White paper Title: The Potential Benefits of Cannabis for Women in Perimenopause

Executive Summary

Perimenopause marks a crucial transition period in a woman’s life, beginning typically in her 40s and lasting several years. This phase often brings physical, emotional, and mental challenges due to the natural fluctuation of hormones like estrogen and progesterone. Symptoms such as hot flashes, anhedonia, weight gain, itchy skin, pelvic floor weakness, night sweats, mood swings, sleep disturbances, and cognitive changes affect millions of women globally, often disrupting daily life and well-being.

As many women (including myself) seek alternatives to traditional treatments, cannabis has emerged as a compelling option, gaining interest due to its range of potential benefits. Various components in cannabis, especially cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a role in regulating mood, sleep, pain, and more. As research advances, anecdotal and emerging scientific evidence indicate that cannabis may provide symptom relief for women in perimenopause, supporting an enhanced quality of life we all deserve.

This paper explores the benefits and limitations of cannabis use during perimenopause, specifically focusing on symptom relief, the physiological mechanisms involved, and the current scientific understanding of its role in women’s health during this critical life stage.

1. Introduction to Perimenopause

Perimenopause is the transitional period leading up to menopause, sometimes called the “second puberty”, where ovarian function gradually declines, affecting the levels of estrogen and progesterone. While every woman’s experience is unique, common symptoms include:

• Vasomotor Symptoms: Hot flashes, night sweats

• Mood Disturbances: Anxiety, irritability, mood swings

• Sleep Disruptions: Difficulty falling or staying asleep

• Cognitive Symptoms: “Brain fog,” memory lapses, anhedonia

• Physical Changes: Joint pain, reduced libido, weight gain

The conventional approach to managing these symptoms often includes hormone replacement therapy (HRT), antidepressants, and lifestyle modifications. However, these options may not be effective or suitable for all women, leading many to explore alternative therapies. Cannabis, with its potential anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anxiolytic properties, presents a promising avenue for relief. Additionally, the cannabinoids in cannabis are estrogenic meaning they work more effectively when estrogen is present, cannabis is quite literally made for women.

2. The Science of Cannabis and the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)

Cannabis contains over 100 cannabinoids, including THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). Both interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors and neurotransmitters spread throughout the body and brain that regulates critical functions like mood, pain perception, immune response, and sleep.

• THC: Known for its psychoactive effects, THC binds primarily to CB1 receptors in the brain, helping to modulate pain, mood, and appetite.

• CBD: Non-psychoactive, CBD interacts indirectly with CB1 and CB2 receptors, with potential to reduce inflammation, anxiety, and stress responses.

The ECS is closely involved in many areas affected by perimenopausal symptoms, providing a rationale for why cannabis compounds might alleviate some of these challenges. Studies suggest that as estrogen levels drop, the ECS may become less efficient, potentially contributing to symptoms like mood swings, insomnia, and joint pain. Thus, supplementing with cannabinoids may help support the ECS and mitigate some perimenopausal symptoms.

3. Cannabis for Perimenopausal Symptom Relief

3.1 Relief from Hot Flashes and Night Sweats

Hot flashes and night sweats are among the most common and disruptive perimenopausal symptoms. The cause of these symptoms is linked to changes in the hypothalamus, which regulates body temperature, due to fluctuating estrogen levels.

While specific research on cannabis and hot flashes is limited, anecdotal evidence suggests that certain cannabis strains or formulations (particularly those with a balanced CBD:THC ratio) may help in temperature regulation and offer relief. Some women report that cannabis oil or edibles taken before bed helps to reduce night sweats, which can, in turn, improve sleep quality.

3.2 Sleep Improvement

Sleep disturbances affect nearly 40-60% of women in perimenopause, often exacerbated by night sweats, anxiety, and hormonal shifts. A well-functioning ECS promotes better sleep by maintaining homeostasis, and cannabinoids, especially CBD, may support this process.

CBD is known to have calming effects without the “high” associated with THC, which makes it ideal for promoting relaxation before bed. Additionally, THC has been shown to reduce the time it takes to fall asleep. However, higher doses of THC may reduce REM sleep, which can impact dream cycles and sleep quality. A tailored approach, combining low THC with higher CBD, may work best for women looking for sleep support.

3.3 Anxiety and Mood Stability

Hormonal shifts during perimenopause can have a profound impact on mood, leading to symptoms like irritability, anxiety, and even depression. Cannabinoids may help stabilize mood through the ECS. Both THC and CBD have been studied for their anxiolytic and antidepressant effects, potentially helping women to manage stress and anxiety.

• CBD: Known for its anxiolytic properties, CBD may reduce feelings of anxiety and promote calmness without causing a mindshift.

• THC: At lower doses, THC aids in relaxation, but higher doses may increase anxiety in some people. Microdosing—consuming very low doses of THC typically under 5mgs —might help alleviate mood symptoms without strong psychoactive effects.

3.4 Pain and Inflammation Management

Joint pain and muscle aches are common complaints during perimenopause, often stemming from estrogen decline, which affects collagen production and joint lubrication. Cannabis, particularly CBD, is well-regarded for its anti-inflammatory properties, which may reduce pain and stiffness.

Studies have shown that both CBD and THC have potential analgesic effects, and their anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce symptoms of joint and muscle pain. Topical CBD products are increasingly popular among women seeking localized pain relief, offering targeted action without systemic effects. Topicals formulated with moisturizer will also help alleviate dry, itchy skin sometimes associated with perimenopause.

3.5 Cognitive Clarity and “Brain Fog” Relief

Many women experience cognitive challenges during perimenopause, including memory lapses and difficulty concentrating, often termed “brain fog.” While more research is needed, cannabinoids may potentially help improve focus and clarity, especially CBD, which does not impair cognition.

Some preliminary studies suggest that CBD may have neuroprotective properties, possibly supporting brain health and reducing inflammation, which can contribute to improved cognitive function. The right cannabis strain or ratio might help manage brain fog, allowing women to feel more mentally sharp during this transition.

4. Methods of Cannabis Consumption for Perimenopausal Symptom Relief

Women interested in exploring cannabis for perimenopausal symptom relief have several options, including:

• Inhalation (Smoking or Vaping): Provides quick relief but may not be suitable for women with respiratory concerns. Vaporization doesn’t involve combustion of plant matter, making it a more gentle option on the lungs.

• Edibles: Offer longer-lasting effects, ideal for sleep support, though onset time can vary and keep in mind some people’s kidneys do not process edibles through efficiently to make them psychoactive.

• Drinkables: liquid cannabis infusions metabolize in the body more like a smokers high, meaning it will take effect quickly, but will also dissipate fairly quickly as well. An excellent entry point for new users.

• Tinctures, extracts and Oils: Provide flexible dosing and quicker onset than edibles, with the advantage of precise dosage control. These products are formulated to be taken under the tongue (‘sublingual’) or between the gums and cheek, which is called ‘buccal dosing’. these go directly to the circulatory system, bypassing the digestive system, making it take affect more quickly.

• Topicals: Ideal for localized pain, allowing direct application to sore areas with minimal (if any) psychoactive effects. There are also transdermal patches impregnated with cannabis in various forms, many that do not produce a mind shift but do confer extended release pain relief.

Each method offers unique benefits and onset times, so individual preferences and specific symptoms should guide the choice of consumption.

5. Potential Risks and Considerations

While cannabis is generally considered very safe, it is essential for women to consult with a an expert as well as their healthcare provider (these are often not the same person), particularly because psychoactive effects of THC may have potential for interactions with medications like heart meds or anti-psychotics (cannabis can alter the efficacy of certain medications).

Potential side effects include:

• Psychoactive Effects: THC can cause euphoria that borders on disorientation in higher doses. Microdosing and using a combination of cannabinoids simultaneously minimizes these effects.

• Interaction with Hormone Therapy: Women using HRT should discuss cannabis use with their doctor to avoid any potential interactions (or just to let them know). Again, cannabinoids are estrogenic meaning they work very well when estrogen is present.

• Individual Variation: Each woman’s body responds differently to cannabinoids, and factors like metabolism, hormone levels, mindset, fitness, and ECS sensitivity (aka tolerance) can influence efficacy and side effects.

6. Conclusion: A Personalized Path to Well-Being

Cannabis shows extreme promise in addressing several perimenopausal symptoms, from sleep disturbances and mood swings to joint pain and anxiety. However, every woman’s experience with cannabis is unique, and it may take some experimentation with dosages, strains, and delivery methods to find the right fit. Using cannabis as medicine is incredibly personal and the good news is that in today’s product landscape, there are products available for consumers to ingest just 1 mg at a time making cannabis a very friendly option for new users.

For women seeking natural, plant-based alternatives, cannabis provides a customizable option for managing the symptoms of perimenopause. As research progresses and awareness grows, cannabis will absolutely become a more widely accepted and understood tool in the perimenopausal journey.

If you or a loved one would like personalized guidance on your cannabis journey you can schedule time on my calendar for a confidential consult here.

Women in Weed Need Roots: Networking

It’s been a long year and we have the largest national gathering of cannabis professionals coming up with MJ Bizcon in Las Vegas. As we prepare to finish the year strong in Vegas, here are reasons to start your time in the Sin City by attending Blunt Brunch Nationals.

As a woman working in a male-dominated field, it’s important to have strong connections to female colleagues. I have attended many tradeshows and for this one it’s important to front-load community belonging; attending Blunt Brunch prior to the start of BizCon is like convening with fervent supporters before a big interview or meeting. You’ll leave with new connections and invigorated for the days ahead.

Networking with other women can have many benefits, including:

• Confidence
  Being part of a supportive network can help women feel more confident, which can lead to taking on new challenges.

• Collaboration
  Working together with other women can help increase visibility and credibility in the industry. 

• Strong relationships
  Building close relationships with contacts can lead to business partnerships and other opportunities. 

• Mentorship
  Having a mentor can help women build their professional network and learn how to make connections. 

• Job opportunities
  Networking can lead to new employment opportunities and collaborations. 

• Motivation
  The support and inspiration from other women in the group can help drive women to success. 

• Raising your profile
  Networking can help women stand out to recruiters and increase their visibility in professional circles. 

If you’re a woman in cannabis going to Las Vegas for MJ BizCon you should attend Blunt Brunch Nationals, 2024’s event is an evening affair of glitz & glam that will bring our community of amazing women together in a fun, truly special way.

Click here and use code CANNCIERGE to save! See you in Vegas!

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Summer Terpenes: Geraniol

Geraniol! This naturally occurring terpene carries a vegetal-yet-sweet-rose fragrance and a subtle grassy, floral flavor. Like other terps, geraniol appears in essential oils of aromatic plant species including cannabis. Some insects also emit terpenes, which is so interesting - the scent glands of honeybees are used to “tag” nectar-bearing plants (to stake claim? come back to later?).

Along with herb and bees, geraniol also shows up in geranium flowers (hence the name), lemongrass, roses, lemons, oranges, carrots, and blueberries.

Geraniol has a ton of commercial uses in fragrance and flavor. Given it’s aroma geraniol is added to perfumes, hair products, skin creams, moisturizers, cleaning products, detergents, etc. In food, geraniol often acts as a flavoring agent in drinks, ice cream, and candy. Also, like other terps, geraniol is an insect repellent and is naturally very low in toxicity levels so is a fab alternative to chemical insecticides.

Therapeutic applications of the geraniol terpene

Ok coolcoolcool but what about the medicinal benefits?  Those are incredible! Geraniol has exhibited a lot of potential as an anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-cancer, and neuroprotectant - and contemporary research supports it all.

The base of much disease is inflammation and Geraniol has impressive anti-inflammatory properties. Several peer-reviewed studies have borne this out. One of them, published in Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine, found that geraniol reduces inflammation and oxidative stress associated with traumatic spinal cord injury in rats.

Meanwhile, a European Journal of Pharmacology study concluded that geraniol may lower the risk of atherosclerosis (a condition that causes heart disease) by inhibiting the body’s inflammatory responses.

Anti-tumor

According to a 2016 review, the existing literature demonstrates that geraniol hastherapeutic or preventative effects on the following cancers:

• breast

• lung

• colon

• prostate

• pancreatic

• hepatic

Geraniol has also shown an ability to make cancer cells more responsive to chemotherapy drugs. As a result, the review’s authors described geraniol as the potential basis for a “safe and effective multi-targeted anticancer agent.”

Neuroprotective

Geraniol may have a neuroprotective effect, according to a 2014 study. The point of the study was to determine whether geraniol can mitigate neurological damage caused by exposure to a chemical called acrylamide. In their conclusion, the authors wrote that geraniol provides neuroprotection and could be used to help treat issues arising from neuropathy (damage to nerve cells). However, they stressed that additional research is needed.

Anti-oxidant

A study published in the Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical and Clinical Research found geraniol to have significant antioxidant properties. Specifically, geraniol exhibited benefits in relation to oxidative stress, a common feature of neurodegenerative conditions.

Anti-bacterial

A 2018 study published in Natural Product Communications evaluated geraniol’s anti-bacterial effects. Researchers tested whether combining geraniol with antibiotic medicines was beneficial in treating three bacterial infections—H. pylori, S. aureus (staph infection), and E.coli.

Geraniol was found to boost the efficacy of antibiotics in all three cases, leading the authors to conclude that it has “substantial” therapeutic potential as an anti-bacterial agent.

Anti-fungal

In 2018, Molecules published an article about geraniol’s anti-fungal properties. Along with the citral terpene, geraniol inhibited the growth of two fungi known to contaminate stored seeds and grains, especially in developing countries. Therefore, geraniol could potentially serve as an effective grain preservative.

Other effects of geraniol

In addition to wide-ranging benefits I mentioned above, geraniol may quell symptoms brought about by the following mental health challenges, which when combined, effect a huge portion of the global population:

• depression

• anxiety

• insomnia

•  mood disorders

Keep in mind, however, that further studies are needed to determine the extent of cannabis derived geraniol’s medicinal bandwidth but only with a Federal Reschedule of cannabis, holistic, patient-centered legalization, and total decriminalization will that level of research be possible.

Cannabis strains containing geraniol: Tahoe OG, Purple Punch, New York Diesel

• Of these, Purple Punch (Grand Daddy Purp x Clementine) will be most widely available in regulated states as it’s a popular-ish strain (for good reason). Geraniol doesn’t command individual strain profiles the way heavyweight cannabis terpenes like myrcene, linalool, and limonene do. Which isn’t to say that its influence is negligible. On the contrary, its sweet floral notes—which add nuance, complexity, and balance to various strains—are hard to miss.

• Have you found a terpene you love? Tell us in the Comments!

Puff, Puff, Pass...OUT?!

Puff, Puff…Pass Out? Have you ever seen someone smoke weed then faint? Or has it happened to you? I’ve witnessed these episodes five times in very different settings but one thing has been constant - it’s always been men, generally on the thinner side, standing upright while consuming. Read on for my exploration into why this happens mainly to men and my anecdotal, but possibly amazing, theory about it’s connection to estrogen.

An important person in my life recently fainted in front of me while we were getting high, an activity we do regularly together. The episode frightened me to a degree that I needed to delve deeper into why this occurred to make myself feel better but to share it with you. I’m 99% sure that you or someone you know has witnessed someone or been the person who has experienced what's called syncope (sink-oh-pee) otherwise known as fainting. Fainting is defined as when the brain doesn’t receive enough oxygen causing the person to lose consciousness temporarily - this is evolution’s way of diverting the body’s priority from consciousness to other bodily functions to maintain survival. We were smoking herb in the low-mid 20% THC range and after one hit (!) my loved one lost consciousness almost falling backward out of a stool. From a few feet away I noticed immediately that something was wrong and ran over in time to help ease them to the ground. They were unconscious for probably 10 seconds as I cradled them and another person dialed 911, they then woke up with a beautiful little smile and said “hi, what's up?”. This person had absolutely no idea what had just happened - complete blackout. After a moment or two it was clear that my loved one was fine and we declined to have an ambulance deployed but he did see his own doctor shortly after and was cleared of any concerns. This is actually the second time I've seen this particular person pass out after smoking weed but the first time it was when we were smoking potent hashish, so it made a little bit more sense. This time around, we’d just had a small amount of basic weed, not of particularly high potency, literally one hit off of a hand pipe. I was perplexed.

After diving into deeper research and chatting with some docs and nurses (some of whom are my own clients, fun fact), I’m confident that cannabis-induced syncope mostly has to do with the bodys’ metabolization function and blood pressure. THC lowers the blood pressure in consumers, which is one reason folks with heart problems and/or taking heart meds should be educated about this if also using herb, OR, particularly thin folks - all FIVE times I’ve personally witnessed this happen, the man using the weed was of thinner stature, physically fit, with age varying from 30s to 60s, as well as the consumption method type and potency, which notably has always differed: Lozenges (2), Hash (1), Flower (1), Concentrates (1). I’ve never seen someone pass out off of edibles, but they do make some people very sleepy after they kick in, which makes me think metabolization matters. Because it must be digested to become psychoactive, eating cannabis takes a longer time to kick-in than any other consumption method, somewhat avoiding a rush of THC to the bloodstream to cause syncope. According to pubmed.gov and a comparative (and absolutely scientifically tiny) study done in 1992 ( I know, it's been a while), called  “Middle Cerebral Artery Velocity During Upright Posture After Marijuana Smoking”, it’s stated that “marijuana is known to cause symptoms suggestive of orthostatic hypotension such as dizziness and fainting during upright posture”. In the study researchers examined changes in cerebral blood velocity (cbv) and peripheral circulation during upright posture after smoking marijuana in 10 right-handed male subjects” Layspeak: they measured how fast blood reached extremities while subjects smoked weed vs. a placebo.

While I don’t have a clear idea of the importance right handedness holds (other than maybe a connection to being opposite the heart?), but six of the 10 subjects reported moderate to severe dizziness smoking herb while standing upright. Subjects who experienced severe dizziness during standing showed marked decreases in their blood pressure and cbv; those who reported moderate dizziness showed reduction in cbv but not blood pressure; subjects who reported mild dizziness after marijuana. Placebo-smoking subjects showed minimal changes in blood pressure in cbv after consuming marijuana in an upright position. So, the weed faints are likely caused by “hypotension and impaired cerebral autoregulation” or how well your blood is being transported to your extremities from your heart - including your brain.

Now for the part I’m really intrigued by - it’s known that cannabinoids are “estrogenic”, which means they are more effective when estrogen is present. I’ve never witnessed a woman pass out right after gettin’ high; are women not passing out because we process THC more effectively? Estrogen(s) is a group of female sex hormones associated with reproductive development and maintenance of female body characteristics. Estrogen specifically plays a role in our menstrual cycles, mood, and metabolization; it’s produced by the ovaries although the adrenal glands and even fat cells also excrete small amounts of the hormones. Could it be that because of the way female bodies metabolize cannabis we are less likely to experience an accidental weed nap?!  Definitely an area I’m going to be watching. 

So how do we NOT pass out my sweet, stony friends? 

• First of all, sit down if you feel dizzy - even if that’s on the ground (best not to add a head injury to your episode);

• Pay attention to other warning signs like facial paleness, tunnel or blurred vision, a cold sweat or getting very warm, feeling suddenly nauseated, or a sudden onset of a combo of these; 

• Truly respect yourself and your body’s limits. If you’ve fainted when weed’s involved, mindful about how, when, and around which folks you consume. And never, ever drive and toke; 

• Tell your friends - they want to watch out for you; 

• Take a break from herb for a bit, change strains, and possibly most importantly, consider the method with which you consume - metabolization matters; 

• Eat well and make sure you’re well rested before smoking; 

• Again, sit down while ya smoke. While seated, your heart’s not working quite as hard against gravity to effectively pump your blood, but when you elongate that journey by standing up your blood oxygen activity changes; 

• Tell your doc. Seriously, they’re not going to narc on you but they may wanna run some tests to make sure your heart’s in good shape.

What do we do if someone we’re seshing with passes out?  

• Call for help and emergency personnel - better safe than sorry;

• If they’ve fallen, in case of neck, head or spinal injury, do not move them unless absolutely necessary to remain safe;

• Find a pulse using index finger (not your thumb as it has it’s own pulse), a pulse means blood is circulating;

• Check breathing by looking at the person’s chest to make sure it’s rising and falling;

• When person awakens (it usually happens within seconds of losing consciousness), keep them comfortable, tell them what happened, give them space to breath;

• Once alert, offer the person water, maybe a snack, and ask some basic questions to rule out stroke (what year is it? Who is the current president?).

What are your thoughts? What would you add to this discussion?

Leafy Lady

Leafy Lady: Cannabis Leaf Structure

Look at this juicy NLx5 X Haze / OG haze leaf! Pretty, right? Genetics are from the very legit @agseedco . I find cannabis plant leaf structure so interesting. This leaf’s leaflets (the five individual spears) serrations are double; you can see if you zoom in. Just fascinating. 

What plant info can we glean from the leaf shape alone? A lot, it turns out!

Phyllotaxy (the arrangement of leaves on the plant stem and super cool word IMO) can give us a bunch of info about the plant from which it comes. 

Genetics Clues. Leaf structure differentiates Cultivar, Strain Type or subspecies: #Sativa leaves are long and slender with plentiful leaflets (they look more serrated to me, too); #Indica leaves tend to be on the wider side with fewer leaflets; and #Ruderalis (Hemp) are short, stout plants with smaller leaves, sort of reminiscent of a stunted Indica-leaner. Ruderalis is also naturally high in CBD and low in THC. 

Plant health. Leaf appearance and shape will inform how the plant is doing nutritionally. The big things I look for are taco-ing (turning inward cause it’s too hot), yellowing/discoloration due to nutrient shock or lack of water. 

Harvest time. Leave become less turgid, vibrant and start fall away as the sugars within the leaves are used up by the plant as it ripens. 

But what do leaves actually DO for the plant? 

Leaves perform many essential tasks associated with the photosynthesis process including absorption of carbon dioxide, release h2O and oxygen, intake of light, water and other nutrients (enter foliar feeding).

While less prevalent, Terpenes are still present in leaves too. Terpenes are a natural pest control for the plant and they emit the spectrum of elevating scents we associate with bud. Natural aromatherapy diffuser! 

Uses for leaves are evolving, too. Aside from the cannabis leaf’s inherent cultural, medicinal, and societal symbolism of cannabis culture, what once were generally considered a byproduct by Westerners, canna leaves can be used in juices, smoothies, pesto, salad greens, a simple dried seasoning like parsley or oregano, tea/tisane, floral arrangements, art and craft projects, roll blunts/thai sticks, bath beauty - you name it. 

What most intrigues you about #cannabis? 

Cannabis And Elders

The fastest growing segment of our population starting to use cannabis are people over the age of 55; drill down further within that group and you find that the majority of those people are women. So basically: your mom, your wife, your aunt, grandma, and sister are on weed. The good stuff, too - on average, women spend less on a dispensary visit but opt for more nuanced approaches like low-dose, high-quality weed products. And since 80% of consumer product purchase decisions are made by women (the percentage creeps up even higher when purchases are health related), there’s no wonder brands and marketers have taken notice, producing an increasingly diverse array of microdose innovations ensconced in chocolate, tea, prerolls, drinks, vapes...and gorgeous packaging. 

From my personal experience, all my parents (including in law) are hopped up on CBD, THC or both. Some only use it topically, but all of them have embraced cannabis to help with health and/or happiness. My parentals are young, mid-sixties, but 3 out of 4 of them weren’t into herb before the last decade or so and, well, conversations with me. It’s great to see such positive affirmation of the benefits of the cannabis plant, and while the stigma associated with it persists signs are emerging that longstanding stereotypes are eroding. 

Right here in my hometown, at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine, researchers report that older adults use cannabis to cope with common health conditions, including chronic and acute pain, sleep problems, as well as mental health concerns around anxiety and depression. 

THE LINE BETWEEN MEDICAL AND RECREATIONAL IS THIN: it’s all wellness. 

The study, published online October 7, 2020 in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, found that of 568 patients surveyed, 15 percent had used cannabis within the past three years, with HALF of users reporting using the plant regularly and mostly for medical purposes. 

“Pain, insomnia and anxiety were the most common reasons for cannabis use and, for the most part, patients reported that cannabis was helping to address these issues, especially with insomnia and pain,” said Christopher Kaufmann, PhD, co-first author of the study and assistant professor in the Division of Geriatrics and Gerontology in the Department of Medicine at UC San Diego. 

Patients surveyed in the study were seen at the Medicine for Seniors Clinic at UC San Diego Health over a period of 10 weeks.

Study researchers additionally found that at least 61 percent of the study participants who used cannabis actually started use after age 60. I think that’s pretty cool. 

So where are they getting their information? Many places! Their kids (duh), their grandkids, other family members, budtenders and of course, people like me. I’ve actually worked with three generations of one family at once, which felt like a professional dream. 

With easily the weirdest holiday season ever approaching, here are a few starter tips you can share with Ma and Pa over Facetime: 

• CBD is a great entry point! I love gifting loved ones non-intoxicating flower, tincture or full spectrum supplements. They tend to pique interest, not paranoia, and give access to a whole world of consideration. It’s also wonderful to have on hand if someone’s overdone it with THC since CBD has been known to deaden negative effects like paranoia, nausea and dizziness. 

• Speaking of too much THC: cannabis edibles are akin to an Upper Division course - not the first step, newbs! When it’s time, follow the rule of 2s: start with 2mgs. Yes, TWO! And give it two hours to kick in before ingesting more. Trust me. Once you know your dose the world is your very high oyster. 

• Start low and go slow. A toke off of a bowl to start; when you feel good - stop and wait a while before ingesting more. Some weed can sneak up on ya. 

• Talk to your doc. In an increasingly cannaccepting society, cannabis derivatives are everywhere, they’re effective, and frankly, the majority of adults use it them some way - docs *must* know about it nowadays to faithfully do their work. While they may not be able to suggest cannabis, Docs legally must answer your questions, which sometimes requires them to do some research of their own. It will make them better doctors, so don’t hold back. 

I know a lot of people in their 50s, 60s, and 70s who maintain very youthful mindsets - it’s a good thing considering lifespans have never been longer. 

How does cannabis fit in with the elders in your life?

UCSD’s Geisel Library, one of my favorite brutalist/futurist architectural designs completed in 1970.   

Photo by me @thecanncierge 

One (land)Racy Strain Review: Red Congolese

What’s a landrace cannabis plant? Think of it as you would heirloom fruits and veggies. These are plants of “pure” genetics that haven’t crossed paths with others, and not only have the genetics on lock but the #terroir (eg the characteristics conferred by native soil & climate) of where they were grown. So, most anything found in today that’s called landrace is carrying the GENETICS of the ancestor plant but likely lacks the OG terroir. Does that make sense?  

Anyway, winner of the ‘13 Cannabis Cup and longtime love of old school stoners, Red Congo is a straight-up #sativa; I won’t even say ‘leaning’, bc this baby shows all the signs of being the closest thing to a pure sativa I’ve smoked in a very, very long time. 

The lineage of Red Congolese is a tad debated. There is some belief it’s an African landrace strain and others believe it to be a combination of Mexican and Afghan genetics. From what I’ve read in multiple, diverse sources (including this one from Chronicle Books), it seems like all three regions are in there somewhere. THC levels of Red Congolese cannabis flower average around 18-20%; these “live resin diamonds” are clocking in at 82.7%! This extract is a collaboration between Bay-area based GoldSeal (purveyors of excellent flower) and well known extractor/cultivator, Nug. 

The high gives me a energy, mental clarity and, awesomely, a boost in creativity; I knocked out web content for a client after a bonghit or two and felt weightlessly euphoric while doing so. Red Congo gave me an enjoyable full-body tingle, too. Oh, how I love a good tingle. 

Though evidently not a true landrace, this strain is derived from an indigenous cultivar from the Congo region of Central Africa. Based on my research, the seeds from these tall wispy, narrow-leafed plants were brought west centuries ago and crossed with landrace Mexican and Afghani cannabis plants. Please, if you know more about it share in the comments! 

Personally, it’s a great strain to smoke then tackle either physical or creative mental tasks. I found the high from one fat low-temp dab to be long-lasting, extending into the 4-5 hour range. Seriously! I didn’t even think about another dab...for hours. That’s pretty unique for me. The prime terpene present here is #caryophyllene, which helps imbue euphoria plus it enhances pain relief due to its anti-inflammatory properties; perfect example of #entourageeffect. Red Congo smells of tart, overripe fruit, very terpy, and has a sweet, spicy, cheesy flavor - it’s like a cheeseboard of weed! 😂 

For me, this is an ideal day-smoke. Not an extract to use shortly before bedtime bc it revs me up, but maybe a mid-afternoon puff to carry me nicely into evening. I’m parsing this out frugally because I love it so much! 

Fun fact: Bob Marley’s favorite strain was reportedly “Lamb’s Bread”, also a landrace, endemic to Jamaica. 🇯🇲

Have you experienced Red Congo? Have anything to add? 

Cannabis: Mother’s Helper

Where are my fellow stony parents?

If you’re a parent, especially as we enter probably they weirdest school year ever, you need little justification to find ways to decompress. I don’t wanna be Mommy Dearest, so I smoke the weeds. I’m a mom and a caregiver, they’re roles I wouldn’t trade but they’re unyielding as well as stressful physically and mentally.

Cannabis is *central* to my selfcare regime, as is time alone, exercise in the forms of hikes, watersports, and gardening, and a healthy dose of tune-out time watching weirdass crap on TV. (S/O to #90dayfiance ) I was recently asked, as a mother, how cannabis and hemp impacts my life, I gave a quick answer but afterward I realized there were so many nuances that emerged.

For me, herb is a support system, medication, recreation, meditation, and social change all wrapped up in a joint. It helps me calm from stressors so I don’t snap at people I love; it quells aches, pains, and illnesses naturally and effectively to get me moving again (moms always are on the move!); herb is fun to smoke when relaxing, aiding in reaching the goal of rest; and cannabis helps me get in touch with my inner sanctum, too - she’s my ideal meditation guide and yoga partner.

And, most importantly, cannabis is a tool for social change. For too long, Black and Brown bodies have been incarcerated for the same thing I do, regularly, in public, without an ounce of fear. None. Zero.

Remember that Black people are FOUR TIMES as likely to be arrested for marijuana charges while Whites smoke weed at the exact same rate.

Yes, weed is intertwined in almost every part of my life. And I’m not apologizing for it, obviously, in fact I’m striving to be even more “out” so others feel they can do the same. There is no shame in smoking herb. Period. Someday we’ll make our laws catch up with us.

How does cannabis help you show up as a parent? Has it changed over the last six months?

Tell Your Parents (About Cannabis)

Oh, how the tables have turned! What a difference 20 years makes, huh? Instead of hidin’ my herbage from my ‘rents, I’m lovingly sharing with them the virtues (and samples) of the cannabis plant. As we head into the holidays, I thought I’d share some, hopefully, helpful hints for you to do similar should the opportunity arise and it might: over two-thirds of Americans support legalization (see below for those stats via Pew Research). 

Are your parents or other relatives curious about cannabis? Could they benefit from the plant but feel confused, overwhelmed by the world of weed? I wrote this piece on connecting with other generations about cannabis - it’s easier than you may think. 

I won’t out them publicly, but my IRL friends who know my parents, aunts, and uncles also know I’ve taken a liberal approach to normalizing the topic around them, my own grandparents (yeah nanogenarian baddies!), and of course, by heart and soul, my daughter. I’ve also made it part of my business model to be an educational conduit for other families, since sometimes mama ain’t gonna listen to you, but...she might listen to me (at least about this topic). For your holiday pleasure, here are a few tips for *sparking* the canna-convo with those fabulous humans who raised you: 

• Share your experience. Be authentic and answer questions truthfully, always. I’m obviously coming from “a place of yes” when it comes to weed, so I start with the celebrations: it helps me with so much in life, from sleeping well, to period pain, to my persistent anxiety, to the fun of it, to me it’s ALL WELLNESS - herb is definitely a huge positive facet of my lifestyle. However, I also cover the pitfalls (potfalls?), and have my standard issue warnings (keep reading); even if your sitch was negative, your folks can glean some wisdom from it. Have a bad trip? That’s ok, of course, be mindful of how you place it (“I ate too much” vs. “I ALMOST DIED!”) and be objective (“in hindsight, I’d have smoked and not gone to edibles”) and, remind them that cannabis effects everyone differently and to always start slow and low: 1 to 2.5 milligrams (yes, you read that right), is a great starting point as even 5 mg can scare folks off - believe me, I’ve seen it many a time. 

• Be Cool: but not *that* cool. Use lay-person terms and do NOT go straight to advanced moves. What are advanced moves? Edibles, concentrates, and dabs. Pops will get waaaay to high, it’ll scare him off the weed and piss your mom off, so just stick with straight up cannabis in flower form (if your parents are hesitant to smoke, grab a handheld dry herb vape or a bong to filter and cool the smoke).

• Read Your Audience. From my experience, a lot of people are more open to herb than we give credit (I mean, these are the original stoney festival goers of yesteryear - they paved our way!), but IF you have very conservative parents who may really, truly benefit from cannabis and hemp derivatives, start talking about CBD with them first, it’s everywhere and such a mainstream wellness tool now. But make no mistake, THC is an incredibly powerful compound often overshadowed in these CBD-frenzied days . 

• Clearly, give them something - start with CBD, and include a topical. Moms love topicals. Gifts are always a welcome thing from one’s kiddo, no matter age. I’m a huge fan of gifting the ones I love herb-oriented prezzies, taking care to always explain the basics: topicals, low-dose edibles, jars or herb, a little pipe...stoke your parents out. Just make sure they don’t have to go buy anything to have their experience. Be ready to be surprised too: A friend’s dad has a PuffCo Peak! Still shopping? A source of vetted, CBD-infused products shippable everywhere is HelloMD.com, and you can even grab $20 credit off your purchase by using my affiliate code: Canncierge20. 

• Explain this: Cannabis is metabolized differently depending upon how it’s consumed (i.e., edibles, vaporization, smoking, drinking, etc.) producing differing effects and durations of said effects (good, bad, or indifferent). For instance, a hit from a 65% THC vape will last the least amount of time (say an hour or 2 max), a hit from a joint/pipe/bong will last longer (1-3 hours, dependent on potency), and edibles will be in effect for hours, sometimes up to 12, but usually 6-8 is a more standard expectation. 

• Start low and go slow - especially with edibles, but also with other consumption methods. Begin at stage one: a single puff off a joint, 2.5mgs of THC in a lab-tested edible, or a single draw from a vape. Then, wait. When someone feels good - stop and enjoy the literal flower. 

• Start slow and go slow - especially with edibles. Felt I should just go ahead and state that twice to really stress it’s importance. 

• High quality CBD extract suspended in a carrier oil (like coconut oil, MCT, etc. bc it, like cannabis, is fat-soluable, and absorbs into your body) will lower a THC high - it’s a good idea to have some on hand for moments of over-indulgence, but moreover for it’s awesome benefits as an anti-inflammatory, anxiety helper, nausea killer, etc. My favorite is a super potent nanoliposomal extract from Reset Bioscience - I’m not paid by them, I just like their product (so much they gave me a discount code! Use “Canncierge35” to save 35% on your purchase). 

• Leave Room for Qs. This conversation sometimes need to marinate with people; I’ve found that planting the seed (heh) then allowing it to grow with folks is an organic way to allow them to ask YOU about it next time, making it a more self-directed activity over which they’ll have ownership and control. 

• Call Your Mother! Seriously, assuming you get your loved ones to try something, either stick around to make sure they’re cool or just call or text them a couple of hours later. This can make all the difference in an experience! 

• Encourage them to ask their doc about cannabis. Especially if someone is experiencing heart issues, has a history of psychosis, or is on blood thinners -  this plant is especially important to be open about with caregivers. Legally, doctors cannot initiate conversations about cannabis as a prescription (yet), but they DO have to answer your questions (sometimes by calling me, lol). So make them do some research or share with them the research you’re reading and ask them to INTERPRET the research. Asking their “INTERPRETATION” is key language to use as it gives them latitude to show understanding (or lack thereof) instead of simply regurgitating the research. If they can’t yet answer something to your satisfaction, continue pushing them. Medical pros are actually more open and educated about cannabinoids now than ever. And hey, they really need to know this stuff - it may be your question that changes the way your doctor practices their craft with you and other lucky patients. 

• Patience, my child. You’ll probably find that this topic is one you touch on multiple times - their friends are talking about it, your friends are talking about it, the media’s all over it, and cannabis is in the age of another (r)evolution - it’s here to stay - and what a wonderful thing that really is. When you gift someone a topical or something non-intoxicating, even that small exposure helps dismantle the stigma and stereotypes associated with herb - they’ll likely warm-up to other modes of use. 

• A note on folks who may not have the ability or interest to use cannabis, not necessarily because they’re against it, but perhaps due to a pension or other financial situation tied to the federal government that can be taken away from them if they were ever to test positive for THC. Or, maybe they’re in a sensitive professional position wherein they can’t risk having their internet search history have cannabis in it for fear of punishment. Believe me, I have clients who deal with these realities, so we must honor these responses. But, that does not leave a single person off the hook from vocalizing their support for cannabis reform on behalf of those who use it - just as they would for any other cause from which they don’t directly benefit: think about any other cause with advocates, donors, supporters, etc. I would venture to guess many supporters and advocates for cancer and other very important causes don’t directly benefit from research but engage in supporting it for the love of those who do. 

Interested in doing a deep dive into your own canna-practice? You can buy time with me for yourself, your spouse, or your parents; I do remote one-on-one or couples consults (often people can benefit from the same stuff! And how FUN to do together?). A cannabis coaching session makes a great bday, anniversary, Christmas or Hanukkah gift. Schedule a consult through this link and, of course, feel free to ask me about custom workshops tailored to you: I’ve done bachelorette parties, CBD-themed baby showers, bday parties, ladies’ nights, anniversaries; you name it, I’ll meducate it. My clients leave consults with personalized functional knowledge of the cannabis landscape, a ton of reference information, achievable action steps & guideposts for choosing quality products to suit their needs, and solid discounts with my retail partners, too. (You know your mom loves a deal). My goal is to give folks knowledge to make informed consumption decisions on their canna-journey. 

I hope these suggestions I’ve pulled from my own practice and life are helpful in your family circle. What questions do you have? How do you place cannabis in your family’s conversations?  Are you talking about it at all? Let’s chat in the comments. 

CBD for THC Over-Indulgence

Here’s a tip that may save you or a friend when the #edibles are underestimated and you end up in “I think I’m dying”-land: #CBD will dull the high of #THC. And you don’t have to be so high that you can taste colors to take advantage of this, last weekend a certain unnamed friend texted me like, “Hey, I ate too much weed, I caNOT be this high, what do I do?!” 

Put CBD on it! Or, in it, to be clear. lol When you want the high-to-go-bye, a general dosage rule is 5mgs per every 10 lbs of weight, so for a 150 lb woman about 75 mgs of CBD in an acute instance should do the trick. That seems like a lot but a) your body only absorbs so much, b) this isn’t a daily dose (though it wouldn’t cause overdose if it were), and c) in a moment of too-much-THC, you can’t wait for the build-up of effect of cannabinoids to take place which is what occurs when your body has lower doses of CBD in it regularly; a higher dose will have the greater potential of doing the work in the moment. And no shade, we have all overdone it, friends. Think about it, only until very recently has the quantification, knowledge, and awareness about milligrams even entered the cannabist’s vocabulary, it used to be like, “take half and pray”. This truly clutch use of CBD is just one reason to keep #CBDoil in your medicine cabinet in both ingestible and topical form: it’s also handy when it comes to upset tummies, head and muscle aches, anxiety, eczema, or to imbue focus. Here are a couple guideposts for choosing the quality products (ingestible or topical), a reliable source, and a nice lil’ discount code, to boot. 

Quality CBD products will be in packaging inclusive of: test results written in plain English for potency, toxins, and ingredients; clearly articulated dosage suggestion; intended effects and timetable for onset; it will be suspended in a carrier oil, like MCT, olive oil, and others (this is to help the oil be bioavailable and effectively enter the bloodstream and ECS). A legitimate company will always be transparent with this information, period. You should also be able to assess the origin of the extract used, it should be organic and PLEASE avoid anything made out of industrial hemp, especially from China. In doubt? Ask to see the COA (Certificate of Analysis), it should be readily available from your source or via a QR code or other digital source directly on the label.

This is where a reliable source comes into play and you’re covered. I’ve been working with HelloMD for a few months because I like their origin story (female co-founder!), their rigorous vetting of top products, their CBD marketplace carries a little of everything from topicals to edibles, and they ship to every state. Use code “TheCanncierge” at check-out for $20 off, click here to shop.

MomGuyver Style: In a pinch, don’t have any #cannabidiol, and someone’s freakin’ out like my friend above? Pink Peppercorns (yes, like those we grind and sprinkle over dinner) will do the trick, too: to start, give the over-indulgee 10-15 whole peppercorns (whole is important) to chew on, retaining the peppery saliva in their mouth for a minute or two, and they’ll start feeling less high after a few minutes. Not super tasty, but readily available in most kitchen cabinets (there are pepper trees everywhere in SoCal too, it grows on my street!). Do yourself a favor and chase your peppery potion with come protein and water and you’ll quickly feel right as rain.  

So, why Pink Peppercorn? I explain in an earlier blog post, “The Wee(d)kend Savior in Your Kitchen Cabinet”, check it out a few posts back. 

Have you ever overdone-it with herb? How did you cope?

The Dankest Dinner Party

FoodFlowerFuture & Heavy Petal Creative satisfied the senses and set the stage for canna-connection, behold: The New Way to Dinner Party.

I’ve been to wine-pairings where someone talks about the food, the vino, why they go together, and an interesting tidbits about the region in which it was grown. Now, we’re doing this with herb and it just makes so much sense. Not only does cannabis enhance the senses including smell and taste, but it too has complexities that contribute to its uniqueness. Do you know the word terroir? The term reefers (heh) to the natural environment in which wine (or cannabis) is produced including the soil, climate, and topography; it lends much of what we love to the profile of the flower we consume. 

Terps on Terps! I loved the cannabis pairing description for the evening - finishing with a CBD-dominant strain was totally ideal.

Event Co-Producers (L-R), Khara (@FoodFlowerFuture) and Jasmine (@HeavyPetal_SD)

When I’m sizin’ up herb, products, farms, etc., the people behind them, the terroir in which they’re grown, and the social equity impact of the brand MATTER. Just like I don’t shop certain places bc of their lack of such things, I don’t patronize generic herb bc I don’t want to support the unknown or worse - people I don’t respect. Many consumers don’t care where their herb comes from, and I don’t guilt anyone for it, I mean, it wasn’t long ago that many of of would take what we could get, but now that so much information is available about the things we value - it behooves us to pay attention in the weed-realm. I like to know where the plant was grown, who grew it, and what type of farming practices were used, etc. I generally like sun grown herb, I feel the spectrum is more complex, the flavors deeper, and it’s literally connected to the earth, as Mother Nature intended. And good thing, cause the evening was all sun grown pairings!

I dug the High Style cannabis infused nonalcoholic beer. Our chefs, wife and hubby team Mangia Ghangia added blood orange juice and we dosed it with lovely CBD from Zadaka. As a non-drinker this mocktail really worked for me, it was elevatingly refreshing. Highstyle brewery is here in San Diego, I was seated at a table with Charlie, the rep, who is also the daughter of one of the Brewers, which I just absolutely love! Family owned and operated? Hell yeah, here for it. 

Always on point, California cannabis powerhouse FlowKana brought the delicious with Lime Juice, which was paired with a chilled watermelon soup and I’m still thinking about it. Terpy and citrusy with a sour note, it was a stellar palette primer for the dish and table conversation.

Alongside a burrata salad with beets, pomegranate, and Three Leaf Edibles blood orange gummies, Aloha Humboldt, a farm nestled in the Emerald Triangle, served us sour diesel joints infused with Nasha Extracts icewater hash. Uh...YUM. Delicious. And such a nicely intense high, just a few puffs and even this super stoner was feeling’ very good. These pack a smooth smoke and a slow burn the whole doob. Aloha Humboldt is also run by a husband and wife team which is fantastic and I *adore* the shade of blue in the branding, too. Meant to snap up a hat! 

One of my NorCal faves, Aster Farms paired their Deep Sour Kush with the chimichurri hangar steak course last night and I swear that joint was like the steak of weeds. Dank, savory, delicious - it was spot on as a pairing. The terpene beta caryophyene is prominent in both the strain and pepper that was used in the steak marinade. It’s technically a terpene BUT this compound modulates neuro receptors in a similar way to cannabinoids; it’s due to the presence and interaction of terps and cannabinoids that induce the coveted entourage effect. Also, Stef, you’re a delight.

This evening stuck out to me as a cultural shift. I’m used to going to events with mainly women (which in themselves are a vibrant sub-culture) and I had a bunch of insightful conversations with enlightened dudes last night - it was really wonderful. It’s heartening to hear men describe how they witness women being disadvantaged in this world (and not in a man-splainey way); from men who are married to strong women to men who were raised by strong women, I have a lot of hope for gender equity because men are starting to stand up for women, they’re starting to believe us, and tell other men to be better. This reinforces my belief in cannabis as a tool for social change. We connect through and have important conversations thanks to it!

Also, there were CATS. Like ten of ‘em. Anyone who knows me knows I. Fucking. Love. Cats. The venue host operates Burton’s Pride a FANTASTIC kitteh rescue who made a big impact during the recent fires and are rehabbing kitties beautifully - if you’re in the market for a fully loaded puss at a fair price check them out right meow (sns).  My heart is grateful for Khara of @FoodFlowerFuture, my dear friend @heavypetal, my pals Mangia Ghangia, who’s fare is like a hug for the culinary soul, and for all the event sponsors - whatta goodie bag!  This is most definitely the next level dinner party - truly it was food, flower and future. My spirit so needed it. 

Mangia Ghanja’s perfectly executed cloud-like raspberry soufflé with ganache square - all other desserts are entirely ruined for me after this one.

A Guide to "Lifted Layering": Getting to Sleep & Staying There with Cannabis.

We know poor sleep leads to a myriad of unpleasant ripple effects like daytime sleepiness, fatigue, headaches, unwanted mood shifts, inattention, increased susceptibility to accident, and other health problems that delightfully snowball into daily livin’. I’ve been struggling with getting to sleep and staying there, as well as feeling refreshed when I awaken as opposed to a zombified extra on The Walking Dead. In addition to dealing with old soccer injuries, identifying & reflecting on my stressors (hello parenting in the day of active shooter drills), I’ve been experimenting with “layering” techniques for enhancing my sleep integrating, but not depending upon, THC and CBD

“Lifted Layering” is a term I coined for a self-care equation I’ve been honing - a strategy anyone can use to cobble together relaxing, ritualistic activities to either establish or enhance your self care regimen according to your budget of time, money, and needs. While not wholly reliant upon it, Lifted Layering involves integrating cannabis with other tools of relaxation in an intentional way. This isn’t earth shattering stuff, but more of an example of things I’ve implemented in my own life which complement one another beautifully. Self-care IS healthcare, friends, and unfortunately, consider this a gentle reminder this isn’t a luxury, or stuff you earn, friends, you are entitled to caring for yourself: human beings need rest to live, period.

Sure, some weed will knock you out - hello, Academic: a solid Indica flower with high THC and really sleepy terps (think linalool, a floral sedative terpene also found in Lavender, and is known to calm the mind and body and induce sleep). But, I found that after my initial pajama-clad smoke sesh, I tended to wake up after a couple of hours and proceed to exemplify that Squidward-visiting-the-bong-at-midnight-meme. *Not* that there’s anything wrong with midnight tokin’, but mama needs a solid eight hours of sleep. I’m so interested in this space that I’ve framed a bunch of my time around it, including my recent #WomensWeedNight and in most, if not all, of the consulting I do with clients. Americans have a biiiig sleep issue. Here I’ve articulated some helpful practices with which I’ve been experimenting - try some adaptation of them in your routine and let me know how it goes! Do not feel pressure to do all of these all the time; really, it’s like choosing a few cards from a deck - selfcare need not be lockstep uniform, but a fluid regular activity you relish in and are called to do consistently. I do some combo of these things each night of my life, but that doesn’t mean you need to do the same.

Prep for success by building this time into your schedule. Dedicate 30 minutes to an hour to this routine after your responsibilities for the day are met (or even if they aren’t, frankly, if it can be done tomorrow, let it be). So charge your crystals, grab some herb, a scented candle, and treat yo’ self along these lines, ladies (and gents).

Step 1. Find a quiet area to chillax uninterrupted, find your happy place, your “lady lair” as I call my spot. I don’t care if it’s Harry Potter's under-the-stairs hovel. Make like Liz Lemon and go to there and (politely) tell those in your household to leave ya be!

Step 2. Smoke or vape an Indica-leaning strain, you have to get into your “me time” headspace immediately, amirite? Remember, Indica cannabis varieties are known to abate anxiety and relax the body moreso than our Sativas. Pay attention to where you carry your stress physically, and when that area starts to relax you’ve found medicine which suits you. If you’re more of a mental stress person, the next step is for you. I can always tell when I’ve medicated adequately when my shoulders drop involuntarily because this is where most of my stress manifests physically. My absolute favorite concentrate before bed comes from my friends at Craft1861, their SLEEP formula is outstanding - I and my clients clamor for it. Some of my fave flower strains that are widely available: Northern Lights, Gelato, Granddaddy Purple, and Skywalker; no worries if this list doesn’t match your local weed inventory - just ask your supplier for an Indica with a moderate to high amount of THC (18%+) and maybe even some CBD in there, if you can find it.

Also, interesting tidbit: old cannabis has been shown to help aide in sleep issues thanks to the development of Cannabinol or CBN, a lesser known cannabinoid that slowly develops as the others degrade over time and is known to be a very sleep-inducing compound. Only problem? There aren’t a lot of CBN-heavy strains on the market (yet) and we know there isn’t a demand for old weed, so good luck finding CBN flower; some people make their own by basically leaving a jar of herb in the garage. For a year. Yeah, not so appetizing, but read on for a product suggestion featuring CBN.

Step 3. You’re stoned now so we’ll keep this short, but I promise, skipping this step is a mistake. Do a 4 minute journal entry/scribble in a notebook or phone (though I think there’s more tactile benefit to putting pen to paper). Use a sharpie to resist drilling down too far - just mind-blurt out the things that are on your mind, bothering you, or stressing you out. Simply getting it out helps calm your brainwaves into a state that’s far more conducive to relaxation. Set a timer and try this: Take ONE minute to think about your worries, take ONE minute to write them down, ONE minute to write the simplest actions to address each, and ONE minute to write down 4 things for which you’re grateful. This exercise lowers your heart rate almost immediately and cumulatively over time will help you feel more balanced and happy. Perfect for us mental stress cases. Bonus? Your to-do list for the next day is started.  

Medicated bath bombs: worthy of the HIGHpe. This is my set-up for bathtime.

Step 5. Run (and style) your bath! Layer your Lair! One of my BFFs literally drags her plants into her bathroom to achieve the vibe - like a 5 foot palm tree, ya’ll. I put crystals around and light candles just to gussy it up. I’m also a fan of adding an infused bathbomb (KushQueen makes wonderful products); No, you will not get high from such a thing, essentially you’ll leave the bath uber-moisturized and noticeably more relaxed, sorta like you’ve had a massage in addition to a warm bath. Sometimes I cut the bombs in half, too, for future tub time. Make your bath HOT so you can stay in there longer than you think you should. Spoiler alert: you should stay in there longer than you think you should. Our epidermis is literally our largest organ thus soaking yourself in a CBD and THC-laden bath relieves inflammation at the skin and superficial muscle group levels outstandingly.

Step 6. Hydrate. While your bath runs (mine takes foreverrr) grab a drank. There is research showing a connection between mood and dehydration, think hangry but for water (#HydRage?), and you lose a lot of H2O while you soak your body into raisinity. I like to chug a glass of water then steep some cannabis tea to enjoy in the bath - I make my own cannacoconut oil (here’s an easy DIY recipe) and my dose is roughly around 20-30mg. You can also find medicated teas on the market, Kikoko makes a sleepytime version with CBN in it, it’s on my list to try.

Step 7. Throw on a facemask, pack a bowl and Tune. The. Eff. Out. Not enough people smoke in the bath for some reason. Do it. If quiet solitude is your thang, do it, if you wanna binge on The Real Housewives of Any City, do it. I tend to listen to music, puff, and revel in how awesome I feel while sippin’ my tea TOTALLY ALONE. Now lay there...for as long as you’d like. Warm the bath up once or twice.  

Step 8. Here’s where things get interesting. So yes, I’ve smoked by this time probably twice and my tea is settling in and I’m feeling good *how-ev-er* I’ve discovered that my body needs more layers to help me sleep all night. Post-bath is when I’ll take my fave Charlotte’s Web CBD and THC extracts; I usually take one dose but may double up if I’m sore from a workout or something. It sounds like a lot, but remember that CBD actually disrupts THC, dampening it’s cognitive effects, while holding the medicinal benefit in place. Even given that, still be sure to titrate (aka adjust dosage) conservatively and use ratios aligned with your tolerance - you can always take more. Start with the dose on the package, give yourself a few minutes to allow it to spread into your bloodstream (15-20 should definitely do it when using a sublingual), and when you feel good, stop.

My favorite products from Stanley Brothers and Charlotte's Web, these are my staples. 

Step 9. Ever heard of Self Massage? I can almost hear the dirty jokes being typed. Seriously, who can get a massage every time s/he needs one? I certainly cannot and have devised a little technique, with the help of topicals, a tennis ball, and my foam roller. I really like Papa & Barkley’s topical line but I’ve also made my own and it was outstanding. This is usually my last stop before hittin’ the actual sack - and sometimes I just do 5 minutes of bed yoga - but these two techniques relax my spine and hips better than others and are adaptable to almost any body part. I slather any achy muscles or joints in a medicated salve then do 5 minutes of stretching, that’s it. Here’s a nice set of tennis ball massage moves and here’s my absolute favorite move EVER using my foam roller, the Spine Roll Release. *squeal* Seriously, be prepared to be obsessed. And if you have a partner who doesn’t massage you like Skeletor (I’m looking at you, husband), ask them to work ya over.

Just a casual foam roller moment between friends: here I am leading my friend Laura of @Queen_Canna in the spine release move I adore.

Step 10. Do you! Some of my clients feel like they “shouldn’t” medicate in the middle of the night for some reason. Do not feel a modicum of guilt if you wake up and have a toke. Like, would you feel guilty taking an Advil in the middle of night for a gnar toothache? NO. Do what it takes to get the rest you need, but really, don’t resort to Ambien - it’s addictive and makes for some weird sleepwalking/driving/shopping tales. Ask Chelsea Handler. And word to the wise: if you tend to wake up in the middle of the night within 4-6 hours of your alarm, you probably do NOT want to ingest edibles so close to wake-up, you’ll proooobably still be high when the buzzer goes off; In this case, opt to smoke or vaporize a little something and hook up some white noise or instrumental music to lull you back into REM sleep.

Happy Layering! Let me know in how these tools and strategies work for you or if you have your own rituals you rely on, cannabis-related or not. XO - TC

Cannabis x Parkinson's

Just finished my monthly consult with my sweet client, a 77-year-old Grandpa living with mid-stage Parkinson’s Disease (PD).

PD afflicts over 60,000 Americans and is a degenerative, central nervous system disorder impacting motor control and typically occurs in folks over 60. There is no agreed upon cause nor cure for PD, unfortunately. The symptoms, which as a group are sometimes referred to as “Parkinsonism”, generally appear slowly, at first the most obvious are physical: slowed movement, shakiness, walking and speaking problems. Also, behavioral & thought problems like Dementia are common as PD advances; and emotional imbalances like depression and anxiety are common in more than 30% of folks with PD at every stage of the disease. PD sufferers may experience sleep problems, as well.

About my client’s symptoms: a profound tremor in his tongue & jaw robbing him of his speech, depression and anxiety, painful muscle spasms & rigidity, extremely disturbed sleep patterns with night terrors and sleepwalking, and low energy.

And those aren’t even the side effects of his prescription! Carbidopa/levodopa is a commonly prescribed Parkinson’s drug combo; some of the side effects include nausea, dry mouth, loss of appetite, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation; headache, dizziness, drowsiness, blurred vision; stuffy nose/cold symptoms; insomnia; muscle pain, and what my client experienced most: severe, painful facial spasms that would last HOURS. The worst part for my client? The drugs weren’t helping. In fact, the side effects of the CL were so much more excruciating than the illness, he stopped taking them all together (under the care of his doctor).

Since PD is a neurological disorder wherein dopamine producing cells die off, meds prescribed to mitigate it usually involve a #DopamineAgonist, or a compound that encourages dopamine production. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a dopamine agonist and THC is, too! Per @ProjectCBD (check them out, btw), “By acting as an “inverse agonist” at the GPR6 receptor, CBD boosts dopamine levels in preclinical studies.” THC, as well, increases dopamine in the brain; Cannabinoids don’t actually connect with dopamine neurons but activate the endocannabinoid system instead. Cannabinoid membrane receptors are all over the body including parts of the brain where dopamine neurons also live. Interestingly, dopamine neurons themselves don’t have any cannabinoid receptors. What happens in PD is that dopamine neurons in the reward pathway are inhibited, or blocked, by GABA neurons which *do* have cannabinoid receptors. THC plugs into the CB1 receptors on the GABA neurons, which inactivates the neurons, unblocking the neural pathway allowing dopamine neurons to be more active, enabling the flow of dopamine to disrupt the symptoms of PD.

Here’s what Pops has been doing for the last six months and how it has impacted his life. Remember that everyone is different, but his is a great testimony for therapeutic cannabis use. Papa tells me he medicates all day in this way, sometimes adding extracts to food but usually taking them sublingually (under the tongue):

•Stanley Bros CBD:THC 1:1 CANNABIS Extract x 1.5 dose Twice Daily

•CW Everyday Advanced HEMP extract, x 2 doses Twice Daily

•25-30 mg vaporized THC Flower (Chemdawg) as needed, usually in the evening

Why Chemdawg? It’s a common cultivar to find, has high THC content, and the right terpene profile to treat pain and spasms. But, if you can’t find it specifically, have no fear - look for flower w/ the following features:

• High THC content (20% or more)

• Most prominent terpenes are #Myrcene, #Caryophllyene

• Cannabigerol, or CBG, another cannabinoid with significant promise. Essentially, described as the “parent chemical”, CBG eventually turns into THC & CBD, and may help quell muscle spasms.

Papa reports a huge decrease in pain, tremors and spasms, better depth and duration of sleep (without night terrors), and distinct lifts in mood and appetite when he stays well medicated w/ CBD *and* THC. It’s important to note that both cannabinoids should be used together for maximum therapeutic benefit for certain illnesses, Parkinson’s is one; it’s The #entourageeffect, essentially when both compounds are present they work more effectively. When THC and CBD are both present, the CB1 Receptors (which THC likes) and CB2 receptors (which CBD likes) are “greased” allowing the cannabinoids to find them more securely and deliver their benefits more effectively. These compounds are remarkably synergistic - take advantage, regardless of your health status, and find your perfect ratio.

Pops is someone who has never used cannabis before, a dear friend’s dad, and identifies as a Christian conservative voter. When my friend introduced us for cannabis coaching, I was happy to help - I also thought that this is a step in not only helping Pops but a step toward changing hearts and minds about this plant and the social issues in which it’s intertwined. I’ve been providing info and education to this family for a while (Pops’ wife has arthritis) with monthly check-ins, and they’re now able to make very informed decisions about their medicinal choices involving #MedicalMarijuana. It’s a blessing to share knowledge in a personalized way and help others (and be paid for my intellect).

At the end of our call what Sessions did this month came up as did Congress needing to act, and the fact that this is plant medicine. All that came up from conservative voters who are changing their minds about multiple social issues because of cannabis! Our sweet lady plant is *THE* crux of human connection in our World. Everyone - regardless of age, size, ethnic, racial, or socioeconomic background, sexual or gender identity, political or religious beliefs - can find healing and happiness in cannabis.

I’m dedicated on my niche of serving women, but I obviously work with men and I adore my seniors. If you or someone you love is curious about personalized #cannabiscoaching, drop a DM or email - confidential phone consults start at $30. Be well, friends!

The Wee(d)kend Savior in Your Pantry.

Ever over-indulged with cannabis? Pulled the classic “this edible isn’t working” and take more too soon? Or just gotten *too* lifted? A few of my clients have asked for advice for some, um, cannsumption problems recently so I wanted to spread a tidbit of knowledge that might save your weekend sometime.

I’ve definitely had moments of regret over the decades, especially since part of my work is testing many different products for clients, etc. This common stoner misstep is sometimes a rough but necessary part of figuring out our ideal personal THC dosage; unfortunately, it also leads to folks ending up in the emergency room or just plain having a TERRIBLE time. I mean, I know people who have had one atrocious edible experience and have sworn off marijuana for life. For LIFE, ya’ll. It really does feel horrible, believe people when they say they feel like they’re “dying”: the racing heart, the sweating, anxiety, nausea, dizziness, disorientation - it’s like, bad.  And don’t think you’re beyond it, veteran smokers, cannabinoids are processed very differently in our bodies depending on a litany of factors from your age, sex, what you’ve eaten that day, if you’ve worked out, your mental state, if you’re a woman your hormonal cycle will impact how cannabis effects you, and of course the amount, type and mode of weed you ingest matters. You never know how  different ganja products will impact you, regardless of how you take them - smoking, eating, vaping AND/or combining with alcohol (which can be the cannabis kiss of death, btw). Go low and slow, people, low and slow! At least until you understand your tolerance and limits (as you would with alcohol, frankly). And please don’t drive when you’re blazed, it’s JUST AS BAD AS DRUNK DRIVING. It’s one thing to smoke a joint with your friends, have a hike or something, then drive a couple of hours later - don’t puff tuff then go control a 2,000 pound gas-filled vehicle. Ya feel?

Cannabidiol (CBD) has been shown to counteract the negative effects of THC but isn’t always at our fingertips. But good news, however, and it involves a kitchen staple you probably have in your cabinet or is growing in your California ‘hood: Pink Peppercorns. The Peruvian Pepper Tree (sometimes called the California Pepper Tree) thrives in central and southern California and was planted prolificly in planned neighborhood grids like mine in San Diego in the 50s/60s. The berries or “drupes” are the seeds inside these vivid pink outer husks which are ripe in the Fall and Winter months and they last basically forever. (I use them medicinally and in my cooking as well, they lend a really subtle sweet chili flavor to my avo toast. Mmmultitasker!)

How to Use: Simply crush peppercorns using a mortar and pestle or grinder, give them a few deep sniffs, and/ or chew on 5-10 kernals for a couple of minutes, taking care not to swallow right away. I found that chewing the kernals made for a quick (minutes) onset of “de-high-ing” (ha) wherein sniffing them didn’t do much for me. Others have reported a reversal in the negative effects of THC (anxiety lessened, nausea subsided, heart rate normalized, etc.).

Why it Works: It’s posited that there is an #EntourageEffect of the Terpenoids in the pepper plant interacting directly with the THC cannabinoid in cannabis. Per LeafScience, "Pepper contains the terpenes myrcene, α-Pinene (alpha-pinene) and the terpenoid (a modified terpene) caryophyllene.  Pinene has been used for asthmatic patients as a bronchodilator, and, beta-caryophyllene which has been researched for help with athritis, multiple sclerosis and HIV-associated dementia as well as treatment with anxiety and depression. In other words, the terpenoids found in pepper could help with the THC-induced symptoms felt from the phytocannabinoids found in marijuana".

Terpenes, cannabinoids and the entourage effect - extremely exciting plant medicine for our world - this space is just so, so promising. If you or someone you love is curious about cannabis and would like to acquire deeper knowledge of the plant, applications, and therapeutic benefits to help her make more informed cannabis-for-wellness decisions, contact me for personalized, confidential virtual cannabis coaching: thecanncierge@gmail.

Women's Weed Night

We had so much fun at the last Women’s Weed Night!

Lifted ladies ranging from our 30s to 70s gathered in a private residence to learn more about the sacred cannabis flower, discover vetted effective products, and workshop new techniques to embolden and improve the cannabis practice. Here’s a little bit about the evening.

Opening with champagne and introductions, we dined on uber-tasty vegetarian, gluten-free lasagne by the very talented multi-talented Christine Dionese.  After we had a bite, we kicked off the evening with some background on the difference between hemp and cannabis plants, drilled down into the active compounds of THC and CBD, then briefed peeps on the ECS. Everyone in attendance had at least a mid-level understanding, so the content was tailored.

We like to do something we call “level up” with #cannsumption, starting with the non-psychoactives and moving into THC. I highly recommend this practice, especially for women, (since THC impacts us more quickly), for those on other medications, or who are very sensitive to THC (fyi: you are one of these people if you get really paranoid, nauseated, sweaty, etc. when you smoke a sativa-leaning weed). Even for veteran stoners, you really don’t know how different compounds and combos of said compounds will take to your system - I don’t care if you’re Snoop - but especially when mixing edibles, flower & concentrates - TAKE YOUR TIME. And, very good thing to know: CBD counteracts the negative things like paranoia, nausea, and shakiness that some strains can cause in certain individuals - I keep it on hand for those moments of too much cannsumption (they happen, trust).

First Course: CW Everyday Hemp Extract for everyone! I literally want to yell that daily. We started the night off with my health supplement obsession, non-psychoactive #hempextract from Charlotte’s Web. Adults generally will use 1-2 droppers twice daily for optimal results, so we all had that dose to kick off the evening, in addition, we sipped CBD-dosed cocktails I posted to Insta about earlier. I’m pretty into healthy living (though I cannot pass-up a coldass coca-cola) and CBD has been in my orbit for a while now, but, moreover, this product has become a staple for my family, not just for me: I use it to quell inflammation, improve skin & brain elasticity and it has helped joint pain from old soccer injuries diminish; my husband is using it to heal after a cycling injury and for sleep; My child also, is benefiting from CBD in topical form and uses CW’s Topical Pen, for an outbreak of eczema associated with, we think, the stress of starting school.

Second course: Marley Natural's Red Label CBD joints of ACDC, a famously relaxing strain with 17% CBD and 1.1% THC. These Js are relatively petite but pack a solid smoke, I’ve found that my “levels” are just right when I use about a 3:1 THC:CBD sort of ratio, so a few tokes of this was a really nice primer for the THC to follow, and, it was ideal for the CBD-only users of the group who are more of a reversed form of me, so more CBD to THC. Your shoulders will drop a little bit, you’ll feel your muscles relax, and some of the ladies used the following adjectives post-smokage: “fuzzy..but only physically”, “relaxed”, “cozy”, “anxiety - gone”, “content”.

Third Course: CRAFT 1861 Premium Cannabis Oil, we tested the whole line designed to help you uplift, create, relax, and sleep; they’re also releasing a CBD:THC oil soon, which will be amazing. Craft 1861 is a brand I’m pleased to be working with in my consulting practice, they're thoughtful and effective from the start: the fresh-frozen flower is cold-pressed extracted (NO BHO, Co2, MCT, PEG, or PEG 400! No bad stuff!) resulting in very pure cannabis oil. But, then, what's done next is what sets Craft 1861 apart: in addition to extracting THC and CBD, Craft 1861 extracts those essential oils we've all been learning so much about, terpenes, like linalool, myrcene, and limonene. The terpenes are then combined in custom profiles aligned with supporting an array of common mood destinations (with which everyone can connect), then the terpene cocktails are re-combined with the pure cannabis oil to a delightful taste and remarkable affect. 

As far as accessibility, Craft 1861 is next level - eschewing sometimes complicated-for-the-novice-to-understand strain names and plant compound references, Craft 1861 designed a product using common language everyone uses in life, it's recognizable; Obviously, in pen form, micro-dosing and discretion is just total necessity. I've affectionately named the line my “Weed Wardrobe” because I keep the set on deck to support daily across-the-board needs: Uplift, for a bright, "day" medication; Create for an energetic euphoria ideal for making, thinking, and doing; Relax for when you need to chill and allay some pain; and Sleep, for exactly that. And, what’s heartening is that I’ve received positive feedback from one client using Craft 1861 Sleep to wean off of ambien: she reports better, more sustained sleep and no more fear of addiction...or nude sleepwalking!

In their collective, Craft 1861 works with farmers from Calaveras County, CA, and pays their farmer-partners a fair wage for sustainably sungrown, organic marijuana for their exclusive use. I really, REALLY trust this brand philosophically and scientifically - and I do not say that lightly. Check them out at www.craft1861.com, ask for them by name at your shop, or find them on Weedmaps. Obviously, nothing for sale here folks!

Fourth Course: Homegrown Cheesecake Joint packed to the gills. My grow partners and I just took this strain from a nice slow cure and it’s dank, cheesy, and elicits an extremely stoney, sort of silly euphoria, leading to...

Fifth Course: Donuts & an episode of #Disjointed. Naturally.

We closed our workshop with hugs, new friends exchanging info, and a collective feeling of happiness from watching one’s community grow before her eyes. Cannabis heals, unites, and makes us better people - it’s a beautiful thing to witness, especially among a group of women spanning multiple generations. For more information on my work, classes, and retreats visit thecanncierge.com or on Instagram @thecanncierge.