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Cannabis Effects to Meet Your Needs

The healing properties of cannabis are derived from hundreds of different compounds, the majority of which we are only beginning to understand; many others remain to be discovered. It’s an exciting time to explore cannabis for both novice consumers and cannabis enthusiasts alike. As the stigmas and misconceptions begin to disappear, conclusive evidence continues to emerge which proves that cannabis provides so much more than just a euphoric state of mind. Not only is cannabis useful for recreational purposes, it provides a myriad of both medicinal and therapeutic benefits that can be tailored entirely to meet your needs. For an in-depth look at how cannabis can fit into your life, read on.

Currently, nine States have legalized both medical and recreational cannabis consumption. However, with legalization across Canada coming in to effect next month, and advocates across the U.S. fighting for cannabis access and decriminalization, more consumers will be able to enjoy the wide variety of benefits that cannabis has to offer.

Image source: Business Insider

One person’s experience with cannabis can widely differ from the next due to a variety of factors; the most notable factor being how the compounds in cannabis interact with our own endocannabinoid system, which is unique to each individual and ensures that our body is running optimally. Because cannabis is so personal, the responsibility of understanding the effects of cannabis falls largely on the individual. This may seem daunting, especially for novice cannabis consumers. So to help, we synthesized the three different ways in which cannabis can fit into your lifestyle: medically, therapeutically, and recreationally. We hope that this will help you better understand how cannabis can meet your needs.

But first, let’s go through a brief overview of cannabinoids, the compounds found in cannabis that bind with receptors in our endocannabinoid system to produce various healing and uplifting effects.

Cannabinoids

Cannabis produces a variety of cannabinoids that can be useful for medicinal, therapeutic, or recreational purposes. The two most common cannabinoids are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is known for its psychoactive properties which produce a range of effects, from calming and relaxing to energizing and uplifting. In contrast, CBD is non-intoxicating – you don’t experience the mental high that is associated with THC, but instead you may experience what many call a body high. CBD is known for its ability to relieve pain, and for its anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety properties. How you choose to benefit from and enjoy the effects of either THC or CBD, or perhaps a combination of the two, is entirely up to you.

Medicinal

Cannabis has a multitude of medicinal properties that we are beginning to understand. However, we know for certain that it can be an effective alternative to traditional medicine and therapy treatments. Where cannabis enthusiasts and advocates have known this for years, Western science and medicine are only starting to catch up. According to Dr. Ethan Russo and Dr. Caroline MacCallum, there is enough evidence to prove that cannabis is an effective tool in treating particular complex diseases and rare conditions, i.e., multiple sclerosis, neuropathic pain (headaches and migraines), chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting, and intractable seizures brought on by Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut syndromes, two forms of epilepsy. It’s also found to be an effective treatment for central sensitivity syndromes, such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and irritable bowel.

This doesn’t mean that you should throw out all of your pills and start self-medicating. We simply want to illuminate the fact that cannabis can be used as an alternative or complement to Western medicine. Where pharmaceuticals tend to have a long list of negative and harmful side effects, the adverse effects of cannabis can be mitigated by proper dosage and responsible consumption.

Emma Chasen, a cannabis industry consultant and expert, recommends that consumers try a ratio product to reap the full medicinal benefits of cannabis. THC actually elevates the effects of CBD because it binds more effectively with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in our endocannabinoid system. If you’d like to experience the benefits of cannabis with little-to-no psychoactive effects look for a ratio product that is higher in CBD to THC. Increasing the level of THC may be more effective for you in decreasing pain or reducing nausea, and the CBD will help to balance out the psychoactive stimulation. When consuming cannabis, start with a micro- or low-dose of 2.5 to 5 mg, and from there, monitor how you feel before introducing more or changing the ratio.

Therapeutic

You may not need cannabis to directly treat chronic pain or manage a disease or condition, nor are you interested in consuming cannabis solely for recreational purposes. Instead, you might seek to use cannabis as a therapeutic option, because, to put it simply, you’re looking for something that can make the reality of your day-to-day more enjoyable.

