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Packaging, Labeling & Product Design

 

 

The packaging is fairly basic yet aesthetically pleasing. The stylistic, glossy cardboard box is thick enough to handle being thrown in my purse, backpack or cannabis drawer (we all have one, like the drawer with old soy sauce, sugar, and hot sauce packets).

 

Inside, the Ice Chocolate bar enjoys an added layer of protection with a black, resealable, child-resistant bag similar to the one housing NUG’s milk chocolate bar.

 

The front’s inviting, bright pink accents help it stand out on dispensary shelves, but it doesn’t scream peppermint. There’s also a cocoa pod on one side and a cannabis leaf on the other, representing Bhang’s mix of both.

 

For all the steps the company takes to make their packaging appealing, Bhang could take a couple more to make it informative.

 

While it meets the basic adult-use labeling requirements, it lacks any real details on the extraction process, strains used and cannabinoid content. The only labeled cannabinoids are on the back of the box: THC (100mg), CBD (<1mg) and CBN (<1mg).

 

Quality, Ease of Use

 

Made with peppermint, South American milk chocolate and barely detectable CO2 cannabis oil derived from hybrid strains, this icy chocolate bar is creamy, dense (unlike describing a first date this way, dense is a good sign), and packed with the perfect amount of peppermint.

 

Reminds of Andes Creme De Menthe Thins I enjoyed after meals as a kid.

 

It’s easily broken into 10 pieces with 10mg of THC each with clear demarcations so you always have a single dose. If you need less split it with a knife or hand, though you might get a less-than-exact dose. All pieces are engraved with the Bhang “B” logo along with a marijuana leaf, a helpful touch should you lose the box.

 

As mentioned, the lack of overt cannabis flavor makes this cooling cocoa bar accessible to everyone, even if you usually hate the taste of edibles (not that I know anyone who does; I don’t need that negativity in my life).

 

When this flavor combo converges on my taste buds, my mouth does a happy little dance. It’s like eating a fancy, dense, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate left on a Parisian hotel pillow–only with an icy blast of peppermint and a smooth high.

 

Potency, Effectiveness & Affordability

 

 

Newbie or have low tolerance? Two pieces are enough to satisfy your state of mind and stomach (cut them into smaller doses if needed). If you’re an edibles veteran like me, prepare for a full stomach as you’ll probably eat the whole dang Bhang bar.  

 

I decided to eat most of this bar (90mg) before walking into a movie. About 30 minutes in, I felt a subtle change that didn’t hit as heavy as expected.

 

After about 90 minutes, the hybrid high gave me a boost and a smile. I was clear-headed, felt creative and fully functional for the rest of the afternoon.

 

However, this wasn’t the best choice for a movie since it made me fidgety; I wanted to get up and become active. If you want body-melting couch-lock, you’re better off with KIVA’s 100mg Blackberry Dark Chocolate Bar.   

 

Luckily, this cannabis milk chocolate bar is relatively affordable, around $15, especially considering the quality of the South American chocolate. A solid sell since most 100mg chocolate edibles retail for around $20.

 

Nugg Score: How the Nugg Team Rates This Product

 

Packaging: 4/5

• Housed in a fairly sturdy cardboard box that appears well-protected.
• Inside the box the peppermint chocolate comes in a nondescript, child-resistant, black zip-bag.
• Preferred the edible came sealed or wrapped in another layer like a plastic tray or aluminum wrapping instead of loose in the black zip-bag.
• Sophisticated, stylish graphics.

 

Labeling: 3.5/5

• Sufficient labeling for adult-use compliance, but not much more.
• Indicates that this bar uses hybrid strains, consists of 48% South American cocoa, and is an “8x Cannabis Cup Champion.”
• I’d like to know that it passed safety screenings and something about growing and extraction/infusion practices.

 

Easy to Dose: 4.5/5

• Easy to break into 10mg servings and cut even further with a knife, though those aren’t always even and could produce an slightly inaccurate dose.
• Also small enough to eat the whole bar (if you like a high dosage like I do).

 

Discretion: 4.5/5

• Box is tiny enough that you can cover any cannabis labeling with your hand.
• Plain, black zip-bag within the box shouldn’t turn any heads.
• Close-up you can notice the stamped “B” and cannabis leaf.

 

Taste: 5/5

• A wonderful minty chocolate with no cannabis taste whatsoever.
• Reminds me of Andes “Creme De Menthe Thins” with a more subtle mint flavor.
• I’d eat this even if it didn’t contain cannabis, it’s delicious.

 

Texture: 5/5

• Texture was exactly what it should be for a chocolate bar.
• Melted smoothly in my mouth for a pleasant mouthfeel.

 

Effectiveness: 4/5

• About 30 minutes after consumption, I started to feel a head-change.
• The effects weren’t as heavy as I expected after ingesting 90 mg of THC.
• Gave me a productive and creative buzz (not the best for movie watching).

 

Versatility: 5/5

• Wonderfully versatile, as most chocolate bars are.
• Break the bar at the indentations and add it to s’mores or place a piece in between a cupcake or cookie.
• Melt it down into hot cocoa, drizzle on fruit or give a minty-chocolate kick to your favorite dessert recipe.

 

Consistency: 5/5

• Bhang was one of the first edible brands on the market (that I recall).
• It’s stayed afloat despite legal woes and remains competitive by maintaining consistent results in both flavor and experience.

 

Price : 4.5/5

• At around $15, this edible is relatively cheaper than most 100mg THC chocolate bars.
• A great price for the quality of chocolate and the clear-headed effects.

 

Overall Rating: 4.5

 

Bhang’s 100mg Ice Chocolate Milk Chocolate is made from sustainable, high-quality ingredients and, to my pleasant surprise, has no cannabis taste. It’s deliciously minty, affordable, and provides an active hybrid high that makes me want to get up and move.

