Products to Ease Chronic Pain

Chronic pain can develop from a variety of different situations: Injury, surgery, arthritis, cancer, other illnesses, and more. Nowadays there is a huge selection of Medical Cannabis products that contain CBD, THC, and the latest cannabinoid showing promising signs in treating pain, CBG.  

Depending on the specific issue and how it is affecting your body, one of our State-Certified Medical Cannabis Consultants to determine which one may best suit your needs. Below are some of the top products in a range of applications to help ease any pain you might be feeling. 

Topicals For Chronic Pain 

Products such as Fairwinds Flow Cream and Ceres Dragon Balm are applied directly to the skin. They contain CBD and THC, which are absorbed by our body’s pain receptors above the affected areas within just a few minutes of application. They are often used by people with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, joints pain and more. Most topicals cannot penetrate deeply enough to enter into the bloodstream so they're very unlikely to cause intoxication, even if the topical is high in THC. We commonly find that CBD topicals may be beneficial in helping to reduce inflammation, while topicals high in THC may produce better results in reducing nerve pain. 

Edibles And Tinctures For Chronic Pain 

If you are experiencing pain from an injury, surgery, or autoimmune disease and topicals aren’t quite strong enough, there are several tinctures and edibles available. Edibles may provide relief anywhere between 6-10 hours throughout the day, making them an option for those looking for long-term relief. CBD-heavy edibles will work throughout the immune system, binding to CB2 receptors and reducing inflammation. Speak to a consultant to find the best ratio for your specific needs. 

FECO And RSO For Chronic Pain 

FECO, or Full Extract Cannabis Oils are also available in a variety of ratios and may provide very potent relief. The processes used to extract the oils from the marijuana plant vary from product to product, but all endeavor to take advantage of every organic compound present. Controlling your doses throughout the day is easy with clickable dispensers, and you can easily adjust if you find you need more or less. The Fairwinds brand produces a FECO pen that 'clicks' a controlled dose about the size of a rice grain, making it easy to regulate your intake. Repeatable and consistent dosage is key! 

Smoking And Vaporizing For Chronic Pain 

While ingestion of edibles, tinctures or FECO oils may provide long lasting relief, smoking or vaporizing cannabis may be more effective for immediate relief. Cannabis strains in flower and vape cartridge form are available in more varieties than any of the categories above. Every strain has unique characteristics and the ratio of CBD to THC can very greatly. Also, a vaporizer cartridge can be a bit more discreet when consuming, as the smell does not linger and dissipates after a few minutes. Cartridges also provide a higher potency level of THC and CBD, as they are about 3x as potent as flower. This means that for those who need relief stronger than what flower can provide, we will recommend a vaporizer cartridge.  

CBG: What is Cannabigerol

By now most people are familiar with the two most popular cannabinoids found in cannabis plants: THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). The easiest way to remember both has always been, THC gets you high, CBD doesn’t. But recently, a new cannabinoid is gaining popularity for its increasingly positive medicinal benefits, CBG.  

CBG (cannabigerol) has often been referred to as “the mother of cannabinoids” and has a ton of non-psychoactive therapeutic. In younger plants, CBG is more dominant but as the plant matures, and enzymes break down CBGA it is then converted to other cannabinoids, including our favorites, THC and CBD. This explains why CBG is rare in most cannabis causing breeders to now find new ways to enhance CBG levels in mature plants through different crossbreeding techniques.  

CBD or CBG, what works best?  

CBD and CBG are both non-psychoactive cannabinoids, meaning they don’t produce a “high”. CBD has traditionally been one of the most researched cannabinoids for its medicinal/therapeutic uses. There is a ton of evidence to show that CBD has been promising in helping treat conditions such as, chronic pain conditions, neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, autoimmune conditions such as multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, schizophrenia, and other psychiatric disorders, hypertension, nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy, digestive health conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and Crohn’s Disease. 

CBG research is in its infancy stage, but a lot of early research has shown promising signs for helping with similar treatments as CBD. It has also shown a host of new benefits as it is known to have high antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic properties. Additionally, it has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties without the “high” that THC has and has shown a lot of anticancer promise as it can inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Differently than CBD, CBG actually binds to the cannabinoid receptors in the body, possibly leading to better treatment of cognitive, immune, and nervous system conditions.  

Promising CBG Benefits 

As mentioned above, CBG’s key specialties include reducing inflammation and oxidative stress–which is defined as an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body. Oxidative stress is theorized to contribute to aging and has been suggested to lead to a vast number of diseases over time, including diabetes, cancer, inflammatory conditions, high blood pressure, heart disease, and neurodegenerative diseases.  

Neurodegenerative diseases are a huge category of over 600 neurologic disorders, with approximately 50 million Americans affected each year, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Some of the most-prevalent conditions are Alzheimer’s and other dementias, Parkinson’s and Huntington’s diseases, and multiple sclerosis. All neurodegenerative diseases are caused by the death of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, which leads to problems with movement and/or mental function. In recent studies, different cannabinoids, most notably CBG, have proven effective in offering neuroprotection, restoring cell antioxidant defense, improving motor deficits, and alleviating symptoms.  

How to Take CBG and What Products Are Best 

The list goes on when it comes to potential benefits people may experience from CBG. Like other cannabinoids, the most positive effects have been seen when multiple cannabinoids are taken together creating an entourage effect. Most cannabis flowers and full spectrum CBD or THC oils will contain trace amounts of CBG. But, to receive a more concentrated dose of CBG or other specific rare cannabinoids, it is advisable to turn to specially prepared products. 

At our shop, we have a range of different products with higher levels of CBG combined with other cannabinoids. Whether you are looking for tinctures, oral sprays, topicals, extracts, or flower, brands like Fairwinds, Polite, Heylo, and Walden (just to name a few) will have you covered!  

Chemotherapy, Nausea and Appetite: Can Cannabis Help?

Nausea and poor appetite are common side effects from cancer treatment. We look at 5 medical cannabis products that may provide some soothing Digestive relief.

Stomach discomfort and the lack of appetite that stems from it are dealt with frequently for many people undergoing chemotherapy. This can be attributed to the powerful cancer-fighting drugs that not only attack cancer cells, but have a tendency to affect healthy cells throughout the body as well. While some people seem less susceptible to these side effects, they can be severe in others. Therapeutic drugs are often prescribed to head off fatigue and discomfort. It’s becoming more common for people to look to natural means of pain management through medical cannabis as a part of their regimen as well. Many doctors have also recognized the potential value it has for their patient’s comfort as well.

“Studies have long shown that people who took marijuana extracts in clinical trials tended to need less pain medicine.” - American Cancer Society

“Patient surveys have provided important insights about how people use medical cannabis. About 42% of people diagnosed with breast cancer who completed our survey said they used medical cannabis products to manage breast cancer symptoms or treatment side effects. The people who used medical cannabis ranged in age, cancer stage, and treatment phase, and most (75%) found it to be “very” or “extremely” helpful.” - Breastcancer.org

Products with pain-fighting cannabinoids like CBD are available in various strengths, and many are designed with clearheaded relief well in mind. Our state-certified medical cannabis consultants at The Novel Tree Medical have selected 5 products that fit this description, and that may help ease stomach upset, nausea and assist in stimulating appetite. They contain powerful cannabinoids like CBD, CBG, THCA which may help regulate digestion and also stimulate mood-boosting serotonin levels.

