How To Manage Warring Political Conversations

Sarah Johns

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April 17, 2024

How To Manage Warring Political Conversations

The presidential campaign is in full swing – but why should it interrupt friend and family gathers…here are the best tips to managing different political perspectives.

With the presidential race heating up and the country seemingly divided, how can you hang with the people you have known who might have a different political perspectives. Patience, grace and planning can make it a bit easier. Here are some tips on to manage warring political conversations at events.

First, think and understand people are different than you and rarely do people all have the exact same opinions. Also think why you are gathering, what is the purpose and is it more about

When it comes to your boundaries, don’t mince words. If you know yourself and feel you won’t be able to engage in a discussion regarding politics without become heated, let other people know that you won’t be talking politics. If you want to have a discussion with someone, try to be the person you’d like to have a discussion with, taking turns to listen and talking while measuring your words and not being insulting.

Plan ahead

If you are organizing an event, think about why you are pulling people together. If it a birthday, to celebrate a happy occasion or a good catch up, think of the guests and how they will interact. Taking the time beforehand and sharing behavior no-nos like yelling, dominating a conversion, snide comments or bullying tactics will not be accepted. Recognize people are being invited to something enjoyable, not a cage match.

State your discomfort

If you’re having a conversation and it starts to get heated, state your discomfort. Try to avoid awkwardness and instead push for being as sincere as you can. Your response will vary depending on the person you’re talking to; if speaking to a coworker, try to change the subject or state that you’re not in the mood for politics. When speaking to friends and family, you can try a more honest approach.

Know when to end a conversation

The more you’re exposed to different kinds of people, the more you learn how to read their physical and verbal cues. Be aware of them, so when the conversation turns heated, change the course. Election eve might be too late to change someone’s mind, especially if they have strong political views. Save yourself the stress and try to preserve that relationship if it’s important to you.

Have an open mind

It’s always important to have a discussion with an open mind; try to understand why this person thinks the way they do. This doesn’t mean that you have to agree with them, but it can help you have a more civilized conversation, ensuring that the relationship won’t be lost due to the heat of the moment. Empathy can go a long way.

When it comes to your boundaries, don’t mince words. If you know yourself and feel that you won’t be able to engage in a discussion regarding politics without screaming, let other people know that you won’t be talking politics. If you want to have a discussion with someone, try to be the person that you’d like to have a discussion with, taking turns to listen and talking while measuring your words and not being insulting.

Are You Really Ready To Try THC-P

Terry Hacienda

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April 17, 2024

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THC-P is not for beginners – it is for the consumer who is well versed in the journey – and managing a high.

The high holiday of 4/20 is right around the corner and marijuana aficionados are thinking about celebrating. Some will go all out, other will chill and relax. It is a major holiday for dispensaries and a great time to experiment or go with the old faithful. But for some weed veterans, they might want to consider expanding. But are you really ready to try THC-P.

In 2019, Italian scientists isolated Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabiphorol from a synthetic medical marijuana strain. Abbreviated as THC-P, THCP, and THCp, this minor cannabinoid appears to act on endocannabinoid receptors in the brain with incredible efficiency. This binding ability makes THC-P is the most potent psychoactive cannabinoid yet. Users report it feels even stronger than Delta-9 (standard THC).

The cannabinoid is also preferred by hemp lovers because of its rich collection of psychoactive derivatives. While obeying federal laws, THC-P offers consumers a perfect way to feel the intoxicating effects of weed. It has been observed to bind uniquely to the CB1 receptors. Potent psychoactive compounds like THC-P offer users a one-of-a-kind experience. However, it is imperative to dose the compound correctly as you could easily get overwhelmed by it. New users are always advised to start with the lowest amount possible.

THC-P is certainly more potent than THC due to its 33X receptor-binding affinity. But it doesn’t mean this compound gets users 33 times higher, Most say it feels about five to 10 times stronger than Delta-9 THC. It is a powerful cannabinoid intoxicating even to the most tolerant user. You can use your regular marijuana tolerance to determine the appropriate dose. If you have never tried other existing forms of THC, this not the starter level.

