Month: September 2024

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Cannabis in the Beauty Industry: The Rise of CBD and its Benefits

Cannabis in the Beauty Industry: The Rise of CBD and Its Benefits

The beauty industry is no stranger to trends, and one of the innovations to hit the scene in recent years has been the integration of cannabis, specifically CBD, into skincare and beauty products. 

Once associated solely with medicinal or recreational use, cannabis has now found its way into a number of different products from anti-aging creams to hair care products.

With CBD becoming increasingly popular in beauty formulas, some may wonder if it really works, what the benefits are, and what types of products they should look out for. Don’t worry, before we’re done, we’ll make sure you learn everything you need to know about cannabis in the beauty industry. 

The Rise of CBD in Beauty

As more people have begun to recognize its medicinal potential, it’s no surprise that the beauty world took notice. CBD has gained particular popularity because, unlike THC, it is non-psychoactive—meaning it won’t get you high. 

Instead, CBD is often used for its potential healing properties, particularly in reducing inflammation, soothing irritation, and providing antioxidant protection.

The shift toward natural, plant-based ingredients in beauty products has also paved the way for cannabis.

Consumers are increasingly looking for products that are free from harsh chemicals and synthetic additives. Therefore, many in the beauty industry responded by integrating CBD into a wide range of offerings, including face creams, serums, oils, lip balms, and even haircare.

Benefits of CBD in Beauty Products

CBD is praised for its various benefits when applied to the skin, and many companies claim that it can help with common skincare issues. Here are just a couple of key reasons as to why CBD has become a more popular ingredient in beauty products:

1. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

One of the most well-known benefits of CBD is its anti-inflammatory effect. Inflammation is at the root of many skin issues, including acne, eczema, and rosacea. CBD works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate processes like pain, mood, and inflammation. 

When applied topically, CBD can help calm inflamed skin and reduce redness, making it ideal for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.

2. Moisturizing and Hydration

CBD also has moisturizing properties, which is good for skin health. Many of these products containing CBD will help to lock in moisture and keep the skin hydrated, making CBD-infused products excellent for people with dry or flaky skin. Additionally, CBD is believed to help regulate oil production, which can prevent clogged pores and breakouts.

3. Antioxidant Protection

Like other plant-based ingredients, CBD contains powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants are important in protecting the skin from harmful molecules that can accelerate aging by breaking down collagen and elastin. 

By neutralizing these molecules, CBD may help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dullness, making it a popular ingredient in anti-aging products.

4. Soothing and Calming

For people with irritated or sensitive skin, CBD’s calming properties can offer relief. It has been shown to soothe itching, irritation, and even symptoms of conditions like psoriasis or dermatitis. 

Many CBD-infused creams and balms are formulated to provide a gentle touch, making them a good option for those looking to avoid harsh or reactive ingredients.

Does CBD Really Work in Beauty Products?

While the buzz around CBD in beauty products is undeniable, some experts and consumers remain skeptical. 

One of the primary concerns is that there hasn’t been enough scientific research to fully confirm the long-term benefits of topical CBD. Much of the evidence supporting its effectiveness is anecdotal, with only a handful of peer-reviewed studies available on the subject.

Additionally, not all CBD products are created equal. The quality and concentration of CBD can vary greatly depending on the brand, and some products may not contain enough CBD to produce noticeable effects.

This is why it’s important to do your research and choose products from reputable companies that use third-party testing to verify the potency and purity of their CBD.

Things to Look for When Buying CBD Beauty Products

If you’re interested in incorporating CBD into your beauty routine, here are a few things to keep in mind:

  1. Check the CBD Concentration: Make sure the product contains a meaningful amount of CBD. Some products may only contain trace amounts, which might not provide the desired benefits.
  2. Full-Spectrum vs. Isolate: Full-spectrum CBD contains additional cannabinoids, terpenes, and nutrients from the cannabis plant, which may offer more comprehensive benefits. CBD isolate, on the other hand, contains pure CBD and no other cannabinoids.
  3. Look for Lab Testing: Reputable brands should provide third-party lab testing results to verify the CBD content and ensure the product is free from contaminants like pesticides or heavy metals.
  4. Check for Additional Ingredients: CBD is often paired with other beneficial ingredients like aloe vera, shea butter, or essential oils. Be mindful of what else is in the product to ensure it suits your skin type.

