{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/vaping/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_3699-markdown","title":"LP expert","slug":"lp-expert","content":"There are many different ways to consume cannabis from edibles to lotions, gel caps to drinks, from tinctures to mints. But, many people prefer the old-fashioned way - they like to inhale their weed. \n\nThere are a surprising number of ways in which to do so, including:\n\n- smoking your bud from a preroll or \"joint\"\n- inhaling flower from a pipe or bong\n- vaping cannabis oil or even fresh flower\n- dabbing from resin, wax, and shatter\nSmoking your marijuana in a joint, pipe, or bong for many people is the traditional way to consume cannabis, but it is also indiscreet and smelly. Another route to take is by vaping cannabis or dabbing. In this article, we explore these two different methods of consumption.\n\n### What is Dabbing?\n\n[Dabbing](https://hellomd.com/articles/why-do-some-patients-dab-medical-marijuana) is what many people may consider to be advanced play when it comes to weed consumption. For the most part, dabbing cannabis will pack a real punch - the end result being a very potent psychoactive high. \n\nDabs are more potent than other methods of consumption as they are concentrated extractions of cannabis containing high amounts of THC and other cannabinoids. Dabs are created using solvents like butane or carbon dioxide which when extracted become what's known as wax, butane hash oil (BHO), shatter, and budder.\n\nDabs are consumed by heating the resin within a dab rig and inhaling. While a dab rig is handy, consumers can purchase resin from the local dispensary and heat it on the tip of a nail with a blowtorch. This may seem crude, but it's an inexpensive way to find out if dabbing is right for you. As concentrates have become more popular there are now new products on the market such as electronic nails, or \"enails\", which eliminate the need for a torch.\n\nPeople who dab may do so because they like the intensity of the high or they may need more concentrated amounts of THC to deal with issues such as chronic pain or nausea associated with cancer treatment. If you are new to dabbing and unsure of your weed tolerance, be forewarned that most cannabis extracts test between 60-90% THC which will give you an extremely potent experience. \n\nFor some, this may be overwhelming and result in an unpleasant and uncomfortable experience. Lastly, from a medical research standpoint, the long-term effects of dabbing concentrates are unknown. We suggest starting more slowly and that dabbing not be your first experience with cannabis.\n\n\n\nHere's a HelloMD \"how-to\" video on using a vape pen to consume your weed.\n\n\n### What is Vaping?\n\nWhy vape instead of smoking your weed? It's a great question and given the popularity of [vaping marijuana](https://hellomd.com/articles/inhaling-cannabis-a-guide-to-smoking-vaping-and-dabbing/) products, a good one to answer. Essentially, vaping cannabis is the act of heating your weed without burning it. Through the heating process, a vapor is released which is then inhaled. As the cannabis is not burnt, like in a bowl or joint, no smoke is created. \n\nWhen it comes to vaporizers, you have a variety of choices. Some vaporizers are compatible with flower, some are compatible with concentrates/oils, and some are compatible with both.\n\nThere are a few benefits of vaping cannabis over smoking. For one, when you vape cannabis, you forego the sometimes pesky skunky smell that can give you away. Vapes pack a lot of flavor but surprisingly little smell, or if there is one it dissipates quickly - so you won't alert the neighborhood of your activities. Overall, vaping is also considered to be safer and less harmful to your lungs than smoking. Lastly, most vaporizers whether they are stationary or handheld, are designed to reduce harmful smoke toxins.\nIn a [2014 study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24821347/) 100 research candidates were surveyed and most consumers reported that they preferred vaporizing over smoking because of:\n\n- the lack of smell\n- better tasting\n- a similar effect to smoking cannabis\n- easier to inhale \n\nBelow we look at some vaporizer and dab rig options for consuming cannabis.\n\n### Roam Vaporizer - by GPen\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-08-11 at 4.25.28 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_08_11_at_4_25_28_PM_1118bc52e1.png)\n\n\nThe [Roam Vaporizer](https://www.gpen.com/products/g-pen-roam-vaporizer?clickid=VkzS87SMoxyLTbvyo0WQI33oUkBRJO3RRSbKRU0&utm_medium=Skimbit%20Ltd.