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Matt Weeks
Rudy Carrillo
Ryan Mills
Fred Schorsch
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CONTENTS
22
Smoke Signals
We used to call them “short articles,” but it’s 2024, so now they’re “vertically challenged.” #WokeAF
32
Women in Cannabis
Julietta Neas came to America as a homeless migrant. Now, she’s a thriving business owner.
Heads of Industry
46 Wherever Alfred Viggiani lives should be considered the Madison Avenue of countercultural retail. No cap (whatever that means.)
HQ After Hours
Come explore the fun side of adulting.
62 The Cosmic Doorbell
Sex, drugs and . . . mental health? The science says “yes.”
66 PleasureQuest
Naughty fun for your tender bits and sexy games to play while lit.
Into the Weeds on the Industry’s Stickiest Subjects. HeadSpace
68
F-cking Zoomers
According to our very unscientific poll, 81% of you seem to really dislike Gen Z. Why?
76
What’s Up With Glass?
Fred Schorsch answers the question everyone’s afraid to ask.
EdQuest
82 Puff, puff, class in session!
The Hemp Report
Political intrigue, cultural infighting . . . sh*t’s getting real.
86 Paranoia, Paranoia . . .
It’s time to get over our obsession with THC; it’s about the experience, not a molecule.
92 Educated Stoner
It turns out cannabis is a gateway drug to other beneficial plants. Guest columnist and holistic health guru, Sharon Letts explains.
102
Pot For Your Pet? Pet CBD is a hot seller and there’s real science backing up the hype.
106
Quest 4 the Best
Here comes the fun, little darlin; I feel that ice is slowly melting . . .
110
Industry Associations
The AVM is back with their hard-hitting monthly column, speaking truth to power.
Unique Hydrating Experience
SLOW BURNING Smooth & Mild
CENTER IMAGES: IS RON DESANTIS THE FLORIDA HEMP INDUSTRY’S NEW SAVIOR? WELL, DESPITE HIS DOCUMENTED HISTORY AS A RAGING PROHIBITIONIST, LATEST EVIDENCE WOULD SUGGEST WE COULD ANSWER THAT QUESTION IN THE AFFIRMATIVE. JUST BEFORE PRESS TIME, GOVERNOR PUSS’N’BOOTS VETOED SENATE BILL 1698, WHICH ALL PLAYERS AGREE WOULD HAVE BEEN A DEATH SENTENCE TO THE STATE’S THRIVING HEMP MARKET. SEE MORE ON PAGE 82.
briefsSuper Tight
Hot Takes for Quick Tokes
Gotta Love Them Terps!
A groundbreaking federally funded study reveals that cannabis terpenes might be game-changers for chronic neuropathic pain, offering relief comparable to morphine but without the addiction risk. Injected terpenes not only matched morphine’s pain-reducing power but also boosted its efficacy. Once again, we are reminded that the true magic of the plant is about far more than any single molecule. Take that, Epidiolex!
Colorado Keeps on Truckin’
Colorado continues to refine its psychedelics regulations with new updates following last year’s Natural Medicine Health Act, which filled gaps in Prop 122, setting cultivation limits and establishing recordclearing programs for past offenses. Expect more legislation in 2024, including possession limits and a structured psilocybin sales framework. Lawmakers await input from ongoing rulemaking sessions, with finalized rules anticipated by October. This marks significant progress as Colorado leads the way in psychedelics legalization.
Was Shakespeare a Stoner?
Our kneejerk answer: Duh. That’s the only rational explanation for Hamlet. No sober-minded screenwriter would ever have characters drone on without interruption for that long. But that’s just speculation. There’s historical evidence as well. In 2001, researchers detected cannabis residue in clay pipes found in Shakespeare’s garden, suggesting that the Bard indeed may have indulged in the good herb. However, there’s no conclusive proof that he personally used the pipes, making this connection speculative—but it’s more than good enough for us. Where’s that licensing deal, Pulsar??
California State Fair Allows Cannabis Sales and On-Site Consumption
For the first time, the California State Fair will permit cannabis sales and on-site consumption, marking a historic shift towards mainstream acceptance of cannabis at public events. This initiative aims to integrate cannabis culture into the broader state fair experience—you know— because nothing pairs better than a solid toke and a tilt-a-whirl.
UK Intelligence once hacked an al-Quaeda website and replaced bomb instructions with a cupcake recipe.
The town of Monowi, Nebraska has an o cial population of 1. no Sh*t?
DeSantis Goes Full 1984
Down in the Sunshine state, Gov. Ron DeSantis has launched the “Freedom Fund” PAC to campaign against both marijuana legalization and abortion rights initiatives on Florida’s November ballot. Let that sink in for a minute before we come back to it. Meanwhile, thus far, his efforts have yielded very little in the way of results. The cannabis initiative is gaining traction quickly, with over $5 million in contributions and two-thirds of Florida voters backing legalization. DeSantis’ PAC, on the other hand, has yet to report any donations (at press time), which means their only success is in choosing the most ironic name dreamed up by a politician since the Patriot Act.
@maxed_ t_glass | taken at Glass Vegas 2024
carbonating the game
Seltzer 8 O ers a Delta You Can Sip
Continued on Page 24
By Matt Weeks
We spoke with Seltzer 8 founder Fadi Michael. His alcohol alternative, available in smoke shops, bars, and convenience stores, features 25 mg of Delta 8 THC per can and comes in three flavors: black cherry, watermelon, and lemon-lime.
What is Seltzer 8?
Seltzer 8 is a hemp-derived Seltzer that uses only natural flavors. It’s sodium-free, low-carb, and low-calorie. Primarily, it’s a great alternative to alcohol. It’s still going to make you feel good. It’s calming without giving you the guilt that comes from other beverages. It’s very refreshing, very socializing as well.
We use nanotechnology to infuse the seltzer with the Delta 8 molecule. And being nano molecules, they penetrate your bloodstream a little bit faster, so it’s a better way to ingest Delta 8. It doesn’t have the same effect that a gummy, which hits you all at once. This delivers a more gradual buzz as you sip it.
What kind of effects does Seltzer 8 produce?
Each can has 25 mg of Delta 8 THC, so it’s not too strong, and it’s not too weak. You’re definitely going to get some effects from it. I designed it that way on purpose. If it had 5 mg of Delta 8 and didn’t deliver a feeling, people wouldn’t want to come back. But if it had 100 mg, then I exclude a lot of the population. With it being 25 mg, people can drink two or three, or depending on their tolerance, they can just drink one and still be able to have a good time.
Where did the idea come from?
I have been in the beverage game for 17 years. I’ve owned and operated venues. I’ve done music festivals, and I formulated a tequila. But about 10 years ago, I got into the cannabis business. This is a mix of the two. I wanted to create a different way of consuming THC. I’m not a
The blob of toothpaste you put on your brush is called a “nurdle.”
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smoker. My grandma passed away from lung cancer. So, I thought there’s just got to be different ways to take THC in a social setting. I wanted to find how we could introduce a more modern way to enjoy the effects of THC.
Why did you decide to make it a seltzer?
I watched White Claw become the number one seltzer in the country, and I saw a lot of competitors come and go. When we launched Seltzer 8, I was very careful about how much we carbonate. We created the level of carbonation to be just enough where it’s a fizz, but it’s not nothing overwhelming. Just being in the industry for a long time and going to tastings, I hear what people are saying. “I like this. I don’t like that. This is too carbonated. This is too flat.” So, we created a seltzer with a lower carbonation. It’s not overpowering or overkilling, but enough that you’re going to feel it.
There’s a trend toward non-alcoholic drinks right now. Did you see that coming?
