Cannabis News

One Year On: Update on Cannabis Legal Market In Canada

Published

5 years ago

January 27, 2020

One of the first nations to declare the legalization of cannabis was Canada. The decision to make marijuana legal has wowed not only marijuana advocates around the world but also those who are skeptical about it. When Prime Minister Justin Trudeau declared the regulation to make marijuana consumption legal, more illegal dispensaries showed up, which urged the authorities to take control over the market. Cannabis lawyer Harrison Jordan recalled seeing an influx of these illegal dispensaries during this time.

More than a year later, Canada surprised the world with positive results of the cannabis legalization. Trudeau started the advocacy with the mission to ‘combat criminal elements’ and now, the response is beyond what was expected. Aside from wiping out illegal producers and sellers, the legalization also opened up a new driver for Canada’s economy.

Cannabis Update in Canada

Let us take a look at the first-year journey of cannabis legalization in Canada.

Transition to the Cannabis Legal Market

Before the legalization kicked in, there are a number of illegal marijuana dispensaries all over Canada. Without the license to operate, a number of risks are seen, particularly minors getting involved with marijuana for recreational use. If the market is uncontrolled, almost anyone can purchase and abuse cannabis products. This is already a problem and the Canadian government has to do something to turn the tables and construct stricter regulations.

When Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was in charge, he declared support for marijuana, which led to its legalization in 2018. The Cannabis Act made marijuana legal but involved a number of rules for sellers to distribute cannabis, as well as buyers to get access to the products.

The regulations have made the market saturated, however, participating dispensaries acquired licenses to operate and distribute cannabis. This means, no under-the-table deals are in place, encouraging more people to buy from reputable sellers all over Canada. In one way, this is Canada’s way of dissolving the cannabis black market and take control of the market.

Regulating Cannabis in Canada

By the time that rules were in place, illegal sellers were minimized. The enforcement of the law is strict and the Office of Controlled Substances works closely with the local enforcement agencies to combat illegal sellers and distributors. In addition, raids were conducted to seize cannabis in large amounts and penalize sellers who illegally distribute cannabis beyond Canada’s borders.

Under the Cannabis Act, only individuals in the legal age of 18 can legally possess up to 30 grams of legal cannabis in public, grow 4 plants for personal use, and purchase cannabis from authorized retailers. Violations result in tickets and prison time of 5 to 14 years.

A new law was also introduced called the Bill C-93 or No Fee, Expedited Pardons for Simple Possession of Cannabis, which sought to expedite Canadians with historical criminal records on selling or possessing cannabis in public. This new legislation aims to break the stigma and help people to apply for consideration for small possessions of cannabis.

Positive Impacts Recorded

The Canadian government recently released its first National Cannabis Survey in 2019, detailing the effects of marijuana legalization in the country. The study aims to find the condition of the cannabis market, the number of underage people consuming cannabis, as well as the influence of marijuana in society.

One of the highlights of the study is the contribution to the Canadian economy, with sales up to $43 million in the first two weeks of legalization. According to the study, the cannabis industry grew by 185 percent, contributing almost $8 billion to the country’s GDP. Industry experts believe that the cannabis market have bigger potential and can be worth more than $20 billion in the coming years.

Because of the cannabis legalization, more cannabis enterprises are going in the country to legally produce, sell, and distribute marijuana. The biggest cannabis in the world is operating in Canada, including Canopy Growth Corp., Aurora Cannabis, and Aphria Inc.

Meanwhile, consumer rates also increase for a year, but underage people consuming cannabis didn’t increase. The study also revealed that the number of people driving impaired under the influence of marijuana didn’t increase. Following the legalization, the study states that cannabis use across Canada has remained unchanged, however, the number of people consuming cannabis increased. The statistics revealed that more first-time users increased in numbers, with age over 45 years.

What Needs Improvement

Despite the positive impacts of cannabis legalization, there are some things that need improvement. One is in terms of supply shortages that hurt retailers in Canada. Because the regulation requires licensing of production, sales, and distribution, the licensing bodies cannot fully deliver due to overwhelming demand. Some provinces move quicker than others, that is why there are still some people who turn to illegal sellers to get access to marijuana.

The licensing challenges also prevent more sales for retailers, that is why optimistic year-one estimates were not met. The differences between the local government regulations matter, for instance, Ontario voted for a private model for storefront sales. This led to the increase of online stores in Ontario while physical stores did not open until April 2019. After the storefronts were opened to the public, sales jumped to $19.7 million from $7.7 million.

