Categories
Uncategorized

4 Ways to Incorporate Cannabis into your Thanksgiving

4 Ways to Incorporate Cannabis into your Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is almost upon us and with it comes a lot of different traditions. Everyone has different ways of celebrating as well as a whole host of different feelings about the holiday. 

 

However, regardless of your traditions or thoughts about Thanksgiving, if you’re here, you’re probably looking for ways that you can incorporate cannabis into your holiday celebration. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. 

 

Danksgiving Friendsgiving

Sometimes, your Thanksgiving host isn’t going to be super keen on you bringing any party favors to dinner. Totally cool, everyone’s got their own way of celebrating. This doesn’t mean that you can’t have your own Danksgiving celebration. 

 

In recent years, we’ve seen the rise of “Friendsgiving”, which is a Thanksgiving meal, usually before the actual day, that’s focused on friends instead of family. You can take this concept and adapt it. Grab some friends and maybe a couple of your smoke buddies and throw your own cannabis friendly Friendsgiving. 

 

This allows you to incorporate cannabis into the holiday, while still respecting the wishes of your hosts or guests.

Bring a medicated addition to the meal

Lets say your Thanksgiving crowd is cool with a little weed, you can incorporate cannabis into almost any dish or hostess gift you bring. 

 

If you’re cooking something, you can go ahead and add a little bit of cannabis infused oil or butter to the dish. Or if you’re baking, you can never go wrong with a little bit of medicated chocolate.

Are you on drink duty? Bring some infused seltzer or juice or maybe some cannabis non-alcoholic wine, if you’re feeling fancy. 

 

Maybe you’re not the cooking type and don’t have time to run out and grab anything, there’s nothing wrong with bringing a pre-roll (or a few) to pass a round. It will definitely be appreciated.

 

Bring your own stash 

Maybe your Thanksgiving party isn’t a huge fan of cannabis and probably won’t be smoking with you, this doesn’t mean that you can’t have a little fun on your own. 

 

Thanksgiving can be a pretty long and involved affair, this means that you’ll probably have time to sneak away for a little bit of fun. 

 

Most people are probably familiar with the “taking a walk with you cousins/siblings” or the “let’s go walk the dog” excuses. They get you out of the house and away from prying eyes so you can take a little time to decompress. 

A vape or even some edibles are good options for this scenario because they travel well and are pretty discrete.

Just make sure that you are careful where and when you consume. Make sure that you’re not on the property of anyone who might object. 

Also try and give yourself a few extra minutes before going back in just to air out and not raise suspicion. 

Start out early

If you’re worried about bringing cannabis to Thanksgiving dinner, you can also just get started a little earlier. 

Partaking beforehand makes sure that you’re still going to get that high without the risk of someone finding your stash. It also gives time for any smell to dissipate so people aren’t asking uncomfortable questions. 

Now, you can and should consume how you want but in this case, you might want to consider trying out some edibles. Edibles that you are absorbed sublingually, like hard candies or tinctures will often have a longer lasting effect and allow you to keep that high going all dinner long.

 

No matter how you decide to celebrate Thanksgiving this year, there’s always going to be a way to slip a little cannabis into the holiday.

We here at NatureMed are thankful for you and want you to know that we’re here for all you cannabis related needs. 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

Happy Danksgiving!

Categories
Uncategorized

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.

Categories
Uncategorized

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.

Categories
Uncategorized

5 Cannabis Benefits for Veterans

5 Cannabis Benefits for Veterans

For as long as people can remember cannabis has been used for so many different things and has helped so many so many different kinds of people. One group of people who have reported seeing benefits from the use of cannabis has been Veterans.

Veterans have made so many sacrifices and have honorably served their country but some experience chronic medical conditions as a result of that service. 

There have been many veterans who have reported that marijuana has helped to ease the symptoms of some of their conditions and we would like to share just some of the ways they have been able to do that. 

Quick note before we get started! Cannabis, both medical and recreational, has not been legalized federally, therefore the Veterans Association (VA) is not permitted to recommend marijuana to patients. Additionally, they “may not complete paperwork/forms required for Veteran patients to participate in state-approved marijuana programs”.

However, according to the VA, Veterans will not be denied benefits because of cannabis usage.

With that taken care of, let’s get into it! Here are five ways that cannabis could help benefit veterans. 

1. Treatment for PTSD

One of the most common and more documented uses of cannabis for veterans is as a treatment for PTSD. While there has not been an official trial recognized by the VA there have been credible, FDA-regulated studies that show a link between cannabis usage and the improvement of PTSD symptoms. 

