Once you’re armed with this information, you’ll be ready to start experimenting with growing your own cannabis or perhaps trying a new cannabis cultivar.

When shopping for cannabis strains, you will notice that there are many other terms that are used to describe them. These include phenotypes, chemotypes, genotypes, and cultivars. These are also important terms to know if you want to grow your own cannabis.

Here’s a guide for everything you need to know about the many names used to describe cannabis varieties.

Cannabis Strains and Cultivars

Cannabis strains are the variation names formed by cultivars, and any offspring that has resulted from these modified plants. They can be produced through regular breeding or other more modern methods, sometimes they can also occur through genetic mutations.

A cannabis strain name, such as Blue Dream, Afghan Kush, or Sour Diesel refers to the characteristics retained by the strain. There are almost 1,000 cannabis strains known today, which are further classified into one of three categories: sativa, indica, or hybrid. Generally speaking, sativa cannabis strains are known for their energizing and uplifting qualities when consumed, while indica strains are more sedating and relaxing – suitable for nighttime use. Meanwhile, hybrid strains combine effects of both.

With cannabis use becoming more widespread around the world, there is always a new strain to try and look forward to as breeders explore making their own.

Reputable vegan CBD product manufacturers tend to use better quality ingredients overall compared to the artificial ingredients found in most cheap CBD items.

The rise of veganism is widely spreading all around the world. Surveys suggest in 2020 alone, there was an increase of 40%, though it’s hard to pinpoint the exact number.

It’s not just a fad; veganism is more than a plant-based diet as more and more people see the value in completely eliminating all forms of animal products from their lifestyle. Whether it’s for environmental reasons, health, or for the animals, there’s no doubt that there are certain benefits to going vegan.

Cannabidiol (CBD), is one of the two primary compounds in the cannabis plant. The other being tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is famous for its psychoactive effects and therapeutic benefits. On the other hand, CBD doesn’t get you high but it has it’s own health benefits especially when it comes to anxiety, stress reduction, seizures, sleep management, pains, and aches. CBD can be taken in a wide variety of forms: it can be vaped, consumed as an edible or in gummies, or in capsule form and so much more. But some vegans probably wonder if CBD is vegan.

Vegan CBD Products

CBD in itself is vegan, because it’s derived from the hemp plant, which is rich in amino acids. Vegans can enjoy a range of health benefits from consuming vegan CBD products because they can help increase energy, improve brain function, contribute to overall emotional and mental wellbeing, aid in metabolism, and much more. In addition, it’s also rich in antioxidant contents.

However, not all CBD products on the market are vegan. The whole point of going plant-based means that one eschews all forms of animal byproducts including cosmetics, supplements, and actual food. And when it comes to manufacturing CBD products, the same rules apply. For example, there are many CBD edibles out there are that are not made with vegan ingredients, such as milk or honey as well as flavorings, so it pays to look out specifically for vegan CBD products that are better for you and the environment, which are also more aligned with your own lifestyle choices.

Everything you need to get high fun and safely.

With all but a few dozen decidedly nerdy states embracing legal cannabis, it looks as though we’re heading into a cultural renaissance with a big old dank nug at the helm. 

As the stigma trailing weed continues to dissipate, a whole new generation of cannabis consumers is getting ready to acquaint themselves with a drug most grew up being told was pure evil by groups like D.A.R.E., the U.S. government, and those meddling kids from Bayside High. For the budding stoners, medical cardholders, and recreational users alike, this gear should help you master this misunderstood drug called cannabis. 

Study of 18- to 30-year-olds shows weed and alcohol make for improved sex lives.

Spanish researchers exploring how cannabis and alcohol use influences sexuality found that young people partaking in both seem to be more than happy with their sex lives.

Due to rising confusion about its legality, HHC is being sold across the U.S. Here’s what you should know about this synthetic cannabinoid.