If you look at alcohol sales overall, Gen. Z is not big into it. They gravitate heavily towards this type of product. My career started with owning venues in Columbus, Ohio, around Ohio State University. I’ve long been familiar with what that college and rightout-of-college demographic. I know what they like to see in beverages. Usually, when I create a beverage, I cater to the 20s crowd. But now, the older consumers see a lot benefits in the calming and relaxing effects
Delta 8. I read a lot of reviews from people who say this really helps them sleep or that it helps for headaches. I’m not making any medical claims here, but it does help with relaxing and having a good time without having to worry about all that extra sugar that you get with alcohol.
The main thing about Seltzer 8 is that it’s hangoverfree. You wake up the next day feeling fresh, ready to go. We’ve all had a few nights where we went out and had a couple of drinks and then gotten up the next morning, and our head is pounding. With Seltzer 8, you can have a couple of drinks, and you’ll have a good time. Then, you wake up the next morning, no hangover. You’re ready to go.
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I came here, to the US, when I was nine, in the 1980s. I’m the oldest of three children who traveled with my mom to the US to find a better life. Now, my sister and I are both in the business.
By Rudy Carillo
Julietta Neas remembers the struggle she faced immigrating to southern New Mexico from Central Mexico as a child. Initially, when she, her mother, and two sisters finally reached Truth or Consequences (yes, that’s a real city; look it up), they were free but homeless.
They eventually reached Albuquerque, but many challenges lay ahead. For one, when they first arrived, no one in her family spoke English. Fortunately, what they lacked in linguistic proficiency, they made up for in tenacity and unbreakable spirits. Julietta eventually overcame that initial
hurdle, enrolling in public school and eventually graduating at the top of her class before going on to dominate at UNM (go Lobos!) with degrees in criminology and Latin American Studies, which enabled an 11-year career in social work. However, after years of dedicated service, she felt a strong desire to refocus on her personal goals. This led her to pursue a master’s degree at the University of Phoenix and sparked her interest in business and business ownership as the next steps in her journey.
Julietta loved working with other people, and when the opportunity arose to enter the private sector as
a cannabis entrepreneur, she went for it, using the same resilience and commitment that shaped her life as an immigrant to America.
Nowadays, she’s the owner of a thriving group of dispensaries known in these parts as Amnesia Dispensaries and Accessories LLC, a homegrown business that now includes 4 locations and an edibles bakery called Sunbaked.
As if her sprawling empire wasn’t already enough to handle, she’s also working on getting a farming operation started in Albuquerque’s South Valley.
Continued on Page 36
Julietta Neas & the Seeds of Success
An Tale
“I came here, to the US, when I was nine, in the 1980s. I’m the oldest of three children who traveled with my mom to the US to find a better life. Now, my sister and I are both in the [cannabis] business.” For Julietta, there wasn’t much of a learning curve. Her ‘ganjapreneurial’ aspirations only began five years ago when her brother opened a smoke shop.
“He asked if I would like to join him,” she recalls. “I went to his business for a while and really liked it. I started working with him, and we ended up having five shops. But when COVID hit, it had a big effect on that upward momentum. We lost two of the smoke shop locations to the pandemic.”
But these setbacks only caused Julietta to redouble her efforts, as she continued to work for sustainable
economic success as an American small business owner.
“I really didn’t know how I was going to recover our businesses after the pandemic,” she states candidly. “You know, it was hard every day; rents continued to rise, wages and taxes needed to be paid, but there was no money coming in … and we weren’t considered an essential business, so for a while, it seemed like the end of us. But I had my business degree to fall back on. I didn’t want to go back to social work because it takes an emotional toll. Even though things were very tough, I still preferred the business environment.”
When presented with an extreme but on-track opportunity, she took it— and she went all in.
“I decided I had to figure out a way to finance a new business project that was related to the smoke shops, but something new,” Julietta says. “New Mexico was on the path to legalization at that time, and that came to mind. I couldn’t get a conventional business loan, though. They’re really hard to get for these sorts of businesses. But … I made up my mind to go for it. I sold my home to finance the first shop.”
The now-successful cannabis entrepreneur explains her intense move; although it was a gamble, she felt it was going to pay off. “It is what it is; money comes, and money goes,” Julietta states with a shrug. “I came to this country with nothing, but when I started my first baby, the first Amnesia shop, I immediately started collaborating with a friend of mine
Continued on Page 40
We want to make cannabis affordable to everyone. The way that we look at marijuana here is basically medical in nature. We don’t want cannabis and the cannabis space to be like big pharma, where people can’t get what they need at a sustainably affordable price.
and my sister too. Sharing resources and time in that kind of partnership really helped the business take off. Now here we are, the store started doing really well, and recently customers started asking about our expansion plans . . . that’s the kind of business we’ve been doing.”
Of course, initial success doesn’t make the next phase easy. The entrepreneurial road is always curvy and never without its obstacles and potholes, a fact that Julietta knows all too well. For example, for a long time, Julietta and her team had been actively looking for a building to open a South Valley location, as a large portion of their customers were coming across town from there. They eventually found a location, but there was a huge asterisk. “The only problem was that the location is next to a sheriff’s substation,” she offers, completely aware of the punchline quality of this twist in the story. Going back to the entrepreneurial road, though, the twists and turns can be as fortuitous as they are ominous. “We didn’t know how that was
going to work out. But they’ve really helped us grow, too; they let us use their parking lot, for example, the customers always appreciate good parking. The South Valley is very friendly.”
And there are more locations in the works, says Julietta. “In the last three months, we opened a third location in the NE Heights, and then the other one, near the Freeway on the north side of town, is about to open next month.”
Moving forward into the future, Julietta says that her main goal is based on customer satisfaction but with an edge. “We want to make cannabis affordable to everyone. The way that we look at marijuana here is basically medical in nature. We don’t want cannabis and the cannabis space to be like big pharma, where people can’t get what they need at a sustainably affordable price. I’ve worked very hard to establish that by creating tier pricing for our customers. In some cases, we have no profit margin at all; we want to help the
I think this tax revenue needs to be directly allocated to our education department. Hunger, public health, child illiteracy—these are all still big problems here, and the tax money from recreational cannabis sales sure could help.
community, so we pass on low prices to people who might not otherwise be able to see if cannabis is a good choice for them.”
Julietta’s only reservations about the new legal cannabis system in New Mexico, she says, have to do with where the 25 percent retail tax on recreational marijuana is going. Right now, it goes into the state’s general fund, but Neas thinks this should change so that the money goes back into the community. “I think this tax revenue needs to be directly allocated to our education department. Hunger, public health, child illiteracy—these are all still big problems here, and the tax money from recreational cannabis sales sure could help.”
Regardless of her misgivings, at the end of the day, Neas is sure that cannabis is making a positive impact on American culture and is psyched about what’s next. She concluded our uplifting conversation by stating, “It really is a good thing. If you look at how the laws were working [before legalization] as compared to today, you don’t see the same level of fear; law enforcement can concentrate on more important problems. Marijuana laws were used for years to oppress people of color, and I’m just glad that is no longer going on in New Mexico. Cannabis has been a traditional medicine for centuries, but it has also been demonized in the past 75 years. Being part of changing that is challenging and exciting for me and for my customers.”
WHAT WOULD DON DRAPER DO?
Alfred Viggiani’s Clear Advantage
By Matt Weeks
W
hen consumer products in the ‘60s needed a shot in the arm, they called Madison Avenue. When a modern cannabis company needs guidance, they text Alfred Viggiani.
The New York-based founder and creative director of Advantage Marketing Solutions has built a career as the industry’s go-to guy for branding and promotions. From designing packaging to crafting social media strategy to business consulting, Viggiani’s expertise spans nearly every aspect of the industry.
“I try to get my hands physically involved
with the projects I take on, which is probably what makes me a better tool. I know the process from beginning to end, from concept to completion. You could sketch something on napkins and hand them to me, and as long as I consulted with you and understand what you’re looking for in your end product, I can make it work,” Viggiani said. “It goes deep. I have a factory and a partner in China. I manufacture. I know the importance of what things need to feel like in your hands. I do market analysis to help you understand what part of the market you want to target. Are you looking at a female market, a male market? Are we adding soft touch to the packaging with raised emboss for touch and feel? The longer I talk with my clients and the more information I get from them, the better results they’re going to have.”
