{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/thc/3","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_3761-markdown","title":"Top 7 Cannabis Topicals Across the United States","slug":"top-7-cannabis-topicals-across-the-united-states","content":"As we age, life can be full of aches and pains. The most common is lower back pain, but you may ache after a workout, suffer from arthritis, or you may feel pain associated from everyday wear and tear. Many people choose to take over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen, but there are some [unwanted side effects](https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-5166-9368/ibuprofen-oral/ibuprofen-oral/details) if you take too much or consume too often.\n\n### Try a Weed Topical for Pain\n\nTopical marijuana is another, more natural solution for your aches and pains.  Weed-infused topicals come in body oils, creams, and salves, and can be applied directly to an area of pain. Whether you suffer from neuropathy, arthritis, inflammation, general soreness, or other conditions, cannabis topicals can provide \n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-14 at 10.10.22 AM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_14_at_10_10_22_AM_aae4a6cd57.png)\n\nA transdermal patch is another topical method to consider. A patch is typically placed on the arm, wrist, or thigh and administers marijuana into the bloodstream. So, if the patch has a significant dose of THC, you may feel slightly altered.\n\n[Cannabis creams and balms](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-topicals-provide-relief-for-sore-muscles-and-pain) are absorbed through the skin and binding to the CB1 and CB2 receptors at the localized area of pain. THC and cannabidiol CBD, are cannabinoids within topicals that have an analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect on the body. \n\nIn addition to the cannabinoids, weed creams may contain other ingredients and essential oils that can help with pain relief, such as eucalyptus, camphor, menthol, cayenne, clove, and wintergreen.\n\n### Benefits of Marijuana-Infused Topicals\n\n[Topicals can be used to help](https://hellomd.com/articles/topicals-a-revelation-in-treating-pain-with-cannabis) for:\n\n- Inflammation\n- Chronic pain\n- Arthritis\n- Menstrual cramps\n- Sore muscles\n- Better sleep\n- Skin conditions\n\nWhile topicals can provide localized pain relief, they work best if they are a part of a broader self-care routine, which could include stretching, massage, brisk activity (like a walk), and meditation or mindfulness.\n\n### 7 Best Cannabis Topicals\n\nIf you're looking for the soothing effects of cannabis topicals, here are seven products worth trying:\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-14 at 10.09.18 AM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_14_at_10_09_18_AM_4ee6d4e0a6.png)\n\n### 1. Avexia Pain Relief Balm Harmony 1:1\nContaining 100 mg each of THC and CBD, this Pain Relief Balm combines the cannabinoids with all-natural elements and essential oils. Blending THC and CBD in different ratios, the [Avexia product lines](https://verano.holdings/avexia/) include balms and lotions for pain and discomfort, an epsom salt soak for relaxation, and a line of microdose tablets suited to meet different consumer needs.\n\nAvexia Pain Relief Balm is carried by some dispensaries within the [Verilife chain](https://www.verilife.com/il/menu/verilife-river-north-il).  Locations are in the following states: Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania.\n\n!localized relief without getting you high.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-14 at 10.11.29 AM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_14_at_10_11_29_AM_0e1800a121.png)\n\n### 2.  Mary Medicinals Transdermal Compound\nThis is a [spot-specific transdermal balm](https://marysmedicinals.com/product/transdermal-compound/) designed to allow for much deeper penetration than traditional cannabis topicals. The balm features a 1:1 blend of CBD:THC, with 100mg total cannabinoids. It may take up to 15 minutes to feel the effect and lasts between three to five hours. \n\nIn Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the Bay Area, [Grass Door](https://grassdoor.com/product/transdermal-compound-1-1) offers same-day delivery of Mary Medicinals Transdermal Compound.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-14 at 10.14.46 AM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_14_at_10_14_46_AM_7dae045182.png)\n\n### 3. Sweet Releaf Comfort Topicals\nAvailable only in California, [Sweet Releaf](https://sweetreleaf.com/) is an award-winning family-and women-owned cannabis brand. Its formulations bring together Western science and Eastern holistic medicine to boost effectiveness. The ingredients are naturally and organically sourced, and the cannabis is sun-grown in the Emerald Triangle, and certified as squeaky clean.\n\nTheir topical products include Comfort Body Butter, Extra Strength, Cools Dry Oil, and Warms Dry Oil. They may soothe various pain, inflammation, and skin conditions.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-14 at 10.16.01 AM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_14_at_10_16_01_AM_73de7e9f16.png)\n\n### 4. Vertly Soothing Floral Face Mist\nChallenging you to boost your skincare routine with the hydrating power of organic botanicals, [Vertly's Soothing Floral Face Mist](https://vertlybalm.com/product/soothing-florals-face-mist/#1599691169170-005357a6-b8e5) serves up CBD along with such ingredients as calendula flower, aloe, lavender, witch hazel, rose water, and jasmine oil.\n\nVertly's full-spectrum hemp extract is naturally filled with vitamins A, D and E, and includes a lot of essential fatty acids (Omega 3 and 6), enhancing skin health. Free shipping is offered on orders over $50.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-14 at 10.18.12 AM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_14_at_10_18_12_AM_da6a517de7.png)\n\n### 5. Blue Moon Hemp's CBD Topical Salves\nAvailable across the country by delivery, [Blue Moon Hemp's CBD Topical Salves](https://bluemoonhemp.com/product-category/cbd-salves/) are fast-acting and designed as a natural way to nourish sensitive skin, and support tired muscles and joints (from the outside in). \n\nThe Limonene salve boasts the citrus odor of its terpene and has anti-inflammatory properties, penetrating deep into the tissue to soothe aching joints and sore muscle tissue. \n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-14 at 10.19.23 AM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_14_at_10_19_23_AM_bed2c7c746.png)\n\n### 6. Dixie Synergy Relief Balm\nAvailable in Colorado, Maryland, Michigan, Nevada, and California, [Synergy Relief Balm](https://dixieelixirs.com/product/synergy-relief-balm/) fuses CBD and THC in a 1:1 ratio. Dixie claims their products have powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can help with pain and may also be helpful in relieving neuropathic conditions.\n\nOther ingredients include infused olive fruit oil, beeswax, castor seed oil, cocoa seed butter, rosemary oil, lavender flower oil, cedar wood oil, and pine needle oil.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-14 at 10.20.11 AM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_14_at_10_20_11_AM_6c1fb2403c.png)\n\n### 7. Envy CBD Face Mask\n\nEnjoy the pampering of a [face mask](https://envycbd.com/?rfsn=4644066.f1e81c&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=4644066.f1e81c&correlationId=b752dbeb-5983-452d-a16d-2d1236949035) containing 10 mg of full-spectrum CBD per sheet. Other ingredients include licorice root extract, rosemary flower extract, and green tea leaf extract, all which are known for their antioxidant and hydrating properties. It may sounds strange but a CBD mask can help relieve tension from facial muscles and even help soothe the jaw pain associated with TMJ.\n\nThe Envy CBD mask was created to \"soften the face, preserve the natural beauty, and protect against the natural progression of age.\"\n\n### What You Need to Know About Cannabis and Health Issues\nIf you want to know more about cannabis products, including topicals, and health issues, HelloMD is your one-stop source for reliable information and advice from trusted medical professionals.\n\nWe can also help you [get your medical card](https://hellomd.com/get-started/) in some states, so you can legally buy medical marijuana to help with your health condition.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.492537313432836,"src":"/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/14b42/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/f836f/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.jpg 200w,\n/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/2244e/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.jpg 400w,\n/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/14b42/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.jpg 800w,\n/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/47498/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.jpg 1200w,\n/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/0e329/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.jpg 1600w,\n/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/4b876/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.jpg 5378w","srcWebp":"/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/58556/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/61e93/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.webp 200w,\n/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/1f5c5/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.webp 400w,\n/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/58556/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.webp 800w,\n/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/99238/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.webp 1200w,\n/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/7c22d/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.webp 1600w,\n/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/a8c9f/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.webp 5378w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3760-markdown","title":"Top 5 Marijuana Tinctures Across the United States","slug":"top-5-marijuana-tinctures-across-the-united-states","content":"\nAs marijuana legalization sweeps the nation, cannabis (and hemp) tinctures are becoming more popular as they are a discreet and fast-acting way to consume marijuana. Although cannabis tinctures may seem new to the scene, in actuality, they're making a comeback. \n\n### History of the Cannabis Tincture\n\nThe first known use of a [cannabis tincture](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tincture_of_cannabis) dates back thousands of years to the ancient Egyptians. During the 19th century in the US, cannabis tinctures became a common household medicine, and cannabis indica was a mainstay on apothecary shelves. \n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-11 at 1.51.15 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_11_at_1_51_15_PM_b4ee19d101.png)\nThe apothecary was the neighborhood pharmacy of the late 19th century, with cannabis on the shelves.\n\nDuring this time, [doctors often prescribed](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5312634/) cannabis to treat headaches, chronic pain, sleep disorders, and to increase appetite. By the late 1800s, cannabis indica tinctures were as widely accepted as ibuprofen is today. Apothecaries continued to create proprietary mixtures until the turn of the century when the pharmaceutical industry emerged, at which time cannabis tinctures became branded.\n\nIn 1851 the [U.S. Pharmacopoeia](https://www.rxlist.com/united_states_pharmacopeia/definition.htm) added cannabis to its listings of drugs and by 1916 it was instructing readers on the administration of cannabis to humans as well as dogs.\n\n### How to Consume Marijuana Tinctures\n\nIn traditional herbalism, tinctures are made of plant matter soaked in alcohol, then strained and put in a glass dropper bottle for consumption. In the cannabis world, [tinctures can encompass this method](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-tinctures-from-glycerin-to-mct-oil-which-is-best), as well as cannabis concentrates dissolved in a carrier liquid—be it alcohol, vegetable glycerin or oil.\n\nA tincture can be administered sublingually, under the tongue, or mixed into food or beverages. If taken sublingually, you'll experience a [faster onset](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-tinctures-what-they-are-and-why-you-want-them) and feel the effects within 15 to 30 minutes. If mixed into a food or beverage, the onset may take upwards of 30 minutes. The duration of effects can range from four to eight hours.\n\nNelson Cuevas, a pharmacist at PharmaCannis in New York says, \"Tinctures are very appealing for novice users of cannabis. One of the main reasons is because we can really find out the exact dosing for the patient. We can tweak it—give a little more, a little less—to get the maximum amount of relief for the patient.\"\n\nFor newer patients, tinctures are a great place to start as dosage may be titrated up or down very easily. As no two patients are alike, consumers are advised to start out low and slow, working upwards to the correct dosage. Method of consumption, a patient's biochemistry, and overall mindset can affect the outcome and impact of the medicine. As Nelson explains, \"It's a little easier to titrate to the exact dose when you're using a liquid over a pill.\"\n\n### Benefits of Cannabis Tinctures\n\nTinctures will typically contain cannabidiol (CBD), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), or a combination of both. You will also find cannabis tinctures that are CBD from hemp, a marijuana plant containing 0.03% THC or less, allowing it to be sold at the local drugstore. \n\nTerpenes, the essential oils from the cannabis plants, are often mixed into tinctures to emphasize a certain effect. For example, the terpene [limonene](https://hellomd.com/articles/know-your-cannabis-terpenes-limonene) is often used to create an uplifting or energizing affect. [New studies indicate](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/best-cbd-tincture#benefits) combining CBD and THC, with terpenes is more effective than using CBD or THC alone.\n[Some studies indicate](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/best-cbd-tincture#benefits) that combining CBD, THC, and terpenes is more effective than using CBD or THC alone.\n\n### Top 5 Cannabis Tinctures in the United States\n\nIf you're interested in adding tinctures to your wellness routine, here's our list of the top 5 cannabis tinctures across the United States.