Sleep is an area where many consumers find cannabis to be highly beneficial. It’s often said that a good night’s sleep is the cure for just about anything, but a restful sleep is not always easy to achieve. Because of their long lasting effects, edibles make a great option for sleep aid. Where the effects of smoking cannabis usually last from one to three hours, the effects of edibles can last up to eight hours. Those who experience chronic pain or restless sleeps tend to enjoy edibles because it mitigates the pain and allows them to sleep peacefully. Products with higher THC content tend to be more effective when it comes to sleep, but a ratio product with 5 mg of CBD to 5 mg of THC is also highly effective.

If you’re new to consuming edibles, night-time is the best time to try them out. And, it’s best to start with a low-dose, such as half of a 3Leaf Coconut Oatmeal Cookie or Quinoa Granola Bite the first night, both dosed at 10 mg per edible. Slowly introduce more each night until you find that your needs are met.

Cannabis can also enable a healthy lifestyle. Some combine it with yoga, like one of our favorite LA-based yogis, Minelli, who regularly consumes 3Leaf edibles before, during, or after her cannabis infused yoga classes. Many enjoy cannabis because it allows them to quiet the over-activity of their mind so that they can better settle in to the present moment. Moreover, cannabis and both its medicinal and therapeutic properties can be highly beneficial for post-workout recovery. While most of the evidence is anecdotal, numerous professional athletes, fitness buffs, and members of 3Leaf’s own team attest to the fact that cannabis is effective in muscle recovery. THC promotes blood flow, which oxygenates your muscles so that they can recover faster; and, it also helps to promote relaxation, which can alleviate muscle strain and tension.

Recreational

You know the days where you walk through your door absolutely exhausted and spent? You throw your keys on the counter, only for them to slide to the floor, and all you can say is, “I need a drink.” Well, there are certainly days that call for a glass of red wine or a crisp gin martini, but cannabis can be a highly effective alternative to alcohol, and it may pose less of a health risk. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, cannabis will actually benefit your liver. And, it’s next to impossible to feel a hangover from cannabis. There is a chance that you will feel drowsy after consuming a large dose, but a headache and nausea associated with overconsumption of alcohol are highly unlikely.

THC is typically associated with recreational consumption because of its psychoactive properties which provide the feelings of euphoria. However, CBD can be just as effective in providing the ideal type of cannabis experience for you. Both can promote a feeling of relaxation, but THC will also provide the psychoactive high.

High doses of cannabis are typically associated with recreational use; however, researchers and consumers alike have begun to realize that a low-dose can be just as, if not more effective when enjoying cannabis recreationally. A micro- to low-dose, between 2.5 and 5 mg, provides various effects that range from calming and relaxing to uplifting and energizing. And it is far less likely that you will experience adverse effects with a low dose of cannabis. Micro-dosing is a safe and effective way to incorporate cannabis into your lifestyle.

As cannabis moves into the mainstream there is no doubt that more research and conclusive evidence will begin to emerge to illuminate its effects and benefits and make understanding cannabis less of a guessing game for the individual. In the meantime, it is up to the individual to understand how cannabis meets their personal needs. As you educate yourself and experiment with different consumption methods and doses we cannot stress enough the importance of low and slow: start with a low dose and wait to see how you react before adding more. With the proper dosage and the right consumption method, you are sure to find a cannabis experience that meets your needs.

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Thank you for taking the time to read our post. To find out more about our low-dose, high-quality edibles click here. Never miss out on 3Leaf news and exciting announcements, including the latest retailers carrying 3Leaf products. Be sure to join our newsletter, and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

Now You can Micro-Dose with 3Leaf

The idea that less-is-more has taken to both novices and experienced cannabis consumers as of late. As cannabis makes its way into the mainstream, many are beginning to recognize that consuming a higher dose does not equate to a better experience. Both researchers and consumers have discovered that cannabis can be more beneficial when consumed in lower doses. Moreover, micro- and low-dose cannabis consumption methods allow you to enjoy all of the medicinal benefits without the psychoactive high.