YOU COULD SKETCH SOMETHING ON A NAPKIN AND . . . I CAN MAKE IT WORK
A graduate of the School of Visual Arts in Manhattan and a former employee of advertising juggernauts Saatchi & Saatchi and Calvin Klein, Viggiani radiates New York hustle. He thinks fast, he talks fast, and he seems allergic to bullshit. A quick chat with him feels like walking into an MBA-level course in consumer research at THC University.
When asked about the most common errors that new cannabis ventures make,
I see a lot of moneymismanagement, where people will pour a lot of money into one area, and do not diversify enough. Then, if something goes sour, or the FDA happens to step in, it all goes down. I saw that a lot with Delta 8.
he answers before the question is finished.
“—Money management! I see a lot of money mismanagement, where people will pour a lot of money into one area and do not diversify enough. Then, if something goes sour or the FDA happens to step in, it all goes down. I saw that a lot with Delta 8,” he said. “I also see a lot of new companies dump a lot of money into their product, but they don’t do research into marketing or get the proper marketing company to help them, so then they put a really good product into a horrible package, and nobody picks it up. That’s a big one .”
A Lot Less
Garbage
Over a decade ago, Viggiani’s big city bona fides helped fuel the professionalism of the cannabis industry. Now, his style has become the standard. New entrants must invest in advertising and design to gain traction with consumers, and established brands need nearcontinuous reinvention to stay competitive against a horde of newbies vying for space.
“There’s been a lot of higher quality products on the market over the last couple of years; a lot less garbage,” Viggiani explains. “Technology has changed a lot in terms of both making the products and the packaging. If you’re trying to jump off the shelf in an over-saturated market, there are a lot of techniques we can do now that weren’t available back in the day. You can print on plastic boxes, you can do foil, you can emboss. Years ago, these packaging options were only available if you had a very large size. Now, you have the tools to really tell the story of who your company is and what you’re trying to do.”
Pop into any smoke shop in this country—and many overseas—and you’ll come across dozens of products that have benefitted from Advantage Marketing Solutions’ help. Viggiani’s hardcharging style has led him to sign some of the biggest players in the game. He’s redesigned packages for Mike Tyson, helped Rick Flair with advertising, and served as an instrumental part of success stories like High Times’ venture into making their own vapes.
T he Wild West
Despite his resume, it’s not the fame that drives Viggiani.
“The industry, at this stage of the game, is moving very quickly. You have to move very fast with it. If you don’t, you’re going to get knocked out. That probably is one of the things that keep me here, keeps me in it,” Viggiani says. “I’ve been around marijuana my whole life. My father smoked, my aunts and uncles smoked. I smoked on and off, but it wasn’t taboo growing up. What I really
enjoyed was when I worked for Smokers Choice, I got exposed to CBD and CBN and all of those cannabinoids. When I actually saw what it did for the people I know who have Parkinson’s, reducing their shake so they are not embarrassed to go food shopping. That gave me more of a passion and more of a drive to get behind the people in this industry who are doing the right thing with it.”
He’s watched the industry come of age before his eyes, going from a niche sector to just left of mainstream. And while some lament the end of the hippy-led head shop era, Viggiani is taking pains to ensure the future of cannabis is so bright he’ll need shades.
“Right now, it’s the Wild West. I’ve been waiting for there to be a lot more regulations coming down, and they haven’t,” he said. “I think that has a lot to do with the competition amongst the companies. They’re producing better-quality products with a better-quality packaging, which is probably pushing the FDA off somewhat. Five years ago, this wasn’t the case. I mean, then you could make e-liquid in your bathtub and print out boxes in your basement. But now, well, now it’s a different story.”
By Ryan Mills
Sex, drugs and . . . better mental health? Science says yes. A groundbreaking study from researchers at Imperial College London has found that psychedelics like psilocybin can boost your bedroom game long after the visuals have faded away—even if depression has got you down.
Especially if depression has got you down, according to the findings.
While sexual function and satisfaction are generally regarded as an important aspect of human well-being, sexual dysfunction is an all-too-common symptom of many mental health conditions. It is also a common—albeit harsh—side effect of SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), a first-line treatment for depression and anxiety. Not ideal.
Psilocybin, on the other hand, has been found to provide better performance outcomes and sexual satisfaction both in the near term and even up to six months after a single trip. Six months! Anecdotally, we’ve known this for a while: sex and drugs can be a winning combination. Now, there’s hard scientific proof with long-term results.
Understanding the impact of psychedelics on sexual functioning could provide insights for alternative treatments for depression and related sexual dysfunctions, yet another of the many benefits psychedelics can provide.
Continued on Page 64
NEW DIMENSIONS Psilocybin Outperforms
Prescription Drugs in Breakthrough Study
The Magic of Mushrooms
This recent study looked at a bunch of folks who were either part of a large naturalistic survey or a controlled clinical trial. These brave souls were treated with either psilocybin or escitalopram, known as Lexapro, a common SSRI. They measured sexual functioning and satisfaction at different times, checking in on our adventurous participants at multiple points post-trip. The goal? To see who was having the most fun in the bedroom.
Spoiler alert: psilocybin wins. Participants in the magic mushrooms group reported major improvements across the board.
Pleasure and communication: Participants demonstrated a significant boost in sexual pleasure as well as better communication during sex. Essentially, talking about what they wanted got a whole lot easier.
The Magic Behind the Magic
Researchers believe that enhanced mindfulness, emotional empathy, and an openness to new experiences play a big role. Basically, psychedelics help you get out of your head and into the moment, making you more present and connected during sex.
Sexual satisfaction is a big deal for overall wellbeing. For those struggling with mental health issues, finding joy in the bedroom can be a real challenge. SSRIs, while helpful for depression, often dampen sexual desire. Psilocybin seems to do the opposite, opening up new pathways to pleasure and intimacy. These findings make this study a game-changer, shedding light on how psychedelics could be used as a treatment for sexual dysfunction, especially in the context of depression and anxiety.
Spoiler alert, psilocybin wins. Participants in the magic mushrooms group reported major improvements across the board.
Satisfaction with partners and appearance: Participants were more satisfied with both their partners’ and their own physical appearance. Body confidence and positivity FTW.
Long-lasting effects: These improvements weren’t just a fleeting fantasy. Participants noticed these benefits sticking around for both their four-week and six-month check-in after the psychedelic journey.
Psilocybin vs. SSRI: Those on psilocybin had way more positive changes in their sex lives compared to the SSRI group. They reported increased sexual interest, arousal, activity, and satisfaction–all while waving goodbye to sexual anxiety. The SSRI group did not see much change.
Of course, there are a few caveats. The naturalistic part of the study lacked the tight controls of a lab experiment, so while the results are promising, more research is needed to firm up these findings. Plus, most participants were white, employed, and well-educated, which means we need to see if these results hold true for a more diverse crowd.
This study is just the beginning. The potential for psychedelics to revolutionize mental health and sexual wellness is huge, but there’s still a lot we need to learn. More research will help us understand the full scope of these effects and how they can be harnessed for better clinical applications. Future research will hopefully dig deeper into the mechanisms behind these effects for broader populations.
Sexual satisfaction is a crucial piece of the human happiness puzzle. Yet, for those battling mental health issues, achieving that satisfaction can be a challenge. Many of the go-to antidepressants can throw a wet blanket over your sex drive, so finding an alternative that not only helps with depression but also amps up your sex life is groundbreaking. These findings offer a hopeful glimpse into a future where psychedelics could play a major role in our well-being.
Life’s too short for bad sex, so get out of your head and into bed!
