4/20 For Everyone: The Evolution Of Cannibis Culture & Celebration

It all began in the '70s with a group of California teens known as The Waldos, who gathered at 4:20 p.m. to search for hidden weed (they never found it, but they did coin a holiday). What started as a secret code has now gone global — 4/20 is a celebration of cannabis culture, legalization, and progress.

From Taboo to Trending

Cannabis, once the villain of the War on Drugs, is now a rising star. Uruguay and Canada led the way in legalization, and U.S. states are following suit. Medical cannabis has become a global game-changer, shifting the conversation from “Should we?” to “How best to?”

Blunts, Brownies & Blended Milkshakes: Snack Time Is Sacred

Let’s talk about the real hero of 4/20 celebrations: the snacks. Whether you're team “Roll it up” or “Pass me an edible,” there’s something for everyone. Try sipping on an infused chocolate milkshake—served hot or cold depending on the vibe—and let the mellow waves roll in. Or go full chef mode and make weed-infused ice cream using cannabis chocolate milk. It's a stoner’s sundae dream. Just be warned: edibles are delicious and devious. Start low, go slow—or prepare for a five-hour conversation with your cat.

Responsible Revelry: Because Nobody Wants to End Up in a Bush

Sure, 4/20 is a celebration, but it’s not a free pass to light up on your grandma’s porch (unless she’s cool with it). Know your local laws—what’s legal in Vancouver might still get you a side-eye in Vienna. Remember: cannabis affects everyone differently. Side effects like paranoia, anxiety, or time feeling like it’s moving backward (spoiler: it’s not) are possible. Have some chill-out techniques handy—like a nap, a cuddle with your dog, or stress-snacking on non-infused cookies.

And yes, you don’t have to smoke to join the party. Vape it, eat it, drink it, or go topical. There are more ways to enjoy cannabis these days than there are episodes of Friends. (And yes, you might binge those too.)

More Than a Party: Education, Equity, and the Green Economy

Behind the hazy fun, 4/20 also carries weighty goals: education, advocacy, and equity. As the cannabis industry booms, we must also address the historical injustices of prohibition. Communities most affected by the War on Drugs deserve a fair shot in this green gold rush. Celebrating 4/20 means pushing for a just, inclusive, and sustainable cannabis future.

Conclusion

From high school hangouts to a global movement, 4/20 has come a long way. So whether you’re blazing, baking, or just vibing — celebrate smart, snack hard, and keep pushing for progress.

Happy 4/20, folks. Puff, puff, progress.

Disclaimer: This blog supports responsible cannabis use.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

Cannabis And Human Rights: Breaking The Stigma Of Holistic Healing

For centuries, cannabis has faced vilification, bans, and misinformation. Today, however, the conversation is shifting. Access to cannabis is more than a legal debate; it's a human rights issue. From health and autonomy to social justice and wellness equity, cannabis legalization is about breaking barriers and building a fairer future. Let's explore why denying access to this natural medicine is a fundamental violation of human rights.

The Right to Health and Autonomy

Health is a universal human right, as outlined in global frameworks like the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This means individuals should have access to treatments and therapies that enhance well-being. Cannabis has been shown to offer relief for various conditions—from chronic pain and epilepsy to PTSD and anxiety. Yet, restrictive laws in many regions prevent people from choosing cannabis as a treatment option. This isn't just about medicine; it's about personal autonomy. People should have the right to make informed decisions about their own health. For those who find relief in cannabis when conventional treatments fail, prohibition forces them into unnecessary suffering. Restricting access is not only outdated; it's unjust.

Legal Barriers: Who Gets Left Behind?

In many places, legal barriers to cannabis access aren't based on science but on decades-old stigmas and misinformation. Patients in restrictive regions often turn to unregulated sources, exposing them to unsafe products. Meanwhile, wealthier individuals can afford to travel for legal access, creating a two-tiered system where privilege dictates who gets relief.

