Cannabis Concentrates: Potent and Powerful

Why high potency concentrates are necessary in a licensed and legal cannabis market. 

Historically speaking, medicines and remedies have been made by taking plants, roots, seeds, or leaves and concentrating the active compounds to become even more efficacious.  

The same has been true with cannabis for thousands of years. Until the early 1900’s it was common for a doctor to recommend a concentrated cannabis product, usually in the form of a tincture for pain, sleep, and a host of other ailments. 

Since the residents of Washington State voted to legalize recreational cannabis there has been a renaissance in cannabis extraction. A beautiful blend of art and science has come together to extract as much of the active compounds from the cannabis plant while leaving only vegetative plant matter behind.

Cannabis concentrates come in a wide variety of forms. Pictured here: Terp Sugar, RSO and FECO.

Why do some people choose cannabis concentrates? 

These concentrated products have been used by many people in both the recreational and medicinal space. Many are dealing with chronic pain, the symptoms of cancer treatments, epilepsy, ailments of the gut like IBS and IBD, PTSD, CTE, & TBI. Others find that the higher potency products are not only more effective in terms of relief but also in terms of cost. As every ailment is different, having a variety of strengths and potency is necessary for helping as many people as possible. 

When Potency and Strength is Considered 

These concentrated products are also something that recreational cannabis users can enjoy. Exactly like the difference in alcohol percentages between beer and liquor, the difference between flower and concentrates just determines the experience an individual has. We all know and understand that a 12-ounce beer and a 1.5 ounce shot of liquor are considered a serving of alcohol. Similarly, a much smaller amount of a cannabis concentrate (often referred to as a dab) is required compared to smoking the buds of the cannabis plant in a joint or in a pipe. Also, like alcohol, if someone uses too much cannabis in any form it can lead to nausea and an uncomfortable experience that can last several hours. Unlike alcohol, ingesting too much cannabis won’t lead to a hangover or a potentially fatal overdose like alcohol poisoning. Cannabis concentrates also tend to smell much less than the buds of the plant which is beneficial where discretion is necessary. 

Cannabinoids, terpenes, THC and CBD content.

Regulation and Quality Assurance in Washington

In Washington, all regulated cannabis products are tested for potency. This is a vital and essential benefit that legalization has over the black market. Before cannabis was fully regulated there were no controls for potency, pesticides, molds, mildews, and many other things that no one should be smoking. This is especially true when that plant is going to be turned into a cannabis concentrate which could then concentrate any of those undesirable components. Knowing the specific potency of not just the THC and CBD, but also the terpene profile provides a level of assurance for a customer that they are getting the best product for whatever they are looking to use it for. 

Due to their potency, lack of smell, cost effectiveness and the testing provided in Washington’s legal cannabis market, concentrates may be a viable option for both recreational and medical cannabis users. 

Cannabis Edibles and Microdosing

many Look to edibles for Alternative ways to consume Cannabis without smoking or vaping.

Edibles are an excellent option for those who are looking to stray from smoking. While it takes 1-2 hours to feel the effects of an edible, the effects are often stronger and longer lasting (6-10 hours). Patience is key when you’re exploring edibles for the first time.

Advantages of Edibles

Cannabis has been cited by many to be effective in alleviating aches and pains, easing anxiety, promoting a restful night’s sleep, and more. But not all cannabis products are made the same. A product formulated for sleep may not be the best for pain management for example. Navigating through the hundreds of edibles on the market can be a challenge, especially for those new to cannabis.

Often, CBD or THC alone is not as effective for tackling medical ailments. The key to maximum relief is finding the right ratio and dosage. A Certified Cannabis Consultant can help guide you to finding the right products to meet your needs. 

Mr. Moxey’s Mints are a popular choice for microdosing cannabis. They are available in a variety of formulations and ratios.

Microdosing Cannabis Edibles

Cannabis has immediate and cumulative effects when utilized over time. We’ve found that smaller amounts throughout the day can provide more relief than having one concentrated dose per day. Mr. Moxey’s Mints have gained popularity for their discrete packaging and wide range of ratios. Whether you’re looking to ease digestive distress, or just need a pick-me-up there’s a Mr. Moxey’s Mint that may suit your needs.