 

Considering it made me rethink chocolate edibles, I’d buy this infused peppermint candy bar again, especially for only about $15. You really do get some Bhang for your buck!

 

Packaging, Labeling & Product Design

 

 

Frankly, the packaging is a bit underwhelming, which is unfortunate because the unique concept of cannabis-infused pretzels could be marketed better. The only real design element is a large sticker with the light blue Venice Cookie Company logo and a photo of the pretzels. A picture of pretzels? For pretzels? Groundbreaking.

 

The plain, white, resealable bag has all the necessary compliance information like total potency (100mg THC), total pretzels (33) and dose per pretzel (3mg THC), ingredients, nutrition facts and government warnings.

 

At least a third of the back label explains the brand background and ethos rather than a detailed breakdown of cannabinoid content, strains used, extraction process used or other relevant info I’d like to know.

 

Basically, their labeling is like going on a date with anyone in Hollywood; you’ll get an earful about yoga, spin classes, their “acting career” and that’s about it.

 

But there is a COA (Certificate of Analysis) reference number to look up testing results from SC Labs. So I did. Turns out my bag of pretzels actually contains 104.09mg of activated THC along with CBD, CBN and CBG. It takes an extra couple of steps but if you’re interested in seeing exactly what you’re consuming, do it.

 

Quality, Ease of Use

 

I love Chex Mix Bold Party Mix, so these pretzels are up my alley. They look and taste just like any other bite-sized, knotted snack you’d find in the grocery aisle: crunchy but dry. The flavor is everything I expected: salty, garlicky and savory.

 

And don’t be surprised to find some broken pieces at the bottom, making it tough to accurately dose if needed. Try pouring the entire bag into a bowl so you get all the bits, crumbs and seasoning trapped at the bottom (don’t be afraid to lightly mix with tongs so they’re evenly coated) and, like figuring out the meaning of “covfefe,” enjoy!

 

The biggest issue with these cannabis-infused pretzels? Three or four aren’t satisfying enough! I could see myself eating a half or even the whole bag since they’re so tasty.

 

Plus it’s unclear exactly what’s infused: the pretzels themselves or their coated seasoning blend (there’s some left in the bag)? Looking at the ingredients, it appears the seasoning mix is infused.

 

Potency, Effectiveness & Affordability

 

 

An hour into eating nearly the whole bag, about 90mg, I felt a mild “edible high.” That seems like a lot, but I have strong tolerance and haven’t eaten lunch. Turns out these cannabis-infused savory pretzels produce a mellow high that made me sensitive to light, scarf down dinner, and feel a nice fuzzy hue. 

 

Passing the two-hour mark I expected this experience to peak at any moment, but it never did as the mild effects maintained throughout the evening. I presume this is because much of that seasoning ended up at the bottom of the bag, not in my belly. Get in my belly!

 

Knowing the effects are minimal and manageable, these salty and somewhat spicy snack treats are great if you’re looking for a familiar and tasty entry into edibles. The $22 price, however, is a bit steep considering you can get an infused artisanal chocolate bar for about the same cost.

 

Nugg Score: How the Nugg Team Rates This Product

 

Packaging: 3/5

• Packaged in a generic, white, child-resistant Ziploc bag that won’t crush easily.
• Some broken pretzel pieces and seasoning at the bottom of the bag.
• Pleasant branding and graphics affixed with a giant sticker on both sides of the bag.
• A brand like Venice Cookie Company should have custom bags.

 

Labeling: 3.5/5

• Labeling is sufficient; includes the approximate THC content and pretzel count.
• Backside includes government warnings, ingredients list, nutrition facts, best by date, a note about the brand’s “vibe,” a sticker with SDPharmLabs.com and a verifiable COA number.
• Test results I found online showed 4.09mg more of activated THC than advertised on the label.
• No info about CBD, CBN and CBG or other cannabinoids on the package.

 

Easy to Dose: 3.5/5

• Easy to approximately dose, but becomes harder with broken bits.
• Bag encourages microdosing with a couple of pretzels but if you’re hungry and need a higher dose, eating the whole bag can be easy.

 

Discretion: 5/5

• Toss these pretzels in a Ziploc baggie and no one would have a clue you were consuming cannabis.
• The bag itself is easy enough to overlook.
• Someone might see the words “cannabis” or “THC,” but the letters are small enough to cover with your hand.

 

Taste: 4/5

• I enjoyed these savory spiced pretzels but a friend hated the spice blend.
• Absolutely no cannabis taste.
• Heavy on the garlic powder, like my mom’s cooking, and reminded me of Gardetto’s snack mix.

 

Texture: 4/5

• Exactly what you’d expect from a seasoned bag of pretzels.
• Crunchy and dry with the powdery seasoning to add a kick of flavor.
• Seasoning will coat your fingers by the end of your munch session (warning: crumbs).

 

Effectiveness: 3.5/5

• I consumed around 90mg of these pretzels and felt a mild “edible high” an hour later.
• Feelings of bodily comfort; a nice fuzzy hue becomes a part of my perception.
• I kept expecting to peak but it never came; the high stayed mild the rest of the night.
• Seemed like each mini pretzel had less THC than advertised; this was likely due to the seasoning being cannabis-infused, not the pretzels, which got trapped in the bag.

 

Versatility: 2.5/5

• Because of the seasoning and texture, there are limitations to incorporating these pretzels into other recipes. Nonetheless, be adventurous and experiment. Try finely grinding a few and topping on pistachio ice cream, serving with soup, or substituting for breadcrumbs when coating chicken cutlets. 
• Perfect to add to a trail or snack mix, but hard to share with friends who don’t want to consume cannabis.

