Smoking marijuana is associated with “significantly” reduced rates of alcohol consumption, according to a new federally funded study that involved adults smoking joints in a makeshift bar.

Researchers at Brown University investigated the science behind the trend that's come to be known as “California sober,” referring to people who abstain from or limit the use of alcohol and most other drugs while still consuming cannabis.

According to the study, published on Wednesday in the American Journal of Psychiatry, smoking marijuana could actually be helping people moderate their drinking. That's based on the findings of the researchers' experiment, which involved 157 adults who reported heavy alcohol and cannabis use at least twice weekly and who were tasked with smoking joints in a fabricated bar setting.

“What we found was consistent with this idea of the substitution effect popularized by the California sober trend,” Jane Metrik, a human behavior and psychiatry professor at Brown University, said in a press release. “Instead of seeing cannabis increase craving and drinking, we saw the opposite. Cannabis reduced the urge for alcohol in the moment, lowered how much alcohol people consumed over a two-hour period, and even delayed when they started drinking once the alcohol was available.”

The participants were given marijuana joints containing either 7.2 percent THC, 3.1 percent THC, or 0.03 percent THC (the placebo). After smoking the cannabis, they were then exposed to “neutral and personalized alcohol cues and an alcohol choice task for alcohol self-administration.”

An alcohol cue assessment that the participants completed showed that those who smoked the two higher THC concentration joints “consumed significantly less alcohol,” with an average 27 percent reduction in drinking for those who received the 7.2 percent THC joint and 19 percent for the 3.1 percent THC cohort.

Researchers said that, for participants who smoked joints with 7.2 percent THC, that also “reduced alcohol urge immediately.”

“Following overnight cannabis abstinence, smoking cannabis acutely decreased alcohol consumption compared to placebo,” it found. “Further controlled research on a variety of cannabinoids is needed to inform clinical alcohol treatment guidelines.”

"California sober"—ditching alcohol in favor of #cannabis—is gaining popularity.

Follow the link for the findings of the first ever, randomized, placebo-controlled trial to test whether smoking cannabis directly changes alcohol consumption https://t.co/NnIB5Qwvxq pic.twitter.com/8FEvN8Nxcn

— Brown University School of Public Health (@Brown_SPH) November 19, 2025

The study authors said this represents the first placebo-controlled randomized trial that specifically looks at the acute effects of marijuana use on alcohol cravings and consumption for heavy users.

“Extending the latest scientific evidence, we found that smoked cannabis with 3.1 percent and 7.2 percent THC doses acutely decreased alcohol consumption and increased latency to drink under controlled laboratory conditions, relative to placebo,” the study authors said, adding that the effects of the non-placebo joints “were not statistically different from each other.”

“The findings suggest that smoked cannabis reduces alcohol consumption and, conversely, acute cannabis deprivation (i.e., in the placebo condition) may lead to compensatory increases in alcohol intake,” the study says.

In concert with experimental investigations and studies demonstrating substitution effects, our findings support the substitution model of cannabis and alcohol co-use. In the absence of consistent effects of cannabis on alcohol craving, a possible mechanism whereby cannabis reduces alcohol consumption may be through satiation, such that participants may have reached their preferred experiential intoxication on one drug, which may have lowered desire for the other substance. The findings also suggest that individuals titrate their alcohol consumption based on their current state of intoxication to reach a desired level of overall intoxication.

One theory the researchers put forward as to why cannabis use seems to inhibit alcohol consumption and cravings is that most participants were daily marijuana users. Because cannabinoids downregulate certain receptors in the endocannabinoid system, they may “functionally impair alcohol reward processing and alcohol motivation.”

The researchers also noted that, while their study involved cannabis flower with relatively lower concentrations of THC compared to what's available in state medical and adult-use markets, the findings are still relevant, indicating that alcohol consumption and cravings could also be reduced for someone taking relatively fewer hits of high-THC varieties.

Further, the study notes that the cannabinoid concentration of marijuana flower and its formulation “could influence the direction of effect on alcohol-related outcomes.”

While this experiment focused on THC, prior research on animal models has indicated that non-intoxicating CBD is also associated with reduced alcohol use, and observational studies suggest that the use of CBD is associated with lower alcohol consumption compared to THC. Therefore, “smoking cannabis flower containing CBD could lead to even greater reductions in alcohol use.”

“The study findings demonstrate that smoked cannabis induced acute increases in subjective intoxication, affect, arousal, cardiovascular effects, blood THC concentrations, and acutely reduced alcohol consumption without a consistent effect on alcohol craving,” it says. “Notably, participants still consumed alcohol after smoking cannabis with THC, although they drank less than when they were not acutely intoxicated with THC. These data provide preliminary evidence that cannabis may reduce alcohol consumption under some conditions, but whether this would result in reductions in harms associated with simultaneous use is unknown.”

“Controlled human studies like this one can help address the dearth of empirical data on alcohol consumption in relation to cannabinoid use and shed light on the inconsistent findings from epidemiological studies. Clinical research is needed on the effects of a variety of cannabinoids and endocannabinoid targets used simultaneously with alcohol versus sequentially to evaluate clinically relevant alcohol outcomes. While there is growing recognition of the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids, it would be premature and potentially risky at this time to recommend cannabis as a therapeutic substitute for alcohol or as a harm-reduction strategy for AUD. For patients who are already substituting cannabis for alcohol, clinicians should provide guidance on the risks of cannabis use disorder, help monitor cannabis use, and continue recommending evidence-based alcohol treatments.”

Metrik said that what the research team found is that “cannabis reduces the urge in the moment,” but the long-term effect warrants further investigation.

“Our job as researchers is to continue to answer these questions,” she said. “We can't tell anyone yet, 'you should use cannabis as a substitute for problematic or heavy drinking.'”

The study received funding from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) under the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Cannabis plant material used in the study was provided by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) through its drug supply program.

While the researchers say they're not willing to say the study definitively proves marijuana should be considered as an alcohol alternative or treatment for alcoholism, the findings are consistent with a growing body of research indicating that cannabis does have that potential — and more people are opting for the plant over alcohol.

A study published earlier this month, for example, found more evidence of a "substitution effect" in adults who drink cannabis-infused beverages, with a significant majority of participants reporting reduced alcohol use after incorporating cannabinoid drinks into their routines.

A survey released last month also showed that four in five adults who drink cannabis-infused beverages say they've reduced their alcohol intake — and more than a fifth have quit drinking alcohol altogether.

Recent polling additionally shows that younger Americans are increasingly using cannabis-infused beverages as a substitute for alcohol, with one in three millennials and Gen Z workers choosing THC drinks over booze for after-work activities like happy hours.

Another poll released last month found that a majority of Americans believe marijuana represents a “healthier option” than alcohol, and most also expect cannabis to be legal in all 50 states within the next five years.

---

Written by Kyle Jaeger for Marijuana Moment | Featured image by Gina Coleman/Weedmaps

The post People Drink 'Significantly Less Alcohol' After Smoking Marijuana, Federally Funded Study Shows appeared first on Weedmaps News.

Spooky season has arrived, and not just on the drugstore shelves, but also in our stoner hearts. Our favorite Halloween weed strains may have seriously ooky-spooky vibes, but don't judge a nug by its label. Each of these cultivars is exceptionally suited to all manners of wholesome — or terrifying — Halloweed foolishness.

Keep in mind, your endocannabinoid system is like your fingerprint: totally unique to you. The effects described below may not line up neatly across the board for all users, and your experience is yours alone.

Zombie Kush

Zombie Kush, also known as Zombie OG, is an award-winning hybrid created by unknown breeders who combined Blackberry with the famous California strain OG Kush.

Expect to indulge in that signature Kush stink of its heritage and inhale layers of pine, earth, and peppered florals. Its smoke has a similar peppery acridity with notes of citrus and earthiness — perfect for a witch's brew (or bong, more likely). Pair this award-winning strain with an award-worthy night of horror movie binge-watching.

Jack the Ripper

Jack the Ripper is a hybrid with a pronounced sativa bend, but the onset eases into a slow wave. Most users find the high both powerfully euphoric and gently buoyant, without the telltale manic edge many sativas tend towards. If your low-key solution to a canceled Halloween bash is an intimate dance party, this is the strain for you.

Jack the Ripper was bred from a clone of Jack's Cleaner and a male variation of Space Queen known as Space Dude. The resulting flowers are dense and resinous with a terpene profile rich in terpinolene and pinene. Anticipate measured notes of fruity funk and crisp pine on a velvety exhale.

Candy Kush

Candy Kush is, biologically, a balanced hybrid, but this strain can produce results on either side of the fulcrum depending on the how, where, and why of its consumption. One purported effect, however, seems ubiquitous despite the user's disposition: legendary munchies. So whether you're waking and baking or resting and ingesting, stock up your Halloween candy bucket before indulging in this strain.

Candy Kush is a mashup of OG Kush and Trainwreck. Some phenotypes display a spicier sativa dominance, while others gently slant into a complacent indica. And the “Candy” designation refers to more than just expectable munchies — this strain's terpene profile is loud with limonene and myrcene, a nuanced combination that's lemon tart in the nose and candy-sweet on exhale.

Monster Cookies

For those introverted folks who've already made a Halloween date with their couch, fave blanket, and a curated scary movie playlist, Monster Cookies is the strain to keep you locked in and chilled out all night long — or at least until you snack yourself to sleep. 

Often referred to as a nighttime strain, the high is deeply relaxing in both mind and body. The head tends to be cottony and insulative, while the body feels softer than a cartoon ottoman. The result is a deeply stoney indica effect that dances on the edge of elation and tranquilization.

Born from a marriage of GSC (formerly known as Girl Scout Cookies) and Granddaddy Purple, this cultivar's terpene expression is peppery on top with tart underpinnings of citrus and pine on the tail end of the exhale. The aroma is reminiscent of Grandaddy Purple with notes of grape and berry pulling the most attention, but overall, the mouthfeel is earthy and mild.

Frankenstein

If you're looking to feel some measure of full Halloween fantasy this year, scope out our pal Frankenstein. No one knows who the parents are, but legend has it, it emerged, arms outstretched, from the wild depths of the Pacific Northwest. The strain's designation is firmly an “indica forward hybrid,” but reported effects vary from deep relaxation and muffled cognition to a springy euphoria that's gently energetic. This mystery strain is truly living up to its name.

The terpene profile is brightly herbal, with nuanced inflections of myrcene, pinene, and minty ocimene presenting as either richly herbaceous or funk on funk on funk, depending on your sniffer's interpretation of the terps. The exhale is mild and silken, with some reporting a deeply floral aftertaste and others admonishing an astringent, perfume-like flavor.

How will Frankenstein affect you? Will y'all be BFFs, or will this strain terrorize your whole town? Guess you'll have to try it and see.

Hell Fire OG

Hell Fire OG delivers both a euphoric sativa onset and a pacifying indica plateau. The name seems to indicate a fiery ambush of irreverence, which everyone just loves on Halloween, but that's only at face value. This strain's straightforward heritage (OGs up and down the family tree) has resulted in a high that's equal parts swinging from chandeliers and resting in meditative stillness.

Hell Fire OG is a hybrid of OG Kush and SFV OG Kush, and as such, it carries on the signature, mild lemony diesel aroma of its parent strains. The terpenes are led by myrcene, with caryophyllene and pinene playing supportive roles. This results in an exhale that is sweetly herbal and effortlessly sheer.

Ghost Train Haze

Spooky Season just wouldn't be the same without strains like Ghost Train Haze, a boisterous sativa that hits hard and lasts long. This strain's reputation for high-key manic energy makes it terrifically fun for physical adventuring, but larger doses can be overwhelming for lower tolerance users or those prone to stoner paranoia — puff cautiously. The head high is typically creative and euphoric, with an effervescent body high that operates at a lifted vibration.

Ghost Train Haze is parented by Ghost OG and Neville's Wreck — indica and sativa hybrids, respectively. Though Ghost Train Haze claims one relatively mollifying strain as a parent, its phenotype is a powerful expression of stereotypical sativa dominance with complex notes of terpinolene and myrcene, underpinned by a delicate suggestion of limonene. The resulting mouthfeel is mildly herbal and reminiscent of tropical fruit.

Death Star

Death Star is a potent indica hybrid with an aroma that is pure skunky earth. Though the strain leans indica, the high is more complex than that designation can describe. The onset is typically a slow one, tentatively wading into the deeper waters of the user's psyche before blossoming into a powerfully relaxing body/mind euphoria. If your Halloween plans involve dressing up your dog as an Ewok or doing some form of Star Wars cosplay for the love of George Lucas, include this strain to keep the vibes from turning to the dark side.

Though Death Star delivers an undeniably deep indica high, its parentage is an even sativa/indica split. Death Star is a hybrid of Sensi Star and Sour Diesel, with a terpene profile that boasts caryophyllene in front and myrcene and limonene in the back. The resulting exhale is earthy and peppery with a muted, fruity undertone.

Phantom OG

This hybrid strain leans ever so slightly towards its indica lineage — its high is overwhelmingly relaxing yet sparkling with creative euphoria. Halloween revelry this year is going to require a bit of ingenuity on our end, and Phantom OG is a great strain to lose yourself while building cardboard robot costumes for your hedges or papier-mache skulls for your porch.

Phantom OG is another OG Kush baby, but this strain is decidedly mellow, with its most prominent effect reported as sleepy. If you're planning on getting stoned enough to ignore whatever brave trick or treater darkens your doorstep, Phantom OG will set you on your way. The terpene profile is a balanced rapport of caryophyllene and limonene, and a whisper of hoppy humulene bringing up the rear. The aroma is pine-sol bracing with the slightest suggestion of herbaceous mint, while the mouthfeel is lemony and crisp, with a smooth, sheer exhale.

Alien OG

Alien OG is an astral cross of Tahoe OG and Alien Kush that delivers a heady, cerebral high followed by a slow, magnetic descent. Tranquil and weightless, its effects start spacey and euphoric, at first. Then, bending perception just enough to make you question reality, the high transitions into a full-melt body calm that feels like being abducted by friendly aliens. 

For a holiday that celebrates all things otherworldly and unexplained, Alien OG offers a real boo-st for anyone looking to have a hauntingly good time without leaving the mother ship.

The terpene profile is loud with limonene and caryophyllene, producing a pungent lemon-pine aroma. The smoke hits earthy and citrus-forward with a smooth, creamy exhale. Perfect for the evening of October 31st, when you want to feel cosmically detached from reality — or just really enjoy handing out treats to the kiddos.

White Widow

Halloween, All Hallows' Eve, Night of the Dead — whatever you call it, White Widow belongs to the season. This hybrid crosses Brazilian and South Indian landrace strains, bred by Green House Seed Company in the early '90s. The strain earned its ghostly name from the dense white trichomes coating its buds.

White Widow bites the nose and head with a strong pepper and cedar profile and a high that lands like a relaxed haze before building into an energetic vibe — call it the jump scare effect, minus the actual terror. This widow's terpene profile is high in caryophyllene and pinene, creating an aroma that's spicy and woodsy with earthy undertones. On the exhale, the palate is hit with a sharp and herbal zest with a lingering cedar finish. 

Perfect for bingeing on horror movies where you want to feel the suspense... without hiding under the blanket, this balanced hybrid keeps you engaged and pleasantly spooked all night long.

Durban Poison

Durban Poison is a pure sativa landrace from South Africa's port city of Durban. Despite its ominous name, the high is anything but dangerous — it's clean, energizing, and social without a jittery edge. 

The effects are powerfully uplifting, delivering creative euphoria paired with physical stamina that doesn't crash. If your Halloween requires navigating a corn maze, winning a costume contest, or simply outlasting a full night of sugar-fueled trick-or-treaters without fading, this strain keeps pace.

The terpene profile is dominated by terpinolene, delivering sweet, earthy flavors with hints of anise and pine. The buds are dense and compact, and the smoke hits bright and herbal in a way that sharpens rather than clouds. The exhale is smooth with a lingering sweetness that tastes like October air smells — crisp, alive, and oddly nostalgic. Perfect for the one night a year when staying awake past midnight is mandatory, not optional.

The post 12 spooky weed strains for Halloween appeared first on Weedmaps News.

A new study exploring the impacts of adult-use marijuana legalization on the hospitality industry finds that “hotel revenue increases by 25.2% (or $63,671 monthly) due to dispensary legalization, with the effect continuing to grow even six years after legalization.”

The research article, published in the journal Production Operations and Management (POMS), draws its inferences from a review of data from Colorado, which authors say saw “a 7.9% increase in room night bookings and a 16.0% rise in daily room rates,” though impacts varied based on a number of factors.

“These findings are relevant for professionals in marketing, operations management, hospitality, tourism, and public policy,” the study says, noting that the “rapid expansion of the marijuana business presents both opportunities and challenges for the hotel industry.”

“On the one hand, recreational marijuana dispensaries could become attractions that entice travelers to visit places they might not otherwise explore. For instance, around 12% of US tourists have reported positive experiences with marijuana-related travel… On the other hand, the lingering social stigma surrounding marijuana could negatively affect businesses, including hotels, located near these dispensaries. This concern is underscored by a Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT 2019) report, which found that about 10% of US leisure travelers view Colorado as a less desirable destination because of recreational marijuana.”

