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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.

 

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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An Introduction to Terpenes

An Introduction to Terpenes

When we think about cannabis and what it’s made up of, we often focus on cannabinoids like THC and CBD, they are the most common and are the most likely to be found on the packaging of products you’re buying.

However, there is another group of compounds that also play a significant role in your cannabis experience and those are terpenes.

Terpenes are aromatic compounds that give cannabis both its distinctive flavor and smell as well as contribute to its effects.

If you’re looking to gain a better understanding of cannabis and help yourself in guiding your cannabis experience, then terpenes is a great place to start.

What are Terpenes?

Terpenes are actually found in many different plants, not just cannabis, and can even be found in some insects and fungi. They are responsible for a number of different aromas and flavors in nature, from fruit to flowers. Many of these natural scents are also present in the cannabis plant.

In cannabis specifically, terpenes are produced in the resin glands of the plant and are secreted in the form of sticky oils. Practically, in nature, terpenes are helpful in deterring predators, attracting pollinators, and protecting the plant from things like heat, UV radiation, and pests.

In use, they contribute to the experience of consuming cannabis through the scent and flavor and also the effects that specific strain has on you.

Common Terpenes Found in Cannabis

There are over 100 different terpenes that have been identified in cannabis. Each one has its own unique aromas and effects. Some of the most common terpenes that can be found in cannabis include:

Myrcene: Known for its earthy, musky aroma, myrcene is one of the most common terpenes in cannabis. It has sedative and relaxing effects and has been known to help enhance the effects of cannabinoids like THC.

Limonene: As the name suggests, limonene has a citrusy aroma that is similar to lemons. It has mood-enhancing and energizing effects and could have potential anti-anxiety and antidepressant properties.

Pinene: Pinene has an aroma similar to pine and is often found in coniferous trees. It has anti-inflammatory properties and some report that it can help improve airflow to the lungs.

Linalool: Linalool has a floral scent with hints of lavender and spice. It has sedative and calming effects and may help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

Beta-Caryophyllene: Beta-caryophyllene has a spicy, peppery smell and is also found in black pepper and cloves. It has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties and may help relieve pain and inflammation.

Effects of Terpenes

Terpenes not only contribute to the smell and flavor of cannabis but also interact with other parts of the plant to produce different effects on the mind and body. 

Additionally, specific terpenes can interact with cannabinoids like THC and CBD to create something known as the entourage effect. This effect can change how you experience certain cannabinoids and play a role in the effects that you feel when you consume them.

 

As our understanding of the cannabis plant expands we are beginning to see more brands and products embracing terpene profiles as a more detailed way of classifying their effects.

By getting to know the terpene profiles of different cannabis strains, you can better choose products that align with your desired effects and preferences.

Here at NatureMed we are happy to answer any questions you may have about terpenes and help you to find whatever you’re looking for. 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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Education Starter Series

An Introduction to Cannabinoids

An Introduction to Cannabinoids. What are they and why are they important?

In recent years there has been an increased interest in cannabis and its potential health benefits. This interest has led more people to look into the various components of cannabis and what they can do for you. 

Some of the components that have received a lot of attention are Cannabinoids, and with good reason. Cannabinoids play a pivotal role in the therapeutic effects of cannabis, influencing everything from pain relief to mood regulation.

An Intro to Cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are chemical compounds that are naturally found in the cannabis plant. When consumed, they interact in specific ways with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This system is a network of receptors that are involved in regulating different physiological processes.

Every Cannabinoid is slightly different and interacts uniquely with your endocannabinoid system. This means that every cannabinoid has its own specific effect on the body. While some cannabinoids can be used for the same purposes they’re all going to have different variations, which is why it’s important to know exactly what these different compounds do.

The Most Common Types of Cannabinoids

There are over 100 different cannabinoids that have been identified in the cannabis plant, each of which has its own unique effects and potential benefits. However, these are the most common ones that you might encounter and what they can do.

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC):

THC is probably the most well-known cannabinoid and is one of the psychoactive compounds found in cannabis. That psychoactivity is what is responsible for the feeling of being high. It binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, altering mood, perception, and cognition. 