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On the surface, the results may sound like more generational or anti-worker trash talk; after all, Baby Boomers traditionally complained about the work abilities of Gen Xers back in the day, saying that grungy nineties kids lacked focus and commitment. Further, the friction between young and old generations, as well as between labor and management, has been playing itself out for literally millennia; as the legendary philosopher Socrates once complained, the young people “have bad manners, contempt for authority; they show disrespect for elders and love chatter in place of exercise.” Later, Socrates protégé Plato added to the sentiment, stating, “They disrespect their elders, they disobey their parents. They ignore the laws. They riot in the streets, inflamed with wild notions. Their morals are decaying. What is to become of them?”
working hours, and benefits, problems with managing Gen Z employees remain. For example, Ginny Saville, owner at The Botany Bay, described Gen Z as “the participation trophy generation,” adding, “They’ve been trained to be rewarded for minimal effort.”
Saville is, of course, referring to the American educational landscape of the nineties and aughts, when exceptionalism was basically banished from the classroom, and students were instructed to believe that trying and succeeding were the same thing.
They disrespect their elders, they disobey their parents. They ignore the laws. They riot in the streets, inflamed with wild notions. Their morals are decaying. What is to become of them?
—Plato (allegedly), c. 400 BCE
But modern business owners, being the practical sort, have more specific complaints than those named by a couple of old Greek dudes. Despite advances in employee conditions,
“They’re not dependable,” Saville stated bluntly when asked for more details.
“They’re not good at following basic instructions, and I feel like I really have to micromanage them. That pisses us both off.”
The tension that Saville speaks of is also felt by Gen Z workers, who, of course, have their side of the story to tell. In an article in Fortune magazine from this past January, writer Orianna Rosa Royle argues that low wages have at least something
Continued on Page 72
Opinions are Like A**holes
Gen Z vs. Millennials1 (see illustration)
1. Live paycheck to paycheck and worry about finances.
Gen Z: 46% Millennials: 47%
2. Not confident they will be able to retire comfortably.
Gen Z: 26% Millennials: 31%
3. Believe the gap between the richest and poorest people in their country is widening. Gen Z: 72% Millennials: 77%
4. Would like to leave their jobs within two years.
Gen Z: 40% Millennials: 24%
5. Prefer hybrid or remote work patterns. Gen Z: 75% Millennials: 76%
6. Believe the world is at at tipping point in regard to climate change.
Gen Z: 75% Millennials: 73%
7. Personally making efforts to reduce environmental impact.
Gen Z: 90% Millennials: 90%
8. Believe their employers are strongly committed to fighting climat change. Gen Z: 18% Millennials: 16%
9. Feel burned out due to work environments. Gen Z: 46% Millennials: 45%
10. Believe that workplace well-being and mental health have become more of a focus for their employers since the start of the pandemic.
Gen Z: 57% Millennials: 53%
11. Feel stressed out all or most of the time. Gen Z: 46% Millennials: 37%
WWhat’s Up With Gen Z?
GENERATION GAP
hat the hell is going on with Gen Z? This was the question we posed to our clients, readers, and individuals involved in the smoke shop and cannabis industry. Initially, the main concern about Generation Z was their role in the modern workforce. The paramount significance of this issue became evident when we reviewed the survey results, where respondents shared their insights on job performance and work habits.
Yes, results are in. And depending on your current cultural affiliation, you’re either gonna be terribly disheartened about the state of our world right now, or you’re going to be aghast and unbelieving, willing to defend the work ethics and social mores of Generation Z until you reach the age of thirty when you’ll promptly become ashamed over your previously insouciant ways.
Before we get into the nuts and bolts of our Gen Z work performance survey, let’s get a couple of definitions clear and out in the open.
Generation Z, or just Gen Z, is a term that refers to humans born between the mid-to-late 1990s and early 2010s. They are also known as
By Rudy Carillo
Zoomers. Many in this generation have already entered the workforce; the ones born in the early 2010s will soon be looking for their first jobs.
A whopping 81% of respondentstold us that Gen Z workers were significantly worse than other employees in terms of work ethic, manageability, and attitudesgeneraltoward work . . .
The intersection of those two items—namely Gen Z and the US workforce—has been problematic, it turns out. Common cultural observations in the media, as well as our research for this article, bear out the set of problems associated with Gen Z at work in America.
While the news isn’t necessarily good, it is consistent across a wide swath of the American retail landscape. Understanding and constructively addressing these facts could be the most effective way to improve employee performance, participation, and overall work ethics among this misguided generation of workers and citizens.
Here’s what our poll said. We asked simple questions of clients, associates, current advertisers, and industry heads. We specifically asked about job performance and Gen Z. Though our sample size was too small to be scientifically conclusive, we nevertheless came back with some pretty clear indicators, as well as commentary from those who participated in the poll.
A whopping 81% of respondents told us that Gen Z workers were significantly worse than other employees in terms of work ethic, manageability, and general attitudes toward work, while just 12% believed that there “was nothing new to see here,” hinting that employee job performance has always been an issue in the small business world.
Continued on Page 70
Retailers answer: How do you rate the work ethic and adaptability of Gen Z employees compared to other generations?
to do with a building resentment among young workers that leads them to being disaffected and uninterested in normative career goals.
As one of Royle’s interviewees states, “Most Boomers don’t know what it’s like to work 40+ hours a week and still not be able to afford a house.” This concern echoes across the many statements made by Gen Z employees about their opinion of work. A Stanford University report from February of this year clarifies the matter. Report author Roberta Katz notes that “Work and home life are all so integrated that if you don’t pay attention, you could be working all the time. I think Gen Z is sensitive to that. Having a work-life balance and maintaining mental and physical health is also important to Gen Z. They’re placing a value on the human experience and recognizing that life is more than work.”
Ultimately, it’s a fact that a vast majority of business owners we spoke to are concerned about the Gen Z employees with whom they work, and for good reasons. On the other side of the coin is a generation of workers who may be unprepared for the modern work environment because of poor public education experiences and the pandemic, among other factors. The resulting difficulties at work and the difference in values and opinions about the importance of work and how it should be faithfully executed can most likely be solved through a system of comprehensive systems of communication.
Those methods of communication should stress accountability, allowing both parties dignity while making sure ground rules for at-work behavior are established and followed. This process should be balanced by providing employees with a living wage and benefits, as well as encouraging honest feedback. Those actions aren’t just aspirational; they will actively encourage employee responsibility, participation, and growth. American business author and consultant Peter Block put it all quite succinctly: “To be accountable is to care for the well-being of the whole and act as if this well-being is in our hands and hearts to create.”
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THROUGH A GLASS DARKLY
What the hell is happening with glass? Home Blown Glass’s Fred Schorsch Weighs in with an erudite and nuanced lesson in social psychology, economics, and niche history.
Vol. 2: Weaving of the Pattern
By Fred Schorsch of Home Blown Glass
It’s an open but distressing secret; glass sales are suffering. It’s an issue everyone in the industry sees, but few want to discuss openly. While we’ve touched on this topic in previous issues, we’ve only scratched the surface.
To delve deeper, we spoke with veteran glass blower Fred Scorsch, who had so much to say that he gave us a full article instead of just a quote. His insights offer a comprehensive look at the challenges facing the pipe market today, from economic pressures to changing consumer behaviors. We hope this article sheds light on the complexities of the situation and highlights the importance of supporting skilled artisans and preserving the cultural heritage within the cannabis community.
The big picture is always composed of its individual threads woven together through time. We can follow the decline of American manufacturing from the creation of an international plan. These reactionary economic policies ushered in by Nixon, along with his drug war, created wage and price controls on the US economy and abolished the fixed exchange rate system. This agenda was codified with Reagan and then NAFTA under Clinton. This betrayal of the working class was the mold used to funnel profits to capital as the US market’s exposure to globalism intensified the downward pressure on wages, benefits, and living standards. This allowed corporations to escape laws to protect workers and the environment
while opening the way to regulate finance, destroy trade unions, and privatize public services.
