But if you do not have a shot glass, you can use any regular glass. Whatever container you choose, you need to tilt it on an edge to bunch together your buds nicely. Also, be aware of any pieces that might fall out when you are chopping.

Trick 5. A Knife And Cutting Board

It’s time to bring out your chopping skills. For this method, you need basic kitchen items – a knife and a cutting/chopping board. It is a great way to break up your cannabis if you can not find your grinder. You have to put your cannabis on a clean cutting board, and then use your knife to chop them up.

You will get finely chopped cannabis ready for your perfect smoking session. You just need the patience and cutting skills for this method. I would suggest using a serrated knife for this method. This knife will pull and tear while it glides along, making the entire process easier. The chopping board will also help in keeping everything contained. That means you will not have to worry about any extensive clean up afterward. If you have experience with slicing vegetables and fruits before, you will find this method easier.

One more thing you need to remember is to clean the knife and cutting board before and after the job. This is especially true if you have used them to cut very pungent ingredients, such as garlic or onions. The odors of such ingredients can contaminate your cannabis. I use medical cannabis for my condition, and this method is one of my favorites when it comes to breaking up my cannabis. You can also consult a marijuana doctor in San Diego to get an MMJ card to buy medical cannabis.

Trick 6. Using a Penny And a Container

This is my favorite trick when it comes to breaking up cannabis. You just have to drop a coin inside a hard container. Then simply give it a good shake. The coin inside will do the rest, as it tears through the cannabis buds. This method is great for sticky and dense cannabis. Be sure to choose a good, solid container. I would suggest using prescription bottles and breath mint tins.

Cooking With Medical Cannabis: Tips For Homemade Edibles

During the entire quarantine phase, people started taking up new hobbies like painting, workouts, dancing and many others to keep themselves occupied. But for people who use cannabis, the new hobby was cooking homemade edibles. Cooking with cannabis has been around for a long time but interest in it grew specifically in the time of lockdown. Don’t worry if you missed the party, you can always start making edibles at home right now.

With a medical marijuana card in San Diego, you can visit any dispensary across the city and buy yourself a bag of good quality cannabis buds. The next step is to choose a recipe, get in the kitchen, wear your apron and start cooking.

Before you begin, remember that you may not succeed in your first try. Cooking cannabis edibles isn’t easy but it doesn’t have to be daunting either. So here are a few tips that will help you make a start in your cooking expedition. 

Learn About The Strain You Will Use

Since you are basically beginning from scratch, the first step is to identify the strain you own or buy. Cannabis strains have varying chemical compositions which means that they will have different potencies as well. If you infuse your edible with cannabis without the knowledge of the strain type or chemical composition, you won’t be able to pinpoint the potency of your end product. For someone who uses cannabis for medical reasons, this uncertainty of potency can be risky. The level of THC and CBD content and type of terpene in your strain will help you decide the right dose for your edible.

When you are buying a strain for yourself, make sure that you are choosing one according to the effects you need. For example, if you want a strong euphoric high or sedative effects, go for high THC content. High CBD strains are more preferred by people who want the medicinal properties without a prevalent buzz.

You can always ask your budtender or seller at the dispensary to give you all the necessary details about the strain. It’s also best to do some research on your own on the internet. It will help you have a better idea about how to use cannabis and in what quantity. 

Decarboxylation is Necessary

One important step that beginners often miss out on while cooking with cannabis is the decarboxylation process. Your cannabis edibles won’t work if you infuse it with raw cannabis. It will be similar to consuming cannabis tasting food that delivers no effects. This is because raw cannabis does not contain the important cannabinoids THC and CBD that are responsible for all the therapeutic benefits. These cannabinoids are present in the form of cannabinoid acids instead. While THCA and CBDA have their own medicinal properties, they will not deliver the same effects as you would after smoking a joint or eating a store bought edible.

This is why decarboxylation is necessary. Cannabis is exposed to heat so that the cannabinoid acids turn into cannabinoids. It is not a very tricky process. You can even do it at home using your oven or microwave. Just remember to keep an eye on the cannabis while it is being decarboxylated because higher heat exposure can burn the cannabis and make it useless.

