Category: General

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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!

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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!

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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!

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Common Myths about Cannabis

6 Common Myths about Cannabis

Like any controlled substance, Cannabis has a number of stigmas surrounding it. There are also quite a few myths that get perpetuated that cast cannabis and cannabis users in a poor light. 

Almost all of these myths are either not true or are blown way out of proportion. They are, at best, founded in misinformation and at worst used to perpetuate harmful stereotypes. 

Now, we’re here to set the record straight and debunk a lot of these common myths and story about Cannabis

Myth #1: Cannabis is a Gateway Drug

One of the most common things that you hear about marijuana is that it’s a gateway drug that will cause users to eventually turn to other, stronger drugs, however, that’s not entirely true. 

While there has been a noted correlation between cannabis use and other drug use, correlation does not amount to causation. There are many factors that contribute to a person’s potential drug usage and oftentimes it’s a combination of many of those factors that determine the likelihood of someone going on to use hard drugs.

Furthermore, a study published by Cambridge University in 2023, found that in states where cannabis was legalized there was not significant increase in illicit drug use, after the legalization.

Myth #2: Cannabis is Highly Addictive

While cannabis use can lead to dependence in some individuals, the overall addiction potential is lower compared to substances like nicotine or opioids. 

Similar to our previous point, there are a number of different factors that could affect an individual’s chance of becoming addicted. Many studies have found that a person’s gender, marital status, income level, genetics and more can factor into their chances of becoming addicted to marijuana. 

Additionally those factors can also increase a person’s chances of becoming addicted to other substances as well, so it’s not exclusive to cannabis. 

Myth #3: Cannabis Causes Permanent Mental Illness

While cannabis use may have an association with mental health conditions, particularly in individuals predisposed to such conditions, there is not a lot of research that shows that it causes permanent mental illness. 

There are many other factors both internal and external that can contribute to a person’s mental state and their chances of having a mental illness. 

However, it is important to note that people who are already diagnosed with a mental illness or are predisposed to one based on genetics or family history may have their illness or symptoms exacerbated by the use of cannabis. 

So in these cases it’s important to be aware of your own conditions and talk to your health care provider if you have any concerns.

Myth #4: All Cannabis Strains Are the Same

Many people believe that cannabis affects them the same regardless of the type. This way of thinking can sometimes lead to people trying it, not liking how it made them feel, and never using it again. 

However, Cannabis strains can vary widely in their cannabinoid and terpene profiles, leading to different effects. Not all strains produce the same experiences, and factors such as THC and CBD levels, terpene content, and individual tolerance contribute to the diversity of effects.

Learn More: Indica v. Sativa: What’s the difference and why the industry is moving away from them

If you or someone you know had a less than great experience cannabis and you’re looking to try again, talk to your budtender. Let them know what you didn’t like and what you’re looking to feel and they should be able to give you some suggestions to help your next sesh go a little better.  

Myth #5: Cannabis Use Leads to Violence

There is no conclusive evidence linking cannabis use to an increased likelihood of violent behavior. Research generally suggests that cannabis is less likely to induce aggression compared to other substances. 

This myth tends to come from this idea that cannabis causes psychosis and psychosis causes violence, therefore cannabis use must cause violence. However, as we’ve already covered, psychosis, along with other mental illnesses are outright caused by cannabis consumption but by a myriad of factors. 

In fact, in a study funded by the Justice Department, they found that serious offenses and crime were not affected by the legalization and subsequent increased use of cannabis.

Myth #6: Cannabis Causes Lung Cancer Like Tobacco

While smoking cannabis does expose the lungs to carcinogens like tobacco smoke does, studies have not consistently shown a clear link between cannabis smoking and lung cancer. 

Furthermore, research has shown that even the most hardcore of cannabis users don’t smoke the same amount of weed as the average tobacco smoker does cigarettes 

However, if this is a concern for you or someone you know, alternative methods of consumption, such as vaporization or edibles, are generally considered to be safer for respiratory health.

While there are still a lot of myths and misconceptions about cannabis and cannabis users, the conversation is changing and increased education is working to dispel a lot of these myths.

If you still have questions or concerns about cannabis please don’t hesitate to come into NatureMed and ask, our budtenders will be more than happy to help you with whatever you need.

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Breaking Down Cannabis Culture in Arizona

Breaking Down Cannabis Culture in Arizona

Since 2010 with the legalization of medical marijuana, through the legalization of recreational marijuana in 2020 and beyond, the culture surrounding cannabis in Arizona has changed quite a bit. 

From the way that it is cultivated and distributed, to the way that it’s consumed, to people’s views and opinions on it cannabis has come a long way in the last few years.

Learn More: A Journey Through Time: Cannabis and Cannabis Usage in Arizona 

Like so many places, prior to legalization, there was already a thriving culture of cannabis in Arizona as well as an already established market. 

This legacy market involved the illicit cultivation, distribution, and consumption of marijuana. While it was not like the seedy back alley dealings that are seen in the media, it was not like the large operations that we see today. Growing and cultivating took place in people’s homes and on private property, and distribution relied on word of mouth advertising and interpersonal relationships.

This community, while illegal at the time, set the stage and laid the groundwork for the cannabis industry that we have today. 

 

By the time we reach 2010, we begin to see the efforts of the cannabis community come to fruition. After being rejected 2002, Proposition 203 (the Arizona Medical Marijuana Act), was approved, legalizing marijuana medical usage. 