\n\n### 1. Select Ratio Drops\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-11 at 9.36.36 AM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_11_at_9_36_36_AM_8e3eb9e84e.png)\n\nThese easy-to-measure, and [easy-to-use tinctures](https://selectcannabis.com/products)  offer different CBD and THC ratios ranging from 100% THC to equal parts CBD:THC, or a CBD-dominant experience.\n\nIn Los Angeles and San Francisco areas, in California, Select Ratio drops are available for home delivery through [Grass Door](https://grassdoor.com/). For example, the delivery service has [Select Lemon Ginger 1:1 Drops](https://grassdoor.com/product/select-drops-tincture-1-1-lemon-ginger) (equal THC-CBD ratio), whose onset time is 15 to 20 minutes after consumption.  The formulation with a zesty lemon-ginger flavor is combined with MCT oil to increase absorption.\n\n### 2. Grow Ohio Premium Wellness Tinctures\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-11 at 9.38.03 AM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_11_at_9_38_03_AM_625a942b7c.png)\n\nThe [Butterfly Effect Tinctures](https://www.growoh.com/products/) are formulated as a full-spectrum hybrid blend of CO2 extracted oil. Terpenes are mixed in for natural flavor, a consistent patient experience, and the full entourage effect. [Verilife chain of dispensaries](https://www.verilife.com/oh) in Ohio carries Grow Ohio, and they also offer free home delivery of products. \n\nA best seller, the [Butterfly Effect 1:1 2 Day Tincture](https://www.verilife.com/oh/verilife-cincinnati-ohio-medical-marijuana-dispensary-menu) consists of nano-emulsified cannabinoids for faster, more complete, and more reliable absorption, and increased bioavailability. \n\nVerilife also has dispensaries in Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, and Pennsylvania.\n\n### 3. Veritas Farms Full Spectrum CBD Tincture\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-11 at 9.38.57 AM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_11_at_9_38_57_AM_ab231078f2.png)\n\n[This Veritas Farms Ful Spectrum CBD tincture](https://theveritasfarms.com/) comes in different strengths and flavors. The unflavored option contains full-spectrum hemp seed oil and coconut oil. The flavored choices (peppermint, strawberry and watermelon) add stevia essential oils, and natural flavors.\n\nVeritas Farms describes its product line: \"Our full spectrum CBD tinctures offer you an all-natural way to calm your mind, ease tension, and improve mental clarity and focus. Our oil is made with quality in mind from hemp plants grown on our sustainable Colorado farm. We go the extra mile and suspend our full-spectrum hemp oil in organic coconut oil for a clean, light formula designed to help you feel the best.\"\n\nShipping is free for orders of $100 or more.\n\n### 4. Amend Tinctures\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-11 at 9.39.48 AM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_11_at_9_39_48_AM_589e950abe.png)\n\n[Amend](https://phytoscannabis.com/amend/) is a line of tinctures that are popular in Missouri dispensaries, coming in 1:1 or 1:10 (THC:CBD) formula. Created by Missouri-based Phyto Cannabis, they are premium cannabis oil tinctures, designed to \"help you embrace better health with discretion.\" They are made with high-quality cannabis distillate and MCT oil, with effects beginning within 15 to 45 minutes and lasting four to five hours.\n\n### 5. Kind Tree THC+ Tinctures\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-11 at 9.41.22 AM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_11_at_9_41_22_AM_21a1faab11.png)\n\nAvailable in Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey,  [Kind Tree](https://kindtreecannabis.com/) offers potent THC tinctures, with 900mg THC per bottle; they are \"highly saturated in flavor, potent, and delicious.\" Flavors include Mango, Green Apple, Electric Strawberry, and Extra Strength.\n\nKind Tree is dedicated to cultivating and producing cannabis with sustainable and eco-friendly techniques, including a commitment to clean, healthy soil and the use of organic growing techniques and no chemical pesticides.\n\n### Get Your Medical Marijuana Card\n\nIf you want to use medical marijuana to treat a state-approved health condition, you will \nneed a medical card to legally obtain safe and tested cannabis products. At HelloMD, we make it fast, easy and cost effective to [get your medical card](https://hellomd.com/get-started) ​ through our telehealth services. Our medical professionals can also answer any questions you might have about using cannabis for medical issues.\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/2887edd78adc7f04ae3eea4f6e781010/14b42/0544db66200ad33c26a6df50ef2b5c0a.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2887edd78adc7f04ae3eea4f6e781010/f836f/0544db66200ad33c26a6df50ef2b5c0a.jpg 200w,\n/static/2887edd78adc7f04ae3eea4f6e781010/2244e/0544db66200ad33c26a6df50ef2b5c0a.jpg 400w,\n/static/2887edd78adc7f04ae3eea4f6e781010/14b42/0544db66200ad33c26a6df50ef2b5c0a.jpg 800w,\n/static/2887edd78adc7f04ae3eea4f6e781010/47498/0544db66200ad33c26a6df50ef2b5c0a.jpg 1200w,\n/static/2887edd78adc7f04ae3eea4f6e781010/0e329/0544db66200ad33c26a6df50ef2b5c0a.jpg 1600w,\n/static/2887edd78adc7f04ae3eea4f6e781010/95108/0544db66200ad33c26a6df50ef2b5c0a.jpg 4527w","srcWebp":"/static/2887edd78adc7f04ae3eea4f6e781010/58556/0544db66200ad33c26a6df50ef2b5c0a.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/2887edd78adc7f04ae3eea4f6e781010/61e93/0544db66200ad33c26a6df50ef2b5c0a.webp 200w,\n/static/2887edd78adc7f04ae3eea4f6e781010/1f5c5/0544db66200ad33c26a6df50ef2b5c0a.webp 400w,\n/static/2887edd78adc7f04ae3eea4f6e781010/58556/0544db66200ad33c26a6df50ef2b5c0a.webp 800w,\n/static/2887edd78adc7f04ae3eea4f6e781010/99238/0544db66200ad33c26a6df50ef2b5c0a.webp 1200w,\n/static/2887edd78adc7f04ae3eea4f6e781010/7c22d/0544db66200ad33c26a6df50ef2b5c0a.webp 1600w,\n/static/2887edd78adc7f04ae3eea4f6e781010/e9c56/0544db66200ad33c26a6df50ef2b5c0a.webp 4527w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3759-markdown","title":"Top 5 Best Weed-Infused Drinks","slug":"top-5-best-weed-infused-drinks","content":"Cannabis-infused drinks appeal to consumers for a variety of reasons, including their tasty flavor! New weed-infused drinks provide a healthy alternative to alcohol, and they can stimulate different effects, whether that be to energize, calm, or act as a social lubricant. And, let's face it, drinking a cannabis beverage is more socially acceptable than lighting up a pipe, or even drawing from a vape.\n\n### The Cannabis Drinks Market is Exploding\n\nThe market for weed-infused beers, tonics, teas, aperitifs, sparkling waters, and other beverages is growing. New startups are sprouting like weeds (pun intended) and major investments from beverage makers in California, Colorado, Canada, and other markets where cannabis is legal. \n\nWhile sales of weed beverages are still small compared to the edibles market, some experts expect them to spike dramatically, perhaps even rising [higher than $1 billion by 2025](https://lbbusinessjournal.com/drinkable-high-are-thc-infused-beverages-the-next-trend-in-legal-cannabis).  \n\n![shutterstock_1868806051-min (1).jpg](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/shutterstock_1868806051_min_1_3ad7a57a8d.jpg)\n\nWeed drinks are a good substitute for alcohol, and better for you than smoking cannabis. Drinking an infused beverage may also appeal to consumers of other cannabis products. Drinking your marijuana allows it to enter the system and provide effects faster than most edibles. \n\nMarijuana drinks seem to appeal to both the \n“There’s something about unwinding and relaxing with tea at the end of the night, and now my tea can be more functional because it does have CBD and THC in it as well,” says Jessica Lukas, senior vice president of commercial development at BDS Analytics, a cannabis-market insights firm, in a [Rolling Stone interview](https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-features/cannabis-marijuana-weed-drinks-beverages-420-986786/). \n\n### The Challenges in Creating Tasty Weed Drinks\n\nIn catering to the growing cannabis-infused drink market, manufacturers face a double challenge. Some people don’t like the taste of weed in what they drink. But the greater obstacle to overcome is the fact that cannabis and alcohol can’t be mixed. [There are some studies](https://hellomd.com/articles/are-marijuana-infused-alcoholic-drinks-a-good-idea) suggesting that alcohol combined with weed could increase the levels of THC levels in the blood.\n\nThat means that cannabis needs to be mixed with water, and typical compounds such as THC and CBD are not easily water-soluble. Without proper treatment, drinks can have unappealing chunky bits of weed floating around.\n\nHowever, technology has come to the rescue. Many cannabis beverage makers use a process called “nano-emulsification,” which breaks down cannabis oil into microscopic particles and then mixes them  with an emulsifier, a substance that enables oil to dissolve in water. \n\nSo in making a beer-type product, a brewer would first have to remove the alcohol, introduce cannabis compounds in a nano-emulsion, and then perhaps add terpenes for flavor (and also compensate for the body lost when the beer was made non-alcoholic). \n\n### Our Picks for the Top 5 Weed Drinks\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-07 at 8.28.18 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_07_at_8_28_18_PM_0d64f22957.png)\n\n### 1. Cann\nCann bills itself as a social tonic microdosed with cannabis that provides you a “light and uplifted buzz” but gives you no hangover and has fewer empty calories than alcohol. Cann tonics contain  just five natural ingredients — carbonated water, agave, juice, essential oils, and Californian cannabis extract. \n\nAvailable now across California, and in other states such as Nevada, Illinois, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, [Cann](https://drinkcann.com/) offers a choice of different THC and CBD ratios, and a light social buzz that happens in a speedy 10 to 15 minutes. They also come in interesting flavors, such as Sava Lime Basil, Yuzu Elderflower Reserve and Blood Orange Cardamom.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-07 at 8.29.29 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_07_at_8_29_29_PM_0a812d0212.png)\n\n### 2. Aurora Elixirs\nEnjoy a line of sparkling beverages made with sustainably grown hemp and hops from the Pacific Northwest. [Aurora](https://auroraelixirs.com/) is made in small batches with a proprietary blend of whole plant extracts to deliver a “layered experience that restores and rejuvenates the mind and body.”\n\nThis is a female-founded business that came to be with the legalization of recreational weed in  Oregon. Apparently founder Victoria Pustynsky was inspired by the the Goddess of the Dawn and the Northern Lights — “both the visually stimulating natural phenomenon in the northern hemisphere and the first strain of highest quality marijuana introduced to our founder in her youth growing up in Brooklyn.”\n\nFlavors such as Blackcurrant Spruce and Cayenne Citron are available for delivery where allowed and through retail partners in Oregon, New York and California.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-07 at 8.31.17 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_07_at_8_31_17_PM_cf4fd4a462.png)\n\n### 3. S*Shots\nRight off the top, [S*Shots asks](https://s-shots.com/), “Thirsty for THC?” If you are they deliver, with “100mg of glorious THC expertly blended with sweet and tangy fruit juice for a flavor-explosive, full-body high.”\n\nEach eight-ounce bottle contains 10 servings, with flavors that include Tropical Thunder, Watermelon Punch, Lemon Crush and Berry Blast. The site also has suggestions for non-alcoholic cocktails and ways to serve the potent beverage, such as Ginger Berry Blast-off, S*Shotty Banger and Transgender Pride Flag.\n\nS*Shots is available by delivery and through different California dispensaries. \n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-07 at 8.33.00 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_07_at_8_33_00_PM_e822d69f0b.png)\n\n### 4. Miraflora Sparkling Waters\nThese CBD-infused sparkling waters are lightly flavored and sweetened with stevia. At the company’s 160-acre USDA Organic Certified farm in Boulder County, family owned for more than 100 years, organic hemp is fed “pure snowmelt from Rocky Mountain National Park and all-natural, organic Alpaca Gold fertilizer from our alpaca herd (Merlin, Jackson Hole, and gang).”\n\nThe [Miraflora](https://miraflora.co/) +Relax Yuzu Chamomile is a healthy way to unwind, infused with stress-busting full-spectrum hemp extract, ashwagandha root, L-theanine, and chamomile tea. Their +Balance drinks are designed for daytime use and come in Tuscan Blood Orange and Peach Ginger flavors.\n\nMiraflores delivers where allowed in the United States.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-07 at 8.33.59 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_07_at_8_33_59_PM_69bb5b3d95.png)\n\n### 5. Viv & Oak\nBlending non-alcoholic California wine with premium cannabis, [Viv & Oak](https://vivandoak.com/) invites you to enjoy a new type of social experience. The wines are designed to maintain the best flavors, tannins, and aromas, and only three grams of sugar and 24 calories per glass. You’ll feel their effects in 10 to 20 minutes.\n\nAlana Burstein founded the California company because she was “frustrated with the sugary taste of non-alcoholic wines on the market, the unpredictability of edibles, the negative effects of alcohol, and her personal journey with alcohol.”\n\nHer rose and zinfandel wines are available through various California dispensaries.\n\n### Get What You Need From HelloMD\n\nIf you want to know more about cannabis medical and lifestyle issues, HelloMD is your go-to resource with thousands of pages of quality information. We also offer advice from leading cannabis medical practitioners.\n\nIf you are interested in getting medical marijuana for an approved health condition, we may be able to help you, depending on where you live. We offer online telehealth appointments with knowledgeable, licensed practitioners who treat the whole person, not just the symptoms. We make it fast and easy to get your [medical marijuana card](https://hellomd.com/get-started/","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/fe77bb07de1e577e141dfcafdd655085/14b42/d88ddc0ec5541b5bcad31ddc4ce3a5fb.jpg","srcSet":"/static/fe77bb07de1e577e141dfcafdd655085/f836f/d88ddc0ec5541b5bcad31ddc4ce3a5fb.jpg 200w,\n/static/fe77bb07de1e577e141dfcafdd655085/2244e/d88ddc0ec5541b5bcad31ddc4ce3a5fb.jpg 400w,\n/static/fe77bb07de1e577e141dfcafdd655085/14b42/d88ddc0ec5541b5bcad31ddc4ce3a5fb.jpg 800w,\n/static/fe77bb07de1e577e141dfcafdd655085/47498/d88ddc0ec5541b5bcad31ddc4ce3a5fb.jpg 1200w,\n/static/fe77bb07de1e577e141dfcafdd655085/0e329/d88ddc0ec5541b5bcad31ddc4ce3a5fb.jpg 1600w,\n/static/fe77bb07de1e577e141dfcafdd655085/c128d/d88ddc0ec5541b5bcad31ddc4ce3a5fb.jpg 5760w","srcWebp":"/static/fe77bb07de1e577e141dfcafdd655085/58556/d88ddc0ec5541b5bcad31ddc4ce3a5fb.