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Packaging, Labeling & Product Design

 

 

The CBD cartridge’s distinct triangular packaging matches the Delta 9 logo, only silver and black with a bottom seafoam green border that includes very basic info: product name (DeltaMax 2.0 CBD Natural), CBD:THC ratio (5:1), and volume by weight (1,000mg/1g). Find a lengthy health warning on the bottom at the box. Most of the text is silver foiled, which makes the info prominent and compliments the black, silver and seafoam green color scheme.

 

On the back, the seafoam green border notes that the CBD cartridge is all natural, contains no artificial flavoring or PG (propylene glycol), a potentially harmful thinning agent used in some vape oils. Above this info is a sticker label with SC Labs’ test results, testing date, ID number, and cannabinoid percentages (40.57% CBD, 8% THC, 0.21% CBN, 0.24% CBG).

 

There are also tests for pesticides, microbiologicals and residual solvents, though all three say “N/A” and isn’t helpful. They should say “Passed” or “ND” (Not Detected). Is Delta 9 just trying to appear thorough? The lack of a confirmable QR code fuels my suspicions.

 

I wish Delta 9 included an ingredients list so I can verify what makes up more than 50% of this cartridge. The cardboard seems fairly sturdy and has a window so you can see the CBD oil. Looking at it, I can only assume there are some unwanted fillers.

 

While I appreciate the four different cannabinoid percentages, I’d love to see info on their extraction process along with a major terpene profile. I also notice “Natural” printed three times, which makes me a little skeptical when I’m bombarded with an “all-natural” message.

 

A false sense of security like those unknown testing results?

 

Quality, Ease of Use

 

Inside, the large cartridge sits in a hinged, clear plastic package. The plastic could be a little thicker but overall provides ample security.

 

The metal mouthpiece is conical in shape, almost like the tip of a pen, while the tank below has the Delta 9 logo etched onto the glass. It’s sturdy metal and glass construction is much thicker and heavier than most other vape carts I’ve tried; even wider than the vape battery.

 

Before heading out I take two hits. I taste an overpowering woody flavor followed by a subtle sour taste indicative of CBD.

 

The clean and clear airflow doesn’t clog and actually whistles when you take a high-pressured drag. This is due to the wide intake holes surrounding the bottom of the tank that assure all the oil is used.

 

As I continue to vape the flavors start leveling out, though the profile still isn’t my cup of tea. It provides consistently thick clouds that were incredibly smooth, even if you take a massive hit.

 

However, the crystal-clear amber oil appears very thin as it moves around the cartridge too easily, usually a sign of additives. The cart is compatible with any standard 510-threaded pen battery yet the heavier, bulkier design adds more weight so hold on tight; it made my vape pen jar tip over!

 

Potency, Effectiveness & Affordability

 

 

With this stronger than average 5:1 CBD:THC ratio I was expecting to feel less sore from just one pull. That wasn’t the case. Three solid puffs later, I noticed my biceps, chest and thighs weren’t so tender while walking to the store.

 

Still, I found myself puffing every half hour to maintain this relief so it didn’t help nearly as much as other CBD vapes I’ve tried like Marley Natural’s Marley Red cartridge. But don’t be discouraged; if you have a low tolerance or are new to cannabis, you may find the subtle, clear-headed calm worthwhile.

 

As for cost, $50 usually gets you a full gram cartridge of CBD vape oil, which is usually more expensive than THC carts and even some Pax pods, so a full gram is a solid deal.

 

Nugg Score: How the Nugg Team Rates This Product

 

Packaging: 4.5/5

• Distinct triangular packaging, silver foiling, and seafoam green cardboard (Mulder and Scully, eat your heart out).
• Cut out lets you see the cartridge and oil.
• Plastic could be a bit thicker for better protection.

 

Labeling: 3/5

• Sufficient labeling for compliance.
• Term “natural” is printed three times, which raises an eyebrow.
• Unlabeled 50% of cannabinoids and terpenes remain a mystery.
• Would like to have seen the ingredients, brief explanation of Delta 9’s extraction process, and a major terpene profile.

