Why Does Cannabis Make You So Happy

Terry Hacienda

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May 5, 2022

The name “anandamide” literally means “the bliss molecule,” and was discovered in the early 1900s, around the exact time as THC, CBD, and other phytocannabinoids were discovered.

Why does cannabis make you so happy>. Well, Anandamide, popularly known as the cannabis bliss molecule, aka AEA (for scientists), holds the mystery of the joy cannabis gives its users.

Cannabinoids are an exciting group of compounds. Over the years, cannabis-inclined researchers or scientists have made several discoveries concerning cannabis plants, their cannabinoid and terpene profiles, as well as their unique relationship with the human endocannabinoid system (ECS). It might interest you that the human body produces a natural class of cannabinoids, one of which is the anandamides.

General Overview of Anandamide

Anandamide is a primary endogenous cannabinoid produced in the human body. This class of cannabinoids is not as famous as their plant-derived counterparts, yet they react significantly well with one another.

The name “anandamide” literally means “the bliss molecule.” So many people assume that this compound is informally called the “bliss compound,” whereas it’s just the literal meaning of the name. Anand means bliss or delight, while amide is used to describe the molecule’s chemical formula.

Anandamide has unique traits and activities that help the ECS have a beneficial relationship with plant-derived cannabis plants. It wasn’t discovered until the early 1900s, around the exact time THC, CBD, and other phytocannabinoids were discovered. Subsequently, science journals suggested that phytocannabinoids could bind to natural receptors in the human body to showcase their impacts. Between 1990 and 1995, Dr. Rapheal Mecholam and his research team reported successfully isolating anandamide from the human brain.

As mentioned earlier, anandamide is naturally produced in the human body in low quantities. The production process is distributed through different molecular pathways using multiple enzymes. Anandamide has a relatively short half-life that starts with N-arachidonoyl phosphatidylethanolamine (NAPE), the membrane precursor. When anandamide is released into the body, it dissipates quickly.

The Importance and Function of Anandamide

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) primarily comprises the CB1 and CB2 receptors. Both receptors interact with other factors to ensure the body’s homeostatic state is maintained.

Mecholam and his team observed that the bliss molecule behaves like THC. Both compounds have a highly bindable reaction with cannabinoid receptors. Anandamide and THC are partial agonists of CB1 and CB2. They are capable of inducing effects on the CNS and the immune system. However, THC has a stronger, more innate relationship with the CB1 receptor.

For a more extended period, THC catalyzes multiple chemical effects. In contrast, anandamide is fragile, which is another reason it cannot induce a significant psychoactive effect. It is instead responsible for inducing feelings of pleasure, rewards, inspiration, or motivation. Its location in the brain is mainly in areas that are relevant to memory, feeding, learning, and movement. Scientists say that anandamide allows humans to make or break neutral connections that foster memory and learning.

The primary function of anandamide is homeostasis. The brain regularly releases it to keep the endocannabinoid system in proper condition.

Cannabis and anandamide have a unique, multifaceted relationship. Each cannabinoid in the cannabis plant has a different effect on the bliss molecule. Scientists would have preferred more information on the results of THC and CBD on the AEA molecule.

THC and AEA

THC and anandamide have similar profiles. They are both partial agonists of the CB1 receptor, and they have relatable chemical structures.

When the body breaks down THC, it proceeds to hijack the CB1 receptors, causing a more profound dramatic response, which manifests as psychoactivity. THC gradually influences the performance of the orbitofrontal cortex, hippocampus, basal ganglia, and cerebellum. The user can sometimes experience a lack of coordination and short-term memory.

Teenagers Now Disapprove Of Alcohol And Cigarettes, More Open To Weed And Vaping — Photo by Helena Lopes via pexels

THC and AEA stimulate the release of dopamine, which causes the user to feel pleasure. Dopamine is also involved in other actions like sex, feeding, and rewards.

The brain chemical dopamine is released when neurons transmit electrical signals to each other. The nature of the signal sent determines what choices you make in your day-to-day activities. Without dopamine, you would be unable to consciously or subconsciously get motivated, learn, switch moods, or retain a healthy attention span.

Note that the short-term irregular use of THC directly influences the brain’s reward system—for as long as the compound remains active. Periodical use of THC could relatively lower the amount of dopamine produced, causing reduced motivation and other negative emotions. The anandamide molecules are directly influenced by

CBD and AEA

CBD, the second prominent plant-derived cannabinoid, reacts with the FAAH enzyme (the chemical involved in the breakdown of AEA).

CBD is the main reason why anandamide has a short half-life because it counteracts the effect of the brain chemical—as it holds off the breakdown of the FAAH enzyme.

