Cannabis candles have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering a unique and relaxing way to experience the benefits of cannabis without the psychoactive effects. These candles are designed to evoke the scent of cannabis, often using essential oils or fragrance oils to replicate the aroma of marijuana. With their calming and soothing effects, cannabis candles have become a staple in many homes and spas, providing a peaceful ambiance and promoting relaxation.
The allure of cannabis candles lies in their ability to fill a room with the distinctive, earthy smells of cannabis, creating an atmosphere that is both tranquil and inviting. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day or set the mood for a relaxing evening, these candles offer a perfect solution. The use of essential oils in these candles not only mimics the smell of cannabis but also brings additional aromatherapeutic benefits, enhancing the overall experience.
Cannabis candles are exactly as they sound: candles that are infused with elements of the cannabis plant. Using cannabis essential oil and distilled oil with terpenes found in the plant, these candles are made to emulate the overall experience and aura of smoking weed. High-quality cannabis candles often use a cotton wick, which ensures a clean and even burn.
Although cannabis candles may smell like they’ll get you high, this is just an illusion–lighting a scented cannabis candle won’t have any serious psychoactive effects.
However, the candle could emit some of cannabis’s healing properties, specifically from the terpenes involved. Additionally, if you light a candle in tandem with a smoke session, the combined effects of the candle’s terpene oils and the THC you’re smoking on may enhance your overall experience.
While cannabis candles won’t have any sort of major psychoactive effect on you, they do have powerful aromatherapeutic properties that bring a host of benefits to the user through their unique smells.
Aromatherapy is a practice that uses the inhalation of essential oils to boost moods, increase energy, encourage relaxation, relieve pain, and more. Cannabis essential oil is recognized for its balancing properties: mind and body.
Some of the most common terpenes that are used in cannabis candles are myrcene, limonene, and linalool.
Myrcene is easily the most commonly-found terpene among cannabis plants today. Also found in thyme, mangoes, and lemongrass, the terpene promotes calming and relaxing effects. It’s present in strains like Grandaddy Purple, OG Kush, and Blue Dream. Myrcene is used to promote sleep, relieve pain, and soothe anxiety.
Limonene is another incredibly popular terpene, also found in citrus fruits like lemons or oranges. It’s easily recognizable for its orange-ish hue and citrusy, fruity aroma. Limonene is also used in a lot of natural cleaning products and cosmetics, because of its antibacterial properties. It is great for stress relief, mood elevation, and relaxation, and is found in strains like Wedding Cake, MAC, and Berry White.
Linalool is one of the most beautifully aromatic terpenes found in the cannabis plant, and therefore perfect for candle infusion. Also found in lavender and some spices, the terpene is known for its floral, clean scent. It’s found in strains like Amnesia Haze or Lavender Kush and promotes relaxation and depression and anxiety relief.
Between these terpenes and the many others found in cannabis, there is plenty of variety to experience when choosing your cannabis candle. Whether you prefer floral or woodsy scents, relaxation or an energetic boost, there’s definitely a cannabis candle out there for you. Many cannabis candles also feature musk as a base note, which complements other fragrances and enhances the overall therapeutic experience.
Cannabis candles offer a range of benefits and uses, making them a popular choice for those looking to unwind and relax. Here are some of the key advantages and applications of these unique candles:
Interested in the idea of cannabis candle benefits, but not crazy about the smell of weed? If so, CBD candles might be a better choice for you.
Rather than infusing the candle with cannabis essential oil, CBD candles use CBD oil, which smells milder and offers a different aromatic experience. CBD is great for pain reduction, controlling muscle spasms, and soothing depression and anxiety.
Candles made with cannabis essential oil are much more likely to smell like the plant, but CBD candles take a backseat to the terpene distilled oil and other essential oils that may be infused into your candle. Overall, this makes for a milder scent and experience. Some CBD candles feature unique scent profiles, including notes of black pepper, which add depth and complexity to the aroma.
CBD candles are great for enhancing the aromatherapeutic effects that already exist in the candle, and when lit may help to reduce any stress or anxiety you may be experiencing.
