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How Cannabis Can Help With Dysmenorrhea

Amy Hansen
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How Cannabis Can Help With Dysmenorrhea

Millions suffer, but relief could be here thanks to science and a simple plant.  Here is how cannabis can help with dysmenorrhea.

It is an uncomfortable topic to discuss, but the painful truth is a majority of women will suffer it at some point and finding relief is invaluable. Around 80% of women experience period pain at some stage in their lifetime. Dysmenorrhea is the medical term for pain or discomfort during menstruation. It is a common gynecologic problem, but the pain can range from dull cramps to indescribable agony. Here is how cannabis can help with dysmenorrhea.
Medicinal cannabis has emerged as a potential treatment option for dysmenorrhea, offering hope for the tens of millions of women who suffer from menstrual pain. Current medical management options primarily consisting of over-the-counter pain relievers and hormonal contraceptives. The effectiveness of these treatments vary greatly.
The endocannabinoid system plays a role in uterine function and pain perception. Cannabinoid receptors CB1R and CB2R, as well as TRPV receptors, have been identified in human myometrial tissue. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a primary component of cannabis, can act as a cannabinoid agonist, potentially triggering myometrial relaxation and easing menstrual pain.
Photo by Esther Kelleter/Getty
The potential benefits of cannabis for dysmenorrhea includes pain relief, improved sleep quality, and reduced reliance on pharmaceutical pain relievers. While research specifically on cannabis for dysmenorrhea is growing, studies on chronic pain provide some insights:
  • A systematic review of 18 randomized controlled trials found that synthetic cannabis products with high THC-to-CBD ratios may offer moderate improvement in pain severity.
  • A meta-analysis of 32 trials showed that medical cannabis or cannabinoids resulted in small to very small improvements in pain relief, physical functioning, and sleep quality among chronic pain patients.

There is significant interest in using cannabis for gynecologic pain management:

  • A survey found that 61.2% of women who had never used cannabis and 90.0% of those who had were willing to try it for gynecologic pain.
  • After cannabis legalization in Canada, current cannabis use increased from 13.3% to 21.5% among women with self-reported moderate-to-severe pelvic pain.
With th American Medical Association, American College of Physicians and even AARP recognizing the medical benefits of cannabis, it is critical more research is funded.  Millions of women may be in pain needlessly due to untreated dysmenorrhea.

Science Says Cannabis Can Be Making Us Healthier

Amy Hansen
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Science Says Cannabis Can Be Making Us Healthier

As it it becomes available to more people, there is a positive health change going on according to data.

Cannabis is becoming more mainstream and and the side effects are doing even better than expected.  It seems the availability of legal marijuana is helping with the health of the general population. Studies in California, Canada and the now New Zealand have shown the upside of legalization. While cannabis has been used for health benefits for millions of years, reduction in more harmful intoxication products is another important wellness trend.

RELATED: Can CBD Oils Help With Anxiety & Depression

Alcohol consumption is associated with significant health risks, including liver damage, cardiovascular issues, and certain cancers. In contrast, marijuana has not been linked to the same level of severe physical health consequences. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that over 36,000 annual U.S. deaths are attributed to chronic alcohol use, while there is no comparable category for marijuana-related deaths. Alcohol is also much more addictive than marijuana, causing long term physical and mental issues.

A study from New Zealand has found some interesting trends regarding the relationship between marijuana legalization and the consumption of alcohol and opioids.

heart cannabis
Photo by megaflopp/Getty Images

Following the legalization of marijuana in New Zealand, researchers observed a notable decline in alcohol consumption:

This suggests for adults, marijuana may be serving as a substitute for alcohol in some cases, particularly when it comes to heavy drinking episodes.

The relationship between marijuana legalization and opioid use appears more complex:

  • There was no clear evidence of marijuana legalization directly reducing opioid use or abuse.
  • However, some research indicates that people who use cannabis are more likely to initiate opioid use, with an odds ratio of 2.76 compared to non-cannabis users.
  • The likelihood of transitioning from opioid use to opioid use disorders among cannabis users was found to be 2.52 times higher than non-cannabis users.

The study also revealed some additional findings regarding substance use patterns:

  • Marijuana use increased by 16% among adults aged 21 and older following legalization.
  • There was a 5-6% increase in marijuana use initiation among adolescents and young adults aged 12-20. This would be go with the greater North American trend of California sober and Gen Z drifting away from alcohol and more into marijuana.
  • No significant changes were observed in the use of hard drugs like cocaine or heroin in any age group.

RELATED: Marijuana Use And Guy’s Member

These findings suggest while marijuana legalization may lead to decreased alcohol consumption among adults, it does not necessarily translate to reduced use of other substances, particularly opioids. The relationship between cannabis use and other substance use behaviors is complex and multifaceted. Time and more research should yield more benefits.

Try These Delicious Autumn Cream Drinks

Anthony Washington
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Try These Delicious Autumn Cream Drinks

Want something delicious with an “oomph” – these yummy creamy concoctions will make your mouth happy!

Fall is a time of coziness, cuffing and nights in front of the fire. Want better way to accent it with a nice tasty cocktail? Try these delicious autumn cream drinks and enjoy the pre-holiday season. Bailey’s was the commercial first cream liquor and made available to the public in 1971. But Irish monks have blended whiskey with fresh dairy cream since the 14th century.  These new and classic connections will bring a smile on crisp nights.

RELATED: Beer Sales Flatten Thanks To Marijuana

Important note, using cream instead of milk in alcoholic cocktails can significantly enhance the drink’s texture, flavor, and overall experience. Cream provides a richer and smoother texture compared to milk. The higher fat content in cream (typically around 36% or more) creates a luxurious mouthfeel that can elevate the drinking experience.

White Russian

The White Russian’s development took about 30 years. The first mention of the drink is in a newspaper was in 1965 in the Oakland Tribune. The 1961 edition of the Diner’s Club Drink Book included a recipe for a Black Russian, with a note suggesting adding cream to make a White Russian. The White Russian’s popularity increased after the 1998 movie The Big Lebowski, where the main character, Jeffrey “The Dude” Lebowski, drinks it throughout the film.

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces vodka
  • 1 ounce Kahlúa
  • 1 ounce heavy cream

Create

  1. Add the vodka and Kahlúa to a rocks glass filled with ice
  2. Top with the heavy cream and stir
White Russian cocktail

Churro Cocktails

A churro is a fried dough pastry originated in Spain and Portugal. They are a fast-growing dessert and breakfast item on menus, and are a popular treat at theme parks and sporting events in Europe and North and South America.  Somrus, who makes cream liquors, made a cocktail from the flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 parts Somrus Coffee
  • 1/2 part cinnamon whiskey

Create

  1. In an ice-filled shaker, add ingredients and shake
  2. Strain and pour

Brandy Alexander

This is was a classic “go to drink” for X. It was rumored to have been created at the Paris Ritz in 1922. Or it could have been made in 1915 by celebrate pitcher Grover Cleveland Alexander during a World Series. It was considered a posh way to end the evening, especially after other cocktails.It’s creamy and boozy or a delicious replacement for dessert for those who like to drink their sweets. In the 2000s, it has moved to the back of the line, but is still a great way to cap off a night drinking.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 ounces cognac
  • 1 ounce dark creme de cacao
  • 1 ounce cream
  • Grated nutmeg for garnish

Create

  1. Add cognac, dark creme de cacao and cream into a shaker with ice and shake until well-chilled
  2. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass or a coupe glass
  3. Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg

RELATED: Rainy Weather Cocktails

Mango Fizz

For those who are holding on to every last bit of summer, this mango cocktail can add a a little sunshine. The fruit is considered the world’s most popular fruit with over 20 million tons consumed each year. Mangoes are a symbol of friendship and love, which can add to special evening.

Ingredients

  • 2 parts Somrus Mango
  • 1 part citrus vodka
  • ½ part simple syrup
  • Club soda

Create

  1. Combine Mango liqueur, vodka and simple syrup in an ice-filled shaker
  2. Shake vigorously
  3. Strain into ice-filled glass
  4. Top with club soda

 

Key Information From a Urologist About ED

Thomas Green, MD
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Key Information From a Urologist About ED

It is an awkward conversation for men to discuss…so here is key information from a urologist about ED (erectile dysfunction)

As a urologist it was very common for me to see patients for the diagnosis and treatment of impotence. Impotence refers to the ability to achieve and maintain an erection for sexual intercourse. Before treatment I had to arrive at the correct diagnosis.

RELATED: Vaping Could Have This Effect On Men

Through the process of history taking, a physical exam and testing, we first categorize impotency as either physical or psychological. Over the decades of evaluating men, it became quite evident that when a man has a physical cause of impotency, there is often psychological overlay worsening the physical cause. This often makes treatment more challenging.

The are subcategories to physical impotency. This may be caused by neurological disorders, vascular disease, physical changes, hormone issues or medications.

Of the neurological disorders, some are easily identifiable through history or physical exam. Typical causes are diabetes mellitus, alcoholism, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord and nerve injuries and nerve injuries due to pelvic surgery such as prostate surgery.

Regarding the vascular causes, this could be due to either the arteries (inflow) or veins (outflow). There has to be more inflow of blood than outflow in order to have an erection.  The most common inflow abnormality is atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). This can be caused by smoking, high cholesterol levels in the blood or may be familial. If the valves in the veins are incompetent, this may cause the erection to be incomplete or early loss of an erection.

There are multiple physical changes which can occur. The most common are Peyronie’s disease, penile fracture, pelvic injury or pelvic surgery.

RELATED: Which Is More Effective For Marijuana Patients, THC Or CBD

Low testosterone or thyroid hormonal changes can cause impotency.

There are multiple medications which may cause impotency. These commonly are antidepressants, antihypertensives, chemotherapy medications, Parkinson’s medications, prostate cancer medications and anti anxiety medications. Drugs that affect or suppress the central nervous system such as alcohol, barbiturates, nicotine and opioids can be suspect in causing impotence. My experience with patients using cannibus is that for some it improves erections and others it worsens them.

Finally psychological issues can cause impotence. The most common I saw in my practice was performance anxiety. This is when a man is so worried about having difficulties that he psychs himself out of it. Other causes can be depression, loss of sleep, relationship issues, anxiety, stress and low self esteem.

After resolving the cause or causes of impotence, the physician has a better guide as to treatment.

These Star Wars Strains Will Give You The Perfect Escape

Anthony Washington
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These Star Wars Strains Will Give You The Perfect Escape

Looking for something to distract you and make you feel good? These classic Star War strains will help you kick back and enjoy the wonder of the universe.

Need a little escape from the world around you? Want to slip in a new yet familiar environment? As of 2023, the Star Wars universe had a worldwide box office revenue of about $10.3 billion. Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens (2015) is the highest-grossing Star Wars movie of all time. It is ranked number one on a list of fandoms, ahead of Marvel. Will, the Star Wars strains will give you the perfect escape to let you take a breather from the world?

Be a Skywalker

Skywalker was created by the Dutch Passion Seed Company. They crossed two of their award-winning Indicas – Blueberry and Mazar – to produce Skywalker, which they intended to be “one of the best Indicas in the world.” The top flavors and aromas of Skywalker are earthy, woody, and spicy, with hints of sweetness and fruitiness.

Skywalker OG is a Sativa dominant, marijuana hybrid. Skywalker OG is well-known for its relaxing and euphoric effects, making it an excellent choice for stress relief and pain management. This strain is often used to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and insomnia. The Kush is highly potent, with THC levels up to 21%, on average.

Skywalker OG Kush (“No. There is another… Sky… walk…errrr.”) is an Indica derived from Skywalker crossed with an OG Kush. Vape it with a Skywalker OG 710 KingPen.

RELATED: Great Fall Whiskeys

Sour Skywalker (“That name no longer holds any meaning for me.”) is a half and half Sativa/Indica strain. Its ancestry is Sour Diesel crossed with Skywalker OG. It has a dank, pungent smell of earth and lemon, as well as a sour flavor with fruity notes of citrus and lemons. It has an intense yet calming, indica-driven body buzz matched with intense, euphoric cerebral effects. It’s an effective treatment for muscle spasms, chronic pain, insomnia, and stress.

11 Star Wars Marijuana Strains Every Fan Needs To Try
Photo by Flickr user Irudayam

Favorite Characters

C-3PO is a Humboldt County hybrid that was created by Petrolia Farms. With the smell of fresh pine, C3PO delivers relaxing effects with mental clarity due to its high CBD. It has low 1% THC count and high 12-15% CBD count. C-3PO’s levels making it an excellent choice for medical marijuana patients suffering from depression and stress, just like its robotic, neurotic namesake.

R2-D2 Kush is an Indica-dominant hybrid strain, that smells reminiscent of Pine Sol, which come to think of it, is probably what R2-D2 smells like when he needs an oil bath. It is hard and quick hitting to really whisk you into a different place.

RELATED: Marijuana Use And Guy’s Member

The Jedi Masters

OG Darth Vader is a strong, Indica marijuana hybrid that induces an intellectual high, combined with an opiate-like body relaxation. The effect is deep and long lasting. The Vader Force force comes through in its effects, which provide complete body relaxation and sleepiness. Ideal for treating insomnia, this strain may not knock you out immediately, but it will definitely quiet the mind and put all major productive plans on hold.

OG 1 Kenobi is an is an 80/20 Indica-dominant marijuana hybrid, with 18-23% THC levels. It is a cross between Master Kush and Skywalker OG hybrid, and is often mistaken for Skywalker OG. The force is strong with Kenobi. This strain is not for pot padawans. It might knock you out, just like Kenobi knocked out Anakin Skywalker before he fell into the lava pit. Although, if you have serious, chronic pain, you might say, “Help me, OG 1 Kenobi, you’re my only smoke!”

Master Yoda is cross between OG Kush and Master Kush. Yoda is an Indica dominant marijuana hybrid. he original Master Yoda would know, and the sativa side of this mostly indica buzz has just enough of an uplifting balance to please just about anyone.  Relax you will!

Jedi Kush (aka OG Jedi) is a pure Indica marijuana, with a 2% CBD count and THC levels between 19-25%, on average. Jedi buds are spade-shaped, like Star Destroyers, with orange and purple undertones, like Mace Windu’s lightsaber. The effects are almost comparable to micro-dosing.

And of course…the ultimate

Death Star is a fully operational 75/25 Indica dominant hybrid with a high THC content. It is a cross between Sensei Star and Sour Diesel. Just like the DS-1 Orbital Battle Station, this hybrid hits hard, so it is better for evening and nighttime use. Crush it up in a Death Star inspired grinder.

Is Marijuana’s THCV Your Natural Holiday Weight Loss Plan

Sarah Johns
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Is Marijuana’s THCV Your Natural Holiday Weight Loss Plan

The holidays are fun and full of family, activities, and food.  But does marijuana have a natural  secret weapon to help you at least not gain weight this season?

The holidays are here – turkeys, pie, and family favorites. Along with Christmas cookies, holiday cocktails, everything adds up and starts to make a difference in how clothes fit. On average, people gain between 1-2 pounds in November and December. Some studies suggest people gain more, with an average of 2–5 pounds. But is marijuana’s THCV your natural holiday weight loss plan. While Ozempic has been the wonder drug of weight loss, cannabis a natural plant used for thousands of years in medicine. Why not use to look good also? Here is some information and also advice on how much to take and how it works.

The most famous cannabinoids are THC or CBD. Legal to over 50% of the country and used by millions across the country.  While they are the most commonly used cannabinoids, the cannabis plant contains many other medically beneficial cannabinoids including THCV. Although THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin) is similar to THC, it contains its own unique benefits.

Research points to THCV’s ability to block the body’s rewarding sensations while eating different foods. If you’re looking to keep your food cravings at bay or prevent the munchies, check out strains high in THCV, which will suppress your appetite, especially during the holidays.

Photo by Olga Tsareva/Getty Images

It has also been found that THCV in its purest form can calm the unreasonable urge to overeat while also reducing hunger cravings. Thus, consumption of THCV can be beneficial for those who struggle with weight gain and/or food craving. Since THCV can help curb one’s appetite, researchers believe there’s a potential for THCV helping people fight obesity and other related health issues.

It is important to manage the dosage. Start with a low dose of 5-7.5mg of THCV for appetite suppression effects. Options for taking THCV include gummies, tinctures, vapes, or THCV-rich cannabis strains Take THCV in the morning to help with focus and energy. Start on teh weekend so you can make sure it works in a way which is comfortable. Consume it with food to increase absorption.

Gummies and tincture/oils are the easiest ways to consume to manage the dosage. Start with half a gummy or 1 full gummy (typically 10mg) and adjust based on your response. You can increase to 2 gummies per day if needed. For tinctures, start with half a dropper or less and adjust as needed. Take THCV about an hour before you normally start feeling hungry

RELATED: Which Is More Effective For Marijuana Patients, THC Or CBD?

THCV should be part of a healthy routine including exercise and proper rest. Research on cannabis continues, to using THCV is not a long term solution, consider it for the holidays. As usual, take to your health professional to make sure it doesn’t interact poorly with any prescribed medications.  Start low and grow so you can pay attention how your body and mind reacts.

What’s Next For Legal Marijuana

JJ McKay
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What’s Next For Legal Marijuana

Going into 2025,  the cannabis industry will have to be more limber. 

The election is done and Donald Trump will be returning to the White House and Republicans having greater control in Congress. The election showed the majority of people want recreational in Florida, Nebraska will finally have medical marijuana, and cannabis wasn’t a deciding factor in swinging votes. With the House firmly in Republican hands, Mike Johnson has greater power to battle legal cannabis, but don’t count the industry out yet.

Nebraska, passed two ballot initiatives to legalize medical marijuana and regulate the industry on Tuesday. A whopping 67% of the public said yes, which is great for a traditional lyconservative state.  Nebraska was one of the few holdouts for medical marijuana. The legality of the ballot initiatives is being questioned regarding discrepancy over fraudulent signatures and fraudulent notarizations. It is a civil case with a ruling expected after the election is cleared up. The Governor spoke out against cannabis. Those arguing on behalf of the petitioners said there was no “clear and convincing evidence” of fraud, and throwing out entire petitions would punish thousands of Nebraskan voters. If the cannabis backers and voters win the civil suit, medical marijuana should start by the end of 2025.

medical marijuana
Photo by CapturedNuance/Getty Images
While the initiative failed to reach the 60% of votes needed in Florida, it garnered an impressive 56% of public support. Showing the population of the sunshine state is for fully legal weed, but could be 4 years until it is available. There are issues are Governor DeSantis use of public assets to combat the issue, so my legal wrangling in Florida.
A portion of the industry supported the incoming president, but the biggest industry influence for the upcoming administration will be alcohol and pharmaceutical companies.  Alcohol alone is probably one of the biggest investors in the industry with over $13 billion. Wana Brands, which is partial owned by Constellation, launched hemp gummies that can be sold in most states and are as effective as THC gummies. A smart expansion of their products.
Cannabis is popular with the public with Pew Research saying 88+% of the population supporting legalization in some form.  Even the traditional AARP has come around to extoll the medical and wellness benefits of the plant.  A clearer pathway will be laid out in December with the DEA rescheduling.

Is An Old Fashioned Or A Gummy Healthier

Terry Hacienda
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0
Is An Old Fashioned Or A Gummy Healthier

Cocktails, beers, vapes, and gummies are all staples of social gathers – but is the cocktails or the vape better?

Alcohol has long consistent hold on society. Having been part of India, the Middle East and more, it has played a part in medicine, religion, intimacy and recreation for thousands of year. Yet alcohol has become the modern accepted intoxicant.  But is an old fashioned or a gummy healthier in today’s world?  Moderation is the key for both, but science comes down clearly on one side.

Cannabis and alcohol are two of the most widely used recreational substances, but their health impacts differ significantly. While neither is without risks, research suggests that cannabis may be the healthier option overall when used responsibly.

Alcohol consumption carries substantial health risks, especially with heavy or long-term use. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that excessive alcohol use leads to approximately 88,000 deaths annually in the United States. Alcohol is linked to liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and increased cancer risk. It can also exacerbate mental health issues and contribute to accidents and violence
Photo by Hans via Pixabay
Cannabis, on the other hand, has a lower risk profile. There have been no reported deaths from marijuana overdose, according to the Drug Enforcement Administration. While smoking cannabis can have negative effects on lung health, alternative consumption methods like gummies, tinctures and oils avoid this risk. Cannabis is also less addictive than alcohol, with about 9% of users becoming dependent compared to 23% for alcohol.
Both substances impair cognitive function and motor skills in the short term. However, alcohol tends to have more severe immediate effects, including the risk of alcohol poisoning. Cannabis typically does not cause the intense hangover effects associated with alcohol use.
Moderate alcohol consumption may have some cardiovascular benefits, according to some studies. However, cannabis has shown promise in pain management and as a potential alternative to more dangerous opioid medications. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that researchers continue to explore.

While both substances carry risks, the available evidence suggests that cannabis is likely the healthier choice when compared to alcohol. It has a lower risk of overdose, less severe long-term health consequences, and potentially more medical applications. However, it’s crucial to note that the healthiest option is always moderation or abstinence from both substances.

DEA Delivers Gut Punch To Marijuana Industry

Terry Hacienda
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0
DEA Delivers Gut Punch To Marijuana Industry

The DEA has worked hard to keep marijuana illegal – despite almost 90% believing it shouldn’t be.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has work diligently to turn the tide of legal marijuana. An agency built on the “War on Drugs” is doing everything to stop cannabis being available to the population and undercutting a vast amount of their efforts. And now again the DEA delivers gut punch to the marijuana industry. The agency is swimming upstream in the process as it is being recommended by Health and Human Services and the Food and Drug Administration to them to reclassify cannabis in part do to the medical benefits. This goes along the American Medical Association and  the American College of Physicians encouraging the federal government to change based proven, science based medical help to a variety of patients including cancer, chronic pain, inflammation and more.
The  delay until post-election is do to the DEA’s inability to coordinate the next steps so they pushed the in-person testimony for the upcoming marijuana rescheduling until early next year. DEA director Anne Milgram is seen as anti-marijuana and more inline with House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA). When the current administration announced the move to reschedule, Director Milgam had a meeting with key DEA Leaders with “no note taking” and off the record. The DEA not rescheduling would go against the norm as they have always followed HHS and the FDA recommendations.

 

While both presidential candidates have expressed support for marijuana, a YOUGOV poll has indicated more people have faith in Harris to support the industry. The surprise is the fact is both Democrats (65%) and Republicans (31%) believe her administration would follow through. Pew Research, who has followed the mainstreaming of cannabis, has it at 88+% of the population is for some form of federal legalization.  Even AARP has moved toward legalizing marijuana, a key voting block for both parties. But, it seems, the DEA, is against the move and is hoping there is a change of heart in policy making.

In another slap to the cannabis industry, Milgram and the DEA have tried to stack the deck against cannabis. NORML’s Deputy Director Paul Armentano said that he was disappointed but hardly surprised by the DEA’s decision to disproportionately include groups opposed to marijuana policy reform as designated participants. “The fight to end our nation’s outdated and failed cannabis prohibition laws has never been fought on a level playing field,” he said.

The Best Cocktails To Forget Politics

Anthony Washington
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0
The Best Cocktails To Forget Politics

It seems everywhere you turn it is all politics….you just need a break and these cocktails may help!

The nation is in the final throes of the election and it has been brutal. You can’t turn around without donation requests, outrage or just news news news. According to a study, it is the most stressful election to date. It could be a good idea to tune out and breathe for a bit.  Here are the best cocktails to forget politics and have some fun.

RELATED: Beer Sales Flatten Thanks To Marijuana

Gin Ricky

The Gin Rickey originated in Washington, D.C. in the 1880s. Bartender George A. Williamson created the drink at Shoomaker’s Bar after witnessing Democratic lobbyist Colonel Joseph Kyle Rickey add a lime to his bourbon highball. The drink was named after  the Colonel Rickey, who was known for drinking bourbon with soda and lime. The Gin Rickey became more popular than the original bourbon version, and was especially popular during Prohibition. 

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces gin
  • 1/2 ounce lime juice, freshly squeezed
  • Club soda, to top
  • Lime slice for garnish

Create

  1. Fill a highball glass with ice and add the gin and lime juice
  2. Top with club soda
  3. Garnish with lime slice

El Presidente Cocktail

El Presidente

This classic Cuban cocktail is likely named after President Mario García Menocal, who served from 1913 to 1921. The El Presidente became popular in Havana during the 1920s and 1930s, when many Americans visited Cuba to escape Prohibition. After Prohibition was lifted, Americans brought the cocktail back to the United States. It bring a little tropical sun and fun to any day or moment.

Ingredients
  • 1 1/2 ounces white rum
  • 3/4 ounce dry vermouth
  • 1/4 ounce orange curaçao
  • 2 dashes grenadine

Create

  1. Add the white rum, dry vermouth, orange curaçao and grenadine to a mixing glass with ice
  2. tir until well-chilled
  3. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass

Vesper

This sexy drink has a story. Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond, was inspired by his visits to Dukes Hotel in London, where he was served stiff drinks by head bartender Gilberto Preti.  He worked it into Casino Royale and named the concoction after Vesper Lynd, a double agent and love interest of Bond.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup ice
  • 3 fluid ounces gin
  • 1 fluid ounce vodka
  • ½ fluid ounce Lillet blanc
  • 1 orange twist

Create

  1. Fill a cocktail mixing glass with ice
  2. Pour in gin, vodka, and Lillet, stir until chilled
  3. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass
  4. Garnish with an orange twist

RELATED: Rainy Weather Cocktails

A Shandy Maker

The shandy originated in England in the 1850s as a mixture of beer and ginger ale or ginger beer, and was originally called a shandygaff (what a name!). By the late 19th century, the ginger ale was replaced by lemonade or lemon soda, and the “gaff” was dropped to shorten the word to “shandy”.  By adding a brown liquor, this ups the alcohol and richness of flavor.  Perfect to take you mind off politics.

Ingredients

  • 2 to 4 leaves fresh marjoram
  • 1 3/4 ounces 100-proof bourbon
  • 3/4 ounce grapefruit juice
  • 1/4 ounce lemon juice
  • 1/4 ounce simple syrup
  • 3 ounces chilled IPA or another beer
  • Grapefruit twist for garnish

Create

  1. In a mixing glass, dry-muddle the marjoram.
  2. Add the bourbon, grapefruit juice, lemon juice and simple syrup into the mixing glass. Fill with ice and shake until well-chilled.
  3. Strain into a pint glass over fresh ice.
  4. Top with the beer and stir briefly and gently to combine.
  5. Garnish with a grapefruit twist.
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