Oregon, the first state to fully legalize psychedelics, will roll out therapy this year, with the rest of the country watching closely for cautionary tales and of course, success stories.
Not to be outdone, NY and California have also pushed for similar proposals. Both proposals would relax laws around certain hallucinogens, including psilocybin, ibogaine and DMT, which is used in ayahuasca.
In California specifically, Senator Scott Wiener reintroduced legislation that had passed the state's senate in 2021, which never went anywhere. In New York, Linda B. Rosenthal, an assembly member representing the Upper West Side and Hell's Kitchen in Manhattan put forward her proposal to legalize adult possession and use of certain natural plant or fungus related hallucinogens. The New York proposal would allow gifting, religious use and cultivation if passed.
There is growing research that shows magic mushrooms have an amazing potential to benefit mental health and wellbeing if used under the right conditions. They can also provide a fun escape to the trivial and sometimes dull feel of daily life on earth.
After decades of senseless prohibition led by the War On Drugs, magic mushrooms and other hallucinogens are reentering the public conversation, and many folks are eager to try the experience for themselves.
Here at The Bluntness we believe that information empowers us to take control of our lives and make educated decisions.
Taking shrooms is like climbing up a mountain. The views are worth it, but that doesn't mean you should go up unprepared. Certain risks can come up along the way.
This guide is meant to serve as your roadmap to navigating an experience that, under the right guidance, can offer vast views into the unknown landscape that lies within.
Magic mushrooms, also known as psychedelic mushrooms, are a fascinating type of fungi that contain the psychoactive compound psilocybin. When ingested, psilocybin is converted into psilocin, which interacts with the brain’s neurotransmitter serotonin, leading to hallucinogenic effects. These effects can range from visual and auditory distortions to profound changes in perception and thought.
Historically, magic mushrooms have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and spiritual practices by various cultures around the world. They were often consumed during religious ceremonies and healing rituals, believed to provide insights, spiritual growth, and connection to the divine.
In recent years, magic mushrooms have gained popularity for their potential therapeutic benefits. Research has shown promising results in using psilocybin to treat mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. However, it’s crucial to use them responsibly and in appropriate settings, as improper use or consuming large quantities can lead to negative effects, including anxiety, paranoia, and disorientation.
Understanding the nature of magic mushrooms and their effects is the first step towards a safe and enlightening experience. Always approach them with respect and caution, and consider seeking guidance from experienced users or healthcare professionals if you’re new to the world of psychedelic mushrooms.
Like cannabis, magic mushrooms exist as strains and species, with different mushroom species having unique physical or chemical characteristics. These terms are used to describe the physical or chemical characteristics of the plants. While they are often used interchangeably, strains and species are not the same.
Psilocybin mushrooms contain psilocybin, psilocin, and baeocystin. These compounds interact with the serotonin receptors to control biological and neurological processes like sleep, anxiety, cognition, appetite, nausea, learning, memory, and thermoregulation.
The effect exerted by each psychedelic mushroom is determined by the total concentration of active compounds in them. This is why they are divided into strains and species. This classification helps users to trace the origin of their favorite magic mushroom strain and the possible effect it can exert on their bodies.
How Long Do Shrooms Last? Magic Mushroom Guide for Beginners - The Bluntnesswww.thebluntness.com
These are strains with the highest psilocybin concentration. They can generate an experience filled with deep philosophical ideations and intense feelings of euphoria. They produce the highest level of psychoactive interaction, and their trips are quite intense. Very potent strains are not recommended for newbies since they can knock them off.
This includes Penis envy and its relatives. These psilocybin strains offer one the most potent shrooms on the market. They contain as high as 50 percent higher concentrations of psilocybin and psilocin, producing the most prominent effects on users.
Some commonly encountered members of the very potent strains are listed below;
Potent strains come with a slightly lower concentration of psilocybin than Penis envy and its relatives (the very potent strains). Potent strains often include the Albino A+ and its relatives. They offer hallucinations that make the world appear gelatinous and are known for their quick and slightly more physical high that can last up to 5 hours. They possess a high concentration of psilocybin with mild to intense visual enhancements, feelings of euphoria, excitement, and creativity. They are not ideal for newbies as their effects kick in fast and intense even after microdosing.
Members of this class include but are not limited to the following;
This is one of the largest classes of psilocybin strains derived from P. cubensis. They offer a low to moderate concentration of psilocybin and are friendlier compared to very potent strains. They feature a lower psilocybin concentration and trigger a much milder effect. These strains feature a higher than average potency estimated at 0.75 percent psilocybin and 0.20 percent psilocin.
Above-average psilocybin strains deliver a potent mental and emotional clarity with highly happy experiences. They can boost creativity and promote focus in users. They are often great for intermediate users. Members of this group include but are not limited to the following;
Average psilocybin strains contain the lowest psilocybin concentrations and are best for newbies. Their average concentration can serve as an introduction point to the world's psychedelic mushrooms. They are excellent at providing an energetic, physical and euphoric experience with an actively visual twist. They can boost creativity and relaxation in users. Average psilocybin strains of P. cubensis contain between 0.25 percent to 2 percent psilocybin, with the caps having the highest concentration. Some of the commonly encountered members of this strain potency include but are not limited to the following;
Identifying mushroom strains plays a critical role in assisting users in understanding which strain contains a favorable psilocybin concentration for their body type and health condition. It also gives the users an idea of the possible effects to be exerted on their bodies.
There are between 75 to 200 species of psilocybin containing mushrooms, each with varying levels of the hallucinogen.
Depending on the potency and concentration of psilocybin ingested, users are most likely to experience mild to moderate and strong effects. While the mild and moderate effects are triggered by mild dosages and are responsible for the therapeutic benefits of psilocybin strains, the strong effects are a different ball game. It involves several side effects and prolonged trips that may be dangerous for first-time users.
Regardless of your tolerance to psilocybin and its sister molecules, microdosing seems to provide one of the safest ways to enjoy the numerous therapeutic potentials without any side effects. Choosing a strain should be solely centered on its psilocybin potency.