 

Cartridge Quality: 4.5/5 

• Thick metal and glass construction; more durable than any other cartridge I’ve seen.  
• Bulkiness makes this DeltaMax 2.0 hard to bring along for the ride.
• Easy airflow without clogging; allows you to take a high-pressured drag.

 

Taste: 3/5

• First hit was woody and a little sour, which I associate with CBD flower.
• Decent but not remarkable.

 

Vapor Quality: 5/5

• Consistently thick clouds with no coughing.
• Smooth, even with a massive hit!

 

Oil Quality: 2.5/5

• Thin and runny oil, usually indicates the use of a filler.
• Overall oil quality was a disappointment.

 

Effectiveness: 3/5

• As anticipated with the 5:1 CBD:THC ratio, hardly felt psychoactive effects but the CBD did ease my sore muscles.
• Had to take a few puffs every half hour.
• Not as effective as other CBD-rich vapes I’ve tried, as the effects wore off relatively quickly.
• Might be ideal for new users or someone with a low cannabis tolerance.

 

Ease of Use: 3.5/5

• Cartridge can be used with any standard 510-threaded battery.
• Heavy weight makes it easy to tip and fall out of your hand.
• Too bulky for my liking; not easy to transport.

 

Consistency: 5/5

• Provides large clouds of vapor consistently, without clogging, down to the last drop.
• Wide intake holes helps to make this possible.

 

Price: 5/5

• At $50, this is a solid price air price for one gram of CBD-rich oil, as many half-gram cartridges cost even more.

 

Overall Rating: 3.9

 

The DeltaMax 2.9 Natural CBD 5:1 cartridge is constructed with the highest quality glass and metal I’ve seen in a vape. The hits are clear and smooth while the vapor quality can’t be beat.

 

However, the oil was too thin for my preference and the taste wasn’t anything special. Combine these attributes with the minimal effects and it’s decent, not jaw-dropping. While it didn’t provide more permanent sore muscle relief, it’s worth trying if you want a lower potency, CBD-rich cartridge that won’t clog for a good price. 

 

Packaging, Labeling & Product Design

 

 

I opened the thin, rectangular box on the way to the venue. The bright, colorful packaging is clearly labeled and doesn’t waste space. A detailed drawing of the cartridge with a cannabis leaf in the background wraps around the box.

 

Although a side sticker shows the major cannabinoid content (74.2% THC and 0% CBD), batch number, “use by” date, testing lab, standard government and safety statements, it didn’t list the remaining cannabinoids in each batch or any of the predominant terpenes.

 

I’d also like to see a brief explanation of their extraction process as opposed to “cannabis oil” as the only ingredient on the “ingredients” list.

 

Beneath the durable, pocket-size box the cart comes housed in a clear plastic tube with a push-and-twist-open cap. There are also foam rings on the mouthpiece and base to stabilize and prevent damage from jiggling inside. This extra layer of protection is refreshing, reassuring and, sadly, not always a given.

 

It’s also small enough to easily slip in my pocket and stay safe without the box.

 

The cartridge has a thin metal mouthpiece, which I prefer over plastic, and a glass tank stamped with the ABX and Emerald Cup logos on either side. There’s even a yellow band looped around the base of the cart so you won’t forget the strain.

 

Quality, Ease of Use

 

Once our D.D. parked and posted I screwed the cartridge onto my battery and took a big puff. It pulled well enough and was more or less smooth on the inhale. However, on the exhale I had a bit of a coughing fit and my nose start tingling as the vapor was a little harsh for my liking.

 

The flavor was a bit bland, not what I expected from a Pineapple Afghani cartridge. ABX advertises only using natural terpenes, not artificially-derived ones, so I anticipated a prominent sweet and citrusy taste.

 

Still, I appreciate not using artificial chemicals to try and make it taste more “tropical.” (Could it be that this batch was a little less flavorful than usual?) The vapor didn’t taste bad. In fact, it had the familiar taste of standard hash oil; it just fell short of my expectations.

 

I appreciate a plain, uncomplicated CO2 extraction because I know it means that the finished product will be pure; no additives or contaminants, just quality cannabis oil. Surprisingly, the oil was thick, dark and translucent.