&utm_campaign=bva-affiliate&utm_source=Affiliates) is great for dabbing on the go and is even better as it's a dab rig not made of glass. It heats up fast within seconds and has an LED display for temperature control. The GPen has a super-powerful 1,300mAh battery which helps to deliver a smooth and flavorful draw.\n\n### Dust Devil Sidecar Hybrid Dab Rig - by Evolution\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-08-11 at 4.35.45 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_08_11_at_4_35_45_PM_eb1394271f.png)\n\n\nThe Dust Devil dab rig is a portable solution for dabbing that comes in at just 7 inches tall. At an affordable price, it comes with a percolator, vapor dome, a quartz nail and banger, an herb bowl, and a sidecar mouthpiece. Although a bit intimidating, like out of a science experiment, it heats concentrates and flower with efficiency.\n\n### Pax 3 - by Pax\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-08-11 at 4.26.43 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_08_11_at_4_26_43_PM_5a7480bd57.png)\n\n\nBy far, one of the most popular portable vaporizers on the market, the [Pax 3](https://www.pax.com/products/pax-3?variant=39827541131375) is a single button design and a simple starting point for novice cannabis consumers. It even connects via Bluetooth to an Android app so you know the exact temperature and gives pointers on how to target specific terpenes. We advise purchasing the complete kit which will include a concentrate chamber. The Pax 3 allows for both dried flower and concentrate, so you get the two-fer with this sleek design.\n \n### Special-K - by KandyPens\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-08-11 at 4.44.51 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_08_11_at_4_44_51_PM_18b8d751dd.png)\n\n\nA weed pen, or THC oil pen is a simple, two-part electronic device used to vaporize THC and other cannabinoid oil. The Special-K vape pen. is a super popular model that is not only super compact but also has an elegant design. It has a refillable gold glass oil tank for your favorite cannabis oils and liquids that is elegantly handmade. This is a vaporizer for the more sophisticated among us with its black encasing and gold detailing while at the same time offering a solid vape experience.\n\n\n### Need Your Medical Marijuana Card?\n[HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started/) provides online certifications for medical marijuana cards via Telehealth appointments. Meet with a licensed practitioner online - it's fast, easy, and private. You only pay if you're approved.\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.408450704225352,"src":"/static/16c4e385a1664339cad819643d84fa3a/ee604/7ff897ca3693026b95108ca4a661aeff.png","srcSet":"/static/16c4e385a1664339cad819643d84fa3a/69585/7ff897ca3693026b95108ca4a661aeff.png 200w,\n/static/16c4e385a1664339cad819643d84fa3a/497c6/7ff897ca3693026b95108ca4a661aeff.png 400w,\n/static/16c4e385a1664339cad819643d84fa3a/ee604/7ff897ca3693026b95108ca4a661aeff.png 800w,\n/static/16c4e385a1664339cad819643d84fa3a/f3583/7ff897ca3693026b95108ca4a661aeff.png 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/16c4e385a1664339cad819643d84fa3a/58556/7ff897ca3693026b95108ca4a661aeff.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/16c4e385a1664339cad819643d84fa3a/61e93/7ff897ca3693026b95108ca4a661aeff.webp 200w,\n/static/16c4e385a1664339cad819643d84fa3a/1f5c5/7ff897ca3693026b95108ca4a661aeff.webp 400w,\n/static/16c4e385a1664339cad819643d84fa3a/58556/7ff897ca3693026b95108ca4a661aeff.webp 800w,\n/static/16c4e385a1664339cad819643d84fa3a/99238/7ff897ca3693026b95108ca4a661aeff.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2094-markdown","title":"How To Do a Cannabis Tasting","slug":"how-to-do-a-cannabis-tasting","content":"### What’s Cannabis Tasting\n\nCannabis is an extremely unique plant with many different flavors, smells, physical effects, and visual attributes. Cannabis tasting, much like wine or beer tasting, is all about noticing the subtleties between different cannabis strains. Cannabis tasting is a multi-step process that takes concentration, knowledge and understanding. It is also a great way to get more familiar with the types of varieties you may enjoy, both because of their taste and the effect they have on you. \n\n### How Do You Taste Cannabis?\n\nWhen tasting cannabis strains you should choose one consistent consumption method across all tastings. Each administration method, be it smoking a joint, smoking through a water pipe, or vaporizing, can bring out different qualities in the cannabis plant, due the different temperatures and conditions that are created during the smoking process. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nAlso, try to resist eating or drinking while tasting cannabis. Though one of the newest trends in the world of marijuana is cannabis and wine or cannabis and food tastings, when you are tasting on your own it is better to start with cannabis only. Usually cannabis that is paired with wine or food is being paired in a way to bring out certain flavors or nuances that come from the complimenting food or beverage. When tasting cannabis on its own, it is better to get to know strains in a simple way, and then venture into pairing and complimenting flavors of your favorite strains with foods or beverages. \n\n### 1. Look At It\n\nIf you’ve never walked through a cannabis dispensary and admired the amazing variety of cannabis buds, you’re missing out. Each strain of cannabis contains different colors, like vibrant purples and yellows, as well as unique physical attributes, like crystallization or a soft moss-like texture. Before diving in to tasting your cannabis, look at the bud or nuggets and take notes, either mental or physical, on what you see. Visual aspects, like trichomes, which are the small crystal or fuzz-like substance that you see on cannabis plants, can change the flavor of a cannabis strain.\n\nRELATED: [CANNABIS TOURISM: YOUR 420 HOLIDAY](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/581a2c4655e441000b0b516e/cannabis-tourism-your-420-holiday)\n\n### 2. Touch It\n\nAfter visually inspecting your cannabis, feel it. You can learn a lot from feeling a cannabis plant. Some strains are spongy and soft, while others are dry and more brittle. Certain strains are also sticky to the touch, which usually means they have many resin-rich trichomes coating their leaves, while other strains are completely dry to the touch. Cannabis varieties are as different to the touch as they are to the eye. Each of these different aspects of a cannabis plant is part of its genetics. You may tend to like strains that are more sticky and coarse because you like the high concentration of trichomes, so these are important aspects to inspect in order to better recognize patterns between different strains of cannabis. \n\n### 3. Smell It\n\nSmell is a large part of our taste. As we have all experienced before, food tastes much more dull when we have a cold compare to when our sense of smell is at full capacity. It is important to smell the cannabis you are tasting even before you begin to consume it so you can understand the difference between the bud when it is just cured, compared to when it is being ignited. \n\nWhen you are smelling cannabis, look for aromas like sweet, spicy, woody, floral, fuel-like, and citrus, because these are some of the most common aromas. Each strain of cannabis has different terpenes and their taste can range from bright and citrusy to musky and floral. Each terpene provides a unique smell, taste, and effect to different strains of cannabis. \n\n### 4. Consume It \n\nWhen you are smoking or vaporizing cannabis it is important to consider a few different qualities. First, what does the strain taste like? Try to focus on the nuances of the flavor of the cannabis and see if there have been any changes in the smell of the cannabis now that it is being burned while you are consuming it. Much like when tasting wine, try to taste it slowly and embrace all of the different subtleties. It is important to remember that each cannabis strain is different and some may be very potent. Taste cannabis very slowly while you are still learning your tolerance level with that specific strain. \n\nSecondly, how does the strain make you feel? Does consuming the strain you are tasting make you feel awake or tired? Alert or calm? Anxious or relaxed? It is also important to recognize the psychoactive level of the strain and determine if it is a level that you feel comfortable with or not. Different strains also produce effects in different ways. Some strains produce effects quickly that come on all at once, while others slowly come over your body in a more controlled manner. \n\nLastly, it is important to recognize how the strain changes or effects your activities. Does a strain lead you to enjoy your favorite activities more, like cooking, listening to music, or doing yoga? Or does the strain cause you to dislike the activities that you normally enjoy? It is also important to see what strains help you with various medical issues. Did a certain strain make your headache go away or did it cause a stimulation of your appetite? All of these qualities are important to take note of while tasting cannabis. \n\n### Where Are Cannabis Tastings Happening?