The issue of accessibility was also raised as edibles and concentrates can be accidentally consumed by youth. A child can easily mistake an edible cookie for a normal cookie, which could bring risks or effects, depending on the potency of the cannabis product. The government also needs to impose stricter regulations on advertising extracts, topicals, edibles, and other cannabis products so youth can be properly educated.

The packaging of cannabis goods also needs to be looked into, just like what Quebec is implementing. Quebec currently prohibits cannabis chocolates, sweets, and desserts to avoid enticing youth to try cannabis-infused products. It all boils down to proper and accessible education to reduce the risks associated with the new cannabis products.

Speaking of new products, cannabis extracts used in vaping devices must be monitored to avoid fatalities related to this. The ingredients causing the harm need to be looked into in order to combat the growing death toll on vaping. This is the reason why Nova Scotia has prohibited flavored cannabis vaping products altogether. Although this move may carry the risk of illegal vaping products, the government needs to take action.

Displacing Illegal Markets

Immediately displacing illegal markets is a big challenge for Canada, considering the uneven access to retail stores in the country. If the supply isn’t enough, many people resort to alternative, which is offered by unlicensed retailers. However, there is a success in slowly displacing these illegal retailers because there is an increase in the reporting purchases from legal purchases. Those reporting purchases from illegal sources declined for a year.

The National Cannabis Survey also revealed that most people turn to legal retailers for safety and product quality, not just price. The strong quality assurance provided by legal producers and distributors helps consumers to shift to the legal market.

For a cannabis business to get a license from the government, basic product quality is examined to fit the quality standards set. The government has established benchmark laboratories to test and standardize the quality of cannabis products. The tests ensure the consistent result or effect of cannabis before commercial selling.

Marijuana Market In The Future

Given that cannabis legalization is only in its second year, Canada will surely have a lot of improvements to make. Some improvements can wipe out illegal sellers, with stricter regulations and penalties. Moreover, as more businesses are jumping in, the cannabis market has a lot of potentials. From edibles, topicals, capsules, skincare, and cosmetics.

In addition to physical dispensaries and stores, more online retailers are expected to come out in the coming years to meet the demand of those looking to buy cannabis online. This is in response to the growing demand of Canadians for high-quality marijuana products for both recreational and medical use.

Finally, research facilities in the country can flourish, identifying emerging concerns in the market as well as implementing best practices for producing high-quality marijuana products. New developments on the marijuana plant can still happen in the future, which will entice more people to use cannabis for medical purposes.

Conclusion

Canada is truly commendable for implementing the legalization of marijuana. Making consumption or use legal on a federal level provides value access to high-quality cannabis for medical and recreational use. More than displacing illegal markets, the legalization also opened another economy driver, which helps the country increase its GDP.

The results came out mostly positive but some loopholes can be corrected given the proper management and implementation. While it is still too early to predict whether 2020 will be a good year for cannabis, market stabilization is key to cater to consumers. This is especially applicable to heavily-populated areas like Ontario.

Effective monitoring and implementing best practices is needed between the different tiers of the government. This might mean reforming regulations set or adding new ones to create an effective policy moving forward.

Medical Disclaimer:

The information provided in these blog posts is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The use of any information provided in these blog posts is solely at your own risk. The authors and the website do not recommend or endorse any specific products, treatments, or procedures mentioned. Reliance on any information in these blog posts is solely at your own discretion.

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Cannabis News

THCa: A Hidden Gem in the Cannabis World

Published

2 months ago

October 30, 2024

Stacey Wellington

On a sunny Saturday afternoon, my friend Jake and I were hanging out at his place, scrolling through the latest cannabis products online. Just as he reached for a familiar jar of buds, I noticed something new on the website: THCa products. “What’s the deal with this?” I asked, intrigued. Jake shrugged, saying, “It’s cannabis before it wakes up.” That curious comment got us diving down the rabbit hole of what makes THCa such a fascinating addition to the cannabis family.

Unlike its psychoactive siblings, THCa stays dormant until exposed to heat. In raw form, THCa won’t get you high—but it delivers a range of therapeutic benefits that are making it a rising star in the cannabis world. THCa is non-psychoactive, making it ideal for those looking for natural relief without the buzz.

