sandigo blog: Medical Marijuana

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.

5 Discreet Ways To Use Medical Marijuana

Among the millions of people who use cannabis for treating their medical condition, not all of them are comfortable with being open about it. Whether it’s due to the stigma that still lingers with cannabis or personal preference, people like their privacy. And considering the lack of knowledge about cannabis consumption methods that don’t involve smoke, it may seem difficult for people to be discreet with cannabis. But, that is not an impossibility. You can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of cannabis without compromising your privacy in not just one but five different ways. And I’m going to discuss all of these ways here with you. Choose the one that you think will be suitable for your condition and lifestyle. But remember to consult your marijuana doctor in San Diego before giving it a try. If you use medical marijuana, professional supervision with each of these ways is important.

Edibles

Edibles are one of the most common ways of cannabis consumption. The main reason behind their popularity is the wide variety they offer for the consumers. It suits many different preferences and taste palates. Edibles began with the typical brownies and cookies and now you can see shelves filled with popcorns, beef jerky, flavored gummies, chocolates, mints and many other varieties of ingestible products. Nowadays, you can also find beverages like lemonades and beer infused with cannabis. If such variety isn’t enough, you can always buy some cannabutter or cannaoil (or make the infusion at home) and turn any meal of the day into a delicious session.

Along with reaching out to a diverse audience, edibles are also a great way of being discreet. They are basically cannabis disguised as food. You can have an edible of your choice without standing out in a crowd. But one thing to be cautious about while using cannabis edibles is that they are more potent than any other delivery method. They will kick in later than a joint but when they do, it may be a stronger high. In that case, your discreetness will be ruined. So you must be very careful about your dosage. It’s best to follow what your doctor recommends and stick to it at all times to avoid any risky situations.

Raw Cannabis

Did you know that you can eat cannabis raw? That’s right. It’s one of the many ways of using cannabis. Raw cannabis is a storehouse of nutrients. From loads of fiber and amino acids to vitamins and minerals, you can find it all in this green herb. In addition to being a superfood, raw cannabis also delivers the benefits of cannabinoid acids and terpenes. So you get the goodness of nutrition as well as the advantage of therapeutic effects.

This method of consumption also allows you to be private about using cannabis. Use the leaves in your salad, roast the seeds for an evening snack or blend the herb into your favorite smoothie. You can take it with you and have it in your office cabin or while on the breakfast table with your family. And the best part is that raw cannabis is not intoxicating at all. So you can have your daily dose without any compromise on your privacy.

Raw cannabis is not advised for everyone. It can be a healthy part of your diet but may not be the right way of consumption to achieve symptomatic relief for your medical condition. It is very important that if you have a severe medical condition, you consult it at length with your marijuana doctor in San Diego.

Transdermal Patches

What do you think about a delivery method that will let you enjoy the therapeutic effects of cannabis throughout the day without being obvious? It’s not something you have to imagine. If discreetness is what you desire, you can get it with transdermal patches.

Recently, the cannabis industry developed cannabis infused transdermal patches. It looks like a band-aid and the application is similar too. Choose an area of your body with thin skin like the wrist, knees or lower abdomen. Apply the transdermal patch there like a band-aid and wait for it to work. It contains a very specific dose of CBD or THC that is slowly delivered into your body according to the principle of drug concentration gradient. It basically means that the cannabinoids flow from the place of high concentration to that of low concentration. In this case, it moves from the patch into your bloodstream. This process takes place gradually. So you can place a patch under your clothes and go about your day while experiencing the effects.

A transdermal patch is not intoxicating since it’s not delivering the dose all at once and the cannabinoids enter your bloodstream directly which subdues the high. So you get the discreetness you desire along with effectiveness.

Sublingual Strips

Among the many different delivery methods, many prefer to take the sublingual route. One of the common ways of sublingual methods is ‘sublingual strips’. These are small strips coated with small doses of cannabinoids (CBD or THC). You use them by placing one strip under your tongue. It dissolves within a few minutes and starts showing effects within 10 minutes. They offer a middle ground between smoking and edibles. Sublingual strips work just as instantly as a joint and deliver a longer effect similar to edibles.