\n\nCannabis tasting is a growing industry that has expanded beyond the home, including both social clubs and tourism based activities. Cannabis tasting, much like wine tasting, can be a social event where you can learn more about cannabis. The Herba Buena Social Club is a collective and apothecary that specializes in biodynamic cannabis that is grown in the great outdoors. Herba Buena was founded in the beautiful Napa Valley wine country and has brought much of the wine tasting experience into their social clubs. \n\nHerba Buena specializes in medical cannabis products that are made with sustainability and practicality in mind. Their [social club tastings](http://herbabuena.com/the-social-club/), which are offered for their collective members, help educate people on cannabis while allowing them to try a variety of interesting and unique strains and products. \n\nColorado Cannabis Tours, on the other hand, focuses on the recreational cannabis market that has gained traction in Colorado. Colorado Cannabis Tours functions much like a cannabis-specific travel agency. They offer a variety of tours, like a grow house or dispensary tours in Denver, as well as recommendations for cannabis friendly hotels around Colorado. \n\nThey also connect people with unique classes, like a cannabis cooking and cannabis yoga, as well as events like “Puff Pass Paint” classes that allow people to light up while getting creative. Herba Buena and Colorado Cannabis Tours are just two of the companies breaking into the world of cannabis tasting, a field that is only expected to grow in the coming years.\n_____________________________________________________________________\n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/4fc293993f46e7f7dd70afc3c0f0cf0a/14b42/998be81996a011c02d87b7efe77cc893.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4fc293993f46e7f7dd70afc3c0f0cf0a/f836f/998be81996a011c02d87b7efe77cc893.jpg 200w,\n/static/4fc293993f46e7f7dd70afc3c0f0cf0a/2244e/998be81996a011c02d87b7efe77cc893.jpg 400w,\n/static/4fc293993f46e7f7dd70afc3c0f0cf0a/14b42/998be81996a011c02d87b7efe77cc893.jpg 800w,\n/static/4fc293993f46e7f7dd70afc3c0f0cf0a/47498/998be81996a011c02d87b7efe77cc893.jpg 1200w,\n/static/4fc293993f46e7f7dd70afc3c0f0cf0a/54ac5/998be81996a011c02d87b7efe77cc893.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/4fc293993f46e7f7dd70afc3c0f0cf0a/58556/998be81996a011c02d87b7efe77cc893.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4fc293993f46e7f7dd70afc3c0f0cf0a/61e93/998be81996a011c02d87b7efe77cc893.webp 200w,\n/static/4fc293993f46e7f7dd70afc3c0f0cf0a/1f5c5/998be81996a011c02d87b7efe77cc893.webp 400w,\n/static/4fc293993f46e7f7dd70afc3c0f0cf0a/58556/998be81996a011c02d87b7efe77cc893.webp 800w,\n/static/4fc293993f46e7f7dd70afc3c0f0cf0a/99238/998be81996a011c02d87b7efe77cc893.webp 1200w,\n/static/4fc293993f46e7f7dd70afc3c0f0cf0a/5e0b8/998be81996a011c02d87b7efe77cc893.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2335-markdown","title":"Shop Green: My Cannabis Holiday Gift Guide","slug":"shop-green-my-cannabis-holiday-gift-guide","content":"We are pleased to have Brandy Petricka join us as our newest guest blogger on the HelloMD platform. She is a Mom, cannabis lover and Director of Marketing at Alchemy by Dark Heart, an extremely popular vape company that combines \"The perfect blend for wellness.\" Happy holiday reading!\r\n\r\n### Holiday Cheer\r\n\r\nIt was Thanksgiving and my family was gathered at my Grandmother’s house anticipating our favorite meal of the year. Some of us were clinking glasses of rum and wine and catching up on the details of our lives. My younger cousins were huddled in the living room over a shared iPad screen playing Angry Birds. My uncles were convened in the living room, eyes fixed on the TV as the Steelers triumphed over the Colts. \r\n\r\nMy mother raised her glass and asked the family to join her in a toast. Everyone got up (with the exception of the kids). It was at that moment I noticed my uncle, still sitting in one of the recliners in the living room. Holding up a glass, with a look of embarrassment on his face I’d never seen before. I asked him later why he didn’t join us and he said very frankly, “Sciatica. It’s getting worse.” \r\n\r\n### Our Holiday Gift Guide\r\n\r\nThis year marks the first year in California that [marijuana consumption](http://www.rollingstone.com/culture/news/california-passes-recreational-marijuana-bill-prop-64-w448877) is legal for recreational use. So this year, instead of the typical bargain bin flannel pajamas and iTunes gift certificates, I’m going to gift my favorite people with something that will impact their wellness as well as their happiness. \r\n\r\nCheck out my suggestions for giving the gift of green this year to (almost) everyone on your list!