Although using CBD candles obviously doesn’t involve consumption, you may still experience the positive effects of the cannabinoid when you spark that wick. A 2017 study revealed that when people breathed in CBD-infused essential oils, there was a noticeable lowering of blood pressure. The participants also felt calmer and more energetic after inhaling.
As with most things cannabis, more research still needs to be done on the overall effects of CBD candles, but so far the anecdotal evidence suggests that the benefits seem to transfer when inhaled.
The Truth About THC Candle: Cannabis Candles & How to Make Your Own - The Bluntness
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Yet another option for cannabis candles is actually derived from the hemp plant. Hemp candles are infused with hemp seed oil rather than cannabis essential oil or CBD oil, and their smells can vary depending on the terpenes present.
Hemp seed oil burns slower, so hemp candles are ideal if you’re looking to save some money and make your candles last as long as possible. Many hemp candles are made with soy wax, which is known for its clean burning properties and environmental benefits. They also may be easier for you to find, since hemp is federally legal and cannabis and CBD remain murky in legality depending on the region.
When using cannabis candles, it’s essential to follow some basic safety precautions and best practices to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
By following these safety precautions and best practices, you can enjoy the benefits of cannabis candles while minimizing the risks.
Again, availability of these products may depend on what exactly you're looking for and where you reside, but you'll definitely have the most luck with CBD or hemp candles, especially if you want the aromatherapeutic effects without the actual scent of cannabis.
The first step would be to consult your local dispensary and see if they offer any wellness products, but there are plenty of great cannabis candle brands online--it seems like more and more pop up every day. Sites like Etsy or Depop also offer cannabis candles, which is ideal for anyone interested in supporting small businesses.
Finally, if none of these options are working out for you, you can always result to making your own cannabis, CBD, or hemp candle at home. It’s as simple as making a regular candle and adding in some cannabis essential oil, hemp seed oil, CBD oil, or even a mixture of all three if you’re feeling adventurous! Using high-quality ingredients ensures that your candle will burn cleanly and evenly, providing a pleasant aromatic experience every time it is burned!
Here is our favorite, simplest way to create your own cannabis candle at home. Once you’ve got the basics down, you can really start getting creative:
Materials:
Steps:
#1) Use the double boiler (can substitute with a glass bowl on top of a saucepan with boiling water) to melt the soy candle wax on medium-low heat.
#1) Use the double boiler (can substitute with a glass bowl on top of a saucepan with boiling water) to melt the soy candle wax on medium-low heat.
#2) While that’s melting, grab your hot glue gun and glue the wick to the very center of the bottom of your mason jar. The more the merrier–it can always be trimmed down later.
#3) While the wax continues to melt, cut your card stock to be a bit larger than the jar. Cut a hole in the middle of your card stock to suspend the wick. This will help the pouring process go smoother.
#4) Once your wax is melted, let it cool to about 120-140 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, add your hemp seed/cannabis/CBD oil.
#5) Pour your wax/oil mixture into the jar, leaving about ½ inch of space from the top of the jar. Allow to cool completely, and finalize by trimming your wick down to be about ½ inch.
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Tropicana Cherry is a world-class hybrid strain developed by Relentless Genetics, a renowned seedbank from the southern United States. This strain is a cross between Tropicana Cookies and Cherry Cookies F3, resulting in a unique terpene profile that combines sweet and sour citrus flavors with hints of earthy nuttiness. Tropicana Cherry is known for its beautiful purple bud colors, light amber hairs, and a pungent aroma that is often described as having a hint of indica dirt smell. The combination of these elements makes Tropicana Cherry a standout in the cannabis community, offering a sensory experience that is both complex and delightful.
Trop Cherry's aroma is sour and fruity, reminiscent of tangerines and cherries, with earthy and nutty notes. The strain's terpenes not only enhance its flavor profile but also contribute to its potential therapeutic properties. For example, beta-caryophyllene offers anti-inflammatory benefits, while limonene may help alleviate anxiety.
The effects of Trop Cherry are primarily uplifting and energizing, making it ideal for daytime use. Users often experience increased focus, creativity, and mood enhancement. The relaxing Indica properties kick in gradually, providing a calming body high that can help manage chronic stress, anxiety, and mild pain.
