Category: Health

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General Health

Cannabis & Working Out

Cannabis smokers have a stereotypic image of sprawling on the sofa and staring at the ceiling surrounded by half-eaten snacks. However, that is not the case because there is always a way to channel the energy and high in the right direction. Cannabis can be taken before or after the workout session, and each of these timings has its benefits. Taking a few puffs before a workout can expedite your strength to perform strenuous cardio or increase your plank position time. Whereas smoking weed after the session can speed up the recovery process and aids quick healing.

Cannabis for a Better Workout Routine

There is no scientific evidence on how cannabis is helpful for aerobic exercise.

Most participants of the UC boulder study carried out to know about the effect of cannabis on workouts were reported to have a neutral impact.  However, it cannot be denied that cannabis can have many positive effects on the body. To know more about it, let’s get into a brief overview of the chemical composition of weed.

The cannabinoid profile of cannabis refers to the various cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. The most well-known cannabinoids are THC and CBD, but many others have been discovered like CBG, CBC, CBN, etc. THC is accountable for the psychoactive effects of cannabis. It is known to help reduce pain and inflammation and increase appetite. CBD is the cannabinoid that is most often used for medical purposes. It is known to help reduce anxiety and seizures, as well as treat a variety of other conditions. The cannabinoid profile of cannabis is constantly evolving, as scientists continue to discover new cannabinoids. The benefits of each cannabinoid continue to be explored, and more applications for them are constantly being discovered.

These cannabinoids can interact with the endocannabinoid system and allow the system to perform optimally. Research has shown that these cannabinoids can help improve the recovery process by reducing the amount of inflammatory markers in the body. Cortisol is one such compound whose excess quantity in the blood can have a negative impact on healing. Workout enthusiasts may have several damaged muscles after a workout. Quick heating mean you can hit the gym sooner than ever. Moreover, these cannabinoids can also help lower stress and anxiety, which are the key players of bad performance.

Side Effects of Cannabis

Cannabis may have some health benefits but its excessive use can cause side effects. Some of them are distorted perception, difficulty in thinking and problem solving, decreased motivation, and psychological problems such as anxiety and depression. Short-term effects of smoking cannabis include impaired short-term memory, dry mouth, bloodshot eyes, slowed reaction time, increased heart rate and anxiety. Long-term effects of smoking cannabis are similar to the effects of smoking tobacco. These effects can include risks to lung health, such as bronchitis and lung infections.

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Health

How to Combine Cannabis with Meditation

Without mincing words, cannabis and meditation are a perfect match. In fact, you have probably unknowingly meditated after getting stoned in the past. Although each of these two is an effective way to improve your body and mind, they are capable of complementing each other for optimized effects.

So, if you are thinking about combining cannabis and meditation, you have come to the right place as this article will explain how you can do it.

How to get started

Firstly, you must realize that there is no thumb rule for how to meditate when high. You can do so ceremonially with lit candles, serenading music or complete silence, mantra recitation, etc. Otherwise, you can just enjoy the combination in an unofficial, unceremonious manner.

Put simply, meditation is all about focusing your mind on a specific subject or item to improve your mental and emotional health. For example, you can focus on your breath as you try to clear your mind calmly.

It is noteworthy that meditation doesn’t involve lots of activities. It is all about creating a connection between yourself and higher consciousness. In this regard, cannabis can come in handy. How?

Generally, studies have shown that depression, stress, pain, and anxiety can be treated with meditation and cannabis. With the right cannabis strain, you can alleviate these mental health problems. As these issues are relieved with weeds, meditation can align you with your higher consciousness (mind). Therefore, you can get started today by combining cannabis and meditation to improve your mental health.

Examples of cannabis products for meditation

Different cannabis products offer a wide range of benefits, and some are known to be good for meditation. Our best picks for meditation include:

This product is an amazing gummy with premium cannabis oils. The hybrid gummies boast of having natural ingredients with some flavors and colorings. Featuring hybrid terpenes, KANHA Blue Raspberry 100mg Edible Gummies are recommended for meditation as they can keep you relaxed and uplifted.

3C FARMS Chemdawg Trails come with both Thai and Nepalese weed strains. Whether you want to meditate before or after a busy day at work, school, etc., you can take advantage of this cannabis product. It keeps you focused and connects you with your higher consciousness.

For more products that can aid meditation, check out MedLeaf Delivery.

Choose the right style of meditation

Just like cannabis products, meditation comes in varying styles. So, you need to select the right meditation style to enjoy its benefits. These are some of the common styles of meditation:

  • Mindfulness meditation

In this meditation style, you need to be present with your thoughts. You don’t have to be reactionary and can be practiced anywhere you want.