In addition to getting you high THC can be used in a number of therapeutic ways. It’s been known to help treat both acute and chronic pain and has also been used as a muscle relaxant. People have also used it to help with nausea and as an appetite stimulant.  

Cannabidiol (CBD):

CBD is another very common cannabinoid that is found in the cannabis plant. It’s known for its therapeutic properties and is not psychoactive, meaning it won’t get you high. 

One of main things that CBD is known for is its pain relieving properties, making products that contain CBD very popular with people experiencing chronic pain. It also has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anxiolytic, and neuroprotective properties, making it a valuable compound for various other health conditions.

Cannabigerol (CBG):

CBG is considered the precursor to other cannabinoids and is sometimes referred to as the “mother cannabinoid”. During the growing process, CBG is one of the first cannabinoids to form and as the plant continues to grow, other cannabinoids like THC and CBD are developed from it.

It’s known for its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. It’s been known to be helpful in treating diseases like Huntington’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. CBG has also been used as an appetite stimulant to help treat eating disorders and appetite loss because of chemotherapy.

Cannabinol (CBN):

While not as common as some other cannabinoids, CBN is still fairly popular. It occurs when THC is exposed to heat, light, and oxygen over time, degrading it. Because it’s originally derived from THC, CBN is mildly psychoactive.

CBN is most commonly used as a sleep aid due to its sedating properties. It has also been known to help with pain relief which makes it popular with people who have trouble sleeping due to medical conditions or persistant pain. 

Cannabichromene (CBC):

CBC is a less popular cannabinoid, mostly because it is found in smaller quantities than cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Structurally it is actually pretty similar to CBD and other cannabinoids. 

It also has anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties like other cannabinoids but studies have shown that it may have antidepressant effects. This makes products that contain CBC potentially helpful tools in lessening the effects of depression.

Why it’s Important to Know Your Cannabinoids

Knowing about the cannabinoids that are in the products you’re consuming is going to help you to better curate your cannabis experience. You’ll be able to better understand the effects that they might have on you and as you try more products you’ll be able to catalog exactly how each cannabinoid affects you personally. You will also be able to better choose the correct product for your specific problems or needs.

Understanding the diverse effects of cannabinoids and their interactions with the body’s endocannabinoid system is essential for harnessing the full potential of cannabis as a medicinal and wellness aid.

As our understanding of cannabinoids continues to grow, so does our appreciation for all of the benefits they offer. By exploring the intricacies of cannabinoids and their interactions with our bodies, we can unlock new avenues for treatment and discovery in the fascinating world of cannabis.

If you’re looking to try out some new products featuring some of the cannabinoids mentioned here, stop by NatureMed and we’ll make sure that you find what you’re looking for. 

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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A Starter Guide to Topicals

A Starter Guide to Topicals

Cannabis can be used in so many different ways and not all of them require the user to consume it. Topicals are a great way to experience the benefits of cannabis but you’re not looking to feel that high. 

How do Topicals Work?

Topicals work the same way that other forms of cannabis do, by interacting with your endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system is a biological system that plays an important role in regulating certain physiological processes, including mood, appetite, sleep, immune response, and pain perception.

There are endocannabinoid receptors found all over the body, including in the skin. When topicals are applied, they are able to interact with those receptors in your skin and allow you to feel the effects of the cannabinoids. 

The reason why most topicals don’t get you high is that the cannabinoids are only affecting the receptors in the area that you applied the topical to. Your skin keeps the cannabinoids from being absorbed into the bloodstream, therefore keeping the effects local to only that area.

Types of Topicals 

If you feel like you might benefit from using topicals, then you’re in luck! There are a number of different options when it comes to topical products so you’re bound to find something that will get you what you’re looking for.

Cream and Lotion

Creams and lotions are popular cannabis topicals that combine cannabinoids like CBD and THC with traditional skincare ingredients to create something that can be easily applied to the skin.

With these topicals, the cannabinoids are absorbed through the skin and are often used for targeted relief. People will usually use these to address things like muscle soreness or joint pain.

Balm and Salve

Balms and Salves are similar to creams and lotions in the way that they are applied and the benefits that they have. However, their consistency is thicker, sometimes closer to a wax. 