Extending the Availability of AEA in the Body

Increasing the amount of anandamide in the body is not only achievable by smoking or using THC-based products. There are various other ways you can augment the bliss molecule, either by consuming certain foods, performing some activities, or using other minor cannabinoid products.

The main thing is to consume substances that inhibit FAAH or contain substantial amounts of anandamide. This way, the body automatically has an elevated AEA level.

Some of the substances you can consume include CBD extract, CBD oil, black truffle, chocolate, black or long pepper, and kaempferol. Exercises and activities like cuddling or yoga, biking, and long-distance running help increase anandamide levels. It is advisable to stick to endurance activities.

Bottom Line

In the long run, responsible cannabis use would help nurture a more open perspective on life. Scientific knowledge of anandamide and its relationship with cannabinoids has come a long way since the first cannabinoid was discovered.

There’s still a myriad of information to uncover about how cannabis plants and cannabinoids could be maximized to help users feel happier in the long term. Until then, I recommend you continue using THC-based products in moderation. Always remember that with more cannabinoids, endurance-based exercises or activities, and a well-balanced meal, you stand to gain more bliss or pleasure as your AEA levels get boosted.

This article was created in partnership with Cannabis.net

March Madness: This State Led The Way In Its First Month Of Legal Sales

Benzinga Staff Writer

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May 4, 2022

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March Madness: This State Led The Way In Its First Month Of Legal Sales

The new industry is projected to generate $300 million annually in sales, create 11,000 jobs and bring in $50 million in state revenue in the first year alone.

By Jelena Martinovic

After the rollercoaster that cannabis sales were on during the last four months, things settled dow in March and they remained flat.

Sales significantly dropped in January after a sharp month-over-month bounce in December, only to get back onto a growth trajectory in February.

Cannabis Sales Are Expected To Climb This Much In 2022 — Photo by CasarsaGuru/Getty

In addition to the ongoing pressure from declining flower sales, overall cannabis sales were down year-over-year in 6 markets. In total, sales across the 11 markets totaled $1.49 billion during the month.

Western Markets

According to BDSA, in west-coast markets during March, year-over-year growth ranged from -28.8% in Nevada to 50.3% in Arizona.

Arizona

Combined sales totaled $111.7 million, up 50.3% compared to a year ago and up 9.5% from February.
Medical sales amounted to $45.7 million, down 39% from a year ago and up 5% sequentially.
Adult-use sales of $66.1 million increased 13% from February.

California

California sales grew by 9.5% quarter-over-quarter to $282.8 million and declined 18.9% compared to a year ago.
Flower sales continue to drag down overall sales, declining 28%, with pre-rolls gaining 2%.
Ingestibles fell 14%, while concentrates dropped 17% from a year ago during March.

Colorado

Sales increased 7.5% in March compared to the month before, declining 19.1% from a year ago to $167.4 million.
Flower, which was down 24%, drove overall sales lower, with pre-rolls declining 8%, with ingestibles dropping 17% and concentrates 16%.

Nevada

Sales increased 0.2% compared to February, dropping 28.8% from a year ago to $59.9 million.
Flower sales are the main driver of the drop here as well, with March sales declining 37% from a year ago.
Concentrates decreased 16%, while ingestibles declined 28% and pre-rolls fell 17%.

Oregon

Sales in February grew 10.2% from February to $88.5 million, decreasing 19.1% year-over-year.
Flower sales declined 32% year-over-year.
Ingestibles fell 13%, while pre-rolls remained flat. Concentrates dropped 7% year-over-year.

cannabis money — Photo by anankkml/Getty Images

East-Coast And Mid-West Markets

Year-over-year growth ranged from -6.4% in Maryland to 19.9% in Florida, which is a medical-only market, the same as Maryland and Pennsylvania.

Florida

Sales rose 10.3% from February to $177.2 million, up 19.9% year-over-year.
Flower sales grew 4%, as pre-rolls declined 16%. Concentrates increased by 34%. Ingestibles, a relatively new category for the state, improved by 73%.

Illinois

Sales totaled $162.7 million, up 14.4% quarter-over-quaret and up 12.3% year-over-year.
Flower sales increased 12%. Pre-rolls expanded 32%, while concentrates grew 12%. Ingestibles gained 6%.

Maryland

Sales increased by 9.6% from February to $44.9 million, dropping 6.4% year-over-year.
Flower sales decreased 5%, while pre-rolls fell 6%. Ingestibles declined 0.3% and concentrates slipped 10%.

Massachusetts

Sales increased 1.6% from February and 14.6% compared to a year ago to $141.9 million.
Flower sales expanded 11%, pre-rolls gained 25%, ingestibles increased 17% and concentrates rose 12%.