 

The integration of CBD into the beauty industry is part of a broader trend toward natural, plant-based ingredients that promise to deliver health benefits alongside cosmetic improvements. 

While the scientific backing for CBD in skincare is still developing, its potential is promising. Whether you’re looking for a natural solution to sensitive skin, hoping to fight signs of aging, or simply curious about the trend, CBD beauty products may be worth a try.

 

Here at NatureMed we want to make sure that you have everything that you need. Check out our online menu to see everything that we have to offer and check out our specials page to see all of the ways that you can save.

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The Pros and Cons of Different Ways to Consume Cannabis

The Pros and Cons of Different Ways to Consume Cannabis

Cannabis consumption has come a long way from the traditional methods of smoking joints or pipes. With all of the innovation in the cannabis industry, we now have so many different ways to consume cannabis, each with its own unique experiences. 

Regardless of your level of experience with cannabis, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of different consumption methods so you can make an informed choice that aligns with your preferences, lifestyle, and health needs.

Here’s a breakdown of the most common ways to consume cannabis, along with some of the benefits and drawbacks of each.

Note: Just a quick note before we start, this list doesn’t capture every possible pro or con for every method of consumption. It’s important to do your own research into your preferred method of consumption.

Smoking

Smoking is probably the most popular method of consuming cannabis. It would be classified as any form of consumption that involves inhaling the smoke from burning cannabis flower through a joint, pipe, or bong.

Pros:

  • Immediate Effects: Smoking delivers THC and other cannabinoids directly into the bloodstream via the lungs, leading to almost instant effects. This makes it easier to control dosage based on how you’re feeling.
  • Widely Available: Cannabis flower is widely available at dispensaries, and you don’t need special equipment aside from rolling papers or a basic pipe.

Cons:

  • Health Risks: Smoking anything, including cannabis, can irritate the lungs and throat, and may increase the risk of respiratory problems over time. While some preliminary studies have shown that cannabis smoke is generally less harmful than tobacco smoke, inhaling combusted plant material still carries health risks.
  • Shorter High: The effects of smoking tend to wear off more quickly than other methods, lasting 1-3 hours, which may lead to more frequent consumption for some users.

Vaping

Vaping cannabis involves heating cannabis flower or concentrates to a temperature that releases cannabinoids and terpenes in vapor form, which is then inhaled.

Pros:

  • Immediate Effects: Like smoking, vaping delivers cannabinoids quickly to the bloodstream, allowing for fast onset of effects.
  • Discreet: Vapes produce less odor than smoking, making it a more discreet option for those who want to consume cannabis without drawing attention.

Cons:

  • Cost: Vapes, especially high-quality ones, can be expensive upfront. Additionally, vaping cartridges or concentrates may be pricier than traditional cannabis flower.
  • Potential Health Concerns: While generally considered safer than smoking, there are still concerns about the long-term effects of vaping, especially when it comes to additives in some vape cartridges (like vitamin E acetate, which has been linked to lung injury).

Edibles

Edibles are cannabis-infused food or drinks that are consumed orally. Common examples include gummies, brownies, chocolates, and beverages.

Pros:

  • Long-Lasting Effects: Edibles provide a longer-lasting high than smoking or vaping, often lasting 4-8 hours or more. This can be ideal for those seeking sustained relief from symptoms like pain or anxiety.
  • Discreet and Convenient: Edibles are easy to consume and highly discreet since they look just like regular food items. They’re a great option for people who don’t want to inhale smoke or vapor.

Cons:

  • Delayed Onset: Edibles take longer to kick in, usually 30 minutes to 2 hours after consumption. This can lead to accidental overconsumption, especially for new users who may not feel the effects right away.
  • Difficult to Dose: It can be tricky to control dosage with edibles, especially homemade ones. The THC content in edibles can vary, making it easier to consume too much and experience an uncomfortable high.