The cannabinoids directly enter your bloodstream through the porous membrane under your tongue. It is what makes sublingual an effective way of consuming cannabis. It does not involve any smoke or combustion so you can be discreet with it. Just place a strip under your tongue and enjoy the benefits. You can carry them around easily without people staring or questioning you. There is also less risk of overdose with sublingual strips. Each of the strips is coated with about 5 to 10 milligrams of cannabinoids to avoid ruining the taste. So, dose control becomes easier and the risk of overdose also reduces.  

Smoking Without the Smell

If you are someone who prefers smoking to everything else but wants to get rid of the smoke and the smell that lingers, I can help you out. There are several ways to be discreet (to a certain extent at least) while smoking. Here are a few of them.

Clean Up After a Session

If you have a specific time for your daily cannabis dose, try to follow it up with a wash up. The smell of cannabis sticks to the hair, clothes and everything else that is around. So if you don’t want others to pint out the smell, just have a bath after you smoke up.

Have Good Ventilation in the Area

Make sure that the exhaust fan is on and the windows are open whenever you smoke in your room. Good ventilation prevents the smoke from sticking around and avoids the room to smell like cannabis. 

Mask the Smell

It’s the smell of cannabis that gives away your secret. So you can mask it with a scented candle, incense sticks or good perfumes. You also buy a pack of mints and chew on one after every session. It will reduce the smell of cannabis to a great extent.

Take your time to go through each of these ways to enjoy all the benefits of cannabis without any intrusion of privacy. Just remember to consult your doctor before you start with any method for your medical condition.

How Can Marijuana Help Alleviate Anxiety Symptoms?

Anxiety is a common mental illness among Americans. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, anxiety disorders affect 40 million adults countrywide.

With scientific evidence that marijuana can help ease anxiety, more patients are opting for it over prescription medications. You can access it legally with a medical marijuana card San Diego.

Marijuana’s cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD are known for their therapeutic properties. They can help in managing anxiety symptoms such as mood swings, sleep problems, lack of concentration, etc. Cannabis compounds work by stimulating the endocannabinoid system.

The Endocannabinoid System

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a cell-signaling system that exists in the body. Research says that it plays a key role in regulating different bodily functions, such as sleep, mood, appetite, memory, and reproduction.

In the ECS, there are 3 major components, endocannabinoids, endocannabinoid receptors, and enzymes. The endocannabinoids are the naturally produced molecules, which help the body to keep its functions run smoothly. The body produces endocannabinoids when required to perform certain functions. The two key endocannabinoids are—anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG).

The receptors exist throughout the body. The endocannabinoids attach to these receptors to take the required action. CB1 and CB2 are the two main cannabinoid receptors.

However, enzymes help in breaking down endocannabinoids. For instance, fatty acid amide hydrolase that breaks down AEA and monoacylglycerol acid lipase that breaks down 2-AG.

Medical experts believe that the deficiency of endocannabinoids in the body can lead to certain conditions. It’s termed as clinical endocannabinoid deficiency. So, targeting the ECS can help in managing these conditions.

How Cannabis Works?

Marijuana works for anxiety by interacting with the endocannabinoid system. THC binds to CB1 and CB2 receptors, thus delivering effects on the body and mind.

On the other hand, CBD doesn’t interact directly with these receptors. It prevents the endocannabinoids from breaking down instead. Research says that CBD can help in managing anxiety, pain, inflammation, and nausea.

CBD works the same way as Zoloft and Prozac. It targets the body’s serotonin system and works by stopping reabsorption of serotonin in the brain. Additionally, CBD increases 5-H1TA transmission, thus affecting the serotonin faster than SSRIs. 

In a 2017 national survey,  81 percent of the 9,000 respondents agreed that cannabis had one or multiple health effects. And, approximately half of the respondents selected anxiety, stress, and depression as one of the potential benefits.

A recent study published in January 2020 reported that the endocannabinoid 2-AG reduced the risks of anxiety connections between the amygdala and frontal cortex. 2-AG activates the same receptors as THC.

According to a 2010 study, CBD could help in managing social anxiety disorder. Brain scans of the participants revealed that marijuana use improved the blood flow in the brain areas linked to anxiety. Additionally, the herb changed the way the brain responds to anxiety.

In addition to cannabinoids, terpenes can also play a role in marijuana’s anti-anxiety effects. These are fragrant oils responsible for the plant’s aroma. For instance, the terpene limonene is believed to have anti-anxiety effects. However, researchers are finding their therapeutic benefits.