The newest cannabinoid and, I must say, “another worthy addition” swaying the market right, left, front, and back is hexahydrocannabinol (HHC). Rising to prominence after regulations banned the sales and use of delta-8, this compound has been referred to as an intriguing analog of THC. Whether or not to agree with this description cannot be decided now, as there are several misconceptions about HHC cannabinoids.

The cannabis community certainly has to be working overtime at this point, discovering cannabinoids after cannabinoids. Fortunately for the community and related groups, perceptions about cannabis are changing around the world and are being backed by appropriate legislation. This has accelerated studies aimed at learning more about cannabis and its cannabinoids. Almost every week, science blogs and conventional media outlets have something new to say about cannabis.

Taking your focus back to hexahydrocannabinol, this article tries to clear up some misinformation making waves about the newly discovered HHC. Even when attempting to draft this piece, I encountered dozens of contradicting information about the compound’s origin, effects, safety, and legality.

What Is HexahydroCannabinol (HHC)?

Many headlines across the world define the compound as a naturally produced cannabinoid found in trace quantities in pollen. In contrast, HHC is a synthetic cannabinoid compound prepared in a laboratory with selected cannabis extracts. These compounds are in league with the less common cannabinoids pushed aside until recently by the big guns — THC and CBD.

Hexahydrocannabinol was first developed in 1944 by a scientist named Roger Adams. He created the compound through the hydrogenation process by mixing hydrogen molecules with delta-9-THC. This compound has stayed in the shadows since then until it started receiving attention recently. Cannabis retailers are selling the product for consumers to use as a substitute for THC.

Even though there have been trends that have taken hold within the world of cannabis in the past, it’s hard to imagine them having a bigger impact than ones that have taken hold in the early 2020s.

To say that the world of cannabis is much different than it was just a decade ago would be a drastic understatement. In years past there haven’t been as many developments around cannabis due to tight restrictions. Now, as those restrictions fade away in many locations, developments in the world of cannabis are coming constantly.

The developments that have transpired within the recreational cannabis space during the 2020s have taken off in very little time, and it’s hard to tell which are here to stay. These trends from the current decade will have a lasting impact on the realm of cannabis.

Association With Health & Wellness Sector 

Cannabis brands aligning themselves with the health and wellness verticals is smart business for numerous reasons. The health and wellness vertical is worth a total of $4.2 trillion globally. Additionally, by aligning with brands focused on self-improvement it’s easier for unfamiliar shoppers to get an understanding of cannabis products outside of the guise of just “getting stoned”.

People that have been into a vape store or headshop lately have likely come across products that look like regular marijuana products under the category of THC-O, or Delta-8 THC. Synthetic cannabinoids like these are becoming increasingly common in states where hemp-derived CBD products are legal.

Given the many challenges that the cannabis industry has faced in the early goings, many businesses have been forced to adapt. No asset has been more helpful in helping businesses in the marijuana industry overcome their challenges than rapidly-developing modern technology. From advanced DNA-based product personalization, to app-based retail businesses are able legally to cater to the needs of their customers in ways that were previously unimaginable.

The high barrier of entry into the wine world is one of the biggest reasons for the lack of diversity within the industry. Being a budtender or managing a dispensary doesn’t require as much training. 

As the cannabis industry develops, it’s hard not to make comparisons to other industries that had gone legit after years in the shadows. Among the first that comes to mind is wine.

Given the fact that the wine industry predates recreational cannabis by decades, it seems that it should come as no surprise that there’s a level of racism present within the industry, just as there are throughout other industries. Unfortunately, much of the racism that existed during the inception of the wine industry persists today. 

Naturally, this leads many people to wonder about the ways in which cannabis is any different from the wine industry in that regard. Even though the cannabis industry is still young, all indications show that the cannabis industry will provide more opportunities to People of Color than wine has. Here’s how cannabis is different from recreational cannabis from a social equity perspective.

The high barrier of entry into the wine world is one of the biggest reasons for the lack of diversity within the industry. The process of earning the certification necessary for becoming a wine sommelier can cost hundreds of dollars, which inherently excludes people without that kind of disposable income — which happens to be People of Color in most situations. In the cannabis industry, being a budtender or managing a dispensary doesn’t require as much training. 

According to the Deputy Director of the Center for Effective Public Management at the Brookings Institution, John Hudak, the ability of cannabis businesses to stay true to its beginnings will be essential in helping to ensure that the industry remains diverse. “Higher end wines tend to be disproportionately white compared to other parts of the economy,” he explains. “Because cannabis, the consumer base is inherently more diverse than wine, it benefits it to stay to its roots.”

The City of Grover Beach might be the first city in San Luis Obispo County to permit cannabis lounges, but what exactly would a lounge look like?

“With tables and perhaps a bar where people can sit and socialize and use cannabis like you would sip a martini or a beer at a bar," said Ed Schmults, CEO of Urbn Leaf.

The four retailers in the city, including Urbn Leaf, have expressed interest in adding a cannabis lounge to their existing location.

“Is it just like a bar or is it more like a wine tasting? Or are there elements of like a health and wellness seminar where you can learn about applications for pain or inflammation or anxiety or sleep? Or maybe a combination of all those things," said Schmults.

City officials say the additional tax revenue can be used for city initiatives and projects. Over the last year, the cannabis industry in the city has generated more than $2 million in cannabis tax revenue.  

WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE COUNTY — 3BUDS LLC, a full-service Delta 8 cannabinoid company held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the grand opening of their hemp dispensary on Public Square in Wilkes-Barre, Tuesday.

The dispensary sells Delta 8, but many wonder what is Delta 8, how is it legal and how does it differ from medical marijuana (Delta 9 THC)?

3BUDS is owned by brothers-in-law, Ted Lasher and Hunter Smetana, along with their “honorary brother” Colby Kluk. The business started online as an e-commerce business that has grown into 3 physical locations in Wilkes-Barre, Wyoming and Scranton.

“I’m super excited, I couldn’t sleep last night, but I’m also excited to see the public’s reaction to see how they feel getting access to these products. We get to inform and help educate the public and break the stigma,” said Ted Lasher, co-owner, 3BUDS LLC.

Why get a one-gram delta-8 vape when you can get two-gram vapes for only a little higher cost? Pro tip: Get the bigger gram size.

Vaping sweet spots differ from one user to another. Achieving this phenomenon involves making a raft of adjustments on your vaporizer as well as choosing suitable e-juice.

There is plenty of vaping lingo to learn for any new or aspiring vaper. Some of these terms are relatively basic and not necessarily key to the success of your vaping sessions. However, others must be understood fully before joining in on the vaping craze.

“Sweet spot” is a common vaping-related phrase that you’ll frequently stumble upon in numerous vape-related publications. But what exactly does this term denote, and how central is it to your success as a vaper? That question shall be the focus of this post.

Your sweet spot refers to the point during vaping when you can enjoy an optimal vaping experience. It’s a combination of factors, including implementing specific settings on your vaporizer and choosing the right vape juice. The quality of your vaporizer also plays a crucial role in determining your sweet spot.

Another thing worth noting is that sweet spot varies from one vaper to another. Plus, it depends on your vaping level. Seasoned vapers more commonly experience the phenomenon compared to beginners.

Sweet Spot and Vape Quality

As we’ve just highlighted, the quality of your vaporizer plays an instrumental role in determining how efficiently you can achieve your sweet spot. With low-quality e-cigs, it’s almost impossible to experience your vaping sweet spot.

Maintaining the fiction that professional sports are THC-free is just an act of denial that we can no longer afford.

Drug testing for THC in professional sports is almost dead, as it should be — but not quite. It still lurks in the corners like a zombie, ready to attack anyone who points at it. The NBA has ended random drug testing, but it still has a policy in place for testing players “for cause,” which keeps those players from advocating for the full elimination of drug testing in the league.

The NBA rightly tests for performance-enhancing drugs that would give players an unfair edge, but THC is not a performance-enhancing drug. The only reason it’s banned in sports is because of a falsehood perpetrated by the federal government that cannabis is one of the most dangerous drugs in the world. It is not.