Michigan

BDSA estimated sales amounted to $153.7 million, down 0.4% quarter-over-quarter and up 3.5% from a year ago, a slowdown from the 44.4% reported in February.
Flower sales grew 5%, while concentrates expanded 12%. Pre-rolls increased 1%, and ingestibles declined 10%.

Pennsylvania

Sales increased 13.1% in March to $104 million and decreased 2.8% year-over-year.
Growth was depressed by the recent vape recall, as that category fell 8%. Flower sales expanded 3.1%, while ingestibles gained 2.5%.

New Mexicans Bought $22.1M Worth Of Cannabis In The First Month Of Legal Rec Sales

In April 2021, New Mexico became the latest state to legalize adult-use cannabis after Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham signed the Cannabis Regulation Act. A year later, the Land of Enchantment kicked off recreational marijuana sales. In the first weekend of sales, New Mexicans purchased $3.5 million worth of cannabis.

Adult-Use Cannabis Is Now Legal In New Mexico — Photo by omersukrugoksu/Getty Images

Now, after one month, the state’s cannabis sales reached $22.1 million in April, according to new data released by the Cannabis Control Division (CCD.)

Albuquerque hit a record with $8 million in recreational cannabis sold for the period, reported KRQE News. Las Cruces came in second, selling $2.06 million. Santa Fe sold over $1.8 million worth of recreational cannabis in the previous month.

“The new industry is projected to generate $300 million annually in sales, create 11,000 jobs and bring in $50 million in state revenue in the first year alone,” according to the CCD.

This article originally appeared on Benzinga and has been reposted with permission.

Legal States Are Rushing To Study The Mental Health Risks Of High Potency Cannabis

Maria Loreto

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May 4, 2022

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Legal States Are Rushing To Study The Mental Health Risks Of High Potency Cannabis

High potency cannabis has been linked with a variety of mental health conditions, most concerning, psychosis.

Marijuana legalization has picked up speed over the last couple of years. The topic has become one of those unlikely things that people with differing political parties agree on, a substance that is now accepted if not embraced by most. Still, popular opinion differs from policies, an issue made strikingly clear by how little research there is on the drug.

States that have enabled marijuana programs are now finding themselves rushing to study the drug and its possible side effects. While marijuana is associated with few serious conditions, its long-term influence is not known, especially in relation to potent versions of THC and the effect that can have on the brain.

Marijuana’s potency has increased over the years, particularly in concentrate products like wax and shatter, which can have THC levels of up to 85%. For reference, a joint with a high potency can have up to 20% of THC.

Marijuana 101: Dabbing Wax Vs. Vaping Wax — Photo by Jason W Lacey/Getty Images

Several studies have found links between THC and mental health conditions, including psychosis. While not wholly understood, the link between THC and psychosis is concerning, with a study suggesting that people who consume cannabis on a daily basis are five times more likely to have a psychotic episode.

Products with very high amounts of THC are being sold legally in dispensaries, with many users not totally understanding their effects. This is especially concerning when discussing teens, their developing brains and their increasing drug use. “We are seeing a very significant rise in psychosis associated with the consumption of marijuana,” said Dr. Nora Volkow, the director if the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). “And the higher the content of THC, the higher the likelihood of a psychotic episode.” She claims more research is necessary in order to know whether or not THC can cause schizophrenia.

Experts and responsible parties have mixed feelings on these findings. Cannabis proponents believe the best way to assuage these concerns is to establish a better legal marijuana system.

Dr. Nora Volkow, Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images

“The best way to address these concerns is through proper testing and labeling, as well as ensuring cannabis products are only sold to fully-informed adults through licensed facilities that are required by law to verify legal age for purchase,” said Bethany Moore, spokesperson for the National Cannabis Industry Association. Legal cannabis can facilitate research while also limiting black market cannabis, which undergoes less testing.

Some health experts that aren’t a part of the industry believe cannabis legalization has focused solely on the plant, neglecting to mention these risks. Researcher Dr. Beatriz Carlini said people believe cannabis is harmless and “not that scary and it has some benefits, but this [concentrated] product is just a totally different animal.”

There are several studies on the topic of cannabis concentrates and psychosis expected this year, one including a comprehensive review of the physical and mental effects of THC in over 800 patients in the state of Colorado.

Former House Speaker John Boehner Accused of Stealing Data From Marijuana Lobbyist

Benzinga Staff Writer

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May 4, 2022

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Former House Speaker John Boehner Accused of Stealing Data From Marijuana Lobbyist

Boehner backed out of a deal to join a marijuana lobbying group after he allegedly stole its data and talking points to form another.

By Nicolás Jose Rodriguez

John Boehner, former speaker of the House of Representatives from 2011 to 2015, backed out of a deal to join a marijuana lobbying group after he allegedly stole data and talking points to form another, an explosive lawsuit claims, reports the New York Post.

