Exploring the Spectrum of Cannabis Consumption

In the ever-expanding realm of cannabis products, consumers are presented with a dazzling array of choices, each catering to different preferences and wellness goals. From topicals to tinctures, the cannabis landscape offers a diverse range of consumption methods for everyone out there. Understanding the benefits and distinctions between these various options is crucial for individuals seeking the most effective and enjoyable way to incorporate cannabis products into their daily routines. 

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In this article, we delve into the intricacies of each product category, providing some insight into their unique attributes and how they contribute to an enhanced experience. Whether you’re a seasoned vet or a newcomer, this guide should hopefully shed some light on the multifaceted world of CBD and THC consumption!

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Unveiling Tinctures: A Comprehensive Guide

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Tinctures are liquid extracts that contain a variety of cannabinoids and offer a discreet, user-friendly way to explore the benefits of cannabis. Made by infusing plant material, including flower and leaves, into alcohol or glycerin, tinctures can be used orally to deliver targeted effects that are easily controlled by the consumer.

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THC and CBD tinctures are often favored for their potential as sleep aids, while those containing higher levels of CBN (a sedative cannabinoid) may be particularly beneficial. Additionally, tinctures that are high in THC can stimulate appetite and alleviate nausea, making them useful for individuals with conditions like cancer or rheumatoid arthritis.

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Research suggests that in community samples, self-reported cannabis use is associated with lower levels of partner aggression (both physical and verbal) and a greater prioritization of humanitarian behaviors. Moreover, EA veterans undergoing treatment for PTSD report that cannabis significantly reduces their negative mood states and improves coping mechanisms (National Center for PTSD). In some cases, these improvements are reported in combination with other forms of cannabis consumption.

Flower Power: The Art of Cannabis Bloom

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Cannabis can be used in a number of ways. From flower to capsules, the different components of the plant can be extracted and used in a variety of ways. But before they can be used to create cannabis products, the cannabinoids must first be activated through decarboxylation. This process converts the inert cannabinoids into active, psychotropic compounds.

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Using a variety of methods, the author explores how various strains can be decarboxylated to unlock their potent, medicinal properties. This useful guide is full of practical tips, making it a great resource for anyone looking to try out this versatile method.

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Enzo Schillaci has once again mastered the art of presenting complex cultivation subjects in an easily digestible format. His thorough exploration of the flowering cycle of cannabis plants is a testament to his deep understanding of plant biology and hands-on experience in the field. This blend of knowledge and expertise makes his insights not only reliable but also practically applicable, a true gift for any cultivator.

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Dazed8 is more than just top-tier marijuana strains; it’s a lifestyle, a pursuit of excellence that elevates the quality of both recreational and medicinal experiences. The brand’s daring aromas and bold flavors represent an entire ethos of premium craftsmanship, and their energizing cerebral effects make them ideal daytime smokers.

Edibles Decoded: A Culinary Cannabis Journey

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The culinary cannabis world embraces a wide spectrum of recipes that pair strain-specific terpene flavors with complementary foods. The resulting fusions, in turn, elevate a regular meal into a culinary adventure. For example, a zesty citrus strain could pair beautifully with a lemon tart or seafood dish, while a piney indica might complement a rosemary-infused roast.

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Edibles comprise roughly 11 percent of the market and are increasingly popular among consumers. In fact, anecdotal reports indicate that many prefer edibles because they offer a discreet and private experience while alleviating the lung-damaging effects of smoking. Furthermore, they don’t generate secondhand smoke and allow a patient to take in the effects more slowly and at a controlled rate.

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Regardless of why consumers choose to consume edibles, the fact remains that they are notoriously inconsistent in their potency and effect duration. In fact, a recent study found that the total D9-THC content of 83 percent of edible products tested deviated from their labeled amount, with more than half containing significantly less than claimed. 

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(Let’s just be clear - that’s not what we do here!)

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Chef Jeff Sayegh is on a mission to change this discrepancy by providing bar, nightclub and restaurant operators with the facts about cannabis-infused food products so they can educate their local lawmakers on how to best regulate them. To do so, he has developed a lab-based extraction process that allows him to precisely determine THC and CBD dosages in his creations.

Topicals: Cannabis Beyond the Surface

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Cannabis is an intoxicating plant that can be smoked, eaten or vaped. It contains tetrahydrocannabinols (THC) that create psychogenic effects, as well as CBD, a non-psychoactive cannabinoid. It can be found in the form of dried infructescences (“buds” or “marijuana”), resin (hashish) and various extracts collectively known as hash oil.