Digestify Tincture

By Fairwinds

Relief Aid Tincture

By Polite

Delta-8 1:1

By JV Ranch

FECO 2:1 Capsules

By Fairwinds

CBG Original RSO

By Skagit Organics

Can CBD Help Ease Seasonal Allergies?

A study shows CBD may help relieve allergy symptoms at the source by blocking histamine release

CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties also may contribute easing your allergies

According to the Athsma and Allergy Foundation of America, 50 million people experience allergies every year. The spring and summer air fills with pollen, and what’s commonly referred to as ‘hay fever’ hits hard with a host of annoying symptoms. Along with beautiful blooming buds and green leaves, constant sneezing, congestion, itchy nose and sore throat can be unfortunate hallmarks of the warmer months. People end up reaching for powerful antihistamines like Benadryl and numerous other over the counter drugs designed to help you through the day. But what about CBD and cannabis?

CBD as an Antihistamine and Anti-inflammatory

A 2005 study demonstrated that CBD possesses immune-modulating effects throughout cells in the respiratory system, and acts as an antihistamine. The same study highlights the anti-inflammatory properties of cannabis.

“Broadly speaking, cannabinoids are considered to be immunosuppressive…In the context of the pro-inflammatory function of mast cells, cannabinoids act as potential anti-inflammatory agents ..”

When allergies are at their very worst, it’s not uncommon to experience inflamed tissue in and around the nose, throat and mouth. Anti-inflammatories like CBD may serve to reduce this extreme response and ease symptoms. Cannabis high in CBD is available in numerous forms that would not contribute to irritation of the throat such as vaping, edibles and capsules.

terpenes

A 2009 study demonstrated a reduction of allergic symptoms in mice when administered Pinene, an essential oil or ‘terpene’ found commonly in cannabis. Several other studies have noted terpenes bronchodilating, inflammation-regulating and muscle relaxing effects, all of which may contribute to seasonal allergy relief.

“We suggest that (Pinene) is a promising anti-allergic agent and may be useful in the clinical management of allergic rhinitis…"

A breakdown of common terpenes found in cannabis and their therapeutic effects

The Takeaway

Many people who suffer from seasonal allergies and hay fever are looking to cannabis and CBD as a more natural approach to easing their symptoms. Anecdotally and clinically, the evidence seems convincing that it may indeed play a positive role for those who suffer from troublesome symptoms. While cannabis cannot offer a magic wand for relief, there may be products available that can provide a pathway to a more bearable allergy season. Our state-certified medical cannabis consultants are the best resource for identifying what products may be most helpful.

Caryophyllene: The Peppery, Inflammation-Reducing Terpene

Caryophyllene is a common terpene, or essential oil, that’s responsible for those peppery notes in your cannabis.

It also may hold powerful anti-inflammatory properties for those experiencing chronic pain.

The natural properties of the cannabis plant are widely varied from strain to strain. The most common difference is the type of essential oil, or terpene that a specific type of cannabis possesses. Each terpene has unique properties: Fragrance, taste and effect. Many of them have also been studied for therapeutic properties. Caryophyllene, commonly known for its peppery aroma, is among the terpenes that have qualities that may benefit those experiencing chronic pain by reducing inflammation. It has even shown a potential to speed wound-healing in a 2019 study.

Caryophyllene: How Does it fight Inflammation?

An article in Frontiers of Neuroscience highlights plants possessing Caryophyllene as having been for the treatment of pain since ancient times.

“Cannabinoids help in pain treatment through their action on CB1 and CB2 receptors. β-caryophyllene (BCP), an ancient remedy to treat pain, is a sesquiterpene found in large amounts in the essential oils of various spice and food plants such as oregano, cinnamon, and black pepper. It binds to the CB2 receptor, acting as a full agonist.”

In less scientific terms, these pain receptors are found throughout our nervous system and in tissues throughout the body, and regulate our response to pain. Caryophyllene acts as an agonist, or chemical binder, which then mitigates the pain response. For millennia, the various plants high in this terpene were administered through aromatic oils which practitioners had come to recognize for this powerful, pain-fighting effect.

Caryophyllene: Cancer-Reduction Studies

Additionally, Caryophyllene has been studied for its cancer-fighting potential.

“The anticancer properties of (Caryophyllene) are less recognized than those of traditional cannabinoids, however several lines of evidence have demonstrated that these natural compounds can be interesting candidates for complementary treatment of the cancer.”

This 2016 Polish study touts Caryphyllene for its pain-reducing properties, and acknowledges that it may hold merit for further research.

5 Uplifting Cannabis Strains

Here are 5 of our favorite cannabis strains with uplifting effects.

The spring weather in Washington has us thinking of ways to ease stress and enhance Care-free days

In addition to providing relief for chronic pain, medical cannabis may be a viable method for abating anxiety and stress. For new medical cannabis patients, picking the right product for these needs can often be a bit intimidating with the wide variety of strains available. A good dispensary like The Novel Tree Medical can take the guess work out of this decision, and break down a handful of factors that influence what effects the cannabis will have when smoked, vaped or ingested as an edible. These factors include THC, CBD and terpene content, the combination of which may yield the most ideal stress-relieving experience.

We’ve selected five strains of cannabis flower that are associated with those uplifting, sunny day effects no matter the time of year. Note that many of these strains are available in other more discreet intake methods, like vape cartridges.

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5 Uplifting Cannabis Strains and Products

Evercream by Plantworks

A strain bred by combining Huckleberry and Haze strains, this bright and energizing Sativa is high in the terpene Pinene.

Blue Dream by Lazy Bee Gardens

As Sativa hybrid of Blueberry and Haze strains with pronounced THC content, this a great option for activities outdoors or as a pick-me-up on cloudy days.

Sky Master by Washington Bud Co.

Washington Bud Co. describes Sky Master as social, tangy and sweet. Pinene and Myrcene are the predominant terpenes in this flavorful strain of flower.

Waikiki Queen by North West Roots

A Sativa-dominant hybrid crafted by combining Hawaii and White Queen strains. Grown by one of Washington’s best known growers of medical cannabis.

Dutch Haze by Raven Grass

A Dutch Treat x Super Silver Haze hybrid, Rave Grass describes Dutch Haze as an uplifting strain with an intensely sweet tropical candy nose.

Linalool: The Soothing and Anxiety-Busting Terpene

A natural sedative, linalool works alongside cannabis to ease the mind and body with delicate floral aromas

Linalool has also been studied for its Powerful anti-convulsive properties

Lavender has been recognized for millennia for its ability to calm the body with even a brief exposure to its scent. Commonly found in alternative medicine in the form of aromatherapy oils and extracts, Linalool is the essential oil that is responsible for this mellowing reaction in Lavender. It’s also found in several strains of cannabis, making for a powerful combination of pain-relieving effects. Although more rare than terpenes in cannabis like Myrcene and Pinene, Linalool seems to hold some promising benefits that merit further study.

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Linalool as an anti-convulsant, anti-spasm

In studying the effects of Linalool on the central nervous system, this essential oil was found to ease symptoms related to convulsive disorders like epilepsy. Although these studies have been minimal, they are nonetheless groundbreaking.

