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  • Hash and Kief, Are They the Same?

    Hash and Kief

    If you’re new to using cannabis, then it can be confusing to learn the different terms associated with weed and how they affect you. Hash and Kief have many similarities and can be used to help you get the therapeutic effects of the cannabis plant.

    However, there are also several differences between hash vs kief that you should be aware of. In this guide, we will describe the difference between Hash and Kief, including how and when to use each. We will also highlight some of the best Hash vs Kief concentrates to use. 

    Kief vs Hash: What’s The Difference?

    Hash and KiefHash is a very old, concentrated version of marijuana. It’s made from trichomes, which are the resin glands that line the surface of the cannabis plant. For centuries, many cultures have used processes to separate the resin from the marijuana plant. However, since it has become legal in many parts of the world, many new ways to prepare hash have taken the industry by storm.

    Kief, also known as dry sift or pollen, refers to the resin glands of the marijuana plant. They look like tiny, sticky crystals that cover the cannabis flower. The plant’s resin glands contain cannabinoids and terpenes, which are the bioactive compounds that give marijuana its medicinal powers. Marijuana without kief still contains cannabinoids. However, the resin glands that grow on the flower buds carry a larger amount of these compounds.

    Kief specifically refers to the crystal formation on the tip of the gland. The substance itself is just a hair – also known as a trichome. The marijuana plant contains trichomes to protect itself from bugs and other pests from eating it. They produce an intensely psychoactive experience that disorients the predator and prevents it from eating the rest of the plant. The resin has a strong and unique odour that tells predators to stay away.

    Hash and KiefSo, what’s the difference between Hash and Kief? Hash is made by extracting kief. It’s basically just kief that has been pressurized and heated to form a soft, darker substance. Heating and applying pressure to Kief ruptures its resin glands, changing its composition and colour. Once the resin glands are ruptured, it changes the taste and effects of the plant. Pressurizing it also causes a darker colour. Generally, the more pressure you apply, the darker the colour.

    Here are some of the primary differences between hash and kief:

    • Hash is essentially kief that has gone through a heating and pressure process that turns it into a ball or brick
    • Kief is the resin that is made from the hairs or trichomes of the plant
    • Hash tends to be more potent than other types of marijuana products, meaning that you can buy less of it and still get an incredible high – making it a better bang for your buck
    • Kief that is heated and pressurized causes the resin glands to rupture, causing the kief to change colour and become Hash – the more pressurized it is, the darker the colour

    How To Use Kief and Hash

    Hash and KiefThere are several ways you can use Kief and Hash. Hash is best used in oil or wax form because you can put it in a vape or spoke it in a pipe. On the other hand, kief is in powder form, meaning that you can do just about anything with it. Here are some ideas:

    1. Sprinkle Kief into a bowl of cannabis: This is also known as crowning a bowl. A dusting of Kief on top of your bowl can increase the potency of your bowl and provide a more intense high.
    2. Sprinkle Kief into a rolled joint: You can sprinkle Kief into a rolled joint to add to the intensity, giving you a more intense high. The kief should stick to the ground cannabis nicely.
    3. Make Hash or Moon Rocks: You can use your kief to make Hash by extracting the kief then applying heat and pressure to it. You can also make moon rocks, which are nuggets covered in oil and rolled in kief. They are easy to make at home if you have all the right materials. Start by heating the oil of your choice and coating the buds in it. Sprinkle the kief over the buds when they are still warm and let them harden. Then break them up by hand and sprinkle them into your bowl.
    4. Sprinkle it into a latte or baked goods: Adding Kief or Hash to your baked goods or latte can help give you the kick you desire. Here are some of the best hashes and kief products available:

    Hash and Kief

    Although Hash and Kief aren’t as popular as other marijuana products, they’re still great products that cannabis users all over the world can enjoy. Extracting kief requires a three-chamber herb grinder to grind the plant, allowing the crystals to fall through. The process is simple and can be done at home using a silk-screening material, such as a sifter using layered screens.

  • CBD, Cannabis, and Hemp: What’s the Difference?

    CBD, Cannabis, and Hemp

    So, you’ve heard about cannabis being legal as well as all of its proven health benefits, such as reduced pain, anxiety, and depression. Now you’re ready to give it a try, but you’re confused about the difference between marijuana and hemp CBD. Does this sound like you?

    If so, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll explain the difference between CBD, cannabis, and hemp. We’ll also show you how to use hemp-derived CBD or marijuana-derived CBD, and which one works best for your needs. Read on to learn more. 

    What is CBD and Where Does It Come from?

    CBD, Cannabis, and HempTo understand the difference between hemp-derived CBD and marijuana-derived CBD, it’s important to define cannabis first. Cannabis refers to a group of the following three plants that contain psychoactive compounds: Cannabis Sativa, Cannabis Indica, and Cannabis Ruderalis.

    Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of the primary bioactive compounds found in the cannabis plant. It’s responsible for many of the health benefits of medical marijuana, such as reduced anxiety, depression, insomnia, pain, and more. However, CBD can be derived from either the cannabis plant or the hemp plant, which is a cousin to the cannabis plant. 

    CBD can be derived from either hemp or the marijuana plant. However, CBD is the primary bioactive compound in the hemp plant whereas marijuana contains about 100 different beneficial compounds, including THC – the psychoactive compound that is responsible for giving you a high sensation. We will break down the differences between the plants below.

    What is Hemp?

    Hemp refers to a variety of the C. sativa plant. It has been grown for hundreds of years, and has been used to make sails, food, rope, clothes, and more.

    Research shows that industrial hemp has an extensive history in the United States. In fact, the third US president – Thomas Jefferson – grew hemp himself. 

    According to the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp refers to the C. sativa plant with less than 0.3 percent THC. It can be grown legally in most parts of the United States because it only contains THC at low levels. However, certain processed types of hemp can get you high, such as gummies, tinctures, or capsules. 

    What is Cannabis?

    CBD, Cannabis, and HempCannabis refers to the three strains of C. indica, C. sativa, and C. ruderalis plant mentioned above. However, there are also several hybrid plans that contain a mix of these three strains that are considered to be marijuana. 

    These cannabis plants contain higher levels of THC than hemp plants. Cannabis plants also contain less CBD than hemp plants, and this ratio has become more pronounced over the past several years. 

    According to one study, the potency of the average cannabis plant increased from 4 percent in 1995 to 12 percent in 2014. The same report indicated that the average levels of CBD in cannabis plants decreased from 0.28 percent in 2001 to 0.15 percent in 2014.

    Cannabis-CBD vs Hemp-CBD: Which is Better?

    CBD, Cannabis, and HempHemp plants and cannabis plants both contain CBD and THC. However, hemp contains less THC than cannabis. Both plants also contain about 540 other substances. The primary difference between the two is the amount of each substance they contain. 

    For example, cannabis has more THC (the substance that gets you high) than CBD, and hemp contains more CBD with less THC. However, it should be noted that the benefits of CBD do not vary between these different plants. In other words, the chemical composition of CBD does not change in hemp or cannabis. 