 

While it was certainly higher-quality than other THC carts, it fell short of what I’d like to see in a premium vaporizer cartridge. But looks aren’t everything (for most).

 

As for use, the vape cartridge occasionally clogged, which I attributed to this viscous oil. I was able to fix this by holding down the power button on my pen to heat the oil while sucking simultaneously. This may be difficult if you’re using a vape battery that doesn’t have a button (one of the “pull to activate” models). If so, put the cartridge in warm water for a few minutes.

 

Potency, Effectiveness & Affordability

 

 

This Absolute Xtracts hybrid vape definitely did the job as advertised. A few puffs delivered a gentle yet very noticeable high that was equal parts body and mind.

 

By the time we entered the venue and joined the crowd I felt uplifted, motivated and calm, which was great for the concert. I didn’t think about the packed house or being stampeded by possessed fans; I just enjoyed the music’ and the communal experience.

 

Because this isn’t a distillate like many other vapes, it feels like I’m benefitting from a full spectrum of cannabinoids.

 

If you’re trying to wind down, veg out and fall asleep I wouldn’t recommend this Pineapple Afghani strain as its sativa-like qualities might make you more animated. This was a bit surprising considering it’s indica-dominant. Thus, it’s a great daytime vape for just about any activity: a leisurely day at the park, shopping or walking around town.

 

Given the half gram size, potency and relative rarity of the strain, this cartridge is appropriately priced at $35. It wasn’t a deep discount bargain but I’d definitely recommend this vape oil and give it another shot.

 

Nugg Score: How the Nugg Team Rates This Product

 

Packaging: 5/5

• Fun and colorful drawing on the outer cardboard packaging.
• Thick, twist-top plastic tube protects the cartridge without taking up unnecessary space.
• Two foam rings around the mouthpiece and base add another layer of protection.
• Small enough to carry in your pocket.

 

Labeling: 3.5/5

• Sufficient info to trust and safely use, but not nearly as much as I’d like to see. (reason for collab with Emerald Cup, how cannabis is grown, harvest date, expected taste and effects, verifiable test results, usage instructions.)
• Lacks a full list of cannabinoids and a list of at least the major terpenes.
• “Cannabis oil” is the only ingredient listed.

 

Cartridge Quality: 3.5/5

• Standard 510-threaded, glass tank, and metal mouthpiece.
• AbsoluteXtracts and Emerald Cup logos are on both sides.  
• Yellow label ensures you remember the strain and won’t mix up your carts.

 

Taste: 2.5/5

• The extracted oil doesn’t seem to maintain a strong terp profile that accurately reflects the strain.
• Not as sweet and citrusy as expected.
• Generic hash-oil taste; tolerable but not preferable.

 

Vapor Quality: 3/5

• A few pulls made my nose tingle.
• Inspired a bit of coughing, but it seems to be an after-effect.
• Smooth on the inhale, a little harsher on the exhale.

 

Oil Quality: 4/5

• Thick, dark, translucent oil. While I’m accustomed to clearer ones, this doesn’t mean it’s a negative.
• Seems to be a straight CO2 oil extraction without distillation.
• In order to get a rating of 5, the oil must be crystal clear. Because of their extraction method, I’m not able to see all the way through the oil, thus the 3.

 

Effectiveness: 4.5/5

• Immediately felt a gentle calm come over me after a few big puffs.
• Equal feelings of euphoria in the body and head.
• Because this isn’t a THC distillate like many other vapes on the market, it feels as if I’m getting the benefit of a full spectrum of cannabinoids.

 

Ease of Use: 4/5

• Has a universal 510-thread.
• May clog on occasion, though easily remedied.
• Product did not come with a battery, meaning it wasn’t truly “ready to use” straight out of the package, hence the 3.

 

Consistency: 5/5

• ABX has always had the same look, taste, pleasure and relief.
• Cartridges always work in the same manner.  

 

Price: 3.5/5

• Appropriately priced at $35 considering the .5g size, strain, potency and detail.
• Worth trying again.

 

Overall Rating: 3.85

 

I was looking for a calm, manageable, well-balanced high and that’s exactly what I got from AbsoluteXtracts’ Pineapple Afghani vape cartridge.

 

While it didn’t taste like its namesake fruit, by the time we walked in the concert I felt calm enough to be in a crowded environment while feeling a slightly upbeat head high. My thoughts were never racing or anxious; instead, I felt excited to be there with my friends.

 

And despite not being the most amazing vape experience, it’s worth trying, along with other ABX products, for under $40.

 

1. Support Black and Brown-Owned Cannabusinesses

 

In what’s hailed as perhaps the biggest year for cannabis ever, people often forget to read the fine print of history playing out today.

 

Did you know that in the mid-1930s, joints were called “jazz cigarettes?” It’s true. And cannabis was linked to ground-breaking musicians like Louie Armstrong, whose music was deemed “satanic” by the Federal Bureau of Narcotics.

 

Ever since cannabis was outlawed in 1937, people of color have been targeted by racially-biased drug laws. This is still the case in the criminal justice system. It’s why we consumers need to continually push lawmakers to expunge records and roll back sentences, especially in states where recreational cannabis has been legalized.

 

We also need to pay attention to the fact 81% percent of new cannabis businesses are owned and operated by whites, while just 4% are black-owned.

 

There are city-level equity programs which allegedly help people of color obtain priority business licenses. And yet, even in places covered in a cloud of lemon haze like Oakland, obtaining a license doesn’t always translate into production and revenue due to faulty implementation structures.

 

In light of the “Permit Patty” episode of 2018, consumers can do their part to look into a company’s background before purchasing. Here are a few ways to learn more about and support leaders in the equity in cannabis movement:

• Follow cannabis influencers on social media like Women Grow’s founder Jazmin Hupp and writer and cannabis entrepreneur Mennlay Golokeh Aggrey
• Listen to the “potcast,” “High, Good People”
• Read Broccoli Magazine
• Subscribe to Maria & Jane’s weekly newsletter for cannabis round-ups for and by women (of color!)

 

Power Ballad: Can You Get To That by Funkadelic
Edibles for Equity: Whoopi & Maya

 

2. Cultivate Beginner’s Mind

 

Some of you are old hands at cannabis. You can roll a joint with your eyes closed, know the optimal vaping temperature, and make homemade edible treats and tincture drinks. But that doesn’t mean you can’t go back to square one.

 

Beginner’s Mind is a useful idea that comes from traditional Zen Buddhism. This philosophy encourages “an attitude of openness, eagerness, and lack of preconceptions when studying a subject, even when studying at an advanced level, just as a beginner would.” (According to Google, so consider this a very rudimentary definition.)

 

How can you approach your cannabis consumption with a “don’t know” mind in 2019, regardless of expertise? What can you experiment with, as the wise ones say, to deepen your practice? If you’re new to cannabis, where do you start and, more importantly, how can you do so with no preconceptions? Jump in and find out!

 

Power Ballad: Light It Up by Major Lazer, Nyla, Fuse ODG
Contemplative Flower Strains: Blue Dream, Granddaddy Purple, and Northern Lights

 

3. Look Out for “Minor” Cannabinoids

 

Never heard of THCa, CBN or CBG? These dudes are VIPs and will make some power moves in 2019.

 

Ask budtenders if they know which products are labeled with the full cannabinoid breakdown. Companies worth their salt are providing it, along with other detailed info, on their offerings.

 

Don’t worry about sounding picky; more research shows that even small percentages of these compounds can have a profound impact on conditions like insomnia, inflammation and neurological disorders. Minor is a bit of a misnomer; these cannabinoids are essential in creating the “entourage effect” that washes your system with plant-based healing.

 

Power Ballad: Girl Blunt by Leikeli47
Full Spectrum Cartridges: Level, TreeBase Klear

 

4. Not So Scary Edibles

 

Edibles actually took a bit of a hit in 2018 for several reasons. Most notably, safety was an issue due to pesticides and mold.

 

At Nugg, we make sure to review our products based on rigorous quality standards. If a product doesn’t deliver after repeated use, you’ll know. Even if you don’t order from us, find a budtender you trust for recommendations and/or a reputable company with stringent, triple-testing standards.

