Cannabis News
The Pain of Paying – Seeking Cannabis on a Budget Because You Have No Choice
The Pain of Paying: Seeking Cannabis Relief on a Budget
What is a “nodal grow” by Reginald Reefer
My heart sank reading a recent tweet about the crushing cost of medical cannabis for one patient with epilepsy – $560 a month, breaking their budget. The sheer injustice and helplessness of lacking access to affordable medicine that could ease their suffering upset me deeply.
In an ideal world, no one should have to ration relief they need based on ability to pay. Yet pharmaceutical greed oppresses so many into needless pain, unable to afford monopolized pills and treatments.
The cannabis plant graciously offers medicine freely to the people, if only law allowed. No one should suffer due to corporate profit motives restricting nature’s cures.
So while I can’t directly remedy this reader’s situation, perhaps some ideas could help them and others struggling financially to independently cultivate their own affordable medicine.
The concept of a “nodal grow op” came to mind, distributed cannabis cultivation within a medical collective to maximize yield, lower costs, and ensure continuous supply.
Picture an umbrella network of trusted patients growing at staggered cycles. Each harvest gets shared among the group, so medicine remains abundant without reliance on dispensary price gouging.
Of course laws prohibit personal growing in many areas, forcing dependence on commercial licenses catering to the affluent. But where patients face economic barriers to relief, cultivating communally could provide ethical, sustainable access.
My aim today is to explore pragmatic DIY solutions for homegrowers that empower self-sufficiency and mutual aid. The plant wishes to spread healing freely to those in need, not be monopolized for profit.
While civil disobedience carries risks, humanity calls us to care for those suffering when rules fail justice. If regulations won’t allow affordable access, then we must reclaim our plant sovereignty. The simplest solutions often arise from compassion.
At first glance, growing your own medical cannabis may seem intimidating. But with basic horticultural skills and some trial-and-error wisdom, crafting professional quality medicine at home is within most anyone’s reach.
Cannabis itself is one of the more forgiving, resilient plants to cultivate. It thrives on little more than sunlight, water, and quality soil as any weed would – the nickname rings true. Just meeting the plant’s basic needs often yields usable medicine.
Dialing in perfect growing conditions and specialized techniques takes practice. But new hobbyists should find some early success just sprouting quality seeds in a sunny garden patch or indoor tent. Don’t overthink early efforts – the plant itself guides you in its needs.
By the second or third personal harvest, most home growers will have developed enough familiarity with their strains to make adjustments improving potency, yield, aroma, etc. This experiential education deepens intuition around optimizing the cannabis’ unique expression.
With time, tools like targeted nutrients, hydroponics, training methods, and environmental controls help refine quality and customize medicine for patients’ needs. But a serviceable first crop requires little beyond sun, soil, water, and seeds.
Patience and attentiveness while learning the plant’s signals and needs is key. Cannabis tells you how to nurture it best, if you listen closely. And as with any garden, each one teaches new lessons.
Of course, certain medical conditions may require dialing in specific cannabinoid levels through controlled growing methods. Here resources and community networks become invaluable for sharing wisdom. Most obstacles have been solved by fellow growers ready to advise.
And auto-flowering strains nowadays make quality cannabis accessible for even non-gardeners. They transition from seed to harvest within months with minimal inputs. Plant the seed and watch it grow.
While mastering flawless medical cannabis takes years of passion, providing for personal medicine goals can begin far more simply. With good genetics and intention, the plants themselves gracefully guide novices to bountiful remedies.
Fear not the first steps! It’s a journey that leads to self-sufficiency!
Once committed to creating a communal cannabis cultivation collective, or “nodal” grow op, the first challenge becomes finding the right members. This requires deep discernment and gradual relationship building to ensure shared ethics and security.
Rather than hurriedly piecing together strangers solely around a transactional arrangement, the aim is assembling a circle of true peers bound by mutual understanding, care and commitment to a cause larger than oneself. A tribe formed first and foremost on trust.
In an age of social alienation, people may instinctively dismiss the idea of trusting others with knowledge of illegal activity as naive, even reckless. But in reality, it reflects reawakening to the interdependence and goodwill binding us beyond fear-based isolation.