Tinctures and Oils

Tinctures are liquid cannabis extracts that are taken sublingually (under the tongue) or added to food or drinks. They can come in dropper bottles for easy dosing.

Pros:

  • Discreet and Portable: Tinctures are discreet, portable, and easy to consume in any setting. They don’t produce smoke or vapor, and there’s typically no noticeable smell.
  • Fast and Controlled Dosing: When taken sublingually, tinctures provide relatively quick effects (within 15-45 minutes), and the dropper allows for precise dosing. You can easily control how much THC or CBD you’re consuming.
  • Versatile: Tinctures can also be added to food or drinks for a slower onset, making them a versatile option for users who want more control over how they consume cannabis.

Cons:

  • Taste: Some people find the taste of cannabis tinctures unpleasant, especially when taken directly under the tongue.
  • Delayed Onset When Added to Food: While tinctures are fast-acting when used sublingually, adding them to food or drink can delay the effects, similar to edibles.

Topicals

Topicals are cannabis-infused creams, balms, or lotions applied directly to the skin. These products are commonly used for localized relief from pain, inflammation, or skin conditions.

Pros:

  • No Psychoactive Effects: Since topicals don’t enter the bloodstream, they don’t produce the psychoactive effects associated with THC, making them ideal for users seeking relief without getting high.
  • Targeted Relief: Topicals are great for targeting specific areas of the body, such as sore muscles or joint pain, providing localized relief.

Cons:

  • Limited Use: While topicals are effective for pain or inflammation, they don’t provide the full-body relief or high that other consumption methods offer. Their effects are limited to the areas where they are applied.
  • Variable Potency: The effectiveness of topicals can vary based on the formulation, and users may need to experiment to find a product that works for them.

Dabbing

Concentrates can be consumed by vaporizing concentrated cannabis extracts, such as shatter, wax, or oil, using a special device called a dab rig. This is often referred to as dabbing

Pros:

  • High Potency: Dabs are extremely potent, providing a stronger and more intense experience than other methods. This makes it ideal for experienced users or medical patients who need fast, powerful relief.
  • Fast Onset: Like smoking and vaping, dabbing delivers immediate effects, making it an efficient option for those seeking quick relief.

Cons:

  • Complex Setup: Dabbing requires specialized equipment like a dab rig, torch, and concentrates, which can be intimidating for beginners. It also requires more effort and precision compared to simpler methods.
  • Potential for Overconsumption: Because concentrates are so potent, it’s easy to consume too much, especially for inexperienced users, leading to overwhelming effects.

 

Every consumption method has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, so the “best” method is going to depend on your personal preferences and desired effects. The key is to experiment responsibly and find the method that’s going to work best for your needs.

For whatever consumption method you choose, NatureMed has got you covered! Our knowledgeable budtenders will be able to help you with whatever you need! Check out our online menu to see a full list of what we have to offer and visit our specials page to see all of the ways that you can save!

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The Best Foods to Eat While You’re High

The Best Foods to Eat While You're High

There’s nothing quite like the experience of being high and feeling the sudden, overwhelming desire to eat—better known as “the munchies.” Whether you’re looking to indulge in something sweet, salty, crunchy, or a bit healthier, finding the perfect food to munch on can elevate your experience to a whole new level.

We believe that the perfect snack for while you’re high need to hit the following criteria:

It must be…

1. Tasty, duh! No one wants a disappointing snack

2. Easy to get to. If you have to do more than walk to your kitchen or order on your phone, it’s not worth it

3. Simple to prepare. If you need to spend more than 30 minutes actively preparing it, you might want to choose another snack.

And finally, the most important piece of criteria. Your snack should be…

4. Whatever hits the spot. Regardless of everything else, whenever you ultimately have, it should satisfy your cravings.

One other recommendation that we have is to stock up beforehand. That way you don’t have to venture out once you’re feeling good!

Now that we have that covered, here are some of our favorite snacks to munch on while high 

Pizza

We can’t make a list of the best foods to eat while high, without including this iconic staple. Pizza has long been used by the stoners to satisfy those munchie cravings and with good reason. 

