Author: Katie Briante

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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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General

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!

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Holidays and Events Lifestyle and Wellness

Cannabis Products Perfect for Your Summer Holiday Weekend

Cannabis Products Perfect for Your Summer Holiday Weekend

Looking for one last weekend of summer fun before we need to start moving into fall? Us too! And if you’re anything like us, you’re probably trying to incorporate some cannabis-related additions into your activities.

Well, we have a couple of fun ways that you can incorporate cannabis into your festivities this weekend!

Infused Beverages

Infused Beverages are the perfect way to stay cool and hydrated, while also staying medicated. You can choose to drink the beverage straight for ease of convenience or if you don’t mind dedicating a little bit more time to it, you can make yourself a pretty tasty infused mocktail.

Replacing the liquor in your favorite cocktail with an infused beverage is an easy way to have a delicious tasting mocktail, perfect for any holiday weekend. You can also make it even easier and just mix the infused drink with your favorite juice or soda.

This easy, light treat will be a great addition to any parties or festivities you might be attending. Just make sure that all infused drinks and mocktails are marked as such and are kept away from anyone under age.

Light Edibles

When you’re out in the summer sun, you might not be looking for more heavy edibles like chocolate or baked goods, so this is the perfect opportunity for something a little lighter and better suited for that summer sun.

Gummies are always a great option for situations like this and they typically have a wide range of dosages so you’re bound to find something for everyone. You could also pick up some hard candies or mints if you’re looking for something that will release over a longer period of time.

While these options are definitely lighter, you may need to be careful where you store them. We recommend that you store your edibles (and any other cannabis products, for that matter) in a cooler or bag in the shade, as far away from the sun as possible so you can minimize the risk of melting.

Pre-rolls

Another great way to incorporate cannabis into your holiday weekend plans is pre-rolls. They’re a good choice because they are easy to grab and go, they travel well and are discreet. 

With pre-rolls, you don’t have to worry about rolling your blunts or joints and you don’t need to waste space packing things like papers, rolling trays, bongs, pipes, or anything else you would typically need to enjoy flower. 

Additionally, there are so many different brands and options for pre-rolls that you can choose from, you should easily be able to find a strain and type that everyone likes.

Vapes

Vapes are another great option if you’re looking for something easy for the weekend. They’re typically pretty discreet and depending on that product it’s likely going to last you all day. 

Disposable vapes are a great choice because they come with everything that you’re going to need and you don’t have to worry about saving the hardware, you can just grab it and go. 

Just make sure you keep any batteries out of direct sunlight and try to keep them in the shade as much as possible so they don’t overheat.

Note: Please make sure that you are being mindful of your consumption. Be aware if the area that you’re in has rules surrounding cannabis. Try and refrain from smoking on public property and make sure that you’re keeping any medicated items and products stored safely and away from underage people.

 

We want you to be able to enjoy your holiday weekend just the way you want, especially if that includes a little bit of cannabis-related fun and relaxation! If you need to stock up for the holiday, then make sure you swing by NatureMed and we’ll make sure that you get everything that 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!

 

Happy Labor Day from all of us here at NatureMed!

Categories
General

Cutting Edge Cannabis: What’s New in the Cannabis Industry

Cutting Edge Cannabis: What’s New in the Cannabis Industry

The Cannabis industry has alway been very forward thinking in terms of innovation and adaptation. We are often on the cutting edge of a lot of trends in culture and technology. 

However it can be difficult to keep up with all of the changes going on in the industry. So we put together some of the latest trends that you may (or may not) have heard about going on in the world of cannabis.

Smoking Better

Packaging and Hardware

When it comes to how our favorite products are being packaged, there has been a recent move towards eco-friendly and sustainable packaging. Many brands are beginning to phase out materials like single-use plastics and move to biodegradable cardboard or recyclable glass packaging.

We are also seeing a rise in cannabis specific recycling programs that are specifically designed to reduce waste in our industry. 

Learn more: Sustainability Efforts in the Cannabis Community  

In addition to changes in packaging we are also seeing improvement in the hardware that we use to consume cannabis. With advancements in technology, there are now vaporizers that can connect to an app on your phone that allow you to better control your dosages. Some allow you to precisely control the near exact amount and type of Cannabinoids that you are consuming.

This type of technology is allowing users to tailor their experience to exactly what they’re looking for!