When using marijuana for anxiety relief, dosage is the key. Research suggests that low doses can help in managing anxiety while higher doses may deliver the opposite effects. So, if you are using high-THC strains, make sure you check the dosage. However, high doses of CBD appears to provide anti-anxiety effects.

Anxiety Medications vs Cannabis

There’s a wide range of medications that can help ease anxiety symptoms. For instance, doctors usually prescribe benzodiazepines for patients with anxiety disorders. The medications work by managing the GABA levels. However, some studies show that cannabis also impacts GABA levels, thus delivering anti-anxiety effects.

So, which treatment you should choose—medications or cannabis. Well, it depends. Because everyone has a different condition and responds differently to medications and cannabis.

However, cannabis use has advantages over medications. Medications can lead to certain side-effects and tolerance. But, marijuana is safe to use.

There are various ways to consume cannabis. So, if you don’t like smoking, you can opt for vaping or tinctures. Marijuana-infused foods and drinks allow you to receive the plant’s therapeutic benefits without inhaling the smoke.

However, learning cannabis interaction with drugs is important. For instance, using marijuana while you are on antidepressants can be dangerous. It can lead to certain side-effects and worsen the symptoms. So, you do a quick research about how cannabis interacts with medications you are taking. It’s good to talk to a licensed doctor to seek professional help about mixing marijuana with prescription medications.

How to Access Medical Cannabis Legally For Anxiety?

Medical use of cannabis is legal in 33 US states including California. Patients with valid MMJ recs can access medical dispensaries for buying flowers, concentrates & oils, tinctures, edibles, etc. Unlike recreational users, medical users don’t have to pay cannabis sales & use tax. Other advantages include—access to high-potency marijuana products, age relaxations, and legal permission to grow cannabis plants for personal use.

Also Read- Major Requirements For Growing Cannabis Plants at Home

Using telemedicine technology, you can apply for your medical marijuana card San Diego from home. It’s simple and takes less than 10 minutes. The complete process is-

  • Sign up an account
  • See a doctor online
  • Receive MMJ rec letter in PDF format via email

Also Read- What You Need to Learn Before Going For Medical Marijuana Recommendations Online

Top Strains For Fighting Anxiety

Marijuana contains various compounds that contribute to its therapeutic benefits. Different strains have different levels of cannabinoids such as THC & CBD and deliver different effects. For instance, some strains boost energy while others promote relaxation. So, for managing your symptoms completely, make sure you get the right strains. Here’s a list of the best marijuana strains for anxiety sufferers-

  • ACDC
  • Granddaddy Purple
  • Jack Herer
  • Canna-Tsu
  • Jillybean
  • Purple Urkle
  • Cannatonic
  • Blue OG

Talk to your doctor to discuss your condition and seek professional help for marijuana strains.

Key Takeaways

Anxiety is a common mental health condition that can impact sleep, concentration, mood, and various other functions. Prescription medications can help ease anxiety, but they are linked to side-effects. Research says that marijuana’s medicinal properties can help in managing anxiety symptoms effectively. THC works by binding to the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 in the endocannabinoid system.

When using cannabis for anxiety management, make sure you consider dosage and strains. There’s some evidence that low doses can ease symptoms while high doses may lead to worsening the symptoms. Similarly, you should select the right strains to get the desired health benefits—improvement in sleep, energy, mood, etc. 

Apply for a medical marijuana card San Diego to access state-licensed dispensaries today.

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.

7 Interesting Facts You Should Know About Cannabis and Sleep

People all across the globe are using cannabis to treat insomnia. In fact, a lot of them keep the herb by their bedside. Experts say that even the people with extreme insomnia can enter the world of dreams and memories with the help of a nice and relaxing Indica strain. No wonder why so many people are getting a medical marijuana card in San Diego nowadays.

Though a lot of cannabis consumers know that the herb can help them sleep better, there are a lot of things you probably have no idea about. For instance, did you know an older bud is far more efficient in inducing sleep than a fresh bud? Interesting, right? 

There are many other such interesting facts about using cannabis for sleep. So, let’s learn a few here.

Different Strains have Different Effects

Usually, we associate Indica strains with sleep. And Sativas are considered effective in uplifting and energizing you. Though this may be true for a lot of people, this shouldn’t be the only thing you think of while choosing your strain. 