On the other hand, if you are using cannabis oil or concentrates for your edibles, you don’t have to worry about the decarboxylation process. 

Avoid Fine Grinding

You will have to grind your cannabis buds before using it in food. But there is a right and wrong way to do it.

The wrong way is grinding the cannabis too fine. Refrain yourself from grinding the buds in a food processor. An extra spin and the buds will turn into fine powder. It may sound like a good idea but you are only making the process harder. Because you are basically getting rid of the most important aspect of the buds- the trichomes. These are on the surface of the buds and not inside it. Also fine ground adds the chlorophyll into your food or infusion. It will make the end result turn a shade of green and even smell like a freshly mowed lawn. In addition to this, powdery cannabis buds become difficult to sift out from an infusion. The plant material will show up in every bite and ruin the taste.

The right way is to grind coarsely using a hand grinder. Once your buds are properly decarboxylated, grind it to a medium consistency and add it to your edible. 

Make an Infusion

If you are confused about which recipe to begin with, try making an infusion. Start by choosing a good quality base. The quality matters because it will only enhance the experience of your infusion. Your base can be anything, butter, olive oil, coconut oil, milk etc. Try using one that you will use on a regular basis. For example, olive oil infusion can replace your regular cooking oil. This way, you can turn any meal into a dose.

Once you choose a base, find a recipe for your infusion. You can easily find one online but only stick to reliable sources. For example, Leafly has a great collection of infusion recipes. From cannabutter to cannabis infused honey, you can find it all.

When using cannabis infusions, make sure that you stir it continuously while cooking. Also, give it a stir before using because cannabis tends to settle at the bottom after some time.

Do a Potency Check

Remember, cooking with cannabis requires attention and careful measurements. Because dosing with edibles can be tricky. And when you are making one yourself, dosing can become a strenuous task. So do proper research, consult a professional or your doctor and then put on your chef’s hat to begin the process.

Even with the most experienced people, getting an accurate dose of cannabis can be difficult. So as a beginner, the best option is to start slow and then do a potency check. Consume your edible and give it some time to show effects. If it’s not enough you can adjust accordingly later.

Potency check is also important to avoid guesswork. If you own a medical marijuana card in San Diego, you must be advised by your doctor to consume only a specific dose of cannabis at a time. So before you finally use your edibles to dose on cannabis, do a potency check to avoid any unwanted situations. 

Learn How To Use Raw Cannabis

If you are interested in exploring new areas with cannabis, try using it raw in your food. Cannabis has a high nutritional value. From dietary fiber and amino acids to vitamins and essential fatty acids, cannabis has it all. And let’s not forget about the cannabinoid acids THCA and CBDA. You can experience the benefits of each of these components by using raw cannabis.

Use the leaves or seeds in your regular salad. You can also convert it into a cold pressed juice or a smoothie with your favorite fruits and vegetables.

So, are you ready to take on a new hobby with homemade edibles? Great! Just remember to be responsible while cooking and using these edibles. It will take some time to perfect a recipe but until then go slow. And if you consider using it as a way of taking your daily dose, consult your doctor before you make a start.

How does Marijuana Help with PTSD?

A lot of people call cannabis a “magic herb.” And it’s not really surprising. In fact, the plant deserves a status no less than this. After all, it helps people deal with so many different medical conditions, including pain, inflammation, anxiety, etc.

But do you know cannabis may also help people with post-traumatic stress disorder?

Not a new thing?

I agree. Marijuana, in fact, is being used as a self-medicating drug for this condition for the past many years. However, due to the illegal status of the drug for so long, the studies in its favor have actually emerged very recently, after the legalization of cannabis. And these studies have tempted a whole new set of patients to apply for a marijuana card

But is the herb really that effective for PTSD? 

Well, the studies are quite positive. So, let’s see how the cannabis plant may help people fight the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.

Understanding the Condition

Before we get on to how cannabis may help you with the condition, let’s first understand what this condition itself is.