“There are many studies that report the antiseizure activity of a nonallopathic preparation with animal models of epilepsy. Several of these medications are prepared with plants that contain linalool.”

- Ferderal University of Sergipe, Brazil, 2010

Anxiety and Stress-Fighting Effects of Linalool

Medical studies and testimonial evidence have both demonstrated Linalool to be a potentially powerful ally against anxiety and depression.

“The monoterpenes β-pinene and linalool were identified as the two main active principles of the essential oil, and showed antidepressant-like and sedative-like activity.”

- The Journal of Ethnopharmacology 2012

Strains High In Linalool

• Lavender Kush

• Do-Si-Dos

• Zkittlez

Pinene: The Anti-inflammatory, Alert and Aromatic Terpene

Studied for numerous health benefits, Pinene is a potential powerhouse

If you open a jar of cannabis flower and smell a pine-like scent, it’s likely high in Pinene. But what are its effects when smoked, vaped or ingested?

Jack Herer, a cannabis strain high in a-Pinene

Pinene is an extremely common plant essential oil, or terpene, found all throughout nature. It can be found in high levels in pine needles, rosemary and numerous other aromatic plants known for that signature eye-opening scent. It is, in fact, the most common terpene found in the world.

It’s Alpha variant, a-Pinene, can be found in cannabis and has become associated with anti-inflammatory, bronchodilator and memory-boosting effects.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

In a study published by the National Institutes of Health, a-Pinene was found to exhibit “strong pharmacological effects” when administered for the reduction of inflammation. Conditions like arthritis can benefit from the reduction of inflammation a-Pinene may provide.

a-Pinene may be of benefit for those suffering from respiratory issues as well, as it works in concert with THC to open pathways in the lungs with bronchodilating effects and relieve symptoms of conditions like asthma.

Memory-Boosting Effects

a-Pinene has been studied by leading medical cannabis researcher Dr. Ethan Russo for its ability to moderate the short-term memory impairment associated with cannabis use. Additionally, Russo cites a-Pinene as a broad-spectrum antibiotic, a trait shared among several other cannabis terpenes.

“Perhaps most compelling, however, is its activity as an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor aiding memory…This feature could counteract short-term memory deficits induced by THC intoxication.” - Dr. Ethan Russo Taming THC potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects

Potential Additional Benefits of A-Pinene

In a landmark Chinese study, pine needle extract containing Pinene was found to inhibit cancer tumor growth.

“We found that treatment with α-pinene significantly inhibited human prostate cancer cell growth and induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in the cell line-based model.”

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Practical Tips About a-Pinene from The Novel Tree Medical

• In small amounts it can be calming and clear headed, great for getting chores and errands done.

• It's possesses biphasic effects; Large amount and small amount have opposite effects of each other.

• It’s typically responsible for clear-headed, invigorating “Sativa” effects.

What strains are high in a-Pinene?

• Jack Herer

• Harlequin

• Blue Dream

• Purple Sour Diesel

• Sky Master

• 9lb. Hammer

Polite: Physician Formulated Cannabis

Polite cannabis is now available at The Novel Tree Medical in Bellevue

Discreet formulas available in tinctures, spray and disposable vapes. Affordably-priced and convenient.

A range of natural options, for better days and nights

Sprays for simple and precise dosing. Great for on the go relief.

With an impressive lineup of easy to use and discreet products, Polite relies upon clinical research and physician expertise to formulate each product. Their 5 ‘effect’ categories are easy to differentiate for their intended use throughout a day: Power Up, Daily Defense, Relief Aid, Ease Your Mind and Rest Well. Utilizing a full host of cannabinoids like CBG and CBN, Polite delivers relief without the psychoactive effects. Additionally, each Polite product is made with vegan, gluten free, cruelty free and non GMO ingredients. You’ll find therapeutic botanicals in each formula as well, like Kava and Peppermint in the Rest Well blend. Each blend is available in tincture, spray and disposable vape form. Also look for Polite’s two topical sticks, Cooling Recovery and Warming Relief.

The Polite Formulas: Tinctures, Sprays and Vapes

• Rest Well: Hibernate, don’t hallucinate | Peppermint, Kava | CBD: CBN: THC

• Ease Your Mind: Peaceful, not paranoid | Lemon Balm, Kava | CBD: CBG: THC

• Relieve & Recover: Soothed, not sedated | Turmeric, Ginger | CBD: CBG: THC

• Power Up: Awake, not amped | Grapefruit, Lemon, Eucalyptus, Gotu Kola | CBD: CBG: THC

• Natural Defense: Healthy, not hazy | Ashwaganda, Frankincense | CBD: CBG: THC

Medical Cannabis Clinic in Bellevue

Looking for Medical Cannabis in Bellevue, Washington? The Novel Tree Medical is here to help.

Washington’s Only Medical-Specific Cannabis Clinic

Tailored For You

At The Novel Tree Medical, our state-certified medical cannabis consultants know that no two patients are the same. We’ll take a custom approach with you, being considerate of each individual symptom.

“Medical-level professional staff…It’s just been unbelievable.” -Mike C. 

Quality Assured Medical Cannabis Products

The Novel Tree Medical guarantees clean, consistent products that are easy to use for consumers. Our consultants can assist you in finding the ratio and intake method that best fits your needs. We stock a wide array of tinctures, vapes, edibles, extracts, flower and more.

Choose from brands like:

• Fairwinds

• Washington Bud Co.

• Walden

• Falcanna

• Ceres

• Skagit Organics

• Botanica Seattle

• Raven Grass

• Heylo

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What will my visit be like?

Our expert staff are here to assist you every step of the way. We offer private, in-store consultations in a discreet, professional and clinical environment that’s set up with your safety and comfort in mind. Expect one on one education on all things medical cannabis. Our team recommends products based upon an individual’s specific conditions, such as chronic pain, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, discomfort due to cancer treatments and more. The Novel Tree Medical is Washington’s only medical-specific cannabis clinic and your well-being is our primary goal!

When Does CBD or Cannabis Oil Expire?

CBD oil has a long shelf life in general, but when does it start to lose its potency?

How and where you store CBD oil Containers will have an impact on its shelf life and Efficacy.

For those who rely upon CBD and cannabis oil in tincture and syringe form, making sure you get to use every last drop is of utmost importance. Managing chronic pain often takes no more than a dropperful of cannabis oil per day, and in some cases even less. But at what point should you start worrying about the freshness and potency of your product of choice? As consumers, we are taught that a brand new container containing recently produced contents will always be preferred. The same is largely true of cannabis oils, but they are made with a long shelf life and period of efficacy in mind by Washington state’s growers and extractors.

You can rely on months of pain relief from your CBD oil with just a handful of simple storage methods:

1. Store your CBD, cannabis, RSO oil in a dark place. A medicine cabinet is your best bet, though not inside a bathroom where humidity is unusually high. High humidity promotes microbial growth.

2. Keep your CBD, cannabis, RSO away from high temperatures. Higher temperatures are friendlier to the growth of microscopic impurities which you want to avoid coming into contact with.

3. Do not transfer your oil to a different container. A new container may not be sterilized correctly and could harbor bacteria. Keep your oil inside the original container always.

4. If your oil is more than a year old, consider replacing. Its potency and purity may have degraded over time. This is largely dependent on the product type and how often it has been opened since first breaking the seal. RSO’s and distillates generally have a much longer shelf life because of their lack of additives.