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/fe77bb07de1e577e141dfcafdd655085/61e93/d88ddc0ec5541b5bcad31ddc4ce3a5fb.webp 200w,\n/static/fe77bb07de1e577e141dfcafdd655085/1f5c5/d88ddc0ec5541b5bcad31ddc4ce3a5fb.webp 400w,\n/static/fe77bb07de1e577e141dfcafdd655085/58556/d88ddc0ec5541b5bcad31ddc4ce3a5fb.webp 800w,\n/static/fe77bb07de1e577e141dfcafdd655085/99238/d88ddc0ec5541b5bcad31ddc4ce3a5fb.webp 1200w,\n/static/fe77bb07de1e577e141dfcafdd655085/7c22d/d88ddc0ec5541b5bcad31ddc4ce3a5fb.webp 1600w,\n/static/fe77bb07de1e577e141dfcafdd655085/ec000/d88ddc0ec5541b5bcad31ddc4ce3a5fb.webp 5760w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3758-markdown","title":"New York Weed Companies with Innovative Marijuana Products","slug":"new-york-weed-companies-with-innovative-marijuana-products","content":"\nNew York is seeing green as it wades further into legalizing cannabis. Medical marijuana was legalized in 2014, and in the years since more conditions are covered, allowing more people to [get their medical marijuana cards](https://hellomd.com/articles/how-to-get-your-medical-marijuana-card-in-new-york-state). More recently, the push for recreational legalization in New York reached a turning point in April 2021, when Governor Andrew Cuomo passed the bill to legalize recreational weed for people ages 21 and up. But, even though the use of cannabis is now legalized, sales through [licensed dispensaries](https://www.health.ny.gov/regulations/medical_marijuana/application/selected_applicants.htm)(new ones and existing medical marijuana ones extending their businesses) won’t occur until sometime in 2022.\n\nEven so, both new and existing cannabis companies have made moves to set up in the Empire State, recognizing that it will become a $4.2 billion market.\n\nBelow we call out some of our top picks and innovative weed products from a variety of cannabis companies operating in New York state.\n\n### It Pays to Have a Green Thumb Growing  Weed in New York\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-06 at 2.18.47 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_06_at_2_18_47_PM_83ce70b535.png)\n\nAbout 60 miles north of Manhattan, at the foothills of the Ramapo Mountains lies the long-shuttered  Mid-Orange Correctional Facility in Warwick, New York. This is where Green Thumb Industries, one of the largest marijuana companies in America, is creating a $150 million [cultivation and manufacturing site](https://www.forbes.com/sites/alexandrasternlicht/2021/10/01/new-yorks-150-million-cannabis-campus-21-million-to-democratize-car-insurance-and-under-30-nominations-extended/?sh=74045feec6fa) on 40 acres of former penitentiary lands.\n\nBy 2023, Green Thumb’s  “cannabis campus” will start producing tens of thousands of pounds of marijuana, millions of THC-infused gummies, and vapes to fill the shelves of its dispensaries throughout New York state.\n\nAmong its different dispensary chains around the country, the $5.7 billion company runs [FP Wellness](https://fpwellnessny.com/) in New York, with locations in  Manhattan, Clifton Park, Rochester, and Nassau (coming soon). The dispensary chain prides itself on its “patient-focused approach,” served by professional cannabis pharmacists. All of its medical marijuana products are tested and approved by the New York State Department of Health for safety and quality. \n\nSome of the products its Manhattan dispensary carries (from different suppliers) include:\n\n### Green Thumb Products\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-06 at 2.00.06 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_06_at_2_00_06_PM_d02119602d.png)\n\n### Etain 1:1 Balance Powder\nThis [edible powder](https://fpwellnessny.com/order-medical-marijuana-online-nyc-manhattan/?path=menu?refinementList[root_types]=edible:Drink%20Mixes) aimed at humans features equal amounts of THC and CBD, as well as Isomalt derived from beets. It may provide benefits such as pain relief and relaxation.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-06 at 2.03.11 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_06_at_2_03_11_PM_7cd486403a.png)\n\n### Columbia Care Disposable Vape\nThe [1:1 THC/CBD products](https://fpwellnessny.com/order-medical-marijuana-online-nyc-manhattan/?path=menu?refinementList%5broot_types%5d=edible:Drink%20Mixes) are commonly used for, but not limited to, mild pain relief, neuropathic pain, nausea, vomiting, appetite stimulation, inflammation, anxiety, and muscle spasms.\n\n### Other Big Players in the New York Weed Market\n\n[Curaleaf](https://curaleaf.com/) is a national weed dispensary chain that has four locations in New York: Carle Place, Newburgh, Plattsburgh and Queens. It is the largest multistate operator in the country. For a long time, the company focused on providing quality cannabis for health and wellness. As well as selling fresh cured flower, it also makes quality, lab-tested cannabis products. Their cannabis grow facility supplies all of the cannabis for their innovative product lines.\n\n### Curaleaf Products\n\nOur Curaleaf top picks:\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-06 at 2.05.22 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_06_at_2_05_22_PM_fafb679dbb.png)\n\n### Curaleaf WPA Ground Flower Refill\nCuraleaf [Ground Flower Bulk Refill Indica](https://curaleaf.com/shop/new-york/curaleaf-ny-carle-place/flower?dtche%5Bproduct%5D=curaleaf-wpa-ground-flower-refill-7g) contains all-natural cannabis flower and cannabis plant terpenes for vaporization, with 21.35% THC and 0.125% CBD. One slow, measured inhalation lasting two seconds delivers approximately 2.5 mg of active cannabinoids with effects often occurring in 90 seconds. \n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-06 at 2.06.37 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_06_at_2_06_37_PM_a38b8d65b0.png)\n\n### Select Watermelon Squeeze\n[Select Squeeze](https://curaleaf.com/shop/new-york/curaleaf-ny-carle-place/topicals?dtche%5Bproduct%5D=select-watermelon-squeeze-30ml) allows you to instantly infuse any beverage with THC and flavor enhancements, using nanotechnology to deliver a fast zero to 15 minute onset time.\n\n### Curaleaf CPE 20:1 Liquid Concentrate\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-06 at 2.07.39 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_06_at_2_07_39_PM_99372fa798.png)\n\nUsually taken by experienced weed users, [this indica product](https://curaleaf.com/shop/new-york/curaleaf-ny-carle-place?dtche%5Bproduct%5D=curaleaf-cpe-20-1-liquid-concentrate-0-5g) with 90% THC is made in a process that isolates and removes cannabinoids from plant material via extraction, agitation, compression, or other methods, making the product very potent. \n\n### Verilife Products\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-06 at 2.13.45 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_06_at_2_13_45_PM_b7de1cf2b2.png)\n\nOne of the most trusted dispensary chains in New York is [Verilife](https://www.verilife.com). It currently has locations in Albany, Liverpool, Bronx, and Onondaga counties, with a commitment to add more, especially to cater to the new, expanding recreational market when legal sales can begin.\n\nThe chain is owned by PharmaCann, one of the country’s largest vertically integrated cannabis companies, committed to producing safe, reliable, top-quality cannabis products, delivered through dispensaries in different states. \n\n[Some of our top picks](https://www.verilife.com/ny/menu/verilife-bronx-ny) sold by Verilife New York dispensaries:\n\n### Matter Green Oral Solution\nThis tincture with a 1:1 ratio, offers perfectly balanced THC to CBD. It's manufactured with cannabis oil, medium-chain triglycerides (MCT), vitamins E and C derivatives. \n\n### Matter Inhale Ground Premium Cannabis Flower\nThe premium ground flower products are known for their strong and uplifting characteristics, while also promoting a more clear-headed experience for users. Matter takes a disciplined approach to producing some of the highest-grade medical cannabis on the market.\n\n### Matter Hybrid Cartridge\n The Aqua 2:1 TXC distillate vapeis a “winning combination of cultivation and extraction that delivers a unique excipient-free oil.” Pair this formulation with Matter’s  premium cartridges to ensure you enjoy delivery of the highest volume of extract with a pure smooth flavor. \n\n### You Still Need a Medical Card in New York\n\nTo buy medical marijuana from a New York dispensary, you must have a [medical marijuana card](https://hellomd.com/articles/how-to-get-your-medical-marijuana-card-in-new-york-state). \n\nIt’s fast, easy and cost-effective to do this through [HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started/new-york/), talking to an experienced practitioner online who will answer any questions you may have.  \n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/b69cdaf1098bcb6caa8cdf6e88ab33e1/14b42/b90f0e88802c3a6c78d977f8640f518d.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b69cdaf1098bcb6caa8cdf6e88ab33e1/f836f/b90f0e88802c3a6c78d977f8640f518d.jpg 200w,\n/static/b69cdaf1098bcb6caa8cdf6e88ab33e1/2244e/b90f0e88802c3a6c78d977f8640f518d.jpg 400w,\n/static/b69cdaf1098bcb6caa8cdf6e88ab33e1/14b42/b90f0e88802c3a6c78d977f8640f518d.jpg 800w,\n/static/b69cdaf1098bcb6caa8cdf6e88ab33e1/47498/b90f0e88802c3a6c78d977f8640f518d.jpg 1200w,\n/static/b69cdaf1098bcb6caa8cdf6e88ab33e1/0e329/b90f0e88802c3a6c78d977f8640f518d.jpg 1600w,\n/static/b69cdaf1098bcb6caa8cdf6e88ab33e1/3d647/b90f0e88802c3a6c78d977f8640f518d.jpg 3072w","srcWebp":"/static/b69cdaf1098bcb6caa8cdf6e88ab33e1/58556/b90f0e88802c3a6c78d977f8640f518d.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b69cdaf1098bcb6caa8cdf6e88ab33e1/61e93/b90f0e88802c3a6c78d977f8640f518d.webp 200w,\n/static/b69cdaf1098bcb6caa8cdf6e88ab33e1/1f5c5/b90f0e88802c3a6c78d977f8640f518d.webp 400w,\n/static/b69cdaf1098bcb6caa8cdf6e88ab33e1/58556/b90f0e88802c3a6c78d977f8640f518d.webp 800w,\n/static/b69cdaf1098bcb6caa8cdf6e88ab33e1/99238/b90f0e88802c3a6c78d977f8640f518d.webp 1200w,\n/static/b69cdaf1098bcb6caa8cdf6e88ab33e1/7c22d/b90f0e88802c3a6c78d977f8640f518d.webp 1600w,\n/static/b69cdaf1098bcb6caa8cdf6e88ab33e1/f75db/b90f0e88802c3a6c78d977f8640f518d.webp 3072w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3754-markdown","title":"Can Weed-Infused Drinks Replace Your Alcohol?","slug":"can-weed-infused-drinks-replace-your-alcohol","content":"\"Let's have a drink!\" is something we hear all the time. We go for drinks with friends, have a drink to celebrate, have drinks after work, and of course, we serve drinks at a party. In society, we drink for a lot of different reasons, and for the most part, it is culturally acceptable to consume alcohol with friends and family.\n\nBut is alcohol good for us? If we look at the science and the data, regular consumption of alcohol has a lot of unintended [negative health consequences](https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets/alcohol-use.htm), from alcohol dependence to a higher risk of different cancers, higher rates of depression, and even a weakened immune system.\n\nIf you consume alcohol regularly, maybe it's time to consider pivoting to something else. That could mean abstaining altogether (chocolate is a great substitute!) or approaching alcohol more consciously and in moderation. Or, it could be time to consider an alternative, such as [cannabis-infused beverages](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/top-5-best-weed-infused-drinks). If consumed properly, marijuana can provide similar benefits we experience from alcohol but with fewer health problems. Also, who doesn't want to avoid the next day's alcohol hangover?!\n\n![Hello2-min (32).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello2_min_32_4a3bead3e3.png)\n\n### How Much is Too Much Alcohol\n\nIf you are a moderate drinker, you may be able to drink alcohol without noticing any negative effects. Experts debate if there are health benefits to drinking; some possible ones include:\n\n- Reducing the risk of developing heart disease\n- Possibly reduces the risk of ischemic stroke \n- Possibly reduces the risk of diabetes\n\nThe [Mayo Clinic](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/alcohol/art-20044551) indicates that health benefits are more likely received if you have a healthy diet and are physically active. \n\nModerate drinking is considered to be one to two drinks a day for *men* and one per day or less for *women*. Examples of one drink include:\n\n- Beer: 12 fluid ounces (355 milliliters)\n- Wine: 5 fluid ounces (148 milliliters)\n- Distilled spirits (80 proof): 1.5 fluid ounces (44 milliliters)\n\nBut even a moderate drinker has an increased risk of some cancers, including breast and esophageal cancer. \n\nHeavy or high-risk drinking is defined as more than three drinks on any day or more than seven drinks a week for women and for men older than age 65, and more than four drinks on any day or more than 14 drinks a week for men aged 65 and younger.\n\nSome of the health risks of excessive drinking and binge drinking include:\n\n- Certain cancers\n- Pancreatitis\n- Sudden death if you already have cardiovascular disease\n- Heart muscle damage leading to heart failure\n- Stroke\n- High blood pressure\n- Liver disease\n- Suicide\n- Accidental serious injury or death\n- Brain damage and other problems in an unborn child\n- Alcohol withdrawal syndrome\n- Depression and anxiety\n- Sleep disturbances such as insomnia\n- Addiction or alcohol dependence\n\n![Hello4-min (25).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello4_min_25_3e78cc9de3.png)\n\n### Do You Have an Alcohol Problem?\n\nIf you're asking if you have a drinking problem, chances are you do. Some of the [warning signs of alcohol abuse](https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/understanding-alcohol-abuse-symptoms) include:\n\n- Drinking more than you plan to\n- Couldn't cut back or stop despite trying\n- Spend a lot of time drinking, being sick, or hungover\n- Want alcohol so badly you can't think of anything else\n- Have problems with work, school, or family because of your drinking habit \n- Continuing to drink even though it is causing problems for you or your relationships \n- Cut back on other activities important to you in order to drink\n- Keep drinking even though it made you depressed or anxious, hurt your health, or led to a memory blackout\n- Drink more and more to get the same effect \n- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when the buzz wears off, such as trouble sleeping, shakiness, restlessness, nausea, sweating, a racing heart, a seizure, or seeing, hearing, or feeling things that aren't there.