Both long time enthusiasts and novices have found that a micro-dose of cannabis fits perfectly into their routine and lifestyle as it allows one to enjoy the benefits without the worry of becoming “too high” to get through the day. Often, we hear of people who swore off cannabis because it made them feel paranoid and anxious for hours on end. These adverse effects are typically associated with an over-consumption of THC – the cannabinoid that produces a psychoactive effect. It’s understandable why you would want to avoid such a negative experience. But, where too much THC can increase anxiety levels, research shows that a micro- to low-dose of THC can actually alleviate stress and anxiety, and allow you to feel calm and capable of focusing.

3Leaf's new micro- and low-dosed natural Fruit Jellies. — 3Leaf’s new micro- and low-dosed natural Fruit Jellies.

Finding the right cannabis dose that meets your personal preference takes time and patience. Start with a low dose and increase it slowly; this is commonly referred to as the low and slow method. The low and slow method allows you to tune in to how you feel after consuming rather than elevating you to a high that you are not comfortable with. It’s helpful when introducing cannabis into your routine to keep a consumption journal. You can write down the type of product you consumed, the dosage, and a few notes on how it made you feel. This allows you to track which methods and dosage work best for you to help guide you in finding the cannabis experience that meets your needs.

Recommended starting dose for edibles

When experimenting with THC, the recommended starting dose is 2.5 milligrams. This is considered a micro-dose, and it’s a great way to incorporate cannabis into your life while mitigating the risk of adverse effects. 3Leaf recently introduced a new line of all-natural Fruit Jellies. They’re made with real fruit purée and contain no artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners. Moreover, we infuse each edible with pure distillate, so you’ll taste the refreshing fruity flavors rather than cannabis. These micro-dosed Strawberry Fruit Jelly have 2.5 mg of THC per piece with a total of 10mg pf THC per package. With four jellies per package you can easily build on your dose to meet your needs.

How to Safely Build on Your Dose

Increasing from 2.5 mg to 5 mg may not seem significant, but it is certainly noticeable. A low-dose of 5mg is also unlikely to produce any adverse effects, but it is important to know that when doubling your dose you’re likely to experience an entirely different type of cannabis experience. It’s best to consume an edible that is compliant under California’s cannabis legislation.

In addition to 3Leaf’s Strawberry Fruit Jellies, we introduced a Blood Orange Fruit Jelly, dosed with 5 mg of pure THC distillate per piece. Like the Strawberry Fruit Jellies, these Blood Orange Fruit Jellies are made with natural fruit purée and contain zero artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners. They also have four jellies per package for a total of 20mg THC per package. Each jelly is meticulously dosed to ensure that you enjoy a consistent cannabis experience.

These jellies allow you to micro- or low-dose with cannabis in a controlled manner. As we mentioned earlier, micro- and low-doses of cannabis, between 2.5mg THC and 5mg THC, allow you to reap the medicinal and therapeutic effects of cannabis and avoid any adverse effects.

One of the most important things to note about cannabis is that its effects are entirely personal, which is why the low and slow method is recommended so highly. Starting with a micro- or low-dose allows you to incorporate cannabis in to your life in a safe way, so that you can find an experience that fits your lifestyle and meets your needs. Cannabis was previously associated with consuming more in order to achieve a euphoric high, where there will always be a time and place for. But it’s interesting to see the shift towards consuming lower doses for the purpose of slightly elevating the day-to-day so you can be be sharp, calm, and focused instead. Because of the wide variety of medicinal, therapeutic, and recreational benefits of cannabis, there is something to meet the needs of just about everyone.

Thank you for taking the time to read our post. To find out more about our low-dose, high-quality edibles click here. Never miss out on 3Leaf news and exciting announcements, including the latest retailers carrying 3Leaf products. Be sure to join our newsletter, and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

An Introduction to THC and CBD

Cannabis is by far one of the most fascinating plants. Its diverse system contains over one hundred distinct cannabinoids, which provide consumers with a myriad of medicinal and therapeutic effects. The two most common are cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). A cannabis strain higher in THC will have more psychoactive effects, while a strain higher in CBD is associated with what many call a “body high”. While THC has been the long sought-after cannabis compound, CBD is certainly having its own moment – some may say it’s surpassing THC in popularity. It’s worthwhile comparing the effects of each so we can better understand how they can both benefit us.