Psilocybin can provide a life-altering experience.
Psilocybin, the main psychedelic compound in magic mushrooms, binds with a serotonin receptor in the brain to produce what scientists call an “altered state of consciousness.”
In these states, perception is distorted, sense of time is diluted, and reality is experienced in an entirely different way. Psilocybin can induce hallucinations and intense introspective experiences that can be catalogued within the realms of spirituality or mysticism.
These states can open one’s mind to insights and ideas that wouldn’t have come in a normal state of mind. Living through these experiences can become a healing and inspiring process for many people.
Shrooms can boost up a sense of awe and wonder and ultimately help us become wiser and more compassionate people. They can also open the door to beautiful and fun experiences that can change the way we conceive reality and everyday life.
However, being under the influence of mushrooms can also lead to experiencing a “bad trip,” that can include paranoia, anxiety, panic attacks, and temporarily losing the grip on reality.
In order to avoid bad tripping, experienced mushroom eaters recommend following certain simple guidelines.
If this is your first time taking shrooms (or any hallucinogenic for that matter), you should have a “trip sitter.”
The trip sitter’s job is to be a link with the real world in case you lose your grip and need a hand to pull you back in. Being under the effects of mushrooms can cause you to have a hard time distinguishing things that are real from those are not. This can put you in physical risk, so having a trusted someone watch over you can make the entire experience more pleasant.
A good trip sitter ought to keep a low profile unless you engage them or need their help.
Don’t try to control or direct what happens to you under the effect of the shrooms. Become an active observer. Remember that everything that happens to you in that moment is part of the experience and as such, it can bring a positive insight even though it might feel unpleasant or uncomfortable at the time.
Trust the fact that everything you see, feel, or envision exists in the realm of the shroom trip and cannot hurt you in real life. This mindset will allow you to explore your consciousness without fear or prejudice.
The length and intensity of a shroom trip can vary widely from person to person, influenced by several key factors. One of the primary factors is the individual’s body weight and metabolism. People with higher body weight or faster metabolism may process psilocybin more quickly, potentially shortening the duration of the trip.
Another significant factor is the individual’s tolerance to psilocybin. Regular users may develop a tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects, which can also affect the trip’s length and intensity. Conversely, first-time users or those with low tolerance may experience more prolonged and intense effects.
The setting and environment in which the mushrooms are consumed play a crucial role as well. A comfortable, familiar, and safe environment can lead to a more pleasant and controlled experience, while an unfamiliar or stressful setting can contribute to anxiety and a potentially negative trip.
The method of consumption also impacts the onset and duration of the effects. Eating fresh or dried mushrooms, brewing them into tea, or using techniques like lemon tekking can all influence how quickly the effects begin and how long they last. For instance, shroom tea may lead to a faster onset and shorter duration compared to eating dried mushrooms.
Lastly, the individual’s mental health and the presence of other substances in the body can significantly affect the trip. Consuming shrooms while under the influence of other drugs or alcohol can alter the experience, sometimes unpredictably. It’s essential to be mindful of these factors to ensure a safe and enjoyable shroom trip.
Psilocybin can provide a life-altering experience. -The Bluntness
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A typical mushroom trip will last between four to six hours from the time mushrooms are first ingested, to the moment when the altered state has effectively worn off. The first effects are normally perceived after 30 minutes, but they can take up to one hour, depending on the dose and the user’s metabolism.
It’s recommended to remain calm while waiting for the effect to arrive. Becoming anxious and taking a second dose can put you in a situation where you’ve taken too many shrooms, and there aren’t many available means of stopping a trip once it’s begun.
After the effects begin, a slow climb will follow and peak effects are expected between two to four hours after intake. This varies depending on the method used to eat the shrooms, which we’ll get into later.
The effect will start to dissipate after the peak, and you can expect to be back to normal after about six hours. Although the effect might have worn off, you might still feel lightheaded, tired, or overly sensitive to stimuli. This is why it’s important to take the mushrooms on a day where you know you’ll be free to rest after the experience is through.
Don’t take the mushrooms in the morning if you know you’ll have responsibilities in the afternoon. We recommend you find a time when you can take the rest of the day off to integrate the experience. Also, make sure you can have at least 8 hours of sleep the night after the experience, in order to fully recover. Specialized urine tests can detect psilocybin for up to 15 hours after consumption, although routine drug tests typically do not include it.
“Don’t diddle the dose. Once you have done your homework, go for it.” -- Terence McKenna
The Bluntness
Psilocybe Cubensis has universally become the most propagated species of magic mushrooms out there, because of how easy they are to grow. However, there are over 200 species of psilocybin-producing mushrooms in nature.
Different species will carry different levels of psilocybin, which means that the same amount of mushrooms could have vastly diverse amounts of psychedelic ingredients, leading to very different strengths. Levels of psilocybin can also vary between strains of the same species.
As with any naturally-sourced medicine, the concentration of active ingredients can also vary between different parts of the fungi. The cap could hold more psilocybin than the stem and vice versa.
This all means that measuring a dose of mushrooms is not an exact science. However, some guidelines can be followed, based on suggested amounts of dried Psilocybe Cubensis.
Your mushrooms will come in two possible variants: fresh or dried. This won't change their effect, but will change their overall weight, since dried mushrooms don't carry as much water as freshly harvested ones.
If you're using fresh mushrooms, multiply our numbers by 10, to compensate for the water weight. If you're using another species of psilocybin-producing mushrooms, you should take these indications with a pinch of salt.
The best way to measure a dose of mushrooms is to use a scale. If you don't have one, you can use this image as reference to understand how many mushrooms fit in one gram.
Being under the effect of shrooms is a very strange new experience, which can be overwhelming at first. That's why it's important to get yourself accustomed to being in that state before jumping to higher doses. We recommend you begin with a low dose (no more than 1.5 grams), and then work your way up to a larger dose in your next experience.
