Will Rising Gas Prices Change The Price Of Marijuana?

Tom Gaffey

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March 15, 2022

Will Rising Gas Prices Change The Price Of Marijuana?

As is the case with many industries, the biggest financial and operational issue facing many cannabis bosses today is staffing, which likely won’t get any better with soaring gas prices.

The rising price of gas is an unavoidable reality for millions of Americans today, and it is already making many rethink daily routines and expenses. With the average price of gas climbing well over $4 per gallon, and continuing to climb, many are worried that gas prices may result in an even bigger economic fallout.

The recent ban on Russian oil importing is “boosting the prospect of higher short-term inflation while threatening economic growth and spending and even reshaping hiring patterns,” according to the Washington Post. It is understandable then, that many Americans are experiencing unprecedented levels of anxiety.

For those living in a state where cannabis is legal, some marijuana therapy might be an option, but how long will Americans be able to afford it? Gasoline prices are skyrocketing and inflation has not stopped. How will this all affect the price of marijuana moving forward?

gas prices — Photo by Krzysztof Hepner via Unsplash

First it is important to understand if there is a strong connection between gasoline and marijuana cultivation. The answer is: occasionally. With marijuana still illegal on a federal level, marijuana must be grown and sold in the same states, which means no cross-country trips on gas guzzling diesel trucks, which is good news for cannabis consumers.

Some marijuana cultivation techniques, however, do use oil and natural gas. According to Slate, some cultivators “are putting in bottled CO2, or they’re burning natural gas on-site to basically get CO2 in the room,” which helps boost growth. This technique and others that use unnecessary fossil fuel usage is frowned upon by environmentalists, and is certainly not a requirement in order to grow quality cannabis.

There are several ways growers can use alternative energy sources, but they may not need to right away if price is their only motivation. While the cost of many goods are increasing as a ripple effect of rising gas prices and inflation, marijuana prices are lower this year than last year. According to a study by Headset, a cannabis analytics company that tracked sales in California, Colorado, Michigan, Nevada, Oregon and Washington, the average price of flower, vapes and edibles fell more than 10% between January 2021 and January 2022.

inflation — Photo by Karolina Grabowska from Pexels

There are several reasons for this price decrease, and many more speculations. Supply and demand is always a factor as is wholesale pricing, and of course the competition of the illegal underground cannabis market plays a role. Just because the price of weed is low, however, does not mean those in the cannabis industry are not having the same financial difficulties other businesses are having.

As is the case with many industries, the biggest financial and operational issue facing many cannabis bosses today is staffing, and this problem likely won’t get any better with soaring gas prices.

Native Roots, a cannabis company with 20 retail stores in Colorado, told CNN about their labor troubles. “The biggest cost increases have come from labor, where Native Roots increased its wages by 14% on average to keep pace with competitors and retain employees,” according to Theresa Ekman, the Native Roots supply chain director. Ekman and other companies said they are working on ordering smarter to compensate for the increased labor cost. This might mean secure prices, but it might also mean a smaller selection than consumers are used to.

For now at least, it looks like the price of cannabis is secure. You may notice some decline in options at your local dispensary, but do not take this as a lack of effort. This sparsity of options may actually be the result of months of effort and forethought by cannabis businesses in order to keep your top selling weed products affordable in these stressful times.

Drop The 25% Cannabis Tax, Senator Schumer!

Terry Hacienda

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March 15, 2022

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Drop The 25% Cannabis Tax, Senator Schumer!

Federal marijuana taxes could hit 25% under Senator Chuck Schumer’s legalization plan.

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

The vast majority of Americans want to have legal cannabis on a federal level, there are numerous polls that support this notion. The problem, however, comes down to “how” it is supposed to be done.

For the past few years, Senator Chuck Schumer has been the most vocal about legalizing cannabis on a federal level and has been attempting to push his cannabis legalization bill which aims to remove cannabis from the controlled substance act, while also creating provisions for minority business owners to gain easier access to cannabis licensing.

One would think that this would not have too much opposition, however, as of now, the bill has not gained too much traction. One of the main reasons comes down to taxes. While the senator might be well intentioned in his approach, his proposal of high taxation got a lot of flak from cannabis reformists.

According to an article on Roll Call:

It (federal legalization) would land at 25 percent of a federal prevailing price, charged per ounce of product sold in flower form, or per milligram of THC — a psychoactive compound known to give marijuana users a high — for edibles, vapes and other alternatives.

