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Learn Which Consumption Method Is Best for You 

 

Cannabis medicines are infused with CBD:THC rich extracts, and come in sublingual sprays, edibles, flowers, tinctures, concentrates and other forms. Depending on your condition, dose sensitivity, and other factors, one consumption type may be better than another.

 

Hint: experiment with different consumption types to see which is most effective for you. Be conservative when trying a new form of consumption.

 

Check out an unofficial guide to trying cannabis edibles.

 

Begin with a Low Dose

 

Especially for those with little or no experience using cannabis, start small and slowly increase your doses. Many recommend starting with a 10mg dose and working your way up in 5-10mg increments. Want to see specific stats on successful cannabis dosing experiments? Click here.

 

Spread Out Your Doses 

 

If you’re a novice user, take multiple small doses over the course of a day, rather than a large dose at once. It’ll let you stay active and aware of how the marijuana is affecting you.

 

Find Your THC:CBD Ratio 

 

Cannabis products have varying amounts of CBD and THC. Different combinations of the two help treat different ailments and types of pain, and the two together are said to enhance each other’s therapeutic effects.

 

For maximum benefit, choose cannabis products that include both cannabidiol (CBD), a non-intoxicating compound, and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component of cannabis.

 

Experiment Before Making Major Changes 

 

Once you’ve found the right CBD/THC ratio and dose level that suits you, observe the effects over at least a short period of time (one week is recommended). Then consider if you need to adjust the type or amount of cannabis you consume to produce the desired effect.

 

Don’t Overdo It 

 

Often with cannabinoid therapeutics, “less is more.” With cannabinoid compounds, higher doses of CBD may not be as effective as low or moderate doses. In some individuals, too much THC can increase anxiety and cause mood disorders, among other side effects.

 

Hint: Start with a CBD-rich remedy, and slowly increase the amount of THC in your cannabis doses until you find a balance you’re comfortable with.

 

Consider the Condition You’re Treating 

 

Anxiety, depression, spasms, and other pediatric seizure disorders may be better treated with a moderate dose of a CBD-dominant remedy—look for a CBD:THC ratio of more than 14:1. For cancer or neuropathic pain, you may need more THC, for instance, a 1:1 ratio.

 

Conclusion 

 

As with any medication, it’s important to exercise caution when using cannabis. Understand the differences in chemical composition between different cannabis strains (sativa, indica, hybrid).

 

With the disappointing lack of cannabis research, it’s important to look to others’ experiences with cannabis for guidance on proper use. Know your medical history, and consult with your doctor or a cannabis specialist before use.

 

Ask us. We’re here to give you the information and resources you need to make an informed decision about cannabis use. Just comment below with any questions!

 

Smoking Cannabis Flower

 

A lot of people choose smoking as their main way of consuming cannabis. The effects are pretty much immediate and the dosage is relatively easy to control. Depending on a strain’s THC & CBD content, effects from smoking cannabis can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 2-4 hours.

 

In its flower form (as it’s most commonly found), cannabis can be smoked plenty of different ways. You can use a pipe, bong, blunt, bubbler, piece of fruit (apples are highly-recommended) or just about anything else with a spot to put your herb and a hole to smoke it through.

 

Not sure where to start? You could just go with the classic joint; or the bit more fancy blunt. Granted, the better you filter the smoke, the better it is for your body.

 

HINT: Smoked marijuana can cause throat and lung irritation, so have some water nearby and first inhale small and slowly!

 

Want to learn how? Click here for our easy instructional video! (under 2 minutes long)

Vaporizing Flower or Extracted Oils 

 

“Vaping” (the act of vaporizing) is arguably the future of cannabis consumption. It’s become popular with medicinal/recreational users and experts/doctors alike because it’s discreet and produces a smoother, tastier and healthier hit, free of the toxic chemicals and tar consumed when smoking cannabis. 

 

A vaporizer electronically heats up cannabis flowers and extracted oils to a low enough temperature that’ll release their beneficial compounds without the potentially harmful combustion. They come in many shapes and sizes, but almost all require a power source (either battery or wall plug) to use.

 

This process causes cannabis’ active ingredients, mainly CBD and THC, to be “cooked” off and turned into vapor which is then inhaled. Depending on CBD & THC content in the oil you’re consuming, effects from vaping may take 5-10 minutes to hit and can last up to 4 hours.