 

Consistency: 4/5

• Venice Cookie Company will always supply a fresh and tasty snack.
• When it comes to stable dosing, some of the (I assume) infused seasoning remains in the bag and their savory pretzels fall a little short.

 

Price: 3/5

• For $22, the price is a bit steep considering it didn’t produce the same efficacy as other edibles at the same cost like Kiva bars.
• Pretzels were $10 more than Punch Edibles or Sensi Chew, with a similarly listed THC count.
• Did produce pleasant effects, but I would probably choose this only if there wasn’t another more affordable cannabis-infused snack treat.

 

Overall Rating: 3.6

 

When I eat VCC’s 100g Savory Pretzels, I think about the boring snack mixes served at parties and how much better they’d be with this seasoning. They’re crunchy, salty, spicy and full of bold flavor that makes eating hard to stop and dosing easy to measure.

 

The high is mellow, possibly due to the less potent seasoning trapped inside the bag, and not overwhelming. It’d be nice to have additional information on cannabis sourcing, growing and extraction techniques, and a clear indication of which part of the food is cannabis-infused.

 

This is a great option if you like savory over sweet, microdosing, don’t mind a heftier price tag, like setting your taste buds mildly ablaze, and have enough self-control to refrain from crushing the entire bag. 

 

Still, I feel that VCC could’ve aimed higher. I’ll be here all week, folks!

 

Ready to try these cannabis-infused savory pretzels? Visit the GetNugg.com and search your local dispensary to have these edible treats delivered to your door!

 

A New Approach to Medicating

 

People who question the validity of using cannabis as medicine point to the inability to recommend a set dosage. Most over-the-counter medications like aspirin or laxatives produce a predictable range of results with a set dose; typically, one to two pills at predetermined intervals.

 

But marijuana is different. Instead of blocking pain receptors or directly impacting gut motility like those medications, cannabis targets our body’s endocannabinoid receptors – CB1 and CB2 along with our TRPV1 and GPR55 receptors. The endocannabinoid system, and thus the effects of cannabis use, can vary widely from per person.

 

Many people using cannabis for specific medical treatments may not know their right dose, resulting in overconsumption and negative psychological and/or emotional reactions.

 

If you’re a novice who accidentally (or intentionally) takes too much, you’ll probably think and feel like the end is near. That’s why it’s important to establish a controlled dosage, or microdose, to ensure you get the most of our your medication. 

 

What Is Microdosing?

 

Microdosing is the practice of consuming a very small quantity of a substance. The goal isn’t to feel intoxicated; it’s to induce medicinal benefits with minimal – if any – psychotropic effects.

 

Some experts believe that microdosing cannabis may help manage pain, improve sleep, boost mood, and curb stress, depression and anxiety.

 

The practice of microdosing is thought to be more beneficial than smoking or vaping in excess, mainly because over intoxication can lead to anxious thoughts, emotional discomfort and paranoia.

 

If you’re medicating to feel calmer or more relaxed, inhalation may do more harm than good. And if you’re new to cannabis, that single negative experience may turn you off from cannabis altogether.

 

Who Can Microdose?

 

Many people turn to microdosing to treat specific conditions. Some who are new to cannabis try it to ease into regular cannabis consumption. Others microdose to enjoy the beneficial effects like relaxation and stress relief without becoming incapacitated.

 

This is growing increasingly common among parents who want to improve their health and well-being while still caring for their children.

 

The great thing about microdosing marijuana is that anyone can try it! Whether you’re treating a debilitating condition or simply interested in enjoying cannabis safely, microdosing is an ideal option for everyone.

 

Beyond THC

 

Microdosing THC is a great way to dip your toes into the legal cannabis waters without going overboard. But THC is just one of many cannabinoids found in cannabis, and it’s hardly the most important when treating medical ailments.

 

One of the cannabinoids gaining popularity over the last few years has been Cannabidiol, or CBD. While CBD is a non-psychotropic cannabis component (you won’t feel intoxicated), it does much more than its intoxicating counterpart, THC.

 

Some studies suggest that CBD may help manage epileptic seizures, treat anxiety disorders, and control pain/inflammation associated with arthritis. A few studies even suggest that CBD may act as a neuroprotectant in individuals prone to neurological disorders, though further clinical studies are necessary.

 

How Can I Try Microdosing?

 

 

The best way to try out microdosing is to start “low and slow” with your cannabis consumption. Low doses are generally recommended when it comes to consuming edibles or tinctures.

 

Some experts suggest consuming between 1.0 and 2.5 mg of cannabinoids (like THC or CBD) in order to enjoy the baseline benefits without the anxiety or lethargy.

 

Tinctures are a great way to do this. They’re typically made from cannabis that’s been extracted into alcohol or olive oil. The bottle often comes with an eyedropper, allowing for more controlled consumption than cutting cookies or brownies into smaller pieces.

 

These infused elixirs are also preferred over edibles because the body absorbs them faster. Instead waiting one to two hours for your body to digest, a topical is rapidly absorbed by the mucous membranes and capillaries under the tongue and along the gums.

 

Sublingual (taken under the tongue) drops will begin to take effect after 20-30 minutes. It’s recommended that you hold the tincture under the tongue for at least one minute before swallowing to avoid long digestion times. The labeling typically clarifies how to correctly dose, especially with an eyedropper. (One drop is approximately 0.05 ml.)

 

Dr. Allan Frankel, a L.A. doctor of internal medicine, suffered a viral heart infection so he began using cannabis. Just a year later, his heart was healthy again. While it’s hard to pin down the exact role cannabis played, Dr. Frankel has become an outspoken cannabis advocate – particularly microdosing.