Even in legal markets, affordability remains a major issue. Medical cannabis can be costly, and many insurance providers don't cover it. For those relying on cannabis to manage chronic conditions, financial barriers can mean choosing between health and other basic needs. True cannabis equity means not just legalization but policies that ensure affordability and accessibility for all.

Cannabis and Social Justice: "Righting" the Wrongs of Prohibition

For decades, cannabis prohibition disproportionately harmed marginalized communities. Millions of people—often from lower-income or minority backgrounds—were arrested for possession, leading to cycles of poverty, restricted job opportunities, and systemic discrimination. Legalizing cannabis is a step toward justice, but it must go beyond just permitting sales. Expunging past cannabis-related convictions, providing business opportunities to those impacted by prohibition, and reinvesting in affected communities are essential. A legal cannabis industry that doesn't address these historical injustices would be failing the very people who suffered the most.

The Current Global Perspective

While some nations like Canada, Uruguay, and parts of the U.S. have embraced cannabis legalization, others still enforce strict bans. Patients in restrictive countries are left with few options—navigating underground markets or suffering without relief.

However, advocacy groups worldwide are working to change this. By fighting for fair cannabis policies, they aim to ensure that everyone, regardless of location, has the right to access this natural medicine. Education plays a huge role in breaking down stigma, empowering individuals to make informed choices, and pushing governments to embrace evidence-based policies.

Cannabis 101

Education is key to breaking the stigma around cannabis! Misinformation breeds fear, but when people have the facts, they can make informed, responsible choices. THC provides a high, while CBD offers calming and anti-inflammatory benefits. Cannabis interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, helping regulate mood, pain, and appetite, which is why it's used for conditions like chronic pain and epilepsy. Like alcohol or medication, moderation is essential—know the laws, avoid driving under the influence, and choose quality products. For younger generations, open, honest conversations are crucial to combat misinformation and help them make smart decisions. Whether for wellness, medicine, or recreation, let's embrace the facts and approach cannabis with knowledge and responsibility.

Conclusion

Cannabis legalization is about more than profits and regulations—it's about health, justice, and dignity. Restricting access denies people their right to wellness and perpetuates social inequalities. But as public perception shifts and more countries embrace change, the hope for a world where cannabis is recognized as a fundamental health and human rights issue is stronger than ever. Are you ready to be part of the change?

References

1. Terpene Journey. (n.d.) Cannabis activism around the world. Available at: https://www.terpenejourney.com/posts/cannabis-activism-around-the-world (Accessed: 10 March 2025).

2. My7Engines (n.d.) The right to choose: cannabis, health, and human rights. Available at: https://my7engines.com/blog/the-right-to-choose-cannabis-health-and-human-rights/ (Accessed: 10 March 2025).

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

A Natural Path to Balance: The Role of Medicinal Mushrooms and Cannabis in Women's Health

“She walks in beauty, like the night. Of cloudless climes and starry skies; And all that's best of dark and bright.” In these lines, Lord Byron beautifully captures the balance in femininity – light and darkness, passion and peace.

Many women are now embracing natural, holistic solutions to maintain balance and well-being, seeking alternatives that harmonize with their bodies. One increasingly popular approach is integrating medicinal mushrooms and cannabis into daily life, blending traditional wisdom with modern science. This blog delves into how these natural allies can support women's health, offering insights into their benefits, practical applications, and tips for achieving a balanced lifestyle.

The Wisdom of Nature: Why Choose a Natural Path?

Modern life often pushes us toward quick fixes, but many women are rediscovering the nurturing power of nature. Choosing a natural path means prioritizing whole-food nutrition, mindfulness, and botanical (and fungal) remedies that work in harmony with your body's natural rhythms. This approach:

• Supports Holistic Well-being: Natural methods focus on nurturing every aspect of health – physical, emotional, and spiritual.

• Minimizes Side Effects: Using ingredients with centuries of traditional use often results in fewer side effects compared to synthetic alternatives.

• Empowers Self-Care: Embracing a natural path encourages self-awareness and mindful choices, fostering a deeper connection with your body.