THC-P products come in different strains. Each strain has its own unique cannabinoid and terpene profile. The adequate dose of THCP might range between 1 and 4mg. Consumers should begin with a 0.3mg dosage and work their way up. It’s easy to take too much THCP and get unwanted side effects, so it’s best to start with tiny dosages. It is always advisable to stick to one strain.

It can be consumed via joint, vape, sublingual or ingestible product. The method used will determines how fast the compounds will be broken down and absorbed into the body. Vapes offer the highest potency effects as the compounds are immediately bioavailable. And be sure you are are you really ready to try THC-P.

Will House Speaker Chaos Hurt Cannabis Again

Terry Hacienda

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April 17, 2024

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Will House Speaker Chaos Hurt Cannabis Again

The House seems to be about ready to have speaker chaos again. Will it hurt the cannabis industry like last time?

It seems the US House of Representative might be thrown into turmoil again. Last fall, rejection of then House Speaker Kevin McCarthy lead to a bruising fight for a new leader. The winner of the fight is Rep. Mike Johnson, who is now again in danger of being ousted. The last fight ended with very little down in Congress and the only major bill to pass was a temporary funding of the government. Now it looks like it will start all over again. But will House speaker chaos hurt cannabis again?

After passing the House seven times, Safe Banking, which is key to help the industry, failed in the Senate. Then, like a miracle, last fall Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Patty Murray (D-WA) put together an updated bill in the Senate with Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Steve Daines (R-MT), and U.S. Representatives Dave Joyce (R-OH-14) and Earl Blumenauer (D-OR-03). They introduced a bipartisan, bicameral Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFER) Banking Act of 2023. The bill would ensure that legal cannabis businesses would have access to critical banking and financial services. As they had big support in the Senate and a positive history with the House, things looked good – and then the House went sideways and McCarthy was ousted. But what about now?

Now Representative Marjorie Taylor Green(R-GA) is calling to vacate Speaker Johnson (R-LA) and has a new ally in her efforts. But, at the moment, cannabis can ride a short term House hiccup. Rescheduling seems to be moving forward after a slow start by the Biden administration. Now the President, Vice President and other leaders are pushing the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) to follow the Health and Human Service (HHS) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggestions to reschedule cannabis and recognize it as a proven medical benefit.

Rescheduling is the most critical to the industry providing long and short term infrastructure to help the marijuana market. It also signals to the public marijuana can be a benefit. Congress does not have a role in the process, so no worry there.

Senator Schumer has also made it clear a revised banking bill is important, but most likely will not happen until later in the year. This gives the House time to sort the mess and evaluate the benefits of a banking bill. And its appeal to younger voters. Hopefully this will all be cleaned up no later than mid-May.

Can Marijuana Consumers Donate Blood

Sarah Johns

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April 17, 2024

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Blood donations are down, but the need is up. More people are needed to “open up” – but can you if you consume marijuana?

Every five seconds, at least two hospital residents need blood transfusions, Charles Richard Drew, an African-American surgeon and medical researcher helped create them, developing improved techniques for blood storage, and applied his expert knowledge to developing large-scale blood banks early in World War II. Tens of millions of lives have been saved thanks to him. But recently, donations have plunged and lives have been put in jeopardy. More need to give, but can marijuana consumes donate blood?

“In the last 20 years, we’ve seen about a 40% decrease in donors overall to the Red Cross,” shared Eric Gehrie, MD, the executive medical director of the American Red Cross. “The earlier that we can connect with someone, and they donate in high school, they typically will become lifelong donors.”

But the percentage of teens and young adults who have donated blood has steadily fallen since 2013, according to the federal National Blood Collection and Utilization Survey.

Eligibility to donate blood is regulated the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This is the same agency considering reclassifying marijuana and acknowledge the cannabis plant has medical benefits. The FDA is clear cannabis does not disqualify an individual from blood donation, but potential donors cannot give if their use of cannabis impairs their memory or comprehension. It is the same rule for alcohol. Some regional blood centers require you not to be under the influence of alcohol, cannabis, or prescription drugs. Most also require you don’t use aspirin for 2 days prior to giving.

Consumers of synthetic cannabis are placed on another pedestal. You can not donating blood if you regularly consume synthetic cannabinoids like Spice, also called K2. K2 is an artificial laboratory-discovered marijuana product that has been flagged as being unfit for human consumption.