These mushrooms taste gross, but there are ways around that.The Bluntness
In order for the Magic Mushrooms to realize their full potential inside your body, it's recommended to fast before you eat them. Taking the mushrooms on an empty stomach will result in a higher ‘high' and a faster onset. That's why mornings are the best time of day for a mushroom trip, since we naturally wake up with 8 hours of fasting after a good night's sleep.
If you must eat something before your trip, try to have it be a light and easily-digestible meal like a salad or some fruit.
Now, with an empty and ready stomach, let's check out the most common methods for eating shrooms.
Any kind of smoothie or juice will do the trick. If your mushrooms are dried, just grind them as much as you can and mix them in with the drink. If you don't have a coffee grinder, you can cut them into small pieces with a sharp knife or hand grind them with a mortar and pestle.
The more you grind the mushrooms, the easier it'll be for your stomach to digest them. Keep in mind that mushrooms can be hard on the digestive tract, so it's normal to feel some moderate intoxication symptoms after taking them, like nausea (sometimes leading to vomiting), headaches, drowsiness and muscle weakness.
Shroom tea is basically a home-made psilocybin extract that can be a lot easier to digest.
To make shroom tea, simply grind the dried mushrooms as fine as you can and let them sit in boiled water for about 15 minutes. After that, strain the mushroom caps and stems and drink the tea. The effect should come in quicker, since the stomach doesn't need to break down the mushrooms. The overall trip can also be shorter, and maybe even more intense, since mushrooms won't go through a slow digestive process.
Feel free to add herbs and honey to the water in order to level up the flavor of your shroom tea. You can simply add your favorite tea bag or experiment by mixing shrooms with natural herbs like lavender, ginger, or chamomile.
The mushroom's active compound of psilocybin is synthesized into psilocin by our body's metabolism. Psilocybin is actually a prodrug, which is broken down by our body into psilocin, which is the active ingredient that interacts with our brain's receptors.
By dipping the ground mushrooms into pure lemon juice for about 15 minutes, we can help speed up this process since the citric acid present in the lemon is believed to break down psilocybin into psilocin in advance.
By chemically pre-digesting the mushrooms in a cup, they will start their effect sooner and possibly with more intensity. Experienced “tekkers” say they usually need less amount of mushrooms to achieve the same high.
The duration that shrooms stay in your system can vary based on several factors, including the amount of psilocybin ingested, your metabolism, and the method of consumption. Typically, the effects of shrooms last between 3 to 6 hours, with peak effects occurring within the first 2-3 hours. However, the psilocybin can remain in your system for up to 24 hours.
When it comes to drug tests, psilocybin is not commonly included in most routine drug tests. However, specialized tests can detect psilocybin in urine for up to 15 hours after consumption. Hair follicle tests, although less common, can detect psilocybin for up to 90 days after ingestion.
It’s important to note that the detection window can be influenced by factors such as the individual’s metabolism, the amount consumed, and the frequency of use. If you are concerned about drug tests, it’s best to be aware of these factors and plan accordingly.
Those who experiment with mushrooms often talk of the notoriously dreaded bad trip. A bad trip is an unpleasant experience that happens when a person under the effects of a psychedelic cannot control the ugly thoughts or sensations they're experiencing.
Bad trips are not necessarily bad, since they can open a catharsis of negative emotions that can purge you from unprocessed trauma. However, becoming entangled in a personal hell of self-repeating anxiety and anguish is something most people would rather avoid.
There are several practices you can try if you feel you're entering a bad trip.
Magic Mushrooms are generally regarded as safe and, even though bad experiences can occur, they usually don't leave any scars.
However, mushrooms are no child's play. There's always a risk involved with any drug use, and it's up to each user's own sense of responsibility to consider whether they're apt to go through the experience.
If you're generally healthy and don't have a mental health condition, you should be okay.
If you have a medical condition or take regular medication (like antidepressants), you should talk to your doctor before taking shrooms, as psilocybin can interfere with your medication. You also should avoid them if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or don't have healthy blood pressure.
You shouldn't take mushrooms unsupervised if you have a history of mental health conditions.
People who suffer from schizophrenia, psychotic, bipolar I or II disorders are especially advised to lay off shrooms. Psychedelic drugs are known to incite acute psychotic episodes in people with a family history of schizophrenia or psychotic disorders, so you should also avoid psychedelic drugs if a close member of your family has been diagnosed with a disorder in the psychotic spectrum.
Psilocybin has been found to be extremely useful in the treatment of depression and anxiety.
However, all research points to the importance of an accompanying therapist in psilocybin-assisted treatment. A trained professional can guide a patient through the journey and help them make sense of an otherwise confusing and unsettling experience.
If you're struggling with major depression, grief, or any anxiety-related disorders, taking magic mushrooms unsupervised won't be a miracle cure. However, you can seek an experienced guide, or a psychedelic retreat that can accompany you in your healing process towards mental wellbeing.
The legal status of shrooms varies across the United States. While they are illegal at the federal level, some states and municipalities have decriminalized their use. For instance, Oregon has fully legalized psilocybin for therapeutic use, and other places like Denver and Oakland have decriminalized possession and use.
Proper storage of shrooms is essential to maintain their potency and minimize the risk of contamination. Fresh shrooms can last for about a week when stored in a cool, dark place. Dried shrooms, on the other hand, can last for up to 12 months if kept in an airtight container away from light and moisture. For long-term storage, freezing shrooms can preserve their potency for four years or more.
Always handle shrooms with care and store them in a secure location to prevent accidental ingestion or contamination. Proper storage ensures that your shrooms remain effective and safe for future use.
These mushrooms taste gross, but there are ways around that.
But how does cannabis actually work? And, what is THC, which everyone talks about so much?
This guide covers the basics for beginners and professionals alike.
What is THC, really? By far, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the most controversial component of medical and adult-use cannabis. The molecule is a natural chemical constituent of some cannabis plant varieties, and it is considered the primary culprit behind the famous cannabis “high”.