\n\nThe [National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAA)](https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/) offers a number of [resources for getting assessments and help with your drinking problem](https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/treatment-alcohol-problems-finding-and-getting-help). These can include traditional self-help groups such as [Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)](https://www.aa.org/) or Secular AA; different types of treatments and medications; different kinds of health professionals available to work with you; and much more.\n\n![Hello5-min (20).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello5_min_20_f32320fe18.png)\n\n### Replacing a Drinking Habit with Another...\n\nIf your drinking problem isn't severe, then replacing your nightly cocktail with another habit, one with less physical damage, maybe an easy switch up. If your drinking habit is deeply ingrained, or you find difficulty breaking your habit, we suggest a really good read!\n\nTo find a pathway to real change, it's worth consulting a book by Charles Duhigg, [The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business](https://www.amazon.com/Power-Habit-What-Life-Business/dp/1400069289/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1633013539&sr=8-1). \n\nThe key to exercising regularly, losing weight, raising great children, becoming more productive, building revolutionary companies and social movements, and achieving success, and stopping or moderating drinking is to understand how habits work. This book clearly demonstrates how change is possible, even with ingrained habits - such as drinking too much.\n\n![Hello6-min (14).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello6_min_14_b1261ca3dd.png)\n\n### Replacing Alcohol With Marijuana\n\nThere's evidence to suggest that it's [safer to consume weed](https://hellomd.com/articles/marijuana-is-safer-than-alcohol-and-tobacco-study-finds) than alcohol or tobacco. Studies have shown that alcohol can be about 114 times more deadly than marijuana. That's a bit of a whopper!\n\nTimes are changing as people become more aware of the dangers of alcohol and the benefits of marijuana. As the rise of weed legalization continues across the United States (especially under the pressure of the COVID-19 pandemic), we see an increasing number of young people who embracing marijuana in lieu of drinking.\n\nThe [\"Monitoring the Future\" report](https://www.addictioncenter.com/news/2021/09/college-students-marijuana-more-alcohol-less/), sponsored by The [National Institute On Drug Abuse at the National Institutes of Health](https://nida.nih.gov/), reveals changes in the patterns of substance use in the college student population. \n\nStatistics show that 44% of college students indicated they had used marijuana in the previous year, while 56% reported drinking. This represents a substantial shift. In 2015, only 38% of college students said they used marijuana, while 62% of the same population admitted to drinking alcohol in 2019.\n\n[Another study, by Harris Poll,](https://www.forbes.com/sites/ajherrington/2021/12/31/marijuana-is-replacing-alcohol-for-nearly-half-of-cannabis-consumers-during-the-pandemic/?sh=55807ac61fb6) indicates that half of cannabis consumers aged 21 and up have replaced or reduced their alcohol consumption with marijuana since the beginning of the pandemic. The poll also found that one-third of those who use cannabis recreationally prefer cannabis to drinking alcohol.\n\n![Hello8-min (6).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello8_min_6_d189a78935.png)\n\n### The Cannabis-Infused Beverage: An Alcohol Alternative\n\nShifting consumer attitudes and patterns have alcohol companies on their toes and somewhat concerned. While cannabis is growing in popularity as a new consumption method makes the switch from alcohol to marijuana even easier; to enter the weed-infused beverage.\n\nCannabis sales in this country. are expected to [reach $21.6 billion in 2021](https://daily.sevenfifty.com/why-the-alcohol-industry-is-betting-big-on-cannabis/), with cannabis beverage sales making up about $210 million of that. More than 80% of consumers believe that weed is safer than alcohol, sparking major alcohol companies to invest in **THC and CBD beverages**, such as [Molson Coors](https://www.molsoncoors.com/av?url=https://www.molsoncoors.com/), [Lagunitas](https://lagunitas.com/), [Pabst](https://www.pabstlabs.com/), and [Constellation Brands](https://www.cbrands.com/).\n\nThe weed-infused beverage market has two main categories: **THC beverages** and **hemp-derived CBD beverages**. Each category has its own legal requirements and route to market. But they have the same appeal: **They're non-alcoholic**, have a touch of mocktail effervescence, and include low to zero calories. It seems this may be the new healthy alternative to boozing it up on the weekends!\n\nIn this vein, here are seven cannabis-infused drinks available throughout the California market that are worth trying:\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-01 at 1.11.28 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_01_at_1_11_28_PM_857d1176cd.png)\n\n### ReCreate Mango Hibiscus\nContaining 10 mg of THC and 10 mg of CBD, [the extra-strength version of this cannabis beverage](https://www.recreatecannabis.com/product/mango-hibiscus-beverage-extra-strength) has only 30 calories and combines full-spectrum extract with uplifting botanicals like Yerba Mate to help keep you energized and uplifted throughout the day. \n\n![Hello6-min (15).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello6_min_15_05e3b2be98.png)\n\n### Saka Pink\n[House of Saka Pink](https://www.houseofsaka.com/portfolio-item/saka-pink/) is a cannabis-infused beverage handcrafted from grapes grown in select vineyards within California's Napa Valley. It offers subtle aromas of red fruit, honeysuckle, and spring flora. \"Pleasing flavors of fresh strawberry and elderflower bath the palate followed by a bright, citrus finish.\"\n\n![Hello5-min (21).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello5_min_21_2aa7dfff2d.png)\n\n### Malus Ciders\nCreated by [Harmony Craft Beverages](https://harmonycraftbeverages.com)​​, Malus beverages are reportedly California's first cannabis-infused ciders, made with Sour Diesel terpenes and live resin THC. Most of the alcohol is removed from the cider and then a cannabis emulsion is infused, tasting almost like you're drinking a hard cider but \"swapping bloat for bliss.\"\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-01 at 1.14.58 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_01_at_1_14_58_PM_21d42c9e8d.png)\n\n### Lagunitas Hi-Fi Hops\nThe brewery has strong sales in California of its [Hi-Fi Hops](https://hifihops.com/), using a \"stereophonic\" mix of hops and cannabis. It explains, \"This IPA-inspired sparkling beverage is made using everything Lagunitas knows about hops — but non-alcoholic with zero-calories, and zero-carbs. Infused with THC from the finest, sun-grown cannabis.\" The three beer-like products have different levels of THC and CBD.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-01 at 1.15.41 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_01_at_1_15_41_PM_6d762dad16.png)\n\n### Artet Aperitifs\n[Artet's aperitifs](https://artet.com/) are non-alcoholic and cannabis infused. Each batch is a blend of cannabis and eight botanicals that are designed to work in harmony. One intriguing choice is Rosemary Jane, with Italian grapefruit juice, rosemary simple syrup, and sparkling water to \"tease out the warmth of our flagship aperitif.\"\n\n![Hello9-min (5).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello9_min_5_097312d1c1.png)\n\n### SipC Rose\n[SipC](https://drinksipc.com/) only used California grapes used in the initial production of its 2018 Grenache Rosé blend that was infused with 40mg of broad-spectrum hemp extract. Its alcohol-removed, hemp-infused rose wines are aimed at women and delivered via a subscription service.\n\n![Hello10-min (1).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello10_min_1_c238739478.png)\n\n### Mad Lilly Spritzers\n[Mad Lilly spritzers](https://www.drinkmadlilly.com/products/spritzers) blend all-natural fruit juices and low doses of cannabis to create \"wildly tasteful experiences, be it a soothing night's sleep or a moment of sparkling joy.\" Product choices include Raspberry Hibiscus, Passion Fruit Mango and Ginger Pear. Raspberry Hibiscus, for example, contains 50 calories and 5 mg each of THC and CBD.\n\nThese products are available through different California dispensaries and delivery services. One of the best same-day (or even within the hour with the ASAP menu) delivery services is [Grass Door](https://grassdoor.com/), serving the Los Angeles and San Francisco area.\n\n### Get a Medical Marijuana Card Online\n\nIt's easy to get your medical marijuana document with the online [Telehealth service HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/get-started/). Register, pay, and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed practitioner and purchase medical cannabis today. You don't pay unless you're approved!","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAANABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAAAAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIEAwX/xAAUAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAC/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAFLOa4epGI//8QAGxAAAgIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIAAwQREiL/2gAIAQEAAQUCq0pPcZm3j+3ssIuXoz//xAAWEQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABADH/2gAIAQMBAT8BQbL/xAAXEQEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREx/9oACAECAQE/Ablr/8QAHBAAAgICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECESFRIjGB/9oACAEBAAY/Au3qi4PxmYzKehwtj5yR/8QAHBAAAwEAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERITFBUYGR/9oACAEBAAE/IYrw9glNWP6GfcsxDdZ5oRaCy04RROSn/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABCr7//EABcRAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAESH/2gAIAQMBAT8QEAkOMv/EABgRAAMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABESEx/9oACAECAQE/EEl18K9U/8QAGxABAAICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFBUWH/2gAIAQEAAT8QBBuigeRPE2SzIl0XfIHEZgaWTPsXtCtgrlhzAiG7RmpspNFif//Z","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/0314210a14083dcbb4c4aeb1c690fdab/14b42/ef1a7b52a5f9d17bc0e33c1230397465.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0314210a14083dcbb4c4aeb1c690fdab/f836f/ef1a7b52a5f9d17bc0e33c1230397465.jpg 200w,\n/static/0314210a14083dcbb4c4aeb1c690fdab/2244e/ef1a7b52a5f9d17bc0e33c1230397465.jpg 400w,\n/static/0314210a14083dcbb4c4aeb1c690fdab/14b42/ef1a7b52a5f9d17bc0e33c1230397465.jpg 800w,\n/static/0314210a14083dcbb4c4aeb1c690fdab/47498/ef1a7b52a5f9d17bc0e33c1230397465.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/0314210a14083dcbb4c4aeb1c690fdab/58556/ef1a7b52a5f9d17bc0e33c1230397465.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0314210a14083dcbb4c4aeb1c690fdab/61e93/ef1a7b52a5f9d17bc0e33c1230397465.webp 200w,\n/static/0314210a14083dcbb4c4aeb1c690fdab/1f5c5/ef1a7b52a5f9d17bc0e33c1230397465.webp 400w,\n/static/0314210a14083dcbb4c4aeb1c690fdab/58556/ef1a7b52a5f9d17bc0e33c1230397465.webp 800w,\n/static/0314210a14083dcbb4c4aeb1c690fdab/99238/ef1a7b52a5f9d17bc0e33c1230397465.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3753-markdown","title":"The Perfect Weed Edible is the Cannabis Gummy by Wana Brands","slug":"the-perfect-weed-edible-is-the-cannabis-gummy-by-wana-brands","content":"Edibles have gained popularity over the last five years as the marijuana legalization train has swept across the nation. Gone are the days of the saran wrapped pot brownie, and along with it the unintended consequence of too much THC and the effects of an unexpected \"bad trip\".\n\nToday, walk into any legal dispensary across the United States, and you will not only experience shopping experiences akin to an Apple store but polished cannabis brands offering a variety of choices, flavors, and dosage options.\n\n### The Growing Popularity of the Weed Edible\n\nIt seems [edibles](https://hellomd.com/articles/what-to-know-about-edibles-infused-with-cannabis) are finally having their time in the spotlight. And, there's a reason for their popularity. A marijuana edible is any food item or [infused beverage](https://hellomd.com/articles/4-cannabis-drink-products-perfect-for-summer); they're easy to consume, discreet, and often have longer-lasting effects than other consumption methods, like smoking or vaping. \n\nYou'll find legal weed edibles with varying amounts of THC, the psychoactive component in the plant, or CBD, the non-intoxicating cannabinoid known for [curbing anxiety and calming nerves](https://hellomd.com/articles/why-taking-cbd-daily-can-help-reduce-your-anxiety). You will also find edibles that have a ratio of THC and CBD or other cannabinoids such as CBN. \n\nTypically, the onset of an edible may take longer to hit (one to two hours as opposed to 10–20 minutes), but the effects also last longer than smoking or vaping (four to eight hours versus two to three hours). In addition, for medical marijuana consumers, the longer-lasting pain relief from edibles makes it an excellent choice for getting through the day or even through the night.\n\n### Finding the Right Weed Edible\n\nWhen looking for the right edible for you, consider that marijuana acts differently within each of us and that starting with a low dosage and working up to a higher dose, is always a good way to start. A low-dose edible will usually contain 2.5mg of THC or less. [A microdose](https://hellomd.com/articles/microdosing-a-better-way-to-take-cannabis), or smaller dosage, is considered anything under 5mg. \n\nIf you are new to cannabis, consider starting with 2.5 mg or less, so you don't accidentally over-medicate. An appropriate dosage is 2.5mg of THC for some people, whereas others may do well with 10mg. Remember though, what is suitable for your friend may not be right for you!