 

Soon after, Arizonians began applying for medical marijuana cards, making cannabis much more widely and legally accessible than before. This began to bring the cannabis community out from underground and into a more public setting. In the eyes of some, its legality made it more acceptable.

 

Additionally, with the legalization being focused on medical usage, more people began to see cannabis in a different light. For some people, it was no longer an “illicit substance” with negative connotations, now it was something that was helping people and giving them the relief that they needed.

 

However, all opinions from the general public were not changed overnight. A number of lawsuits were filed in an effort to reject or overturn the Arizona Medical Marijuana Act. So while the laws had changed, the use of cannabis, even medically, was still stigmatized. 

As is often seen in these types of situations, laws influence opinion and opinion influences laws. Slowly but surely enough support was gained for the legalization of recreational marijuana to be brought to the people for a vote. Proposition 205 was rejected in 2016 but finally passed in 2020. 

 

This change in legislation marks another shift in the cannabis community. Marijuana is now easily available to more people than ever in the state of Arizona. This does a lot to help public opinion and to change to conversation around cannabis.

 

With it so readily available, the chances of a person knowing someone who used cannabis went up. For those who still continued to look down on the cannabis community, it allowed them to see cannabis users as real people in their lives and not just this caricature of a stoner that had been shown to them in the media.

This takes up to the current climate surrounding cannabis in Arizona. Marijuana is now as accessible as it’s been in recent history and the conversation around cannabis has been shifting into a more positive light.

Like any regulated substance, there are going to be a lot of varying opinions coming from a lot of different places but the cannabis community here in Arizona has put in a lot of work and made a lot of progress when it comes to its perception.

NatureMed is proud to be a part of the cannabis community here in Tucson and in Arizona as a whole. Whether you’re just starting out or have been here since the beginning, we are here to help you feel better.

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A Journey Through Time: Cannabis and Cannabis Usage in Arizona

A Journey Through Time: Cannabis and Cannabis Usage in Arizona

The history of cannabis usage in Arizona is a captivating tale that traverses centuries, revealing how this plant has played a significant role in the state’s cultural, medicinal, and legal landscapes. From its indigenous use to its modern-day legalization, the story of cannabis in Arizona is a testament to the evolving attitudes towards this once-controversial herb.

Ancient Roots:

Cannabis has deep-rooted origins in Arizona, dating back to prehistoric times. Native American tribes, including the Hopi, Navajo, and Apache, utilized cannabis in various rituals and spiritual practices. Its fibrous stalks were used to create ropes and baskets, while its seeds served as a valuable source of nutrition.

 

Arrival of Cannabis Prohibition:

In the early 20th century, the United States experienced a nationwide push towards cannabis prohibition. In 1931, Arizona, influenced by the prevailing national sentiments, enacted its first anti-cannabis laws, severely restricting its use and cultivation. The Marihuana Tax Act of 1937 effectively outlawed cannabis across the country, marking the beginning of a prolonged era of cannabis prohibition in Arizona.

The Medical Cannabis Movement:

The turning point in Arizona’s cannabis history came with the rise of the medical cannabis movement in the late 20th century. In 1996, California became the first state to legalize medical cannabis, setting a precedent that gradually spread across the nation. However, it wasn’t until 2010 that Arizona voters approved the Arizona Medical Marijuana Act (AMMA). This landmark legislation allowed patients with qualifying medical conditions to access medical cannabis legally.

Legalization Efforts and Proposition 203:

Buoyed by the success of the AMMA, advocates and activists in Arizona intensified their efforts to push for broader cannabis legalization. These endeavors culminated in Proposition 203, a ballot initiative that sought to regulate the recreational use of cannabis. In November 2020, Arizona voters approved Proposition 203, making it the 13th state to legalize recreational cannabis.

A Regulated Cannabis Market:

With recreational cannabis now legal, Arizona embarked on a journey to create a robust and regulated cannabis market. The state introduced a system of licensed dispensaries, cultivators, and manufacturers to ensure safe access and quality control for consumers. By doing so, Arizona aimed to strike a balance between economic opportunities, public safety, and responsible usage.

The Economic Impact:

The legalization of cannabis brought significant economic benefits to Arizona. The state saw a surge in tax revenues, with funds being allocated towards public health programs, education, and infrastructure projects. Moreover, the cannabis industry generated job opportunities, fostering a new sector of the economy and stimulating local businesses.

Social and Cultural Changes:

As cannabis became more widely accepted, Arizona’s social fabric also began to change. The stigma surrounding cannabis use gradually diminished, and people became more open to discussing its potential benefits and responsible usage. Public opinion shifted towards viewing cannabis as a medicinal plant rather than a dangerous drug.

Addressing Challenges:

While the legalization of cannabis brought numerous benefits, it also posed challenges. Lawmakers and policymakers had to navigate issues related to public safety, impaired driving, and ensuring the responsible use of cannabis products. Additionally, education campaigns were launched to inform the public about the risks and benefits associated with cannabis consumption.

The journey of cannabis in Arizona has been one of transformation, from its ancient indigenous roots to a contentious period of prohibition and finally to a landscape where it is embraced for its medicinal and recreational potential. As attitudes continue to evolve, Arizona stands as an example of how a thoughtful, regulated approach to cannabis usage can lead to positive outcomes, benefiting both individuals and the state as a whole. The future of cannabis in Arizona is likely to see further developments, driven by continued research, public dialogue, and the quest for balance between freedom, responsibility, and public welfare.