Although the compound has many medicinal and therapeutic uses, it earned worldwide notoriety for its mind-altering nature.
THC is one of over 100 specialized chemical compounds found in cannabis called cannabinoids. Cannabinoids belong to a class of molecules thus far thought to be unique to the cannabis plant, yet scientists are currently investigating whether or not other plants can naturally produce similar chemicals.
Thanks to genetic engineering, for example, researchers have recently bred a variety of yeast that can successfully produce THC.
Humankind has been using THC for millennia.
For millennia, THC-producing cannabis plants have been bred and cultivated for their medicinal, spiritual, and pleasurable properties. Yet, even to this day, the mysterious chemical provokes debate among medical professionals, policy makers, and consumers alike.
While the structure of the compound was first described in the 1930s, the psychotropic chemical was not fully isolated from the cannabis plant until 1964, by a team of Israeli scientists led by Dr. Raphael Mechoulam.
Still, although the compound that causes the classic cannabis “high” wasn’t fully articulated until the 20th century, the psychedelic chemical has inspired its fair share of myth and legend over the ages.
In ancient Hindu texts, for example, psychoactive cannabis was one of the five sacred plants listed in the Atharva Veda, which is a text detailing practical methods of living and spiritual practice.
The ancient Indian text dates back to 1200-1000 BC. It is reported that a “guardian lives in the bhang [cannabis] leaf”, and the herb was described as a “joy-giver”, “liberator”, and as a “source of happiness.”
Yet, while psychotropic cannabis was used as a means to connect to God in some cultures, in others the herb developed a more sinister reputation. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Westerners attributed THC-laden cannabis products with hallucinations and a loss of self-control.
To some extent, these differing views of THC-containing cannabis continue to this day. Since the 1990s, however, another discourse has emerged. Psychotropic cannabis has been used for centuries as a medicine, and now modern science has added ample evidence to support these claims.
In the new era of 21st-century medicine, THC and other cannabinoid compounds are shaking the bedrock of conventional pharmaceutical medicine.
Those little, sugar-like crystals are the sticky trichomes that house special chemicals including cannabinoids and terpenes.
Thus far, THC is naturally found only in the cannabis plant. Although, not all cannabis varieties produce THC. Most notably, plants classified as Cannabis Sativa and Cannabis Indica produce the psychoactive molecule.
Although, some cultivars may produce hardly any THC at all, depending on how they have been bred. Cannabis Sativa plants classified as hemp, for example, will produce less than 0.3 percent of the psychoactive compound.
THC is most commonly stored in resin glands that sit on the surface of cannabis leaves and flowers. These resin glands are called trichomes, and they are most abundant on seedless female flowers. Although, it is important to note that only trace amounts of THC are actually found on raw cannabis plants.
Instead, THC can be found as tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA, THC acid). In its raw form, THCA is non-intoxicating. In order for the acidic molecule to produce an intoxicating effect, the compound needs to be exposed to heat or left to decompose over time.
The conversion of THCA to THC happens during a process called decarboxylation. Decarboxylation may sound like a complex matter, but in reality, only one thing is needed to trigger decarboxylation: heat.
When cannabis products are smoked, vaporized, baked, or cooked, raw THC acid transforms into decarboxylated THC. Decarboxylated THC is the famous molecule that causes changes in cognition. Raw THC acid is not. For this reason, eating fresh cannabis leaves and flowers does not cause mind-altering effects.
Raw cannabis typically contains very little THC. Instead you get non-psychoactive THCA, which is converted into THC.
For decades, THC has stolen all of the attention while THCA was considered a measly inactive molecule. Fortunately, scientists have wised up in recent years. Emerging research has discovered that THCA boasts potential anti-inflammatory, anti-nausea, and neuroprotective effects. For some medical cannabis patients, THCA may be more beneficial than THC in some cases.
From what preclinical research says thus far, decarboxylated THC features similar activity. Although, due to its potency, decarboxylated THC may sometimes worsen nausea or inflammation when consumed in high dosages.
For consumers, however, the most notable difference between decarboxylated THC and THCA is their cognitive effect. While THCA has been described as calm and alerting, THC produces a notable effect on cognition. More information on the cognitive effects of decarboxylated THC are described below.
Cultivators are now breeding cannabis not just for THC, but other cannabinoids such as CBD, THCV, and more.
In many ways, the cannabis plant is a natural chemical factory. The medicinal herb can produce over 500 different chemical constituents, of which it would be generous to say that dozens have been adequately studied. Some of these molecules, like chlorophyll and lignin, are made internally by the plant for structural and metabolic purposes.
Other compounds, like cannabinoids, serve much more fascinating and perplexing purposes. While the exact reason cannabis plants make THC or other cannabinoids is technically unknown, the plant is expected to make the secondary metabolites as a means of self-protection.
Many growers, for example, are familiar with the fact that increasing levels of ultraviolet blue (UV-B) light in the grow room appears to increase THCA production. In this sense, the cannabinoid may act as a form of sunscreen for the plant. THC and THCA also boast antimicrobial and insecticidal properties, protecting the plant from infection and infestation.
Getting the most out of cannabis usually requires a bit of guidance and patience.
THC works by tapping into a large cellular communication network known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS consists of communication molecules called endocannabinoids, as well as cell receptors and enzyme proteins. Together, these components allow for the transportation of chemical messages within the nervous system, immune system, and endocrine (hormonal) system.
Together, the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems make up three primary homeostatic networks in the body. In science, the term homeostasis refers to the state of balance or equilibrium within a system. In this case, the system in question is the human body. All three of these major networks use the endocannabinoid system to regulate themselves.
