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Lauren Jackson | Hall of Fame Career Retrospective
NBA
Wellness

Saved by Cannabis: Basketball Hall of Famer Lauren Jackson Shares Her Story

The first Australian inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, Lauren Jackson has reached rarified air in the world of athletics.

Her basketball career with the WNBA’s Seattle Storm included two championships, three MVPs, and seven all-star appearances – not bad for the number one pick of the 2001 draft.


These athletic feats came at cost though, taking a mighty toll on Jackson’s body, which meant countless surgeries and prescriptions to painkillers.

Unfortunately, Jackson had to cut her career short. She retired in early 2016 due to a degenerative knee injury, which was causing all sorts of chronic pain even after she retired.

In a recent interview with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Jackson revealed how medical cannabis helped her shift from the prescribed painkillers to a more effective, healthier mode of healing – and living.

“It has been incredible.”

"I've been open about my battle with prescription medication during my career and when I retired, I went off everything because I wanted to raise my kids and just be the very best version of myself,” Jackson said.

When Jackson’s doctor prescribed medical cannabis for an alternative pain treatment, everything changed. 

“It has been incredible,” Jackson said. “It's helped me a lot and gotten me to the point where I'm able to train again and live a very active lifestyle with my two little boys.”

That is a much better alternative to living in a pharmaceutical daze, where the side effects can sometimes be worse than the primary health issue.

Under the guidance of a physician, cannabis has essentially changed Lauren Jackson’s life, and that is a good thing.

How many more people are missing out? How many more people are living with chronic illness where cannabis along with other lifestyle choices could make a big a difference? The number is countless.

“It’s something I personally believe in because of how my body has handled it,” Jackson said of cannabis.

“"I just want to help get the message out there and hopefully help change people's lives.”

Spreading the message

In addition to sharing her story and inspiring others, Jackson is doing much more to get involved and to spread her insights on medical cannabis for athletes.

She’s also part of the new Sports Advisory Board, which is run by Levin Health, a Melbourne-based sports medicine company that focuses on the development of pharmaceutical-grade cannabis products for chronic pain and concussion.

As more high-profile athletes such as Kevin Durant and Kevin Garnett come out in support of cannabis, the stubborn stigma continues to slowly fade.

But is it fading fast enough?

The progress has been great, and yet we still have so much work to do.

When you look at the different ways cannabis interacts with the body, restoring balance, one can’t help but wonder if a cannabis regimen would have prolonged Jackson’s career.

Major sports leagues are indeed starting to dial back their cannabis penalties, however the standards are inconsistent

If league owners knew more about the healing properties of cannabis and its potential to even add longevity to the careers of athletes (the career of Cliff Robinson is a fantastic case study), would they further embrace this ancient herb? 

Time will tell.

And for now, it’s amazing that Lauren Jackson can enjoy a healthy, active life – and spread the word on medical cannabis.

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gif of Aubrey Plaza smelling a newly cut stalk of fresh cannabis
Move Over Budtenders—The Rise of the Ganjier Is Changing How We Experience Cannabis
Giphy
Wellness

Rise of the Ganjier

The Ganjier isn’t just a fancy budtender. It’s a rigorously trained cannabis guide helping elevate the consumer experience. Here’s why it matters—and what it says about where cannabis is headed.

In the back of a sleek Oakland dispensary, a small but growing revolution is taking shape—not in policy, not in politics, but in palates.

Here, customers aren’t just handed a pre-roll and sent on their way. They’re guided through the nuanced aromas of terpenes, the effects of cannabinoid ratios, and the subtle distinctions between cultivars—all by a certified Ganjier: cannabis’ answer to a sommelier.

Yes, you read that right. And no, this isn’t some gimmicky rebrand for a fancier budtender. The Ganjier is something entirely different. And as the legal cannabis industry continues its rapid climb toward an estimated $57 billion market by 2028, it’s a difference that matters.

So, What Is a Ganjier?

Think of a Ganjier as a cannabis steward—a certified expert who can evaluate, articulate, and guide the full spectrum of cannabis experience, from product selection to ritualized consumption. It’s not a self-appointed title. It’s a rigorous certification process, developed by The Ganjier Program, which includes:

  • 40+ hours of advanced cannabis curriculum
  • In-person assessments and service simulations
  • Three-part exam including organoleptic (sensory) evaluation
  • A $3,000 price tag and nearly a year of study

The result? A level of cannabis literacy that makes your average budtender look like a weekend hobbyist.

“It’s about helping people understand how a product will hit them and why,” says Jocelyn Sheltraw, one of only ~350 certified Ganjiers in the world and co-founder of Budist, a Yelp-like review platform for cannabis.

This isn’t just about flower or edibles—it’s about curating personalized experiences, akin to pairing the right wine with the right dish or the right mood.

