How do you get as high as possible? It’s an age-old question that has consumed weed smokers, growers, researchers, scientists, and anyone who’s ever put some kind bud to their lips since humans first discovered the plant.
You’d think that reaching certain degrees of high is a numbers game around buying weed with the highest percentage of THC possible — but it’s not. Scientists reported in a study by Scientific American that, with joints, how high you get is largely defined by how the joint was engineered, from how the weed was broken down and rolled to how the joint burns.
They broke the weed down by different weed particle sizes and hand-rolled the joints to test it. Then, they measured what percentage of cannabinoids reached the end user’s lips and bloodstream. The results alleged that the quality of a joint and getting the most cannabinoids and compounds per puff is about the size of the weed particles after grinding them, the roll quality, and how evenly the final product burns.
The study was headed by Markus Roggen, president and chief science officer of Delic Labs, a cannabis and psilocybin research facility in Vancouver, British Columbia. Roggen and his colleagues questioned whether cannabinoid concentration was the most important factor in determining cannabis’s intoxicating effects and what other factors contribute to an enjoyable experience.
The team of scientists crafted a study where a smoke machine puffed on three pre-rolled paper cones in the same capacity and then measured the volume of cannabis compounds that were delivered. They used a coffee grinder and sieve to grind the cannabis and then hand-rolled the joints. The samples had weed particles that were one millimeter, three millimeters, and five millimeters in diameter.
They made joints from half-gram samples of each and used a “smoke cycle simulator” that inhaled six times for three seconds before exhaling. Filters collected the aerosols at the machine’s 3D-printed mouthpiece, and the researchers used analytical chemistry techniques to measure aerosol levels from puffs taken at the beginning, middle, and end of each joint.
How did we roll the “best” joints possible?
I used this chart to determine what kind of sieve to purchase to get the particle size right. Then I hit Amazon for the cops:
Note: smoking by particle size requires way too much work, and I know you aren’t going to put that effort in. But we did, ya know, for science. However, human trial and error greatly affects variable results in this experiment.
Before testing, I knew the best time to smoke would be in the morning while I was completely sober, so I spaced the samples out between Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings. The original study agreed that a human volunteer could not assess this many samples back-to-back with accurate results.
Step 1
I used a red Solo cup and a basic kitchen scale to weigh 0.5-gram samples of LA Cherry Runtz from Flight Path. I rubbed them against the sieves to break down the weed.
During the smoke, I hit each joint six times for three “Mississippis” — the true way to count seconds, just as the study suggested. I jotted my journey over the following three hours to remember and compare the feelings.
Results
Ultimately, I know what you’re wondering: Could I really tell the difference between the highs based on particle size? Unfortunately, no, I could not. I just got high like any other time I’ve smoked a lil’ half-grammer.
When using different sieves for different particle sizes, I did not detect a higher high between a joint rolled with 1mm and 5mm particles. Perhaps some sort of monitor would have suggested differently, but if we’re going off of a human test and human feelings, it simply wasn’t there.
What does this study mean for the future of joints?
As of right now, nothing. Weed companies are not about to start marketing products based on particle size in a world where they are still fighting the THC percentage and indica vs sativa vs hybrid battles. But the information is still nice to know.
Amber Wise, scientific director of the cannabis testing lab Medicine Creek Analytics, said, “Roggen’s data supports the argument that THC percentage matters less than particle size, and pre-roll manufacturers will find this useful.” According to Scientific American, the study concluded that further progress would require addressing variability that persisted in the team’s measurements — even between identically prepared joints.
In future work, Roggen and his colleagues plan to examine how other factors, including humidity, combustion source, and packing density, influence a joint’s architecture and effects. We’ll be around to test those findings, too.
If you drink alcohol, you can drink, but it has to be out of your body’s system. it is recommended you not have booze 24 hours before donating. Like alcohol, you can donate blood, but you have to let the marijuana move out of your system. Potential donors cannot give if cannabis use impairs their memory or comprehension. The Red Cross does not test blood donations for the presence of tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, the principle psychoactive component of the cannabis plant. But you should wait 24 hours from the last time you are high.
Donating blood is easy. You go to the nearest location, sign in, show ID, and read some information. You’ll answer questions online or in person, and receive a health check.
The acutional process is easy, a sterile needle is inserted into a vein in your arm, and blood is drawn into a bag. The donation usually takes 8–10 minutes and feels like a quick pinch. Afterwards they providea snack and drink and 10–15 minutes to recovery before resuming your day.