Trop Cherry Strain - The Bluntness
The visual appeal of Trop Cherry is undeniable, with oversized, rounded buds that are often electric purple, adorned with bright orange hairs and a frosty layer of white trichomes. The deep purple undertones contrast sharply against the vibrant green of the leaves, making the buds stand out in any collection. This striking appearance is not only a testament to the strain's potency but also enhances its bag appeal, making it a popular choice for connoisseurs and growers alike.
The origins of Trop Cherry can be traced to the deliberate crossbreeding of Tropicana Cookies and Cherry Cookies F3, resulting in a unique hybrid that embodies the best traits of its parent strains. Tropicana Cookies is known for its citrus-forward aroma and energizing effects, while Cherry Cookies brings a sweet, earthy flavor and relaxing properties to the mix. This blend creates a well-rounded strain that appeals to both recreational and medical cannabis users, offering a versatile experience that can be enjoyed at various times of the day.
The strain's composition (60% Sativa, 40% Indica) provides a balanced experience, making it ideal for those seeking the upliftment of a Sativa without sacrificing the calming influence of an Indica. Its medium-to-high THC content ensures potent effects, while the absence of CBD means the experience remains focused on psychoactive properties rather than therapeutic relief commonly associated with CBD-rich strains.
Trop Cherry Strain: A Tropical Hybrid Review - The Bluntnesswww.thebluntness.com
Trop Cherry's aroma and flavor profile are among its most distinguishing characteristics, contributing significantly to its popularity. The strain's scent offers a delightful combination of tropical and citrus notes, complemented by the sweetness of ripe cherries and earthy undertones. On first inhale, users can detect a sharp citrus aroma, reminiscent of fresh tangerines, that gradually gives way to the rich, fruity scent of cherries. The exhale reveals hints of earthiness and pine, adding a layer of complexity to the overall sensory experience.
The strain's terpene profile plays a crucial role in shaping its flavor and aroma, as well as enhancing its potential therapeutic effects. Trop Cherry's primary terpenes include:
These terpenes combine to create a strain with multi-layered flavors that can be appreciated by both novice and experienced cannabis enthusiasts.
Trop Cherry is known for its balanced effects, making it suitable for a wide range of users. The strain typically delivers a cerebral high characterized by enhanced focus, mental clarity, and creativity, making it ideal for daytime use or creative activities. As the Sativa effects begin to fade, the Indica properties gradually take over, resulting in a calming body high that can help alleviate stress and tension without causing heavy sedation.
The potency of Trop Cherry is noteworthy, with THC levels ranging from 16% to 24% and sometimes even reaching 30% in certain phenotypes. This ensures that the strain is capable of delivering strong effects, while still allowing users to manage the intensity through dosage control. Newer users are advised to start with a low dose to gauge their tolerance, as the strain's potency can lead to headaches, dry eyes, or paranoia if consumed in excess.
Trop Cherry offers several potential medical benefits, thanks to its cannabinoid and terpene profile. The strain is often used to address various mental health conditions, including:
In addition to these conditions, the strain's ability to stimulate appetite can be helpful for those dealing with nausea or loss of appetite, while its relaxing qualities may aid individuals with insomnia in achieving a restful night's sleep.
Trop Cherry can be grown both indoors and outdoors, although it thrives best in a controlled environment where factors such as temperature, humidity, and lighting can be carefully managed. The strain prefers a warm, sunny climate, typical of Mediterranean conditions, when grown outdoors. Indoor cultivation allows for better regulation of these factors, resulting in high-quality buds with consistent potency.
Key cultivation tips for Trop Cherry:
Trop Cherry Strain Review - The Bluntness
Trop Cherry Strain: A Tropical Hybrid Review - The Bluntnesswww.thebluntness.com
When compared to its parent strains, Tropicana Cookies and Cherry Cookies, Trop Cherry stands out for its balanced effects and higher potency. Tropicana Cookies is more Sativa-leaning, offering cerebral stimulation without the same level of body relaxation, while Cherry Cookies has a stronger Indica influence, leading to more sedative effects. Trop Cherry bridges the gap between these two, providing a functional daytime high that gradually transitions into calm relaxation, making it suitable for a wider range of activities.