This consistency means that the product generally sits on top of the skin and forms a barrier for it, allowing the cannabinoids to sit against the skin for longer. This is why, in addition to localized pain relief, balms and salves are often used to treat skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis

Spray

For people who are on the go or are looking to cover a larger area, quicker, then sprays might be the better option. 

Sprays usually aren’t as heavy as lotions or salves so they usually dry quicker. Also they would be a good choice for people who aren’t looking to add extra oil or grease to their skin. 

Additionally, they generally contain some kind of alcohol which allows it to absorb into the skin quicker and start giving you that relief as soon as possible.

Bath Products

Cannabis infused baths products are starting to get more popular and are good for more general relief, rather than localized like lotions or sprays. 

You can typically find things like infused bath bombs, soaks, bath salts and more. They’ll also usually contain other beneficial ingredients like essential oils to really give you that calming, relaxing experience.

One thing about bath products is that they can cost just as much as some other topicals but can be used up much faster. They are still a great option to meet specific needs but they might not be the most cost effective.

Transdermal Patches

Transdermal patches are a little bit unique among topicals because users can actually feel psychoactive effects when applied. 

These patches contain an enhancer that allows the cannabinoids to penetrate the skin and actually reach the bloodstream, which will in term make you feel that high. 

They are also designed to release the cannabinoids over a longer period of time, which gives a more extended relief to the user.

Oils

Topical oils are a good, versatile option that can be used in a number of different ways. There are massage oils that will help to give that little extra boost to an already therapeutic treatment. 

You can also take that cannabis oil and add it to things that you already use. Is there a lotion or a cream you like? Go ahead and add a couple of drops to make it that much more helpful. Just make sure that you are mindful of the ingredients and dosages when you are mixing things at home.

There are also recipes that you can use to make your own cannabis oil from flower, at home. There are dozens of recipes online that you can use if you’re looking to make your own topicals.

 

Topicals are a great option for someone looking to experience the benefits of cannabis without needing to also get high. If you’re looking to give topicals a try, then NatureMed is here to get you everything you need.

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

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What to Expect on Your First Visit to a Dispensary

What to Expect on Your First Visit to a Dispensary

If you’re just starting out on your cannabis journey you might be a little nervous, apprehensive or just confused about your first dispensary trip. 

Maybe you feel like you don’t know what you’re doing, maybe you feel like you need help with the process or maybe you just want to know what your visit will be like.

Well, don’t worry, we have all the information that you’re going to need to make your first dispensary run go as smoothly as possible. 

What to Know Before You Get There

Before you head over to the dispensary of your choice there are a couple of things that you need to know. 

Here in Arizona, you must be 21 or older to purchase cannabis (18 if you have a medical card) and dispensaries will check your ID, regardless of how old or young you look. To make things run smoothly, make sure that you have a valid form of identification to take with you. 

If you have a medical card you should make sure you have that information as well.

Additionally, many dispensaries are cash only, so unless you are sure that the one you’re going to accepts cards, you should make sure that you have cash on you. Don’t worry, though, if you get there and realize that they don’t take card, like you thought or if you didn’t bring enough cash, there are almost alway ATM’s on site that you can use. 

We also recommend that you take a look at the dispensary’s menu ahead of time. Most places have a huge selection of products and it can get overwhelming if you’re looking at it for the first time in the lobby or on the sales floor.

Most dispensaries also list their prices online so you can get an idea of what it will cost before you get there. Also, when you’re tallying up your total and making sure you have the cash, don’t forget about taxes. 

In Arizona, if you are purchasing marijuana recreationally, you need to pay a 16% excise tax in addition to the state sales tax.

What to Expect When You Arrive

So you’ve done all of your research, you have all of the necessities and now you’ve made it to the dispensary, what next.

The first thing you’re going to encounter is some kind of security. The level of security is going to depend on the dispensary, but at the very least you will encounter a guard at the door. Don’t be alarmed, this is standard practice at almost every location that sells cannabis. 

