Page 17 – The Fresh Toast

Fun Things To Do After Consuming Marijuana

Anthony Washington

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May 30, 2025

Fun Things To Do After Consuming Marijuana

Sometimes you just want to cut loose and laugh – here are some suggestion for when you consume

Let’s be real—being high can turn even the most mundane activity into a full-blown adventure. Whether you’re sparking up alone or vibing with your crew, there’s something magical (and hilarious) about the way weed makes everything 10x funnier. If you’re looking for ways to lean into the giggles and good vibes, here are some tried-and-true stoner fun things to do after consuming marijuana which will make you belly laugh.

RELATED: How Hemp Helps You Sleep

Watch Weirdly Specific YouTube Videos

You haven’t lived until you’ve watched a 20-minute deep dive on why Shrek is secretly a cinematic masterpiece—or a guy restoring rusty knives in silence. The weirder and more niche, the better. Bonus points if you’re watching with friends and everyone has different commentary.

Play “High Charades”

Take classic charades, but add the confusion of being high. Someone inevitably ends up acting out a pineapple or accidentally miming their entire life story. It’s chaotic. It’s absurd. It’s comedy gold.

Cook Something You Definitely Shouldn’t Be Cooking

Think: grilled cheese with Doritos, marshmallows, and hot sauce. The high kitchen is a lawless place, where flavor profiles are made up and regrets come later. Just remember to document your “creations”—because your sober self won’t believe it.

Go on a Deep Dive into Random Wikipedia Pages

Start with “platypus,” end up at “the history of vending machines in Japan.” Reading while high becomes a journey through the most bizarre corners of human knowledge. You’ll be smarter? Maybe. Entertained? Definitely.

Try to Beat a Kids’ Puzzle Game

Bust out Connect 4, Jenga, or even those weird logic puzzles meant for ages 6–10. You’ll either feel like a genius or realize you’ve been staring at a Rubik’s cube for 45 minutes. Either way, it’s hilarious.

Narrate Life Like a Nature Documentary

Turn your living room into a National Geographic special. Watch your roommate forage in the kitchen like a wild animal. Add a British accent. “Here, we observe the rare species known as ‘Chad’ in his natural habitat… the snack cabinet.”

Listen to a Song That’s Just… Strange

Find the weirdest song you can—something with yodeling or heavy theremin use. Then sit back, close your eyes, and let the confusion wash over you. It’s like going on an intergalactic voyage in your brain.

Being high isn’t just about chilling—it’s about laughing so hard your abs hurt and making memories that are somehow both chaotic and wholesome. Just remember: stay safe, stay hydrated, and never underestimate the comedic power of a banana

The New Micro Cocktail Trend

Anthony Washington

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May 30, 2025

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The drinks world has been shaken with the rise of the new micro cocktail trend.

The precise origin of the cocktail is debated, but most historians agree that the first widely recognized cocktail was the Sazerac, created in New Orleans in the mid-1800s. The first documented use of the word “cocktail” in print appeared in 1806 in a New York newspaper, where it was defined as a “stimulating liquor composed of spirits of any kind – sugar, water, and bitters”. This original formula is essentially what we now call the Old Fashioned. But recently, the menu has been shaken with the new micro cocktail trend.

Micro cocktails—drinks served in smaller-than-usual portions—are gaining momentum in bars, restaurants, and home entertaining, signaling a shift in how consumers approach drinking culture. Typically served in 3 to 5-ounce pours, these downsized drinks offer a more curated, intentional experience, catering to health-conscious, flavor-focused drinkers who prioritize quality over quantity.

Originally popularized in high-end cocktail bars as tasting flights or amuse-bouche-style sips, micro cocktails are now making their way into mainstream menus. The appeal is multifaceted: lower alcohol content, fewer calories, and the opportunity to try multiple drinks without overindulging. For many, they strike the perfect balance between indulgence and moderation.

Much of the popularity behind micro cocktails can be traced to shifting consumer preferences, particularly among Millennials and Gen Z. These younger generations are driving the broader movement toward mindful drinking and wellness-centric lifestyles. According to a 2023 report from IWSR Drinks Market Analysis, over 40% of Gen Z consumers in the U.S. say they are intentionally limiting their alcohol intake. Micro cocktails, with their elegant presentation and focus on craft ingredients, align with their desire for moderation without sacrificing experience.