Begin by reaching out privately to connect with just a few local parents in similar situations, using discretion and intuition as guides. Get to know their character and struggles organically over time before broaching sensitive topics.
Watch for those who express natural care, wisdom and discretion alongside desperation born of injustice. As rapport solidifies into friendship, openness and care will arise in their own time, rooted in genuine human connection.
From the initial few, expand thoughtfully and slowly to others who resonate with the cause through trusted referrals. But avoid over-eagerness – any whiff of unhealthy motive or coercion ruins sacred trust before it can even form.
Rather than quantity, emphasize discernment and chemistry. Remain patient in unfolding the network organically to keep its foundation of affinity strong. Just a few harmonious souls can birth tremendous change.
Of course, legally this requires civil disobedience. But framing it as such inflames paranoia and separation. We are simply friends helping friends access the plant medicines we are biologically entitled to, though rules may oppose it.
Approached thusly, the urgency of suffering eclipses any hesitation around breaking flawed legislation. Outdated policies crumble before compassionate humanity.
At the heart, this is a process of returning to community interconnection. Forming a circle of trust who through communication can organize to serve its members equitably and fill urgent needs left unaddressed by callous systems.
Some may dismiss this concept as unrealistic idealism. But pragmatic, caring solutions emerge when we step past isolationist worldviews built on fear and mistrust. If claims of family and community hold substance, now is the time to demonstrate it through action.
The remaining piece is inner work in each of us to dissolve lingering selfishness and cynicism blocking trust. For in the end, the walls that divide us run through every mind and heart. And only through truly joining hands do we mend the world.
Once a trusted collective is formed, we can begin planning a coordinated cannabis cultivation schedule that continually provides medicine for all members. This requires calculating plant counts and staggering grow cycles to ensure ample yield.
For example, consider 4 epilepsy patients each needing about 3-4 ounces of RSO every 3 months. That comes out to around 12-16 ounces of RSO needed by the group per quarter.
Since 1-2 ounces of flower makes 4-8 ounces RSO when processed, each individual cannabis plant yields enough oil for 2-4 patients when finished.
With 4 patients needing that 12-16 ounces of RSO per quarter, the collective would need approximately 3-4 plants per member every harvest cycle to produce enough medicine for the group’s needs.
So a workable sequence would be:
Member A starts 3 plants on January 1st
Member B starts 3 plants on April 1st
Member C starts 3 plants on July 1st
Member D starts 3 plants on October 1st
Within one year following this seasonal staggered schedule, each member will have cultivated a total of 12 plants (3 plants x 4 harvests), which should produce the estimated 48 ounces of RSO needed annually by the group.
Of course, depending on actual yields and efficiencies in oil production, more or less medicine may be created per plant. So the collective agrees to monitor supply closely and adjust individual plant counts and processes as needed. The goal is optimizing quality and continuity of medicine.
By clearly communicating timing for starting grows and sharing resources cooperatively, the group can maintain a steady, sustainable supply of RSO for all patients. This thoughtful coordination and planning is key.
Further adjustments will occur over time to dial in preferred cannabis strains, maximize yields, and synchronize harvests. But starting with the math provides an invaluable template to build upon together through real-world experience.
Beyond medicine, preserving harmony and compassion within the collective is essential to smooth collaboration. A shared commitment to openness, integrity and care in working through any hurdles makes all the difference.
With nature as guide and community as wisdom, abundance grows one step at a time. The numbers come to life when joined to collective intention. Let the first seeds be planted!
In theory, coordinating communal cannabis cultivation through a trusted collective is a brilliant idea. Not just for medical needs, but for any consumers wanting to access affordable variety.
By pooling knowledge and resources, small groups can potentially achieve self-sufficiency. This lesson applies broadly to organizing mutual aid networks beyond just growing.
Of course, in many areas this still requires civil disobedience regarding laws. As long as prohibition persists federally, some risk remains. But for patients and families facing severe suffering, the benefits often outweigh potential consequences.
When it’s a matter of preserving life and limb, there is legal precedent for breaking unjust rules. The first federal medical marijuana patient successfully argued medical necessity as defense against charges for personal cultivation.
That said, I don’t recommend unlawful behavior lightly. But when flawed policy fails people, we must also question the system itself alongside gently breaking its unjust rules. Blind obedience protects no one.
The sticky bottom line is that cannabis is proving itself an essential human right, and no law can justly deny people the liberty to act in medical self-defense. We all must answer to personal conscience first.
The seeds for change take root beyond courthouses in our communities and hearts. And the plant itself guides us through love and abundance when we walk the path with courage and care for each other.
The medicine we need is already growing all around us. It awaits only our hands, intention and wisdom to harvest its healing gifts freely for all in need. May we come together and take what is rightfully ours, so no one must suffer or struggle alone.
The choice resides in each moment. Fear binds, faith liberates. Water the seeds you wish to see sprout in this world. The rest will unfold in its own time.
Good luck to all who dare take the first steps! The plants themselves promise to guide you the rest of the way. Harvest freedom and share it.
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Cannabis News
Latest Trump Weed Rumor – Trump Will Federally Deschedule and Decriminalize Cannabis, but Not Legalize It
In a recent interview, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie made headlines by asserting that President-elect Donald Trump will pursue significant reforms in federal policies regarding marijuana and cryptocurrency. As the nation grapples with evolving attitudes toward cannabis and the burgeoning digital currency market, Christie’s predictions have ignited discussions about the potential implications of such changes on both industries. This article delves into Christie’s insights, the current state of marijuana and cryptocurrency regulations, and the broader implications of these anticipated reforms.
The Current Landscape of Marijuana Legislation
Federal vs. State Laws
Marijuana remains classified as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), which places it in the same category as heroin and LSD. This classification has created a complex legal landscape where states have moved to legalize cannabis for medical and recreational use, while federal law continues to impose strict prohibitions. As of now, over 30 states have legalized marijuana in some form, leading to a burgeoning industry that generates billions in revenue.
Challenges Faced by the Cannabis Industry
Despite its legality in many states, the cannabis industry faces significant hurdles due to federal restrictions. These challenges include:
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Banking Access: Many banks are hesitant to work with cannabis businesses due to fear of federal repercussions, forcing these businesses to operate largely in cash.
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Taxation Issues: The IRS enforces Section 280E of the tax code, which prohibits businesses engaged in illegal activities from deducting normal business expenses, leading to disproportionately high tax burdens for cannabis companies.
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Interstate Commerce: The lack of federal legalization prevents cannabis businesses from operating across state lines, limiting their growth potential.
Chris Christie’s Perspective on Marijuana Reform
Christie, a former presidential candidate known for his tough stance on drugs during his tenure as governor, has evolved his views on marijuana over the years. In his recent statements, he emphasized that Trump is likely to pursue descheduling cannabis, which would remove it from the Schedule I classification. This move would not only provide clarity for businesses operating in legal markets but also open avenues for banking and investment.
Christie highlighted that descheduling would allow for a more regulated market where safety standards could be established, thus protecting consumers. He believes that this approach aligns with a growing consensus among Americans who support legalization and recognize the potential benefits of cannabis use for both medical and recreational purposes.
The Future of Cryptocurrency Regulation = The Rise of Cryptocurrencies
Cryptocurrencies have surged in popularity over the past decade, with Bitcoin leading the charge as the first decentralized digital currency. The market has expanded to include thousands of alternative coins (altcoins), each with unique features and use cases. As cryptocurrencies gain traction among investors and consumers alike, regulatory scrutiny has intensified.
Current Regulatory Challenges
The cryptocurrency market faces several regulatory challenges that hinder its growth and adoption:
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Lack of Clarity: Regulatory frameworks vary significantly across states and countries, creating confusion for investors and businesses.
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Fraud and Scams: The rapid growth of cryptocurrencies has led to an increase in fraudulent schemes targeting unsuspecting investors.
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Consumer Protection: Without clear regulations, consumers are often left vulnerable to risks associated with volatile markets.