You can start this mindfulness by inhaling for about four seconds. Stop breathing for four seconds and then breathe out for four seconds. Afterward, hold your breath for four seconds and repeat the procedure.

  • Guided meditation

If you want to practice guided meditation, a teacher or guide has to assist you through some visualizations. You are positioned in imaginary conditions that will assist you to relax genuinely. This mediation helps you mentally, physically, and emotionally.

  • Transcendental meditation

This meditation style is all about reciting a particular sound or mantra repeatedly to get rid of any thought blocking your mind. You have to practice this meditation style for about 20 minutes or more. If done properly, it can assist you to relax and have a rest of mind.

So, if you love taking cannabis, it can help you to get more out of your meditation.

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CBD General Health

CBD to THC Ratios

When it comes to the euphoric high effect associated with cannabis, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the substance responsible for it. So, it does not come as a surprise that every cannabis user knows and loves this substance. Similarly, lots of cannabis users have heard a few things about CBD, which is another chemical inside cannabis.

The combination of CBD and THC makes cannabis better

If THC is combined with CBD, it will produce lots of exceptional medicinal benefits you cannot get from the weed you get from your local dealer. This combination leads to the Entourage Effect, which is a synergistic experience associated with the consumption of several cannabinoids at once. To get the desired medicinal effect, you will have to take a fewer amount of each cannabinoid.

Besides, the effects of cannabis on you will depend on the ratio of the cannabinoids available in it. For instance, you can use CBD to get rid of paranoia, anxiety, increased blood pressure, and other side effects of THC. Consequently, combining these two cannabinoids will give you an intense yet calmer high.

What should be the right cannabinoid ratios?

Generally, if a product contains both CBD and THC, it will have the ratio of these two cannabinoids written on its packaging. Assuming a product has 80mg of CBD as well as 20mg of THC, its packaging will have a ratio of 4:1 (CBD:THC). It should be noted that any of these cannabinoids may be more than the other or their quantities may be equal.

Today, there are tons of strains of flower with a significantly higher quantity of THC than CBD and other cannabinoids. For instance, you can come across a THC:CBD ratio of 300:1. While such a product can be great for recreational users looking for the high effects, its medicinal application will be substantially limited. Nevertheless, some cannabis growers are focused on producing flower strains with high CBD.

Various CBD:THC ratios

Nowadays, lots of flower strains naturally have a higher quantity of CBD than THC such as a 20:1 (CBD:THC). Such flower strains can come in handy for dealing with conditions such as inflammation, mood disorders, epilepsy, and depression. With any ratio higher than 12:1 (CBD:THC), the consumers can experience some signs of intoxication. Nonetheless, because people tolerate and react to THC differently, the intoxicating effect is not the same for everyone.

Despite its possible intoxication, the majority of cannabis users prefer THC as the most medicinal cannabinoid. However, CBD has proven to have a plethora of medicinal effects on varying syndromes and health conditions.

Nonetheless, you can get more medicinal benefits from cannabis by combining THC with CBD. But there is no straightforward method for finding the best ratio for you. You just need to experiment with it. You can also consult with our budtenders to learn about the best strains available.

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Concentrates Health

Cannabis Tinctures

There are numerous ways to take cannabis, and one of them is the use of tinctures. Generally, cannabis tinctures refer to cannabis dissolved in alcohol before it is taken. This method makes it easy for people to take and dose marijuana. Furthermore, the use of tinctures has been associated with the treatment of various conditions like low appetite, anxiety, chronic pain, nausea, insomnia, inflammation, and lots more.

Why do people choose cannabis tinctures?

Cannabis tinctures offer a wide range of benefits. So, it doesn’t come as a surprise that lots of people are using cannabis through this medium.

Here are some of the benefits of tinctures.

  • They are easy to use

When you buy a cannabis tincture, you will be offered a small bottle that has an eyedropper tool. Regardless of your experience, this product is so easy to use. Lots of individuals dose with 1 milliliter each time. They will place the dose under their tongue and allow it to stay there for about 15 to 20 seconds. However, the severity of your condition and your weight should be the main determinants of your dosage.

This method ensures that the cannabinoids are directly absorbed by your bloodstream. Your body will start feeling the effect of the product almost immediately. For maximum effects, don’t eat or drink for the first 15 minutes after taking tinctures.

Some users may experience alcohol irritation on their tongues. So, consider diluting the cannabis tinctures with juice or water to get rid of the taste of alcohol. Otherwise, you can add soups, sauces, sherbets, or salad dressings.

Apart from the possible unpleasant taste and irritation, there is no other problem with taking tinctures.

  • They are easy to dose

When using cannabis tinctures, you can test the effect of each drop on your body. As a result of this, it is easy to determine your minimum effective dose which is the minimum amount of the substance required to relieve your condition or pain.

