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Tasty Cannabis Chocolates Ranked & Reviewed

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best chocolate edibles in 2024

There are several different types of chocolate bars, some made with milk chocolate and others delighting your senses with premium dark chocolate.

And whoever decided to introduce cannabis chocolate did us a huge favor as chocolate mixed with cannabis is a perfect match, and the best chocolate bars with THC will most certainly delight your palate.

This article is fully devoted to exploring the world of cannabis chocolate, and in later sections, we discuss different types of cannabis chocolate edibles, how to find the best products on the market, and even how to make your own cannabis chocolates from the coziness of your home.

In essence, mixing cannabis with chocolate results in a delicious cannabis adventure, but there is much more we want to discuss, so let’s dive right into the topic.

>>Check the best prices for chocolate edibles here[1] 

Where To Buy the Best Chocolate Edibles

This leads us to the best companies selling cannabis chocolate treats, and each company featured below most certainly deserves your attention.

1. Kats Naturals – Best Edibles Overall

kat natural chocolate

Pros:

  • Subscribers qualify for huge discounts

  • Product Finder quiz to find the product for you

  • Range of manufacturing certifications

  • Great range of THC gummies and edibles

Cons:

The first brand for edibles we want to introduce you to is Kats Naturals.

In addition to a huge range of edibles, such as Hemp Dark Chocolate CBD, and Hemp White Chocolate CBD, the company also offers a range of other THC and CBD products.

If you subscribe to the company’s email newsletter, you get to benefit from a range of discounts, starting with your first order made here.

In addition, the renowned company offers free shipping on all orders exceeding $50, and shipping times range from three to a few more days, depending on your location in the USA.

>>Check the price for edibles at Kats Naturals[3] 

2. Diamond CBD – Most Significant Discounts

diamond cbd cannabis

Pros:

  • 40% discount on your first order

  • Featured in Leafy, CNN, Forbes, and Gotham

  • Customer care team reachable via phone

  • Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC chocolate

Cons:

Diamond CBD is another reputable company in the industry famed for its selection of Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC-infused cannabis chocolates.

The bestseller is the 6 Pack Bites with 150mg of Delta 8 THC, but we recommend you check other options from the section.

Many of the company’s bestsellers have been featured in Gotham, Forbes, CNN, and Leafy, which just adds to the company’s overall high reputation.

Shopping at Diamond CBD means benefiting from huge discounts, and if this is your first time shopping here, use the NEWC40 promo code to get a 40% discount on your first order, alongside free shipping and a gift of $20 in-store credits.

>>Check the price for edibles at Diamond CBD[4] 

3. Edobles – Superior Customer Service

edobles cannabis

Pros:

  • Save 40% on your first order

  • Shop for products by effects

  • Three customer service contact options

  • 30% discounts for subscribers

Cons:

Edobles is another company you want to check out if you are looking for top-grade cannabis-infused chocolates, and here, you can find the perfect chocolate treat for you based on the effects you are looking for, whether it be greater energy, mental boost, calmness, or euphoria.

With the NEWC40 coupon code, new shoppers at Edobles can instantly get their first order for a 40% reduced price, while the company offers free shipping on orders above $99.

Edobles is also known for offering superior customer service, and friendly and professional customer care agents are almost always at our disposal via three contact options: convenient Live Chat, phone, and email.

>>Check the price for edibles at Edobles[5] 

4. Delta Extrax – Lightning-Fast Shipping

delta extracts edibles

Pros:

  • Frequent weekly sales

  • Fast average shipping times

  • 20% discount on your first order

  • Impressive Learn More Blog

Cons:

Next, we discuss Delta Extrax, and this company has spent quite a few years serving cannabis fans and enthusiasts residing in different parts of the USA-

The company’s top-grade quality THC gummies fall into the category of bestsellers, but there is a variety of chocolates with cannabis to explore as well, including the Delta 9 THC Chocolate Bars from the Extrax Chocolate Series.

What also makes Delta Extrax one of the best places to shop for edibles is the company’s fast shipping policy.

In addition, first-time buyers instantly qualify for a 20% discount on their first order, while frequent weekly sales mean you can get featured products for significantly discounted prices.

>>Check the price for edibles at Delta Extrax[6] 

5. CBDMall – Great Banking System

Pros:

  • NEWU40 promo code for a 40% discount

  • New products added frequently

  • Accepts a range of payment methods

  • Readily available third-party lab reports

Cons:

CBDMall, with its impressive selection of edibles, gummies, and other neatly crafted THC and CBD products, also deserves a sport here.

If you are interested in the bestsellers, make sure you check out Delta 8 THC Dark Chocolate Bar – 500mg – Chill Plus, which has an overall customer rating of 5.0, and all who tried it had only positive things to say.

Apart from offering a great range of gummies and edibles, the company also supports a variety of payment services, with e-wallets and credit/debit cards accepted.

If you decide to shop here, make sure you use the NEWU40 promo code to get your first order for a 40% discounted price.

>>Check the price for edibles at CBDMall[7] 

What is a Chocolate Edible?

Cannabis chocolate is a popular way to consume cannabis because it blends the delicious aroma of chocolate with the medicinal properties of cannabis.

These are a particular kind of cannabis-infused product in which the psychoactive components of cannabis extract, namely THC and CBD, are mixed into chocolate to produce a tasty and convenient way to consume cannabis.

The process of creating cannabis chocolates demands close attention to precision.

The first step is decarboxylation, which releases the psychotropic chemicals found in cannabis plants, while some chocolates of this kind are infused with pure cold water hash for greater potency.

To help with the absorption of the cannabis extract, the cannabis is next ground into a fine powder and mixed with a high-fat ingredient like brown butter, cocoa butter or coconut oil.

After combining this cannabis-infused fat with chocolate and additional ingredients, it is poured into molds and left to harden.