Delta 8 THC: Reduce Nausea, Increase Appetite

Delta 8 THC is a growing topic of conversation in the medical cannabis community for its ability to ease nausea and stimulate appetite.

Especially for those undergoing chemotherapy or other cancer treatments, Delta 8 represents relief from symptoms with a much weaker intoxicating effect when compared to the more common Delta 9 THC.

Delta 9 THC is the most commonly found cannabinoid throughout every type of cannabis product, and its much less common variant, Delta 8, may have been discovered by total chance. A byproduct of the distillation process, Delta 8 has been increasingly touted as a potentially powerful ally for people dealing with painful symptoms related to cancer and chemotherapy, owing to its ability to abate gastrointestinal issues, chronic pain, and even anxiety. In recent months, companies who process cannabis flower for concentrate have begun to isolate the cannabinoid and harness its therapeutic properties.

As a derivative of cannabis extracts, Delta 8 is not found in flower, and in only a handful of cannabis products available at licensed Washington state dispensaries. It is increasingly found being sold online from hemp-based sources with zero traceability or guarantee of efficacy or purity, and as such, we do not recommend them.

The Novel Tree Medical carries 3 products high in Delta 8 that have total transparency, with the ability to trace back to the very plant it was extracted from. This is actually true of anything found in Washington dispensaries, a system is in place to protect the consumer and verify each and every product.

Delta 8 THC Products at The Novel Tree Medical

Digestify Vape by Fairwinds

Also available in tincture form.

Delta-8 Raw Distillate by Empire

1:1 RSO by JV Ranch

Delta 8 RSO with an equal ratio of CBD to THC.

Melatonin vs. Cannabis For Sleep

Many Americans rely on popping Melatonin before bedtime for sleep problems, but what about cannabis?

“Why don’t you take a Melatonin or two…” A common refrain when we talk to each other about sleep issues. It’s practically as standard a response as taking an Ibuprofen for joint pain. Simply put, it’s engrained in the collective regimen of most people and many don’t give it a second thought.

The fact is, most don’t have a complete understanding of how Melatonin affects your body and hopefully induces sleep, or what a reliance upon it could do to already out of balance systems in our body. Sleep issues arise from a variety of issues that Melatonin isn’t necessarily equipped to alleviate like the timing of food consumption, exposure to blue light at bedtime, amount of exercise we get during the day, and numerous other factors. Increasingly, people are looking to a variety of cannabis products to wind down towards bed time and put them in a relaxed state before their head hits the pillow. As Melatonin teaches us, cannabis isn’t an all in one solution for sleep issues, but it may represent a more tailored approach.

How Does Melatonin Work Anyway?

Melatonin is a naturally produced hormone in our brain which serves the sleep and wake cycle, letting us know when it’s the most ideal time to both retire at night and wake in the morning. Melatonin supplements approximate this natural process, and essentially work to reset our biological, Circadian rhythm. Many times it’s used by people making long-haul flights across several time zones, speeding their acclimation to a new sleep schedule.

More commonly, however, these supplements are reached for when someone is having a particularly difficult time falling or staying asleep. The labels on many of the Melatonin bottles often feature the moon, stars, a series of z’s, a bed, or other icons that indicate bed time. This understandably influences the consumer, and it’s no wonder so many people see them as a catch-all sleep aid. While there are reasons to take Melatonin supplements on occasion and at appropriate times, the long term use seems like something to be wary of. The Psychiatric Times speaks about the importance of natural Melatonin as an important regulator of metabolism, which underscores the risk of taking additional supplements:

“An evening meal will result in higher glucose and insulin levels compared with the identical meal eaten early in the day. Over time these elevated evening glucose and insulin levels increase the risk for obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. The timing of food intake in relation to our evening melatonin rise appears to be an important factor.”

- Melatonin, The Dark Side of the Hormone. The Psychiatric Times

How May Cannabis Aid Sleep?

In comparing Melatonin to cannabis, it’s important to note that we’re not advocating replacing one for the other, as they represent a totally different approach to achieving sound sleep.

Cannabis has a vast number of merits that encourage restfulness and sound sleep, owing to its many constituent parts like CBD, THC, terpenes and cannabinoids. These natural components of cannabis work with our body’s Endocannabinoid system, or ECS, and can help to regulate issues that contribute to sleep problems most notably by reducing stress, anxiety and inflammation. CBD has been especially touted as a sleep aid, but anecdotal evidence and a handful of studies have shown it to be most effective when coupled with small amounts of THC. CBD products found in supermarkets, drug stores or online shops contain no THC. In Washington state, CBD products containing THC and other beneficial properties can be found at licensed cannabis dispensaries.

“The effects of cannabis on sleep have been reviewed (Russo et al., 2007), and highlight the benefits that can accrue in this regard, particularly with respect to symptom reduction permitting better sleep, as opposed to a mere hypnotic effect. Certainly, terpenoids with pain-relieving, anti-anxiety or sedative effects may supplement such activity, notably, caryophyllene, linalool and myrcene.” -Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects, Dr. Ethan Russo

Although only a strictly anecdotal observation, The Novel Tree Medical consultants have noted that women and men react differently to CBD and THC when confronting sleep issues. The appropriate ratio of CBD to THC can be found in a multitude of products from tinctures to inhalers and more.

Inhalers are an increasingly popular choice for people looking for stress and pain relief before bedtime.

A Balanced Approach to Sleep

The Novel Tree Medical’s state certified medical cannabis consultants can assist you in zeroing in on the what may be most appropriate to your individual needs. A restful, rejuvenating night’s rest is different from person to person. A perfect, uninterrupted 8 hour window doesn’t exist for all of us, and it’s perfectly normal to rise a couple times during the night and we can still achieve rest despite it. That said, we may be able to decrease the number of bothersome symptoms that cause us to feel restless. Pain and anxiety are the two most prominent that cannabis has shown success in alleviating, contributing to a sense of ease and relaxation.

Myrcene: The Calming Terpene With A Peppery, Hoppy Aroma

All About Myrcene, The Most Commonly Found Terpene in Cannabis

The calming and relaxing Myrcene has demonstrated Sedative, Pain-Relieving, Muscle-Relaxing, Anti-inflammatory and Anticancer effects

Myrcene is the terpene, or essential oil, that’s best known for its ability to aid relaxation and is often most associated with Indica cannabis strains. It’s musky, peppery and hop-like flavor is found in varying levels in most other hybrid and Sativa strains too, but strains where it predominates exhibit the dulcifying characteristics. Elsewhere in nature, Myrcene is found in lemongrass, hops, thyme, cloves and most famously in mangoes. A little-known urban myth that consuming mangoes while smoking cannabis can multiply effects may actually hold some merit, though no formal studies have ever proven this theory. Simply put, plants and cannabis high in Myrcene possess a great ability to help you wind down. For this reason, medically-focused cannabis growers often look for high Myrcene strains to cultivate. Medical cannabis patients who need help sleeping and an edge taken off their symptoms often look for it when selecting strains.

