Cannabis

What Is Ice Water Extraction And Some DIY Tips

Published

12 months ago

April 10, 2024

admin

Like wine, whiskey, tequila and a few other things, there are casual users and serious, serious users. A concentrate is for the experienced user who can manage a bit of a ride. So what is ice water extraction? It is a form of a concentrate which results is a product with 50% to 70% THC levels. This process will bring cannabinoids in to a closer pure form, devoid of plant matter.

Ice water extraction is a special method of cannabis extraction known for producing pure and potent results. In comparison with other methods of extraction such as carbon dioxide extraction and butane extraction, it has less chance of contamination. Ice water extraction involves the removal of trichomes from cannabis buds and leaves using ice-cold water. It is important to not confuse trichomes with terpenes which are phytochemical molecules present in the matrix of the cannabis plant. This extraction of trichomes from the buds gives rise to a beautiful and unique extract that is satisfactory to users.

Ice water extraction requires freezing the plant matter before the extraction process itself. The goal of freezing the plant is to stop the plant matter from drying out which can lead to contamination of the extraction process. This is why the process produces pure results because care is taken to avoid contamination of the result. The frozen cannabis plant is then taken through the extraction process where the separation of the needed and unwanted materials takes place.

The frozen cannabis plant matter is agitated with cold water in a suitable container. This agitation helps to promote the separation of the trichomes from the plant matter. This method is better compared to other methods because it has a lesser chance of contamination from chemical residues or containers used in the extraction process.

As simple as the ice extraction process is, there is a very understandable scientific explanation behind it. Understanding this theory requires knowledge of the basics of cannabis plants and the extraction process. Trichomes are a special part of the cannabis plant which carry a huge concentration of cannabinoids like THC and CBD. These cannabinoids are the target of the extraction process which is why the goal of extraction is to separate the trichomes from the plant matter. Trichomes are the sticky and sparkly bits that are on cannabis buds when they are seen up close.

The basis for this extraction process, therefore, lies in the fact that trichomes are denser than water. This helps in making the separation possible because upon agitation, the trichomes sink. If trichomes were less dense than water, they will float which will defeat the goal of the separation process. When done right and done gently, the trichomes separate and sink leaving the cannabinoids which are the end product in the available extract.

Ice water is used instead of hot water for extraction due to some of the complications that hot water brings to the integrity of the plant matter. Hot water can lead to the activation of cannabinoids through heat which defeats the purpose of the extraction. Usage of hot water for the extraction can also lead to the dissolution of cannabinoids which is also counterproductive. Cannabis plant matter like most plants will steep in hot water to give tea leaves which will lead to the extraction of more components than required. This is why ice water and not hot water are used for this extraction process.

The Only Primer You Need: Butane Vs. CO2 Cannabis Extractions — Photo by rajjawa/Getty Images

The major advantage of the ice water extraction process is that it offers products of high purity and quality. This purity is further confirmed by the fact that the needed materials for the extraction are just water and weed only. Extraction of the products is done without the introduction of equipment and materials that might aid contamination of the products. Other methods of extraction such as butane extraction which gives butane hash oil produce less pure products.

Extraction using ice water is easy, simple, and can be done comfortably at home. The needed materials are the plant matter for extraction, ice water, and preferred container for extraction. This can easily be a bubble bag that is commonly used and has given rise to the name bubble hash. Using a bubble bag for extraction, the integrity of the extraction process is assured, and the plant matter. It is important to not use an old container to shake the weed and ice water is a pure product is to be expected. Likewise, it is important that proper knowledge of the extraction process is available before embarking on the extraction process

The success of the ice water extraction process depends on the extraction process. It is important to put proper precautions in place to ensure that the product derived is of the required quality. The first precaution to take note of is to ensure that the plant matter is frozen before the extraction process. If the plant matter is not frozen, it has a likelihood of drying out which will result in contamination of the product. Freezing the plant matter is to ensure that it doesn’t break or fracture resulting in plant particles being extracted with the separated trichomes.