- YouTubewww.youtube.com

Budtender vs. Ganjier: What's the Difference and Why Should You Care?

While budtenders are the frontline retail workers of dispensaries—often underpaid, undertrained, and overworked—Ganjiers are specialists. Think retail vs. ritual. Transaction vs. transformation.

RoleBudtenderGanjier
TrainingOften informal/on-the-jobFormal certification program
FocusSales and complianceExperience, effect, education
InteractionQuick service, product-focusedDeep consultation, person-focused
AnalogyBartender at a dive barMaster sommelier at a Michelin-starred spot

Consumers deserve both—but what’s been missing in cannabis is the layer of intentionality that transforms usage from routine into ritual. That’s where the Ganjier comes in.

Why It Matters in 2025 (and Beyond)

As cannabis becomes more mainstream, it’s also becoming more sophisticated. The consumer base is no longer just 20-somethings chasing THC. Today’s buyers range from wellness-seeking boomers to design-savvy microdosers. They want:

  • Tailored guidance, not guesswork
  • Experiential shopping, not transactional pushing
  • Cannabis confidence, not intimidation

In that context, the Ganjier isn’t a luxury—it’s an essential evolution. Especially as low-dose beverages, culinary infusions, and terpene-forward flower become the new frontier.

“There’s a golden rule: start low, go slow,” says Jamie Evans, a former wine sommelier turned cannabis mixologist. Her infused strawberry hibiscus beverage is as much about conversation as it is about consumption.

This is cannabis 3.0: not stoner culture, not corporate weed—culinary, curated, and conscious.

The Blunt Take: We Don’t Need More Cannabis—We Need Better Guides

In a landscape still cluttered with inconsistent labeling, dubious lab results, and overhyped strain names, the Ganjier represents something sorely missing in cannabis: accountability and education.

This isn’t about elitism. It’s about empowerment. Imagine walking into a dispensary and having a real conversation about what you're seeking—whether it's creativity, focus, sleep, or a social buzz that won’t wreck your night.

That’s what Ganjiers provide: clarity in a cluttered market. And as the industry matures, roles like this won’t just be helpful—they’ll be essential.

So, the next time someone asks, “Why pay more for a curated cannabis experience?”—just ask them how much they’d spend on the right bottle of wine, the perfect cocktail, or a truly memorable meal.

Cannabis is culture. It deserves connoisseurs.

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image of a circle of doctors and surgeons standing over and looking at a patient on operating room table
New Study Confirms Medical Cannabis Benefits in Cancer Care—Time for Policy to Catch Up
Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash
News

Cannabis & Cancer: The Evidence Is In—So Why Is the Medical Establishment Still Dragging Its Feet?

A new meta-analysis of 10,000+ studies confirms what patients have known for decades: cannabis helps cancer care. The real question now is, when will healthcare and policy finally reflect the evidence?

If you've ever watched a loved one battle cancer—or been on that journey yourself—you already know the harsh truth: the pain is real, the nausea is relentless, the appetite is gone, and the side effects of treatment often feel worse than the disease. So when patients say cannabis helps, it shouldn’t take 10,000 studies for the medical community to take them seriously.

And yet, here we are.

A groundbreaking meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Oncology this month reviewed more than 10,000 peer-reviewed studies covering nearly 40,000 individual data points related to medical cannabis and cancer. The conclusion? Cannabis offers “significant” therapeutic benefits for patients living with cancer—particularly in managing pain, inflammation, appetite loss, and chemotherapy-induced nausea. The research even hints at potential anticancer properties, though that part of the science is still early and evolving.

“Our findings strongly suggest that medical cannabis can significantly improve quality of life for cancer patients,” said Dr. Marcin Chwistek, a palliative care specialist who contributed to the review.

That should be a mic-drop moment. But instead of making headlines, this kind of evidence often gets buried under layers of stigma, regulatory inertia, and pharmaceutical gatekeeping.

What the Study Actually Says (and Why It Matters)

Unlike many smaller or anecdotal reports, this was not a one-off trial or industry-funded white paper. This was the first large-scale systematic review to pull from real-world patient data, clinical trials, lab studies, and pre-clinical research to paint a global picture of how cannabis interacts with cancer care.

Key findings include:

  • Robust support for using cannabis to relieve chronic pain in cancer patients, often with fewer side effects than opioids.
  • Evidence that cannabis can reduce nausea, vomiting, and anorexia caused by chemotherapy.
  • Signals that cannabinoids may have anti-inflammatory and even tumor-suppressing properties—though this area still needs deeper exploration.
  • Patients overwhelmingly reported improved quality of life, including better sleep, reduced anxiety, and improved mood.

So why isn’t this the standard of care yet?