Health Implications of Myrcene

Beyond the sedative effects that it’s so well know for, studies indicate a number of potential benefits of Myrcene. Dr. Ethan Russo, perhaps the most prominent cannabis researcher, cites Myrcene for it’s therapeutic qualities. He speaks about the sedative, anti-inflammatory and even anticancer effects in a far-reaching 2010 study in the British Journal of Pharmacology:

b-Myrcene is another common monoterpenoid in cannabis with myriad activities: diminishing inflammation via prostaglandin E-2 (PGE-2) (Lorenzetti etal., 1991), and blocking hepatic carcinogenesis by aflatoxin (DeOliveira et al., 1997). Interestingly, myrcene is analgesic in mice, but this action can be blocked by naloxone, perhaps via the a-2 adrenoreceptor (Rao et al., 1990). It is non- mutagenic in the Ames test (Gomes-Carneiro et al., 2005). Myrcene is a recognized sedative as part of hops preparations (Humulus lupulus), employed to aid sleep in Germany (Bisset and Wichtl, 2004). Furthermore, myrcene acted as a muscle relaxant in mice, and potentiated barbiturate sleep time at high doses. - Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects, Dr. Ethan Russo

Through the Entourage Effect, or the synergetic relationship between cannabinoids, terpenes and our body, Russo calls the study of terpenes a “pharmacological treasure trove.”

A 2015 Korean study found that isolated Myrcene “showed the most potent inhibition of tumor necrosis” in human breast cancer cells.

What Cannabis Strains are high in Myrcene?

Blackberry by by Washington Bud Co. | X% THC

Harley’s Moonshine by Heylo | 21% THC, 42% CBd, 1.3% CBG, .8% CBC, .8% CBDV

Rolexx by Eagle Trees 20% THC

Cherry Pie Hybrid by Lazy Bee Gardens | 20% THC, 2.4% CBG

Blueberry Trainwreck by Raven Grass | 17.2% THC

Limonene: The Terpene with a Fruity, Citrus Aroma

All About Limonene, An Essential Oil Found Commonly in Cannabis

The mood-boosting Limonene has demonstrated anti-anxiety, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and anti-cancer effects

Limonene is the terpene, or essential oil, that’s most associated with those fruity, citrus-like smells and flavors often found in your cannabis. It’s bright and eye opening nature can be a welcome addition to a dark and cold winter day, and can play a role in elevating your mood, reducing stress and boosting your energy. It’s not present in every cannabis strain, but it’s among the most commonly found. Terpenes are produced by the plant and act as self-defense, or immune system, against would-be predators in nature. Environmental factors influence which terpenes are present.

With the advent of modern-day cannabis oil extraction, many producers have developed methods to capture and preserve the amount of cannabis-produced terpenes in a given product. Because of this, you’re more likely to find strain blends with high Limonene content in vape cartridges and other extracts that are formulated to elevate your mood. As our medical cannabis consultant Matt puts it succinctly, “Limonene makes things happy!” It’s important to note that Limonene doesn’t need to be the predominant terpene present in order to have possess these effects, even a small percentage can be influential.

Outside of cannabis, Limonene is most prominently found in the peel of citrus fruits and mint. The oils in the rind of an orange or grapefruit are 97% comprised of Limonene. It’s used in various applications, like cleaning supplies, food flavoring, and fragrance additives in cosmetics. Throughout your day, you may be interacting with Limonene several times and not even realize it!

Health Implications of Limonene

Isolated Limonene has antibacterial effects, and may be beneficial for fighting acne and other skin disorders. Internally, the anti-inflammatory properties of Limonene have been studied for the treatment of ulcerative colitis with promising results. There is also evidence pointing to its efficacy in reducing inflammation related to osteoarthritis.

A 2018 study by the National Institute of Health, Limonene showed an ability to inhibit lung cancer cell growth in mice. Numerous other studies have pointed to Limonene’s vast cancer-fighting potential.

What Cannabis Strains are high in limonene?

Dominion Skunk EVFO by Puffin Farm | 44% THC

Squirt Sativa Hybrid by Lazy Bee Gardens 17% THC

Guava Punch Hybrid by Eagle Trees | 22% THC

707 Truthband by Heylo | 59% THC, 3.6% CBG, 2.5% CBD, .6% CBC, .5% THCV

Wedding Cake Indica Hybrid by Lazy Bee Gardens

52% THC .15% CBD 1% CBG .46% CBC

Top 10 Medical Cannabis Products of 2020

2020 Was An Exciting, Innovative Year In Medical Cannabis.

Despite everything that has happened in 2020, for the people that have spent years working tirelessly to legitimize the cannabis industry, this will always be the year that we were deemed essential. Many states recognized that cannabis is not just a fun and recreational product, but also something that is of vital importance for the physical and mental health of their citizens. We saw a tremendous rise in people wanting to understand and use cannabis for things like helping with sleep and curbing increased anxiety.

There was a lot of innovation in 2020, we saw the rise of new products with high levels of lesser cannabinoids, new methods of consumption, and a fine tuning of the classics that make them better than ever. We are now regularly seeing products high in CBG, Delta 8 THC, Delta 10 THC, CBT and many others. While research is still new on many of these things, we are already beginning to find how to incorporate these cannabinoids into effective regimens to help as many people as possible.

Matt, Westley and Isaiah are state-certified medical cannabis consultants at The Novel Tree Medical.

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Here are 10 medical cannabis products that stood out in 2020, all available at the novel tree medical.

Fairwinds 1:1:1 Ratio Line

Available in tinctures, vapes and capsules.

While new to the shelves, the Fairwinds 1:1:1 ratio series already makes it to our top 10 list for the year. Products high in CBG have been some of the most exciting and helpful that we have added to our shelves this year. CBG is the precursor to THC and CBD, like CBD it is non-intoxicating, and like THC it has effects throughout the central nervous system. We find that the combination of these 3 cannabinoids creates an incredibly balanced effect that is great for pain or anxiety whether you need relief first thing in the morning or right before bed. Coming in a variety of options like tinctures that give you incredible levels of control over your dose, long lasting capsules, or you can achieve immediate relief from the vaporizer cartridge or pax pod. Whichever your desired method of consumption the 1:1:1 ratio is a must try from Fairwinds. 

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Falcanna Pacific Sunshine CBG Flower

Grown on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula.

I will say it again, 2020 was the breakout year for lesser cannabinoids. Very few products have made as big of an impact so quickly as the Pacific Sunshine flower from Falcanna. With over 10% CBG and less than 1% THC this non-intoxicating flower is the perfect way to start or end your day with. It is also the perfect thing to mix with your high THC strains to mellow their intensity and provide a well-balanced effect. Great for anxiety, and to help relax tension and muscle tightness, the high CBG Pacific Sunshine from Falcanna is an industry game changer.  

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Washington Bud Company Flower

Freshly harvested WA Bud Co. cannabis flower.

We love Washington Bud Co! One of the things that we think is most important for medical cannabis is consistency. For the last 5 years WA Bud Co. has harvested every 4 weeks like clockwork. They grow the same 8-10 strains, so we know even if we run out of something you love we are never more than a few weeks from a fresh harvest. This level of consistency has been incredible for our medical customers, when they find something that works, we need to be able to have a regular supply. Whether it is the incredibly relaxing Blackberry, the sharp clear focus of Skymaster, or the incredible balanced effects of CBD-dominant Harlequin. Whatever you are looking for WA Bud Co. has you covered with some of the best smelling, best smoking flower that we’ve found in Washington. 