Cannabis affects different people differently, depending upon the THC and CBD level, your body structure, and many other things. And thus, a strain that works for others may not work for you.

So, while choosing a strain for helping you with insomnia, you should do some experimentation. Try several different strains and make note of which ones work for you. Are they rich in THC or CBD? Do they have any specific terpene profile? Do they have any other similarities? By keeping track of the chemical composition of the strains that work for you, you will be able to choose the best strain for your insomnia, very easily.

THC and CBD act differently on Sleep

If you are a cannabis user, you probably already know there are many different types of cannabis strains. Some make you high (high THC & low CBD), some not (high CBD & low THC), and there are several that keep it balanced (almost equal THC and CBD). But the question here is which type is better for your sleep?

The studies on sleep until now have mostly studied THC rich strains only. And so, it’s quite hard to say how CBD affects your sleep. However, there are a few small scale studies available that give us an idea of how CBD may interfere with sleep. And mostly, we’ve got a mixed response. Some studies on animals suggest that CBD may have alerting effects on the brain. However, a survey conducted on 72 adults that were suffering from anxiety and insomnia found that more than 65 percent of participants saw an improvement in their sleep after one month of CBD use. But you should also note that almost 25 percent of participants from the same survey reported that their symptoms worsened. So, now the question is CBD benefits who and why.

Trying out different products to see what works for you won’t hurt. However, if you find that CBD doesn’t work for you, you may try a low dose of THC.

Cannabis During Nighttime may induce “Hangover”

A lot of people think cannabis does not induce hangovers. However, this is far from the truth. In fact, a cannabis hangover is a phenomenon that occurs much more frequently than you think. And if you are a cannabis consumer, you probably have experienced them. 

Don’t you remember it? Well, let me remind you.

Have you ever woken up in the morning feeling a little foggy after a nice cannabis session the last night? Yes? That’s what a hangover is. What were you thinking? Hunching over a pot in the bathroom? No, cannabis hangover doesn’t do that. However, you may feel a little foggy, congested, and dehydrated. And this mostly happens when you consume bad quality cannabis.

If you want to avoid cannabis hangovers you should buy only the tested products, keep yourself hydrated, eat healthy foods and avoid overconsuming. 

Cannabis hinders REM Sleep

While cannabis may help you sleep easily, the one thing you’ll probably miss is your dreams. Dreams usually occur in the fourth and final stage of the sleep cycle, which we call REM sleep (Rapid Eye Movement Sleep). But cannabis use just before your bedtime can reduce the time you usually spend in the REM stage. And this results in lesser dreams. 

However, if you stop using cannabis after a long time, you may experience a very opposite effect called the “REM rebound.” In this, you get even more dreams. Plus, the dreams are more lucid in nature.

Cannabis Helps you Sleep Faster

Cannabis is very famous for its ability to quell stress and anxiety. Plus, it also helps you relax physically. Given these facts, the ability of cannabis to induce sleep quickly isn’t surprising. Furthermore, cannabis also helps people with conditions, like PTSD, multiple sclerosis and pain, etc., which interfere with the ability to sleep.

However, if you are thinking of using edibles, you should note that they take a little longer to show its effects as compared to inhalation methods. But the effects usually last for several hours, which may help you sleep longer. So, even if you are not comfortable with smoking, you can apply for a medical marijuana card in San Diego and enjoy the benefits of cannabis for sleep.

Cannabis may Help You Breathe Better

Have you ever heard about sleep apnea? It’s a condition in which the breath of the person gets obstruct frequently. And this obstruction may last sometimes for even several minutes. You can easily imagine how difficult this condition makes for the sufferer to sleep. They have to wake up several times in the middle of the night, which often leads to sleepiness, nausea, headaches, etc. the next day.

Several studies on the subject suggest that cannabis may help patients improve this condition. A study conducted in 2013 measured the efficiency of dronabinol, a cannabinoid of cannabis, in treating this condition. And the researchers noted that 15 out of 17 participants saw an improvement in their condition just after 21 days of their treatment.

There was another study in the year 2002 that found that THC has the ability to improve the respiratory stability by controlling the serotonin signaling. However, the studies until now are at a very initial level. And we need a much deeper research to be confident about it.