A Legal Industry, Still Treated Like a Crime Scene

Here’s where the frustration—and hypocrisy—kicks in. Despite medical cannabis being legal in 38 U.S. states and a growing list of countries worldwide, patients and doctors alike are operating in a legal gray zone.

  • Federal law in the U.S. still classifies cannabis as a Schedule I drug—on par with heroin.
  • Physicians often lack training or confidence to prescribe cannabis, thanks to outdated curricula and risk-averse healthcare systems.
  • Patients have to self-medicate, navigating dispensary menus without guidance while dodging insurance hurdles and social judgment.

If this were any other drug—especially one backed by thousands of studies—there would be a pharma giant running national commercials, lobbyists pushing legislation, and glossy brochures in every hospital waiting room. But cannabis?

Still controversial.

Still marginalized.

It’s Not Just Medical: It’s Political

The Guardian’s recent coverage of this study rightfully noted the disconnect between mounting scientific evidence and glacial policy change. Cannabis remains a politically charged substance, often debated through the lens of moral panic rather than clinical data.

Even in places where medical cannabis is legal, access is uneven. Many cancer patients—especially in rural, lower-income, or conservative regions—struggle to get legal access or face stigma from their care teams. Others simply can’t afford the out-of-pocket costs because cannabis isn’t covered by insurance.

This isn’t just about science anymore—it’s about power, politics, and who gets to control healthcare narratives.

The Blunt Take: Let the Science Lead, Not the Stigma

We’ve reached the tipping point. The science says cannabis helps. The patients say cannabis helps. So what are we waiting for?

If we’re serious about evidence-based medicine, it’s time to:

  • Deschedule cannabis federally and integrate it into mainstream care.
  • Mandate cannabis education in medical schools and continuing education programs.
  • Fund longitudinal research into cannabis not just as a palliative tool, but as a potential anticancer agent.
  • Give patients access, insurance support, and dignity—without treating them like criminals or guinea pigs.

This isn’t a radical idea. It’s a rational one.

Because if 10,000 studies don’t prove the point, maybe it’s time to stop questioning the plant—and start questioning the system.

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Exploring Psychedelics in Sports: Healing and Performance
Exploring Psychedelics in Sports: Healing and Performance
Giphy
Wellness

Beyond Training: Psychedelics

Psychedelics are breaking out of the counterculture and into training rooms as athletes discover their remarkable potential for healing devastating injuries.

ARTICLE ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN TRIPSITTER. Authors: Tripsitter and Patrick McConnell

From broken bones to brain injuries, athletes are turning to psychedelics to not only heal faster but also to reach new heights of performance.

In fact, a study from last year claimed psychedelics were the third most-used substance class over the past year among professional athletes.

Despite growing personal accounts, scientific research on psychedelics and their impact on athletic performance remains limited.

While substances like THC are banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), psychedelics are still allowed.

So, what do we actually know about the impact of psychedelics in competitive sports? Let’s dive in using four real-world examples of professional athletes who turned to psychedelics to accelerate their recovery (and one who alleges they helped him reach new performance heights).

1. Spinal Injury: Jim Harris (Professional Kite Skier)

When Jim Harris' kite slammed into a glacier in Patagonia in 2014, he broke nine vertebrae. Lying in a Chilean hospital bed, the professional photographer and mountaineering instructor couldn't move his legs.

Back in America, Harris dismissed doctors telling him to take months of rest. Instead, he found doctors who made him move a lot, while staying open to alternative treatments like Reiki or acupuncture. Working hard at physical therapy, Harris regained a great deal of muscle function in his legs.

But his immobile right hamstring frustrated him and continued to elude recovery. The struggle with this one stubborn muscle was enough to leave him reliant on a walker to get around.

That was until, at a musical festival in Colorado, Harris took psilocybin.


Kite Skier, Jim Harris in hospital bed after accidentJim Harris was paralyzed, until he tried magic mushrooms

The intent was recreational — Harris felt disconnected from those around him, burdened by the walker he was forced to use. He thought taking mushrooms with his friends would help him feel more connected.

Barely listening to the Denver jam band String Cheese Incident, Harris found his right hamstring coming back to life. For the first time since his injury, Harris was able to contract his hamstring muscle.

Harris' breakthrough was nothing short of spectacular. He had been working diligently for months in physical therapy, trying to stimulate his right hamstring through conventional methods, but it wasn’t until the psilocybin experience that he saw any real progress.

Harris’ story is a powerful example of how psychedelics, in combination with physical therapy and a deep commitment to healing, can play a role in restoring not just the mind, but the body as well.

The scientific community is just now beginning to catch up to what Harris and others have experienced.

To understand how it works, we need to explore some of the science behind nerve growth and the brain’s capacity for healing.