Social media also plays a significant role in this trend. Visually striking, often served in ornate glassware or paired with creative garnishes, micro cocktails are tailor-made for platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Bartenders and influencers alike are using them to tell visual stories, turning every sip into a shareable moment. Their aesthetic appeal—colorful layers, tiny glassware, intricate details—has helped fuel demand, especially among a demographic that values both uniqueness and visual flair.

Restaurants and bars are responding by integrating micro cocktails into tasting menus and happy hour offerings. Some establishments even offer “cocktail omakase” experiences, where diners sample several mini cocktails throughout the evening. For venues, the format reduces waste and allows more experimentation, while patrons enjoy a broader range of flavors without committing to a full drink.

Even at home, the trend is catching on. Home bartenders are creating micro cocktail flights for parties, offering guests the chance to explore new spirits and flavor profiles without heavy pours. With the growing availability of premium mixers and low-ABV spirits, crafting sophisticated small-scale drinks has never been easier.

“The bars that give guests what they want are going to win. Seeing this pick up steam shows that there’s an enjoyable middle ground compared to not drinking at all and the heavy libations of years past. It also allows the traditions of spirit-forward cocktails to still thrive against the trend of low-ABV drinks. Getting to order a micro sized Negroni and a Daiquiri from a talented bartender sounds like a well rounded dinner to me!” shares famed chef and YouTuber Justin Khanna.

In a culture increasingly focused on balance, micro cocktails are the perfect embodiment of “less is more.” Whether driven by wellness, aesthetics, or the joy of discovery, these petite pours are redefining cocktail culture—one tiny glass at a time.

How Women Use Cannabis

Amy Hansen

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May 29, 2025

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One of the many ways women are different than men is in how they use cannabis

They are 50% of the populations and have distinctive patterns in a variety of ways. Here is how women use cannabis, and it has an impact on the industry. Cannabis use among women in the United States has been steadily increasing, with notable shifts in consumption patterns and underlying motivations. Many women favor discreet, smoke-free consumption methods, which can be different from men.

Data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) and other recent studies highlight distinct gender differences in cannabis use, particularly regarding reasons for use and preferred consumption methods.

Edibles, tinctures, and low-dose products are particularly popular among women, offering a smoke-free and precise way to manage effects—especially for wellness purposes like sleep, anxiety, and pain relief. Vaping is also used, though less frequently than by men, due to concerns about health risks and lung irritation.

Compared to men, women are less likely to smoke cannabis flower and more likely to seek products with clear dosing and a balanced cannabinoid profile, such as those containing both THC and CBD.

marijuana-infused gummies — Photo by Hans via Pixabay

Women predominantly use cannabis for therapeutic purposes. The top reasons include alleviating anxiety (60%), aiding sleep (58%), and relieving pain (53%). This contrasts with men, who more frequently cite enhancement and social motives for cannabis use.

While men have historically exhibited higher overall cannabis use rates, recent data show that young adult women (aged 19 to 30) have surpassed their male counterparts in past-year cannabis use. Furthermore, women may escalate their cannabis use more rapidly than men, a phenomenon known as “telescoping.” This rapid progression can lead to a quicker onset of cannabis use disorder (CUD) among women.

Despite the increasing normalization of cannabis use, stigma persists, particularly among women. Approximately 65% of female cannabis users report that there are people in their lives—such as parents, children, or coworkers—who are unaware of their cannabis use. Concerns about drug testing and societal judgment contribute to this reluctance to disclose usage.

Understanding these gender-specific patterns is crucial for developing targeted public health strategies and to continue to build the market.

All The Ways Medical Marijuana Helps Fight Cancer

Amy Hansen

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May 28, 2025

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All The Ways Medical Marijuana Helps Fight Cancer

Cancer is devastating diagnosis, but here all the ways medical cannabis can help

Over 2 million people are diagnosed every year in the US and Canada with breast, lung, colorectal, prostate, and skin being the most common. One plant has emerged as a powerful tool in treatment, offering relief, improving quality of life, and potentially enhancing outcomes for patients undergoing treatment. Here are all the ways medical marijuana helps fight cancer. And as science continues to investigate its benefits, evidence increasingly supports marijuana’s a bigger role in cancer care.

Easing Chemotherapy Side Effects

One of the most well-known uses of medical marijuana in oncology is to reduce chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). These side effects can be severe, often discouraging patients from continuing life-saving treatments. Compounds in cannabis, especially THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), have shown significant antiemetic properties. A landmark study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology found that cannabinoids were more effective than some traditional anti-nausea medications for certain patients

Pain Relief and Symptom Management

Cancer often brings with it chronic pain due to tumor pressure, nerve damage, or treatment side effects. Medical marijuana, especially cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), has shown efficacy in reducing pain. Unlike opioids, cannabis carries a lower risk of dependency and fewer severe side effects. A comprehensive review published in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management found that cannabis-based medicines were effective in managing cancer-related pain and neuropathy.

Combatting Nausea and Vomiting

One of the earliest FDA-approved uses for THC was in the drug dronabinol, used to combat chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). These symptoms are not just unpleasant but can also interfere with nutrition and treatment adherence. Cannabinoids interact with the brain’s endocannabinoid system to reduce nausea and increase appetite. Clinical trials, such as those summarized in a National Cancer Institute review, have shown cannabinoids to be at least as effective—and sometimes more effective—than traditional antiemetic drugs.

Appetite Stimulation and Weight Maintenance

Cancer patients often suffer from cachexia—a wasting syndrome characterized by weight loss and muscle atrophy. THC has been found to stimulate appetite, helping patients maintain body weight and strength. This can improve treatment tolerance and overall outcomes. Studies have demonstrated THC’s ability to increase caloric intake in cancer patients, improving nutritional status and energy levels.

Anxiety and Sleep Support

Cannabis is also known for its calming effects. Many cancer patients experience anxiety, depression, and insomnia as a result of their diagnosis and treatment. CBD, in particular, has anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and sedative properties that may support mental health. A 2019 study in The Permanente Journal found that CBD significantly improved sleep and reduced anxiety in a majority of patients.

RELATED: Cannabis Can Help PTSD

Addressing PTSD

Cancer isn’t just a physical battle—it’s a psychological one. Many patients experience trauma, anxiety, and depression, sometimes leading to PTSD. Cannabis, particularly CBD, has shown promise in reducing anxiety and improving sleep, making it beneficial for those coping with trauma. A 2020 study published in Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that cannabis use was associated with a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms in cancer patients.

Potential Anti-Tumor Effects

Perhaps most intriguing is early research suggesting cannabinoids may slow or stop the growth of certain cancer cells. In preclinical models, cannabinoids have been shown to induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) and inhibit angiogenesis (blood vessel formation in tumors). A 2014 study published in Molecular Cancer Therapeutics found that THC reduced tumor growth in breast cancer models. While this area of study is still in its infancy, it offers hope for future therapies.

Pardons Are A Priority Over Marijuana Rescheduling

Terry Hacienda

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May 28, 2025

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Pardons Are A Priority Over Marijuana Rescheduling

Medical marijuana patients fall to the bottom of the list when it comes to the federal government

Pardons are a priority of marijuana rescheduling, affecting patients, veterans and more. reality TV personality Todd Chrisley, convicted of bank fraud and tax evasion received a pardon, highlighting a troubling inconsistency in American justice. While celebrities with financial crimes, wealth and power are granted clemency, millions of Americans—many suffering from chronic illness—continue to be denied access to potentially life-improving medical marijuana due to its outdated Schedule I classification. This classification, which defines a substance as having “no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse,” stands in direct contradiction to current scientific and governmental consensus.

In 2023, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) officially recommended rescheduling marijuana to Schedule III. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has supported this move, which would finally recognize cannabis as having medical value and allow for expanded research. Rescheduling would also enable doctors and researchers to better study its therapeutic potential, which includes treating epilepsy, chronic pain, PTSD, and chemotherapy-induced nausea.

