{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/industry-spotlight/4","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2394-markdown","title":"Strovia Cannabis Lozenge Review","slug":"strovia-cannabis-lozenge-review","content":"### Why a Cannabis Lozenge?\n\nI talk to a lot of people regarding their cannabis usage and one thing that comes up over and over again is convenience of use and discretion. Let’s face it, carrying around cannabis flower is not always convenient and it is never what I might call discreet. In addition, many people look to find cannabis products that might carry the benefits of smoking, but they would prefer not to smoke at all. It seems this is especially true of those that may be new to cannabis as well as the senior community. For these reasons, the cannabis marketplace has been exploding with a wide variety of new products that explore a plethora of delivery mediums. One product which recently came to my attention is a cannabis lozenge by Strovia.\n\nStrovia solely focuses on the creation of lozenges and offers 11 different products with four different ratios: THC rich, CBD rich, Balanced 1:1 and “Just CBD”. When the  cannabinoids CBD and THC are combined, patients benefit from the synergistic healing action of THC and CBD. There is also a variety of potency anywhere from 2mg - 32mg, which provides enough variety for the varying needs of patients. Doug of Strovia commented on dosing saying, “In plant-based medicine, each person responds differently to identical doses. Some people achieve a substantial benefit from a micro dose. However, they may encounter that same benefit at the low, standard or high potency doses.” \n\nThe lozenges combine familiar flavors such as echinacea, ginger and lemongrass, apple, mango, honey and even pomegranate. Strovia also touts their lozenges to be “infused with premium cannabis, cleanly extracted, lab tested and third party verified for both dose accuracy and purity.” \n\n### Delivery Method Matters\n\nIf your familiar with cannabis, you may know that different methods of administration yield different results. Lozenges are interesting in that the membrane of the mouth allows for the infusion of cannabis directly into the bloodstream, and quickly. This is different than a swallowed edible, in that the cannabis is metabolized by the liver and may be more susceptible to stomach acids and other digestive enzymes that can decrease the potency of the THC and CBD.   \n\nDoug from Strovia explained that “absorption through the oral mucosa is simply the most effective delivery method for reaching the [endocannabinoid system](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5751cbd970410e000b00003a/what-is-the-endocannabinoid-system). But more than that, lozenges are easier to administer to pediatric and geriatric patients as well as patients who have difficulty swallowing or holding down food down.”\n\nRELATED: [BLOOM FARMS CBD CARTRIDGE REVIEW](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/57ba49a00bc21c000b6472c3/bloom-farms-cbd-cartridge-review)\n\nStrovia was interesting enough to us at HelloMD that we decided to do a road test with a few members of our staff. Our staff selected flavors, ratios and potency that appealed to them and below you can read what they had to say. If you would like to purchase Strovia, the lozenges are available for delivery throughout California through True Farma.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en) \n\n### HelloMD Strovia Reviews \n\nBart - HelloMD Staff,\nStrovia Lemon Honey Echinacea,\n20mg THC Rich & 10mg THC Rich\n\n“The first 20mg I took was at a holiday party and it provided just the right amount of \"background music\" that kept me engaged in conversation, entertained, but not too intoxicated to function. I felt relaxed and social. At the same time and my appetite was stimulated enough to enjoy the dinner and I found the lozenge to be delicious with just enough of sweet from the honey.\n\nThe second time I took the 10mg dose and it was after a particularly long day of work and I found it was just enough to take the edge off. In this instance it was like the background music was turned down to a whisper.  This product is wonderful if you need to relax, especially for someone like me where I spend the majority of my time talking on the phone. I also found the soothing effects of the honey on my throat after a day of speaking, which is a wonderful effect of this lozenge.”\n\n_______________________________________________________________________\n\nVeronica - HelloMD Staff,\nStrovia Pomegranate Antioxidant,\nTHC Rich Strovia - 5:1 THC: CBD\n\nOne day last week after work, I decided to open up my new Strovia lozenge and it immediately reminded me of a jolly rancher. I popped it in my mouth and a lovely, strong flavor of pomegranate was what was immediately evident. After a few more minutes I detected a mild cannabis taste, which is fine for me. However, there was a cannabis after taste, particularly on the roof of my mouth, but a glass of water made it imperceptible.\n\nThe effects of the Strovia kicked in pretty quickly. What I immediately noticed was that I had less pain in my right knee, and I was able to perform deep squats and return to standing without struggle. My stress levels were reduced and my mood improved throughout the evening, and I was able to fall asleep right away. I enjoyed a restful night’s sleep without interruption, and woke up feeling refreshed.”\n______________________________________________________________________\n\nChris - HelloMD Staff,\nStrovia Lemon Honey Echinacea,\n20mg THC Rich\n\n“The Honey Lemon Echinacea lozenge is a nice switch from the traditional edible.  The lozenge delivery is reminiscent of a Ricola, both in taste and overall experience, which I found incredibly pleasant.  The onset of the 20 mg of THC was fast, but not in an overwhelming way.  As a high tolerance user, I found the the high to be immediate but sustained over the course of several hours, which is unusual for me with this dosage, which I consider on the lower side.  The lozenge itself is pretty big, so if you’re not a fan of hard candy, you may want to drop it in a cup of tea to dissolve as an alternative.”\n\n_______________________________________________________________________\n\nRyan - HelloMD Staff,\nStrovia Pomegranate Antioxidant,\n10mg CBD Rich\n\n\"I decided to try the Strovia at my work desk to see the impact of a CBD edible on my workflow. Anxiety can add a lot of noise to your thought processes and CBD clears this up for me. As a result, I am able to focus much better at the tasks at hand, in combination with fostering a relaxed and well adjusted mood. \n\nThe lozenge dissolved slowly and the effects also came on so slowly. I barely noticed a change in my own affect, a hallmark of a great CBD edible. I found that the rest of the day very went well for me, conversations came much more smoothly and I was able to focus on what I wanted to when I wanted to. I am looking forward to buying my own Strovia and repeating the experience. I hate to be a fanboy, but I really really enjoyed trying the Strovia 10mg CBD lozenge.\"\n\n_______________________________________________________________________\n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/14b42/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.jpg","srcSet":"/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/f836f/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.jpg 200w,\n/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/2244e/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.jpg 400w,\n/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/14b42/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.jpg 800w,\n/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/47498/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.jpg 1200w,\n/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/54ac5/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/58556/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/61e93/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.webp 200w,\n/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/1f5c5/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.webp 400w,\n/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/58556/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.webp 800w,\n/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/99238/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.webp 1200w,\n/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/5e0b8/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2072-markdown","title":"Is This the Perfect Marijuana Edible?","slug":"is-this-the-perfect-marijuana-edible","content":"I don’t usually like marijuana edibles. Too sweet, too sticky, too large, poorly packaged, too slow to come on and unpredictable with their effect. Lately however, I have discovered a new best friend that comes in a little tin box, and her name is ‘Kiva’ – the perfect marijuana edible.\n\nKiva Terra Bites are made by Kiva Confections one of the leading edible’s manufacturers in California. Their factory in Oakland, and the founding story of the company is impressive, and a wonderful example of how the thriving cannabis industry is uplifting the economy and providing opportunity to thousands of small businesses and their employees. \n\nFounders Kristi Knoblich and her partner Scott Palmer, were both photographers when the economy turned south in 2008. With prospects for photography work dimming, they started growing in their garden to help make ends meet. Upon visiting dispensaries to sell their crop, they observed a gap in the market for lab tested, professionally packaged and labeled edibles, that actually tasted good. With Kiva Confections, they set about meeting this apparent opportunity. \n\nTheir first product – The chocolate bar– sold well. But it was not long before they innovated further with a focus on the wonderful expresso bean, and the Kiva Terra Bite was created.\n\nKristi explains: \n\n“Patients began asking us for a smaller portion of our bars. They would make a motion with their hands, indicating a small, palm sized serving of chocolate.  Scott concluded the chocolate covered espresso bean would fit the description of what they were looking for. The small, simple serving size would promise consumers convenience and the ability to dial down their dose, thereby mitigating their over consumption. And so, Terra was born in November of 2013.  