What Is Limonene? A Citrusy Terpene Explained
Limonene is one of the most abundant terpenes in cannabis, blessing countless strains with its bright and zesty aroma. But there’s much more to this terpene than its signature smell and flavor. What is limonene and why should you care about this terpene? Let’s dive in!
What Is the Limonene Terpene?
Even if you’ve never used cannabis, you’ve almost certainly caught a whiff of limonene already. If you’re a fan of citrus fruits or use citrus scented soaps or cleaners, you probably come into contact with it on a regular basis.
As you can probably tell by its name, limonene is a citrusy terpene with a zesty lemony scent. Apart from cannabis, limonene can also be found in things like rosemary, juniper, mint, fennel, and in the peels of citrus fruits like orange, grapefruit, and lime. Limonene also has numerous industrial and practical uses and can be found in things like cosmetic and cleaning products, beverages, food, and pharmaceuticals.
Exploring Limonene: Terpene Effects
Like with many other terpenes found in cannabis, research indicates that the limonene terpene may have some therapeutic value. Here are a few potential limonene terpene effects and benefits that researchers are investigating.
Stress and Mood: A recent animal study found that limonene may have positive effects on anxiety. Mice that were injected with limonene before behavioral analysis displayed inhibited anxiety-related behavior and elevated levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine, which is linked to feelings of motivation and satisfaction.
Antimicrobial: Many terpenes have shown promise in fighting off certain kinds of bacteria, and limonene is among them. A 2021 study found that limonene “effectively inhibited bacterial growth” of the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria (staph) by damaging the bacteria’s cell membranes. Another study from the same year also found that Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria treated with limonene were damaged.
Antifungal: A 2009 study found that limonene exerted a “potent antifungal effect” against the T. rubrum fungus. Another study found that limonene similarly inhibited the C. Albicans fungus growth “by cell wall/membrane damage induced oxidative stress that leads to DNA damage”.
Despite all of these promising findings, it should be noted that the dosage (amount) of limonene required to produce these limonene terpene effects varies and that research into these effects and benefits is ongoing.
Strains High in Limonene
There are several strains that are high in the limonene terpene. If you’d like to get a taste of this zesty terpene, here are a few popular strains known for their limonene content:
- Do-Si-Dos
- OG Kush
- Kosher Kush
- Berry White
- Wedding Cake
Be sure to check out our live online menu to see which of these strains we currently have in stock, or come by Takoma Wellness today to browse a wide selection of cannabis strains and products including many that are high in the limonene terpene. Our patient care team will be happy to help you find a zippy limonene-rich strain. We look forward to seeing you!
Medical Marijuana for Sleep: Tips and Best Cannabis Strains
It’s no secret that more and more patients with trouble sleeping are turning to medical marijuana. In fact, a 2020 survey in the Journal of General Internal Medicine showed that poor sleep is one of the main reasons patients seek medical marijuana in the first place.
If you’re one of the nearly 70 million Americans that suffers from sleep problems every year, don’t give up. Medical marijuana may offer a solution to your bedtime sleep sorrows. We’ll take a look at how medical marijuana may help improve your sleep, as well as some of the best cannabis strains (indica and otherwise) for insomnia, in this post.
Marijuana and Sleep: How Does it Work?
Okay, so we know that sleep is one of the biggest reasons that patients use medical marijuana. But what does science actually say about cannabis’ effectiveness as a sleep aid?
A Recent Clinical Study
Fortunately, we have some clinical data on the subject. One team of researchers at the University of Western Australia’s Sleep Centre examined how cannabis extract affected participants suffering from sleep problems.
The study, published in 2021, was a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. That means some of the participants received cannabis extract while others were simply given a sublingual application with no actual effects. The researchers who administered both the placebo and the cannabis extract didn’t know which was real, a common scientific technique that works to eliminate any sort of researcher bias.
The study involved 24 participants and took place over two weeks. Participants kept a sleep diary over the course of the study to record any changes in their sleep pattern. Researchers also administered a comprehensive sleep test, called a polysomnography, during the course of the study.
The Results
Overall, the study appeared to show that cannabis could be an effective way to fall asleep faster and stay asleep throughout the night. Participants also reported that they felt more well-rested upon waking up in the morning. Moreover, the study showed that cannabis was fairly well-tolerated among all the participants. There were no serious adverse effects, suggesting that cannabis may be a safe way to improve sleep as well.
Cannabis for Sleep: Best Ways to Use Medical Marijuana
So we’ve established that cannabis can provide effective relief for those that suffer from sleep troubles. But how exactly can you best utilize marijuana to improve a night’s sleep?
That depends on what exactly you’re trying to accomplish. Two of the main active ingredients in cannabis, THC and CBD, each play their own role in changing sleep patterns. According to the Sleep Foundation, THC could be an effective way to deal with sleep apnea, to reduce nightmares related to PTSD, and to alleviate chronic pain keeping patients awake through the night.