Product and Production

You might think that there can be no way to improve your favorite products, they’re already perfect! While we might feel like that’s true, the industry is continuing to improve the way that they grow and manufacture those products so that they can continue to give the best that they can.

Something that has been happening for a little while now has been the focus on Cannabinoids beyond just THC and CBD. Now we are seeing, CBN, CBG, CBC, and THCV are moving more to the forefront of the conversation. 

As technology and research has advanced, we have been able to learn more about these Cannabinoids and how they can affect us and our high

Additionally, a lot of improvements are being made down at the plant level. Growers and researchers have made a lot of major improvements when it comes to genetic mapping of cannabis plants. This allows them to breed plants in more intentional ways to create strains that have specific attributes or effects. 

Growing Better

Robotics and Tech

Not only are improvements being made on the consumer side, but the cultivation side of things is also getting some high tech advancements. It’s becoming more and more common to find some kind of machine harvesting technology in cultivations. 

Not only does it cut down on labor costs but as the technology improves it’s becoming easier to have cleaner, more precise harvests 

Many grow facilities also adopt technology into their data collection and monitoring systems. Remote operated cameras, sensors and atmosphere controls are becoming increasingly more common allowing growers to monitor plants from anywhere and even control things like temperature and humidity of a room from their phone or computer.

These sensors keep historic data and allow them to go back and check on the conditions of a particular room from any point in the growing process. This data can be used to discover potential errors in the process or improve the overall quality of the plant.

AI Integration

Out of all of the advancements in the cannabis industry, probably the most cutting edge and constantly developing addition is AI. Artificial intelligence has made its way into most parts of the industry but nowhere as exciting as in the growing process. 

The addition of AI in many of the above mentioned technologies is already allowing growers to work smarter and create better processes and products.

There has been success in the use of AI in the inspection, grading and sorting of flower after the harvest and with AI’s ability to learn as it goes it’s only going to get better as we go.

Right now the integration of AI is still in its early stages with much of its processes being guided and supervised by people but as the programs and technology continue to improve it has the potential to be a great asset to the industry.

As the world changes and grows, so too do we, and as both members and consumers in this industry, it is very exciting to see all of the ways that these advancements are going to improve cannabis as a whole!

Make sure that you stay tuned in here at NatureMed because we’re going to make sure that you have all of the latest news and information in the cannabis space. If you’re looking to try something new and cutting edge or just stay with your tried and true favorite, give us a visit and we’ll make sure that you get everything that you need!

Check out our online menu to see what we have to offer and check out our specials page to see the ways you can save.

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Education General

How to Get The Most Out of Your High

How to Get The Most Out of Your High

When consuming cannabis, it can be easy to fall into the thought process of, “What’s going to get me the highest, fastest?” While that might sound appealing, it’s often better to go with quality over quantity.

If you’re looking to elevate your experience, then there are a couple of easy things that you can do to get the most out of your high and improve your cannabis experience.

Choose the Right Strain

The first thing you’re going to want to do is make sure that you are choosing the right strain for you. Many seasoned cannabis users will already be familiar with this, but regardless of your experience level this is an incredibly important step.

The type of cannabis strain you choose has a significant impact on your high. There are three primary strain categories: Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid. Indica strains are often associated with relaxation and a “body high”. Sativas are more energizing, with more of a cerebral high. Hybrids, as the name suggests, have a mix of both effects, depending on the specific strain.

Beyond the basic strain types, terpenes, which are aromatic compounds found in cannabis, also play a crucial role in shaping your experience. For example, limonene has an uplifting effect, while myrcene promotes relaxation.

Understanding the terpene profile of your chosen strain can help you tailor your high to your desired experience.

Mindful Consumption

If you’re new to cannabis or trying a new product, it’s wise to start with a small dose. This is particularly important with edibles, which can take longer to kick in and may have more intense effects than smoking or vaping.

In the cannabis space, it’s very common to hear the phrase “start low and go slow”.

Additionally, the environment in which you consume cannabis can influence your experience. Try and choose a comfortable, safe space where you can fully relax. 

Whether it’s your living room, a cozy outdoor spot, or a serene location in nature, make sure it’s a place where you feel at ease. The company you keep is also important—being around positive, like-minded people can enhance your high too.

Pair Cannabis with the Right Activities

Cannabis can often heighten your senses, making everyday activities feel more enjoyable. Pair your high with activities that engage your senses, such as listening to music, watching a movie, or enjoying art.