How Neurons Regenerate

There's already a TON of attention given to the capacity for psychedelics to help rewire the brain through neuroplastic mechanisms. Surprisingly little attention is placed on the role of psychedelics for healing the spinal cord, which is just as critical for recovery, and is affected in much the same way by psychedelics.

Harris' doctors believe it was the combination of psilocybin and physical therapy that allowed him to regain control of his hamstring.

There are several theories about how this works. The most widely accepted is the idea that psilocybin (and other psychedelics) can stimulate something called brain-derived nerve growth factor (BDNF).

Think of BDNF as the "fertilizer" for your brain and nervous system. Just like how fertilizer helps plants grow stronger, healthier, and more connected, BDNF nourishes and strengthens the pathways between nerve cells, promoting neural growth, repair, and adaptability. It’s the essential boost that helps your brain and body recover and flourish, especially in times of injury or stress.

Physical therapy also generates BDNF — so the exercise and repetitive movements Harris has been working on in conjunction with psilocybin is considered a key synergistic catalyst, further amplifying the neural regeneration and recovery process.

2. Pain & Inflammation: Mike Lee (Boxer)

Mike Lee, a former boxer, spent years enduring the physical toll of the sport — headaches, back pain, and frequent injuries. After retiring, the pain worsened, and prescription painkillers became a daily crutch. In his lowest moments, Lee contemplated an escape from his suffering but found hope through psychedelic mushrooms at a retreat in Jamaica.

Boxer Mike Lee on scale, pre-fight promotionBoxer Mike Lee

Over the course of two psilocybin ceremonies, Lee experienced a profound mental shift. He noted that the mushrooms helped him reconnect with his body, which led to a marked reduction in the intensity of his pain, as well as a complete transformation in how he perceived his suffering.

After leaving the retreat, Lee reported significant, lasting improvements in his physical pain and a newfound sense of mental clarity he hadn't felt in years. Lee's transition away from a daily reliance on painkillers toward a more holistic approach marked a pivotal change in his recovery.

But how exactly did psychedelics achieve this transformation? And what are the limits of their effectiveness for those seeking relief from chronic pain?

The answer lies in how these substances work on multiple levels within the body. While much attention is given to neuroplasticity — the brain's ability to form new neural connections — this is just one piece of the puzzle.

Psychedelics, like psilocybin, have a broad range of effects, with many variables contributing to their healing potential. The most relevant in this case is its interaction with the 5HT2A serotonin receptors. These fascinating receptors are responsible for the distinct hallucinogenic effects, as well as important processes such as modulating inflammation.

Conventional treatments for inflammation, such as steroids or biologics, work by soaking up inflammatory cytokines. However, these treatments often suppress the immune system as a whole, making the body more vulnerable to infections and other complications.

Some researchers believe psychedelics could offer a new option for targeted inflammation therapywithout suppressing the entire immune system.

Psychedelics are also enjoying some attention for their unconventional approach to managing pain. By modulating brain chemistry and promoting neural growth, they've been shown to help reduce both the intensity and perception of chronic pain.

Research has consistently shown that depression, anxiety, and negative mental states amplify pain sensitivity — individuals experiencing these conditions tend to perceive pain more intensely and recover more slowly. By addressing the psychological component of suffering, psychedelics may be able to break this cycle.The evidence continues to mount: while early studies (some admittedly flawed) once boldly claimed LSD outperformed conventional painkillers like Demerol and Dilaudid, today's more rigorous research confirms psychedelics' legitimate role in treating conditions ranging from cluster headaches and fibromyalgia to the notoriously difficult-to-treat phantom limb pain.

3. Concussions: Daniel Carcillo (NHL Enforcer)

NHL enforcer Daniel Carcillo logged two Stanley Cups in his career with the Chicago Blackhawks, Philadelphia Flyers, New York Rangers, and Los Angeles Kings. He also received seven concussions.

Brain scans showed damage in several brain regions, but he didn't need doctors to tell him his mental health was wavering. Carcillo could barely go out into the sunlight, and his speech was becoming increasingly slurred. When his daughter was born, instead of joy, he was overwhelmed with suicidal thoughts.

Daniel was getting desperate and turned to reading scientific studies, looking for a solution, where he read about the effectiveness of psilocybin for treating depression. He decided to try them as a ‘last-ditch effort to save his life’.

photo of Daniel Carcillo, former NHL player, holding cannabis or hemp plantDaniel Carcillo

Five grams of Denver-decriminalized psilocybin shifted Carcillo's world. For the first time in a long while, he felt alive again — no longer burdened by darkness, and reconnecting with his sense of purpose as a husband and father.