\r\n\r\n### The Uncle With Nerve Pain\r\n\r\nEveryone has that uncle. He’s always manning the BBQ, he’s always got a dad joke on hand. Lately you’ve noticed him sitting more things out than usual and if pain is the reason - consider gifting him with something he likely wouldn’t get himself. Perhaps he’s a little on the conservative side or on the fence about cannabis smokables. \r\n\r\nTry asking your local dispensary about cannabis topicals. The beauty of cannabis topicals is that despite usually being very potent and chock-full of THC and CBD - they don’t cause a high. Your uncle can rub a little cannabis cream on his sore areas and no one will be the wiser - except you. His new favorite relative.\r\n\r\n### The Zen Best Friend\r\n\r\nHe wakes up in the morning in full sun salutation and loves quoting Buddha and Lao Tzu. This friend is all about good vibes. Indica strains are known for having calming and relaxing effects, great for evening use and the perfect pairing for a yoga or meditation session. Try a vaporizer pen with cannabis oil that has been infused with stress relieving notes like lavender and chamomile and other botanical essences like those in [Alchemy by Dark Heart vape pens](http://www.darkheartalchemy.com/learn-more/). Sure to help your bestie get through the rest of the winter season with a well-balanced aura.\r\n\r\n### The Busy Mom Who Never Sleeps\r\n\r\nEveryone knows a super mom. No one is sure how they do it. Up early and on the go until the wee hours. She might spend countless nights lying awake unable to drift off to sleep, wrought with a full mind. According to [The Atlantic](http://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2014/08/americans-are-getting-worse-at-taking-sleeping-pills/375935/), over 50 million Americans suffer from insomnia and you know your favorite multi-tasking mama is one of them. This year, give her the gift of sleep. Check out brands that offer cannabis oil capsules or tinctures she can keep stashed in the nightstand for a restful sleep. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [THE ALCHEMY HOLIDAY WELLNESS PACK](http://www.darkheartalchemy.com/hellomdholiday/?utm_source=HelloMDHoliday&utm_campaign=HelloMDHoliday)\r\n\r\nBeing on-the-go means occasionally needing to take the edge off. Alchemy by Dark Heart vape pens carry a lower dose of THC. This is ideal for Mom’s who need to stay sharp but don’t want an overpowering effect. Mint and citrus in the Awaken pen, for instance, work as a stimulant to provide the perfect pick-me up for the morning dash. \r\n### The Newly-Legal College-Bound Cousin\r\n\r\nShe just turned 21 and still buzzing from the vibes of her newly found adulthood. Give her a sample of a marijuana strain someone with a paper deadline can appreciate. Consider strains like Sour Tangie and Sour Diesel, good for finding focus, energizing the mind and lifting the spirits. These Sativa strains are a great alternative for coffee-junkies and tend to be ideal for those oft necessary “wake and bake” mornings or long cram sessions. Vaporizers are great for the novice user or for those who need to remain highly functional throughout the day.\r\n\r\n### The Sweet Tooth\r\n\r\nEveryone knows someone who never seems to be too far from a plate of fresh baked cookies or a delicious slice of cake. For the sweet chaser in your life, stuff their stocking with a few choice cannabis edibles. Browse your local dispensary and be sure to ask about potency. Cannabis edibles tend to come with a pretty intense high, and are definitely not for the cannabis-weary. Pass on any directions when you give this gift to ensure they get the desired effect.\r\n\r\n### The Avid Coffee Drinker\r\n\r\nShe’s never far from her favorite coffee mug, or her favorite coffee shop. You would usually get a well stocked gift certificate to Starbucks, but this year - change things up a bit. For the coffee lover in your life, try a cannabis-infused coffee product. This ancient tradition has been around since the 16th century. \r\n\r\nDosage is again something you want to carefully consider, but there are plenty of low-dose options for someone new to cannabis. Remember to look for a Sativa infused coffee for morning consumption and an Indica infused coffee for the evening. \r\n\r\n### Give the Gift of Green\r\n\r\nAs cannabis legality grows in the US, the industry will begin to touch those who may not have considered marijuana to be the missing solution to their every day ailments. Whether its an avid pot smoker, a consistent conservative or just a very open minded wellness seeker - you’ll be sure to thrill unsuspecting gift receivers. \r\n\r\nMore importantly, you could be the reason someone in your life finds chemical-free, holistic support for pain that may be negatively shaping their lives. Sometimes, all it takes is a little nudge (under the guise of fancy wrapping paper). \r\n\r\nFor more tips or to answer your cannabis questions check out the HelloMD question forums or speak to your local dispensary. For the perfect stocking stuffer, check out [Alchemy’s Holiday Wellness Pack](http://www.darkheartalchemy.com/hellomdholiday/?utm_source=HelloMDHoliday&utm_campaign=HelloMDHoliday) available for a limited time only while supplies last. Great taste and a manageable high make it the perfect gift for anyone new to cannabis.