\n\n### Weed Gummies: the Most Popular Edible\n\nThere's a wide array of edibles available nowadays, including sweet to savory treats and foods, cannabis-infused beverages, cannabinoid powders to be added to food or beverages, or infused butter and oils. \nBut, one type of edible seems to be more popular than all others – the cannabis gummy! \n\nThe weed gummies commonly outsell most other edibles. They come in all different shapes and textures, are often fruity, sour, chewy, small in size, and can pack a party-size flavorful punch. Simply put, they're fun, and popping one or two in your mouth, depending on your dose tolerance, can put a smile on your face.\n\n### Wana Gummies Offer Consistency & Potency\n\nWhile there are many different kinds of gummies and brands to choose from, few edibles have the street cred earned by [Wana Brands](https://www.wanabrands.com/). Started in 2010, Wanna gummies are available for purchase in 12 states across the country. They are increasingly popular due to their vast array of tasty flavor, consistency, and potent THC formulations.  \n\nWana Brands isn't a one-man THC band, however. Their gummies introduce unique blends of [terpenes](https://hellomd.com/articles/what-are-cannabis-terpenes-and-how-do-they-work), the aromatic and essential oils that give cannabis not only its distinctive smell but also its tremendous flavor and bodily effects. Wana products are enhanced with 30+ terpenes, allowing their gummies to recreate specific effects of popular cannabis strains. The blending of terpenes helps to enhance the experience you choose to have, whether that be uplifting or relaxing.\n\nWana Brand edible gummies are high quality, elevated sweet treats, made with all-natural, organic ingredients. The sweet flavor is created with organic sugar or tapioca syrups rather than high fructose corn syrup. When popping a Wanna gummy in your mouth, you'll also notice the perfectly satisfying texture; they never feel rubbery in your mouth like other gummies. \n\nLastly, if you park your car in the blaring sun and your Wana gummies are inside your glove box, they won't melt! Their pectin formula withstands temperatures up to 175 degrees. So, unless you park in hell with your co-pilot Lucifer, your gummies won't stick together.\n\n### A Wide Selection of Wana Brand Gummies\n\nThere is a wide selection of Wana gummy products, and depending on where you live in the states, your choice may vary. They offer both medical and recreational/adult-use formulations as well. \n\nDepending on your location, Wana offers two different form factors: fast-acting or sour gummies. Below we look at a selection of Wana gummies. The [Wana Brands](https://www.wanabrands.com/) site allows you to choose your state and which products are offered in your area of the country.\n\n### Fast Acting Wana Brand Gummies\n\nFast Acting Wana gummies have a 5-15 minute onset (that's fast!) and 2-4 hour duration for full-body effects. Below are our favorite picks:\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-09-30 at 10.22.15 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_09_30_at_10_22_15_PM_72b3293ec2.png)\n\nThe [Peach Bellini Sativa](https://www.wanabrands.com/product/ca-peach-bellinisativa-rec/) is 5 mg per piece and offers a bubbly peach flavor with a terpene-enhanced sativa blend for an uplifting, sweet vibe.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-09-30 at 10.26.31 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_09_30_at_10_26_31_PM_f02db67826.png)\n\nThe [Pina Colada Indica](https://www.wanabrands.com/product/pina-coladaindica-rec-ca/) is 5 mg per piece and offers a pineapple-and-coconut infusion with a terpene-enhanced indica blend for smooth relaxation.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-09-30 at 10.29.02 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_09_30_at_10_29_02_PM_c33d969e4d.png)\n\nThe [Strawberry Margarita](https://www.wanabrands.com/product/strawberry-margarita11-cbd-thc-rec-ca/) 1:1 CBD to THC gummy is 5mg of CBD and 5mg of THC. A balanced ratio bursting with a sweet, citrusy tang reminiscent of a margarita on the beach with a rim of salt on the edge!  Want to be mellow while still being the life of the party? This is our pick for you!\n\n### Sour Wana Brand Gummies\n\nWana sour gummies are exactly how they sound; sour gummies with a hint of juicy sweetness with an array of flavors and dosages available. Below are our favorite picks:\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-09-30 at 10.37.45 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_09_30_at_10_37_45_PM_5a83d367b0.png)\n\nThe [Pomegranate Blueberry Acai](https://www.wanabrands.com/product/pomegranate-blueberry-acai51-cbd-thc-med/) is a 5:1 CBD to THC ratio delivering potent relaxtion for medicinal marijuana consumers. Each piece contains 50mg of CBD and 10mg of THC. Ideal for those with chronic pain issues or other conditions where consistent dosing is necessary.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-09-30 at 10.40.58 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_09_30_at_10_40_58_PM_2f20eb1853.png)\n\nThe [Mango Sativa](https://www.wanabrands.com/product/mango-sativa-rec/) is an awesome choice for the recreational consumer on the go. At 10mg of THC a piece, it's easy to titrate up or down, depending on how elevated you'd like to feel! It's a tropical-inspired gummy with a refreshing sweetness.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-09-30 at 10.43.07 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_09_30_at_10_43_07_PM_b07495c54f.png)\n\nThe [Assorted Flavors Indica](https://www.wanabrands.com/product/assorted-flavors-indica-colorado-rec/) is perfect for a relaxing evening at home with your favorite Netflix show. At 10mg of THC per piece, it's a calming terpene-enhanced high with an assortment of flavors.\n\n### Need Your Medical Marijuana Card?\nIf you want to buy medical cannabis in a state where it is allowed, you’ll need to get a medical marijuana card. [HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started/) can help you with online virtual medical consultation and get your medical card fast, easy and private.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.7699115044247788,"src":"/static/5050430dd6d5873fbfce1334b44851df/ee604/51f56af574e64baf24f420fc585f3677.png","srcSet":"/static/5050430dd6d5873fbfce1334b44851df/69585/51f56af574e64baf24f420fc585f3677.png 200w,\n/static/5050430dd6d5873fbfce1334b44851df/497c6/51f56af574e64baf24f420fc585f3677.png 400w,\n/static/5050430dd6d5873fbfce1334b44851df/ee604/51f56af574e64baf24f420fc585f3677.png 800w,\n/static/5050430dd6d5873fbfce1334b44851df/f3583/51f56af574e64baf24f420fc585f3677.png 1200w,\n/static/5050430dd6d5873fbfce1334b44851df/ef8e7/51f56af574e64baf24f420fc585f3677.png 1318w","srcWebp":"/static/5050430dd6d5873fbfce1334b44851df/58556/51f56af574e64baf24f420fc585f3677.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5050430dd6d5873fbfce1334b44851df/61e93/51f56af574e64baf24f420fc585f3677.webp 200w,\n/static/5050430dd6d5873fbfce1334b44851df/1f5c5/51f56af574e64baf24f420fc585f3677.webp 400w,\n/static/5050430dd6d5873fbfce1334b44851df/58556/51f56af574e64baf24f420fc585f3677.webp 800w,\n/static/5050430dd6d5873fbfce1334b44851df/99238/51f56af574e64baf24f420fc585f3677.webp 1200w,\n/static/5050430dd6d5873fbfce1334b44851df/f95bf/51f56af574e64baf24f420fc585f3677.webp 1318w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3752-markdown","title":"Weed & Sleep: 5 Things to Know About Your Cannabis Nightcap","slug":"weed-and-sleep-5-things-to-know-about-your-cannabis-nightcap","content":"Some days I wake up tired or groggy – well, that’s pretty much every day. The first thing I do every morning is make my morning brew, between 2-3 cups of black coffee which wakes me up and provides clarity and focus on the lens of my day. You could even say that coffee is what puts a smile on my face. It’s an enjoyable habit, and I can easily say I’m addicted to the aromatic black liquid. \n\nA few hours later, when the caffeine high wears off though, I drag myself through the rest of the day. The evening comes and I feel sleepy and even a little depressed so I drink alcohol; and one drink leads to two and more. After imbibing too much I hit the sack, falling asleep right away, but then wake up in the middle of the night wide awake, so I lie helpless as my monkey mind run away from me. In the morning I need coffee, and so the cycle continues!  \n\nWelcome to modern life. And, welcome to the lives of 50 to 70 million U.S. adults who experience symptoms of a sleep disorder, or the about 40 million Americans who experience insomnia every year.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-09-30 at 2.25.00 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_09_30_at_2_25_00_PM_4e812fd59c.png)\n\nKiva's [Terra CBN Milk and Cookies](https://grassdoor.com/product/terra-cbn-milk-and-cookies): A natural night time sleep aid\n\nOften, the substances we rely on to wake us up or to help us fall to sleep, whether that be coffee, alcohol, or others, can be blamed for poor quality of sleep. Coffee is a great example of a stimulant that helps us wake up, but also keeps us from achieving a proper night’s sleep. Alcohol is a great example of a depressant, which can help us relax and take our mind off the day, but which also interrupts a good night’s rest.\n\n### Why We Need a Good Sleep\n\nSleep is as important to our health and wellbeing as diet and exercise. While modern life isn’t conducive to good sleep patterns, we can improve them by imposing a regular schedule, with adequate shut-eye hours. Staying active during the day, avoiding alcohol, and minimizing screen time at night can help us get a good night of Zzzzzs.\n\nBy getting enough sleep (seven to 10 hours for teens and adults), we [receive benefits](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325353#lower-inflammation) such as:\n\n- Boosting our productivity and concentration\n- Consuming fewer calories during the day\n- Achieving better athletic performance\n- Lowering the risk of heart disease\n- Gaining more social and emotional intelligence\n- Preventing depression\n- Lowering inflammation\n- Improving the immune system\n\n### Don’t Overdo Caffeine, Alcohol and Sleeping Pills\n\nOur [morning cup of coffee or tea](https://www.livestrong.com/article/289985-caffeine-sleeping-pills/), wakes us up with a caffeine boost. [Caffeine works in two ways]( https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/caffeine-addiction#TOC_TITLE_HDR_3):\n\n- It prevents your brain cells from signaling that you’re tired.\n- It causes your body to release other natural stimulants and boosts their effects.\nThe end result of caffeine’s effect on the brain is feelings of alertness, well-being, concentration, self-confidence, sociability and motivation to work.\nWhile it may wake us during the day, it can play havoc on our sleep if we take too much too late. It can increase the time it takes to get asleep, and reduce the amount of deep sleep we get. And the feeling of wakefulness we have with that first cup in the morning may be a sign of caffeine dependence and ending the withdrawal you are experiencing from not having coffee through the night. \n\nTo get to sleep at night we may try over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription sleeping pills. While these may work for a short-term sleep problem, if you use them constantly, you will probably develop a tolerance that prevents them from working well or at all. And some sleeping pills have the undesirable effect of making us feel groggy the next morning.\n\n[Research shows](https://believeperform.com/how-does-alcohol-caffeine-and-hyper-hydration-affect-sleep/) that consuming alcohol before sleep can disturb your sleep quality and quantity. Because alcohol metabolizes quickly, it may divide your sleep into two parts: The first part of the night you can sleep alright, with an increase in non-REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, but in the second part of the night sleep can be interrupted with lots of wake-ups and increased REM sleep and dreaming — this is why you often feel fatigued in the morning.\n\n### Marijuana as a Natural Sleeping Aid\n\nNot all substances which help us achieve a proper night’s rest are bad. Some substances, , such as marijuana, can be used as natural and effective sleep aids. When consumed properly, cannabis can enhance one’s ability to fall asleep as well as stay asleep, without causing an endless cycle of sleep disturbance on the other side.\n\n“Marijuana is an effective sleep aid because it restores a person’s natural sleep cycle, which so often falls out of sync with our schedules in today’s modern lifestyle,” says [Dr. Matt Roman, a medical marijuana physician, in a Healthline article](https://www.healthline.com/health/medical-marijuana/cannabis-for-sleeping).\n\nMost people consume THC in order to go to sleep. In some instances, people find CBD to be a potent relaxant, although in some cases it may keep you awake. Another cannabinoid which is now getting a lot of attention is CBN. Research is now pointing to CBN as the most sedative out of all the compounds in cannabis. CBN was discovered recently from decomposed THC (the psychoactive compound in cannabis). \n\n### Five Ways Marijuana Can Help You Sleep Better\n\nThat weed could be a [sleep aid](https://hellomd.com/articles/dreaming-of-better-sleep-cannabis-may-help) is common sense for anyone who has experienced couch-lock after consuming a nice relaxing strain of potent indica.  \n\nHere are five ways marijuana can help you achieve a good night’s rest:\n\n1. Triggers ECS Receptors\nCannabis works by triggering receptors in our endocannabinoid systems (ECS), helping to regulate hormones, immunity, pain, hunger and, yes,  sleep. Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in marijuana plants, which help have medicinal and therapeutic effects. Two of the cannabinoids that are well-known for inducing a sleep-filled night are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).\n\n2. THC Makes Your Eyelids Heavy\nTHC, more than CBD, makes us sleepy, so you want a strain of weed that has a high percentage of THC. It usually reduces the amount of REM sleep you get. Reducing REM sleep means reducing dreams — and for those who experience PTSD, it could mean cutting back on sleep-disturbing nightmares. If you spend less time dreaming, then you may spend more time in a deep sleep.\n\n3. Changes Your Sleep Cycle\nUsing cannabis can change your sleep cycle, so you need to use it carefully, so it doesn’t interrupt sleep patterns in a bad way. Some medical professionals suggest, for example, capping the amount of THC in your cannabis nightcap at 20%. Going over this amount gives you a powerful dose that may hinder, not help, your quest for better sleep.