 

He recommends avoiding cannabis use for two days to give your endocannabinoid system a break, especially if you’re a regular consumer. Then assess how you’re feeling using three self-evaluation inquiries on a scale from one to ten: your ability to breathe, overall comfort/calmness, and the ability to genuinely feel happy and satisfied.

 

Write down your responses then orally take one milligram each of THC and CBD (micro smoking or vaping are also options).

 

Wait 45 minutes before performing a second self-evaluation. If you don’t report any improvements, take another two-milligram dose and do another evaluation in another 45 minutes. Continue this routine until you feel baseline improvements in calmness, comfort, and happiness.

 

What Products Can I Microdose With?

 

Fortunately, Nugg delivers plenty that you can microdose at home! We carry quality cannabis products made by reputable brands like Papa & Barkley, which produces both 1:1 and 3:1 THC:CBD tinctures, so you have even more precise control over the cannabinoids you ingest. 

 

Intrigued? Watch our review below to get an in-depth look at their tinctures.

 

 

Check out these other companies offering CBD-rich tinctures: Humboldt Apothecary, Select, CBD Alive, The Farmaceuticals Co., and Venice Cookie Company.

 

Still not sure where to begin? Just ask! One of Nugg’s Cannabis Concierges is ready and able to answer your questions, make recommendations, and guide you towards the right product for your needs. Place an order online with Nugg and start microdosing CBD to see how this non-psychoactive cannabinoid can improve your life today.

 

Packaging, Labeling & Product Design

 

 

While the 100mg indica gummy’s three-layer packaging feels like you’re trying to unlock Pandora’s Box, it’s clear your safety is a priority. The colorful multi-layered boxes are full of helpful info: dosage, health warnings, ingredients, manufacturing and best-by dates, THC:CBD ratio and more.

 

Unfortunately, there’s no lab testing info, but Kushy Punch’s website does post updated lab results breaking down cannabinoid content and provides details on pesticide testing. This info is more than many other brands offer, so I’ll take it!

 

After you pull out the slide, you find the next package–a thinner cardboard box that mimics a kid’s crayon box you’d find at a restaurant, fitting easily inside your pocket.

 

Although “full spectrum cannabis oil” is mentioned, I would love to see a breakdown of cannabinoids and learn more about the cannabis used in the extraction.

 

Quality, Ease of Use

 

With all the care Kushy Punch takes to protect them, it’s no surprise their indica gummies deliver a potent high. Once you get them out of the somewhat strenuous second packaging, peel back the plastic to reveal a pre-divided red slab with 10 square pieces each containing 10mg THC and .1mg CBD.

 

Lost or trashed the boxes? There’s a dosing chart right on plastic pack ensuring you get a proper even amount.

 

I used scissors to separate the red, plum-flavored pieces (a butter knife works too); just remember you might get some sticky residue on your fingers.

 

If you need less than 10mg to start and have a tough time accurately dosing the predetermined squares, hardening them in the freezer for five minutes makes cleaner cuts and virtually no remnants. 

 

Potency, Effectiveness & Affordability

 

 

The texture is soft and squishy, almost like Jell-O, but not annoyingly sticky like many marijuana gummies. I love how these melted in my mouth, didn’t stick in my teeth and contained only a light cannabis taste.

 

Because Kushy Punch uses full spectrum cannabis oil and reintroduces terpenes after extraction, the cannabis flavor is bold yet not aggressive. The earthy plant flavor melds nicely with the plum, toning down the fruit’s sweet and tart complexity.

 

An hour later, with a 50mg dose, my shoulders roll back, my jaw unclenches and my tongue separates from the roof of my mouth. Nearly five hours in I found myself slightly slurring my speech and dozing off on the couch.

 

Even though this is a powerful indica gummy, I could microdose any time of day to melt away stress, anxiety, and sore muscles. Great to try before bed or during a relaxing day watching visually arresting films like Planet Earth. But not Blue Planet; those deep-sea creatures are scary as hell.

 

At $16, this is a solid price for an effective and consistent 100mg edible. Heavier infused chocolate bars with the same amount of THC typically cost $5 to $10 more. A sound investment.

 

Nugg Score: How the Nugg Team Rates This Product

 

Packaging: 5/5

• Three layers keep the gummy well protected.
• Outer package is small enough to hold in your hand with its clever child-resistant design that utilizes a plastic slide.
• Second layer is a smaller and thinner cardboard box.
• Final peel-back plastic packaging includes a dosage chart.
• All three feature visually stimulating colors and graphics.

 

Labeling: 4.5/5

• Well-utilized space to provide ample information.
• Details such as allergy warnings, nutrition info, government warnings and dosing instructions are included.
• Front side contains THC contents, indica classification, plum flavor, serving size, net weight, how long it typically takes to take effect, and a note it’s made of full spectrum cannabis oil.
• Back contains an ingredients list, manufacturer name, license number, batch number, date of manufacture, best by date, and THC and CBD contents.
• Phone number with no explanation.
• I’d like to know more about the extraction and a more detailed cannabinoid breakdown.

 

Easy to Dose: 4.5/5

• Gummies have indentations help make dosing precise.
• Includes a dosing chart.
• A bit tricky to accurately divide in increments less than 10mg; freezing them for a few minutes and using a sharp knife helps ensure equal, smaller pieces.

 

Discretion: 4/5

• Outer and inner boxes have bold indicators that this is a cannabis edible.
• If you’re just carrying the innermost package, it can go unnoticed in your hand unless someone notices the peel-back sticker/dosing chart.

 

Taste: 4/5

• Cannabis oil flavor wasn’t overpowering.
• Gummy tasted sweet and tart, like a plum, with a hint of cannabis (I didn’t mind it at all, in fact, I kind of liked it).