The psychoactive effects of THC have appealed to cannabis enthusiasts for centuries. It can put consumers in an uplifted, creative state of mind, and it can also alleviate stress and anxiety. In some cases, it can help minimize depression. However, THC will work best as a stress reliever and anti-depressant when it is consumed in low doses. Too much THC has the opposite effect, and actually increases anxiety. Whether you’re consuming cannabis for the first time or have been enjoying it for years, it is recommended that you start with a micro-dose of THC, between 2 and 5 mgs and work your way up to a larger dose; and, before consuming more make sure to wait a while. It’s also a good idea to stick to the same micro-dose for a few days to see how you react before you decide to incorporate more into your daily routine. A half portion of a 3Leaf edible equates to 5 mgs of THC, which is considered a micro-dose. One full Quinoa Granola Bite or Coconut Oatmeal Cookie is considered a low-dose.

Our brain naturally produces cannabinoids through the endo-cannabinoid system, which plays a key role in regulating brain function. An article from VICE illustrates how THC and CBD work in harmony with our own endo-cannabinoid system. Both THC and CBD bind with the brain’s cannabinoid receptors, or CB1 and CB2 receptors to provide us with a range of benefits. The greatest concentrations of cannabinoid receptors are in the hippocampus (which regulates memory), the cerebral cortex (cognition), the cerebellum (motor coordination), the basal ganglia (movement), the hypothalamus (appetite), and the amygdala (emotions). Our endo-cannabinoid system naturally produces our own cannabinoids, however humans typically do not produce enough for our system to operate at full capacity. THC and CBD compensate for our system’s deficiency by binding with our cannabinoid receptors to produce a variety of effects, such as increased appetite, reduced inflammation, regulated blood pressure, and decreased sensations of pain.

Where THC is touted for providing consumers with a “high” from cannabis, CBD does not induce a psychoactive effect. Moreover, it can actually counteract that feeling of being “too high” if you’ve consumed too much THC. CBD provides a variety of benefits that impact consumers both physically and mentally. It has been credited with helping those who suffer from epilepsy and seizure disorders, pain and inflammation, post-traumatic stress disorder, Crohn’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and opioid withdrawal.

The benefits of CBD are apparent in the story of Charlotte, a young girl from Colorado whose epileptic seizures are treated with CBD oil. At two-and-a-half-years-old, Charlotte was diagnosed with Dravet syndrome, which is a severe form of epilepsy. At one point, she was taking seven prescription medications at a time; and at its worst, Charlotte was experiencing 500 grand mal seizures a week. By age five, her parents had exhausted nearly all options for treatment. But, Charlotte’s father, Matt, found a video online of a young boy in California whose Dravet syndrome was being successfully treated with CBD. Matt and his wife, Paige, decided to try treating Charlotte with CBD oil. And it worked! A few drops of CBD oil reduced the frequency of Charlotte’s seizures from 500 per week to only one. A strain of cannabis developed by the Stanley Brothers to help manage seizures has helped save Charlotte’s life, and primarily consists of CBD. It’s been named Charlotte’s Web, after it’s inspiration. Charlotte’s experience is proof that cannabis can have many therapeutic benefits that go beyond achieving a psychoactive experience.

The medicinal properties of the cannabis plant were federally recognized last month when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Epidiolex. This is the first FDA-approved drug that contains a purified substance derived from cannabis. Epidiolex is a CBD oral solution that treats the seizures associated with Dravet syndrome and another rare form of epilepsy, Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. This is a significant milestone for the cannabis community, as advocates have worked for years to provide consumers with access to safe, effective medicine as an alternative to prescription pills. This is another step forward in destigmatizing cannabis.

The fact that cannabis has such a wide variety of natural benefits never ceases to amaze us. While THC and CBD can provide consumers with a variety of effects when consumed separately, the two are also highly effective and provide a completely different experience when consumed together. A cannabis product – typically edibles, oils, and tinctures – with a combination of THC and CBD is known as a ratio product. For example, a 1:1 ratio means there is 50% THC and 50% CBD in that particular product. A good mixture to start would be an edible with 5mgs of THC and 5 mgs of CBD. Ratio products are increasing in popularity as they provide a balanced cannabis experience.

People who are looking for the benefits of cannabis without the psychoactive effects should consider introducing CBD in to their lifestyle. While THC undoubtedly provides many medicinal and therapeutic benefits, it is commonly enjoyed recreationally. CBD allows consumers to enjoy the benefits of cannabis without feeling “high.” Try products with one or the other, or a ratio of both, starting with a micro-dose and working your way up slowly. Mainstream society is beginning to recognize cannabis for its medicinal and therapeutic benefits, and we hope that this means cannabis will continue to become more accessible.

Thank you for taking the time to read our post. To find out more about our low-dose, high-quality edibles click here. Never miss out on 3Leaf news and exciting announcements, including the latest retailers carrying 3Leaf products. Be sure to join our newsletter, and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

Big News for the Cannabis Community

The July 4th is almost here! But, before we get to the lakes, bbqs, and fireworks, there are two major milestones that we need to address.

A few days ago the State of California issued updated guidelines for cannabis products including, among other things, that as of July 1st only products that have passed lab tests may be sold in dispensaries. Licensed retailers will ensure that their suppliers provide them with documentation confirming these lab-testing standards have been met. Consumers should feel comfortable knowing that products that are compliant with the State’s regulations shall be free of pesticides, residual solvents and microbes, and that the dosage of THC or CBD will be as claimed by the manufacturer.

These laws are in place to keep consumers safe. 3Leaf wants to help ensure retailers can offer trusted products so that consumers can enjoy an elevated cannabis experience without any worry. These updated guidelines now enforce a requirement that has been in place by the State of California for some time; all adult-use edibles must be dosed with no more than 10 mgs of THC per serving and that must not have more than 100 mgs of THC in a container. These products must also come in child-proof packaging.

Speaking of cannabis laws and regulations, we must address a major win for the cannabis community. On June 19, 2018, Canada passed a “historic” bill to legalize cannabis! They are the first G7 nation to implement nationwide cannabis legalization. Canada’s Cannabis Act will come in to effect on October 17, 2018. 3Leaf would like to say CONGRATULATIONS to our Canadian n’eh-bors! We hope you enjoyed a great Canada Day long weekend. We can’t wait to partake in Canada Day festivities with you in the future.

Now, we have our own holiday to enjoy! The 4th of July is a perfect time to check out of the day-to-day and check in to fun with family and friends, and to elevate those good times with a few delicious, high quality cannabis treats.

In our opinion, a perfect way to spend this holiday is out in nature with good company, and Lake Tahoe provides the space for just that. Winding waterways and tree covered mountains make it easy to escape the city life. Spending July 4th leisurely floating on the lake in Emerald Bay with some good friends and a jar of 3Leaf is the ideal way to celebrate this beautiful country.

While tall trees and soothing rivers have their benefits, we can’t deny the fun of fireworks on the 4th of July. San Francisco’s Pier 39 has one of the most stunning fireworks displays. This year, they are scheduled to go off at 9:30 p.m. We recommend grabbing a blanket and finding a spot to watch the fireworks from Hawk Hill where you’ll have stunning panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the bright lights of beautiful San Francisco.

Independence Day would not be complete without a good backyard barbecue. These cannabis infused Rainbow Summer Rolls from Sous Weed make for an amazing appetizer. And, 3Leaf’s Quinoa Granola Bites and Coconut Oatmeal Cookies are the perfect party favor to thank your friend for hosting.

No matter how you choose to celebrate America this 4th of July, we hope you have a safe, fun, and elevated long-weekend!

Talking to Your Parent About Cannabis

Parents: our number one supporters and our biggest critics. Deep down, we all want to please our parents and make them proud, but with a generation or two between us, it can be hard to agree on certain issues. Cannabis use is often a contentious issue between parents and their children, but it doesn’t have to be.

Society continues to bring cannabis into the mainstream. Nearly 35 million Americans consume cannabis regularly, at least once or twice a month. An increasing number of states legalized medical and recreational cannabis use, and the industry is evolving through what some have labeled as this generations dot-com boom. The market now offers a wide variety of ways to enjoy cannabis. Tinctures, pre-rolls, topicals, vaporizers, ingestible oils, and edibles are a few options to choose from, and they are now available for purchase in licensed California dispensaries.

The same creativity and innovation that inspires cannabis brands to provide a safe, consistent, and enjoyable cannabis experience carries directly to cannabis retailers and how they operate their stores or delivery services. BASA in San Francisco, People’s OC in Santa Ana, Apothekare in San Diego and Dutchman’s Flat, also in San Francisco, are just some of California’s reputable licensed retailers, who provide expert service in a comfortable environment to ensure that your medical or recreational needs are met. If you prefer to have your cannabis delivered, California Wellness and Kind Courier offer cannabis enthusiasts discreet and direct delivery right to your door.

With an industry and community that advocates the availability of safe and effective products to consumers, and more research about the effects and benefits of cannabis emerging regularly, you can confidently tell your parents about your cannabis use. However, if the generational divide persists, you can convince them with one or all of the reasons listed below:

I stopped smoking

Cannabis use is no longer limited to smoking a joint, pipe, or bong, and the products available today offer a similar, if not better cannabis experience. Tinctures, ingestible oils, and edibles are all consumed orally, meaning there is no smoke inhalation whatsoever. Each method provides a different cannabis experience that can be precisely dosed so that you can reach a personal desired effect.

Edibles specifically must be dosed at no more than 10mgs of THC per serving under California regulations, which allows consumers to start with a low-dose of cannabis and incorporate more if they choose to. Moreover, ingesting cannabis provides a longer lasting cannabis effect. After eating an edible, it takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes for the effects to occur, but they last between five to eight hours; whereas the effects of smoking kick in immediately and last for one to three hours. Consumers who use cannabis to alleviate pain often enjoy edibles because of the longer lasting effects. Switching to oral ingestion of cannabis means that you maintain a steady cannabis experience for longer without having to engage in the harsh experience of smoking.

I’m drinking less

Research shows that cannabis consumption is less harmful and toxic than alcohol consumption, which is why younger generations are replacing alcohol with cannabis. In one particular study, millennials explained that their choice to consume cannabis over alcohol was based on perceptions of safety, cost, and health. Respondents were concerned with making poor decisions while under the influence of alcohol. And, they cited the lack of hangover as a key influence in their choice to consume cannabis instead, because they were able to lead a healthy active day after consuming cannabis the day before.

When you consume an edible, its THC is metabolized by the liver. Alcohol is also metabolized by the liver, but it is far more difficult for your body to process. Where consuming alcohol increases the risk of liver disease, cannabis and its anti-inflammatory properties are proven to actually benefit the liver. According to this article, heavy drinkers who consume moderate amounts of cannabis had an eight percent chance of developing liver disease, whereas heavy drinkers who did not consume cannabis had a 90-percent chance. Because the cannabis industry is still in its early stages of development, there is still much research to be done, but as the stigmas are alleviated, we hope to see more accurate and fair studies.

I’m exercising more

Cannabis is a known healer. Many use it for its psychoactive benefits which help to calm the mind and alleviate anxiety and stress, but recent trends show a major shift to cannabis as the perfect complement to physical health and wellbeing.

Cannabis use is commonly associated with mindful practices such as yoga and meditation. It allows you to sink in to your practice, as it helps to get out out of your head so that a deeper mind-muscle connection can be established. Lit Yoga Studio and Yoga With Minelli, both based in California, are some of the first to offer cannabis infused yoga classes. Their classes will make you sweat, help you relax, and you can also learn more about the benefits of cannabis.

Cannabis extends beyond the mindfulness practices of yoga all the way to the realm of professional sports. Many NFL athletes cite that cannabis is a great way to recover from sports related injuries, and it allows for more focus and concentration on the field. Whether you’re looking for a deeper mental awareness or the chance to relax and recover post-workout, cannabis can make a significant difference in your health and wellness routine.