Pipe culture is one of those threads woven into this fabric of the American dream. We were lucky because the Drug War, with its cannabis prohibition, created a bubble in time. The hysteria in Congress against drugs resulted in laws banning the importation of paraphernalia, giving us years to live the dream before American glass blowers were buried by the global market like the rest of America’s workers have been for sixty years. While my design ideas have had a global impact, I’ve never considered myself an artist. My entry into glass was inspired by the fire itself as a hobby of passion that became a business
of necessity in the goal to provide for a growing family. This protection from low-wage workers in the global economy because of this prohibition had allowed our little company to provide benefits, paid holidays, and vacation, along with health insurance to our workers for decades. Their dedication made our dream possible.
are often knocked off for a fraction of the cost that we can produce them for in the United States. Artists and production blowers selling direct
Thirty-six years in the smoke shop industry, and I’ve seen several bubbles bringing people in for the green rush and then taking some out when they pop. This one hit really hard.
Skilled labor takes years to create and needs to be valued. This disinvestment in American workers is evident by the disruption in the supply chains we have just witnessed. We are squeezed by inflation and the glut of foreign imports while corporations have been making record profits and spending it to override democracy. Our designs
have undercut the stores—and by abandoning them, they have also abandoned us.
The market pressures of competition thinned out the pie. The amount of gas stations, convenience stores, and vape shops have made it difficult for quality stores to survive; I have
seen some of the very best close their doors. This once insular culture, now commodified, has lost its soul, and its young have lost any sense of ritual as vapes have become habitual. This trend means many have never smoked pure flower— just concentrated garbage full of food-grade terpenes and chemical cocktails destined for landfills. Thirty-six years in the smoke shop industry, and I’ve seen several bubbles bringing people in for the green rush and then taking some out when they pop. This one hit really hard. Some will find the way. With conscious intent, we can educate and create culture where it has been lost. We are smoke eaters born from those echoes of time. Our weaving is done in the fire.
THE HEMP REPORT
Insights and Actions for Business Owners
By Nick Zavakos & Jeff Beverly
As the hemp industry continues to evolve, business owners must stay informed about legal trends to ensure their operations remain compliant and competitive. Our latest coverage touches recent developments in Texas, Louisiana, and Georgia, and provides a preview of potential changes in the federal Farm Bill. We’ll highlight the implications of these trends for your business and offer actionable steps to help you navigate the shifting landscape.
State trends & highlights
Texas
The Texas hemp industry is at a crossroads, with business owners pushing for fairer regulations to ensure long-term stability, while Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick is calling for stricter controls or a potential ban on THC-containing hemp products. This would severely impact businesses reliant on lowTHC products, and as we have seen, prohibition of these products only sends consumers online to purchase them from out-of-state suppliers. At the end of the day, it’s business owners that are impacted most by blanket bans that don’t appeal to sensible regulations.
Current Situation:
ronny d saves Hemp!
In a surprising move, Governor Ron DeSantis has vetoed Senate Bill 1698, which would have imposed strict regulations on hempderived products, citing concerns about the impact on small businesses. This veto ensures the continued sale of popular hemp products without new restrictions. However, before we go singing the governor’s praises, insiders have suggested
that the move was a strategic effort to gain support from the hemp industry to help defeat the marijuana legalization initiative on the November ballot. The veto follows a strong lobbying campaign by the Florida hemp industry, showcasing the power of advocacy and the importance of industry support in legislative matters.
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• Over 7,700 active hemp dispensaries in Texas as of early 2024.
• Potential regulatory changes could drastically limit product offerings and impact business models.
Action Steps:
• Collaborate with Industry Organizations: The Texas Hemp Council has been at the forefront of the fight against unfair state regulations.
• Diversify Product Offerings: Consider expanding your product line to include non-THC hemp products to mitigate potential regulatory impacts.
Florida Governor Vetoes SB 1698
Federal Rescheduling and the Farm Bill Preview
Rescheduling of Marijuana
President Biden’s announcement to reschedule marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III is a landmark decision. This change acknowledges marijuana’s medical value and lower abuse potential, potentially easing federal restrictions and expanding research opportunities.
Georgia: New Licensing and Compliance Requirements
Georgia’s Hemp Farming Act, Senate Bill 494, introduces both clarity and challenges for hemp business owners. The good news is the products are now age-restricted, but there are several causes for concern as well.
Key Points:
• THC Definition Expanded: Includes total THCA language, making some products illegal.
• Licensing Fees: Sliding scale fees based on
Call to Action: Stay Vigilant!
Farm Bill Reauthorization:
The upcoming reauthorization of the Farm Bill poses potential threats to the hemp industry. Stay tuned for updates and be prepared to advocate for industryfriendly provisions.
business size, from $250 to $4,000.
• Felon Ban: Licenses denied for applicants with certain drugrelated felonies in the past ten years.
Operational Changes:
• Product Compliance: Ensure all products meet the new THC definitions.
• Obtain Licenses: Navigate the licensing process and budget for associated fees.
• Advocate for Change: Push for more inclusive policies regarding licensing bans.
Louisiana
In a significant victory for the hemp industry, Louisiana lawmakers rejected a push to ban THC-infused products. Instead, they established a regulatory framework to control this fast-growing state market, currently valued at $33 million.
Key Developments:
• House Bill 952: Passed with regulations including age restrictions and 5mg per serving limits for hemp-derived THC products.
• Senate Bill 237: Rejected, which would have banned THC products altogether.
New Restrictions:
• THC-infused beverages are now banned in bars and restaurants. Protectionist moves by the alcohol industry? At the expense of those trying to enjoy a more sober lifestyle? We’ll let you decide.
Implications for Business Owners:
• Continued Operations: Businesses can continue selling THCinfused products with new regulations… unless you have a liquor license.
The hemp industry is facing significant legal changes at both state and federal levels. For business owners, staying informed, advocating for fair regulations, and maintaining high standards of product quality are crucial. Engage with your state representatives, join industry organizations, and adapt your business strategies to navigate this evolving landscape successfully. Most importantly, keep following along with our articles to stay up to date!
Nick Zavakos and Jeff Beverly are founding partners at Know Naturals, a brand that offers an assortment of federally compliant, hemp-derived Delta-9 consumables, actively working to help steer state-by-state legislation, as well as provide products that remain compliant within those new frameworks. “Stay in the Know with Know Naturals!”
• Product Adjustments: Adapt to new serving size limits and age restrictions to remain compliant.
• Advocacy: Engage with lawmakers to ensure future regulations support the industry’s growth.
By Rudy Carrillo
THE THC
MYTH
Is it Time to Reconsider How We Gauge Quality?
G. . . at what point does THC content improve the consumer experience? Further, can too much THC crash an otherwise healthy cannabis interaction?
randpa told me that when he was a young buck, he and his friends were very lucky to get weed with anything more than one to five percent THC content. By the time he was in college and “sinsemilla” was coming up from Mexico and into the southwest USA in the saddle bags and gasoline tanks of patriotic biker types, things had improved a little bit, but 15% THC was still considered a miracle whose acquisition was worthy of a party featuring ZZ Top on the record player, a truckload of PBR, and an army of bikini-clad babes armed to the teeth with zig-zag rolling papers and an Apogee Bong or two.
Things are so different now, he reminded me while drifting off to the sounds of Dark Side of the Moon after a particularly intense solo smoke sesh with his buddy, the bubbler.
And he’s right. If I wanted to, I could take a quick trip to the neighborhood dispensary—while the old dude is napping—and pick up a strain with a
32% THC rating, or anywhere between 17 and 29%, generally speaking, from most cannabis shops in my hometown. Those numbers don’t even speak to products like kief or hash-infused joints with a 45%-60% THC content … or the various cannabis extracts and edibles commonly available for both medical and recreational consumers: some of them have very high THC content (like on the order of 70%-90% THC).
The question is, does any of that number stuff really matter? And if it does, at what point does THC content improve the consumer experience? Further, can too much THC crash an otherwise healthy cannabis interaction? More importantly—and relevant to this discussion as well— what’s the entourage effect, and how do terpenes play a role in each personal cannabis experience?