Cannabis use may Cause Sleep Problems in Young People

A 2014 study, which takes information from a survey of 1811 participants who had a cannabis history, says that cannabis use, particularly among kids below 15, may cause sleeping issues in them that may persist throughout their adulthood. 

However, you should note that the catch here is the word “may.” The study could not clarify if it was cannabis that worsened the sleep or if people with insomnia are more likely to use the herb because of its sedation inducing properties. And so, more research is needed to understand this relationship properly.

5 Ways Cannabis Help You Get Toned

You might not agree with the title and take it as a joke. But no, we are not kidding. There is indeed a definite link between your favorite herb and hitting the gym. And the most aspect of it is very positive. Although, it’s not a pick-me-up, but it can enhance your fitness in ways you never think of. It allows your body to grow leaner, train harder, and heal faster. 

When you exercise, your body produces endocannabinoids. These get increased and enhanced with cannabinoids in cannabis. This is because the CBD and THC both bind to the same receptors in our endocannabinoid system. 420 Evaluations San Diego doctors took a more in-depth look in this regard. Read on to know the five positive effects of cannabis for shaping yourself.  

Leads You To New Personal Bests 

As said above, when you exercise, endorphins are released, and that increases your pain threshold. As a result, your body decreases the perception of the efforts of allowing yourself to push harder. Marijuana can help you here. It dulls the perception of pain slightly so that you can pass through your limits. And we all know, going a little beyond our perceived limit leads to gains and new personal bests. 

Helps You To Warm Up and Getting Flexible

For flexibility and ease of motion, you require to loosen your muscles. If stretching and breathing aren’t enough for this, cannabis can do wonders. Combine marijuana intake with yoga for better results. Cannabis relaxes your mind while yoga provides flexibility to your body. 

Gives You Athlete-Like Focus

Cannabis users are aware of the intense focus it provides. It might be alarming to new users, but if you use for something physical like heavyweight lifting and long-distance running – the results are utmost satisfying. Many pro athletes take the help of psychologists to stay in focus amid a competition. But if they try a little cannabis, it can help them reach that state of their own. 

Cannabis Sustain Longer Workouts

Cannabis users exercise much more than you think. It is a mildly performance-enhancing product for workouts. It serves as a bronchodilator and helps an athlete take in more air, which is then delivered to oxygen-depleted blood to reach out to the muscles. The more the air reaches the muscles, the longer is the endurance of physical activity. 

Gets You Recover Faster For Your Next Workout Session

Muscle relax, and recovery is an essential part of your physical health and building muscles. Also, it helps you restore energy for the next session. Cannabis help ease the recovery of muscle tissues at a faster pace. CBD in cannabis lowes the inflammation in your sore muscles, and its THC content aids in refueling and sleeping, which are very critical for recovery. 

Moreover, other drugs like Ibuprofen that people consume for boosting their body belongs to a family of medications called NSAIDs. These medications can have a severe effect on kidneys if taken regularly and during sports. These toxic effects of NSAID drugs are the 15th most common cause of death in the United States. On the other hand, using CBD as a recovery tool is a much more tamed approach, and has far fewer side-effects.

Last Words

Now, as you are much aware of the benefits of cannabis in shaping yourself, its time to drop the stereotype of the lazy, and unmotivated stoner. Honor the fact that many are already living a healthy and active life with cannabis, and you could be the next!

The Best Strains to Help Ease Fibromyalgia

There are a few medical conditions that, even though are prevalent amongst the masses, somehow remain a medical mystery. Over 5 million Americans alone have fibromyalgia.

Characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain that is further aggravated by the lifestyle you lead. It amplifies any painful sensations that you might be experiencing by changing the way your brain processes pain signals.  

MMJ doctor San Diego has now started looking at cannabis to help ease the symptoms.

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Symptoms can set in at any time but usually happen after a traumatic incident, infection, or high levels of stress.

Other times there is no evident reason for it to happen, but they develop either way.

Women are more likely to develop fibromyalgia than men, and this also poses a direct problem during their periods, which as their pain amplifies.

The Symptoms 

There are a couple of straightforward symptoms of fibromyalgia.

Rampant Pain 

The pain associated with fibromyalgia is described as a constant dull throb that never really stops and occurs all over the body.

Fatigue 

People who have fibromyalgia are known to feel tired all the time, irrespective of whether or not they sleep all day long.