Frozen pizzas are some of the easiest at home meals to prepare and are usually done relatively quickly. If you’re in the mood for hot and fresh, pizza is probably also going to be the easiest food to get delivered right to your door. 

Don’t even get us started on the versatility and all of the flavor options, with most places having an almost endless list of toppings, there’s going to be something there for everyone. Plus it’s great hot or cold.

Chips and Dip

This is a super easy, super tasty snack that you probably have sitting in your pantry right now. There is no preparation required except for opening up a bag and unscrewing a lid.

There’s just something about that crunchy savory taste that just hits the spot when those munchies hit you. There is a lot of variety to choose from in both your chips and your dip, meaning that it never gets old, you’ll be able to find something that everyone likes. There are even a number of healthy options, if that’s something that you’re looking for.

They are also the perfect shareable snack for you to munch on while you chill out with your homies.

Ice Cream

Switching directions and moving into something sweet, ice cream can be a really great option to help you cool down while you’re turning up the heat. The coolness and the sweet flavor can be a really great contrast to the dry sensation you can often feel when you’re smoking.

You have options that range from the simple like vanilla and chocolate or something more rich like brownie batter or salted caramel swirl, so you’re sure to find something to satisfy those cravings.

Many people already have ice cream in their freezer, but just in case you don’t, you can usually find it super easily at any convenience or corner store.

If you’re really feeling like you want something more, it’ll take no time at all to turn your ice cream into a sundae! You can use the traditional toppings like sprinkles or chocolate syrup or if you’re out of those, you can get creative. Pretzels, cereal and candy are all things that you might find in your pantry that will take your ice cream to the next level.

Cereal

Who said that cereal was only for breakfast? We happen to think it’s the perfect simple food to snack on during your sesh. It’s so easy to prepare, all you need is your favorite cereal and some milk (or you can eat it dry, we don’t judge) and you’re good to go.

It’s something that you likely already have in your pantry and the crunchy sweetness of it will give you a nice satisfying snack.

If we could give one more recommendation to take your cereal game to the next level, try mixing different types of cereal together. It’ll give you a new flavor and texture combination that’ll keep things interesting, for sure.

Fresh Fruit

Ok, so hear us out with this one. Fresh fruit might not be the typical snack you reach for when those munchies hit but there are a couple of reasons that you might want to give it a try next time. 

The natural sugar in fruits are great for satisfying that sweet tooth without making you feel overly full or sluggish, like artificial sugars can. Fruit also has a much higher water content than many other snacks making it perfect to combat that dehydration and dry mouth you can feel after smoking.

You can also add on to your fruit. Things like chocolate, cool whip, whipped cream, and more, can take your fruit from lightweight to decadent.

It’s also a healthier option, so if that’s something that important to you, then you might want to add some fruit into you next snack rotation 

Mac and Cheese

Mac and Cheese is another staple and with good reason. It’s basic, it’s easy to prepare and it’s super rich and tasty, exactly what you’re looking for in a snack while you’re high. 

The creamy, gooey texture and rich, cheesy flavor are incredibly satisfying, especially when the munchies hit and it’s inexpensive and easy to find. In fact, I bet most people have a box in their cabinets right now 

This does require a little more involvement in the preparation but we definitely think it’s worth it. You can even add a little extra seasoning or some extra toppings like bacon to really push it over the edge.

 

Ultimately the best snack to have when you’re high is whatever’s going to satisfy that craving and if you’ve been at this awhile, you probably have a list of tried and true options. However, we hope that maybe we gave you some new ideas or reminded you of old favorites.

Now here at NatureMed, we can’t provide you with the snacks but we can make sure that you have everything else for a stellar sesh. Stop by and we’ll hook you up. 

Check out our online menu to see everything that we have to offer and make sure you take a look at our specials page to see all of the ways that you can save.

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Cannabis and the Law: What You Need to Know

Cannabis and the Law: What You Need to Know

Even though cannabis is becoming much more widely accepted and many states are passing legislation making it legal to purchase and consume, it is still a highly regulated industry. As such, it’s important for people who consume cannabis to be aware of all of the laws in place and how they have changed over time.