Music, in particular, can be incredibly immersive when you’re high—consider curating a playlist that matches the mood of your high.

Many users also find that cannabis enhances creativity. Writing, painting, playing music, or any other creative pursuit are great options and cannabis can help you tap into a deeper level of inspiration. Use your high as an opportunity to explore your artistic side without judgment or expectations.

Additionally, Cannabis and nature go hand in hand. Consider taking a walk or hike after consuming cannabis. The natural beauty around you will likely feel more vivid, and the fresh air can enhance your sense of well-being.

Stay Hydrated and Nourished

While you want to make sure that your mind is fed while consuming, you also want to make sure that you are taking care of your body. Make sure that you are staying hydrated throughout the duration of your high. Not only will it combat dry mouth but it will help you to feel better during the whole experience.

The “munchies” are a well-known side effect of cannabis, as many strains are considered appetite stimulants.

To make sure that you’re feeling your best when those cravings hit, prepare healthy, satisfying snacks ahead of time. Fresh fruits, nuts, or whole-grain snacks can satisfy your hunger without making you feel sluggish.

Reflect and Relax

Cannabis can enhance mindfulness, making it easier to focus on the present moment. After consuming cannabis, consider practicing meditation or deep breathing exercises. This can help you feel more grounded and deepen your sense of relaxation.

Keeping a journal of your cannabis experiences can help you understand what strains, doses, and activities work best for you. Reflecting on your high afterward can also be a valuable tool for personal growth, allowing you to identify what enhances your enjoyment and what might detract from it.

Be Ready for the Come-Down

As your high starts to fade, it’s important to transition gently back into your regular routine. Consider winding down with a soothing activity like taking a warm bath, reading a book, or listening to calming music. This can help you ease out of your high and prepares you for a restful sleep.

A good night’s sleep is the perfect way to conclude a cannabis session. If you’ve chosen a relaxing strain, it might help you fall asleep more easily. Ensure your sleeping environment is comfortable and conducive to rest, setting the stage for a peaceful night.

 

No matter why or how you’re setting off on this cannabis journey, enhancing your experience and getting the most out of it can be as simple as a couple of easy steps.

And don’t forget, cannabis is a personal journey and it’s important to experiment with different approaches to find what works best for you, and always prioritize your well-being.

Here at NatureMed we want to help you find what works best for you so if you’re looking to give any of these tips or tricks a try, then stop by and we’ll make sure you get what you need.

You can check out our online menu to see everything we have to offer and check our specials page to see all the ways you can save.

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General

A College Student’s Guide to Cannabis

A College Student's Guide to Cannabis

Navigating the ins and outs of cannabis usage and regulations can definitely be tricky sometimes. It can be even more difficult if you find yourself in a new situation like, if you’ve just become of age or you’ve moved somewhere new. 

If you’re a college student you might find yourself in both situations and perhaps a little unsure of what to do when it comes to cannabis possession and consumption. Well, don’t worry, we’re here with some tips for college students to hopefully make your journey with cannabis a little bit easier.

Know the Laws

The very first thing you’re going to want to do is look into the laws that are in place in your state. You are going to want to look at the type of cannabis that is legal (is it just medical or recreational too?), the age requirements, documentation requirements and possession limits. You’ll typically be able to find this information on your departments of health’s website.

Most states require that you be over the age of 21 to purchase recreational cannabis and states that allow you to purchase medical cannabis at 18 will usually require a permanent address in the state for you to apply for a medical card.

If you’re going to school in the state that you live in or you establish a permanent address you may be able to apply for a med card, assuming you meet the other criteria.

Familiarizing yourself with the local laws is going to go a long way towards understanding cannabis usage in your new home away from home.

Know the Rules 

After you learn the laws in your state, you’re going to want to learn the rules for your school and there may be multiple sets you’re going to want to get to know. 

First you’re going to want to know if there is a school/campus wide rule when it comes to cannabis. Most schools are going to ban any kind of cannabis usage in the dorms or in campus buildings, sometimes it coincides with a drug use policy, sometimes it’s just a matter of safety. There might be different rules for outdoor areas of campus and it might change depending on if you have a city or more suburban campus.

Familiarize yourself with your student handbook and code of conduct, you might find more information on your institution’s drug policy and what is allowed for students.

There also might be additional rules for sports, clubs, and other student organizations. Make sure you check the guideline for these organizations that you’re a part of or talk to a student leader or faculty supervisor to get information on any drug policies they might have.