PTSD or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a condition that is a result of having an experience with something extremely dangerous or shocking. In other words, if a person goes through something very traumatic, such as a near-death experience or the demise of a loved one, etc., they may develop this condition. Such events, in many cases, may trigger the natural defense system of the body, which leads to the development of a “fight or flight” response. Though, in most cases, the response is quite short-lived, sometimes, this may live on for a long time after the traumatic event. This is what we know as PTSD.

However, you should note that not all traumatic experiences result in PTSD. And not every person with such experience develops this condition.

Symptoms of PTSD

The symptoms of PTSD may start showing themselves within a period of three months after the event. However, it may sometimes take several years to develop completely.

Here are a few symptoms that a person with PTSD usually has:

  • One or more re-experiencing symptoms, such as frightening thoughts, bad dreams, flashbacks, etc. These may also include some physical symptoms, such as sweating or heart racing.
  • One or more avoidance symptoms, such as keeping a distance from an object or a place that may remind the person of the traumatic event.
  • Two or more reactivity symptoms, such as feeling tense, difficulty in sleeping, getting startled easily, etc.
  • Two or more mood and cognition symptoms. For example, thinking negatively about oneself, feeling of guilt, or not being able to remember certain things, etc.

If these symptoms persist for more than one month, the person may have PTSD.

Why Not to Use Pharmaceuticals for PTSD?

The typical treatment of PTSD includes a combination of medicines and therapy. And the most commonly used medications include antidepressants, such as Paxil, Zoloft, and Prozac. These drugs usually work on PTSD by increasing the serotonin level inside the brain.

However, according to some experts, these drugs may not be as effective as thought to be. They say that though the response rate of these pharmaceutical drugs is around 60 percent in PTSD patients, the percentage of patients who actually get complete relief is quite low comparatively (20 to 30 percent). Furthermore, these pharmaceutical drugs have several unwanted side effects too, including nausea, headache, drowsiness, and sexual dysfunction, etc.

Many doctors say that we don’t have a true idea of what is the best conventional treatment for PTSD. And several experts say that PTSD patients who consume cannabis usually get a better relief as compared to pharmaceutical drugs. 

Medical Marijuana for PTSD

So, should you apply for an MMJ card for managing PTSD? Well, the data suggests so. 

As per the reports until now, a lot of PTSD patients have seen positive results from using cannabis for their condition. But let’s not focus on this anecdotal evidence right now, and turn to something concrete. 

In a study conducted in 2009 on 80 PTSD patients, it was found that after giving cannabis, the participants saw an improvement of at least 75 percent in their symptoms. 

A review published in 2015 in the American Journal of Health-System Pharmacists also concluded that there are a number of military veterans who use cannabis to manage their PTSD symptoms. And many of them reported a significant reduction in their anxiety levels and insomnia. Furthermore, cannabis also helped them improve their coping capabilities.

How Cannabis Helps PTSD Patients?

As per the research on the subject, there is a link between PTSD and anandamide, a cannabinoid compound that can be considered your body’s natural antidepressant. A person with PTSD often has a very low level of anandamide as compared to a healthy individual. And when the level of anandamide is low, it may result in increased anxiety, chronic fear, and many other symptoms.

According to the studies, anandamide triggers the exact same receptors in the brain that THC, a famous cannabis compound, does. And this is the reason why cannabis helps people with PTSD. In the absence of anandamide, when a person consumes cannabis, the THC binds with the CB1 receptors inside the brain. This helps the patient decrease the feeling of sadness and threat, and improves their brain function.

Cannabis and Nightmares

Nightmares are also one of the major symptoms of PTSD, with more than 50 percent of military veterans experiencing these. And here too, the pharmaceutical drugs have shown the mixed results at best. On the other hand, recent studies suggest that some specific compounds of cannabis may help PTSD patients reduce these incidences of nightmares. 

One of the most compelling proofs comes from a clinical trial in Canada, which used a synthetic cannabinoid called nabilone for the purpose. The results of the trial suggest that out of all the PTSD patients who were given nabilone during the study, around 72 percent experienced either a complete halt or at least a significant reduction in their nightmare intensity. Some even saw an improvement in their sleep time and the quality of sleep.