Despite the apparently polarized feelings around traveling to jurisdictions where marijuana is legal, the study found that hotels seemed to perform better following the policy change.

A new study exploring the impacts of adult-use marijuana legalization on the hospitality industry finds that “hotel revenue increases by 25.2% (or $63,671 monthly) due to dispensary legalization, with the effect continuing to grow even six years after legalization.”

The research article, published in the journal Production Operations and Management (POMS), draws its inferences from a review of data from Colorado, which authors say saw “a 7.9% increase in room night bookings and a 16.0% rise in daily room rates,” though impacts varied based on a number of factors.

“These findings are relevant for professionals in marketing, operations management, hospitality, tourism, and public policy,” the study says, noting that the “rapid expansion of the marijuana business presents both opportunities and challenges for the hotel industry.”

“On the one hand, recreational marijuana dispensaries could become attractions that entice travelers to visit places they might not otherwise explore. For instance, around 12% of US tourists have reported positive experiences with marijuana-related travel… On the other hand, the lingering social stigma surrounding marijuana could negatively affect businesses, including hotels, located near these dispensaries. This concern is underscored by a Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT 2019) report, which found that about 10% of US leisure travelers view Colorado as a less desirable destination because of recreational marijuana.”

Despite the apparently polarized feelings around traveling to jurisdictions where marijuana is legal, the study found that hotels seemed to perform better following the policy change.

Comparing hotels in Colorado to hotels in New Mexico, where cannabis was illegal during the study period, the team's analysis found that “on average, monthly hotel revenue increases by 25.2% upon the legalization of recreational marijuana dispensaries, which is equivalent to a substantial increase of $63,671 per hotel.”

“However, hotels do not benefit equally,” the report notes. “Hotels that are closer to retail dispensaries, have been operating for shorter periods, and belong to a higher class obtain more positive effects. The type of location also plays a crucial role, with hotels in resort areas benefiting the most from retail dispensary legalization, followed by those in urban, airport, suburban, interstate, and small-town locations.”

What's more, “chain hotels operated by corporate entities experience more positive treatment effects than franchised chain hotels and independently operated ones,” the paper adds.

A new study exploring the impacts of adult-use marijuana legalization on the hospitality industry finds that “hotel revenue increases by 25.2% (or $63,671 monthly) due to dispensary legalization, with the effect continuing to grow even six years after legalization.”

The research article, published in the journal Production Operations and Management (POMS), draws its inferences from a review of data from Colorado, which authors say saw “a 7.9% increase in room night bookings and a 16.0% rise in daily room rates,” though impacts varied based on a number of factors.

“These findings are relevant for professionals in marketing, operations management, hospitality, tourism, and public policy,” the study says, noting that the “rapid expansion of the marijuana business presents both opportunities and challenges for the hotel industry.”

“On the one hand, recreational marijuana dispensaries could become attractions that entice travelers to visit places they might not otherwise explore. For instance, around 12% of US tourists have reported positive experiences with marijuana-related travel… On the other hand, the lingering social stigma surrounding marijuana could negatively affect businesses, including hotels, located near these dispensaries. This concern is underscored by a Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT 2019) report, which found that about 10% of US leisure travelers view Colorado as a less desirable destination because of recreational marijuana.”

Despite the apparently polarized feelings around traveling to jurisdictions where marijuana is legal, the study found that hotels seemed to perform better following the policy change.

Comparing hotels in Colorado to hotels in New Mexico, where cannabis was illegal during the study period, the team's analysis found that “on average, monthly hotel revenue increases by 25.2% upon the legalization of recreational marijuana dispensaries, which is equivalent to a substantial increase of $63,671 per hotel.”

“However, hotels do not benefit equally,” the report notes. “Hotels that are closer to retail dispensaries, have been operating for shorter periods, and belong to a higher class obtain more positive effects. The type of location also plays a crucial role, with hotels in resort areas benefiting the most from retail dispensary legalization, followed by those in urban, airport, suburban, interstate, and small-town locations.”

What's more, “chain hotels operated by corporate entities experience more positive treatment effects than franchised chain hotels and independently operated ones,” the paper adds.

Researchers—from the University of Central Florida, Virginia Tech, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill—also concluded that “the positive effect on hotel revenue strengthens over time, showing no signs of slowing down six years after the statewide recreational marijuana legalization.”

For hoteliers, the report says, “the positive and growing treatment effects on hotel revenue highlight the potential long-term economic advantages of recreational marijuana,” though it cautions that “legalization does not guarantee financial gains.”

For policymakers, the study continues, the findings underscore the economic benefits and “positive spillover effects on hotels when crafting regulations, ensuring that zoning laws promote synergy between dispensaries and hotels.”

“City planners could strategically place dispensaries in resort, urban, and airport areas, where their presence provides the greatest benefits to hospitality businesses,” the study suggests. “They might also consider tax incentives or support programs to help lower-class and independent hotels capitalize on marijuana tourism opportunities.”

A separate 2020 study also found that Colorado hotel room rentals increased considerably after the state began legal marijuana sales. That study also found that Washington State saw increases in tourism after legalization, though the effect there was more modest.

By comparing hotel room rentals in Colorado and Washington to states that did not change their legal status of marijuana from 2011 through 2015, researchers found that legalization coincided with a significant influx of tourists and a rise in hotel revenue. The impact was even more pronounced after the start of retail sales.

Last year, meanwhile, the governor of Illinois noted that travelers from nearby states were visiting specifically to buy legal cannabis.

“People from Indiana, people from Iowa, people from Wisconsin, Kentucky, drive across the border and buy something in a dispensary in Illinois. Now, they're not supposed to drive back over the border to their home states, so I assume they're just staying in Illinois,” Gov. J.B. Pritzker (D) said at the time.

Last September, however, a report by Colorado legislative analysts said that part of the reason the state is seeing declining cannabis tax revenue is due to “falling demand as other states across the country legalize marijuana,” making sales from cannabis tourism “less pronounced.”

“Prices for marijuana fell as pandemic-induced demand waned, marijuana tourism became less pronounced, and as the market matured,” that report said. “Tax revenue from marijuana is falling across most states where recreational marijuana is legal due to declining demand after the pandemic, but states that legalized marijuana early—like Colorado, Washington, and Oregon—are seeing the biggest declines in sales.”

---

Written by Ben Adlin for Marijuana Moment | Featured image by Gina Coleman/Weedmaps

The post Hotels See Significant Boost In Revenue Following Marijuana Legalization, New Study Shows appeared first on Weedmaps News.

A new federally funded report published by the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) finds that use of marijuana by U.S. adults 65 and older has increased considerably in recent years amid broader legal access for medical and recreational use.

Cannabis consumption had already been on the rise over the past couple of decades, the research letter says, with reported past-year consumption rising from 1.0 percent in 2005 to 4.2 percent in 2018. The new findings, which draw on the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, show that past-month use has now climbed to 4.8 percent in 2021 and to 7.0 percent in 2023.

The growth in prevalence over the past few years was seen among nearly all demographic subsets, but it was especially strong among people who listed their race as “other,” women, white people, people with college or post-college degrees, those with higher-income, married people, and those living in states with legal medical marijuana, the report says.

Data also showed that people with multiple chronic diseases also reported a recent increase in prevalence of use.

Some trends reveal what authors called “shifts in cannabis use by older adults.”

“Adults with the highest incomes initially had the lowest prevalence of cannabis use vs. other income levels,” they said, for example, “but by 2023, they had the highest prevalence, which may indicate better access to medical cannabis given its costs.”

The rise in cannabis use among adults 65 and older in legal jurisdictions “highlights the importance of structural educational support for patients and clinicians in those states,” the report notes, pointing to potential complications in treating chronic disease.

It also flags that tobacco and excess alcohol use “continues to be high among older adults who use cannabis. However, these results do not suggest that concurrent use is changing.”

The report concludes by advising that clinicians “consider screening and educating older patients about potential risks of cannabis use.”

Researchers at the University of California, San Diego and New York University medical schools published their new findings in a research letter on Monday.

Along with the report, JAMA also published an editor's note asserting that “existing therapeutic evidence for medical cannabis in older adults has been inconsistent across several conditions, with many studies suggesting possible benefits, while others finding limited benefit.”

It also highlights “apparent” potential harms that marijuana might cause older adults, including “increased risks of cardiovascular, respiratory, and gastrointestinal conditions, stroke, sedation, cognitive impairment, falls, motor vehicle injuries, drug-drug interactions, and psychiatric disorders.”

“Older adults require information on methods available for taking cannabis and age-specific dosing guidance,” the editor's note says. “Health care professionals should recognize that older adults are increasingly using cannabis products and promote open and judgment-free conversations about its use.”

Overall, it says, the new research findings “underscore the need for more high-quality evidence evaluating the benefit-to-risk ratio of cannabis in older adults as well as the need for clinician support to prevent cannabis-related harm.”

A separate study recently published by the American Medical Association found that while the frequency of marijuana use among adults in Canada increased slightly in the years following nationwide legalization, problematic misuse of cannabis in fact saw modest decreases.

The report, published in JAMA Network Open and funded in part by the federal agency Canadian Institutes of Health Research, examined data from 1,428 adults aged 18 to 65 who completed assessments roughly every six months between September 2018 and October 2023.

Frequency of marijuana use overall increased slightly but significantly over the five-year period. Among all participants, the mean proportion of days using cannabis increased by 0.35 percent per year, or 1.75 percent over the five-year study period.

People who used cannabis most frequently before legalization saw the largest declines in use. People who consumed marijuana on a daily basis prior to legalization decreased their use frequency more than those who'd used marijuana on a weekly basis.

Those who used marijuana once a month or less before legalization, meanwhile, reported slight increases in use.

Governments and public health experts have been working to track consumer behavior as laws around marijuana continue to change. In the U.S., a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report recently broke down federal data on cannabis use among thousands of U.S. adults, finding that while smoking marijuana remains the most common way to consume it, methods such as eating, vaping, and dabbing are growing in popularity.

Overall, in 2022, 15.3 percent of adults reported current marijuana use, while 7.9 percent reported daily use. Among users, most (79.4 percent) reported smoking, followed by eating (41.6 percent), vaping (30.3 percent), and dabbing (14.6 percent).

About half of all adults who used marijuana (46.7 percent) reported multiple methods of use—most typically smoking and eating or smoking and vaping.

Rates of both vaping and dabbing—as well as cannabis use in general—were higher in young adults than in the general adult population.

An earlier analysis from the CDC found that rates of current and lifetime cannabis use among high school students have continued to drop amid the legalization movement.

A separate poll recently found that more Americans smoke marijuana on a daily basis than drink alcohol every day—and that alcohol drinkers are more likely to say they would benefit from limiting their use than cannabis consumers are.

U.S. adults who drink alcohol are nearly three times as likely to say they'd be better off reducing their intake of the drug compared to marijuana consumers who said they'd benefit from using their preferred substance less often, the survey found. Further, it found that while lifetime and monthly alcohol drinking among adults was far more common than cannabis use, daily marijuana consumption was slightly more popular than daily drinking.

An earlier report published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs found that secondhand harm caused by marijuana use is far less prevalent than that of alcohol, with respondents reporting secondhand harm from drinking at nearly six times the rate they did for cannabis.

Yet another 2022 study from Michigan State University researchers, published in the journal PLOS One, found that “cannabis retail sales might be followed by the increased occurrence of cannabis onsets for older adults” in legal states, “but not for underage persons who cannot buy cannabis products in a retail outlet.”

The trends were observed despite adult use of marijuana and certain psychedelics reaching “historic highs” in 2022, according to separate data.

As for older consumers specifically, a study earlier this year on the use of medical marijuana by patients age 50 and above concluded that “cannabis seemed to be a safe and effective treatment” for pain and other conditions.

“Most patients experienced clinically significant improvements in pain, sleep, and quality of life and reductions in co-medication,” it found.

Nearly all patients used products consumed orally, such as edibles and extracts, as opposed to smoked or vaporized cannabis, and most preferred products high in CBD and relatively low in THC.

The study involved the use of medical marijuana by patients under the care of a health care provider, with the treating physician reporting data around the use of cannabis and other medications, as well as impacts on pain, sleep, quality of life, and any adverse effects.

“Over the six-month study period, significant improvements were noted in pain, sleep, and quality of life measures,” the report says, “with 45% experiencing a clinically meaningful improvement in pain interference and in sleep quality scores.”

Last year, separate studies found that both older medical marijuana patients as well as people with fibromyalgia reported that cannabis improved their sleep.

A different study last year from the retirement group AARP found that marijuana use by older people in the U.S. has nearly doubled in the last three years, with better sleep as among the most frequently cited reasons.

---

Written by Ben Adlin for Marijuana Moment | Featured image by Gina Coleman/Weedmaps

The post A Lot More Older Americans Are Now Using Marijuana, Federally Funded Study Shows appeared first on Weedmaps News.

Counties that have marijuana dispensaries see an average of 30 percent fewer opioid-related deaths compared to counties without legal cannabis shops open, suggesting a substitution effect away from prescription pills and heroin toward the plant-based treatment, according to a new data analysis.

In a Washington Post piece on Wednesday, Harvard University economics student Julien Berman used data from the University of Michigan that identifies dispensary locations at the county level to compare opioid overdose trends over 10 years in jurisdictions where cannabis became legally available compared to those without regulated access.

“The theory is straightforward: making cannabis more available—and reducing its cost—could induce people to shift from opioids, which are super dangerous, to marijuana, a significantly safer alternative,” Berman said. “Existing opioid users seeking pain relief can choose marijuana instead of heroin, especially in counties where recreational use is legal and access is easy. And new potential users might never turn to opioids at all if they could get marijuana instead.”

Counties that have marijuana dispensaries see an average of 30 percent fewer opioid-related deaths compared to counties without legal cannabis shops open, suggesting a substitution effect away from prescription pills and heroin toward the plant-based treatment, according to a new data analysis.

In a Washington Post piece on Wednesday, Harvard University economics student Julien Berman used data from the University of Michigan that identifies dispensary locations at the county level to compare opioid overdose trends over 10 years in jurisdictions where cannabis became legally available compared to those without regulated access.

“The theory is straightforward: making cannabis more available—and reducing its cost—could induce people to shift from opioids, which are super dangerous, to marijuana, a significantly safer alternative,” Berman said. “Existing opioid users seeking pain relief can choose marijuana instead of heroin, especially in counties where recreational use is legal and access is easy. And new potential users might never turn to opioids at all if they could get marijuana instead.”

Other factors were taken into account to support the conclusion, including comparisons of opioid mortality rates in counties within a legal state where some allow retailers to operate and others have chosen to opt out.

“That kind of variation helps rule out other state-level changes such as expanded access to naloxone—a drug that can reverse the effects of an overdose—as the main cause of the drop in deaths,” Berman said.

Counties that have marijuana dispensaries see an average of 30 percent fewer opioid-related deaths compared to counties without legal cannabis shops open, suggesting a substitution effect away from prescription pills and heroin toward the plant-based treatment, according to a new data analysis.

In a Washington Post piece on Wednesday, Harvard University economics student Julien Berman used data from the University of Michigan that identifies dispensary locations at the county level to compare opioid overdose trends over 10 years in jurisdictions where cannabis became legally available compared to those without regulated access.

“The theory is straightforward: making cannabis more available—and reducing its cost—could induce people to shift from opioids, which are super dangerous, to marijuana, a significantly safer alternative,” Berman said. “Existing opioid users seeking pain relief can choose marijuana instead of heroin, especially in counties where recreational use is legal and access is easy. And new potential users might never turn to opioids at all if they could get marijuana instead.”

Other factors were taken into account to support the conclusion, including comparisons of opioid mortality rates in counties within a legal state where some allow retailers to operate and others have chosen to opt out.

“That kind of variation helps rule out other state-level changes such as expanded access to naloxone—a drug that can reverse the effects of an overdose—as the main cause of the drop in deaths,” Berman said.

On average, the opioid death rates following the establishment of cannabis dispensaries declined more sharply in the immediate years after the opening compared to dry counties. But from years five to 10, there's a more precipitous effect, with an average rate of 27 percent fewer opioid deaths in jurisdictions that have cannabis storefronts after a decade.

Can marijuana dispensaries help solve the opioid crisis? Using a new dataset from the University of Michigan that tracks store openings at the county level, I show that access to weed seems to causally reduce opioid mortality. pic.twitter.com/2Ac5FhgNkA

— Julien Berman (@julien_berman) August 6, 2025

Counties that have marijuana dispensaries see an average of 30 percent fewer opioid-related deaths compared to counties without legal cannabis shops open, suggesting a substitution effect away from prescription pills and heroin toward the plant-based treatment, according to a new data analysis.

In a Washington Post piece on Wednesday, Harvard University economics student Julien Berman used data from the University of Michigan that identifies dispensary locations at the county level to compare opioid overdose trends over 10 years in jurisdictions where cannabis became legally available compared to those without regulated access.