Through this, cannabis tinctures can help you to save money as you don’t have to use the quantity you don’t need. Similarly, it helps to boost potency and maintain a low level of cannabis tolerance.

As a starter, you should use only half an eyedropper every three days. With this, you can determine the effect of cannabis on your body. Based on the results, you may need to maintain, reduce or increase the dosage during your next schedule for taking the tinctures.

To find the minimum effective dose, new users must only take a dose every 60 minutes. Additionally, you should put a small drop of the tincture under your tongue. If you don’t like the taste of alcohol, dilute the tincture.

  • They prevent smell

When smoking or vaping, you cannot avoid the smell of cannabis. Fortunately, dosing with tinctures can prevent the smell. So, this allows you to take cannabis without anyone suspecting you.

  • They are a better and healthier alternative to smoking, vaping and edibles

Asthma and various other health conditions can be worsened by cannabis smoking or vaping. In addition, smoked cannabis is associated with an increased risk of lung cancer. Besides, weight-conscious people are advised to avoid edibles. This is because edibles will add to their calorie intake; thus, increasing their weight.

Luckily, cannabis tinctures get rid of all these worries. They make cannabis consumption to be discreet and healthier for you and the people around you.

Conclusively, cannabis tinctures are one of the best options for anyone that needs to use cannabis.

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General Health

CBD to THC Ratios

When it comes to using cannabis, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the substance responsible for the euphoric high effect. So, it is not strange that every cannabis user knows and loves this cannabinoid. But THC is not the only important substance inside cannabis as there are many more, and cannabidiol (CBD) is one of them.

CBD is famed as the miracle substance that is capable of healing anything. However, there are some myths associated with this substance.

The combination of CBD and THC makes cannabis better

When CBD is combined with THC, it can offer some exceptional benefits that you cannot get from just smoking weed from your black market dealer. The combination provides The Entourage Effect, which is a synergistic encounter associated with the consumption of several cannabinoids at once. The more the number of cannabinoids, the lower the amount of each cannabinoid required to get a particular medicinal benefit.

The ratio of the cannabinoids available in your joint will determine the kind of effects that you will experience. For instance, CBD is capable of neutralizing increased blood pressure, paranoia, anxiety, and other side effects associated with taking lots of THC. Even if you experience an intense, calmer high, it will be manageable if you are accustomed to the high feeling associated with taking only THC.

A detailed explanation of cannabinoid ratios

Any product that contains CBD and THC will have a ratio on its packaging to indicate how the two compounds compare to each other. For instance, the packaging of a product that has 80mg of CBD and 40mg of THC will have 2:1 (CBD:THC). Notably, there is no fast rule for the ratio as THC may be higher, CBD may be higher, or it may be equal.

Nowadays, we have various strains of cannabis with significantly higher THC content but lower content of CBD and other cannabinoids. While such strain can be great for recreational users, it doesn’t offer enough medicinal effects. Nonetheless, there are cannabis cultivators and breeders that focus on making strains with high CBD content.

Varying ratios of CBD:THC with their different effects

If you are dealing with depression, epilepsy, mood disorders, inflammation and related issues, you can get immense relief from strains with a 20:1 (CBD:THC) ratio. But it is important to note that consumers can experience little intoxication when taking strains with ratios higher than 12:1 (CBD:THC). Nonetheless, this is not always the case because everyone has varying tolerances and sensitivities to THC.

Although intoxication is associated with high THC levels, most individuals prefer THC as the most medicinal cannabinoid inside marijuana. However, this doesn’t mean that CBD is not useful as it has cured some syndromes and diseases in adolescents and adults.

Nevertheless, when the two cannabinoids are combined, the efficacy of cannabis will increase. But no thumb rule for determining your ratio. You need some trial and error.

In conclusion, if your consumption of cannabis is for medicinal purposes, make sure you consult your doctor for recommendations on the frequency and dosage of use.s

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General Health

The Entourage Effect

The entourage effect is a commonly discussed topic when it comes to the consumption of cannabis. Simply put, it refers to the synergistic impacts of the different chemical compounds that cannabis contains. But there is more to know about this phenomenon.

Understanding the chemical compounds inside cannabis

To have an in-depth understanding of the entourage effect, you have to first know the most essential compounds inside cannabis.

  • Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are some of the most essential substances found in cannabis. They are known to stimulate the endocannabinoid system which is responsible for modulating appetite, sleep, pain, and several other bodily functions.

In a cannabis plant, there are more than 120 cannabinoids with each having its particular function. Some of the most common cannabinoids are cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). While THC causes the intoxication associated with marijuana, CBD cannot get you high.