Named after the cannabis plant, the endocannabinoid system is the primary target of cannabis medicines. Decarboxylated THC mimics endocannabinoid communication molecules in the human body, causing a cascade of physiological effects. Since the endocannabinoid system is wide-reaching, THC can have an effect on a multitude of bodily functions at once. Some of which include:
It is because of THC’s interaction with the endocannabinoid system that the molecule is able to have an effect on many different physical and mental ailments. To break down the overall effects of the cannabinoid even further, here’s how THC affects the nervous, immune, and endocrine systems individually.
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While there are many nuances to the nervous system, its main function is sensory awareness and response. The nervous system, for example, allows you to feel the prick of a needle and respond in an appropriate fashion.
If the needle is going to hurt you, it is the nervous system that tells you to run. If the needle is part of a routine procedure, the nervous system is also responsible for allowing you to cope with the experience while it is happening.
Similarly, the nervous system allows you to make conscious movements, process visual and auditory stimuli, recognize scents and fragrances, and experience thoughts and emotions. The nervous system uses endocannabinoid signalling molecules as neurotransmitters, enabling nerve cells to send messages from one cell to another.
THC can act upon nerve cells in both the central and peripheral nervous system, meaning that THC can influence messages sent between the brain and spinal cord as well as the rest of the body. This allows THC to influence things like pain sensation, muscle tension, mental processes, and emotion.
The immune system is responsible for protecting the body from harm, injury, and infection. Like nerve cells, immune cells also use endocannabinoid molecules to communicate with one another. As the research thus far suggests, immune cells appear to use endocannabinoids to control inflammatory response, as well as to assist in destroying cells that may have become damaged or cancerous.
As such, it comes as no surprise that THC can influence these same processes. THC mimics the effects of endocannabinoids in the human body. In the immune system, this means that THC can alter the body’s inflammatory response, sometimes suppress immune function, and perhaps even influence the way in which the body responds to cancerous cells.
The endocrine system is the technical term for the hormonal system, which regulates the homeostasis of basic functions like growth, metabolism, and reproduction. The endocrine system and the nervous system work closely together, so the two systems are sometimes referred to as the neuroendocrine system.
Early evidence suggests that the neuroendocrine system uses endocannabinoid molecules to modulate the production and release of certain hormones, giving the endocannabinoid system a regulatory role.
Given that endocannabinoids can modulate hormone production, one can expect that THC may also influence the production and regulation of hormones as well. Indeed, early evidence suggests that THC does interact with the endocrine system and the cannabinoid may influence the release of hormones that control hunger, reproduction, and possibly more.
Although, it’s important to note that researchers are still trying to uncover exactly how cannabis compounds interact with the endocrine system and to what end.
A lot of people think CBD is medical, and THC is for fun. This is an unfortunate misconception.
As mentioned above, THC is just one of over 100 different cannabinoid molecules produced by the cannabis plant. Due to its noticeable psychotropic effects, cannabis plants that contain THC are among the most popular in both medical and recreational markets.
THC has a close sibling, however. That sibling is cannabidiol (CBD). Unlike THC, CBD does not cause a noticeable intoxicating effect. In fact, the cannabinoid may even lessen the intoxicating potential of THC.
In the world of medical cannabis, THC and CBD are often combined using different ratios to achieve specific therapeutic effects. If a patient is struggling with the side effects of THC, for example, then CBD is sometimes added to a patient’s treatment regimen in order to achieve symptom relief with minimal disruptions to a patient’s life.
THC and CBD also work differently in the body. While THC works by directly mimicking endocannabinoid molecules, CBD functions primarily by preventing endocannabinoid molecules from being broken down by enzymes. Thus, CBD acts as a booster for endocannabinoid molecules while THC is more akin to a replacement.
THC has a surprising amount of medical benefits.
Perhaps thanks to intensive marketing campaigns and greater social acceptability, CBD is often wrongly considered to be the only medicinal compound in the cannabis plants. Research published as recently as 2019, however, suggests that the majority of individuals who consume THC report greater relief and greater symptom management than those simply taking CBD products. Of course, this isn’t to say that CBD therapies are not valuable to many patients.
Although cannabis that contains THC has been used as medicine for thousands of years, decades of legal restrictions for scientific research has prevented the cannabinoid from being properly studied.
The topics of cannabinoid medicines and the endocannabinoid system are among the fastest-growing areas of scientific research today. Yet, much of the information currently published on the topic comes from low-quality trials, population-based studies, animal research, and simple laboratory experiments.
Without a multitude of high-quality clinical trials, it is difficult to discuss the benefits of cannabis and THC with a high degree of certainty. And yet, based on the available evidence so far, THC appears to hold therapeutic value for a wide range of conditions. Some of the health benefits of the compound may include:
There is also emerging but early evidence that THC has anti-cancer properties, as well as neuroprotective properties amongst patients with neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s Disease. For the time being, however, much of the therapeutic value of THC is limited to anecdotal and observational evidence from medical cannabis dispensaries and other access points.
For some the cannabis high is an unwanted side effect, for others it's the main show.
Even though cannabis is still illegal in much of the world, it remains one of the most popular illicit substances. The popularity of the plant likely has to do with both its potency as a natural medicine, as well as the enjoyable “high” that it inspires.
Although it is considered impossible to fatally overdose on THC, the cannabinoid can cause a few side effects. Some of these side effects, like changes in consciousness, can be quite enjoyable. Others, like anxiety, can be very unpleasant.
Positive THC side effects include:
Negative THC side effects:
It is important to note that the side effects of THC are often dose-dependent. Those new to cannabis or those who have taken an extra-large dose of THC are more likely to experience negative side effects than those who microdose, combine CBD and THC, or consume THC in moderation.
While low to moderate doses of THC may ease symptoms like pain, anxiety, or nausea for some patients, higher doses may actually worsen these symptoms, regardless of whether or not the patient is a regular cannabis consumer.
In some severe cases, THC may worsen psychosis or inspire hallucinations. For this reason, it is recommended that people with a known risk for these conditions avoid THC, consult a medical professional before consuming, or consume THC-containing cannabis products with extreme mindfulness and in controlled settings.