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Fairwinds Inhalers

Inhalers now available in strain specific varieties.

Fairwinds is always on the cutting edge of innovation in the cannabis industry. This was on full display in 2020 with the introduction of their line up of metered dose inhalers. A way to get immediate effects and benefits of cannabis, without having to combust anything or smoke. Using pharmaceutical grade devices and propellant, Fairwinds has produced strain and ratio-specific inhalers for every situation. Each spray delivers a micro dose of 2.5mg, whether it is THC, CBD or a combination of the two there is an inhaler for you. The effects are nearly immediate as soon as you use the inhaler like a smokable product, and can last several hours like an edible. Best of both worlds. 

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Ceres Nano Emulsification 

Dragon Balm is among the most popular medical cannabis topicals.

Ceres has really figured something out with their Nano Emulsified cannabis products. This is a way of making the cannabinoids smaller so your body can absorb them quicker. This really comes into effect with edible products. While Washington law requires warning people that the onset for an edible can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, the consistent feedback is that Ceres Nano edibles take effect closer to that 30-minute mark. The Nano Emulsification also seems to be beneficial for their topicals and bath salts as it’s designed to help the cannabinoids penetrate more deeply. 

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Skagit Organics RSO & Distillate

Premium RSO from Skagit Organics.

Skagit Organics has been an invaluable partner of The Novel Tree Medical for years. Many have found benefit and relief from one of their pesticide free strain specific RSO oils, and distillates. Having a huge variety of strengths and ratios of CBD to THC is beneficial and necessary to be able to help as many people as possible achieve relief. One of the most exciting things about Skagit Organics is the expanded cannabinoid profile on the back of every package. This highlights the full spectrum approach that we take at The Novel Tree Medical. Beyond THC and CBD there are so many other cannabinoids that may not be key players but can add to the effect and benefits of a specific product. The “entourage” effect in full display, you can see that their oils will often have beneficial levels of CBG, CBC, and even CBT. While research on some of these components is in its infancy, we are excited to learn how to incorporate these components to help people to best achieve their goals with cannabis. 

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The New Workout Plan: Heylo Cannabis 

Always an innovator, Heylo leads the industry in tailored vape blends.

The New Workout Plan is the first delta-10 THC product in the Washington state cannabis market. This oil, available to both 510 thread cartridges and PAX pods, contains over 11% of this interesting new THC isomer. Heylo balances this with roughly 38% delta-9 THC, 1.9% CBG, 1.7% CBC, and 1.3% CBT. This cannabinoid ‘cocktail’ is vigorously motivational when vaporized. Delta-10 stimulates the mind like a robust espresso without creating a noticeable jittery feeling. It also encourages a "get up and go" headspace, which pairs well with physical activity. This blend's entourage effect is perfect for patients with lethargy, depression, or attention deficit disorder. The rare chemistry present in Heylo's New Workout Plan is an exciting peek into the future of cannabis science.

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Delta 8 CBD RSO: JV Ranch

CBD tanker with a convenient dispensing method.

The new delta-8 THC & CBD 1:1 tanker from Johnny Vanella Ranch is one of the best products on the market for patients that want to combat nausea and promote gut health. Both delta-8 and delta-10 are isomers of standard delta-9 THC. These cannabinoids interact with the same receptors as delta-9 THC but affect them differently. Delta-8 helps patients create a positive relationship with food and eating. This effect, combined with CBD's properties, makes this 1:1 a perfect choice for cancer patients. The oil is a potent analgesic that is very minimally psychoactive; it engenders tranquility and settles anxieties.

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Walden Concentrates

High potency concentrates from premium sun grown cannabis.

For many medical patients, high levels of THC may actually be very beneficial for relief from chronic pain and PTSD. Walden has helped so many people by creating clean, high potency tankers, cartridges, and dabbable concentrates at an incredible price point. Being able to consistently source these high potency products ensures that we always have the best option for everyone. Strain specific so you can always dial in the optimal experience. 

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Plantworks Urban Microgrow

Grown with love in the heart of Seattle.

Plantworks embodies everything we love about medical cannabis. A microgrow in the heart of Seattle, owners Regina and Jared are a 2 person show, growing, packaging, and delivering always with love. Producing incredible varietals from the old “green cross” medical days like The True OG, to some of the best smelling CBD in the market with their Tropical Fire CBD and Orange Julia. Pesticide free, hydroponically grown under LED ensures that they consistently put out cannabis of the highest caliber. You can feel the love that is put into every jar when you smoke anything from Plantworks. We appreciate them, and everything they do, and are proud to feature them on our shelves.

What were standout products for you in 2020? Leave us a comment! 

What Does CBD Stand For and What Does it Do?

The basics of CBD and its effects

What is CBD?

CBD is one of the primary naturally-occurring chemical components found in cannabis. Collectively, these are known as cannabinoids. CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is surging in popularity for its ability to help ease chronic pain, aches and pains, insomnia, anxiety and a host of other common ailments. Some of the first and most notable research into CBD involved its use to address symptoms of epilepsy and seizures.

CBD products found in Washington state dispensaries is derived from cannabis, and also contains several other active compounds like THC that contribute to relief.

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Is CBD Intoxicating?

CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid produced by the cannabis plant. In an isolated form or at high CBD to THC ratios, it does not cause intoxicating effects, or a ‘high’ that is associated with other high THC cannabis.

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What are the effects of CBD?

Chronic Pain Relief

Many people who use CBD cannabis products are looking for a powerful alternative to over the counter painkillers. Several studies have pointed to CBD’s powerful anti-inflammatory properties, and it’s commonly used as a part of a chronic pain relief regimen.

CBD may offer an option for treating different types of chronic pain. A study from the European Journal of Pain showed, using an animal model, CBD applied on the skin could help lower pain and inflammation due to arthritis. Another study demonstrated the mechanism by which CBD inhibits inflammatory and neuropathic pain, two of the most difficult types of chronic pain to treat. - Harvard Health Publishing

Anxiety and Stress Relief

CBD also demonstrates a number of anxiety and stress-relieving effects, and is used to ease symptoms of conditions as serious as post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD.

Overall, existing preclinical evidence strongly supports the potential of CBD as a treatment for anxiety disorders. CBD exhibits a broad range of actions, relevant to multiple symptom domains, including anxiolytic, panicolytic, and anticompulsive actions, as well as a decrease in autonomic arousal, a decrease in conditioned fear expression, enhancement of fear extinction, reconsolidation blockade, and prevention of the long-term anxiogenic effects of stress. - Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders

Insomnia and Sleep Difficulty Relief

With it’s powerful potential for anxiety, stress and pain relief, it’s a natural conclusion to draw that CBD may contribute to improved quality of sleep. Though few studies focus on CBD and sleep, there is promising evidence for its efficacy both in scientific review and in personal testimonials.

Overall, there is scientific research that supports the theory that there are CBD health benefits. While more research needs to be done, the use of CBD can potentially decrease your symptoms of insomnia and help you get more quality sleep. - Sleep Assocation

Use For Epileptic Disorders

CBD is increasingly used by individuals suffering from epileptic seizures. In an large body of evidence has demonstrated potentially life changing benefits in managing symptoms, decreasing seizure instances and severity.