“The theory is straightforward: making cannabis more available—and reducing its cost—could induce people to shift from opioids, which are super dangerous, to marijuana, a significantly safer alternative,” Berman said. “Existing opioid users seeking pain relief can choose marijuana instead of heroin, especially in counties where recreational use is legal and access is easy. And new potential users might never turn to opioids at all if they could get marijuana instead.”

Other factors were taken into account to support the conclusion, including comparisons of opioid mortality rates in counties within a legal state where some allow retailers to operate and others have chosen to opt out.

“That kind of variation helps rule out other state-level changes such as expanded access to naloxone—a drug that can reverse the effects of an overdose—as the main cause of the drop in deaths,” Berman said.

On average, the opioid death rates following the establishment of cannabis dispensaries declined more sharply in the immediate years after the opening compared to dry counties. But from years five to 10, there's a more precipitous effect, with an average rate of 27 percent fewer opioid deaths in jurisdictions that have cannabis storefronts after a decade.

There are some limitations to the analysis, including challenges with the “enormous number of messy business records” maintained in the University of Michigan dataset that could have misidentified certain businesses. And it's possible counties that were assessed could have separately implemented other programs to address opioid use during the timeline that was studied, Berman noted.

“Still, the fact that the drop in deaths shows up right after the first dispensary opens—and not before—strongly suggests that opioid users do shift to marijuana, at least enough to stop overdosing,” he wrote.

He added that while studies have shown that marijuana isn't entirely harmless, it's “much safer than heroin.”

“Heck, it's arguably safer than alcohol. If the dispensary down the street can get people off opioids, public health wins—even if overall marijuana use goes up,” he said.

Relatedly, a recently published study found that, among drug users who experience chronic pain, daily cannabis use was linked to a higher likelihood of quitting the use of opioids—especially among men.

Researchers for a separate federally funded survey recently found an association between state-level marijuana legalization and reduced prescriptions for opioid pain medications among commercially insured adults—indicating a possible substitution effect where patients are choosing to use cannabis instead of prescription drugs to treat pain.

A study published late last year found that legalizing medical cannabis appeared to significantly reduce monetary payments from opioid manufacturers to doctors who specialize in pain, with authors finding “evidence that this decrease is due to medical marijuana becoming available as a substitute” for prescription painkillers.

Other recent research also showed a decline in fatal opioid overdoses in jurisdictions where marijuana was legalized for adults. That study found a “consistent negative relationship” between legalization and fatal overdoses, with more significant effects in states that legalized cannabis earlier in the opioid crisis. Authors estimated that recreational marijuana legalization “is associated with a decrease of approximately 3.5 deaths per 100,000 individuals.”

Another recently published report into prescription opioid use in Utah following the state's legalization of medical marijuana found that the availability of legal cannabis both reduced opioid use by patients with chronic pain and helped drive down prescription overdose deaths statewide. Overall, results of the study indicated that “cannabis has a substantial role to play in pain management and the reduction of opioid use,” it said.

Yet another study, published in 2023, linked medical marijuana use to lower pain levels and reduced dependence on opioids and other prescription medications. And another, published by the American Medical Association (AMA) last February, found that chronic pain patients who received medical marijuana for longer than a month saw significant reductions in prescribed opioids.

About one in three chronic pain patients reported using cannabis as a treatment option, according to a 2023 AMA-published report. Most of that group said they used cannabis as a substitute for other pain medications, including opioids.

Other research published that year found that letting people buy CBD legally significantly reduced opioid prescription rates, leading to 6.6 percent to 8.1 percent fewer opioid prescriptions.

A 2022 research paper that analyzed Medicaid data on prescription drugs, meanwhile, found that legalizing marijuana for adult use was associated with “significant reductions” in the use of prescription drugs for the treatment of multiple conditions.

A 2023 report linked state-level medical marijuana legalization to reduced opioid payouts to doctors—another datapoint suggesting that patients use cannabis as an alternative to prescription drugs when given legal access.

Researchers in another study, published last year, looked at opioid prescription and mortality rates in Oregon, finding that nearby access to retail marijuana moderately reduced opioid prescriptions, though they observed no corresponding drop in opioid-related deaths.

Other recent research also indicates that cannabis may be an effective substitute for opioids in terms of pain management.

A report published recently in the journal BMJ Open, for instance, compared medical marijuana and opioids for chronic non-cancer pain and found that cannabis “may be similarly effective and result in fewer discontinuations than opioids,” potentially offering comparable relief with a lower likelihood of adverse effects.

Separate research published found that more than half (57 percent) of patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain said cannabis was more effective than other analgesic medications, while 40 percent reported reducing their use of other painkillers since they began using marijuana.

---

Written by Kyle Jaeger for Marijuana Moment | Featured image by Gina Coleman/Weedmaps

The post Opening Legal Marijuana Dispensaries Is Tied To A Huge Drop In Opioid-Related Deaths, Analysis Finds appeared first on Weedmaps News.

Humboldt County, located in Northern California's famed Emerald Triangle, has long been a mecca for cannabis cultivation. Its rich soil and ideal climate produce some of the finest cannabis in the world, making it the heartbeat of a thriving underground culture that's lasted for decades. 

To explore this historical area and sample a range of incredible sun-grown flower, follow our guide to the must-visit spots and events that keep the spirit of Humboldt cannabis alive.

The significance of Humboldt County cannabis

For generations, Humboldt County has been synonymous with top-quality cannabis, thanks to its climate and position within the Emerald Triangle. This region, which also includes Mendocino and Trinity counties, has been the epicenter of American cannabis cultivation, shaping both the culture and the industry itself. 

Here, you'll find many outdoor cannabis grows committed to sustainable and regenerative farming practices. The near-perfect environment of the Emerald Triangle lends itself well to sun-grown cannabis, allowing for the natural flow of nature to shape organic crops and produce abundant yields.

Gina Coleman/Weedmaps

However, with the advent of legalization, Humboldt's cannabis landscape has undergone significant changes. Many small farmers who once flourished in this hidden paradise found themselves unable to keep pace with new regulations, leading to a wave of closures.

Despite these challenges, Humboldt remains a 420-friendly haven, brimming with natural beauty and cultural significance. Even the journey to Humboldt is part of the adventure — the drive from San Francisco along scenic US-101 is nothing short of magical. 

Traveling with cannabis in Humboldt County

Humboldt County is a paradise for those seeking a blend of nature, culture, and excellent weed. While California's progressive cannabis laws make it easy to travel with weed, it's essential to stay informed about the specific regulations. 

Gina Coleman/Weedmaps

While the state allows adults 21 and over to carry up to one ounce of cannabis, you should always be aware of local rules regarding public consumption, such as lighting up away from schools and other public areas.

Whether attending a festival, visiting a farm, or exploring the area's scenic spots, you'll find numerous opportunities to enjoy cannabis in safe and welcoming environments throughout Humboldt.

420-friendly tours in Humboldt County

One of the most unique experiences in Humboldt is the Weed and Wine Tour offered by the local company Humboldt Cannabis Tours and led by the owner, Matt Kurth. On it, you'll explore the region's dual heritage of cannabis and wine. 

Highlights of the tour include: 

• Briceland Winery: Sit down with winemaker Andrew Morris, who provides a deep dive into the art of winemaking, revealing the fascinating similarities between growing grapes and cultivating cannabis in Humboldt County.
• Five Sisters Farms: A local farm dedicated to regenerative agriculture. Led by the knowledgeable farmer Season George, Five Sisters Farms is both Dragonfly Earth Medicine-certified and Sun and Earth-certified. Season guides you through the farm and shares insights into sustainable farming practices and the future of cannabis cultivation in Humboldt. The best part? You can sleep in a yurt in the middle of a weed garden. It's hard to top this experience.

Kurth brings a personal touch and deep knowledge to the experience. His passion for supporting local agriculture and creating meaningful tours is evident at every stop along the way, making this activity a must-do for those wanting to truly understand Humboldt's rich agricultural heritage.

420-friendly events in Humboldt County

With so much love for cannabis reverberating throughout the Emerald Triangle, it's easy to find seasonal celebrations and events that welcome cannabis enthusiasts from all over the world. 

Reggae on the River

Maria Reed/Weedmaps

One of the highlights of Humboldt's cannabis calendar is Reggae on the River. This legendary festival, which has been running since 1984, is more than just a music event — it's a celebration of culture, community, and cannabis.

What makes Reggae on the River special is the deep relationship between OG cannabis growers and reggae musicians. This connection, forged over decades, is a defining aspect of Humboldt County's cannabis culture. The vibes at the festival are something to behold, with big gorilla finger joints (often without tips) shared among old-school local growers, cultivating a unique, communal atmosphere.

Northern Nights Music Festival

Courtesy of Northern Nights Music Festival

The Northern Nights Music Festival is an EDM festival in the beautiful redwoods that celebrates music, cannabis, and nature. It occurs every year in July and features an incredible lineup of DJs and musicians, with Diplo and Big Gigantic headlining the most recent festivals.

The festival allows for on-site sales and consumption of weed, offering many relaxing places to light up and sample quality cannabis from organic farms around the area.

Top 420-friendly tourist spots in Humboldt County

When it comes to natural beauty, Humboldt County is second to none. From the gorgeous outdoor cannabis farms to the national parks, the entire region is a feast for the eyes and a tranquil escape for the soul. 

Gina Coleman/Weedmaps

If you're passing through, don't miss out on these verdant spaces: 

• Redwood National and State Parks and Avenue of the Giants: These spots are must-sees for anyone visiting the Emerald Triangle. Walking among the towering trees, some over a thousand years old, is an awe-inspiring experience. These ancient giants have witnessed the ebb and flow of the region's history and resilience — their serene presence offers a perfect backdrop for a peaceful session.
• The Lost Coast: This remote, rugged stretch of land is a haven for those seeking solitude. With its dramatic cliffs, untamed forests, and breathtaking ocean views, The Lost Coast is an ideal place to connect with nature and enjoy a private cannabis experience. The area's remoteness means no cell service, allowing you to unplug and focus on what matters. The long, winding roads leading to The Lost Coast are part of the adventure — take your time, enjoy the ride, and stay safe.
• Sue-meg State Park: Sue-meg State Park (formerly Patrick's Point State Park) offers stunning ocean views, dense forests, and dramatic cliffs. It's a great spot for a scenic hike or a peaceful picnic. With its picturesque trails and breathtaking vistas, Sue-meg is a must-see for those looking to immerse themselves in the raw beauty of Humboldt's coastline.
• Fern Canyon: For a unique and magical experience, visit Fern Canyon, located in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. With its walls covered in ferns, it feels like stepping into another world — the area's lush greenery and serene atmosphere made it the perfect filming location for "The Lost World: Jurassic Park." The peacefulness of Fern Canyon is ideal for a reflective cannabis session, surrounded by ancient beauty.

Where to eat in Humboldt County

Pair your locally-grown bud with incredible food at any of Humboldt's delicious dining options. Whether you're craving a cozy meal or a high-end dinner with a view, these restaurants are must-visits.

Larrupin' Cafe

Located in the beautiful coastal town of Trinidad, Larrupin' Cafe offers an intimate dining experience that perfectly captures the essence of Humboldt. Small yet cozy, Larrupin' is known for its exceptional service and attention to detail. The charming decor and coastal atmosphere make it a standout in one of the most picturesque towns on the northern California coast.

Moonstone Grill

Courtesy of Moonstone Grill

If you're looking for a fresh meal with stunning ocean views, Moonstone Grill is the place to be. Also situated in Trinidad, it boasts the sunniest views in the area. The service is impeccable, and the food is as special as the ambiance. Be sure to finish your meal with their affogato, a dessert that will leave a lasting impression. 

Campground

Located in Arcata, Campground is a live-fire restaurant offering brunch, lunch, and dinner in a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. With a great bar and wonderful mixologists, this spot is a local favorite and perfect for refueling up after a day spent exploring Humboldt's natural wonders.

Where to stay in Humboldt County

After indulging in Humboldt's nature, cannabis, and culinary offerings, finding the best place to stay is essential.

Benbow Historic Inn

Courtesy of Benbow Historic Inn

Situated in Garberville, the Benbow Historic Inn is an iconic place to stay in Humboldt County. This charming hotel is a peaceful retreat surrounded by stunning scenery. Known for its old-world charm and luxurious accommodations, it offers everything from beautifully appointed rooms to exquisite dining. Whether you're relaxing by the fireplace or strolling through the gardens, it's the perfect place to unwind in Humboldt.

Note: The Benbow Historic Inn is not 420-friendly, so consume your cannabis products off the property. 

Humboldt Cannabis Farm Studio

Listed on Airbnb and located in Eureka, the Humboldt Cannabis Farm Studio is 420-friendly and welcoming to cannabis enthusiasts from all walks of life. Situated on a working cannabis farm, guests can enjoy an informative cannabis farm tour, cannabis samples, and a peaceful place to rest.

Non-cannabis experiences (that get better if you have the munchies)

For a delightful non-cannabis experience, visit Old Town Eureka in Eureka, California. It's a historic district located along the waterfront and is a beautifully preserved area that showcases the charm and character of 19th-century California.

With its Victorian architecture, quaint shops, art galleries, and local eateries, Old Town offers a step back in time, providing a unique glimpse into Humboldt County's rich history.

While you're there, stop by the Dick Taylor Chocolate Factory. Located on 1st Street, this shop offers small-batch chocolate tastings, and what makes it truly special is that it's one of the few places in the world offering a bean-to-bar experience, making it the perfect place to visit after hitting your bowl or vape.

Supporting Humboldt's legacy through tourism

Humboldt County has always been more than just a place — it's a symbol of resilience, community, and a deep connection to the earth. But, with cannabis legalization, the landscape here has undoubtedly changed. 

Many of the sustainable and regenerative small craft farmers who thrived here in the past now face unprecedented challenges. The very culture that made Humboldt a cornerstone of cannabis history is at risk, and it's up to us to help preserve it.

Gina Coleman/Weedmaps

Supporting local tourism is one of the most meaningful ways to ensure that Humboldt's legacy endures. By visiting this breathtaking region, attending its festivals, and engaging with its vibrant communities, you're contributing to the survival of a culture that has shaped the cannabis industry and beyond. 

Let your journey here be a celebration of all that this remarkable place has given to the world and a commitment to keeping its spirit alive for generations to come.

---

Featured image by Gina Coleman/Weedmaps

The post High city tourist guide to Humboldt County appeared first on Weedmaps News.

Pre-rolls are great because they make smoking weed easy. Whether you're a novice who doesn't know how to roll a joint or a seasoned user on the go, pre-rolls take the legwork out of preparing the flower for your smoking experience, a time-consuming ritual that often stands between potential users and getting high.

On the national market stage, as well as the Massachusetts market we'll be discussing here, this accessible method of intake is on the rise. According to data from Headset, pre-rolls account for 12% of the US market, with their popularity growing 13% in the US in 2022, and 28% in Canada. When it comes to Massachusetts specifically, pre-rolls account for 17% of the market.

Despite these glitzy numbers, the pre-roll industry has a dark side that often ends with consumers being tricked into buying really, really bad weed.

The issue lies in that you can't see what is inside a joint, nor do you have any indication of its quality other than the packaging and the brand you're purchasing it from. Because of this, dishonest manufacturers will often fill pre-rolls with trim, stems, and other byproducts of cannabis cultivation that don't get you high, passing it off as ground nugs.

Even honest brands that put top-shelf flower in their pre-rolls still fall victim to the reality that once weed is ground up, the trichomes that hold the terpenes and cannabinoids are ground up, too. Ground weed is immediately rendered less potent, and continues to lose potency faster than whole nugs because it is more susceptible to dryness, light exposure, and other elements that degrade the trichomes housing the terpenes and cannabinoids that get you high.

The issue is so bad that I even had an Instagram show called “The Unrolling Series," where fellow cannabis journalist Jackie Bryant and I unrolled popular pre-rolls and smoked their contents out of a bong to see what was really inside. The results were, to say the least, wildly disappointing.

The point of all this is not to say all pre-rolls are bad, but to elucidate that it's a treacherous space with a lot of hidden land mines.

How should one navigate the Massachusetts pre-roll market, you ask? Never fear, Weedmaps is here with a comprehensive list of the best pre-rolls in Massachusetts in (almost) every category.

Find top-rated pre-rolls near you on the Weedmaps app

How I compiled this list

I took many factors into consideration when compiling this list. 

Personal experience

I've been writing about cannabis for close to a decade, so I'm extremely familiar with what's going on in the pre-roll world.

It's also important to remember that Massachusetts is the most consolidated cannabis market in the US, meaning that most of the weed in Mass is coming from a few companies.

According to Headset, “More than two-thirds of total sales go to the top 10 ranked brands. This is due to the large proportion of sales that are attributed to the 'House Brand.' Massachusetts is one of the most vertically integrated cannabis markets in the US and most retail businesses in the state also have some level of production capability."

Because of the high level of consolidation in the Mass market, a lot of the brands available there are considered MSO (multiple state operators), so there's a good amount of crossover in the CA and MA markets at this point in the game. I've tried a number of the products and brands talked about here. However, I am based in California, not Massachusetts, so I haven't tried all of them, hence the next point.