Final Thoughts

The above evidence clearly suggest that cannabis may be helpful for people with PTSD. However, if you are thinking of getting a medical marijuana card for this condition, we recommend you consult a qualified doctor first. Cannabis is a very useful yet complicated drug. And thus, before trying it out, it’s better to seek professional advice. Once your doctor is satisfied that it may help you, you may apply for an MMJ card anytime you want.

Why Is Bioavailability a Critical Factor For Medical Cannabis Consumption?

More than 140 million people across the globe are consuming medical cannabis. Be it for recreational or medicinal purposes. 

But, what’s the use of consuming cannabis recklessly, when you don’t have any idea what’s staying inside you?

Before moving ahead, let’s understand the term “bioavailability” a little more. 

Definition

Bioavailability is the content or concentration of any medication or substance that is available to the target tissue. Doctors and other researchers confirm that any intravenous dose is 100% bioavailable. 

So, bioavailability is like a percentage of dose that your body gets when compared to an injected dose. 

So, 

Also Read- Say No To Life Stressors With A White Widow Strain

How Does this Term Link to Medical Cannabis Consumption?

Imagine, you have consumed medical cannabis and are waiting for its effects to finally start acting. But, somehow nothing is working out. What will you think?

Either the medical cannabis strain is low-quality or you need to consume more for it to show any effects on your mind or body.

There can be multiple number of reasons. But, one of the primary reasons for the same is that your ingredient is not reaching the target area or location. 

Plus, different strains contain varying amounts of THC or CBD. So, effects are bound to be different.

And, above all, the results will also differ if you are taking it via different methods. But, if you are a patient looking for therapeutic effects, then bioavailability is very important. 

As, high bioavailability means that you will require less dosage even for high potency. Also, higher bioavailability means that you are consuming high quality strains as well.

What is The Bioavailability of Different Consumption Methods?

Different Consumption Methods

Smoking

There are many factors that will affect bioavailability of the cannabis using a roll-up. 

  1. Details
  2. Amount of weed in a pack
  3. Quality of the cannabis 

A study found that when you smoke cannabis, THC is approx. 30% bioavailable. So, potency is a bit lower when you smoke cannabis. But, because it reaches the blood-brain barrier relatively quickly. 

So, you can feel the effects instantly. 

Vaping

Vaping also uses the respiratory route to absorb cannabinoids. A 2016 study confirmed that vaping can provide approx. 50-80% of THC or CBD. 

But, it definitely depends on the type of vaporizer and strain that you will be using. People believe that vaporizing is the best way to consume medical cannabis. 

Especially for patients who are looking for therapeutic benefits using medical cannabis. Plus, it is a much safer option as compared to smoking cannabis. 

Choose wisely.

Also Read- MMJ Doctor San Diego Suggests That Patients Are Turning To Cannabis For Help

Edibles

There are comparatively new in terms of their availability in the market. People are going crazy over these products.  Edibles come with CBD or THC infused into them. 

But, there is always a hit or miss with this type of consumption method. Sometimes, even a single bite makes you feel the effects. While for others, it’s more like, “going on and on”, and still no effects. 

But, the reason of such variations is difference in the metabolic activity in different individuals. As THC converts into 11-hydroxy THC which absorbs into the body. Although the stay is longer in edibles. But, the bioavailability is approx 4-20% only. 

Sublingual

It is trending nowadays as the health and wellness products. A few drops under the tongue and you experience effects within 20 minutes. 

And, bioavailability is impressive as it bypasses the liver metabolism entirely. Plus, you can use this option in complete discretion as well.

Topicals

A lot of topical products surfaced the market such as infused creams, lotions, transdermal patches, and a lot more. Companies are even coming with skincare products infused with THC and CBD. 

The mode of delivery ensures no psychoactive effects at all. Hence, higher therapeutic outcomes without experiencing any kind of euphoria. 

In short, whatever method of consumption you choose, make sure it aligns well with your metabolism and medical condition perfectly. 

Down with the symptoms of your medical condition? 

Looking for the right cannabis consumption method?

You can consult medical marijuana doctors San Diego for detailed explanation regarding this subject.