In comparison to other citrus-flavored hybrids, Trop Cherry offers a more complex flavor profile due to the rich cherry undertones and earthy elements. It delivers a versatile experience that can be enjoyed during creative pursuits, social gatherings, or outdoor activities like hiking, where its energizing properties and pleasant aroma make it suitable for a wide range of recreational and medical applications.
When it's all said and done, Trop Cherry is a highly sought-after strain that offers a unique and refreshing experience for cannabis enthusiasts. With its sweet and sour citrus flavors, lovely lady packs flavors, and fruity flavors, this strain is perfect for those looking for a world-class hybrid that can help with stress, anxiety, and depression. While some users may experience slight sativa anxiety, the overall effects of Tropicana Cherry are uplifting and euphoric, making it an excellent choice for daytime use. Whether you’re a seasoned smoker or a beginner, Tropicana Cherry is definitely worth trying. Its unique flavor profile, combined with its potential therapeutic benefits, make it a standout strain in the cannabis industry.
Psilocybin, the active compound in magic mushrooms, degrades over time due to exposure to oxygen, heat, moisture, and light. Improper storage can also lead to mold or bacterial contamination, making the mushrooms unsafe to consume. On average:
With optimal storage, you can minimize these risks and extend the shelf life of your mushrooms. If magic mushrooms aren’t stored correctly, they can break down, lose potency, and even become highly susceptible to bacteria or mold – a major danger to your body.
Thankfully, knowing how to store magic mushrooms is a pretty straightforward process once you get it down, and it doesn’t need to be very expensive at all. The Bluntness has broken down everything you need to know about storing shrooms, whether they’re dried or fresh.
For any form of fungi, you run a potentially dangerous risk if you’re not taking proper storage precautions. There are four main factors you have to be aware of when trying to get the longest shelf life possible for your shrooms:
If any of these four factors aren’t closely monitored and considered, your shrooms will lose potency, break down, or rot, and if you slip up and consume shrooms that have grown mold or bacteria on them, you are risking your health.
The first step in preserving mushrooms is proper drying. Fresh mushrooms have high moisture content, which makes them susceptible to mold and rot. To dry mushrooms:
Airtight storage is critical to prevent moisture, oxygen, and light from degrading your mushrooms. Here are the best options:
How to Store Magic MushroomsThis method is the most straightforward way to store dried shrooms. Mason jars are easy to find at your local grocery store, and they provide an airtight, oxygen-free environment for your fungi to hang out in for up to 12 months. (We highly recommend writing the date you stored the shrooms on the jar for future reference).
For best results, make sure to keep your shroom-filled mason jars in a dry, dark, cool environment. Also, keep in mind that although the shrooms will remain active and mold-and-bacteria-free for up to 12 months, they will likely lose some of their potency after about six months of storage.
How to Store Magic MushroomsZiplock bags are another incredibly cost-effective method for storing dried shrooms, and they offer about the same amount of protection that mason jars do, if you’re careful.
When storing magic mushrooms in a ziplock bag, make sure you squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing it, and double check for any holes or openings in the bag before putting it away.
For added protection, some consumers will combine both methods by first placing their shrooms in a ziplock bag, and then storing the bag in a mason jar.
How to Store Magic MushroomsIf stored properly, chocolate can stay good for up to 18 months, and combining the food product with psilocybin is a great way to ensure your shrooms don’t go bad.
You can easily create your own psilocybin chocolate by grinding your dried shrooms into powder, melting some chocolate on a stove, and combining the two. Just make sure you don’t add the powder until the chocolate has cooled down a bit, or you may damage the psilocybin content and reduce potency.
This is a great (and tasty) method for protecting your magic shrooms from the elements, as chocolate seals out oxygen and UV light.
How to Store Magic MushroomsIf the edible route seems to work best for you and your preferences, another great option is to combine your dried shrooms with honey. Shroom-infused honey can last up to 18 months or longer if stored properly – in many cases, up to two years.
To do this, simply place your dried shrooms in a mason jar and cover them with honey. Make sure they’re immersed by at least half an inch, and opt for raw honey if you can.
It doesn’t matter if you grind the shrooms into powder first or place them in whole – either method will store well in the honey. Throughout their time in the jar, the shrooms’ active ingredients will diffuse into the honey, which will eventually allow you to just eat the honey directly to experience the fungi’s effects.