That’s what our company is all about: creating innovative ways people to consume cannabis, and have a positive experience!”\n\nKristi personally showed me around their impressive facility, and I watched in amazement as the espresso beans were created in large, turning cement mixer looking machines, each one carefully and skillfully manned by a production specialist. \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/582365ed65e8fd0008884100/embedded_images/582366cf65e8fd0008884107/Screen_Shot_2016-11-09_at_9.58.44_AM.png)\n\n**Kristi inspects one of the chocolate panning machines**\n\nKristi on how they learned the art of covering espresso beans with chocolate:\n\n“We spent some time in Ohio, learning the art of panning from the panning Guru, Kevin Dolan, who has since passed away. Panning is the process of coating the beans or berries in chocolate until they become the target size; it’s like the snowball effect. Now Kiva has a team of expert panners, and they practice their art right here in our facility in Oakland. Our Terra Espresso beans and blueberries have become our most popular products.”\n\nSo why is this the perfect edible, and why have I become such a fan?\n\n#### Portion Size (and dose)\nEach chocolate bean contains 5mg of THC. This makes dosing (or micro dosing) easy and consistent. Just eat as many beans as you want to dose. I personally like to take two beans together, and then might add a third about an hour later. This 10 – 15mg range puts me in a wonderful, happy mood for the evening, enhances the sound of music and leaves me sharp enough to cook and enjoy a delicious meal with my family. It’s the perfect Friday night wind down after a stressful week. \n\n#### Delicious Taste\nThere is no hint of cannabis in the flavor. It’s just a combination of great tasting dark chocolate (which I love) and roasted espresso coffee bean which you just chew up once the chocolate has gone. I am not sure the espresso bean is enough to provide a wake-up kick, but it might, and I personally don’t enjoy getting sleepy with cannabis and so this is an added bonus. \n  \n#### Convenient \nThe beans come in a little round tin, and are easy to pack and carry. There is no wrapper to create trash, or look unsightly as partially unwrapped chocolate does. I have taken the beans camping with me, and to others houses as a dinner guest. Everybody seems to love them!\n\n#### Fast Acting\nI have eaten edibles that take a full two hours to take effect, which is really too long for my purposes.  I can't say why, but my experience with Terra Bites is that you usually feel them within 20 minutes of dosing. Perhaps it's something to do with the chocolate delivery.\n\nAll I can say in conclusion, is that I now keep a ready supply of these wonderful treats. Please don't take them away!\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.1111111111111112,"src":"/static/65fd7abc8ab246eaa103856a33b3f117/14b42/6d4786ff94ae9014c48cf10bd4431662.jpg","srcSet":"/static/65fd7abc8ab246eaa103856a33b3f117/f836f/6d4786ff94ae9014c48cf10bd4431662.jpg 200w,\n/static/65fd7abc8ab246eaa103856a33b3f117/2244e/6d4786ff94ae9014c48cf10bd4431662.jpg 400w,\n/static/65fd7abc8ab246eaa103856a33b3f117/14b42/6d4786ff94ae9014c48cf10bd4431662.jpg 800w,\n/static/65fd7abc8ab246eaa103856a33b3f117/433c6/6d4786ff94ae9014c48cf10bd4431662.jpg 1135w","srcWebp":"/static/65fd7abc8ab246eaa103856a33b3f117/58556/6d4786ff94ae9014c48cf10bd4431662.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/65fd7abc8ab246eaa103856a33b3f117/61e93/6d4786ff94ae9014c48cf10bd4431662.webp 200w,\n/static/65fd7abc8ab246eaa103856a33b3f117/1f5c5/6d4786ff94ae9014c48cf10bd4431662.webp 400w,\n/static/65fd7abc8ab246eaa103856a33b3f117/58556/6d4786ff94ae9014c48cf10bd4431662.webp 800w,\n/static/65fd7abc8ab246eaa103856a33b3f117/b6e4e/6d4786ff94ae9014c48cf10bd4431662.webp 1135w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2213-markdown","title":"Accurate Dosing with CBD & THC","slug":"accurate-dosing-with-cbd-and-thc","content":"### Creating a Desired Outcome\r\n\r\nFor years we’ve been conditioned to buy health and wellness products based on a desired outcome. We know ahead of time that a given product will work for a headache, for back-pain, for an upset stomach, or for sleep. This had not been the case in the medical cannabis arena, at least not until now. HMBLDT is out to change this. \r\n\r\nI recently met the folks from the HMBLDT team, and got to listen in on the many intricacies that went into making cannabis products that promise what they call ‘needs states’. While more and more concentrate makers are delivering their medicine in replaceable cartridges, the HMBLDT team explained that short of creating an all-in-one product, with no moving parts, they would not be able to stake claim to needs states (ie. Outcomes). For now, HMBLDT offers these four devices, promising BLISS, RELIEF, CALM and SLEEP.\r\n\r\nNeeds state-based packaging is a critical step forward for the cannabis industry, in particular for attracting new patients. To date, most cannabis flower or infused products have been modest at best in declaring what outcome their products may offer. Instead, we’ve witnessed a more generalist approach, where patients are highly dependent on the bud-tender to try to match products with symptoms and unfortunately not all bud tenders are well informed.\r\n\r\n### Why Accurate Dosing Matters\r\n\r\nHMBLDT has relied on the right combination of cannabis extracts and technology to deliver on their promises. For one, each of the four vaporizer pens come pre-loaded with very clear, beautiful looking cannabis oils - that you can clearly see through the device's gauge. In each, aside from the secret sauce they have invested significantly in developing, you will find a carefully implemented CDB-THC ratio. \r\n\r\nDose control is where HMBLDT introduces a unique solution. Until recently, dosing, as a means of optimizing one’s success with medical cannabis, has been woefully underused in cannabis packaging. In the edibles segment, for instance, we are finally starting to see more ‘micro-dosing’-- an approach that will invariably help both new and existing patients better manage their results. Dosing controlled products like HMBLT will help the general public to better understand that cannabis - like other medications - needs to be delivered on a dose basis in order to achieve desired (yes, rather than undesired) results. \r\n\r\nIn the case of the HMBLDT devices, the research team identified what they believe is the optimal single dose; the technology team added a feature that turns off the device once you have inhaled that dose. Even better, the device vibrates to tell you you’ve reached the per dose amount. This control mechanism is critical to delivering on the promised needs states - BLISS, RELIEF, CALM and SLEEP.\r\n\r\n### My Experience with HMBLDT\r\n\r\nI’ve tried three of them; BLISS, RELIEF, and CALM. I’m very curious to try SLEEP actually as I am one of those patients for whom THC actually stimulates rather than sedates me, mostly by creating a ‘busy-brain’ effect. SLEEP includes plenty of THC, but I’ve spoken to a few people already that used SLEEP with success, including members of our team here at HelloMD.  \r\n\r\nAs for the others, I’m sold. I’ve used many vaporizing devices and concentrates, in search of one that I could depend on regularly. I’ve found many that I really like, but in HMBLDT I have one that just feels dependable and consistent. And ironically, not withstanding my knowledge of and comfort with these devices, it’s the dose control that is making the biggest difference for me. \r\n\r\n### Vaping with CALM\r\n\r\nWhile this one is built of a CBD-THC ratio of 15:1, don’t be fooled. You can feel the THC. For me, CALM actually created a real sense of focus. In my life, this is a sense of calm, as it can be difficult for me to stay in one lane.\r\n\r\nHelloMD team member Ashlyn, also tried this pen and she has this to say about CALM:\r\n\r\n>\"The first pen that I tried was the Calm. It has a 15:1 ratio of CBD to THC, and only one inhalation was enough to ease the migraine that I could feel coming on. Because of the high-CBD content, I felt no psychoactive or sedating effects, just a mild sense of relaxation and easing of tension. This allowed me to function normally and alertly at work.\"\r\n\r\n### Vaping with RELIEF\r\n\r\nThis device’s concentrate is based on a CBD to THC ratio of 2:1, a ratio I usually prefer as I find the CBD mutes some of the undesirable results THC can produce (ie. Anxiety). Unfortunately, I am not one whose pain is subdued by THC; often the opposite actually. So I seek out solutions like RELIEF. One bonus for me with RELIEF, it helped me sleep soundly.\r\n\r\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/5820cd89cd3edf000b8d8fce/embedded_images/5820ce00f1221300073dc671/Screen_Shot_2016-11-07_at_10.16.13_AM.png)\r\n\r\nMelissa, who heads up our Customer Service team, also tried this pen and she had this to say about RELIEF:\r\n>\"I came home feeling nauseous one evening and decided to try the RELIEF pen. I took my first draw pretty lightly and it did not vibrate. The next time, I inhaled more deeply, and in a few seconds it did vibrate. It made me cough pretty hard though! After coughing, I started to feel a little less nauseous. I took 2 more doses and felt complete relief. I was no longer nauseous. I was surprised, and happy it worked so well for my nausea.\"\r\n\r\n### Vaping with BLISS\r\n\r\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/5820cd89cd3edf000b8d8fce/embedded_images/5820cd8bcd3edf000b8d8fcf/Screen_Shot_2016-11-07_at_10.38.37_AM.png)\r\n\r\nI just love the name. By itself, it makes feel good. And so did the device. BLISS in particular is where the dosing control made a difference. When using cannabis for more ‘blissful’ results, there is nothing I like less than over-consuming. HMBLDT solves that problem.\r\n\r\nNote that while the device is programmed to vibrate when you have reached the prescribed dose, I did not always get there. I know I don’t have a very strong inhale, so this is likely the reason. Either way, at least I know that I am below the prescribed dose, and not over.\r\n\r\nMark, HelloMD's CEO tried out the BLISS pen and had this to say:\r\n\r\n>\"My experience with BLISS was very positive. I found that if you pull strongly it will make you cough, so I now prefer to take mini puffs. It made me feel happy and slightly enhanced, but not really high, which is great. It was a positive experience and I really enjoy the overall design of the pen as well.