Studies suggest THCa may help with inflammation, nausea, and even neuroprotection, which is great news for those dealing with chronic pain or discomfort. It’s no surprise more enthusiasts are experimenting with THCa-infused smoothies or tinctures, incorporating it into wellness routines. Fresh cannabis juice is also becoming a trendy way to consume THCa and keep the body feeling balanced.

THCa products are available in various forms, from raw flowers to tinctures and capsules. For those who enjoy getting creative, making edibles with THCa offers a chance to harness its benefits before cooking activates THC. Alternatively, you can freeze-dry fresh cannabis leaves to preserve their THCa content over time.

Whether you’re curious about wellness trends or simply looking for new ways to experience cannabis, THCa is worth exploring. It’s a rare chance to enjoy the plant’s benefits without the head rush, allowing users to stay grounded and focused.

What about you—ready to explore THCa and discover what cannabis feels like before it wakes up?

Medical Disclaimer:

Cannabis Blogs

How Can CBD Helps in Managing Viral Diseases

Published

2 years ago

December 8, 2022

Carissa Stevens

The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic has taught us a lot, especially when it comes to taking care of ourselves and protecting our loved ones against the viral disease. From using face masks, keeping ourselves hydrated all day, and even looking for different ways to manage the symptoms if you’ve been infected.

Among all the interesting remedies and treatments that we have discovered during the pandemic is the connection between CBD and viral diseases. How can the non-intoxicating compound of cannabis helps in managing viral illnesses? Let’s find out here.

CBD and Viral Diseases

One of the key cannabinoids in cannabis is cannabidiol, or CBD, which, in contrast to THC, has no psychoactive properties. Though CBD was once overlooked as a potential treatment for a wide variety of diseases, it is now getting attention as a potential therapeutic vector.

In fact, some circumstantial evidence suggests CBD could be useful for treating viral infections. One study looked into CBD’s effectiveness against Hepatitis C and B viruses. Testing for the virus was done in a culture over the course of many days.

Moreover, CBD was found to have a significant inhibitory effect on HCV cell reproduction, up to 86.4%. Researchers found out that they’re on par with those shown with interferon-alpha, a medicine now used to treat Hepatitis infections.

Researchers evaluated the development of Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KHSV) after treatment with CBD in human dermal microvascular endothelial cells. The results of the investigation demonstrated that CBD has weak antiviral activity against KSHV.

It appears that CBD inhibits the spread of KSHV-infected cells, but it has no effect on the efficiency with which the cells are infected. In addition, CBD slowed the progression of KHSV-related malignancies in healthy cells.

Can CBD Helps in Managing Symptoms of Colds and Flu?

An inflamed nose and upper respiratory tract is the root cause of the common cold. Rhinoviruses are the most common viruses responsible for respiratory illnesses, including the common cold and influenza.

Some of the more frequent symptoms of a cold include a sore throat, congestion, runny nose, cough, sneezing, low fever, headaches, and body pains. While there may not be a method to completely eliminate a cold’s symptoms, most people find relief after two weeks of self-care.

CBD has shown promise as a medicinal agent for the treatment of colds due to its antibacterial and antiviral effects, which have been the subject of several research. CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects in scientific studies.

Moreover, according to one research, CBD has been shown to help those with anxiety problems get a better night’s rest. Weak sleepers tend to be more vulnerable to catching a cold.

How to Use CBD for Colds and Flu

CBD’s potential to alleviate cold and flu symptoms, including inflammation and discomfort, suggests it may be useful for those suffering from these conditions. In addition, CBD oils can help those who suffer from anxiety get a better night’s rest. A lowered immune system and increased vulnerability to infection have both been related to poor sleep quality.

CBD oil or tincture is the most effective form of CBD administration for treating common cold symptoms. In most cases, CBD oils are taken sublingually and kept there for up to 60 seconds. In this way, the healing benefits may last anywhere from six to eight hours.

CBD may also be taken orally, either in gummy or capsule form, which is a wonderful method to start using CBD. This is because they are easy to use and have a consistent dose of CBD built in.

On the other hand, it’s important to know that a full-spectrum CBD oil contains all of the cannabinoids and cannabinoids-like compounds found in the cannabis plant, while broad spectrum CBD oil has virtually none. Also, isolated CBD is the purest form of CBD.

Proper Dosage of CBD

CBD has not been recognized by the FDA as a therapy option. For this reason, CBD does not have a universally accepted dose. However, as a rule of thumb, it’s best to ease into things. If you don’t have any negative reactions, you can gradually raise your CBD dosage.