You then go to check in, there will probably be a person at the front desk of some kind and they’re going to get you all checked in. This is where you’ll show your ID and/or Med card and they will verify the information. 

After check in there might be a wait, depending on how busy it is. If you do have to wait, that will be a perfect time to check out their menus, look through the website again or even take out cash from the ATM. The wait will vary, but typically you shouldn’t be waiting too long before you get called back.

When You Make Your Purchase

You will next get called back by one of the budtenders and from that point until the end of your transaction, they will be working with you to make sure that you are getting what you want. 

If you already know what you want then you can just let the budtender know and they’ll begin putting your order together. However, if you’re still a little unsure, this is the perfect time to ask questions and leverage your budtenders knowledge of the products. 

You can ask any questions about the products or see if they have any recommendations. You can also ask them if there are any deals running, most dispensaries have a “first time customer” deal but there may be others that you can take advantage of.

Once you’ve made your decision, all you have to do now is pay. They will take your payment and then they will pack your items in a sealed bag for you to take with you. 

At the end of your transaction, you might even want to throw a tip your budtenders way, if you feel like you had a good experience with them.

After You’re Done

You did it! You successfully navigated your first dispensary visit! As you’re leaving there are a couple of things that you need to be aware of. 

Please don’t open or begin using your purchases until you are home. State law prohibits consumption on site, so just wait until you are in a private space before test driving all of your new goodies. 

However, once you are at home, please try what you bought! If it’s your first time trying cannabis or if you’re trying something new then it might be helpful to take note of how it’s affecting you. 

This will help to inform future purchases and allow you to really hone in on the products that are going to give your desired results.

 

Going to a dispensary should be a positive experience and now we hope that you’re feeling a little more prepared. 

If you’re looking for a dispensary to go to for your first time, might we humbly suggest NatureMed. We have a long list of products and deals along with knowledgeable and friendly budtenders. We would love to see you!

If you’re interested in checking us out, please feel free to peruse our menu as well as our specials page to see all the ways you can save!

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A Starter Guide to Flower

A Starter Guide to Flower

If you’re just getting started on your cannabis journey, one of the first forms of weed you will probably encounter is flower. It’s one of the most basic forms of cannabis, which gives you a lot of options and allows you to do a lot with it. 

However, all of those options can make things a little overwhelming for a beginner so we’re here to give you a hand and help lead you into the wonderful world of Flower.

Understanding Cannabis Anatomy

To start off, it can be helpful to understand the basics of the anatomy of the Cannabis plant. The plant is made up of a number of different parts but the important one that you need to know about is the bud.

The bud (also known as the flower) is the part of the plant that grows in between the leaves and is the part of the plant that has the highest concentration of cannabinoids like THC and CBD. 

Additionally, on the bud, you’ll find tiny, crystal-like structures called Trichomes. They are the primary site for cannabinoid and terpene production and they give the plant a frosty appearance and contribute to the potency and aroma of the flower.

When it’s ready, growers will harvest the bud from the plant and process it. In its most basic form, this is what you will get when you purchase flower from a dispensary.

Choosing the Right Flower

With so much variation in the effect of the different types of flower, you’re going to want to make sure that you’re choosing a strain that works for you. 

You may want to look at the classification of that particular flower, whether it’s an Indica, Sativa, or a Hybrid strain. Indica strains are associated with relaxation, Sativa with energy and focus, and Hybrid with a combination of effects.

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

You may also want to look into the cannabinoid and terpene profiles of different strains. Many brands are starting to talk about those profiles on their website, packaging or both. If you can’t find that information, then you can always ask your budtender about it.

The Different Ways to Consume Flower

Since Flower is cannabis in its most basic form, pretty much every product you see in a dispensary is derived from flower but there are a number of ways that you can consume flower without a lot of extra steps on your end. 

Pre-rolls

The easiest, most beginner-friendly way to smoke flower is through a pre-roll. As the name suggests, a pre-roll is a joint that you purchase already rolled and ready to smoke out of the package. 

Pre-rolls are popular for their ease and convenience. They’re great for beginners or for people who aren’t as confident in their rolling skills.