Another option for micro-dosing is utilizing a tincture. Tinctures allow you to control your own dose to ensure you’re staying within your therapeutic window. To avoid any adverse effects, start low and go slow. You can always take a larger dose next time if you need more relief. A sublingual option allows for faster absorption into the bloodstream than a traditional edible.

Finding Your Ideal Dose

Cannabis-infused chocolates are available in a wide variety of strengths and ratios.

Washington state has taken the guess work out of figuring out your dose. While 10mg may not seem like much, it can provide a potent experience that lasts 6-10 hours. You can pick up single candies as low as $3, or stock up with a ten pack of your favorite chocolates or candies. Additionally, you can divide your edible into smaller, more manageable doses. In most edibles, the cannabinoids are dispersed evenly throughout each piece.

Healthy fats may help your system absorb an edible with greater efficiency, leading to stronger effects. If you’re trying to find a strong edible, look to chocolates and cookies. Edibles with a 1:1 ratio can also be used recreationally. The CBD can provide a more uplifting body experience compared to a THC only treat. 

Creating the Optimum Experience

If you’re an experienced consumer or trying edibles for the first time, having the right set and setting enhances your experience. Here are some tips for having the ideal experience with an edible: 

• If you’re consuming at home, tidy around the house. No need for unnecessary anxiety!

• Get your favorite TV shows and movies on your Netflix queue. Feeling musical? Put together a playlist to enjoy!

• Edibles are not exempt from causing the munchies. Stock up with your favorite snacks ahead of time. Fresh fruit can help combat the munchies and dry mouth all in one! 

• Keep yourself hydrated. Having soda and juice may sound the most appealing, but make sure you’re getting enough water.

• Start low & go slow. The 1-2 hours it takes for your edible to kick in can seem like a lifetime. Be patient and enjoy!

Migraine Headaches and Medical Cannabis

Once used as a treatment for Migraines, Medical Cannabis is once again considered as a form of relief.

Cannabis was used by notable physicians as a Remedy for migraines from 1839 until Marijuana prohibition in 1937. 

Statistics show that more than 38 million people in the US suffer from migraine disease. While cannabis use has been on the rise for medical ailments, many have not yet explored the option to utilize its properties for this disease. Cannabis been reported by many to to reduce the symptoms including pain, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite that are associated with migraines. 

Research has also confirmed that migraines can be a result of an endocannabinoid deficiency of 2AG and anandamide within the body, the compounds that are most similar to CBD and THC. Supplementing with cannabis-derived cannabinoids can potentially help alleviate symptoms associated with headaches and migraines. 

Recent Research: Cannabis for Migraines

Carrie Cuttler, a Washington State University assistant professor of psychology has recently conducted a study which found that inhaled cannabis seems to reduce the severity of self-reported headaches by nearly 48% and migraine severity by nearly 50% in users.

“The present study indicates that inhaled cannabis reduces headache and migraine severity ratings by approximately 50%. Repeated use of cannabis is associated with tolerance to its effects, making tolerance a risk factor for the use of cannabis to treat headache and migraine. However, cannabis does not lead to the medication overuse headache that is associated with other conventional treatments, meaning that use of cannabis does not make headaches or migraines worse over time.” (1)

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Products we’ve recommended for Migraines:

Pacific Blue

One of Falcanna’s most popular strains, Pacific Blue has been known to assist those with cluster headaches and migraines. This high THC strain is a hybrid cross and is potent enough to provide relief of pain, nausea/vomiting, and to promote relaxation with just a puff or two.

Harlequin Entourage Oil

This whole-plant cannabis oil has been extracted from the strain Harlequin, a high CBD strain typically found in a 2:1 ratio and has been found by many to reduce the severity of migraine symptoms. An extract in this form is meant for oral consumption and can provide relief between 6-10 hours. Start by eating a small rice grain size of oil on a cracker and wait 1-2 hours.

Comotion Balm

Many migraine sufferers experience pain and tension around the eyebrow, temples, and forehead which can impair vision and make it difficult to continue daily activities. Along with inhaled or orally-consumed cannabis, it can be helpful to use an infused topical for maximized relief. We have found that the Heylotion 2:1 Balm seems to alleviate discomfort when massaged into the temples every couple of hours, as needed for relief.

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The Journal of Pain:

Short- and Long-Term Effects of Cannabis on Headache and Migraine

Seasonal Depression: What About Medical Cannabis?

New studies suggest a link between specific terpenes and mental well-being

“While there are limited studies on how the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) affects depression, researchers are recognizing that the way cannabis affects our ECS does contribute to the complex neuronal network in our brains and can be applied in the treatment of depression.”[1] -Dr. Junella Chin

While most recreational users focus on THC, CBD, and whichever other minor cannabinoid social media has brought to the limelight, there’s an increasing awareness in the Medical Cannabis space that terpenes should be considered as a primary indicator of what characteristics or effects a specific strain may have. Terpenes are responsible for the varied scents we experience when we smell the cannabis product before, during, and after vaping, dabbing, or smoking cannabis, they are also known as the essential oils of the cannabis plant.

Plant terpenes exist across all plant-life and possess a wide array of medicinal properties. These compounds have been increasingly studied for their therapeutic potentials, some of which being the treatment of anxiety and depression.[2]

Specific terpenes may affect seasonal depression by:

·        Helping Control Anxiety

·       Aiding with insomnia

·       Improving appetite

·       Boosting mood

[3]

Sign up for our free talk on January 25th, just click above.

Mood-Boosting Terpenes

Pre-clinical studies have indicated that the terpenes linalool, limonene, myrcene, and β-caryophyllene, amongst others, possess anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties. Essential oils have been utilized for varying therapeutic uses ranging from sleep aids, to antiseptic aids used to treat minor skin burns. Because terpenes can be found in other botanical sources, additional studies of non-cannabis derived terpenes corroborated the findings of recent preclinical studies. For example, lavender, which contains the terpene known as Linalool, is known for its calming and sedating effects.[4]

Terpenes to avoid in anxious times

There are also terpenes to avoid that may be very stimulating and may increase anxiety. The two major terpenes to avoid would be pinene and cymene. These both have an opposite effect as linalool where it will extend the breakdown of acetylcholine, the more acetylcholine in the brain the more focused and stimulated the brain seems to be. This can be beneficial for studying, for exercising or doing sports, but overly-stimulating for someone dealing with anxiety.

Studies and citations:

1.Sherman, A., and Chin, J., “Cannabis and CBD for health and wellness: an essential guide for using nature’s medicine to relieve stress, anxiety, chronic pain, inflammation, and more.” Ten Speed Press, vol 1, 2019, pp. 129-131.

2.Kamal, B.S., et al., “Cannabis and the Anxiety of Fragmentation – A Systems Approach for Finding an Anxiolytic Cannabis Chemotype.” Front Neurosci,vol 12, no. 730, 2018, pp.1-14.

3.Denson, T., and Earlywine, M., “Decreased depression in marijuana users.” Addictive Behaviors, vol 31, no.4, 2006, pp.738-742.

4.Saki, K., et al., “The effects of most important medicinal plants on two important psychiatric disorders (anxiety and depression): A Review.” Asian PAC J Trop Med, vol1, suppl.1, 2014, pp.534-542

Categorizing Cannabis through Terpenes

With the cannabis market currently centered around classifying plants as Sativas, Indicas or Hybrids, terpene profiles allow us to make better-informed decisions when seeking out strain alternatives.

Cannabis Plant Taxonomy

Traditional Classifications: Indica and Sativa

Biologists refer to the science of naming, defining and classifying organisms on the basis of their shared characteristics as Taxonomy. The need to taxonomize cannabis arose with the discovery of different strains from different parts of the world. Some cannabis plants look short and stubby while others look rather tall and lanky; several are a combination of the two predominant visual queues. For example, Cannabis Sativa typically grows tall and lanky while Cannabis Indica typically grows short and stubby. However, thanks to modern day cannabis research that has been performed in the last decade, the need for us to evolve from this traditional nomenclature is apparent. 

Cannabis leaves contain naturally occurring essential oils known as terpenes. These oils are not exclusive only to cannabis, they occur in every living plant. The terpene profile of a given cannabis strain will inform the experience one has after inhaling or consuming it. See full breakdown of terpene attributes below.

