Page 4 – The Fresh Toast

Not Everyone Has A Happy Holiday But Maybe Marijuana Can Help

Amy Hansen

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December 5, 2024

Not Everyone Has A Happy Holiday But Maybe Marijuana Can Help

From broken hearts to being alone, not everyone is merry in December, but maybe marijuana can help.

It is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, but for a portion, it is a rough patch. Whether through the lose of a loved one, illness or being alone, it can be tough for many. In one survey, 10% of those over 55 say they won’t have anyone else in their home this holiday season. Not everyone has a happy holiday, but maybe marijuana can help. Marijuana may help alleviate symptoms of holiday depression in several ways. Cannabis, particularly strains high in CBD, can reduce stress and anxiety associated with the holiday season. CBD interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain, potentially producing anti-depressive effects

According to a survey by the American Psychological Association, 38% of individuals report increased stress during this time, stemming from various responsibilities such as shopping, cooking, and entertaining. The pressure to create a perfect holiday experience can lead to feelings of overwhelm and inadequacy when expectations are not met.

Microdosing marijuana can be an effective way to manage holiday depression. By consuming small amounts of cannabis, typically 1 to 2.5 milligrams of THC, individuals can experience mood-enhancing effects without feeling intoxicated. This approach can help ease stress and anxiety. It can also help you reframe the self expectation pressures into things which are more manageable and realistic. Microdosing allows for better social interactions and increased productivity, which can be particularly beneficial during family gatherings.

Additionally, combining low doses of THC with CBD can provide a balanced effect, promoting relaxation and reducing negative emotional responses. It’s important to start with a low dose and adjust gradually, as individual responses may vary.

THC, the psychoactive component in cannabis, can provide temporary relief from depressive symptoms, though it’s important to use it cautiously as high doses may worsen depression. Some users report that cannabis helps them relax, fall asleep more easily, and manage holiday-related grief. When using marijuana for depression, it’s recommended to opt for strains with higher CBD and lower THC content. Terpenes like limonene, linalool, and beta-caryophyllene may also have anti-depressive properties

However, it’s crucial to note while cannabis may offer temporary relief, it’s not a cure for depression. Individuals should consult with a healthcare professional before using marijuana to manage depressive symptoms, especially if they’re already on medication.

There are others ways to manage holiday-related sadness. Recognizing it’s normal to feel sad or stressed during the holidays can help alleviate some pressure.Adjusting expectations about what the holidays should look like can reduce feelings of inadequacy. Connecting with friends or support groups, or even volunteering, can help combat loneliness. Engaging in activities that promote relaxation and well-being can be beneficial.

For persistent feelings of sadness or depression, seeking help from mental health professionals is advisable. Understanding these factors and implementing coping strategies can help individuals navigate the emotional complexities of the holiday season more effectively.

Veterans With PTSD Are Given A Little Hope

Amy Hansen

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December 3, 2024

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Veterans With PTSD Are Given A Little Hope

Some good new from the government about veterans who are suffering from PTSD and are using marijuana.

While our military is generally honored, medical treatment for them can lag behind the praises given by politicians and bureaucrats. Almost 23% of veterans who use the Veterans Admstinatrion (VA) health care have had Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) at some point in their lives. In 2021, 10% of men and 19% of women veterans using VA care were diagnosed with PTSD. A study of veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan found the prevalence of PTSD varied by unit component. For example, deployed active duty veterans had an 18.5% prevalence of PTSD, while non-deployed active duty veterans had a 13.2% prevalence. It is difficult to treat and has ruined thousands of lives. But cannabis has helped and now veterans with PTSD are given a little hope with additional medical research.

Cannabis has shown promising potential in alleviating symptoms PTSD, offering hope to those struggling with this debilitating condition. Earlier studies have shed light on the biological mechanisms behind cannabis’s therapeutic effects on PTSD. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) this week authorized a long-delayed clinical trial to test whether marijuana can be used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in veterans. The agency had raised a variety of objections. The change is good news for veterans and their families. And another indicator the FDA is supportive of the rescheduling.

One key way cannabis helps PTSD sufferers is by reducing activity in the amygdala, a part of the brain associated with fear responses to threats. This dampening of the anxiety response can help individuals manage their symptoms more effectively.Additionally, cannabis may aid in extinguishing traumatic memories through a process called ‘extinction learning’.