 

HINT: There are tons of companies that offer vaporizer products, so the best place to start is with a simple online search, but watch out for fake reviews!

 

Want to learn how? Click here for our easy instructional video! (under 2 minutes long)

 

Eating Edibles: Foods, Desserts, Drinks & More

 

For may, cannabis and tobacco are all the same—dangerous. The fact is, smoking just comes with a negative stigma (we’re trying to change that), which is why some cannabis users purposely avoid smoking and the stigma associated with it by turning to edibles—THC infused foods and beverages.

 

Caution is extremely advised for the first time edible consumer. Remember factors such as body weight, height, fat, and external stimuli, like how recently you’ve eaten or how active you’ve been, can affect your reaction to an edible.

 

Most will take 45min-1 hour to take effect but can sometimes take as long as 3 hours, so don’t make the mistake of thinking your first dose was a dud then scarf down brownie number two. You’ll regret it! Depending on its THC & CBD content, an edible’s effects can last anywhere from 3-8 hours.

 

Because marijuana is very fat soluble, it can easily be infused into either oil or butter for baking. Types of edibles include (but are not limited to) brownies, cookies, gummy bears, lollipops, chocolate bars, pizza, ice cream, honey, and even the occasional birthday cake.

 

Craving a sweet treat? Find any and all delicious cannabis-infused treats on California’s top online MMJ marketplace, Nugg! And just between us, we’re notorious for throwing in free snacks of our own (just not cannabis-infused)!

 

HINT: if taking an edible for the first time, be in a comfortable environment under the supervision of a friend and start with just one small dose.

 

Want to learn how? Click here for our easy instructional video! (under 2 minutes long)

 

Dabbing Concentrates 

 

Although most concentrates are technically “smoked,” they fall under their own form of consumption known as “dabbing.”

 

Cannabis concentrates produce the strongest form of medicating. Effects are immediate, and last 1-4 hours depending on relative THC vs CBD content. Many individuals in the medical cannabis community prefer concentrates such as oils, shatter, and wax for their intense pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects.

 

How does it work? Dabbing requires a water bong with an attachment known as a “dab nail,” typically made from quartz or titanium. Also known as a dab rig, you heat the dab nail with a torch to ~900°F, then “dab” your concentrate onto the hot nail while simultaneously inhaling the resulting vapor through a pipe or bong.

 

HINT: Just like an edible, try and be with someone experienced if dabbing for the first time, and start small.

 

 

Taking Tinctures 

 

Tinctures are liquid cannabis concentrates made by extracting cannabinoids from the cannabis plant using high-proof grain alcohol. Peak effects are felt within 20 minutes and are steady and rather mellow.

 

These THC tinctures can be administered simply by putting a few drops from the bottle’s droopper under the tongue (we recommend 1-2 drops for first time users), allowing for easy dosage control. Effects are almost immediate and peak effects be felt within 20 minutes and last 1-3 hours.

 

HINT: Anyone medicating with cannabis should do so in a safe environment, and is strongly advised not to drive, operate machinery or participate in dangerous activities.

 

In a follow-up post, we’ll talk about some things to know when it comes to knowing how much cannabis to consume.

 

If there’s one thing you HAD to know about cannabis, what would it be? Leave a comment!

 

Law Enforcement Changes Tactics for 4/20 

 

In an acknowledgement that the “Just Say No’ message is no longer relevant, the Colorado Department of Transportation has a new strategy to ensure safe and responsible marijuana use.

 

Starting with the 4/20 festival, law enforcement officers gave out snacks instead of tickets to revelers. The snacks included messages incurring cannabis users to munch, not drive, after indulging.

 

The agency also set up free arcade games at dispensaries that offered more tips on safely consuming cannabis.

 

While police around the country are being slammed for being excessive, it’s great to see at least one law enforcement agency finding innovative ways to protect the public and serve their community.

 

This tweet pretty much sums it up:

 

This is awesome, to put it bluntly.

 

Read more here: The Denver Channel

 

Pot Panel Addresses Legalization Concerns 

 

Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom’s Blue Ribbon Commission on Marijuana Policy held a public forum at UCLA last night. A supporter of lifting the prohibition on cannabis, Newsom did say he had some concerns. “I don’t want to see big tobacco become big marijuana. I don’t want  walk down the streets or walk to the playground with my kids and smell it.” he said.

