Marijuana has come a long way from the bud that you bought from your neighborhood dealer. In the united states alone, dozens of states have legalized medicinal and recreational marijuana, you can order your cannabis online with marijuana delivery services and you get professionally packaged edible products that contain the active ingredients. Indeed, marijuana has gone a long way but a new category is emerging that will challenge the status quo and will soon be available in all retail settings: cannabis beverages. Cannabis drinks are not a new phenomenon, and with the constant influx of new marijuana containing beverages, it begs the question: what are the categories of cannabis beverages available to consumers, and what should you try?
CBD Water
Mother nature’s life bringing ingredient just got pimped out, and you can now get your H20 infused with your other favorite 3-letter word, CBD. The best part of CBD infused water is that it truly is a healthier alternative to regular water because CBD has many proven benefits, including pain relief, improved sleep, and more. If CBD water is not your thing, try flavored sparkling water. You can get many different flavors and brands that not only can contain CBD, but also THC.
Wine
Feeling fancy? Well, cannabis just got classy with marijuana infused-wine. Although you are technically not allowed to call it wine, these beverages are made alcohol free and with similar processes and ingredients as your traditional wine. Drinking a glass of canna-wine brings cannabis culture to a new level as it is meant to be enjoyed and savored the same way you would your traditional wine.
Fruit beverages and elixirs
Because consuming cannabis within a drink is so easy, cannabis companies are coming up with creative and delicious ways to make beverages that contain marijuana. We all grew up with lemonade, juice, Kool-Aide, and many other sweet drinks so it is no surprise that there are now alternates that contain THC.
Soda
What is better than drinking cola or root beer? Getting a buzz afterward! When adding cannabis to a carbonated beverage the result is a drink that is not only delicious but also masks the cannabis aftertaste that you sometimes have with certain drinks.
Craft Cannabis-Beer
THC and CBD containing beer is made with the same process as the Bud Light that you are used to. The beer is brewed, and once ready it gets infused with either THC or CBD. Cannabis-infused beer, however, should not be confused with cannabis beer that is made by brewing the roots and stocks of the marijuana plant in place of the barley.
Tea
One of the most prevalent beverages in the world, tea has become a staple in many cultures. Users find drinking cannabis tea to be a relaxing alternative to smoking. The high is mellowed but the medical effect lasts much longer. Various flavors are available containing herbs and aromatic ingredients, including jasmine, chamomile, and others that together with cannabis produce a unique feeling combining the effects that those other herbs provide.
Aperitifs and Mixers
This is probably the most important as this is the most untapped subcategory with the biggest growth potential. With social interaction at the forefront, cannabis aperitifs and mixers are used in canna-cocktails in place of alcohol. With the infinite number of ingredients you can add to make your final drink this is the king of the beverage category that will one day make its way into regular bars and lounges as an alternate to alcohol.
Cannabis users often sit with the dilemma of having marijuana buds that have been sitting in the drawer for too long before smoking and now it is dry, smells like paper and you are wondering should you ditch it or keep it? The good news is that the only time you need to ditch your cannabis is when you see the presence of mold.
Mold is sometimes hard to notice, mainly because we are so inclined to gravitate towards “white” looking cannabis. The white parts that you see are called trichomes. Also called resin, this crystal looking covering on the cannabis buds are used as “Kief” when dried and is also the basis of hash production. Cannabis flower with an abundance of resin is also more potent and taking one sniff at your bud you will also notice the aromatic terpenes that are emitting from these trichomes. But, as mentioned you should not be fooled by thinking that your spectacularly white moldy buds are resin because mold can be dangerous for your health. The best practice to ensure your old bud is not moldy is to inspect the bud up close when it appears that the bud could be “too white” and if you see white webbing it could be an indication of mold.
So now you ask, but what should I do with my old cannabis that is not moldy but just too dry to enjoy?
How can I store my cannabis to prolong its life?
Here are 2 effective ways of making the best of your old marijuana
Edibles
Edibles are easily made by adding cannabis-infused ingredients to a recipe that requires a fat substance (like butter, oil, and honey). The main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis THC is absorbed by using a fat substance. When consuming cannabis with edibles the THC gets absorbed differently, giving you a delayed sensation compared to when you consume it by smoking or vaping. Consuming it this way you need to be mindful of your dosage. When ingested, edibles can take anywhere from 25min to 60min to take effect and will last longer than smoking. Because of the delayed onset, it is recommended to start with a small dose and work your way up to a bigger dose. The best practice is to portion off your baked goods, which will give you an indication of how much you can eat with the second dose to achieve the desired effect.
Kief
Popularly known as “Keef”, the glorious trichome crystals on the bud, Kief can be a great way to consume cannabis with a high concentration of terpenes and cannabinoids and can be made from old, dry cannabis buds.
The most common and perhaps the simplest method of making Kief is by rubbing the buds and plant material over a series of fine screens, sifting it to get the resin loose. Keep in mind that the severity of your sifting will affect the final quality of the Kief produced.
Once you have your sifted material, sprinkle it inside your joint to infuse it, or sprinkle it onto your packed bowl of cannabis (called “crowing a bowl”). Making kief is one of the best ways to turn your trash into gold and also one of the cheapest, fastest, and simplest ways to concentrate cannabinoids.
Here are 3 effective ways of storing and keeping your marijuana fresh
Use humidity control packets
When you go to your local cannabis dispensary, you might notice they have items put inside their bud containers together with the buds. They are called humidity control packets and they are designed to keep the marijuana fresher for longer. Putting it with your old weed will also revitalize it.
Store your marijuana in a glass
Glass jars and containers retain moisture much better than plastic and should be used instead if you want to prolong the life of your buds.
Fruit peel method
Fruit peel method
When your buds are drying out, or if you want to prevent any drying, an effective method of adding moisture to your buds is to place a fruit peel in a jar together with your buds and seal it up. The fruit should add some flavor to your buds by adding terpenes. Be careful to not leave the fruit peel longer than a day with your bud. You do not want too much moisture because things could get moldy.
