Blogs
A Quick Round-Up of Cannabis Developments in 2018

2018 Facts and Figures
- Cannabis has two major species, namely sativa, and indica.
- Marijuana (commonly used for smoking) and hemp (scientifically known as sativa L., cultivated for industrial purposes) are two varieties of the cannabis plant.
- There are 779 strains that we know of. With various budtenders cross-breeding one strain with another, it is reasonable to assume that there are more than 779 varieties you can sample and enjoy.
- Because of hybridization practices, breeders have developed various rare and exotic strains that are highly sought after for their unique flavors, aromas, and appearances, as well as the one-of-a-kind sensations they give.
- Statista’s latest report on the number of medicinal marijuana patients shows that there are millions of patients benefiting from this plant’s properties. In May 2018, California had the highest number of users with 915,845 patients followed by Michigan with 269,553 patients.
- There was an anticipated increase in product sales in 2018 from USD 2.9 billion to USD 3.8 billion.
Recent Developments in Cannabis Legalization
With a little more insight into the successes of the industry, you might be curious as to what brought on these advancements. The answer is simple: it is slowly but surely being accepted and legalized in many places. Just this October 2018, Canada followed in the footsteps of Uruguay and legalized the recreational and medicinal use of marijuana nationwide. There are various laws in every province or territory, but this sure is a welcome change in the country. These laws cover various aspects of marijuana possession, distribution, and price. Following the mid-term elections in November 2018, medical marijuana is now legal in 33 US states and Washington, DC. Of the 33 states, 9 (including Washington, DC) permit the use of cannabis for recreational purposes. CBD, with low THC content, is permitted for medicinal use in 14 states. So far, only three states, namely Idaho, South Dakota, and Kansas, maintain a complete ban on cannabis and cannabinoids. Meanwhile, American lawmakers have reached an agreement on the Farm Bill which will legalize hemp as an agricultural commodity. In light of these developments, it is important to mention that the Canadian company, Canopy Growth Corporation, was able to make its first legal transfer of cannabis products. In fact, the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) gave them an import permit, allowing them to get these marijuana products to a research partner in the US. Canopy Growth Corporation is a leader when it comes to maximizing what the plant has to offer. These developments in legalization are huge wins for the cannabis industry not only because of the projected increase in sales but more importantly the benefits of this plant becoming more accessible.Latest News in Research and Development
The legalization of marijuana has led to some important developments in the area of R&D in 2018. Here are some of the highlights:Marijuana Breathalyzer
While it cannot be denied that there is a degree of social acceptance when it comes to the possession and use of cannabis, the fact remains that the authorities still maintain that, on a federal level, it is illegal. Of course, rules such as driving under the influence still apply to all users. Researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) are working on ways to measure the THC and CBD levels in a driver, the same way alcohol breathalyzers work. While they can successfully detect the presence of THC and CBD levels on the breath; they do face other challenges like the rapid rate at which cannabinoids leave the bloodstream.It Lowers Opioid Use
In April 2018, it was discovered that government-approved medicinal marijuana could dramatically reduce opioid use. This is good news considering the number of people who are addicted to, abusing and overdosing on opiates such as morphine and fentanyl.Cannabis Products that Emerged in 2018
In the 60s and 70s, there was only one way to consume marijuana: by smoking it. Now there are a wide variety of cannabis strains you can experiment with and nothing to stop you from exploring what this herb can do. Some of the latest products that have emerged this year include:• Edibles and Drinkables
What better way to ingest this wonder herb than to mix it with delicious treats and satisfying drinks? With the growing popularity of homemade baked goods, businesses took the opportunity to sell high-quality marijuana-infused products. Kiva is one of the leading manufacturers and sellers of these goodies. From fruity gummies and fresh mints to delectable chocolate bars and even non-chocolate confection, you can try out these mouth-watering sweets that offer a unique kick. If you are craving a good drink, just head to your local dispensary, and you are sure to find cannabis drinkables. Looking to soothe your senses? You might want to try one of Kikoko’s teas. Their herbal drinks are mixed with a helping of this wonder plant. The great thing is you can choose a variety that can help improve your sleep, lift your mood, relieve your pains, and enhance your sex life. Those in need of their morning coffee fix should check out marijuana coffee from Pot-o-Coffee. There is a wide selection of blends that offer various experiences for your taste buds. Enjoy a full-bodied brew for your morning cup or get one with caramel and vanilla tones for a more tasty helping.• Body and CBD Beauty Care
Perhaps one of the most innovative ways cannabis is being ingested in 2018 is through body and beauty care products. With CBD being hyped as a highly medicinal compound, more and more people are adding it to their beauty regiment. From marijuana-laced soap bars and shampoos to CBD-rich ointments and balms, you can use these products to treat dandruff, acne, and even psoriasis. Clean your pores using The CBD Skincare Co.’s CBD-Infused Exfoliating Cleanser and rid your face of dirt and grime and prevent blackheads. If ‘bags under the eyes’ is your problem, you might want to try CBD for Life’s eye serum. With seed oil and hyaluronic acid, you can go about your day without worrying about the bags under your eyes. 2018 saw many body and beauty care companies focusing on using cannabis as a way to improve their products so keep your eyes peeled for those.• CBD Vape Pens
The infamy surrounding cigarettes was matched only by the rise of CBD Vape Pens as an alternative. Even without the marijuana content, these devices are gaining ground because vaping offers a healthier means of ingesting nicotine and even non-nicotine juices. With the introduction of cannabis, vaping has become a more exciting experience. You can choose from a variety of juices with varied amounts of CBD and THC content. What’s exciting about this new way of consuming cannabinoids is that you get to pick flavors that suit your taste. Whether you like fruity notes or savory ones, you can get an e-juice that can satisfy your taste buds. This way, you can easily get your cannabinoid fix in a fun and tasty way, while perfectly blending in with the vaping crowd.• ‘Luxury Pot’
This herb is becoming more and more mainstream as the years go by. With its impending mainstream popularity, various brands have emerged to provide a ‘luxury’ version of this miracle plant. Defonce Chocolatier offers artisanal chocolate bars infused with dried buds in a wide range of flavors. These 20-dollar candies come in matcha, coffee, and mint flavors. You can also check out the selections from Beboe. Dubbed ‘The Hermes of Marijuana,’ their items come in luxe packaging with an equally sleek appearance. Try out their stylish vape pens or take some of their pastilles to get your quick fix of this herb.• Dog Treats
Who would have thought you could feed cannabis products to your dogs? With recent developments, you can now share the benefits of this herb with your animal companion. Giving your dog these treats can address problems such as inflammation, mood issues, skin conditions, and muscle spasms. Keep in mind that these items are mixed with a lower dosage of cannabinoids to make it more compatible with a dog’s body. Moreover, make sure that you only give a controlled amount to your pet. Cannabis is indeed a wonder plant but what’s more wonderful is the continuous developments the industry has enjoyed in 2018 — new products, legal progress, and even new strains have made this year one for the books for the marijuana industry and enthusiasts. With greater support for this miracle herb, we can certainly look forward to another year full of good news and weedy goodness.Featured
Having the Talk: A Parent’s Guide to Discussing Pot with Kids

Parents have the difficult task of raising their children to be humane, well-adjusted and reasonable human beings, among other things. With all the discussions regarding marijuana use and its legality, this topic has become part of the ‘talk’ alongside sex and reproductive health. If you are looking for ways to talk to your children about this plant, here tips you can follow:
Talk About the Facts
As a parent, you want to make sure that your children know about what cannabis is all about. After all, one of the most powerful things in assuring safe usage is knowledge. Here are some marijuana facts you need to talk about:
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It’s Different Names
It is understandable that you want to prevent your kids from consuming this plant until you know that they are of legal age and are responsible enough to guarantee responsible usage. This is why one of the first things your kids should be aware of is the other names attached to marijuana. Aside from being called marijuana, cannabis and hemp, some of the most common names include weed, pot, dope, hash, ganja, kaya and Mary Jane.
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The Plant
Once you introduce the various names for weed, you can proceed to tell them what exactly the plant is. You might want to talk about its two major species namely sativa and indica, as well as the two major chemical compounds found in the plant, cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Then, point out that CBD is a highly medicinal component of the plant, whilst THC has the psychoactive and sedative effects.
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Marijuana Laws
Due to the medical properties of this herb, it is now legal in most of the United States, Canada, Uruguay and Thailand, while some countries are still deliberating its legality. If you live in a place where medical and/or recreational marijuana is legal, then make sure to talk about the regulatory laws enforced in your place of residence.
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Hemp Oil and Other Cannabis Products
Children and teenagers are naturally curious and you can bet that they will try unfamiliar products presented to them. Because of this, it is important to inform them that while they might avoid actual dried weed, it is still possible for them to consume the herb unknowingly. This can be done through cannabis-infused products such as edibles and drinkables.
Expose them to Child-Friendly Materials
Now, once you discuss some of the highlight talking points about cannabis, you want to make sure that they maintain an objective view of this wonderful plant. This is important so as not to create a bias for or against the plant, and to let them decide for themselves whether or not to consume this plant. To encourage independent thinking whilst ensuring that they get safe information regarding this matter, giving them materials that tackle this herb.
For children, why not get “It’s Just a Plant” by Ricardo Cortes and “What’s that Weed” by Ross Hudson? These children’s books help involve children in the marijuana conversation by presenting easily understandable facts. Aside from this, make sure to give them an objective source, such as those informational materials you can get from the educational institutions.
By doing this, you are empowering your children by enriching their knowledge, while also giving them the chance to do some learning and thinking themselves.
Parents’ guidance is some of the most important factors in shaping the lives of children. By objectively discussing cannabis with your kids, you are making sure that they get their information from a source that has their best interest in mind.
Arts & Culture
Women Writers Who Loved Weed

Writing has always commanded a sense of power and wonder for its readers. Apart from bringing readers to greater heights and newer worlds, the words on pages certainly do more just to educate and entertain their intended audience. Often, these works have the tendency to inspire and spark curiosity within.
Writing is definitely no easy task. As a matter of fact, individuals who are trying to write a novel, a book of poetry, their biography, or even dabble in screenplays might be undergoing a lot of stress. To help alleviate such concerns and to make writing so much easier for individuals, most people take weed. Women writers are not exempted from this, often revelling in the fact that it can boost their creative juices. Below are some of the notable women writers in history who are fond of taking their dose of pure cannabidiol by themselves or through the characters they write:
Louisa May Alcott
One of the most renowned writers in history is Louisa May Alcott. Author of the celebrated novels, Little Women and Good Wives, seems to be an avid fan of weed. Her short story titled Perilous Play touches on a pair of lovers smoking and getting high, later up ending up engaged with one another. One of the characters in the story exclaims that taking hashish is akin to moving into a dreamlike state, where everything is lovely and beautiful.
Meanwhile, her other story titled, A Modern Mephistopheles features a heroine which excitedly takes edible CBD oil disguised in candy form. After ingesting a piece of candy, the protagonist experienced a sense of “inward excitement… a wild desire to sing her very heart out.” While Alcott remains mum about her use of cannabis, it appears that her characters reflect her sentiments about the herb.
Maya Angelou
Another prominent figure in history is Maya Angelou. Aside from being a famous poet and actor, she was also an important figure in the civil rights movement. Often, her writings reflect the political and economic climates of the times, with I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings remaining one of her most significant works.
In one of her autobiographies, titled Gather Together in My Name, Angelou wrote about her relationship with cannabis. Here, she recounts how pot allowed her to get in touch with her senses. In hindsight, this allowed her not only to elevate her appreciation for food, but she also recounted how taking CBD hemp oil changed the way she viewed life in general – with her mother, son, husband, and the relationships surrounding her.
Cheri Sicard
One of the more contemporary women writers who has fostered a fine relationship with this herb is Cheri Sicard. Her book titled Mary Jane: The Complete Marijuana Handbook for Women is an eye-opener for beginners who are only starting to get in on the use of ganja. Apart from laying out the basics and touching on a variety of strains, female readers will certainly delight in seeing careers they can take in the marijuana industry as well as exciting recipes for CBD oils and edibles.
Sicard has always been a foodie at heart, choosing to develop recipes that are infused with weed or CBD oil. If you are fond of trying new things and making dishes for your friends, trying this modern approach to cannabis is a great place to start.
Read these wonderful works from women authors who have loved cannabis throughout their lifetime. Apart from learning about their relationship with this plant, you can also gain a better understanding of the way they see the world.
Featured
Weed the Best: Essential Spring Cannabis Accessories to Have

Spring has always been a time for hope and all that springs eternal. However, for most individuals such as college students and even working professionals, spring is a time when they can relax and have the time of their lives. After all, with spring break just around the corner, more and more people are looking to experience a much-deserved break, particularly after a stressful period in their lives.
Individuals who are looking forward to this once a year occasion usually have plans in mind. Many times, people have already pencilled in parties left and right. Meanwhile, other people who are new to the allures of spring break tend to chill at home or even prefer to hang out with a select group of friends, especially with a bag of weed in hand.
Since 4/20 and spring break are only a few weeks away, preparing for this momentous occasion is only but important. Apart from preparing your ever reliable stash of ganja, you might also want to stock on some of your favorite CBD oil edibles and your preferred brand of CBD oil.
However, if you are interested in elevating this celebration, why not switch it up and replace all of your old pieces with some new ones? Whether you are looking to try CBD vape juice or looking for some fresh accessories to cop for this season, this article will surely help you get the best weed-themed spring essentials. From fashion to food to home goods, this list will have everything you need and more.
Below are some goods you can get for yourself or for your beloved friends and family. Who knows, these items might just spark their interest in collecting weed spring accessories and essentials.
For the Weed Enthusiast
There is nothing better than giving a weed enthusiast new strains and novel items on the market. To help get their excitement flowing, giving them unrefined rolling papers or even raw ore-rolled tips can greatly help to avoid the dreaded joint rolling process. With this in your (or your friend’s) arsenal, you can enjoy continuous smoking pleasure all throughout the day.
To accompany your rolled joints, get yourself or your best buds some of the finest lighters on the market. Zippo has an iridescent lighter available on their collection, perfect for 4/20 and your spring break happenings. This trippy color will certainly evoke feelings of the best dreamlike state you won’t want to miss out on.
If you find yourself always running out of lighter fluid when you need it, getting a compact, rechargeable lighter might just do the trick. Tetra has a wide range of sleek and affordable lighters you can give everyone you know.
For the Purist
On the other hand, if you want pure unadulterated pleasure, getting yourself one of the best grinders on the market will surely enhance your use. If you plan on going from different houses or venues to celebrate the coming of spring, a nifty yet durable grinder-keeper is your best bet.
The Combie grind and roll accessory allows you to freshly grind your herbs. At the same time, this travel-safe tool helps you keep your essentials in place and organized than ever before. With built-in compartments inside, this weapon of choice can hold your papers, filters, lighters, and many more. The best part? It can fit your pocket, allowing you to bring it everywhere you go.
For the Accessory Fiend
There’s always that one friend who values aesthetics over functionality. More often than not, these individuals are always drawn to cute, unique, quirky, and one-of-a-kind pieces that help them stand out from the crowd.
Some of these pieces include crystal clear pipes and uniquely shaped bongs designed to complement your lifestyle and personality. Coming in different shapes, sizes, and colors, adding one of these to your collection will definitely make your circle of friends green with envy. Some even come in pastel shades that will fit right in your coffee table, making a perfect conversation starter when you have guests over.
Another one of these timeless and elegant pieces is the ruby and diamond encrusted CBD vape pen from the ultra-luxe Beverly Hills Cannabis Club, retailing for about $196,000. If you have money to spare, this might just be the ultimate accessory you can get not only for the season but also for your everyday use.
However, if you find that this purchase is a little out of your budget, you can opt for a more modest, yet eye-catching gold weed leaf grinder from Blunted Objects that also doubles as a necklace. These are particularly made for women who love their weed yet still want casual but elegant pieces that can go with their everyday looks.
For the Fashion Forward
Gone are the days when ganja goddesses are wearing tacky prints that are obviously inspired by weed. Today, more and more individuals are being provided options that are not only subtle but also ones that appear professional. Even better, these items can be used on a daily basis and with numerous clothing pieces that can be taken from day to night.
One of these important and perhaps much-needed pieces on the market is leather clutches and bags to store cannabis essentials. Toronto-based company, Milkweed, has ventured into making these leather goods so that women – and men – can store their goods in a more natural and organic way, one that they can use without feeling ashamed.
Meanwhile, Seattle-based business, Van der Pop, makes an equally sleek and fantastic stash bag. Their secret weapon? The bag is said to conceal odor, allowing you to go on your errands and meetings without fearing like you will reek of this herb anywhere you go.
Speaking of bags, Alexander Wang previously released a blush pink bucket bag that’s peppered with weed leaf prints. Finished with a silver chain, this will surely elevate any outfit you have on. Plus points for this seemingly dainty bag since it can fit your CBD oil vape pen starter kit, smartphone, and many more.
Finish off your look with a vintage-looking cannabis-themed watch and you’re all set. The very face of this watch will remind you that spring is just around the corner and that 4/20 is not just a state of mind.
For the Homebody
Decorating homes have become a big thing over the past couple of years. Websites, television shows, and even YouTube channels are created to cater to audiences who have long been raring to renovate and enhance their own spaces. If you are one of these individuals, spring break is the best time to overhaul your space. You can even replace some of the decors in your house with weed-friendly pieces.
A ceramic tray trio will definitely fit right into your home, especially in your bathroom, bedroom, or living room areas. Complete with an ashtray, rolling tray, and stash jar, you can keep your ganja and your CBD hemp oil all in one place. You can even display your CBD beauty products using this tray from Lux Eros, leaving guests gushing about your gorgeous addition.
To add depth and dimension into your space, putting up frames is a great idea, especially when you are not blessed with a green thumb. A botanical cannabis diagram print from Etsy can easily be hung in your foyer or in your dining area. Such a subtle print will go with spaces that exude Scandinavian and minimalist vibes.
While you may be tempted to invest on some marijuana-themed throw pillows for your couch or for your bed, bear in mind that these accessories can easily mess up the balance of your place. Unless you are going for an eclectic look, opt for neutral-colored pillows that can work with different parts of your house.
For the Food Lover
Whether you are a foodie at heart or just know someone who loves food and weed as much as you, investing in some CBD hemp oil edibles for you and your friends to snack on is important. Betty Khronic has vegan energy bars that contain 50 milligrams of CBD, perfect for snacking at home or while you are on the go.
If you are worried about bad breathtaking a toll on you, worry not. Plus Gum has spearmint-flavored gum that refreshed your breath and even helps you relax, especially with its 25 milligrams of THC.
Fond of making your own version of sweets and edibles? The Magical Butter dark chocolate mix is specially formulated so that you can add herbal butter as well as ingredients and pure cannabidiol oil in. With this in your kitchen pantry, 4/20 and spring break will definitely be a magical experience for each and every one. As a matter of fact, you can just imagine making weed-infused brownies, cakes, cookies, and more.
Cannabis essentials and accessories don’t have to be boring, not ever and especially not during spring break. With these beautiful pieces, you can make your home, fashion, personality, and overall experience one for the books.
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