Is It Possible For Medical Marijuana To Go Bad? — Photo by Rouzes/Getty Images

The injustice becomes even more glaring when considering the people most impacted by marijuana prohibition. For decades, low-income individuals h ave borne the brunt of marijuana-related arrests, while states who have legalized cannabis are now reaping enormous economic benefits. In 2024 alone, legal cannabis sales generated over $30 billion in revenue nationwide, creating hundreds of thousands of jobs and millions in tax income used for education, healthcare, and public infrastructure.

Yet despite overwhelming bipartisan public support for reform and compelling economic and medical arguments, the federal government continues to drag its feet. Meanwhile, the legal system displays leniency for wealthy and well-connected individuals like Chrisley, who exploited financial systems for personal gain. This double standard undermines faith in justice and ignores the suffering of patients and families who could benefit from legal access to medical marijuana.

Andrew Cooper, an attorney at the law firm Falcon Rappaport & Berkman LLP which covers the marijuana industry shares “Cannabis reform has seen little progress since the cancelling of the rescheduling hearings by Administrative Law Judge Mulrooney as a result of the stay imposed as a result of the interlocutory appeal granted by ALJ Mulrooney. The appeal followed the denial of a proponent’s motion seeking the DEA’s removal from the cannabis rescheduling proceedings entirely, under the assertion that the DEA improperly communicated with and, were seemingly aligned with anti-rescheduling participants selected as witnesses for the hearings. It doesn’t appear that any progress has been made towards resuming the rescheduling hearings, causing some concern that the DEA is content to stall this process. While the movants could eventually try to force the DEA to action, for now it appears to be a waiting game.”

RELATED: Cannabis Can Help PTSD

The path forward is clear. The Biden administration must act swiftly to follow through on the HHS and FDA’s recommendations, reclassify marijuana, and correct a long-standing policy failure that has harmed public health and denied economic opportunity. A justice system that forgives the privileged while punishing the sick and marginalized is not justice at all. If America can pardon Todd Chrisley, it can surely show the same compassion and logic to millions who simply want access to medicine and fairer laws.

Cannabis Chills While Alcohol Can Get Dark

Amy Hansen

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May 27, 2025

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Cannabis Chills While Alcohol Can Get Dark

Cannabis tends to chill people out while alcohol can fan the flames of domestic violence

The social media universe is buzzing about the shove between French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte. TWhile they have clearly stated it is a playful moment between the two exited a plane. But, sometimes drinking on a long flight can bring out an ugly side, violent side of a person. Meanwhile, cannabis chills while alcohol can get dark. In today’s fast-paced world, finding healthy ways to relax is more important than ever. Many people are turning to cannabis as a natural aid for stress relief and emotional balance. With growing research and personal testimonials supporting its calming effects, cannabis is gaining recognition as a gentler alternative to alcohol—especially when it comes to managing emotions and preventing conflict.

Cannabis has long been known for its ability to help users unwind, sleep better, and reduce anxiety. It interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a key role in regulating mood, sleep, and stress responses. Unlike alcohol, which acts as a depressant and can impair judgment and increase aggression, cannabis often promotes a sense of tranquility and mindfulness. Many users report feeling more introspective and patient while using cannabis—traits that naturally help de-escalate tense situations rather than fuel them.

In contrast, alcohol is widely recognized as a contributor to domestic violence. Numerous studies and law enforcement reports link alcohol consumption with increased aggression, impulsivity, and abusive behavior. According to the World Health Organization, alcohol is a factor in nearly half of all cases of domestic abuse. Its ability to lower inhibitions and amplify emotions can turn minor arguments into serious, sometimes dangerous conflicts.

Cannabis, on the other hand, is associated with a lower incidence of aggression. While more research is always valuable, current data suggest that cannabis users are less likely to become violent or confrontational. This is likely due to its sedative properties and the way it can enhance emotional awareness and empathy when used responsibly. For many couples and families, cannabis has become a tool for bonding—sharing a joint or edible becomes a moment of calm connection rather than a trigger for tension.