It is also important to do the agitation carefully to avoid breaking the plant matter during agitation. Another important precaution worthy of note is to ensure that the bag used for extraction is not squeezed during removal. The bag and plant matter should be carefully removed and dried naturally to ensure the product is as pure as possible.

Source link

Cannabis

Mixed Messages From The Feds About Cannabis

Published

21 hours ago

March 28, 2025

admin

The federal administration is all over the board around fed cannabis policy…and millions of patients are worried.

The industry employees over 440,000 workers at all lives and is driven in a large part by mom and pop businesses. Millions use medical marijuana for health issues ranging from chronic pain to sleep. But there are mixed messages from the feds about cannabis, and people are very worried. The federal government’s stance on marijuana has become increasingly complex, as recent developments show conflicting approaches to the drug’s potential benefits and risks. On one hand, there’s a push for research into medical marijuana for veterans, while on the other, a campaign against cannabis use is being launched.

The juxtaposition of initiatives highlights the federal government’s inconsistent approach to marijuana policy. While some departments are exploring the potential benefits of cannabis, others are actively working to discourage its use. This dichotomy is further exemplified by ongoing legislative efforts. For instance, Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL) has reintroduced the Veterans Equal Access Act, which would allow VA doctors to recommend medical marijuana to patients in states where it’s legal. Meanwhile, documents from an ongoing lawsuit suggest that the DEA may have weighted the marijuana rescheduling process to ensure rejection of moving the drug from Schedule 1 to Schedule 3.

The Department of Defense (DOD) has allocated nearly $10 million in funding for research into the therapeutic potential of MDMA for active-duty military members. This initiative, driven by congressional efforts, aims to explore MDMA’s effectiveness in treating conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Rep. Morgan Luttrell (R-TX) expressed pride in this development, stating that it could be a “game-changer” for service members battling these combat-related injuries.

Additionally, a bipartisan effort in Congress has been pushing for VA research on medical marijuana for PTSD and other conditions affecting veterans. The VA Medicinal Cannabis Research Act, introduced in both the Senate and House, would mandate studies on how cannabis affects the use of addictive medications and impacts various health outcomes for veterans.

In stark contrast to these research initiatives, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has partnered with an anti-cannabis nonprofit to launch a social media campaign targeting young people. The campaign, set to run ahead of April 20 (4/20), aims to “flood” Instagram with anti-cannabis content. The DEA is offering monetary incentives to students for creating and posting anti-THC videos, with payments ranging from $25 to $50 depending on the type of content produced.

This approach has raised eyebrows, as it seems to contradict the growing acceptance and legalization of marijuana across the United States. Critics argue that such campaigns may be out of touch with current societal trends and scientific understanding of cannabis.

Source link

Cannabis

How Hemp Helps You Sleep

Published

22 hours ago

March 28, 2025

admin

Not everyone has access to marijuana to help them sleep – good news, hemp is available.

it’s estimated 50 to 70 million Canadian and American adults experience sleep disorders or disturbances, and about one-third of adults don’t regularly get the recommended amount. Hemp has emerged as a promising natural remedy for those seeking better sleep. With its calming properties and potential to address various sleep-related issues, hemp-derived products are gaining popularity among individuals looking to improve their rest. Here is how hemp helps you sleep.

RELATED: Mike Johnson And Marijuana

Hemp contains several compounds contributing to better sleep quality. Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive component of hemp, has shown potential in promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety, which can often interfere with a good night’s rest. Studies suggest that CBD may help individuals fall asleep faster and experience fewer sleep disturbances throughout the night.

When formulated and used properly, preliminary research and user reports suggest that hemp gummies improve subjective sleep quality. Users of quality hemp sleep gummies report feeling more rested, a better quality of sleep and fewer awakenings in the night. However, clinical research has shown that over consumption of THC negatively impacts the quality of sleep, especially with long term use.