The cannabinoids in cannabis, particularly THC and CBD, can enhance the rate at which challenging memories are processed and reduce overall anxiety responses. Research has shown that cannabis use is associated with a reduction in overall PTSD symptoms and improved quality of life. Low doses of THC or a combination of THC and CBD have been found to be particularly effective in enhancing extinction rates for traumatic memories and reducing anxiety.

The endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in this process. CBD, a non-psychoactive component of cannabis, indirectly affects this system by inhibiting the uptake or enzymatic degradation of endogenous cannabinoids. This action allows for a greater effect on CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are found in brain regions important for anxiety and aversive learnin

.Cannabis may also help address specific PTSD symptoms such as sleep disturbances, recurrent fear memories, and panic episodes. While individual responses can vary, cannabis can be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan under medical supervision.

Can CBD Keep Cats From The Christmas Tree

Sarah Johns

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December 2, 2024

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Can CBD Keep Cats From The Christmas Tree

They seem to be total enemies – but can CBD help cats chill out around the Christmas Tree?

While is seems cats do things just to annoy their owners, there are reasons. And when it comes to the Christmas tree, there are manyfelines that causes the pull to be “involved” with the giant temporary addition to the festive season. They enjoy being high up to survey their surroundings and it makes them feel safe from predators. Yhe branches provide a fun climbing challenge. And they are attracted to shiny objects with the ornaments and lights. Like humans, cats enjoy the smell of live evergreen trees which is another reason they stay close. But can CBD keep cats from the Christmas tree?

Alone, CBD can not keep them from exploring, but can be used as another tool to relax them and help them lose interest in wrecking a tree. CBD for cats has gained popularity among pet owners seeking alternative treatments for various feline health issues. CBD is generally considered safe for cats when used appropriately. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in hemp plants that interacts with the endocannabinoid system in cats, potentially offering benefits for anxiety, pain, inflammation, and overall wellness.

CBD could help cats with several issues during the holidays including reducing anxiety from visitors, decorations, and changes in routine. It can help alleviate pain and inflammation, which may worsen in colder weather. With the change in routine, it can help with sleep quality. And must of all regarding the tree, it can help them chill and relaxat, giving them a

Use products specifically formulated for cats, as human or dog CBD products may not be suitable. Follow dosage guidelines carefully. Consult with a veterinarian before starting CBD, especially for cats with health issues or on medications. CBD for cats typically comes in oils or treats. Oils allow for precise dosing, while treats may be easier to administer.

Other ways to keep the cat from the tree is have a fake tree which is less dangerous than a real tree. A smaller tree is less likely to cause serious harm if it falls over. Use a heavy base or weights to prevent the tree from toppling over. You can also secure it to a wall with wire. Cats dislike citrus and foil scents, so you can wrap the tree trunk in foil and put orange or lemon peels around the base. Place cheaper, less sentimental decorations toward the bottom of the tree. Tie ornaments tightly to the branches to avoid loose, dangling temptations. Choose wooden or plastic ornaments instead of highly reflective ones. Tie plastic bags filled with orange or lemon peels around the base of the tree.

Should You Mix Up Online And In-store Shopping This Weekend

Sarah Johns

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November 29, 2024

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Should You Mix Up Online And In-store Shopping This Weekend

On the first holiday weekend, should you mix up online and in-store shopping? Well, there is definitely benefits for both – including Target’s new tie-in promotion.

Black Friday is With average holiday spending expected to reach over $1,000, it is important to capture the customers. Twenty years ago, malls were packed and the news reported Karen’s gone wild in an effort to snag shopping deals. Now things are easier with online shopping, but in-store experiences remain crucial. This year 26% of consumers plan to shop primarily in person for the holidays, while 51% plan to do both in-person and online. As usual, retailers offered early discounts and unique shopping experiences to bring people into brick and mortar.

In 2024, the Black Friday shopping landscape has evolved dramatically, presenting consumers with compelling reasons to choose both online and in-store shopping experiences. Each approach offers unique advantages that cater to different shopper preferences and priorities. Online shopping continues to gain momentum, with 75% of shoppers planning to make purchases digitally in 2024.