Expert interviews

To be sure this portrait of the Massachusetts pre-roll market is as accurate and current as possible, I interviewed a number of industry experts, budtenders, dispensary owners, and journalists on their favorite pre-rolls in every category and compiled the results.

Quality and sensory factors

Quality is obviously a major factor when quantifying a term like best, especially in the pre-roll space where you have products running the gamut from $5 trim-filled boof sticks to high-quality, whole-flower joints. We took into account each pre-roll's sensory aspects like flavor, effects, smokability, and dry pull (hitting the joint without it being lit to taste the terpenes).

Brand reputation

In my opinion, great brands don't make bad products. For the purposes of this list, I included only established brands with solid reputations that are loved by consumers and respected by industry insiders.

My top 5 Massachusetts pre-rolls

So, here it is! My top picks for the best pre-rolls in Massachusetts, broken into a few categories, are as follows:

Favorite overall MA pre-roll brands

Below are some brands that produce great pre-rolls in Massachusetts. To be clear, they don't just make pre-rolls, but the pre-rolls they do make are damn good.

Cloud Cover

Cloud Cover is a premium brand whose experienced cultivation team specializes in seed-to-sale, small-batch products that are expert-approved across the board. With everything from flower to concentrates and vapes, this is a trusted brand that consistently turns out quality pre-rolls you can trust.

Happy Valley

Happy Valley is the most awarded brand in Massachusetts and has a ton of great offerings that aren't too expensive. They have normal pre-rolls as well as “Moon Rockets," which are pre-rolls infused with bubble hash and kief.

Bountiful Farms

Bountiful Farms was mentioned by almost every expert I spoke to. Bountiful Farms' attention to detail alone is worth a mention in this list. They hand-trim their flower (which is huge), don't use pesticides, and overall have created a trustworthy presence in the industry which is especially important in the pre-roll sphere.

Favorite budget pre-roll

Cheap pre-rolls almost always suck, but here is one that doesn't.

End Game Cookies by Happy Valley

This budget pre-roll was chosen by expert Brit Smith, host of Massachusetts cannabis magazine Different Leaf's podcast. “The best bang for your buck in Massachusetts pre-rolls comes from Happy Valley, which has packs of 7 half-gram pre-rolls for $40," she said. “I've tried lots of HV's flower in eighths, and they always grow smelly, springy, juicy buds, so I figured I could trust their pre-rolls too."

Smith continued, “My favorites so far are the End Game Cookies pre-rolls because they smoke gently and hit quickly with an uplifting giggly effect that's fun for watching movies and enjoying the extreme munchies. These aren't just $40 for a 7-pack of half-grams, they also come with a little matchbox inside, and I just love those extra touches."

Favorite infused pre-roll

Here is a pre-roll to check out that has been infused with various forms of concentrate.

M-80 by Pioneer Valley

I'll be honest, Pioneer Valley raised some red flags for me in terms of flower quality because they specialize in byproducts of flower like extracts, vapes, edibles, and pre-rolls without actually selling any eighths. This sometimes means the flower a brand uses to make those byproducts is not good enough to sell in nug form. However, these kinds of brands also tend to make really potent infused pre-rolls, as they're literally rolling them in distillate.

The new M-80 pre-rolls by Pioneer Valley are recommended by our experts on the merit of potency alone, which is really what most people who are smoking infused pre-rolls are after first and foremost. To create an M-80, they take a gram of flower, add distillate, and “extra terps," which means synthetic terpenes not derived from cannabis, then roll it up, roll it in distillate, and then roll that thing in kief. If you're in the market for potency (and there's nothing wrong with that if you are, to each their own!), then these are the pre-rolls for you.

The post 5 essential pre-rolls in Massachusetts appeared first on Weedmaps News.

There are many ways to cultivate cannabis depending on the end goal. If you're chasing large yields, then one method that may benefit your plants is low-stress training. If you don't grow weed, you may be unfamiliar with this method; but luckily, there are experts that can give you advice on how to use it.

We connected with Brandon Alonzo, Director of Cultivation at The Flower Shop in Arizona, who uses low-stress training at various stages of cultivation.

Below, find out how you can apply this method to your own cannabis plants.

Find clones and seeds on the Weedmaps app

What is low-stress training for weed?

Low-stress training, called LST for short, is a cannabis cultivation method in which you train cannabis plants to grow horizontally instead of vertically.

By gently bending the plant stalks laterally, LST allows plants to receive equal light penetration and airflow to the lower parts of the branches, ultimately increasing the size of the lower buds and resulting in higher yields. This method can be employed indoors, outdoors, and in greenhouses.

Typically, plants receive the most direct light to the tops of the bush, which is why the top buds are so thick and hearty compared to the bottom buds — called "smalls" or "B buds." Essentially, the more light that reaches the plants means more photosynthesis can occur, which results in bigger buds along each plant. In the end, it gives you more weed per harvest.

LST vs. topping: what's the difference?

Low-stress training can be compared to high-stress training methods like topping, which removes the growing tips of plants. By removing the growing tips, plants take a bushier structure with extra side branching; however, this method may increase your harvest time since the plant has to recover from the stress.

According to Alonzo, topping a plant is better than LST, but LST still has its benefits. “Overall, in a commercial setting, 'topping' a plant to encourage side growth is far more superior than LST, solely based on how long it takes to get a plant trained properly," he explained. "That said, LST has its benefits when it's time to flower, whether you are growing in a space that's 100,000 square feet or 100 square feet."

So if topping is better, why and how does The Flower Shop use LST? “At The Flower Shop, we utilize the LST method with our mother plants to maximize the number of clones they can produce, while also doing some topping here and there. We also use the LST technique out in the flower room, unless it is a naturally short cultivar."

What tools do you need for low-stress training?

Low-stress training clips are plastic clips that help bend the cannabis plant so that it may grow horizontally. They hold the plants in place gently so that plants can receive equal light on all parts.

For LST tools in general, the needs are pretty simple, as the gear you need doesn't have to be top-of-the-line and expensive. Alonzo said, “You can take a simple, cheap route by just using plant tape and clips, maybe even some plant yo-yos here and there. It isn't necessarily the quality of the equipment that's needed, it's the time and effort put forth to get the results you want."

In the end, you truly just want clips, ties, and wires that are sturdy, durable, reusable, and cost-effective.

Best clips for training weed

With low-stress cannabis clips, you want to look for something cost-effective and durable that can be purchased in bulk. You want clips that will be gentle on your plants as the goal is low stress.

AirTech Home Automation LSTclips

The AirTech Home Automation LSTclips can be bought on Amazon and arrive at your front door within two days. These plant training clips are advertised as great for grow tents, greenhouses, and outdoor gardens.

AirTech LSTclips help increase airflow and light penetration while also being great for tight spaces. The design allows for minimal contact with the plant, which encourages low stress and prevents breaks. These clips also have holes for using training ties and wires.

You can purchase them in a 30-piece quantity for only $15. They come in green, blue, and white.

BudClips

BudClips come in a 20-pack of yellow clips for $16. The website states that they last for 10+ years, so they're reusable. You don't need to use ties with the BudClips, which is why they don't have holes like the AirTech LSTclips.

According to the BudClips website, “BudClips work by permanently bending your branches into position, opening up your canopy to more light exposure and airflow, and creating extra strong stalks."

Best ties for training weed

Another way to low-stress train your cannabis is to use training ties. You basically bend the plant, then tie the branches down so they remain horizontal. It levels the canopy. Alonzo shared, “You want ties that are durable, cleanable, and cost-effective." Pretty simple, right?

Telent Outdoors Soft Plant Ties

With Telent Outdoors's plant ties, you receive 88 feet of training wire and 20 plant clips for less than $10. These wire ties are made of rubber, which will be easier on your plants than hard plastics or metal wires that can damage plant tissues.

The UM24 Plant Twist Ties

The Um24 Plant Twist Ties are already cut, versus the other wires you have to either break or cut off. They're rubber cords that bend easily and are soft against plants.

These ties are also easy to cut with scissors or shears. The UM42 plant ties twist like bread bag ties, so they can be easily tightened, and/or untwisted to be reused. They come in a set of 40 pieces for under $10.

Best wire for training weed

Just like clips and ties, garden wires can be used to hold bent plants in place for low-stress cannabis training. “When it comes to wires," said Alonzo, "they should have a rubber coating so you don't cut into the branch. It is imperative that you perform LST in increments to minimize breakage."

BudHuggers Low-Stress Training Wire

BudHuggers wires are super cheap and have a rubber coating that won't cut your plants. According to the website, the rubber is super thin and can be hand washed and reused for up to five years. You can buy the BudHuggers training wire in 16-foot or 50-foot reels.

Care Home Soft Plant Wire

Care Home Soft Plant Wire is an affordable option for anyone wanting to use LST when growing cannabis. They're rubber coated, which you understand is a priority at this point, and can be purchased on Amazon in a 164-foot length for a measly $21. This might be the best deal out of all the options listed above.

The post 6 best low-stress training clips, wires, and ties for home growers appeared first on Weedmaps News.

For smoke-weed-everyday cacao aficionados, it stands to reason that some of our favorite cultivars would share a few of the same essences as chocolate, especially considering how integral both are to contemporary stoner culture.

Chocophile potheads around the world know how much of a mood lift a single bonbon can deliver, but it's more than munchies that connect weed to cacao. Chocolate is rich in the terpene linalool. It also contains one of the first endocannabinoids discovered, anandamide, which interacts with the same endocannabinoid receptors as THC.

But weed and chocolate are connected by more than biology. When cannabis is bred to enhance its chocolatey qualities, the results can be more than mouthwatering; they can be freaking transcendent. Chocolate strains are designated as such via their genetics (many stem from crosses of Chocolate Thai or Chocolope) or their distinctly chocolatey terp profiles. Either way, the more chocolaty the strain, the more compelled we'll be to stock up.

Consider a few of our favorite chocolatey strains of weed below and explore strains of all flavors on the Weedmaps app.

Chocolate Chunk

Chocolate Chunk, a direct descendant of Afghani, is a potentially sedative cultivar with a snoozy reputation perfect for stoners who prefer a mellow euphoria that unravels neatly into bedtime. Users describe Chocolate Chunk as a sleepy, munchy high that arrives with a chest swelling elation that typically percolates through the body, quieting both racing thoughts and achy body parts. Chocolate Chunk features a low percentage of CBD, and therapeutic users and rec users alike celebrate the strain's potential stress-relieving efficacy.

Expect a botanical, flowery chocolate perfume and a sharp, pine-infused cocoa exhale.

Chocolate Diesel

Chocolate Diesel is an even-keeled cross of Sour Diesel and Chocolate Thai that tends to lean slightly peppy but overall seems to deliver balanced effects. Users report a potentially energetic onset that typically dissolves into an unfocused, cottony head high and loose, languid body buzz. The euphoric overtones make it a useful cultivar to keep around — especially on moody days. Therapeutic users report potential relief from fatigue, while rec users report a typically deep, cushiony stone worth zoning out with.

Expect a potent gassy chocolate perfume and a sour, diesel exhale.

Chocolate Skunk

Pothead chocolate freaks looking for a bright, peppy high should consider auditioning Chocolate Skunk, a cross of underground fave Chocolope and perennial darling Skunk. This cultivar's effects reportedly skew energetic, and many users describe the high as optimal for functional, everyday stoners. Rec users describe an energetic euphoria that can be laser-focused to complete tasks like housework or low-stakes cerebral projects. And therapeutic users enjoy this strain as well, reporting potential relief from chronic pain and fatigue.

Expect creamy mocha aromas and a commensurate exhale.

Chocolate Haze

Smokers who eschew the lazy stoner stereotype might enjoy this Haze phenotype that delivers some delightfully uplifting chocolate vibes while also maintaining a lighthearted, focused energy synonymous with the Haze genealogy. Chocolate Haze is reportedly ultra-long lasting, with THC percentages that typically peak around 25% and highs that generally evaporate into easy, giggly, euphoria rather than sleepytime munchies.

Expect a spicy, woody chocolate aroma and a flowery, bitter chocolate exhale.

Chocolate Glue

This rare cross of Gorilla Glue and Chocolate Lava is potentially sedative with a bright euphoric streak that fans of the cultivar say keeps the high airy and multidimensional, rather than cottony and thick. Some Chocolate Glue users celebrate the strain's potentially blissful, alert, creative, and meditative qualities, while others experience super relaxing body effects. That dynamic balance makes this hard-to-find cultivar worth the search — as if tasting like chocolate wasn't enough to pique interest.

Expect sweet citrus and dark chocolate in both the aroma and exhale.

Chocolate Mint

For chocolate lovers who prefer a syrupy, sedative high, Chocolate Mint is probably a pretty appropriate addition to the stash box. Chocolate Mint is a cross of Emerald OG and Grand Daddy Purps that reportedly delivers a euphoric, contemplative head high and deeply couch-locked body buzz. Rec users describe a heavy-duty stone that's potentially sedative under certain conditions (read: warm couch, tasty munchies, infinite Netflix). Others find it to be meditative and rejuvenating (read: picnic blanket, sunshine, good book). Therapeutic users report potential relief from bad moods and achy joints. 

Chocolate Mint gets her name from her rich, complex chocolate exhale and bright, minty nose rather than a Chocolate lineage. Knowing this, expect a nuanced profile that includes both cool notes of mint and warm flashes of pepper.

The post 6 chocolate weed strains worth trying this Valentine's Day appeared first on Weedmaps News.

Contemporary canna-sseurs and boho game aficionados alike can agree that stoned game night is a singular pleasure, especially when the game in question is straight-up cannabis-themed.

Unlike other "mature" board games and card games that require some manner of focus, point scoring, rule keeping, and attention maintaining, stoner games are typically built on the premise that most, if not all, players are too high for that nonsense. In fact, the best stoner games are not focused on strategy or high scores at all. The best stoner games are focused on connection, getting absolutely zooted, and making you laugh till you wheeze and/or pee a little.

And while we're still totally pro getting high and playing video games, in-person game nights with a few pals can also deliver some delicious memories and inside jokes that you'll laugh about for years to come. Here are a few of our own game night favorites.

Find the perfect strain for game night on the Weedmaps app

Suddenly Stoned

This low-stakes card drawing game is super easy and can be played with or without score keeping. The directive is to draw a card and execute the command, the commands getting increasingly ridiculous the stonier the players become. Played with at least three players, some favorite cards include "play hide and seek," "correctly guess what time it is," and "draw the person to your left." Some cards encourage every player to join in, and others contain solo, almost meditative tasks, depending on the players.

Bonus, the deck is about the size of a deck of playing cards, making it an easy game to pack up play just about anywhere.

Cards Against Humanity Weed Pack

In case you missed it, the ubiquitous party card game of this generation has a cannabis-themed expansion pack. And it's a must-have addition to the game chest of all card-gaming pot enthusiasts. The Weed Expansion Pack delivers signature CAH gameplay but with weedy overtures and grassy implications that won't fly too high over any teetotaler's dome in case there are a few non-smokers at the party.

High Standards

Weedmaps's own contribution to the field of stoned gaming is High Standards, a card drawing game designed in cooperation with Fitz Games. Unlike straightforward truth-or-dare style card decks, High Standards is a faster-paced card game that features a variety of mini-games inside its deck. Optimally, this game is played with anywhere from 4-10 smoked-up players who, in addition to the requisite dare/trivia-style game cards, can expect mini-games like "Pitch The Invention" and "What's My Price?" Whether you plan on gifting it your fave game nerd or expanding your own board game trunk/cabinet/hollow ottoman, consider this game a stoner game night necessity.

Ganjaland

For pot-puffing players nostalgic for a game that's candy-colored and whimsical, Ganjaland reimagines Candyland through a decidedly stoner lens. The gameplay is simple enough to appeal to heady smokers. Basically, characters race to a castle. They advance by drawing cards and either following instructions like, "take a solo puff, close your eyes, make a wish, and advance five spaces" or by completing more involved action cards. For example, the "Where's Weedo?" cards require players to locate details on the elaborately detailed illustration of Ganjaland portrayed on the game board.

Hot Box Cypress Hill Expansion Pack

Hot Box is a fill-in-the-blanks, Q-and-A card game that's an obvious effigy to Cards Against Humanity. But unlike CAH's Weed Pack, Hot Box gets a soft endorsement rather than an enthusiastic one. Many of the cards in the Hot Box set seem written by people who do not smoke weed on the reg and thus rely on antiquated tropes. However, there is a Cypress Hill expansion pack written by the group, and for super-fans of the legendary hip-hop crew, that bonus feature is likely worth the price of admission.

420 - The Card Game

Another simple card drawing game with ultra-low stakes is 420 - The Card Game. Players can keep points or just play in rounds, and this game can be played with an intimate trio of buddies or a room full of folks. Not unlike other card drawing games aimed at stoners, the actions are designed to deliver multiple hilarious moments that will hit especially well for the very stoned. There is a fun feature specific to this card drawing game worth noting. Each card played represents either a point scored or lost, and players are required to take hits for every point lost or gained. I.e., every player hits after every turn. Pro-tip: maybe fill up your stash jars before starting up a round of this game.

The post The 6 best games to play while high appeared first on Weedmaps News.

Humidity plays a huge role in the quality of cannabis post-harvest, as well as its lifespan once in the jar. Properly cured and stored flower can remain a sensory smoke show of flavor, smell, and effect long after it's sold. However, if moisture levels are off during the curing process or while being stored in the jar, even the highest-grade flower at harvest can fall victim to mold when too wet and harsh and degraded trichomes when too dry.

Like all good things in life, dank weed is ephemeral. But there are things we can do to slow its inevitable roll to the great beyond. Whether you're a home grower with a heap of harvest or a customer looking to make the most out of your dispensary run, it's essential information to know how humidity will affect your cannabis during and after the curing process.

Keep scrolling to learn about the complexities of maintaining humidity, or skip ahead to the best humidity packs for weed.

Storing weed starts with having some. Find flower on the Weedmaps app.

Cannabis and humidity: relative vs. ambient

There are two types of humidity to consider when curing and preserving flower. Relative humidity refers to managing the humidity levels of the flower inside an airtight container. Ambient humidity refers to the humidity of the room outside the jar.

The curing process occurs after the drying process. Freshly dried nugs are placed in airtight containers for 2 – 8 weeks, with the ideal relative humidity inside the jar between 55% and 65%, according to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). To learn how to cure cannabis, check out our step-by-step guide.

The purpose of curing is to stop the loss of moisture and develop the buds to their utmost potential. According to Ed Rosenthal, a cannabis legend, “Curing is an art and should be tried with small batches first. The flavor becomes much more complex and refined, gaining in depth as well as in variation of bouquet. Like very good aged wine, there is something unique about a well-cured crop that any aspiring connoisseur should experience at least once."

Since cannabinoid synthesis continues after harvest, the drying and curing processes can be as important as the growing process when it comes to the final product. Not only does a proper cure yield flower with a higher THC percentage, but it also stops the degradation of volatile compounds — like terpenes — that shape your experience with the plant, creating better tasting and smelling flower with a more potent high.

The best humidity levels for curing cannabis

To cure weed, growers loosely pack buds into Mason jars, seal them, and store them in a dark, cool place. Relative humidity should remain around 60%, which can be monitored using a hygrometer. Over the next weeks to months, growers "burp" the jars multiple times daily to release oxygen. Humidity levels are controlled using any number of tactics, from intuitively knowing what the flower should feel like to employing products like weed moisture packs.

Growing weed is an art form subjective to the person who grows it. It's a thing of patience, care, and personal preference. “It's a hundred percent intuitive on our end," said Joey Gothelf of WildLand Cannabis, an award-winning regenerative farm in Mendocino, California. “I usually just monitor moisture by feel."

He added, “The nugs shouldn't be able to crumble easily with two fingers. That's how I test the dryness. If I roll it between two fingers, and it crumbles easily into dust, that's too dry. But if it has a little bit of a chew, a little bit of a squishiness, but not too much, that feels right."

Walt Wood, a master grower and co-founder of Sol Spirit Farm, relies on experience, saying, “To me, curing actually just means evening out the moisture so the flower can undergo a microbial transformation, sort of like yogurt or something like that," he said. To tell how the cure is going, “I just reach in a bin and do a gentle 'touch touch,' and I'll know."

The best humidity packs for weed

While master growers rely largely on intuition to achieve the perfect cure, humidity packs like Boveda and Boost are tools created to regulate moisture during the cure and preserve the flower after jarring.

The way these packs are engineered allows purified water to be released into the jar when needed, supposedly eliminating the need for burping the jars during curing and providing peace of mind for the grower after they send their flower into the world.

The most popular humidity packs on the market are Boveda and Boost, and both work similarly.

Boveda

Boveda packs control humidity using a salt and water solution that creates a “monolayer shield of purified water over the trichome," according to the Boveda website. They have a large presence in the sun-grown craft farm community, a group that takes their terps extremely seriously. They are generally regarded as leaders in the humidity pack space.

Boveda packs come in a number of sizes to suit any amount of cannabis. For example, "Size 1" would be appropriate for a single pre-roll tin, while "Size 320" would be appropriate to control humidity on a black and yellow bin during transport for a distribution company. The brand also offers “Home Grow" and other kits that include a number of packs, as well as metal C-Vault storage containers.

Boost

Boost brands its packs as “salt-free, two-way humidity control." They use a blend of water and plant-based glycerin to essentially do the same thing as Boveda packs. It's another big name in the space and is regarded as similarly effective.

Boost packs are available at 55% or 62% relative humidity in a number of sizes that clearly dictate how much cannabis they are for, like 8-gram, 4-gram, and 67-gram packs.

Professional grower tricks

Despite the popularity of weed moisture packs, most of the farmers I spoke to were on the fence about their effectiveness, preferring to opt for simple, old-school tricks when it comes to curing.

“The humidity packs might be garbage, but I don't really know," said Wood. “If I want to bring my flower up to humidity because it got a little dry, I just put a couple of drops of water in there, you know, a little bit of moisture. But you have to be careful because putting too much is really easy, then you go swinging the other way."

“If it's dry, nothing beats the tortilla," adds Jen Proccaci, co-founder of WildLand Cannabis. “It's an old-school trick. You put a piece of corn tortilla in the bag. It moistens up the weed, and the tortilla turns hard as a rock."

How to keep cannabis flower from degrading

While the cure is an art form in and of itself, keeping weed fresh mostly comes down to keeping the flower out of conditions that degrade trichomes. The biggest offenders? Heat, light, and humidity.

In the current market chain, growers deal with the issue of their flower degrading during transit or at the dispensary before the customer even has a chance to buy it. For this specific issue, humidity packets come in handy.

“Most of those humidity pack products are good for when you're shipping it out, and you want to make sure that it doesn't dry out when it's going down to LA or something," said Wood. “After it gets to the dispensary, you know that it's going to be sitting on a store shelf out in the sunshine somewhere," he said.

It's good to keep in mind that the flower you buy could have already been through a lot by the time it gets to you. This makes it all the more important to store and care for it correctly once you bring it home. 

To make your flower last as long as possible, simply keep it in a cool, dark environment with moderate humidity. Think wine cellar, but weed cellar. Extracts and edibles should be kept in the fridge. Cannabis flower should be kept at around 60% relative humidity and out of any kind of light.

Editor's note: Weedmaps does not get affiliate revenue from the brands recommended in this article. All products are chosen independently by the author. The only influence Weedmaps News is under is weed.

The post The best humidity packs (and hacks) for curing and storing weed, according to farmers appeared first on Weedmaps News.

Pre-rolls are a great introduction to smoking cannabis and trying different weed strains. They require no effort to roll, are cheaper than buying full eighths, and can be found at every dispensary.

But with so many options, you might find yourself a little overwhelmed with the shopping process — especially in Colorado, where many of the brands you smoke come directly from the dispensaries selling them.

So we made a trip to Colorado to check out a few different pre-rolls and to suss out the cream of the crop. Keep scrolling for my list of the best pre-rolls in Colorado for every situation.

Explore every Colorado pre-roll brand on the Weedmaps app

Skip ahead to...

Favorite overall pre-roll brands

Favorite budget pre-rolls

Favorite infused pre-rolls

How I chose my go-to pre-rolls in Colorado

Who am I, you ask? If you're not familiar with my work, I'm Danté Jordan, a longtime cannabis journalist and the columnist behind The Drop. I've been writing about weed for years for Weedmaps but also Leafly, High Times, Thrillist, and many other publications. I also host a weekly newsletter called Words Never Said (wordsneversaid.com), where I discuss the intersections of personal growth, travel, cannabis, and all things life.

For me, all weed decisions around quality ultimately boil down to how it smokes. Cannabis can smell good, but if it doesn't taste good, punch with potency, and provide an all-around feel-good type of high, then I won't return to buy that product a second time. When I'm trying a new pre-roll, I'm looking at: 

• Flavor: Truly, the best thing about smoking weed is all the different flavors that come from different strains. Of course, I can get high from smoking anything with THC in it, but the taste of the weed is a huge separator of the good from the bad, as sometimes bad weed can taste like grass, hay, or even straight air.
• Smokability: When I smoke poorly made joints filled with bad weed, they leave me coughing and my throat irritated. This is why it's important to me to only buy pre-rolls — or any weed, for that matter — from reputable brands that care about my experience.
• Effect: Ultimately, whether I'm smoking pre-rolls to start, make it through, or end my day, I want the high to feel good and be long-lasting. If the effects aren't there and the high doesn't stick with me, I'm not interested.

My favorite overall pre-roll brands in Colorado

These are the Colorado pre-roll brands that do it all for me, nailing the flavor, smokeability, and effects. 

710 Labs noodle doinks

In terms of strain diversity, quality, smokability, and experience, you won't find a better Colorado pre-roll than 710 Labs' noodle doinks. The brand has a huge footprint in California, but it actually originated in Colorado in 2009. Since then, it's managed to blow up into one of the state's biggest brands and, truly, one of the best brands in cannabis.

710's famous noodle doinks are one-gram pre-rolls that have a rotini noodle as a crutch, which helps improve the airflow as the flavorful smoke travels from the joint to your lungs. Noodle doinks are handcrafted and rolled, which ensures a higher quality than using machines.

You can get 710's noodle doinks as single smokes or in packs of ten. If you want a strain suggestion, I lean towards the Trop Cookies and White Tahoe Cookies.

Maggie's Farm

Maggie's Farm is an award-winning dispensary chain with locations in Colorado Springs, Cañon City, Manitou Springs, and Pueblo. In addition to selling, it also produces some good weed — the pre-rolls are some of the state's best-sellers.

Maggie's Farm is a Clean Green Certified company, which means it exercises organic practices like growing in the sun and regenerative farming.

For people with a medical card, you will have access to a full range of pre-rolls, including the best-selling Clementine Kush and Guptilla Kush. If you are recreational only, right now, the Golden Marmalade is my favorite pick.

Veritas Fine Cannabis

If you're looking for a brand that puts heat out consistently, with a wide range of strains and flavors, then Veritas Fine Cannabis has you covered. Its weed is top-tier and smokes nice; plus, everything it does is single-source, small batch, and hand-trimmed.

Veritas' pre-rolls come as both regular flower pre-rolls and infused joints. If you want regular flower, the 3-pack of one-gram joints is an excellent buy that enables you to try fire strains like Papaya Cake, Cherry Diesel, and Forbidden Melonz. For some added potency and flavor variation, the infused joints have one gram of flower and 0.25 grams of ice water hash.

Viola

It's hard not to enjoy Viola's pre-rolls, especially the 10-pack of minis that contain little 0.25-gram joints, excellent for solo smokes and taking out on the go. Viola's pre-rolls are made with whole flower and available in a variety of strains, differing by dispensary. The brand is also available in Michigan and California.

Artsy

Artsy's pre-rolls are made with high-quality flower that tastes good, burns smoothly, and gets me properly high for an affordable price.

The Denver-based company has many different strains, but for the best introduction, go ahead and try that Purple Burkel. It's an indica-dominant cross of Pre-98 Bubba Kush and Granddaddy Purple that produces heavily relaxing and calming effects for me personally.

Cookies

You know the name, you know the big blue building, you know the big white "C."

Cookies in Denver has some of the best pre-rolls (and brands) that the state offers. You can buy a variety of one-gram single smokes in various strains, like Collins Ave and Azul Runts, as well as 6-packs of Cookies joints.

Indico

Indico's pre-rolls come in half-gram, one-gram, or multi-packs of half-gram joints. Indico flower has won Cannabis Cups and is well worth your money as a Colorado shopper.

My favorite budget pre-rolls in Colorado

Here are some great options for Colorado tokers on a budget.

Terrapin Care Station

Terrapin Care Station is a dispensary chain that produces weed, too. The Terrapin pre-rolled joints are a good buy for anyone needing a little help on the pockets. You can buy them as one-gram cones or as a five-gram multi-pack for around 25 bucks.

Pure Blaze

Pure Blaze pre-rolls are Clean Green Certified and available in indica, sativa, or hybrid blend options. If you love a sun-grown, organic cannabis option for a reasonable price, buy yourself some of these.

My favorite infused pre-rolls in Colorado

Colorado absolutely loves an infused pre-roll, so when you look at this list and a bunch of dispensary menus, chances are your best option will include a concentrate along with flower.

Kaviar infused cones

Kaviar's cones are probably the best infused pre-roll option in Colorado. They smoke well, taste cool, and have a super punch of potency.

A "caviar cone" is basically a moonrocks-style joint. Moonrocks are when you take cannabis flower, cover it in hash oil, then cover that in kief. Kaviar's pre-rolls are the joint version of this product — they're 1.5-gram infused joints that can have you smoked for hours. Plus, they come with a glass tip for added luxury, which is important in the smoothness of the smoke. You really can't go wrong.

Kaviar pre-rolls are sold as sativa, hybrid, and indica blends.

The Flower Collective bubble joints

The Flower Collective's Bubble Joints are some of Colorado's most popular infused joints — and for good reason. They are 0.7 grams in total and come infused with both cannabis flower and bubble hash — hence the name "bubble joints." Bubble hash is a solventless concentrate that provides a natural terpene profile, is full of flavor, and contains a high concentration of cannabinoids.

TFC's bubble joints aren't strain-specific joints but blends broken into sativa, indica, and hybrid categories. They burn slowly, taste well, and provide the exact experience you're looking for when smoking infused pre-rolls. Simply put: these infused pre-rolls get me high as hell.

Eureka

An old-school company that's been around since 2011, Eureka has many types of infused joints, including the classics, fusions, and premium pre-rolls. The classics are infused with distillate and added cannabis-derived terpenes; the fusions are infused with distillate and natural fruit-derived terpenes; and the premium pre-rolls are the best of them all, as they're infused with live resin and live cannabis terpenes. They all come as half-gram and one-gram pre-rolls.

If you're going to buy these joints, go with the premium option as they are the most flavorful and effective out of the bunch.

DaDirri Extracts caviar and bubble cones

Rounding out this list is DaDirri Extracts, with its two infused pre-roll options: Caviar Sunrocks cones and bubble cones. You can grab them as half-gram or one-gram joints.

The Caviar Sunrocks cones are rolled with bud soaked in distillate and then covered in some nice bubble hash. DaDirri's bubble cones are infused with bubble hash sans the distillate. Both are excellent options, but those bubble cones are the true champion.

Editor's note: Weedmaps does not get affiliate revenue from the brands recommended in this article. All products are chosen independently by the author. The only influence Weedmaps News is under is weed.

The post 13 essential pre-rolls and infused pre-rolls in Colorado appeared first on Weedmaps News.

If there's one thing that can be said with certainty about the weed industry, it's that there's never a dull moment. In 2023, that trend will continue as this relatively young industry forges ahead in the face of a possible recession, continued oversupply, and price compression, all while honing in on what consumers actually want and need.

Below, we asked dozens of industry professionals about what they think will be the big trends and developments in cannabis this year. Here are a few of the most common themes.

Price compression and oversupply will continue

Last year was challenging for much of the industry. The impressive growth seen in 2020 and 2021 did not continue in the same ways in 2022. Markets became increasingly saturated, capital became increasingly hard to come by, and oversupply put downward pressure on prices. These trends are predicted to continue this year.

“As we are experiencing oversupply, we need to make tough business decisions," said Lilach Mazor Power, president of the board at Arizona Dispensaries Association. "How do we bring more customers to try cannabis? How do we differentiate ourselves, and how do we stay profitable? How do we compete with the illicit market?"

“It's the end of an era," shared Kenny Morrison, Founder of CQ. "In many instances, the price compression in the regulated market is now surpassing the low prices in the illicit market, making it tough for any brands or retailers to do well — regulated or not. I think a lot of trade organizations and people still want to blame the illicit market, but it's a commoditized race to the bottom now that the risk premium associated with gray area or illegal activity has been removed."

Consolidation will continue, but at a slowed pace

Mergers and acquisitions (M&As) have been a hot arena in cannabis, with large multi-million dollar deals being the norm. In some markets, mergers and acquisitions have been a driving growth strategy for cannabis businesses. Still, many feel that's not poised to continue, as capital has become hard to come by.

Masha Ty, who works in corporate growth and education at ACS Laboratory, said, “Consolidation can be a good sign because it means the industry is maturing, and many of the surviving brands are creating high-quality, lab-tested products. However, the process also eliminates some well-intentioned craft brands that unfortunately can't compete as flower prices drop, and regulations become more complex."

On-site weed consumption will continue to evolve in 2023

(Gina Coleman/Weedmaps)

This year will see new ways to shop for and consume cannabis, with unique and immersive experiences leading the charge in the wake of the pandemic.