The end product is a delicious cannabis chocolate that fulfills the sweet craving and has the desired cannabis effects. There are a number of reasons why chocolate bars infused with THC are so popular.

First of all, they provide a smokeless consumption option, which makes them a desirable choice for people who want to stay away from the possible health hazards connected with smoke through vaping.

Second, cannabis can be consumed more easily thanks to chocolate’s unique effect, especially for people who might not enjoy the hempy aroma of the cannabis plant.

Different Types of Chocolate Edibles

This leads us to different types of cannabis chocolate products, and besides being able to purchase delicious chocolate bars in milk or dark chocolate, there are other edibles with top-grade ingredients to try out.

types of chocolate edibles

Chocolate Bars

A vital component of the family of cannabis treats is chocolate bars. Their adaptability and simplicity account for their widespread popularity.

Chocolate bars, which are made from a mixture of sugar, cocoa, and frequently a hint of vanilla, come in a variety of flavors, from rich, creamy milk chocolate to slightly bitter dark chocolate.

The best chocolate bars on the market are infused with sustainably sourced cacao

A variety of flavors can be added to chocolate bars, such as nuts, dried fruits, or even a hint of sea salt, blackberry, or dark cherry for a richer aroma.

Either way, there is a chocolate bar out there that is ideal for you, regardless of your preference for a tasty chocolate experience.

Chocolate Truffles

Besides chocolate bars, chocolate truffles with cannabis extract are the perfect treat if you are craving something stronger.

Owing to their resemblance in shape to the rare and costly truffle mushrooms, these milk or dark chocolate treats deliver on all fronts.

The core of them is a ganache, which is a rich and creamy combination of chocolate and cream that is frequently flavored with liquor, coffee, or caramel.

Each mouthful of a chocolate truffle, which is usually covered in a thin chocolate shell coated with cocoa powder, is a blast of rich aroma, making them an appealing treat for any fan of the tasty chocolate aroma.

Chocolate Brownies

Not to be overlooked is the basic chocolate brownie, which for many, is the ultimate comfort meal.

A chocolate lover’s paradise, these baked treats have a fudgy or cakey texture. Butter, sugar, flour, and chocolate come together to make a dense, creamy delight that is difficult to resist.

Chocolate brownies are proof of the comforting effects of chocolate, whether they are topped with caramel sauce, walnuts, or powdered sugar, and they also make a great choice.

Chocolate Cookies

These cookies have the ideal balance of crunchy, chewy, and tasty aromas, and they are far away from being ordinary cookies.

The buttery smoothness of the cookie is enhanced by the rich chocolate chips, making every bite a tasty surprise.

Chocolate cookies are an amazing delicacy that you may indulge in anytime, anywhere—whether you are craving them at midnight or as a midday snack, and those with a higher dose of THC are incredibly popular among seasoned THC consumers for obvious reasons.

Chocolate-Covered Nuts and Fruits

These treats offer a unique combination of textures and aromas that are sure to delight your palate with each serving.

Whether it is a festive celebration or a casual get-together, chocolate-covered nuts and fruits are a sophisticated treat that adds a touch of THC suitable for almost any occasion.

>>Check the best prices for chocolate edibles here[8] 

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Chocolate Edibles

There are several factors to consider when looking for the best chocolates made with THC, and these are briefly discussed in the section that follows.

THC or CBD Content

The amount of THC or CBD in your dark or milk chocolate with a cannabis extract is one of the most important factors to consider.

This is an important consideration because it has a direct effect on the potency of the product.

Knowing the THC and CBD content level is essential in mushroom gummies or chocolate bars, whether you are looking for the relaxing effects of CBD or the intoxicating effects of THC.

It all comes down to preference and intended result, but knowing the potency of the product you are interested in is a must to ensure a safe experience.

Ingredients and Quality

Next, examine the treats’ quality and ingredients with great attention. The best chocolates with THC are composed of premium ingredients in addition to having a pleasant flavor.

Either way, you want to choose goods that are made with organic, natural components rather than ones that are infused with chemical preservatives and additives.

It is important to remember that the components in the chocolate bar or other products will eventually enter your body, so carefully consider your options.

Brand Reputation

You also want to take the reputation of the brand into account. Not all brands in the growing marijuana chocolate market are the same.

Transparency is key, and a respectable brand will give precise details about its products.

Additionally, they will have glowing customer reviews, which point to a track record of happy clients and high-quality products that deserve your attention.

They will also have a wide selection of products to choose from, all crafted following the strictest manufacturing protocols.

Dosage and Potency

The dosage and potency of the chocolate bar and other treats should be taken into account as well.

Every product has a certain quantity of either CBD, a non-psychoactive substance with medical benefits, or THC, the psychoactive ingredient in the marijuana plant.

It is important to recognize your level of experience and select a product with an appropriate dosage.

It is best for new users to begin with treats that have a low dosage and work their way up to a higher one as their tolerance grows.

Flavor Preferences

Like ordinary chocolates, edibles are available in a wide variety of tastes.

Everything from traditional dark chocolate to unique aromas like raspberry, mint, and chili is available to suit any taste.

Selecting a flavor you like is crucial because it can greatly improve your entire experience, and we recommend you start with standard options such as milk chocolate that most adore.

How to Make Your Own Chocolate Edibles at Home?

How your chocolates infused with THC prepared at home turn out mainly vary depending on several factors and to help you get the best product, we have included this short but handy guide on making cannabis treats at home.

Selecting Quality Chocolate

Selecting the appropriate chocolate is the first step in creating your own chocolate candies. The final flavor of your treats will be greatly influenced by the quality of the chocolate you use.

Seek premium chocolate with a high percentage of cacao. An excellent option is premium dark chocolate, which complements the earthy aroma of cannabis perfectly.