Even though there are few things to celebrate with COVID-19 happening, it is important to keep a perspective about the significance of Mission Cannabis Club and other dispensaries being open during this time because they are an essential service. The reason why we are considered essential is because we provide a medicinal service for people. This is a significant precedent set by a medicinal and recreational state, especially when there will be future legal battles involving our livelihoods to come. The reason why cannabis is considered medicinal traces back to the mid-1990s. 1996 was a significant year because California voters passed Proposition 215, or the Compassionate Use Act of 1996. Prop 215 permitted medicinal cannabis use, regardless of it lacking normal Food and Drug Administration testing. Despite the lack of approval from American legal institutions and the medical establishment, Prop 215 was able to get passed with 55.6 % of the vote due to the work done by cannabis activists, including their legal and philanthropic allies.
One such activist was San Franciscan native, Dennis Peron. Peron’s advocacy stemmed from the passing of his partner, who used cannabis to treat his AIDS symptoms. He helped organize the passing of San Francisco Proposition P in 1991, however, Proposition P was not legally binding, but merely a declaration in support of medicinal cannabis. The California Legislature passed a bill that would have legalized cannabis for medicinal use, but was vetoed by Governor Pete Wilson. After being frustrated by Governor Wilson’s veto and the Clinton Administration’s apparent inaction in advancing the issue, Dennis Peron decided to collect Californian signatures to pass a voter lead referendum for the 1996 election.
Peron and fellow advocates, Dale Gieringer and Scott Tracy Imler established the Political Action Committee, Californians for Compassionate Use. Veteran activist Chris Conrad got involved to create a grassroots campaign of volunteers to collect the 400,000 needed signatures to put medicinal cannabis on the ballot. However, the PAC and volunteers struggled to reach the needed number of signatures; while facing a quickly approaching deadline. Fortunately for the activists,their cause brought enough national attention that major philanthropists such as George Soros, Peter Lewis, and George Zimmer intervened by hiring professional petition circulators. Hence, Prop 215 was put on the 1996 California Ballot. The next challenge that the activists faced was the political opposition to the referendum’s passing.
The opposition to Prop 215 included 3 former Presidents, anti-drug organizations, and State Attorney General Dan Lungren. The main opposition argument was that the law was too vague and could make it easier to obtain cannabis for non-medicinal use. However, supporters of the Prop included renowned oncologists such as Richard J. Cohen and Ivan Silverberg from San Francisco and Orange County Registered Nurse, Anna T. Boyce. They argued that Prop 215 helps terminally ill patients other than only cancer patients because cannabis besides being able to reduce pain from chemotherapy, it was also proven to reduce the effects of glaucoma, reduce the pain effects from AIDS, and reduce muscle spasticity and pain from multiple sclerosis, epilepsy and spinal injuries.
The arguments and enthusiasm for Prop 215 were enough to get it passed on Nov. 5, 1996 and made California the first state to legalize medicinal cannabis. But this did not mean that the debate surrounding cannabis was settled. For example, doctors who may have prescribed cannabis to patients, decided not to out of fear of having their medical license revoked. Also, federal authorities involved themselves to limit the prevalence of medicinal cannabis. Such methods used included performing criminal raids, prosecutions, civil injunctions, and threats of seizing property. This continued until the Obama Administration announced the end of raiding California dispensaries in March 2009. Even though it took 13 years after the passage of Prop 215 for medicinal cannabis to be allowed by the federal government, it helped sow a movement strong enough to legalize medicinal cannabis. The movement eventually grew towards states legalizing recreational cannabis.
When you have enjoyed a fair share of rolled marijuana, nibbled on edibles and used the standard CBD products, like lotions and capsules, you might start to wonder, “What’s next?” The answer, without a doubt, is concentrates.
Concentrates are cannabis products created to contain only the active ingredients of cannabis, so to speak, while removing the excess plant materials and impurities. When you use concentrates, you are enjoying a greater proportion of cannabinoids and terpenes.
If you have been around your local dispensary a time or two, you have probably seen and perhaps even partaken in concentrates. However, if you still aren’t sure what concentrates are or how to use them on your own, here’s a handy guide.
Concentrates come in dozens of forms, but almost all of them take on a golden-honey hue, which is why concentrates are often given nicknames like butter, earwax, sap and honey oil. Concentrates are made through various complex processes of extraction and refinement. Different types of concentrates are made in different ways; different parts of the cannabis plant, the method of extraction and the consistency of the concentrate all affect the final product’s quality and use.
Here are some of the more common types of concentrates you are likely to find at your local dispensary like Mission Cannabis Club or Weedmaps:
Parts of the Plant
Trim run. Made from the stems, leaves and discarded baby nugs, trim run tends to be an inexpensive concentrate that offers a decent high and a peppery flavor.
Nug run. A much higher-quality concentrate than a trim run, a nug run is made from marijuana buds and flowers, which contain the most cannabinoids and terpenes. This concentrate tends to be extremely potent and flavorful, but it tends to be pricey, too.
Extraction Process
Butane hash oil (BHO). Butane pulls out cannabinoids and terpenes to make an exceedingly THC-rich concentrate. Working with butane can be dangerous as well as toxic, so it is always best to buy this concentrate rather than make it yourself.
Propane hash oil (PHO). PHO is like BHO, but a bit better. Propane is a bit safer and easier to work with than butane, and PHO whips into an exceedingly smooth, buttery concentrate.
CO2. Extracting cannabinoids and terpenes with CO2 is exceedingly clean, but because it requires specialized equipment, the resulting concentrate also tends to be exceedingly expensive. Typically, only the best, high-end manufacturers truck with CO2 concentrates.
Dry sift. Kief or hashish is the powder-like substance left at the bottom of your grinder — and it is so beloved that it is produced and sold as a concentrate. When buds and other plant material are rubbed over a fine mesh, it creates a dry sift concentrate identical to kief.