    The biggest difference is that the amount of CBD that is available for extraction varies. Because hemp plants contain more CBD, it is easier to extract for many manufacturers. However, hemp does not contain enough THC to get you high in most cases, which is why many people buy medical marijuana in the first place. 

    So, while you can get the health benefits of CBD from either hemp or cannabis, you’re better off buying marijuana if you prefer the high associated with using weed. Cannabis also tends to have a higher cannabinoid and terpene profile than hemp, giving it a more favourable profile for various other health benefits. This is important because these compounds work together to provide a desired effect, and CBD isolates may not provide the most bang for your buck.

    Final Thoughts

    To sum it up – CBD refers to the highly sought after bioactive compound found in the marijuana plant. However, it can also be found in the hemp plant. The primary difference is that marijuana contains higher levels of other compounds, including THC. 

    For a more complete plant profile, we recommend going with cannabis or marijuana for your needs. However, the CBD structure between hemp and cannabis is the same. So, you can find the best option for you by weighing your needs first. 

    When you’re ready to make a decision, check out our CBD products here!

  • Is Cannabis Legal in the Olympics?

     Is Cannabis Legal in the Olympics

    Recently, several elite athletes in Canada and the United States have not been allowed to participate in the Olympics or compete at national levels after testing positive for THC. 

    Since then, many professional athletes and Olympic hopefuls have stepped up to break the stigma that weed is bad or enhances athletic performance in any way. 

    In this article, we’ll discuss the different ways professional athletes use weed in their training routines and what experts say about THC use at the Olympic level. 

    Why Do Athletes Use Weed?

    Is Cannabis Legal in the OlympicsDespite being a medicinal plant that has been used in holistic medicine for thousands of years, marijuana use still has a negative stigma attached to it that suggests only burnouts or stoners use it.

    However, this couldn’t be further from the truth as many studies have proven its numerous health benefits and many professional athletes are stepping up to show their support for the drug, proving that weed has a place in today’s professional society.

    Several professional athletes use weed in their training and credit it for helping them compete at Olympic levels, including Canadian professional snowboarder Ross Rebaglati – the first athlete ever to win an Olympic gold medal at the 1998 Winter Olympics for men’s snowboarding.

    Rebaglati was later stripped of his medal after testing positive for THC – and then he was given the medal back after authorities determined that weed is not a banned performance-enhancing substance. Rebaglati has since spoken up about the anti-inflammatory benefits of weed for athletes and how cannabis and THC can help promote better mental health, physical recovery, and sleep. 

    Most recently in the United States, controversy erupted after track star and Olympic hopeful Sha’Carri Richardson was banned from competing after she smoked weed and tested positive for THC. Richardson claimed she smoked weed to deal with her mother’s death.

    Since then, many professional athletes have stepped up to defend Richardson as well as the controversy surrounding THC use as a banned substance, including several NBA stars who claim that they use it to recover both mentally and physically after a hard season. 

    Is Marijuana A Performance-Enhancing Drug?

    Is Cannabis Legal in the OlympicsResearch shows that there is no direct evidence indicating that marijuana has a performance-enhancing effect in athletes. However, it is most commonly used in athletes who participate in high-risk sports and can be used to reduce pain and inflammation – as well as concussion-related symptoms. 

    So, if THC does not enhance athletic performance – and it may possibly reduce pain and inflammation associated with hard training – why is it frowned upon in athletics at the Olympic level?

    The answer depends on the rules and regulations of Olympic organizations. According to a 2006 article published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, THC promotes a ‘certain heaviness, marked relaxation, and excessive limb fatigue’, and because it’s primarily smoked, weed can have detrimental effects on the lungs, upper respiratory tract, and oral cavity. 

    The United States Anti-Doping Agency and the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport (CCES) state that for a chemical to be added to the banned list, it must meet two of the following three inclusion criteria:

    1. The substance must pose a health risk to athletes
    2. The substance must have the potential to enhance performance
    3. The substance must violate the spirit of sport

    The World Anti-Doping Agency has increased the threshold of substances that would indicate that an athlete is using a banned substance. However, it has not removed THC from the banned list because it meets two of the three criteria mentioned above. 

    Additionally, the 2021 World Anti-Doping Code has categorized THC as a banned substance because it is commonly used in casual settings outside of sport – such as when Richardson used it to cope with a death in the family. 

    While these rules might seem like they are unfair for athletes who seek to use cannabis for training purposes, some athletes agree with the policies against weed.

    For example, former Olympic snowboarder Ross Rebaglati – mentioned above – has stated that he thinks marijuana is a performance-enhancing drug – not in the traditional sense that most people think of like making athletes bigger, stronger, or faster – but in that weed helps them gain an advantage over the competition by boosting their mental health and reducing anxiety associated with competing at the Olympic level. 

    Should Athletes Use Cannabis?

    Is Cannabis Legal in the OlympicsWhile the controversies surrounding marijuana use for athletes is something that many people think should be reconsidered, the rules for now state that athletes cannot use THC if they are competing at higher levels that require drug and performance-enhancing urine tests.

    However, athletes can still use CBD – the compound in marijuana that does not make you feel high – for its anti-inflammatory and relaxing properties. This can help athletes get into the calming and focused mindset they need to compete at high levels. 

    CBD is also great for sore muscles and can be used topically on legs, arms, and back after a tough workout session. CBD can also be used orally to reduce depression, which is something that even many professional athletes deal with despite their natural athletic abilities. 

    Final Thoughts

    Despite being a banned substance, THC is becoming more popular among professional athletes. 

    However, until worldwide organizations lift the ban on THC use during the Olympics and other high level competitions, athletes will need to stick to CBD use only to clear drug tests and secure their spot in upcoming events.

    Where do you stand on weed in the Olympics?  

  • Can Lobsters Get High?

    Lobster with Cannabis

    Lobster is a mouth-watering shellfish that is prized by foodies who are looking for a luxurious, rich meal commonly bathed with butter. Behind the scenes, these clawed crustaceans are being boiled alive to conserve their delicate flavours offering the freshest seafood possible. A restaurant owner in Maine went looking for a more humane way to serve up lobster and found a creative solution- getting them high on cannabis.

    Maine Lobster Experiments

    Lobster with CannabisCharlotte Gill, renowned restauranteur, of Charlotte’s Legendary Lobster Pound in Maine went looking for a way to serve up a more humanely boiled lobster. This hunt led her to play around with the idea of managing their pain by getting her lobsters high with cannabis smoke. She went and picked herself out a test subject named Roscoe. Don’t worry, she didn’t boil this little guy live though, she put him in a pot with a few inches of water and blew smoke into his temporary enclosure. The first thing she noticed was that he became more still, stopped wielding his claws, and seemed sedated. Roscoe was released for his important contribution to science and she then proceeded to experiment on another 40-50 lobsters.