Tax credits would slash rates in half for the first $20 million in annual sales, creating an effective rate as low as 12.5 percent for small businesses.

However, these taxes would solely be applied to recreational cannabis. Any FDA approved treatment would be void of paying these taxes. This could mean a significant boost for medical marijuana, but many advocates in legal states claim that this tax system will only continue to embolden the black market. In fact, since Canada legalized cannabis the majority of sales have remained a black market preference.

This is due to THC caps and excessive pricing – and the same can be said of California. California has a problem where it produces too much weed to be sold recreationally, and due to federal prohibition cannot export it to other states. As a result, a lot of the weed continue to be sold on the black market and taxes is one of the main reasons why people prefer to buy from their dealer and not from a licensed store.

According to Senate democrats:

“As more and more states move to legalize cannabis for both adult and medical use, the federal government has an important role to play. Hundreds of millions of Americans live in states that have legalized cannabis in some form while it remains illegal at the federal level. This discrepancy leads to confusion and uncertainty and raises significant questions around criminal justice reform, economic development and small business growth, and public health and safety, all of which we believe require some type of federal answer.”

As mentioned, they may have good intentions, but if they are incapable of seeing how high taxes would act contra to their intentions, this bill is pretty much dead in the water.

Will Congress Pass Us A Canna-Tax 'Hit'? — Photo by Jose S/Getty Images

GOP to the Rescue?

Who would have thought that a GOP sponsored cannabis bill would be the most comprehensive and clear cut road to legalization. Where the Democrat sponsored bill would want to raise taxes on cannabis up to 25%, the GOP bill places a 3% tax on cannabis and that way, maintain low competitive prices allowing minority business owners a fair shot at participation.

Whenever a Democratic bill wishes to “ensure social equity”, it almost always requires the creation of a new agency to handle those kinds of requests. As a result, it requires more tax dollars to fund those kinds of operations and in turn raises the price on the consumer. The consumer says, “Why buy legally when I can buy for cheaper from my dealer”. After all, the majority of the criminal penalties have been reduced to a misdemeanor meaning that even if people are buying an ounce off the streets, they no longer fear prolonged incarceration.

While I’m not arguing for longer prison sentences, I’m pointing out that when you raise taxes on cannabis and reduce penalties, you remove all incentives to participate in the legal system. I have long argued that the best approach would be to have two tiers of cannabis licensing: a small business tier and a large business tier.

Both of these would have their own tax regime, requirements, costs of operations, etc. However, I’d still argue that we should aim to keep the taxes as low as possible. With inflation reaching record highs, and the US economy suffering due to lockdowns, if the government places too much tax on goods such as cannabis we will only see a greater influx of black hat buying.

Now That UN Accepts Marijuana, What Excuse Does Congress Have To Uphold Prohibition? — Photo by SOPHIE-CARON/Getty Images

Think about it rationally. If you could save $20-$30 per ounce by buying from the street, pretty much have similar quality as dispensary weed and in many cases can home order your weed, wouldn’t you opt in for the black market stuff instead?

I know that any person who feels that $20-$30 extra per week or month will help their bottom line would opt in for this option.

Keep It Low, Allow It to Grow!

The Democrats love taxing the hell out of everything. In this case, being a Republican is better. Sure, they both stink, but when it comes to business you want to have a system that awards entrepreneurs, creates a lower barrier of entry and maintains low competitive taxation policies to ensure that the market continues to grow until it can handle heavier taxes. Right now, the market still has to migrate from the illegal to the legal, and excessive taxation will only choke the growth.

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

Which Industries Most Often Test Workers For Cannabis?

Maria Loreto

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March 15, 2022

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Which Industries Most Often Test Workers For Cannabis?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor released a report that includes the workplace drug testing practices of businesses. Here are the results.

Drug testing in the workplace has slowed down with the passing of time — and marijuana legalization. Still, some industries are more likely to demand it from their workers, creating a problem, especially now that marijuana is mainstream and some states have legal medical marijuana programs in place.

Per Marijuana Moment, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (LBS) released a labor report that measures businesses’ responses to the pandemic. It goes into detail about drug testing practices and the types of businesses that are more likely to make these demands.

