Pure Green Express

Category: News

  • Treating Arthritis With CBD

    Over 4 million Canadians suffer from some form of arthritis, making it one of the leading causes of long-term disability in Canada. The two most common forms of this condition are Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Osteoarthritis (OA). 

    Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. OA attacks the cartilage in the bone, causing symptoms like deep joint pain, joint stiffness, and inflammation. This condition can develop at any age but affects more men before the age of 45, and more women after the age of 45. It usually affects the hands, feet, knees, hips, and spine. 

    Rheumatoid Arthritis can develop at any age, but most commonly appears sometime between the ages of 25 and 50. It affects over 1% of Canadians. RA is considered to be an autoimmune disease that causes a loss of function in the joints, and symptoms such as severe inflammation and chronic pain.

    In its early stages, arthritis is usually treated with Non-Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), while in it’s later stages it is attacked with Disease Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs), steroidal injections, or corticosteroids, depending on the kind of arthritis. These drugs can expose patients to a variety of side effects and illnesses. For instance, NSAIDs such as Aspirin or Ibuprofen have a nasty reputation for damaging stomach lining and causing ulcers. Moreover, DMARDs alter immune function and can potentially expose patients to infections. Comparatively, CBD (Cannabidiol) can treat the same conditions while causing fewer, and less serious, side effects. 

    CBD’s ability to suppress inflammation and reduce chronic pain makes it ideal for treating arthritis. A 2014 study found that the body’s endocannabinoid system plays a key role in the pathophysiology of arthritis, especially in the “regulation of pain, inflammation, and joint function”. CBD is known to interact with the endocannabinoid system by indirectly binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors, and thus disrupting the development of inflammation, and the pain that comes along with it. The same study further concluded that CBD has shown promise as a treatment for osteoarthritis.  

    Other studies have similarly concluded that CBD has the potential to be an effective treatment for multiple forms of arthritis. A 2006 human study concluded that “disease activity was significantly suppressed” following treatment with a 1:1 THC/CBD solution. A 2011 study on mice showed that CBD helped to decrease inflammatory pain by changing the way that pain receptors respond to stimulation. Moreover, a 2016 study found that topical CBD reduced “inflammation and pain-related behaviors”. And lastly, a 2017 study concluded that CBD “prevents pain and nerve damage in rat osteoarthritis”. 

    Whether conducted on humans, or animals, laboratory studies unanimously confirm that CBD can effectively treat multiple forms of arthritis, and the symptoms they cause. CBD has even been shown to help in the prevention of arthritis, by suppressing localized T-cell function, which plays a role in the development of rheumatoid arthritis.

    CBD can be consumed in a variety of forms such as vape oils, capsules, edibles, tinctures, or high CBD plant strains. Check out our shop for to find a product that is just right for you.

  • The 5 Best Strains For Treating Depression

    5 Best Strains For Treating Depression

    THC and CBD have both been shown to be effective in the treatment of depression. While these two compounds may not be able to cure depression, they can treat it by relieving sadness, worry, or stress, and replacing them with an uplifting sense of euphoria.

    Laboratory studies on treating depression with marijuana are still in their early stages, however, what we do know is that cannabis products can help us sleep better, temporarily improve our mood, and cultivate a general sense of positive well-being. Not all strains are created equal, and some will be much more effective in treating the symptoms of depression than others.

    Generally, the strains that are most successful are those that are Sativas, Sativa-dominant hybrids, and strains that are high in CBD. Here are 5 different strains that are well known for their ability to treat the symptoms of depression:

    1. Harlequin

    Harlequin is a 75/25 Sativa-dominant strain that is known for its high CBD content. This strain typically has a 5:2 CBD:THC concentration, making it a suitable treatment not only for depression, but also for anxiety. It’s low THC content makes it ideal for dosing during the daytime, as the psychoactive high that Harlequin produces is weak, and will not interfere with your ability to function during the day.

    2. Jack Herer

    This strain is a strong Sativa that is named after marijuana activist and author Jack Herer. Jack produces a euphoric, bubbly, happy high that increases personal creativity, energy and focus. This strain is particularly effective for mental disorders such as depression, stress, headaches or migraines, ADHD, and PTSD.

    3. Trainwreck

    Trainwreck is a Sativa-dominant hybrid known for its high THC percentage. The high produced by this strain is usually described as euphoric, happy and relaxed. It also produces an uplifting sense of energy and alertness. It is accompanied by a mellow body high that is capable of relieving physical pain, but does not ‘couch-lock’ or otherwise demotivate you. This strain is very effective in treating depression and is often praised for its ability to make users smile and laugh. 

    4. Strawberry Cough

    This delicious Sativa gives off an intoxicating sweet and fruity scent. Similarly to Trainwreck, this strain is known for its cerebral effects. It produces an uplifting, euphoric and happy head high that is synonymous with strong Sativas like this one. The strength of the euphoric head high combined with the mild and mellow body high that accompanies it makes this strain not only effective in the treatment of depression, but also in the treatment of anxiety and other stress related disorders.

    5. OG Kush

    OG Kush is a 55/45 Sativa dominant hybrid. It is arguably the best recognized strain of marijuana in North America. OG is so beloved because of the delightful mix of effects that it produces, and because of its typically high THC content. The uplifting head high it produces is accompanied by a feeling of complete physical relaxation. Because this strain is so well-rounded, it is useful for treating a variety of psychological conditions such as depression, anxiety, stress, and insomnia, as well as physical conditions such as pain and nausea.


  • Legalized Cannabis Could Curb Alcohol Consumption in Canada

    Legalized Cannabis Could Curb Alcohol Consumption in Canada

    Earlier this year, Wall Street research firm CFRA Research released a report indicating that the Canadian alcohol market should expect to see its sales numbers fall following the legalization of marijuana. The firm concluded that the legalization of marijuana will be a direct threat to alcohol consumption growth. In 2016, Canadian households spent an average of $1023 on alcohol products, up from $941 in 2013, and $890 in 2010. Analysts are now predicting these numbers to decline significantly due to “usage overlap”. In other words, because many of the same people who typically consume alcohol are also likely to consume cannabis. 

    The Canadian marijuana market has seen growth similar to that of the alcohol industry. According to StatsCan, since 1961, household spending on marijuana products has increased by an average of 6% per year. Moreover, cannabis has become cheaper, and more socially accepted by the older demographic that typically consumes more alcohol than cannabis. The average price per gram declined from $12 in 1989 to $7.50 in 2016. Additionally, 45 to 64 year olds accounted for only 4% of cannabis spending in 1975 but accounted for 23% last year.  

    Recent research from the US confirms that alcohol consumption falls in the face of increased marijuana availability. Researchers analyzed retail sales data for beer and wine in states that had legalized marijuana, and the counties that bordered them. They found sales fell by 9% immediately after legalization and had slumped as much as 13% two years later. 

    From a public health perspective, reducing Canada’s alcohol consumption is a very good thing. Alcoholic drinks can have negative effects on the brain, heart, liver, pancreas, and immune system. Alcohol interferes with the brain’s pathways and changes the way that it works, leading to mood disorders, decreased focus, and depressive symptoms. It can also seriously damage the heart by causing high blood pressure, arrhythmias, and strokes, among other things. Alcohol will also weaken the immune system, sometimes for up to 24 hours after drinking. Furthermore, alcohol abuse has been directly linked to cancers of the mouth, esophagus, throat, liver, and breast.

    Because of our public health care system, the burden of treatment costs related to diseases and conditions resulting from alcohol abuse (both physical and psychological) is shared by all Canadian taxpayers. As alcohol consumption declines in the face of legalization, this money could be put to better use in our economy. Like, for instance, by investing in marijuana production. Canada imports most of its alcohol and tobacco products, sharing that revenue with other countries such as the US, Australia, and New Zealand. By comparison, almost all cannabis products are produced locally, thereby keeping revenues within local Canadian communities. So whether you want to help yourself, or help the economy, consider making the switch from alcohol to cannabis. Many already have, and many more will soon.


  • How THC and CBD are Used to Treat Substance Abuse and Withdrawal


    How THC and CBD is Used to Treat Substance Abuse and Withdrawal

    In recent years, CBD has gained acceptance as a treatment for a large number of different conditions and illnesses. One of these conditions is withdrawal following substance abuse. Both THC and CBD have proven to be useful in treating withdrawal symptoms related to numerous drugs such as alcohol, opiates, and benzodiazepines (anti-anxiety drugs like lorazepam), just to name a few. 