CBD possesses affinity for multiple targets, across a range of target classes, resulting in functional modulation of neuronal excitability, relevant to the pathophysiology of many disease types, including epilepsy. - The Proposed Mechanisms of Action of CBD in Epilepsy

Use for Parkinson’s Symptoms

People experiencing difficult and painful symptoms related to Parkinson’s disease have found that cannabis and CBD can offer some much needed relief. Compelling anecdotal evidence and early scientific studies both demonstrate CBD’s potential benefits.

There was also significant improvement of sleep and pain scores. No significant adverse effects of the drug were observed. The study suggests that cannabis might have a place in the therapeutic armamentarium of PD. Larger, controlled studies are needed to verify the results. - Cannabis (medical marijuana) treatment for motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson disease: an open-label observational study

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Where do I get CBD?

You can find cannabis-derived CBD products in licensed cannabis dispensaries like The Novel Tree Medical in Bellevue, WA. A staff of state-certified medical cannabis consultants can assist you with identifying an appropriate product, discuss dosing and frequency, and any other topics related to your unique needs.

5 New Medical Cannabis Products We're Excited About

Selected by our team of state-certified medical cannabis consultants

Sourcing new and innovative cannabis products designed to alleviate chronic pain and educating those who need them is a primary part of our mission at The Novel Tree Medical. Since no two medical cannabis patients are the same, having a wealth of options is key to help address a wide variety of unique, individual needs. The brands and farms we carry have a proven track record of developing products for effective relief of everyday aches, serious chronic pain, anxiety and more.

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5 New Products at The Novel Tree Medical

Eagle Trees Royal AC/DC

Eagle Trees is grown pesticide free under the sun in a green house to ensure that they are producing the cleanest and highest quality cannabis possible. Their Royal AC/DC is quickly becoming a favorite. The combination of Royal Kush and AC/DC provides an incredible profile of high CBD but also a good amount of THC to be very effective for a providing relief. Available in smokable flower, or in a concentrated Full Spectrum RSO oil you can smoke, eat, or cook with.

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Falcanna Pacific Sunshine

Few things are truly industry game changers, Pacific Sunshine is one of them. It is the first CBG-dominant flower available at The Novel Tree Medical. CBG is the precursor to CBD and THC, typically there is very small amounts left by the time a plant is harvested. While research is still new on CBG it seems to be even more effective than CBD in helping with mood and anxiety, and like CBD, has no intoxicating effects. While the Pacific Sunshine strain is still only available in smokable flower, we are starting to see the rise of CBG in many of the products that we carry and we are excited to start taking full advantage of its potential benefits.

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Treehaus Tahoe OG, Sundae Driver and Grapefruit Vapes

Treehaus is an exciting new line from our good friends at Heylo. Treehaus combines Heylo’s incredible full spectrum cannabis oil with high potency distillate to provide the best of both worlds. High potency, and incredible tasting and unique terpene profiles. Utilizing pesticide free flower to guarantee the highest quality product possible, check out Treehaus next time you are in the market for a new vape cart.

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High Five Farms TOPS

This flower give people an extraordinarily economical alternative to high priced indoor cannabis. These sun grown kolas are packed with intense terpenes and stunningly high cannabinoid percentages. The growers at High Five believe that their sustainable outdoor method produces a product that is comparable to the finest indoor flower. Offerings like Beach Wedding hammer their point home. Available in eight and quarter ounces, this Oni Seed Co. classic contains a whopping 26.4% total cannabinoids. The tropical smoke produced by these dense buds is a full body relaxant that melts muscle cramps and sooths neuropathic pain.

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High End Farms

High End Farms produces some of Washington’s most powerful indoor-grown flower. Their “Diamond Quality Cannabis” is cultivated in small batches to ensure quality and potency. It is always hand trimmed to preserve trichomes. High End Farms offers multiple heavy hitting strains that test at over 27% total cannabinoids. Patients with severe nerve and muscle pain often find that strong flower provides relief that traditional medication cannot. Their Blueberry Pie strain is an excellent choice for people in pain because it acts as a deeply sedative full body relaxant. The smoke from this flower is richly aromatic with a powerful skunk flavor on the inhale, and a sweet muffin taste on the exhale.

Chronic Pain Relief: 5 Cannabis Strains To Consider

What Gives a Cannabis Strain Its Pain-Fighting Power?

It isn’t just CBD and THC content give a strain pain-fighting potential, it’s terpenes too.

CBD is rightfully known as the pain relieving component found in cannabis. It delivers powerful anti-inflammatory effects and can play an important role in the management of chronic pain. Beyond CBD however, there are other naturally occurring cannabinoids and essential oils, or terpenes, that can play a strong supporting role in alleviating pain. Cannabis growers skillfully cultivate these strains, often cross breeding them with others to enhance these beneficial properties. In Washington state, each new crop of cannabis is tested to analyze these biological aspects of the plant, measuring THC, CBD, cannabinoid and terpene content. This creates a good opportunity for the dispensary recommending the strains, and finally the consumer, to know what effects the cannabis may have. It’s especially important when looking for a strain that addresses a medical cannabis patient’s unique set of needs.

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What Effects Do Cannabis Terpenes Have?

This table features the most common terpenes found in cannabis and their therapeutic effects. Terpenes are the naturally occurring essential oils produced by a wide variety of plant life.

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5 Powerful Pain-Relieving Cannabis Strains

Royal ACDC by Eagle Trees

8% CBD : 13% THC

Terpenes: A-Pinene, B-Myrcene, Linalool, B-Caryophyllene.

Lake of Fire by North West Roots

12.8% CBD : 0.48% THC

Terpenes: B-Myrcene, B-Caryophyllene, A-Pinene, Linalool, and Terpinolene.

Lazy Susan by Plantworks

5.2% CBD : 2.7% THC

Terpenes: B-Myrcene, B-Caryophyllene, Humulene, Nerolidol, Linalool

Gilda by Raven Grass

6% CBD : 4% THC

Terpenes: B-Myrcene, A-Bisabolol, A-Pinene, B-Caryophyllene.

Charlotte’s Web by Falcanna

16% CBD : 1% THC

Terpenes: B-Myrcene, A-Pinene, B-Caryophyllene, A-Bisabolol, B-Pinene, Limonene, Humulene.

Cannabis: How Long Until Effects are Felt?

Considerations for Cannabis Dosing in Edibles, Vaporizers, Flower and More

when deciding which consumption Method is going to be best for you, First Consider how long It will take for effects to begin.

For some people, the long-lasting duration of ingestible cannabis products might be most effective. For others, the near-immediate onset of effects from inhalation may be more desirable. While prior experience and the height and weight of a person are important factors in cannabis dosing, we’ve observed that the severity of their ailment also plays a major role in what the optimal dosage may be. Someone recovering from surgery is going to need a higher dose even if they’ve never used cannabis before. 

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Onset Time of Cannabis Products: A Quick Reference Guide

Capsules | Onset time of 1-2 hours with 6-8 hour duration. Biological factors that could affect either variable would be cannabis experience, and the difference between an empty and full stomach. 

Chocolates & Fruit Chews | Onset time 1-2 hours with 6-8 hour duration. Anecdotally, fat from chocolate or peanut butter seem to enhance bioavailability for faster onset than sugar based fruit chews.

Tinctures | Onset time is 15-45 minutes with 4-5 hour duration. Oil based liquids placed under the tongue can begin absorbing into the bloodstream faster than other ingestible products. 

Topicals | Patients often experience an alleviation of their symptoms within 10 minutes of applying cannabis topicals. These products give people suffering from muscle spasms, neuropathic pain, and other conditions near immediate relief. Topicals work quickly to address superficial ailments without entering the bloodstream. 

Extracts | Concentrates and oils such as RSO, Distillate, and EVFO have an onset time of 45 minutes-1 hour with a duration of 5-6 hours. Vaporizers and “dabbed” concentrates using a cartridge or concentrated cannabis oil have an immediate onset time with a duration of 1-2 hours.

Smoking and Vaping | Effects of smoking cannabis flower or vaping cannabis oil are next to instantaneous, often times within just a minute or two. Typically the duration of effects are around 1-2 hours, but can vary with the amount smoked or vaped, and the strength of the cannabis.

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Edible Consumption Methods

Longer Lasting with a slower onset time

For most situations we would recommend an edible consumption method, these are the best for staying ahead of any issue like pain, anxiety, or sleeping through the night. Any edible product can take anywhere from 30 minutes up to 2 hours to feel the effects and can last anywhere from 6-10 hours. Due to the delay in onset and the long lasting duration of effects we always advocate to start low and go slow. You can always take more, you can’t take less. 

Tinctures | A great way to control your dose on the lower end, and a great place for people new to cannabis. Typically tinctures come with a dropper for precise measuring, the oil is then placed under the tongue where it can begin to absorb into the bloodstream. The absorption under the tongue is more efficient than swallowing a capsule, or eating a chocolate so the effects are usually felt more quickly. Typically in less than an hour, however any ingestible product can take up to 2 hours to feel the effects. Typically the effects from a tincture last 4-5 hours, but can last up to 8 hours. This is why we always advocate to start low and go slow, until you know how a product will affect you it’s best to stay on the lower end of dosing. 

Capsules or Chocolates | Processed through the liver, so must travel throughout your body before the effects are felt. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes up to 2 hours to begin to feel the effects. This delay in onset is definitely something to be aware of, a lot of people that try edibles will double down their dose after an hour and end up taking more than they need, which can lead to an uncomfortable result. Ingestible products have the longest lasting effects and can last up to 8 hours providing tremendous relief. Taking into account the long duration of onset can help to make sure that all day relief is achieved. 

Concentrated Oil | Like an RSO style oil, FECO, or distillate is an optimal option for someone requiring higher potency than an edible, capsule, or tincture can provide. These concentrated oils are typically what is used to make edibles and topicals. These can be a cost effective way of making your own edibles or topicals, or for anyone where the standard 10mg serving isn't sufficient. Many of the people we help through cancer treatments of chronic pain find that they require high dosages for optimal efficacy. These oils can have a very bitter taste, so baking them into edibles, or just placing the oil on top of something to mask the taste and increase the palatability is ideal. The higher dosages won’t make the effects last longer, just provide a stronger effect. The effects will still take 1-2 hours for onset, and last up to 8 hours.  

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Smokeable Consumption Methods

Immediate onset of effects but shorter duration

Flower Combustion | The effects through inhalation are almost immediate. Smoking from a pipe, joint, or bong gets the cannabinoids and terpenes into your lungs and bloodstream within seconds and you feel the effects within 1-10 minutes. This immediate onset can be beneficial for anxiety or panic disorders. It can also be great for nausea or helping to stimulate appetite before a meal, or for pain relief when waiting up to 2 hours for relief from an edible product isn’t ideal. The effects through combustion tend to only last 1-2 hours, making it less than optimal for chronic conditions. However inhalation can work great in combination with ingestible products. Long lasting relief from the ingestible product, and immediate relief through inhalation while waiting for the onset from the ingestible product. 

Concentrate Vaporization | The inhalation of concentrated cannabis oil from a vaporizer cartridge or a dab rig can provide patients with near immediate relief. It allows people to instantly consume large doses of cannabinoids. These concentrated forms would typically be something that someone would work up too if they found the strength of flower to be insufficient. These concentrated oils tend to have less of a smell than flower so they are optimal when the immediate relief of inhalation is necessary, and discretion is key. Near immediate effects tend to last between 1-2 hours, making this delivery method optimal for relief while waiting for the effects of an edible product to begin. 

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Topical Application

Absorbed through the skin for location-specific relief

Topicals | Topicals interact with receptors within the first few layers of skin, but do not penetrate into the bloodstream. Topical application of cannabinoids typically can provide relief within minutes. Varying combinations of THC : CBD can provide antiinflammatory effects, can help to inhibit nerve pain, and relax muscle tightness. This can provide significant location specific relief, without causing any type of intoxicating effects. Typically topical effects will last 4-6 hours per application. 

Infused Epsom Salts | A product category that is often overlooked is infused epsom salts for soaking. This can be soaking in a tub to provide a relaxing full body relief, or in a foot soak for those on their feet all day, or with issues like plantar fasciitis and neuropathy. Soaking in a tub the cannabinoids act much like a topical looking for inflammation, or muscle tightness through receptors in the skin. However cannabinoids can also be absorbed through mucus membrane to provide a relaxed full body relief. As this delivery method bypasses the liver there tends to be little intoxicating effects, so the effects are more of a physical relaxation, than a mental relaxation. 

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Cited Sources

What Are Marijuana’s Effects? Link

When marijuana is smoked, THC and other chemicals in the plant pass from the lungs into the bloodstream, which rapidly carries them throughout the body to the brain. The person begins to experience effects almost immediately.

Cannabis Tincture and Tincture Concentrate Link

Tinctures are “a great way to medicate that fills a void between smoking, vaping and edibles”

Tinctures “usher commingled cannabinoid and terpene oil components directly into the bloodstream when administered sublingually

Cooking With Cannabis Concentrates Link

For the inexperienced, it’s very important to understand that the onset of an edible’s psychotropic effects can take up to 2-hours, so patience should be exercised and 2-hours should pass before increasing consumption.  The effects will take a while to build and they will last for several hours so prepare accordingly

RSO: The main disadvantage to these concentrates is the chlorophyll that causes its black color and can result in unpleasant aroma, flavor, and stomach or gastric discomfort.

The Therapeutic Potential of Cannabis and Cannabinoids Link

Users smoke cannabis principally because of the psychoactive effects that occur at doses above the individual consumer’s psychotropic threshold. These acute effects are generally perceived as pleasurable and relaxing. Sensory perception is often heightened.

Edible Cannabis Link

Compared to inhaled cannabis, edibles have delayed peak effects of about 3 hours, and these effects may last up to 12 hours after ingestion. People accustomed to an instantaneous effect from inhaled cannabis may ingest excessive doses of edibles before peak effects have occurred.

What Are Prefilled Cannabis Oil Vape Cartridges? Link

Vape cartridges tend to provide a shorter-lasting high than other methods like joints, dabs, and edibles because you consume them in smaller doses. However, while the effects may last shorter, they can also hit harder if overconsumed, so make sure to monitor dosing appropriately.

For uninitiated cannabis concentrate consumers, dosing can be a major concern. Nobody wants an overwhelming experience when attempting to enjoy cannabis. Unlike dabbing, using a pre-loaded vape pen allows for a highly controlled dose with each inhalation, giving you more control over how much or how little you consume.