The report is the first one since 1996 to ask employers whether they conduct drug tests. Predictably, numbers have changed, with only 16% of the surveyed worksites practicing drug tests. In 1996, 30% of the surveyed worksites practiced drug tests.

The survey found that the industries that are more likely to ask for drug tests include transportation and warehousing, with far higher rates than other industries. Businesses that had the lowest rates of drug tests included the ones involved in the arts, entertainment, and recreation.

The LBS also found that drug tests were less common in legalized states, showing that the laws had an impact on the mentality of the people that lived there. Eight out of 10 states with the lowest drug testing numbers had legal cannabis programs, including California, Vermont, New York, and Colorado. Out of the 10 states that had the highest drug testing rates, none had legal cannabis programs. These include South Carolina, Kentucky, and others.

Workplace drug testing is a practice that grew popular with the Reagan administration, a time when the war on drugs took off. As the years passed and new research appeared, the outlook on marijuana has drastically shifted, with the majority of people losing their fear over it and even preaching for its legalization.

Will Using CBD Cause Me To Fail A Drug Test? — Photo by Morrison1977/Getty Images

Marijuana legalization is inevitable. While the process is slow, it’s only been growing in support, with more and more states decriminalizing and working towards building a functioning industry that’s profitable and gives the people what they want. Workplace drug testing is one of the last kinks that should be resolved in the coming years. It will go away at some point, but for now, people have to be careful.

Poor Oral Health Is Linked To This Common & Dangerous Disease

Maria Loreto

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March 14, 2022

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Poor Oral Health Is Linked To This Common & Dangerous Disease

Poor oral health has been linked to a variety of health conditions, among them cardiovascular diseases.

Oral health is important. Maintaining healthy gums and teeth requires a lot of steps, something that most of our dentists love to passively-aggressively remind us of. Still, they may be right. While a cavity may not seem like the worse thing in the world, poor oral health has been linked with a variety of diseases, including heart disease.

According to Harvard Health, people who skip out on brushing their teeth and flossing have higher odds of developing heart disease.

Oral Health And Weed: Could Marijuana Prevent Cavities? — Photo by Alex via Unsplash

While not wholly understood, the relationship between poor oral health and higher odds of heart disease has been one that has appeared in a variety of studies. Experts from Harvard have a variety of theories as to why it exists.

For starters, it’s believed that diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis result in bacteria that travel through the bloodstream towards different parts of the body; they could result in blood clots, heart attacks, or strokes. It’s also believed that the body’s response to oral bacteria (inflammation, which is the body’s standard response to infection) could affect the response of the heart and the brain in unexpected ways. Still, researchers make it clear that the connection between heart disease and oral bacteria may or may not exist; one study found that smoking, something that a lot of people with cardiovascular conditions and poor oral health have in common, might be one of the uniting factors.

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in America, responsible for 1 out of every 4 deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If there are any measures that can be adopted and that could provide some form of protection, they’re worth considering.

Other conditions that have been associated with poor oral health include arthritis, particularly in the case of people who suffer from periodontal disease, and pancreatic cancer.

There’s plenty of room for investigation in the area of oral health, but all of this evidence suggests how important it is for the rest of your body. Even if you brush your teeth several times a day, it’s important to floss often, no matter how tedious it might be. Going to the dentist is never a good time, but, as plenty of evidence suggests, what goes on in your mouth has the power to affect the rest of your body.

What Are The Benefits Of Using Cannabis For Digestive Disorders?

Medical Marijuana

Terry Hacienda

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March 14, 2022

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What Are The Benefits Of Using Cannabis For Digestive Disorders?

If you are struggling with gastrointestinal disorders, trying cannabis can be beneficial especially when combined with lifestyle changes, a healthy diet, and exercise.

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

Digestive and gastrointestinal disorders affect millions of people worldwide, and refer to a myriad of conditions affecting digestion, appetite, the bowels, gas, and inflammation to name a few. Cannabis has been proven many times over to help treat and prevent several digestive disorders that plague people everyday, some of them so debilitating that they prevent people from living normal lives.

The human body has endocannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 in the gut and stomach, all of which help to heal us from these digestive issues while improving motility, appetite, absorption, and overall gastrointestinal health when we medicate with cannabis — either THC, CBD, or both. However, you don’t necessarily have to consume cannabis orally through food, capsules or drinks in order to benefit your stomach; you can also smoke/vaporize, and place drops underneath your tongue especially since these consumption methods work fastest.