 

Texture: 4.5/5

• The soft gummies broke apart in my mouth and tasted more like Jell-O than anything.
• Went down smooth and easy, leaving a slightly sticky residue on my hand.
• Next time I’ll just eat it out of the container since I have the tolerance to eat the whole package.

 

Effectiveness: 5/5

• Noticed an overall happy demeanor, chuckling to myself while watching a movie.
• Enjoyed my high until I fell asleep about five hours after consumption.

 

Versatility: 1/5

• Gummies are very difficult to melt/break down (due to their gelatinous form)
• Not too many recipes this could be added to. 

 

Consistency: 5/5

• Kushy Punch has been around for years; these gummies are tried and true.
• Always find myself coming back to these for their fun-loving, consistent effects.

 

Price: 4.5/5

• Priced at $16, it’s a pretty good price for this 100mg edible.
• For the same amount of THC in edible form, you often have to pay close to $10 more.

 

Overall Rating: 4.2

 

I can rely on this 100mg Kushy Punch indica gummy like I can rely on those favorite jeans or a purely hypothetical morning cocktail. When I buy their brightly branded box(es) I’m getting quality–the ingredients they use, the cannabis they source, the high they deliver–Kushy Punch has yet to let me down.

 

For under $20 you get a reliable, pre-divided plum flavored edible with limited cannabis taste that relaxes and helps you rest. The brand is just like I remember: synonymous with the go-to cannabis gummy.

 

Visit the Nugg Marketplace and search your local dispensary to have this Kushy Punch 100mg indica gummy delivered right to your doorstep! 

 

 

Packaging, Labeling & Product Design

 

 

One thing that might go overlooked is this CBD-dominant flower’s simple yet quality packaging. The eighth of CBD comes in a sealed, amber-tinted glass jar with the logo, strain and brand info etched in gold, protected by a tamper-proof light blue sticker (which is also not a scratch-n-sniff).

 

It’s a welcomed, classy change of packaging pace compared to some of the gaudier plastic jars. Plus, this flower is UV-protected, so your cannabis stays cool and fresh.

 

Outside, there’s the strain name, expected effects (“balanced”), net weight, harvest month/year, package date, farm name, brand name, total THC (246.88mg/6.86%) and CBD (354.42mg, 9.85%), batch ID and government warnings.

 

However, there are no detailed cannabinoid profile or lab test results, which would include terpene levels and other cannabinoids like THCA, CBG and CBN.

 

Inside, I see an insert about the farm that grew this flower –While I’m glad to see it was grown on a certified organic farm, I’d like a bit more information on the cannabis itself rather than the farm. After all, no one went to see a movie called “Farm,” featuring three minutes about a pig named Babe.

 

Quality, Ease of Use

 

This bud is perfectly dense, in my opinion. When I squeeze the Harmony Rose between my fingers it bounces back, leaving them slightly sticky. It’s dense enough to hold together under the weight of my fingers but moist enough that it won’t crumble. This texture makes this flower easy to roll up into a joint or pack into a cone.

 

Still, I think the flower could be trimmed better since I noticed some residual leaves and even a few seeds when rolling this up.

 

Potency, Effectiveness & Affordability

 

 

The Harmony Rose Balanced experience begins with the first whiff of the opened jar. The powerful and pleasant earthy and floral aromas would make any candlemaker or scratch-n-sniff sticker maker envious.

 

The sweetness first hits my nose and carries into the taste as I inhale. This complex flavor moves from sweet to herbal, to earthy, and back again. While the terpenes are very expressive, Flow Kana doesn’t provide info about them so I can only guess. But I’m going to damn well try as I know many of us rely on specific terps to make our strain decisions. 

 

Like any CBD-rich strain, I don’t expect a cerebral or intense experience. As the label says, the high is equally balanced, though the CBD:THC ratio isn’t exactly 1:1.

 

After just a few puffs I can feel the muscles in my face begin to relax as the sensation spreads throughout the rest of them. There’s just enough THC to give me a slight mood boost, but not enough to make me feel high or disrupt my productivity.

 

Unlike spending Christmas with my parents, there’s no dramatic onset or noticeable come down. And because it relaxes, the strain eased my back pain after sitting at a desk all day. A few puffs and my lower back felt like new.

 

An eighth/3.6g of Flow Kana Harmony Rose CBD by Emerald Spirit Botanicals costs $40. This is a very reasonable price considering there are plenty of “top shelf” brands selling more expensive, less quality CBD flower.

 

Not a fan of smoking, even CBD? Try Select’s Ringo’s Gift 1:1 vape cartridge for similar effects without the combustion and strong smell.

 

Nugg Score: How the Nugg Team Rates This Product

 

Packaging: 4.5/5

• Packaged in a thick, dark amber glass jar to protect flower from UV rays (genius).
• Gold branding offers an upscale appeal; card tells me about the farmers who grew this strain.
• No humidity pack to help with future storage.

 

Labeling: 4/5

• Some info on Emerald Spirit Botanicals and Flow Kana’s mission, but no website or way to reach them.
• Labeling includes strain name, expected effects, net weight, harvest month/year, package date, farm name, brand name, total THC and CBD content, batch ID, and government warnings.
• I would like to have seen a full list of detected cannabinoids and a way to check lab results.

 

Aroma: 5/5

• Sweet, floral aroma as soon as I opened the jar.
• Herbal, woodsy notes that reminds me of other CBD-rich strains.
• Flower became even more fragrant after grinding; it smells delicious.

 

Taste: 5/5

• Woodsy herbal flavor is apparent when smoking.
• Hints of floral sweetness are left on my tongue.
• Incredibly tasty terpene profile.

 

Texture: 3/5

• Moisture level, density, and stickiness were on point.
• Although the buds were fairly large, on occasion I would find a little premature seed pod (and a few matured seeds after grinding up more flower).