How to Store Magic MushroomsHaving shrooms in capsule form is becoming increasingly popular, especially in the brave new world world of microdosing. Believe it or not, capsulized mushrooms are quite simple to create at home, and can store safely for up to 12 months without losing much potency.
The key is to fill up the capsules as much as possible, because any empty spaces will result in oxygen making its way in and breaking down the fungi much quicker.
A pro tip for capsule storage is to utilize an oxygen absorber or desiccant, which will help ensure there is no drop in potency over time.
If you’ve come across fresh magic mushrooms or truffles, which are still somewhat rare in the market, you’ll quickly learn they’re much more finicky and can mold and rot in just a few days if they aren’t stored properly.
If you plan to use them within 5-10 days, fresh shrooms or truffles can be stored in the fridge in a brown paper bag. However, if you’re planning to store them any longer, you’ll have to dry them out.
This can be done by: air drying – a.k.a., placing the shrooms on a paper towel for about 72 hours; dehydrating them with a food dehydrator; or freeze-drying, which is effective, but definitely the most complicated and costly method to utilize.
You’ll know almost immediately if fresh mushrooms have spoiled because they'll have a nasty musty odor, and you’ll likely see blue or green fuzzy growths on the caps and stem. Although, it's worth noting that some white fuzziness on the stems is normal — this is the mycelial threads from the fungi trying to grow outwards from the harvested mushrooms.
For dried mushrooms, it’s not so easy to tell if they've gone bad. Obvious signs your shrooms went bad include green or blue mold growth, moisture or sogginess, and an awful smell. It’s no longer safe to use shrooms that look or smell like this. Throw them away.
If you store your mushrooms correctly, they will remain edible for many, many years. It’s more likely your shrooms will lose their potency than it is for them to go moldy if stored correctly. If you eat your stored mushrooms beyond their “expiration date”, they might just not work as well or at all. As long as they’re not moldy, they’re very unlikely to make you feel ill.
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Contrary to popular belief, freezing is not ideal for storing magic mushrooms. Studies show that freezing can accelerate psilocybin degradation in the short term, reducing potency. Instead, store your mushrooms at room temperature in a dark, cool place.
Desiccants absorb residual moisture and help maintain a dry environment. Save silica gel packs from electronics or shoes, or purchase them online, and include them in your storage container.
Consuming shrooms can already result in an upset stomach or feelings of nausea, and throwing mold or bacteria in the mix can wreak some serious havoc on your digestive system, which won’t be fun at all to experience mid-trip.
Even with proper storage, it's essential to check for signs of spoilage before consuming. Avoid mushrooms with:
Note: Blue discoloration is normal and results from psilocybin oxidation, not mold.
A recent study on psilocybin degradation examined different storage methods. Key findings include:
Conclusion: Room temperature storage in dark, airtight containers is optimal for long-term preservation.
Properly storing magic mushrooms is part science and part art. With the right techniques, you can ensure your stash stays potent and safe for months—or even years. Whether you’re a microdoser, a psychonaut, or a curious explorer, mastering the art of preservation allows you to enjoy your magic mushrooms with confidence and peace of mind.
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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We’re not only the primary consumers of coffee on the planet, but approximately 25% of Americans regularly consume cannabis, according to a 2021 article in Forbes.
While coffee and cannabis seem like a match made in heaven, coffee, and its stimulating compound, caffeine, is known to give its drinkers an increased heartbeat, jitters, anxiety, nervousness, and sweating.
Since approximately 41% of medical marijuana patients use cannabis to treat anxiety disorders (according to New Frontier Data), pairing cannabis with an anxiety-inducing stimulant is problematic.
As more people adopt nutrient-rich coffee alternatives, maybe it’s due time to give the Hippie Speedball a millennial makeover.
A Hippie Speedball is a unique combination of coffee and cannabis that has gained popularity among those looking for a morning or midday pick-me-up. This energizing drink combines the stimulating effects of coffee with the relaxing and creativity-inducing properties of cannabis, creating a powerful and uplifting experience. The Hippie Speedball is a great addition to a wake and bake routine, allowing individuals to start their day with a harmonious blend of aromatic stimulation, grinding to perfection, and setting intentions for flow state.