\n\n4. A Little Bit Goes a Long Way\nOne way to enjoy the therapeutic effects of weed is by [microdosing](https://hellomd.com/articles/how-to-microdose-with-cannabis-a-hellomd-event). This is taking cannabis with a lower dose of a specific cannabinoid (often one to three milligrams), such as THC, so that it works in the background. \n\nYou don’t necessarily feel it physiologically but get the enhancement, such as better sleep. This approach is particularly good for people who don’t want to feel the “high” often associated with some strains of weed. Microdosing usually works best if you use cannabis from licensed medical cannabis dispensaries, which strictly regulate and reveal the amounts of cannabinoids in their products.\n\n5. Be Wary of Edibles at Night\nWeed edibles are wonderful but they can take longer to kick in. This may leave you tossing and turning for a couple of hours at night before they start to work and then make you feel punchy in the morning with their lingering effects. Again, a little can go a long way. If you’re new to cannabis, try an edible that has 2.5 mg of THC or less. Titrate the dosage upwards night by night until you find the right amount for your system.\n\n### Need Your Medical Marijuana Card?\nIf you want to buy medical cannabis in a state where it is allowed, you’ll need to get a medical marijuana card. [HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started/) can help you with online virtual medical consultation and get your medical card fast, easy and private.\n\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/14b42/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/f836f/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.jpg 200w,\n/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/2244e/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.jpg 400w,\n/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/14b42/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.jpg 800w,\n/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/47498/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.jpg 1200w,\n/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/0e329/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.jpg 1600w,\n/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/96a0e/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.jpg 6860w","srcWebp":"/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/58556/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/61e93/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.webp 200w,\n/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/1f5c5/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.webp 400w,\n/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/58556/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.webp 800w,\n/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/99238/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.webp 1200w,\n/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/7c22d/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.webp 1600w,\n/static/ca9d8d9b0343bab60902b959ac62ecf4/2edd4/917ffe3c452572bf0fc93a69fd3a2a97.webp 6860w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3746-markdown","title":"What Are Munchies and Why Do You Get Them When You Smoke Weed?","slug":"what-are-munchies-and-why-do-you-get-them-when-you-smoke-weed","content":"The munchies. If you've consumed weed, you've most likely had this type of experience: You smoke a joint, and suddenly you've finished all the chips in the house, eaten a block of cheese, and ordered a large pepperoni pizza. You wake up the next morning knowing full well you've destroyed your diet with a zombie frenzy of bad calories.\n\nLeave the guilt behind. There's a scientific explanation for the munchies and even research into ways to counter their effects. And if you can see past the junk food rampage, you'll may come to know that the munchies can be a good thing.\n\nThe term \"munchies\" comes from Charles T. Tart's 1971 study, [\"On Being Stoned,\"](http://www.psychedelic-library.org/tartcont.htm) in which 150 cannabis users were put under observations, and their cravings for sweet food were duly noted by researchers.\n\nSince then, the word \"munchies\" has worked its way into the popular vocabulary, used wryly just before the cupboard or refrigerator door opens.\n\n### The Science Behind Weed Munchies\n\nWhen it comes to getting the munchies, it seems the cannabis culprit is one of its principal psychoactive ingredients, tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC.\n\n\"THC interacts with receptors in our brain that regulate emotions, pain, and our sense of smell and taste,\" explains [Janice Newell Bissex, a registered dietitian](https://www.cnn.com/2018/04/20/health/why-weed-causes-munchies-food-drayer/index.html) in a CNN interview. \"It can also promote the release of the hormone ghrelin, which stimulates hunger.\"\n\nThe brain itself is divided into areas that control mood, influence appetites, and so on. So as THC gets us high, it also acts upon the part of the brain that tells us to eat more.\n\nBesides ghrelin, our [endocannabinoid system (ECS)](https://hellomd.com/articles/the-science-of-getting-the-munchies-and-why-it-helps-the-critically-ill] can also influence appetite. This system includes cannabinoid receptors in the central and peripheral nervous system and the immune system. The ECS is also associated with inner balance or homeostasis. These receptors, especially the CB1 receptors, are found in great concentrations in parts of the brain that affect memory, movement, emotions, higher cognition, and appetite.\n\nAs THC binds with CB1 receptors, appetite increases, and the act of eating is made more pleasurable. In conjunction with this, the feeling of becoming full (which in other cases might make us stop eating) is reduced.\n\nTHC can also improve smell, which is linked to appetite, and improve your taste.\n\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-09-16 at 11.24.51 AM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_09_16_at_11_24_51_AM_e931ec3ecc.png)\n\nPLUS gummies are a favorite! Check out their [full product line](https://www.plusproducts.com/gummies).\n\n### Weed, Munchies and Weight Gain\n\nOf course, weed itself won't make us fat. But if we give into the munchies and couch-lock, so we aren't active, then we might start to pack on the pounds. It's been shown that people who are already overweight may be more motivated to eat during cannabis use, especially since they may be prone to having a higher dopamine response triggered by seeing, smelling, and tasting desirable foods.\n\nSome edibles have sugar in them, so this may also contribute to weight gain. But they also may be less culpable in creating the munchies response, since they release THC into the system much slower than the hit you get from smoking marijuana.\n\nOne way to curb the munchies is to limit your THC intake. This is one of the benefits of going to a [legal, state-authorized dispensary](https://www.statista.com/statistics/754751/medical-marijuana-dispensaries-number-by-state/) where products are required to be lab-tested and labeled with the percentages of CBD and THC in them. \n\nTo flip the script, there's also evidence that cannabis can help [boost your metabolism](https://hellomd.com/articles/5-healthy-tasty-snacks-for-when-you-get-the-munchies) and even burn calories. On average, weed users tend to weigh less than people who forgo it.\n\nAnd there is even a certain cannabinoid within cannabis, THCV, or tetrahydrocannabivarin, that may be able to suppress the munchies. THCV is found in great abundance in flower strains such as [Durban Poison](https://hellomd.com/strains/durban-poison) and other native African strains.\n\nBut if you're concerned about eating the wrong things after consuming your weed, then it's a good idea to prepare and stock your home with healthy alternatives. For example, baked sweet potato fries are a great substitute for deep-fried French fries or a whole bag of potato chips. Or to satisfy a craving for salty-sweet foods, have apple slices with almond butter available instead of the jar of Nutella!\n\n### How the Munchies Can Help\n\nOn a more serious note, weed's ability to stimulate the appetite comes in handy to counter the effects of various medical conditions that weaken the desire to eat, such as cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, people suffering with HIV, or those affected by anorexia nervosa.\n\nSick people often cannot eat enough food to stay healthy, and the critically ill can suffer from malnourishment. In many cases, these people would welcome a chance to get the munchies and to see their waistlines and health prospects grow.\n\n### Need Your Medical Marijuana Card?\n\nIf you're someone who's looking to make cannabis part of a daily health regime, you may want to look into becoming a certified medical marijuana patient. [HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started) can help you with online virtual medical consultation and get your medical card fast, easy and private. You only pay if you're approved!\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/2299f1fe044adc8dc243d07124f26cf4/14b42/0424746a277c377965e2bf8e51ee3598.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2299f1fe044adc8dc243d07124f26cf4/f836f/0424746a277c377965e2bf8e51ee3598.jpg 200w,\n/static/2299f1fe044adc8dc243d07124f26cf4/2244e/0424746a277c377965e2bf8e51ee3598.jpg 400w,\n/static/2299f1fe044adc8dc243d07124f26cf4/14b42/0424746a277c377965e2bf8e51ee3598.jpg 800w,\n/static/2299f1fe044adc8dc243d07124f26cf4/47498/0424746a277c377965e2bf8e51ee3598.jpg 1200w,\n/static/2299f1fe044adc8dc243d07124f26cf4/0e329/0424746a277c377965e2bf8e51ee3598.jpg 1600w,\n/static/2299f1fe044adc8dc243d07124f26cf4/c128d/0424746a277c377965e2bf8e51ee3598.jpg 5760w","srcWebp":"/static/2299f1fe044adc8dc243d07124f26cf4/58556/0424746a277c377965e2bf8e51ee3598.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/2299f1fe044adc8dc243d07124f26cf4/61e93/0424746a277c377965e2bf8e51ee3598.webp 200w,\n/static/2299f1fe044adc8dc243d07124f26cf4/1f5c5/0424746a277c377965e2bf8e51ee3598.webp 400w,\n/static/2299f1fe044adc8dc243d07124f26cf4/58556/0424746a277c377965e2bf8e51ee3598.webp 800w,\n/static/2299f1fe044adc8dc243d07124f26cf4/99238/0424746a277c377965e2bf8e51ee3598.webp 1200w,\n/static/2299f1fe044adc8dc243d07124f26cf4/7c22d/0424746a277c377965e2bf8e51ee3598.webp 1600w,\n/static/2299f1fe044adc8dc243d07124f26cf4/ec000/0424746a277c377965e2bf8e51ee3598.webp 5760w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3742-markdown","title":"Why Does Cannabis Cause Paranoia For Some People","slug":"why-does-cannabis-cause-paranoia-for-some-people","content":"Does weed make you paranoid and anxious? If it does, you're not alone. For years I tried to smoke a joint with friends and ended up an anxious mess, unable to relax and enjoy the moment at the same time my friends were enjoying what they call an \"elevated experience.\" Marijuana is fascinating; for some, it may alleviate anxiety, while for others, it creates or increases already existing nervous tendencies. \n\n### How Cannabis Gets You High\n\nAccording to [Gregory Gerdeman, Ph.D.,](https://www.menshealth.com/health/a19038260/why-pot-makes-you-paranoidbut-mellows-out-your-buddies/) an assistant professor of biology at Eckerd College, when you get high your body is mimicking a process your body has in place to keep anxiety levels in place. The endocannabinoid releases cannabinoids that bind to receptors thorughout our body. This can help us during times of stress, by signaling our bodies and brains to chill out.\n\nWhen you consume cannabis, the plant contains cannabinoids as well. When you ingest marijuana the phytocannabinoids bind to the same receptors, heightening a sense of relaxation and release. Yet, this is not the case for everyone. For some, the rush of phytocannabinoids from weed can create or exacerbate anxiety.\n\n### Why Does Weed Make You Paranoid?\n\nYou aren't crazy, it's all in your brain chemistry. THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, interacts with endocannabinoid receptors found throughout your brain. Many of these binding receptors are found within the amygdala. \n\n![Screen Shot 2021-09-07 at 6.38.00 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_09_07_at_6_38_00_PM_1287bb9628.png)\n\nWana Brand offers a [1:1 CBD to THC](https://www.wanabrands.com/product/strawberry-margarita11-cbd-thc-rec-ca/) gummy that offers a more balanced high. Available in many states including California and Colorado.\n\nThe [amygdala](https://www.simplypsychology.org/amygdala.html) \"plays a key role in how animals assess and respond to environmental threats and challenges by evaluating the emotional importance of sensory information and prompting an appropriate response.\" The main job of the amygdala is to regulate emotions.\n\nWhen we consume cannabis, THC and other cannabinoids react with the amygdala, causing anxiety in some while relieving anxiety and stress in others. There are some ways to mitigate this if you are more prone to having weed-induced anxiety.\n\n### Why Are You More Prone to Cannabis Paranoia?\n\nSome people may be prone to anxiety when they consume marijuana according to [James Giordano](https://www.vice.com/en/article/gy8pa9/weed-causes-anxiety-for-some-people), professor of neurology and biochemistry at Georgetown University Medical Center. \n\n\"THC binds to the brain’s cannabinoid receptors, releasing the neurotransmitters dopamine, serotonin, and GABA, a neurotransmitter that stops neurons from firing. Increased GABA and serotonin activity inhibits norepinephrine—a neurotransmitter involved in alertness and anxiety—which calms most people down. But for some people, reduced norepinephrine has a rebound effect, stimulating activity in the brainstem’s locus ceruleus and limbic forebrain, which are involved in arousal and excitation\"\n\nThe result is that our sympathetic nervous system goes into overdrive, our heart rate increases, while we also release cortisol. The overall perception we have is that of anxiety and sometimes paranoia.\n\n### How Can I Be Less Anxious Consuming Weed?\n\nWe have some simple tools and tips if you'd like to enjoy the more relaxing sensation that some people correlate to consuming weed.\n\n- Higher levels of THC often create anxiety while lower levels have a more relaxing effect. Look for cannabis products that have a lower concentration of THC or are a balanced ratio.\n- Smaller doses of weed can have a more therapeutic effect than larger doses, and [new research](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S037687161730220X) backs this up.\n- Look for cannabis products that are higher in CBD content or solely CBD. CBD is known to help quell anxiety.