  • Terpenes

If you have interacted with cannabis before, you will agree that the substance has some aroma. The aroma could be lavender, citrus, pepper, pine, etc. Terpenes are the chemical compounds that ensure that cannabis has these varying aromas. These compounds are developed in the resinous glands of the cannabis plant. It is worthwhile to note that spices, herbs, fruits, and other plants also contain some terpenes.

Apart from producing the aromas, terpenes are also believed to offer some therapeutic benefits. These benefits include reducing anxiety and inflammation.

More on the entourage effect

The combination of various cannabis compounds tends to change or improve the medicinal effects of the cannabis product. Additionally, the combination can also change the psychoactive effects and flavors of the products. Notably, some synergistic effects are formed through the integration of the different cannabis compounds. This phenomenon is called the entourage effect.

As a result of the entourage effect, the cannabis product will contain some properties that you cannot find in pure CBD or THC. According to a lot of cannabis experts, the entourage effect may play a key role in boosting the medicinal importance of cannabis. It could encourage the substances to interact with the endocannabinoid receptions in the central nervous system and brain to relieve some medical conditions.

What does the research say about the entourage effect?

In 1998, Professor Shimon Ben-Shabat and Professor Raphael Mechoulam conducted a study on the entourage effect. They discovered the cannabis compounds boosted the activity of the receptors in the endocannabinoid system. A few studies were carried later to confirm the claims of the 1998 study, and the discoveries were similar.

Another study was carried out by Russo in 2010 to check the effects of Sativex, a drug that contains both CBD and THC. The research had a group of people taking the drug as well as a control group taking only THC. The study showed that 40% of the patients experienced a substantial pain-killing impact of the product. When compared to the controlled group, the Sativex was more potent than taking only THC or CBD.

In 2016, research was conducted to study the effects of cannabis on people smoking pure THC as well as those smoking products with both CBD and THC. The result revealed that individuals taking only pure THC encouraged cognitive issues such as memory problems.

Through the analysis of these various studies, it could be inferred that the entourage effect created by the combinations of different cannabis compounds could make a big difference in the benefits of cannabis.

With more research on the entourage effect of cannabis, we may soon discover some amazing ways through which cannabis could change our lives.

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Endocannabinoid System General Health

The Endocannabinoid System: What is It and How Does It Work?

The body is made up of several systems which work together to ensure that humans function optimally. One of the most vital systems in the body is known as the endocannabinoid system. In this post, we will explain what this system is and how it performs its work.

What is the endocannabinoid system?

The endocannabinoid system is a nerve signaling system that is responsible for the regulation of the function of the central nervous system (CNS). This system also aids the maintenance of homeostasis, which refers to the state of body equilibrium. Homeostasis is essential for optimal functioning of the organs as well as the maintenance of emotional, cognitive, and physiological balance in the body.

How does the endocannabinoid system work?

To explain how the endocannabinoid system works, we need to describe its various major components and how they interact. The three components of this system are discussed below:

  • Endocannabinoids

These are the molecules that are produced in and by the body. Their effects and structures look like the cannabinoids found in cannabis plants. Currently, two types of these endogenous cannabinoids have been discovered. The first one is anandamide (AEA) whereas the second is called 2-arachidonoylglyerol (2-AG).

The body synthesizes these compounds based on their needs at any given time. Otherwise known as endogenous cannabinoids, these endocannabinoids assist in guaranteeing the smooth operations of the internal organs.

  • Endocannabinoid receptors

The endocannabinoid receptors are located in different parts of the body. For the endocannabinoid system to take any action, it must receive signals from the receptors after they have interacted with endocannabinoids. For instance, if you are dealing with an infection or injury that affects homeostasis, the endogenous cannabinoids will bind with the receptors to send a signal to the endocannabinoid system to modulate the homeostasis of your body.

The two types of endocannabinoid receptors are CB1 receptors and CB2 receptors. While CB1 receptors are in abundance in the central nervous system, CB2 receptors concentrate in the peripheral nervous system. It is worthwhile to note that endocannabinoids are capable of binding to any receptor. However, the location of the receptor will determine their effects.

  • Enzymes

Once the endogenous cannabinoids have performed their roles, they need to be broken down. Notably, two types of enzymes are in charge of the breakdown. Fatty acid amide hydrolase is responsible for breaking down AEA while monoacylglycerol acid lipase will ensure the breakdown of 2-AG.

Although numerous things have been studied about how this system functions, tons of things are still unknown. Hence, there is a need for further studies on how the system works.

Other body’s systems influenced by the endocannabinoid system

Expectedly, the endocannabinoid system doesn’t function alone as its performance affects other systems in the body. The affected systems include

  • Cardiovascular system
  • Central nervous system
  • Reproductive system
  • Immune system
  • Gastrointestinal system
  • Skeletal system
  • Metabolic system

Without a doubt, the endocannabinoid system is a vital system that stabilizes and promotes the internal processes of the body.