Christie’s Vision for Crypto Regulation
Christie believes that under Trump’s leadership, there will be an effort to find a “sweet spot” for cryptocurrency regulation balancing innovation with consumer protection. He argues that overly stringent regulations could stifle growth in this emerging sector while too little oversight could expose consumers to significant risks.
In his view, a balanced regulatory framework would include:
1. Clear Definitions: Establishing clear definitions for different types of cryptocurrencies and tokens to differentiate between securities and utility tokens.
2. Consumer Protections: Implementing measures to protect investors from fraud while promoting transparency within the market.
3. Encouraging Innovation: Creating an environment conducive to innovation by allowing startups to thrive without excessive regulatory burdens.
Christie’s insights reflect a growing recognition among policymakers that cryptocurrencies are here to stay and that appropriate regulations are necessary to foster growth while safeguarding consumers.
Implications of Proposed Reforms
Economic Impact
The potential reforms proposed by Christie could have far-reaching economic implications:
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Job Creation: Legalizing marijuana at the federal level could lead to significant job creation within the cannabis industry—from cultivation and production to retail sales.
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Investment Opportunities: Descheduling cannabis would open up investment opportunities for institutional investors who have been hesitant due to federal restrictions.
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Boosting Local Economies: Legal cannabis markets have proven beneficial for local economies through increased tax revenues and job creation.
Similarly, clear regulations around cryptocurrencies could stimulate investment in blockchain technology and related industries, fostering innovation and economic growth.
Social Justice Considerations
Both marijuana legalization and sensible cryptocurrency regulations have social justice implications:
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Addressing Past Injustices: Legalizing marijuana could help rectify past injustices related to drug enforcement policies that disproportionately affected marginalized communities.
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Financial Inclusion: Cryptocurrencies offer opportunities for financial inclusion for those underserved by traditional banking systems, particularly in low-income communities.
Political Landscape
The political landscape surrounding these issues is complex. While there is bipartisan support for marijuana reform among certain lawmakers, challenges remain in overcoming entrenched opposition. Similarly, cryptocurrency regulation has garnered attention from both sides of the aisle but requires collaboration to establish effective frameworks.
Conclusion
Chris Christie’s predictions about President-elect Donald Trump’s approach to federal marijuana descheduling and cryptocurrency regulation suggest a potential shift in U.S. policy that could significantly reshape both industries. As public opinion evolves on these issues, lawmakers have an opportunity to enact meaningful reforms that promote economic growth while ensuring consumer protection. The anticipated changes could foster a more robust cannabis industry that contributes positively to the economy and addresses social justice concerns, while clear regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrencies could encourage innovation and protect consumers in the digital economy. Stakeholders in both sectors are closely watching these developments, eager to see how potential reforms might impact their futures. While the realization of Christie’s predictions remains uncertain, it’s clear that the conversation around marijuana and cryptocurrency regulation is ongoing and far from settled.
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“How Long Does One Puff of Weed Stay in Your System?”… This topic can be difficult to answer since it is dependent on elements such as the size of the hit and what constitutes a “one hit.” If you take a large bong pull then cough, it might linger in your system for 5-7 days. A moderate dose from a joint can last 3-5 days, whereas a few hits from a vaporizer may last 1-3 days.
The length of time that marijuana stays in the body varies based on a number of factors, including metabolism, THC levels, frequency of use, and hydration.
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis. THC and its metabolites, which remain in your body long after the effects have subsided, are detected by drug tests.
Since these metabolites are fat-soluble, they cling to bodily fat molecules. They could thus take a while to fully pass through your system, particularly if your body fat percentage is higher.
THC is absorbed by tissues and organs (including the brain, heart, and fat) and converted by the liver into chemicals such as 11-hydroxy-THC and carboxy-THC. Cannabis is eliminated in feces at a rate of around 65%, while urine accounts for 20%. The leftover amount might be kept within the body.
THC deposited in bodily tissues ultimately re-enters the circulation and is processed by the liver. For frequent users, THC accumulates in fatty tissues quicker than it can be removed, thus it may be detectable in drug tests for days or weeks following consumption.