Full melt. A derivative of hash, full melt is largely appreciated as the most potent, cleanest and overall best concentrate on the market — but it is difficult to make and even more difficult to find for sale.
Consistency
Shatter. Shatter looks and feels like glass; it is transparent, and it easily, well, shatters. Shatter is most often produced through BHO or PHO, and its quality can be difficult to discern. Plus, shatter is difficult to use because its high evaporation point makes it impossible to smoke; you need a butane torch or nail rig to vaporize the concentrate. Generally, shatter should be reserved only for the most experienced stoners.
Crumble. Made through baking at a low temperature for a long time, crumble is softer than shatter but still quite delicate and will fall apart when handled. This is highly potent and carries flavor, but is much easier to use — it works well with vaporizers and dab rigs.
Wax. With the consistency of honey, wax is one of the most widely available concentrates, so it is where many concentrate newbies start. You can use wax in a vaporizer or dab rig, but you should be exceedingly careful with dosage because it can be incredibly potent. You should expect wax to be about four times more expensive than bud.
Sap. Sap is solid at cooler temperatures but becomes runny when it gets warm, making it frustrating to work with. Still, sap is potent and also easy to find and obtain.
Pull-and-snap. If you want to be able to handle a concentrate with your hands, you need pull-and-snap, which feels exactly like taffy. Perhaps the easiest concentrate to work with, pull-and-snap is separated by twisting off the right amount and flattening it into a vape or dab rig — no mess, no stress.
Budder. Budder looks more like unbaked cookie dough than butter, but it is one of the purest, most potent concentrates you can get, with more than 90 percent THC. Because of its potency and its difficulty to make — it requires vigorous whipping during extraction — budder boasts an especially high price tag.
Rick Simpson Oil (RSO). RSO a small pellet that can be placed under the tongue for fast, easy absorption. Because RSO is absurdly high in THC, it is often reserved for medical use.
As is always the case when you delve into a new type of drug, you should start low and go slow when it comes to dosage. As your body acclimates to the higher potency of concentrates, you will start to appreciate just how powerful these cannabis products can be.
Wellness is a state of being; the act of participating in the health of one’s mind, body, and spirit. To be healthy and experience wellness we must take a proactive approach towards a balanced lifestyle and strive towards goals to better ourselves. We can do this intentionally through physical exercise, self-care, diet, social connections, and through herbs and plant medicine like cannabis.
CANNABIS IS ESSENTIAL MEDICINE
Mission Cannabis Club is proud to be a part of the cannabis legalization movement spreading throughout the country and the world. After decades of fighting to be recognized as medicine, we could not agree more with San Francisco government officials who, just this week, announced that cannabis IS essential medicine for San Franciscans. This is a huge win for the movement; we are one step closer towards helping people around the world gain safe access to this ancient plant medicine.
The San Francisco Department of Health stated earlier this week:
“Cannabis is an essential medicine for many San Francisco residents. Dispensaries can continue to operate as essential businesses during this time, while practicing social distancing and other public health recommendations.”
In times when the world feels like it’s crumbling around us, it is more important than ever to use all of the tools available to support our mental and physical health. Cannabis is one of nature’s most diverse and powerful tools, and we are thrilled to be able to provide it to our local community. So why did our local government decide that in this time of isolation, cannabis businesses should remain open?
CANNABIS FOR STRESS RELIEF
MCC serves hundreds of patients per day. In a recent survey of over 250 customers, when asked why they use cannabis, the number one answer chosen by 82% of respondents was relaxation.
This is quite incredible considering that high stress is related to serious physical and mental illnesses like heart disease, high blood pressure, anxiety, depression, sleep issues, digestive issues, headaches, and the list goes on. When faced with environmental stressors, which in this day and age are all around us, the body’s natural response is to produce the stress hormone cortisol which may cause or contribute to these health problems. The release of cortisol is a signal to the body that it is in danger, which causes other important bodily systems to crash, leading to sickness and disease.
It would be great if we weren’t constantly living in fight or flight mode but unfortunately, and especially with the current “shelter in place”, we are surrounded by fear which can be overwhelming to manage on our own.
We encourage taking a holistic approach to wellness: eating healthy, exercising, and expressing emotions to loved ones and/or health professionals. Cannabis is an essential medicine with properties that can decrease stress and increase relaxation. It can inspire euphoria in the mind leading to creative, uplifting thoughts, while also reducing inflammation and tightness in joints and muscles. This combination allows many users to feel physically relieved and mentally freed. You can think of cannabis as a rake, cleansing the mind of clutter and debris, leaving intuitive thoughts and ideas intact and it can do the same with physical tension in the body.
The next three responses in our survey were tied at 57%. These users reported using cannabis for mental health issues, pain relief, and sleep, while the next most common response was using it for creativity and productivity. We think all of these are connected to overall wellbeing and are valid reasons for cannabis to be deemed essential medicine.
At our recent CannaTalks event in the MCC lounge, attendees shared their own personal stories about why they love this plant medicine. Multiple individuals shared that it serves as a reliable ally in a turbulent world, and we completely agree.
Why do you use cannabis? We’d love to hear your reasons and stories at info@missioncannabisclub.com.
*We’d like to note that not all cannabis experiences are created equal, and some people have noted an increase in stress and anxiety when consuming. We recommend starting with a low dose (< 3mg for edibles, one or two hits when smoking or vaping) and working your way up, as increased dosage has been linked to anxiety responses. Chat with our Budtenders about the different strains and products to find the right one for you.
CANNABIS ESSENTIAL FOR SERIOUS MEDICAL CONDITIONS
About 15% of users in our survey reported using cannabis for a serious ailment such as cancer, and we know they are not alone. We see patients regularly treating either the disease itself or side effects of tumors, endometriosis, epilepsy, insomnia, just to name a few. These patients rely on cannabis to not only ease anxiety, but to provide physical relief from chronic conditions that would otherwise wreak havoc on their minds and bodies. Early research has even shown cannabis to be effective in fighting cancerous tumors in laboratory experiments, and we in the cannabis community are hopeful that cannabis will eventually be accepted as a mainstream treatment! This is not just a fun recreational drug; cannabis is an essential, life saving medicine. We are proud to live in a city and state that agrees that all citizens should have safe access to high quality cannabis medicine.