\"\r\n\r\n### Vaping with SLEEP\r\n\r\nI did not try the SLEEP pen, but two HelloMD team members, Ryan and Chris both enjoyed their experience. Ryan from our Customer Services team had this to say about the SLEEP pen:\r\n\r\n>\"The HMBLT Sleep vape pen has a very slick, almost surgical design and the packaging could have arrived from Apple’s cannabis division. Its convenient size slid right into my pocket and after work I almost forgot to take it for a test run. \r\n\r\n>I suffer from insomnia. Some nights I can’t fall asleep, though this is easily remedied with cannabis. Other nights I fall asleep, but wake up at 2 am, my brain immediately keeping my body awake. After using the HMBLDT SLEEP pen for about a week now, I can confidently say that it is my first line for early am insomnia. It's just that good. \r\n\r\n>I used to fumble around in the night, count the seconds to myself and watch the cloud of vapor to see if it was large or small. That was how I dosed myself. A small cloud, maybe, needed another puff, while a large cloud probably signaled that tomorrow may require an extra cup of coffee. The HMBLDT sleep pen fixes all of this with its fixed dosing.\" \r\n\r\nChris, who supports our Business Division, reviews many products for us and here is what he had to say about the SLEEP pen:\r\n\r\n>\"I was incredibly impressed with what was contained inside the Hmbldt sleep pen.  The oil had a fantastic taste, and the vapor was incredibly smooth.  I noticed a much cooler temperature of the vapor produced by the HMBLDT, a staggering difference to usual harsh vapor that I’ve come to expect from other vape pens.  \r\n\r\n>This makes it the perfect accessory for your nightstand if you have trouble sleeping like I do.  The easy and all around pleasant experience of consuming a couple of doses from the HMBLDT pen could easily replace your night time ritual.  After climbing into bed the other night I enjoyed 3 doses over about half an hour as I did some evening reading.  \r\n\r\n>Much to my surprise, I found myself nodding off before long; a task that typically requires a significant amount of THC to accomplish.  Not only did it help me fall asleep quicker than usual, I also slept soundly through the night, a rarity for me.\"\r\n  \r\n### Disruptive Pricing\r\n\r\nHere is the other area where HMBLDT is disruptive. The HMBLDT devices are each listed for $100 retail. And these are disposable, so every time you need to reload, you buy a new one entirely (the company is planning a recycling program, by the way). But at $100, HMBLDT is positioning itself as much as 40% above the incumbent providers. If nothing else, this will make it stand out and get people to understand this is something new. \r\n\r\nWhile we may see some downward pressure on this pricing as the market expands, there is clearly a market for products that work. If the SLEEP device truly, and dependably, helps people sleep -- they will pay $100. I also suspect this signals the beginning of a new segment of higher-priced cannabis products, as manufacturers look to separate themselves from the pack.\r\n\r\nOverall, HMBLDT has done the industry a big favor by coming to market with these four devices. And as the HMBLDT team is cut above when it comes to marketing expertise and budget, this device and its innovations will open eyes in the fast emerging health and wellness sector. The packaging alone screams wellness rather than cannabis. Let’s hope this inspires competition to deliver more of the same. For the moment though, HMBLDT is worth a try, particularly for those struggling to find what’s best for them and looking for safe solutions.\r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAPABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAAAAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMEAgX/xAAVAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAf/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABrftUQnYF/8QAGxAAAgIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIAAwQQERL/2gAIAQEAAQUCWpAhqRocQ9i+tf/EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABD/2gAIAQMBAT8BP//EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABD/2gAIAQIBAT8BP//EABsQAAEEAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAAhAhESKR/9oACAEBAAY/Aqbg9VtC1NQDH//EABsQAAMBAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABESExUWGB/9oACAEBAAE/IfsVehE+d1g5XlrEkirZXMrhT//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQNw//xAAWEQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARH/2gAIAQMBAT8QrH//xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEf/aAAgBAgEBPxBX/8QAHRABAAICAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREhADFhkRBBcf/aAAgBAQABPxDaBpEC+SOjIZJpCR1iZUvTHfzLkLMIbuFBzRt68f/Z","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/ddeae396f871598ebcd75ed58bc7060d/14b42/73b4356f9ec86271db2f2499d57b3401.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ddeae396f871598ebcd75ed58bc7060d/f836f/73b4356f9ec86271db2f2499d57b3401.jpg 200w,\n/static/ddeae396f871598ebcd75ed58bc7060d/2244e/73b4356f9ec86271db2f2499d57b3401.jpg 400w,\n/static/ddeae396f871598ebcd75ed58bc7060d/14b42/73b4356f9ec86271db2f2499d57b3401.jpg 800w,\n/static/ddeae396f871598ebcd75ed58bc7060d/47498/73b4356f9ec86271db2f2499d57b3401.jpg 1200w,\n/static/ddeae396f871598ebcd75ed58bc7060d/54ac5/73b4356f9ec86271db2f2499d57b3401.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/ddeae396f871598ebcd75ed58bc7060d/58556/73b4356f9ec86271db2f2499d57b3401.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ddeae396f871598ebcd75ed58bc7060d/61e93/73b4356f9ec86271db2f2499d57b3401.webp 200w,\n/static/ddeae396f871598ebcd75ed58bc7060d/1f5c5/73b4356f9ec86271db2f2499d57b3401.webp 400w,\n/static/ddeae396f871598ebcd75ed58bc7060d/58556/73b4356f9ec86271db2f2499d57b3401.webp 800w,\n/static/ddeae396f871598ebcd75ed58bc7060d/99238/73b4356f9ec86271db2f2499d57b3401.webp 1200w,\n/static/ddeae396f871598ebcd75ed58bc7060d/5e0b8/73b4356f9ec86271db2f2499d57b3401.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2132-markdown","title":"How I Stopped My Phantom Limb Pain","slug":"how-i-stopped-my-phantom-limb-pain","content":"HelloMD spoke with Charles Rutherford of [Boveda](http://www.bovedainc.com/). Boveda leads the industry in humidity regulation technology and allows both producers and patients alike to preserve the quality of their cannabis products. Charles spoke to us about his personal journey with medical marijuana and his experience using cannabis to ease his nerve and phantom limb pain after losing his foot in a terrible motorcycle accident. \n\n### Do you use cannabis as a medicine?\n\nYes, but I never had fun with cannabis recreationally in my life, it wasn’t really for me.  Three years ago  I got hit by a careless driver on my motorcycle, and this resulted in the amputation of my left foot. Phantom limb pain and nerve pain have become a constant and painful problem for me. Yet, the doctors only means for me to deal with this pain was to give me more and more opiates. \n\nOpioid abuse is not a road I wanted to go down. I live in Minnesota and we have a medical marijuana program, so I was able to try marijuana for my phantom limb pain. Because of cannabis I was able to stop using opioids because I could use marijuana for both the pain relief and it allows me to sleep at the end of the day. \n\nThe funny thing is, that even though we were operating our business within the cannabis industry, I was very skeptical about patients using cannabis as medicine. It was only due to my own desperation to stop my own pain that I eventually tried cannabis. It has been amazing what it has done for me. I went from being a skeptic to a believer overnight.\n\n### How did this influence you?\n\nMy personal story, and how cannabis helped me with phantom limb pain, informs everything we do at Boveda in relation to cannabis. I have a personal passion for medicinal cannabis and how it can help others. Through marijuana we can alleviate the huge epidemic of opioid addiction and death, so I have made it my own personal crusade to make sure that the flower stays in the best position it can be for people who do use it as a medicine.\n\nI also work to help expand the knowledge and understanding of the industry. At Boveda we have commissioned a lot of testing so we can see what exactly is happening to the cannabis flower at different stages of storage and what is really the maximum storage time it can have. We are also looking to see if there is a best objective curing method and a best objective storing container, and since my story informs all of that, I would say that 95% of my attention is on cannabis. \n\nWhat I have discovered is that people around me who were skeptical about cannabis and had a certain idea of what a 'cannabis user' looked like has completely changed. I am a competitive athlete, I still compete in skiing, golf, and mountain biking, I’m a professional, and I don't 'look' like a cannabis user. \n\nIn my circle of influence that has definitely reverberated. People who have had certain feelings about cannabis and about what 'those people' (who use cannabis)' look like or do, know that I am not any of those things. Since I don't have a fear of sharing my story and I am not involved with a lot of things that the stereotypical marijuana user is, it is good at helping convert people to the idea that cannabis is a medicine and it can be used safely and effectively. \n\n### What about cannabis in Minnesota?\n\nIn Minnesota, we haven't seen a lot of people go towards cannabis. I think there's only maybe 1,100 people who are patients here in Minnesota. Because of some of the restrictions on what qualifies for medical marijuana, as well as restrictions on growing and administration methods, it has put it out of reach for a lot of people. I’m not sure if this kind of program will ever survive here, because of how it was put into place, which is a real shame.\n\n### What do you think about recreational use of cannabis?\n\nThe reality is, I come from a spot with personal beliefs of personal responsibility. I think people are being hurt by the status quo, so I think we shouldn’t be asking if we should legalize medical marijuana, but rather, are people getting hurt by the status quo? \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/5818cc787d130e000740091d/embedded_images/5818cc7b7d130e000740091e/Screen_Shot_2016-11-01_at_9.56.53_AM.png)\nCharles and I recently met at the cannabis conference New West in SF.