In contrast, CBD could soothe REM sleep problems and eliminate daytime sleepiness, one of the most prominent side effects of insomnia. You can choose products with different THC to CBD ratios to make the most of these different benefits.
Use Edibles and Time Them Right
You also may want to consider using edible cannabis products to help get better sleep. Edibles have potent, long-lasting effects, sometimes lasting 6 hours or more. As a result, they may be an excellent choice for helping you stay asleep throughout the night. However, you’ll want to make sure you take them at the right time. Edibles can take up to an hour to kick in, though, so make sure you plan ahead and take them at least an hour before bedtime.
Are Indica Strains the Best Cannabis for Sleep?
There’s plenty of conventional wisdom out there that talks about how sativa strains are more energizing and euphoric, while their indica counterparts are more relaxing and best for improving sleep.
While many indicas do demonstrate these properties, not all of them do. Instead, a plant’s cannabinoid and terpene content will determine these effects. In particular, myrcene (one of the most common cannabis terpenes) appears to improve sleep according to some data.
The Best Medical Marijuana for Sleep
Finally, the moment you’ve all been waiting for! Here are some of the best cannabis strains that medical marijuana patients visiting our dispensary have reported help them with sleep.
Granddaddy Purple
It should come as no surprise that one of the best cannabis strains for medical marijuana patients seeking better sleep is this legendary indica. Grandaddy Purple made waves when it burst onto the scene in 2003, and it’s solidified itself as a top-shelf indica in the 20 years since. This cross between Purple Urkle and Big Bud has a high THC content, usually around 25% or higher. That makes it a perfect nightcap to tuck you in after a long day.
Sunflower Purple Myrcene
This heavy indica is loaded with myrcene, the perfect terpene for lulling you into a deep, restful sleep. Sunflower Purple Myrcene is so packed with this terpene that they put it in its name. This cannabis strain is also an indica, making it one of the best strains out there for medical marijuana patients seeking better sleep. Its THC level usually rests around 20% to 25%, making it accessible for experiences and newer cannabis consumers alike.
Hindu Kush
One of the original indica strains to make its way to Western cannabis consumers is also one of the best medical marijuana strains for sleep. With a THC content around 25%, Hindu Kush has lent its genetics to countless indica strains since its introduction to breeders in the 1960s. It’s a great strain for banishing daily stress and anxiety and lulling you into a comfortable, tranquil snooze.
Find the Best Strain for Sleep and More at Takoma Wellness
You’re not going to want to sleep on the indica cannabis strains in this post if you’re a medical marijuana patient trying to get better rest. Fortunately, you can find all of them at Takoma Wellness.
That’s not all, though—we also carry a huge variety of cannabis products for any ailment. To learn more, check out our online menu. And if you’re not a medical marijuana patient yet, we can help you complete your application. We’re looking forward to seeing you!
Cannabis Topicals: How Do They Work?
Cannabis-infused topicals can be traced as far back as ancient Egypt, and today you’ll find a wide variety of topical THC and CBD products formulated to serve a wide variety of purposes.
In this post we will explain what cannabis topicals are and how they work. We will also cover the differences between topical THC and CBD products and how they might be used. Let’s dig in!
What Are Cannabis Topicals? How Do They Work?
Cannabis topicals are cannabis-infused products that are applied to the skin for localized relief. Cannabis extracts can be added to any number of topical products, and today you’ll find everything from salves, lotions, and balms offering a variety of formulations targeted at specific concerns.
Cannabinoids like THC and CBD are known for the effects they produce when inhaled or ingested, but they are equally able to produce effects in the skin. How? We can thank a system of receptors called the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
Aside from impacting basic biological functions like sleep, appetite and mood, the ECS is also active in the skin where there are many receptors able to utilize cannabinoids when applied topically.
While research on the endocannabinoid system’s role in skin function is still in early days, investigators are uncovering several potential benefits for using cannabinoids topically, such as:
- Reducing inflammation
- Pain relief
- Antimicrobial effects
- Anti-itch benefits
- Oil gland regulation
Together these properties may offer relief for many different symptoms or conditions related to the skin, and initial research has looked at everything from the treatment of inflammatory skin conditions like eczema, to the treatment of neuropathic pain and even how cannabinoids might impact more common skin conditions like acne.
Once applied, you should feel the effects of a cannabis topical within minutes, and effects typically last for about two hours.
Topical Versus Transdermal
You may come across another category of products when searching for cannabis topicals called transdermals. Transdermal products are, in fact, topical in that they are also applied to the skin. But there is one important difference between a topical and a transdermal product: Transdermal products are designed to penetrate all layers of the skin to eventually reach the bloodstream.