Boehner signed an agreement in March 2018 to become co-chair of a marijuana legalization group called The 10th, after the 10th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. However, in 2019, Boehner announced he was launching a new group called the National Cannabis Roundtable.

Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Staff/Getty Images

The law firm Squire Patton Boggs, where Boehner is a partner, was a strategic adviser on the project, according to the suit filed against both Boehner and the firm by 10 Campaign’s founder, James Pericola, in the Superior Court for the District of Columbia.

Pericola alleges that Boehner’s group, which went on to become a lucrative business, cut him out of its profits despite it being nothing more than a “repackaged version” of his own.
Pericola sent the firm proprietary materials after the parties signed non-disclosure agreements, according to the suit.

As of early April 2018, the group had assembled promotional materials to launch the 10 Campaign with Boehner as co-chair, the suit alleges.

This article originally appeared on Benzinga and has been reposted with permission.

Will Blocking The MORE Act Hurt Republicans?

Tom Gaffey

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May 4, 2022

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Will Blocking The MORE Act Hurt Republicans?

The MORE Act becoming law in 2022 is more of a fantasy than reality, and Republicans seem to be succeeding in blocking this bill without receiving much flack.

Last month, and much to the excitement of cannabis enthusiasts, The MORE Act passed in the House of Representatives. While this was not the first time the house passed such a bill, there was a renewed sense optimism, especially since the majority of Americans support some form of marijuana legalization.

In order for the MORE Act to continue on its way towards law, however, it has what appear to be insurmountable hurdles. The Act “will need to gain 60 votes in the evenly divided Senate before moving to President Joe Biden’s desk for his signature, an outcome widely seen as unlikely given the lack of Republican support for the measure,” according to Reuters.

If Republicans do not support the MORE Act, which it looks likely they will not, what will this mean for those Republicans who are up for re-election in states where marijuana is an important issue? Furthermore, how are Republican senators and congresspersons still able to keep their seats when their voting seems to contradict the general consensus of the American people?

How Prohibitionist Ideology Has Wrecked The Republican Party And Undermined Democracy — Photo by alexsl/Getty Images

One belief is that although many Republican lawmakers are voting “nay” to the MORE Act and other marijuana legislation, they are not doing so simply to adhere to the old and tired Republican “War on Drugs” platform.

“Every two years, you get a new crop of members from both parties, but certainly from the Republican Party, who don’t have to defend the drug war … and they don’t have to prop it up,” cannabis advocate and former Maryland GOP state delegate Don Murphy told Politico. He says that instead, they are able to vote with their conscience. This also means, however, that these congress members and senators are able to use a long list of new reasons as to why they vote against marijuana legalization.

Take the recent passing of the MORE Act in congress. When it came time for deliberations of the bill, “most Republicans who took to the podium to voice their opposition against the bill said there are more important crises Congress should be addressing, from the invasion of Ukraine to rising gas prices to inflation,” according to Forbes. While these issues stated by Republicans are certainly major issues, these comments can also be seen as political side-stepping.

Another important distinction is that although the majority of Americans are in favor of marijuana legalization, there are many regions and demographics who are much more conservative than normal and strongly oppose marijuana legalization. These conservatives, while in the minority of the population, are very well-represented in congress and the senate, often because “politically engaged Republicans are far more likely to be conservative than politically less engaged Republicans. This means that they are likely overrepresented in Congress compared with the Republican electorate at large,” according to CNN.

Republican-backed marijuana legislation is another angle some less-conservative Republicans are taking to avoid backlash, but also to avoid signing on to the MORE Act. The States Reform Act, sponsored by Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC), is one current popular example of this.

Republican support in the senate looks murky at best. With a narrow majority and tensions between parties at alarming high levels, it is difficult to have hope for any type of groundbreaking legislation. Still, not all hope is lost. “A push for the MORE Act could still be seriously considered by the Senate, particularly since the MORE Act offers more compromising provisions,” according to The National Law Review.

The MORE Act becoming law in 2022 is more of a fantasy than reality, and Republicans seem to be succeeding in blocking this bill without receiving much flack. Still, when you look at all the new legalization bills and growing public displays of support from both sides of the aisle, you can’t help but feel that a solution is so close you can almost smell it.

Mitch McConnell Blasts Biden For Granting Clemency For Federal Cannabis Convictions

Benzinga Staff Writer

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May 4, 2022

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Mitch McConnell Blasts Biden For Granting Clemency For Federal Cannabis Convictions

“We need officials at all levels to back the blue, crack down on crime, and reestablish law and order,” McConnell spewed. “But the Biden Administration gives us the opposite.”

By Nina Zdinjak

Last week, President Joe Biden granted clemency to dozens of individuals with non-violent federal drug convictions and commuted the sentences of 75 people who were serving time at home because of the pandemic. He also issued three pardons.