 

Power Ballad: Échame La Culpa by Luis Fonsi and Demi Lovato
Safety First, Then Teamwork Microdose: The Venice Cookie Company’s Savory Pretzels (3mg THC per pretzel!)

 

5. Get Active with Cannabis

 

Remember, sativa isn’t just good for socializing – it’ll also get your butt up and in gear. As we start the new year, it can mean committing to being more active, even if that’s just breathing deeply. Then, as always, indica and/or CBD will help soothe exercise-induced aches and pains, and also help you fall asleep so you can do it over again.

 

Power Ballad: Where Them $@ by Dreezy
Step To This Triple Threat: Cartridge: Jetty Extracts Super Lemon Haze 0.5g; Flower: Durban Poison; Edible: The Farmaceuticals Do Drops.

 

These are just a few ideas to help you make the most of 2019 and feel good about your purchase decisions while nurturing your body.

 

If you’re looking for specific product recommendations, chat live with Nugg’s Cannabis Concierge. Our experts are standing by to help you find exactly what you need – make this year the best one yet. 

 

Packaging, Labeling & Product Design

 

 

When I first saw this box, it reminded me a bit of the Winter Olympics. The mountain logo is etched in silver surrounded with bright, splashy blue and metallic silver.

 

Seeing the metal and glass cartridge full of clear, almost greyish oil through a small cut-out seems reassuring–but looks can be deceiving. Just be careful as the cardboard is easily smashable. One wrong move and Hulk smash!

 

This Granddaddy Purple indica .5g carton is labeled with standard info: oil type (live resin), strain type, ingredients, net weight, SC Labs tested THC and CBD content (403.5mg THC and 18.05mg CBD), I.D. number, warnings and storage instructions.

 

I wish Alpine added more cannabinoids besides these two. There’s also no mention of Grandmammy Purple and other genetics. Divorced? Deceased? I’d like to know the family history.

 

Inside the cart sits nestled in a white plastic case for extra protection along with a folded instruction pamphlet. However, just like my confidence when I get rejected, it can easily be easily crushed. I like this packaging system, just not the materials.

 

This shorter, fatter steel cartridge has a round, wide tip and pyrex glass tank that’s more durable than plastic and less susceptible to clogging. It’s also a bit heavier than other carts I’ve tried.

 

Quality, Ease of Use

 

As soon as I saw this silver-and-blue box, I crossed my fingers for taste explosions plus powerful potency. And I’m here to tell you, wishes do come true so sing it, Jiminy Cricket! The oil tastes very sweet with those beloved grape-forward notes that fade into a heavy skunk finish.

 

Granddaddy Purple is an indica-dominant cross of Purple Urkle and Big Bud (not “Sesame Street” characters), which is why it creates heavy grape/berry notes that thrill your taste buds before being slightly overrun by the piney/gassy taste.

 

The vapor was smooth and easy on the throat and lungs; an ideal experience. The cloud was also pretty thick (though light feeling) and filling on the exhale. Unlike most cartridges, the clear, thick resinous oil looks muted, almost grey; I assume it’s specific to live resin cartridges.

 

This Alpine live resin cartridge is compatible with most vape batteries (510 threaded). Simply twist on and use. Because the oil is thick you might need to warm the cartridge a little to make the oil more easily vaporable. Also notice that the cartridge can heat up after a few long, consecutive draws; it’ll get warm to the touch so be wary of it getting too hot.

 

After trying two more of this Grandaddy live resin offering, one’s tank leaked a bit. (Consult the instructions to prevent accidental leakage.)

 

Potency, Effectiveness & Affordability

 

 

After two solid puffs, I was undoubtedly relaxed. This is a great strain for folks with heavy pain and sleep issues. After five, I was nearly asleep within an hour. 

 

This strain strongly leans towards indica’s effects that, for me, are sedating, calming, and can knock me out under the right circumstances. I believe this comes from the high concentration of the terpenes linalool, humulene and myrcene within.

 

With this combo of terps and THC levels, this product is ideal to use at night to unwind and calm your mind and body.

 

Whether you’re just beginning to look into cartridges for relaxation or a veteran looking for something new to try, this .5g Alpine Vapor indica vape is reasonably priced at $35.

 

Nugg Score: How the Nugg Team Rates This Product

 

Packaging: 3/5

• Gorgeous color contrasts; compact and flashy.
• Includes a hole to see the product from the front.
• Not as sturdy as some other brands.

 

Labeling:  3.5/5

• Decent amount of information; lab results, strain and type, ingredients, etc.
• Alpine could have gone the extra mile and include the terpene profile.  

 

Cartridge Quality: 4/5

• Solid quality with thick glass and metal tip.
• 510-threaded for optimal compatibility with the most commonly used batteries.
• Gets warm to the touch after consecutive longer draws.

 

Taste: 4/5

• Delicious sweet grape notes coming through.
• Slightly overpowered at the end by some skunky earth notes.
• Had this been more evenly balanced, it would have been a home run.

 

Vapor Quality: 4/5

• Not overly harsh on lungs; I was able to produce satisfying clouds.
• Vapor was thick but light feeling

 

Oil Quality: 5/5

• Top-shelf flower results in top-shelf oil.
• Gold in color, clear and thick.
• Might need to warm the cartridge up a bit to make the oil vaporable.

 

Effectiveness: 4.5/5

• Heavy indica, resulting in feelings of happiness and deep relaxation.
• A calming high chill, and happy,
• Best use is right before bed; after four puffs, I was nearly asleep within the hour.

 

Ease of Use: 4/5

• Compatible with most vape batteries (510-threaded).
• Small enough to take anywhere.
• Simple to use, just needs to be heated slightly longer than a cartridge that uses distillate.

 

Consistency: 3.5/5

• Each puff was fairly consistent.
• May experience a faulty or leaky cartridge every once in a while.
• Requires heating/warming a bit due to oil thickness.

 

Price: 5/5

• At $25 for a half gram, this is very reasonable for a vape cartridge – especially one with live resin (which often costs more due to its smaller yields during the cold-extraction process).

 

Overall Rating: 4.05

 

After trying Alpine’s Live Resin Granddaddy Purple .5g cartridge, I’m curious to try more of their varieties. Though it’s not one of the “dessert” strains (Cookies or Gelato crosses), this sweet, fruity indica will ease you into bedtime better than a midnight snack. 

 

While it’s great for inducing sleep, I also like it for mellow gatherings with friends (just don’t vape too much too fast). I was pleasantly surprised to find it got me giggly and dancing in the living room.

 

The only real downsides were the flimsy packaging construction and lack of more detailed info. 

 

Ready to try Alpine Vapor’s Live Resin Granddaddy Purple vape cartridge? Visit the GetNugg.com and search your local dispensary to have this product delivered right to your door!

 

 

Packaging, Labeling & Product Design

 

 

Before I open the box, my expectations are set by the embossed gold crown logo. This brand is dedicated to helping you get as regally elevated as Queen Victoria (who got down with her tinctures).

 

The cart comes in a thick cardboard slip-case box with a custom cut foam insert that perfectly cradles it. The solid matte black and gold foiling feel sleek in my hands.

 

My only qualm with the packaging: the bottom kept falling about a centimeter when held upright, leaving me worrying about security.

 

The WCC Skywalker OG oil comes in a glass tank with a sturdy metal construction. The mouthpiece has the crown logo and the brand initials embldazoned in gold. Simple and classy.

 

But here’s the biggest bummer for me: besides the social media plugs and branding, there isn’t much product info.

 

It gives the net weight, strain name, mentions that it’s “Premium Nug Run,” and “Ultra Purified Premium Shatter Oil.” That’s it! Cannabinoid percentages? Not even THC. Ingredients? None. No batch number, manufacture date, best by date or lab test results. 

 

What’s in this thing became a bigger mystery than Murder on the Orient Express.

 

Quality, Ease of Use

 

Flavor-wise, I had reasonably high expectations. While I get subtle hints of pine and sweetness, it’s overwhelmed by an indescribable, inert flavor. From my experience, that’s usually a sign of a cutting agent like propylene or polyethylene glycol.

 

Though it wasn’t intolerable, there are tastier, distilled cartridges on the market.