Most often sold as gels or patches, transdermal products offer deeper penetration of the targeted areas to which they are applied. Because they reach the bloodstream, they can offer system-wide benefits or effects as well. Transdermal patches, in particular, are designed to offer a steady and slow release of cannabinoids over a period of several hours, making them a great option for extended relief.
Like lotion and salve topicals, the effects of a transdermal gel or patch should be felt within a few minutes. The effects of gels last on average two to four hours, while transdermal patches can be designed to release their active ingredients for many hours. Be sure to check out the product label since this will vary from patch to patch.
While there are topical and transdermal products featuring a variety of different cannabinoids on the market, in most cases you will find the main active ingredients in cannabis topicals are THC, CBD or a combination of both. Let’s unpack them next.
Topical THC: Cannabis Salves, Lotions and More
One common question we get at Takoma Wellness Center is whether THC-infused topicals will make a person feel intoxicated, or whether using THC topicals might show up on a blood test.
Since topical products cannot penetrate the skin to reach the bloodstream, you should only feel localized effects to the application when using THC topicals. And, as research supports, using THC topicals alone shouldn’t show up in a blood test.
THC topicals are being investigated for the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases, neuropathic pain and even for the treatment of glaucoma. Many patients use THC-infused salves, lotions and balms to help them relieve muscle soreness, joint pain or other sources of pain and discomfort.
Keep in mind that transdermal products containing THC will penetrate through the skin to enter the bloodstream, which may produce feelings of intoxication and can show up on blood tests.
Topical CBD: How Do CBD Topicals Work?
Do CBD topicals like a lotion work any differently than topical THC? The answer is yes and no.
When applied topically CBD works, in essence, in much the same way as topical THC: by activating the cannabinoid receptors that are found in the skin. But CBD modulates different receptors than does THC, meaning that CBD may exert similar effects as THC but achieves these effects in different ways.
Like THC, CBD is being investigated for inflammatory skin conditions and for the treatment of different kinds of pain and discomfort, among other uses.
Some patients prefer the topical effects of CBD, or want to avoid THC altogether, making topical CBD a great option. But since THC and CBD work differently in the body to provide similar benefits, many products will feature a combination of both THC and CBD in order to take advantage of their synergistic effects.
When it comes to THC versus CBD topicals, there is no right or wrong answer. Ultimately it comes down to experimenting with different products and formulations to find what works best for your needs.
Cannabis Topicals: Final Thoughts
We hope this introduction to cannabis topicals has been helpful! If you have further questions about how these cannabis products work, or you’d like some help navigating the topical products we carry at Takoma Wellness Center, please come visit us today.
Our team is always here to help you make the best and most informed decisions you can when shopping for medical cannabis. Of course you can always browse our live online menu, too! Either way, we look forward to serving you.
Fuel Biscuits Strain Review
It seems like there’s no shortage of rare boutique strains out there. And while some of them aren’t exactly worth your time, many of them are.
One that falls into that latter category is the topic of today’s strain profile. We’re talking about Fuel Biscuits, an indica-dominant strain that’s related to another genetic line you’ve probably heard of. We’ll check out some of the main traits of Fuel Biscuits in this strain review, along with some benefits it may have for medical marijuana patients.
Fuel Biscuits: A Big, Green, Indica-Dominant Marijuana Strain
There is no denying the visual appeal of strains with dazzling purple hues or bright orange hairs. And while these definitely can be the marks of high-grade cannabis, those colorings aren’t the be-all, end-all of marijuana quality. In fact, many verdant green colored plants match the caliber of any rainbow-hued buds.
That’s exactly what you get with Fuel Biscuits. Its flower features bursts of vibrant green colors that range from lime to deep forest green. It’s got an aroma that you’d only find in a cannabis plant, combining tones of diesel fuel with citrus, sweet, sour, and spicy scents. When smoking this strain, the fragrant building blocks coalesce into a sweet flavor, leaning heavily on qualities like berries and cherries to create a lip-smacking taste.
A major determinant of Fuel Biscuits flavor is its genetic line. As a GSC x Gelato cross, it’s a member of the illustrious Girl Scout Cookies family. That makes it the closest thing you get to cannabis royalty these days. It also gives Fuel Biscuits a solidly indica-dominant genetic profile, which influences its effects.
Effects and Properties of Fuel Biscuits
Appearance, aroma, and flavor are only part of the picture that Fuel Biscuits paints, of course. The rest of the image comes clearly into view once you take a look at this strain’s effects. And with an average THC content that hovers between 25% and 27%, Fuel Biscuits flower offers potency.
Its indica-dominant properties include heavy body relaxation, with tingles that hang over your body like a warm blanket. However, it does demonstrate some more properties typical of a sativa strain: It definitely features a rush of euphoria along with a general uplifting feeling. Make sure to keep snacks on-hand though, since this strain can instill a serious case of the munchies.