Rolling your own

If you don’t mind putting in a little more effort you can always roll your own. To roll your own joint or blunt, you would need to purchase some prepackaged flower, grind it up into a fine texture and then roll it up into rolling papers or wrappers. 

Making your own joint may seem a little intimidating at the start and your first couple may not look the best, but like with anything, it just takes a little practice. There are a lot of great resources and tutorials out there that will help you and even take you step by step through the process. 

Don’t be afraid to give it a try, before you know it you’ll be rolling like a pro.

Smoking in a bong/pipe

Another popular way to consume flower is smoking it through a bong or a pipe. This entails taking the ground up flower, placing it to the section of the bong or pipe called the bowl, igniting it and inhaling it through the mouth piece. 

Some people may get intimidated by using equipment while smoking, but similar to rolling there are a lot of resources out there to show you how it’s done. With some time and a little bit of practice, using a bong or a pipe can become second nature.

 

Flower is one of the most versatile forms of cannabis and is popular with new and seasoned users alike. If you’re looking to give flower a try yourself, then come on down to NatureMed and we’ll make sure you have everything you’re going to need.

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

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A Starter Guide to Edibles

A Starter Guide to Edibles

Edibles are a pretty common way to consume cannabis and is sometimes the choice method for people who have issues or concerns inhaling smoke. 

They travel well and are a discreet way of medicating while in public or in social settings. They can also give a more prolonged, more intense high, depending on the edible. 

Additionally, there is a wide variety of dosages that you can choose from depending on what you’re looking for. There are micro-dose edibles that can be between 3-5 mg per piece or macro-dose that can be as much as 50 mg per piece (or even more). 

Most commonly, however, you’re probably going to 10 mg per serving as the standard.

If you’re looking to try some edibles for the first time or just expand your repertoire, we’re here to give you all the information you need on all of the different types of edibles you’ll find. 

Gummy Candy

One of the most common types of edibles you’re probably going to run into are Gummies. These are cannabis infused gummy candy that come in a variety of sizes, flavors and dosages.

They’re popular because they are small and portable and they’re easy to split if you’re looking for a smaller dosage. There’s also a higher chance that you’re going to find something that you’ll like, flavor or dosage wise, because there are so many options

Hard Candy

Hard candy edibles are another popular type of edible you’ll find. They come in a number of different forms, like lollypop, mints, lozenges, and more. They also come in a variety of flavors and dosages so you’ll always be able to find your preferred candy. 

Something different about hard candies is the way that you absorb the THC from them. Because the THC is being absorbed through your mouth instead of your stomach, you’ll typically feel the effects faster and for longer.

Baked Goods 

What many people think of edibles they probably think of “weed brownies” and while that is still a very popular treat, cannabis infused baked goods have expanded beyond that. There’s cookies, cakes, cereal treats, and more. Whatever you’re looking for there’s probably a medical version of it.

Baked goods are also pretty popular because they come in pretty high dosage servings and you can decide for yourself how you want to consume it.

Break it up into tiny pieces? You can do that. Split one with some friends? You certainly can. Eat the whole thing yourself? We don’t recommend doing that on your first go around but that’s an option too!

Savory Snacks

Pretty much everything we’ve talked about so far has been a sweet treat of some kind but if sweet isn’t your thing, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. From pretzels to popcorn to BBQ Sauce and dips, there are so many options to satisfy that savory craving. 

These are also a great option to consider for people who need to watch how much sugar they eat. You can still enjoy the benefits of edibles without having to compromise certain aspects of your diet. 

Infused Drinks

Something else that we are starting to see more often are infused drinks. These are seltzers, juices, teas, or other beverages that have been infused with THC or CBD. You can either drink an infused beverage straight or mix it with something else. 

Seltzers and juices go well with mixers and make delicious, cannabis infused cocktails. You can take infused tea or coffee with you breakfast to mellow out your morning or pour either one over ice to keep you going all day. 

Infused drinks are also an alternative to alcohol that will have you feeling good, without that hangover to deal with in the morning.

Mixables

Speaking of mixing things, you don’t alway have to buy your edibles completely made for you. You can get infused ingredients to mix into whatever you’re making. 