That’s a lot to ask. But that’s why we’re here at Headquest. And, of course, sometimes surprising answers to those very questions lay ahead, so keep on reading as you reach for that favorite lighter of yours.
In order to get a better idea of what’s at stake here—while answering the fundamental question about the relevance of THC potency to everyday consumers—I let Grandpa nap while I consulted Professor Dr. John Scariano, a researcher and cannabis expert working at the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center. (Full disclosure: Scariano, a respected academic, is not speaking on behalf of, or in representation of, the University of New Mexico or the University of New Mexico School of Medicine, where he is employed.)
Scariano has an intense and practical knowledge regarding the weed’s medical uses and has a lot to say about THC content. In a wide-ranging interview, he discussed THC potency, among related subjects, with this humble journalist. Dr. Scariano argues that THC forms one of the fundamentals of today’s personal cannabis experience, stating at the beginning of our meeting that “The THC content of cannabis can be as high as 30% or more from some growers, which is mind-boggling to me, as that’s nearly a third of the mass of the flower! Furthermore, the concentrates and waxes contain much more. I’ve never smoked any of those, as I saw many a coworker in the industry indulge and then experience twentyminute asthmatic-like coughing fits, wheezing, and respiratory distress afterwards. I know many medical and recreational users who, I suppose, like those who drink light beer, prefer a THC range around 20-25%, and some who like even less. I surmise there’s a wide variety of genetically determined betweenindividual variability in our disposition and response to the many types of cannabinoids present in the product, as well as a short-lived tolerance of
the effect. Let’s keep in mind that other cannabinoids and terpenes can modulate classical and non-classical cannabinoid receptor-mediated effects, and the cannabinoid network is a complex system that interacts with our brains and immune systems simultaneously. In short, some like a ‘stiff drink’ at happy hour, and some prefer a lighter beverage.”
Asked to describe the difference between flower rated at 17 percent and the new crops of super weed clocking in at as much as 31 percent, as well as the prudence in always seeking the higher ranges, Scariano is clear in his assessment, relating the following scientific information: “To couch the question of THC content in a real-life context, I offer the following anecdote: I’ve had friends a little older than I [Scariano is in his early 60s] be able to handle flower that ranges from 15-25% without much ado—in terms of being able to hold good conversations and finish dessert. But a few puffs over the line with strains containing 30 percent or more puts them on the sofa or recliner for a ‘refractory period’ lasting anywhere from 45 – 90 minutes.”
When asked about the physiological and longterm health effects of heady experiences involving highpotency weed, Dr. Scariano strikes a cautionary note that emphasizes consumer safety. “I’ve always maintained that a powerful strain of marijuana could cause a slight tachycardia and induce a bit of paranoia. But carried too far, there are those in the circles in which I travel who believe that prolonged and excessive cannabis use can lead to cardiomyopathy and perhaps unmask underlying psychiatric disorders. But to get
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definition
The ENTOURAGE Effect
: (grossly oversimplified) the synergistic interaction between the various compounds in cannabis—such as THC, minor cannabinoids, and terpenes—resulting in enhanced therapeutic effects and a more balanced overall experience than any single compound would provide on its own.
THC: The Ringleader
For better or worse, THC is the star of the crew. He brings the fun, but without his friends around, he’s been known to misbehave. desired effects:
Pain relief, euphoria, relaxation, appetite stimulation, sedation, etc.
possible side-effects:
Anxiety, paranoia, cognitive impairment, increased heart rate, cotton mouth, red eyes, etc.
minors: the sidekick
For a general audience, the minors don’t provide much on their own, but when hanging with THC, they not only become the best versions of themselves, but also bring out the best in THC. the players:
CBD: Anti-anxiety, anti-inflammatory | CBN: Sedative, sleep | CBG: anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, neuroprotective | THCV: Appetite suppression, energy | & more entourage contribution: Minor cannabinoids can balance the psychoactive e ects of THC, reducing side e ects like anxiety and paranoia.
terpenes: the driver
The terpenes determine the direction and flavor of the experience, making sure the ride is smooth, balanced, and enjoyable. With their unique scents and therapeutic benefits, they guide the entourage to ensure that everyone works together harmoniously.
Aromas and Flavors: Terpenes give each cannabis strain its unique smell and taste. Synergistic E ects: Di erent terpenes can enhance or modulate the therapeutic e ects of cannabinoids, creating a more balanced and e ective experience.
back to the gist of the question we’re discussing, I would caution the beginner to start with a 20 percent flower and work their way upwards slowly, comfortably.”
Further, Scariano recommends that consumers learn about terpenes and the role the entourage effect—the idea that the interaction between all of the compounds from a cannabis plant, such as phytocannabinoids and terpenes, come together to enhance their effects—in order to make better and healthier choices about their cannabis consumption. He stated that cannabis users should be more interested in the various terpenes associated with their favorite strains than by in THC content. “They should absolutely look into terpenes! I think it’s closely analogous to wine, which also contains various terpenes and terpenoids. The biochemistry of terpenes is fascinating: how they’re put together from common building blocks, how they interact with our sensory and immune systems, and how they please us. For beginners, I’d recommend that consumers take a look at the
important in making personal THC decisions as is judicious use, Scariano believes, saying, “It depends on how hardcore or experienced one is. If you’re Willie Nelson, I’d say knock yourself out. And, of course, have a designated driver and a trip-sitter always handy. If you’re [New York Times reporter] Maureen Dowd, who overdosed on edibles in Denver after Colorado first legalized recreational marijuana because she wasn’t getting an immediate effect and kept eating away, and became eventually so stoned that she couldn’t even drink a glass of water, then I’d take a slower approach. It’s always good to have friends around just in case.”
And edibles are a special case in these encounters, says the professor. “Edibles pose a particular danger to the novice and have resulted in many an ER admission in states with recreational programs. Smoking is a safer approach as one can better fine-tune the desired range. With edibles, there’s no going back except for gastric evacuation and a gram of Xanax. My shrink friends caution against cannabis
positive for THC. Smoking, since it has a more volatile delivery, gives you a better chance of passing a drug test if one gives themselves a couple weeks to abstain.”
Right before our meeting ended –and before I trucked it home from the university to visit Grandpa and tell him all that I learned from my meeting with a real cannabis expert—the good doctor added the following to top off our visit: “General knowledge of the biochemistry and physiology of cannabis and its receptors is highly recommended, including an honoring and understanding of terpenes! As Frankenstein often repeated in his classic eponymous movie, ‘SMOKE GOOOOOOD!!!’ The best answer to your question is that the user has many choices and, with the appropriate guidance, can achieve a level of use best suited to their individual needs. Marijuana helped me become a better, more responsible, and compassionate person when I was in a period of development and chaos. For others, it was a gateway into worsening
By Sharon Letts
EDUCATED STONER
Cannabis as Superfood: Comparing Cannabis to Other Beneficial Plants
Author’s Note: I like to say that cannabis was my gateway drug to other beneficial plants—a doorway into the knowledge of what plants do for all of our biological systems, not just humans. There’s a plant for everything, and many of these plants have many of the same benefits as cannabis, with overlapping bonus benefits. Put them together with cannabis, and you have a full profile of not just the much talked about cannabinoids and terpenes but a world of beneficial compounds, all working together with biological systems, supporting homeostasis, or a place where illness cannot dwell.
W“When they told us to eat our fruits and vegetables, they should have scared the shit out of us. They should have told us it was a matter of life and death, because it is.”
Sharon Letts, Educated Stoner
hen cannabis came into my life as medicine more than a decade ago, I had been eating from my own home garden all of my adult life. I raised my daughter in the garden, teaching her how to grow her own food at a young age.
But, I really didn’t know just how important including as many plants into your diet was – specifically beneficial herbs—until I presented with breast cancer in my 50s.
