Cooking with Cannabis: A Complete Guide
Have you ever wondered what cooking with cannabis would be like? Crafting your own infused delicacies and looking forward to that extra-rewarding first bite? Luckily, learning how to cook with cannabis isn’t extraordinarily difficult. In this post, we’re going to look at the basics of cannabis cooking and share two important recipes that will enable you to make many different cannabis-infused treats.
Cooking with Cannabis: The Basics
Cooking with cannabis is just like regular cooking. There’s just one difference: THC. While it would be great to just mash some cannabis flower into a brownie and call it a day, that’s unfortunately not an option.
That’s because cannabis flower doesn’t actually contain THC. Instead, the plant develops THCA. This chemical precursor turns into THC when exposed to heat through a process called decarboxylation. That usually happens when you spark up some flower for a puff. However, since there’s no flame involved with edibles, you’ll need a “decarb” workaround.
How to Decarboxylate Cannabis Flower
The term “decarboxylation” may look scary on paper. But its bark is worse than its bite.
All you need to do to decarb cannabis is heat-activate it. That’s a two-step process. First, grind your cannabis with an herb grinder. Then, put it on a cookie sheet covered in wax paper. Bake it at 245 Fahrenheit for about 30 minutes. Mix it every 10 minutes to make sure it cooks properly. When all your cannabis is a light golden brown, you’re ready to rock.
Cannabis Cooking: Two Important Recipes and Tips
Now that we have the basics of cannabis cooking under our belts, we can get down to the fun business: recipes. THC is a highly lipid-soluble molecule. In other words, it binds readily to fats. Butter and oil both contain tons of fats. These are the foundational ingredients for any cannabis-infused product.
Having a recipe on hand for both cannabutter and infused coconut oil will give you two solid options for a versatile cannabis ingredient with which to infuse recipes. Armed with cannabutter or cannaoil, you can start baking or cooking with cannabis using any normal recipe that calls for butter or oil.
Before you begin: Always label your infused products clearly, so no one accidentally uses a cannabis product. Keep out of the reach of children. Store cannabutter or canna oil in the fridge or freezer.
How to Cook with Cannabis: Cannabutter
Cannabutter is a classic medium for carrying THC. Countless recipes use normal butter, which you can substitute with cannabutter super easily. Here’s how to make it.
Ingredients:
- 7 grams decarboxylated flower
- 1 cup butter
- 1 cup water
Instructions for Making Cannabutter:
First, decarb your flower as outlined above. Once your flower is decarbed, you can begin the cannabutter-making process.
Combine butter and water in a saucepan on a low heat. Once the butter has begun melting, add your decarbed flower. Keep simmering at a low heat (about 170 Fahrenheit or so) for between 2 and 3 hours. Never let it boil fully!
Finally, let the butter cool slightly (but make sure it's still in liquid form) and strain the cannabutter into a jar through a cheesecloth. Refrigerate until solid, then seal with a lid. If any water separates during solidification, you can discard that excess water.
How to Cook with Cannabis: Infused Coconut Oil
Sometimes, you don’t want to cook with butter. In that case, coconut oil makes a great substitute that readily absorbs THC and tastes great. Check out this recipe.
Ingredients:
- 7 grams decarboxylated flower
- 1 cup coconut oil
Instructions:
Place both the coconut oil and the flower into a high heat-rated Mason jar or similar (Find out how to assess your jar for safety.) Place the jar into a pot. Fill the pot with enough water until the water line is above the oil/flower mixture. Important: Start with room temperature water (not cold, as that could cause the glass to break), bringing it to a boil slowly.
Both the jar and the pot should remain uncovered for ventilation. Keep on a medium boil for 2 hours, monitoring closely. Keep an eye on the water level, since some of it will boil off. Add more water, as needed, to maintain the original water level in the pot.
Lastly, let the oil cool slightly (it still needs to be in liquid form but you don’t want it steaming hot), then strain the canna oil into another jar through a cheesecloth. Once cool, seal with a lid.
Cooking with Cannabis: Wrapping Up
Now that you know how to cook with cannabis, you need to start working on your own recipes! First things first, though. You’re going to need to stock up on some flower of your own. That’s where we come in. Check out our full selection of flower or come visit our dispensary to get cooking. We look forward to serving you!
What Are Cannabis Edibles, How Long Do They Last?
If you’re returning to the world of cannabis after many years, you’ve probably noticed that much has changed. In addition to entirely new classes of products such as vaporizers, concentrates, and topicals, the world of cannabis-infused edibles has been turned into a confectionary powerhouse.
If you grew up thinking “cannabis edibles” meant inconsistent (and often dry) marijuana brownies, you’re in for a surprise: From infused honey to mouth watering chocolates to chewable lozenges and discreet capsules, there’s a wide and truly impressive variety of cannabis-infused edibles on the market. If you’re curious about edibles but haven’t known where to begin, you’re in the right place. This post will answer such important questions about ingestible cannabis, such as:
- What are cannabis edibles?
- How long does it take cannabis infused edibles to work?
- How long do cannabis edibles last?
- What’s the right dosage of cannabis edibles?