It should also be noted that in addition to dosage level, terpene profiles can impact the experience of a THC high. For instance, some terpene profiles might make you feel sleepy, while others might make you feel energized, creative, or even anxious.
For more on terpenes, check out: “The Mind-Blowing World of Cannabis Terpenes.”
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The thing is: Law enforcement is privy to this outlaw behavior, and they are hot on the toker’s trail, hellbent on putting amateur pot smugglers behind bars. These officers use drug dogs trained to detect illicit drugs, especially at airports, to identify narcotics amidst changing legal perceptions surrounding cannabis use. Police are scouring the interstates right now just trying to catch you or someone you love transporting tokes into jurisdictions where the herb remains a no-no.
Now, it’s relatively easy to avoid getting caught with pot in most cases. All a marijuana-toting motorist needs to do is employ a little common sense, obey the traffic laws, and don’t give any of those bored good-old-boys a reason to pick them out of the crowd.
So, for the love of everything holy, take those Bob Marley stickers off your car immediately. They are cop magnets.
We live in America, however, so let’s be honest: not everyone uses their brain all of the time (editor’s note: stupidity is an international condition). People in these parts tend to get downright dumb on the roadways even though they might be traveling with an illicit substance that could get them jammed up in the criminal justice system.
Rather than go on the offensive and break only one law at a time as a means for escaping the wrath of a roadside shakedown, many pot consumers would rather utilize myth-riddled methods to try and evade arrest if and when a cop stops them and unleashes the drug-seeking hounds.
“All you have to do is cover your weed with loads of cayenne pepper,” a man named Sean told The Bluntness. “It’ll also throw the dogs off if you bury it in coffee grounds or dryer sheets,” he added.
Um, no, this will not work.
A dog’s nose is nothing short of a marvel of nature, a finely-tuned instrument capable of detecting a vast array of scents, including those of illicit substances. Imagine having a nose so powerful that it can pick up on a single drop of a substance in an Olympic-sized swimming pool. That’s the kind of olfactory prowess we’re talking about here.
Dogs boast up to 300 million olfactory receptors in their nasal cavity, compared to a measly 6 million in humans. These receptors are like tiny detectives, each one responsible for picking up odor molecules floating in the air. When a dog sniffs an edible, these molecules bind to the receptors, sending a signal to the brain that says, “Hey, there’s something interesting here!”
But it’s not just about having a lot of receptors. The way a dog’s brain processes these scent signals is also incredibly advanced. Their brains are wired to distinguish between different scents and detect even the most subtle differences in odor profiles. This is why drug detection dogs are so effective at their job. They can sniff out THC or other illicit compounds, even when they’re hidden in edibles or other cleverly disguised forms.
So, the next time you see a drug detection dog at work, remember that you’re witnessing one of nature’s most impressive feats of sensory engineering.
Can Drug Dogs Smell Edibles? - The Bluntness
Photo by Martin Podsiad on Unsplash
Training drug detection dogs is no walk in the park; it’s a meticulous process that demands dedication and precision. Drug dogs trained for this purpose undergo rigorous and specialized training to ensure they can accurately identify a variety of illicit substances. These canine detectives are trained to detect specific scents, including those of illicit drugs like marijuana, cocaine, and even cannabis edibles. The training process involves repeated exposure to the scents of these illegal substances in various forms.
Handlers use a reward-based system to encourage the dogs to associate these scents with a positive outcome. Imagine a game of hide and seek, but instead of finding a hidden friend, the dog finds a stash of drugs and gets a treat or a favorite toy as a reward. Over time, these trained dogs learn to recognize the scent of illicit substances, even when they are cleverly disguised or mixed with other strong smells, like chocolate or spices in edibles.
The training is rigorous and requires a high level of focus and discipline from both the dog and the handler. It’s not just about sniffing out drugs; it’s about doing so accurately and consistently, regardless of the environment or the presence of other distracting scents. This is why drug detection dogs are such valuable assets in law enforcement and border security.
Listen, dogs have powerful sniffers – around 100,000 times stronger than humans. Let that sink in for a minute. Their noses aren’t just mighty; they’re actually quite sophisticated. Put a pot of chili in front of the average human, and they’re just going to smell chili. But canines go deeper. They can smell layers, so dogs will register the chili ingredients individually. They’ll know there’s meat, beans, peppers and onions in there. They’ll even be able to sniff out any of your secret spices.
When I was younger, my family had this German Spitz named Gee. This dog hated peas with an almighty passion. Hated them more than baths, even more than visits to the vet. This pooch, however, was a true connoisseur of middle-class cuisine, always showing up tableside to eat our scraps.
But anytime one of those green peas was part of the deal, he’d turn up his nose like the true, fluffy white food snob that he was. My dad thought it was funny that a dog had such discriminating taste, so he always tried to trick him into eating peas. It became a game.
Every night we had peas for dinner, rest assured the old man was going to try to get the dog to eat some. One night, after failing to fool the dog so many times before, dad buried a single pea in the middle of Gee’s Alpo, thinking there was no way in hell he could scarf it all down and not eat the pea too. But upon inspecting the bowl later that night, lo and behold, the pea was still there, mocking my father. Gee had won again. But how? Because he could smell it in there the whole time.
This is the reason Sean’s cayenne pepper and coffee grounds methods are useless when it comes to hoodwinking a hound. Sure, they’ll smell the Folgers or whatever else you use to try and disguise any and all pot odors, but they will also sense the weed. Forget about masking pot odor to evade a drug-sniffing dog. Drug dogs detect THC, the active compound in cannabis, even when it’s present in disguised forms like edibles or cartridges. It’s impossible. Research shows that dogs can smell targets in a measurement of part per trillion (ppt). That’s basically a single drop of a liquid substance within twenty Olympic-sized swimming pools. Stoners are no match for the mightiness of the mutt.
Still, the odor of THC edibles and concentrates is different than flower. So, will a K9 alert on these products the same way they do bud? Glenn Hayter, Director of Training & Operations with Global Training Academy, Inc, told The Bluntness that “it is possible.”