    “We looked at tail flips and we also looked at, when we cook the lobster, is there a reaction when you put it into the boiling water? And we were seeing no reaction, or very minimal reaction,” Gill says. “Versus what you see if you don’t have any sedation, which is they’re shooting their claws off. They’re climbing over each other to try to get out of the boiling water. It was a dramatic difference.”

    When these little clawed crustaceans are stoned I like to believe they’re wondering if all of the fish they see passing above them are flying. Some species have been known to live for over 100 years so they’ve certainly had enough time to become introspective.

    Will A Stoned Lobster Get You Stoned Too?

    Lobster with CannabisNo. Gill states that she is not selling an edible, just a more humane way to serve up her famous lobster rolls. The tested lobsters were never served to customers but sampled by Gill and her father. To test wether there was lingering THC her father received a urine test after eating these THC-infused shellfish. Although there was no lingering skunky taste from the cannabis there was an addition to the flavour profile. Due to the fact that the stress levels in their test subjects were so low the meat actually tasted lighter and sweeter than normal. After their seafood feast, Gill’s father took a urine test to ensure that the THC hadn’t made its way from the cooking pot into his stomach. The results came back with absolutely no traces of THC making it a great option for everyone to enjoy no matter their stance on cannabis.

    Studies Continue in Labs

    Gill’s lobster experiment sparked an interest in scientific communities all over America. Labs began to look into these claims to test if cannabis could really be the secret to a humane meal.

    “The 2018 minor media storm about a restaurant owner proposing to expose lobsters to cannabis smoke really was the starting point. There were several testable claims made and I realized we could test those claims. So we did.”

    Dr. Michael A. Taffe, study author and professor adjunct at the Scripps Research Department of Neuroscience

    Researchers conducted their studies in a similar way to Gill, purchasing wild Maine lobsters from the supermarket. They didn’t boil the lobsters during their time in the pot, instead, they put them in 48-degree water which is around what you would get from a hot tap. They began by pumping in four 10-second puffs from a THC e-cigarette. They continued to send this THC vapor into the sealed pot every 5 minutes for an hour. While the lobsters were soothed it didn’t appear to help when they were introduced to hot water.

    When their tails were immersed in warm water, they exhibited an escape response: thrashing their abdomens, legs, and claws. Submerging their claws or antenna “resulted in a distinct movement to remove the appendage from the water,” the researchers wrote.

    None of these test lobsters were boiled alive but they did euthanize them and test the bodies for THC levels.  While there was THC present in their tissues, showing that they can get stoned, the levels were too low to affect the eater.

    Does It Work?

    Lobster with CannabisWith our limited knowledge of lobsters, scientists are unsure whether they have the ability to feel pain at all. To be safe Switzerland banned the live boiling of lobsters in 2018, it’s now necessary to stun them before they make their final trip to the pot. What we can take away from these studies is that lobsters can get high but we still don’t know if it lessens their anxiety. Including your lobster when you pass the joint could make the cooking process easier for you if anything. With the lobsters still and sedated it will at the very least make them appear less stressed.

    Try An Indica Strain

    A nice, strong indica that will cause a relaxing body high is most beneficial to these cooking crustaceans. It will cause them to slow all the way down making it easier to move them to the pot. I’m sure it wouldn’t hurt if you joined in (puff, puff, pass).

    Member Berry: This Indica-dominant strain will boost mood while relaxing the body. This physical relaxation will have you and your lobster feeling soothed and anchored.

    Pink Kush: This Indica smells and tastes deliciously fruity making it a perfect addition to cooking in the kitchen. The strong body effects are perfect for full relaxation.

    Wedding Cake: This strain is known for being a strong sedative and will leave you calm and pain-free. This is perfect for extreme relaxation.

    Let us know if you try your hand at this humane option for a big lobster dinner!

  • Cannabis Improves Mobility and Reduces the Need for Pharmaceuticals

    Cannabis Improves Mobility

    Have you ever noticed how some prescription medications make you feel worse or give you a whole new set of symptoms that weren’t there before you started taking them?

    If so, you’re not alone. While pharmaceutical drugs are completely necessary for some people, especially those with mobility disorders, they can be more trouble than they are worth for others. 

    Luckily, research shows that marijuana can help improve mobility AND reduce the need for pharmaceutical drugs. In this article, we’ll explain how to use cannabis as natural medicine. 

    Cannabis Reduces Pain, Inflammation, Depression, and Fatigue  

    Cannabis Improves Mobility If you’ve ever Googled your symptoms to see if you have a disease (we’ve all done it!), then you might find that many symptoms of pain, inflammation, depression, and fatigue are synonymous with multiple sclerosis (MS) – or other autoimmune conditions that affects the nerves in the brain. 

    However, you don’t have to have MS to suffer from the above-mentioned conditions. Whether you feel sad occasionally or you wake up with sore, achy joints, you’ll be happy to know that cannabis can help with all of these symptoms – and it works by targeting chronic inflammation.

    According to one study, cannabis may help improve mobility by decreasing pain and inflammation, making it easier to move and sustain improved energy levels all day. This can help you whether you’re looking for more energy to exercise daily or even just make it through the day feeling more productive. 

    Additionally, the study found that decreasing inflammation and overstimulation of the vagus nerve – a nerve that runs along your spine from your brain to your gut, allowing these two areas of your body to “communicate” with each other – can also help decrease fatigue, spasticity, pain, and depression. 

    Cannabis Improves Mobility In fact, cannabis is so good at reducing these symptoms that some doctors prescribe it instead of pharmaceutical drugs, such as antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and opioids, which are linked to negative side effects such as physical dependence, sedation, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, tolerance, constipation, and respiratory depression. 

    Research shows that traditional benzodiazepines are also linked to a “hangover effect” characterized by drowsiness while antidepressants are linked to anxiety, which can delay or even prevent successful rehabilitation of the symptoms that these very drugs are supposed to protect people from.  

    A recent study found that among people who use opioids, approximately 77% were able to reduce their use since they started taking cannabis. The same study found that 72% of people taking anti-anxiety medications, 67% of people taking migraine medicine, and 65% of people taking sleep drugs were able to reduce their use after consuming marijuana. 

    Researchers also found that cannabis is safe to use and does not negatively impair psychomotor or psychological functions, even in relatively high doses of up to 1,500 mg per day. Plus, human studies show that cannabis is well tolerated by most people, reducing many of the symptoms caused by pharmaceutical drugs. 

    Study authors also noted that CBD tends to counteract the stimulating effects of THC, which is important for people because – as the researchers noted – some people don’t like to feel high, especially if they are already experiencing negative symptoms from their prescription drugs. 

    Cannabis Improves Mobility

    Should You Use Cannabis instead of Pharmaceuticals?

    So, should you use cannabis in place of pharmaceutical drugs to reduce symptoms like anxiety, depression, fatigue, insomnia, pain, and more? This is a personal decision that you need to make with your doctor. 