 

The panel is looking at a number of issues that come with legalizing marijuana. They are studying how to regulate growers, how to ensure public safety and how to deal with individuals caught driving while impaired.

 

4/20 Kid Cannabis Sequel in the Works 

 

Last year’s Kid Cannabis, the dark comedy about an Idaho teen that builds a marijuana empire, is getting a sequel. John Stockwell is in talks to return as writer and director of the film. The film will focus on Topher’s exploits and begins production in 2016. It will be released April 20, 2017.

 

Leonhart’s Exit Opens the Door for Change a DEA

 

News that Drug Enforcement Administration chief, Michele Leonhart is preparing to resign was met by jubilation by many in the cannabis community. As a veteran of the ‘drug war’, Leonhard refused to acknowledge that marijuana has any medical benefits. This opinion put her squarely at odds with her boss President Obama and Attorney General Eric Holder.

 

Couple that with a long list of scandals and it’s easy to see why it’s her time to go.

 

As the country moves toward lifting the prohibition on cannabis, it’s important to find someone that has his or her finger on the pulse of today’s America.  It’s our hope that the new DEA chief will understand the importance of studying cannabis, will allow states to execute their marijuana laws without intrusion and to finally reclassify cannabis.

 

Currently marijuana is considered a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act. A Schedule I listing means that the substance has “no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.” Heroin, LSD and ecstasy are also classified as Schedule I.

 

Reclassifying cannabis would allow more studies on its benefits to be conducted and would recognize that there already is a healthy amount of evidence showing the healing power of cannabis.

 

DEA Head Stepping Down 

 

Embattled Drug Enforcement Administration chief and marijuana foe, Michele Leonhart is expected to step down soon. Leonhart moved up the ranks in the DEA to the top spot in 2007.

 

She has been a vocal opponent of lifting the ban on marijuana. Speaking with a group of law enforcement professionals, she reiterated her disagreement with President Obama’s stance that marijuana is no more dangerous than alcohol.

 

While testifying House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security, Leonhard refused to even acknowledge that marijuana was less harmful than crack, methamphetamines or heroin. Questioned by Colorado Rep. Jared Polis, she refused to budge, “I believe all illegal drugs are bad.”

 

Polis was unimpressed, “You should know this as the chief administrator for the Drug Enforcement Agency. I’m asking a very straightforward question: Is heroin worse for someone’s health than marijuana?”

 

The head of the DEA refused to answer. Instead she repeated the blanket statement that seems to be her mantra, “All illegal drugs are bad.”

 

A report last month revealed that during her tenure DEA agents had dozens of sex parties with prostitutes in Colombia.  It’s unclear whether the parties were funded by drug cartels or the American taxpayers. Agents that admitted to participating were suspended for 1 -10 days.

 

Earlier this month, members of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee released a statement saying they had lost confidence in her ability to lead the agency.

 

Kansas Cannabis Advocate Loses Custody After…

 

Medicinal marijuana proponent Shona Banda has lost temporary custody of her 11 year old son. Her nightmare began when her son spoke up during a drug education class. Banda’s son did not remain silent when some anti marijuana comments were made. Due to his remarks, police detained her son and raided the family home.

 

Law enforcement found cannabis, paraphernalia and lab equipment used to extract cannabis oil. Banda is is a vocal advocate of medicinal marijuana. She tells her story of using cannabis oil to help deal with Crohn’s Disease in her book,  ”Live Free or Die: Reclaim your Life . . . Reclaim your Country!”

 

The Wichita district attorney is mulling over possible charges including possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia and child endangerment. A gofundme page has been set up for her legal expenses.

 

Comedian/Cannabis Activist Roseanne Barr Is Going Blind

 

Speaking with The Daily Beast, the former presidential candidate and comedic icons revealed that she is losing her sight due to macular degeneration and glaucoma. She uses marijuana to help with the pressure in her eyes. She also advocates cannabis to free one’s mind,  “It’s expansive. It opens your mind.” We couldn’t agree more.

 

Read here: The Daily Beast

 

They Grow Up So Quickly

 

Former Disney Channel star Demi Lovato made some news yesterday by wishing Former Disney Channel star Joe Jonas a happy 4/20 on Instagram. Apparently, she and former Disney Channel star Miley Cyrus introduced him to marijuana.