Decarboxylating Cannabis

An essential stage in producing cannabis for edibles is decarboxylation. To activate the THC, the component that gives cannabis its euphoric effects, this procedure includes heating the plant.

To do so, set the oven temperature to 240°F. Split the cannabis buds into tiny fragments. Evenly distribute the cannabis onto a sheet.

Bake, stirring occasionally to maintain equal cooking, for thirty to forty minutes. The cannabis undergoes decarboxylation after turning a medium brown color.

Infusing Cannabis into Chocolate

Now comes the exciting part – infusing the cannabis into the chocolate. To do so, in a double boiler over low heat, melt your chosen chocolate, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Add your decarboxylated cannabis to the melted chocolate. To make sure the cannabis is mixed into the chocolate all the way through, give it a good stir.

Transfer the cannabis-infused chocolate to baking sheets coated with parchment paper or into molds. Before putting the chocolate in the refrigerator to solidify, let it cool at room temperature.

Recipe Ideas: Brownies, Truffles, etc.

A classic choice, chocolate brownies are easy to make and perfect for a beginner.

Simply replace the butter in your favorite brownie recipe with cannabis-infused butter, and voila, you have it, perfect chocolate brownie with a healthy dose of THC.

If you are feeling a bit more adventurous, why not try your hand at making chocolate truffles? Again, replace regular butter with cannabis-infused butter in your recipe, and you are all set.

If you are interested in learning more online, you will find a range of recipes, many of which are beginner-friendly.

Dosage and Safety Tips

It is important to remember that the effects of these products can take longer to become apparent compared to other forms of consumption. Start with a small amount, and wait at least an hour before consuming more.

Keeping your handmade foods out of the reach of kids and animals is also very important. To prevent any possible accidents, store them in a container that is both secure and well-labeled.

Making your own edibles at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. However, always remember to consume responsibly and be aware of your limits.

>>Check the best prices for chocolate edibles here[9] 

Health Benefits of Consuming Chocolate Edibles

In the section that follows, we examine some of the potential health benefits associated with the consumption of edibles.

health benefits of chocolate edibles

Antioxidant Properties

First of all, chocolate-flavored edibles are loaded with potent antioxidants [1].

These organic substances aid in the body’s fight against dangerous free radicals, shielding your cells from injury.

This implies that eating chocolate-flavored consumables can strengthen your body’s defenses and improve your general health.

Mood Enhancement

Tasty cannabis chocolates also have the power to improve your mood. They cause your body to produce more endorphins, which are naturally occurring “feel-good” hormones [2].

You experience a pleasant mood boost as a result, making you happy. Therefore, do not be afraid to treat yourself to a chocolate treat when you need a little pick-me-up.

Pain Relief

Edibles have mood-enhancing and antioxidant qualities, but they may also relieve pain [3].

They contain ingredients that help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, making them a pleasant and natural approach to treating physical discomfort.

Chocolate edible may be the perfect tasty supplement for any ailment you may be experiencing, including headaches and muscle stiffness.

Stress Reduction

Research suggests that consuming chocolate can boost the creation of endorphins leading to significant stress reduction [4].

These endorphins have the ability to lower stress levels and increase feelings of peace and well-being.

Therefore, the next time you are experiencing some overwhelm, do not be afraid to grab the best mushroom for depression in the chocolate-flavored edible form to potentially relieve some of the stress bothering you.

Potential Cardiovascular Benefits

Additionally, edibles might improve cardiovascular health. Flavonoids can be found in abundance in some chocolate varieties, especially in dark chocolate [5].

The potential cardiovascular advantages of these antioxidants, which include lowered blood pressure and improved blood flow, are well recognized.

When consumed in moderation, edibles can make a tasty complement to a heart-healthy diet.

Are There Any Risks Associated with Consuming Chocolate Edibles?

First of all, the main risk is the challenge of controlling the dose. The psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, THC, is frequently present in varied concentrations in chocolate treats.

Due to the exquisite flavor of chocolate, one could be enticed to consume more than the advised quantity, leading to an overdose.

An overdose can cause hallucinations, anxiety, and paranoia.

Second, there is an additional risk due to the effects of delayed onset. The effects of edible cannabis take longer to manifest than those of smoking, taking anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Due to the incorrect perception that the previous dose was insufficient, this delay frequently results in “stacking” or ingesting more edibles, which may provide an unintentional high.

Thirdly, there may be issues with edibles’ lingering effects. The duration of effects from edibles varies from one to twelve hours, depending on the THC content ingested.

This prolonged period may pose an issue for individuals who lack readiness or have responsibilities the next day. And last, there is the chance of eating tainted edibles.

Unless the delicacies are obtained from a reliable source, there is a chance that they may include toxic contaminants, such as pesticides, heavy metals, or other harmful things, and this is why it is important to buy from licensed dispensaries or reputable online shops.

>>Check the best prices for chocolate edibles here[10] 

FAQs

For more information on edibles made with chocolate, make sure you check out our FAQs section.

What is the Difference Between THC and CBD in Chocolate Edibles?

THC is the compound that gives you a “high” or psychoactive effect.

On the other hand, CBD is non-psychoactive and is known for its potential therapeutic benefits, like reducing anxiety and inflammation, and the main difference lies in their effects.

How Long Do the Effects of Chocolate Edibles Last?

The effects of chocolate edibles might differ significantly based on a number of variables, such as your tolerance level, metabolism, and the product’s THC or CBD content.

After consumption, the effects often begin to take action 30 minutes to 2 hours later and continue for 4 to 12 hours.

How Should Chocolate Edibles Be Stored?

Edibles should be kept out of direct sunlight and in a cool, dark environment to preserve their potency and quality.

Generally, a cupboard or pantry is an excellent option. You can store them in the refrigerator if you wish to keep them for a longer amount of time.

However, to stop them from absorbing smells from other meals, make sure they are sealed tightly.