Wana Brands has launched a hemp sleeping product nationally, Mike Hennesy, Vice President of Innovation shared the following about how it works. Naturally hemp-derived sleep gummies contain the same cannabinoids like CBD, CBN, and THC as cannabis or marijuana. These ingredients interact with receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating mood, stress, and sleep-wake cycles. For example, CBD may promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, CBN can relieve discomfort and reduce awakenings, while THC can shorten the time it takes to fall asleep, especially at low doses. Together, they may help ease the mind and body into a sleep-ready state.

The best sleep products don’t rely on just one cannabinoid like CBN but instead use a combination of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other sleep-supporting ingredients such as melatonin. This is because the reasons for sleeplessness are multifaceted, and include trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, chronic, pain and anxiety. Each ingredient targets different root causes as well as synergizes with the other cannabinoids and terpenes for the best night sleep.

Longer lasting formulations can actually help reduce awakenings in the night. CBN has been shown in recent research to reduce the number of times you wake up in the night. Combined with other cannabinoids they can synergize to reduce discomfort and anxiety helping consumers stay asleep.

If you do wake up in the middle of the night and can’t fall back asleep products including CBD and CBG to reduce middle of the night anxiety and racing thoughts that can keep us awake, and they have only 1mg of THC so you wake up refreshed and not high in the morning.

For most people, hemp-derived cannabinoids are considered safe and non-intoxicating, with a low risk of dependence. When THC is included in small amounts, it can produce mild effects and can help us fall asleep faster. It generally poses a minimal risk when used in moderation, but there is a potential for dependence if overused, just like with any sleep aid. Adverse events are far more prevalent in pharmaceutical and even over the counter sleep aids than with hemp-derived cannabinoids.

The key is responsible use, including starting with a low dose and taking breaks when needed. If you rely on it every night at high doses, your body may adjust, and it can be habitual. But when used in moderation and with a well-balanced formula, cannabis can be a sustainable part of a healthy sleep routine.

Source link

Cannabis

Can Marijuana Help Cholesterol – The Fresh Toast

Published

3 days ago

March 26, 2025

admin

Alcohol has some negative side effects, but cannabis could have one positive health benefit – it might help your good cholesterol.

In the late 1980s cholesterol test became come as the impact of it on the body and heart was becoming more evident. Research shows good cholesterol (HDL) helps remove excess cholesterol from the body, while “bad” cholesterol (LDL) can build up in arteries, potentially leading to heart disease. Alcohol and tobacco are known to be rough on the body, but can marijuana help cholesterol?

Marijuana’s potential impact on cholesterol is an emerging area of research, offering both promising insights and areas for further exploration. While studies have yet to reach definitive conclusions, evidence suggests that cannabis may influence cholesterol levels in ways that could benefit cardiovascular health under certain conditions.

Cannabis contains cannabinoids like THC and CBD, which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This system plays a role in regulating various physiological processes, including lipid metabolism. Some studies have indicated that marijuana use might improve cholesterol profiles by increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL), commonly known as “good cholesterol.” For instance, research published in BMJ Open found that marijuana users had elevated levels of HDL cholesterol, which is associated with better cardiovascular health.

Moreover, cannabis has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties and the ability to regulate blood glucose levels. These effects can indirectly support heart health by reducing risk factors associated with high cholesterol, such as diabetes and obesity. Additionally, cannabinoids like CBD may help protect the heart from oxidative stress and inflammation, further enhancing cardiovascular health.

Cannabis has also been linked to weight management benefits, which can positively impact cholesterol levels. Studies have shown that marijuana use may reduce abdominal fat and improve metabolic parameters. Since obesity is a major contributor to high LDL cholesterol levels, these findings suggest that cannabis could play a supportive role in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.

While some studies highlight potential benefits of cannabis for cholesterol and heart health, others caution against its risks. Daily marijuana use has been associated with an increased risk of heart failure and other cardiovascular issues. However, research also indicates that cannabis may reduce the risk of atrial fibrillation and improve outcomes following heart attacks.

Source link