    Cannabis Improves Mobility As noted above, research suggests that taking cannabis can help reduce the need for drugs that cause you to feel sick. However, there are certain situations in which taking cannabis might not be in your best interest. 

    If you are taking prescription medication, talk to your doctor before introducing cannabis into your treatment regimen as plant cannabinoids can potentially, though rarely, interact with pharmaceutical drugs. For example, some plant compounds – when taken in supplement form – may change the way your liver processes these drugs, either increasing or decreasing the medicine’s potential actions in the body. 

    Research shows that liver enzymes – such as cytochrome P450 – may be impacted. This is important because this group of liver enzymes is responsible for metabolizing more than 60% of pharmaceutical drugs. When taken in high doses, CBD can temporarily deactivate these enzymes, which alters the way your body reacts to these medications. 

    However, in general, there have been no serious drug interactions among CBD or THC and other drugs. Additionally, in regards to addiction, cannabis has been shown to be very safe with less than 8% of users becoming addicted to weed. Researchers noted that you’re more likely to become addicted to pharmaceutical drugs -especially pain management drugs – than you are to weed. 

    Final Thoughts 

    Ask yourself what you could do with more energy, less joint pain, and better cognition daily? If you’ve been on pain-reducing drugs, sleep aids, or anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications and you’re tired of feeling tired, ask your doctor about potentially switching to a more natural treatment.

    Researchers have found that marijuana can increase mobility and reduce the need for drugs, allowing you to regain control of symptoms from your medication that may leave you feeling worse than the underlying condition itself. 

    Be sure to clear the use of medical marijuana with your doctor before use, especially if you’re already taking prescription drugs as the two may interact with each other. When you’re ready to start using medical marijuana, check out these popular cannabis products here. 

  • Cannabis and Hikes: Appreciating Nature

    smoking cannabis

    What is it about smoking cannabis while enjoying the great outdoors? It can create a deeper sense of awe and leave you dazed by the beauty of your surroundings. Now that summer is here and the hiking boots are out it’s time to get adventuring! I’m going to give you some useful tips on exploring while high and which strains could lead to the best experiences!

    Is Nature Better with Cannabis?

    smoking cannabisNature is incredible, with or without cannabis. Escaping into the great outdoors, whether it’s a long hike to a towering peak or sitting by a river bed, is a spiritual experience. Adding cannabis to this only brings about a deeper connection between humans and the earth. The myth that smoking will leave you couch-locked and lazy is a myth, with the right strain you will feel more energized and connected than ever. The feeling of euphoria caused by “runners high” is described as being very similar. Cannabis could be just the thing to push you farther.

    “In my humble opinion, weed is not a drug; it’s a seasoning… like salt for your life. So, just the same as a person would use salt to enhance a bland soup or what have you, smoking weed can make things more intense and enjoyable…”

    Bailey Rahn, Leafly writer

    With today becoming such a technology-fuelled world it is increasingly common for people to become disconnected from nature. Cannabis is so often seen as a gateway drug. But their are some studies that explore how it could be a gateway, not to other drugs, but to positive experiences. Everyone in these studies had only positive anecdotes about their experiences and how it helped them find deeper meaning in their lives and allowed them to feel awe for the natural world we live in.

    Terpenes

    If you’ve read any of our previous articles you might have noticed that I fangirl over terpenes. There is so much more to explore about the medicinal benefits of these aromatic oils. They are also responsible for helping elevate our feelings of connectedness within nature. Some of the main terpenes found in nature and cannabis are pinene, limonene, and eucalyptol which enhance focus and alertness. Where you may have been rushing to get to your final destination, smoking cannabis gives you the ability to slow down and enjoy the journey.

    Bring Lots of Water

    smoking cannabisDry mouth is something everyone is familiar with while smoking marijuana. You already need a lot of water throughout any kind of physical activity, especially when it’s in the hot, summer sun. Nothing is worse than being deep in the woods or away from a clean drinking source with an achingly dry throat. I have been guilty of having this happen to me and I was lucky that I had purifying straw or things might not have been as pleasant. To avoid this try to drink one litre of water before setting out and 1 litter for every hour you’re out there. Remember to take small, slow sips to avoid cramps and help keep the water in your system for a longer amount of time.

    Be Careful With Your Fire

    In the heat of the summer, especially in British Columbia, fire warnings are a serious thing. One tiny spark or ash from a lit joint could send a whole forest into flames. Make sure to be safe, check fire warnings in your area, and carry everything out with you. This is especially important for your roaches. Yes, they’re paper. No, you still can’t leave them on the ground. If there is a severe fire warning in the area I strongly suggest sticking to vaping or edibles to avoid any accidental flames.

    Respect Other Hikers

    smoking cannabisCannabis is now legal in Canada which means you can smoke it worry-free (in any designated smoking area). This doesn’t mean that everyone is okay with it. We want to respect everyone on the trails and ensure everyone is having as good an experience as you are. Families may not want to walk behind a plume of pungent smoke floating along behind you.

    Stay Safe

    Make sure that you are comfortable and/or familiar with the trail you are going to take. Getting lost in nature should only be mental and not a physical reality as well. Make sure you have a map and at least a general idea of where the trail is. If you are like me and always get lost then the extra security of a satellite phone could be the perfect thing to ensure your safety and give you peace of mind.

    Strains To Take On The Trails

    There isn’t necessarily a wrong strain to smoke while in nature but there are definitely ones that will fit your adventure better than others. A nice, relaxing Indica could be great when you’re relaxed by a lake but maybe not the best thing to smoke on a hike. It would make you lethargic and unable to finish your jaunt through the mountains. In some cases, hikers have been known to get so stoned and tired while out that search and rescue had to go save them. I suggest a more uplifting Sativa that will leave you more perceptive and energetic.

    smoking cannabisMiracle Alien Cookies: This evenly balanced hybrid strain is a cross between Alien Cookies and Starfighter. MAC (Miracle Alien Cookies) uplifts mood and boosts creativity while treating stress symptoms. These medicinal effects paired with the zesty orange flavour of this strain will leave you in awe of your surroundings.

    Cherry Pie: A Sativa-dominant strain created by combining Grandaddy Purple and F1 Durb. Cherry pie tastes exactly as its name suggests. This strain is perfect for an adventure into the wilderness as it leaves you energized, euphoric, and happy.

    Frosty Gelato: Frosty gelato is a Sativa-dominant cross between brain damage landrace and gelato. This popular strain is good for any time of day as it won’t leave you tired. Your mind will be relaxed and soothed while your body will get a boost of energizing euphoria. This strain is guaranteed to get you up and keep you going.

    Do you enjoy your nature with a cannabis infusion? Let us know about your experiences!

  • Cannabis Can Significantly Reduce Opioid Use

    Cannabis Can Significantly Reduce Opioid Use

    The opioid epidemic has been responsible for drug overdose deaths for many decades. However, research shows that the number of drug overdose deaths was four times higher in 2018 than it was in 1999, indicating that the epidemic isn’t going away anytime soon.