Frequent bouts of pain also disrupt their sleep cycles.

Cognitive Issues 

A side effect of fibromyalgia is also the inability to focus and pay attention to mental tasks. This is referred to as the “fibro fog.”

Additionally, people with fibromyalgia also develop issues like

  • Migraines
  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome
  • Interstitial Cystitis 
  • Painful Bladder Syndrome
  • Joint Disorders

Cannabis and Fibromyalgia

Cannabis

The studies for fibromyalgia and marijuana aren’t a lot, but the ones that have happened have shown promising results.

Cannabis helps manage the symptoms by easing fatigue, treat pain, managing depression and anxiety along with sharpening focus, and banishing insomnia. 

All this does sound like a lot and is a lot, so only the best strains help ease the symptoms.

Harlequin 

This strain is the perfect balance between THC and CBD and is the ideal addition to the start of your day. If THC is not your cup of tea, the good part is that the CBD balances the THC out. As the intoxication is curbed, the anxiety also melts away.

This lets you go about your day without the added issue of the high that happens because of the THC.

Cannatonic 

Another high CBD powered strain, this is one of the most celebrated strains to counter fibromyalgia. The intoxication achieved from this strain is pretty mild.

If you’re new to the cannabis world, this would be the best strain to begin. If you have been around, don’t worry, you will enjoy its ability to manage pain, anxiety, and all the other above mentioned symptoms.

Blue Dream 

This is the strain that is universally revered for its relief of chronic pain and includes both pain and inflammation. It has about 24% THC, making it one of the most potent strains on this list.

This works well for after-work recovery as well as for nighttime relief.

Do proceed with caution as not everyone can handle such copious amounts of THC and might make you spiral downwards.

Blueberry 

The name gives away the notes at first glance; it has an unmistakable ripe berry aroma. This strain handles both the physical exhaustion as well as the mental anguish that is brought up by fibromyalgia.

The fruity taste, combined with the blissful feeling, makes it an excellent choice for patients who have fibromyalgia.

Headband 

An indica dominant hybrid with a high THC count headband is an excellent reliever of pain. It is especially recommended for night time use as it has strong sedative effects.  

The mind-bending cerebral effects are called its Halo Effect. Headband also has a rich terpene profile that helps all the issues arising from fibromyalgia on some level.  

Fibromyalgia is a complicated illness as it takes over your entire body. There might not be a cure for it yet, but you can rest assured that you do have something to manage its symptoms.

Can You Sell Marijuana With Cannabis Recommendations San Diego?

A dramatic transition from a “nonsense” product to “major therapeutic invention”, the journey was definitely not easy. But, still, there is no change in its federal identity. It was a Schedule 1 drug and that status is still the same. As per the DEAm cannabis is still a product with high abuse potential. Even if you carry your cannabis recommendations San Diego, there are some things that you need to be aware of as well. 

For instance, people Google queries such as-

  1. How much weed is intent to sell?
  2. How many years for intent to sell?
  3. How much weed can you carry before intent to sell?
  4. Are there any felony charges for possession of weed or intent to sell?

As it is a controlled substance, therefore any engagement that involves the public is still considered as harmful to the public. Although, emerging studies challenge this FDA and DEA theory of medical marijuana being an illicit drug. 

How Much Weed is Intent to Sell?

There is not a simple solution to this query. As in some regions of the United States, it does not restrict the possession of marijuana. But, it might that imply that you might be selling or you have an intent to sell weed. 

According to the federal law 21 U.S. Code Section 841, selling, manufacturing, distributing, or possessing marijuana with an intent to sell is a criminal felony. “Intent to Sell” is under legal expert supervision and their knowledge. So, if two friends were planning to sell an illicit substance to other friends on campus without any actual transaction, you will be charged with only “intent to sell”. 

For example, if you have 2.5 grams or less, you might have jail time of around 6 months or a $1500 fine. Federal laws are quite stringent about the distribution or selling of any of the controlled substances. And for weed, it could be around five years if you possess around 100kgs of the substance, even if you have cannabis recommendations, San Diego.

READ MORE- Is Medical Marijuana Something More Than THC?

What Does Conspiracy to Sell or Distribute Mean?