 

Quality of Smoke: 4/5

• Mostly smooth with slight scratchiness to the back of my throat.

 

Ash Test: 3.5/5

• Soft but not totally white, more of a light gray.

 

Effectiveness: 5/5

• A true balanced high that relaxed my body and lifted my mood.
• Mellow; the daytime strain to take the edge off.
• High-quality CBD medicine with just enough THC to give you that difference in perspective. 

 

Consistency: 4/5

• Flow Kana partners with many Northern California farmers like Emerald Spirit Botanicals, so make sure your Harmony Rose is cultivated by them to guarantee the same great medicinal relief each time.
• Consistency would have gotten a five if it wasn’t for the occasional seed.

 

Price: 4.5/5

• At $40 per eighth, this is a good price for CBD-rich medicine.
• Because it’s sun-grown, I expected it to be slightly less, but since this cannabis was perfectly effective, I’ll definitely buy it again.  

 

Overall Rating: 4.25

 

Flow Kana’s Balanced Harmony Rose CBD is incredibly tasty and fragrant, granting a mellow, non-psychoactive high that will relax your body and elevate your mood.

 

Although it lacks some key info and contains some trim and seeds, it feels good to know I’m supporting small, sustainable indie farms that are producing quality California cannabis. (Sidenote: I just ordered scratch-n-sniff stickers on Amazon.)

 

If you’re ready to give Flow Kana’s Harmony Rose Balanced CBD 3.6g flower a try, visit the Nugg Marketplace to find out if this strain is available for delivery from your favorite dispensary. 

 

1. Save Some Serious Cash

 

Going out to the bar comes at a price – literally. Each pint you order at the bar will cost about as much as a whole six-pack of craft beer from your local grocery store or beer shop.

 

If you have a couple of drinks, you could easily spend $25 or $30 in a single hour when you include tax and tip. (And you should always tip if you’re going out!) Expect to spend double that amount if you’re covering drinks for a friend.

 

Instead of wasting that much cash in just a few hours at your local bar, why not pick up your favorite vape cartridge? You’ll enjoy a pleasant buzz, AND you’ll have a product at home that will last you much longer than a single night — that is, unless you’re some sort of Snoop Dogg weed prodigy.

 

2. Avoid the Next-Day Hangover

 

Ask any cannabis enthusiast about getting stoned versus getting drunk, and they’re likely to bring up the hangover that inevitably follows a night of alcohol consumption. If you’re an infrequent drinker (like I am), you may even feel hungover the next day from just two or three drinks.

 

Why wake up with a dizzy head and a queasy stomach in the morning? Cannabis will help you relax, have fun, and get a good night’s sleep, allowing you to wake up feeling refreshed and ready to start the day!

 

And unlike alcohol, which can leave you combating nausea and/or diarrhea the next morning, cannabis actually helps relieve stomach ailments! You can’t go wrong!

 

3. Choose Your Own Crowd

 

Have you ever walked into your favorite bar, only to find that it’s packed with strangers being loud and obnoxious? Or even worse, have you seen some surly drunk trying to start a fight with another bar patron while their friends desperately try to talk them down?

 

Yeah, being around drunk people sucks. Yet another reason going out can be a bummer.

 

Skip the strangers, the rough and rowdy crowds, and the shoulder-to-shoulder wall of bros that’s somehow always blocking access to the bar. When you stay home with cannabis, you get to assemble your own crowd by inviting friends, neighbors, or roommates over for a vape session. Or skip the company altogether and have a solo session!

 

Plus, with everyone chilling out over cannabis instead of drinking themselves stupid, there’s virtually zero chance of a fight breaking out. Why put up with all the noise and discomfort while standing in a crowded bar when you and your friends could be chilling on the couch at home with a vape pen in-hand?

 

4. Be Your Own DJ

 

The inside of a bar can get loud, and we mean LOUD. As if the volume weren’t bad enough, you may also be subjected to music that you can’t stand. If there’s a band or a DJ performing, you’re at the mercy of their musical tastes. Even if there’s just a jukebox, you’ll have to pony up some cash if you want to hear songs that you actually enjoy.

 

When you stay home, you can pick the music you and your friends listen to. Spin your favorite records, put together a playlist on Spotify or Soundcloud, or skip the music altogether. You can even put on a movie – which will seem like a luxury if you’ve ever been stuck in a bar with the TV set to a never-ending sports game (unless that’s your thing).

 

5. Choose Your Own Effects

 

Alcohol only has two speeds: buzzed or drunk. Sure, you can choose between different types of alcohol, but they’re all going to deliver the same mind-numbing, speech-slurring effects.

 

With cannabis, you can dial in your desired effects. Trying to stay awake and talkative? Choose a sativa strain. Playing board games? A hybrid strain sounds perfect. Ready to wind down at the end of the night? Bring on the indica strains!

 

Vaping gives you even more precision over the effects that you feel. You don’t have to smoke a whole joint or bowl; just take a puff or two and see how you’re feeling.

 

Our current faves are the Himalaya Red Dragon Sativa vape cartridge and the HoneyVape Blackberry Kush cartridge.

 

The Red Dragon cartridge by Himalaya offers an uplifting, euphoric head high that’s derived from an Afghani landrace strain crossed with a South American sativa. It’s the perfect strain for laughing and reminiscing with friends during a fun night in.

 

If indicas are more your speed, the Blackberry Kush cartridge by HoneyVape will not disappoint. Expect insane terpenes from this Afghani x Blackberry indica strain – seriously, it’s one of the most flavorful vape cartridges I’ve ever tried.

 

You’ll enjoy the sweet taste of berries with every inhalation and exhalation, and the effects are incredibly soothing and fast-acting.