Can I Make Chocolate Edibles Without Cannabis?

Yes, you can make chocolate edibles without cannabis. These are just like regular chocolates and will not have any psychoactive or therapeutic effects associated with THC or CBD.

How Long Does Chocolate Edibles’ High Last?

THC-infused chocolate treats might give you a “high” that lasts for several hours. After consuming the product, you may typically feel the effects within 30 minutes to 2 hours, and they may last for 4 to 12 hours.

The potency of the edible, your metabolism, and your tolerance to THC can all affect how long the effects affect you.

Best Chocolate Edibles – Final Thoughts

The world of chocolate edibles is a paradise for curious THC consumers who are looking for a unique and different way to enjoy the potential benefits of THC.

From the tasty truffles to the crunchy cookies, there is a treat for every palate.

Remember, the key to enjoying these goodies is to start slow, and you also want to focus your attention on companies that are known for selling top-grade goodies, such as Kats Naturals[11]  and other featured online retailers.

With the right amount of caution, you are most certainly set on the most chocolatey journey, so enjoy!

 References:

  1. Hampson AJ, Grimaldi M, Lolic M, Wink D, Rosenthal R, Axelrod J. Neuroprotective antioxidants from marijuana. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2000;899:274-82. PMID: 10863546.
  2. Grunberg, V. A., Cordova, K. A., Bidwell, L. C., & Ito, T. A. (2015). Can Marijuana Make It Better? Prospective Effects of Marijuana and Temperament on Risk for Anxiety and Depression. Psychology of Addictive Behaviors : Journal of the Society of Psychologists in Addictive Behaviors, 29(3), 590.
  3. Mack A, Joy J. Marijuana as Medicine? The Science Beyond the Controversy. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2000. 4, MARIJUANA AND PAIN.
  4. Allen, A. M. (2021). Impact of Acute and Chronic Cannabis Use on Stress Response Regulation: Challenging the Belief That Cannabis Is an Effective Method for Coping. Frontiers in Psychology, 12.
  5. Latif, Z., & Garg, N. (2020). The Impact of Marijuana on the Cardiovascular System: A Review of the Most Common Cardiovascular Events Associated with Marijuana Use. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 9(6).

 

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An Important Lesson from the 2024 Elections

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lesson learned in 2024 elections

Retrospect: An Important Lesson to learn from the 2024 Elections

Well folks, here we are again. Donald Trump is back in the White House, and if his previous term taught us anything, we’re strapping in for one hell of a rollercoaster ride. I can already feel my inbox filling up with requests to write about the latest Trump cannabis controversy or whatever inflammatory tweet is setting the internet ablaze.

But I’ll be honest with you – I’m going to try my damnedest to avoid turning this platform into yet another Trump commentary channel. Lord knows we’ve got enough of those already. Between the mainstream media’s obsession with every presidential syllable and the circus surrounding Elon Musk and RFK Jr.’s alliance with Trump, we’re already drowning in political theater. I mean, just look at the current media frenzy over “Did Elon Nazi Salute?” after Trump’s inauguration speech. If that’s any indication, we’re in for four years of non-stop sensationalism.

Here’s the thing though – as someone who prides himself on staying above the partisan fray (and believe me, that’s getting harder by the day), I feel obligated to share some hard-earned wisdom about navigating the cannabis landscape during these politically charged times. The last four years under Biden’s administration taught us some valuable lessons about political promises and cannabis reform, and those insights are more relevant than ever as we enter this new chapter.

So grab your favorite strain, settle into your comfy spot, and let old Reginald share some perspective on what we’ve learned and how to keep our heads straight during what’s sure to be an… interesting four years ahead.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from years of covering cannabis politics, it’s that weed polls better than politicians – and boy, do they know it. It might sound like I’m hitting the bong too hard, but the numbers don’t lie. Election after election, cannabis legalization consistently polls higher than any candidate running for office. With pseudo-legalization spreading across the country like wildfire, there are more cannabis supporters than ever before, making us quite the tempting voting bloc.

This reality wasn’t lost on the Democrats during their four-year stint. They dangled cannabis reform like a carrot on a stick, making grand promises about prioritizing legalization. Remember Kamala Harris, suddenly becoming cannabis’s biggest cheerleader? The same Kamala who oversaw countless marijuana prosecutions as California’s Attorney General was now preaching about social justice and legalization. The irony was thicker than smoke in a hotboxed Volkswagen.

For the first few years of the Biden administration, we got nothing but lip service. Then, as election season approached – wouldn’t you know it – suddenly cannabis reform became urgent. Pot pardons! Rescheduling! It was like watching a dealer who ghosted you for months suddenly sliding into your DMs with “you up?”

And some folks ate it up. I saw countless posts from well-meaning stoners declaring their undying loyalty to Biden-Harris based solely on these eleventh-hour cannabis promises. But let’s get real – those pardons didn’t free a single soul from prison, and the rescheduling circus? Well, that’s still stuck in bureaucratic limbo, likely to face years of litigation if it ever materializes.

Here’s the kicker though – despite all this pot pandering, Trump still won. Why? Because while cannabis reform is important, Americans were more concerned about putting food on their tables, feeling safe in their communities, and managing the immigration crisis. The Democrats were so busy virtue signaling about helping marginalized communities that they forgot about the broader population’s immediate concerns. That’s like focusing on growing exotic strains while your basic crops are dying – it might sound cool, but it won’t feed the masses.

The result? Not only did they lose the election, but they strung along millions of cannabis supporters for absolutely nothing. No legalization, no meaningful reform, just empty promises and disappointed voters. And therein lies our lesson, my friends. Politicians will always love pot pandering because they know we’re passionate about legalization. But when their promises go up in smoke, we’re the ones left holding an empty bag.