Of course, like any substance, cannabis must be used mindfully. But the growing body of evidence suggests that for many people, cannabis offers a peaceful way to unwind that doesn’t come with the volatile side effects of alcohol. As society continues to reevaluate its relationship with both substances, cannabis stands out as a potentially safer option for relaxation and emotional wellness.

Ultimately, the shift toward cannabis for stress relief isn’t just a trend—it’s part of a broader movement toward more conscious, compassionate living. By choosing substances that promote peace rather than conflict, individuals and communities can take an important step toward healthier relationships and a more harmonious society.

The Perfect Memorial Day Cocktails

Anthony Washington

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May 22, 2025

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Summer is starting and what better way than one of these perfect cocktails! Happy Memorial Day!

This weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, and nothing says celebration like a refreshing drink shared with friends and family. Whether you prefer gin, vodka, whiskey, tequila, or something bubbly, here are five crowd-pleasing drinks with a bit of history behind each. Here are the recipes for the perfect Memorial Day cocktails.

RELATED: Beer Sales Flatten Thanks To Marijuana

The Classic Tom Collins

This citrusy classic dates back to the 1800s and became especially popular in America during Prohibition thanks to its easy-to-drink profile.

Ingredients

2 oz London dry gin
1 oz fresh lemon juice
0.5 oz simple syrup
Club soda to top

Create

Shake gin, lemon juice, and syrup with ice
Strain into a tall glass filled with ice
Top with soda
Garnish with a lemon wheel and cherry

French 75

Named after a powerful WWI artillery gun, the French 75 has packed a punch since the early 20th century, blending bubbles with botanical notes.

Ingredients

1 oz gin
0.5 oz lemon juice
0.5 oz simple syrup
3 oz Champagne or Prosecco

Create

Shake gin, lemon, and syrup with ice
Strain into a flute and top with bubbly
Garnish with a lemon twist

Peach & Black Tea Highball

Inspired by Southern porch traditions, this highball gives a nod to classic sweet tea with a modern whiskey backbone.

1½ oz bourbon
½ oz peach liqueur or purée
3 oz chilled black tea
Lemon or peach wedge for garnish

Create

Fill tall glass with ice
Add all bourbon, peach liqueur and black tea
Stir gently
Garnish with Lemon or peach wedge

RELATED: The Best Cocktails For May

Spicy Paloma Verde

The Paloma, Mexico’s real national cocktail (sorry, margarita), gets a green upgrade with jalapeño and fresh herbs. The spicy is a perfect way to combat the heat, While it might feel like the opposite, the sensation of heat from spicy food triggers a cooling response in the body through sweating.

Ingredients

2 oz blanco tequila
1 oz fresh lime juice
½ oz agave syrup
2 oz grapefruit soda (like Jarritos)
2 jalapeño slice for garnish

Create

Muddle 1 jalapeño slice lightly in cocktail shaker
Add tequila, lime, and agave and shake lightly
Strain into a salt-rimmed glass
Top with soda
Garnish with 2nd jalapeño slice

Michelada Negra

A darker, spicier cousin of the basic beer cocktail, this version uses a dark Mexican lager and smoky mezcal for depth. Micheladas likely originated in Mexico in the 1940s.

Ingredients

1 oz mezcal
½ oz lime juice
3 dashes hot sauce
1 dash Worcestershire
1 pinch Tajín or chili salt
Dark Mexican lager (Negra Modelo or similar)

Create

Rim a pint glass with Tajín
Mix mezcal, lime, hot sauce, and Worcestershire
Top with beer
Stir gently and enjoy

Cheers to summer, sunshine, and remembering those who served.

Johnny Cash, Cannabis And The Trip To Folsom

Anthony Washington

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May 22, 2025

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Johnny Cash, Cannabis And The Trip To Folsom

The Man in Black enjoyed some green and lifted up the downtrodden

He was the iconic “Man in Black,” often remembered for his deep voice, rebellious spirit, and connection to the downtrodden. His complex persona blended gospel roots with outlaw bravado, and like many artists of his era, he battled addiction. While he is more famously associated with amphetamines and barbiturates, there are confirmed accounts that he also used marijuana. Here is the facts about Johnny Cash, cannabis and the trip to Folsom.