There are cannabis oils and butters that you can add into your cooking or baking to give them a little something extra. They are also infused syrups that you can add on top of food or into drinks. 

If you don’t want anything that will interfere with the taste or texture of your food there are dissolvables that will mix into most things and leave next to no trace, except for whatever you feel after eating it.

 

There are so many options when it comes to edibles, that there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking to give edibles a try or you want to try something new, NatureMed is here to help.

Stop by and we’ll be here to help you with anything you need. Here is a link to our edibles menu and our specials page to see the ways you can save.

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How to Get Your Medical Marijuana Card in Arizona

How to Get Your Medical Marijuana Card in Arizona

It might seem like, with recreational marijuana legal now, it’s not worth it to get your Medical Marijuana Card but that might not be the case for you. Having your Med Card allows you access to things that Recreational Patients might not get. 

Medical Patients can purchase more product, in higher quantities. You can also take advantage of the delivery services that some dispensaries offer. 

You can also save some money if you purchase with your Med Card. Medical marijuana is taxed at the rate of state sales tax, whereas recreational marijuana is subject to an additional 16% excise tax.

If you’re thinking about starting the process of getting your Med Card, don’t stress, we’re going walk you through what you need to do and give you the resources you need to make this process as smooth as possible.

Do you qualify for a Med Card? 

Before you start looking into how to get your Med Card, you need to determine if you qualify for one. 

First, you need to be 18 years or older. If you’re younger, you can have an approved Caregiver apply on your behalf. You will also need to be a permanent resident of Arizona at the time of application.

Then you will need to determine if you have a qualifying medical condition. The Arizona Department of Health Services (AZDHS) lists the following as qualifying conditions:

  • Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
  • Cancer
  • Glaucoma
  • Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
  • Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)
  • Hepatitis C
  • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
  • Crohn’s Disease
  • Agitation of Alzheimer’s disease
  • A chronic or debilitating disease or medical condition or the treatment for a chronic or debilitating disease or medical condition that causes:
    • Cachexia or wasting syndrome;
    • Severe and chronic pain;
    • Severe nausea;
    • Seizures, including those characteristic of epilepsy;
    • Severe or persistent muscle spasms, including those characteristic of multiple sclerosis

Once you have determined if you hit that criteria you can start the process of getting your Med Card.

Get your Medical Marijuana Certification

Before you start filling out your application, you are going to want to get your Medical Marijuana Certification. This is official documentation from a licensed medical professional that certifies that you indeed have one of the above listed qualifying medical conditions. 

These appointments will vary slightly from doctor to doctor but in general, you’re going to need your most recent medical records and some form of payment. The cost of these appointments can vary so make sure that you either check online or call the provider to confirm prices.

You also might need to print and bring with you the Medical Marijuana Physician Certification Form. 

Make sure that you check with the office before your appointment, to make sure that you are bringing everything that they require for your appointment.

If you’re looking for a doctor to get your certification, check out one of the following places and see what’s right for you:

Fill out and submit your application

Once you have your Medical Marijuana Certification, you’re ready to begin your application process. There are a few things that you are going to want to have handy to make the application process go as smoothly as possible.

You are going to need a recent photograph of you (or the patient if you’re applying on behalf of someone) and a valid form of identification. You will also need your signed Medical Marijuana Patient Attestation form and the Medical Marijuana Physician Certification Form that has been completed and signed by a licensed physician.

You’re also going to need a credit or debit card to pay the application and registration fee of $150. Note: this is in addition to any payments you might have made for your certification appointment.

AZDHS has a thorough checklist on their website, which we recommend downloading and using during this process.

 

After you gather everything, you can start to fill out the application and upload all supporting documents online.

Once everything is filled out and uploaded and your payment has been made you are good to submit your application! As long as your application is complete and there are no issues, AZDHS should issue your registry identification card within 5 business days.

Get your card!

You did it! You’ve submitted your application, you’ve gotten approved and now you have your Med Card!! 

You won’t get a physical card because, as of 2019, the state of Arizona requires that all cards be electronic, so make sure that you are able to access your digital card when you visit a dispensary. If you are unable to access your electronic card reliably, you are able to download and print your card to bring with you.