Coffee & Weed: A Modern Spin on the Hippie Speedball - The Bluntness
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As legalization spreads throughout the US, a major uptick in cannabis-focussed studies allows us to better understand why sparking that joint and taking a sip of freshly brewed coffee feels so good.
Better still, we can now assess how different strains of cannabis affect our bodies and offer various therapeutic benefits when paired with other substances like coffees, teas, botanicals, and so on.
To grasp this more simply, let's briefly break down the major compounds present in cannabis, how these compounds work together, and why they either keep us on the couch, or spark creativity and focus.
To start, let's talk cannabinoids.
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in the Cannabis sativa plant. There are approximately 100 of these compounds, with some of the most well-known being delta- 9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).
Each of these compounds are responsible for eliciting certain effects within the body, and each have their own set of therapeutic properties to boot. But cannabinoids aren't the only phytochemicals, or plant-derived chemicals, present in cannabis – there are upwards of 500 – including substances called terpenes and flavonoids.
Terpenes are aromatic compounds that are responsible for the way plants smell.
Present in plants, fruits, and vegetables, terpenes aren't only responsible for creating the delicious scents we associate with things like fresh orange peel or soothing lavender; for some plants, terpenes attract pollinators, others deter predators, repair damage to the plant, and boost a plant's immune system.
Recent research suggests that terpenes may possess health benefits for humans as anti-inflammatories, antioxidants, anxiolytics, and more. So, next time you pick up an eighth of Lemon Haze, that sweet lemon smell and uplifting high is all thanks to a specific terpene profile.
In addition to cannabinoids and terpenes, another important group of phytochemicals present in cannabis are flavonoids. As the name suggests, flavonoids impact the flavor of a plant, fruit, or vegetable.
But that's not all. Flavonoids help regulate cellular activity and fight off free radicals that cause oxidative stress on the body. Simply speaking, flavonoids help the body function more efficiently while protecting it against toxins and stressors.
All of these phytochemicals work together in what is called the entourage effect to elicit more significant benefits within the body. Since terpenes and flavonoids are present across plant species, these substances are also impacting the effects of the coffee and teas that we consume regularly.
There are more than 1,000 chemical compounds in coffee including caffeine, antioxidants, and diterpenes. Caffeine is a mild central nervous system stimulant that is found in some 60 plant species – the most well known being cocoa-beans, kola nuts, tea leaves and coffee beans.
Incorporating a little caffeine into your routine can enhance the experience of a Hippie Speedball, providing an energetic and uplifting effect.
Extensive research has shown that there are several beneficial effects of caffeine such as improved attention, alertness, and enhanced physical performance, however, there can be adverse effects, such as disturbed sleep patterns, nervousness, and anxiety.
When consumed together, coffee and cannabis are found to elicit a variety of effects:
If you’re a person that suffers from disturbed sleep patterns, increased heart rate, anxiety, or panic attacks, you may want to reconsider your morning routine.
When the compounds in cannabis work together with those in coffee, an enhanced high could potentially lead to paranoia, or many of the unwanted side effects of THC.
This experience is especially uncomfortable if they start setting in on your morning commute, or just as you’re about to hop on your first Zoom call of the day. Yikes.
The pairing of coffee and cannabis is a match made in heaven. Coffee, with its stimulating compound caffeine, can give drinkers an increased heartbeat, jitters, anxiety, nervousness, and sweating. On the other hand, cannabis, with its relaxing and creativity-inducing properties, can help alleviate these negative effects. When consumed together, coffee and cannabis can elicit a variety of effects, including an enhanced high that may lead to paranoia or unwanted side effects of THC. However, when done correctly, the combination can create a perfect balance of energy and relaxation.
To get the most out of a Hippie Speedball, it’s essential to choose the right cannabis strain. Sativa-dominant strains with a high concentration of limonene are ideal, as they provide an energizing and uplifting effect. Hybrid or indica strains can also be used, especially for those prone to anxiety from sativas. When selecting a strain, consider the terpene profile, as it can greatly impact the overall experience. Limonene, for example, is a terpene known for its energizing and uplifting effects, making it a great choice for a Hippie Speedball.