Here’s a draft in Reginald Reefer’s voice:

Let me tell you why I stay away from political parties like they’re contaminated bathwater. It’s not because I don’t care about society or our collective rights – quite the opposite. It’s because these parties are like ill-fitting suits; they might look good on the rack, but once you try them on, nothing quite sits right.

Take me, for example. On some issues, I’m as “Republican” as they come. I believe in keeping government small (because let’s face it, they tend to mess up everything they touch), rewarding merit over handouts, cutting through red tape, and protecting individual liberties. You know, the whole “leave me alone to grow my plants in peace” mentality.

But flip the coin, and suddenly I’m singing from the Democratic hymnal. I believe in drug reform (obviously), holding big corporations accountable for their shenanigans, protecting Mother Earth, and letting people love whoever they damn well please. Some might say this makes me a libertarian, but I prefer to think of myself as an anarchist – not in the “chaos in the streets” sense, but in the “I don’t need a master telling me what to do” sense.

Now, if I were to play the political game (which I’m not, but let’s pretend), here’s how I’d approach it. During campaign season? Sure, I’d fight like hell to get my candidate in office. Wave the signs, spread the word, do the whole song and dance. But the moment they win? That’s when the real work begins.

See, this is where most people get it wrong. They treat their political party like a sports team, blindly cheering even when their players are dropping the ball. But that’s not how democracy should work. The minute your candidate takes office, you need to transform from their biggest cheerleader into their harshest critic.

Stop swooning over their tweets and start scrutinizing their actions. Forget what they promised on the campaign trail – what are they actually doing now? Are they following through, or are they just blowing smoke? If they’re not living up to their word, it’s time to make some noise. Call your representatives, flood their offices with emails, make your voice heard.

That’s the thing about political promises – they’re like rolling papers in the wind unless someone holds these politicians accountable. And who better to do that than the people who put them in office? Don’t let them get comfortable. Don’t let them forget who they work for.

So over these next four years, whether you’re a Trump supporter or just someone trying to navigate this political circus, remember: Your job isn’t to defend your candidate’s every move. Your job is to keep them honest, keep them working, and keep them afraid of disappointing their constituents. Because at the end of the day, politicians are like cannabis plants – they need constant attention and occasional pruning to produce anything worthwhile.

Let’s talk about the orange elephant in the room. Love him or hate him, Trump isn’t your typical politician – mainly because he isn’t one. He’s more like a chaos wizard who somehow got hold of the nuclear codes. But here’s the thing that makes covering Trump so interesting: unlike most politicians who make promises they never intend to keep, this guy actually follows through on some wild stuff.

Take his first few weeks back in office. While the media was having a meltdown about his latest tweet, Trump was busy declassifying JFK and MLK documents that have been gathering dust for decades. But the real head-turner? Pardoning Ross Ulbricht, aka the Dread Pirate Roberts. Here’s a guy who got two life sentences without parole for… what exactly? Creating a website? Sure, people sold drugs on the Silk Road, but by that logic, we should throw Mark Zuckerberg in prison every time someone sells weed through Facebook Messenger.

And he’s not done. RFK Jr. – the black sheep of the Kennedy family who’s been raising hell about pharmaceutical companies – is set to head Health and Human Services. Meanwhile, Trump’s already making good on his immigration promises faster than you can say “build the wall.” It’s clear this isn’t the same Trump from 2016. He’s got new allies, new strategies, and seemingly fewer fucks to give than ever before.

But here’s where things get murky, folks. While Trump’s making moves that have libertarians and anti-establishment types cheering, he’s also cozying up to some seriously sketchy characters. Take Larry Ellison, the Oracle overlord who’s got deeper CIA connections than my grow room has spider mites. For those who don’t know, Oracle started as a CIA project in 1977 with Ellison at the helm, though they’ll swear up and down it’s all ancient history. Yeah, and I’m just growing tomatoes in my basement.

What’s particularly concerning is all this talk about using AI to develop mRNA vaccines. I don’t know about you, but combining artificial intelligence, experimental vaccines, and a company with intelligence agency roots sounds like the plot of a dystopian novel I don’t want to live through.

So here we are, watching Trump do some genuinely positive things while simultaneously setting up what could be the infrastructure for a technocratic surveillance state. It’s like finding out your dealer is giving you great prices but also installing cameras in your house. Sure, the weed’s good, but at what cost?

This is why, my friends, we need to stay vigilant. Celebrate the wins when they come, but keep your eyes wide open and your bullshit detectors finely tuned. Because in Trump’s America 2.0, the only thing we can be certain of is uncertainty itself.

 

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Oregon Cannabis 2025: Legislative Forecast and Report

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The Oregon legislative session formally kicked off this week, on Tuesday, January 21st. It’s a regular session in 2025, meaning we’re in for a longer stretch — a 160-day calendar, versus the 35-day affair we see in even-numbered years.

If you read any of the news articles previewing the 2025 session, you won’t see cannabis as a legislative priority. Most likely, you won’t see it mentioned at all. Legislators seem both wary and weary of cannabis: the 2023 industry scandals implicating public officials are still fairly recent; and, after ten dynamic years and hundreds of adult use cannabis proposals, bills and laws, the program needs to breathe.

All of that said, the Cannabis Industry Association of Oregon (CIAO) and others have been working on their wish lists, and I do expect to see a few new cannabis laws in 2025. Most of it will be scaffolding and maintenance.

Below, I summarize the draft bills currently teed up in the 2025 session (with links), and give some cursory comments. But first I’ll add my usual caveat: a large majority of these introduced bills will not pass. Some contain overlapping concepts and will never go to committee, while others will fail after a hearing or two, or be consolidated into omnibus or placeholder bills.