Taylor Swift and the Holiday Target Promotion — Photo by Christopher Polk/Staff/Getty Images

The benefits are easy and they’re rarely a need to deal with a long line (except for very hard, limited release items). Shoppers can browse and purchase from the comfort of their homes. It provides access to extensive product catalogs across multiple retailers and easy ability to compare prices instantly.

Despite the digital surge, in-store shopping lends itself to being more festive and provide a longer, interactive experience. Shoppers have the ability to try on clothes, test electronics, and physically examine items and are three times more likely to make spontaneous purchases in-store. Usually food purchases from coffee, lunch to drinks are involved and it is considered a full activity. And shoppers arrive home with packages.

Many consumers are adopting a hybrid approach. For instance, some shoppers visit physical stores to try products and then complete purchases online. Retailers are adapting by offering exclusive in-store experiences, like Target’s Taylor Swift album release and special giveaways. Many wine and liquor stores offer tasting and marijuiana dispensaries offer specials on products.

And the reason we call today Black Friday is thanks to the Philadelphia police department. Department stores in the city would hold huge sales to capitalize on the large crowds ahead of the Army/Navy football game. Vast crowds caused havoc for police and forced them to work harsh, extra-long shifts, resulting in them dubbing the day Black Friday, both to express their dislike of the day and to try and reduce visitors by making it sound less appealing.

Ready For Green And Blackout Wednesday

Anthony Washington

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November 26, 2024

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The day before Thanksgiving has the honor of being two of the biggest consumption days of the year – are you ready?

While some people are prepping for Thanksgiving Thursday, the big feast and the holiday season afterwards, a significant amount are looking forward to Wednesday. The day before Thanksgiving has become a mini-holiday in its own right. It has become a time of robust celebration, so much it is known as Green Wednesday and Blackout Wednesday. It is a significant consumption day for both marijuana and alcohol imbibers.

Blackout Wednesday, also known as Drinksgiving, has grown to rival major drinking holidays like New Year’s Eve and St. Patrick’s Day in terms of alcohol consumption. And cannabis is not far behind seeing a big spike in dispensary purchases on the same day. As legal cannabis moved across the nation, it caught on and gave options to people who want to “unplug” at the start of the holiday weekend.

Green Wednesday is a cannabis-centric moment the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. In in 2016, the phrase was coined when California cannabis delivery service noticed a significant uptick in orders the week before Thanksgiving. With over 50% of the country having access to legal weed, each year has only gotten bigger!

“Last year’s Green Wednesday had sales 72% higher than the average day. Flower accounted for 39.5% of sales with Vape at 23.7%, pre-rolled at 16.9% and edibles at 10.6%. Pre-rolled showed the biggest increase compared to the week before when it accounted for only 11.9%, so sales on Green Wednesday of pre-rolls specifically, were more than double a normal day.” shares Roy Bingham, Co-Founder and CEO of BDSA, one of the cannabis analytics firms.

The original partakers start Blackout Wednesday, also known as Drinksgiving or Thanksgiving Eve. They helped make it become a significant cultural phenomenon. This unofficial holiday takes place on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and has gained notoriety as one of the busiest drinking nights of the year. The exact origins of Blackout Wednesday are not precisely documented, but the phenomenon is believed to have started decades before it was named. The term “Drinksgiving” dates back to 2007, while the first Google searches for “Blackout Wednesday” were recorded in 2014.

If you choose to celebrate, be safe, have fun, and have the ingredients for a hangover cure come the morning.

Professional Poker And Marijuana

Anthony Washington

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November 25, 2024

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There is big money at stake and everyone wants an edge to focus and win. So what about professional poker and marijuana.

The relationship between professional card playing and cannabis use is a topic of debate among players and enthusiasts. So what is up with professional poker and marijuana? There are roughly 3,000 full-time poker and 30,000 semi-professionals in the US and Canada. Around 60% of full-time professional poker players are online players with the median total pay for a professional poker player between $82K – $110K per year. But globally about 100,000 play online poker every day. This means the industry is valued at $59.35 billion in 2022, and is expected to grow to $155.36 billion by 2030. The World Series of Poker (WSOP) talks place in Las Vegas. Sin City is also home to Planet 13 the largest marijuanal dispensary and soon to be Cannabition, an elevated immersive experience.