Additionally, if you consume cannabis for medical reasons, you might want to check in with your student health services to see if there are any kind of medical exemptions for campus marijuana policies.

Know your Limits

Going to college is usually a time to gain new experiences and become exposed to new things that you might not have gotten to try before. However, when trying cannabis for the first time, it’s important to be careful of how much you consume and be mindful of the ways that it can affect you.

The golden rule when trying cannabis for the first time is to start low, and go slow. Start with products that have low dosages so as not to get overwhelmed too quickly and consume them slowly, all while keeping track of how it’s affecting you.

Additionally, don’t mix cannabis with anything else, like alcohol or other drugs, especially when you’re new to it. It can alter the effect a lot and it could make for a pretty poor first experience with cannabis.

Be Safe

If you are new to the cannabis space or you’re just experiencing it in a place or environment, it’s important to know where to safely purchase your products. Make sure you are only purchasing cannabis from legal, reputable dispensaries. 

It might be tempting to purchase your products from someone on campus or from friends of friends, especially if you’re underage but not only is that illegal, it can also be very dangerous. Even if you feel like you can trust the person, there is no way to know where that product came from or how it was processed. Even people with good intentions can make mistakes or trust the wrong person themselves.

Similarly, don’t accept cannabis from someone in a social setting, if you don’t know where it came from. It’s similar to accepting alcohol at a party, don’t drink it unless you saw it being poured or opened. 

Be Aware and Respectful of Others

After you’ve ensured that you are following all of the rules on your campus concerning cannabis, now you just need to make sure that you are being respectful of others. College campuses can be pretty packed spaces, from the dorms, to the common spaces, and even the outdoor spaces can get pretty busy. 

Being a good campus community member means being aware of the space you’re in and who’s around you. Having conversations with your roommates and friends about what they’re comfortable with concerning cannabis and keeping a respectful distance when in crowded public spaces can go a long way to making sure that everyone is happy and comfortable.

College is a great time to get outside of your comfort zone and try something new! If you decide that you want cannabis to be one of those new experiences, we hope that we’ve helped make it a little less intimidating and a little easier when you do. 

If you’re new to the scene here in Tucson, then we at NatureMed would love to help you out on your journey and make sure that you have everything you need to have a great time!

Check out our online menu to see everything we have to offer and check our specials page to see all the ways you can save!

Categories
Education

Understanding the Entourage Effect

Understanding the Entourage Effect

There are a number of different factors and compounds that go into the way that someone experiences cannabis. Certain compounds like cannabinoids and terpenes, on their own will affect your body in specific ways, however when multiple of these compounds are present at the same time, they can interact with each other and enhance your experience.

This phenomenon is called the “Entourage Effect”. This effect showcases the importance of whole-plant medicine and highlights why some believe that consuming cannabis in its natural form might be more effective than just consuming using isolated compounds.

The Basics of Cannabinoids and Terpenes

Cannabis contains over 100 cannabinoids, with the most well-known being THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). 

THC is the primary psychoactive component, responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis use, while CBD is non-psychoactive and known for its potential therapeutic benefits. Other common cannabinoids include CBG, CBN, CBC, and THC-V.

Additionally, cannabis is rich in terpenes, which are the compounds that give the plant its distinctive smell. Terpenes are found in many plants and contribute to their scent profiles, but in cannabis, they also play a crucial role in modulating the effects of cannabinoids.

Some common terpenes found in cannabis include myrcene, limonene, and pinene, each offering their own unique therapeutic benefits.

How Cannabinoids and Terpenes Work Together

With the Entourage Effect, the combined action of cannabinoids and terpenes can produce effects that are greater than the sum of their individual parts. 

For example, while THC alone might provide certain therapeutic benefits, its effectiveness can be significantly enhanced when paired with other cannabinoids and terpenes.

Research has shown that the different combinations of cannabinoids and terpenes can produce distinct effects. For example, the presence of myrcene, a terpene known for its sedative properties, can enhance the relaxing effects of THC.

Similarly, limonene, which has uplifting and anti-anxiety properties, can complement the effects of CBD, resulting in a more comprehensive therapeutic experience.

Potential Therapeutic Benefits of the Entourage Effect

The Entourage Effect has the potential for medical cannabis use. Patients who are seeking relief from specific symptoms may benefit more from a whole-plant extract than from isolated cannabinoids. 