This is one of the omnibus bills, and one to watch. Its drafter described it to me yesterday as “omnibus but not complete,” in fact. Here’s what’s in there as of today:

  • Authorizes the destruction of hoop houses when executing a search warrant to investigate the unlawful production of marijuana.
    • This strikes me as potentially problematic, as a due process issue.
  • Requires the OLCC to make maps of licensed industrial hemp operations and marijuana production premises available to the Water Resources Department and the Department of Environmental Quality.
    • An inter-agency communication issue. Been on the list for a while.
  • Repeals the prohibition on a marijuana retailer locating within 1,000 feet of a building where a public prekindergarten or kindergarten program is provided.
    • Something we’ve dealt with more than once, including with the Department of Justice way back when. Just a clarification needed.
  • Allows the State Department of Agriculture to inspect biomass and processed industrial hemp stored at the location of a licensed industrial hemp operation.

Here are a few concepts that may be added:

  • Grant OLCC authority to move from a one-year licensing cycle to a two-year cycle, as with alcohol.
    • This could cut a lot of red tape for both OLCC and industry. The devil would be in the details as to marijuana retailer tax issues, but as a concept I really like it.
  • Re-up the grant program targeting illegal grows in southwest Oregon, at current service levels.
    • This grant has been around since 2018: the sheriffs and victim’s rights folks are the main proponents. If you’d like to see data, the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission program published a recent report here.
  • Requires OHA to study the medical use of marijuana.
    • This is a funny little bill and probably just a placeholder. We’ve only had a medical marijuana statute in Oregon for 27 years!
  • Removes requirements that a registry identification cardholder who produces marijuana for personal medical use register with OHA.
  • Requires a person responsible for a marijuana grow site that produces marijuana for medical use for three or more registry identification cardholders to apply for a designation from the OLCC.
  • Directs OHA to issue electronic registration cards.
  • Requires marijuana retailers to offer for sale medical grade cannabinoid items that contain not more than 20 percent total THC.
  • Creates health care and employment protections for a person who is a registry identification cardholder.

This is an Oregon Cannabis Commission bill with some strong concepts, but it will need a lot of amending. OLCC has been slowly absorbing OHA’s medical marijuana program for years. At first that upset people, but a full windup is a fait accompli. SB 162 has a good chance to pass in some form.

  • Requires OLCC to study cannabis.
  • Directs OLCC to submit findings to the interim committees of the Legislative Assembly related to the judiciary not later than September 15, 2026.

Placeholder.

Same as SB 188. Placeholder.

  • Ends special tax assessment for land, if the owner or the person in control of the land gets a civil penalty for growing marijuana on the land or is found guilty of growing it there.
  • Makes an exception if the owner reasonably didn’t know about the pot or called the police as soon as they did know.
  • Disqualifies land from farm use special assessments upon a final civil penalty or judgment of conviction for the illegal growing of marijuana against the landowner or person in possession and control of the land.
  • Provides an exception for a landowner or other obligated taxpayer who reasonably lacked knowledge of the illegal growing of marijuana or promptly notified a law enforcement agency of the illegal growing of marijuana.

This bill appears to be poorly conceived and poorly structured at present. I’m guessing it doesn’t go anywhere for several reasons, not least of which will be the fiscal impact consideration.

  • One-liner: establishes a division in the Department of State Police to enforce laws related to illegal marijuana cultivation.

I doubt it goes anywhere.

This one, along with SB 557 and 558 just below, are the CIAO bills. (You can view CIAO’s legislative priorities here.) Each of these bills are sponsored by Senator Floyd Prozanski, longtime industry supporter.

  • Allows a marijuana producer, marijuana wholesaler, marijuana processor or marijuana retailer to use a motion detection camera system at a licensed premises.
    • I was surprised this would be disallowed by OLCC.
  • Directs OLCC to establish by rule an industrial hemp endorsement for marijuana producers.
  • Prohibits OLCC from requiring physical tags or other identifiers on certain marijuana plants.
    • This would be very useful and cut down on lots of pointless “compliance” and labor and waste.
  • Allows a marijuana item transport vehicle to use a digital manifest and edit the manifest during transport.
    • Let’s get with the times.
  • Allows the State Department of Agriculture (ODA) to define “industrial hemp” by rule.
  • Allows a marijuana licensee to engage in the interstate commerce of industrial hemp and marijuana. Becomes operative if federal law or the United States Department of Justice allow or tolerate the interstate commerce of industrial hemp or marijuana.
    • I need to ask about this too. In 2019, we passed SB 582 which already allows export of marijuana when the federal environment changes. This proposal seems very similar.
  • Requires at least one OLCC commissioner to hold a marijuana processor, marijuana producer, marijuana retailer or marijuana wholesaler license.

Creative, and probably going nowhere.

  • Allows a marijuana licensee to provide samples of marijuana items to other marijuana licensees at temporary events registered with OLCC.
  • Allows the commission to establish by rule a temporary events registration system. Allows a marijuana wholesaler to sell marijuana items to a marijuana retailer at a temporary event.
  • Allows a marijuana producer to provide samples of seeds and immature marijuana plants to permitted workers.
  • Allows a marijuana producer, marijuana processor and marijuana wholesaler to provide samples of marijuana items in specified amounts to permitted workers.

A bunch of rulemaking coming up for OLCC if this passes. But it all makes sense.

  • Increases the maximum percentage of tax that the governing body of a city or county may impose on the sale of marijuana items. 20% of the proceeds go to the city or county at issue.
  • Requires a percentage of a newly enacted or increased amount to be transferred to the county in which the collecting retail establishment is located, provided the county is eligible for Oregon Marijuana Account distributions.

This will get the cannabis industry’s hackles up, severely. Similar bills have been beaten back in prior years and I expect the same result here.

  • Establishes a state public bank task force.

The Governor vetoed this bill last time around, citing “logistical challenges.” I haven’t had a chance to talk with the sponsors of SB 583, so I’m not sure what the plan is on reintroduction. As a guy from North Dakota — the only state in the union with a state-chartered bank; and as an equitable banking access proponent — I hope this one succeeds.