Possible Benefits of the Fuel Biscuits Strain
If you’re a medical patient, there’s plenty to love about Fuel Biscuits. Patients have noted that it may be an effective way to lessen anxiety and stress. Additionally, some have reported that it helped them with feelings of depression. As with most strains of medical cannabis, it could help patients find relief from chronic pain. Finally, it also could improve low appetite.
Experience the Fuel Biscuits Strains at Takoma Wellness
Are you interested in trying this strain for yourself? You’re in luck! You can find this rare strain at Takoma Wellness, along with a huge variety of other strains and other products in our online store.
Marijuana Wax: What Is It and How to Use It
We’ve written previously about cannabis concentrates, the potent and highly flavorful extracts that have taken the cannabis world by storm since their introduction roughly twenty years ago. Today, we’re going to take a deep dive into the story of one of the most popular forms of concentrate: marijuana wax.
What is marijuana wax? At the simplest level marijuana wax (also commonly referred to as cannabis wax, THC wax or simply wax) is a dense, shelf-stable, and highly potent extraction of cannabinoids such as THC and CBD as well as flavorful compounds such as terpenes and flavonoids. And if you’re wrestling with chronic symptoms or conditions that resist treatment with regular cannabis flower, wax can present an effective and powerful alternative.
In this post we’ll discuss important topics, explaining how cannabis wax is made and answering such questions as “how to smoke wax.” By the end, you should have a firm grounding in the use of this potent and intriguing marijuana product.
What Is Marijuana Wax? An Introduction
As we hinted a moment ago, while wax is relatively new on the scene its potency and flavor have made it one of the hottest products on our dispensary shelves. Typically taking the form of a creamy, amber-colored waxy substance, the consistency makes it relatively easy to grab just the right amount, a topic we’ll return to in a moment.
The first thing to know about wax is that—like all cannabis concentrates—it’s far more powerful than cannabis flower. If the strongest flower tops out around ~30% THC, concentrates like wax can easily reach 90% THC. Above all, this means that these products should be approached with the utmost caution and respect, as their effects can be surprisingly intense and long-lasting.
One of the most important questions we receive from patients around marijuana wax is: Is it produced using solvents? The answer is yes. In this sense, “solvents” are products including butane, CO2, and ethanol that separate the crucial “active ingredients” in cannabis—the cannabinoids, terpenes, and other components—from the flower.
Clean, lab-tested, carefully made solvent extracts like the wax we offer feature exceptional flavors, aromas, and potency. And any trace of solvent is carefully removed before packaging and sale.
How to Smoke Wax: Top Tips
Even for seasoned fans of marijuana concentrates, it’s important to remember that these products are extremely potent. These products are best not used by cannabis naive patients. Especially if you’re new to concentrates, we advise our customers to “start slow and go low.” While the effects of having too much THC can be unpleasant, it’s important to know that they’re rarely dangerous. In the great majority of cases, unwanted side effects subside after a couple of hours. Remember: You can always take more cannabis later, but you can’t take less!
While tiny amounts of wax can be added to a joint or a bowl, it’s most common for it to be consumed through a specialized pipe called a “dab rig.” Similar to a bong or a water pipe, this specialized tool features a metal or quartz “nail” or “banger” in place of a regular bowl. This piece features a flat-bottomed surface designed to retain heat.
Speaking of which, you can’t heat up the nail or banger with a match or regular lighter. We recommend using a butane-powered kitchen torch for a powerful, tightly focused flame. As with all such devices, you’ll want to take all necessary precautions and be safe.
Finally, you’ll need a dabbing tool: a tiny spear-like implement that allows you to gather the desired amount of wax and then apply it to the hot nail before inhaling just as you would from any other pipe. How much to start with? We recommend the smallest possible amount: A tiny crumb or a sliver.
Smoking Wax: In Conclusion
As D.C.’s #1 family-run medical marijuana dispensary, we’re dedicated to helping you get the very most from your cannabis experience. If you have other questions about wax, concentrates—or anything else in the world of cannabis—be sure to visit our Patient Resources section for more useful information. Or: just ask! We’re always here to help.
What Are Cannabis Concentrates?
Cannabis has come a long way from the days of hand-rolled joints filled with homegrown bud. Today’s dispensary shelves are filled with a variety of cannabis products that can be used in a variety of ways.
One of these is cannabis concentrates, a collection of products prized for their high potency and bold flavors. What are concentrates and what do you need to know about them? Let’s dive in!
What Are Concentrates?
Cannabis concentrates are extra-potent cannabis products that feature much higher cannabinoid and terpene levels than cannabis flower. Some people think that concentrates are a new thing, but in reality hash (the original concentrate) has been used for over a thousand years and perhaps much longer. Today, there are many different types of extracts out there, all differing in shape, texture, consistency, and appearance.