But Carcillo knew that true change wouldn’t happen overnight. He adopted a comprehensive healing protocol, incorporating more high-dose trips, microdosing, and CBD (cannabidiol). Like many others who have used psychedelics for healing, Carcillo combined these substances with other therapeutic practices, knowing the journey to recovery would take effort and time.

When he returned to the doctors for a follow-up, brain scans showed substantial repair to the damage he’d suffered and his pain no longer had control over his life.

4. Traumatic Brain Injuries: Ian McCall (MMA Fighter)

In the world of combat sports, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a harsh reality. Nearly one in three UFC fights results in a TBI, and athletes in sports like MMA, football, and hockey are particularly vulnerable.

Repeated TBIs can lead to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a devastating condition that causes memory loss, impaired judgment, aggression, depression, and anxiety.

Usually, TBI symptoms fall away after seven to ten days, but for 30% of people, they persist — like they did for UFC flyweight Ian McCall.

McCall retired from the UFC addicted to opiates. He had started using painkillers during his career, even overdosing at one point on opiates, GHB, and Xanax. After retirement, he dealt with memory problems, anger issues, anxiety, and depression.

Like many athletes, McCall’s identity and sense of purpose were tightly bound to his sport, and transitioning to a life without it was both disorienting and painful.

When his daughter found relief from arthritis with CBD, and with the influence of Joe Rogan, McCall became curious about psychedelics and plant medicines.

It would be (you guessed it) high doses of psilocybin that helped McCall heal, although a few symptoms like memory impairment still persist.

McCall's situation was one shared by many athletes (Mike Tyson has also said psychedelics changed his life). However, the challenges of TBI, CTE, and finding a new purpose after a lifetime in sport are only now beginning to be openly discussed.

These conversations have sparked the interest of UFC president Dana White, who has publicly supported research into psychedelics for brain health.


5. Performance Enhancement: Doc Ellis (Baseball Pitcher)

Around noon on June 12th, 1970, Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Doc Ellis took a tab of LSD in Los Angeles. Shortly afterward, the girl he was with glanced at the paper and informed him he had a game in six hours.

Ellis hopped on a plane to San Diego (only $9.50 in those days) and arrived an hour and a half before the game. Still, under the influence, Ellis pitched a no-hitter he would later say he could barely remember, except for bits of euphoria, hitting a few batters, and being zoned in on the catcher's glove (which he didn’t hit much).

The star pitcher had a reputation and would later be hospitalized for substance dependence, but the story became a bit of a myth in psychedelic circles, repeated as evidence that even at the highest levels of sport, psychedelics could give you an edge.

Doc Ellis pitched a No-Hitter under influence of LSA

If other stories like this exist, the athletes have been keeping it to themselves. And because WADA doesn't test for psychedelics, we wouldn't know if LSD or psilocybin are the secret weapons of any other athletes.

Very little research has been done on the question of whether or not psychedelics enhance performance. Lots of speculation about microdosing for flow states and creativity is currently floating around, but serious research into performance is lacking in 2025.

Perhaps the clearest example is better mental health leading to better performance. Just watch quarterback Aaron Rodgers speak about the ayahuasca experiences that helped him move out of his lower chakras and into MVP.

The most directed study dedicated to the topic Tripsitter could find is a recent survey of Redditors taking psychedelics while engaging in sports.

It's not hard data, but the results are worth taking a look at. There is, as any psychonauts might expect, a long list of potential positives and negatives.

For example, some folks found they could perform well with simple tasks, but when things got more complicated, performance could break down.

Clear benefits included:

  • Enhanced mood
  • Social connection
  • High level of enjoyment
  • Less stress
  • Motivation
  • Positive attitude
  • Spiritual connection
  • Enhanced interpersonal perception
  • Empathy
  • Positive perception of previously difficult relationships

Boosts to wellbeing like these have been shown in other studies to improve performance, with one study participant saying:

“Deeper connection to family, kids, and friends. Closer connection to friends with whom I am sharing a snowboarding experience, which survives the drug and is captured in long-term memories of those experiences.”

But the point of this article is not to see psychedelics as magic bullets. They are powerful, come with significant risk, and don’t always give folks what they want.

Some negative effects include (but are not limited to):

  • Impaired sleep & tiredness
  • Loss of coordination and balance
  • Variable headspace
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Slow mental processing
  • Clouded thoughts

At the end of the day, psychedelics are unpredictable. It's tough to predict whether a trip will bring on a spiritual connection or just make you feel sleepy. Or something else we can’t even put into words.

As always, set and setting play a role. But even if playing your favorite sport seems like the ultimate setting, I will state the obvious — be extra careful and communicate what you are doing for your own and others’ safety.

macro image of cured cannabis, gorilla glue strain close-up.
Gorilla Glue, aka GG4, aka Original Glue Strain
Strains

Gorilla Glue: GG4

Gorilla Glue has garnered significant acclaim within the cannabis community for its award-winning status and unique flavor profile, making it a standout choice among enthusiasts.