Despite these challenges, drug dogs are trained to detect THC, the psychoactive component in cannabis, even when it is masked by other strong-smelling ingredients.
Hayter trains dogs to detect everything from bombs to drugs. He understands the capabilities of a canine and knows they are impressive, to say the least. Yet, Hayter admits that a pot-sniffing pup’s ability to alert on cannabis products really just depends.
“There’s many variables that can come into play to the accuracy of detection such as the environment, weather, packaging, location of the packaging, etc.,” he explained. “But the simple truth is they are more than capable of detecting these trace amounts.”
Unfortunately, “it’s possible” is as good as we get. Some dog trainers we spoke with (but didn’t want to go on record for fear of alienating police buddies) say drug dogs smell edibles and concentrates (because they have a unique smell). In contrast, others assured us that the dog’s snout was powerful enough to alert on these products regardless of the difference.
We reached out to Paul Armentano, Deputy Director of the national cannabis advocacy group NORML in hopes of gaining additional insight. Armentano is infamous for having his finger on the pulse of all the research surrounding marijuana and law enforcement. But not even he has a grip on this one.
“I am not aware of any controlled studies assessing the ability, or lack thereof, of drug detection dogs to identify cannabis products in non-flower formulations,” Armentano told The Bluntness.
While the primary purpose of this article was to show people traveling between legal and illegal territory the safest products to carry in route, I am left with an uneasy feeling about making any concrete recommendations.
It does appear a motorist stands the best chance of not getting busted by traveling exclusively with edibles and concentrates. Dogs “might” be able to smell these items hidden in the trunk, but a cop definitely can’t.
Therefore, not even the most redneck hillbilly trooper should have a reason to instigate a search. But conditions are wild out there in some areas. You never know when a cop will fabricate reasonable suspicion, rip out the seats and call out the sniffer dogs.
If this happens, and there is any kind of cannabis in the vehicle, it could be found. Just understand the risks and do your best to diminish them during your travels.
Can Drug Dogs Smell Edibles? - The Bluntness
Photo by Elsa Olofsson on Unsplash
Edibles come in all shapes and sizes, from brownies and cookies to gummies and chocolates. Each type presents its own unique set of challenges for drug dogs, making the detection game a bit of a mixed bag.
Take baked goods, for example. Brownies and cookies are packed with strong-smelling ingredients like chocolate, vanilla, and butter. These aromatic powerhouses can mask the scent of THC, making it harder for drug dogs to detect the illicit substance hidden within. It’s like trying to find a needle in a haystack, but the haystack smells like a bakery.
On the flip side, candies and gummies often have a more straightforward scent profile. Their concentrated nature can make it easier for drug dogs to pick up the scent of THC. However, if these edibles are packaged in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags, the scent molecules have a harder time escaping, adding another layer of difficulty for our canine detectives.
In the end, the type of edible and its packaging play significant roles in how easily a drug dog can detect it. Whether it’s a gooey brownie or a fruity gummy, these trained dogs are always on the lookout, ready to sniff out any illicit substances crossing their path.
When it comes to detecting edibles, several factors can influence a drug dog’s success. The type of edible, its potency, and the effectiveness of its packaging all play crucial roles. Different types of edibles, such as gummies, brownies, chocolates, or cookies, present unique challenges based on their ingredients and packaging.
These trained dogs can detect THC, the psychoactive component in cannabis, even when it is hidden in edibles or other cleverly disguised forms.
For instance, gummies are one of the more detectable forms of edibles for drug dogs. Their concentrated nature makes it easier for the dogs to pick up the scent of THC. On the other hand, baked goods like brownies, cookies, or cakes present more of a challenge. The complexity of ingredients in these edibles, such as chocolate, flour, butter, and sugar, creates a stronger overall aroma that can mask the scent of THC.
Packaging also plays a significant role. Vacuum-sealed bags or airtight containers can reduce the scent that escapes, making it harder for drug detection dogs to pick up the trail. However, no packaging is entirely foolproof against a well-trained drug dog. These canines are trained to detect even the faintest traces of illicit substances, making them formidable opponents for anyone trying to smuggle edibles.
Understanding these factors can help you appreciate the incredible capabilities of drug detection dogs and the challenges they face in their line of work. Whether it’s gummies or brownies, these trained dogs are always on the lookout, ready to sniff out any illicit substances crossing their path.
So, where are you most likely to run into one of these four-legged narcotic detectors? The answer depends on where you are and what you’re up to.
Drug dogs are a common sight at public gatherings like festivals and concerts, where large crowds and the potential for illicit substances make them a valuable asset. Schools and other educational institutions also employ drug dogs to keep campuses free of contraband. And let’s not forget border crossings and other points of entry, where these canines are on high alert for any illicit substances trying to sneak into the country.
In short, the likelihood of encountering a drug dog is higher in certain locations and situations. If you’re transporting or consuming edibles, it’s wise to be aware of these hotspots. Whether you’re at a music festival or crossing a border, these trained dogs are always on the prowl, ready to sniff out any illicit substances that come their way.
Ah, the age-old question: Can you throw off a drug dog’s scent? The short answer is, probably not. These dogs are highly trained and possess a sense of smell that puts even the most sophisticated human noses to shame.
One popular myth is that you can mask the scent of an illicit substance with strong-smelling items like coffee or cayenne pepper. While it might sound plausible, this method is usually ineffective. Drug dogs are trained to detect the scent of the substance itself, not just the masking agent. So, while they might smell the coffee, they’ll also pick up on the THC hiding underneath.
Another common tactic is to use airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags to limit the release of odor molecules. While this can make detection more challenging, it’s not foolproof. Drug dogs are often trained to detect even the faintest traces of illicit substances, making them formidable opponents for anyone trying to smuggle edibles.