Concentrates are made by using various methods to collect the trichomes that cover cannabis plants. It’s kind of like squeezing the juice out of an orange so you can enjoy the really good stuff. Trichomes are small glands that contain the cannabinoids and terpenes, and concentrating them creates a final concentrated product with a high potency level and strong flavor/aroma.
Perhaps the most important distinguishing characteristic of concentrates, and one to be mindful of when consuming these products, are the high THC levels. While cannabis flower can reach about 30% THC content, it’s very common to see a concentrate clocking in at anywhere from 50%–90%+ concentrated THC.
How Are Concentrates Made?
There are many different types of concentrates and many different ways to make them. In general, cannabis concentrates fall into one of two categories depending on how they were made: solvent-based and solventless.
Solvent-based concentrates are made with the use of a solvent like butane, ethanol, or carbon dioxide, which is purged from the final product after extraction. Solventless concentrates, on the other hand, are made using mechanical and physical methods that avoid the use of extra solvents altogether.
Shatter, for example, is a solvent-based concentrate typically made by using liquid butane to strip plant material of its potent trichomes. Rosin, on the other hand, is a solventless concentrate made by applying heat to plant material and squeezing the resin/rosin right out of it with pressure. Shatter and rosin are two types of concentrates made through very different methods but they usually reach around the same level of concentrated THC.
It’s up to you to decide if a concentrate’s extraction method matters to you or not. While some people feel that solventless concentrates are more health-conscious, others prefer the fact that solvent-based extracts tend to have higher levels of concentrated THC. In addition, any concentrate for sale at our dispensary has been safety and quality assured, meaning that you don’t have to worry about unsafe levels of residual solvents in any product we sell.
How Do You Use Concentrates?
Most of the time, cannabis concentrates are either smoked or vaporized.
Many different types of vaporizers can be used to vape concentrates. Conventional vaporizers, wax pens, vape pens, and special water pipes called dab rigs can all work to vaporize concentrates and extracts. Just make sure that your vaporizer is fully compatible with concentrates and extracts before using it.
Cannabis concentrates can also be smoked, although handling some of them can be a frustrating experience since they’re so sticky and viscous. You can add concentrate on top of the flower in your bowl or sprinkle it into your joints to give them a boost in potency.
Just remember that concentrates are very potent, so very small amounts will contain a high number of milligrams of THC and other active ingredients. Start low and go slow with concentrates, and consider using a microscale to measure out precise dosages.
Find Different Types of Concentrates at Takoma Wellness
From some simple hash and kief to potent distillate oils and sticky rosin, we’ve made sure to stock our dispensary with many different types of concentrates. Come by our Takoma, DC dispensay today or shop our online menu right now to speak with our wonderful team and find the right concentrate for you!
Takoma Wellness Center | Edible Dosing Guide
Cannabis edibles are one of the most popular—not to mention one of the most delicious!—ways to reap the benefits of cannabinoids such as THC and CBD. But even for seasoned patients calculating an edible dose can be challenging, leading many to have a less-than-optimal first-time edible experience.
As D.C.’s #1 family-run medical marijuana dispensary, we’d like to help you avoid a potentially unpleasant experience. In today’s post, we’ll discuss THC dosing in edibles, the best way to take edibles, and other topics relating to edible dose questions. Ready? Let’s dive in!
What Are Edibles, and What Do I Need to Know?
Edibles are nothing more than familiar foods or beverages—chocolates, cookies, or iced tea, to name a few—infused with cannabinoids (the “active ingredients”) from the marijuana plant. While they’re an easy and intuitive way to access those beneficial compounds, they work slightly differently than they do in smoked or vaped cannabis.
When you consume an edible, the cannabinoids are processed through the liver and stomach as opposed to the lungs. While the bioavailability—or amount of cannabinoids actually accessed by your body—decreases, the apparent dosage increases. In simple terms, this means that the THC dosage in edibles feels stronger than it does for an equivalent amount of smoked or vaped cannabis.
What’s more, the experience typically comes on much slower than smoked cannabis (approximately 30 - 90 minutes versus to one to five minutes when inhaling) and it lasts much longer (approximately two to six hours as opposed to one to two hours).
Is There a Recommended THC Dosing?
Of course, there’s no FDA-recommended THC dosage guide. But while everyone reacts slightly differently to THC, it’s possible to formulate a few basic guidelines and principles for determining an edible dose:
THC Dosage: 1 – 2.5 mg
Typical Effects: Mild relief of symptoms including pain, stress, and anxiety; heightened focus and creativity. Great for first-time consumers, or more experienced consumers interested in microdosing.
THC Dosage: 2.5 – 15 mg
Typical Effects: Stronger relief of symptoms; euphoria; impacted coordination and perception. Great for stubborn symptoms not affected by smaller doses; potential treatment for insomnia.