\n \nAre we okay with people getting addicted to opioids? Are we okay with making the cheaper and logical leap after opioids, something that can kill people even faster, like heroine? Are we okay with people getting a medication that can kill them right from their doctor? \n\nSo, there is clearly a paradox in the status quo. The safest option for people medically is something that isn't prescribed to them by a doctor, meaning marijuana. Yet the thing that can kill them, opioids, is what their doctor is handing out to them. I think people should have the ability to responsibly decide what they put inside their body and clearly cannabis is a safe and effective medicine. \n\n### How do we sway the negative stereotype of cannabis?\n\nPeople need to tell their story of how marijuana has helped them. I encourage friends who have family members who are against medical or recreational marijuana to tell my story. I am a conservative, Republican, Christian who has volunteered at church every Sunday for the last six years. I am an NRA member, I carry a gun, I am a competitive athlete, and I am a professional. Those qualities don’t normally fit into what people see as a typical cannabis user, which is why my story, in addition to being a medical case, is a political case as well. \n\nThis is also what a cannabis user can look like. Marijuana legalization, however, does not have to be a political issue, because being a conservative I believe in personal responsibility. So once again, using cannabis responsibly is exactly what I believe in. Stories of people who don’t normally fit into the cannabis mold and show people that a cannabis user can be anyone are important. Peoples’ perceptions or prejudices may keep them from listening to certain people, so finding the right messenger to get the message to certain people is crucial.\n\n### Anything else you would like to add about Boveda?\n\nOur product is unique and uniquely valuable. Boveda is being used by some big brands because they understand that it is the right thing to do for safety and quality of their cannabis. For personal use at home, we recently just released our 58% humidity formula for people who wanted a slightly lower humidity for their cannabis flowers. You just pop a Boveda pack in with your flowers and it adds or removes moisture as needed, then locks into the moisture that is encrypted into the Boveda pack.\n\nOur Twitter and Instagram are both @bovedainc and our [Boveda](http://www.bovedainc.com/) website.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/38d19174a64137421b08649bc3c9d32b/14b42/72b361cc7c868978e847794e4cf5b9ee.jpg","srcSet":"/static/38d19174a64137421b08649bc3c9d32b/f836f/72b361cc7c868978e847794e4cf5b9ee.jpg 200w,\n/static/38d19174a64137421b08649bc3c9d32b/2244e/72b361cc7c868978e847794e4cf5b9ee.jpg 400w,\n/static/38d19174a64137421b08649bc3c9d32b/14b42/72b361cc7c868978e847794e4cf5b9ee.jpg 800w,\n/static/38d19174a64137421b08649bc3c9d32b/47498/72b361cc7c868978e847794e4cf5b9ee.jpg 1200w,\n/static/38d19174a64137421b08649bc3c9d32b/54ac5/72b361cc7c868978e847794e4cf5b9ee.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/38d19174a64137421b08649bc3c9d32b/58556/72b361cc7c868978e847794e4cf5b9ee.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/38d19174a64137421b08649bc3c9d32b/61e93/72b361cc7c868978e847794e4cf5b9ee.webp 200w,\n/static/38d19174a64137421b08649bc3c9d32b/1f5c5/72b361cc7c868978e847794e4cf5b9ee.webp 400w,\n/static/38d19174a64137421b08649bc3c9d32b/58556/72b361cc7c868978e847794e4cf5b9ee.webp 800w,\n/static/38d19174a64137421b08649bc3c9d32b/99238/72b361cc7c868978e847794e4cf5b9ee.webp 1200w,\n/static/38d19174a64137421b08649bc3c9d32b/5e0b8/72b361cc7c868978e847794e4cf5b9ee.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2135-markdown","title":"Puffco Plus Vape Pen Review","slug":"puffco-plus-vape-pen-review","content":"### Vaporizing Meets Dabbing. Finally.\r\n\r\nA vaporizer pen can be a great alternative to smoking cannabis. Not only is it hassle free and discreet, but you still get the feeling that you are “smoking” because of the inhaling action. I’ve been using vaporizer (vape) pens for quite some time now; they’re my preferred method for on- the-go consumption.\r\n\r\n### Disposable Vape Pens vs Cartridges\r\nDisposable vaporizing pens are a breeze to use. Take them out of the box and puff on them until they run out. This makes them ideal to throw in your pocket or bag and forget about until you need it later. However, for the connoisseur, consuming the same strain or flavor all day may not cut it. For variety, pre-filled cartridges (aka 510 cartridges) offer a solution.\r\n\r\n510 cartridges are easily interchangeable, allowing you to customize your consumption experience. You can quickly unscrew one and swap it out for another. For instance, a sativa can offer an uplifting and creative boost in the morning, while a quick switch to a high CBD cartridge can help maintain balance and pain relief (if necessary) throughout the day.\r\n\r\n### Consuming Concentrates\r\n\r\nCustomization can prove incredibly useful in finding a treatment plan that works for you. But while cartridges are widely available, the variety at the local shop usually leaves a lot to be desired. This brings us to concentrates. My local shop, for instance, carries just a few varieties of 510 cartridges, but stocks a couple dozen different types of concentrates. But how to consume a concentrate has traditionally been tricky for the more novice patient. This is what I call ‘advanced play’.\r\n\r\nUsing vaporizer pens for oil and wax concentrates has always felt like a chore. They tend to come packaged with a small bag of complicated tools for loading and maintaining the pen, and I find things can easily go wrong. Complexity aside, a glowing red hot metal coil in the middle of a glass bubble seemed like the last thing I wanted to put in my pocket. So I’ve just passed on them and stuck mostly to cartridges for on-the-go. Until I met the Puffco Plus.\r\n\r\n### Puffco +: Vaporizer Cartridge & Dabbing Pen All-In-One\r\n\r\n[The Puffco Plus](https://www.hellomd.com/biz/puffco) is unique because it utilizes a ceramic bowl, and a removable “dart” rather than a coil for loading your concentrate. The dart sits inside the mouthpiece and allows you to travel without carrying around an external loading device. Not only does the dart improve airflow while minimizing waste, and improve flavor it’s also a dabbers best friend. A small portion, or dab, of concentrate can be placed directly on the dart for dosing purposes. When you turn on the Puffco+ feature called ‘sesh’ mode – it’s the closest thing you will find to a dab on the go.\r\n\r\nPerhaps one of the Puffco’s most valuable features is the interchangeability between the ceramic bowl and a 510 cartridge. With a couple quick turns you can swap between a pre-filled cartridge, and the ceramic bowl (for customizing your concentrates) . For me, this is critical as I love to swap back and forth between different kinds of concentrates depending on what remedy is best for the activity.\r\n\r\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/57f2951faa6f01000706ea6f/embedded_images/57f2ac882b1e99000798ba9b/puffco.jpg)\r\n \r\nAs a battery for cartridges, the Puffco excels. I have used a number of different batteries over the years, and the Puffco provided some the best results I’ve seen with a cartridge. Better batteries deliver more consistent, flavorful and satisfying pulls on a vaporizer pen.\r\n\r\nMy experience with the Puffco Plus was entirely different. After placing a small bit of wax onto the dart I switched it into Sesh mode and began consuming. I was pleasantly surprised to find the experience incredibly smooth and flavorful. My usual coughing fit was replaced by an easy exhale of a hefty vapor cloud. I found the experience incredibly relaxing – and I enjoyed it all on-the-go?\r\n\r\nThe Puffco Plus costs $99, and while more expensive than some of its predecessors, you do get what you pay for. Honestly, I think it is cheap at the price! The Puffco Plus is definitely one of the best looking vaporizer pens on the market. It has a sleek design that fits naturally in your hand. It’s intuitive to use; the cloud shaped button and matching Puffco Plus logo light up in three different colors to help you remember which heat setting you are using. Even the packaging has beautifully simplistic design (I felt like I was opening up the new iPhone), you could tell it housed something special.\r\n\r\nThe only thing that left me wanting was the duration of battery. I ran it down fairly quickly after making sure it had a full charge before beginning. I was using it fairly heavily over the course of an evening and half of the following day, but I found that it needed charging much sooner than your typical 510 batteries. The Puffco Plus is working harder and delivering more power that the every day vaporizer pen, but still for portability a long battery life is always a bonus. If you’re a heavy consumer you’ll probably want to make sure the unit has a full charge before you head out, which it can get in under 2 hours.\r\n\r\nSo to sum it up, if you consider yourself a concentrates connoisseur, then you need to try the Puffco Plus. The dart and ceramic chamber combine for a great experience whether you are looking to consume a specific amount, or just load up and take on the go. The ability to switch between pre-filled cartridges and your own concentrates is something I had not seen before, and I expect many to find this device to be a rewarding investment.\r\n\r\nDo you have questions about about cannabis? Ask a question on [HelloMD's new Answers](https://www.hellomd.com/ feature). A doctor or member of our community will answer.\r\n\r\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.\r\n\r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/03deabcc28dbd25e027466c93ada2943/14b42/4105c3aa86394c24362c0f246cbdd81a.jpg","srcSet":"/static/03deabcc28dbd25e027466c93ada2943/f836f/4105c3aa86394c24362c0f246cbdd81a.jpg 200w,\n/static/03deabcc28dbd25e027466c93ada2943/2244e/4105c3aa86394c24362c0f246cbdd81a.jpg 400w,\n/static/03deabcc28dbd25e027466c93ada2943/14b42/4105c3aa86394c24362c0f246cbdd81a.jpg 800w,\n/static/03deabcc28dbd25e027466c93ada2943/47498/4105c3aa86394c24362c0f246cbdd81a.jpg 1200w,\n/static/03deabcc28dbd25e027466c93ada2943/54ac5/4105c3aa86394c24362c0f246cbdd81a.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/03deabcc28dbd25e027466c93ada2943/58556/4105c3aa86394c24362c0f246cbdd81a.