For those of us that hold the Hippie Speedball in high regard, it's tough to consider an alternative to coffee with our morning jay.
That being said, there are numerous delicious and nutritious coffee alternatives on the market that will satisfy both our taste buds and our desire to feel focused and balanced.
Here are a few examples of beverages that will be a great addition to your morning, while also pairing nicely with your favorite AM cannabis strain.
Chocolate contains hundreds of nutrients, minerals, and compounds, some of which react within the human brain to alter our moods. All chocolate is derived from the cacao plant's bean, which is antioxidant-rich and nutrient-dense.
However, we're not suggesting drinking hot cocoa for breakfast. Raw cacao has not been combined with any sugars or dairy products. Cacao contains caffeine as well as a similar compound called theobromine, both bearing stimulant and slight anti-inflammatory properties.
Coffee & Weed: A Modern Spin on the Hippie Speedball - The Bluntness
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TIP: Cacao is naturally bitter. Add unsweetened coconut cream, agave, and spices like cinnamon to jazz up your morning cup. Choose a cannabis strain like Harlequin with balanced levels of cannabinoids for the best effects.
Adaptogens decrease sensitivity to stressors, and prolong stimulation. By ingesting adaptogens, instead of experiencing exhaustion, we will experience a higher level of equilibrium, or homeostasis – essentially, adaptogens keep us balanced. And that's what we're all ultimately aiming for, right?
There are tons of adaptogenic beverages on the market today and most of them are using mushrooms to create their products.
These mushrooms are not the same as psilocybin – the hallucinogenic, “magic” mushrooms – rather, several species (reishi, shiitake, cordyceps, chaga, and maitake) are part of a special category of herbs and medicinal compounds.
These mushrooms are non-toxic and are believed to support the body's response to stress, help to maintain healthy metabolic levels, boost cognitive brain function, and aid in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome.
There isn't yet a ton of research on the subject of cannabis paired with adaptogens, but anecdotal evidence suggests that combining weed with adaptogens like fungi can actually enhance the effects of both the adaptogens and cannabis.
Currently, there are several products on the market that combine CBD or CBN with adaptogenic herbs and mushrooms. Whether they're capsules, powders, or beverages, this trend has been catching steam for the past five years.
TIP: Since many products tout the benefits of combining CBD with adaptogens, try it yourself with a CBD-rich strain like ACDC or Harle-Tsu.
For thousands of years, teas existed as top of the line remedies in folk medicine.
Herbal teas like chamomile help us sleep, green teas are antioxidant rich and energizing, black tea is bold with stronger levels of caffeine.
When we pair cannabis with tea, we need to consider the effects of the tea first – especially caffeine content. If you prefer a highly caffeinated black tea – think English Breakfast – you can reduce your buzz by choosing a heavier, relaxing cannabis strain. If you're sipping white tea or an herbal tea, an energizing strain pairs well.
Again, there is not much clinical research on the intersection of teas and cannabis at the moment.
However, as interest mounts, the benefits of what is referred to as the “synergistic” effect of pairing botanicals and plant compounds are beginning to reveal themselves. Synergy – from the Greek synergos meaning “working together” is essentially when the therapeutic effects are greater when combining botanicals than when taking the botanicals by themselves, individually.
This theory holds true when we pair botanical teas with our cannabis. So if you're looking to drop your caffeine intake, choosing an antioxidant rich tea as your morning brew may be right for you.
TIP: Pairing note - consider how you normally enjoy your tea. If you're someone who prefers a slice of lemon in your cup, choose a lemon-forward strain like Lemon OZ for the ultimate flavor combination.
Coffee & Weed: A Modern Spin on the Hippie Speedball - The Bluntness
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There are hundreds of ways to upgrade your Hippie Speedball, and most of the options pack tons of flavor and natural therapeutic benefits. It's important to remember that every person's biology is unique to them, so what might work for one person may not be the best for another.
Our mornings are sacred, and so is our relationship with cannabis. Don't suffer with jitters and anxiety, or brain fog and lethargy – sip your morning bevvy and smoke your favorite preroll knowing that the combination you've created is working to keep you at your optima, highest vibrational self.
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