Done correctly, some studies show cannabis can help concentration, which can be a benefit in poker, a game requiring intense focus and attention to detail. Some players continue to drink which can impair judgment. Marijuana use has been used for therapeutic treatments being particularly helpful in limiting distractions and helping with focus and ADHD medication side effects. However, while it can be helpful for some individuals, much of the research online advises against its use as a primary treatment option.

In the card playing word, players argue cannabis can negatively impact decision-making at the poker table. It may lead to playing on autopilot, reducing the depth of thought required for strategic decisions. Others believe it helps with emotional control, such as calming nerves after a bad beat, which can prevent tilt—a state of emotional frustration that leads to poor decisions.

Some players use cannabis for its stress-reducing properties, which can help manage anxiety and improve overall well-being during long poker sessions. The calming effects of cannabis might benefit players who struggle with stress or anxiety, potentially improving their performance by maintaining a clear mind. This is similar to the only video gaming culture.

There are anecdotes of successful poker players who have competed while under the influence of cannabis or alcohol, suggesting that individual tolerance and experience play significant roles. The key is recognizing whether cannabis helps or hinders one’s ability to play optimally and making decisions accordingly.

Can Cannabis Help WIth Holiday Digestive Issues

Amy Hansen

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November 25, 2024

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Can Cannabis Help WIth Holiday Digestive Issues

Food is usually the core of holidays – but it is tough if you have digestive issues. Can marijuana help?

The festive season is filled big meals, favorite foods, sweets, snacks, drinks, cocktails and more – all fun, unless you have stomach issues. A significant portion of people experience tummy troubles during the holidays, with estimates suggesting a large number of individuals with pre-existing digestive conditions like IBS see their symptoms worsen during this time due to factors like stress, overeating, and rich, high-fat foods commonly served at holiday meals. Some studies even report up to a third of people experience increased digestive complaints over the festive season. Can cannabis help with holiday digestive issues?

Marijuana’s impact on digestive health is complex and multifaceted, with potential benefits for various gastrointestinal conditions. It has shown promise in managing symptoms of several digestive disorders, but it is good to understand before you start it. If you are seeing a medical professional, talk with them. Also, seek advice about frequency and dosage.

Thanksgiving — Photo via lotherington/Flicker

Marijuana can help in a variety of ways. Cannabinoids found in the plant can engage with the body’s endocannabinoid system to regulate gastrointestinal motility and inflammation, potentially offering relief for those with IBD, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. The anti-inflammatory properties of cannabis compounds like THC and CBD may help mitigate inflammation in the digestive track.

Many patients with irritable bowl syndrome (IBS) report that medicinal marijuana can be used successfully to manage symptoms. It may help alleviate common IBS symptoms such as abdominal pain, cramping, and altered bowel habits.

Cannabis has been consistently shown to be highly effective in suppressing nausea and stimulating appetite. This can be particularly beneficial for patients experiencing these symptoms due to digestive disorders or as side effects of other medical treatments.

Another issue is when anxiety causes stomach problems. Low levels of marijuana and CBD has been known to help with anxiety, relaxing the body’s system allowing the digestive to ebb.

You should be very careful mixing even low levels of cannabis with alcohol, it can have unexpected reactions in your body. Make sure you space out the usage if you plan to use both.

4 Ways Marijuana Can Help You Have A Better Thanksgiving

Sarah Johns

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November 22, 2024

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4 Ways Marijuana Can Help You Have A Better Thanksgiving

Looking for a way to make Thanksgiving even better? Marijuana might be able to help.

Thanksgiving is now for family, friends, and the big meal. It is a great holiday, but can still hold some stress and other pitfalls. Here are 4 ways marijuana can help you have a better Thanksgiving. The best thing about Thanksgiving isn’t fully committed to one day. since the start of Friendsgiving, it can stretch across 10 days and there can be multiple meals. In fact, is consider so popular, especially among younger generations (Millennials and Gen Z), with surveys indicating nearly half of Americans celebrate it. In fact, more are start to choose to spend time with friends instead of family around Thanksgiving, making it a significant alternative holiday alongside the traditional Thanksgiving celebration.