The detection time varies according to the amount and frequency of cannabis usage. Higher dosages and regular usage result in longer detection times.
The type of drug test also affects detection windows. Blood and saliva tests typically detect cannabis metabolites for shorter periods, while urine and hair samples can reveal use for weeks or even months. In some cases, hair tests have detected cannabis use over 90 days after consumption.
Detection Windows for Various Cannabis Drug Tests
Urine Tests
Among all drug tests, urine testing is the most commonly used method for screening for drug use in an individual.
Detection times vary, but a 2017 review suggests the following windows for cannabis in urine after last use:
– Single-use (e.g., one joint): up to 3 days
– Moderate use (around 4 times a week): 5–7 days
– Chronic use (daily): 10–15 days
– Chronic heavy use (multiple times daily): over 30 days
Blood Tests
Blood tests generally detect recent cannabis use, typically within 2–12 hours after consumption. However, in cases of heavy use, cannabis has been detected up to 30 days later. Chronic heavy use can extend the detection period in the bloodstream.
Saliva Tests
THC can enter saliva through secondhand cannabis smoke, but THC metabolites are only present if you’ve personally smoked or ingested cannabis.
Saliva testing has a short detection window and can sometimes identify cannabis use on the same day. A 2020 review found that THC was detectable in the saliva of frequent users for up to 72 hours after use, and it may remain in saliva longer than in blood following recent use.
In areas where cannabis is illegal, saliva testing is often used for roadside screenings.
Hair Tests
Hair follicle tests can detect cannabis use for up to 90 days. After use, cannabinoids reach the hair follicles through small blood vessels and from sebum and sweat surrounding the hair.
Hair grows at approximately 0.5 inches per month, so a 1.5-inch segment of hair close to the scalp can reveal cannabis use over the past three months.
Factors Affecting THC and Metabolite Retention
The length of time THC and its metabolites stay in your system depends on various factors. Some, like body mass index (BMI) and metabolic rate, relate to individual body processing, not the drug itself.
Other factors are specific to cannabis use, including:
– Dosage: How much you consume
– Frequency: How often you use cannabis
– Method of consumption: Smoking, dabbing, edibles, or sublingual
– THC potency: Higher potency can extend detection time
Higher doses and more frequent use generally extend THC retention. Cannabis consumed orally may remain in the system slightly longer than smoked cannabis, and stronger cannabis strains, higher in THC, may also stay detectable for a longer period.
How Quickly Do the Effects of Cannabis Set In?
When smoking cannabis, effects appear almost immediately, while ingested cannabis may take 1–3 hours to peak.
The psychoactive component THC produces a “high” with common effects such as:
– Altered senses, including perception of time
– Mood changes
– Difficulty with thinking and problem-solving
– Impaired memory
Other short-term effects can include:
– Anxiety and confusion
– Decreased coordination
– Dry mouth and eyes
– Nausea or lightheadedness
– Trouble focusing
– Increased appetite
– Rapid heart rate
– Restlessness and sleepiness
In rare cases, high doses may lead to hallucinations, delusions, or acute psychosis.
Regular cannabis use may have additional mental and physical effects. While research is ongoing, cannabis use may increase the risk of:
– Cognitive issues like memory loss
– Cardiovascular problems including heart disease and stroke
– Respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis or lung infections
– Mood disorders like depression and anxiety
Cannabis use during pregnancy can negatively impact fetal growth and development.
Duration of Effects
Short-term effects generally taper off within 1–3 hours, but for chronic users, some long-term effects may last days, weeks, or even months. Certain effects may even be permanent.
Bottom Line
The amount of time that cannabis remains in your system following a single use varies greatly depending on individual characteristics such as body fat, metabolism, frequency of use, and mode of intake. Frequent users may maintain traces of THC for weeks, whereas infrequent users may test positive for as little as a few days. Hair tests can disclose usage for up to 90 days, while blood and saliva tests identify more recent use. Urine tests are the most popular and have varying detection durations. The duration that THC and its metabolites are detectable will ultimately depend on a number of factors, including dose, strength, and individual body chemistry.
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