THC Dosage: 30 – 50 mg
Typical Effects: Strong euphoria; significantly impacted coordination and perception. Great for consumers with a high tolerance for THC, or whose GI systems don’t absorb cannabinoids well.
THC Dosage: 50 – 100 mg
Typical Effects: Seriously impacted coordination and perception; possible unpleasant side effects including nausea and increased heart rate. Best for patients managing serious symptoms and conditions, or for those with a high THC tolerance.
First-Time Edible Experience: Top Tips
While the effects of having too much THC can be unpleasant, it’s important to know that they’re rarely dangerous. In the great majority of cases, unwanted side effects subside after a couple of hours at the very most.
That said, we’d like you to have as positive a first-time edible experience as possible. This means that you should consider taking a low edible dose to start for a more rewarding experience. Remember: You can always take more cannabis later, but you can’t take less!
There are other factors to consider as well, including your body mass index (BMI), your age, your experience level with cannabis, and your recent food intake. If you’re familiar with cannabis’s effects, you’ll be better prepared for a positive edible experience. Similarly, a recent meal will tend to slow down the onset of the THC, an experience that many people find more pleasant and manageable than a fast onset.
Edibles at Takoma Wellness Center
Do you have other questions about the THC dosage in edibles (or anything else in the world of cannabis?) Just ask! We’re always here to help.
We’d love to see you at our DC dispensary to help you find the right edible for your needs, stop by today to speak with our helpful team or browse our menu online from the comfort of home! Either way, we look forward to serving you!
CBD in DC: Is it Legal & Where Do I Buy It?
With so many questions about cannabis—Where is it legal? Can I take it across district or state lines?—it’s no wonder so many of us are confused about CBD, one of the plant’s major compounds (and one with a great many purported medicinal effects). If you’re left wondering, “Are CBD products legal in Washington, D.C.?” today’s post is for you. We’ll explain exactly what CBD is, where it’s legal, and where to buy it in the District of Columbia.
What is CBD? Tips From a Washington, DC Dispensary
Let’s begin with the basics. The cannabis plant contains hundreds of natural compounds and continued research on the plants is unlocking the science behind the plant’s benefits. Among the most studied compounds in cannabis are cannabinoids, which can be described as the plant’s major “active ingredients.”
Cannabinoids include THC—the compound most directly responsible for cannabis’ distinctive “high”—and CBD. Both of them deliver a wide range of useful medical effects. For instance, THC has been shown to reduce several types of pain. CBD, in addition to helping treat certain seizures, has shown promise in reducing anxiety and stress. Unlike THC, CBD’s psychoactive effects are very minimal. At most, some people experience a gentle cerebral “buzz.”
Due to its lack of intoxicating effects, CBD is legal for sale in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. However, many states require that CBD products contain only a trace amount of THC. In this case, CBD is typically derived not from the cannabis plant, but from its cousin, wild hemp.
Because CBD’s psychoactivity is so mild, high-CBD cannabis products are a great choice to use with microdosing, a topic we’ve covered in the past. Some researchers have begun to demonstrate that CBD works particularly well in concert with THC, a phenomenon often called the entourage effect. If you’re looking to add CBD’s medicinal effects to those of THC, we’d love to recommend a few products from our shelves.
The Best CBD Products From a Washington, DC Dispensary
Liberty CBD Oil
A proudly D.C.-based enterprise, Liberty produces a CBD oil designed to address such symptoms as anxiety, monthly cramps, inflammation and pain, and certain types of seizures. It’s a staff favorite for its purity and consistent, precise formulation.
Infused Honey, District Cannabis
Another hometown favorite, this all-natural sweetener delivers an equal balance of THC and CBD. It has quickly developed a following for its ability to turn down chronic pain, anxiety and depression, and a variety of other symptoms and conditions. As with all cannabis edibles, it’s important to keep this out of childrens’ reach.
Citrus Tango, District Growers
Another product offering a balance of CBD and THC, this sweet and fruity strain delivers a gentle elevation without the paranoia and racing thoughts that can sometimes accompany high-THC products. Instead, you’ll enjoy a moderate uplift tempered by CBD’s soothing, anxiety-quelling effects.
Best CBD Products: In Conclusion
As the District’s first and longest-running medical cannabis dispensary, we’re grateful that so many Washingtonians turn to Takoma Wellness Center. You can shop for our products by visiting the dispensary or via our online menu. If you have any further questions about CBD products, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always here to help!
Cannabis & Sleep: The Best Strains for Insomnia and Nightmares
In case you haven’t noticed, cannabis is all over the news these days. From new research suggesting medical cannabis may help fight pain and inflammation, ease anxiety, and control certain types of seizures, it seems there’s no end to potential uses for the cannabis plant. And this holds doubly true for one of the most prevalent health issues facing us today: Insomnia and related sleep disorders. Adding to a wealth of anecdotal accounts, a growing body of evidence suggests that using cannabis for sleep may be an effective and sustainable strategy.