Is Cannabis Good For Gut Health? — Photo by SolStock/Getty Imagees

Consuming cannabis has proven to be beneficial for treating gastrointestinal conditions in many people especially since conventional treatments don’t always work as well; they also come with unwanted side effects.

Here are some of the common digestive disorders that cannabis can treat:

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBD) presents itself with a variety of symptoms including diarrhea, cramping, weight loss, abdominal pain, and rectal bleeding. Two subtypes of this condition are known as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, which is diagnosed based on where the inflammation occurs within lower gastrointestinal tract.

Studies show that when patients with IBD consume cannabis, it can benefit them in several ways such as by relaxing the esophageal sphincter, reducing gastric motility, improving visceral pain, bowel motility, and much more.

In one particular study, 91% of patients reported an improvement in their symptoms following cannabis use. Specifically, 83.9% said that it helped treat abdominal pain, 76.8% reported improvements in abdominal cramping, 48.2% saw better results with joint pain while 28.6% said that diarrhea had lessened.

In another study, “Cannabis use is common amongst patients with IBD for symptom relief, particularly amongst those with a history of abdominal surgery, chronic abdominal pain and/or a low quality of life index.”

Appetite Loss

Losing one’s appetite can be detrimental for health because eating is the primary way the body takes in nutrients and vitamins through food which is necessary for normal functioning of every organ in the body.

Chronic appetite loss can lead to malnutrition and severe weight loss, which are both serious if left untreated. Medically, this can also be known as anorexia. There are many conditions that can cause loss of appetite, though some common reasons include a respiratory infection, gastroenteritis or other gastrointestinal and digestive conditions, pneumonia, meningitis, HIV, chronic liver disease, dementia, heart failure, kidney failure, or cancer among others.

In addition to that, some medications can also cause appetite loss especially some antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, morphine, codeine, and cancer treatments. Thankfully, one of the most well-known effects of marijuana is its ability to stimulate appetite. There have been many studies proving how cannabis can do this through multiple processes within the body including triggering the hunger hormones.

“We found that cannabis exposure caused more frequent, small meals,” said researcher Jon Davis, Ph.D. So instead of cannabis making you want to eat a huge meal, it’s helpful for those suffering from appetite loss that it stimulates the appetite enough to make us want to eat several meals albeit smaller.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal condition affecting the large intestine, small intestine, and the colon. Its symptoms include abdominal pain and cramping, diarrhea, gas, bloating, or constipation. A majority of patients with IBS are triggered by the symptoms after a bout of food poisoning, which is the primary culprit of this condition.

While most patients can see relief after a one-off cycle of antibiotics, others have to keep treating it again and again since the symptoms come back. This is why other medications as well as lifestyle changes can be necessary for it to fully be treated. It’s critical to treat IBS or see a doctor as soon as you think you may have its symptoms because when left untreated, it can result in rectal bleeding, unexplained vomiting, weight loss, iron deficiency anemia, and much more.

Cannabis And Gut Health Does It Boost Your Gut Bacteria? — Illustration by MEHAU KULYK/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY/Getty Images

Patients can take medical marijuana to help manage the symptoms of IBS, particularly bloating and cramps. Studies show that cannabis is effective in helping treat IBS, and regular marijuana intake has also been linked to less hospitalizations and shorter hospital stays that would otherwise be caused by IBS.

Gastroesophageal Reflux/Acid Reflux

More commonly known as acid reflux, gastroesophageal reflux is a condition characterized heartburn and nausea. It affects the upper gastrointestinal tract.

Acid reflux has an impact on how we enjoy our food and drink, since many popular and well-loved things contribute to acid reflux. These include fried food, cheese, chocolates, soft drinks, fatty meats, processed snacks, wine, and coffee to name a few. Other things can also lead to acid reflux such as eating before bed, pregnancy, smoking cigarettes, and medications including ibuprofen, aspirin, and blood pressure drugs.

However, the endocannabinoid system is responsible for regulating many conditions including the processes within the upper gastrointestinal tract such as reducing the inflammation causing the acid reflux, it relaxes the esophagus, increases pain threshold, and much more. Furthermore, it can provide relief from the burning or discomfort that commonly occurs in the upper abdomen and treat nausea.