Plant propaganda is real. The demonizing of plants as medicine began in the late 1930s, as synthetic formulations patented for profit became the pharmaceutical industry
and apothecary—the thousands-ofyears-old practice of making medicine from plants—was demonized out of existence.
When Adam & Eve were threatened with being banished from the metaphorical Garden of Eden, it wasn’t about sex; it was about the apple.
Biological beings have a symbiotic relationship with plants. Highly beneficial plants have fragrances because we have a nose.
We are all biologically the same. Only our individual alchemy differs—or what we each put into our systems.
If you are partial to the smell of citrus,
The demonizing of plants as medicine began in the late 1930s, as synthetic formulations patented for profit became the pharmaceutical industry and apothecary . . . was demonized out of existence.
it’s likely your system is craving the limonene terpene, found not just in citrus but limonene-heavy plants, such as lemongrass or lemon verbena.
Garnering help from beneficial herbs is a challenge for the average person. Searches on most of these herbs found medical sites warning of negative effects, stating nothing is really known about plants and their healing properties, while herbalists sites expound on the known benefits and exceptional healing found in the garden. I feel privileged to be educated on plant remedies.
#NotJustCannabis
Prior to the late 1930s and the birth of the pharmaceutical industry, the practice of Apothecary – making remedies from plants—was the way we healed and prevented illness on this planet. In this respect, pharmaceuticals are a fairly new mode of treating illness—and still very much experimental, with myriad negative side effects.
In fact, the word “drug” came from the Dutch word “Drog,” or the wooden crate plant materials were shipped in. Drugs were all about plants, but the messaging became muddled over the decades.
Beatrix Potter wrote The Tale of Peter Rabbit in 1893, with millions of children and adults alike reading of Peter’s mother putting him to bed with a cup of chamomile tea to settle his tummy after he’d made a feast out of Mr. McGregor’s garden.
Sadly, chamomile and many other potent medicinal plants have been reduced to a cup of tea over the years or into mild tinctures treating symptom relief only. It wasn’t until I learned about making cannabis oil concentrate in an alcohol reduction that I realized the value of the essential oils of plants and how lifechanging they can be, with little negative side effects and lots of healing.
Super Plants = Superfoods
The definition of a superfood is any nutrient rich plant containing many beneficial compounds, able to treat multiple symptoms and disorders.
Superfoods strengthen our immune system while addressing all 11 of our biological systems via the endocannabinoid system.
The endocannabinoid system, aka eCS, was a little-known biological delivery system discovered in 1988 by American researchers Allyn Howlett and William Devane at the Saint Louis University School of Medicine in a government-controlled study.
The eCS system was found while
exploring the compound Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), originally realized by Dr. Raphael Mechoulam in Israel in 1964, opening the floodgates of cannabinoid research.
What Devane and Howlett added to the research was the fact that we have CB1 and CB2 receptors that respond to cannabinoids from plants—not just cannabis. They also made the realization that the most prevalent cannabinoid receptors are in our brain, connecting functions throughout the body—making the brain-tobody connection real. We are what we eat, we feel what we eat—and our
emotions are definitely connected to our physical well-being.
By 1992, Dr. Lumir Hanus, with American researcher Dr. William Devaneat at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, found that the endocannabinoid system distributes beneficial plant-based compounds to all our systems, preventing illness and keeping us healthy.
Sidenote: Dogs and cats have similar biological systems to humans, which is why they also respond well to plant medicine.
According to Biology Online.com, the systems supported by plants are integumentary, lymphatic, muscular, nervous, reproductive, respiratory, skeletal, endocrine, immune, urinary, and neurological systems.
A simple search for superfoods comes up short, as within the brief list of berries, broccoli, and salmon are “leafy greens,” like spinach— which is a great food. And while many might assume that some lettuces and spinach are at the top of the nutrient list, they are sorely lacking in many of the beneficial compounds that give strength for healing, like those found in the herbs. As a footnote, merely juicing the fan leaves of the cannabis plant has been found to put serious ailments, such as Multiple Sclerosis and Lupus, into remission.
In April of 2010 a paper was published (link below) showing ten essential oils tested on acne (bacterial) and cancer cells. They included mint, ginger, lemon, grapefruit, jasmine, lavender, chamomile, thyme, rose, and cinnamon.
Of the ten, thyme, cinnamon, and rose essential oils were said to exhibit the best bactericidal activities, killing acne in five minutes. Thyme showed the strongest cytotoxicity towards human cancer cells. All ten were said to be significantly stronger in treating human lung
carcinoma and human breast cancer.
The studies on plants listing their benefits and in treating numerous ailments are published for all to see. The concentrations of essential oils and the use of isolated compounds are key in determining the efficacy.
For example, when studying cannabis, is the study using an isolated single compound or the whole plant? This rule of thumb can be used in all plant-based studies and has everything to do with the outcomes. The difference in treating symptoms or putting an ailment into remission has everything to do with the strength of the plant concentrate used.
For instance, in the study finding that THC can trigger existing psychosis, a high concentration of THC via an isolate was used. Meaning the person receiving the dose was getting pure THC without any supporting compounds from the plant—making the outcome limited and severe in its findings.
Using the whole plant, be it cannabis or oregano, with all supporting beneficial compounds, is key in treating any illness while supporting the endocannabinoid system properly. Breaking down the plant to formulate in order to patent for profit is where we fall short with plant remedies, in my humble opinion.
Using the whole plant, be it cannabis or oregano, with all supporting beneficial compounds, is key in treating any illness while supporting the endocannabinoid system properly.
Euphoric, Adaptogenic B E V E R A G E S
M o o d S h i n e H i g h
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The Good Herbs
Here’s my own short list of superfoods via beneficial, immune-system-building herbs, with a recipe for a simple infusion for tincture using either a light oil, vinegar or an alcohol base.
Chamomile is commonly known and used for calming and inducing sleep. Its digestive benefits are not widely known, as most in the Western world reach for over-the-counter medications for bloating or constipation.
The bonus of enjoying a cup of chamomile tea before bedtime is prevention against infection, reducing inflammation in the body, and treating depression, as it lifts endorphins and creates dopamine in the brain, giving an overall feeling of wellbeing. Chamomile also treats anxiety and diminishes panic attacks.
Make a concentrated infusion, and this strong herb can be life-changing. On a personal note, chamomile made in a simple coconut infusion, then put into capsules, replaced Valium for my own anxiety and hormonal depression, giving me an overall feeling of well-being.
B. Guanabana
1Editor’s note: “Do your own research,” means actual research, not a YouTube binge.
As a footnote, merely juicing the fan leaves of the cannabis plant has been found to put serious ailments, such as Multiple Sclerosis and Lupus, into remission.
Benefits: anti-oxidant, digestive issues, anti-inflammatory, regulates high blood pressure, anti-bacterial, auto-immune system builder.
Grown and commonly used in South America, this fruit, known as soursop or custard apple, is also used for its leaves to make tea, treating stomach ailments, fevers, parasitic infections, hypertension, and rheumatism. It’s also used as a sedative. But, the commonly known use for guanabana is as an antioxidant in treating cancer and killing cancer cells.
Rosemary is one of the most underrated herbs and one of the most efficient in treating infections. It also gives clarity, improving memory. It’s also been found to be effective in killing and preventing cancer cells from growing (study below). In a study looking at ten antioxidant plants, Rosemary was at the top of the list with a 97 percent success rate of the concentrated formulation killing cancer cells in a laboratory study.
D. Stinging Nettles
Benefits: anti-inflammatory/pain, lowers blood pressure, treats hay fever/respiratory support, lowers blood sugars/diabetes, detoxification (kidney/liver), increases circulation, prostate health (frequent urination), promotes wound healing), auto-immune system builder.
I
first found out about stinging nettles after having a bad bout of hayfever a few summers ago. Soaked in gin, it’s become my go-to tincture for allergies, but it’s also another superfood, able to address many ailments including gout, arthritis, and an enlarged prostate gland. Conflicting information has nettles both lauded for its help in detoxing the liver and kidneys by herbalists and blaming it for complications thereof by medical sites. This educated stoner will trust the plant.