Are you ready? Let’s dive in.
What are Cannabis Infused Edibles?
At the most basic level, a cannabis edible is a food or beverage infused with cannabis or its major active ingredients, natural compounds called cannabinoids. The two most prevalent cannabinoids are THC and CBD. THC is the cannabinoid most directly responsible for cannabis’ distinctive “high.” By comparison, CBD imparts—at most—a 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 potential, from reducing several types of pain to helping treat certain seizures to reducing anxiety and stress.
In part because cannabis itself can be processed into so many forms—from fresh, fragrant flower to the aforementioned concentrates and tinctures—there's practically no limit to the number and types of foods and beverages that can be transformed into cannabis infused edibles. But while many of them take the form of familiar (and delicious!) infused chocolates, cereal treats, and other sweet snacks, others take a more straightforward approach.
A capsule may not seem the likeliest format in which to take cannabis, but that’s an increasingly preferred choice for many people. Especially popular with those new to cannabis medicine, capsules offer a portable, shelf-stable, and discreet way to access a consistent and precise dose of cannabis. Needless to say, this is especially useful when the goal is to address chronic symptoms and conditions such as pain, anxiety, and the side-effects of chemotherapy.
One of the most popular forms of cannabis infused edible is the lozenge or troche (pronounced “trow-kee”). Smaller and more shelf-stable than infused cookies or chocolate bars, they provide a carefully measured dose of cannabis medicine along with a burst of juicy flavor.
For all the variety and choices offered by cannabis edibles, though, it’s important to understand the ways they function in our bodies in comparison to inhaled cannabis. That’s a great excuse to dive into our next topics: “How long do cannabis edibles take to start working?” and “How long do cannabis edibles last?”
How Long Do Cannabis Edibles Take to Start Working?
When we ingest cannabis by smoking it or inhaling it through a vaporizer, we feel its effects quickly, typically within about ten minutes. That’s because the cannabinoids are rapidly absorbed through the lungs.
With edibles, by comparison, the cannabinoids are processed by the liver. Among other things, this means that it takes much longer for the cannabis to take effect. Apart from such factors as an individual’s age, weight, metabolism, and recent food intake, you can typically expect an edible to take between 45 minutes and 2 hours to begin taking effect.
Perhaps the most common issue around cannabis edibles is that inexperienced users—believing the product simply “didn’t work”—will take more. But when the double dose of edibles finally kicks in, the effect can be much stronger than anticipated.
That is why we always counsel our clients to “start low, go slow.” Knowing that it may take up to 2 hours for an edible to take effect, you’ll be better prepared for a predictable, positive, and fruitful experience.
How Long Do Cannabis Edibles Last?
Just as cannabis infused edibles take longer to reach their full effect, they also last much longer in our bodies. Whereas you can expect the effects of smoked or vaped cannabis to last from around 1 to 3 hours, the effects of edibles often last from 5 to 8 hours—and in some cases, up to 24 hours.
That’s a wide range, and again, several factors influence its duration. As we mentioned earlier, THC is the cannabinoid most directly responsible for the cannabis plant’s distinctive “high.” If you’re concerned about excess psychoactivity, we recommend you try a cannabis edible with either a balanced THC:CBD ratio, or one that contains very little THC. Especially if you’re new to edibles, this is a good way to mitigate effects that might otherwise feel slightly overwhelming.
With that in mind, we’ll share some dosing guidelines.
What’s the Right Dosage of Cannabis Edibles?
Every package of cannabis infused edibles we sell is labeled with the precise dosage of THC in each individual unit, denoted in milligrams (mg). Here’s what you can expect in terms of subjective effects.
THC Dosage of 1 mg to 2.5 mg
Expected Effects: Mild relief of symptoms including pain, stress, and anxiety; heightened focus and creativity.
Recommended for: First-time consumers, or more experienced consumers looking to microdose cannabis.
THC Dosage of 2.5 mg to 15 mg
Expected Effects: Stronger symptomatic relief; euphoria; slightly impaired coordination and perception.
Recommended for: Stubborn symptoms not affected by smaller doses; treatment for insomnia.
THC Dosage of 30 mg to 50 mg
Expected Effects: Strong euphoria; significantly impaired coordination and perception.
Recommended for: Those consumers with a high tolerance for THC, or those whose GI systems don’t tend to absorb cannabinoids effectively.
THC Dosage of 50 mg to 100 mg
Expected Effects: Seriously impaired coordination and perception; possible unpleasant side effects including nausea and increased heart rate.
Recommended for: Experienced, high-tolerance THC consumers; patients living with inflammatory disorders, cancer, and other serious conditions.
Cannabis Infused Edibles: Other Considerations
These guidelines provide a useful starting point, but because everyone’s individual physiology is unique, you may respond a bit differently. Again, that’s why we urge you to “start slow, go low.” Begin with a low dose, and remember to wait at least 2 hours before taking any more.
If at any point the effects of cannabis feel too strong, don’t panic. Though the sensations—which could include nausea, paranoia, or a racing heart rate—may feel unpleasant, they’re rarely dangerous. Try watching a show, snuggling with your animal, or stepping outside for some fresh air and to take a gander at a nearby tree. That said: If you suffer from pre-existing heart conditions or other serious medical issues, please consult with a cannabis-informed physician before trying infused edibles.