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/03deabcc28dbd25e027466c93ada2943/61e93/4105c3aa86394c24362c0f246cbdd81a.webp 200w,\n/static/03deabcc28dbd25e027466c93ada2943/1f5c5/4105c3aa86394c24362c0f246cbdd81a.webp 400w,\n/static/03deabcc28dbd25e027466c93ada2943/58556/4105c3aa86394c24362c0f246cbdd81a.webp 800w,\n/static/03deabcc28dbd25e027466c93ada2943/99238/4105c3aa86394c24362c0f246cbdd81a.webp 1200w,\n/static/03deabcc28dbd25e027466c93ada2943/5e0b8/4105c3aa86394c24362c0f246cbdd81a.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2087-markdown","title":"Firefly 2 – Unboxing and Review","slug":"firefly-2-unboxing-and-review","content":"One of the great things about being in the cannabis industry, is getting to try out some of the coolest gadgets and products in this fast moving space. Coolest of the lot, has got to be the newly released Firefly 2 from our friends at Firefly vapor.\n\nIf you are not familiar [with this vaporizer](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56e0c2b6334a09000b00002b/looking-for-the-best-vaporizer-firefly2-hits-the-market), it follows the success of the Firefly 1, but it’s now been completely updated and refined.  For the past several months, demand has been sky high and all Firefly 2’s have been on back order. But I finally got my hands on one this weekend, and this is the unboxing.\n\n### First Impressions\n\nThe Firefly 2 arrived in a sleek white box, very reminiscent of an Apple product, which hints at the founder’s background with Apple Computer. When I see packaging like this, it indicates to me that the designers are detail oriented, and technically driven. First impressions count.\n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/57e07ece16ce300007d89918/embedded_images/57e07ed416ce300007d89919/DSC01864.JPG) \n\nThe little white box it arrived with, contains an alternative color lid (in this case blue) which the sender was thoughtful enough to include. Owning a Firefly 2 is as much about style as it is function, or put differently, why not look stylish when vaping with friends or at social events?\n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/57e07ece16ce300007d89918/embedded_images/57e0810ff093e80007b05649/DSC01937.JPG) \n\nRemoval of the outer lid indicates the continued attention to minor detail, that make a good impression on the recipient. Notice the ‘Enjoy your Flight’ humor on the box.\n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/57e07ece16ce300007d89918/embedded_images/57e07f3d40d57c000b9f53e1/DSC01874.JPG) \n\nOnce the cover is removed, the box includes a magnetic snap on the outer lid, for easy storage in the box.\n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/57e07ece16ce300007d89918/embedded_images/57e07ff616ce300007d8991b/DSC01877.JPG) \n\nOne of the first impressions of the Firefly 2 is that it is noticeably lighter than its predecessor (which felt a little like a heavy cell phone). The Firefly 2 is so light in fact, that one wonders what its made out of. It feels like some type of metal alloy, or space material. In reality, I am sure that changes with the battery have more to do with it.\n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/57e07ece16ce300007d89918/embedded_images/57e0818040d57c0007a5c08d/IMG_0426.JPG) \n\nRemoving the lid can be easily done with one hand. A sleek shiny (easy to clean) surface is revealed. This is path the vapor takes as it cools between the conduction chamber and your mouth. \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/57e07ece16ce300007d89918/embedded_images/57e08225f093e8000b87a3d2/DSC01898.JPG) \n\n**Also included in the box:**   \n\nA charging dock which the Firefly 2 sits neatly in for easy charging.\nAn extra battery.\nUSB cable for connection to your computer.\nA cleaning kit.\nConcentrate pads (the Firefly 2 is able to manage both concentrates and flower).\n\n### The Review\n\nOne of the cool things about the Firefly 2 is that it connects to your phone using Bluetooth, and comes with a [free App for IOS](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/firefly-vapor/id1072223142?mt=8). I downloaded and installed this in a couple of minutes. \n\nAfter connecting to the Firefly 2, it immediately sensed that the firmware was out of date and began updating it wirelessly. The benefit here is that the software on your unit will be kept up to date with new releases without you having to service the Firefly 2. Pretty nifty.\n\nThe App also included some simple instructions on use of the Firefly 2, and how to set the options according to my preferences. You can choose between heat profiles, activation settings, concentrate vs flower and other device info. My overall impressions of the App are that its very simple to use, and not overly complicated by unnecessary features (which is great).\n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/57e07ece16ce300007d89918/embedded_images/57e0829740d57c0007a5c090/fireflyscreens.jpg) \n\nOnce satisfied with your settings, it’s time to give this puppy a whirl. The Firefly 2 is activated by two touch sensor on either side. \n\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/57e07ece16ce300007d89918/embedded_images/57e1c220efe8df000b80eb08/IMG_0428.JPG) \n\nThis is an improvement over the previous model. Once its packed and ready to go, just holding it gently with your fingers on the touch pads activates the convection mechanism. \n\n[image/10] \n\nThe correct [packing technique](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=51YZTTDfCr4) is important. You want the leaf to be well cut into small pieces so that the hot air flows easily and evenly over the particles. You can get a grinder from your local dispensary for this. The chamber looks quite large, but upon packing it surprised me how little it took to fill the chamber evenly. I tried it with my favorite strain – [Durban Poison](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7cb16cd520d60009f4f4a3/durban-poison) – from my [home town](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durban) in South Africa.\n\nThe first thing you notice when you draw on the Firefly 2, is the difference in flavor between vaporizing like this and either smoking or using a vape pen. With the Firefly 2, you get an immediate sense for the different [terpenes]( https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5b989e8528d6e8000971f794/3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-terpenes-answered), and how they affect the specific strain. In the case of this Durban Poison, it’s a very pleasant citrusy flavor. Although I have spoked this stain many times, I have never before tasted those flavors. This makes sense, because the convection heated air has been tuned by the Firefly 2 to be at the precise temperature to activate and release the cannabinoids, but not so hot as to burn the plant matter. \n\nFor similar reasons, there has been a lot of discussion about the relative health benefits of [vaping over smoking](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/576ac3db79efdd000b00000c/vaping-vs-smoking-which-is-better).  \n\nThe other thing you notice is that there really is no smell left in the room after you exhale. In fact, I would say that you could use the Firefly 2 to consume indoors without anyone being the wiser based on any odor it may cause. This could be a good make it a good choice for people that live in apartments, of if you have children at home you may want be discrete around. Despite the relative lack of vapor, the strength of the cannabis is no less than other methods of inhalation.\n\nOne thing to be aware of is that you do need to give the FireFly 2 a good inhale to get it to work properly. When I first tried it out, I wondered if I was doing it right before realizing this. I would probably not recommend it to someone that was short of breath due to - for example - medical reasons. As long as you are able and willing to give it a good puff, you should be fine with the Firefly 2. \n\n### Final Thoughts\n\nThe Firefly 2 is [not the cheapest vaporizer](https://fireflyvapor.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=2&aff_id=1028) on the market, particularly with the low cost of disposable vapes, and pens, so it’s not for everyone. However, if you are a dedicated enthusiast, are concerned about the health impact of regular consumption of smoke or concentrate, or if you simply want the best portable available and are willing to pay the small premium, then I believe you should take a serious look at the Firefly 2. There really are few options that could match it in terms of style, flavor, function and portability. It’s no wonder that it’s been called the 'Best Portable'.\n\nThe changes to the newer model make it significantly better than its predecessor, and if you have the Firefly 1, I would recommend you consider an upgrade.  \n\n###[Buy it Here](https://fireflyvapor.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=2&aff_id=1028)\n\nOf if you have questions:\n\n###[Ask Them Here](https://www.hellomd.com/biz/firefly-vapor)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAPABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwAAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMEBf/EABYBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAAv/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABrfhamW8SR//EABsQAAIBBQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECAAMREiEi/9oACAEBAAEFAmrqIG5B0pOSrLz/xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEP/aAAgBAwEBPwFJ/8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEBH/2gAIAQIBAT8Bp//EABsQAAEEAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAEBESISJB/9oACAEBAAY/Auq2Q0hbGS3/xAAcEAEAAgIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhUTFBYXH/2gAIAQEAAT8hexb5LMRaZYHcEUp4J3t7wrP/2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEETv/8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARD/2gAIAQMBAT8QAn//xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEf/aAAgBAgEBPxClf//EABoQAQEBAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAERACFhMbH/2gAIAQEAAT8QGE49eM1pgvxdGLAOiEZwGPl/c6Fqquh4YRK7/9k=","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/e262dbd1c4f89efa30993fabfcf00315/14b42/1f831a5c32f66a28e231fbc82b0ede1f.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e262dbd1c4f89efa30993fabfcf00315/f836f/1f831a5c32f66a28e231fbc82b0ede1f.jpg 200w,\n/static/e262dbd1c4f89efa30993fabfcf00315/2244e/1f831a5c32f66a28e231fbc82b0ede1f.jpg 400w,\n/static/e262dbd1c4f89efa30993fabfcf00315/14b42/1f831a5c32f66a28e231fbc82b0ede1f.jpg 800w,\n/static/e262dbd1c4f89efa30993fabfcf00315/47498/1f831a5c32f66a28e231fbc82b0ede1f.jpg 1200w,\n/static/e262dbd1c4f89efa30993fabfcf00315/54ac5/1f831a5c32f66a28e231fbc82b0ede1f.