SAFE MEDICINE AT MISSION CANNABIS CLUB
Suffering or not, everyone deserves access to safe medicine to aid in their healing and wellbeing, whatever the degree of their ailment. In a time when our future is uncertain and stressors are high, we at MCC think it’s a great time to be high too.
We are currently operating with special hours from 11am-7pm for pickup orders, and we are proud to announce that we are officially offering delivery to the Bay Area!
Delivery is free in San Francisco proper with a minimum order of $50 pre-tax, and minimum order of $250 pre-tax to surrounding regions (north to Sausalito, East to Oakland, South to Redwood City), with a 10am-6pm delivery window.
To visit MCC, you must have an order placed and ready for pick-up prior to entry. This is extremely important as this allows for this process to be as efficient and safe as possible for our customers and our staff.
Do not visit if you are ill, please opt for delivery instead!
Social distancing at our store is mandatory.
Only our Cannabis Associates will handle displays and products.
Most people are familiar with the cannabis plant’s two VIP players: Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD). What many people don’t know is that the plant contains hundreds of cannabinoids, all with incredibly specific effects and benefits.
Diagram of the Endocannabinoid Receptors in the Human Body.
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is a human system (like the nervous system) which exists in all mammals. Cannabis plants contain cells that produce compounds called cannabinoids which are unique because the human body (and all mammals for that matter) can actually produce similar compounds. Check out our previous article “Getting To Know The Endocannabinoid System” to learn more about ECS and how it interacts with cannabis cannabinoids.
How Cannabinoids Work
Cannabinoids, terpenes and flavonoids are the foundation of the cannabis plant. These incredible organic compounds have been used for thousands of years to treat insomnia, pain, inflammation and even more serious conditions like cancer and Alzheimer’s. Cannabinoids work beautifully in humans because they mimic our body’s own endocannabinoids, which are produced in the brain and in various tissues throughout the body. We also have endocannabinoid receptors which are found in the brain and bodily tissues. When either our own endocannabinoids or cannabinoids from cannabis bond with our receptors, we get a physical response in the body.
TYPES OF Cannabinoids
You’ve probably heard of THC and CBD, but other well known classifications of cannabinoids include CBN (Cannabinol), CBC (Cannabichromene) and CBG (Cannabigerol). Each of those cannabinoid categories gets further broken down based on a number of different factors, one being decarboxylation.
This breakdown or shift in molecular structure can either happen instantly when cannabis is heated (IE sparking a joint) or can happen slowly when the plant sits untouched over time. But first, before decarboxylation, each of these cannabinoids exists in an acid form, noted by “a” next to its acronym. Although similar, the acid forms of cannabinoids actually have different properties, so as cannabinoids age or increase in temperature their molecular properties change.
Papa & Barkley Releaf 1:1 CBD:THCa Tincture
THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid)
Before the THC we know and love is activated by heat or decarboxylized, it is actually a different compound called THCA. Unlike THC, THCA is non-intoxicating and is the most abundant cannabinoid found in cannabis. The anti-inflammatory properties of THCA make it a great medicine for treating arthritis and epilepsy. It is also anti-proliferative, meaning it is able to suppress cell growth, especially the growth of malignant cells in tumors.
According to Cresco Labs, “THCA is an effective neuroprotectant, so it is beneficial in the treatment of such conditions as multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. It can also help to stimulate the appetite in patients suffering from cachexia and anorexia nervosa. Most impressively, research shows that THC-A helps to slow the proliferation of cancerous cells.”
THCa is slowly seeping into the legal cannabis market in the form of capsules and tinctures so that consumers can gain these benefits without the heady buzz of THC.
Δ9-THC (Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol)
THC is by far the most popular and (in)famous cannabinoid, mostly due to the high levels found in the plant and also because of the psychoactive euphoria it produces. THC is successful in managing pain, nausea, sleep disorders, anxiety, and appetite. It is also a neuroprotectant, meaning it protects neural pathways in the brain and nervous system, making it effective in treating neurodegenerative disorders. And of course, THC is psychoactive and will get you high.
THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)
Like THC, THCV is a psychoactive cannabinoid and is found primarily in Sativa strains. This cannabinoid has been named the Aderol of cannabis as it is known for boosting energy, increasing focus and suppressing appetite. It may seem contradictory as high THC sativa strains are typically perceived to increase anxiety, however the uplifting effects of THCV have actually shown to be helpful in reducing anxiety, and even preventing panic attacks, which makes it a great choice for treating PTSD or other anxiety disorders. It is also a neuroprotectant, meaning it can protect the central nervous system and slow down degeneration making it an ideal medicine for treating Alzheimers, Parkinson’s, and Multiple Sclerosis.
Δ8-THC (Delta-8-Tetrahydrocannabinol)
Delta-8-THC is less known than traditional Delta-9-THC mostly because it occurs in smaller quantities in the plant. Although similar, their effects do offer differences, such as Delta-8’s incredible anti-nausea properties and lesser psychotropic / intoxicating mental effects. Imagine the psychoactive benefits of THC but with a little less high and a little more clarity.
CBDa (Cannabidiolic Acid)
CBDa is the raw precursor to CBD. About a decade ago researchers started to notice similarities between CBDa, THCa and common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Ibuprofen due to their ability to inhibit the COX-2 receptor. You’ve probably heard that CBD is great for reducing inflammation, CBDa is actually even more beneficial as an anti-inflammatory agent.
CBDa has also been studied to treat nausea, especially in patients suffering from side effects of radiation and chemotherapy. One study even found CBDa a thousand times more powerful than CBD to reduce nausea and anxiety when administered alongside low doses of traditional pharmaceutical medications used for chemotherapy patients. It is also a powerful anti-convulsive agent that is more bioavailable than CBD, meaning it is more easily metabolized by the body and therefore its effects are enhanced.
18:1 CBD Care By Design Capsules
CBD (Cannabidiol)
CBD is sweeping the nation and rightfully so. We love this cannabinoid due to its wide range of benefits, without the high. CBD is recommended for patients of all ages and even species, including children, seniors, and pets!
CBD has gentle, anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxing properties which make it perfect for treating anxiety and sleep disorders. It has also been proven effective in treating both cancer and side-effects of cancer treatment, aiding in anti-nausea and fighting tumors. It is an anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and anti-convulsant cannabinoid found successful in treating seizure disorders as well.
Mary’s Medicinals Transdermal CBN Patch
CBN (Cannabinol)
CBN is quickly gaining a reputation as the sleepy time cannabinoid. CBN forms when THCA breaks down over time; typically fresh cannabis has no CBN present. CBN is mildly psychoactive and is commonly used as a sedative alongside other cannabinoids for maximum effect. It also has immune boosting properties that help with pain and inflammation related to arthritis and Crohn’s disease. Promising studies on glaucoma patients demonstrate the ability of CBN to reduce intraocular eye pressure as well as dilate blood vessels, increasing blood flow to the eyes which aid in relief. CBN is also an anticonvulsant, preventing or reducing seizures in patients suffering from epilepsy or other seizure disorders.
CBCa (Cannabichromenic Acid)
CBCa breaks down via decarboxylization and forms CBC. CBCa research is still in its infancy but early studies found successful results. Not only did findings reveal reduction in tumor size in rats with cancer, but also prevention of metastasis (spreading). CBCa shows signs of anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and analgesic (pain relieving) activity, but more research still needs to be done to confirm these findings.
CBC (Cannabichromene)
CBC is another non-intoxicating cannabinoid but works best in combination with CBD and THC. It has similar effects to CBN and CBG, such as it’s pain relieving, muscle relaxing and antibacterial properties. It also takes neuroprotection even further with encouraging brain cell growth, increasing memory and learning, making it ideal for those suffering from neurodegenerative disease. It is suggested to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, inhibit cell growth in tumor/cancer cells, and promote bone growth
CBGa (Cannabigerolic Acid)
Meet CBGa, the mother of all cannabinoids, responsible for the creation of THCa, CBDa, CBCa, and CBG. Most current research is focused on the cannabinoids created by CBGa and not actually on the compound itself.
Hangover ProTabs by Level: THCA, CBD, TBG, Delta-8 THC
CBG (Cannabigerol)
CBG is another non-psychoactive cannabinoid but is not as well known because it is found in trace amounts in most strains. CBGA breaks down to form other cannabinoids, and is found more commonly in low THC, high CBD strains, including hemp. Modern science is allowing manipulation of the plant so higher CBG strains are being created and becoming more widely available. CBG has been shown to decrease inflammation, pain, nausea and even slow cancer growth. Similar to CBN it has demonstrated promising benefits in reducing eye pressure in glaucoma patients and treating IBS and Crohn’s disease. Another interesting characteristic of CBG is its antibacterial properties; it’s has the potential to successfully fight bacterias that may be resistant to traditional antibiotics. The list goes on for this promising cannabinoid, with signs of fighting cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, anxiety and more. CBG interacts with cannabinoid receptors in our brain like THC does, however it actually relieves anxiety typically caused by high THC and is therefore a buffer to psychoactivity.
Summary
Moral of the story? This plant is magic, and we’re still discovering how powerful it truly is. The information above can be overwhelming but the main purpose of the article is to peel back the layers of the plant and dissect what we know, while keeping in mind what we don’t. The best way to receive all the benefits that the plant has to offer is to ingest a full spectrum product with a range of cannabinoids. If you’re dealing with a specific issue, there are new products entering the marketing that are tailored to individual cannabinoids that may be beneficial for your ailment.
With all that said, the content provided by Mission Cannabis Club is not intended to replace information provided by your medical professional regarding diagnosis or treatment. Always talk to your physician or a qualified health provider before making any changes to your medical program. And remember that in addition to cannabis, diet and lifestyle play a huge role in many chronic or even serious conditions.
Please chat with our team of Budtender’s if you have any questions and let us know if you’re seeking any specific cannabinoid product, we’re happy to look into it for you!
Cannabis has an extensive list of benefits, and reducing anxiety is definitely one of them. However, it seems that there’s a 50/50 split in consensus on whether cannabis actually aids anxiety or increases it. Read on to learn why both may be true.
Not all cannabis is created Equal
Before we dive into the effects cannabis has on anxiety, it’s important to note that cannabis influences everyone differently, and can even affect the same person differently depending on the specific type or consumption method. There are thousands of cannabis strains that exist and with legalization sweeping the nation (yay!) genetics are being crossed to create even more flower varieties. Each strain has a unique chemotype: a blend of cannabinoids and terpenes which cause diverse flavors, scents, and physical effects.
CANNABINOIDS
THC
The most common cannabinoid is Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol, also known as THC. If you’ve experienced cannabis induced anxiety it’s likely you consumed (too) high levels of THC. The intoxication felt by THC can increase emotional anxiety due to an increase in racing thoughts, but the effects are not only mental. THC can also elevate heart rate and blood pressure which contributes to feelings of anxiety.
THC alone does not cause stressful thoughts or feelings; the amount of THC plays a large role, as well as your state of mind when you consume THC. Micro-dosed levels of THC have actually been shown to help with certain types of anxiety by providing euphoric, uplifting feelings which can combat anxiety and depression. If you are in the midst of a panic attack, a high THC strain may exacerbate symptoms, while taking a small sublingual dose can help to prevent anxious thoughts from occurring and can even increase serotonin and dopamine, causing almost instant relief.
CBD
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is commonly referred to as non-psychoactive but that is not entirely true. CBD does in fact interact with our brain chemistry so a more accurate description is that CBD is non-intoxicating or non-psychotropic; it is not a mind altering substance. High amounts of CBD have muscle-relaxer like symptoms including relaxed muscles, drowsiness, heaviness, decreased inflammation and calming of the mind, to name a few.
The explosion of CBD products in the market has been positive for the mainstream acceptance of cannabis as medicine, but unfortunately it has created a good guy / bad guy dynamic within the cannabis space. People are fearful and avoidant of THC while diving into CBD without questioning product quality, dosing, or other important factors.
While CBD does have a plethora of benefits, it’s important to know where your products are coming from. Buying CBD on Amazon and feeling zero benefits, or on the contrary feeling uncomfortably affected does not mean that CBD won’t work for you. Some of the non-tested, grocery store CBD has recommended doses of upwards of 30mg; In the legal cannabis marketing we suggest starting with 2-5mg! You can see how consumers can get confused and turned-off by negative experiences.
As mentioned above, all cannabis is not created equal, and sometimes it’s the combination of THC and CBD that creates the ideal outcome, or simply finding a higher quality medicine with the specific compounds that work well with your body chemistry. We find anywhere from a 1:1 ratio to a 20:1 CBD:THC ration can be helpful to combat anxiety and a wide range of other ailments.
THC and CBD are two of hundreds of cannabinoids found in cannabis! THCa is another common, non-intoxicating cannabinoid that can reduce anxiety amongst other benefits. Begin reading labels or you can even request the testing results of cannabis products to see what other cannabinoids you’re ingesting. That way you can understand the effects and make connections to what combinations make you feel a certain way.
Pro-tip: If you are feeling “too high” and anxious, consuming CBD can actually decrease the unwelcome psychoactive effects of THC. We recommend always having a CBD tincture on hand for quick acting, sublingual relief.
TERPENES
Terpenes are naturally occurring compounds that contribute to the flavors and fragrances in plants or fruit, including cannabis. They are secreted by Trichomes, the glands on the cannabis leaves and flowers. Similar to cannabinoids, Terpenes interact with receptors and neurotransmitters and have the ability to increase serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. They can help the body to experience pleasure and relaxation, as well as increase energy levels and focus.
You’ve most likely enjoyed the benefits of terpenes without realizing it. They are what give pine its fresh, earthy, awakening smell and explain why the flowery scent of lavender causes an instant, body melting sensation. They essentially explain the science behind aromatherapy.
Myrcene
Myrcene is a terpene abundant in ylang-ylang, basil, and lemongrass, as well as cannabis. It acts as a sedative that is also known for combating inflammation and anxiety. Common strains that contain high levels of Myrcene are GrandDaddy Purple, OG Kush, Grape Ape and Blue Dream. Myrcene is one of the most commonly found terpenes in cannabis so keep an eye out and do some research into what you’re consuming.
Linalool
Linalool is the terpene in lavender that is known for its stress and anxiety reducing effects. It’s typically found in lower percentages in cannabis, however Do-si-do and Zkittles are two well known strains that contain high levels of Linalool, so when choosing strains to combat anxiety these would be a good starting point.
Each strain has a combination of cannabinoids and terpenes. The benefits that happen when these are blended together are know as the Entourage Effect. This specific mixture of terpenes and THC/CBD can actually increase the affects of the cannabinoid even if the percentage is low. This is why us retailers cringe when customers balk at low THC levels, but that’s a story for another day!
Not All Anxiety Is Created Equal
We are currently surveying our customer base (take the survey here!) to do our own research on who is using cannabis in 2020 and why. The early findings have been fascinating with 78% of users stating they consume cannabis for relaxation. It is the top reason our client base is using cannabis, while 50% of users stated they use cannabis for combating anxiety, depression, or PTSD.
If you want to try cannabis to manage anxiety, here are a few tips:
Consume a measurable dose: try pre-dosed capsules, edibles or tinctures so you know exactly how many milligrams you are consuming.
Micro-dose: Start with 1-3mg and wait! Continue increasing in 1mg increments until you find your happy place. If you want to smoke, take one or two small hits and give it a few minutes to decide if you need more.
Be patient: you probably won’t find the right product on the first go, and that’s okay! Don’t let a negative experience deter you, remember almost 80% of our customers enjoy cannabis because it helps them relax!
Ask for help: cannabis is only one possible medicine to help reduce anxiety symptoms. Talking to a therapist is always the best solution for working through anxiety and getting to the root. Don’t be ashamed to speak out and seek guidance. Talk to a health professional to discuss your options.
The bottom line is this is a complex issue and there is not a one size fits all solution. Understanding both cannabinoids and terpenes and then applying that knowledge to your specific anxiety symptoms is crucial to finding the combination that works for you. It’s also extremely important to understand that self-medicating with cannabis can lead to dependency and may only provide short-term relief. We strongly encourage you to seek guidance from a mental health professional while you experiment with managing your anxiety.
Thanks for being a part of the Mission Cannabis Club community! We are passionate about helping patients find the right medicine for their needs, so please don’t be shy. Chat with our budtenders or request a one-on-one consultation to dive deeper into products that may be helpful for you.
We were lucky to have a representative from CannaSafe on site last week to discuss the findings of their recent study of elicit, black market vape cartridges. The findings were scary, but not for the reasons we were expecting.
Factors Contributing To Vape Related Lung Illnesses
Cutting Agents
A cutting agent is a chemical or natural filler used to dilute a drug with a less expensive substance to lower costs. Not all cutting agents are harmful on their own, but when heated at high temperatures the agents tend to change. The black market uses fillers to thin out cannabis oil so that they can stretch their margins. This results in a lower potency product but also some harmful and frightening side effects.
Vitamin E Acetate was found in the lungs of all patients with fatal vape related illness, but that is not the only cutting agent on the market. MCT Oil, otherwise known as coconut oil that is liquid at room temperature, was another common cutting agent found in CannaSafe’s study. While coconut oil is harmless to eat, there isn’t much research done to know if it is harmful when heated and vaporized. Would you put coconut oil in a bowl and smoke it? One could infer that this may not be the healthiest, but ultimately, more research is needed.
Another more startling finding was the chemical Polyethylene Glycol, which is most commonly found in over the counter laxatives! While this substance can also be found as a filler in Pharmaceuticals, this chemical is not meant for inhaling.
Temperature
Another factory that contributes to the dangers of vaping is the volatility that happens when oils are heated above their ideal burning point. Even in the legal cannabis market companies are not required to list the recommended burn temperature, meaning that a healthy, high quality oil could become harmful if heated. Overheating oils can lead to off-gassing which happens when the molecular structure of the oil changes at high temperatures.
CannaSafe tested this by overheating oils to measure gasses that were released. “We found that even the oil in legal cartridges broke down into unfavorable chemicals when vaporized at higher voltage settings”. They measured levels of Carbon Monoxide, Hydrogen Cynonide and even Formaldehyde! This is horrifying, and what’s more is that they discovered harmful gasses being off-gassed even in higher quality, legal oils.
What can we do? CannaSafe stressed the importance of investing in a good quality battery, ideally one that is from the same company as the cannabis extract. In theory, the manufacturers battery should be designed to burn at the proper, safe temperature for that oil. You should also make sure to use the matching battery charger for the safest use of the battery.
Flavoring
Currently there are no regulations on adding flavoring to vape cartridges. Companies can use cannabis or non-cannabis derived terpenes to add flavors and smells to vapes. Terpenes are essential oils found in plants and fruits. Limonene for example is the natural compound that gives lemons and limes their tart, sweet smell and flavor, which is also found in Super Lemon Haze.
Terpenes can also be made artificially in a lab, but where are they coming from? The truth is when flavors are added, companies are not required to disclose the process or origination of them. There is currently no research on the effects of flavor additives on health.
Hardware
Hardware is the last factor and is equally as worrisome as the rest. In CannaSafe’s study they found that lower quality hardware was potentially leaching heavy metals into the cannabis oil! A phase three testing series is needed to validate these findings, but CannaSafe did find low amounts of heavy metals in even high quality oils that did NOT contain the metals before being used with a battery.
Currently the BCC does require heavy metal testing in the legal market, and the legal limit for lead is .5ug/g. The findings in illicit vape cartridges were 8.864ug/g!
According to CannaSafe, “Consumers who are able to spend more money on their vape hardware can benefit from engineered solutions that allow for direct control over temperature.”
Conclusion
More research needs to be done, and we need to shop in the legal market! When comparing Black Market Vapes to Legal Vapes the results were clear: Legal, tested products have lower levels of heavy metals (if any) and less chemical cutting agents (if any). More factors need to be studied, like the effects of added terpenes, but to be safe we recommend buying only the highest quality oils with an equally high quality battery.
Consumers need to ask questions and demand that brands be transparent with their manufacturing process and ingredients. Be smart! It’s worth spending $10 more on a battery that will not only last longer but will prevent the leakage of heavy metals into your lungs.
If you have any questions, please chat with our Budtenders about what concentrate company may be the right fit for you. We also encourage you to reach out to your favorite concentrate brands and ask them about their practices! The cannabis industry is one of community and growth, and ultimately healing, so don’t be shy!
The holidays are officially upon us and with them come the ups and downs of family time. We know it’s stressful! It can be tough to break away from the group and take a second to relax with your favorite stress reducing plant. What if you could enjoy cannabis without offending any of your family members?
Discreetly Enjoy an Edible
Since lighting up a joint in front of Grandma is probably a bad idea (unless your grandmother is a badass, in which case, please continue blazing with granny), you have to find a way to enjoy cannabis without offending the more conservative family members. This is where edibles can help – they are perfect for getting your fix on the DL. Generally speaking, edibles take around 30-45 minutes to take effect and can last up to five hours. Keep in mind that with a full Thanksgiving belly edibles can take up to two hours to hit!
Dompen Disposable Vape: Chamomile 18:1
Bring your Vape Pen
Vape pens are an excellent option for people wanting to get high on the low for numerous reasons. First, the vapor produced by vaporizer cartridges is not nearly as thick or pungent as cannabis smoke, so smell becomes a non-factor. Secondly, vape pens are really easy to carry in your pocket and hit anywhere, anytime (within the rule of law, of course). If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your family, or cooking responsibilities, or if wild holiday travel has you down, vape pens can be clutch for uplifting your spirits in situations where sparking up a joint just isn’t an option. CBD vapes are also a thing in case you want to take the edge off without the buzz.
Tinctures + Capsules
Tinctures and capsules are super effective methods of dosing under the radar. They can pack easily with your toiletries and you can choose how little or how much emotional assistance you need! Tinctures are administered under the tongue, are amazing for microdosing and the effects are felt with 15 minutes. You can also add to your holiday beverage! Capsules are more like edibles in that they take longer to kick in so wait at least an hour before taking another.
Care By Design 4:1 Capsules
Spice Up Your Holidays with Some Mission Cannabis Club Cheer
Before heading out of town for Thanksgiving, stop by Mission Cannabis Club to get some party favors that will take your meal to the next level. We have some incredible edibles by Potli that can elevate your favorite holiday dishes.
Potli THC Chili Oil | 10mg
THC Chili Oil
Potli’s chili oil comes from their co-founder’s family recipe, passed down through generations and continents. Fragrant and lightly spicy, it’s the perfect add on to soups, salads, or anywhere else in your day where a little heat might be needed.
Potli’s THC Chili Oil is best used as a meal topper, and we suggest adding it to some Thanksgiving classics like mashed potatoes, stuffing, or on top of the whole plate!
Heat-Activated 1:1 Olive Oil
Potli’s cannabis infused extra virgin olive oil is a substitution for your normal cooking oil. Potli’s olive oil is 250mg CBD / 250mg THCA, so you’ll feel blissed but not buzzed if you enjoy it raw. When it’s heated, the THCA converts to THC making Potli’s olive oil great for sautéing, baking, or adding into any dish that’s cooking on the stovetop if you DO want the extra kick.
Potli Going Up THC Raw Honey | 88mg
INFUSED Honey
Want a sweet way to meet your stoner needs? Well, Potli has you covered with their Going Up THC infused honey, as well as their Coming Down CBD honey. Potli’s THC infused honey has 88mg of THC and it works perfectly as an addition to homemade salad dressings or as a glaze. Going Down contains 150mg of CBD and is perfect for that after dinner tea! Potli’s honey is a great topper that can make any dish sweeter and take it a little higher.
Not that we need to say this, but consent is required! Please don’t dose your family.
The holiday season at Mission Cannabis CLUB
Shambhala is out and Mission Cannabis Club is in! You’ve noticed our shop has been a construction zone for a while, but we’re almost done! We are so excited for you to visit and enjoy our new space. With the larger storefront comes more products, so please let us know what you want to see!
MCC already has everything you need to make your holiday season a bit more stress-free. Whether it’s packs of pre-rolls or any of our edibles, we have the cannabis products that can make just about any situation a bit better. We recommend sharing with friends and family! Cannabis makes a lovely holiday treat that is great for gatherings.
If you have any question about cannabis, CBD products, or the industry at all, then visit our dispensary. Our team of budtenders are the leading cannabis experts in San Francisco, and we are happy to answer any questions that you may have. Together, we can help find the right products for you so that you can safely enjoy cannabis.
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is a human system (like the nervous system) which exists in all mammals. Cannabis flowers contain cells that produce compounds called cannabinoids which are unique because the human body (and all mammals for that matter) can actually produce similar compounds. This system helps to explain how cannabis works, but cannabis is not why it exists.
History of the Endocannabinoid System
THC was first isolated in 1964, but it was not until the late 1980s when scientists were researching the effects of THC on the body that they found an existing system which produces chemicals that act very similarly to cannabinoids. Further research into the 90s enabled the cloning of CB1 and CB2 receptors found in the brain and immune systems. It was later discovered that the ECS exists in humans and mammals, is formed before we’re born, and actually assists with development of our brain synapsis in utero. The most important thing to note is that this system exists even if one has never consumed cannabis.
Multiple human and animal studies support that the ECS plays a role in regulating memory, mood, addiction, immunity, sleep, pain, appetite and metabolic processes such as metabolism and energy balance.
How does the Endocannabinoid System work?
The ECS is designed to respond to our environment, similarly to how our body automatically produces adrenaline when we experience a threat. Our body produces endocannabinoids in the brain and in various tissues throughout the body. We also have endocannabinoid receptors which are found in the brain and bodily tissues.
When the endocannabinoids and the receptors bond, we get a physical response in the body. Endocannabinoid levels can increase due to hunger, stress, pain, exercise, and other factors which lead to increased appetite, pain relief, relaxation, etc. You can think of the ECS as a system that helps to balance our other systems.
CB1 and CB2 Receptors
CB1 receptors effect the central nervous system and are found predominantly in the brain and spinal cord. They assist with behavioral and cerebral activities like memory, thought processes, feelings and emotions, physical motor control, appetite, and pain perception.
CB2 receptors are found in the immune system as well as the peripheral nervous system. CB2 receptors to not typically relate to cerebral or emotional stimulation. Activating these receptors can lead to anti-inflammatory responses, pain relief, muscle relaxation, and even increased immune support.
Cannabinoid receptors are found all over the body and in every major system, reproductive organs, connective tissues, bones and even on our skin.
Plant Medicine and ECS
To get a better understanding we can turn to other plant medicines that work similarly. Morphine for example is an opioid found naturally in poppies. Morphine binds with opioid receptors in the human brain and body blocking pain and flooding the body with dopamine. THC and CBD interact similar with our endocannabinoid receptors, blocking one action and causing another.
How Cannabis Fits In
Think of our endocannabinoids as keys and our CB1 and CB2 receptors as the locks. Cannabis cannabinoids like THC act as an alternative key for our endocannabinoid receptors. THC can either mimic or disrupt the specific function its intercepting (appetite suppression VS increased appetite) which depends on a number of factors.
When we ingest cannabis, cannabinoids such as THC or CBD replace our own endocannabinoids and “lock” into the “key” that are our receptors, thus causing a physical reaction to occur in our bodies. THC tends to link up with CB1 receptors which helps to explain the cognitive and euphoric effects that we experience when we consume it.
THC is just one example of over 100 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant! Others include CBD, CBN, THCV, CBG, and the list goes on… which is its own topic for another day.
The ECS is so intelligent that when it interacts with cannabis, the system is designed not to over-activate. When we consume THC our body’s natural levels of endocannabinoids decrease which also helps to explain how our cannabis tolerance increases with usage.
What’s the difference?
The main difference between our natural endocannabinoids and cannabinoids found in cannabis are how they interact with our receptors. THC can cause multiple effects at once and is not as precise as our natural endocannabinoids, which is why certain strains have multiple effects.
Our own ECS system has the same ability to create mood altering or effect-causing compounds, but through individual compounds. Anandamide, named after the Sanskrit word ananda meaning “joy, bliss, delight”, is a feel good, euphoric endocannabinoid that we produce naturally. It also binds to CB1, so in a way consuming cannabis is just an alternative way to initiate and mimic a naturally occurring reaction in our bodies.
Learn more at MCC
There is so much to learn about cannabis! The above is just an introduction to the ECS and we know it can be a bit shocking but we encourage you to do your own research and find an explanation that makes sense to you.
We’re excited to offer more educational resources with the opening of our new consumption lounge this January! Make sure to stay tuned for talks and networking events where we can learn all there is to know about this powerful plant. If you have any questions, you can always reach us at info@missioncannabisclub.com or stop on by!
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