What Are Cannabis Edibles: Wrapping Up
As the District’s first and longest-running medical cannabis dispensary, we’re grateful that so many Washingtonians turn to Takoma Wellness Center. Check out our edibles via our online menu or stop by. If you have any further questions about cannabis edibles, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help!
Ask a DC Budtender: How to Take Edibles
New cannabis consumers often approach edibles with a mixture of excitement, fear, and caution. We get it: Edibles have a questionable reputation. But they shouldn’t. Our basics will help you have the best experience, every time.
When it comes to cannabis-infused edibles, there’s an element of mystery that can make taking the first bite of that infused chocolate bar (or oat bar, marshmallow crisp, or cookie in a jar) a nerve-wracking experience. How do you know the correct dosage? And what effects will you experience?
Unlike more familiar forms of cannabis, such as flower and vape cartridges, it’s hard to make a visual assessment of the perfect amount (and variety) of cannabis edibles to suit your needs.
That’s why we decided to sit down with our favorite professional Patient Consultants from the best dispensary in Washington DC to learn the ins and outs of cannabis edibles, how to take edibles, and how new consumers can ensure a perfect experience every time.
What are cannabis edibles?
Let’s start with the basics. What are cannabis edibles and how do they work?
Put simply, it is any cannabis-infused food product that contains either THC or CBD. Enthusiasts prefer an edible consumption method for many reasons: convenience, circumventing possible impact of smoking on their lungs, delayed effects, and more.
These days, cannabis-infused edibles come in many forms beyond the familiar pot brownie—from beef jerky to breakfast cereal! With the world of cannabis edible brands expanding by the day, it’s easy to find a product to suit your palette (and dosage and effects requirements).
Types of Cannabis Edibles at Dispensaries
Nowadays, you may come across many different types of edibles at dispensaries. Edibles can differ in both their form and their contents, resulting in potential changes to how long their effects can take to kick in and what kinds of effects you may experience when ingesting them.
For example, you may opt to go with a candy or mint that may get absorbed sublingually and kick in faster, or a baked goodie such as a cookie or a brownie that is processed through your stomach, then liver, thus kicking in only after some time has passed (usually, 30 minutes to 2 hours). It’s important to be mindful of the kinds of cannabinoids and cannabinoid ratios that each type of edible contains. This will be detailed on the packaging.
An edible containing solely THC can be expected to produce the typical psychoactive and mind-altering effects that are usually associated with cannabis. The type of THC strain used to make the edible will indicate which types of psychoactive effects are most likely. As a general guide: sativa tends to produce more active, energizing uplifting effects and indica usually will lean more mellow, spacy, and chill. A high-CBD edible will produce some physiological effects, but not psychoactive ones.
Different ratios of these two cannabinoids can result in vastly different edible experiences. Thanks to the entourage effect, consuming THC and CBD together will produce effects that are different than if either one was to be ingested on its own.
Exactly what kinds of effects you can expect from a mixed edible will depend on its exact cannabinoid ratio. A 1:1 THC to CBD ratio indicates a blend of mild euphoria and calm relaxation. The more CBD in the ratio, the less euphoria and psychoactive effects. For example, a 1:10 THC to CBD ratio may mean that there’s no (or very little) noticeable euphoria or ‘high’ whatsoever, making it preferable for therapeutic dosing.
Pay close attention to the label of your edibles to see what their cannabinoid ratio is, and think carefully about what kinds of effects you want to experience from them. Whether you’re looking for a fun and euphoric buzz, or a calm and therapeutic one, you’ll be sure to find it among the many types of edibles at dispensaries. You just need to make sure you choose the right one.
How long does it take cannabis edibles to kick in?
Cannabis-infused edibles tend to take longer to kick in than inhalable cannabis products.
Typically, you can expect to wait between 30-60 minutes to experience the effects of cannabis edibles, though it may take 2-3 hours, depending on your physiology and tolerance. Many such factors can affect the timing of cannabis absorption via edibles. Let’s go over a few:
- You might feel the effects of high dosage THC edibles more quickly than a lower dose product.
- Edibles you consume by sucking on them (such as lozenges, lollipops, and gum) tend to kick in faster since some of the cannabinoids are absorbed directly through your saliva sublingually.
- Chewable edibles (such as gummies, cookies, or oat bars) take longer to kick in since they have to be digested before your body absorbs the THC or CBD they contain.
- Other factors, such as how empty your stomach is and your sex, weight, and cannabis tolerance, can affect how quickly your body reacts to edibles, as well.
If you’ve consumed an edible and don’t yet feel the effects, have patience! Our Budtenders recommend waiting 24 hours before dosing again to avoid consuming too much. Instead, try eating a bit of food to kick-start your digestion.
How do edibles make you feel?
One advantage of edibles is the intensity they offer compared to other cannabis products. Cannabis-infused edibles create a more powerful high than some other consumption methods, and you’ll feel the effects longer than inhalable cannabis products. Because an edible is slowly digested by the stomach, an edible high can last for as long as 6–8 hours.