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Cannabis also holds promise as a bioremediation crop. It can bind to heavy metals and store them in its tissues. It is also able to remove tainted fertilizers from substrate soils through its roots and deposit them in its flowers.

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Cannabis may affect visual functions, including night-vision performance and the subjective perception of image quality. However, there is little research on the specific neurobiological mechanisms underlying these changes. Additionally, previous studies have shown that sex differences in cannabis use may contribute to these findings. The sex-specific associations observed in this study could be due to differences in the length of cannabis use or age at onset of regular use, among other factors. It is important to consider sex in future cannabis-use research to more fully understand these phenomena.

Capsules Unwrapped: Convenience in a Pill

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Cannabis capsules offer a discreet, precise, and familiar method of intake with predetermined doses of active compounds. Once swallowed, they enter the digestive system for a slow release of cannabinoid extracts. They also come with a dropper for flexibility in dosing depending on the user’s needs.

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Tinctures typically take effect within a few minutes when placed under the tongue, but they can also be added to foods and beverages for a more gradual release. Here at The Green Dragon, there’s a wide variety of tinctures with various concentrations of THC and CBD, giving users a wide range of options to choose from.

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When CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, it produces a soothing and calming effect. THC, on the other hand, offers pain relief and anxiety-relieving properties. Together, they create a powerful balancing effect known as the Entourage Effect.

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For patients who prefer a more gradual onset of effects or may experience anxiety around the rapid psychoactivity produced by vaping, capsules and oils might be an excellent option. They also tend to last longer than vaporizers, which may be ideal for chronic conditions that require sustained relief.

Dabbing Dynamics: Exploring Cannabis Concentrates

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A burgeoning group of cannabis products, concentrates offer high potency and a wide variety of effects. They are used most commonly through dabbing, a method of inhaling vapor, but they can also be added to edibles or vaped using various devices.

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The process of consuming a dab involves heating the extract on a metal tool, or nail, in a device called a “dab rig.” The dabber then uses a blowtorch to vaporize the dab, and inhale. The process is rife with controversy, with some comparing it to the use of more stigmatized drugs like crystal meth.

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While there’s plenty to love about concentrates, it’s important that consumers understand the difference between various types. Rosin, for instance, has a waxy putty-like consistency and can be sprinkled on top of a joint or dabbed from a dab rig. On the other hand, shatter is a hardened form of concentrate that looks like shattered glass and delivers a powerful effect. Click here for more distinctions between all the different types of dabs out there!

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Additionally, the inhalation of butane (which is a byproduct of the extraction process) can cause negative health outcomes. However, if proper techniques are used and the user understands the risks associated with this method of consumption, dabbing can be an incredibly enjoyable experience.

Vaping Victories: Inhaling Cannabis Tranquility

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A popular cannabis delivery method is vaping, which allows users to ingest high potency oil and wax without the mess and smell of a joint or other smoking devices. Vaporizers also allow users to control the dosage of each inhalation and have an array of flavor options. NCBI dove deeper into the pros of vaping when it comes to flower or dabs.

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Despite the stigma associated with cannabis, there are legitimate uses of this drug that can improve people’s lives. Although this drug is best avoided by teenagers (due to its effect on the developing brain), by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding (as it could potentially disrupt fetal development) and in patients with a history of psychosis (since cannabis can destabilize these individuals), there is evidence that cannabis may be useful as an antidepressant for people suffering from depression and anxiety, for pain management and to help manage nausea due to chemotherapy.

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Several studies have found that the use of cannabis can reduce the severity of schizophrenia spectrum disorder symptoms in people who are regular cannabis users. PubMed, ScienceDirect and PsycINFO were searched to identify publications. Raw datasets were shared with the research teams for performing Individual Participant Data meta-analysis. Results showed higher severity of positive and excitement symptoms and lower intensity of negative symptoms in cannabis-users compared to non-users.

Embracing the New Year!

As we begin our journey through 2024, take a ride on this journey with a renewed outlook, and maybe try something new!. Celebrate the transition with us and dive into all of our top-of-the-line products now and elevate your experience in the year ahead. 

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As always, don’t forget to follow us on our socials, and fill out our contact form if you have any questions, or just want to share an experience with us! 

Here’s to a fresh start!