Spotlight on Medicinal Mushrooms

Medicinal mushrooms have been a cornerstone of traditional medicine in various cultures for thousands of years. Modern research is beginning to validate many of these ancient practices, making mushrooms an exciting natural ally in women's health. Here are some key species and their benefits:

• Reishi: The "Queen of Mushrooms"

  • Stress Reduction: Known for its adaptogenic properties, reishi helps the body adapt to stress, potentially easing anxiety symptoms.

  • Immune Support: Its powerful antioxidants support immune function, crucial during hormonal fluctuations.

  • Hormonal Balance: By modulating the stress response, reishi indirectly supports hormonal balance, a common concern for many women.

• Chaga: The Antioxidant Powerhouse

  • Cellular Protection: Chaga is rich in antioxidants, protecting cells from oxidative stress – a factor in aging and inflammation.

  • Digestive Health: Its anti-inflammatory properties may soothe digestive discomfort, benefiting women with IBS or other gut issues.

  • Skin Health: Some women notice improvements in skin vitality, likely due to the mushroom's ability to reduce systemic inflammation.

• Cordyceps: Enhancing Energy and Endurance

  • Boosting Energy: Cordyceps improves oxygen uptake and enhances energy levels, making it a favorite among women with busy lifestyles.

  • Supporting Metabolism: By improving stamina and reducing fatigue, cordyceps helps maintain a balanced metabolism, supporting overall health.

  • Menstrual Health: Some women report relief from premenstrual symptoms thanks to cordyceps' ability to stabilize energy and mood swings.

• Lion's Mane: Nurturing the Mind

  • Cognitive Support: Lion's mane is linked to improved cognitive function, helping clear mental fog and enhance focus.

  • Mood Enhancement: The mushroom's neuroprotective properties may support mood regulation, beneficial during hormonal transitions.

  • Nerve Health: Emerging research suggests lion's mane may play a role in nerve regeneration, an exciting prospect for long-term brain health.

The Role of Cannabis in Women's Health

As holistic wellness conversations evolve, cannabis is emerging as a powerful plant ally for women's health. With compounds like CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system, cannabis offers a range of potential benefits:

1. Hormonal Balance and Menstrual Relief

   • Easing PMS and Cramps: CBD and THC have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that may alleviate period pain and discomfort.

   • Mood Regulation: Cannabis may help stabilize mood swings by interacting with serotonin receptors.

   • Supporting Endometriosis Relief: Many women with endometriosis find cannabis beneficial for pain management and inflammation control.

2. Stress, Anxiety, and Sleep Support

   • CBD for Anxiety Relief: Non-psychoactive and known for its calming effects, CBD may help manage anxiety and stress.

   • THC for Sleep: Small doses of THC may promote relaxation and deeper sleep, useful for women experiencing insomnia or menopause-related sleep disturbances.

3. Skin and Anti-Aging Benefits

   • CBD for Inflammation: CBD is rich in antioxidants and may help reduce acne, redness, and signs of aging.

   • Hydration and Repair: Hemp-derived skincare products are gaining popularity for their ability to nourish and soothe the skin.

4. Sexual Health and Wellness

   • CBD Lubricants: Many women report enhanced pleasure and reduced discomfort during intimacy when using CBD-infused lubricants.

   • Stress-Free Intimacy: THC's relaxing properties may help those experiencing anxiety-related sexual tension.

Integrating Medicinal Mushrooms and Cannabis into Your Daily Routine

Embracing a natural path doesn't require drastic changes – minor, mindful adjustments can make a big difference. Here are some practical ways to incorporate medicinal mushrooms into your life:

1. Supplements and Tinctures

   • Mushroom Powders: Powdered mushrooms can be mixed into smoothies, teas, or even your morning oatmeal for daily immune and brain support.

   • CBD Oils and Capsules: Available in various strengths, these can help with stress, pain, and sleep.

