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

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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

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At this year, every one wants to indulge a bit – here are some fun cocktails to make the season merry and bright

Whiskey is the most popular liquor in most US states, and sales increased 9.4% in 2022 compared to 2020.  Monks help introduce the world to whiskey over 1000 year ago after. What not blend this booze in the best holiday whiskey cocktails?  It is a crowd pleaser.

Whiskey is a general term for a distilled, barrel-aged spirit made from fermented grains, while bourbon is a type of whiskey that meets specific requirements. It is made from a mashbill that’s at least 51% corn, while whiskey can be made from a blend of grains like corn, rye, barley, or wheat. The corn in bourbon gives it a distinctive sweet flavor. It must be aged in new, charred oak barrels, while other whiskeys can be aged in a variety of barrels, including those previously used for other spirits.  It cannot contain any additives or colorings. Bourbon is primarily produced in Kentucky, though it can be made anywhere in the world. To be designated “straight bourbon whiskey,” bourbon must be aged in new charred oak barrels for at least two years.

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A Slushy Bourbon Milk Punch

A holiday favorite, it is a similar to a rich, flavorful, creamy milkshake with a kick.

Ingredients

• 3 parts Whole Milk
• 2 parts Half and Half
• 1.5 parts Bourbon
• 1 part sifted Sugar, Powdered
• Vanilla extract
• Fresh Grated Nutmeg
• Cinnamon Stick

Create

In a pitcher, whisk together milk, half-and-half, bourbon, sugar and vanilla

Freeze until slushy and ready to serve

Stir before serving it in a chilled glass

Finish with a few gratings of fresh nutmeg

Garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Christmas Old Fashioned Cocktail

Having some friends over and want to impress them? What about a pitcher of this festive elixir? It bring some holiday cheer to even the meanest Scrooge.

Ingredients

• 3 Cranberries
• 2 oz Whiskey
• 1 oz Ginger Syrup
• 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
• 1 Orange Slice
• 1 Rosemary Sprig

Create

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups bourbon
• 1 cup sweet vermouth
• 2 cups orange juice
• 1 cup unsweetened cranberry juice
• ½ cup simple syrup

Create

1. Add the cranberry, orange juice, bourbon, vermouth, simple syrup to a cocktail shaker
2. Add 1 handful ice then shake until cold
3. Pour into a lowball glass over ice or serve up in a martini glass
4. Garnish with fresh or frozen cranberries.

Hope you enjoy the best holiday whiskey cocktails

Top Vendor Offering High-Potency Kratom

Kats Botanicals has established itself as a top-tier vendor for high-potency kratom, offering a range of potent strains and innovative blends that cater to experienced users seeking stronger effects. 

Another popular high-potency option from Kats Botanicals is their White Maeng Da kratom. Known for its energizing properties, this strain is favored by users looking for a significant boost in focus and motivation. Some key features of high-potency kratom products include:

• Third-party lab testing for purity and potency
• Rapid onset of effects, often within 10 minutes of consumption
• A variety of consumption options, including powders, capsules, and extracts

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Vendor

First up, third-party testing is a big deal. You’ll want to look for vendors who are transparent about their lab results, showing that their products are not only potent but also free from nasty contaminants like heavy metals or pesticides.

Next, pay attention to how open vendors are about their sourcing. Some even have direct relationships with farmers, which is a great sign for consistent quality. Don’t forget to check out what other customers are saying. If you see a lot of happy customers raving about strong effects and reliable quality, you’re probably on the right track.

Speaking of consistency, that’s another crucial factor. High-potency kratom should pack a punch every time, not just occasionally. Look for vendors who maintain the same level of quality across different batches.

They’re known for their rigorous testing protocols and transparency. Some even go the extra mile by providing QR codes on their packaging that link directly to lab results.

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How to Identify High-Potency Kratom from Vendors

Reputable vendors often provide detailed information about the alkaloid concentration in their products. Many vendors offer concentrated kratom extracts, which are significantly more potent than regular kratom powder. When looking for high-potency options, keep an eye out for:

• Extracts labeled with ratios (e.g., 2:1, 5:1, 10:1)
• Products described as “enhanced” or “ultra-enhanced”
• Liquid kratom extracts or tinctures

Always start with lower doses and gradually increase as needed, paying close attention to how your body responds. Additionally, ensure you’re purchasing from reputable vendors who prioritize quality control and third-party testing to guarantee the safety and purity of their products.

Dosage Considerations for High-Potency Kratom

Starting small is key when trying high-potency kratom for the first time. These kratom strains pack a punch, and you might be surprised at how little you need to feel significant effects. For many users, just 1-2 grams of a high-potency strain can produce noticeable results. 

If you find that a lower dose isn’t quite hitting the mark, it’s okay to increase your dosage. A good rule of thumb is to increase your dose by about 0.5 grams at a time. This cautious approach helps you avoid accidentally taking too much and experiencing unwanted side effects.

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To maintain the effectiveness of high-potency kratom and prevent tolerance build-up, consider these strategies:

• Rotate between different strains regularly
• Take breaks from kratom use (known as “tolerance breaks”)
• Avoid daily use of high-potency strains

Lastly, if you’re new to kratom or switching to a high-potency strain for the first time, it might be helpful to keep a journal of your experiences. Note down the strain, dosage, and effects you experience.

Final Thoughts

When choosing a vendor, prioritize those who offer transparency, third-party testing, and consistent quality. Remember that dosage is crucial with these potent strains, so always start low and go slow. Be mindful of the potential risks, including faster tolerance build-up and more pronounced side effects. By approaching high-potency kratom with respect and caution, rotating strains, and taking regular breaks, you can potentially enjoy its benefits while minimizing risks.