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/e262dbd1c4f89efa30993fabfcf00315/58556/1f831a5c32f66a28e231fbc82b0ede1f.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e262dbd1c4f89efa30993fabfcf00315/61e93/1f831a5c32f66a28e231fbc82b0ede1f.webp 200w,\n/static/e262dbd1c4f89efa30993fabfcf00315/1f5c5/1f831a5c32f66a28e231fbc82b0ede1f.webp 400w,\n/static/e262dbd1c4f89efa30993fabfcf00315/58556/1f831a5c32f66a28e231fbc82b0ede1f.webp 800w,\n/static/e262dbd1c4f89efa30993fabfcf00315/99238/1f831a5c32f66a28e231fbc82b0ede1f.webp 1200w,\n/static/e262dbd1c4f89efa30993fabfcf00315/5e0b8/1f831a5c32f66a28e231fbc82b0ede1f.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2221-markdown","title":"Q & A: Aaron Augustis of the Veteran's Cannabis Group","slug":"q-and-a-aaron-augustis-of-the-veterans-cannabis-group","content":"Aaron Augustis is an Iraq war veteran and a Co Founder of Veteran's Cannabis Group. The group currently offers education, delivery and family support for Veterans who use medical cannabis, often for the symptoms of PTSD. His Co Founder Lynette Shaw, started the first licensed medical marijuana dispensary in CA in 1997. \n\nAaron took time to talk to HelloMD about his battle with PTSD after returning from Iraq and his journey to start Veteran's Cannabis Group.\n\n### What is the Veterans Cannabis Group?\n\nThe Veterans Cannabis Group is a veteran owned and run entity. We are a medical marijuana support group, a networking group, and a resource center for veterans and their families. We are open for anyone who supports veterans, but our mission is veteran focused. Our main goal is to be a resource center that has multiple components including education and access to medicine, but we are not just going to be handing out cannabis. \n\nFor example, we did an education event with HelloMD. We had a HelloMD doctor come and educate our members on cannabis because many veterans do not know about medical cannabis and its benefits, or they are afraid to use it because they believe they could possibly loose their VA benefits. That is another factor of education, to inform veterans that they will not lose their VA benefits if they use medical cannabis. Overall, our mission is to be an education resource for veterans who use medical cannabis. \n\n### Why did you start the Veterans Cannabis Group?\n\nBeing a veteran myself, I was trying to find a group of veterans to talk to about cannabis. I just wanted to hear what other veterans were doing and what had worked for them. There was nothing around where I lived though. I live in Marin and I did a google search and found Weed for Warriors, which I believe is out of Santa Cruz, and Grow for Vets, which is Colorado based, though they do have a chapter in Livermore, but there was nothing right around where I lived. \n\nI wanted to form a group to bring veterans together so we could share information in a safe and non-threatening environment. I think when you put veterans in a room with other veterans, they open up and share more experiences because there is more trust when you have experienced similar things. \n\nI wanted to start a place for not only myself, but for other veterans to go and talk and get access to the medicine. Many other veterans I met along the way also wanted a place where they could specifically talk to other veterans. They were tired of the grey area that marijuana has been in for a while. They want to work with people they trust and have more in common with.\n\n### How has the community reacted to your group?\n\nI think the overall reaction has been very positive because we are talking about combat veterans using cannabis for combat related PTSD. We aren’t talking about just going out and getting stoned, we are talking about real problems and real solutions. When you incorporate veterans into the situation, it is a little easier to validate because people take it more seriously, not like just a group of guys who wants to get high. \n\nWe are talking about issues like the veterans suicide epidemic and opioid overdoses. We are seeing 22 veterans commit suicide by the day, and about 20 of those are dying from opioid overdoses. To me it just makes sense. \n\nI got back from Iraq and I had these huge waves of emotion that would come on and were uncontrollable. Sometimes when you’re out of that environment your mind is still processing and  you have a lot of built up emotion that you store away when you are in a combat zone. Especially when you are in are a leadership position, which I was as a sergeant, you have to bottle that energy up when you are in the combat zone. \n\nThen when you get home, it all of the sudden starts to release and it is not necessarily in a controlled manner. You can’t just say, “I’m going to cry it all out right now”. You can be triggered by many different things like a talk show on the radio, news about soldiers being killed, or the smell of diesel fuel, which is a very common trigger for many combat veterans. \n\nNot everyone is in agreement with it, but with the veteran aspect it is hard to deny. If you have all of these veterans saying cannabis works for PTSD then you shouldn’t  push it to the side. There’s a chance that veterans using cannabis to help with PTSD could be the thing that gets the feds to reschedule. The FDA is currently doing a study, licensed by the DEA, for veterans taking cannabis for PTSD relief. The study is taking place in Baltimore, MD and Phoenix, AZ. There are 36 participants in each location, so there are 72 participants total. \n\nThis is the first study of its kind where it is actually licensed by the DEA, so that’s why I think the veterans will be such a powerful voice. The VA takes care of veterans and the VA gets its funding from the federal government, so you have all these veterans saying we need cannabis, but because the VA is federally run, the doctors can’t even right marijuana prescriptions in states where it is legal. \n\n### Does the VA support the use of cannabis?\n\nIt’s a fine line that the doctors in the VA have to walk. What I understand from talking to the VA counselors personally is that doctors are not allowed to discuss marijuana unless the veterans themselves bring it up. Then they are allowed to discuss it, but they are not allowed to write recommendations and they can’t tell you what kind of strain to take or how much to smoke. \n\nIt is still this unknown and confusing position, because the VA itself doesn’t know how to handle it. The doctors in the VA are federally employed, so legally they can’t recommend cannabis without consequences. I know when you do tell them, they say if its working then don’t stop using it. That is the attitude that they relay to you.\n\n### Does stigma keep veterans from trying cannabis?\n\nI think that one of the main issues is that veterans are either unaware or think that their VA benefits will be taken from them, because at one time that was a reality. If you tested positive then you no longer had access to your medications and VA services, but that is no longer the case. \n\nAlso, a big issue for many veterans is guns. If you have your medical marijuana card, and you are registered with the state, they can deny you your right to buy a gun. Since cannabis is a Schedule I drug and a federally illegal substance, and it is safe for them to assume if you have your state card that you are using a federally illicit substance. Therefore, they can deny you the purchase of a fire arm when they can see your name on the list. It is a big deal, because you are restricting peoples second amendment rights. \n\nIf you already have a firearm, you can keep it, but if you try to get a new one, you can get denied. Say you have cancer, if you are using marijuana oil and it is helping you maintain your life, you can get denied from buying a firearm just for taking a medication. So why aren’t we denying people who are drugs like opioids?\n\n### How would someone known I have a medical rec?\n\nIf I just have a doctor’s recommendation, for example from HelloMD, they cannot see that because HelloMD does not share my information with anyone. However, if I’m being compliant and get the state issued ID card with the state of California seal on it, then I am put on the state list. If you are on that list they can look you up and in-turn deny you to purchase a firearm. This ability to deny people the right to buy firearms based on medical marijuana cards was recently help up in federal court. \n\n### What do you say to cannabis newcomers?\n\nWell, you can’t overdose on cannabis. There has been no recorded deaths associated with cannabis. We have a veteran’s cannabis group so people can come and meet and talk to other veterans who use cannabis and get past any stigma or lack of knowledge. \n\n### How can people learn more about VCG?\n\nThe best way to learn more is to visit our the [Veteran's Cannabis Website]  (http://www.veteranscannabisgroup.com). I am always willing to talk to people and answer questions if they reach out to me. \n\nOur goal with the Veterans Cannabis group is to ultimately make it so veterans have the ability to access cannabis through the VA. The VA is where most veterans get their medication from, so they really should be able to get their doctors recommendation and medical cannabis through the VA. That is the ideal goal. The VA provides every other kind of medication, they just don’t provide medical cannabis and they should.\n\nDo you have questions about Veteran's Cannabis Group? Ask a question in [HelloMD's new Answers](https://www.hellomd.com/biz/veterans-cannabis-group) feature. \n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/c3356ac3048383be9e4c48e7dba0ed5d/14b42/5424f997e507915cb3173558c49304ff.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c3356ac3048383be9e4c48e7dba0ed5d/f836f/5424f997e507915cb3173558c49304ff.jpg 200w,\n/static/c3356ac3048383be9e4c48e7dba0ed5d/2244e/5424f997e507915cb3173558c49304ff.jpg 400w,\n/static/c3356ac3048383be9e4c48e7dba0ed5d/14b42/5424f997e507915cb3173558c49304ff.jpg 800w,\n/static/c3356ac3048383be9e4c48e7dba0ed5d/47498/5424f997e507915cb3173558c49304ff.jpg 1200w,\n/static/c3356ac3048383be9e4c48e7dba0ed5d/007d6/5424f997e507915cb3173558c49304ff.jpg 1369w","srcWebp":"/static/c3356ac3048383be9e4c48e7dba0ed5d/58556/5424f997e507915cb3173558c49304ff.