For example, some studies have shown that patients using a CBD-rich extract experience better outcomes for conditions like epilepsy and chronic pain compared to those using pure CBD. The presence of other cannabinoids and terpenes in the extract can enhance its therapeutic potential, providing a more holistic approach to treatment.

Additionally, the Entourage Effect can help mitigate some of the adverse effects associated with THC. For example, CBD has been shown to counteract the anxiety-inducing effects of THC, providing a more balanced and manageable experience for users. 

This balance is particularly important for patients who need the therapeutic benefits of THC but can be sensitive to its psychoactive effects.

The Future of Cannabis Research and the Entourage Effect

As our understanding of cannabis continues to evolve, so too does our understanding of the Entourage Effect. There are more and more studies that are being conducted that are focused on identifying the specific combinations of cannabinoids and terpenes that produce the most beneficial effects for different medical conditions. 

This research is so important for developing more effective and targeted cannabis-based therapies. Many believe that the future of cannabis medicine lies in personalized treatment plans that consider the unique needs of each patient. 

By understanding how different compounds work together, healthcare providers can better tailor cannabis therapies to individual patients. This approach is aligning with the broader trend in medicine towards personalized care and more precise medicine.

 

As research continues to teach us more about the Entourage Effect, patients and healthcare providers can look forward to more effective and tailored cannabis therapies that harness the full potential of cannabis.

While everyone’s body is going to react differently to different cannabinoids, understanding how different cannabinoid combinations affect you is going to allow you to better tailor your experience.

If you are looking for some new products while you are on your own journey with the Entourage Effect, then stop by NatureMed and check out all of the different options available to you. Check out our online menu to see the full list of the products we carry and stop by our specials page to see the ways you can save.

Categories
Education Starter Series

An Introduction to the Endocannabinoid System

An Introduction to the Endocannabinoid System

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex biological system that plays an important role in maintaining your body’s internal balance. Despite its importance, many people don’t know a whole lot about it.

Understanding the ECS can allow us to better understand how our bodies function and what  cannabis does when it interacts with this system.

What is the Endocannabinoid System?

The endocannabinoid system is a network of receptors, molecules (called endocannabinoids), and enzymes that are found throughout the body.

It was discovered in the early 1990s by researchers who were studying THC. The ECS plays an important role in regulating different physiological processes, including mood, appetite, pain sensation, immune response, and more.

Components of the Endocannabinoid System

Cannabinoid Receptors: These receptors are located on the surface of cells and are involved in signaling within the ECS. The two primary receptors are CB1 and CB2:

  • CB1 Receptors: Predominantly found in the brain and central nervous system, but also in other tissues.
  • CB2 Receptors: Mainly located in the peripheral nervous system, particularly in immune cells.

Endocannabinoids: These are naturally occurring compounds that bind to cannabinoid receptors. The two most well-known endocannabinoids are anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG).

Enzymes: These are responsible for synthesizing and breaking down endocannabinoids. The primary enzymes are fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), which breaks down anandamide, and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), which breaks down 2-AG.

Why is the Endocannabinoid System Important?

The ECS is crucial for maintaining homeostasis, which is the body’s ability to maintain a stable internal environment, despite external changes. By interacting with various physiological processes, the ECS helps to ensure that our bodies function optimally. Some of the important roles of the ECS include:

  • Regulating Mood and Stress: The ECS plays a significant role in managing our emotional responses and stress levels. Imbalances in this system can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders.
  • Controlling Appetite and Metabolism: The ECS influences hunger and energy balance, playing a part in eating behaviors and metabolic processes.
  • Modulating Pain and Inflammation: By interacting with pain pathways and immune responses, the ECS can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
  • Supporting Immune Function: The ECS helps regulate immune responses, maintaining a balance between attacking pathogens and preventing excessive inflammation.

Understanding the ECS is essential because it provides insight into how our bodies maintain balance. This knowledge can also guide the development of new therapies for a range of conditions, from chronic pain to mental health disorders.

How Cannabis Interacts with the Endocannabinoid System

Cannabis contains a number of different compounds, including cannabinoids like THC and CBD, that interact with the ECS. These interactions can affect both your body and mind in a lot of different ways.

THC and the ECS

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. It mimics anandamide (which your body naturally creates) by binding to CB1 receptors in the brain. This produces the characteristic “high” associated with cannabis use. 

THC can also interact with CB2 receptors, influencing immune responses and inflammation. However, THC’s binding to CB1 receptors is responsible for most of its psychoactive effects, including euphoria, altered perception, and increased appetite.