    Now, many studies are indicating that cannabis might be a helpful aid when it comes to ending the opioid epidemic as cannabis has been shown to be a safer treatment for chronic pain. This article discusses how cannabis can be used in the treatment of chronic pain instead of opioids, and how to properly use cannabis for pain relief.

    Understanding the Opioid Epidemic

    Opioid Epidemic cannabisBy now, everyone is tired of hearing the word “pandemic.” But before the world was plagued with COVID-19, we were dealing with the opioid epidemic. 

    Opioids are drugs that come from the opium poppy plant. They are commonly used to block pain signals from the body to the brain for the treatment of chronic pain. Opioids also make you feel relaxed, happy, or “high.” Doctors may prescribe opioids to help deal with the pain associated with cancer, trauma, multiple sclerosis, or chronic muscle pain. 

    However, opioids are highly addictive, and they are responsible for thousands of overdose deaths worldwide. They may also cause severe adverse effects in many organ systems, and side effects of opioid use may include fractures, HPA dysregulation, constipation, sleep-disordered breathing, and a decline in quality of life. 

    In 2017, the Health and Human Services Department declared a public health emergency, stating that 42,000 people died from an opioid overdose in 2016 alone. Approximately 40% of these deaths were from a prescription opioid. 

    Opioids provide a sense of high or extreme well-being among users. However, the drug’s powerful pleasant sensations may wear off over time, prompting users to take more of the drug to get the same high as they did when they first started using it.

    Additionally, many opioid users end up turning to stronger drugs to experience the same pain-relieving benefits, such as heroin or cocaine. 

    Finding alternative ways to deal with pain management for chronic disorders is imperative for preventing more opioid deaths. 

    Luckily, research shows that cannabis may be a safer way to address chronic pain without the deadly consequences of opioids or heroin.

    Cannabis Helps Chronic Pain

    Cannabis Helps Chronic Pain 

    Cannabis has been shown to be effective in the treatment of hard to manage pain, due to its ability to influence the endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for pain management. 

    But can it take the place of opioids? Many studies say yes. Some even indicate that cannabis can reduce cravings for opioids.

    Researchers from one study investigated the impact of CBD on opioid use and quality of life in 131 patients with chronic pain. Of the 131 patients, 97 completed the eight-week study. Patients were between the ages of 30 and 65 years old, and they had been using opioids for at least one year. 

    Results found that 53 percent of the patients reduced or eliminated their opioids within eight weeks after adding CBD extract to their chronic pain treatment plans. Approximately 94 percent of users reported improvements in quality of life after taking CBD. 

    Another study found that cannabis use was effective as an alternative to prescription opioids in more than half of test subjects with low back pain. Cannabis use was also effective at reducing opioid use in some chronic opioid users. 

    Cannabis Helps Chronic Pain You may wish to experiment with cannabis if you suffer from any of the following chronic pain conditions:

    Cancer

    • Fibromyalgia
    • IBS
    • Back pain
    • Nerve damage
    • Arthritis and osteoarthritis
    • Migraines
    • Multiple sclerosis
    • Carpal tunnel
    • Herniated disc
    • Lupus
    • Sciatica
    • Scoliosis
    • Spinal cord injury
    • Autoimmune disorders
    • Any many more conditions

    Best Cannabis Products for Pain Management 

    Best Cannabis Products for Pain Management Health experts agree that the best way to treat an opioid addiction is to never start taking them in the first place. If you or someone you know suffers from chronic pain, then talk to your doctor about cannabis.

    There are many CBD and THC based products available to help treat pain, promote calmness and well-being, and alleviate anxiety. You can take Cannabis in the following forms:

    • Oils
    • Tinctures
    • Capsules
    • Topicals
    • Gummies
    • Edibles
    • Vape
    • Raw flower – smoking

    The type of cannabis product you take may depend on the location of your pain. Topical applications may work if your pain is external, which may occur due to skin damage, back pain, or burns.

    Taking cannabis capsule or oil form may be helpful for internal pain, such as pain due to cancer, an autoimmune disorder, injury, or nerve and back pain. Talk to your doctor about which cannabis-based treatment for chronic pain is right for you. 

  • Is Cannabis Good for High Blood Pressure?

    Cannabis and High Blood Pressure

    If you have high blood pressure or other heart complications, then you might be hesitant about using cannabis – and rightfully so. 

    While weed contains potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may be beneficial for heart health, there is some research that indicates weed may increase blood pressure.

    However, different strains of weed may affect blood pressure differently. For this reason, it’s important to know the best strains for hypertension. 

    In this guide, we will discuss how weed impacts blood pressure. You’ll also learn about the best strain for high blood pressure.

    Cannabis and High Blood PressureHow Does Weed Affect Blood Pressure?

    Cannabis – like other herbs – contains powerful antioxidant compounds that have an anti-inflammatory effect on the body, which can support a healthy heart.

    Specifically, reducing inflammation in the body can make it easier for your heart to pump blood throughout the body, meaning that your heart is less likely to give out because it doesn’t have to work as hard.

    However, some research shows that weed increases blood pressure, which can put even more stress on your cardiovascular system and potentially increase your risk of heart disease. 

    According to one study, there was a modest association between recent cannabis use and systolic blood pressure among a sample of adults in the United States.

    Additionally, research published by Harvard Medical School indicated that marijuana users had a higher risk of death related to blood pressure than non-users. The article also stated that in addition to increasing the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure may lead to heart failure and kidney disease. 

    Cannabis and High Blood PressureHowever, another study found that cannabis use reduces blood pressure in older adults. The study authors noted that cannabis treatment of three months was linked to a reduction in 24 hour systolic and diastolic blood pressure three hour after cannabis administration.  

    One study even found that a single dose of CBD reduces resting blood pressure as well as the blood pressure increase to stress, which usually leads to an increase in blood pressure. 

    These findings are unique because they suggest that weed may be able to help control the stress response – as well as the increase in blood pressure that usually accompanies it. 

    As you can see, it can be hard to know whether or not to use weed if you have high blood pressure, due to the conflicting research. 

    So, should you use weed if you have heart problems? The answer can only be made by your doctor as every person is different. Be sure to discuss with them before using if you have concerns. 

    Best Strain for Blood Pressure 

    If your doctor clears you to use cannabis, then keep in mind that the strain you use is important as different strains may have different effects on your blood pressure. 

    Research shows that you should use Indica or Sativa for high blood pressure – and the reason why may depend on the amount of THC each strain has. 

    CBD-dominant strains are also great for high blood pressure because CBD has a more therapeutic effect on heart health, due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. 

    Cannabis Good for High Blood PressureHere are some of the best weed strains for high blood pressure:

    • Wedding cake: also known as Pink Cookies, this Indica-dominant strain of weed works as a calming agent to reduce anxiety and control the stress response, which may include reducing blood pressure.
    • Miracle Alien Cookies: also known as MAC, this strain of weed that is known for producing happy, relaxing, uplifting, creative, and euphoric feelings. It’s commonly used to stimulate appetite and reduce pain, depression, insomnia, and stress. 
    • Garlic Breath: this Indica-dominant strain of weed has a slight garlic flavor and is known for promoting a calming feeling that helps control stress and ease racing thoughts. This strain is ideal for using at night as it helps promote sleep and reduces anxiety.
    • Member Berry: this Indica-dominant strain of weed is known for providing physical relaxation to ease muscle soreness and alleviating pain. It also helps soothe the mind and provides a euphoric high that can help reduce stress. 
    • Tuna Kush: sure to help you find relief for whatever ails you, this strain of weed is hard to find, so stock up while you can! It’s best used for medicinal purposes, such as supporting heart health, reducing anxiety and pain, and helping you sleep. 

    Cannabis Good for High Blood PressureFinals Thoughts 

    Because the evidence is conflicting on whether or not you should use cannabis if you have high blood pressure (or if you’re worried about how weed affects blood pressure), be sure to talk to your doctor first. 

    If cleared to use weed, then opt for an Indica-dominant strain, which have relaxing effects and may be higher in beneficial CBD compounds. 

    You can shop for the best strains of weed for high blood pressure here.

  • Best Cannabis Strains to Elevate Your Yoga Practice

    Best Cannabis Strains to Elevate Your Yoga Practice

    Life can be stressful! It’s important to make some room for relaxation whether you feel too pushed for time or not. Yoga, meditation, and cannabis are three of the best ways to unwind and are beneficial to overall body and mental health. Combining them is the perfect way to expand your mind and really throw yourself into your practice.

    Include Cannabis in Your PracticeWhy Include Cannabis in Your Practice?

    With all of the stresses of the world, whether it’s a long week at work or living through a global pandemic, it can take a toll on overall health. Anything that can bring around awareness and a feeling of oneness is important to bettering personal life experiences. A real spiritual experience will lead to empathy, compassion, and understanding. It’s not always easy to clear the mind and reach this state which is where cannabis can really take your practice to the next level. When cannabis is paired with yoga it allows you to dive deeper into the actual experience. By stretching your body and mind your energy can flow more freely taking you into a deeper expansion of body, mind, and spirit.

    Cannabis Churches

    Combining marijuana with yoga at home is not the only way to achieve a higher level of spirituality and open-mindedness. All over the world cannabis-based religions and churches are popping empathizing unity, love, tolerance, and kindness. One of these churches located in Colorado believes that cannabis is “the sacred flower to reveal the best version of self, discover a creative voice and enrich our community with the fruits of that creativity.” This philosophy is meant to take cannabis consumption back to its roots and away from commercialization. They believe that cannabis is a teacher and ingesting it should be accompanied by a ceremony or ritual bringing people closer to the divine.

    CBD vs THC 

    CBD and THC are two of the many molecules that are in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t leave you with the feeling of being “high”. This can be great for someone who doesn’t want any kind of altered perception but still wants to harness the many medicinal benefits of this green plant. Both work well as an aid towards spirituality and as with most things, it’s about finding the right fit for you and your lifestyle.

    Best Strains for Spiritual PracticeBest Strains for Spiritual Practice

    Everyone’s bodies react differently to marijuana so the best way to have a great experience is to start low and slow and listen to your body. I find it best to choose a hybrid that will not leave you couch-locked or unable to concentrate. I’ve listed some of my favourites that may leave you feeling more connected than ever.

    Frosty Gelato

    This sativa-dominant bud is a new cross between brain damage landrace and the infamous gelato strains. Frosty gelato is named for its distinctive frosty appearance and is known to have a long list of benefits that could lift you to a higher level of consciousness. This hybrid leads to blissful joy while also promoting relaxation making it the perfect strain for any time of day. Utilize this strain before a practice involving body movement, like yoga, to harness the full benefits and expand your mind and find peace. Its medicinal benefits include healing physical pain, fatigue, depression, headaches, and boosting creativity.

    Terpenes:

    • Myrcene: This is the most abundant terpene in the cannabis plant making up around 65% of its profile, on average. Its earthy scent can be perceived as musk or balsam and is commonly found in parsley, wild thyme, and lemongrass.
    • Limonene: This terpene is known for its citrusy fragrance and is found in citrus peels, pine, fennel, and mint. Its zesty, fresh scent isn’t the only benefit, this strain is also known for its antiinflammatory, anti-anxiety, and antibacterial properties.
    • Caryophyllene: This terpene is commonly found in cannabis and it’s known for its woody, spicy scent. It’s most commonly found in black pepper, cinnamon, and hops.

    Cannabis for Spiritual PracticeBlackberry Cream 

    This strain is an indica-dominant strain that creates something beautifully unique. When you first smell this pungent, spicy bud you’ll get whiffs of sweetness while after toking you’ll get the flavour of ripe blackberries. This fruity, complex strain has strong body high effects and is perfect for relaxing or pain management. This strain would be perfect for deep, internal meditation or even just for pain management so that you can concentrate on your practice.

    Terpenes:

    • Myrcene: You’re going to hear me talk a lot about this terpene as it is common and in high amounts in most cannabis plants, commonly making up to 65% of most plant’s terpene profiles.
    • Pinene: As the name suggests this is what gives pine trees its fragrant scent but can also be found in dill, rosemary, and parsley. It treats inflammation, cancer, and respiratory conditions.

    Wedding Cake

    This creamy strain is also known as pink cookies and is a hybrid of girl scout cookies and cherry pie. As the name suggests it has the fruity taste of cherry pie followed by a creamy mouth feel. After smoking you may feel a head high that leads to euphoria and heightened perfections of your surroundings which can lead to great introspective thought. After around an hour you may begin to feel your limbs loosening as your body gets a turn at relaxation while still being very dialled in. This strain is known for stimulating appetite and relaxation by reducing anxiety symptoms. This is perfect for calming your nerves so that you can reach a deeper level of meditation and self-realization.

    Terpenes:

    • Myrcene: Our trusty favourite.
    • Terpinolene: The aromas wafting from this terpene are mainly citrusy, floral, and woody notes. It is most commonly found in rosemary, lilac, and sage and is known to have a huge range of medicinal benefits including calming the nervous system.

    Spirituality is a very personal thing so focus inwardly with the help of this green plant and see yourself flourish. If you use cannabis as a way to reach a deeper level of spirituality whether it’s mindfulness or yoga, let us know!

  • 6 Powerful Ways to Boost Mental Health

    6  Powerful ways to boost mental health

    With all the pandemic stress going on, it is important to discuss mental health. People focus on achieving physical health, but mental health is also important for overall well-being. Mental health is the foundation of a healthy life. Mental health refers to emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Our mental health is affected by everything around us: our workplace, people we interact with, what we eat, what we see, and where we live.

    Mental health is an underestimated topic and people try to avoid talking about it. Talking to a therapist if you feel stressed out or anxious is nothing to be ashamed of!

    Good mental health does not refer to having a perfect life, it simply means being happy and satisfied in our lives. Mental illnesses remain unattended because these are not detectable like physical illnesses. To assess your mental well-being, you can look for these symptoms –

    • Anxiety
    • Insomnia
    • Change of appetite
    • Mood swings
    • Sadness
    • Irritability
    • Hypersensitivity
    • social withdrawal
    • difficulty in concentration

    If you experience these symptoms for a longer period, then you should seek help from medical professionals.

    There are various ways to improve and boost your mental health.

    In this article, we will tell you 6 powerful ways to boost your mental health.

    6 Different ways to boost mental health

    Isn’t it easier when you can self-diagnose your problem and deal with it? There are many ways to improve your mental health. Some of them are as follows-

    1. Stay positive

    6  Powerful ways to boost mental health

    It is always beneficial to have a positive outlook. People develop different ways to stay positive. Avoid the things, places, or people that make you feel negative. Nowadays, we are surrounded by negative pieces of information- coming from social media and newspapers. If such information starts disturbing you then you should stop watching and listening to that information. Never fall for rumors and please don’t negatively compare your life with others. It will only harm you.
    Staying positive does not mean you will never feel negative emotions, rather staying positive implies healthily responding to your problem.

    2. Eat Healthy and stay hydrated

    6  Powerful ways to boost mental health

    What you eat directly impacts your physical and mental state. People often get irritated and angry when they are hungry or their stomach is upset. Try to consume a complete meal and drink plenty of water. It is not necessary to be slim but it is very important to stay fit. Your body needs enough water otherwise it might cause a lot of health problems. In fact, if you are a fitness enthusiast then you must know the importance of water intake while working out. If you want to be well then take care of your body. Keep it hydrated and eat healthy food. It will definitely help to boost your mental and physical health.

    3. Try dietary supplements for relaxing effects

    6  Powerful ways to boost mental health

    People are getting stressed out even after doing everything right. Herbal supplements can help you relax and face bad situations with a calm mind. One of the most popular natural supplements is kratom. It’s a tree that grows in various countries like Thailand, Indonesia etc. The leaves have been used for medicinal purposes for the last many years. There are many types of kratom – red vein, green vein, red bali kratom, indo kratom and white vein. If you are looking for a strong and effective kratom, you can buy red bali kratom which is becoming popular among all the kratom available. Kratom provides you with mental relief, sound sleep along with pain relief. So, you can use it for sure to boost your mental health.

    4. Maintain physical health

    Physical and mental health are interconnected to each other. To improve mental health, it’s important to be physically healthy. By being active only you can boost your mental health. Being active can naturally elevate your mood and you can sense positive changes and effects in your life. Yoga is a known mental and physical health booster for centuries. If you are not able to perform high-intensity workouts, try yoga or simply go out for walks.

    It’s proven that exercise reduces the feeling of stress and depression. Choose any exercise or physical activity which you enjoy doing to motivate yourself. Dance cardio works best to boost your mood.

    5. Meditate

    Meditation is proven to be very effective in reducing stress and improving mental health. Meditation can be defined as a technique of mind and body to refine your attention and awareness. There are different meditation techniques. Mindful meditation is a type of meditation to boost mental health.

    6. Connect with others

    Most of the time mental health disturbs due to unhealthy relationships or because of the feeling of loneliness. We, humans, are social creatures. It’s important to maintain a healthy relationship. Plus, it is always good to have different types of connections. Try connecting with your family and friends more. And you can also connect with your neighbors and community members. But don’t isolate yourself. The best way to do so is to participate in gatherings and increase social interaction by talking to different peoples.

    A word of advice, if you are experiencing symptoms of mental health conditions then try to talk to mental health professionals. Be happy and grateful for everything you have right now. Satisfaction is the key to a happy mind.

  • Best Cannabis Products for Women

    Best Cannabis Products for Women

    Cannabis products offer a wide range of health benefits for women, including mood regulation, pain relief, and stress relief. Additionally, cannabis beauty products and cannabis skin care products offer a natural alternative to harsh synthetic products that may cause skin irritation. 

    However, many women don’t know how to use cannabis to stay healthy. In this guide, we will highlight the best cannabis products for women that can be incorporated into your daily self-care routine. They also make excellent gifts for any cannabis loving women in your life!

    CannaCo Kage Bars With Nutella

    These CannaCo Kage Bar With Nutella are the perfect bars for any chocolate lover in your life. They contain 260 mg THC (Indica) per bar, making them the perfect way to practice self-care while indulging your sweet tooth.

    THC is the compound in cannabis that is responsible for making you feel high. Enjoying THC chocolate can help improve mood and help reduce anxiety while being discreet about your indulgences. 

    If you aren’t a fan of Nutella, then you can buy these bars in several different flavors, such as peanut butter, caramel, and crunch bar.

    Cannabis Products for WomenGaia CBD Lavender Rose Soap

    Did you know that cannabis can be used on your skin as a beauty product? The Gaia CBD Lavender Rose Soap can be used daily as part of your shower routine to reduce inflammation, improve skin tone and texture, and stimulate the growth of collagen.

    This is a soft smelling soap that moisturizes, fights acne, deep cleanses and that reduces insomnia, anxiety and depression. Help fade skin spots, eliminate acne scars and fight breakouts when used topically, due to its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. This soap contains a powerhouse of antioxidants and protect the skin from free-radical damage.

    Additionally, CBD is an excellent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent to help reduce acne naturally. This is a great product for the women in your life to reduce acne instead of using chemical laden products that dry out skin, strip moisturize, and cause redness or irritation.

    Cannabis Products for WomenTemple Tea Jasmine Green

    If the leading lady in your life is looking for a comforting way to beat stress, then Temple Tea Jasmine Green is just the thing she needs. It features measured-dose THC cannabis medication to counteract stress, aches, and pains.

    There are 12 servings per bag and each serving features 120mg THC & 20mg CBD. Additionally, green tea contains the amino acid l-theanine to promote calm focus. 

    Enjoying this tea in the morning or afternoon is a great way to help you get through the rest of your day productively without the jittery effects associated with drinking too much coffee.  

    Boost CBD Gummies

    Boost CBD gummies are a tasty way to enjoy cannabis on the go. These gummies come in assorted flavours and contain 20 mg of CBD per gummy.

    You can carry these gummies around in your purse, gym bag, or backpack. They make a great sweet treat when you need to satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulging in calories or sugar.

    Cannabis Products for WomenCannabis Oil Products

    If you’re looking for the best cannabis for women, then try CBD oil. It has so many uses and can be incorporated into your daily self-care regime no matter how you decide to use it.

    CBD oil can be used in your favorite recipes, topically, or enjoyed as is. It helps reduce pain, anxiety, depression, sleeping problems, and more. 

    We recommend CBD Oils from Mota. It contains 450mg or 1000mg of high potency CBD per serving, and there are 30 servings per bottle. 

    Additionally, this formula is made with premium, organic cannabis starting material and then processed with supercritical CO2 extraction technology. It’s certified solvent-free and the absolute best cannabis oil on the market!

    Sleepy Time Gummy Bears with Melatonin 

    These Sleepy Time Gummy Bears with CBD and Melatonin are the perfect way to get your body ready for sleep without turning to sleeping pills or alcohol.  

    Melatonin is known as the body’s sleep hormone because it helps regulate your body’s internal sleep-wake clock. Studies show that supplementing with melatonin at night can help improve your quality of sleep, reducing the number of times you wake up. Cannabis Products for Women

    Each container contains 20 gummies, and each gummy contains 20 mg of CBD and 5 mg of melatonin. They are ideal for women who have a hard time winding down at night or who travel and need to combat jet lag.

    Green Therapy Heaven Scent Body Butter

    This Green Therapy Heavy Scent Body Butter is a great way to moisturize skin and fight eczema naturally. It also helps reduce pain associated with arthritis. 

    This product has a wonderful scent and always gets a five-star review from satisfied customers. It’s made with high-quality cannabis and essential oils that are ideal for dry or sensitive skin, especially joints that are swollen – such as knuckles. 

    Cannabis Products for WomenHealing Honeys

    Healing Honeys are as luxurious as they sound! They’re made with award-winning medicinal honey containing THC or CBD BCB for maximum benefits. 

    Research shows that Manuka honey is the most effective when it comes to healing properties. It contains enzymes and proteins that boost immune health, support digestive health, and reduce inflammation and free radical damage. 

    You can enjoy Healing Honeys in your morning tea, in smoothies, or on top of pancakes. It can also be enjoyed by the spoonful for a pain-free way to start your day!

  • Cannabis and Hops are a Match Made in Heaven!

    Cannabis and Hops

    If you’ve ever sipped on a hoppy IPA you may have noticed that it has a similar flavour profile to our other favourite way to wind down after a long day. That earthy, almost skunky scent is from the terpenes in the hops- the same ones that are primarily found in cannabis. It isn’t only the shared terpenes that make these green plants similar, hops and cannabis are both parts of the exclusive Cannabaceae family. This club is so exclusive that the only other species welcomed in has been the giant hackberry tree.

    Cannabis and HopsHops and Cannabis are Cousins

    Botanists decided fairly early on that cannabis and hops were closely related due to their similar appearances. They share the same serrated, lobed leaves and aromatic, resinous glands. Their physical likeness was enough to secure their spot in the Urticales plant family until the 1900s when molecular biologists started poking around in the plant’s DNA. Their findings led to years of confusion on how to properly categorize these pungent, green plants. Yes, years. In 1998 they put together a specialized group of experts, the Angiosperm Phylogeny Group, to sort out the mess that was the flowering-plants taxonomic system. In 2002 they finally came back with their long-awaited decision. They confirmed that Humulus (hops) and cannabis share a common ancestor and are, in fact, very closely related.

    They Share Many of The Same Terpenes

    The reason why these two cousins share similar tastes and flavours is because of their terpene profiles. If this is your first time hearing that term, terpenes are organic compounds in plants that produce their unique scents and flavours. The star of this show is myrcene which usually makes up about 75% of the terpene profile in both hops and cannabis. This earthy terpene provides a musky, peppery taste while providing health benefits as an anti-inflammatory, anti- tumour, and sedative. Other common terpenes found in both are limonene and pinene.

    “Researchers found close to 30 terpenes in the cannabis genome, producing such ‘fragrant molecules’ as limonene, myrcene, and pinene when those genes are active, and thus give it an alternately citrusy, skunky, or earthy quality.”

    Forbes Magazine

    Cannabis and Hops

    Some Hops Can Get You High

    You can’t get high off of hops! Or, can you? There is one subspecies of hops out there that are native to South-West China and North-East India that contain THC, CBD, or both together. This was discovered by the scientist, Dr. Bomi Joseph, who wanted to find an alternative to cannabis-derived CBD.

    E.J. Lance, an agricultural writer, wrote his famous guide “The Hop Farmer: A Complete Account of Hop Culture,’ in 1838. He believed that hoppy ales were potentially psychoactive

    “It is the opinion of brewers that the intoxicating qualities of ale are to be partly ascribed to the oil of the hop. … As a narcotic its powers are known in beer, and have been often used to produce sleep from the smell only … .”!

    This belief carries through into today’s beer culture, especially with hop-forward craft beers. People claim they lead to sedation, euphoric happiness, and even more vivid dreams. Maybe this is why we have seen such a jump in public interest for craft beer?

    Making Cannabis-Infused Beer

    The legalization of Cannabis has led to innovation and creativity that we haven’t seen since our ancestors discovered it could be used for everything from medicine to fabric. With this golden age of discovery and cannabis-infused everything, it isn’t very hard to find a delicious craft can that is infused with CBD, THC, or both. If you are unable to find what you are looking for or you’re looking for a fun way to spend your time then I highly suggest trying your hand as a master home-brewer.

    Cannabis and HopsBeers that pair best with cannabis

    • IPA: These are those hoppy beers I was talking about in the intro! IPA’s are the perfect pairing for cannabis and always my first choice. The bitterness from the hops can mask and compliment the pungency of the cannabis.
    • Stout: Darker beers like porters and stouts are great for masking the strong flavour of your cannabis strain if it’s not soothing you enjoy. Another positive is that these heavy beers may help you fill up when you get the munchies!!
    • Lagers: This is a brave choice for the lovers of light, summer beers with a hint of that aromatic cannabis. I suggest enjoying with a lime out in the sun.!

    Let’s Get Started

    As with most edible cannabis treats we need to begin with the decarboxylation process. Don’t worry if this is your first time roasting up your buds, I’ll walk you through the steps:

    Cannabis and Hops

    1. Wash the buds to make sure it is clean and won’t contaminate the beer.
    2. Place the rinsed buds into a french press and cover with distilled water for 2-3 days, changing the water once a day until it is clear.
    3. Take the soaking cannabis and put it in either cheesecloth or a tea bag and boil for 1-2 minutes to blanch.
    4. Break your buds into small pieces and put them on an oven-safe tray. Heat at 225 degrees Fahrenheit for 55 minutes.

    Now that your cannabis has been decarbed we can move onto the hops! There are many hops to choose from as there are many strains of cannabis so choosing the right one for you will be based on the taste profile you hope to achieve. Citra hops are my favourite go-to as they are high in limonene and give a distinct citrus taste to their beer.

    Time To Dry-Hop

    We are going to want to dry hop our brew twice to get the results and flavour we want.

    First Dry-Hop: Adding the hops ion first will reduce the chances that you will end up with a terrible concoction that tastes strongly of grass. Second Dry-Hop: 3-4 days before bottling your beer add in more hops and your cannabis at a 1:1 ratio.

    After your beer is ready it’s time to bottle it. The cannabis helps preserve the beer so it can last anywhere from a few months to a year.

    Have you made cannabis-infused beer or are interested in trying it out? Let us know about your experience!