Additionally, there have been quite a few personal accounts from veterans who have used cannabis as a way to manage the symptoms of PTSD. 

2. Treat symptoms of anxiety and depression

According to the National Library of Medicine 14% to 16% of service members have reported being affected by depression. Additionally, about 20% of veterans report that they experience some form of anxiety 

Certain strains of cannabis have been used to help lessen the symptoms of depression and anxiety. There isn’t one particular stain or type of cannabis that will work best and given that everyone’s body reacts to cannabis differently we recommend talking to your budtender about what could help best for your specific symptoms.

3. Treat Chronic Pain

Many veterans report experiencing some kind of chronic pain, oftentimes stemming from their service. This kind of pain can range from mildly uncomfortable to debilitating and can affect every aspect of a person’s life.

Cannabis, in many different forms, has long been used for help with all different types of pain. Marijuana has been known to treat all types of pain, from migraines to joint pain and even pain associated with nerve damage.

4. Help with Loss of Appetite

An increase in appetite while using cannabis is very common and is often referred to as “getting the munchies”. This is usually considered a harmless side effect of smoking, however, those who are experiencing a chronic loss of appetite will sometimes use cannabis as an appetite stimulant to help treat the problem.

A loss of appetite can stem from a number of things, but for veterans in particular it can be a result of depression and even PTSD. 

5. Help with Insomnia

Another common use for cannabis is as a sleep aid. Certain strains are known to be extremely relaxing and there are even specific products that are designed with sleep in mind.

Insomnia, fitful rest and even nightmares are commonly reported issues in veterans. Cannabis can be a more natural way to treat those symptoms. Keep in mind that different strains have different effects so it may be a good idea to speak to your budtender for recommendations for sleep aids.

Bonus! An alternative to opioids 

With the recent opioid epidemic, there have been a number of people, veterans included, looking for alternatives to opioids and some have used cannabis as that alternative.  

There have been a few studies done showing that the use of cannabis can decrease the need for opioid painkillers. One study showed “64% reduction in opioid use amongst chronic pain patients who used medical marijuana.

Just as a reminder: these are simply alternative treatments for people to consider. At the end of the day, patients should listen to their doctors and medical professionals when it comes to medical conditions and always be truthful when disclosing any alternative treatments they may be using.

Everyone here at Nature Med salutes our veterans and is appreciative everyday for the sacrifices that they made. We hope that all veterans know that they are more than welcome here and we will do everything in our power to take care of them! 

If you’re interested in checking out what we have to offer, here’s a link to our online menu and our specials page to see the ways you can save. Please stop by NatureMed on Veterans Day to take advantage of all of our Veterans Day discounts.

 
Categories
Uncategorized

5 Things to do with a THC Distillate Syringe

5 Things to do with a THC Distillate Syringe

Whether you’ve been using cannabis products for a while or you’re just looking into getting started, you’ve probably seen or heard someone talking about distillate. Distillate is a fairly potent cannabis concentrate that comes in a liquid form, usually in a syringe.

 If you’re not as familiar with distillate, you may be questioning what someone might use it for. Lucky for you, we have some answers. Here are 5 things you can do with a distillate syringe.

1. Fill or refill your vape pens.

Did you know that the concentrate that comes in vape cartridges is a distillate? It’s because of this that so many people like to purchase their own distillate and make their own carts.

You can buy refillable cartridges and fill those with whatever distillate you like or there are some vape pens that allow you to insert the distillate directly. 

Many people like filling their own cartridges because they can make sure they are getting the exact type of distillate & terpenes they want and some say that it also saves them money and keeps them from having to continually buy new disposable cartridges. This is always a great way to be sustainable and reduce product waste. 

2. Mix with food or make your own edibles 

Another popular way to consume distillate is mixing it into food. There are a couple of different ways to do it and what works for you is going to depend on how much work you want to put in.

You can mix it in with already prepared food like soups, spreads, drinks or really anything you can think of. You can also mix it into your food as you’re preparing it. You can add a few drops to a batter before baking, into some dressing for your salad or into a condiment your adding to your sandwich. 

Mixing your distillate into food is a good way to change up your cannabis consumption and try something different.

3. Use it as a topical

One way that you can use distillate without needing to actually consume it, is to use it topically. CBD and THC products have been used for a long time to help with all different types of pain and you can use distillate in the same way.

You can just apply the distillate directly to the affected areas for best results we recommend mixing it with a lotion or an oil and apply that. 