We know that the law can be pretty complicated sometimes so we just wanted to give you the basics things that your everyday, regular user wants to know.

Brief History of Cannabis Legalization in Arizona

In November 2020, Arizona voters approved Proposition 207, which legalized the recreational use of cannabis for adults 21 and over. This came about 10 years after the legalization of medical marijuana in 2010 through the Arizona Medical Marijuana Act.

Under the current laws, adults 21 and older can legally possess, purchase, and use cannabis in Arizona. However, there are still regulations that govern the quantity of cannabis someone can possess, where it can be consumed, and how it can be grown or distributed.

Possession Limits

One of the most important aspects of cannabis laws is understanding possession limits. Under Proposition 207 in Arizona:

  • Recreational marijuana patients: Can legally possess up to 1 ounce (28 grams) of cannabis. However, only up to 5 grams of that 1 ounce can be in the form of cannabis concentrate.
  • Medical marijuana patients: May possess up to 2.5 ounces (about 70 grams) of cannabis in a 14-day period, but there are no specific limits on the amount of cannabis concentrate as long as it does not exceed the total weight limit.

It’s important to stay within limits to avoid potential legal issues. Possessing more than the legal amount can result in criminal charges, including hefty fines and possible jail time.

If you’re unsure about the allotment rules as it pertains to you, feel free to ask your budtender for more information.

Consumption Restrictions

Even though cannabis is legal for adult use in Arizona, there are still restrictions on where you can consume it. 

The safest place to consume cannabis is on private property, such as in your home. However, landlords and property owners have the right to prohibit cannabis use on their property and may impose those rules on their tenants.

It is currently illegal to consume cannabis in public places in Arizona. This includes parks, sidewalks, restaurants, bars, and vehicles. If you are caught consuming cannabis in public, it can result in fines and/or other penalties.

Additionally, driving under the influence of cannabis is strictly prohibited and treated similarly to driving under the influence of alcohol. Arizona has strict DUI laws, and being caught driving while impaired can lead to severe consequences, including license suspension, fines, and jail time.

Medical Marijuana Program

Arizona’s medical marijuana program remains active alongside the recreational cannabis laws. To qualify for the medical marijuana program, patients must have a qualifying medical condition, as defined by the Arizona Department of Health.

Patients who have a medical marijuana card can purchase cannabis from state-licensed dispensaries. A person can qualify for a medical card themselves when they turn 18, as opposed to the age requirement of 21 for recreational cannabis. They are also exempt from the state sales tax that applies to recreational cannabis.

Qualified patients can designate a caregiver to assist them in obtaining and administering medical marijuana. Caregivers are subject to background checks and must adhere to specific guidelines set by the Department of Health Services. 

Additionally, patients under the age of 18 can get a medical card as long as they have a parent or guardian listed as a caregiver on their application. This caregiver is then responsible for purchasing and managing the medical cannabis for the minor patient. 

Purchasing Cannabis

Cannabis must be purchased from state-licensed dispensaries. It is illegal to buy cannabis from unlicensed vendors or through black market channels.

Arizona has strict regulations regarding the sale and distribution of cannabis, and purchasing from an unauthorized source can result in significant legal penalties.

Additionally, Recreational cannabis is subject to a 16% excise tax in addition to the standard state and local sales taxes.

Employment and Cannabis Use

While cannabis is legal for adult use in Arizona, employers have the right to enforce their own drug policies. This means that even if you are a legal cannabis user, you could still face disciplinary action, including termination if your employer has a zero-tolerance policy.

For medical marijuana patients, the situation is slightly different. Arizona law provides some protection for medical marijuana cardholders against employment discrimination. However, this protection does not extend to employees who use cannabis on the job or come to work impaired.

 

Understanding the cannabis laws is essential for anyone considering using cannabis, whether recreationally or medically. Making sure that you are adhering to these regulations will help to ensure that you have a smooth and positive cannabis experience.

Make sure that you stop by NatureMed for all of your cannabis needs, we’ll make sure that you have everything you need. Check out our online menu to see all that we have to offer as well as our specials page to see all the ways you can save!