\r\n\r\n________________________________________________________\r\n\r\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.\r\n\r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/5c46b654f12e0c4e2b1e8278ea0cbfc9/14b42/86735add06b128ba6295f786a4903bf8.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5c46b654f12e0c4e2b1e8278ea0cbfc9/f836f/86735add06b128ba6295f786a4903bf8.jpg 200w,\n/static/5c46b654f12e0c4e2b1e8278ea0cbfc9/2244e/86735add06b128ba6295f786a4903bf8.jpg 400w,\n/static/5c46b654f12e0c4e2b1e8278ea0cbfc9/14b42/86735add06b128ba6295f786a4903bf8.jpg 800w,\n/static/5c46b654f12e0c4e2b1e8278ea0cbfc9/47498/86735add06b128ba6295f786a4903bf8.jpg 1200w,\n/static/5c46b654f12e0c4e2b1e8278ea0cbfc9/54ac5/86735add06b128ba6295f786a4903bf8.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/5c46b654f12e0c4e2b1e8278ea0cbfc9/58556/86735add06b128ba6295f786a4903bf8.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5c46b654f12e0c4e2b1e8278ea0cbfc9/61e93/86735add06b128ba6295f786a4903bf8.webp 200w,\n/static/5c46b654f12e0c4e2b1e8278ea0cbfc9/1f5c5/86735add06b128ba6295f786a4903bf8.webp 400w,\n/static/5c46b654f12e0c4e2b1e8278ea0cbfc9/58556/86735add06b128ba6295f786a4903bf8.webp 800w,\n/static/5c46b654f12e0c4e2b1e8278ea0cbfc9/99238/86735add06b128ba6295f786a4903bf8.webp 1200w,\n/static/5c46b654f12e0c4e2b1e8278ea0cbfc9/5e0b8/86735add06b128ba6295f786a4903bf8.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2150-markdown","title":"Newest K-Cup Style Vaporizer: The CannaCloud","slug":"newest-k-cup-style-vaporizer-the-cannacloud","content":"[Cannakorp](http://www.cannakorp.com/), a year-old cannabis tech start up out of Massachusetts, just previewed a new vaporizer based on the idea of the Keurig single use coffee maker. The CannaCloud was first revealed at the 4th annual Marijuana Business Expo in Las Vegas and is set to hit the market in early 2017. \r\n\r\nThe CannaCloud comes in two parts, a base and a vaporizing chamber that looks similar to a travel mug. A single use marijuana pod is inserted into the vaporizing chamber then it is placed in the base where it is heated. The vaporized marijuana can then be inhaled through the vaporizing chamber portion. The whole process of vaporizing takes just a minute. The CannaCloud also eliminates the need for filter cleaning, which is typically associated with vaporizers and is even dishwasher safe. CannaKorp aims at making the process of consuming marijuana as painless for the consumer as possible. \r\n\r\nThe CannaCloud uses, “single-use, dose-controlled pods containing pre-ground, lab tested cannabis called CannaCups,” says CannaKorp. CannaKorp does not grow or distribute marijuana, rather it works with partners who independently fill the pods in their own facilities. CannaKorp does, however, have extremely high standards for the growing of the cannabis that goes into their pods as well as uniform testing and filling. CannaCups will be professionally labeled with the strain, concentration of cannabinoids, and the facilities of cultivation. The cannabis growers will be equipped with a cannamatic, an automated machine that processors can use to fill, seal and label the CannaCups. The goal of the cannamatic is to reduce packaging costs, insure proper labeling, and assure the consumer is getting a sanitary product. The marijuana will all be packaged and sealed in a controlled environment, allowing for a process more similar to other pharmaceutical medications. Allowing growers to independently fill CannaCups means a variety of cannabis strains and concentrations for the consumer to choose from. \r\n\r\nThere is no word yet on what pricing may be for the CannaCloud, but chairman David Manly told the Boston Globe that focus groups had a very positive response to the product. CannaKorp is a medically focused company but is prepared to gain traction for their product in the recreational community as well. The goal of CannaKorp is to bring ease and convenience to medical marijuana users worldwide, \"CannaKorp is going to upgrade the whole experience of using medical marijuana,\" said CannaKorp co-founder and president, Michael Bourque. \"Our goal is to simplify and improve the medical marijuana experience for millions of users worldwide. Patients don't always know exactly what they are buying and preparing cannabis is an archaic process today. Used together, our CannaCloud vaporizer and CannaCups solve this problem.