“America is a nation of laws and second chances, redemption and rehabilitation,” Biden said in a statement. “Elected officials on both sides of the aisle, faith leaders, civil rights advocates, and law enforcement leaders agree that our criminal justice system can and should reflect these core values that enable safer and stronger communities. During Second Chance Month, I am using my authority under the Constitution to uphold those values by pardoning and commuting the sentences of fellow Americans.”

arrest — Photo by Kindel Media via Pexels

Cannabis industry opinions on this move were divided. Many praised the action thinking this was just the beginning of broader reforms to come, while others like Jacob Plowden, New York director of Students for Sensible Drug Policy, said the industry was expecting more. He called Biden’s clemency “a bait and switch of promises geared towards federal legalization.”

Senate minority leader, Mitch McConnell (R-KY) condemned the clemency move for other reasons, attacking the action in general, on the Senate floor last week, saying a “crime spree is coming from a tiny minority of Louisville residents,” adding that this is a nationwide problem, thanks to “President Biden’s failure to secure our borders.”

“We need officials at all levels to back the blue, crack down on crime, and reestablish law and order,” McConnell spewed. “But the Biden Administration gives us the opposite.”

He went on to attack Biden’s decision to commute the sentences of those incarcerated for non-violent drug offenses.

“Just yesterday, the President issued a giant catalog of pardons and commutations, cutting sentence after sentence, particularly for convicted drug criminals,” McConnell said. “They never miss an opportunity to send the wrong signal. And until federal, state, and local Democrats get with the program, innocent people in Louisville and across the country will continue to suffer.”

Mitch McConnell — Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images

Biden & Cannabis: Is Big Reform Coming Soon?

What is Biden’s stance on cannabis legalization?

The truth is, it’s not really clear although, during his 2020 presidential campaign, Biden repeatedly said he wanted to see marijuana decriminalized and prior cannabis convictions automatically expunged.

After a full year in the Oval Office, Americans have seen neither.

Although the president has been under pressure from all sides, he hasn’t budged despite numerous letters from marijuana advocates, lawmakers, celebrities, and those who have been, and still are, negatively affected by the war on drugs including those who are behind bars for marijuana-related convictions.

Is it possible that granting clemency was actually the first move towards broader reform and the cannabis-related actions Biden promised during his campaign? Or was it just bait and switch?

Either way, federal cannabis reform still needs to get 60 votes in Senate, before it reaches the President’s desk. This means it would need at least 10 votes from Republicans if all Democrats approve it, which many industry experts don’t believe is possible. Seeing that some Republicans don’t even support these “baby steps” like clemency action, it appears cannabis industry veterans could be right — reform is not happening as quickly as many had hoped.

This article originally appeared on Benzinga and has been reposted with permission.

This Detroit Man Ran A Cannabis Cash Cow Vending Machine Outside His Home For 4 Years

Benzinga Staff Writer

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May 3, 2022

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This Detroit Man Ran A Cannabis Cash Cow Vending Machine Outside His Home For 4 Years

The man told police that he made the majority of his living from the cannabis vending machine — $2K per day.

By Maureen Meehan

A Detroit man was arrested after police found several kilos of cannabis and 18 guns in his home where he had allegedly operated a cannabis vending machine outside of it.

Marcellus Cornwell, according to a criminal complaint, allegedly operated the machine with which he was pulling in around $2,000 per day selling weed and pills, but mostly weed. And, he’d apparently been operating his cash cow cannabis machine for the past four years.

marijuana vending machine — Photo by Yuri Arcurs/Getty Images

Police officials, according to WXYZ, conducted surveillance at Cornwell’s residence and participated in two controlled suspected weed purchases from the marijuana vending machine during February and March 2022.

They then conducted a search warrant in March on the last known address and ultimately arrested Cornwell and another man.

Cornwell told police that he made the majority of his living from the cannabis vending machine. At two grand per day, he clearly made quite a good living.

Detroit To Finally Allow Sales, In Shops That Is

After months of delay, in early April Detroit’s City Council finally passed an ordinance allowing sales of adult-use cannabis to begin.

Detroit’s new recreational cannabis law, meanwhile, has set off a land grab and is pushing up prices for property zoned where cannabis dispensaries are hoping to set up shop.

Detroit is obviously eager to catch up and cash in on Michigan’s lucrative cannabis industry. Apparently, Marcellus Cornwell just couldn’t wait.

This article originally appeared on Benzinga and has been reposted with permission.

Dry Vs. Oil Vaporizers: Which Is A Better Bang For Your Buck?

Cannabis

Terry Hacienda

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May 3, 2022

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Dry Vs. Oil Vaporizers: Which Is A Better Bang For Your Buck?