Exactly how an edible will make you feel will largely depend on the strain of cannabis that you’re ingesting. As we mentioned, a strong indica strain often helps you feel relaxed and even sleepy, while a potent sativa will feel much more stimulating and energizing. In general, you should expect a strong body buzz when ingesting cannabis-infused edibles, especially if you’re ingesting an indica strain.
How to Take Edibles: Dosing Your Edible
Getting your dosage right is really important when you’re considering how to take edibles. If you’re planning on trying a THC edible, you should always try to stick to a dosage that you’re sure you can handle.
Ingesting too much THC is a common mistake that people make when enjoying edibles and, while it won’t endanger your health, it can lead to an overly strong buzz that may feel overpowering and may expose you to THC’s side effects like anxiety and paranoia.
That’s why it’s best to start low and go slow with your THC edibles. Try a low dosage that you’re sure you’ll be comfortable with. If you find that’s not enough, go ahead and move up to a larger dosage next time. Just don’t try to ingest more until you’re sure the buzz of your first one has peaked or you may end up taking too much.
How to Take Edibles: Wrapping Up
Looking for the best dispensary in Washington DC for cannabis-infused edibles? Come down to Takoma Wellness today or browse our online menu from home to shop a huge variety of delicious cannabis edibles that you’re sure to love!
Have a question about how to take edibles that we haven’t answered? Don’t be afraid to ask us. We’ll be sure to help you however we can. Taking a mindful approach to cannabis edible consumption will ensure you have a blissful, relaxing experience that’s DC Budtender approved. We look forward to seeing you!
Hash History: A Study of Top Marijuana Strains at Takoma Wellness
There are history buffs in nearly every topic of interest—and one topic that’s been drawing a lot of attention recently is cannabis history. Cannabis buffs look at the study of marijuana strains and their origins in the same way other amateur historians look at airplanes or boats. If you’re one of these people, rejoice! We’re going to take a deep dive on the history of three top marijuana strains in this post.
Let’s Study Marijuana: Top Strains at Takoma Wellness Center and Their Origins
While we were tempted to only look at old-school strains, we decided against it: That would be like only covering ancient history. We’ve put together a survey of classic and more modern genetics for this history lesson. Check out our breakdown of Blue Dream, OG Kush, and Do-Si-Do below.
Blue Dream
We’re going to kick things off with one of the biggest strains of all time: Blue Dream. This sativa-dominant strain was all the rage in the late 2000s and early 2010s. But its story starts before that.
Blue Dream traces its origins to California in 2003. It was created by crossing the legendary cannabis breeder DJ Short’s Blueberry strain with the equally renowned strain Super Silver Haze. While no one’s sure exactly who bred the first Blue Dream plant, some believe it originated in the Santa Cruz area.
Like its parent Blueberry, Blue Dream has a sweet, juicy flavor. One of the things that cannabis lovers found so attractive about Blue Dream was its euphoric and cerebral effects. That makes it a great daytime strain, in contrast to couch-locking indicas. Blue Dream often features a THC content that hovers around 20%, and it has little CBD to speak of.
Check out our menu to experience Blue Dream for yourself.
Classic OG Kush
If someone asked you to think of the biggest strains of all time, chances are OG Kush is one of the names you’d come up with. OG Kush is a hybrid that offers both relaxing and uplifting effects. It usually has a fairly high THC content, regularly clocking in above 20 percent.
And who could forget the flavor and aroma? OG Kush seamlessly blends the spicy incense-like fragrance of Kush plants with the distinctive scent of dirt that typifies OG strains. Sparking it up is often reminiscent of walking through freshly plowed earth.
OG Kush’s real genetics are shrouded in mystery. Despite its seemingly obvious nod to rap, we don’t even know what “OG” really stands for! Some insist it means “Original Gangster.” Still others point to the term “Ocean Grown” in a reference to coastal California. However, experts generally accept that Chemdawg is involved, and crossed with either a Thai or Hindu Kush plant.
Want to learn more? Find Classic OG Kush at our dispensary.
Do-Si-Do
So far, we’ve really only looked at old-school strains in our deep dive into the origins of top marijuana strains. But we’re going to change that and spark up something a little more modern: Do-Si-Do.
If you’re familiar with modern cannabis genetics, you’ve probably heard of Do-Si-Do. It’s a cross between Girl Scout Cookies and Face Off OG. First hitting the scene in 2016, this strain quickly grew in popularity and was named Leafly’s “Strain of the Year” for 2021.
What really makes Do-Si-Do stand out is its high THC concentration. It often reaches a percentage in the high 20% range, sometimes even surpassing 30%. Its flavor hits you in the face, too, and definitely has notes of that classic OG taste we mentioned earlier.
Do-Si-Do is the kind of strain you need to try to believe, and with a strain this high in THC we always recommend the old adage for consumption: start low and go slow. You can browse the Do-Si-Do products we have in stock on our online menu.
The History of Marijuana Strains from Takoma Wellness Center
Hopefully you’ve enjoyed our cursory study of some classic marijuana strains. If you’re looking for other legendary genetics, check out our complete menu!