2. Culinary Infusions

   • Mushroom-Infused Recipes: Experiment with recipes that include dried or fresh medicinal mushrooms. Adding them to soups, stews, or risotto can enhance both flavor and nutrition.

   • Modern Adaptations: Many chefs are now crafting innovative dishes that celebrate the umami taste and health benefits of medicinal mushrooms.

   • Cannabis-Infused Teas: Many herbal blends now incorporate hemp or CBD for relaxation.

3. Mindful Practices

   • Routine Integration: Pairing your mushroom and/or cannabis regimen with mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga can amplify their stress-relieving effects.

   • Self-Care Rituals: A cannabis-infused bath paired with a Reishi tea makes for the ultimate wind-down experience.

   • Holistic Lifestyle: Consider adopting other natural habits – such as a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep – to complement the benefits of medicinal mushrooms.

A Word of Caution: Personalized Approaches Matter

While medicinal mushrooms and cannabis offer promising benefits, it's important to remember that everyone's body is unique. Consulting with a healthcare provider, particularly one knowledgeable about herbal and fungal therapies, can help tailor a natural approach that meets your specific needs. Consider factors such as existing health conditions, medications, and personal wellness goals when integrating these supplements into your routine. Start low and go slow when using cannabis to gauge individual tolerance. Ensure product quality by sourcing from reputable brands offering lab-tested results.

Final Thoughts: Nature as a Guide

The journey toward balance is deeply personal, and medicinal mushrooms and cannabis represent powerful, natural tools to support women's health. By embracing the wisdom of traditional medicine and modern research, you can cultivate a holistic approach that nourishes your body, mind, and spirit. Whether you're looking to manage stress, enhance energy, or support hormonal balance, the natural world offers a wealth of solutions.

Explore. Experiment. Embrace balance. Let nature be your guide to a healthier, more vibrant life.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

Detoxing the Mind: Celebrating Women's Health with Cannabis, Magic Mushrooms and Holistic Wellness

Women's health is often viewed through the lens of physical well-being – nutrition, exercise, and medical care. However, true wellness also encompasses a clear and balanced mind. In our fast-paced world, stress, anxiety, and burnout can take a toll, making mental detox just as essential as a body cleanse.

While cannabis and magic mushrooms (psilocybin) are gaining recognition for their mental health benefits, other holistic practices also support emotional resilience and overall well-being. Whether you are interested in plant medicine or seeking alternative ways to restore balance, this guide explores powerful natural tools for detoxing the mind and reclaiming your mental health.

The Mental Load Women Carry

Women often juggle multiple roles – professionals, caregivers, partners, and leaders – internalizing stress while pushing forward. Chronic stress can lead to:

• Anxiety and depression

• Sleep disturbances

• Hormonal imbalances

• Burnout and emotional exhaustion

Detoxing the mind is not just about reducing stress; it's about shifting into a state of balance, where emotional well-being and self-care become priorities.

Cannabis: A Natural Ally For Mental Detox

Cannabis has been used for centuries as a healing plant, and modern science is now validating its benefits for mental health.

• CBD for Stress and Anxiety Relief: Cannabidiol (CBD), the non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis, interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system to promote relaxation, alleviate anxiety, and enhance sleep. It is an excellent option for women seeking relief without experiencing a high.

• THC for Emotional Release and Creativity: Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component, can help release emotional blockages, enhance creativity, and promote a sense of presence. In small doses, it can be a tool for mindfulness and self-reflection.

• Cannabis and Hormonal Balance: Cannabis has potential benefits in regulating hormones, easing menstrual symptoms, and reducing mood swings linked to PMS and menopause. By calming the nervous system, it supports emotional stability.

Magic Mushrooms: A Breakthrough for Mental Clarity

Psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, is gaining recognition for its profound effects on mental well-being.

• Microdosing for Mood and Focus: Microdosing psilocybin (taking small, sub-perceptual doses) has been shown to enhance mood, reduce stress, and improve focus – perfect for women managing high-pressure lifestyles.