Some recent estimates suggest that as many as 85% of NBA players use cannabis, yet the NBA still perpetuates the charade that it runs a THC-free workplace. It does not.

This wink-and-nod system has run its course. Legal marijuana jurisdictions are no longer the exception to the rule. They are the dominant norm in America today. Every team of every sports league is based in a city with some form of legal THC — even those that play in states with no legal marijuana.

Major League Baseball has 30 teams. Of those, 16 play home games in a state or province with legal recreational marijuana, 10 in states with medical marijuana, and four in states with no legal marijuana — the Brewers, the Braves, the Rangers, and the Astros.

The State of New York is on its way to fostering the most diverse and equitable cannabis industry in the country, as it will require that about half of all business licenses be awarded to social equity applicants. However, as it stands, the social equity measures outlined in the Marihuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA) do not include the LGBTQ community, drastically outcasting many of those impacted by prohibition as well as those who served as trailblazers in the marijuana legalization movement.

Recently, leadership from Pantheon Collective worked with New York State Senator Jeremy Cooney, who proposed a new bill that would include gay, lesbian and bisexual people in the state’s social equity applicants for cannabis businesses (Senate Bill 7517 was previously submitted to committee to include transgender and gender non-binary people). In order to make the vision set forth by the MRTA a reality and properly acknowledge the LGBTQ community’s role in the cannabis movement, New York must amend this oversight by passing this legislation.

The LGBTQ community and cannabis activism have coincided for decades 

The queer rights and cannabis legalization movements are tightly intertwined. Our community has long been an ally of legalization and decriminalization, with numerous members being outspoken activists and the plant has played a large role in the lives of many LGBTQ people.

Cannabis is a known treatment for HIV/AIDS Wasting Syndrome (a qualifying condition in New York’s medical marijuana program), Historically, HIV/AIDS has disproportionately affected the LGBTQ community. Because of this, the cannabis movement and gay rights movement not only gained ground at the similar times but were also based in advocating for ostracized populations and combatting legislation that disproportionately restricts the liberties of disenfranchised communities at higher rates than those of privileged ones.

Mary Jane Rathbun became Brownie Mary through her distribution of pot brownies to patients as a hospital volunteer for the Shanti Project, the first organization to offer medical services to AIDS patients. At one point, Rathbun was baking nearly 600 brownies a day and was arrested several times for her efforts to help a population that was otherwise being ignored.

Marijuana breathalyzers have long been in development, producing no fruitful results. A new study shows a different path.

Researchers have found a non-invasive way of determining whether or not a person has been impaired by THC. This discovery, achieved thanks to a study conducted by Massachusetts General Hospital and published in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology, could provide an answer for DUIs related to cannabis consumption, providing a pathway in treating these types of situations.

According to The Harvard Gazette, the technique used in the study is called functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), which measures brain patterns, which researchers then correlated to THC impairment. The device in question would be designed to be portable and noninvasive, allowing people to use it on the go, measuring THC impairment in subjects.

The study had 169 cannabis users consume THC or a placebo and then submit themselves to fNIRS scans. Those who’d consumed cannabis showed higher levels of neural activity in the prefrontal cortex of the brain when compared to those who’d consumed a placebo.

“Our research represents a novel direction for impairment testing in the field,” said lead author Jodi Gilman, associate professor at Harvard and investigator in the Center for Addiction Medicine.

“Our goal was to determine if cannabis impairment could be detected from activity of the brain on an individual level. This is a critical issue because a ‘breathalyzer’ type of approach will not work for detecting cannabis impairment, which makes it very difficult to objectively assess impairment from THC during a traffic stop.”

Is marijuana really the drug most commonly used by truck drivers? National Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse statistics say it is by far, but hair-testing advocates cite new research finding that truck drivers abuse cocaine more than cannabis.

UCA researchers concluded that Trucking Alliance drivers are less likely to use illegal drugs than the national truck driver population. They passed their urine drug tests 269% more frequently than drivers in the Clearinghouse.