CBD and the ECS

Cannabidiol (CBD) is another major cannabinoid found in cannabis, but it interacts with the ECS in different ways then THC does. 

CBD does not bind directly to CB1 or CB2 receptors. Instead, it influences the ECS by inhibiting the enzymes that break down endocannabinoids, leading to increased levels of anandamide and 2-AG.

Additionally, CBD interacts with other receptors, such as serotonin and vanilloid receptors, which can contribute to its effects on mood, pain, and inflammation. CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce a “high,” but it can have therapeutic effects, including reducing anxiety, alleviating pain, and providing anti-inflammatory benefits.

The Therapeutic Potential of Influencing the ECS

Given the ECS’s role in various physiological processes, targeting this system with cannabis or other compounds holds significant therapeutic potential in a number of different way, such as:

  • Pain Management: By modulating pain pathways, cannabinoids like THC and CBD can provide relief for chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and neuropathy.
  • Mental Health: The ECS’s involvement in mood regulation suggests that cannabinoids could help treat anxiety, depression, and PTSD. CBD, in particular, has shown promise in reducing anxiety and improving sleep.
  • Anti-inflammatory Effects: By interacting with CB2 receptors and other immune pathways, cannabinoids can reduce inflammation, making them useful in treating autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions.

Understanding the ECS key to understanding how cannabis interacts with our bodies and why it can have such diverse effects. As research into the ECS continues, it opens the door to new therapeutic possibilities for treating a number of different conditions. 

Whether you are a cannabis enthusiast, just starting out or someone interested in the potential medical benefits of cannabis, a deeper understanding of the endocannabinoid system is crucial for appreciating the impact that cannabis can have on our health and well-being.

 

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Lifestyle and Wellness

Staying Cool this Summer with Cannabis

Staying Cool this Summer with Cannabis

Summer is already in full swing and with that temperatures are beginning to climb. When that thermometer starts creeping into triple digits, some people might not be too keen on smoking. Honestly, we don’t blame them, after spending a day in the sun, we understand not wanting to have any more heat near you.

If you’re someone like that, don’t worry, we’ve got all the tips and tricks you can use to stay cool while also staying high.

Choose the Right Strain

One of the best ways to stay cool while consuming cannabis is to pick the right strain. Some cannabis strains are known for their cooling and calming effects, which can be particularly refreshing during the hot summer months. 

Look for strains that are high in terpenes like linalool and limonene, which can have cooling effects as well as provide a soothing and uplifting experience.

Additionally, there have been some studies that have shown that consuming THC can actually lower your body temperature. These studies are still in their early stages but the results are promising.

It’s also been proven that consuming things at a higher temperature when it’s hot out can actually cool you down. We’ve seen this with things like hot coffee and soup, when your body is exposed to high temperature substances it activates your natural cooling responses. Therefore smoking can actually kick start your body’s temperature regulating process, allowing you to cool down quicker.

Cool Consumption Methods

You can also choose ways of consumption that are naturally cooler and more comfortable in the heat. 

You can try vaping instead of smoking a traditional joint or blunt. With a vaporizer you are better able to control the temperature of what you are smoking. This gives you the chance to cool things down a little bit when it’s getting sweltering out there. 

Vapes are also a good discreet option for a lot of traditional summer activities.

If edibles are more your thing, then you might want to opt for something a little lighter instead of the rich, dense edibles that are more traditionally popular. When that sun is beating down, you may want to leave the brownies and the chocolate at home and instead choose something like gummies or other candies.

You can also infuse your favorite summer treat using tinctures or dissolvables.

Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is always important in the summer but it’s especially important when you’re consuming. Raising your body temperature will always increase the risk of dehydration so you’re going to want to make sure you drink more water than you normally would to compensate for that heat. 

Drinking water will also help to combat that dry mouth people sometimes get when consuming cannabis.

If you want to stay hydrated while consuming at the same time, you can try an infused beverage. This will give you a nice high while making sure that you stay cool and hydrated the whole day. You can even use an infused drink to make a mocktail to go along with your perfect summer day.

Plan Your Activities Wisely

Being mindful about what you’re doing and when you’re doing it can sometimes make all of the difference. 

You might want to consider a cooler time for your daily sesh. Typically, the early morning and late evening are cooler than midday. Plan your cannabis consumption around these times to avoid the peak heat. Not only can it be more enjoyable, it can be less taxing on your body.