• Breaking Through Emotional Barriers: Higher doses in guided settings can lead to deep emotional healing, helping women process past traumas, gain self-awareness, and experience profound mental clarity.

• Resetting the Mind: Psilocybin can help "reset" thought patterns, making it a powerful tool for breaking negative cycles, improving self-esteem, and fostering personal growth.

Holistic Alternatives for Mental Detox

While cannabis and magic mushrooms can be powerful tools, other holistic approaches support mental clarity and emotional well-being.

• Herbal Medicine and Adaptogens: Plants like ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil help the body adapt to stress, regulate cortisol levels, and promote calmness.

• Mindfulness and Meditation: Daily meditation and deep breathing exercises help quiet the mind, reduce anxiety, and enhance emotional resilience. Guided visualization and journaling also help release negative thoughts.

• Breathwork and Cold Therapy: Techniques like the Wim Hof method use breath control and cold exposure to reduce stress, improve focus, and strengthen mental resilience.

• Movement and Energy Work: Yoga, tai chi, and Qigong integrate breath with movement, helping detox the mind while enhancing body awareness and emotional balance.

• Creative Therapy and Sound Healing: Music therapy, sound baths, and creative outlets like painting or dancing activate the brain's relaxation response, promoting mental clarity and self-expression.

• Sleep and Digital Detox: Prioritizing quality sleep and reducing screen time before bed significantly improves cognitive function, mood, and mental clarity.

Breaking the Stigma and Embracing Natural Wellness

Despite their benefits, cannabis and psilocybin have been stigmatized for decades. As society shifts toward plant-based healing, it's time to recognize their potential in women's health alongside other holistic practices.

• Empowerment through Knowledge: Understanding these natural tools allows women to make informed choices about their well-being.

• Safe and Responsible Use: Whether incorporating CBD into a self-care routine or exploring microdosing, education is key.

• Community and Support: More women are sharing their experiences with plant medicine, helping break the stigma and create supportive spaces.

Final Thoughts

Detoxing the mind is not just about eliminating stress – it's about cultivating mental clarity, emotional balance, and self-empowerment. Whether through cannabis, magic mushrooms, or holistic alternatives, women have a range of natural tools to support their mental well-being.

By embracing self-care, challenging outdated stigmas, and exploring natural healing methods, women can reclaim their mental wellness – one mindful moment at a time.

References:

1. Wim Hof – Wim Hof Method Guided Breathing for Beginners (3 Rounds Slow Pace)

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

Health Benefits of Cannabis

20 Health benefits of cannabis that everyone should know.

Cannabis contains CBD which is a chemical that impacts the brain, making it function better without giving it a high along with THC which has pain relieving properties. Both substances can be extracted and enhanced for use through short path distillation. Users can get the following health benefits of cannabis:

Relief of chronic pain

There are hundreds of chemical compounds in cannabis, many of which are cannabinoids. Cannabinoids have been linked to providing relief of chronic pain due to their chemical makeup. Which is why cannabis’ by-product such as medical cannabis is commonly used for chronic pain relief.

Improves lung capacity

Unlike smoking cigarettes, when smoking cannabis in the form of cannabis your lungs aren’t harmed. In fact, a study found that cannabis actually helps increase the capacity of the lungs rather than cause any harm to it.

Help lose weight

If you look around, you will notice that the avid cannabis user is usually not overweight. That is because cannabis is linked to aiding your body in regulating insulin while managing caloric intake efficiently.

Regulate and prevent diabetes

With its impact on insulin, it only makes sense that cannabis can help regulate and prevent diabetes. Research conducted by the American Alliance for Medical Cannabis (AAMC) has linked cannabis to stabilize blood sugars, lower blood pressure, and improve blood circulation.

Fight cancer

One of the biggest medical benefits of cannabis is its link to fighting cancer. There is a good amount of evidence that shows cannabinoids can help fight cancer or at least certain types of it.

Helps treat depression

Depression is fairly widespread without most people even knowing they have it. The endocannabinoid compounds in cannabis can help in stabilizing moods which can ease depression.