  • Exempts from public records disclosure the residential address or personal phone number of an individual who holds a permit issued under ORS 475C.273.

The reference there is to marijuana worker permits. Good idea. The proposed law should probably sweep in ORS 475C.269 as well.

  • States that the person must tell the OHA or the OLCC where the person plans to grow, process or produce the marijuana or psilocybin and who owns the site that the person plans to use. Specifies some cases when the OHA or the OLCC cannot give permission to the person.
  • Requires an applicant for a license to manufacture psilocybin to submit to OHA information regarding the ownership and location of the premises to be licensed, and prohibits the authority from issuing a license in specified circumstances.
  • Requires an applicant for a license to produce or process marijuana to submit to the OLCC information regarding the ownership and location of the premises to be licensed. Prohibits the commission from issuing a license in specified circumstances.
  • Requires an applicant for a medical marijuana grow site or medical marijuana processing site registration to submit to the authority information regarding the ownership and location of the premises to be registered. Prohibits OHA from issuing a registration in specified circumstances.

This is a big and rangy bill with concepts overlapping some of the others. Expect it to be absorbed somewhere, in some form.

  • Provides items that have cannabis in them must have a label that says a person has to be at least 21 years old to consume or use the item.
  • Requires labels on marijuana items and inhalant delivery systems that contain industrial hemp-derived vapor items to include that the minimum age for consumption or use is 21 years of age.

Everyone would have to re-do their labels.

  • Requires that marijuana items and stores warn people that the use of marijuana by a person who is pregnant might cause danger.
  • Requires a marijuana retailer and a medical marijuana dispensary to post warning signs regarding the consumption or use of marijuana during pregnancy.
  • Requires marijuana items and inhalant delivery systems that contain an industrial-hemp derived vapor item to include in labeling that consumption or use of marijuana during pregnancy may be dangerous.

Some speech and label issues here.

  • Requires OLCC to study itself. Directs OLCC to submit findings to the interim committees of the Legislative Assembly related to economic development not later than September 15, 2026.

Placeholder. Same as 2276.

Similar to the two above.

  • Directs OLCC to look at cannabis and report to the judiciary committees. Directs the commission to submit findings to the interim committees of the Legislative Assembly related to the judiciary not later than September 15, 2026.

I believe this one also comes via the Oregon Cannabis Commission, like SB 176. And like SB 176, it likely has legs but will also see some amendments along the way.

  • Provides that organizations that provide hospice, palliative care or home health care services, as well as certain residential facilities, must write policies and teach their staff about the medical use of marijuana.
  • Same requirement of any such organization or residential facility that is designated as an additional caregiver for a medical marijuana cardholder.
  • Protects an organization or residential facility and its employees and contractors from certain criminal liability related to the medical use of marijuana.
  • Prohibits the Oregon State Board of Nursing from taking disciplinary action against a nurse for discussing the medical use of marijuana with a patient. (Note: nurses are already allowed by statute to discuss medical marijuana use with patients, consistent with First Amendment protections)
  • Expands the definition of “debilitating medical condition” for the medical use of marijuana. The specific add-on I’m seeing is “the need for hospice, palliative care, comfort care or other symptom management, including comprehensive pain management.”

______

That’s all she wrote for now. I’ll check in again at the end of the session, or before that with any significant developments.

 



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Why Does Cannabis Make Exercise So Much More Rewarding?

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Why Cannabis makes exercise more rewarding

Ah, the “lazy stoner” stereotype – a relic of prohibition that’s aged about as well as “Reefer Madness.” As someone who’s been writing about cannabis for years, I’ve watched this tired cliché fade into obscurity, replaced by a much more nuanced understanding of who actually uses cannabis.

These days, you’re just as likely to find a joint in the gym bag of a professional athlete as you are in the purse of a suburban mom heading to yoga class. Cannabis consumers no longer fit neatly into the box that prohibitionists tried to stuff us in for decades. The plant has found its way into every corner of society, from high-powered executives to creative professionals, from extreme sports enthusiasts to retirees looking to stay active.

What’s particularly fascinating, and what many people might not realize, is that cannabis users tend to be more physically active than non-users. Yeah, you read that right – contrary to the old stereotype of the couch-locked stoner surrounded by empty chip bags, research shows that cannabis consumers generally move more than their non-consuming counterparts.

In fact, a new federally funded study has just confirmed what many of us in the cannabis community have known for years: people are significantly more physically active on days they use marijuana. This isn’t just anecdotal evidence anymore – we’re talking about hard data that directly challenges decades of anti-cannabis propaganda.

Today, we’re going to dive deep into the science behind this phenomenon, and I’ll throw in some personal insights from years of observing and writing about cannabis culture. Why does cannabis seem to enhance physical activity for so many users? Is it purely physiological, or is there something more complex at play?

Buckle up, fellow cannabis enthusiasts and curious minds – we’re about to explore why getting high might actually help you get moving!

Let’s dive into this fascinating federally funded study that’s challenging everything we thought we knew about cannabis and physical activity. The research team, comprised of experts from prestigious institutions including the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences and the University of Colorado Boulder, tracked 98 adult cannabis users over a four-week period, monitoring their physical activity levels and substance use patterns through smartphone-based surveys.

What makes this study particularly interesting is its real-time tracking methodology, known as ecological momentary assessment (EMA). Instead of relying on participants to remember their activities weeks or months later, researchers collected data about cannabis use, physical activity, and other behaviors as they happened. This approach provides a more accurate picture of how cannabis use relates to daily activities.

The results? They’re pretty eye-opening. The study found a clear positive association between cannabis use and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). In other words, people moved more on days they used cannabis. As the researchers noted, “Daily cannabis use was positively associated with daily physical activity.”