You also might want to try and incorporate cannabis into an activity that’s already cool. Things like kayaking, paddleboarding, or lounging by the pool or beach are already activities that can cool you down so why not add a little cannabis in there. 

Just make sure that you are consuming responsibly and make sure that you are able to give any activities that you are doing the proper focus and attention that they need.

Other Important Tips

  • Try to stay in the shade whenever you’re outside.
  • Make sure indoor spaces are properly ventilated so the heat doesn’t build up in the room.
  • Dress lightly so as not to trap your body and allow for air flow.
  • Listen to your body. If you start feeling dizzy or overheated, take a break, hydrate, and cool down. 

 

Summer offers so many opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors and partake in cannabis, but we want to make sure you fully enjoy the experience. Embrace the season with these tips, and make your summer both enjoyable and comfortable while staying cool and high.

Looking to enhance your next summer adventure? We here at NatureMed have you covered with everything you might 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!

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General

Sustainability Efforts in the Cannabis Community

Sustainability Efforts in the Cannabis Community

As the global conversation around sustainability is more and more prevalent, all different types of industries are being asked to reassess their environmental impact. The cannabis industry is among those that are realizing that sustainability is not just an option but a necessity. As cannabis legalization sweeps across regions, so too does the opportunity to cultivate green—both in terms of plants and practices.

Cultivation

One of the most significant contributors to the carbon footprint of the cannabis industry is cultivation. Traditional indoor cultivation methods often rely heavily on energy-intensive lighting, heating, and cooling systems. However, more sustainable growing practices are becoming more and more popular.

Embracing Renewable Energy

Many growers are increasingly turning to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power to meet their energy needs. By generating these renewable energy sources onsite, cannabis cultivators can significantly reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and decrease their carbon emissions.

Sustainable Growing Methods

In addition to using renewable energy, a growing number of cultivators are embracing sustainable growing practices to minimize their environmental footprint. 

By replacing synthetic fertilizers and pesticides with natural alternatives, organic growers can protect soil health, preserve biodiversity, and produce cleaner, safer cannabis products.

Additionally, one of the most notable trends is the shift towards outdoor and greenhouse cultivation, which relies on natural sunlight and reduces the need for artificial lighting and climate control. By harnessing the power of the sun, outdoor growers can significantly reduce their energy consumption and carbon emissions.

Packaging

Another area where the cannabis industry is making strides towards sustainability is in packaging. With the rise of legalization, cannabis products are flooding the market in a sea of plastic containers and single-use packaging. However, many companies are beginning to explore more eco-friendly packaging alternatives.

Biodegradable Materials

From compostable bags made from plant-based plastics to recyclable glass containers, there are a growing number of packaging options that minimize environmental impact. By choosing to use biodegradable materials, cannabis companies can reduce their contribution to plastic pollution.

Minimalist Design

In addition to choosing eco-friendly materials, companies can also choose to use minimalist packaging designs that minimize waste. By reducing excess packaging and focusing on the essential product information, cannabis brands can show that they are committed to sustainability while also appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.

Recycling Programs

Consumers can also help to decrease the amount of cannabis packaging going to landfills by recycling that packaging. There are a number of programs and companies that are dedicated to collecting and recycling cannabis packaging in a safe and sustainable way. 

Oftentimes these programs will have bins or containers outside of dispensaries so you can conveniently recycle any packaging that you might have.

In the very near future, NatureMed will be one of those dispensaries to offer one of these programs. You will soon be able to bring any and all packaging from the products you buy and deposit it into a Resinate Energy Pod. They will then take all of the packaging and either send them to a recycling facility or break them down and turn them into usable products like rolling trays, planters and more!

Keep your eyes on our website and our socials to see when this program will be arriving at NatureMed!

Fostering a Culture of Sustainability

As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, so too does its commitment to sustainability. By embracing environmentally conscious practices, companies can not only reduce their environmental footprint but also foster a culture of sustainability within the industry. From seed to sale, every step of the cannabis production process offers opportunities to minimize environmental impact and promote ecological stewardship.

 

Cultivating green is not just a trend—it’s a necessity for the cannabis industry. By prioritizing sustainability, companies can not only reduce their environmental footprint but also foster a sense of community and consciousness among consumers. 

As we look towards a more sustainable future, NatureMed is committed to doing our part to ensure that the cannabis community stays green.

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!