 

We’re not sure if the Disney clubhouse was the happiest place on earth, but it was definitely the chillest.

 

Way to go, Demi.

Washington Post Shreds “Gateway Drug” Label

 

Obama Supports Legalizing Medicinal Cannabis

 

Be Ready for Different Reactions 

 

With some people, it’s easy to know how they’ll react. Your gossipy cousin will probably make your medicinal epiphany THE topic of conversation at your next family gathering, and you know your ultra-conservative father-in-law will have plenty to chime in with. Others may surprise you. Nothing will blow your mind like having your grandmother tell you she uses a marijuana salve to help with her arthritis. People don’t always wear their feelings about pot on their sleeves, so be ready for a variety of reactions.

 

The Good

 

With a groundswell of support for medical marijuana, you’ll likely be met by other marijuana enthusiasts. According to 2014 Pew Survey, about half of Americans have tried pot. Even more encouraging is the Public Policy Institute of California poll finding that a majority of Californians favors legalizing pot for recreational use.

 

The Bad

 

Others may still have reservations. And understandably so. The government’s misguided drug policies hammered untruths about marijuana into the public psyche for decades. A little information may go a long way in educating those closest to you. For some the road to enlightenment may be a bit longer.

 

The Indifferent 

 

Some folks just won’t care. As long as your marijuana usage doesn’t define you or inhibit your relationship, most people won’t give it a second thought. According to the Pew research, about 69% of Americans feel alcohol is more harmful than marijuana. As with alcohol, if you use marijuana in responsibly, most people won’t care.

 

How Will You Come Out? 

 

Tweeting pictures of your new Game of Thrones bong might seem like a great idea when you’re medicated, but remember your social media footprint is more far reaching and will last much longer than your high.

 

If there’s chance that your (current and future) employers might see images of your soon to be legendary bong full of tasty nuggs as an impairment, maybe you should reconsider posting those epic pictures. Even though medicinal marijuana is legal in California, our employment laws are still woefully behind the times. Be smart. You don’t want to lose your job. Especially if you still have 10 payments on that fresh Westeros water pipe.

 

*Falling* out of the cannabis closet.

 

Educate; Don’t Proselytize

 

Sure you get a sweet bonus for referring someone to the Nugg app, but no one likes a hard sell. Nothing irritates people more than being lectured on something they don’t understand. Remember how your dad would not stop talking about his new juicer? Your enthusiasm is understandable. But unless your mother is also a patient, she may not feel the need to know about your quest to find a new vape pen. Feel your family out. Drop some nuggets of truth out there. If they have questions, educate them. Organizations like NORML have a wealth of information to help illuminate your friends and family about cannabis.

 

Respect the Plant, Respect the Movement & Respect Yourself 

 

Like it or not when you let others know of your cannabis use, you become the face of medical marijuana. As an instant ambassador of a growing movement, recognize that some of your actions may (fairly or not) be attributed to your cannabis use. Small stuff like sleeping in, skipping a family function or getting into a minor fender bender may be seen in a different light by the misinformed.

 

Changing their minds about “potheads” may not seem like it falls into your purview. However, if you’re the only cannabis user they know, the responsibility may fall on your shoulders. If you don’t want to be seen as a stereotypical pothead, don’t be one (tweet this quote). Respect your obligations. Respect your new medicine. Use it as recommended. Don’t overdo it. And now that you have a dependable delivery service in your arsenal, there’s no need to drive. Driving or operating heavy machinery while impaired is never a good idea.

 

It’s Up to You 

 

Coming out of the closet is a deeply personal decision. As we’ve seen with gay rights, the more people that are open about their authentic selves, the more expeditious the change. That being said, if you don’t think coming out of the pot closet is right for you, don’t feel pressured to do so. With services like Nugg, discretion is paramount. Your medicine and supplies will be delivered to your doorstep in a safe, efficient and private manner.

 

If you want to be part of the change without coming out, there are plenty of ways to do so.

 

Organizations like NORML can always use donations and volunteers. They’ve been advocating for saner drug policies since 1970. Thanks to their and others’ hard work, it’s easy to imagine a time in the near future when coming out as a cannabis user won’t be an issue. Until then, spark up and be well. Happy 4-20!