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c3356ac3048383be9e4c48e7dba0ed5d/61e93/5424f997e507915cb3173558c49304ff.webp 200w,\n/static/c3356ac3048383be9e4c48e7dba0ed5d/1f5c5/5424f997e507915cb3173558c49304ff.webp 400w,\n/static/c3356ac3048383be9e4c48e7dba0ed5d/58556/5424f997e507915cb3173558c49304ff.webp 800w,\n/static/c3356ac3048383be9e4c48e7dba0ed5d/99238/5424f997e507915cb3173558c49304ff.webp 1200w,\n/static/c3356ac3048383be9e4c48e7dba0ed5d/728d7/5424f997e507915cb3173558c49304ff.webp 1369w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2168-markdown","title":"Heal Your Body with Food & Cannabis","slug":"heal-your-body-with-food-and-cannabis","content":"[MoonMan’s Mistress](https://www.hellomd.com/biz/moonman-s-mistress) is an award-winning, artisanal paleo-centric edible company committed to taste worthy products that are also healthy for the body. This week Liz Rudner, a Co Founder of MoonMan's talks about how she healed her body with food and cannabis.\r\n\r\n### Food as Medicine\r\n\r\nYou're gluten-free? Is that just a new diet trend? Why are you paleo? Are you a Cross-Fitter? What do you eat? What do you mean you don't eat soy? What do you mean you use cannabis everyday? These are the questions I’m asked on a daily basis when I tell my story about how I cured myself with food as medicine…\r\n\r\nI was diagnosed with Celiac and Hashimoto’s disease in my late twenties. Through most of my teenage years and in my twenties, I was over-medicated for depression, on numerous birth control to help regulate my body temperature, and was prescribed Synthroid for low function thyroid activity. Every pill that was added to my daily regiment either made me gain weight, made by hair fall out, or would cause me to sleep for 14 hours a day. After spending all of my twenties on medication, I woke up at the age of 28 at the end of my rope, feeling the worst I’ve ever felt. \r\n\r\n### Diet: the Key to Health\r\n\r\nI was diagnosed with numerous autoimmune diseases. Never during all the exploratory surgeries, numerous allergy tests, and countless therapy sessions did anyone offer me alternative therapies or recommendations when it came to changing my diet. It wasn't until I went to Breckenridge, CO, where I met a holistic healer who proposed that maybe I might have a gluten allergy. From that day on, I became obsessed about finding answers around diet and autoimmune issues, as well as how cannabis could be used to help relieve so many of my inflammation issues that ran rampant with Hashimoto’s and Celiac disease. \r\n\r\nLiving with more than one autoimmune disease is just like being on a non-stop rollercoaster ride. I was at a point in my life where I had been gluten-free for ten years, but still had flare-ups with many days of not being able to get off the couch. When I relocated to San Francisco six years ago, I discovered the paleo-centric lifestyle, which has been a game changer for me. As soon as I eliminated all of the foods that are prone to cause inflammation - soy, wheat, gluten, dairy, corn and legumes, I felt like a brand new person. \r\n\r\nThis new feeling of freedom from my old self allowed me to fall in love with exercise and movement. I thank my business partner Jamel (who is a personal trainer) so much for opening my eyes to quick, efficient ass-kicking workouts. For so many years, my chronic fatigue and the feeling of being constantly swollen caused me to become stationary. Just taking a yoga class was a huge accomplishment. \r\n\r\n### The Game Changer\r\n\r\nNot only was becoming paleo-centric a game changer, but cannabis was another key element to help get me off the couch and moving. If I ate an edible before a workout, I was able to commit to keeping my body moving through intense physical exercise. The more I moved, the quicker inflammation declined throughout my body. Ultimately, my depression subsided and I felt more balanced and alive. \r\n\r\nWith autoimmune diseases, I had to define a new type of norm for myself. I quickly learned that there would be good days and bad days. Following a clean diet, exercising and daily cannabis consumption has allowed me to have more good days than bad. I’m extremely fortunate to be a resident in a state that allows for me to be a cannabis patient.\r\n\r\nOn those bad days where flare-ups are unbearable, I'm able to medicate with cannabis and ease the pain. Many people I've met along my holistic healing journey have inspired me to give back to the community and help other people heal. That's why Jamel and I created MoonMan's Mistress. We strongly believe there was a need to create a product that aligns with the philosophy of healing with the medicinal benefits of food and cannabis. I am living proof that food and cannabis is medicine for the body.\r\n\r\nDo you have questions about MoonMan's Mistress? Ask a question in [HelloMD's new Answers](https://www.hellomd.com/biz/moonman-s-mistress) feature. \r\n\r\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.\r\n\r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/1787869bfa0ceb469d5c257297c49fdb/14b42/c5c477b49fcdb3744ac023a971e64116.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1787869bfa0ceb469d5c257297c49fdb/f836f/c5c477b49fcdb3744ac023a971e64116.jpg 200w,\n/static/1787869bfa0ceb469d5c257297c49fdb/2244e/c5c477b49fcdb3744ac023a971e64116.jpg 400w,\n/static/1787869bfa0ceb469d5c257297c49fdb/14b42/c5c477b49fcdb3744ac023a971e64116.jpg 800w,\n/static/1787869bfa0ceb469d5c257297c49fdb/47498/c5c477b49fcdb3744ac023a971e64116.jpg 1200w,\n/static/1787869bfa0ceb469d5c257297c49fdb/54ac5/c5c477b49fcdb3744ac023a971e64116.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/1787869bfa0ceb469d5c257297c49fdb/58556/c5c477b49fcdb3744ac023a971e64116.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/1787869bfa0ceb469d5c257297c49fdb/61e93/c5c477b49fcdb3744ac023a971e64116.webp 200w,\n/static/1787869bfa0ceb469d5c257297c49fdb/1f5c5/c5c477b49fcdb3744ac023a971e64116.webp 400w,\n/static/1787869bfa0ceb469d5c257297c49fdb/58556/c5c477b49fcdb3744ac023a971e64116.webp 800w,\n/static/1787869bfa0ceb469d5c257297c49fdb/99238/c5c477b49fcdb3744ac023a971e64116.webp 1200w,\n/static/1787869bfa0ceb469d5c257297c49fdb/5e0b8/c5c477b49fcdb3744ac023a971e64116.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2187-markdown","title":"Bloom Farms CBD Cartridge Review","slug":"bloom-farms-cbd-cartridge-review","content":"Much has been written about the [magical effect of CBD](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56c52e887c6109000800009a/cbd-cannabidiol-the-medicine-of-the-future) for a variety of medical conditions. Its wide ranging medical benefits include decreasing nausea, controlling seizures, combatting inflammation, is an anti tumoral/cancer, and it decreases anxiety, depression and is known to be an anti-psychotic. CBD has been the most powerful force in helping me prevent and fight both [migraines and fibromyalgia](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5595d75d3264380006170000/migraines-how-i-got-off-pain-meds-and-found-relief-with-cannabis). Once I discovered the magical effect CBD had on my own medical condition, I began seeking the best of each product type as well as [experimenting with dosages](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/578da024fdc17e000700019d/microdosing-cannabis-stopped-my-chronic-pain). In this review I am going to share my absolute favorite CBD product available in California. It has altered me, forever, for the better!\n\n### Bloom Farms – CBD Electra-Tsu Cartridge\n\nBloom Farms is a beloved manufacturer within the California cannabis industry. The packaging is dead gorgeous, the vape pen experience is exceptional and the cannabis is sourced from top tier farms that harvest crops with organic practices. Often when you mention Bloom Farms, people get a happy look upon their face, and why not, they deliver a great experience. As a more or less purely medicinal consumer with a very low THC tolerance, I have found high THC vape pens simply have not worked well for me. So for the most part, Bloom Farms has not been an option for a cannabis consumer like myself. That is, until now!\n\n### Electra-Tsu is a CBD Bombshell\n\nLet’s be totally clear, Bloom Farms CBD Electra-Tsu oil 3:1 cartridge has officially stolen my heart. It has run away with it, hands down, this is my favorite CBD vape pen experience of all time. I can stop looking, I want to get married. Really.\n\nI have tried many CBD vape pens over the years and some work pretty well, enough to take the edge off of a migraine but none sent me to the moon. Taking an inhale of the Electra-Tsu, the woody flavor is lovely, with a tinge of a sweet  aftertaste. The feeling of deep relaxation after a few inhales is exquisite. It is usually at this point I assume I will start getting sleepy, but with Electra-Tsu, there was a little kick of happiness and euphoria, which I guess is related to it being sativa-dominant. The ratio of 3 parts CBD to 1 part THC seems to be the perfect ratio, for me at least, and it turned my headache on its heels! This is a 'borderline' psychoactive oil cartridge, I felt GREAT but not altered significantly. It was just just enough! \n\nElectra-Tsu deserves to be placed in the limelight. She was bred specifically to be higher in CBD than THC. CBD happens to be non psychoactive as well, so it is a great choice for pain relief when you also need to function. The strain was bred from the combination of Electra and Tsunami and because the ratio of CBD is so high to THC, you will not feel like you need to go to bed or can’t leave the couch. It is also noted that this strain was bred to treat “pain, stress, and depression, without any anxiety or paranoid side effects”. I completely agree, as a person who tends to get cannabis-induced anxiety, this strain absolutely lives up to the promise. I purchased my cartridge at Sava, which does state wide delivery.\n\n### My Bloom Farms Haiku\n\nIf I were to write a Haiku about my love of the CBD Electra-Tsu vape pen and my gratitude to Bloom Farms for releasing a CBD product to an audience like me it would go like this:\n\n>Electra-Tsu you\n\n>Stole my heart instantly\n\n>Please don’t go away.\n\nEVER.\n\nDo you have questions about Bloom Farms? Ask a question about the product in [HelloMD's new Answers](https://www.hellomd.com/answers) feature. A doctor or member of our community will answer.\n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/7d9648707d764f6a621c4676be6f49ab/14b42/45d6882929a40c439839ded41aaa1169.