\n- Start with the lowest possible dosage of cannabis, wait two hours and then assess how you feel. Try a slightly higher dose until you have the desired effect and titrate your way to perfection.\n- Don't eat the whole brownie or smoke the whole joint. This seems like common sense but with weed, less is often the best route to take!\n\nWant to learn more? HelloMD's educational cannabis 101 content can help you to figure out how to [consume edibles safely](https://hellomd.com/tag/cannabis-101), understand the difference between [medical and recreational](https://hellomd.com/articles/the-difference-between-medical-and-recreational-cannabis/) cannabis, how to find your [ideal cannabis dose](https://hellomd.com/articles/7-tips-and-tricks-to-find-your-ideal-marijuana-dose/), and more.\n\n### Need Your Medical Marijuana Card?\n[HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started/) can help you with online virtual medical consultation and get your medical card fast, easy and private.\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.4598540145985401,"src":"/static/8fe3534c0d7ad1d4ba5904a6f9e40a5b/ee604/81509bf92893264640fbecec3737aa36.png","srcSet":"/static/8fe3534c0d7ad1d4ba5904a6f9e40a5b/69585/81509bf92893264640fbecec3737aa36.png 200w,\n/static/8fe3534c0d7ad1d4ba5904a6f9e40a5b/497c6/81509bf92893264640fbecec3737aa36.png 400w,\n/static/8fe3534c0d7ad1d4ba5904a6f9e40a5b/ee604/81509bf92893264640fbecec3737aa36.png 800w,\n/static/8fe3534c0d7ad1d4ba5904a6f9e40a5b/f3583/81509bf92893264640fbecec3737aa36.png 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/8fe3534c0d7ad1d4ba5904a6f9e40a5b/58556/81509bf92893264640fbecec3737aa36.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/8fe3534c0d7ad1d4ba5904a6f9e40a5b/61e93/81509bf92893264640fbecec3737aa36.webp 200w,\n/static/8fe3534c0d7ad1d4ba5904a6f9e40a5b/1f5c5/81509bf92893264640fbecec3737aa36.webp 400w,\n/static/8fe3534c0d7ad1d4ba5904a6f9e40a5b/58556/81509bf92893264640fbecec3737aa36.webp 800w,\n/static/8fe3534c0d7ad1d4ba5904a6f9e40a5b/99238/81509bf92893264640fbecec3737aa36.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3737-markdown","title":"4 Ways To Consume Weed Without Smoking It","slug":"4-ways-to-consume-weed-without-smoking-it","content":"For many marijuana consumers, the idea of smoking cannabis is off-putting. It could be one of many reasons; it's not very discreet, the smell of marijuana lingers - and smells \"skunky\", the thought of inhaling smoke is distasteful, it's rougher on the lungs, and for some, it's downright inconvenient. Packing a bowl or rolling a joint is time-consuming and takes effort! There are many ways to consume your cannabis more easily\n\nYet, walk into a dispensary today and there are a dizzying array of products to choose from. Many dispensaries look more like an Apple computer store than a place to buy weed. But, those marijuana brands on display in the glass cases may seem just as foreign as the latest tech gadget. It takes time and some education to learn all the different ways to consume your weed without smoking it. \n\n<iframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https://www.youtube.com/embed/42BJGT68owU\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen></iframe>\n\nBelow we unveil 4 ways to consume cannabis without smoking it.\n\n### Weed Tinctures\n\nTinctures, also known as sub-linguals, are a fast-acting and discreet way to consume your cannabis. They are becoming increasingly popular as the are also easy to dose and often don't taste or smell like cannabis. A full spectrum tincture will typically contain an extraction of cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, as well as the plants naturally occuring [terpenes](https://hellomd.com/articles/what-are-cannabis-terpenes-and-how-do-they-work).\n\nTinctures are essentially liquid cannabis which comes in small, glass jars, reminiscent of an apothecary, with an eyedropper as a an enclosure. Shake the tincture, squeeze the rubber to fill the dropper with your desired dose and release the liquid directly under your tongue. The onset of a tincture is anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes as the liquid is absorbed through the linking of the mouth.\n\nThe most common tinctures are THC-only, CBD-only, or a combination, or ratio of the two. A popular tincture ratio for chronic pain is 1:1 THC to CBD. Tinctures contain cannabis extraction which is absorbed in a liquid. There are several different carrier liquids including:\n\nAlcohol-based\nVegetable glycerin\nMedium-chain triglyceride (MCT) Oil\nOlive oil\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-08-27 at 2.57.58 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_08_27_at_2_57_58_PM_06bd1a252c.png)\n\nA popular tincture from the California-based company [Papa & Barkley](https://papaandbarkley.com/product/thc-releaf-tinctures/1-1) is their 1:1 THC to CBD formulation.\n\n### Weed Gel Caps\n\nGelcaps are just the way they sound, it's a liquid pill full of weed. Most gel caps are filled with a carrier oil and cannabis extract full of cannabinoids and terpenes. Typically, you will find gel caps labeled with the amount of THC and CBD. \n\nSome capsules are what's known as \"immediate-release\" and work in the same way as edibles, where the cannabis is absorbed by your stomach. Time-release capsules are also digested by the stomach but the effects are felt over a longer period. Often, people like to take gel caps because it feels more \"mainstream\" while at the same time they offer potent and long-lasting results.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-08-27 at 2.31.33 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_08_27_at_2_31_33_PM_57d5cb811e.png)\n\nA popular brand of gel capsules available in New York is [Etain](https://fpwellnessny.com/order-medical-marijuana-online-nyc-manhattan/?path=menu?refinementList[root_types]=edible%3ACapsules) Mezzo Gelcaps. In this little package you get a 1:2 30 pack of 200mg of CBD and THC.\n\n### Weed Edibles\nWhen people talk about edibles, they tend to refer to tasty treats like pot brownies and medicated candies. Edibles are highly versatile in that you can turn almost any food or drink into an edible. Most edibles are made from a base—such as butter, oil, glycerin, honey or alcohol—infused with cannabis.\n\nPeople often like taking edibles as they are not only tasty but a discreet and long-acting way to consume your cannabis. Edible effects tend to last for around six to eight hours, while the effects from inhaled methods tend to diminish after only two to three hours.\n\nTo avoid a bad experience with edibles, don’t dive head-first into any edible you find at your dispensary. Start small and think about your needs. The first rule of edibles is to start at the smallest dose you can.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-08-27 at 2.55.35 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_08_27_at_2_55_35_PM_66004e30e6.png)\n\n[Wana Brands](https://www.wanabrands.com/product/assorted-flavors-indica-colorado-med/) has a popular assortment of edibles and is available across many states including Colorado, California, Florida, Illinois, and more. One of the most popular products is the Wana Sour Gummy.\n\n### Weed Drinks\nCannabis-infused drinks are a great option for consumers who don’t want to smoke or vape. And depending on the contents of your stomach, they typically don’t take as long as edibles to kick in. For many, the effects of cannabis-infused drinks kick in within the first hour of ingestion. As the term '[California Sober'](https://www.purewow.com/wellness/california-sober) gains popularity, cannabis, non-alcoholic drinks are having a moment.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-08-27 at 2.39.55 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_08_27_at_2_39_55_PM_eca5cac40e.png)\n\n\n[Artet](https://artet.com/) is a California based cannabis brand that specializes in cannabis cocktails that are in ready-to-drink format.\n\n### Need Your Medical Marijuana Card?\n[HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started/) can help you with online virtual medical consultation and get your medical card fast, easy and private.\n\n\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/35298a8f6223895c28926d655fbfe43b/14b42/68b23f4c6b4d52f8dab6c75e77c3727f.jpg","srcSet":"/static/35298a8f6223895c28926d655fbfe43b/f836f/68b23f4c6b4d52f8dab6c75e77c3727f.jpg 200w,\n/static/35298a8f6223895c28926d655fbfe43b/2244e/68b23f4c6b4d52f8dab6c75e77c3727f.jpg 400w,\n/static/35298a8f6223895c28926d655fbfe43b/14b42/68b23f4c6b4d52f8dab6c75e77c3727f.jpg 800w,\n/static/35298a8f6223895c28926d655fbfe43b/47498/68b23f4c6b4d52f8dab6c75e77c3727f.jpg 1200w,\n/static/35298a8f6223895c28926d655fbfe43b/0e329/68b23f4c6b4d52f8dab6c75e77c3727f.jpg 1600w,\n/static/35298a8f6223895c28926d655fbfe43b/ea301/68b23f4c6b4d52f8dab6c75e77c3727f.jpg 2610w","srcWebp":"/static/35298a8f6223895c28926d655fbfe43b/58556/68b23f4c6b4d52f8dab6c75e77c3727f.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/35298a8f6223895c28926d655fbfe43b/61e93/68b23f4c6b4d52f8dab6c75e77c3727f.webp 200w,\n/static/35298a8f6223895c28926d655fbfe43b/1f5c5/68b23f4c6b4d52f8dab6c75e77c3727f.webp 400w,\n/static/35298a8f6223895c28926d655fbfe43b/58556/68b23f4c6b4d52f8dab6c75e77c3727f.webp 800w,\n/static/35298a8f6223895c28926d655fbfe43b/99238/68b23f4c6b4d52f8dab6c75e77c3727f.webp 1200w,\n/static/35298a8f6223895c28926d655fbfe43b/7c22d/68b23f4c6b4d52f8dab6c75e77c3727f.webp 1600w,\n/static/35298a8f6223895c28926d655fbfe43b/ec439/68b23f4c6b4d52f8dab6c75e77c3727f.webp 2610w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3696-markdown","title":"Women's Health Conditions are Overlooked by Mainstream Healthcare. Can Cannabis Help?","slug":"women's-health-conditions-are-overlooked-by-mainstream-healthcare.-can-cannabis-help","content":"Women disproportionately suffer from anxiety, depression, fibromyalgia, and migraines. We also suffer from conditions that men do not experience, such as PMS and menopause. When looking at the pharmaceutical and traditional medicinal options available to women, they are woefully inadequate. \n\nThis is because clinical trials for new drug development are heavily skewed towards male biology, meaning most drugs are more effective or designed for men. Due to the gender gap in clinical trials, women are also far more likely to suffer the adverse side effects of medications. \n\n### Women's Health is Overlooked \n[Research](https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/08/200812161318.htm) from the University of California, Berkeley, and the University of Chicago suggests this is because drug dosages are largely based on clinical trials conducted on men. The theory of the one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work when it comes to drug discovery and development. \n\nIrving Zucker, a professor emeritus of psychology and of integrative biology at UC Berkeley, says, \"For decades, women have been excluded from clinical drug trials based, in part, on unfounded concerns that female hormone fluctuations render women difficult to study.\"\n\nTo complicate matters, medical professionals often downplay women's health issues, and female health problems are vastly under-researched. One school of thought believes that the problem exists because funding and research panels have historically been male-dominated. \n\nBut overall, female reproductive health, among other conditions, are under-addressed. A good example is endometriosis; although this condition affects 1 in 10 women, the same number as diabetes, it has a fraction of research funding. When we look at the bigger picture, medicinal options for female-focused care is limited if not anitquated. Amy Miller, Ph.D. and CEO of the [Society for Women's Health Research](https://nypost.com/2019/08/05/medicine-ignored-womens-health-for-years-thats-finally-changing/) says, \"Women's health has pretty much been ignored in biomedical pathology for our entire human history.\"\n\n### Cannabis as a Natural Medicine \n\nAlthough women's health issues have been overlooked by mainstream drug discovery and development, medical cannabis is a natural solution that helps millions of women feel better. Cannabis is not only a natural anti-inflammatory, for many people, it can help relieve anxiety, depression and improve the overall quality of sleep. \n\nIt has also proven effective for women suffering from PMS, whether it be body aches or menstrual cramping, to those feeling the general malaise and difficulties of transitioning into menopause. Dr. Julie Holland, a psychopharmacology specialist and well-known author of the book [Moody Bitches](https://www.amazon.com/Moody-Bitches-Taking-Missing-Having/dp/0143107909) says, \n\n\"In general, women are much more likely to be diagnosed with depression and anxiety than men, which means they are being prescribed antidepressants more than men are. Cannabis can potentially help with many symptoms that women who take antidepressants (as well as those who don’t) experience—including irritability, insomnia, depression, and anxiety.\"\n\nDr. Holland goes on to explain that the reason cannabis is so effective is due to its interaction with our body's endocannabinoid system. She says, \n\"Stress and inflammation are inextricably linked, and the key to combating both lies in a system called the endocannabinoid system, which is made of cannabis receptors throughout the body and internal cannabis-like molecules. \n\nWhen stress nearly knocks you overboard, your internal cannabinoid system helps to right the ship....cannabinoids (from cannabis) tamp down inflammation and reactivity in the body, maintaining your metabolism, immune functioning, learning and growing processes. The endocannabinoid system is involved in nearly everything we do: eating, sleeping, exercising, having sex, giving birth, and nursing.\"\n\nBelow we list five conditions where cannabis may be an effective remedy or complement to traditional pharmaceuticals and western intervention.\n\n### Fibromyalgia\n\n[Fibromyalgia](https://hellomd.com/articles/alternative-and-emerging-treatments-for-fibromyalgia-subheading:-could-one-of-them-work-for-you/) is a complex, irritating, and difficult condition with few medical answers. It affects over four million adults, and primarily women. The disease is mainly associated with widespread pain across the body, including muscles, tendons, and tissues. Unfortunately, there is no resolution as to why fibromyalgia happens to some and not others; however, it is linked to acute stress.\n\nIn a 2011 study, the majority of participants found that their [fibromyalgia symptoms became measurably more tolerable](https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0018440) after taking cannabis. Not only did participants feel their pain symptoms decreased, but they also noted improvements in their quality of life. It's believed that THC, CBD and numerous other cannabinoids help to bolster a flagging endocannabinoid system, reestablishing homeostasis within the body.