Gorilla Glue #4, also known as GG4 or Original Glue, has earned its reputation as one of the most potent strains in the cannabis world. With THC levels often reaching as high as 28% under optimal growing conditions, this hybrid strain packs a powerful punch that can alleviate severe pain and offer a much-needed respite after a challenging workday.

Original Gorilla Glue has garnered significant acclaim within the cannabis community for its award-winning status and unique flavor profile, making it a standout choice among enthusiasts.

When it comes to the experience of consuming Gorilla Glue, users can expect a high that is nothing short of intense. With THC levels ranging between 25% and 28%, this strain has rightfully garnered numerous accolades for its potency. Bred by GG Strains, Gorilla Glue #4 was actually created accidentally. Despite its hybrid classification, it often leans towards indica dominant characteristics, delivering intense euphoria and heavy relaxation. The effects combine a profound sense of relaxation with intense cerebral activity.

Gorilla Glue #4 and its seeds possess distinct traits that make them stand out. The strain originated from a fortuitous incident when a Chem Sis hermaphrodite plant pollinated a Sour Dubb, leading to the birth of Gorilla Glue. Though the hermaphrodite plant was eventually destroyed, some seeds survived and were later crossbred with Chocolate Diesel, resulting in the impressive Gorilla Glue family. Among its siblings, Gorilla Glue #4 shines the brightest, having garnered recognition and won many Cannabis Cups around the world. The Gorilla Glue strain is known for its award-winning status and high THC content. With a strong, sour lemon aroma, this strain captivates the senses and more.

One of the primary reasons people turn to Gorilla Glue #4 is for its remarkable pain-relieving properties. The exceptionally high THC levels in this strain make it highly effective in managing pain. While the mental effects can be mind-altering, the indica lineage of Gorilla Glue intensifies the physical sensations it provides. It’s worth noting that due to its potency, this strain is recommended for experienced cannabis consumers. Novice users may experience feelings of paranoia, anxiety, or excessive sedation.

Medical users find Gorilla Glue #4 particularly beneficial for chronic pain management. Additionally, it is favored for its ability to alleviate stress, making it a go-to choice for those seeking relaxation. Increased appetite is a common side effect, so having snacks on hand is advisable. This strain is best enjoyed during late afternoon or evening hours.

Positive reports have also emerged from cancer patients and individuals with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) who have found relief through the use of Gorilla Glue #4. Other pain-related conditions such as arthritis, back injuries, and fibromyalgia may also benefit from its use. Overall, this strain creates a happy, relaxed, and sleepy vibe that appeals to both medical and recreational users.

Gorilla Glue #4, with its impressive lineage and extraordinary potency, has gained recognition worldwide among cannabis enthusiasts. Its popularity has even been acknowledged in popular culture, as evident in the mention of the strain in Jay-Z and Beyonce’s song “Apesh*t.” Since its emergence in 2014, it has become a beloved choice for many cannabis consumers who have access to it.

Despite some controversy surrounding the name “Gorilla Glue” and its association with the adhesive product, the strain remains highly sought after. To comply with the settlement reached between Gorilla Glue Co. and GG Strains LLC, many dispensaries now refer to it only as GG4 or Original Glue.

Origins and Genetics

The GG4 strain, also known as Gorilla Glue, has a fascinating origin story that adds to its allure. Created by the renowned cannabis breeding company GG Genetics, this strain is the result of a unique cross-pollination of Chem’s Sister, Sour Dubb, and Chocolate Diesel. Chem's Sister, a foundational strain, is known for its skunky aroma and sativa-dominant effects. Sour Diesel also plays a significant role, contributing its strong diesel flavor profile and potent effects. This combination of genetics has given birth to a potent and dominant hybrid strain that has quickly gained widespread popularity among cannabis users. With a genetic makeup of 63% indica and 37% sativa, GG4 offers a well-balanced hybrid experience that combines the best of both worlds. The meticulous breeding process has resulted in a strain that stands out in the cannabis community for its potency and unique effects.

Indica Dominant Hybrid Profile

GG4, also known as Gorilla Glue, is a potent indica-dominant hybrid strain that has captured the hearts of cannabis users worldwide. With a genetic makeup of 63% indica and 37% sativa, this hybrid strain is renowned for delivering heavy-handed euphoria and profound relaxation. The indica dominance in GG4 is primarily responsible for its sedating effects, making it an excellent choice for those looking to unwind and relax after a long day.