Does cannabis help you sleep? If so, what are the best cannabis products for sleep? We’ll dig into these questions and others in today’s post. By the end, you’ll have a solid understanding on how to use cannabis for insomnia and other common sleep disorders.
Insomnia: An Introduction
Insomnia has several subtypes, but the simplest way to categorize the disorder is to define insomnia as: “inability to fall asleep and/or stay asleep.” In truth, insomnia is a complex group of sleep disorders. While many of us find the variations on the possible causes frustratingly familiar and difficult to differentiate, the reality remains: an estimated 70 million Americans suffer from insomnia or other sleep disorders at any given time, and insomnia can be notoriously difficult to treat.
If you or someone you love has ever suffered from insomnia, you’re probably familiar with the countless remedies currently available. Ranging from gentle homeopathic drops to powerful—and potentially risky—pharmaceuticals such as benzodiazepines, none can be said to be 100% safe and effective. But as we’ll see, the growing acceptance of medical cannabis is fueling hopes that it might prove to be an effective and sustainable solution. First, though, it’s useful to understand that cannabis isn’t a single medicine, but many medicines in one plant.
Cannabis for Sleep: What the Science Says
We tend to think of cannabis as a single drug, but the truth is a bit more complicated. The cannabis plant actually contains several-hundred compounds—including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. As far as cannabis for insomnia goes, the two most important compounds to know are the cannabinoids THC and CBD.
THC is the compound most directly responsible for cannabis’ distinctive “high.” By comparison, CBD is mildly psychoactive, delivering at most a very gentle cerebral “buzz.” That’s why CBD on its own is legal in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. In addition to their subjective effects, both THC and CBD deliver a wide range of medical benefits, several of which we outlined earlier in this article.
To understand how cannabis may affect our sleep, it’s useful to keep those two cannabinoids in mind. While the federal prohibition of cannabis has hampered research into its use for insomnia, we do know that THC and CBD exert different effects on our sleep cycles.
For instance, one sleep study found that cannabis with a higher ratio of THC to CBD reduced the amount of test subjects’ rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Why is this important? It turns out that REM is the sleep stage in which people experience dreams, and the theory is that by reducing dreams, sleepers spend more time in a restorative “deep sleep” state.
This also ties in to the issue of nightmares. In addition to being unpleasant and unsettling, nightmares are a major cause of sleep disruption. Just like other dreams, they occur during REM sleep. A reduction in REM sleep seems to correlate with fewer nightmares—a finding supported by a separate, small-scale sleep study.
Then there’s the subject of post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. While the intersection between cannabis and PTSD is a wide-ranging topic in and of itself, research suggests that moderate cannabis use is by and large an effective response to PTSD-related sleep issues.
CBD for Sleep
Thus far, we haven’t addressed the topic of CBD and sleep. However, we mustn’t miss the promising potential of this important compound. There’s some evidence that the “second cannabinoid” may be even more beneficial than THC for sleep. One study from 2017 found that CBD may hold promise for reducing REM-related sleep disorders and quelling excessive daytime sleepiness. A large-scale study from 2019 found that CBD helped reduce anxiety—a major factor in sleep disruption—and improved sleep scores in most of the test subjects.
Taken together, the research suggests that by carefully tailoring cannabis ratios for the physiologies and needs of individual patients, clinicians could usher in a new era of gentle, sustainable, and effective treatments for insomnia and other sleep disorders.
Given what we know about cannabis for insomnia, we can make some educated choices about specific cannabis products. And this local team—at the District of Columbia’s longest-running medical cannabis facility—has some suggestions.
Best Cannabis Products for Sleep: Specific Recommendations
Standard: Sleep, by Abatin Wellness
Specifically formulated to encourage deep and restful sleep without grogginess, this tincture contains a precise mixture of the cannabinoids THC, CBD, and CBN. They’re empowered by specific terpenes, the aromatic compounds in cannabis and other natural products, geared towards relaxation and rest.
Granddaddy Purple Cartridge, District Cannabis
This much-loved indica strain delivers a potent hit of cerebral dreaminess and full-body relaxation. Known for a strong “couch lock” effect, it’s just the thing to get you tucked into bed for a night of deep, restorative, and long-lasting sleep. This cartridge contains .5g of concentrate, and is designed to fit a standard 510-style vape pen.
Classic Cookies, Abatin Wellness
An alternate name for GSO—itself an alternate name for the trademark-protected “girl scout cookies”—this legendary strain is known for imparting a deep and long-lasting euphoria. Its legions of fans turn to it for reliable relaxation, a head-to-toe calming effect, and the lure of a restful night of sleep.