Whether you need to twist a cartridge on or grind up some flower first, vaping eliminates the need for sometimes messy joint rolling, cleaning glass pipes, etc.

Vaporizing cannabis has quickly become the preferred consumption method for many. Also known as vaping, it’s easy to see why people like it compared to smoking.

Both vaporizers are:

Discreet and portable: Vape pens are discreet compared to using bowls or even a joint. The smoke produced is minimal and smaller, allowing individuals to vape even indoors without having to worry about the smell. The exception here are desktop vaporizers, which are meant to be used the way its name sounds: on desks or tables.

vaping — Photo by Rattanakun Thongbun / EyeEm/Getty Images

Rechargeable: Except for disposable vape pens, other vaporizers are rechargeable. This is beneficial for heavy consumers who want to have peace of mind that you’ll never run out of juice when you need it.

Easy to use: Vape pens are designed to be easy to use. Some may be more complex in design, but you can easily learn how to use them after a few tries. There are also some models on the market that have more options to learn such as the temperature controls, though they are still fairly easy to learn. Meanwhile, others simply require clicking a button a few times to smoke, while some will automatically shut off to save battery.

Smooth smoke experience: Many enjoy using vapes because they offer a smoother smoke compared to the harsh experience of burning cannabis flower when smoking a bowl, joint, or a bong.

Temperature controls: Consumers who want more control over their smoking experience can choose devices that come with temperature controls. It helps to customize the temperature or wattage settings so that you can modify based on your own vaping style.

Smoke Cloud

Vaping results in smaller, thinner smoke clouds whereas bongs or joints result in massive smoke clouds. This is another reason why vapes are more discreet. If you are used to bongs and joints, it may take a few puffs for you to achieve the same high that you did with a bong, but all the other benefits simply outweigh this.

Flavor

Most of the terpenes are still preserved when you vape cannabis, which is why it offers a more delightful and delicious smoke experience. Terpenes are aromatic compounds in plants that are responsible for the flavor and aroma; they tend to get burned off when you smoke herb the traditional way.

Convenience

With all these benefits, it’s clear that vaping is simply a really easy way to enjoy your medicine. Whether you need to twist a cartridge on or grind up some flower first, vaping eliminates the need for sometimes messy joint rolling, cleaning glass pipes, and what not. Simply purchase the device and cannabis form that you need and enjoy!

Portable vapes can be categorized into dry versus oil. When shopping around for your first vape, you’ll encounter these two, so it’s good to know about the differences of each.

Differences Between Dry & Oil Vaporizers

Heating Chamber/Vape Cartridge

The heating chamber of dry herb vapes can only contain ground cannabis flower, while the cartridge for oil concentrates can only hold oil. However, you might also notice that there are some devices designed for versatility since there are vaporizers out there that can be used with oil, herbs, and wax.

In addition, oil vape cartridges are usually meant for replacing and interchanging (with the exception of disposable pens which are designed for one-time use) while the chambers of dry herb vapes can be used for many years. Always be sure to use the right type of cannabis form for the vaporizer.

Loading Process

Both oil and dry herb vapes have different chambers or cartridge loading processes. To vape oil, consumers can buy pre-filled cartridges or refill them on their own. For herb vapes, the cannabis flower has to be ground up then placed in the chamber.

Power

Dry herb vaporizers require much more power compared to heating oil (or wax). This is why herb vaporizers tend to have bigger batteries and are bulkier, which make them less portable for many. And since dry herb consumes so much more power quicker, they need to be charged more than oil vape batteries.

Maintenance

While vapes in general are low maintenance, it’s important to occasionally clean the mouthpiece as well as the filter screen for dry herb vapes. Burning too much flower at a time can leave a lot of buildup and residue which should be removed before your next smoke, else you risk inhaling all these contaminants into your respiratory system.

On the other hand, oil vape cartridges don’t require the same kind of maintenance since once the oil has run out, you simply replace it. If you are using refillable cartridges, it’s important to clean the mouthpiece out once in a while.

Vaping Can Have A Very Damaging Effect On This Part Of The Mouth, Finds Study — Photo by Elsa Donald via Unsplash

Other Things To Keep In Mind

If you end up buying a dry herb vaporizer, it would also be wise to invest in a good grinder so that your buds are ground up evenly. Filter screens should be cleaned or even changed regularly to maximize airflow and a smooth vape experience. And if it’s your first time to use a dry herb vape, always start using it with the lowest heat setting then gradually work your way up.

If you use oil vapes, also start with the lowest heat setting until you’re used to it. Buy carts that are designed for the device or battery, and store the pen upright when not in use so that the oil is prevented from leaking.