It can be a little confusing when you can add the charge of conspiracy. It’s like, who does that? It’s like you conspire to distribute a product or plan it to sell or possess. But, eventually, do not get the job done. So, you will be charged with only the conspiracy. The length of the relationship is important when it comes to justifying the conspiracy. And if by any chance, you conspire involving anyone under the age of 21 years, the jail time or penalties increase by double. 

Do All States Work in The Same Manner When it Comes To Penalties Related to “Intent to Sell”?

No. Rules and regulations change a bit and depend on the type of laws followed by your state. If you live in California, possessing weed can never be illegal. But, there are rules that restrict them to possess a certain amount with and without cannabis recommendations in San Diego or any other county or city. For example, you are allowed to have more than 28.5 grams on a person or premises. And it gives you the opportunity to grow as well. But, only up to 6 plants at a time. 

But, if you possess the same amount in another state with different limits, you might be charged with a guilty of distribution. That can end up as jail time. 

READ MORE- Who Are The Medical Marijuana Legal States in 2019?

Final Thoughts 

You must be confused with all the legal talks that we did in the beginning and the middle of the article. But, one needs to know a lot of things before getting into the marijuana business or using it for therapeutic purposes. However, federal law contains anything that determines you are using marijuana for an “intent to sell”. 

Plus, some states are good with either medical marijuana or recreational marijuana. While some states have legalized it entirely. Things change a lot that makes people much more prone to vulnerability. Some people get duped by scams, others don’t know the amount that is allowed for possession. Some do it unknowingly and hand over their stuff to family and friends. 

A lot of factors impact the final scenario of medical marijuana in the country. But, rather than spending taxpayers’ money on restrictions and other stuff related to weed. It is important to legalize it and use that money for the betterment of society. 

This would be beneficial for the ones looking for medical marijuana therapy using cannabis recommendations in San Diego or their respective states or counties. The ball is now in the court of FDA and other federal agencies that are restricting its use nationwide. Hopefully, they understand its importance and make it possible for everyone to access cannabis strains and products easily. 

Purple is The New Green: How To Grow Purple Cannabis Buds?

Green. That’s precisely the color which comes to mind whenever you talk about medical marijuana or cannabis. Surprisingly, you can find purple cannabis buds as well. Making purple one of the favorite colors of the nation.

Thinking that color is the only reason for its immense popularity? Not really. The primary reason behind its huge following is that people think these buds contain higher concentration of THC. Indicating its higher potency as compared to the green buds. Is that true? We will solve this mystery later in this article.

But,

What Triggers Cannabis Buds to Change Their Color?

Cannabis buds have the ability to change their color from green to purple. It all depends on the environmental conditions they are grown in. For instance, such changes happen when you subject cannabis to cold temperatures.

Here is What Happens Next

When external environmental conditions trigger the breakdown of chlorophyll (one of the plant’s pigments that induces green color),  another pigment, anthocyanin takes over. This pigment is already available in the plant. But, when chlorophyll is present in plenty, its effects remain hidden.

The pigment starts functioning only when it replaces chlorophyll. And if you think, purple is the only color. That’s also not correct. In fact, the final tone or hue depends on the pigment’s pH level. The purple color usually takes into effect only its pH is neutral. Any changes in the pH might result in an array of colors such as red or blue.

This phenomena sparked curiosity among medical marijuana growers. They are experimenting on different conditions to make the necessary change. But, a lot of websites and articles are misleading growers by sharing wrong purple cannabis buds growing practices.

READ MORE- Can CBD Cause Intoxication?

The Correct Growing Technique

Growing Technique

Whatever be the reason for your inclination towards purple cannabis buds. Note that there are many instructions available online that might mislead you into doing something that is not recommended.

For instance, some sites ask growers to deprive their plants of oxygen or shock them with cold temperatures. Some even write about using food coloring. That is definitely another incorrect way of obtaining purple cannabis buds. Such practices will never work in your favor.

So, using the right approach will be the key to get good quality buds naturally with purple color.

Finding The Right Seeds

Certain seeds are available in the market whose genetic makeup allows them to turn into purple cannabis buds.  As these seeds have higher concentration of anthocyanin.

Finding The Right Time

Usually, chlorophyll breaks down during winters. That’s the best time for the color pigment to take over. So, make sure to provide the perfect temperature to induce purple color.