In the end, while there are ways to try to throw off a drug dog’s scent, they are rarely effective. These canines are experts at their craft, and their noses are finely tuned to detect even the most well-hidden substances. So, if you’re thinking about trying to outsmart a drug dog, you might want to think again.
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In the world of cannabis, however, the word strain caught on in the 1980s and there’s been little looking back since. The word is embedded in popular culture, and most cannabis dispensaries and enthusiasts still use the term to describe different varieties of cannabis. With new waves of cannabis legalization, however, more technical and scientific ways of describing the plant are slowly becoming more popular.
Finding the right cannabis cultivars for you is an important part of the process.Photo by Add Weed on Unsplash
Old habits die hard. In popular culture, cannabis cultivars are generally divided into three distinct categories: indica, sativa, and hybrid. These categories, however, may actually mean very little in terms of describing the overall effects of the plant. Over the past decade, research has shown that a strain’s indica, sativa, or hybrid status has little influence on the overall experienced effect of any given strain.
Rather, the effects of a particular strain are determined by the combination of chemical compounds that the flower produces. Whether or not you feel sleepy, energized, or intoxicated by a particular cannabis strain depends on the chemotype of the plant, not the plant’s indica or sativa status.
A chemotype is like a chemical fingerprint. Different families of plants will produce different bouquets of aromatic and psychoactive compounds. The compounds that make up these bouquets partially determine what mental and physical effects the strain will have upon smoking or ingesting the herb.
This is especially the case for different combinations of terpenes the plant produces. Terpenes are responsible for the distinct smell of various cannabis cultivars, and they also have an impact on the overall effect or experience with inhaled cannabis.
For example, some strains are more likely to produce compounds that make you sleepy, while others do not. Further, some strains will produce more THC than others, making them potentially more intoxicating.
Whether you're using the cannabis plant medically or for other reasons, these distinction can help you further dial in your cannabis regimen.
What the indica/sativa distinction is good for, however, is giving a general idea about the phenotypic characteristics of the cultivar. A phenotype is a set of expressed physical characteristics that are genetically inherited—just as some people inherit blue eyes from their parents, some cannabis plants inherit broad leaves. Here’s a quick summary of the difference between cannabis indica and sativa plants:
In popular culture, sativa strains are thought to be more energizing than sleepy. However, as mentioned above, the effects that a given plant produces depends very little on its status as an indica or sativa. Instead, the word sativa tells us more about the physical characteristics of the plant. A sativa plant is more likely to produce narrow leaves, grow tall, and features a long flowering time.
Most strains cultivated today are technically hybrids. Nevertheless, some plants express strong sativa phenotypes. These plants tend to produce thin leaves and can grow to be fairly tall. Three of the most popular sativa cultivars are:
In popular culture, indica strains are thought to be more sleepy than energizing. However, this is somewhat untrue. A strain will be more sleepy and hypnotic based on the presence of sedative aromatic molecules, like the musky terpene myrcene. A strain does not have to be an indica to produce myrcene and not all indicas feature high levels of sedative terpenes.
Instead, the word indica more accurately describes the physical characteristics of some cannabis plants. Cannabis indica plants tend to be short, stocky, and feature broad leaves. These plants are better adapted to cold climates.
Just as some plants strongly express sativa phenotypes, others express strong indica phenotypes. These plants will feature broad leaves, often have a shorter flowering time, and are more likely to be short and stocky. Three of the most popular indica cultivars are:
In popular culture, hybrid strains are crosses between known indica and sativa parents. But, from a scientific perspective, most modern cannabis strains are hybrids. In essence, new strains are created by cross-breeding different cultivars together, a process called hybridization.
The majority of contemporary cannabis strains are hybrids. Therefore, it’s difficult to accurately list cultivars that fall under the “hybrid” category. But, from a popular culture perspective, a few of the most famous hybrid strains include:
Some people prefer cannabis cultivated indoors. Others prefer sun-grown cannabis. And plenty of folks enjoy both.Photo by Next Green Wave on Unsplash
Hundreds. Thousands. Getting an exact answer about how many cannabis strains there are is quite difficult. Why? New cannabis hybrids are bred all the time. Massive strain databases, like Leafly, have over 3,600 unique cannabis strains listed on their website. The vast majority of these varieties, however, are minor cannabis strains that are not well-known to the general public. In total, the general estimate from cannabis experts suggests that there are over 700 different unique strains; the rest may be derivative from these 700.
That’s a pretty big gap, right? Here’s why there’s such a discrepancy. Cannabis breeds a lot like people do (well, no not that way.) Usually, a cannabis plant will be either male or female. As such, when two plants are bred together, the resulting seeds will inherit genetic information from both the male (father plant) and the female (mother plant)—just like people do.
So, it’s possible to have incredible genetic diversity amongst different cannabis plants. It also makes it very easy to pick plants that have preferred characteristics and breed them together to make a new plant that contains the best of both worlds. Once cannabis breeders stabilize a unique mix, it becomes a new cultivar or strain. That “strain” is then named, marketed, and sold as a unique cannabis variety—like Blue Dream or Cat Piss.
Or, for example, like the Blue Cookies strain. The hybrid is the offspring of two popular parents: Girl Scout Cookies and Blueberry. After potentially several generations of stabilization, Blue Cookies can enter the market as its own unique strain. So, if you were to buy Blue Cookies seeds, you would get seeds from a Blue Cookies plant crossed with another Blue Cookies plant. If you were to get a clone, it would be a clone clipped from a Blue Cookies plant. Some strains, like Blue Cookies, are popular enough to garner mainstream attention. Others are more small-scale local legends cultivated by backyard and basement growers.
Cannabis, however, isn’t the only plant that is bred this way. Humans have been hybridizing, selecting, and stabilizing crops for millennia. While there are potentially 3,600 plus known cannabis cultivars, there are also 3,000 different registered tulip varieties and over 10,000 different varieties of wine grapes. And we make new ones all the time, to withstand pests, to improve flavor, to tolerate drought, et cetera.
For more, check out our complete collection of cannabis strain reviews.
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