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7d9648707d764f6a621c4676be6f49ab/f836f/45d6882929a40c439839ded41aaa1169.jpg 200w,\n/static/7d9648707d764f6a621c4676be6f49ab/2244e/45d6882929a40c439839ded41aaa1169.jpg 400w,\n/static/7d9648707d764f6a621c4676be6f49ab/14b42/45d6882929a40c439839ded41aaa1169.jpg 800w,\n/static/7d9648707d764f6a621c4676be6f49ab/47498/45d6882929a40c439839ded41aaa1169.jpg 1200w,\n/static/7d9648707d764f6a621c4676be6f49ab/54ac5/45d6882929a40c439839ded41aaa1169.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/7d9648707d764f6a621c4676be6f49ab/58556/45d6882929a40c439839ded41aaa1169.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7d9648707d764f6a621c4676be6f49ab/61e93/45d6882929a40c439839ded41aaa1169.webp 200w,\n/static/7d9648707d764f6a621c4676be6f49ab/1f5c5/45d6882929a40c439839ded41aaa1169.webp 400w,\n/static/7d9648707d764f6a621c4676be6f49ab/58556/45d6882929a40c439839ded41aaa1169.webp 800w,\n/static/7d9648707d764f6a621c4676be6f49ab/99238/45d6882929a40c439839ded41aaa1169.webp 1200w,\n/static/7d9648707d764f6a621c4676be6f49ab/5e0b8/45d6882929a40c439839ded41aaa1169.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2065-markdown","title":"NFL Player Ryan McBean Talks with HelloMD ","slug":"nfl-player-ryan-mcbean-talks-with-hellomd","content":"Last week we were thrilled to welcome retired NFL player Ryan McBean and his fiancé Stephanie Gayles to be filmed in the HelloMD studio. Ryan spent his career as a Defensive Lineman in the NFL playing for the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Denver Broncos and the Baltimore Ravens. Unfortunately, his career ended with a terrible final injury to his right ankle the same year the Ravens won the SuperBowl. \r\n\r\nRyan came forward to talk to HelloMD about his journey with chronic pain after serious physical injuries, multiple concussions and the positive impact cannabis has had on his life. As with so many other NFL players Ryan had a long history of opioid use to deal with his physical pain, which left him both incapacitated and depressed. With cannabis he has found new hope and is able to live his life to the fullest; it has enabled him to deal with constant pain while allowing him to be mentally present and energized. His hope is tell his story and let others know that cannabis is a viable option to opioids and other narcotics when dealing with traumatic injuries. While Ryan’s physical pain may never fully heal he has found a solution with cannabis that works for him and in his own words he says ‘I am not sure what I would do if I had not found cannabis, it has given me my life back.’\r\n\r\nWe are busy editing our clips with Ryan and Stephanie where they tell their full story. As soon as we are finished we will be sure to share with you and we will be looking for additional opportunities to share with a much larger audience! HelloMD is excited to have Ryan’s story be a part of the ongoing conversation surrounding cannabis and the NFL.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/b6a3e2b6c1988cd66a2a688232da5ae6/14b42/d7a90e18628e798efff8e19df55f3fa3.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b6a3e2b6c1988cd66a2a688232da5ae6/f836f/d7a90e18628e798efff8e19df55f3fa3.jpg 200w,\n/static/b6a3e2b6c1988cd66a2a688232da5ae6/2244e/d7a90e18628e798efff8e19df55f3fa3.jpg 400w,\n/static/b6a3e2b6c1988cd66a2a688232da5ae6/14b42/d7a90e18628e798efff8e19df55f3fa3.jpg 800w,\n/static/b6a3e2b6c1988cd66a2a688232da5ae6/47498/d7a90e18628e798efff8e19df55f3fa3.jpg 1200w,\n/static/b6a3e2b6c1988cd66a2a688232da5ae6/54ac5/d7a90e18628e798efff8e19df55f3fa3.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/b6a3e2b6c1988cd66a2a688232da5ae6/58556/d7a90e18628e798efff8e19df55f3fa3.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b6a3e2b6c1988cd66a2a688232da5ae6/61e93/d7a90e18628e798efff8e19df55f3fa3.webp 200w,\n/static/b6a3e2b6c1988cd66a2a688232da5ae6/1f5c5/d7a90e18628e798efff8e19df55f3fa3.webp 400w,\n/static/b6a3e2b6c1988cd66a2a688232da5ae6/58556/d7a90e18628e798efff8e19df55f3fa3.webp 800w,\n/static/b6a3e2b6c1988cd66a2a688232da5ae6/99238/d7a90e18628e798efff8e19df55f3fa3.webp 1200w,\n/static/b6a3e2b6c1988cd66a2a688232da5ae6/5e0b8/d7a90e18628e798efff8e19df55f3fa3.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2208-markdown","title":"Evoxe Laboratories Disposable Vape Pens","slug":"evoxe-laboratories-disposable-vape-pens","content":"Today we continue our week of filming, kicking off the day with [Evoxe Labs](http://www.evoxelabs.com/) Chief Science Officer Matthew McManus and the Founder Michael Katz. Our temporary film set is a light filled loft directly above Burning Man HQ (where's my art car?) in San Francisco's Mission District and and feels like something straight out of a Pottery Barn magazine - an unusual combination for sure!\r\n\r\nEvoxe Labs is one of the newest brands to join the HelloMD brand family. Evoxe offers patients a variety of disposable vape pens with the highest quality organic cannabis combined with dynamic blends of essential oils. What we find most interesting about Evoxe is their approach to creating, in the words of Michael Katz, \"an enhanced and directed entourage effect which also enables people to choose the mood they want.\" For instance, their product Engage is a sativa based cannabis vape combined with peppermint, lime, cinnamon and cypress essential oils. It promises to uplift and engage consumers with their proprietary formulation. The other pens they offer are Balance, Deep, Stealth and Balance+. In my mind Evoxe is actually fulfilling a promise many other brands within the industry have tried but not yet accomplished - to create cannabis products that create specific moods and effects.\r\n\r\n![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/5772d48f6a5b1500090000ee/embedded_images/5772d4916a5b1500090000ef/evoxeboxes.jpg)\r\n\r\nPersonally, what excites me most about Evoxe is the introduction of their newest product called Balance +. This latest product is a high CBD strain Harley-Tsu combined with an essential oil blend  of frankincense, ylang ylang, tangerine and geranium. It's whole flower but at a 20:1 ratio of CBD to THC, it is appropriate for everyday use. I use cannabis to help control excruciating migraines and it's the innovation of products like Balance +, which are geared more towards the medicinal consumer, that make me thrilled to be part of this burgeoning industry.\r\n\r\nIf you are interested in trying an Evoxe vape pen here are some dispensaries across California that carry their products.\r\nCalifornia Caregiver's Alliance (Silver Lake), Lady Chatterly's Lover (San Francisco), Barbary Coast (San Francisco), Stash Twist(Oakland),  Kushism (Van Nuys), 99 High Tide (Malibu),","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/d22dfba5dd0542cd0f339f9f28152815/14b42/0657d7c20ecca254ca676a1936249159.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d22dfba5dd0542cd0f339f9f28152815/f836f/0657d7c20ecca254ca676a1936249159.jpg 200w,\n/static/d22dfba5dd0542cd0f339f9f28152815/2244e/0657d7c20ecca254ca676a1936249159.jpg 400w,\n/static/d22dfba5dd0542cd0f339f9f28152815/14b42/0657d7c20ecca254ca676a1936249159.jpg 800w,\n/static/d22dfba5dd0542cd0f339f9f28152815/47498/0657d7c20ecca254ca676a1936249159.jpg 1200w,\n/static/d22dfba5dd0542cd0f339f9f28152815/54ac5/0657d7c20ecca254ca676a1936249159.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/d22dfba5dd0542cd0f339f9f28152815/58556/0657d7c20ecca254ca676a1936249159.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d22dfba5dd0542cd0f339f9f28152815/61e93/0657d7c20ecca254ca676a1936249159.webp 200w,\n/static/d22dfba5dd0542cd0f339f9f28152815/1f5c5/0657d7c20ecca254ca676a1936249159.webp 400w,\n/static/d22dfba5dd0542cd0f339f9f28152815/58556/0657d7c20ecca254ca676a1936249159.webp 800w,\n/static/d22dfba5dd0542cd0f339f9f28152815/99238/0657d7c20ecca254ca676a1936249159.webp 1200w,\n/static/d22dfba5dd0542cd0f339f9f28152815/5e0b8/0657d7c20ecca254ca676a1936249159.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2164-markdown","title":"Foria on the HelloMD Set","slug":"foria-on-the-hellomd-set","content":"This morning we were excited to have [Foria's Founder Mathew Gerson](http://foriapleasure.com/) and the Foria team on the HelloMD set for filming. Today marks the launch of Foria Explore, their latest cannabis product  meant for 'anal play' enhancement, in time for this weekend's Gay Pride in San Francisco. The team also chatted about Foria Pleasure, their pioneering cannabis lubricant for women's sexual pleasure and Foria Relief, the cannabis vaginal suppository which is helps ameliorate menstrual cramping.\r\n\r\nThe Foria shoot is the launch of a week of extensive video shoots at HelloMD where we will highlight some of the most exciting brands within the cannabis industry. We are scheduled day and night to bring you video content on the latest products and concepts being delivered almost on a weekly basis. Videos will be posted on HelloMD brand pages as well as within [HelloMD Answers](https://www.hellomd.com/answers). We look forward to everyone's thoughtful comments and participation and as always we'll keep you posted!","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/78c9761a11e52ea880fe22c4347b82a8/14b42/0092a83be4586f01f9b89fbf760a7dd8.jpg","srcSet":"/static/78c9761a11e52ea880fe22c4347b82a8/f836f/0092a83be4586f01f9b89fbf760a7dd8.jpg 200w,\n/static/78c9761a11e52ea880fe22c4347b82a8/2244e/0092a83be4586f01f9b89fbf760a7dd8.jpg 400w,\n/static/78c9761a11e52ea880fe22c4347b82a8/14b42/0092a83be4586f01f9b89fbf760a7dd8.jpg 800w,\n/static/78c9761a11e52ea880fe22c4347b82a8/47498/0092a83be4586f01f9b89fbf760a7dd8.jpg 1200w,\n/static/78c9761a11e52ea880fe22c4347b82a8/54ac5/0092a83be4586f01f9b89fbf760a7dd8.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/78c9761a11e52ea880fe22c4347b82a8/58556/0092a83be4586f01f9b89fbf760a7dd8.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/78c9761a11e52ea880fe22c4347b82a8/61e93/0092a83be4586f01f9b89fbf760a7dd8.webp 200w,\n/static/78c9761a11e52ea880fe22c4347b82a8/1f5c5/0092a83be4586f01f9b89fbf760a7dd8.webp 400w,\n/static/78c9761a11e52ea880fe22c4347b82a8/58556/0092a83be4586f01f9b89fbf760a7dd8.webp 800w,\n/static/78c9761a11e52ea880fe22c4347b82a8/99238/0092a83be4586f01f9b89fbf760a7dd8.webp 1200w,\n/static/78c9761a11e52ea880fe22c4347b82a8/5e0b8/0092a83be4586f01f9b89fbf760a7dd8.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":36,"numPages":6,"currentPage":4,"id":5383,"name":"Industry Spotlight","slug":"industry-spotlight","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}