Questions? Comments? Please reach out, we’re happy to help. We look forward to serving you!
Zurple Punch Weed Strain: A Complete Guide
Are you the kind of cannabis enthusiast who’s always searching for the next hot strain? If you are, look no further than Zurple Punch. Zurple Punch is a cannabis strain that will soon carve a name for itself in the annals of the weed world. With great flavor and pleasant middle-of-the-road effects you’re not going to want to sleep on it.
Marijuana Reviews: Zurple Punch Weed Strain
Zurple Punch is a fairly rare cannabis strain. It’s also fairly new, which may contribute to that—some people just haven’t caught on yet. That gives savvy cannabis lovers the opportunity to get in on the ground floor with this impressive strain. If you’re the kind of person who chases rare genetics, the strain is not to be missed.
Zurple Punch: Genetics and Effects
This strain’s unique name comes from its parents. Zurple Punch is a cross of Zkittles (a hugely popular strain over the last few years) with Purple Punch (an older, but still popular strain). That lineage gives Zurple Punch a fairly balanced hybrid genetic profile.
That genetic profile plays a large role in determining the effects of this strain. Users report that it helps to spark creativity and sociability. It also may heighten the sensitivity of certain senses. Additionally, some fans of the strain say that it helps them relax and chill out.
Zurple Punch often tests between 20% and 23% THC, putting it in the “middle of the road” category of weed strains. It’s not so strong that it’s overwhelming for those new to cannabis, but its effects are powerful enough to please even the most experienced cannabis enthusiast.
THC isn’t the only thing that determines the effects of Zurple Punch, though. It also contains nearly 1% CBD. While that may not sound like much, many strains contain even less CBD. That means Zurple Punch actually has a decent amount of CBD.
Terpene Profile: Flavor and Aroma
It has a unique flavor and fragrance that cannabis connoisseurs won’t find in many other strains. It combines notes of blue cheese and sweet berries with some distinctively nutty tones. Additionally, a faint lavender fragrance permeates this strain.
You can thank its terpene profile for that. Terpenoline influences Zurple Punch’s fragrance and tastes the most with its floral funk, along with some help from:
- Caryophyllene: Caryophyllene is the only terpene that’s also a cannabinoid, which puts it in a unique position. It has a sharp, spicy taste, and you can find it commonly in black pepper. According to some research, it may be effective at reducing swelling.
- Pinene: The most common terpene in nature, Pinene, has a fresh and uplifting scent that you may associate with evergreen trees.
- Limonene: Limonene contains the very essence of citrus flavor. You can find this zesty, upbeat terpene n in (you guessed it) citrus plants and their fruits. Some research suggests this terpene may have anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and gastroprotective properties, among others.
Zurple Punch Strain Takeaways
All in all, this is a strain on the precipice of greatness and certainly a strain worth seeking out. Stop by Takoma Wellness Center, call or browse our online menu to see what products we’re currently carrying.
Questions? Comments? Please feel free to reach out: We’re always here to help. And we look forward to serving you!
Vaping CBD: A Gentler Way to Access this Crucial Cannabinoid
If you’re new to the world of cannabis or returning after a break, you’re probably intrigued by the high-tech devices known as vaporizers or “vapes.” Whether they’re the sleek pen-style devices or more full-featured units, they all work on the same basic principle: That by heating cannabis to the point at which its beneficial cannabinoids become volatile, they deliver a cool and potent mist without any potentially harsh smoke or burnt plant matter.
This raises a question: Can you vape CBD? Absolutely! In fact, high-CBD vape pens are among the most popular items at our D.C. dispensary. And if you’re new to the world of CBD vaporizers and vaping CBD oil, you’re in for a treat. Because they work electronically to emit a cool-mist rather than potentially harsh smoke, vapes go easy on our lungs while delivering the same fast-acting benefits as smoked cannabis.
As revolutionary as these devices are, they promise an even greater reward. CBD vaporizers are one of the most popular and fastest-growing segments of the cannabis market, and it’s no surprise why. CBD vapor benefits include the potential to relieve:
- Chronic pain and inflammation
- Anxiety and stress
- Insomnia and sleeplessness
If you’ve been wondering how to access all the potential benefits of vaping CBD oil, you’ve come to the right place! In today’s article, we’ll share everything we know, including specific recommendations for CBD vaping products.
Vaping CBD: How CBD Partners with the Body
As one of the two principal cannabinoids—or “major active ingredients”—in cannabis, CBD has been linked to a number of potential health benefits. In addition to helping treat certain seizures, CBD shows promise in reducing anxiety and stress, addressing chronic pain, even helping us get a better night’s sleep.
Of course, THC—the most abundant cannabinoid, and the one most directly responsible for the marijuana plant’s characteristic “high”—is also linked to a number of potential health benefits in its own right. However, there’s a very major difference. Unlike THC’s intoxication, CBD’s psychoactive effects are not intoxicating, At most, some people report feeling a gentle cerebral “buzz.” This makes CBD-only or high-CBD vaporizers a great choice for those looking for symptomatic relief without potentially distracting psychoactivity.