Cash admitted to using marijuana, but during the 1960s, Cash struggled with hard substance abuse, frequently arrested for drug-related offenses. In 1965, he was famously arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol in El Paso, Texas, for smuggling amphetamines and sedatives hidden in his guitar case. He experimented with various substances in an effort to escape the pressures of fame and personal demons. And he knew about mistakes and how you should be able to rise above them.

It was during this period that he sought solace in faith, nature, and, eventually, recovery—with the help of June Carter. His drug use had a major impact on his career and personal life, leading to both profound lows and a redemptive arc that fans would celebrate for decades.

He performed live at Folsom State Prison in California. His connection to Folsom began much earlier. In 1953, while serving in the U.S. Air Force in Germany, Cash saw the documentary Inside the Walls of Folsom Prison. The film left a deep impression on him and inspired the 1955 song “Folsom Prison Blues,” featuring the haunting lyric: “I shot a man in Reno, just to watch him die.” The track became one of his signature songs and built his reputation as a voice for the downtrodden.

On January 13, 1968, Cash performed at Folsom State Prison in California, backed by June Carter and the Tennessee Three. The resulting album, At Folsom Prison, revitalized his career and cemented his status as a voice for the voiceless. The performance was raw, electric, and filled with empathy—traits that defined Cash at his most authentic. The show solidified his outlaw image. His performance struck a chord with inmates and the general public alike, humanizing prisoners and lending voice to their struggles.

Though cannabis may have played a minor role in Cash’s personal saga, it’s clear that his deeper legacy lies in his ability to turn pain into poetry and performance. The Folsom concert, in particular, reflected his hard-earned authenticity and compassion—qualities shaped not just by addiction, but by a profound desire for redemption and truth.

South Africa’s Current Stance On Cannabis

Anthony Washington

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May 21, 2025

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The country is one of the powerhouses on the continent, but is South Africa’s current stance on cannabis?

The country and their leadership is in the news, but what is South Africa’s crest stance on cannabis? The country is undergoing a significant shift in its relationship with cannabis, a plant long entwined with its cultural and economic history. Known locally as “dagga,” cannabis has been used for generations across rural communities for medicinal, recreational, and spiritual purposes. Today, evolving legislation, court rulings, and commercial interests are reshaping how the country views and engages with this controversial crop.

The landmark moment came in September 2018, when the Constitutional Court decriminalized the private use and cultivation of cannabis for adults. This unanimous ruling declared that laws prohibiting personal use infringed on the right to privacy, effectively making it legal for individuals to grow and consume cannabis in private spaces. However, the sale and public consumption of cannabis remain illegal under national law, creating a legal grey area that continues to be debated.

In 2024, the South African Parliament passed the Cannabis for Private Purposes Bill, providing clearer guidelines on personal use, possession limits, and cultivation rules. Yet, critics argue the bill does not go far enough in addressing the commercial potential of cannabis or in rectifying the harms of prohibition, particularly among marginalized communities disproportionately affected by past enforcement.

Economically, the potential for a legal cannabis industry in South Africa is substantial. With favorable growing conditions, experienced cultivators, and high-quality strains, the country is well-positioned to become a global player in medical cannabis exports. Several licensed producers have already begun exporting cannabis products to Europe and other regions. The industry has the potential to create thousands of jobs, particularly in rural areas where unemployment is high.

Yet, significant challenges remain. Regulatory uncertainty, bureaucratic delays, and limited access to capital have hindered the sector’s growth. Traditional growers—many of whom have operated informally for decades—often find themselves excluded from the legal market due to complex licensing requirements and high entry costs.

There is also a broader social conversation underway. Advocates are pushing for policies that support restorative justice, equitable participation in the cannabis economy, and public education about responsible use. As South Africa navigates this evolving terrain, it faces the dual challenge of crafting laws that respect constitutional rights while unlocking the economic and medicinal potential of cannabis in a way that is inclusive and sustainable.