The cannabis industry is concerned about the direction of regulations – and the DEA is still against the plant.
The cannabis industry is very concerned for the future. While many supported the incoming president with hopes for action, things look rough. The Speaker of the House is against legal marijuana, the pro-weed Attorney General nominee seems to be in trouble, and some of the new Senate leadership feel cannabis issues as dead on arrival. And is this giving an indicator to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to not do anything? It is the DEA against the vast majority of the public about marijuana.
Every poll shows at least 88% of the population is for some form of legal cannabis. Florida had almost 57% of their voting public support full recreation. Almost all major medical organizing including the federal government’s Health and Human Services and the Food and Drug Administration, the American Medical Association and the American College of Physicians have supported rescheduling. Their reason is proven science around it providing clear medical benefits. But the DEA seems to be against it.
Now, the DEA and their Chief Administrative Law Judge John Mulrooney has denied a key group from being part of the hearing. Cannabis has been proven to help with PTSD and the Veterans adminstartion has rearranged its process to allow veterans to seek this option of treatment. The Veterans Action Council (VAC), an organization supporting cannabis access for military veterans, petitioned request “status as an interested party” to give testimony.
This is a follow up from an earlier requested to participate. Despite working with the government, the group was not included on the list of 25 participants released Oct. 31 by DEA Administrator Anne Milgram.
According to a footnote in the order denying the Veteran group a chance to testify, the DEA could allow more participants to testify. But DEA DIrector Milgam has shown no love for cannabis or the industry, and the current list leans heavily into the anti-cannabis group and against the general public.
As reported in early summer, Director Milgram made an unusual request of top deputies summoned in March for the “Marijuana Meeting”: Nobody could take notes. This has made the industry very anxious and hoping for a positive outcome for the thousands of mom and pop businesses.
The holidays are also a very busy time of year. And despite the myth, marijuana can help you be more productive.
It is the time of year when you still have a job, but are expected to do extra for all the holidays. Family gatherings, meeting up with friends, shopping, kids concerts and more suddenly jam the schedule. For some, it is the most stressful time of the year. But here is how to be more productive during the holidays with marijuana. Alcohol can often add to the holiday stress by having a hangover or generally making you sluggish.
There is the new trend of California sober, where you swamp marijuana for alcohol and it is taking off. Microdosing (usually with gummies), is another way people are benefiting from the plant without being fully stoned. While smoking is still a popular way to consume, edibles, gummies, vapes and oils are discreet and easy to take into almost any situation.
Also, pay attention to how different strains and consumption methods affect your productivity. Everyone’s endocannabinoid system is unique, so what works for others may not work for you. Experiment responsibly and adjust your approach based on your personal experiences.
Selecting an appropriate cannabis strain is crucial for maintaining productivity. Sativa-dominant strains are generally better suited for daytime use and staying active, as they tend to provide more energizing and uplifting effects. Look for strains high in limonene, a terpene known for its mood-boosting and focus-enhancing properties.
Proper dosing is essential to avoid becoming overly intoxicated. Start with a small amount and gradually increase as needed. Microdosing, which involves consuming very small quantities of cannabis, can be an effective way to experience the benefits without compromising cognitive function.
Before consuming cannabis, take time to establish clear objectives for your day or work session. Writing a to-do list can help declutter your mind and provide a tangible roadmap for your tasks. This practice allows you to focus on execution rather than planning once the effects of marijuana set in.
Consider when and where you use cannabis to maximize its potential benefits. Some users find that consuming during a lunch break or after completing a portion of their work helps refresh their mind without derailing productivity
Once you’ve consumed cannabis, dive straight into your tasks and maintain that momentum throughout your session. Avoid the temptation to take early breaks or rewards, as this can disrupt your flow and make it challenging to regain focus.
Some users find that combining cannabis with moderate amounts of caffeine can help counteract any drowsiness and enhance focus. However, be mindful of your caffeine intake, as excessive consumption may lead to increased anxiety.
Remember that while cannabis can potentially enhance productivity, it’s not a magic solution. Maintain discipline in your consumption habits and work ethic. Start with small amounts, use the momentum to accomplish tasks, and avoid overindulging. By implementing these strategies, you can harness the potential benefits of marijuana while staying productive and focused on your goals. Remember to always consume responsibly and in compliance with local laws and regulations.