 

If you’re an experienced indica consumer, this strain will help you chill out while remaining social or even active. It’s also the perfect nightcap at the end of a fun evening at home – overindulge in Blackberry Kush and you may end up feeling like a melted pat of butter spread out over your couch. But don’t worry; you won’t feel any pain come morning!

 

Ready to stay in and vape? Check out the menu at Nugg! You and your friends can kick back, relax, and let the dispensary come to you!

 

Packaging, Labeling & Product Design

 

 

I expected better packaging for such a high-quality cartridge. It comes in a thick cardboard panel and plastic blister pack, allowing you to see the CO2 extracted CBD vape oil inside. The front graphics are decent and limited: the “M” logo, brand name, a lion and Bob’s signature.

 

The label offers basic info, but far less than I like. It lists compliant details like CBD:THC milligrams and percentages (334.5mg/66.9% and 24.5mg/4.9%) along with manufacturing, packaging and best-by dates. The back offers company info, health warnings, a note about their “Rise Up” charity, and the recommended battery voltage for Marley Natural cartridges.

 

But, unfortunately, there are no lab test results listed on the packaging. I see a what I think is a batch number (B#) and the name of a subsidiary company, Sturdivant Ventures, and phone number.

 

Quality, Ease of Use

 

This glass tank provides you with a quality vaping experience. It never clogged or failed to work and even has a red “CBD Rich” label so don’t worry about grabbing the wrong cart. (I know all too well how easy it can be to mix them up when you only have one battery pen for multiple tanks.)

 

The Marley Red CBD oil looks beautiful. It appears to have an icy, crystalline texture and a rich, golden hue.

 

I LOVE the way this tastes. It’s got that sweet and sour flavor indicative of CBD rich strains. (You’ll know what I’m talking about if you’ve dabbed CBD crystalline). In fact, it’s so tasty that it’s hard for me to stop. The vapor was so smooth, feeling completely comfortable on my lungs and throat.

 

Potency, Effectiveness & Affordability

 

 

This cartridge offers the calming relief I need and it doesn’t make me feel stoned. I didn’t feel any psychoactive effects, but if you’re new to vaping I recommend trying it at home before using it out in the world just to see how you react.

 

That being said, this vape helped relieve my anxiety and subsequent nausea without any negative side effects or a noticeable head-high.

 

Hoping this wasn’t a fluke, I decided to try two more Red CBD Rich cartridges. They all had a consistent look, flavor, and fast-acting symptom relief. The oil’s thickness may vary somewhat per cartridge, but overall the brand makes a consistently reliable product.

 

At about $45, it’s affordable for the quality and quick relief it delivers, even with the lack of extra protection or lab test results. CBD cartridges typically are more expensive, anywhere from $50 to $100 (dosist calm 200 dose).

 

Nugg Score: How the Nugg Team Rates This Product

 

Packaging: 2/5

• Plastic blister pack with a strong cardboard backing, but doesn’t offer the best protection.
• Nice, simple graphics: the Marley logo and a lion.
• Cartridge is clearly visible through the package, allowing you to see the oil so you know exactly what you’re getting.

 

Labeling: 2.5/5

• Labeling has mostly everything needed for compliance (CBD/THC percentages, manufactured on, packaged on, and best-by dates).
• No lab results; maybe the “b#” on the back has something to do with testing, but who knows?!
• Some company info, recommended battery voltage, and a bit about the charity they support.

 

Cartridge Quality: 4/5

• Glass tank with a comfortable metal mouthpiece that, unlike some, has the Marley “M” and lion engraved (not stickered).
• Cartridge remains clear and unclogged for as long as I puffed on it.
• Mouthpiece is branded and the tank itself labeled with “CBD rich” so you won’t get it mixed  up with your other cartridges.

 

Taste: 5/5

• Delicious sweet and sour taste indicative of CBD rich strains.

 

Vapor Quality: 5/5

• Never felt the need to cough with this cartridge. I keep using it and it continues to impress me.

 

Oil Quality: 4.5/5

• Oil is so thick, it looks like frozen jelly! It’s beautifully golden with some cloudiness, probably because of all of the cracks in the solid oil.
• The high-quality oil is evidenced by the impeccable taste and smooth vapor quality.

 

Effectiveness: 5/5

• Extremely effective with little use; very enjoyable with no negative side effects.
• Does a great job easing nausea, anxiety and inflammation without the psychoactivity.

 

Ease of Use: 3.5/5

• Cartridge can be used with most standard 510 threaded vape batteries.
• Small, discreet design with nothing fancy or game-changing.

 

Consistency: 4/5

• All Marley Natural cartridges have the same look, taste, pleasure and relief; difficult to tell them apart without the label on the cartridge.
• If you occasionally get a faulty cartridge, it’s probably because the packaging wasn’t so great at protecting it.
• Oil thickness can vary from cartridge to cartridge.

 

Price: 4.5/5

• Fantastic taste, pleasure, and medical relief for a moderate cost of $45.
• Would have been rated at a 5 if the packaging/labeling was a bit better, but if you just care about the cartridge/oil inside, this is an AMAZING price for the quality.

 

Overall Rating: 4.0

 

From the first few minutes after my first pull, I got an explosion of that sweet and sour CBD flavor. I never felt the need to cough and relished the taste and calming effects of every smooth puff. I immediately felt my panic symptoms and nervous thoughts dissipate. When I got to my nephew’s party, I was feeling like myself again.

 

And, despite the limited packaging and lack of lab testing, the reasonable price makes the Marley Natural CBD Rich my new go-to CBD cart. Go get this right now. The brand’s namesake would be proud.

 

Packaging, Labeling & Product Design

 

 

The cartridge comes in a well-constructed cardboard box, though it could easily crush under some weight, with foolproof opening instructions. The graphics are simple yet clean with a hint of modern elegance.