Shows promise in autism treatment

Cannabis is known to calm users down and control their mood. It can help children with autism that experience frequent violent mood swings control it.

Regulate seizures

Research conducted on CBD has shown that it can help control seizures. There are ongoing studies to determine the effect cannabis has on individuals with epilepsy.

Mend bones

Cannabidiol has been linked to helping heal broken bones, quickening the process. According to Bone Research Laboratory in Tel Aviv, it also helps strengthen the bone in the process of healing. This makes it tougher for the bone to break in the future.

Helps with ADHD/ADD

Individuals with ADHD and ADD have trouble focusing on tasks at hand. They tend to have problems with cognitive performance and concentration. Cannabis has shown promise in promoting focus and helping individuals with ADHD/ADD. It is also considered a safer alternative to Adderall and Ritalin.

Treatment for glaucoma

Glaucoma leads to additional pressure on the eyeball which is painful for individuals with the disorder. Cannabis can help reduce the pressure applied on the eyeball providing some temporary relief to individuals with glaucoma.

Alleviate anxiety

While cannabis is commonly known to cause anxiety, there is a way around that. Taken in monitored dosage and in the proper way, cannabis can help alleviate anxiety and calm users down.

Slow development of Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease is one of many that is caused by cognitive degeneration. As we age, cognitive degeneration is almost unavoidable. Cannabis’s endocannabinoid contains anti-inflammatories that fight the brain inflammation that leads to Alzheimer’s disease.

Deal with pain linked to arthritis

Cannabis is now commonly found as creams and balms which are used by individuals that have arthritis. Both THC and CBD help sufferers deal with the pain.

Helps with PTSD symptoms

PTSD doesn’t just affect veterans but any individual that goes through a trauma. As cannabis is legalised the impact it has on helping treat individuals with PTSD is being studied. Cannabis helps control the fight or flight response, preventing it from going into overdrive.

Helps provide relief to individuals with multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis can be painful, and cannabis is known to provide relief for it. Multiple sclerosis leads to painful muscle contractions and cannabis can help reduce that pain.

Reduces side effects linked to hepatitis C and increase the effectiveness of treatment

The treatment for hepatitis C has numerous side effects that include nausea, fatigue, depression, and muscle aches. These can last for months for some hepatitis C sufferers. Cannabis can help reduce the side effects caused by the treatment while making it more effective at the same time.

Treats inflammatory bowel diseases

Individuals with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can find some relief with the use of cannabis. THC and cannabidiol are known to help enhance immune response while also interact with cells that play a vital role in the functioning of the gut. Cannabis helps block off bacteria and other compounds that cause inflammation in the intestines.

Helps with tremors associated with Parkinson’s disease

For those that have Parkinson’s disease cannabis can help reduce tremors and pain while also helping promote sleep. It has also shown to improve motor skills in patients.

Helps with alcoholism

Another one of the many health benefits of cannabis is that there is no doubt cannabis is much safer than alcohol. While it may not be 100% risk-free, it can be a smarter way to curb alcoholism by substituting it with cannabis.

Source: Medical Cannabis Network

How CBD Oil is Made: The complete guide

Ever wonder how CBD oil is made? In this guide, you’ll learn where CBD comes from and how it’s extracted, plus what to look for when buying CBD oil for yourself.​

From supermarket shelves to Instagram ads, CBD is nearly impossible to avoid. But even with more and more people trying CBD products every day, one of the most common questions consumers ask is, “How is CBD oil made?”

But answering that question isn’t quite as simple as it may seem. Many CBD providers use different methods at all stages of production, and things like the CBD extraction process and the type of CBD used to make a CBD oil tincture matter greatly when choosing whom to trust.

In this blog, we will look at each of those steps in order to paint a complete picture of what CBD is, where it comes from, how it’s manufactured, and how the different types of CBD are made and used.

What is CBD?