Conclusion

Now that you know the similarities and differences between both vaporizers, there’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to the correct vaporizer for you. Each cannabis vaper will have their own personal preferences, though it may take some time to discover which of these is perfect for you.

This article originally appeared on Cannabis.net and has been reposted with permission.

GOP Congressman Criticizes Biden For ‘Betrayal On Marijuana’

Benzinga Staff Writer

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May 3, 2022

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GOP Congressman Criticizes Biden For ‘Betrayal On Marijuana’

“Joe Biden, where are you at? The House has passed legislation. That’s one of your presidential demands, and it’s headed to a death in the Senate,” said the Congressman.

By Nicolás Jose Rodriguez

Rep. Matt Gaetz (R) from Florida, called President Joe Biden a “recalcitrant boomer” criticizing him over the lack of marijuana reform, a policy change that he campaigned on, reported Marijuana Moment.

The Congressman made the ageist comments during an episode of his podcast “Firebrand.” He contrasted his stance toward legalization against that of President Biden.

Gaetz boasted that he was one of just three Republican members of the House who voted in favor of a Democratic-led bill to end federal cannabis prohibition, while Biden opposes adult-use marijuana legalization.

“[The] real issue here is Joe Biden’s betrayal on marijuana,” he said, in reference to Biden’s campaign promise to expunge records and decriminalize cannabis.

“Joe Biden, where are you at? The House has passed legislation. That’s one of your presidential demands, and it’s headed to a death in the Senate,” he added. “I’m here to remind you and [Vice President Kamala Harris]: you’re missing a critical moment for a policy accomplishment. Do what you said you would do and, by the stroke of the president’s pen, we could have substantial marijuana reform in this country.”

‘Bad News For Big Pharma’

Gaetz also referred to a study that found a relationship between adult-use legalization in states and a decrease in the use of prescription drugs. “Bad news for Big Pharma,” he said.

“In Florida, we stand to benefit from streamlined research grants at a large scale to learn more and help more people unlock potential. However, the conclusion of this study is that recreational cannabis use is weaning people off of prescription drugs—it’s just hard to ignore,” Gaetz added. “Unfortunately, there’s this tumultuous road ahead, even with legitimate research and factual basis and evidence at hand. The cultural stigma hangover of the Boomer era weighs heavy.”

This article originally appeared on Benzinga and has been reposted with permission.

Study Says Forget Coffee And Energy Drinks Cannabis Is The Best Energy Booster

Terry Hacienda

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May 3, 2022

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Study Says Forget Coffee And Energy Drinks Cannabis Is The Best Energy Booster

For those that end up unproductive with THC, even at small doses, you can also try CBD products which has been shown in studies to fight daytime sleepiness.

Adults are extremely prone to fatigue. With so many things that cause it in our daily lives, ranging from lack of sleep to parenting, lack of exercise, stress, and much more, it’s not uncommon for people to constantly seek more ways we can get more energy in our daily lives. In fact, a study shows that up to 45% of the general population struggle with fatigue.

For this reason, it isn’t surprising to see that coffee has become our number one drug. Coffee is the substance most of us look for upon opening our eyes to give us that much-needed jolt of alertness both physically and mentally. There is also a growth of energy-boosting products on the market ranging from beverages to pills and everything in between.

However, the answer to fatigue may have been lying in front of our very eyes: cannabis.

A new study conducted by researchers at the University of New Mexico involved using a mobile software application to gauge the real-time effects of various common marijuana flower on fatigue levels. The study, entitled, “The Effects of Consuming Cannabis Flower for Treatment of Fatigue”, was the first large-scale experiment and it revealed that people have a good chance of seeing improvements in fatigue after smoking cannabis flower.

For the study, the researchers studied data taken from 3,922 self-administered cannabis sessions from 1,224 participants. The app, called Releaf, is a renowned mobile application that is designed to help individuals take note of the effects of the different cannabis types they buy while being able to record real-time changes in their symptoms. It’s a common issue for cannabis consumers to struggle with identifying which strains help them feel their best or which may have undesirable side effects for them, due to changing chemical compositions and availability of strains and batches, which is what the app aims to solve.

“Despite the conventional beliefs that frequent Cannabis use may result in decreased behavioral activity, goal-pursuit, and competitiveness, or what academics have called ‘amotivational syndrome’, people tend to actually experience an immediate boost in their energy levels immediately after consuming cannabis,” explains Dr. Jacob Miguel Vigil, the study’s co-author, who works at the psychology department at the University of New Mexico.

“One of the most surprising outcomes of this study is that cannabis in general yielded improvements in symptoms of fatigue, rather than just a subset of products, such as those with higher THC or CBD levels or products characterized as Sativa rather than Indica,” adds Dr. Sarah Stith, co-author of the study and a professor at UNM’s economics department.