Precisely, you need to provide warm days and cool nights in order to get purple color. The temperature difference must be approximately 30 degrees. And when flowering stage starts, make sure the night temperature is around 10 degrees Celsius.

When given these appropriate conditions, you will find your buds slowly changing their color around 15 days before the harvest. Fascinating!! Isn’t it? You can also start growing purple cannabis buds for yourself with the help of medical marijuana growers license in San Diego.

Growing Tips

Experts recommend growing medical marijuana outdoors. As you can easily control the conditions with the right temperature. But, make sure the soil is suitable for growing medical marijuana strains.

READ MORE- Why Is Bioavailability a Critical Factor For Medical Cannabis Consumption?

Are There Any Medicinal Benefits of Consuming Purple Cannabis Buds?

Many consumers believe that going for purple buds instead of the green ones will provide potent therapeutic benefits. Well, you can’t say that always. It might be true only in certain situations.

Pigmentation and therapeutic efficacy have no relation at all. However, there are some scientific evidence indicating its antioxidant, analgesic, and neuroprotective abilities. But, that’s certainly only a preliminary research. One needs more scientific intervention to confirm this data.

Now answering the question of whether purple cannabis buds contain higher THC concentration.

The answer is, NO.

So, next time you think of buying purple cannabis bud, don’t assume you will get higher THC concentration. It’s just a color with certain enhanced pain relieving properties.

What is your reason behind growing purple cannabis buds?

Can CBD Cause Intoxication?

CBD is responsible for a plethora of effects, but inducing “high” is definitely not one of them. Still, a lot of patients going for CBD oil often ask queries like-

  1. Will I feel any dizziness after consuming CBD oil?
  2. Will I be able reach cloud 9 if I use CBD concentrates?
  3. Will I get intoxicated after using CBD?

People tend to relate CBD with THC, that usually leads to such confusions. But, there is a lot of difference between the two. Despite the fact that they are found in a similar source. 

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What’s The Difference?

CBD and THC are two different forms of phytocannabinoids present in the medical cannabis. THC interacts with the CB2 receptors, while it acts as an antagonist who does not act directly on either of the ECS receptors (CB1 and CB2). 

That’s why THC activates the reactions that leads to the famous “high”. On the contrary, it limits the intoxicating component, and stimulates therapeutic effects.

In short, CBD will never trigger “high” upon consumption. Even when consumed in larger doses. 

But, 

Does The Concept Implement On All The Available Forms Of CBD?

There might be a slight bit of variations in the types of CBD available in the CBD Store. Let’s understand them a bit more. 

If you have ever purchased CBD from any licensed medical marijuana dispensary, you might have noticed that it comes in primarily in three different forms. 

  1. Full-spectrum
  2. Broad-spectrum
  3. Isolate

And they differ quite a bit. For instance,

  1. Full spectrum products come with whole-plant extracts. That means they contain almost all the components as found in cannabis. 
  2. Broad Spectrum contain almost everything but THC. That’s precisely the reason of difference between the two. 
  3. Isolates are strictly just CBD products. You will find no other cannabis compound in such products. 

Now the question of interest is that since full spectrum CBD products contain THC as well. Do they have any psychoactive effects? 

The Entourage Effect

Thinking that it is only potent when taken as an isolate might be a wrong notion. Instead, scientists advocate the idea of taking medical cannabis as a whole or taking full-spectrum CBd products. 

Confused, why?

It’s because nature has made it like that. Every component diminishes the negative effects of the other ones and enhances the positive ones substantially. 

In fact, entourage effect is the key player of medical cannabis as a medicine. A reason why mmj doctors providing 420 evaluations in San Diego, California ask their patients to go for full-spectrum products. 

Another reason that makes entourage effect important is that it shuts off any unpleasant effects of THC when present in higher doses. It counteracts any bad features about THC. 

Hence, no intoxicating effects at all. 

Also Read:- Why Is Bioavailability a Critical Factor For Medical Cannabis Consumption?

Is It Better Than Others?

Well, none can answer that question as of now. It depends on every person. For some, full works, while for other going for broad spectrum is a much better option. 

Whatever option you choose, make sure to talk to a licensed medical health professional for the recommended dosages. 

Rest assured, it will definitely not be the reason for any intoxicating effects. Just makes sure to get a valid online medical card San diego if you are going for medical cannabis based CBD products.