As an indica-dominant hybrid, GG4 beautifully marries the best of both worlds. The indica side of the strain provides a deeply relaxing and calming effect, perfect for easing stress and tension. Meanwhile, the sativa component adds a touch of creativity and euphoria, making it a versatile option for those seeking both mental stimulation and physical relaxation. This balance of effects makes GG4 a standout choice for cannabis users who appreciate a strain that can cater to multiple needs.

Effects and Medical Applications

GG4 is celebrated for its heavy-handed euphoria and profound relaxation, making it a go-to choice for cannabis users seeking relief from stress, anxiety, and pain. The strain’s high THC content, which can reach up to 32% depending on the phenotype, contributes to its powerful effects. Users often report a “couch-locking” sensation, making GG4 ideal for nighttime use or when deep relaxation is desired. Beyond its recreational appeal, GG4 offers significant medical applications. It has been reported to alleviate symptoms of OCD, anxiety, and depression, and aid in regulating cortisol and serotonin transmission. This makes GG4 not just a good strain for relaxation, but also a valuable option for those seeking therapeutic relief for several ailments.

Strain Characteristics

GG4 is easily recognizable by its distinctive appearance and aroma. The strain features densely packed buds that are generously coated with snow-like trichomes, giving it a frosty, appealing look. The aroma is pungent and earthy, with strong notes of pine and a hint of sourness that tantalizes the senses. When it comes to flavor, GG4 offers a complex profile that includes earthy tones, fresh pine, and potent diesel gas, complemented by subtle hints of cocoa butter. This terpene-rich profile, particularly dominated by limonene, adds to the strain’s unique character and makes it a favorite among cannabis connoisseurs.

Growing Information

Growing GG4 can be a rewarding endeavor for those with the right skills and resources. The strain is considered moderately difficult to grow, but it produces a high yield when cultivated with standard or feminized seeds. Original Glue plants grown in soil tend to be short to average in height, with a flowering time of 9-10 weeks. For those using auto-flowering seeds, the plants will flower automatically in 8-9 weeks from seed. GG4 is suitable for both indoor and outdoor cultivation, and its robust growth and high resin production make it a favorite among growers looking for a high-yield, high-quality strain.

Reviews and Ratings by Consumers

GG4 has garnered rave reviews from both cannabis users and critics, solidifying its reputation as a top-tier strain. According to user feedback, 30% of people report that GG4 helps with stress, 26% say it alleviates anxiety, and 24% find it effective for pain relief. With a 4.5-star rating based on 5451 reviews, GG4 is praised for its potent effects, unique flavor profile, and medicinal benefits. Users consistently highlight its ability to provide a calming and relaxing experience, making it a highly recommended strain for those seeking a potent and therapeutic cannabis experience.

FAQs

Q: What is the THC content of GG4?A: The THC content of GG4 can vary depending on the phenotype, but it typically ranges from 25% to 32%, making it one of the most potent strains available.

Q: Is GG4 a good strain for beginners?A: No, GG4 is not recommended for beginners due to its high THC content and potent effects. Novice users may find its intensity overwhelming.

Q: What are the effects of GG4?A: The effects of GG4 include heavy-handed euphoria, profound relaxation, and a sedating body stone. It’s known for its ability to melt away stress and tension, making it ideal for evening use.

Q: Is GG4 a good strain for medical use?A: Yes, GG4 has been reported to help with a variety of medical conditions, including stress, anxiety, pain, and more. Its potent effects make it a valuable option for those seeking therapeutic relief.

Q: Can I grow GG4 indoors or outdoors?A: Yes, GG4 can be grown both indoors and outdoors. However, it requires a moderate level of care and attention to achieve a high yield and maintain its quality.

a reaction to a great compliment
Why compliments matter.
Giphy
Wellness

Compliments: The Power Move

There’s something oddly revolutionary about giving someone a compliment these days. Not the hollow, “Nice shirt, bro,” kind. I mean a real, unfiltered, bone-deep acknowledgment of something another human being is doing right. A small moment of connection that—let’s be honest—we’re all too stingy with.

And that’s a shame. Because in a world addicted to criticism and keyboard jockeys, the compliment is punk rock. It disrupts. It challenges cynicism. It rewires the way we see each other—and ourselves.

Let’s talk about why more people should be handing out sincere compliments like they matter. Because, as it turns out, compliment givers not only uplift the recipients but also enhance their own well-being.

The Compliment Deficit Is Real

We live in the golden age of hot takes and viral takedowns. Criticism? That’s currency. Praise? That’s rare air.

The internet has taught us to roast, not raise. We scroll, judge, and maybe, if we’re feeling generous, toss a fire emoji someone’s way. But when was the last time you actually told someone—in person or online—that they inspired you? Or that they handled a situation with grace? Or that their words stuck with you in a good way?