Native American Tribes Find Economic Power In Alcohol, Cannabis And More

Terry Hacienda

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May 21, 2025

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Native American Tribes Find Economic Power In Alcohol, Cannabis And More

Sins are powerful – and for many – lucrative. Native American Tribes understand their economic strength

For many Native American tribes, economic self-sufficiency has long been a priority. In the absence of traditional revenue streams, tribal governments have explored and embraced industries that leverage their unique legal status. The industries of cannabis, tobacco, and alcohol—often referred to as “sin industries”—are among the most lucrative and influential sectors globally. Their profitability and power are shaped by market size, profit margins, and their ability to influence policy and public perception. Today, Native American tribes find economic power in alcohol, cannabis and more.

Historically, alcohol and tobacco sales on reservations provided vital funding for health, education, and infrastructure. Now, a growing number of tribes are turning to cannabis and hemp as new economic engines.

Tribes operate under a complex web of sovereignty and federal oversight. While the sale of alcohol on reservations is regulated through tribal law and federal approval, tribes have been able to tax and profit from tobacco sales without being subject to all state taxes. This allowed several tribes to establish retail and wholesale tobacco operations that significantly boosted revenue, particularly when selling to non-tribal members in nearby communities.

Cannabis represents a new frontier. The 2018 Farm Bill legalized industrial hemp nationwide, opening the door for tribes to cultivate and sell hemp-based products like CBD oil and textiles. With full cannabis legalization expanding across the U.S., tribes are asserting their right to grow, process, and sell both hemp and marijuana products—even in states where such sales remain restricted.

Today, more than two dozen tribes have launched cannabis-related ventures. For instance, the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe in South Dakota became the first tribe to legalize recreational cannabis on its reservation in 2015. Other tribes, such as the Puyallup Tribe in Washington and the Shinnecock Nation in New York, have opened dispensaries, processing centers, or are planning vertically integrated cannabis businesses. These enterprises not only serve tribal members but also attract customers from surrounding areas, generating much-needed revenue and job opportunities.

The economic potential is significant. Tribal cannabis operations benefit from fewer regulatory hurdles compared to state-regulated businesses, allowing them to innovate and compete more aggressively. However, tribes still face legal uncertainties, particularly around banking and transportation across state lines.

Despite these challenges, cannabis and hemp are becoming part of a broader tribal economic development strategy. Revenues are being reinvested into housing, health clinics, addiction services, and youth programs. For many tribal leaders, cannabis is more than a business—it’s a tool for sovereignty and healing.

As federal cannabis reform continues to evolve, Native American tribes are positioning themselves at the forefront of the industry. Their early investments and regulatory innovations could help shape the national cannabis economy while continuing the longstanding tribal tradition of economic resilience and self-determination.

The Fresh ToastThe most trusted name in cannabis

Fun Things To Do After Consuming Marijuana

Sometimes you just want to cut loose and laugh – here are some suggestion for when you consume

The New Micro Cocktail Trend

The drinks world has been shaken with the rise of the new micro cocktail trend.

How Women Use Cannabis

One of the many ways women are different than men is in how they use cannabis

All The Ways Medical Marijuana Helps Fight Cancer

Cancer is devastating diagnosis, but here all the ways medical cannabis can help

Easing Chemotherapy Side Effects

Pain Relief and Symptom Management

Combatting Nausea and Vomiting

Appetite Stimulation and Weight Maintenance

Anxiety and Sleep Support

Addressing PTSD

Potential Anti-Tumor Effects

Pardons Are A Priority Over Marijuana Rescheduling

Medical marijuana patients fall to the bottom of the list when it comes to the federal government

Cannabis Chills While Alcohol Can Get Dark

Cannabis tends to chill people out while alcohol can fan the flames of domestic violence

The Perfect Memorial Day Cocktails

Summer is starting and what better way than one of these perfect cocktails! Happy Memorial Day!

The Classic Tom Collins

French 75

Peach & Black Tea Highball

Spicy Paloma Verde

Michelada Negra

Johnny Cash, Cannabis And The Trip To Folsom

The Man in Black enjoyed some green and lifted up the downtrodden

South Africa’s Current Stance On Cannabis

The country is one of the powerhouses on the continent, but is South Africa’s current stance on cannabis?

Native American Tribes Find Economic Power In Alcohol, Cannabis And More

Sins are powerful – and for many – lucrative. Native American Tribes understand their economic strength

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