Related: Cannabis Can Help You With Stress

One of the most well-known effects of marijuana is its ability to stimulate appetite, commonly referred to as “the munchies.” This can be particularly beneficial on Thanksgiving, a holiday centered around a large feast. A 2014 study found that the increased appetite experienced after consuming marijuana is related to its effect on your sense of smell. Cannabis makes you more sensitive to aromas, which can translate into heightened hunger because smell and taste are closely related senses. This enhanced sensory perception can make the traditional Thanksgiving dishes taste even more delicious, allowing you to fully appreciate the flavors of the meal.

If going the family Thanksgiving route, these gatherings can sometimes be stressful, especially when dealing with relatives you don’t see often or navigating potentially tense conversations. Marijuana can help reduce anxiety and create a more relaxed atmosphere. Microdosing is a popular trend with the younger generations, and it could be helpful in during the holiday. Numerous studies have demonstrated that cannabinoids such as THC and CBD can effectively reduce anxiety. By helping to calm nerves and ease social tension, cannabis can contribute to a more pleasant and harmonious family gathering.

Cannabis has the potential to improve social experiences and interpersonal connections. This can be helpful at long meals with new people. Studies show cannabinoids may enhance the pleasure of social interactions by stimulating the production neurotransmitters in the brain, potentially improving interpersonal bonding. This effect can lead to more enjoyable and meaningful conversations with new friends or family members, fostering a sense of closeness and shared experience during the holiday gathering.

RELATED: Is GERD Helped By Cannabis

Over course the “feast” is the centerpiece of the holiday and marijuana is there for you. Overeating is common, often leading to uncomfortable digestive issues. The plant can help alleviate these problems. THC, the main psychoactive component of cannabis, has been shown to treat stomachaches and digestive disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease. Additionally, it can “protect the lining of the stomach and intestine from injury and accelerate healing from inflammation,” according to a study published in the Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology.

There are multiple ways to consume discreetly and to manage dosage. The most important thing is relax, have a good time, and be a good guest or host.

Can Big Alcohol Help The Cannabis Industry

Terry Hacienda

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November 22, 2024

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Can Big Alcohol Help The Cannabis Industry

It has been a rough few months for the cannabis industry…could Big Alcohol help during another rough patch?

The cannabis industry was worth $33 billion in 2023 and is filled with mom and pop businesses. With the majority of the population having access to legal marijuana, consumer use is up, states are filling their coffers, and more patients are using medical marijuana. It has become so mainstream, even the staid AARP has acknowledge a signifiant portion of boomers are using it for medical reasons. But federal restrictions are crippling the industry, despite the growth. The industry needs federal help, can Big Alcohol help the cannabis industry. Alcohol is in a majority of grocery stores, restaurants, hotels, resorts, planes and homes. They understand the consumers and sell $260 billion in booze a year, not counting the second level market up. The alcohol industry spends over $20 million annually on lobbying, a drop compared to the $220+ million pharmaceutical spends, but an impressive amount. But Congress, the DEA, and members of the administration are not fans…and help is needed.

Related: Cannabis Can Help You With Stress

Alcohol has a $14+ billion investment in the industry and has a voice in the Congress. Cannabis is a brand and revenue extension for alcohol rather than a competitor. A major change in the beverage industry came with the introduction of purified waters by PepsiCo (Aquafina) in 1994 and Coca-Cola (Dasani) in 1999. Seeing it as way to reach more consumers and revenue, the two soda giants are now the owners of the top two bottled water companies in the North America. WIth a stake in the outcome, the big liquor companies could guide Congress to open up more for cannabis. This would provide both industries access to more customers and more revenue for everyone, including government entities.

marijuana legalization — Photo by Alexander Sanchez/Getty Images

“While alcohol and cannabis can play in the same sandbox, we more often see consumers using cannabis as a replacement for more harmful substances like alcohol. In cannabis, we find a paradigm shift—entertainment and relaxation without the costs of alcohol’s physical and social tolls.” shares Jesse Redmond, managing director at Water Tower Research, LLC.

Like bottled water, alcohol could open up markets to an additional set of consumers. They have the expertise and relationships most cannabis businesses lack. Already, hemp beverage are in mainstream retailers like Total Wine (Texas) and in convenience stores.

The incoming administration has few cannabis champions with both the Speaker of the House and the President of the Senate and the cabinet doesn’t seem to be focused on marijuana legalization at all. But the majority of members are a fan of booze and that can be used to marijuana’s advantage.

“With the future uncertain for cannabis reform, some are looking to other industries to help support fundamental changes to the laws and regulations surrounding cannabis. One of the two industries seemingly cited most frequently, the alcohol industry, could be a significant player in the fight for change. While many have pitted the alcohol and cannabis industries against one another under the argument that legal and accessible cannabis will reduce the consumption of alcohol, it is clear that cannabis will never truly replace alcohol. The capital and lobbying power of the players in the alcohol industry are not to be underestimated, and their involvement could significantly impact the future of cannabis reform. The question remains, what interest does the alcohol industry have in the expanding cannabis industry? Well, the answer to this question likely varies by player. Some alcohol manufacturers such as Tilray Brands, have been all-in on cannabis and would likely benefit from the relaxation of laws surrounding cannabis. There are also several alcohol companies who had entered and since left the cannabis industry, who’s future involvement remains to be seen. It is also possible that certain alcohol companies may wish to influence how cannabis reform is implemented – certain more limited reforms or a focus on the allowance of certain product types, could be a form of insulation from widespread cannabis legalization and accessibility. The alcohol industry may yet be a key player in the future of cannabis, one that the cannabis industry would greatly benefit from having on their side.” states Andrew Cooper, Chair, Cannabis & Psychedelics Practice Group at Falcon Rappaport & Berkman LLP.

RELATED: Is GERD Helped By Cannabis

Both would benefit from product development, producing and marketing cannabis-infused beverages and edibles. From a marketing point of view it also makes sense consider the consumer reach. In addition, research shows that people often pair cannabis with alcohol rather than replacing one with the other. The proportion of consumers pairing cannabis with spirits or liquor increased from 12% in 2018 to 22% in 2022. The next 14 months will shape the cannabis industry path for years to come, let’s see if Big Alcohol plays a role.

The Best Cocktails For An Easy Festive Thanksgiving

Anthony Washington

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November 21, 2024

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The Best Cocktails For An Easy Festive Thanksgiving

Why just have wine or beer for your Thanksgiving gatherings? Why not have a fun, festive cocktail around Turkey Day.

Whether a family affair, a Friendsgiving, or just having fun on the long holiday weekend, why not spice it up with something delicious to drink? Here are the best cocktails for an easy, festive Thanksgiving.

Pumpkin Margaritas

Most people indulge in pumpkin pie during the holidays. Why not mix it and wow the taste buds with the classic flavor mixed with a a favorite drink? While making the pie, set aside a little of the pumpkin and use it to make defiantly a crowd pleaser.

Ingredients

2 ounces Reposado Tequila
1 ounce Lime juice
1 ounce Cointreau
½ tablespoon Pumpkin puree
3 dashes bitters
½ ounce Pumpkin simple syrup
¼ cup Water (for pumpkin simple syrup)
¼ cup Light brown sugar (for pumpkin simple syrup)
1 teaspoon Pumpkin pie spice (for pumpkin simple syrup)

Create

Start by adding brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and water to a saucepan on low-medium heat
Whisk to combine and bring to a very low simmer
Once the sugar has dissolved, take the pan off of the heat
Pour the syrup into a container and place in the fridge to cool for 10-15 minutes
Add a handful of ice cubes to a cocktail shaker
Pour in the tequila, cointreau, pumpkin syrup, lime juice, pumpkin puree, and 3 dashes of angostura bitters
Close the lid tightly and shake for 15-30 seconds
Remove the lid from the cocktail shaker and gently strain the drink into ice filled glasses
Garnish with any herbs and spices like cinnamon sticks, freshly grated nutmeg, or rosemary

Amaretto Sour

The Amaretto Sour was likely created in 1974 by the importer of Amaretto di Saronno as a promotional push. The original recipe was two parts amaretto liqueur to one part lemon juice.

The Amaretto Sour became popular in the 1970s and 1980s. It was a favorite among bartenders and patrons because of its distinct almond flavor and refreshing sourness. It is a cozy drink perfect for a small gathering to celebrate Thanksgiving.