Father’s Day is this Sunday, and it could be the perfect time to talk about cannabis with your family. Having an honest and open conversation is a great way to dispel anxieties about the unknown, and we hope that the points made above will help in guiding your conversation. If you are struggling to find the words to say, you could offer to share an edible with your parent. There is something to be said for showing rather than telling, and we think that this could be the perfect scenario for introducing a low-dose of cannabis in to your relationship to help develop a better understanding.

Thank you for taking the time to read our post. To find out more about our low-dose, high-quality edibles click here. Never miss out on 3Leaf news and exciting announcements, including the latest retailers carrying 3Leaf products. Be sure to join our newsletter, and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

The New Mainstream of Cannabis Culture

The West Coast and Colorado are regarded as pioneers in bringing cannabis in to the mainstream. Californians have maintained a long-standing liberal stance on the use of cannabis. These views were adopted by many long before the legalization of medical cannabis in 1996. People in the industry have worked tirelessly, and often with the risk of legal persecution, to develop and make various forms of cannabis products available to the public. Legalization of adult-use has helped bring cannabis to the forefront as novices, people who previously quietly enjoyed cannabis products, and experienced users now all openly discuss and share information about cannabis. Dialogue is becoming more common in mainstream media; legitimate and legal access to product has become simpler and more open; and, more and more experienced business people are pursuing opportunities in the industry and bring with them more traditional business approaches and practices to the industry.

One specific testament to cannabis’s cultural shift is the evolution of dispensaries. What used to be a non-descript and questionable “shop” is now a professionally run retail store, in regards to appearance, operations, and the consumer’s shopping experience. There still remains the classic dispensaries that are long standing staples of communities across California, and then there are dispensaries such as MedMen. All seven of their California locations have knowledgeable staff ready to help consumers. The myriad of options available can be viewed on their shelves or on one of their in-store tablets. These in-store shopping options appeal to consumers who are comfortable with technology as well as those who prefer a human and more personal shopping experience.

Photo from LA Weekly of MedMen West Hollywood

Legal cannabis sales are expected to hit $3.7 billion by the end of 2018, and are estimated to increase to $5.1 billion in 2019, according to BDS Analytics. Consumers can choose their preferred and most convenient method of shopping: at a retail location, or by way of online delivery services. Both adult-use and medicinal cannabis products are openly accessible and Californians are responding well to it.

Cannabis is becoming more prevalent in the educational institutions of America. No, we aren’t talking about students enjoying products in their dorm rooms; colleges are introducing bona-fide programs with a focus on cannabis. Some of the newly introductions to the curriculum include research program on cultivation, extraction methods and the impact of usage. There are also commercial programs exploring the business and commercialization side of the industry. The University of California, Irvine is developing a research center to investigate the medical potential of cannabis, as well as its impacts on the environment, and its relationship to business and popular culture.

We are seeing a significant shift of cannabis towards the mainstream with the new wave of cannabis consumers. Research shows that cannabis is gaining in popularity amongst various groups and communities.

Parents commonly use cannabis to help with the stresses of raising children. An Eaze.com survey of 10,000 cannabis consumers shows that one in five respondents are parents. Athletes are also coming to the forefront of cannabis advocacy. Cannabis can relieve pain and assist in muscle recovery, so it’s not surprising to see athletes turning to it as a healthy alternative to pain medication. As of January 2018 CBD is no longer prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency, and this speaks to a major cultural shift as healthier active communities are coming to accept cannabis products.

Pioneers in California have been fighting for decades to de-stigmatize cannabis and have society accept the genuine and undeniable benefits of its use. It’s heartening to all in the industry to see that cannabis has made the strides that it has as it continues to evolve beyond it’s classic cultural image, and in to the mainstream.

Thank you for taking the time to read our post. To find out more about our low-dose, high-quality edibles click here. Never miss out on 3Leaf news and exciting announcements, including where you can find 3Leaf products. Be sure to join our newsletter, and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

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