Applying it directly can sometimes help to ease the pain fast and use less product but mixing into a lotion can make it easier to take on the go and can help to counteract any unwanted smells the distillate may have.

No one method is better than the other, it’s simply a matter of preference.

4. Add distillate to a blunt or a joint

If you want to add a little something extra to whatever you’re smoking, just add a drop or two of distillate. 

 

You can add a couple of drops to your joint or blunt before you roll it to give it that little extra kick. You can add it to your flower or ever to the wrapper, whatever your preference is.

 

This is a popular method of consuming distillate because it doesn’t require a lot of extra work and it enhances the joint or blunt you were already planning on smoking.

 

5. Drop directly under the tongue

 

One of the more basic ways to consume distillate is drop it directly under your tongue like you would a tincture. This method of consumption will help you to feel the effects faster because it allows it to enter your bloodstream much quicker. 

 

It will also have a much larger effect than a traditional tincture because it’s a much more concentrated dose.

 

Just as a word of warning, if you’ve never consumed distillate or concentrates of any kind before, use caution when trying them for the first time. They contain a much more concentrated dose than you may be used to so go slow and be mindful of your dosage until you have a good understanding of how it will affect you.

 

 

Distillate is a very versatile form of cannabis and we hope that we have sparked a few ideas on how you might want to consume it the next time you sit down for a sesh’.

 

If you’re looking to get some for yourself, NatureMed has a lot of different options for you. Come on down and check it out, we’ll make sure you get what you need. Here is a link to our distillate menu and our specials page to see the ways you can save.

 

Categories
Uncategorized

How To Have a Cannabis Influenced Halloween

How to Have a Cannabis Influenced Halloween

Halloween is a holiday that is celebrated and loved by so many people. For some it’s a day of costumes and candy, for others it’s a night of parties. If you’re here, it probably means that you’re looking to add a little cannabis into the mix, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Just as a reminder, with all of the food and candy around on Halloween, make sure that any and all medicated products are kept separate and in a place that they can’t be accidentally consumed. While Halloween is very popular for children, everything that we are talking about here is most definitely NOT for kids and should only be tried by those who are over 21.

Try a cannabis themed costume

A super easy way to bring cannabis into your halloween celebrations is to find yourself a weed-themed costume. Just a quick search will yield you dozens of ideas. From the girl scout parody “Brownie Scout” to the punny plant headed, “Pot Head” costume, there are so many options for you to choose from. 

You can take it literally, and dress as a marijuana leaf or a joint or you can get a little more creative and dress as your favorite cannabis related pun.

The great part about this is you can put in as much work as you want. You can buy a premade costume, take inspiration from what you find online or come up with something entirely on your own. 

It’s also a good way to incorporate cannabis into a Halloween event where others are maybe not as keen on medicating as you are.

Kick back with some spooky strains

Get into the spirit by trying out some Halloween themed strains. There are a number of strains that have some spooky names that can help you get into the spirit. 

Bringing along some strains like Frankenberry, Ghost Train Haze and Voodoo are sure to add the right atmosphere to your party (NatureMed has a particularly good Ghost OG if you’re looking). 

Add some medicated treats to the snack table

If you find yourself at an adults-only Halloween party you can spice up the snack table with some medicated goodies. 

With a little bit of extra work you can give any treats you buy a spooky makeover and customize them to fit the Halloween theme. Try adding some orange and black frosting to a medicated brownie or melting some infused dark chocolate over a batch of cookies. You can also mix up some cannabis cocktails using some infused beverages.

As always, check with your host before bringing anything medicated and make sure that any snacks or drinks containing cannabis are clearly labeled to avoid confusion.

Light up, before going out

There are some Fall and Halloween staples that are fan favorites every year. Haunted Houses, Corn Mazes, and more are fun activities that you can do with friends and family to get into the holiday spirit. 

These events and experiences can be enhanced by medicating beforehand. Having one of your favorite types of edible or a couple of puffs off your go-to vape can take any experience up a notch and may even enhance the Halloween vibes of whatever you’re doing.

Another quick reminder, make sure to check on the rules for experiences you’re planning on attending. Be sure that you are abiding by any rules pertaining to smoking or controlled substances.

However you decide to celebrate, all of us over here at NatureMed are wishing you a fun and  safe Halloween! And if you’re looking to add a little something extra to your celebrations, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Check out our online menu and our specials page to see the ways you can save.

Categories
Uncategorized

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.

Here is a link to our online menu and our specials page to see the ways you can save.

Categories
Uncategorized

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.

Categories
Uncategorized

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.

Categories
Uncategorized

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.