\" CannaKorp is hoping to create a safe and controlled way for medical marijuana users to get their medication in proper doses. \r\n\r\nInterested in asking a question about this? Go to [HelloMD Answers](https://www.hellomd.com/answers) and ask one of our doctors or community. \r\n\r\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.\r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.6528925619834711,"src":"/static/a1ea87016976cd3d0aa2798135a950c5/ee604/a4391ff7b35a44715d6e6fa1b8d32cc3.png","srcSet":"/static/a1ea87016976cd3d0aa2798135a950c5/69585/a4391ff7b35a44715d6e6fa1b8d32cc3.png 200w,\n/static/a1ea87016976cd3d0aa2798135a950c5/497c6/a4391ff7b35a44715d6e6fa1b8d32cc3.png 400w,\n/static/a1ea87016976cd3d0aa2798135a950c5/ee604/a4391ff7b35a44715d6e6fa1b8d32cc3.png 800w,\n/static/a1ea87016976cd3d0aa2798135a950c5/d40e6/a4391ff7b35a44715d6e6fa1b8d32cc3.png 941w","srcWebp":"/static/a1ea87016976cd3d0aa2798135a950c5/58556/a4391ff7b35a44715d6e6fa1b8d32cc3.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a1ea87016976cd3d0aa2798135a950c5/61e93/a4391ff7b35a44715d6e6fa1b8d32cc3.webp 200w,\n/static/a1ea87016976cd3d0aa2798135a950c5/1f5c5/a4391ff7b35a44715d6e6fa1b8d32cc3.webp 400w,\n/static/a1ea87016976cd3d0aa2798135a950c5/58556/a4391ff7b35a44715d6e6fa1b8d32cc3.webp 800w,\n/static/a1ea87016976cd3d0aa2798135a950c5/2640f/a4391ff7b35a44715d6e6fa1b8d32cc3.webp 941w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2016-markdown","title":"Vaporizing or Vaping: What You Need to Know ","slug":"vaporizing-or-vaping-what-you-need-to-know","content":"If you're like most marijuana users looking to get into vaping, you\nprobably have some questions. Vaporizing, or vaping for short, has\nbecome an incredibly popular marijuana delivery method over the last\nseveral years, and more and more people are appreciating the medical\nbenefits and convenience that vaping has to offer. As a medical\nprofessional, I'm all about medical benefits and convenience. So let's\ndiscuss marijuana vaping, shall we?\n\n### What is Vaporizing?\n\nA [vaporizer](http://www.thefirefly.com) is a device that heats up marijuana for the purpose\nof releasing its active ingredients without burning them. While smoking\nmarijuana can be an effective delivery process, many consumers have\nfound that the ash produced by smoking is too harsh on the lungs.\nProponents of vaping hail it as a safer alternative to smoking that\nstill provides marijuana's positive effects. Vaporizers are compatible\nwith marijuana buds, wax, oils and eLiquid.\n\n### Using a Vaporizer\n\nConsumer use of vaporizers depends upon individual preferences. As a\ngeneral rule, consumers who use whole herbs grind them finely before\nsmoking. This produces a finer flavor and a more pleasant vaping\nexperience. The herbs (or the marijuana concentrates, if the consumer\nprefers) are then placed in the vaporizer's compartment, where they are\nheated and prepared for inhalation. Unlike other types of marijuana\ninhalation, vaporizing doesn't produce any visible smoke. Instead, the\nuser experiences only a pleasant taste with each inhalation.\n\n### Filling the Vaporizer\n\nAs I mentioned earlier, vaporizers can be filled with a whole host of\ndifferent marijuana products, from waxes to whole herbs. The choice of\nwhat to use depends largely on what you like and don't like. On one\nhand, people who enjoy smoking may choose to purchase a vaporizer that\ncan be filled with finely ground marijuana, which allows for exploration\nof different strains and tastes. On the other hand, people who don't\nenjoy smoking and would prefer to inhale cannabis exclusively through\nvaping may prefer to purchase concentrates, like oils or waxes. A word\nof caution about oils: they may contain harsh chemicals that can harm\nyour lungs, so do your research before you buy. Substituting one danger\nfor another is no way to live life.\n\n### Conduction vs. Convection: Which Is Best for Vaping Marijuana?\n\nAs you dive deeper into vaporizers, you'll soon discover that there are\ntwo distinct types: those that use conduction heat and those that use\nconvection heat. Get ready for some science: Conduction and convection\nare two different types of heat transfer; conduction occurs when heat is\ntransferred between two objects (such as when a hot stove surface heats\nup a pot), while convection occurs when liquid or gas are involved (such\nas in the creation of steam). I'm often asked which process I believe is\nbest, both for efficiency and medical benefits. The answer is that most\nprofessionals, myself included, believe that convection vaporizers are\nmore efficient and offer a better inhaling experience.\n\nWhy? Conduction vaporizers often use metal chambers to heat the\nmarijuana product, resulting in uneven heating. The metal is heated\ncontinuously, even if you aren't actively inhaling from the vaporizer.\nFurther, if you pack the chamber too tightly, you may need to stir and\nshake after the initial pulls to encourage thorough heating. If a\nmarijuana bud, for example, is packed into the chamber, the part that\ntouches the metal will get hotter than the rest. This isn't an issue if\nyou're using oils and other concentrates, but if you're using whole or\nground plants, you could end up playing hot potato.\n\nConvection vaporizers are more efficient because they offer even,\non-demand heating and a decreased risk of burning the plant. Consider a\nregular oven versus a convection oven - convection ovens distribute heat\nevenly so you don't undercook half the turkey and burn the other half.\nThink of your marijuana bud as that turkey. Even heat distribution makes\neverything better.\n\n### Loose Leaf vs. Cannabis Concentrate\n\nThe next large question that arises surrounding the topic of vaping is\nwhether to use loose leaf marijuana or marijuana concentrates. People\nwho want to engage in environmentally friendly vaping will appreciate\nloose leaf vaporizers, as they present less plastic waste and a lower\nlevel of processing. On the flip, people who want to use their\nvaporizers on the go or in public may prefer to use concentrates, which\nproduce less smell and are more portable. Concentrates are generally\nmore convenient, because loose leaf vaporizers require filling and\nheating time before every use.\n\nWhen choosing between loose leaf and concentrate, you'll also need to\nconsider the experience each option offers. All vaporizers change the\nsmell and taste of medical marijuana slightly, but many consumers who\nconsider themselves connoisseurs don't care for the smell of plants that\nhave been vaped. Because of this, many people opt to vape concentrates\nexclusively. Keep in mind that, since vaporizing is a cleaner method of\nmedical marijuana inhalation, the effects of inhalation are often\nmarkedly less \"heady,\" which many users appreciate.\n\n### The Case for Vaping Cannabis\n\nIf you're looking for a clean, effective form of marijuana inhalation,\nvaping may be your go-to. From providing immediate, effective relief\nfrom various symptoms to offering an inconspicuous way to enjoy medical\nmarijuana in a group setting without the harsh effects of smoking,\nvaping is a fantastic option for many medical marijuana users.\n\nPhoto credit: [Vaping360](https://www.flickr.com/photos/vaping360/16086392488/in/photolist-qvuY3C-21HCCd1-qfjb7m-EqLh4n-qMZZ4f-eTK8ne-hW5QoM-peAQym-YQJKDp-UiKVYJ-Y6HbA2-iiLC38-iiKH1g-VgVDeq-htfqAS-qSpEBN-qC84GL-GkD56H-25QX38f-erjP3f-htfoF9-Ys92hQ-qC9p5d-idCJUn-GCq2NE-iiNiuq-SjvKih-iiMbfr-gVFgQf-tmCTC1-Xkc8Uo-qUGRdk-Ys92oS-W4Y3R4-aosVJr-q42cJT-qMZVdE-hKZKoX-FJ5frK-nTgUGT-hygZHR-edp7pM-eqp1NG-du786C-eguB6R-qvDy8p-Y3aaCy-aKi1kB-n9sY4Q-Z58kDh)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/78bae096f8d465d705c6e46aeefffce9/14b42/57205efcaf4f4cf6c49fa29387369c40.jpg","srcSet":"/static/78bae096f8d465d705c6e46aeefffce9/f836f/57205efcaf4f4cf6c49fa29387369c40.jpg 200w,\n/static/78bae096f8d465d705c6e46aeefffce9/2244e/57205efcaf4f4cf6c49fa29387369c40.jpg 400w,\n/static/78bae096f8d465d705c6e46aeefffce9/14b42/57205efcaf4f4cf6c49fa29387369c40.jpg 800w,\n/static/78bae096f8d465d705c6e46aeefffce9/47498/57205efcaf4f4cf6c49fa29387369c40.jpg 1200w,\n/static/78bae096f8d465d705c6e46aeefffce9/0e329/57205efcaf4f4cf6c49fa29387369c40.jpg 1600w,\n/static/78bae096f8d465d705c6e46aeefffce9/a4dca/57205efcaf4f4cf6c49fa29387369c40.jpg 1864w","srcWebp":"/static/78bae096f8d465d705c6e46aeefffce9/58556/57205efcaf4f4cf6c49fa29387369c40.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/78bae096f8d465d705c6e46aeefffce9/61e93/57205efcaf4f4cf6c49fa29387369c40.webp 200w,\n/static/78bae096f8d465d705c6e46aeefffce9/1f5c5/57205efcaf4f4cf6c49fa29387369c40.webp 400w,\n/static/78bae096f8d465d705c6e46aeefffce9/58556/57205efcaf4f4cf6c49fa29387369c40.webp 800w,\n/static/78bae096f8d465d705c6e46aeefffce9/99238/57205efcaf4f4cf6c49fa29387369c40.webp 1200w,\n/static/78bae096f8d465d705c6e46aeefffce9/7c22d/57205efcaf4f4cf6c49fa29387369c40.webp 1600w,\n/static/78bae096f8d465d705c6e46aeefffce9/21f96/57205efcaf4f4cf6c49fa29387369c40.webp 1864w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":1,"currentPage":1,"id":5887,"name":"Vaping","slug":"vaping","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}