Most people don’t do it, not because they don’t think good things about others, but because they don’t vocalize them. Compliments get caught in the filter of self-consciousness, competition, or just sheer busyness. Many people feel awkward or feel uncomfortable giving compliments, fearing they might be misinterpreted or not well-received.

That’s a loss—for all of us.

The Benefits of Giving Compliments

Giving compliments isn’t just about making someone else’s day—it’s a game-changer for your own well-being too. When you take a moment to genuinely acknowledge someone, you’re not just boosting their mood; you’re also giving yourself a mental and emotional lift.

Science Says: Say the Damn Nice Thing

Studies show that compliments hit harder than we think, and people actually underestimate how meaningful they are to the receiver. One 2022 study from the University of Pennsylvania found that participants expected their compliments to be mildly appreciated, but receivers consistently reported feeling significantly better and in a better mood than expected after receiving them.

In short: what feels small to you might feel enormous to someone else.

And get this—compliments don’t just lift the receiver. They lift the giver. Complimenting someone makes you feel more connected, more confident, and more emotionally intelligent. It strengthens relationships. Builds trust. Boosts morale.

It’s the cheapest, most immediate return on investment you’ll ever make.

"you are important" sticker on lightpole; complimentThe Psychology of Praise vs. Criticism: A Study in Emotional Intelligence Photo by George Pagan III on Unsplash

The Psychology of Praise vs. Criticism: A Study in Emotional Intelligence

Here’s the deal: our brains are wired for negativity. Evolution made us hyper-attuned to danger and threats—great for saber-tooth tigers, not so great for modern human connection.

What that means is: we remember criticism more than praise. We dwell on what went wrong instead of what went right. And we’re far more likely to speak up when something pisses us off than when something impresses us.

But compliments, when sincere and specific, cut through that noise. They anchor memory, affirm identity, and in some cases, become the internal soundtrack someone plays for the rest of their life. Think about a teacher who told you you had a voice. A mentor who said, “You’re a leader.” A friend who told you your resilience was remarkable. That stuff sticks.

Compliments act as positive reinforcement, encouraging the repetition of desirable behaviors and fostering a supportive environment.

You could be that voice for someone else.

Modern Masculinity Could Use a Few More Compliment Givers

Let’s get honest. For a lot of men, complimenting another man feels… weird. Maybe even threatening. Like saying something nice is somehow surrendering status points in the never-ending gladiator match of masculinity.

That’s outdated, toxic, and exhausting.

The strongest guys I know? They compliment other people without hesitation. They notice greatness and call it out, whether it’s someone’s style, leadership, parenting, or how they handled a tough moment. They see acknowledgment as strength, not weakness.

In fact, learning to give great compliments might be the soft skill that makes you unstoppable—in work, in relationships, and in building stronger interpersonal relationships.

How to Give a Compliment Like a Grown Up

Let’s be clear: a great compliment isn’t flattery. It’s not kissing ass. It’s not about being liked. It’s about being real. Here’s how to do it:

Pay attention to body language to ensure your compliment is well-received and appropriate for the situation.

Be Specific

Great job on that pitch” is fine. But paying compliments like “The way you broke down that idea so everyone could understand it—that was impressive” is memorable.

Make It About Them, Not You

This helped me a lot,” is good. But “You really brought the room together with how you handled that situation” is better.

Whether it's a colleague or a family member, making the compliment about them enhances its impact.

Say It Out Loud

Don’t let it live in your head. If you notice it, say it. In person is best. Text is good. A well-timed DM works too.

In a professional setting, vocal compliments can significantly contribute to a positive company culture.

Go Public When It Counts: The Power of Positive Reinforcement

A compliment in front of others hits different. It builds trust, boosts confidence, and models respect in a world that’s desperate for more of it.

Public compliments can play a crucial role in fostering a positive workplace culture.

No Strings Attached

Compliment without expecting anything in return. No manipulation. No agenda. Just truth, freely given.

Think of compliments as random acts of kindness that can brighten someone's day unexpectedly.


The Challenge: Compliment Five People This Week

You want to lead better? Connect deeper? Be the kind of person people remember?

Try this: compliment five people this week. A colleague. A friend. A stranger. The barista who always gets your order right. Your partner who’s carrying more than they show.

In a professional setting, this practice can contribute to a more productive workplace.

Watch what happens. They light up. The world softens. You feel more human and we need more of that now than ever before.

The world doesn’t need more critics. It needs more builders. People who spot excellence and say so. Who see effort and celebrate it. Who understand that kindness isn’t weakness—it’s strength under control.

Research shows that positive interactions, like giving compliments, can also have beneficial effects on physical health.

So the next time you think something good about someone, don’t let it stay silent. Say it.

Compliment like it’s a revolution. Because these days, it kind of is.

A version of this article was originally published on The Art of Manliness.

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