 

When I did get busy freeing the Select 1:1 cartridge from its constraints, I reached the child-proof, tamper-resistant packaging. It was slightly challenging to free the lock and remove the cartridge, but that could’ve been user error. A steady diet of gin and tonics can sometimes do that, but what can I say? I’m dedicated.

 

This Ringo’s Gift cartridge has sufficient key info: brand name and logo, strain type, strain name, size and weight, 183mg (36.67%) THC and 223mg (44.70%) CBD content, lab testing, usage instructions and health warnings.

 

However, I prefer more comprehensive information like the full cannabinoid and terpene profiles, extraction process along with harvest, processing and expiration/best by dates. 

 

Inside, the vape cart has a white “S” stamped on it, along with a peelable sticker that says “RIN,” short for Ringo’s Gift, with the milligram potency listed. I love this simple, unique feature as it helps me tell it apart from my other unmarked cartridges!

 

This small detail matters if you own several and/or need to know the exact cannabinoid content for balanced relief, like this majority CBD vape oil.

 

Quality, Ease of Use

 

Like other high-quality cannabis manufacturers, Select uses locally grown organic cannabis to make their proprietary, solvent-less cannabis oil. After sampling this relatively balanced Ringo’s Gift 1:1 cartridge, I understand why the brand gains high praise.

 

Select uses top-of-the-line ceramic core technology, giving me the option to draw larger, longer hits. While the cartridge is made of glass and metal, Select has opted for a heavy plastic mouthpiece that’s transparent, narrow and comfortable on the lips. 

 

This balanced vape cartridge is compatible with most 510-threaded vape batteries, although Select recommends using theirs to ensure cleaner and more effective results.

 

I found that this vape regularly supplies quality puffs, without fail and it’s small enough to stick in your pocket or purse when on the go–which makes it even better than Go-Gurt. (Don’t put that in your pocket, I know from experience.)

 

Potency, Effectiveness & Affordability

 

 

On the inhale, I wasn’t sure if I liked the taste; but as I exhaled I got a wonderful reminder of how much I love CBD-rich strains. It’s kind of sweet and sour with an earthy, cherry undertone. This flavor always comforts me, but that could be because I associate it with the comforting effects of CBD itself.

 

For optimal taste, hold the 1:1 cartridge upright and take a few small puffs prior to activating/heating the vape oil.

 

Ringo’s Gift is a high-CBD strain I love for its gentle, soothing effects that don’t leave me feeling out of control. The 1:1 CBD:THC ratio makes for a calming and relaxing high. You’ll still feel those psychoactive hybrid properties, which might be difficult to distinguish if you’re a newbie, while the slightly higher mix of CBD keeps them in check, leveling out some of THC’s more undesirable effects.

 

Before taking my first puff I was wound tight from work after dealing with some very impatient people. Three hits on the couch later, my tension gradually began to subside.

 

Then, about a half hour later, I sat up and notice my shoulders, lower back and feet felt light for the first time all day. Great for daytime pain and inflammation. My thoughts also slowed down from the day’s drama and I didn’t lose any functionality. This is a stealth healer. Thanks, Ringo!

 

Nugg Score: How the Nugg Team Rates This Product

 

Packaging: 3.5/5

• Attractive packaging overall.
• Presented in a well-constructed cardboard box.
• Potentially easy to crush; a bit hard to free the child lock.

 

Labeling: 3.5/5

• Sufficient basic info and cannabinoid percentages (which I dig): 36.67% THC and 44.70% CBD.
• Includes stickers that can be easily peeled and re-attached to the cartridge for easy identification.
• Would like to have seen details about the extraction process, terpene profile, best-by dates, etc.

 

Cartridge Quality: 4.5/5

• Cartridge remains clear and unclogged until the last drop.
• Consistently provides a quality puff.
• Great “mouthfeel” with the plastic mouthpiece.

 

Taste: 3/5

• Flavor-wise, this product isn’t remarkable – but isn’t bad.
• Slightly harsh taste initially, but then I experience earthy cherry notes reminiscent of high-quality CBD-rich strains.
• At the end of the day, I wanted a little more of this good aromatherapy from this Select cartridge.

 

Vapor Quality: 3.5/5

• Be careful not to take in too much of a good thing at once!
• I was over-eager and coughed a bit with the higher temp capability of this vape.
• Stick to a low heat setting and a three-second draw for maximum enjoyment.

 

Oil Quality: 5/5

• Thick, beautifully golden oil; crystal clear.

 

Ease of Use: 4/5

• Incredibly easy to use; smooth puffs.
• Compatible with most mainstream batteries (510 threaded).

 

Effectiveness: 5/5

• A pleasant “mellow” experience without the dreaded “couch-lock.”
• Consumers still feel the psychoactive properties from the THC, but the high mix of CBD levels out the effects of THC.

 

Consistency: 5/5

• Cartridges appear identical.
• Select always delivers the same experience time after time.
• Ringo’s Gift 1:1 maintains the same look, taste, pleasure and relief.  

 

Affordability: 3/3

• For around $50, it’s relatively affordable considering the quality of the cartridge, potency and positive effects.

 

Overall Rating: 3.95

 

If you’re experiencing mood swingy-ness, unease or aches and pains, Select’s Elite 1:1 Ringo’s Gift cartridge will have you feeling fine in no time. The brand earns bonus points for including a strain-specific sticker to help identify the cartridge and its effects. However, it loses points for falling just shy of the info I need to wholeheartedly endorse a product.

 

In the future, I’d like to see a bit more varied product information instead of the same news printed several times in multiple locations. I’d love to see additional cannabinoid levels and all the detectable, delectable terpenes as well, please! Until then, I’d still happily use Ringo’s Gift to get high with a little help from my friends…sorry, I can’t help myself.