Photo from the Arizona Department of Health Services

Please note that your card is valid for two years from the issue date and you need to make sure that you apply for renewal at least 30 days before it expires.

 

Having your Med Card allows you access so many more options than you would otherwise and it also gives you the most opportunities to help you feel the best that you can be.

No matter what you decide is best for you, Nature Med is here to help! Here is a link to our online menu and our specials page. Also check out our delivery page to see if that option is right for you.

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Education Starter Series

A Starter Guide to Concentrates

A Starter Guide to Concentrates

Concentrates are a popular way that a lot of people consume cannabis, however it can get overwhelming, trying to figure out all of the different types of concentrates. To make it a little easier, we’ve put together an introduction to the most common types of concentrates you might encounter. 

Shatter

As the name suggests, Shatter has a brittle, glass-like look to it that will crack or “shatter” like glass when broken. This concentrate is made using solvents like butane or CO2 to extract the desired compounds from the plant. Afterwards, the solvents are processed or evaporated to remove them, leaving only the concentrate behind

Typically, Shatter is consumed by dabbing, where a small piece is broken off, heated and vaporized using a dab rig or something similar.

Crumble

Crumble is a concentrate that’s similar to shatter but with a dryer, more crumbly consistency, giving it its name. Crumble is another concentrate that’s made using solvents, in this case, specifically butane.

Crumble can also be consumed through dabbing but is also often on top of or mixed with flower to add to the smoking experience. 

Batter

Batter, also known as Badder, is a concentrate with a thick, whipped consistency that often resembles frosting or cake batter, hence the name.

Batter is produced similarly to crumble, however, during the process of purging the solvents from the concentrate, it is mixed or whipped to give it the texture and consistency it’s known for. 

It’s like many other concentrates in that it’s often consumed through dabbing or vaporizers that are designed for concentrates.

Wax

Another type of concentrate that you might come across is Wax. Like the name suggests, this type of concentrate has a texture and feel similar to that of beeswax. 

Like Shatter or Crumble, Wax is another type of concentrate that is extracted using solvents. Similar to Batter, Wax gets its thicker, soft consistency from having air whipped into it during production.

 Wax is another concentrate that is commonly consumed through dabbing or vaporizing. 

Resin

Resin is another term you may come across when talking about concentrates. It’s a broader term that can be used to describe a few different types of concentrates, ranging from from a more viscous type liquid to a more solid syrupy concentrate.

One of the more common types of Resin is Cured Resin. The process to make Cured Resin involves drying and curing the cannabis plant. After harvest, the plants are hung and dried slowly over a period of time before the concentrates are extracted.

Another popular Resin is Live Resin. Live Resin is made by freezing the plant before extraction, instead of drying it. Freezing it like that preserves the terpenes that would typically be lost during the drying process.

Resin can be consumed a number of ways, including dabbing and vaping or it can be added to joints as well. 

Rosin

Rosin is a popular concentrate that is very versatile. It’s a solventless concentrate that’s made by applying heat and pressure to the flower, forcing the oil out. This ease of production makes Rosin a popular concentrate to produce at home. 

Depending on the Rosin, it can range from a more liquidy consistency to a thicker, almost taffy-like texture.

Similar to Resin, Rosin can be consumed in a number of different ways, people often use it for dabbing or vaping and it’s even sometimes added to joints.

 

There are so many different types and variations of concentrates but we hope that this little taste has given you a good idea of what to expect when trying out this particular cannabis product.

As always, NatureMed is here for all of you concentrate-related questions. Remember to consume responsibly and be mindful of dosages. Here is a link to our online concentrate menu and our specials page to see the ways you can save.

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Education Starter Series

Getting Started: A Beginners Guide to Cannabis Products

Getting Started: A Beginners Guide to Cannabis Products

For someone just starting out, getting into the cannabis space may feel a little intimidating. There’s a lot of different types of products that affect people in many different ways, all with different ways to consume them. 

If you are looking to get into weed, and don’t know where to start, we’re here to help, with a comprehensive starter guide to the different types of cannabis products.

