Cannabis

Why Marijuana Smells Skunky

Published

9 months ago

February 22, 2024

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It is the telltale sign someone is having fun. Whether walking down the street or stepping into a crowd, you know exactly what is going on. Marijuana has a distinctive oder to clue you in when fun is going on. But as cannabis goes mainstream and becomes legal, the smell is increasing fading. Here is why marijuana smells skunky and why is it disappearing.

Smoking weed was the original way to consume. But today, thanks to data from BDSA, we know most newer and younger partakers use vapes or gummies to enjoy the benefits. The aroma is less prevalent, but it still as potent. Smoking still produces the smell, but why does some weed reek of skunk or dirty socks and other times it has the aroma of lemons or pine? The answer is terpenes.

Terpenes are essential oils providing the fragrance in foods and herbs. When you take a whiff of basil, for example, what you are smelling are the terpenes. Cannabis strains also have unique terpenes producing the aroma. Some strains smell lemony (limonene) or spicy (caryophyllene) or floral (linalool) or piney (alpha-pinene).

Terpenes not only provide the smell, they have essential therapeutic benefits, as well. Some of the most prevalent terpenes and their medicinal value:

Alpha-pinene (essential pine oil), the most common terpene in the plant world and one often found in cannabis, is a bronchodilator potentially helpful for asthmatics. Pinene also promotes alertness and memory retention by inhibiting the metabolic breakdown of acetylcholinesterase, a neurotransmitter in the brain stimulates these cognitive effects.
Myrcene, another terpene present in numerous cannabis varietals, is a sedative, a muscle relaxant, a hypnotic, an analgesic (painkiller) and an anti-inflammatory compound. This musky terpene contributes mightily to the infamous “couch-lock” experience and is the one which gives off the skunky aroma.
Limonene, a major terpene in citrus as well as in cannabis, has been used clinically to dissolve gallstones, improve mood and relieve heartburn and gastrointestinal reflux. Limonene, an anticonvulsant, has been shown to destroy breast-cancer cells in lab experiments, and its powerful antimicrobial action can kill pathogenic bacteria.
Linalool, a terpenoid prominent in lavender as well as in some cannabis strains, is an anxiolytic compound which counters anxiety and mediates stress. In addition, linalool is a strong anticonvulsant, and it also amplifies serotonin-receptor transmission, conferring an antidepressant effect. Applied topically, linalool can heal acne and skin burns without scarring.

Beta-caryophyllene is a sesquiterpene found in the essential oils of black pepper, oregano and other edible herbs, as well as in cannabis and many green, leafy vegetables. It is gastro-protective, good for treating certain ulcers, and shows great promise as a therapeutic compound for inflammatory conditions and autoimmune disorders because of its ability to bind directly to the peripheral cannabinoid receptor known as CB2.

And now you know why marijuana smells skunky.

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Cannabis

Can Microdosing Help Manage Holiday Family Anxiety

Published

50 minutes ago

November 22, 2024

admin

The holidays can be festive, fun and heartwarming – but for some, there is too much family drama….microdosing could make it better.

Carols, gifts, parties, festive meals with favorite foods are all part of hte holiday season. But even in the best circumstances, there could be stress. Some 89% say concerns around money, missing loved ones and anticipating family conflict cause them stress at this time of year. But roughly have say it is moderate and may not be any more than the rest of the year. While family tend to provide a positive effect, if you look at Reddit, there are are plenty of causes of drama during hte holiday at gatherings. For those who are experiencing some level of stress, can mircodosing help manage holiday family anxiety? It could be a better solution than a half of a bottle of booze.

Microdosing marijuana can be an effective way to manage holiday anxiety, offering a subtle yet impactful approach to stress relief during the festive season. By consuming small amounts of cannabis, typically between 1 to 2.5 milligrams of THC, individuals can experience the therapeutic benefits without feeling overly intoxicated.

Microdosing cannabis can provide several advantages for those dealing with holiday-related stress. Low doses of THC can activate the endocannabinoid system, potentially leading to decreased stress levels without causing an overwhelming high. This can be particularly helpful during family gatherings or social events that may trigger anxiety. It may alleviate the effects of social anxiety, allowing individuals to feel more relaxed and confident in social situations. This can be especially beneficial during holiday parties or family reunions.

Small amounts of cannabis can boost mood and social confidence, contributing to a more relaxed and enjoyable holiday experience. Another benefit is may induce deep, natural sleep patterns without excessive grogginess, helping to combat short term holiday-related insomnia.

To microdose marijuana effectively for holiday anxiety, consider the following tips:

Start Low: Begin with a dose of 1 to 2.5 milligrams of THC and maintain this dosage for at least three days. If you’re new to cannabis, begin with an even lower dose and gradually work your way up.
Gradual Increase: If needed, slowly increase the dosage in 1 mg increments until you begin to feel the desired effects.
Consistency: Once you find an effective dose, stick with it for at least four days to assess its impact.
Choose the Right Product: CBD-dominant strains or products with balanced THC:CBD ratios may be more suitable for anxiety relief.
Consider Terpenes: Look for cannabis products containing terpenes like limonene, pinene, and beta-caryophyllene, which have stress-relieving properties
Timing is Key: Plan your microdose schedule around holiday events or stressful situations to maximize its effectiveness.

While microdosing can be beneficial, there are some general precautions. Consider potential interactions with alcohol or other medications you may be taking during the holidays. If you are some medications, it is important to talk to a health professional. And remember everyone reacts differently to cannabis, so what works for others may not work for you.

By incorporating microdosing into your holiday stress management strategy, you may find yourself better equipped to handle the pressures and anxieties that often accompany the festive season. This approach allows you to potentially benefit from the calming effects of cannabis while maintaining clarity and function during holiday activities and gatherings.

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AARP

Lawsuit Says DEA Acting In Bad Faith Over Marijuana

Published

3 hours ago

November 21, 2024

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It has been clear the DEA is slow to change for cannabis…but have they done something shady?

It has been clear Anne Milgram, the head of the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), is no fan of cannabis and is not pleased with the push to reschedule. Now a lawsuit says DEA acting in bad faith over marijuana. David Heldreth, CEO of psychedelic research firm Panacea Plant Sciences, claims the DEA’s recent actions violate federal law and constitutional principles. Filed in filed in the U.S. District Court for Western Washington, names the Department of Justice, Attorney General Merrick Garland, DEA Administrator Anne Milgram and DEA Judge John J. Mulrooney II as defendants. So what’s going on?

It is no secret, the current President isn’t a fan of cannabis and waited 3 years to fulfill his 2020 promise to help the industry. The timing allowed his administration to pass the decision to the next president. DEA head Milgram has been reluctant about the issue despite recommendation from Health and Human Services, the Food and Drug Administration, the American Medical Association and the American College of Physicians. All of those agencies recommended the change due to clear research showing the medical benefits of cannabis, especially with cancer, chronic pain, PTSD, and inflammation. For the DEA not to follow goes against all precedent.

Heldreth’s alleges legal violations in the DEA’s rulemaking process. He contends the agency failed to consult Native American tribes despite ignificant impact rescheduling marijuana would have on tribal law enforcement and health services. Additionally, Heldreth challenges the constitutionality of the DEA’s Administrative Law Judges, arguing their appointment by the DEA administrator violates Article II of the U.S. Constitution.

Heldreth is the latest in complaints as a Veteran’s organization is claiming they have been blocked from the hearings, despite the Veteran’s administration working with the industry to figure out a pathway for veterans with PTSD.

Milgam has been obstructive to the late in term admisntration’s move, working to stop the process. After the announcement to reschedule, Anne Milgram made the unusual request of a “off the record/no notes meeting” to top deputies summoned in March for what she called the “Marijuana Meeting”. What followed with a request to the Department of Justice (DOJ) which would slow the process if not stop it. The DOJ pushed back on the request.

With millions of patients using medical marijuana, including veterans, plus thousands of mom and pop businesses, Milgram’s actions are murky. Science has changed the direction and it seems the DEA is the only agency standing against the movement.

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blood

Can Marijuana Consumers Donate Needed Blood

Published

1 day ago

November 20, 2024

admin

If you drink alcohol, you can drink, but it has to be out of your body’s system. it is recommended you not have booze 24 hours before donating. Like alcohol, you can donate blood, but you have to let the marijuana move out of your system. Potential donors cannot give if cannabis use impairs their memory or comprehension. The Red Cross does not test blood donations for the presence of tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, the principle psychoactive component of the cannabis plant. But you should wait 24 hours from the last time you are high.

Donating blood is easy. You go to the nearest location, sign in, show ID, and read some information. You’ll answer questions online or in person, and receive a health check.

The acutional process is easy, a sterile needle is inserted into a vein in your arm, and blood is drawn into a bag. The donation usually takes 8–10 minutes and feels like a quick pinch. Afterwards they providea snack and drink and 10–15 minutes to recovery before resuming your day.

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