• Consumption lounges: “Lounges will change the game," said Mason Palmer, the co-founder of Smoke Honest. "Through thoughtful design, art, and experiential spaces, cannabis lounges will encourage safe, thoughtful consumption and give thanks back to the plant. You're starting to see this in LA/NYC with places like The Woods (Woody Harrelson's shop and lounge), which contains a Koi pond, scenic lighting, and mood-setting furniture."
• Events: “When we went recreational, [California] did not build in outlets for consuming cannabis. But last year, we were seeing lots of informal pop-ups and smoke seshes at various venues around the city of LA that give a social and cultural outlet to weed smokers. In 2023 here in California, events and happenings are going to be huge," shared Dan Wilson, Editor at Visit Hollyweed.
• Retail: “Head shops will need to reinvent their customer experience," advised Palmer. "Consumers will have the ability to test products in lounges now, then purchase [them]. The mature markets like California, Colorado, and Oregon are craving a better experience and willing to pay for it."

Consumer sophistication will drive product differentiation and branding

“As cannabis markets mature, cannabis brands must diversify their product lines to distinguish themselves from their competition," said Ami Ikemoto, Executive Vice President of 22Red. "As more niche products enter the market, the consumer learns about the science and benefits and becomes more educated, thus pushing brands to continue to offer new and exciting products."

And with the stigma of cannabis lessening daily, there's been an uptick in unique products and more brands touting potential benefits. “We need to be constantly innovating, educating our customers, and building our community. People want brands that reflect their personal values, to feel that they are supporting the growth of companies who do more than simply sell products," said Lisa Harun, Chief Marketing Officer of Grenco Science.

More cannabinoids and plant actives will enter the market

The two big cannabinoids — THC and CBD — aren't going anywhere. And while cannabinoids like CBN and CBG aren't necessarily new, it's predicted they will gain more traction this year alongside other active compounds in cannabis like terpenes.

“CBD, CBN, and CBG products will become hot items across a varied consumer base," predicted Mike Zens, Chief Operating Officer at High Road Edibles. "Some consumers will become increasingly familiar with the benefits of those specific cannabinoids and seek them out for their healing properties. Others will find the novelty of ratio products appealing — something different from strain-based products."

Other herbal ingredients such as adaptogens, nootropics, and active compounds from other plants will also garner more attention from industry and consumers alike.

“Brands will not be able to compete solely on THC potency and price. They will need to offer their consumers more, such as products that produce specific effects like sleep, focus, pain relief, and creativity. These effects can be achieved by utilizing other cannabinoids, terpenes, and herbal supplements," shared Ikemoto.

Infused pre-rolls and beverages will make a splash

Pre-rolls steadily gained in popularity in 2022, with 2023 being predicted as the year of the infused pre-roll. The future success of beverages has been debated, but 2023 may be the year they make inroads with consumers.

• Infused pre-rolls: “If you like [infused pre-rolls], it's not necessarily something that's easy for you to create on your own," said Brandon Dorsky, Chief Operating Officer of Fruit Slabs. "You have to have a little bit of skill to roll your own well-infused joints. And I think that there will be market demand for it because some people will just never even acquire the skill, just like some people don't ever acquire the skill of being able to roll a joint. Even fewer people have the skill to roll a good infused pre-roll."
• Cannabis beverages: “Edibles, especially elixirs and beverages, will start coming into their own this year. The 'Cali sober' movement is real as younger generations wake up to the realization that alcohol is poison to humans. Once it's recognized that you can consume a substance the same way in a social setting with little to no side effects, the shift is obvious," said Lance Lambert, Chief Marketing Officer at Grove Bags.

Not much will happen federally, but state legalization will continue

There is a lot going on at the state level in 2023. In the likely absence of any movement at the federal level, states will continue to create medical and adult-use markets of their own.

“Little is going to happen in 2023 with the shift in majority parties in the House and Senate," said Jacquie Cohen Roth, MS, Founder and CEO of CannabizMD. "Federal legislation will not be a priority, but there is a priority for the executive branch per Biden's announcement in October 2022 asking the Department of Health and Human Services to review cannabis's current Schedule 1 status."

As for states, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Ohio, and Hawaii are among the most buzzed about for potential adult-use legalization in 2023.

Consumers will want clean, safe, and sustainable weed more than ever

With consumer education on the rise around growing, extraction, and production methods, it is predicted that we will see increased demand for clean, safe, and sustainable cannabis this year.

“In many ways, we've seen the edibles cannabis vertical follow common food trends, and just as Americans have come to love their all-natural or organic products at the grocery store, cannabis consumers will seek out products made with solventless extracts and concentrates — even beyond edibles and into other products, like vapes. These products will be more expensive, but they'll definitely be sought after," said Zens.

"The subject of 'clean cannabis' will be a major focal point in 2023 for both cannabis consumers and cultivators," said Mark Clemons, General Manager of VJ Scientific. "There's a growing concern about all types of contamination that may be in our cannabis. As the industry becomes more mature and regulations evolve to assure safe products for all, we expect to see more uniformity and more stringent limits in test requirements."

There will be movement on unregulated hemp products and worker protections

Hemp regulations and worker protections will surge this year, as both movements gain media traction.

• Hemp regulations: “Intoxicating, unregulated, untrusted hemp products are being distributed through unlicensed retailers," said Adam Goers, Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs at Columbia Care. "We're seeing smart adults being confused by that, not to mention that there are no age restrictions on [the products]. This problem has certainly bubbled up in the last 12 - 18 months as it had never had before. One prediction for 2023 is we're going to see legislation, regulation, and enforcement increasingly throughout the country."
• Worker protections: “Worker health and safety issues will plague the headlines — with no real recourse by those being harmed outside of costly litigation. Hopefully, this will encourage cannabis business owners to start investing the necessary resources to protect the people who show up every day to keep their businesses running. Expect ramped-up efforts from organized labor advocating for greater worker protections," said Lezli Engelking, Founder of the Foundation of Cannabis Unified Standards (FOCUS).

Scientific research will make big strides

The science of cannabis is constantly evolving, and there are exciting feats in store as cannabis research gets more funding across the board.

“In November 2022, the US Senate voted 'yes' to the Medical Marijuana and Cannabidiol Research Expansion Act, the first-ever marijuana-specific legislation to pass in decades," said Ty. "We expect the number of DEA research registrants to increase exponentially as a result, focused on areas like cancer, diabetes, epilepsy, and pain management."

Roth of CannabizMD agreed, saying, “Central to the Act are provisions that will streamline the application process for researchers and will also make it much easier for researchers to gain access to larger quantities of cannabis. This will have a considerable impact on how the majority of our healthcare providers view cannabis, with stigma and little to no scientific understanding. We'll see an increase in testing cannabis delivery methods and devices that will deliver much-needed research data."

The post What will 2023 spell for weed? 10 trends and predictions from cannabis professionals appeared first on Weedmaps News.

Aquarius, the eleventh sign in the zodiac represented by the water-bearing Greek hero Ganymede, is both charming and iconoclastic and, ultimately, the most individualistic of all the zodiac signs.

Folks born between January 20 and February 17 can seem both familiar and mysterious in the most captivating ways. This Uranus-ruled air sign boasts creators and destroyers, outcasts and icons — the wild, free thinkers that, for better or worse, push our society forward. The range is vast and includes Frederick Douglas, Paris Hilton, Audre Lorde, Sarah Palin, Oprah Winfrey, and Angela Davis.

Aquarius energy is more than just a counter-cultural cornerstone; it's a force to be reckoned with. Even if you don't know anyone born under this zodiac sign, drawing on your own innate Aquarius power could put you in a perfectly revolutionary state.

Below, find six Aquarius-adjacent cultivars.

Find strains for every sign on the Weedmaps app

3X Crazy

Also known as Optimus Prime, 3X Crazy is a hybrid bred from OG Kush, Bubba Kush, and Granddaddy Purple. It usually leans into a euphoric and stoney high.

When the Aquarius vibes go off the rails, and you're suddenly organizing some manner of overthrow, 3X Crazy is the cultivar to curb the impulsivity of Aquarius season without sacrificing the "all for one, one for all" Aquarius spirit. Therapeutic consumers report 3X Crazy as being potentially efficient for ADHD, migraines, nausea, and stress. Recreational consumers report a cushiony euphoria in the body and a low-key inspirational, galaxy-brain head high.

Expect a skunky-sweet nose and an exhale reminiscent of overripe summer berries. 

Alien Tarantula

Alien Tarantula is a sedative cultivar that activates an Astro-traveling cognitive shift. It's a cross of Alien Technology and Tarantula and delivers solidly stoney, mind-expanding effects. If the Aquarius vibes you're trying to manifest are lifted, creative, and social, this cultivar might be worth an audition.

Recreational consumers report heady highs swaddled in a cashmere body buzz that hovers on just the other side of couch-lock. Therapeutic consumers describe potential relief from depression, anxiety, and stress, which the enlightened Aquarius has no time for anyway. 

Expect pepper, honey, and gas in the nose and a flowery, honeyed exhale.

Dark Side of the Moon

Dark Side of the Moon reportedly lives up to its psychedelic namesake, delivering highs that are soothing in the body and introspective in the head. Bonus: it may activate your arousal centers, so prepare accordingly.

Recreational smokers celebrate this cultivar for its peaceful head effects that are both grounding and expansive at once. Therapeutic consumers describe relief from chronic pain, muscle spasms, and cramping.

Expect a funky, berry-sweet nose and a spicy, botanical exhale.

Fruity Chronic Juice

Bred from White Widow and Chronic, Fruity Chronic Juice is a bit of a wunderkind. Originally formulated as a medicinal strain by Delicious Seeds, this low 1:1 THC:CBD — 7%-12% on average — has been reported to potentially relieve a long list of ailments, including gastrointestinal disorder, tremors, and arthritis. For recreational consumers on the lower end of the tolerance spectrum, this cultivar may deliver a physically relaxing body buzz and a spacey-yet-sociable high that could be perfect for highlighting your inner Aquarius.

Expect big, tropical fruit energy from this phenotype, with a citrusy bang in the nose and a burst of fruit salad in the exhale.

Willy Wonka

Arguably, Mr. Wonka has the most potent Aquarius vibes of all time, so it tracks that his namesake cultivar would be included on this list. It's also very Aquarian that multiple breeders have bred Willy Wonka, and as such, its origins are hard to nail down. However, the most popular iteration is an energetic cross of Chocolate Thai and Cinderella 99.

Consumers report highs that focus a racing mind without sedation and invigorate without jitters. It also maintains a lower THC percentage — less than 20% on average — which could make it an appropriate cultivar for those with a low tolerance. 

Expect an exhale true to the Wonka name, both chocolatey and hard-candy sweet.

Sweet Cindy

A cultivar bred for an energetic high, Sweet Cindy is a cross of Sweet Tooth #3, Cinderella 99, and BOG Bubble. This cultivar reportedly delivers mentally clarifying, effervescent effects that pair well with low-stakes social settings and deep, interpersonal conversations. Some say it also delivers a fiery creative streak that can be successfully transmuted into an engrossing personal creative project.

Therapeutic consumers report potential relief from chronic pain, stress, and ADHD. Though low-tolerance recreational consumers champion the low THC percentage — 15% on average — varsity potheads will appreciate the nuanced terpene profile and complex cannabinoid balance, which is very Aquarius of them. 

Expect a citrus-sweet, earthy aroma and a lemon sour exhale. 

The post 6 best strains for Aquarius season appeared first on Weedmaps News.

Pre-rolls are a great way to try a bunch of different strains and brands without breaking the bank. Consider them trial smokes before committing to buying an eighth.

And in California, there's no shortage of pre-roll options. Some are high-quality smokes with great flavors, smokability, and consistency, while others will just get you high. For those searching for the former, I've gathered what I think are some of the best pre-rolls in California right now.

Find deals on pre-rolls on the Weedmaps app

How I chose the best pre-rolls in California

I'm a long-time pre-roll smoker. My standards for determining the best pre-rolls are based on the complete smoking experience: flavor translation, smokability, consistency amongst different strains, and lastly, is the weed fire?

• Flavor: Weed can look and smell good in the jar, but when that flame hits the flora, those terpenes can deliver a grassy or cardboard taste that makes you wonder why you just dropped $10 - $20 on a single joint. The best quality cannabis flower and joints should offer both distinct and subtle flavors that are dynamic and unique to the strain.
• Smokability: If your joint is harsh and burns your throat or makes you cough throughout smoking it, it's not a good pre-roll. In fact, it's not good weed. The brands listed below should protect you from that experience.
• Consistency: Consistency is about two things: 1) If you buy a strain from a particular brand today and then again in four months, will the quality be as good as you remember? 2) If you buy various strains from this brand, will there be more positive than negative experiences when it comes to liking the flower and pre-rolls? The brands below are known for putting out good weed in a variety of flavors so you can always find something worth your money.
• Is the weed fire? When the combination of the smoking experience, flavor, and effects come together, are you impressed? That's all that really matters when deciding if you're going to go back to that brand and buy its weed again. If the brand uses trim and shake for its pre-rolls, the answer is an automatic "No." Only full-flower joints will prosper on this list.

Best overall pre-rolls in California

There's a lot of good weed in California, all of which can't be confined to a single list. In no particular order, these are the best pre-rolls in the Golden State's legal adult-use market.

710 Labs

710 Labs is known for putting out fire flower, ice water hash, rosin — all of it. The brand's 1-gram pre-rolls — called "Noodle Doinks" — are highly recognizable due to the rotini noodles used as crutches.

These hand-rolled joints may cost a little bit more than the other choices on this list, but I can tell you that the weed is good, tastes great, and will get you very high, regardless of which strain you purchase.

Alien Labs

When it comes to good weed from good people, Alien Labs never disappoints. From flower to extracts, the brand's almost guaranteed to put out nothing but top-tier products. So when it comes to pre-rolls, every flavor, from its classics like Area 41 and Sherbacio to some of its newer strains like Atomic Apple, Y2K, and Creme de Menthe, are home runs. Find them in 1-gram singles or 3.5-gram 5-packs.

Fig Farms

I will climb the highest mountain to scream Fig Farms' praises. The weed is amazing. If you see a jar or pre-roll of it on shelves, get it immediately because every strain it kicks out is heat. The heatest.

Lately, Fig Farms' Dark Karma has been my favorite smoke. It's a cross of Dutch Treat and Strange Love that could have you sitting back on the couch like, “Damn, I am absolutely stoned." If Dark Karma is unavailable, snatch up some Animal Face, Blue Face, and/or 6ixth Sense. You will not be disappointed.

Ember Valley

Ember Valley is a brand that lives at the intersection of flavor and potency. Its Berry Jane is one of my favorite flowers of the past year, along with the Dosi-De-Leche. While you can get its strains in regular 2-packs of 0.5-gram joints, the fun purchase is Ember's cross joints which consist of two flavors at once. If unavailable, scoop up one of the Darts joint packs.

Blueprint

Blueprint is a relatively new brand that's been making big splashes since it came into the recreational market in 2021. Its Triple Lindy is one of the most undeniable strains out there — it's super flavorful and gets you absolutely smacked, which is why it won Zalympix.

In pre-roll form, you can try many of its flavors like Dr. Freeze, Jesus Shuttlesworth, and The One. Don't sleep on Blueprint's weed. You will regret it.

Insane

You probably already know about Insane and its legend in regard to OG Kush's history in California. If not, grab a bag of Insane OG and you'll immediately understand why people respect this brand so much. All of its strains are top-tier and worth your time.

If you like GMO, that OMG will do you right; if you like Biscotti, that Beam Me Up Scotti will take you directly to the ninth cloud. Once you smoke any of these strains, you'll immediately be searching for eighths of Insane flower wherever you are — it's that good.

THC Design

THC Design's weed typically provides a smooth smoking experience with a nice taste. The brand is most known for its Crescendo flower, but its RS#11 pre-roll is an amazing way to try what will surely be one of the most popular strains of 2023. If you like old-school strains or Jack Herer genetics, the XJ-13 is a nice blast from the past, too. You can get THC Design pre-rolls as singles or in 5-packs.

Talking Trees Farms

Talking Trees grows some Humboldt County cannabis that will make any doubter believe in greenhouse weed. I came across one of its White Tahoe Cookies pre-rolls in a Hall of Flowers pack that absolutely blew me away with how smooth it smoked, how bold the flavor was, and how clean the ash burned. You can't go wrong with Talking Trees.

BLEM

Cultivated by Cali Lotus, Unruly OG from BLEM is the truth. Buy it, smoke it, love it. You can get it as a 0.75-gram or 1.4-gram joint. I'd suggest going with the latter as it comes with a glass tip that promotes a much better taste and experience than a simple cardboard tip on a Raw cone.

If Unruly OG is unavailable, that Cyattie is a nice smoke too.

Seed Junky

Seed Junky Genetics is known for breeding some of the most popular strains ever, like Wedding Cake and Jealousy. The weed it grows is fire, too, whether it be the Pineapple Fruz, Animal Face, or Bubblegum Sherb in 1-gram pre-rolls.

Best budget pre-rolls in California

When it comes to weed on a budget (around $10 or under), consider the brands below.

Cannabiotix (CBX)

A CBX pre-roll is great weed for a great price, and its Super Silver Haze and Tropicanna options are the champions.

Pacific Stone

Pacific Stone has some of the best-selling pre-rolls in California due to its price and quantity. You can get 14 joints for around 50 bucks or a single joint for $7.

Farmer and the Felon

Farmer and the Felon has a huge selection of 1-gram pre-rolls for low prices.

Best infused pre-rolls

Infused pre-rolls are joints containing added concentrates for higher potency and flavor.

Fidels Hash Holes

Hash holes are joints that are rolled with hash rosin in the middle, which then burns with a hole running through the flower, hence the "hash hole." They were proliferated by Fidels Hash Holes, and to this day, few have matched the quality that Fidel is able to uphold.

They come in two sizes: the classic Hash Holes contain 2.5 grams of flower and one gram of hash rosin, and the Mini Hash Holes have 1.5 grams of flower and 0.5 grams of hash rosin.

Connected Frenchies infused joints

Connected is in the same family as Alien Labs, so you can expect the same quality. Its Frenchies have indoor flower infused with THCA, brushed with live resin, then dusted with kief. They come in a 0.5-gram size, which is perfect for people who like mini joints for a personal sesh.

Cream of the Crop diamond barrels

Cream of the Crop's diamond barrels are joints infused with THCA diamonds. They come with an obsidian rolling tip that makes for a very smooth flow of smoke. The high is also nice, as some infused joints get you dumb high, but in an anxious and annoying way. Instead, Cream of the Crop's 1.4-gram diamond barrels may relax you without the anxiety. Try the Georgia Peaches x Jealous 41 diamond barrel first — Georgie Peaches is the brand's flagship strain.

Punch Extracts Punch Rockets

Punch Extracts' Punch Rockets are well-respected for their potency. Face one of these and you could be slumped over thinking, “Damn, I should've known by the name." Punch Rockets are hand-rolled, infused with rosin, and available with indoor flower or greenhouse flower, ensuring that for whatever budget, there's an option for you.

Honorable mentions

Here are a few honorable mentions that didn't fit the above lists perfectly, but you should definitely include them on your own list of smokeables to try.

Clarkies

Clarkies is a brand I came across at the last Hall of Flowers in Santa Rosa. It had the swag of, “We already know we have superior plants." I gave both its LA Pop Rocks pre-roll and eighth a try. Bruh — delicious. No clue where you can find this brand, but if you do, scoop it.

HeadyHeads

HeadyHeads rolls huge 3.5-gram joints that come in 3-packs. They're excellent for seshes with multiple folks and are available at Greenwolf dispensaries around California. Grab the 3-pack of Bazquiat flower.

Flight Path

Flavor, quality, and strain diversity all come to you with Flight Path's products. Cop its 1-gram pre-rolls or the 5-pack joints.

Cali-X

The Zkittlez pre-rolls from Cali-X are some of the best Z smokes out there.

Editor's note: Weedmaps does not get affiliate revenue from the brands recommended in this article. All products are chosen independently. The only influence Weedmaps News is under is weed.

The post The best pre-rolls in California in 2023 appeared first on Weedmaps News.

It doesn't matter how well you grow weed if it's improperly dried or cured. A bad cure can lead to low-quality buds that are harsh on the throat, unpleasant to smoke, and might even contain potentially harmful contaminants like mold.

For better bud, it's imperative that you have the right equipment to finish your weed the right way. Below, learn how to properly cure your cannabis and explore a few curing options.

Find perfectly cured flower on the Weedmaps app

What is curing and why is it important for cannabis?

Curing cannabis is the post-harvest process of storing weed as it releases excess moisture, breaks down chlorophyll, and locks in its final chemical profile. “This is where you make or break the quality of your entire harvest," explained Ryley Leech, who does Global Business Development for Fluence and has been home-growing cannabis for 14 years. "You can grow the best weed in the world, and if you don't dry or cure it well, it really doesn't matter. It's not going to smoke well, it's not going to taste how you want it to, and it will be an undesirable product."

Typical curing should be at least two weeks — longer if possible. The longer a weed cures, the more time it gets to hit its maximum quality level. Time is an advantage for people who home grow for personal consumption. “In terms of curing, with a home grow you can do things that you can't do at a commercial scale. The ability to cure it for as long as you want is something that doesn't happen in commercial facilities. They have to dry and essentially go into packaging," said Leech.

Drying cannabis versus curing cannabis

Drying and curing cannabis are packaged together as a process, but they are two different stages.

Drying is when all of the cannabis is hung upside down, or laid across drying racks, to let excess moisture drain from inside the plant. Once plants are dry enough, they're transferred to jars, bags, totes, etc. for curing. When curing, plants lock in their cannabinoid and terpene profiles.

“The interesting thing about curing, as an organic material, is it changes over time. You'll get different chemicals at different times," Leech explained. "Two weeks is considered the minimum for what curing is supposed to do, but as you continue to cure over time, some of the flavors will change. Some will get stronger. You can smoke something two weeks out, then smoke it again four months later, and get a different experience with the plant."

To know plants are properly dry, growers bend the stems. When the stems break, they are dry enough to toss into whatever curing system you prefer. “Optimal moisture content is somewhere between 12 and 15% before it goes in the jar. When you're hang-drying your plant, when you touch the flower and bend the stem, once they start to snap, you've gotten enough water out of the plant."

What are curing jars?

Curing jars are exactly what they sound like: jars that you use for curing cannabis. Other options include specialized cure bags, plastic bins or totes, steel tins, and big plastic turkey bags.

Without a proper cure, cannabis ends up tasting like grass with a harsh smoke during consumption. And throughout the curing process, you want to make sure to "burp" your jars. Burping is the process of opening your jars periodically so that moisture doesn't get trapped inside and create moldy weed. It also releases Co2 gasses that build up during the cure.

How to use your curing jars

When you're buying jars for curing, you want something airtight with a wide mouth. Getting something that blocks out light is also a plus. “The jar is an old-school method that's been around for a long time. When I read some of the literature about post-harvest and dry cure, it was always pointing you in the direction [of doing] some sort of dry, glass cure," said Leech.

Past jar selection, the most important thing is the environment where you cure your cannabis. It doesn't matter how great your glass jar is if you're not setting the right temperatures and levels of humidity.

The optimal temperature for curing cannabis plants is between 60 - 70°F with a relative humidity of around 60 - 65%. They should also be stored in a dark room/closet where light can't degrade your weed's quality and terpenes.

Glass vs. plastic: which is better for curing?

There's some debate around if plastic is good or bad for your weed when it's curing. Some say you should avoid it because, as the weed cures, the plastic's chemicals will seep into it and distort the flower's taste and effects. That's because terpenes are volatile chemicals that may react with certain plastics.

According to Leech, “Terpenes on their own are very volatile. Like limonene, for example, is a great cleaning agent, but if you put [isolated] limonene in a plastic bag, it will eat through the plastic bag, and a lot of that plastic will come into the [plant material]."

For this reason, some advise avoiding Tupperware, freezer bags, and turkey bags. While this is worth mentioning, truthfully, people have been curing weed in plastic bags for decades, and the flower has been just fine. There are just better options.

The most important thing to avoid when curing your weed is heat and light. Always keep your weed in a cool, dark environment to preserve its quality.

The best cannabis curing jars (and bags)

Here are a few curing jars and bags that growers hold in high regard. The choices you make will be based on the amount of weed you're curing and the amount of space you have available.

Ball Mason Jars

Ball Mason Jars are the most popular suggestion for curing. They're simple and classic, proven effective, can be bought in bulk, and can be easily cleaned between harvests so that you can reuse them over and over.

You can also buy Ball Mason Jars from any department store. On its website, there are 12 packs of 8oz, 16oz, and 32oz jars. However, for a lot of weed, the best option will be the ½ gallon jar.

While Ball Mason Jars are great for their value and practicality, their limited sizes compared to other options make them a tough option for people growing weed for business purposes.

CVault Stainless Steel container

The CVault Stainless Steel Container is a popular option for curing a lot of weed at once. It has an airtight locking mechanism, and the steel (versus clear glass) helps block out light and maintain a cool temperature inside the container.

Many of the containers on this list are designed for multiple uses, but the CVault is specifically for curing and storing dried cannabis. You can purchase them in sizes from the small 7-gram twist can to the 21-liter unit. If you're curing a lot of weed, these may be ideal for your operation.

Grove Bags

Grove Bags are specifically made for curing large amounts of cannabis at one time. Many successful, big-time cannabis brands use Grove Bags to cure weed.

Grove Bags use TerpLoc Technology to maintain the humidity levels of the curing environment. According to the company's website, TerpLoc packaging targets specific gas and water vapor permeability properties to reduce oxidation while curing while also removing the need to burp the product.

Grove Bags come in various types and quantities, including Wicket bags and blacked-out Opaque Pouches. Grove Bags are purchased in bulk, so if you're working on a commercial scale, these are some great options for bags that won't taint your cannabis.

Onyx Stainless Steel Containers

Onyx Stainless Steel Containers are another stainless steel option for curing and storing dried cannabis buds. The airtight, leakproof designs come in the widest range of sizes that you'll see, from 8 - 33 centimeters in diameter.

Anchor Hocking Montana Glass Jars

Anchor Hocking Montana Glass Jars are huge glass containers that work well for curing in bulk since they come in 1.5 and 2.5-gallon sizes.

However, they aren't airtight, so it's best to only use them if you're curing and storing your weed for a short amount of time. But in terms of affordability and volume, they are a good buy.

The CureTube

The CureTube is a newer technology that would make sense for large operations with a lot of storage space. The tubes themselves are pretty big, and the room will also need height for the rack they'll go on. You can buy both small and large CureTubes that hold 2 - 4 pounds and 5 - 10 pounds of dried flower.

CureTubes lay on their side so that you may easily roll them and redistribute the flower inside. The lids are hygrometers that help monitor temperature and humidity and have a compartment for adding humidity and oxygen packs to help rehydrate over-dried flower. CureTube's lids make burping easy too. All in all, if you have the space and funds to use CureTubes, they should do your weed well.

The post The 6 best weed cure jars and bags for a stress-free curing process appeared first on Weedmaps News.

If you've ever taken a deep sniff from a brand new eighth and thought, "Wow, this stinks like a week-old pot roast … and I kinda like it," don't feel weird — you're not alone. While complex scent and flavor profiles are inextricable from the experience of smoking weed, some cultivars smell very loud and are more distinct than others, and a lot of those strains come from the Garlic strain family.

Garlic strains are often connected by genetics, usually sharing the parent strain GMO Cookies or one of its many phenotypes. GMO Cookies was bred by Divine Genetics. It's a cross of GSC and Chemdog, and it gets its nickname from its signature stank of garlic, mushrooms, and onions. The resulting hybrid went on to parent dozens of outrageously aromatic, nuanced, and sophisticated cultivars.

The terpenes myrcene and caryophyllene lead GMO Cookies' profile and are the primary reason for the cultivar's signature funk. And though they also herald a distinctly sedative high, garlicky hybrids are certainly not universally serene.

So the next time you're craving a heavy-lidded and/or euphoric astro-traveling cultivar with the unmistakable aroma of a boot-nasty can of old stew, check out one of the Garlic blends below.

Find sweet and savory strains on the Weedmaps app

Garlicane

Bred from GMO Cookies and high-potency favorite Slurricane, Garlicane delivers a deep body stone and thick, cottony head high true to its pronounced pro-relaxation genetics. Consumers report syrupy highs peppered with euphoria and body effects that arrive with intensity and linger for hours. The effects skew sedative, but the blissful head effects keep the high just north of bedtime.

Expect a spicy, savory funk in the nose and an earthy, minty exhale.

Garlic Cocktail

Garlic Cocktail is a savory and sweet cultivar bred from GMO Cookies crossed with the limonene-heavy Mimosa. The resulting hybrid delivers a potent head high that is reportedly social and creative and a body buzz that is relaxing without being too much of a TKO.

THC percentages for Garlic Cocktail trend pretty high (30% and up), but its euphoric effects balance out the heavier, more melty body stone.

Expect a cheeseburger/orange creamsicle in the nose and a dank, sour exhale.

Garlic Road

Not every garlic phenotype is a heavy-hitting couchlock strain. Garlic Road, for instance, reportedly delivers balanced effects that are bubbly, uplifting, and deeply physically soothing. Garlic Road is a cross of GMO and I-95 that is described as both creatively stimulating and sociable. Giggles were referenced across the board, as were mellowed moods, soothed anxiety, and potential relief from aches and pains.

Expect a chemical-laced funk in the nose and an earthy, bitter exhale.

Garlic Glue

Fans of GG4 phenotypes might appreciate this GMO cross. It's both heavy-hitting and blissfully buoyant while still delivering expectedly long-lasting and stoney effects.

Consumers report a focused euphoria in the head and a thick, liquid body stone that could be used to quell heavy stress and support sleep. The most lasting effects are also celebrated by therapeutic consumers seeking relief from aches and pains and stress.

Expect a pungent funk perfume and a spicy exhale with nutty undertones.

Garlic Juice

Stoners looking for lighthearted highs that are giggly and effervescent might want to consider Garlic Juice. This cross of GMO Cookies and Papaya delivers a cozy body high that's borderline sedative with a sparkling head high reported to be giggly and euphoric. The stark dichotomy between effects makes this an optimal strain for live comedy shows, parody movie marathons, or squad roasting sessions.

Expect a juicy tropical funk in the nose and a spicy, gassy exhale.

Garlic Mint

Terp hunters hoping for an ocimene-heavy strain with garlic phenotype effects should check out Garlic Mint, a cross of GMO Cookies and Animal Mints. It's crispy and euphoric on top and oatmeal-thick on the bottom, which is to say, consumers report warm, blissful head highs and deep, dank, couch-locked body highs.

Additionally, Garlic Mints' elevated CBD percentage (3% or more on average) may make it effective against aches and pains and everyday stresses.

Expect aggressive garlic mint mania in the nose and a commensurate exhale.

Garlic Starship

Another heavy-hitting and deeply relaxing GMO phenotype is Garlic Starship, a cross with Sensi Star that reportedly delivers a cerebral high and a molasses-in-the-veins body buzz. Stoners who prefer the effects of a classically stoney strain will likely appreciate the dreamy effects of Garlic Starship. As an added bonus, therapeutic consumers report potential relief from the occasional bout of anxiety. 

Expect a creamy, spicy, funk-nasty perfume and a bright botanical exhale.

The post Garlic weed strains: 7 garlic-flavored strains for a savory smoke appeared first on Weedmaps News.

When it comes to shutting it down or lighting it up, Capricorns bring just the right amount of ambitious and focused energy. So it's very appropriate that Capricorn season should encompass both the end and the beginning of each year.

If you find that in the short, wintery days between December 22 and January 19 you're suddenly feeling inspired to finish everything you started in the last 12 months, thank the cardinal earth sign. Capricorns are the bosses of the zodiac, and whether they want to admit it or not, everyone kinda wants a piece.

Depicted as single-minded, mermaid mountain goats, they make scaling impossible surfaces and swimming against insurmountable tides look easy. Capricorn energy can be persistent, meticulous, and virtuous, and while folks born under this sign may seem outwardly chilly, their season brings out the most sincere and soft-hearted in all of us. At its essence, Capricorn is an immaculate vibe that should be exploited whenever possible.

Whether you're looking to maximize your Cappy season productivity or build a stash of strains that deliver that high-functioning stoner Capricorn spirit, consider these cultivars, curated by an actual Capricorn (rising).

Find strains for every sign on the Weedmaps app

Alaskan Ice

Alaskan Ice is a cross of White Widow and Haze that reportedly delivers uplifting effects with a mellow bent. Consumers report a soft focus in the head that can feel highly introspective considering the perky genetics of its parent strains. When restrained, Capricorn energy is what you're looking for, Alaskan Ice might be the perfect puff to take control of your life.

Expect a spicy pine aroma and a grassy, woody exhale.

Sumo Grande

For those who need to lean into a more focused Capricorn energy, Sumo Grande can be a great cultivar for acuity — aka, Big Brain-type stuff.

This strain was bred from a cross of Hong Kong and Nina Limone, and the resulting flower is a zippy hybrid that delivers both mental clarity and an effervescent physical balm that makes falling into a flow state that much easier. FYI: the flow state is where Capricorn energy thrives, try not to get swept away.

Expect a tangy citrus nose and a lemon candy exhale.

Triangle Mints

Tokers looking to cash in on some cool-older-sibling Capricorn energy might appreciate the unique effects delivered by Triangle Mints, a cross of Triangle Kush and Animal Mints. It leans perky but not so much that the highs become manic. Rather, consumers describe dissociative highs that are velvety and relaxing while maintaining focused.

Therapeutic consumers report this strain's efficacy in evaporating stress and anxiety. If the squad needs to boss up, bring this to the circle and watch everyone's self-discipline suddenly fall in line.

Expect a gassy, herbal nose and a sharp, minty exhale.

Cream

Capricorn energy is deliberate, but it's also icy AF. So when the mood calls for effects that leave a cool but rosy calm, a cultivar like Cream might be the answer. Cream's genetics slant toward ultra relaxation, but consumers report a creative stimulation that makes the high colorful and euphoric rather than sleepy and dissociative. If Capricorn season demands your resting B-face (you're not alone), Cream may help you lean into your apathy without dulling your shine.