\n\n### Anxiety\nDuring this past pandemic year, [four out of ten American adults](https://www.kff.org/coronavirus-covid-19/issue-brief/the-implications-of-covid-19-for-mental-health-and-substance-use/#:~:text=During%20the%20pandemic%2C%20about%204,June%202019%20Figure%201) reported having symptoms of anxiety. That’s a fourfold increase from 2019 when just one in ten Americans were experiencing those symptoms. [Anxiety](https://hellomd.com/articles/can-cannabis-decrease-social-anxiety-as-the-covid-pandemic-winds-down/) is one of the most common mental disorders and can be incredibly debilitating.\n\nCBD is one of the most well-known cannabinoids within the cannabis sativa plant. It’s non-intoxicating, which means you will not feel the typical high associated with THC. CBD is ideal for those who suffer from anxiety as it can help to balance mood and support the production of brain chemicals that produce feelings of calm and well-being.\n\nCBD also supports the activity of other neurotransmitters that can quell the intensity of anxiety. Serotonin is a well-known “feel good” chemical that helps us \"feel good\". Meanwhile, CBD excites thethe brain’s serotonin receptors, which allows the brain’s natural production of serotonin and encourages its mood-boosting effects.\n\n### Migraines\n\n[Migraines](https://hellomd.com/articles/how-does-cannabis-work-to-relieve-migraines/) can be excruciating. The symptoms may include a throbbing headache, nausea and a heightened sensitivity to sensory stimuli like light, sounds, flavors, smells or touch. You may even experience an aura, a visual experience caused by migraine pain which may partially or fully block vision for some time.\n\nSimilar to fibromyalgia, the endocannabinoid system may play a role in migraines. An endocannabinoid deficiency may actually be one of the primary reasons migraines occur in the first place.Generally, the most effective cannabis products for migraines are typically high in CBD.\n\nThat said, everyone has a unique endocannabinoid system and biochemistry—so experimentation is necessary and a high ratio of CBD to THC may work best or for many, a one to one ratio of CBD to THC works best for chronic pain.\n\n### PMS\n[PMS or premenstrual syndrome](https://hellomd.com/articles/womens-health-and-marijuana-pms-dysmenorrhea-and-menopause/) encompasses a wide range of unpleasant symptoms including: bloating, fatigue, headaches, cramping, lower back pain, breast swelling and tenderness, constipation, diarrhea, and change in mood. These symptoms can start two weeks before your menstrual period or a few days leading up to it. Although the cause of PMS is unknown it is believed to be linked to the hormonal fluctuations that occur during a woman's cycle.\n\nMany women feel the effects of PMS during their lifetime, and some have a more severe form, PMDD—premenstrual dysphoric disorder, which [affects 3% to 8% of women during menstrual years](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24161307). PMDD wreaks havoc on women's lives, and can in some cases, leads to suicidal ideation.\n\nThere are no set cannabis dosages to alleviate PMS symptoms, but a good place to start is with a high CBD to THC ratio, due to CBD’s anti-inflammatory and mood-balancing properties. THC can help some women alleviate the physical pain associated with PMS, especially with cramping. When pain is acute vaping, or smoking flower, can help  \n\n### Menopause\nPeri menopause, or the phase of life that happens just before a woman hits menopause, and menopause, is a normal phase of life during a woman's life. This transition, which in the past was somewhat taboo,  signals the end of reproductive years. But in recent years, to many women, it signals not only a new chapter but a new lease on life.\n\nUnfortunately, the fluctuation of hormones during this time can cause some unwanted side effects such as mood swings, hot flashes, night sweats, disregulated sleep, thinning hair, changes in muscle tone, sexual dysfunction, and more.\n\nMany women turn to cannabis during this transition for the mood-regulating, and anti-inflammatory benefits mentioned earlier. But cannabis has something additional to offer: phytoestrogens. This plant-based hormone is similar to human estrogen in many ways and can help to make up for the estrogen dip experienced during perimenopause and menopause. If you’re ready to give cannabis and its hit of phytoestrogens a whirl, you may consider trying cannabis strains containing higher CBD ratios to THC.\n\nDr. Julie Holland believes cannabis is a powerful aid for women entering, or within, menopause, \"CBD can help with anxiety and THC can help with mood swings, irritability, and low resilience (your ability to handle stress).\"","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/7483fc3e839c9b5e47e7a8a6db15e12e/ee604/e7b1d61922fa784eb6de66e879798f6b.png","srcSet":"/static/7483fc3e839c9b5e47e7a8a6db15e12e/69585/e7b1d61922fa784eb6de66e879798f6b.png 200w,\n/static/7483fc3e839c9b5e47e7a8a6db15e12e/497c6/e7b1d61922fa784eb6de66e879798f6b.png 400w,\n/static/7483fc3e839c9b5e47e7a8a6db15e12e/ee604/e7b1d61922fa784eb6de66e879798f6b.png 800w,\n/static/7483fc3e839c9b5e47e7a8a6db15e12e/f3583/e7b1d61922fa784eb6de66e879798f6b.png 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/7483fc3e839c9b5e47e7a8a6db15e12e/58556/e7b1d61922fa784eb6de66e879798f6b.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7483fc3e839c9b5e47e7a8a6db15e12e/61e93/e7b1d61922fa784eb6de66e879798f6b.webp 200w,\n/static/7483fc3e839c9b5e47e7a8a6db15e12e/1f5c5/e7b1d61922fa784eb6de66e879798f6b.webp 400w,\n/static/7483fc3e839c9b5e47e7a8a6db15e12e/58556/e7b1d61922fa784eb6de66e879798f6b.webp 800w,\n/static/7483fc3e839c9b5e47e7a8a6db15e12e/99238/e7b1d61922fa784eb6de66e879798f6b.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3660-markdown","title":"Simple Hacks for Getting a Good Night's Sleep, Including Cannabis","slug":"simple-hacks-for-getting-a-good-night's-sleep-including-cannabis","content":"Getting good sleep often seems like an unattainable dream for people who suffer from insomnia or mental health issues. Anxiety, depression, and ADHD are just a few conditions that can keep a person from getting good rest, and because [inadequate sleep](https://hellomd.com/articles/dreaming-of-better-sleep-cannabis-may-help) can cause physical and mental problems in its own right, it becomes a vicious cycle that leaves you feeling exhausted. \n\nThe stress that lack of rest can bring can also exacerbate feelings of anxiety or depression, so it’s essential to look for ways that you can help your body and mind relax and prepare for downtime.\n\nThe good news is that there are several things you can do to get better sleep. From changing things up in your bedroom to make it more relaxing to creating a routine during the day that will help you unwind and get comfortable when you’re ready to rest, there are many ways you can boost your ability to sleep well.\n \n### Consume Some Cannabis\nWhether you be a long-time consumer of cannabis or a complete newbie, cannabis the right cannabis can be a powerful sleep aid. Studies show that many patients report falling asleep easier and more quickly after consuming cannabis. Cannabis can also help ease chronic pain anxiety, which also may contribute to a poor nights sleep. \n\nFor most people, consuming THC, and particularly an Indica strain can help ease insomnia. If you have trouble falling asleep, consuming a sublingual, such as a fast acting tincture, 30 minutes before bedtime can help you fall asleep faster.\n\nIf staying asleep is more of an issue for you, many people enjoy edibles. Eat an edible shortly before bed and within 2 hours it should be in full affect and last between 4-6 hours.\n\nDosing is important with THC, as too much and you may stay awake, and too little, you may not feel the effect. When starting out we suggest using a quarter of the suggested dose and working upwards nightly until you find the right amount for you.\n\n### Find the Right Mattress\n\nOne of the easiest ways to boost your sleep quality is to look for a new mattress. Many mattresses will sag over time or become lumpy, leaving you feeling uncomfortable during the night so that even if you do sleep, you still feel tired the next day. \n\nConsider a memory foam mattress, which comes in a variety of types, including soft or firm and single-sided or flippable. Not only that, but they also have a nice price range, so you’re sure to find one that fits your budget. There are many [online resources](https://sleepopolis.com/guides/how-to-choose-a-mattress/) for finding a new mattress, which allows you to to find the best one for your needs and compare prices.\n \n ### Correcting  Sleep Apnea\n\nSleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that can leave you feeling groggy and fatigued every day. It’s a condition you might not notice, but sleep apnea is disruptive enough to inhibit quality sleep. If you have trouble breathing when you sleep or if your partner says your snoring is especially loud, consider having a sleep study to determine whether you have sleep apnea and what you can do to treat it. \n\nThe most common treatment for sleep apnea is to use a [CPAP machine](https://www.medicinenet.com/what_is_cpap_therapy/article.htm) to boost your oxygen intake during sleep. This helps open an obstructed airway by using pressurized air to deliver enough oxygen. \n\nAnother popular treatment for sleep apnea is overbite correction. A recessed jaw from an overbite can lead to airway obstructions, and this can be remedied through treatments like surgery, braces or an alignment system. Surgery and braces are recommended for more serious correction treatment, while clear aligners have shown impressive results for mild overbites. Plus, with [brands like](https://smileprep.com/most-effective-clear-aligners/#TOC_0) byte, Invisalign and Candid, you can count on a shorter timeline than braces. Talk to your orthodontist to find out which system will work for you and help eliminate your sleep apnea.\n\n### Change Your Sleep Environment\n\nThe area you sleep in is very important when it comes to how well you rest. Everything from the temperature to the paint color on the walls can have an effect on your ability to sleep well, so take a look at your bedroom to see where a [few changes](https://nutritiouslife.com/sleep-deep/bedroom-better-sleep/) might be made. \n\nCalming colors like blue and green are great for bedrooms. If you have a television in your room, turn it off at least an hour before bedtime in order to avoid [sleep interruptions](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/block-blue-light-to-sleep-better), and read a book instead. Making these changes can help you relax, destress, and prepare your body and mind for sleep after a long day.\n\n### Get Some Exercise\n\nThere are many benefits to getting regular exercise, including [stress relief](https://www.coreproducts.com/blogs/news/the-importance-of-hobbies-for-happiness-and-stress-relief) and a sense of accomplishment, and when you are living with anxiety or another mental health condition, being good at something can truly change your mindset for the better. \n\nNot only that, exercise can help you get active, which will help to tire you out and get a better night of sleep; on the flip side, some exercise are more [soothing](https://hellomd.com/articles/should-marijuana-be-part-of-your-fitness-regimen/), such as Tai Chi, and can be done before bedtime to help you prepare for rest. Whether you enjoy making playing a sports, gardening, hiking, or something in between, getting regular exercise is a great way to focus, relax, and feel better.\n\n### Find Some Calm in Your Day\n\nWhile there is no single cure for a particular mental health condition, many people have found relief in setting aside quiet time every day in order to meditate or simply unplug from technology. You can even incorporate an exercise like yoga into this time to work on relaxing [breathing techniques](https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/yoga-for-sleep), or you can simply turn off your phone, close your eyes, and find some inner peace. \n\nThis can be done at intervals throughout the day if you’re feeling very stressed, or you can set aside time before bed to unwind and get ready for sleep. Meditation has proven to be a very [effective strategy](https://blogs.biomedcentral.com/bmcseriesblog/2018/05/02/putting-claims-about-mindfulness-meditation-to-the-strongest-test/) for individuals who struggle with stress, anxiety, PTSD, and insomnia.\n\nFinding better sleep when you’re living with a mental health condition is not always easy. It may take some time before you’re able to find a method or activity that works for you, so try to be patient. With a little creativity and a few changes to your lifestyle, you can put yourself on the road to feeling better through better rest.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5151515151515151,"src":"/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/ee604/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.png","srcSet":"/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/69585/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.png 200w,\n/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/497c6/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.png 400w,\n/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/ee604/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.png 800w,\n/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/f3583/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.png 1200w,\n/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/156e8/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.png 1386w","srcWebp":"/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/58556/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/61e93/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.webp 200w,\n/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/1f5c5/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.webp 400w,\n/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/58556/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.webp 800w,\n/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/99238/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.webp 1200w,\n/static/5878543913d1e15e46957d6fb0b3e27f/31167/a7151542d449cf869dee0236ad4c4108.webp 1386w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":24,"numPages":7,"currentPage":3,"id":5834,"name":"Thc","slug":"thc","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}