“At the same time, our observation that the major cannabinoids tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) were largely uncorrelated with changes in feelings of fatigue suggest that other minor cannabinoids and phytochemicals such as terpenes may be more influential on the effects of using cannabis than previously believed. In the near future, I anticipate that patients will have the opportunity to access more individualized cannabis products, with distinct and known combinations of chemical profiles for treating their specific health needs and lifestyles,” added Vigil.

3 Tricks That Can Help You Understand Your Sleep — Photo by Mert Kahveci via Unsplash

“This obviously has implications for patients experiencing fatigue as a symptom of their medical condition, but we also believe this can lead to healthier options for individuals dealing with general day-to-day fatigue,” says Tyler Dautrich, Chief Operating Officer at MoreBetter, which helped to develop the Releaf App.

Cannabis Does Not Make You Lazy

Prohibitionists and anti-cannabis movements have always blamed cannabis for the “laziness” of stoners. This is not founded in science; it’s all pure nonsense.

For decades, especially because of the War on Drugs, individuals loved to perpetuate the crazy idea that cannabis makes you lazy. The stereotype of couch potatoes surrounded by snacks and watching television all day long was even humorized and used in comedies. Sure it’s funny, but it isn’t true (unless you’ve been eating too many edibles).

In fact, cannabis, when taken in the right doses, can actually help alleviate fatigue and even motivate people to exercise more. Cannabis has been known to have biphasic effects, which means that lower (or microdoses) of THC can uplift and energize, while smoking too much may be sedating and relaxing.

A 2021 study also shared some insight into cannabis as a motivating substance. “To date, there are no human studies on the effects of legal market cannabis on the experience of exercise,” explained Laurel Gibson, a PhD student at the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience as well as the study’s principal author. “Cannabis is often associated with a decrease in motivation — that stereotype of couch-lock and laziness,” she adds. “But at the same time, we are seeing an increasing number of anecdotal reports of people using it in combination with everything from golfing and yoga to snowboarding and running.”

This Group's Risk Of Dementia Increases When Sleeping Too Little — Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels

In fact, there was a CU Boulder study revealing that 80% of marijuana consumers combine it with exercise; fifty-two percent of them said that cannabis helps to motivate them while 70% say that it makes exercise more enjoyable.

Using The Right Cannabis Products & Strains

That said, there are many choices of cannabis products that you can experiment with to find one that helps motivate you.

For those that end up unproductive with THC even at small doses, you can also try CBD products which has been shown in studies to fight daytime sleepiness. CBD doesn’t intoxicate and it can be used in the morning to boost your energy. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for marijuana doses and fighting fatigue, but with all the excellent products out there, some trial and error is sure to help you find what works best for you.

The Fresh ToastThe most trusted name in cannabis

The name “anandamide” literally means “the bliss molecule,” and was discovered in the early 1900s, around the exact time as THC, CBD, and other phytocannabinoids were discovered.

General Overview of Anandamide

The Importance and Function of Anandamide

THC and AEA

CBD and AEA

Extending the Availability of AEA in the Body

Bottom Line

The new industry is projected to generate $300 million annually in sales, create 11,000 jobs and bring in $50 million in state revenue in the first year alone.

Western Markets

East-Coast And Mid-West Markets

New Mexicans Bought $22.1M Worth Of Cannabis In The First Month Of Legal Rec Sales

High potency cannabis has been linked with a variety of mental health conditions, most concerning, psychosis.

Boehner backed out of a deal to join a marijuana lobbying group after he allegedly stole its data and talking points to form another.

The MORE Act becoming law in 2022 is more of a fantasy than reality, and Republicans seem to be succeeding in blocking this bill without receiving much flack.

“We need officials at all levels to back the blue, crack down on crime, and reestablish law and order,” McConnell spewed. “But the Biden Administration gives us the opposite.”

Biden & Cannabis: Is Big Reform Coming Soon?

The man told police that he made the majority of his living from the cannabis vending machine — $2K per day.

Detroit To Finally Allow Sales, In Shops That Is

Whether you need to twist a cartridge on or grind up some flower first, vaping eliminates the need for sometimes messy joint rolling, cleaning glass pipes, etc.

Smoke Cloud

Flavor

Convenience

Differences Between Dry & Oil Vaporizers

Heating Chamber/Vape Cartridge

Loading Process

Power

Maintenance

Other Things To Keep In Mind

Conclusion

“Joe Biden, where are you at? The House has passed legislation. That’s one of your presidential demands, and it’s headed to a death in the Senate,” said the Congressman.

‘Bad News For Big Pharma’

For those that end up unproductive with THC, even at small doses, you can also try CBD products which has been shown in studies to fight daytime sleepiness.

Cannabis Does Not Make You Lazy

Using The Right Cannabis Products & Strains

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