Both CBD and THC work with the body through the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a vital regulatory network that helps our bodies stay healthy, regulate memory and sleep, and maintain homeostasis, among other functions. In a very real sense, the cannabinoids are “speaking the same language” as this important bodily system. Some researchers believe this is a crucial point when it comes to understanding the wide range of potential benefits associated with CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids.
Potential CBD Vape Benefits
As we referenced a moment ago, the key distinguishing point about all vaporizers is that they heat (rather than burn) cannabis. Whether the cannabis in question is flower, concentrate, distillate or some other format, the principle is the same: By heating the material to the point at which the cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds become volatile, vapes deliver all the medicinal benefits and none of the smoke.
This begs a question: Is smoking cannabis bad for your lungs? While there’s not a consensus, the majority opinion is that it’s objectively less harmful than smoking tobacco. That said, smoking anything—including cannabis flower—still brings potentially irritating smoke into our lungs. And if you’re focused on leveraging the benefits of cannabinoids such as CBD, it’s a good idea to reduce any potential irritants from entering your airways.
Some of our customers are concerned that the experience of vaping CBD is less powerful than smoking it. That’s a contentious question. While some users claim that smoking cannabis delivers a more intense high, remember here that the point of vaping CBD isn’t to experience maximum intoxication. And in fact, compared with inhaling smoked cannabis, the bioavailability (or medical activity of the cannabinoids) is actually higher when using a vape. For this reason and others, we still recommend that those primarily interested in the medicinal effects of CBD try vaping as a smoother, less potentially irritating alternative to smoking.
By now we’ve covered many of the potential benefits of vaping CBD. Now we’ll segue into a discussion of a few products designed to deliver this medically active compound.
Vaping CBD: What to Look For in a Vaporizer
There are several options when looking to purchase a vaporizer, since you can vaporize the active ingredients in cannabis from flower directly or from cannabis concentrates.
The popular 510 threaded vape pen batteries accept cartridges from many different brands and producers, so you can use the same battery with any number of oil-filled cartridges—including those that contain higher levels of THC should you want to try that route at some point.
There are also vaporizing units, both handheld and tabletop, made specifically for vaporizing cannabis flower only. But of course, vaping CBD from a vaporizer capable of working with flower demands, well, flower. Because a growing number of our customers have expressed interest in high-CBD strains of flower, we make sure to always have at least a couple on hand. You can see what’s fresh and new by checking our selection of high-CBD, low-THC flower strains.
Or, you might choose a handheld or tabletop unit designed to vaporize potent cannabis concentrates. Lastly, there are units that can vaporize both flower and concentrates, and these units often come with different attachments for each.
Regardless of which option you choose, you can expect the same fast-acting effects as with smoked cannabis, only delivered in a delightfully gentle and cool mist.
CBD Vaping: Final Thoughts
With the cannabis market expanding on a constant basis, it’s truly exciting to see the high-CBD products that are constantly hitting our dispensary shelves. From high-CBD flower to CBD-infused edibles to CBD-rich tinctures and oils, there’s seemingly no limit other than the skill and imagination of local cultivators, processors, and manufacturers.
If you’re interested in learning more about how CBD works with your body to deliver specific benefits, we’d love to help! As Washington’s #1 family-run medical marijuana dispensary, we’re dedicated to helping you get the very most from your cannabis experience. Have any other questions about vaping CBD (or any other questions in the wide world of cannabis)? Just ask! We’re always here to help.
Heavy Hitters List: The Strongest Marijuana Strains with THC
If you know anything about the world of cannabis, you’ve probably heard of THC, the cannabinoid—or “major active ingredient”—most directly responsible for the plant’s distinctive “high.” And sometimes, you want a lot of it, especially to combat symptoms such as chronic pain, nausea, and insomnia.
What marijuana strain has the highest THC level? In today’s post, we’ll share a curated list including the highest THC marijuana strain. But be forewarned: These products aren’t for beginners, or those who find the psychoactivity of THC to be distracting or disorienting. That’s why we always counsel our customers to “start low and go slow.” You can always have more marijuana, but you can’t have less!
Best Marijuana Strains: Introduction to the Cannabinoids
Before we unveil the strongest marijuana strain, it’s useful to understand the concept of cannabinoids. Because while—as we mentioned a moment ago—THC imparts marijuana’s “high,” that’s not all it’s doing.
The cannabinoids are a family of several-dozen natural compounds. They include CBD—a cannabinoid linked to many medicinal benefits, such as reducing anxiety and stress—as well as lesser cannabinoids such as CBN and CBG.
Besides imparting its unforgettable euphoria, THC does a lot for our bodies and our minds. Research suggests that in addition to its pain-fighting and anti-inflammatory effects, THC is a powerful remedy for nausea, such as that associated with chemotherapy.
That brings us to the topic of the highest THC marijuana strain. Because in addition to the enjoyment many of us derive from THC’s relaxing psychoactivity, many of those who rely on its medicinal properties want the powerful symptomatic relief of the strongest marijuana strain they can find. With that in mind, here’s a rundown of a few of the very heaviest hitters.
Highest THC Marijuana Strains: A Curated List
Kashmir Black, Abatin Wellness
Packing a truly astonishing 30.7% THC level, this powerful flower was bred from the legendary Durban Poison, OG Kush, and Champagne cultivars. Thanks to its profile of terpenes—or aromatic oils—it’s known for imparting deep calm, comfort, and inspiration.
Jack Herer, Center City Cultivation
Another true legend in the cannabis world, this sativa-dominant hybrid is named for the late cannabis activist, author of the foundational marijuana and hemp treatise “The Emperor Wears No Clothes.” Jack Herer—the strain, that is—is known for imparting a truly profound body high that is balanced by strong cerebral stimulation. This comes as no surprise given its hefty THC content of 30.6%!
Pre-roll Moonrock: Viper Lemon Red, Alternative Solutions
We’ll admit it: This hefty pre-rolled joint “cheats” the THC test a bit by adding kief—or dry-sifted trichomes—and bits of the popular concentrate “shatter” to dry flower. But when you’re looking for an extraordinarily flavorful—and at 42%, exceptionally high-THC—smoking experience, this expertly crafted pre-roll is hard to beat.
Pre-roll: Fog Jam, Alternative Solutions
While the lineage of this hybrid cultivar is somewhat shrouded in mystery, its effects are anything but. Packing a powerful 31% THC content, this pre-roll is beloved for its ability to help melt away stress and physical strain, anxiety, and insomnia. The delectably floral and hazy aromas serve as the icing on the cake.
Cherry Chem, District Cannabis
We’ll close out our list of highest THC marijuana strains with this crowd-pleasing favorite, a cross between the Cherry Pie and Chemdawg cultivars. Beyond the stellar flavor—a blend of sugary fruit mixed with gas and spicy notes—the high THC content (at a respectable 30%) makes this a go-to flower for those who wish to sink into a deeply relaxed and happy end-of-the-day state of mind.
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. If you have any further questions about CBD products, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always here to help!
How To Make Pot Brownies: Our Step-By-Step Recipe
Pot brownies are a classic cannabis treat. Delicious, long-lasting, and smoke-free, cannabis-infused brownies are a fun and convenient way of enjoying cannabis. You can always stop by our dispensary to pick up a pre-made brownie, but making your own pot brownies at home can be well worth the effort.
Keep reading to find out how to make pot brownies at home and to check out an easy and delicious pot brownie recipe that you’re sure to love.
How to Make Pot Brownies: Decarboxylating Your Cannabis and Making Cannabutter
There are a couple of things that you’ll need to do before you can actually start making pot brownies.
The first is to decarboxylate your cannabis. Decarboxylation effectively activates the cannabinoids in your cannabis so that they can produce effects when eaten. Eating raw cannabis won’t get you high, but once it’s decarboxylated, a bite of bud will have you on cloud nine.
You can decarboxylate cannabis in your oven by grinding up your bud and spreading it out over a baking sheet. Throw it in the oven at 225℉ for about 45 minutes. Remove and let cool.
After you’re done decarboxylating your bud, you’ll need to use it to make cannabutter.
In theory, you could just toss your decarbed bud directly into your brownie mix, but this tends to make edibles taste too weedy and skunky. Additionally, there’s a good chance that you’ll end up biting directly into little chunks of bud when you eat your brownie so it might not be the best textural experience. Instead, to make the best-tasting brownies you’ll want to use your decarboxylated bud to make cannabutter which can then be used in your brownie recipe.
Here’s a simple and easy cannabutter recipe you can use.
How to Make Pot Brownies: Ingredients and Utensils
As with any recipe, you’ll need to make sure that you’ve got the proper tools and ingredients before you can start cooking. For utensils you’ll need:
- A mixing bowl
- Cooking spray or cooking oil
- A wooden mixing spoon or spatula
- A large saucepan
- A square baking pan (about 8 inches)
For ingredients, you’ll need:
- ½ cup cannabutter
- Two large eggs
- One teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup white sugar
Getting Down to Business: Our Favorite Step-By-Step Pot Brownie Recipe
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the best pot brownie recipe we know.
- Preheat your oven to 340℉.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder (or brownie mix).
- Melt your cannabutter in a saucepan set to low-medium heat.
- Once the cannabutter is fully melted, remove the pan from the burner and add in sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat eggs and mix thoroughly.
- Mix the dry mixture from the bowl into the cannabutter mixture in the pan. Make sure to stir and mix thoroughly in order to ensure an even dosage of cannabutter.
- Once fully mixed, pour it into a greased baking pan, making sure to spread the mixture evenly throughout the pan.
- Place the pan in the oven and let it bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the pan from the oven and place a toothpick in the middle to check that it is fully baked. If the batch is fully cooked, the toothpick should be dry when pulled out.
- Allow the brownies to cool.
- Cut the brownies up into individual squares, depending on the dosage you want in each brownie.
Top-Notch Cannabis for Baking Brownies
Looking for some high-quality cannabis perfect for baking brownies or other edibles? Then visit our dispensary today or check out our online menu to shop a wide selection of premium cannabis buds great for baking with—or just to find something new to enjoy in your favorite vape, joint, or bowl. Some strains we think work perfectly for making pot brownies include Green Crack (tends to be an energizing sativa), NYC Diesel (an all-around hybrid), and Hindu Kush (known for relaxation).