Pre-Roll 6-Pack: Gelato Cake, District Cannabis
Yet another strain with a fervent fanbase, this cross between Gelato and Wedding Cake comes in a beautiful handmade case of prerolls for your convenience. Packing a hefty dose of relaxing THC, Gelato Cake’s delicious flavor profile—think sweet crushed grapes and aged cognac—is primed to ease you into deep, stress- and pain-free sleep.
Best Cannabis Products for Sleep: Wrapping Up
Whether you’re comfortable with the psychoactivity of THC or prefer the gentler, stress-reducing effects of CBD, the best cannabis product for sleep that will suit you to a T is out there waiting for you. If you’d like more guidance, check with the team at Washington, DC 's longest-running medical cannabis dispensary for expert recommendations and a stellar lineup of cannabis products!
Understanding Cannabis Terpenes: A Foundational Guide
We’ve talked about a few of the most important compounds in cannabis before: cannabinoids such as THC and CBD that give the plant its medicinal and euphoric effects. But while we sometimes describe the cannabinoids as the major “active ingredients” in cannabis, they’re hardly the only piece of the puzzle. If you’re new to cannabis or looking to deepen your knowledge, it’s time to get familiar with cannabis terpenes.
A large family of aromatic oils, cannabis-derived terpenes are best known for giving different strains their distinct aromas and flavors. Behind the scenes, these compounds also lend powerful medicinal benefits to the cannabis plant’s already potent effects. Let’s dive in!
What Is a Cannabis Terpene? An Introduction
In scientific lingo, terpenes are aromatic hydrocarbons—what many of us might call “essential oils”—found in the cannabis plant. They’re produced and secreted by trichomes, the same tiny silvery glands that produce THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids.
But terpenes are hardly unique to cannabis. If you’ve ever wondered why cannabis can smell like fresh fruit, Christmas trees, or even Diesel fuel, terpenes are the common denominator. They occur in countless natural flora, and even in some insects and animals! In fact, some botanists believe that terpenes are the single largest and most diverse group of natural products on the planet. For the purposes of this post, we’ll stick with the topic of cannabis-derived terpenes.
As we’ve hinted, terpenes do more than simply add enticing flavors and aromas to cannabis. Research suggests that terpenes work in partnership with cannabinoids in what’s termed the “ensemble” or “entourage effect” to produce specific therapeutic results. While still theoretical, a growing body of evidence supports the concept, and it may hold the key to future therapies based on cannabis-derived terpenes.
What Is a Cannabis Terpene? Meet the Top Five
There are a great many terpenes in cannabis (at least 150 of them)! Today, let’s begin with the five most common:
Myrcene
Just as THC is the most abundant cannabinoid in cannabis, myrcene is its most abundant terpene, meaning it is found in some concentration in the majority of strains. Characterized by a fruity and grapelike flavor, myrcene is gently sedative. What’s more, this terpene synergizes and helps potentiate the actions of other terpenes and cannabinoids, making it a crucial player in cannabis’ active ingredient ecosystem.
Myrcene-rich strains include: Skunk XL, White Widow, and Special Kush
Alpha-pinene and Beta-pinene
Known collectively as “pinene,” these related terpenes are identified by their distinctively piney aroma. You’ll also find this terpene in pine trees, orange peels, and herbs such as basil and rosemary. Studies suggest that pinene exerts a gentle anti-inflammatory effect, reducing inflammatory responses such as asthma.
Pinene-rich strains include: Strawberry Cough, Blue Dream and Dutch Treat
Caryophyllene
This spicy and peppery terpene is being investigated for its analgesic and anxiolytic effects. It also binds to our cells more readily than many other terpenes, making it a valued ingredient in some topicals and balms.
Caryophyllene-rich strains include: Super Silver Haze, OG Kush, and Rock Star
Limonene
Bright and cheerful-smelling, this citrus-scented terpene adds its uplifting effects to many cannabis strains. Clinical studies underscore its potential use to reduce stress and anxiety. And believe it or not, at least one study suggests limonene may have a role to play in fighting COVID-19.
Limonene-rich strains include: Sour Diesel, Durban Poison, and Jack Herer
Linalool
A main component in the classic “marijuana smell,” linalool may also help fight anxiety and depression. Research suggests this important, cannabis-derived terpene might also help reverse the cognitive impairment and memory loss associated with neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s Disease.
Linalool-rich strains include: Amnesia Haze, Special Kush, and Lavender
Cannabis Derived Terpenes: Wrapping Up
We hope this introductory guide on cannabis terpenes has been helpful! Not just the flavor and aroma powerhouses of the cannabis plant, these compounds are showing therapeutic promise all their own and may be key to understanding how cannabis offers its multifaceted effects.
Do you have other questions about terpenes (or anything else in the world of cannabis)? Just ask! We’re here to help. You can always visit our dispensary to learn more about terpenes from our friendly and knowledgeable team, or peruse our online menu to see what we’ve currently got in stock. We look forward to serving you!