    CBD is especially effective in treating withdrawal symptoms because of its anti-anxiety, anti-depressant, anti-psychotic, and pain relieving effects. CBD has not only shown to be effective during the withdrawal phase, but during other phases of addiction and substance abuse as well. CBD can even be helpful during the intoxication/active phase of an addiction, as it can decrease the euphoric sensation produced by opiates, rewire the reward process in the brain (upon ingestion of the drug), and thus reduce the attractiveness of the substance, and its potential for addiction. CBD has also shown promise as a post-addiction treatment in the prevention of relapses. CBD’s physical and psychological effects reduce the desire of recovering addicts to seek out any other substance. It is worth noting that studies on treating withdrawal with marijuana products have concluded that THC and CBD in combination are a much more effective treatment option than just one or the other. 

    As the opioid epidemic continues to unfold across Canada and the United States, rehabilitation practitioners are turning to unconventional treatment methods such as cannabis. According to an ABC15 report from last June, Blue Door Therapeutics, a Scottsdale Arizona rehabilitation clinic, is using marijuana to treat people with painkiller (opiate) addictions. Treatment with THC capsules has been successful in helping addicts to wean off of prescription pain pills like Oxycontin. In these patients, marijuana has been successful in mitigating withdrawal symptoms like headaches, nausea, muscle pain, depression, and anxiety. Moreover, because marijuana is not physically addictive, the treatment is not causing patients to replace one addiction with another, but is helping them reach a state of comfortable sobriety.

    THC and CBD have also been shown to be effective in the treatment of alcohol withdrawal. Withdrawal symptoms set in after the effects of the last drink have worn off and include depression, anxiety, irritability, tremors, heart palpitations, and extreme fatigue. The main way in which CBD treats withdrawal is by stimulating CB1 receptors in the body and brain, resulting in a rewarding feeling of satisfaction. The strength of this rewarding stimulation can be amplified by taking both CBD and THC. This stimulation eliminates cravings for alcohol, and significantly reduces that possibility of relapse.


  • Alternatives To Smoking – Healthier Ways of Consuming Marijuana



    Alternatives To Smoking – Healthier Ways of Consuming Marijuana

    Most people consume marijuana in one of two ways, by smoking it as plant matter, or by ingesting it as an edible. However, as marijuana products gain popularity via the legalization movement, consumers are being introduced to other products that offer healthier alternatives to smoking. These products allow health-conscious individuals to consume cannabis products while keeping their lungs clean and clear. Here are the 3 most popular marijuana products that don’t involve smoking…

    Vaporizers have steadily gained in popularity since the appearance of tabletop vaporizers like the Volcano and the Vapor Daddy in the early 2000’s. Nowadays, vaporizers have been redesigned and reconstructed to provide more convenience and mobility. Vaporizer pens can not only fit in the palm of a users hand, but can also be charged through USB ports, and can sometimes carry a charge for up to 200 puffs, making them the perfect tool for medicating on the go. Additionally, modern vaporizers don’t just vape plant matter, but also allow users to consume a variety of marijuana concentrates such as C02 oils, hash oils, and THC distillates just to name a few. Countless studies have overwhelmingly confirmed that vapor is not as damaging to the lungs and airways as smoke. 

    Edibles have traditionally been consumed in the form of baked goods such as brownies or cookies, and while these remain an option, new alternatives have arrived that give buyers more choices. THC and CBD capsules are completely odorless and completely discrete. Capsules allow users to consume marijuana anywhere, anytime, without raising suspicion. Additionally, because their contents are precisely measured and clearly marked, users will know exactly how much of each cannabinoid they are consuming. If preferred, concentrates like oils and distillates can also be swallowed and consumed just like edibles.

    Tinctures were extremely popular before the war on drugs but have fallen out of favour with marijuana culture over the past few decades. However, they are now making a comeback as a safer, cleaner, and more convenient way of consuming cannabis. Tinctures are made by infusing liquids such as alcohol, glycerin, or certain types of oils with cannabinoids like THC and CBD. They can be taken by either placing the liquid under the tongue, or swallowing it like an edible. If taken sublingually, the effects kick in almost immediately, and peak within an hour. If ingested, the high is similar to that of other edibles and will take longer to kick in, but also last longer. 

    If you are looking to make the switch to a cleaner alternative for consuming marijuana, consider trying out some of these alternatives. They might just convince you to put the pipe away!


  • 5 Best Marijuana Strains For Treating Insomnia




    5 Best Marijuana Strains For Treating Insomnia

    Struggling with insomnia? You are not alone. According to StatsCan, about 1 in 7 Canadians struggle with falling asleep or staying asleep. Sleep is essential to ensuring that our bodies and brains are able to function at a high level throughout the day. Many over the counter medicines and pharmaceutical products claim to alleviate the symptoms of insomnia. However, these medicines can oftentimes come with side effects that make it harder to get up in the morning, more difficult to concentrate during the day and cause dependency, making it more difficult to fall asleep without them. 

    Marijuana provides us with an all-natural treatment for insomnia that is free of side effects and is not addictive. When considering strains for treating your insomnia, keep an eye out for Indicas, as the body high they generate will relax you, eliminate any kind of anxiety or stress that may be keeping you awake, and lull you into a comfortable sleep. The strength of these effects is directly related to the amount of THC found in the plant you are ingesting, so also keep an eye out for high THC strains. To give you a start, here are 5 strains that are commonly known for their ability to induce sleepiness and treat insomnia:

    1. Afghan Kush

    Afghan Kush is a potent Indica strain that is notorious for its powerful sedative effects. It is capable of producing an overwhelming sense of relaxation that eliminates physical pain and anxiety, allowing the user to lazily and comfortably fall into sleep. The strong body high generated by this strain typically lasts 2-3 hours before receding, making it an ideal choice for helping you fall asleep, as it will not interfere with your sleep cycle later on in the night. 

    2. Grandaddy Purple

    This strain is known for its strong berry/grape flavour and its ability to induce strong head and body highs simultaneously. It produces a relaxing and sleepy body high similar to Afghan Kush which is accompanied by a somewhat stronger euphoric and happy head high. This strain will not only put you to sleep, it will do so with a smile on your face.

    3. Bubba Kush

    Bubba Kush is the strongest Indica on this list. It has the power to knock you out quicker, and produce more complete tranquilizing and sedative effects than any of these other strains. There is a tradeoff, however, as it has practically no Sativa properties, and will not produce anything close to the same psychological euphoria and happiness as some of these other strains. 

    4. Skywalker OG

    This strain is not to be confused with its close relative Skywalker, which is a more balanced hybrid strain. Skywalker OG is typically considered to be around 85% Indica and is capable of producing a similar body high as the other strains on this list while maintaining a small Sativa effect. 

    5. 9 Pound Hammer

    This strain is known for its high THC content, and its heavy and long-lasting sedative effects. The onset of this high is typically accompanied by a nice dose of euphoria that melts into relaxation and sleepiness over time. 


  • THC and CBD – What is The Difference?





    THC and CBD – What is The Difference?

    THC and CBD are two kinds of cannabinoids found naturally in the marijuana plant. They each have unique characteristics and benefits that are capable of treating a wide array of physical and psychological ailments. These cannabinoids can be isolated, removed from the plant, and placed into products such as vapes, capsules, and tinctures, which makes consumption more convenient and effective. Familiarizing yourself with both of these cannabinoids will help you to determine which one is ideal for incorporating into your treatment plan. 

    What is THC?

    THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) is the main psychoactive cannabinoid found in the marijuana plant. THC is responsible for producing the conscience altering head high that is most commonly associated with marijuana. Most strains of marijuana have a THC content of between 10% and 30%. The strength of the psychoactive high experienced will depend on the percentage of THC in the product that is consumed. THC stimulates the release of dopamine in the brain, resulting in an uplifting and euphoric feeling. Additionally, THC can cause other psychoactive effects such as the intensification of sensory experiences, increased appetite, the distortion of time, and an increased desire for socialization. THC is commonly used to treat symptoms such as physical pain, headaches, depression, stress, sleep disorders, nausea, lack of appetite, glaucoma, inflammation and side effects from cancer treatments. 

    What is CBD?

    CBD (Cannabidiol) is the second-best known cannabinoid in the marijuana plant. Whereas THC has gained a reputation for its psychoactive effects (as experienced through the euphoric head high it produces), CBD has practically no psychoactive effects whatsoever and will not alter your conscience, mood, or perception. Instead, CBD has become known for its medicinal properties and its ability to treat a variety of symptoms discretely and effectively. CBD produces a calming sedative effect that will still allow users to function normally throughout the day, with practically no side effects. Additionally, since it can be administered in forms such as tinctures, vapes, and capsules, CBD can be taken anywhere, and at any time when life leaves you feeling frustrated, stressed out, or incapable of concentrating. CBD is used to treat conditions such as physical pain, anxiety, depression, inflammation, arthritis, insomnia, nausea, and epilepsy. CBD is a particularly effective anti-inflammatory for joint pain and is considered to be a good choice for alleviating the pain that comes with various kinds of arthritis. 

    Since these two cannabinoids treat so many of the same conditions, it is recommended that users try taking them both at the same time for maximum effect. Pure Green Express carries a variety of products that contain THC and CBD. Check out our shop to see which products might work best for you.


  • The Advantages of Using Tinctures






    The Advantages of Using Tinctures

    Before cannabis prohibition and the war on drugs, tinctures were one of the most popular ways to consume cannabis. Tinctures are made by infusing cannabinoids like THC or CBD into a liquid medium. Most commonly the liquid used is alcohol (everclear), however, some tinctures can also be made with oils such as grapeseed oil, hemp oil, or coconut oil. Nowadays, the popularity of tinctures has plummeted, with many opting for more popular ways of consuming marijuana, such as smoking or ingesting edibles. However, tinctures offer many advantages over other methods of consumption and should be seriously considered. 

    For starters, when compared to smoking, tinctures are a much healthier way of consuming marijuana. For health-conscious consumers, tinctures provide a way to achieve the same result without the potential consequences of smoking. Using tinctures is a great way to keep your lungs clean and clear, while still reaping the recreational and medicinal benefits of the marijuana plant. 

    Tinctures can be consumed in two ways, depending on how quickly you want the effects to kick in, and how long you want them to last for. The most common way of taking tincture is by placing drops of it under the tongue. This allows it to enter the bloodstream immediately, and for effects to kick in right away. When consumed this way, the high produced by the tincture peaks within 45 minutes, and can last for 2 to 3 hours. If you are looking for a longer high with more body-oriented effects, tinctures can also be ingested (swallowed) like edibles. This method will mean that the effects will take longer to kick in, and will eventually peak into an intense body-high, similar to edibles such as brownies or capsules. 

    Tinctures also provide the ability to very effectively control dosage. Because the effects kick in so quickly, users can simply wait a few minutes and then decide whether or not to take more. Unlike smoking, when taking tinctures that are properly labeled, users can know exactly how much of exactly which cannabinoid they are consuming. This makes tinctures a much more convenient option for medicinal users who are following detailed treatment plans. 

    Lastly, tinctures provide users with a much more discrete option for consuming marijuana. Most tinctures are nearly odorless and will not arouse suspicion. Additionally, because there is no smoke or vapour being released into the air, nobody else has to know that you have consumed cannabis. 


  • Treating Anxiety With CBD







    Treating Anxiety With CBD

    While it may be hard to imagine for some, anxiety actually serves a beneficial purpose in human psychology. Anxiety can not only help us recognize and react to potential threats but can also motivate us to take action in response to certain situations. While these benefits may have served us very well in ancient times, nowadays anxiety is viewed as a disorder, and an obstacle to living happy, relaxed, and well-adjusted lives. Recent studies have shown that CBD (Cannabidiol) oil can be a particularly effective option for treating anxiety in both the short and long term. 