First things first: What is CBD, exactly? Cannabidiol, or CBD for short, is a cannabinoid found in both marijuana cannabis as well as industrial hemp that works alongside many other cannabinoids to act upon your endocannabinoid system (ECS).

Discovery of CBD

CBD was first discovered in the 1940s. In 1963, scientists began working to study and understand the effects of individual cannabinoids like CBD, THC, and CBN. However, more than 40 years passed after this initial research before CBD and other hemp-based products could be sold..

CBD vs. THC

One of the primary provisions is that industrial hemp plants (the kind from which CBD is primarily extracted), could not contain more than 0.3 percent THC by dry volume. That’s because the THC is the one cannabinoid that’s intoxicating; CBD has many benefits, but it won’t get you high. This provision has led to a large demand for the types of cannabis plants that have a very high CBD yield while simultaneously containing almost no THC.

What is CBD Oil Made From?

If you’ve ever wondered, “What is CBD oil made of?” the answer begins with Cannabis sativa L. And if you want to get to the bottom of how CBD oil is made, what better place to start than the root of it all?

What is Cannabis Sativa?

Cannabis sativa (sometimes referred to as Cannabis sativa L for Carl Linnaeus, the botanist who classified the species) is an herbaceous species that has been cultivated throughout history. Cannabis sativa is cultivated for a variety of uses, including recreational purposes.

Sativa vs. Indica

Let’s look at the difference between Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica, the two primary varieties of the cannabis plant. Physically, sativa plants are typically much taller than their indica counterparts, which tend to resemble a bush more than a tree. Further, sativa plants tend to be much more resistant to heat, can grow in warmer climates, and have much longer flowering cycles.

Those characteristics make growing and harvesting a large crop of sativa plants much easier, as they can be easily grown outside under the types of conditions most farmers are already used to. Indica plants, on the other hand, typically must be grown in controlled environments that use complicated techniques like growth lights and hydroponic irrigation.

Hemp vs. Marijuana

For the reasons above, Cannabis sativa L. is the widely accepted choice for industrial hemp growth as the stalks are taller (meaning more hemp-based textiles can be produced), it’s easier to manage, and a longer flowering cycle leads to less bud death before it can be harvested. Those traits don’t necessarily keep the plant under the required 0.3 percent THC, but the way industrial hemp is planted surely does.

When cannabis plants of all varieties begin to sprout, there is a careful calculation that must be made depending on the purpose of the plant. The highest concentration of cannabinoids, whether THC or CBD, occurs in the resin in unfertilized “female” plants. So growers of marijuana and industrial hemp high in CBD remove all male plants from their fields. On the other hand, industrial hemp is also grown for fiber and seed, in which case growing both male and female plants is fine.

How is CBD Oil Made From Hemp?

Now that you have a basic understanding of how high-CBD strains of hemp are cultivated, the next step is understanding the CBD extraction process.

When people think about how CBD is extracted, many think of everything from futuristic space labs to their stoner friend, Dave, making Cannabutter in his kitchen, but the truth lies somewhere in the middle.

When it comes to how CBD oil is extracted, there isn’t just one answer. So let’s walk through the two most common types of extraction to get a deeper understanding of what all those buzzwords you see on labels and websites really mean.

Ethanol Extraction

Ethanol extraction is perhaps the most popular CBD extraction process, as it is safe, simple, and effective. In this method, high-grade grain alcohol (ethanol) is used as a solvent to separate CBD and other cannabinoids from the plant itself. Ethanol extraction can be done under warm or cold conditions, and is considered extremely time-efficient when compared to other CBD extraction processes like CO2 extraction.

CO2 Extraction

Supercritical (or subcritical) CO2 extraction is a method that involves using carbon dioxide that is under extremely low temperatures and very high pressure to strip hemp flower of all cannabinoids and terpenes. CO2 extraction is highly precise and can produce some of the purest cannabinoid extracts when done properly. However, because of the high cost of equipment and the steep learning curve, this is not always the case.