Marijuana was the most commonly identified substance in positive urine tests from both the Clearinghouse and the Trucking Alliance carriers data.

However, among Trucking Alliance drivers who were disqualified for failing their hair test, cocaine was identified 16% more frequently and opioids were identified 14% more frequently than in the federally required urine tests.

Researchers found statistical evidence that while urine testing is effective at detecting marijuana, hair testing detects not only marijuana, but also a higher percentage of harder drugs, such as cocaine, heroin, and opioids, than a urine test. Hair testing, they said, detects drugs 8.26 time (826%) more frequently than urine testing.

Downtown Los Angeles has so many things to do, but how do you find the best things to do in DTLA? The DTLA scene is ever-evolving, but this list contains both age-old favorites and newcomers not to miss. If you’re looking for the best things to do in DTLA in 2022, we’ve got you covered:  

 Visit The Arts District 

Any trip to DTLA should be accompanied by a visit to DTLA’s famed Arts District, or ADLA. From public art murals to galleries, bars and some of the best food you’ve ever tasted, ADLA is home to a thriving community of artists, using mediums like paint, food, cloth and so much more to make their mark on the world.  

Grand Central Market evolves alongside DTLA, making a trip to the giant open-air market a must on your list of things to do in DTLA. From OG vendors to new concepts, you’ll find representations of cuisine from all over the world! The best part about GCM is you don’t have to make just one choice, visit all the stalls you want, then bring your feast to one of the public tables for an Instagram-worthy meal that you’ll wish you could eat again, and again, and again.  

Visit California’s Coolest Multi-Story Dispensary 

No list of things to do in DTLA is complete without a trip to People’s DTLA. As the Best Dispensary in DTLA, People’s DTLA is unrivaled in aesthetic, menu, selection, transparency, knowledge and chill. It’s a physical manifestation of DTLA weed culture come to life, paying homage to its roots, acknowledging the struggles, honoring the pioneers and embracing the future. With four levels to explore, you’ll enjoy some of the most relaxing hours of your life vibing within these walls. A vertically integrated cannabis powerhouse, People’s DTLA is not to be missed. There, Unrivaled is building the next generation of unrivaled cannabis products and experiences, and we’re lucky to be some of the first to experience it. 

Get Cozy At The Los Angeles Public Library  

Not only is the Los Angeles Public Library, or LAPL, beautiful, but it has hours of entertainment housed within its storied walls. From pop-up art exhibits to events, you’ll find more than just a good book while exploring the gorgeous architecture and aesthetic of one our favorite things to do in DTLA 

Ever since the popularity of vaping cannabis began to rise, the debate over which method is more effective has raged on amongst cannabis enthusiasts everywhere.

For cannabis enthusiasts, pulling out a vape pen has become preferable to rolling up a joint or a blunt for numerous reasons. Vaping is generally more convenient and discreet than smoking. There’s also research displaying evidence that vaping gets people higher than traditional methods of smoking.

Regardless, there are still many cannabis enthusiasts who aren’t fans of vaping due to the simple fact that it provides a different high than smoking. There are numerous reasons why that’s the case. Here are just a few. 

Combustion Kills Terpenes 

There are a variety of terpenes in cannabis that have a profound impact on the way cannabis enthusiasts feel when consuming marijuana. When people choose to vape cannabis it’s easier for them to enjoy the flavor of specific strains because the terpenes aren’t being burned.

Vaping Provides A Cleaner High  

Another reason the vaping experience differs from that of traditional smoking is because it doesn’t come with the harmful chemicals that come with smoking. This could be part of the reason why a vaping high can make cannabis enthusiasts seem more energetic. When smoking a joint or blunt it’s not unusual for people to spend the rest of the day on the couch. The cleaner high that vaping provides is both healthier and more conducive to having a productive day, while still being able to enjoy marijuana from time to time as it progresses.