 

Compatible with all standard 510 threaded pen-style vapes, this vape offers extremely smooth hits. However, I wasn’t able to get a consistent cloud of vapor from the oil, which is unfortunately dark and incredibly thin. It’s actually the thinnest oil I’ve reviewed so far (and I’ve reviewed a lot).

 

Potency, Effectiveness & Affordability

 

 

I was pretty disappointed in Skywalker OG vape’s potency. Since WCC is known for having awesome concentrates, I naturally assumed their vape cartridge would be filled with something special. I was wrong.

 

Not only did it look and taste like it contained a high volume of cutting agents, but the effects were at best mild and unreliable. I was hoping for something more heavy-hitting. I felt a slight difference, but nothing to make me say “I feel high.” If you have a low cannabis tolerance, you may find this does something for you. If that’s the case, let me know.

 

With the first few puffs, I got a lot of crackling before the oil settled. That makes me assume I purged the rest of their solvent off – into my lungs. I taste a bit of the terpenes on my first two drags, then the taste becomes too subtle to notice. Plus, I had trouble getting a solid hit.

 

For around $30, I wouldn’t buy this again. In my opinion, the high-quality packaging is worth more than the oil it’s housed in. I was quite disappointed. Check out Honey Vape’s superior Skywalker OG cartridge for just $5-10 more.

 

Nugg Score: How the Nugg Team Rates This Product

 

Packaging: 4/5

• Casing is sturdy, golden and clean. Very classy.
• Slipcase within has a foam bed to make sure the cartridge stays stationary. However, it isn’t that secure.

 

Labeling: 1/5

• Basically no product information besides branding and the strain name.
• No specific details about the cartridge and what it’s made of.
• Needs much more transparency.

 

Cartridge Quality: 3/5

• Minimalist construction.
• High-end looking metal mouthpiece stamped with the brand initials and logo
• Inconsistent vapor clouds.

 

Taste: 3/5

• Initial pulls were flavorful from those amazing Skywalker OG piney terps but were quickly replaced by a bland nothingness that makes me think some not-so-great additives are also in there.

 

Vapor Quality: 4/5

• Aside from the initial solvent burn-off, the draws felt clear and even.
• Tough to get a consistent-sized cloud from puffing.

 

Oil Quality: 1/5  

• Oil is too thin and dark to trust WCC’s branded “ultra-premium” claim.
• Believe there’s some other unknown ingredients within.

 

Ease of Use: 4/5

• Relatively easy to use with any 510 threaded battery; just twist on a battery pen and vape.

 

Effectiveness: 3/5

• Effects were milder than I’d want from a WCC product and Skywalker OG strain.
• Felt a slight difference but nothing that made me feel “high.”

 

Consistency: 2/5

• Effects really varied, maybe due to the oil’s subpar quality.

 

Price: 1/5

• Not worth $30 for the mild effects and lack of product and testing info.
• Seems like the high-quality packaging is worth more than the actual oil inside.
• I wouldn’t buy this product again.

 

Overall Rating: 2.6

 

With the unclean taste, oil’s runny nature, low potency and lack of product info, I wouldn’t recommend this Skywalker OG WCC cartridge. Disappointing, as the brand produces quality concentrates. To quote one of the wisest women in modern history: “Ain’t nobody got time for that!”

 

The Natural, Full Effect of Flower

 

The major selling points of flower tend to center on its natural and often highly potent effects. Cannabis flower proponents often cite the full spectrum, natural benefits of going with the green, or purple, or any other stunning shades it may come in.

 

While the Entourage Effect continues to be debated, it’s clear that cannabis flower is the optimal source for all its effects. The plant itself is a guaranteed source of terpenes, cannabinoids and a range of secondary compounds that round out the effects of a particular strain.

 

On another note, with the natural movement sweeping into cannabis like most other markets, the market demands solvent-free products. Save for a few exceptions, few products on the market can claim to be solvent-free at this time. The trend is well underway and will likely shift in time, but many chemically extracted products can turn off some consumers.

 

Instead, with cannabis, cultivators continue to produce chemical-free crops. When buying flower, the consumer just needs to ensure that their grower used a chemical-free process. If you’re in the market for a quality source, seek out chemical-free sun grows for the most natural flowers.

 

Additionally, despite product potency becoming a critical buying factor for many, there are benefits in the lesser strength flower products. For one, those seeking a short-term high will likely benefit from sticking to smoking flower rather than opting for an edible or concentrate. And let’s not scoff at flower’s potency. While it may not come close to 99%, some of the top yields can easily reach or exceed 30%. And even in states where cannabis isn’t legal, it’s possible to buy high THCa hemp flower strains that can reach nearly 25% total THC (take a look at the best strains here).

 

The History Behind the Plant

 

Evolution is great and bound to happen. That said, we shouldn’t let our history fade away. As Taylor Blake, Co-Producer of The Emerald Cup, told Nugg how cannabis flower connects us to our past.

 

“The practice of using specifically the cannabis flower itself can be traced throughout our greater history around the world.” Blake added that “When you consume the flower itself, all of your senses are invoked and it’s something that cannot be described as anything less than inspiring.”

 

This is a sentiment often shared by those attending the Emerald Cup, which is regarded as the largest, most respected, organic, outdoor, medicinal cannabis competition in the world.

 

There’s certainly room at the table for all consumption methods to be welcome. Yet, no others rival the legacy of cannabis flower. While hitting a vape pen, doing dabs or eating more sophisticated edibles are all well and good, they lack the history and spirit.

 

Cannabis flower has been considered an essential herb to ancient healers and swept across the globe. Without flower, we would not be where we are today. The connection it carries to the earliest eras of humanity is not lost on plenty of modern consumers. Even with incredible innovations arising, the plant itself will always be held in rarefied air.

 

Cannabis Flower Sales Declining

 

According to the Cannabis Intelligence Briefing from BDS Analytics and The Arcview Group, the need for flower will grow 26.5% by 2022. Currently, 2.1 million pounds of dried flower is needed to meet market demands. By 2022, it will take 6.9 million.

 

Calling it “The Foundation of the Cannabis Industry,” the report notes that buying trends have shifted. Now, cultivators are growing product for other consumption means. U.S flower demand is dropping to a low 68.6% in 2017.

 

However, the report notes that it won’t drop off the list of entirely.

 

“Burgeoning international markets and emerging adult and medical markets in North America are expected to help temper the decline in flower cultivation demand, but the days of flower dominance are behind the cannabis industry.”

 

Jessica Billingsley, CEO & Co-Founder of MJ Freeway, the company which invented seed-to-sale technology, explained to Nugg that data shows it is still viable.

 

“Although flower’s percentage share of the pie is less than when adult use markets first opened, demand for flower in established states like Colorado, continues to increase in volume year over year.”

 

Billingsley added that MJ Freeway consultants recommend OG Kush and Blue Dream as top strains which are easy to cultivate and produce good yields.

 

A World of Flower Awaits

 

The best part of cannabis flower may have to be its innovation. Keeping up with strain advancements is rather taxing. Cultivators create incredible hybrids at such a rapid rate these days. Classics and new favorites intermix on sales shelves across legal markets. In turn, they often provide the inspiration to push other products to new heights in the process.

 

Each cannabis consumer has different taste. Some like sweet while others prefer fuel. One may love smelling like a citrus grove and another the forests of Northern California. Thankfully, cannabis flower offers a favorite for each consumer.

 

With an array to choose from, consumers can get lost in a slew of indicas, sativas and hybrids. Hybrid fans, especially those leaning towards indicas, may find themselves loving Korova Mendo Breath. Meanwhile, sativa lovers may go gaga over THC Designs’ Grape Head. The best way to find out which suits a consumer best is to sample as many as possible.

 

While flower gets lapped in potency and consumer demand, let’s not put it to rest any time soon. Demand will always exist, even if it cedes dominance to concentrates and edibles. Nothing can top the original, and we wouldn’t be here today without its continued progress.

 

Nugg has countless cannabis flower options available for delivery. Visit GetNugg.com and see if your favorite dispensary delivers to your door. If you have questions, our Cannabis Concierge is here to help you find the strain you’re looking for. Chat live with our experts today!