When this is done well, CO2 extracted products are some of the purest in the world, but when done in less-than-optimal conditions, there is great room for error. That potential for error is why subcritical CO2 extraction is largely used by “boutique” CBD brands that cater to the “luxury” class of CBD consumers.

But these basic extraction processes are only the beginning. There are also different types of CBD oil created through different manufacturing processes. So maybe a better question is: How are CBD oils made?

Types of CBD

When first-time CBD users begin their research, one of the biggest areas of confusion is over the many types of CBD that exist. This confusion stems from industry-specific terms like “isolate,” “full-spectrum,” and “broad spectrum,” but most first-time consumers (and even many CBD veterans) don’t really understand what those terms mean.

So to help you fully understand what you’re getting when buying CBD oil, let’s dive into the most common types of CBD and what that means for you as a consumer.

How CBD Isolate is Made

CBD isolate is the “purest” form of CBD on the market. That’s because isolates only contain CBD. This means that during the CBD extraction process, all other cannabinoids and terpenes are weeded out (no pun intended), leaving only CBD molecules behind.

These isolates are then used in the formulation of a variety of CBD oil products like CBD oil tinctures, CBD gummies, and your other CBD-infused favourites. Isolate-based products are much beloved by people venturing into the world of cannabis-related products for the first time as well as those that can’t take any risks regarding THC content (like professional athletes, for example).

However, one drawback to pure isolates is the lack of other potentially helpful cannabinoids and terpenes. That’s where full-spectrum and broad-spectrum products come into play.

How Full-Spectrum CBD is Made

The term “full-spectrum” simply means that you get the full array of whatever cannabinoids and terpenes were in the plant from which your CBD was extracted. And while this method certainly includes all of the compounds stripped out of isolate-based products, it also includes trace amounts of THC.

Generally, the level of THC in full-spectrum products is not enough to get you high, but in some cases (with prolonged use), enough THC can build up in your system to register a positive result on more sensitive drug tests.

Another potential drawback to full-spectrum products is that the level of CBD and other cannabinoids is largely dependent on the potency of the plants used, which means that consistency can sometimes be a challenge.

How Broad-Spectrum CBD is Made

If isolates are on one end of the CBD spectrum and full-spectrum CBD is on the other end, then broad-spectrum products can be said to rest somewhere in the middle. The theory with broad-spectrum CBD products is that by creating a full-spectrum solution and then removing only the THC molecules from the mixture, a perfect hybrid can be created.

However, in practice, broad-spectrum products tend to face many of the same pitfalls as full-spectrum products do. For starters, because most broad-spectrum is usually just “full-spectrum minus THC,” there is always the possibility that not all THC has been entirely removed, meaning that long-term use could lead to a build-up of THC in your system, leading to similar “false positive” test results.

Further, the issue of consistency still factors in, because while one batch may be higher in the secondary cannabinoid CBG, the next batch may be higher in CBN content. That is why some companies have taken the term “broad-spectrum” into their own hands and created specialized formulas that merge the best aspects of both broad-spectrum and isolate-based products.

Learn More About CBD

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Source: cbdMD

President Assents To The Cannabis Private Purposes Bill

President Assents To The Cannabis Private Purposes Bill

Tuesday, 28 May 2024

President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed into law the Cannabis for Private Purposes Act (“CfPPA”). The CfPPA regulates the cultivation, possession, and use of cannabis by adults in a private setting.

The consequent regulatory reform enabled by the CfPPA will, amongst others, entirely remove cannabis from the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act. This will further enable amendment of the Schedules to the Medicines and Related Substances Act and provide for targeted regulatory reform of the Plant Breeders Rights Act and the Plant Improvement Act, as well as other pieces of legislation that require amendment to allow for the industrialisation of the cannabis sector.

The Bill further guides the medically prescribed administration of cannabis to a child while also protecting children from undue exposure to cannabis. It provides for an alternative manner by which to address the issue of the prohibited use, possession of, or dealing in, cannabis by children, with due regard to the best interest of the child. It also prohibit the dealing in cannabis.

Issued by: The Presidency 

Pretoria