On the other hand, daily microdoses of CBD can be anything from 0.5mg to 20mg. The typical flu symptom of headache may respond well to these dosages. CBD may be useful for inflammation and discomfort when taken in amounts between 10 mg and 100 mg once day.

Moreover, CBD dosages between 25 and 175 milligrams per day have been suggested for the treatment of anxiety. A strong clinical response can be achieved at these doses. However, the researchers in this study only utilized CBD isolate, not a whole-plant extract, so your mileage may vary.

Possible Risks of Using CBD Oil

Harvard Health Publishing expresses concern in a published piece that customers may not know for sure what is in the product or if the dosage information is true because of the absence of regulation.

Some CBD vendors submit their wares for third-party testing, while others don’t, leaving their customers in the dark about the exact components of the oil they’re purchasing. Since the sector is currently poorly regulated, customers frequently have no idea what is in the items until they can get their hands on the findings.

Many people in the United States are at risk for a serious interaction between CBD oil and the numerous pharmaceuticals they already use. Not only may drug interactions reduce a medication’s effectiveness, but they might also trigger unwanted negative effects.

The Legality Status of Using CBD Oil for Viral Diseases

Federal law no longer prohibits selling industrial hemp products with a THC content of less than 0.3% thanks to the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill. Although this is encouraging news, you should still research the CBD legislation in your state just to be safe.

Always keep in mind that CBD is illegal in several U.S. states. To prevent any legal consequences, you should familiarize yourself with the legislation of the various states.

Conclusion

CBD has caught the attention of the public when it comes to its potential therapeutic benefits, especially in managing symptoms of viral diseases. However, there could be risks that should be considered when deciding to use CBD for viral diseases. That said, it’s better to consult your doctor first before taking any CBD products.

Medical Disclaimer:

Cannabis Blogs

How to Creatively Promote Your CBD Brand in Different Social Media Platforms

Published

2 years ago

July 30, 2022

Carissa Stevens

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and other social media platforms have been the go-to place for people to read the news, buy products, and even promote their businesses. Indeed, it’s easy to use these social media platforms! All you have to do is to create an account, know your market, and post your products.

But things are different when your business is anything related to the cannabis plant. We all know how difficult it is to promote cannabis-related products and services. We have seen people being behind the bars for just advertising cannabis products, and as an entrepreneur, you never want that.

All you want is to get your business known by the public and earn, right? But how can you do that if there are restrictions that make it difficult for you to do the easiest way to advertise your products? In this article, we’ll give you some creative ways to promote your CBD brand on different social media platforms without breaking the law. Continue reading to learn more.

Tip #1 Know the Guidelines

Your main goal in using social media is to get engagements and convert these engagements into profit. But, as mentioned, it’s difficult to move when your products are anything related to the cannabis plant, regardless if it’s CBD or not.

But you can still maximize social media platforms to promote your business if you fully understand the guidelines and restrictions on every platform. If you adhere to the platform’s guiding principles and limits, you can earn backlinks. Consequently, ignoring these rules might result in your account being disconnected from the venue.

There’s a lot at stake for CBD brands, which must follow regulations set by the federal government when it comes to social media sites like Facebook and Instagram. You need to ensure that your items are safe to eat, that they are properly labeled, and so on so that you don’t miss out on such an important chance. Research on hemp-infused goods should be adequate and from reliable sources so no one can accuse you of being transparent.

Tip #2 Focus First on Educating Than Selling

Keep in mind that social media pages should only promote useful content and not focus solely on selling. If you provide exact and specific advantages of all the items, such as why CBD is important, the advantages of using hemp-infused products, etc., it will be beneficial. Customers are more likely to pay for your hemp-infused items if they read great reviews from others who have purchased them.

Tip #3 Build Community

Rather than focusing on the number of followers you have on social media, you should be looking to build a community that may be mutually beneficial for you. Having “excellent content” and “interesting information” on your page makes people more inclined to purchase your products.

Make your staff aware of the importance of utilizing the correct hashtag on Twitter in order to get more retweets. Promote your content using cutting-edge methods and find new members of your target audience who can help you grow your business.

Takeaway

It’s difficult to keep up with social media regulations when it comes to the cannabis and CBD market, especially if you want to increase your sales and growth. To avoid account limits and lure your target audience to your social media profiles, you can use the three important tips provided in this article. Let us know what you think!

Medical Disclaimer: