Side Effects of Cannabis

The once beloved cannabis plant has become a modern miracle medicine in the contemporary health industry. Both THC and CBD have won the hearts of patients across Canada, and the best is apparently yet to come. And while the health benefits of using cannabis are undeniable, there are certain risks involved if you are a heavy user. Because it’s important to know all aspects of this healing plant, today we discuss the possible side effects of Side Effects of Cannabis.

Smoking

As you may already know, you don’t have to suffer from any health issues to benefit from the positive effects of marijuana. If this sentence has made you nod, you’re probably a recreational cannabis user. A person who is responsible for helping the community to build an image of a responsible stoner. With that said, you, in addition to the medicinal pot user, should be aware of any potential health risks of the most common methods of using cannabis, namely smoking, eating, and vaping.

Source: Elite Daily

Smoking weed is allegedly the least healthy way of consuming marijuana. This is mainly thought to be true due to some of the similar toxins found in both marijuana and tobacco smoke. But studies thus far were conducted when cannabis was illegal and data was difficult to attain. So no one has yet to conclusively link marijuana smoke with cancer.

One concern, however, is the tar buildup in pipes and at the end of a joint, combined with the fact that pot smoke is usually held in longer than cigarette smoke. Smoke from dried herbs has a myriad of small, burned plant particles. When these compounds settle in your lungs, they may create a resin with tar-like consistency.

Until new research gives us a better guide to go by, we can all agree that inhaling smoke on a daily or regular basis may be less than optimal for the lungs, especially when we compare it to other forms of ingesting weed.

Pot smoke and your heart

Marijuana tends to increase the heart rate in some users for as much as three hours after smoking. A Harvard study established that pot smokers who had other indicators such as high stress were more likely to have a heart attack than those that do not smoke pot. But, again, this study was from 2000, when pot was illegal and data was challenging to gather.

What stoners think

If you ask a stoner, they’ll give you a common sense answer to the side effects of cannabis smoke. It’s goes back to plant particles. They can literally be irritating. When you light up a joint, there is a short period of a few seconds before the smoke cools down. The heat, combined with bits of residual plant particles, becomes irritating to the tissues in both the throat and lungs. To defend itself from this irritation, your system starts to collect mucus, a substance that helps your body get rid of the plant particles. Mucus may give cause bouts of coughing which usually end in a minute or so.

In order to reduce the potential side of effects of cannabis via smoking, buy natural, organic hemp rolling papers, use organic cannabis, consider using a well maintained water bong, and maybe compost the roaches, where you have the biggest tar buildup.

Eating

Source: Florida Medical Marijuana Dispensary

Ingesting cannabis is undoubtedly safer than smoking. Nevertheless, Indica and Sativa edibles may be tricky for people who start their journey with cannabis.

But one side effect of cannabis with edibles that may cause some issues for people is the appetite inducement, or the munchies. Because you have a delicious edible and become very high, sometimes the thing you want to eat even more is the rest of the yummy edibles, which is a mistake that can end in a severe case of couch lock or cause anxiety.

Some people eat one space cake at a time and can’t wait for the high to kick in, so they add one-half from the second cake to hasten the process. However, this is one of the biggest mistakes when consuming edibles. It usually takes up to an hour for the effects to kick in, but the high is more intense and lasts longer. With that said, eating too much of the cannabis infused food can make you feel anxiety, paranoia, or even nausea, so in order to avoid unpleasant events, don’t try to break your records.

What about weed and metabolism?

A 2015 study revealed that one side effect of cannabis use is actually  increased carbohydrate metabolism. While this is very promising news, you should still pay attention to what you eat and what your daily routine is. If you load yourself with low-quality food during your munchies and you don’t exercise at all, naturally you’ll start gaining weight. Fortunately, by being strong-willed enough to care for your physical condition and consuming healthy dishes, you’ll begin to notice the positive effects of marijuana on your metabolism.

Vaping

Source: What’s Your Vape Temp

There has been ample press of late regarding the dangers of vaping. Thus far, 13 people have died from the newly termed VAPI, or vaping associated pulmonary illness. But in most cases, the deaths were caused by use of blackmarket vaping products. Additionally, vapers were using a combination of weed and tobacco. And the number, even as horrific as it is, is tiny in relation to the number of vape users. Moreover, studies have not been conducted to find out other potential similarities in these users.

There is the possibility that cheap vaping devices may release more harmful chemicals when heated. So when approaching the subject of cannabis vaporization, prepare your budget for a more expensive yet long-term investment.

Frankly, there just hasn’t been enough study on this subject to give conclusive answers. Stay cautious, buy from reputable dispensaries and be aware that the facts are just not in yet.

General side effects of cannabis

The science doesn’t really help us enough. But we do know from pot smokers worldwide that there are some symptoms that are universal. No matter whether you’re smoking, eating, or vaping. These include:

• Cotton mouth/Dry mouth/Dehydration
• Temporary short term memory loss
• Uncontrollable giggling
• Tiredness
• Bouts of creativity, sometimes great, sometimes ridiculous

Side effects of cannabis are present regardless of how you use marijuana. Nonetheless, if you’re looking for the safest way of consuming the herb, according to science, edibles should be your choice. As long as you don’t go too overboard!

Smoke Shatter

Smoke Shatter If you haven’t come across shatter yet, there’s still a chance for you to have your redemption story, my friend. First things first. Let’s get some theory straight: among other cannabis extracts, shatter is the purest one – you can buy it from our online dispensary. Its glass-like transparency and amber hue combine with the highest terpene amount of all cannabis extractions available on the market. That’s why it’s important to know how to smoke shatter.

If you’re looking for a cannabis concentrate that, in addition to giving you a powerful high, makes the pleasant feeling last for an impressive period, shatter is your to-go product.

But how do you smoke shatter? Well, this concentrated form of weed can be consumed in several ways. Remember to keep your wits about you, as not every method of consuming this form of weed is suitable for beginners. That being said, I’m here to assist you in order to help you find the best way to smoke shatter.

Add It To A Joint

Source: BR Founder’s Blog

Mark my words, this is one of the easiest ways to smoke shatter for concentrate rookies. Just crumble it or roll it into a snake, then put it on top of your cannabis before you roll a joint. This allows you to see if you even want the additional fuel in your cannabis.

When it comes to drawbacks, the major one is that you won’t be able to fully indulge yourself in the concentrate directly. Also, much of your shatter will end up wasted during the smoking process. That being said, if you have no other choice and you’re short on equipment, you could also vaporize your concentrates.

Smoking Shatter with a Cigarette:

Similar to smoking shatter with a joint, the only difference is you will apply shatter to the outside or end of your cigarette.

If the shatter is glassy, put a small amount on the ember of your smoke, and it will melt into the cigarette. If the shatter is a bit sticky, you can put it on the outside of your cigarette and it will burn as you smoke.

Be cautious, as if you apply too much it will be very hot and melt down to your fingers. Also there is potential to waste the shatter, unless you control it, some will drip off before it is burned.

How to Smoke Shatter in a Vape Pen

Usually, you will come across two types of vaporizer: desktop and portable. I can already tell you that, although impressive and epic in size, pricey desktop vaporizers don’t get on well together with cannabis concentrates. Shatter is no exception.

These stationary units that you will see in some coffee-shops in the Netherlands have been replaced by more compact models, the so-called “vape pen”. A portable vaporizer can cost from $30 to $200 depending upon the quality of the material and the features they provide.

These devices are can be taken literally everywhere and you can charge them via USB. Thus allowing you to fully enjoy the mobility they offer. The greatest advantage of vaporizers is that they let you experience the full flavor of the concentrate with no combustion of the material whatsoever. Aroma and taste benefits aside, vape pens are considered a top way to smoke shatter in terms of health. That’s because they come with hardly any carcinogens and tar when compared to smoking.

Unfortunately, there are no perfect ways of smoking shatter. In terms of vaping, one of the downsides is the lack of a durable battery in many of the units. Furthermore, cheaper models also come with a mediocre heating element. This may result in a weak vaping experience. Lesser effects, bland flavor – you should be prepared for these inconveniences when trying to vape on a limited budget.

Smoking Shatter in a Vape Pen is Easy

1. Get yourself a concentrates vape pen.
2. Open the chamber and put a small piece of shatter on the coil.
3. Press the button while the chamber is still open so the shatter melts a bit, but is not burning.
4. Close the chamber and put the lid back on the vape.
5. Hold the button on your vape and slowly inhale for a few seconds (as long as you want).

How to Smoke Shatter Using a Rig

Source: Leafly

Oh boy, another complicated term in this article! How to smoke shatter using a rig?

Wait a second… What on earth is a damn rig?

Simply put, it’s a more sophisticated and niche term for a glass pipe that resembles the shape of a bong. The oil rig contains a vertical chamber and a mouthpiece with a hole included. It is the hole where you stick a small nail. The nail is usually made of metal or glass. Some older hippies may associate it with a fancier and less harsh substitute of a ‘knife hit.’ Dabbing shatter is the best way to control the flavour and taste of the concentrate, as you can play with temperatures and clean the bowl each time for a nice clean flavour profile.

Dabbing Shatter

How to do a dab in a few steps:

1. Break off a very tiny piece, the size of a small bead, and put it on your dabbing tool.
2. Heat up the nail or glass banger with your torch until slightly red hot. (Or turn on your e-nail)
3. Once heated, let the nail cool for a short amount of time and slide the dome over.
4. Touch your dabbing tool to the heated nail or banger so the concentrate melts off the tool.
5. Cover your dome or banger with the topper for better circulation while you inhale the vapour.

Here is a more detailed explanation;

The nail will reach a red hue, which happens by heating it with a butane torch. You can also use an electronic heating feature when speaking of e-nails. But either way, once it’s a red hue, take a metal dabber (usually made of quartz or titanium), lift a small piece of your shatter, and then transfer it onto the nail. This will result in immediate combustion of the oil. You’ll see a thick smoke cloud which you can puff through the rig.

The ideal temperature of the surface should vary between 550 and 750 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s quite hot, isn’t it? Exactly – this is why you need a dabber.

Most of the time, there will be extra oil on your nail after you dab the concentrate. How to smoke shatter without wasting a single bit of this precious material? Well, you can either blast the nail again or simply wait until the clog begins to form. If the latter happens, immerse your rig in alcohol and bring the substance to a boil. Wait until all of the alcohol evaporates, scrape up the remaining shatter and repeat dabbing.

Simple? Yes. Efficient? You bet! Cheap? Well, that depends on the model. A proper dab rig can cost up to even $50,000. Worry not, as this is the extreme case for the most savor ‘cannasseurs’. Usually, you can get a decent dab rig for as little as $50.

Keep Things In Moderation

Since shatter is the most potent marijuana concentrate of all, I’d suggest you approach it with a baby steps attitude. When you take a first dab, don’t enter a rampage. Refrain from taking a second dab for the next 10 or 15 minutes. Some dabbing rookies take dabs as if they were bench pressing in a gym to increase their endurance. You know, lots of reps in short intervals. Don’t be one of those guys. When being introduced to something new, take it slowly.

Shatter FAQ

Now that we have shown you how to smoke shatter, you may have some additional questions. Here are some common questions asked about this cannabis concentrate.

What is the Difference Between Wax and Shatter?

Compared to wax, shatter lasts longer as it’s more stable. Wax will degrade faster as it is less stable. As far as handling each substance, shatter may be more difficult to measure or use because of how glass-like it is. Whereas wax is much easier to manipulate due to it’s soft and oily consistency. The extraction process is mostly the same, but different consistencies are created using a mix of hot / cold temperatures.

Is Shatter Better Than Wax?

This is a subjective question. Depending on your preferences, either shatter or wax may be your favourite. Shatter is harder and glass-like compared to wax, which is soft and malleable. Since the extraction process is quite similar, it may be better than wax in that the final product is more visually appealing. Wax is thick and opaque due to concentration at a different temperature and humidity. They can both test up to 90% THC.

How much is a gram of Shatter?

$35-$45 a gram on our website.

The price of a gram of shatter depends on the quality of the buds used for extraction. Nug run is usually more expensive than trim run shatter. The average for trim run is $35-$40 whereas nug run can be up to $50 per gram. These prices all depend on the producer’s supply of cannabis, as it’s the foundation for the product. There may also be a difference between whether it’s extracted with CO2 or Butane, CO2 being more expensive.

Destinations for Weed Enthusiasts

Destinations for Weed Enthusiasts As you probably know, weed has many medical and casual benefits. Fortunately, many countries are beginning to decriminalize laws against cannabis. Moreover, recreational use of marijuana is becoming more popular and people are more open about their love for weed. If you’re looking for some amusing weed destinations, definitely take our list into consideration.

When it comes to the benefits of marijuana, many people like to relax after work with a joint or two. So, when you get a few days or week of vacation, consider one of these places where weed is tolerated, decriminalized or completely legal. Let us help you decide where to travel for your next weed destination vacation!

1. Jamaica

Source: weedblatt.de

This is probably the first weed destination that comes to mind when thinking about stoner-friendly places. Thousands of travelers visit Jamaica every year. They come to experience the perfect weather and the legendary marijuana culture.

However, you should keep in mind that cultivation or consumption of weed is illegal in Jamaica. Fortunately, cannabis has its strong roots in Jamaican history. So you can easily buy it, as it is usually sold openly. Plus, you’ll get high-quality buds while enjoying an amazing weed-sampling tour. Jamaica is a great destination for weed enthusiasts, with gorgeous landscapes to enjoy a beautifully rolled joint.

2. Netherlands

If you’re a real stoner, you should visit Amsterdam in Netherlands at least once in your life. It’s one of the best  weed enthusiasts, as it has always been the weed destination for cannabis gateways.

Whether you’re a chronic stoner or a casual pot user, you will fall in love with all that Amsterdam has to offer in terms of smoking weed. From discovering amazing waterways to admiring water-front views in a coffee shop, you can smoke all you want here.

When it comes to personal use indoors, you’re allowed to have up to 30 grams of weed. Plus, it’s one of the most romantic weed destinations for stoner couples. With all its amazing bridges and breathtaking views, Amsterdam has much to offer for enjoying a casual stoner evening.

3. Australia

Source: Herb

In several parts of Australia, marijuana has been decriminalized. But you should keep in mind that laws are different in every state. But as far as Australia goes, many people believe that their buds have the highest amount of THC in the world.

When traveling to Australia, don’t forget that one of the best destinations for weed lovers is Nimbin, where you can attend a huge festival, called MardiGras on the first weekend of May. Nimbin is known for its high tolerance for weed. It’s also an oasis for stoners in this part of Australia. If you’re looking for a lively marijuana culture, where you can see people enjoying their weed openly, this place is a must-go.

4. Czech Republic

It’s hands down the best destination for weed enthusiasts. Czech Republic is well-known for being an incredibly friendly place for stoners. You may be surprised, but this country has one of the most reasonable drug laws in the world. If you live in the Czech Republic, you can grow up to five plants at home. But you are also allowed to possess 15 grams of weed outside. This European country has gorgeous architecture, unique and historic gardens, and many other attractions that make it an even more attractive for weed destination.

5. Spain

Source: White Rhino Clothing

In terms of decriminalizing cannabis, Spain was one of the first countries in Europe to allow its citizens to use and grow weed. You can enjoy your pot at home or attend one of the cannabis festivals, such as Spannabis or High Life Expo. However, you are not allowed to smoke weed in public.

Although selling and buying cannabis is not allowed, you can easily find a place to purchase some good buds in Spain. When planning your trip to this beautiful country, you should visit Barcelona, which is a gorgeous place with picturesque architecture and an amazing marijuana culture.

6. Uruguay

For those of you who are looking for the perfect weed-friendly destination, here it is. Weed has been legal in Uruguay for years now. In fact, Montevideo, the capital city, was the first place in the world to completely legalize marijuana. If you’re a local, you can possess up to six cannabis plants at home, while it is allowed to harvest 480 grams. You should know that now the government wants to take control over the cannabis industry. What can you expect? They want to sell weed for $1 a gram, which means Uruguay could have the cheapest marijuana in the world!

7. New Zealand

Source: YouTube

If you’re looking for a place where people have an appreciation for weed and are knowledgeable about its cultivation, you should travel to Wellington in New Zealand. Even though marijuana is still illegal here, local people consume lots of weed.

If you find yourself in New Zealand, there are many gorgeous places to enjoy a joint. You can visit thermal pools, admire beautiful sunsets on the West Coast, or discover picturesque Hobbiton. Not to mention, smoking a joint while staring at the most beautiful mountains and waterfalls on the South West Coast.

8. Colorado, US

Weed has been legal in Colorado since 2012 so they now hold many fun marijuana events throughout the year. From pot farm tours to CBD massages, this state offers a full line of weed destination tourism activities. People can sign up for “high art”, a cannabis cooking class or even shop one of the many dispensaries for prime buds. You can even purchase some seeds for your own garden!

Weed Destinations are emerging

As cannabis is growing in popularity all over the world, countries are gradually bringing legalization laws to the table. Which is good because many people who like to travel are on the hunt for the best weed destinations on the planet.

There are many places where you can enjoy your weed and take some time off from your everyday life. The list is growing for great destinations weed enthusiasts, where marijuana is accepted and cultivated by local people. So, go ahead and plan your next stoner-friendly trip!