What Is Kief and How Do You Decarb It?
Here at Takoma Wellness, we love turning our customers on to the world of concentrates, the potent and flavorful family of products that took the cannabis world by storm in the 1990s. But the story of highly concentrated cannabis products may be far older than you suspected: For centuries now, industrious cannabis cultivators have known the secret of kief.
If that name doesn’t ring a bell, you’re in for a treat. Kief is a little-known but highly flavorful cannabis product, the precursor to hash, and a potent addition to pre-rolled joints and bowls. In today’s post, we’ll share everything we know about it, including how to decarb kief so that you can use it to make your own edibles at home.
What Is Kief? The First Cannabis Concentrate
If you’ve ever noticed little drifts of powder at the bottom of your cannabis grinder, you’re already on to what kief is all about. Made of dried trichomes—the tiny, cannabinoid-filled glands that give fresh, high-quality flower its characteristic silver dusting—kief has traditionally been pressed into the potent bricks known in the Arab world as hashish or hash.
But wonderful though hash is on its own, there are other uses for kief. One of our favorites is sprinkling a little dusting of potent kief into a joint or on top of a bowl, where it will add a surprising burst of flavor and potency. The other is decarboxylating—or “decarbing”—it so that you can use it to make your own kief edibles.
Wait. What’s “decarbing”? So glad you asked! Here’s what it is, and why you definitely want to understand it.
What Is Decarboxylation?
Decarboxylation is the process of activating the cannabinoids in cannabis, typically through gentle heat. If you were simply to eat a bite of raw cannabis flower, you wouldn’t feel any psychoactive effects. That’s because raw cannabis doesn’t actually contain the cannabinoids THC and CBD. Instead it contains their precursor cannabinoids, THCA and CBDA, which don’t impart any subjective effects in our bodies. The process of decarboxylation applies heat to these cannabinoids in order to convert them into active THC and CBD.
Is decarboxylation necessary with cooked edibles, such as marijuana brownies? Not necessarily. Edibles can be cooked or baked without having to decarb the kief or flower beforehand, but the results may be less potent than they would otherwise be. By decarboxylating your kief or cannabis buds before making the edible, you ensure that as many cannabinoids as possible are activated and that nothing goes to waste.
How to Decarb Kief
There are a few different ways to decarb kief. If you’re more of the hands-off type, using a decarboxylation machine such as the Ardent Nova or FX can be a great way to decarb your kief or bud with as little hassle as possible. Decarboxylation machines ensure that your plant material is decarbed at exactly the right temperature and for exactly the right amount of time, eliminating the risk of mistakes or the chance of ending up with improperly decarbed kief. When it comes to keeping things simple and quick, this is probably the best way to decarb kief.
But even if you lack access to a decarboxylation machine, there’s a fairly simple process you can use in the comfort of your very own kitchen. Here’s how it works.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 240° F. For maximum accuracy, use a purpose-made kitchen thermometer placed inside your oven.
- Using a scale, preferably a digital one, weigh out the desired amount of kief (typically in increments of a few grams at a time). Then add the kief directly into an oven-safe container. Pro tip: Place a layer of parchment paper onto the bottom of your container. Be sure the kief is in an even layer so you avoid mounds or clumps.
- Carefully wrap the top of the container with aluminum foil, then place the dish in the preheated oven. For THC-dominant flower, you’ll bake for 30-35 minutes. For high-CBD flower, bake for 45 – 55 minutes. Why? CBDA converts to CBD and becomes activated with a slightly longer oven time than THC does.
- Once the time has elapsed, remove the dish from the oven and, keeping the foil on the top, allow it to cool completely.
- Open it up and take a look. The kief will have darkened slightly, and it also may have melted slightly into a resinous pool. (That’s why the parchment paper is so handy, so as to avoid wasting any kief!) Your decarbed kief is ready to use. If you’re not using it straight away, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
Explore Kief and DC’s Best Cannabis at Takoma Wellness
As we hope we’ve made clear, kief is an historic and highly unusual addition to the classic lineup of cannabis products such as fresh flower, concentrates, edibles, and other favorites.
If you’re interested in trying any of these products, we’d love to help. As Washington’s #1 family-run medical marijuana dispensary, we draw upon a decade of experience helping our customers get the very most from cannabis. Stop by order online today!
Kief FAQs
Kief is a potent and powdery cannabis product made from the dried trichomes of flower. Because the trichomes produce the bulk of the plant’s cannabinoids, kief is notably more potent than flower!
Traditionally, kief is pressed into the dense bricks known as hash. But on its own, kief can be sprinkled into joints or onto bowls for a kick of intense flavor and added potency.
If you’re smoking kief, it’s not necessary to decarb it. But if it’s being made into an edible, decarbing it will activate all the cannabinoids and result in the strongest (and least wasteful) product.
Kief is quite a bit stronger than flower. While the strongest flower tops out around 30% THC, weed kief typically consists of 50% – 70% THC.