More THC Enters The Bloodstream  

One of the biggest reasons vaping provides a different high than smoking is due to the amount of THC that enters the bloodstream from vaping. Both vaping and smoking both allow THC to enter the bloodstream directly through the lungs. Even so, recent research reveals that vaping results in higher levels of THC in the bloodstream when compared to smoking.

Trend forecasting company WGSN predicts that comfort dressing, magenta pink and bast fibres will be big in 2022

Using cannabis as a study aid may not be for everyone, as there will always be others who prefer to do so sober or with caffeine, but it’s certainly much safer compared to ADHD drugs

Being in college has become synonymous with teens and young adults experiment with drugs, and cannabis is no doubt the most popular drug of choice. Even for students in post-graduate school, cannabis has proven to be an essential drug for many reasons, and one of those is to help them study, as well as help relax from all the academic stress.

Increase In Cannabis Consumption Among US College Campuses

A recent study revealed that almost half of the college-age students around the United States admitted to consuming cannabis within the last year. Though it isn’t sure if the rise in cannabis consumption was driven by the pandemic, the highlight of this is that it has helped to curb booze consumption.

“The pandemic seems to have actually made marijuana into an alternative to escape the monotony of isolation,” explains Nora Volkow, the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA)’s director.

“It’s made life become more boring, more stressful. So if drugs let you experience that completely different mental state, I wonder if that would be a factor that leads people to use them.”

The study, entitled, Monitoring the Future, was funded by the NIDA and has been analyzing drug use among university students as well as noncollege students since 1980, focusing on the age group of 19-22 years old. They found that 44% of college students admitted to using cannabis in 2020, a dramatic 38% increase from 2015. They also noted an increase in “daily or near daily” use.

Six medical reasons why marijuana can be beneficial, according to experts.

The number of people turning to marijuana for medical reasons is growing and with good reason. There's been proven benefits to using marijuana such as preventing seizures in patients with autism, which is something CNN's Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta has been reporting on for several years. In addition, there's several other medical benefits and Eat This, Not That! Health talked to doctors who explained how beneficial marijuana can be for some people. Read on—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs You've Already Had COVID.

Dr. Carrie Lam, MD, FAAMFM, ABAARM, explains, "It is important to note that the THC compound in marijuana and the CBD compound in hemp have different properties. The healing properties of these compounds are now widely used for multiple health conditions. But the reasons cannabinoids are effective are less often discussed, and they have to do with endocannabinoids that are created within your body naturally. Understanding how these compounds work could shed light on the efficacy of those from plants. There are several health benefits of cannabinoid compounds." That said, in order to responsibly use marijuana for medicinal purposes, please consult with a doctor, know how to legally obtain marijuana and familiarize yourself with what the laws are regarding its use and purchase.

"The calming effects of cannabinoid compounds can prove helpful for easing anxiety and reducing stress," Dr. Lam says.

"THC and CBD are two main cannabinoids found in the Cannabis sativa plant species. Cannabis, or marijuana and hemp, belong to this species. THC and CBD work similarly to endocannabinoids present in your body. They interact with CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors located throughout your body to provide stress relief.Your body is equipped with a natural stress-fighting mechanism referred to as the NeuroEndoMetabolic (NEM) Stress Response System. It is a network of various organs and six circuits, including the Inflammation circuit, which work together to deal with stress. When your body experiences a stressful situation, the NEM signals your adrenal glands for secretion of the anti-stress hormone cortisol to help deal with stress. When stress is constant, the adrenal glands are propelled to secrete more cortisol. This makes your adrenal glands overburdened. As a result, your body is unable to secrete adequate cortisol due to adrenal fatigue, which reduces your body's natural stress-fighting ability."

Dr. Kristina Hendija states, "Chronic pain affects more than 100 million Americans every day, and costs hundreds of millions of dollars in treatment and loss of productivity. The current accepted treatment methods are often risky and expensive. With this in mind, medical marijuana may stand as an attractive alternative to managing chronic pain in many individuals. Though some may be concerned about the possible effects of smoke inhalation, vaporized THC yields equal or greater results, often mimicking IV patient-controlled analgesics in a hospital setting."