Ingredients

1 1/2 ounces amaretto liqueur
3/4 ounce cask-proof bourbon
1 ounce lemon juice, freshly squeezed
1 teaspoon simple syrup
1/2 ounce egg white
Garnish: lemon twist
Garnish: 2 brandied cherries

Create

Add amaretto, bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup and egg white to a shaker and dry-shake (no ice) for 15 seconds
Add ice and shake again until well-chilled
Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice
Garnish with a lemon twist and 2 skewered brandied cherries

Apple Pie Bourbons

What is more Thanksgiving than apple pie and bourbon? While not settle into a nice drink contain both of them. A rich, luscious, flavor to enjoy watch football or as a pre drink before the big meal.

Ingredients

2 apples (green and red), chopped
1 1” piece fresh ginger
1 whole nutmeg, slightly shaved
4 cinnamon sticks, plus more for garnish
1 1/2 cup bourbon
3 sugar cubes

Create

Fill a mason jar with bourbon, apples, sugar, nutmeg, cinnamon, and ginger.
Let mixture sit 2 to 4 days. (Taste after 2 days and let sit longer as desired.)
Pour mixture into shot glasses and garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Rose Kennedy

This cocktails also known as a “VSS” (vodka soda splash) is about refreshing as possible, and a low calorie alternative to other options. Developed in DC in the late 80s, the original Rose Kennedy was garnished with lemon only and contained only enough cranberry to make the drink barely pink making the squeezed lemon and cranberry flavors faint but equal. At the time, the use of a lime made it an Ethel Kennedy.

Ingredients

2 ounces vodka
1 1/2 ounces soda
1/2 ounce of cranberry

Create

In a glass filled with ice, add vodka and soda
Splash cranberry juice and garnish with a lemon wedge

Apple Cider Margaritas

While apple pie is the third favorite holiday (behind pumpkin and pecan), it is a delicious flavor to mix into the classic margarita…it give it an autumn feel and pairs perfectly with the tequila.

Ingredients

1 medium lemon
2 ounces Reposado or silver tequila
1 1/2 ounces apple cider or unfiltered apple juice
1/2 ounce maple syrup
1 pinch ground cinnamon
1 cinnamon stick or thin apple slices for garnish

Create

Juice medium lemon until you have 3/4 ounce
Place the lemon juice, 2 ounces tequila, 1 1/2 ounces apple cider, 1/2 ounce maple syrup, and 1 pinch ground cinnamon in a cocktail shaker
Fill the shaker halfway with ice Seal the and shake vigorously, about 20 seconds.

Pour through a strainer into the glass

Garnish with a cinnamon stick and thin apple slices if desired

The Fresh ToastThe most trusted name in cannabis

Not Everyone Has A Happy Holiday But Maybe Marijuana Can Help

From broken hearts to being alone, not everyone is merry in December, but maybe marijuana can help.

Veterans With PTSD Are Given A Little Hope

Some good new from the government about veterans who are suffering from PTSD and are using marijuana.

Can CBD Keep Cats From The Christmas Tree

They seem to be total enemies – but can CBD help cats chill out around the Christmas Tree?

Should You Mix Up Online And In-store Shopping This Weekend

On the first holiday weekend, should you mix up online and in-store shopping? Well, there is definitely benefits for both – including Target’s new tie-in promotion.

Ready For Green And Blackout Wednesday

The day before Thanksgiving has the honor of being two of the biggest consumption days of the year – are you ready?

Professional Poker And Marijuana

There is big money at stake and everyone wants an edge to focus and win. So what about professional poker and marijuana.

Can Cannabis Help WIth Holiday Digestive Issues

Food is usually the core of holidays – but it is tough if you have digestive issues. Can marijuana help?

Can Big Alcohol Help The Cannabis Industry

It has been a rough few months for the cannabis industry…could Big Alcohol help during another rough patch?

The Best Cocktails For An Easy Festive Thanksgiving

Why just have wine or beer for your Thanksgiving gatherings? Why not have a fun, festive cocktail around Turkey Day.

Pumpkin Margaritas

Amaretto Sour

Apple Pie Bourbons

Rose Kennedy

Apple Cider Margaritas

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