Flower

The first type of cannabis product that you’re probably going to encounter is Flower. Flower is one of the most basic forms of cannabis and requires the least amount of processing after it’s harvested.There are two main ways that people consume flower, either smoked in a rolled product (like a joint or blunt) or in a pipe/bong. 

Smoking a joint is probably the most common way to consume cannabis, which involves grinding and rolling the flower into the joint, lighting and inhaling it, as one might do to a cigarette or cigar.

You could also smoke cannabis in a blunt, which is similar to a joint but is wrapped differently. Whereas a joint is typically wrapped in a rolling paper specially designed for cannabis, blunts are usually wrapped in a cigar wrapper, which contains tobacco. The tobacco content in a blunt affects the flavor, smell and even the high you get when smoking it.

People may also choose to smoke it out of a pipe or a bong. This involves placing the ground flower into the bowl of pipe or bong, igniting it and inhaling it through the mouth piece. Each apparatus works slightly differently, with a pipe allowing you to inhale the smoke directly, whereas a bong filters the smoke through water. 

Concentrates

Another form of cannabis that you’re likely to come across is concentrates. Concentrate, as the name suggests is a concentrated, highly potent form of cannabis that isolates desirable compounds like THC and CBD.

You can find concentrates in many different forms but the main ones you will usually see are distillate, rosin and resin. 

Distillate is one of the purest forms of cannabis concentrates available, with it usually containing over 90% cannabinoid content (typically THC). It’s also virtually tasteless and odorless, which makes it extremely versatile to use in many different products. 

Rosin is made by applying heat and pressure to the flower, causing the cannabinoids and terpenes to ooze out. It’s also solventless, which makes it easy to produce at home.

Live resin is made from freshly harvested and flash-frozen cannabis plants. This process preserves the plant’s terpenes, resulting in a concentrate with a strong flavor profile and aroma.

Concentrates can be consumed in a multitude of different ways, one of the most popular being dabbing. Dabbing involves heating a small amount of concentrate on a surface and inhaling the vapor through a dab rig.

Concentrates can also be used to manufacture a number of other types of cannabis products.

Learn More: A Starter Guide to Concentrates

Vapes

Vaporizers, mostly commonly known as Vapes are a very common type of cannabis product. They consist of a pod or a cartridge that contains a concentrated form of weed that is then heated until it vaporizes, allowing someone to inhale it. 

There are a few different types of vapes that you may come across. Disposables are common, which are essentially a non-refillable cartridge or pen that contains the concentrate that can be thrown out after it’s finished. 

You can buy cartridges on their own and attach them to a battery or you can purchase an all-in-one which comes with the battery already attached. 

If you don’t want to go the disposable route, you can purchase your own carts and refill yourself using whatever concentrate you like.

Edibles

Another way that you could consume cannabis is edibles. Edibles are basically food or beverages that are infused with cannabis extracts. These can come in the form of brownies, cookies, chocolate, gummies, and more. 

You can also find tinctures, which are liquid extracts that can be placed under the tongue or added to other foods and beverages.

Additionally, edibles are known to cause a more prolonged and intense high than other forms of cannabis and as such, one should be cautious when taking edibles for the first time. It can also sometimes take longer to feel the effects of edibles so it’s also a good idea to be conservative with your edible consumption until you know how it will affect you.

Topicals

Topicals are another popular form of cannabis product. Unlike other products that we’ve seen, topicals are not consumed but are, like the name suggests, applied topically to get the desired results.

Cannabis infused creams, lotions, salves and oils can be applied to the skin for a variety of reasons. Some of those reasons can include pain relief, inflammation reduction, relaxation stress reduction, and more.

Topicals are popular because you’re able to get localized relief to the area that you need it. Topicals also don’t not produce a high which makes them popular to use in everyday life.

 

Navigating the world of cannabis products can seem intimidating at first, with a diverse array of choices that cater to individual preferences and needs. So whether you’re looking for relaxation, pain relief, or a recreational experience, the diverse landscape of cannabis products has something for everyone. 

NatureMed is here for you as you embark on your cannabis journey. Remember to consume responsibly and be mindful of dosages. Here is a link to our online menu and our specials page to see the ways you can save.