Expect a sweet, creamy perfume and a flowery, diesel exhale.

The Soap

Fitness stoners hoping to drink some super-focused Capricorn juice before their next long workout might consider The Soap, a peppy phenotype of Triangle Mints. It's ideal for those who prefer a straightforward landrace-style delivery to a nuanced, cerebral hybrid.

Recreational consumers report fiery highs with long-lasting physical effects, and therapeutic consumers report efficacy in potentially alleviating aches and pains.

Expect a spicy, funky cheese aroma and a sour citrus exhale.

Zookies

Fans of Capricorn feels and Cookies genetics might enjoy Zookies, a balanced hybrid of GG4 and Animal Cookies. Consumers report it tends to deliver fast-acting, hard-hitting, long-lasting bliss. Body effects are reportedly heavy to the edge of sleepy, but the head highs can be soaring and euphoric.

Novice consumers should anticipate an altogether sedative high, but the more experienced may be able to revel in the finer nuances of Zookies. Therapeutic consumers report a cottony calm head high and a cashmere-soft physical relaxation that might help with aches and pains.

Expect a tropical fruit funk in the nose and a flowery, herbal exhale.

The post The 6 best strains for Capricorn season appeared first on Weedmaps News.

Before we dive into our favorite sleepy strains, a quick caveat: the best strains for sleep will be unique to your body. Chemical profiles will vary from product to product, grower to grower, and even harvest to harvest, which means there's no guarantee one gram of Northern Lights will be as effective as the next. Finding the right strain for you might take some trial and error, but hey, that's half of the fun! To set yourself up for success, save the cannabinoid and terpene details for each strain you try and keep note of how they affect you. 

Given what we know about how cannabinoids and terpenes contribute to a strain's effects, we've compiled a list of ten strains for sleep, each with various combinations for you to consider. Explore our picks below and keep scrolling for a detailed analysis of what makes a strain potentially sleepy. 

Filter strains by effect on the Weedmaps app

Northern Lights

One of the most popular indica strains of all time, Northern Lights is loved for its reported ability to relax the body and calm the mind.

Terpene profile: myrcene, caryophyllene, limonene, and pinene

Granddaddy Purple

Also known as "Granddaddy Purps" or "GDP," Granddaddy Purple is classically associated with a relaxing body experience. Bred in the early 2000s by crossing Purple Urkle and Big Bud, GDP has stood the test of time and remains a fairly popular strain for winding down.

Terpene profile: myrcene, caryophyllene, pinene, linalool, and humulene

God's Gift

A cross between Granddaddy Purple and OG Kush, this strain combines the best of the two strains' many uses to promote a general sense of well-being that can help folks kick back and relax.

Terpene profile: caryophyllene, terpinolene, myrcene, pinene, and limonene

Do-Si-Dos

Also known as "Dosi" or "Do-si-do," this strain from Oregon's Archive Strain Bank is an award winner that displays beautiful orange pistils nestled among green and purple leaves. Many report a potent full-body relaxation that helps them drift right to sleep.

Terpene profile: limonene, caryophyllene, linalool, myrcene, and pinene

Charlotte's Web

Charlotte's Web was among the first in a new era of CBD-dominant strains. It was created by Stanley Brothers to help manage seizures for the pediatric medical cannabis patient Charlotte Figi. Today, Charlotte's Web is one of the most recognized CBD strains that some people use for its deeply calming and soothing effects.

Terpene profile: myrcene, pinene, caryophyllene, andalpha-bisabolol

Romulan

For the Trekkies, Romulan is often included in the strains that were popular in the 1980s called "Blue Indicas" since they contain anthocyanin, a flavonoid that gives the plants their beautiful blue hue. Interestingly, anthocyanin is being studied for its ability to aid in sleep.

Terpene profile: myrcene, pinene, ocimene, and caryophyllene

Hindu Kush

Hindu Kush is a pure indica landrace strain, a group of ancient strains that evolved on their own without the intervention of human breeding techniques.

Hailing from the Hindu Kush mountain range in Afghanistan, it's another strain that's mostly known and loved for its reportedly calming effects and deep body relaxation.

Terpene profile: myrcene, caryophyllene, humulene, and limonene

Skywalker OG

One of this strain's parents, OG Kush, is a descendant of Hindu Kush and a well-reputed relaxing strain in its own right. Skywalker OG may offer a nice mood boost that settles into a very mellow and relaxed state.

Terpene profile: myrcene, caryophyllene, linalool, pinene, limonene

Blueberry

Blueberry's popularity has endured over decades and has captured many awards along the way. Its name is linked to its fresh and fruity aroma, along with its beautiful blue hue that may add to its calming effects.

Terpene profile: caryophyllene, humulene, pinene, and myrcene

Lilac Diesel

Lilac Diesel may harness the potential sleep benefits of terpinolene without being overly sedative, which makes for a good option for evening sessions. Developed by Ethos Genetics in Colorado, Lilac Diesel offers up purple hues with a fruity and minty aroma.

Terpene profile: terpinolene, caryophyllene, and ocimene

Cannabinoids and sleep

Cannabis and sleep have a long shared history, and many consumers know that sleepiness is not an uncommon experience when partaking. By personal accounts, indica strains are the first choice when it comes to relaxation and sleep.

So what is it about cannabis — or even a particular strain — that can make someone feel sleepy? Medical research offers mixed results, but it may be helpful to explore two active ingredients in cannabis: cannabinoids and terpenes.

Cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the primary active ingredients in cannabis. While there are over 100 different cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant family, THC and CBD are often the most abundant in any particular strain, as well as the most well-known and studied.

• THC: With short-term use, data suggests that THC may help some folks fall asleep faster and get more total and slow wave — or deep — sleep. However, the studies have been inconsistent. That same data also suggests that long-term use may disrupt deep sleep and decrease the amount of rapid-eye movement (REM) sleep we get, which is when we dream and when the brain carries out important processes related to learning, memory, and mood. It may also impact the ability to fall asleep and reduce one's total sleep time. It was also found that when regular cannabis consumers stopped using cannabis, they experienced sleep disturbances.
• CBD: Sleep and relaxation are a couple of the main reasons people seek out CBD. While many people use it for sleep, the question as to whether CBD is a sedative or not is nuanced. In small doses, it may have wakefulness-promoting effects, while high doses of CBD may induce sleepiness. For some consumers, CBD offers anti-anxiety and relaxation benefits, which can help them unwind.
• CBN: In recent years, CBN has become a popular cannabinoid for addressing sleep and restfulness. It can be found in many cannabis-derived sleep formulations, and while it has been shown to have sedative qualities in animals, we don't have enough research to determine if it is beneficial or has an effect in humans.

Mixing and dosing THC and CBD for sleep

Mixing CBD and THC has very limited data, but one small human trial in young adults showed that combining CBD and THC before bed reduced the duration of deep sleep. Still, the two also helped mitigate some of the feelings of sleepiness that THC alone produced the next day. One clinical trial among 23 adults in Australia showed that a proprietary blend of THC and CBD was useful in alleviating chronic insomnia.

And when it comes to dosing, one systematic review of the human trials done thus far suggests that lower doses of both CBD and THC may be better for sleep outcomes, but more research is needed before coming to any conclusions. This same review found that the existing data best supports the use of cannabis for sleep in patients with pain-related conditions, as opposed to those living with mental health symptoms or sleep disorders.

Terpenes and sleep

Terpenes are the flavor and aroma compounds found in cannabis and everywhere in nature, from the floral scent of lilac to the spicy notes you pick up in basil.

They have benefits of their own, and research is underway to discover more about the potential therapeutic uses for these compounds. Most of the evidence we have now comes from animal research, but increasing evidence points to several terpenes as having the potential to help us relax and get better sleep.

• Terpinolene: Terpinolene is commonly known by its presence in patchouli, and while it's less common in weed strains, even small amounts may offer some benefits. One study showed that when mice inhaled terpinolene, it offered sedative effects.
• Limonene: The bright and citrusy scent of limonene is uplifting, and it may have mood-boosting benefits for some consumers. Research also points to limonene's impact on improving sleep time and offering sedative effects.
• Myrcene: Myrcene is the most abundant terpene in cannabis, and you'll find it in many different strains. It's often synonymous with classically relaxing strains like OG Kush and Pineapple Express since it may offer sedative effects.
• Pinene: Both alpha- and beta-pinene seem to offer sleep benefits, with animal studies showing that they may help reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep while increasing the total amount of non-REM sleep. Alpha-pinene may also offer anti-anxiety and sedative effects, too.
• Caryophyllene: Caryophyllene — or beta-caryophyllene — is known for its spicy aromas and flavors. In addition to its potential anti-inflammatory properties, animal research on zebrafish suggests that it might also work as a sedative in high doses.
• Linalool: Classically known for the relaxing qualities it confers to lavender, linalool may impact sleep through its potential for relieving anxiety.
• Humulene: Most will know humulene for its presence in hops, but it's a common terpene you'll also find in basil, sage, and black pepper. It has been shown to have mild sedative qualities in animal studies.

While terpenes may offer us sleep benefits on their own, research scientists are also interested in the potential synergies between cannabinoids, terpenes, and other active compounds in cannabis, which is often referred to as the "entourage effect," which may explain why different strains impact us in different ways.

Terpinolene, limonene, and pinene, for instance, are terpenes often found in strains that are known to be uplifting and energizing, but as initial research suggests, they may also offer relaxation and sleep benefits. The particular combinations of terpenes — and their relative concentrations — may produce varying effects. Exploring a variety of cannabinoid and terpene profiles may be your best bet to find a strain that is helpful for your slumber.

Are indicas better for sleep?

The indica versus sativa debate is often grounded in effects: sativas are thought to be energizing and uplifting, while indicas are considered chill and relaxing. When visiting a dispensary, "indica" and "sativa" are what most budtenders will use to help guide strain choices.

The terms refer to the subspecies of the cannabis plant family. Sativas are tall, slender, and found in hotter climates, and indicas are short and bushy and hail from colder climates with shorter growing seasons. These subspecies come from centuries of taxonomic discussion among botanists, and these taxonomic classifications alone are not enough to tell you how a particular strain will make you feel.

And with modern breeding techniques and the abundance of hybrid strains, it's less about indica versus sativa and more about the unique chemical profile of a strain — or its "chemovar." Every person's experience with a chemovar will be slightly different based on their body.

That said, checking out a few indicas may be a good place to start when looking for a sleepy strain, but keep an open mind and remember that effects will not be dictated by indica or sativa classifications alone.

Editor's note: Weedmaps does not get affiliate revenue from the strains recommended in this article. All sleepy strains were chosen independently. The only influence Weedmaps News is under is weed.

The post The 10 best strains for sleep appeared first on Weedmaps News.

Unlike most cannabis stereotypes, there's truth to the trope of the sleepy stoner and the pot brownie. After the high of an edible has passed its peak, I often find myself pulled into dreamland by an extraordinarily powerful magnet behind my eyes that forces them to close. It's a running joke with my partner who, on numerous occasions over the years, has seen me fall asleep after about ten minutes into a movie at 8:00 p.m. on a Friday.

The heavily relaxing, often sedating effects of traditional edibles make them popular for cannabis products and brands geared towards inducing sleep or enhancing its quality. The edible method of consumption also lends itself to new consumers who want to reap the potentially medicinal, sleep-inducing benefits of cannabis without necessarily having to smoke anything or even experience the resulting high before sleep kicks in.

But do edibles actually help with sleep? And if so, why? The answer to this relies heavily on the edible in question, as the genre has ballooned into a massive industry of its own with a million sub-facets.

Filter edibles by effect on the Weedmaps app

Why do edibles make you sleepy?

Traditional edibles that use THC bound to an oil or fat are processed through the liver, which transforms THC to 11-hydroxy-THC and yields a heavier, less predictable high than smoking flower or vaping. Edibles that use nano-emulsified THC are reported to avoid this downside. Nano-emulsified THC is a water-soluble form of THC that reportedly hits in 15 minutes and is absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the lining of the stomach and esophagus.

And while “strain-specific" or “indica/sativa" edibles are, for the most part, an inaccurate marketing tactic employed by brands, adding relaxing terpenes, like myrcene or linalool, may help an edible make you feel sleepy. Other drowsy plants and relaxing substances like valerian and melatonin are effective additions to sleep edibles as well.

The cannabinoid CBN is perhaps the most popular trend in the sleep edibles market. Posed as some kind of wondrous sleep molecule, this extremely expensive cannabinoid is actually just old, degraded THC. You know when you leave your weed out in the sun or it gets old and turns brown? That's THC that has turned into CBN.

Research has shown CBN to have similar effects to THC, though it's between four and ten times weaker, and that THC with CBN is no more effective than THC alone. Bottom line: THC is the most active cannabinoid in the sleep cycle. Because CBN is degraded THC, it can still make you feel relaxed and tired, but it's scientifically not as effective as THC — and it's typically way more expensive.

It should also be noted that cannabinoids only help with deep sleep and have been shown to hurt your REM sleep long-term. To foster a healthy night's sleep all the time, look for products that include other sleep-inducing medicinal plants and non-cannabis compounds to counteract this. And, as a general tip, try to avoid over-relying on edibles to help you get to sleep. 

The best edibles for sleep

I've written about this topic extensively and have tried most of the sleep products on the market in my many years as a reviewer. This list is a good place to start if you're curious about incorporating cannabis into your sleep cycle.

Gummies by Dreamt

Dreamt is my favorite sleep aid brand on the market. Formulated and founded by scientist Carolina Vazquez Mitchell, Dreamt's gummies (they also make a vape pen and a tincture) feature a blend of THC, CBD, melatonin, GABA, and Valerian root that has worked for every single person I've ever recommended it to. 

Deep Sleep by Rose Delights

Rose Delights is an artful and extremely high-quality edibles brand that creates Turkish delights infused with strain-specific rosin from organic fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants from local farms.

Deep Sleep is its first effect-based product, featuring passionflower, vanilla, and mulberries from Frog Hollow Farm, as well as rosin from Holy Tonic flower cultivated in-house at Rose. They possess the power to melt my anxiety into a dreamscape and are as good a gift for someone else as they are a gift for yourself.

Camino Midnight Blueberry Sleep Gummies by Kiva

The Camino Midnight Blueberry Sleep Gummies by Kiva are some of the most popular on the market, with countless positive reviews on any platform you check. Again, I try to shy away from CBN on principle, but this blend of 5mg THC and 1mg CBN is effective for me in part because they include chamomile and lavender extracts (which contain potentially relaxing, sleep-inducing terpenes like linalool). 

Another selling point of these is that they are available almost everywhere because of Kiva's excellent distribution network, so no matter where you are, sleep is not far behind. 

THC Releaf Chocolate by Papa & Barkley

While this chocolate bar isn't specifically geared for sleep, it's one of my favorite products for unwinding after a long day before slipping into sleep. They only feature THC — 5 milligrams per piece, 100 milligrams per package — but something about them is so luxuriously relaxing that they top my list every time.

Definitely worth checking out whether you're looking to unwind or pass TF out.

Sleep Gummies by New Phase Blends

The Sleep Gummies by New Phase Blends are an all-time favorite of mine. I have relied on these for years now and have recommended them successfully to tons of friends and family.

Something about the patented melatonin/CBD blend in these gummies, and its tincture counterpart, knocks me out within fifteen minutes, regardless of my mental state, and results in long, deep, and restful sleep.

Low Tide Gummies by Seaweed Naturals

The Low Tide Gummies by Seaweed Naturals is a fantastic new product, and the brand is worth supporting. A new cannabis endeavor by the Costeau family — yes, the ocean-exploring ones — Seaweed Naturals is as focused on creating healing cannabis products as it is on restoring the environment of both land and sea.

SN partners with regenerative cannabis farms and uses its own kelp farms to create omegas for the gummies that pull carbon out of the atmosphere. The blend of THC and melatonin works wonders, and by supporting brands that support planet health, you'll be sleeping like a baby in no time.

Tranquili-Tea (Chamomile Valerian) by Kikoko

Kikoko's Tranquili-Tea is great, especially for new consumers who don't want to get high. I love tea products in general, but I feel it's even more fitting for the sleep genre.

This magical blend is packed with potentially sleep-inducing medicinal plants like valerian root, chamomile, and lavender, as well as 6 milligrams of CBN and 2.6 milligrams of THC per bag. All of these ingredients work together, leaving me feeling buoyant and relaxed as I walk on the brink of dreams.

Tranquility Gummies by Kahna

No one loves an effects-based gummy more than Kahna, and its Tranquility gummies don't disappoint. While the brand relies heavily on CBN marketing-wise, these gummies have a ton of melatonin, CBN, THC, and CBD, as well as added terpenes. They work for me, period.

Editor's note: Weedmaps does not get affiliate revenue from the brands recommended in this article. All products are chosen independently. The only influence Weedmaps News is under is weed.

The post The 8 best edibles for sleep appeared first on Weedmaps News.