Donating blood is good deed and worth considering.

5 Things To Keep In Mind When Using Cannabis For Sleep

Maria Loreto

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April 16, 2024

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Cannabis and sleep go together like pillows and blankets. Here’s a few things you should keep in mind when using the herb to help you rest.

The Fresh Toast – Medications have side effects, so what about something natural. Here are 5 things to keep in mind when using cannabis for sleep

Despite being used as a sleep aid, NyQuil is not one. It is a popular assistant, but even with a virus it shouldn’t be used more than 7 days. While roughly 50–70 million Canadians and Americans have ongoing sleep disorders, a little help is needed. Melatonin is also popular, if you are the someone where it works, you can take it nightly for one to two months. Melatonin can also take up to 1-2 hours to kick. Prescribed medications have a high potential for causing dependency. This not only can lead to addiction, but can stop working and leading to more insomnia. So what about something else natural.

Marijuana can be a great tool for sleep. While more research is being done, there is evidence people with varying degrees of insomnia shows how effective marijuana can be for sleep. But even for the occasionally sleepless night do to stress, minor pain, or other issues. It can work. And it doesn’t need to be built up into your system, it works and then fades away. Here are 5 things to keep in mind when using cannabis for sleep.

Dosage

Dosage, along with your level of experience with marijuana, matters when it comes to using the herb before bed. If you smoke too little, you might feel no effects. If you smoke too much, you might find yourself tossing and turning with weed-induced paranoia. If it’s your first time using marijuana for sleep, try your best to create a relaxing environment and avoid overstimulating yourself with too much screen time or alcohol. Pace yourself with your marijuana intake and be aware of your body and its cues; you’re better equipped to jump into bed once it feels right.

Method of consumption

Weed Edibles Have Sold Really Well During The Pandemic — Photo by Jonathan J. Castellon via Unsplash

The way in which you consume marijuana will affect how fast or intense your reaction will be. If you consume an edible, be sure to give your body time to experience effects. If you’re vaping, smoking or using an oil, there’s more control and less planning necessary.

The type of cannabis matters

Whether you’re consuming a product THC or CBD based, or you’re consuming sativas or indicas, it’s important to know all the types of cannabis provide different effects. Indicas are the strains which tend to affect the body in relaxing and heavy ways, producing sleepy effects. Still, it doesn’t mean a sativa strain or a hybrid won’t make you feel sleepy. Marijuana is a trial and error type of substance; try different options and keep track of what works for you and what doesn’t.

Marijuana hangovers

If you’re not much of a night time marijuana consumer, the groggy feeling you might experience when you wake up can be puzzling. Although not as strong or common as regular hangovers, weed hangovers exist. Although not completely understood, these are more likely if you’ve been consuming low quality marijuana. To cope with them, be sure to drink lots of water, eat healthy goods and monitor your cannabis intake through the day.

Changes in sleep and dreams

One of the most noticeable effects cannabis has on sleep is the lack of dreams. This is due to cannabis limiting REM sleep, which is the stage of sleep where dreams are likely to occur. Scientific studies have found REM sleep is important for learning and resting. There’s much we don’t understand when it comes to the relationship between cannabis and sleep. It’s important to monitor your marijuana usage and your sleep habits, especially if you feel like the sleep you’re having is not restful or good for you.

How Much CBD AND THC Oils Are Absorbed

Sarah Johns

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April 16, 2024

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CBD and THC oils are becoming popular, quick, effect and easy to use…but how much gets in the body?

A product can claim to contain large amounts of THC or CBD and that it will provide powerful benefits. But while this may be true, it doesn’t explain the complex process of how cannabis ends up absorbed through the bloodstream, which is known as bioavailability. When it comes to CBD and THC oils, the amount of that ends up absorbed in your blood is usually very little.

Bioavailability isthe proportion of a drug or other substance which enters the circulation when introduced into the body and so is able to have an active effect. Itcan be influenced by the body’s make up, physiological processes and, importantly, the method in which you consume. While recreational cannabis is more lax and can be adapted as needed, bioavailability is vital for the plant’s value as medicine. The more bioavailable the product is, the more accurate the dosage, and the less amount of it you’ll need for it to produce its intended effect.

When ingested in oil form, the effectiveness of CBD and THC becomes compromised. Roughly, about 6% of the THC or CBD present in these products ends up absorbed by the bloodstream.

Could CBD And Cannabis Eliminate The High-Cost And High-Stakes Of Current Psoriasis Medicines? — Photo by IRA_EVVA/Getty Images

One reason is the body is made up of 60% water. When compounds are presented in oil form, their potency is affected since the water in our bodies and the oil in the product have trouble mixing. It is the proverbial oil and water. This is further increased by the fact oil is usually ingested orally, absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract and later making its way to the liver, where it’s metabolized. After so many stops, the amounts of useful compound ending up in your bloodstream is limited.

There are some ways to trick your body into making the cannabis more effective. You can supplement your cannabis with healthy fats, such as hummus, coconut oil and avocado. You can also try butter and ice cream if you’re not feeling all that health conscious and are just looking for a good time. Another way is to supplement with herbs. Similar to foods, certain herbs can also increase the bioavailability of CBD.

Cannabis contains fat soluble compounds, which means they break down more effectively in fat instead of water. This is why most edibles are high in fat: cookies, brownies, fudge, etc. Coconut oil has been demonstrated to be one of the best fats for absorbing THC molecules.

With legalization and popularity, the most popular forms of consumption are vaping, smoking and edibles (primarily gummies). The next round includes dabbing, applied topically or absorbed through suppositories. While there’s pros and cons with each, products that are smoked work well since the lungs are highly permeable. Suppositories, even if they’re a little weird, produce among the strongest and longest lasting effects. Topical compounds, which are usually medicinal and for pain relieving purposes, work well since there are plenty of cannabinoids located under the surface of the skin.

Is Cannabis Good For The Planet

Amy Hansen

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April 15, 2024

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As Earth Day approaches, is growing cannabis good for the planet – it is a bit of a mixed bag

As Earth Day approaches, everyone is evaluating what is good for the planet. Plastic, emissions, fake fur, and Temu’s fast fashion are clearly bad for the planet, but others are more nuanced. Ever since Morton Hilbert started the movement, it has been a time reflect, reassess and hopefully adjust. With marijuana and CBD have become mainstream and popular over the last few years, is cannabis for the planet?

While cannabis has clear medical benefits and is considering a treat recreationally, it can take a toil on the earth. There are some benefits. As a fast-growing plant, cannabis can absorb significant amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, making it a potentially valuable crop for combating climate change.

The plant’s deep roots also help prevent soil erosion, and its flowers attract pollinators like bees, supporting biodiversity. Additionally, cannabis has been shown to be effective at phytoremediation – absorbing and storing heavy metals from contaminated soils, which can help clean up polluted land. These are all related to outdoor grows.

The downside can have environmental risks which need to be managed. Both indoor and outdoor cannabis grows can be highly water-intensive, with estimates of up to 6 gallons of water per plant per day for cultivation. This water usage can deplete local water resources and pollute waterways with fertilizers and pesticides. While less than crops like citrus fruits, grapes (wine), palmists, apricots, it is still a significant impact.

Indoor grows also have a large energy footprint, with high electricity demands for lighting, HVAC, and other equipment, leading to significant greenhouse gas emissions. Cannabis farming can also contribute to deforestation and soil erosion if not done sustainably, such as by clearing land on steep slopes. And the plants themselves emit volatile organic compounds that can negatively impact local air quality.

Overall, the environmental impact of cannabis cultivation depends greatly on the specific growing methods used. Outdoor, soil-based cultivation with efficient water use and integrated pest management practices can minimize the environmental toll. Indoor grows, on the other hand, require more careful planning to reduce energy use, water consumption, and air pollution.

With the right policies and farming techniques, cannabis could potentially be grown in an environmentally-friendly way which sequesters carbon, supports biodiversity, and remediates contaminated soils. But the industry will need to prioritize sustainability to fully realize the plant’s potential as an eco-friendly crop. Legalization will have a big impact. Southern and other farming states with experience in outdoor growing will help. Thoughtful regulation, life cycle assessments, and adoption of precision agriculture technologies will all be important to making cannabis cultivation more sustainable.

What Is THC

Terry Hacienda

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April 15, 2024

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Everyone has heard of weed, marijuana, cannabis and more – but do you know exactly what is THC, what is does and is it in CBD?

Marijuana and CBD have become mainstream and popular over the last few years. And mainstream companies from Constellation to Miracle Grow have become part of the industry. The American Medical Association have back the claims of medical benefits and even the Biden administration seems to easing their resistance. It can be fun, relaxing or helping, depending on why you are embracing the plant. But what is THC and why is it important?

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a terpenoid found in cannabis. The key psychoactive constituent of the cannabis plant, it is the one which makes you feel high and sends you on a journey. As one of at least 113 total cannabinoids identified in the plant, it is the most popular, but is not part of CBD. Its chemical formula C₂₁H₃₀O₂ and the term THC usually refers to the delta-9-THC isomer.

The primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, THC works by binding to cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) in the brain and body. CB1 receptors are concentrated in the central nervous system and mediate the psychoactive effects of THC, such as altered perception, mood, and cognition. CB2 receptors are mainly found in the peripheral nervous system and immune cells, and are involved in the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of THC. When it binds to these receptors, it mimics the action of the body’s own endocannabinoids, like anandamide, disrupting normal brain function and leading to the characteristic effects including relaxing, reduce anxiety, giggling, or, in rare cases, some paranoia.

THC has been approved for certain medical uses, such as treating nausea, chronic pain management and chemotherapy. Healthcare providers should be consulted so they can consider a patient’s history and current state when prescribing THC-based medications. Overall, the medical use of THC requires a multidisciplinary approach to ensure safe and effective treatment.

CBD is typically derived from hemp. It has very low THC concentrations, not enough to get you “high” but enough to help with anxiety, relax you and several other benefits. More research as to be done on both CBD and THC to unlock additional benefits.

If you are new to consuming, 2.5-5 mg THC is typically the lowest dose available in single servings of edible products and is recommended for beginners. For smoking or vaping, take just one puff and wait 15 minutes to see how you feel before taking more. This low dose can help minimize the risk of unwanted side effects like anxiety, paranoia, or discomfort as you embrace THC.

Choosing The Right Edible

Sarah Johns

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April 15, 2024

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Edibles have become very popular – finding the right one for you is key!

With over 50% of the country’s population having access to recreational cannabis, it has gone mainstream. Over 85% of the population believe it should be legal in some form and now there is a whole movement around California sober. As access to legal marijuana gains, beer sales have flattened and people are curious. According to BDSA, almost 50% of those who have used cannabis, have used an edible – primarily a gummy.

Marijuana not only helps you to chill, relax or go on a fun journey, it also has clear medical benefits. Edibles are healthier for you body and lungs than vaping and smoking while capable of producing the same results. While smoking cannabis is a little healthier than tobacco, it is still not a great frequent habit. Additionally, edibles are likely to provide more pain relief and a stronger response from your mind and body.

Edibles are portable and discreet, allowing you to consume at a party, family event, or on the bus. No fuss, no muss and you can pop one in your mouth. According to BDSA, gummies represent at last 85% of the edible market.

Edible makers infuse their foods with marijuana through a variety of ways, primarily with cannabutter and extracts. Cannabutter is the product that results once butter or oil is infused with cannabis. This mixture is then used to make brownies, chocolates, etc.. Cannabutter includes the benefits and limitations of the whole cannabis flower, providing you with the full spectrum of cannabinoids. This means that there’s THC, CBD, and more in these types of edibles but also that they’re more unpredictable.

Gummies and a few other products are usually made with extracts. Producers isolate THC or CBD in a lab and later add them to their products, making something that is more reliable and consistent. Edibles prepared with extracts are a good option for people who are looking for a specific effect.

5 differences cannabis edibles and flower — Photo by Margo Amala via Unsplash

When it comes to dosage, if you are new – consider starting with 2.5-5 mg and see how it goes. One benefit of professional edibles is there is a generally a good dosing guide so you can manage your high. Where you want to chill at a concert of microdose to focus, you should be able to easily manage your high with a gummy. Traditionally baked edibles can crumble and might not travel as well.

Remember it usually takes between 45 minutes to an hour for an edible to kick in. Wana Brands started a trend by releasing a new edible called Calm which hits in 5-15 minutes. Being the first, you may have to wait for it to be in your area.

Dispensary purchased edibles also tend to have less of a “weed” flavor. Companies have employed chocolatiers and master candy makers to ensure the right taste along with the journey. Flavors go from cookies and cream to watermelon, so you should find the right flavor.

Why Marijuana Makes You Laugh

Sarah Johns

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April 12, 2024

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Laughter can be turn a bad situation around and make you feel a whole lot better. Here is why marijuana make you laugh.

Laughter may not be the best medicine – but it is probably in the top three. Norwegian researchers conducted a 15-year study on the link between sense of humor and mortality among 53,556 women and men in their country. They discovered chuckling makes you live longer. It would seem while not laughing might mean a shorter life but would feel much longer. Movies, memes, friends, jokes and general silliness can induce it from you. But so can cannabis. Here is why marijuana makes you laugh.

Laughter does more than just lift you mentally, it actually induces physical changes in your body including:

Stimulate a number of organs. Laughter enhances intake of oxygen-rich air, stimulates the heart, lungs and muscles, and increases endorphins released by the brain.
Activate and relieve stress response. A rollicking laugh fires up and then cools down the stress response, and it can increase and then decrease your heart rate and blood pressure resulting in a good, relaxed feeling.
Soothe tension. Laughter can also stimulate circulation and aid muscle relaxation, both of which can help reduce some of the physical symptoms of stress.

Cannabis has been associated with laughter for a millennia. In the 1st century it was recorded Pliny the Elder named cannabis Gelotophyllis, which translates to “leaves of laughter.” But what is the science?

THC, the primary psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis plants, increases mesolimbic dopamine transmission. The boost in dopamine production make you feel euphoric and happy, leading to spontaneous and robust laughter sessions. One of the reasons people use cannabis recreationally is the experience of a pleasant euphoria and sense of relaxation. Additional effects, include heightened sensory perception (e.g., brighter colors) and increased appetite with an oversized perception of taste. This can lead to a light, happy feeling paving the way for giggling.

Longer term, laughter can provide even more benefits. It may ease pain by causing the body to produce its own natural painkillers. Laughter can also make it easier to cope with difficult situations. Also, many people experience depression, sometimes due to chronic illnesses. Laughter can help lessen your stress, depression and anxiety and may make you feel happier.

And, people like hanging out with someone who is happy – it is normally infectious and tends to bring it out in other people. So laughing every days good for you and those around you.

The Fresh ToastThe most trusted name in cannabis

How To Manage Warring Political Conversations

The presidential campaign is in full swing – but why should it interrupt friend and family gathers…here are the best tips to managing different political perspectives.

Plan ahead

State your discomfort

Know when to end a conversation

Have an open mind

Are You Really Ready To Try THC-P

THC-P is not for beginners – it is for the consumer who is well versed in the journey – and managing a high.

Will House Speaker Chaos Hurt Cannabis Again

The House seems to be about ready to have speaker chaos again. Will it hurt the cannabis industry like last time?

Can Marijuana Consumers Donate Blood

Blood donations are down, but the need is up. More people are needed to “open up” – but can you if you consume marijuana?

5 Things To Keep In Mind When Using Cannabis For Sleep

Cannabis and sleep go together like pillows and blankets. Here’s a few things you should keep in mind when using the herb to help you rest.

Dosage

Method of consumption

The type of cannabis matters

Marijuana hangovers

Changes in sleep and dreams

How Much CBD AND THC Oils Are Absorbed

CBD and THC oils are becoming popular, quick, effect and easy to use…but how much gets in the body?

Is Cannabis Good For The Planet

As Earth Day approaches, is growing cannabis good for the planet – it is a bit of a mixed bag

What Is THC

Everyone has heard of weed, marijuana, cannabis and more – but do you know exactly what is THC, what is does and is it in CBD?

Choosing The Right Edible

Edibles have become very popular – finding the right one for you is key!

Why Marijuana Makes You Laugh

Laughter can be turn a bad situation around and make you feel a whole lot better. Here is why marijuana make you laugh.

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