But why does this happen? The research team proposed several intriguing mechanisms. According to their findings, cannabis might increase exercise enjoyment and motivation, enhance recovery from physical activity, and activate the endocannabinoid system, which in turn triggers the dopaminergic system. This leads to increased feelings of psychological reward associated with physical activity. In simpler terms, cannabis might make exercise feel more rewarding, both physically and mentally.

However, like any good research, this study has its limitations. The sample size was relatively small at 98 participants, and the study only included people who already used cannabis at least once during the month. We still need more research to understand how these findings might apply to a broader population or to people who are just starting to use cannabis.

Here’s where things get really interesting though. Understanding the relationship between cannabis and exercise could have far-reaching implications for public health. As America grapples with an opioid epidemic and rising obesity rates, finding natural ways to make physical activity more appealing and rewarding could be game-changing. If cannabis can help people enjoy exercise more and recover better, it might offer a safer alternative to prescription painkillers for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

This could tie perfectly into the growing “Make America Healthy Again” movement. Instead of viewing cannabis as a hindrance to health and wellness, we might start seeing it as a tool for promoting active lifestyles. Imagine if legal cannabis states started developing programs that combine cannabis education with fitness initiatives – we could be looking at a whole new approach to public health.

Of course, more research is needed. We need larger studies, longer-term follow-ups, and investigations into different populations and types of physical activity. But one thing’s clear: the old stereotype of the lazy stoner is going up in smoke, replaced by a more nuanced understanding of how cannabis might actually help people lead more active lives.

As someone who’s been both writing about cannabis and exercising regularly for years, I’ve noticed something fascinating about combining the two. Joe Rogan once described smoking weed before working out as enabling him to “feel every muscle” work individually, and I’ve got to say, he’s onto something. When you’re high during exercise, there’s an enhanced mind-body connection that’s hard to explain unless you’ve experienced it. It’s as if cannabis amplifies your proprioception – your awareness of your body’s position and movement in space.

But here’s where it gets really interesting. Most of us don’t work out in complete silence; we’ve got our carefully curated playlists pumping through our headphones. And this is where cannabis adds another layer to the experience. I recently wrote about what I call “Psychoactive Listening” – how cannabis seems to enhance our connection with music, making us more immersed in every beat and melody. When you combine this with exercise, something magical happens.

Think about it: cannabis, music, and movement create a perfect trinity for achieving what athletes call “the flow state.” You know that sweet spot where you’re not thinking about your workout anymore, you’re just… doing it? Cannabis seems to help quiet that chattering “monkey mind” that usually won’t shut up about how many reps you have left or whether you remembered to buy milk. Instead, you’re fully present in the moment, moving with the music, feeling every muscle engagement, completely immersed in the experience.

Speaking from personal experience, there’s definitely a difference between working out sober and working out with a little cannabis in your system. Don’t get me wrong – I’m not suggesting you get completely blazed before hitting the gym. But a light buzz can transform a mundane workout into an almost meditative experience. The post-workout euphoria? That’s on another level entirely. It’s like the natural runner’s high gets amplified, creating a sense of accomplishment and well-being that can last for hours.

Exercise already releases endorphins and activates our endocannabinoid system naturally – that’s why we feel so good after a workout. When you add cannabis to the mix, you’re essentially double-dipping into these feel-good mechanisms. The combination can make exercise feel less like a chore and more like an enjoyable activity you actually look forward to.

This trend of combining cannabis and fitness couldn’t have come at a better time. With obesity-related illnesses on the rise and many people struggling to maintain regular exercise habits, anything that makes physical activity more appealing is a win. If cannabis can help people find more joy in movement and make exercise feel less like a punishment and more like a reward, we might be looking at a powerful tool for promoting public health.

Who knows? Maybe the future of fitness isn’t just about counting reps and tracking macros – maybe it’s about finding that sweet spot where wellness meets wellness, where getting healthy and getting high go hand in hand.

As we wrap up our deep dive into cannabis and exercise, I can’t help but see a massive opportunity on the horizon. With fitness becoming an increasingly central focus in American culture and cannabis users proving to be more active than previously thought, we’re looking at the perfect storm for a new kind of wellness revolution.

Think about it: How many people would be interested in a “Stoned Yoga” class where the instructor understands how to guide slightly elevated participants through mindful movements? Or what about organized “High Runs” where like-minded individuals can experience that legendary runner’s high while actually being high? These aren’t just pipe dreams – they’re legitimate business opportunities waiting to be seized by enterprising cannabis enthusiasts.

The research backs up what many of us have known anecdotally: cannabis users like to move. We’re not just sitting around playing video games (though there’s nothing wrong with that either). We’re out there hiking, lifting, running, and yoga-ing our way to better health. The stereotype of the lazy stoner is dead, and in its place, a new archetype is emerging – the active, health-conscious cannabis consumer.

For those of you who’ve been looking to carve out your niche in the cannabis industry, this could be your moment. The intersection of cannabis and fitness is still relatively unexplored territory, ripe with possibilities. Whether you’re thinking about becoming a cannabis-friendly personal trainer, starting a stoner sports league, or launching a line of workout gear for the cannabis community, the time to act is now.

Remember, the future of wellness doesn’t have to choose between being healthy and being high. As this research shows, maybe the best path forward is one that embraces both. So grab your gym bag, pack your favorite strain, and get ready to be part of the green fitness revolution. The world of active stoners awaits!

Inspiration: https://www.marijuanamoment.net/people-are-more-physically-

active-on-days-they-use-marijuana-new-federally-funded-study-shows-smashing-lazy-stoner-stereotype/

 

WEED AND EXERCISE, READ ON…

ACTIVE CANNABIS USERS

THE LAZY STONER MYTH DEBUNKED, WHY PEOPLE ARE ACTIVE!

 

 

 



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