    While CBD does not produce the same euphoric, uplifting, or happy sensations as THC, it is capable of instilling users with a delightful feeling of relaxation. Instead of the psychoactive effects of THC, CBD produces pain relieving and anxiolytic effects, similar to those found in over the counter sedatives and anxiety medicines. However, over the counter, anti-anxiety medicines have a reputation for unpleasant side effects that can leave users feeling less sharp (cognitively) throughout the day and cause memory, dependence and withdrawal problems. Comparatively, CBD has minimal side effects and does not cause either physical dependence nor the unpleasant withdrawal symptoms that come with it. When administered responsibly, CBD is considered to be safe and well-tolerated. 

    Recent animal studies and human trials have demonstrated that CBD can be effective in reducing or eliminating anxiety altogether from test subjects. Following several animal studies, The National Institute on Drug Abuse concluded that subjects administered CBD had reduced stress, and fewer behavioral, and physiological symptoms of anxiety. A 2011 human study likewise concluded that, when compared to a placebo, test subjects administered CBD demonstrated reduced anxiety levels overall. Additional studies have also shown that CBD is capable of effectively treating a variety of anxiety disorders such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD), and may even treat anxiety-induced insomnia. 

    In addition to its anti-anxiety properties, CBD has been shown to activate numerous serotonin receptors in the brain. This means that CBD has the potential to treat other disorders that result from a lack of serotonin production in the brain. These include depression, substance dependence, and some of the negative symptoms of schizophrenia. 

    Human and animal trials have conclusively demonstrated that CBD can be used to treat a variety of psychological disorders including many different types of anxiety. Individuals currently treating their anxiety with over the counter medicines could benefit from switching to a treatment plan that is centered around CBD.


  • The Convenience of Disposable Vape Pens








    The Convenience of Disposable Vape Pens

    The global marijuana legalization movement has been accompanied by technological advances in the way that cannabis is produced and consumed. Look no further than disposable vape pens for evidence of how this progress has changed the way in which we consume marijuana products. 

    What Are Vape Pens?

    Vape pens are very similar in nature to electronic cigarettes. The main difference is in the kind of liquid substance that they convert into vapour. Electronic cigarettes are designed to convert nicotine-infused ‘vape juice’ into vapour, whereas cannabis vape pens convert THC/CBD infused oils into vapour. They do so by attaching a liquid or oil cartridge to a small, thin battery which heats up and converts the substance in the upper chamber into vapour. 

    Why Are Disposable Vape Pens So Convenient?

    Vape pens provide consumers with a healthier alternative to smoking. Studies have overwhelmingly shown THC vapour to be less toxic than smoke. Moreover, vapour dissipates quicker than smoke, meaning that the marijuana smell will be less obvious, and that there is practically no danger of smoke alarms being set off. 

    Vape pens also allow for a much more discrete method of consuming cannabis. The cartridges and batteries are odorless which means that, unlike with plant matter, nobody will know that you are carrying it or that you plan to consume it. Additionally, you don’t need to carry any extra materials like papers, pipes or lighters, which can take up space, get lost, or give off unwanted odour. Vape pens can be discreetly carried in your pocket or hand and can be quickly used within a matter of seconds. This means that consumers can use them in places or situations where marijuana is usually not tolerated, such as outside the office during a smoke break, inside of concert halls, or in non-smoking areas such as hotels.

    Whether it be a day trip through the city or a long road trip, disposable vape pens are much more convenient to travel with than other marijuana products. Because of their small size, they can be easily stored anywhere, and because they are odorless, they will not arouse any suspicions. Moreover, when the oil inside the cartridge is fully consumed, the pens can easily be disposed of and replaced. Vape pens are the ideal cannabis product for mobile dosing. 

    Smoking cannabis in public is still against the law in Canada, and the discreteness and mobility of disposable vape pens allows users to medicate without worry. Check out our shop for a variety of vape products. 


  • Sativa vs Indica vs Hybrid: What Are The Different Cannabis Types?

    Cannabis is continuing to become legalized in more and more places every day.

    This is good news for anyone needing the help of medical marijuana to deal with medical issues and symptoms. Now with easier access, more people can find the help they need.

    If you’re new to medical marijuana, it can feel a little overwhelming to read about the cannabis types that are available to you. The first place to start is to learn about general attributes and uses for each.

    Listed below is more information about all three types.

View Cart Checkout Continue Shopping