Terpene breakdown on cannabis packaging

Research leads to a better understanding of cannabis Types

While several cannabis plants may look the same, they often vary in scents and aromas aside from their visual aesthetics. The smell of the cannabis plant largely depends on the essential oils of cannabis known as Terpenoids. Thanks to the research lead by great minds like Dr. Ethan Russo, Dr. Raphael Mechoulam, Arno Hazekamp, Mark Lewis, and Matthew Geise, we now understand that Terpenoids share a vital role in the medical value and psychoactive effects when consuming cannabis. When taken in a non-isolated format, cannabis and its chemical constituents operate in concert to provide a sought-out consumption experience when the consumer is aware of the cannabinoid and terpenoid content. 

When traditional classification provides a misleading consumption experience

Have you ever tried an Indica strain that hit like a Sativa and/or a Sativa strain that hit like an Indica?

This is a prime example as to why making a purchase based on the terpene content is the best way to make an informed decision, (rather than whether it’s labelled Indica or Sativa).

The following provides a brief highlight of some of the most common terpenes found in cannabis, as well as some of the benefits they may provide. Please note that the FDA has not approved the use of Cannabis derived essential oils or terpenes to treat or cure any ailment.

What are different terpenes known for?

Myrcene:

• Analgesic (pain reliever)

• Anti-inflammatory

• Antimutagenic

• Sedative

Linalool:

• Analgesic (pain reliever)

• Antidepressant

• Anti-epileptic

• Anti-inflammatory

• Anxiolytic (Anti-anxiety)

• Sedative

Bisabolol

• Analgesic (pain reliever)

• Anti-inflammatory

• Anti-irritant

• Antimicrobial

• Antioxidant

Pinene

• Analgesic (pain reliever)

• Anti-inflammatory

• Anxiolytic (Anti-anxiety)

• Bronchodilator

• May help with short-term memory impairment experienced during consumption of cannabis

Caryophyllene

• Antidepressant

• Antioxidant

• Anxiolytic (Anti-anxiety)

• Anti-inflammatory

  • This is a unique terpene in that it is the only one known to mimic a cannabinoid and activate our endocannabinoid system to provide this reaction.

Limonene

• Antifungal

• Antibacterial

• Mood enhancer

• Stress reliever

Terpinolene

• Antifungal

• Antibacterial

• Antioxidant

• Mood enhancer

Ocimene

• Antioxidant

• Anti-inflammatory

• Antiseptic

• Decongestant

* While this provides a high level overview of the potential attributes these terpenes may have, it is important to note that additional research is still needed to provide conclusive facts. The research being performed is still in its infancy and we have room for improvement. Thanks to industry leaders and medically oriented producers/processors featured at The Novel Tree Medical through our Recognized Excellence Program, we have products that may provide a desired cannabis experience. Whether you are looking for relaxation or some temporary relief, seek no further than a visit with your friendly and knowledgeable Medically Certified Cannabis Consultant at The Novel Tree Medical. 

Fairwinds FLOW Holiday Gift Box

This holiday season, The Novel Tree Medical was excited to pick up the FLOW Holiday Gift Box made by our friends at Fairwinds!

A great value, The Fairwinds FLOW Holiday Gift Box is now available at The Novel Tree Medical.

Perfect for spreading a little extra holiday cheer this winter, each box contains a sample of each of their three topical formulas: gel, cream, and roll-on; the combination of each of these makes it clear to see why this company was awarded “Best Topical Provider”! Whether you’re shopping for yourself or looking for a gift for a loved one, this gift set might just be the perfect thing to cross off of your list.

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While each of the three products that make up the FLOW family of topicals is similar, they all confer their own unique set of benefits and best-use practices - meaning this boxed set is ideal both for those who already love the products and for those looking to try them out!

FLOW Gel

The first topical introduced by Fairwinds, is a gel base with a light scent. Perfect for inflamed joints and sore muscles, the gel is CBD-rich with just a small amount of THC per jar. The gel base means that you feel the effects much more quickly than with other water-based topicals; effects are usually felt within a few minutes as opposed to much longer wait times!

FLOW Cream

The cream (while equally as fast-acting and effective as the gel) is formulated using hyaluronic acid and ceramides, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin or looking to promote overall skin health. It also contains Fairwinds’ own proprietary CannaVera extract; made using every part of the plant and containing beneficial lipids and other compounds like polysaccharides! FLOW cream is one of Washington’s best-selling topicals, and it only takes one use to see why.

FLOW Roll-On

The Roll-On is newest addition to the Fairwinds topical lineup, took home a High Times award after just a month on the market. Designed to lend the same benefits Fairwinds customers have come to expect from a FLOW product with the convenience of a roll-on applicator, this little container is certainly a powerhouse.

Great on their own, even better together - pick up your FLOW gift set today! For more information in these products, please visit the Fairwinds website.

CBG: A Potential Mood Booster?

A cannabinoid that’s gaining popularity due to its Reportedly Uplifting effects

There are over 100 cannabinoids found in cannabis, and one that has been in the works of research of late is CBG, or Cannabigerol, what is considered to be the first cannabinoid. CBG is the primary cannabinoid produced when the cannabis plant first grows.

While there is still plenty of research to be done, we know that CBG is considered a a non-psychoactive cannabinoid and has not been shown to produce an intoxicating effect. This makes it an option for those who’d like to avoid the often euphoric effects that can result from consuming THC-heavy cannabis strains or products.

We have noticed a trending pattern among consumers using high-testing CBG products for symptoms related to mental health. Many have reported it being a remedy for their general depression, seasonal depression, and anxiety. 

A Welcomed Mood Boost

Two cannabis products containing high CBG concentration.

Personally, I have enjoyed searching for concentrated products such as vaporizer cartridges and edible cannabis oils with higher levels of CBG. Two products that have been helping me alleviate seasonal depression and enhance my positive mood have been the 5:1 Zulu Time vaporizer cartridge by Puffin Farm and the Super Lemon Haze distillate fully extracted cannabis oil (F.E.C.O).

The Zulu time cartridge is a 5:1 CBD to THC ratio with 1.6% CBG and has helped immensely. I’ve found that with a small amount of THC, it makes me feel very calm and relaxed, yet enables me to laugh and enjoy myself without being intoxicated. I find this product to be very helpful during times when I am feeling overwhelmed with anxiety and need fast-acting relief, as the effects can be felt almost immediately.

Alternately, The Super Lemon Haze F.E.C.O edible oil is a high THC product that only takes a rice grain size of oil consumed orally, taking effect within about 1.5 hours and lasting 6-10 hours. This high THC oil containing over 4% of the CBG cannabinoid provides long lasting relief of my symptoms of depression and is a very cost-effective product to use with how little is needed for consumption. 

There are many products available with higher levels of CBG to try, we encourage you to meet with one of our consultants to help guide you to an option that may work best for you. -Keiana

Holiday Season Self-Care and Medical Cannabis

With the Holidays fast approaching, it’s important keep stress low and spirits high. Here are some cannabis products that may help you achieve this Often elusive balance.

We understand that there are many challenges that can crop up during the winter holidays. From stressful travel arrangements to hosting large family get togethers, it’s natural that tense situations can arise. Finding those fleeting moments to sit back or simply take a breath is incredibly important during these winter months.

Discreet Relief

For those of us for whom discreetness is key, vaporizers may be a great way to get the benefits of cannabis quickly, quietly, and nearly odor-free.  Depending on what you’re looking to use it for, there are many different vape options that offer a wide variety of effects.

If you’re looking for a vaporizer to help with stress throughout the day then something with low levels of THC and higher levels of CBD may help you keep a clear head while helping the body and mind to relax. Look for something with a ratio of 2:1 – 10:1 to be strong enough without causing intoxication. 

Dancehall vape cartridge by Puffin Farm.

Puffin’s Dancehall cartridge has low levels of THC, high levels of CBD and a new cannabinoid we are starting to see more of, CBG. The combination can lead to a very clear-headed euphoric sensation that may be more suitable for daytime use.

If you’re looking for something to reward yourself with at the end of the day then a high THC Indica may be a great option. A great way to get that elevating effect as you unwind at the end of the day that may help lead to a better night sleep.

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Edible Exuberance

While eggnog or a glass of wine are totally expected at most holiday parties, more and more people are abstaining from alcohol these days. For those of us who have decided to use cannabis as our way to unwind instead of alcohol, edibles are a tasty option to treat yourself with during a holiday party. With a delay in onset of effects, make sure that you get a mild edible can help so you don’t snooze through any of the holiday excitement. 

The spot 3:1 hybrid chocolate in either milk chocolate or dark chocolate is a great option. With 10mg of CBD and only 3mg of THC, these are great way to get a nice mild effect from your cannabis without it being overly intoxicating.

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Thinking of Family and Friends

Do you have a friend or family member or 21 who suffers from aches and pains and is open to using medical cannabis? The Novel Tree Medical can recommend products to help you pass on that much needed relief.

Pain Relieving Balm

How about a balm or lotion to help with Grandma’s arthritis or general aches and pains? The largest growing segment of cannabis users today are over 55. Many are seeking and achieving relief from aches and pain. Come talk to one of our consultants about what options might be best for your loved ones. 

Soothing Bath Salts

Bath bombs are a great way to relax. An amazing way to ease aches and pains or take the edge off cold and flu symptoms. For those times when you can dedicate an hour or so to self care and truly unwind, even if you’ve weathered the holidays relatively unscathed.

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The Novel Tree Medical consultants are your year-round resource for medical cannabis product recommendations. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions!

Better Sleep: What About Medical Marijuana?

Help with getting a restful night’s sleep is still one of the most common reasons people visit The Novel Tree Medical.

We continue to learn and research everything we can about medical marijuana and sleep. This research, along with anecdotal feedback from our guests provides an incredible foundation for us to make product recommendations. Since everyone is dealing with unique sleep-related issues, we carry many different products that may address and alleviate the underlying causes preventing that quality night’s sleep.

Falling Asleep

Many will toss and turn trying to go to sleep but simply can’t cross that threshold between wakefulness and true rest. Whether it’s trying to quiet the mind or an irritating pain that makes sleep seem impossible, cannabis may offer relief.

Quieting the Mind

Raven Grass has created some of the best smokeable CBD options on the market. Pictured here, Frida has a 2:1 CBD to THC ratio.

After a long day, trying to get our brains to calm down can often seem impossible. Many people may find that a high CBD tincture or edible about an hour or so before bed can be the perfect thing to help relax the mind allowing for an easier transition to sleep. Others may even find the faster acting effects of a smokable product works well for them. If you find that the CBD alone isn’t strong enough to meet your needs, the addition of THC can enhance the effects of the CBD and may be even more relaxing. 

Easing Pain

Pain is another very common issue that can keep people from achieving a restful night of sleep. CBD is very similar to a chemical our body produces to reduce inflammation and may be significantly more effective than an aspirin or steroid anti-inflammatory. THC can regulate neurotransmitters, and how our brain is perceiving stress, anxiety, and pain. Depending on the severity of the pain, varying levels of THC and CBD can be very effective. Eating an edible or using a tincture will provide longer lasting relief, while a smokable product can provide near immediate relief. 

Staying Asleep

Chocolates can be broken into smaller pieces to control your dosing. These 1:1 ratio chocolates by Ceres contain a potent combination of CBD and THC. The effects of edibles can last up to 8 hours.

Some people have no problem with getting to sleep but will wake up in the middle of the night or after just a few hours of sleep. There seems to be a few ways to help combat this issue; the effects of an edible product can last 6-8 hours. For many these long-lasting effects can help to achieve more hours of sleep. Others will find that keeping a vaporizer on the nightstand can provide faster acting benefits to help people fall back to sleep quickly.

It’s important to remember that THC and CBD can be stimulating if taken in large quantities. For sleep we typically find less is more, and as always, we recommend starting low and going slow. Speak to your consultant to establish a baseline dose, the adjust slowly to find your most beneficial intake level.

The effects of cannabis dissipate after a few hours, so if you give yourself enough time, ideally 6 – 8 hours, there shouldn’t be any of that grogginess in the morning that many conventional sleep aids come with. 

Cannabis also seems to have both cumulative and immediate benefit. The first time you use a cannabis product, you should notice some effect and benefit. With continued use and as THC and CBD build in your system, you may find that you have to use less of the product to achieve similar results.

Heylo Elevated Education at The Novel Tree Medical

Learn all about cannabis extraction and more from an industry leader

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Lo, a chemist and founder/CEO of Heylo, will draw on an expansive background in medicine and botanical extraction to share insights on cannabis science and concentrates. Learn how CO2 extraction works and what makes Heylo's RawX oil unique in the marketplace. This event will be a great opportunity to discuss various extraction methods, how to pair product and desired experience, rare cannabinoids and terpenes, and the latest in cannabis.

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Fairwinds Flow Roll-On Medical Cannabis Topical

Fairwinds Flow Roll-On is Great on the go.

Matt Tests Out Fairwinds’ New Convenient Medical Marijuana product

The new Flow Roll-On is formulated to provide the amazing relief of the Flow series of products in a convenient roll-on applicator. Fairwinds already has some of the most effective topicals on the market with the Flow Gel and Flow Cream. With the launch of the new Flow Roll-On, they further their offerings. I used Flow Roll-On on my shoulder, which was injured in a car accident about 6 years ago. What I noticed immediately is how it seemed to help with the muscle pain that bothers me most. The cool feel of the metal applicator ball followed by the even cooler sensation of the herbal blend helped to relieve tightness almost immediately.

Applying Fairwinds Flow Roll-On

Flow Roll-On comes in two formulas; Regular or Extra Strength.

Like many medical cannabis products, we find that less is more. The same is definitely the case with this product; the potent herbal formulation means that a little goes a long way. I found that applying a single thin layer over the affected area was more effective than going over the area multiple times, which could lead to a slight tingling sensation due to the herbal components of the product. This dissipated within minutes.

Regular vs. Extra Strength, What’s the Difference?

The potency of the Regular Strength and Extra Strength are the same in terms of THC and CBD content, the difference is the intensity of the herbal additives.

The Regular Strength utilizes terpenes such as caryophyllene and linalool along with herbal extracts such as ginger, bergamot, peppermint, and nutmeg to enhance the effects. The Extra Strength formulation utilizes botanicals like clove, nutmeg, peppermint, and eucalyptus to provide more significant relief to those in need.

As with everything at The Novel Tree Medical, we recommend starting low and going slow. Always speak to your consultant if you’re unsure, we’re here to help!

Chronic Pain Relief: What About Cannabis?

Whether it’s pain from an old injury or an issue that’s developed over time, there are different categories of medical cannabis products containing CBD and THC that may help alleviate your symptoms.

Depending on the location and severity of the issue, The Novel Tree Medical has hundreds of products of different strengths and delivery methods. Come in and speak to one of our state-certified medical cannabis consultants to determine which one may best suit your needs.

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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. Heylotion by Heylo is another option for those with sensitivity to menthol, scents, or other fragrances.

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. Ingestible products may provide full body relief and can have effects between 6-10 hours. There are a variety of CBD to THC ratios in a given product that can be used depending on the severity of your pain. Our consultants can help you determine which ratio is best, with the goal always being to provide relief without intoxication.

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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. For new users of medical cannabis, we always advocate to start slow and low. Consistency 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. Strains with small amounts of THC and high levels of CBD may help alleviate inflammation and minor aches and pains. Strains with equal levels of THC and CBD may be more effective for someone dealing with chronic pain. The Novel Tree Medical carries many different strains with varying characteristics. Our consultants are here to assist you in finding the strain most appropriate for your specific needs.

Read about hemp-derived vs cannabis-derived CBD

Appetite and Medical Cannabis

Appetite and Medical Cannabis

Whether you’re looking to curb cravings or stimulate your appetite, there are cannabis products with combined ratios and terpenes that may help provide natural relief. We have selected different strains and products that contain these potentially beneficial properties.

We encourage you to speak with one of our certified medical consultants to gain insight on which product may be best suited for your needs.

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Appetite Stimulating Strains

THC delta 8 and THC delta 9 are cannabinoids have been reported to help stimulate appetite, and reduce nausea and vomiting.

Delta 8 RSO

This convenient product can help to stimulate appetite with very little intoxicating effects. Fully extracted cannabis oils (FECO) can last anywhere from 6-10 hours, providing a longer duration of relief.

Sativa Lifestyle Tincture

Controllable servings of THC delta 9 in the form of oil drops taken sublingually allow for superior absorption into the bloodstream and fast on-set of relief.

Energizing Mr. Moxey’s Mints

A discreet and portable option with low-dose servings of THC delta 9, a compound associated with stimulating hunger. These mints are also taken sublingually, allowing for fast acting relief.

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Strains to Help Curb Cravings

THCV is a cannabinoid that may help to suppress appetite and curb the “munchie” feeling associated with smoking or ingesting THC delta-9, and assist those seeking to curb cravings.

AM Relief 300 Tincture

Several of our guests have reported that they experience a decreased appetite several hours after using this high-CBD tincture.

Aliens on Moonshine FECO

With 17% THCV, this concentrate may provide relief for 6-10 hours for those seeking to suppress food cravings. Having a high concentration of CBD assists in buffering unwanted, psychoactive effects.

Durban Poison Flower

For those who prefer smoking flower, this landrace strain typically contains higher THCV levels than most. Read Matt's insightful piece on landrace strains!

Cancer Treatment Side Effects and Medical Cannabis

Cancer, the big C. This disease will afflict 1,762,450 people in the United States alone in 2019, according to an article by the American Cancer Society*. While people are seeking a healthy alternative lifestyle to combat the disease people are also seeking relief from the symptoms caused by the cancers, and its traditional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. Chemotherapy and radiation are meant to attack rapidly dividing cells and cancer is one of those cells. Other cells in our bodies are also affected, like the lining in your stomach and the ones that grow hair on your head. Since chemotherapy drugs can affect your entire body, you’re likely to feel worse after a round treatment.

Cancer is daunting enough without adding insult to injury in the form of additional physical issues. Many of our guests have found certain medical cannabis products aid in alleviating symptoms related to their cancer treatment. Please understand that a given product may not have the same effect from one person or another, and we always suggest starting with low, controlled doses.

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Nausea

Nausea and vomiting seem to be at the forefront of symptoms that occur not just from certain cancers, but from the treatment. Trying to maintain good health will be a challenge if proper foods and fluids can’t make it into your system. Consuming cannabis products high in Delta 8, preferably in inhalation for quicker relief, seem to show great benefits for increasing appetite and reducing nausea and vomiting. Tinctures high in terpenes like peppermint, ginger and bergamot also have anti-nausea effects. Products like Fairwinds’ Digestify are fortified with these terpenes and could have a potential benefit to heading off these symptoms if used before the onset.

Fatigue

Fatigue is second on our list of items to combat while undergoing treatment. Chemotherapy can deplete your red blood cell supply which carry oxygen throughout the body. Dizziness, shortness of breath and irritable mood can also be the result of this depletion. Consuming sativa-dominant products like Moxy’s 1:1 Peppermint Energizing Mints may effectively combat fatigue, and nausea together. Sativa dominant strains and terpenes like Pinene, and Limonene have uplifting mind and body effects to counteract the fatigue, not to mention the peppermint to help abate nausea.

Pain

Pain is last but certainly not least. It’s just as hindering to optimal healing as the other symptoms. Pain can range from muscular to nerve pain and some patients have localized pain due to their specific cancers, or general body pain from the treatment. In any case, equal amounts of THC and CBD ratios are effective for severe pain, items like CBD Ratio 1:1 tinctures or candies can be very effective. Having terpenes like Linalool and Myrcene can also really help relax the body and mind for pain to start to subside. These ratios can cause some intoxication, so for more daytime use a 5:1 ratio can be as effective for mild to moderate pain, with little to no intoxicating effects. Edibles have the benefit of longer lasting relief throughout the day, yet if you find yourself in crisis and needing immediate relief, having a vaping option may come in handy.

By Sandra E.  Stroud

* Scholarly Resources:

https://www.cancer.org/research/cancer-facts-statistics/all-cancer-facts-figures/cancer-facts-figures-2019.html