Bottom Line

If you are struggling with gastrointestinal disorders, trying cannabis can be beneficial especially when combined with lifestyle changes, a healthy diet, and exercise. Remember that self-medicating may not be best in the case of severe symptoms, so always talk to a medical professional who has knowledge in medicating with cannabis.

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

DEA Delays Production Of Marijuana Drug As Potential Treatment For MS And Huntington’s Disease

Benzinga Staff Writer

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March 14, 2022

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DEA Delays Production Of Marijuana Drug As Potential Treatment For MS And Huntington’s Disease

By Nina Zdinjak

MMJ International Holdings, in collaboration with a specialty pharmaceutical solutions company, has been manufacturing gelatin capsule medicines based on compounds found in cannabis. The company will investigate these in clinical trials as potential treatments for multiple sclerosis (MS) and Huntington’s disease (HD).

The Providens, Rhode Island-based medical cannabis research company had entered into a supply agreement with MMJ BioPharma Cultivation for them to supply strain specific marijuana plants for further processing to potentially obtain FDA approval for its drug.

The Connection Between Cannabis And Multiple Sclerosis — Photo by FilippoBacci/Getty Images

Problems With The DEA

MMJ BioPharma Cultivation applied for a DEA bulk manufacturing registration in 2018. The DEA application process is being delayed for years for reasons unknown. The DEA delay has negatively impacted the progression of the drug development for patients suffering from MS and HD.

“As MMJ International Holdings continues to advance to its clinical trials, these DEA delays are unprecedented,” stated Elio Mariani, PhD, MMJ’s executive responsible for research and development. “The statutory mandate of the DEA is security and divergence and to facilitate the manufacturing of pharmaceuticals to help patients suffering from chronic disease.”

Duane Boise, CEO of MMJ International Holdings commented, “MMJ’s clinical trials will provide patient dosing, safety, and efficacy data to the FDA to prove that cannabis can treat essential tremors, a neurological disorder that causes involuntary shaking. We firmly believe that our MMJ oral gel cap medication, containing the marijuana plant’s unique pharmacological properties, will be FDA-approved as a safe and effective drug.”

MMJ International Holdings in 2019 was given DEA clearance to import cannabis-based products into the U.S. from Canada, a process that required the cooperation of multiple governmental agencies, including the FDA and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and Health Canada.

To date, five approved entities are currently listed on the DEA website but none are manufacturing a pharmaceutical such as MMJ International Holdings with filings with the FDA to perform clinical trials.

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

Is The Cannabis Industry Still Welcoming To Females? Was It Ever?

Cannabusiness

Benzinga Staff Writer

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March 14, 2022

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Is The Cannabis Industry Still Welcoming To Females? Was It Ever?

It’s no secret that as the legal cannabis industry grows, the rate at which women are entering the industry has declined.

By Maureen Meehan

In celebration of International Women’s Day and to kick off Women’s History Month, Higher Standards in partnership with Flower by Edie Parker, hosted a “Women In Weed” panel discussion at Higher Standards Chelsea Market in New York City.

“The panel of Women In Weed — outlaws, pioneers, entrepreneurs and advocates – told stories about heading out into uncharted territory with superhuman dedication,” Elana Frankel, founding editor of Woman and Weed, told Benzinga. “These women don’t mind working in high-risk, uncharted territory and it was clear the audience was ready to follow.”

cannabis smell terpenes — Photo by Sharon Mccutcheon / EyeEm/Getty Images

Panelists, in addition to Frankel, included Margaret Hancock, director of sales for Edie Parker; Mary Pryor, founder of Cannaclusive; Lulu Tsui, founder of On The Revel; and Sophie Saint Thomas, a published author. They talked about raising capital, sex and cannabis, and how to get started in the industry

“The evening had an energy, and it was the power of personal narratives that brought a better understanding to complex issues,” added Frankel, who authored the book Women and Weed: How the Green Rush Is Changing Our Lives.

Where Have All The Women Gone?

It’s no secret that as the legal cannabis industry grows, the rate at which women are entering the industry has declined of late.

When Marijuana Business Daily released its “Women & Minorities in the Marijuana Industry” report in 2017, women held 37% of executive-level roles. That percentage has dropped to 22%.

Although, another report from The Arcview Group and National Cannabis Industry Association confirmed that companies led by women are more profitable and produce more than twice the revenue per dollar invested than those without them.

A Women in Cannabis Study (WICS), founded and led by Jennifer Whetzel of Ladyjane Branding, began compiling data in 2019 from more than 1,500 women and nonbinary participants. The study noted that women are deeply interested in bringing their skills, knowledge and wisdom into the newly legal industry but face barriers to entry including common challenges such as sexism, harassment, lack of support and benefits, difficulty obtaining funding, low pay and stigma.

marijuana dispenary — Photo by Zummolo/Getty Images

Despite an impressive number of female founders and owners, only 11% of respondents said they believe the cannabis industry is equitable.

Rosie Mattio, founder and CEO of Mattio Communications, says that 2022 will be a defining year for female leadership in cannabis.

“The cannabis industry cannot reach its full potential without women leading the charge as well,” Mattio said, noting that while female leaders are currently at the helm of some of the most influential cannabis companies, there is still a huge imbalance.

“Low rates of female and minority participation is a pervasive issue within cannabis, and female leaders are tackling these glaring disparities through their own businesses,” Mattio wrote in Rolling Stone.

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

5 Great Concentrates For Beginners

Terry Hacienda

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March 14, 2022

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There really is no reason that you should be afraid of concentrates — as long as you start small and slow.

Cannabis concentrates have been getting more popular over the last few years because of their incredible potency, which you can’t find in other cannabis products.

But with the staggering amount of concentrate types in the market, navigating it can be overwhelming for a first timer. Whether you are a medical marijuana patient or a recreational user, there are many benefits to using concentrates most especially the fact that you need significantly less to feel its effects, and it can save you money.

marijuana concentrate — Photo by Cappi Thompson/Getty Images

Concentrates is actually a broad term to refers to many cannabis product types but one thing they all have in common is that it is a type of cannabis that’s been processed to a type of concentrate form. The single most common and widely used concentrate out there are the vape cartridges, but there are just so many more that you can explore.

More people are turning towards concentrates as opposed to traditional flower just because of their potency. You can also consume them in so many different ways: dab it, smoke it, and even eat it. But no matter which concentrate you decide to go with, it’s always critical to remember that you should start slow. It is seriously potent and it’s far too easy to get too high that it could actually ruin the experience. Gradually work your way up until you know the right dose that works for you.

Having said that, here are the best concentrates for beginners to try:

Kief: Keif, or dry sift, is made by extracting the trichomes from the cannabis buds. This is a great concentrate to start with especially if you already smoke cannabis flower and want to take things another level up because it’s got way more THC in each gram compared to flower but still isn’t as potent as other concentrates.

The trichomes of the cannabis flower are where you can find the biggest concentration of THC as well as CBD and other terpenes. You can make your own kief if you have a 3-piece grinder; the third component is critical for collecting the flower leftover, which is essentially what kief is. Then once you have it, you can mix the kief or sprinkle it into your joint or bowl. However, if you want to make it even more potent, press it to create hash which you can smoke on its own.

Shatter: Shatter is an extremely common cannabis concentrate, and easily the most accessible. Shatter became really popular for its high THC levels which go anywhere from 80% upwards, while standard cannabis flowers average at 25%.

Shatter is easily recognizable because it looks like glass, and it has an amber or yellowish color. It’s created by covering cannabis buds with butane or another solvent, afterwhich it goes through purging to get its texture. You can consume shatter by using a vaporizer made specifically for concentrates, though more seasoned users turn to dab rigs to get the most out of its potency. Again, since shatter contains high THC levels, you don’t need much for a strong high.

For beginners, shatter can be beneficial since you can break it apart into smaller pieces suitable for dabs.

Hash: Hash is a very popular and versatile cannabis concentrate. There are even some countries that are known for producing quality hash, such as in Morocco, where it is part of their culture and it’s more popular than bud or flower. Hash is essentially a solid block of kief pieces which are pressed together.

Depending on the extraction process, hash varies in color and shape. Hash is highly recommended for beginners because it’s milder. While some concentrates can have THC levels of 80% or 90%, hash ranges from 30% to 60%. Another reason why hash is more appealing to first-time cannabis concentrate consumers is that it’s easy to use: it crumbles when it’s lit using a lighter, so you can just take the smaller pieces and add them to bowls or joints.

Some people like to mix it with cannabis flower or even tobacco. But some vaporizers in the market allow you to smoke hash for a smooth, strong kick. There are also many varieties of hash in the market including pressed ice hash and bubble hash to name a few.

Budder: Also known as batter or badder, this type of concentrate is unique because of its malleable texture that tends to resemble cake frosting. However, depending on the variety they can look different especially with their textures and color because they are made with various extraction methods as well as starting materials. Some have the same color as butter while others can be olive green. Meanwhile, some budder is stickier but other varieties tend to be more crumbly.

Budder is consumed through dabbing since this process enhances its potency. However, there are some cannabis users who prefer to sprinkle them on top of a blunt or bowl, though it can also be vaped.

Live resin: For cannabis consumers looking for a truly flavorful experience, you can’t go wrong with live resin. It’s made with a unique process requiring freshly grown cannabis to be flash-frozen before they are extracted. These buds are then delicately extracted that carefully ensures its terpenes and cannabinoids are well preserved, while leaving you a product that is highly concentrated.

The drying and curing phase of cannabis usually ends up losing most of its flavorful and fragrant terpenes, which are responsible for its taste and flavor. But making live resin means that these steps are skipped entirely so you can truly enjoy delicious flavor when vaping resin.

Many people are afraid of trying concentrates, however, there really is no reason that you should be afraid of them as long as you start small and slow. With this guide, we hope we’ve helped you narrow down the ideal concentrates to start your journey with.

April 19: Leading Psychedelics Investing Conference Lands In Miami, Hosted By Benzinga

News

Benzinga Staff Writer

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March 13, 2022

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April 19: Leading Psychedelics Investing Conference Lands In Miami, Hosted By Benzinga

The Benzinga Psychedelics Capital Conference will feature a suite of the top minds in the psychedelics space.

The first Benzinga Psychedelics Capital Conference, the premier gathering of psychedelics industry leaders and forward-thinking investors, is coming to the Fontainebleau Miami Beach on April 19, 2022, in Miami, Florida.

Enjoy exclusive opportunities for curated networking and unparalleled access to private deal flow at an event hosted by Benzinga, a financial news and data company recently acquired at a $300 million valuation.

Join Benzinga for a day full of unique networking opportunities, exclusive industry insights and a chance to be in the room with the leaders taking psychedelics to the next level.

The Speakers

The Benzinga Psychedelics Capital Conference will feature a suite of the top minds in the psychedelics space.

Keynote speakers include Kevin O’Leary, Chairman of O’Shares Investment Advisers and host of ABC’s Shark Tank, and Klee Irwin, CEO of natural products giant Irwin Naturals.

Also presenting at the conference will be:

Tim Schlidt, Co-Founder and Partner of Palo Santo
Rob Barrow, CEO of MindMed
Dustin Robison, Managing Partner of Iter Investments
Lindsay Hoover, Partner of JLS Fund
Dr. Joseph Tucker, CEO of Enveric Biosciences
Natalie Ginsberg, Global Impact Officer of MAPS

“We’re glad to welcome the burgeoning psychedelics industry into Benzinga’s growing ecosystem of events. We’ve seen cannabis businesses raise hundreds of millions of dollars at our Cannabis Capital Conferences and it’s our pleasure to open this possibility to businesses working to develop and establish psychedelics as the new paradigm shift in mental health treatment,” said Chief Zinger Jason Raznick.

Click here to register for the full In Person Benzinga Psychedelics Capital Conference experience, featuring networking, one-on-one meetings, access to investors, and more.

Secure your spot now and also gain full access to the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference happening at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach on April 20-21, 2022. Dual Event Passes are available.

Why Attend The Benzinga Psychedelics Capital Conference

The first Benzinga Psychedelics Capital Conference is a natural spinoff from the now-classic Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conferences, which have already featured numerous panels and presentations from key representatives of the psychedelics space, including leaders from:

MindMed (NASDAQ: MNMD)
Enveric Biosciences (NASDAQ: ENVB)
Mydecine (NEO:MYCO)(OTCPINK: MYCOF)
Novamind (CSE:NM)(OTCQB: NVMDF)
Numinus Wellness (TSX:NUMI)(OTCQX: NUMIF)
NeonMind Biosciences (CSE:NEON)(OTCQB: NMDBF)
Entheon Biomedical (CSE:ENBI)(OTCQB: ENTBF)
Cybin (NYSE: CYBN)

After 13 extremely successful cannabis editions in Toronto, Chicago, Detroit, New York and Miami, the Benzinga Psychedelics Capital Conference will feature all the core components of a classic Benzinga event, including keynotes, panel discussions, fireside chats, networking spaces, company presentations, and investor and celebrity appearances.

“Benzinga has always held a keen interest in emerging industries and we believe Psychedelics is another sector poised for growth. We’re thrilled to welcome the executives, investors and analysts at the forefront of this exciting industry to Miami on April 19th. We’re even more excited to give our audience the platform to engage with these leaders directly,” comments Patrick Lane, Executive Vice President of Partnerships at Benzinga.

New To Weed? This Is The Only Guide You Need

Maria Loreto

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March 13, 2022

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New To Weed? This Is The Only Guide You Need

The internet is filled with marijuana facts. Here’s your one-stop for all the information you need.

Entering the world of cannabis without a guide can be confusing. Most people learn by trial and error, or with the guidance of a friend and mentor, who provides a guiding hand for most first-time experiences.

Fortunately, marijuana has never been easier to access. Even if you’re alone and intimidated, there are plenty of places to turn to for information, and many options available for first-timers, whether they’re interested in smoking, edibles, vaping, dabbing, and more.

What it does

There’s a lot to marijuana, but for starters, it’s a great tool for fun and for medication. People turn to weed to boost creativity, ease social anxiety, relax, work out, improve their focus, and more. The list is truly endless, with marijuana boosting your focus and fun and making your days more productive and like they last longer.

Marijuana can also be used to replace habits that harm your body, like consuming alcohol, smoking nicotine, and replacing the use of opiates and sleeping pills.

Medicinal effects

marijuana glass pipe — Photo by Charles Wollertz/Getty Images

Medical marijuana is earning support from states all over the country. Research suggests that the plant can be used to control stress, provide pain relief, improve appetite, help people cope with ADHD and anxiety, and more.

It’s important to know that while many patients and doctors swear by marijuana’s effectiveness, there’s not enough research on the matter to prove that these results are definitive. The good news is that marijuana’s negative side effects, such as dry mouth, dizziness, and fuzzy brain are minor and temporary.

Types of marijuana

rolling a marijuana joint — Photo by Kampus Production from Pexels

There are different types of marijuana and different compounds present in the plant. Sativa, indica, and hybrid strains are a category limited to the physical look of the plant, although a lot of cannabis users swear by its effects and how different they are. CBD is a cannabis compound but a lot of people consider it a type of marijuana.

Sativa stimulates the mind and senses, working best when paired with an activity, like working out, having a fun conversation, or doing anything energizing. Indicas stand on the other end of the spectrum, producing a relaxing and anxiolytic effect. Hybrid strains are a mix of sativa and indica, producing mixed results.

CBD is a cannabis compound, like THC. Unlike THC’s psychoactive effect, CBD is mostly medicinal. It produces no “high” feeling and results in long-lasting muscle, pain, and anxiety relief.

How to consume

Nowadays there are a million ways to consume cannabis. While there’s the traditional way of smoking marijuana (pipes, joints, and bongs), there are also tons of new options. With every new year, there are new vape pens, edibles, concentrates, and topicals. L

Vaporizers

These are discreet and comfortable, filled with cartridges that vaporize marijuana instead of combusting it, like joints and pipes. With a vape pen you won’t have to learn how to roll a joint or how to pack a bowl. They produce immediate effects that will stay in your body for a couple of hours.

Edibles

Pot brownies, gummies, and all sorts of weed foods purchased on dispensaries or through dealers enter this category. This method is discreet and takes its time to affect you with the THC entering your system through the stomach lining. If you’re a beginner it’s important to start with a low dose, preventing a bad high.

Topicals

All balms, lotions, creams, and patches fit this category. Topicals tend to produce results that won’t get you very high. Instead, they’re powerful medical tools, helping with pain relief, post-surgery recovery, and more.

Concentrates

These are cannabis extracts. They can be consumed through a vape pen or through a dab rig and can be consumed in the shape of wax, resin, and hash. When consumed via dab, the effects are strong and long-lasting.

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New To Weed? This Is The Only Guide You Need

The internet is filled with marijuana facts. Here’s your one-stop for all the information you need.

What it does

Medicinal effects

Types of marijuana

How to consume

Vaporizers

Edibles

Topicals

Concentrates

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