F. Oregano
E. Thyme
Benefits: antioxidant, anti-infection, anti-viral, bronchial support, sore throat, pain, digestive issues, flatulence (gas), parasitic worm infections, skin disorders, detoxification (increase good fats in brain, liver and kidneys), auto-immune system builder.
Thyme is another powerful super plant, able to treat many infections and ailments, including being an antifungal, viral, with cancer-fighting compounds. Thyme was found to be the most powerful at killing cancer cells in a laboratory study (link below)..
Benefits: antioxidant, anti-infection/viral, fungal, anti-inflammatory, regulates blood pressure, helps with digestion, bronchial issues, and calms nerves, autoimmune system builder.
Oregano is yet another powerful herb able to treat myriad infections and enhanced non-specific immunity and disease resistance. It’s also a cancerfighting plant, and an immune system builder. But a simple search on its uses came up short, with pizza and sauce at the top of the search list!
Immune System Building, Preventive Tincture
The following tincture can be made by infusing a light oil, such as grapeseed or sunflower or olive oil, to infuse foods. If the patient can’t have alcohol, the plants can also be steeped in gin or apple cider vinegar (ACV).
¼ c. each dried rosemary leaves, chamomile flower, guanabana leaves, stinging nettles (can also use any combination of herbs from above list)
Add all to one liter of oil in a crockpot and steep on low for 2-3 hours.
Note: Most of these plants also have a full profile of vitamins and minerals. Do your own research to find out more.1
About the Author
Strain and decant. Dose with a teaspoon or put in a bottle with a dropper.
Dose: 1 ml. once a day.
If using gin or ACV, cold-steep in a cool cupboard for up to one week or when the color is a light brown. Strain and decant as above. Use gin infusion as a tincture, or make a beneficial cocktail.
Sharon Letts is a writer and producer from Humboldt County who turned to cannabis after a breast cancer diagnosis. Now in remission, she writes internationally about the healing power of cannabis and superfoods, sharing patient stories, and advocating for the medicinal and recreational use of plant-based remedies. Scan the QR code to visit Sharon’s website for more ideas and recipes
In the beginning, there were gummies.
But as the CBD craze caught fire, new products abounded. Producers wouldn’t rest until every consumer good had a CBD-imbued counterpart. From hand creams to sodas to T-shirts, there was nothing that couldn’t be improved with a bit of the good stuff.
Now, as the fervor fades, the most famous cannabinoid (aside from THC) has found a new clientele: pets. And unlike some earlier product attempts, there is serious research behind pet CBD.
What We Know
In many ways, CBD for pets makes good sense. It’s all-natural, familiar, and inexpensive.
But, while the peer-reviewed findings are promising and pet forums are brimming with positive anecdotes, challenges abound.
Many veterinarians lack a rigorous understanding of CBD, and pet owners often feel a stigma about dosing their pet. It should come as no surprise that a large contingent of owners does more research about treating their dogs than treating themselves.
When prescribing medical cannabis, human doctors can explain potential side effects, set expectations, and
Now . . . the most famous cannabinoid (aside from THC) has found a new clientele: pets. And unlike some earlier attempts,product there is serious research behind pet CBD.
offer guidance for managing the experience. Veterinarians have no such luxuries. If a pet ingests a mindaltering substance, they deal with the consequences on their own.
Sometimes, that’s a necessary part of treatment, such as when a dog licks up antifreeze and needs to be dosed with alcohol to counteract the poison. The medicine makes them stumbling drunk, but it also prevents kidney failure.
Cannabis, however, presents a different problem. Despite the image Scooby Doo concocted, THC can be toxic to animals. And it’s becoming a major issue.
With every state that legalizes recreational use, calls to veterinarians about accidental poisonings skyrocket. Usually, it happens when a dog eats a dropped roach during a walk. But the consequences can be rough. THC poisoning may cause nausea, loss of balance, and hallucinations in dogs. While most recover without issue, it can be scary
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By Matt Weeks
POT FOR YOUR PET?
and uncomfortable for the pets.
Luckily, CBD is built differently.
“There’s never been any example of any dog overdosing or needing to go to the hospital from CBD,” says Brandon Schechter, the founder of Yin Yang Infusions. “The most common side effects are usually diarrhea and lethargy, which are fairly benign and go away on their own in a short period of time. And there are millions of pet owners using it worldwide with no reported hugely negative consequences. I think that speaks volumes.”
The research backs him up. Reams of data suggest that the all-natural
substance is safe for pets.
How do we know? While American laws make it difficult for local scientists to study CBD, researchers in other countries are making giant strides. Collectives like ICAN Vets in Mexico and CBD Vets Australia are pulling double duty by working to educate patients and practitioners while also producing high-level research. Their websites are goldmines of data-based recommendations on treatments and dosing guidelines.
But there are experts who are working diligently stateside to help pet owners make informed decisions about CBD, such as whether it should be your first choice or a last resort.
Advocacy and education groups like Colorado-based Veterinary Cannabis promote practitioner education and
offer over-the-internet consultations.
Should You Give Your Pet CBD?
Sometimes, it helps to consider the big picture. While we’re still at the very beginning of understanding how CBD affects us and our pets, animals are no strangers to natural medicine.
Dogs and cats eat grass to get rid of an upset stomach. It can cause them to throw up or act as a laxative. Apes have been seen munching on healing plants to combat flatworms. And pregnant elephants know which leaves to eat to induce delivery.
And many of the medicines we give our pets are the same ones we take ourselves, just dosed lighter. We’re not talking over-the-counter stuff, either. Serious drugs, such as Prozac, are commonplace on veterinarian scripts.
Taken in its full context, CBD for pets is far more like traditional medicine than something totally new. It’s best to be careful, but if your pet needs help, it might be the right option. Scan her for
Backwoods x Gashouse Crossbody Shoulder Bag
The next generation, bless their little Zoomer hearts, love adventure; they’re ready to throw any number of colorful accessories across their busy backs and go exploring the backwoods . . . Now! And with that action-packed customer conceit strapped fashionably onto your adventurous self, you can begin your own exciting journey too! The Backwoods x Gashouse Crossbody Shoulder Bag features the ultimate in style and functionality, including a proquality waterproof zipper, rubberized pullers, and legendary Backwoods Cigars logos that guarantee durability and a cool consumer branding experience. This innovative daypack and shoulder bag also has a smell-resistant foil and a detachable smell-proof pouch so your belongings stay fresh, secure and under the radar. Don’t miss out on this must-have expedition accessory!
QUEST
4 the Best
HoneyStick Ripper E-Rig
Kr8om Reserve Extract Tincture
Kr8om is a leading manufacturer and wholesaler in the ever-growing space dedicated to America’s favorite Southeast Asian herb, continually striving to redefine industry standards through the integration of science and quality control for an enhanced consumer experience. That continual redefinition is apparent yet again with Kr8om’s Reserve Extract Tincture, a 12ml bottle that boasts a whopping 225mg of full spectrum alkaloids, including approximately 150mg of Mitragynine per unit. The result, according to the early adopters is pure fire; an unadulterated experience that soothes, alleviates and invigorates with naturally enhanced efficacy and consistency. Adding to the experience is the peace of mind granted to the consumer through the knowledge that all Kr8om’s products are manufactured in the USA in compliance with the highest standards, guaranteeing safety and purity.
Introducing the HoneyStick Ripper E-Rig: A Dual-Purpose Powerhouse electric rig vaporizer for dabs and dry herbs. VPR’s Honeystick Ripper E-Rig is the latest in hot consumer vaporization products designed to make every session memorable. This rig is all about high-level functionality and includes a dry-herb heating attachment as well as a wax atomizer with two quartz bowls and a professional-quality dab tool. In addition to all the technical advances sported by this vaping device (such as a 4000mAh rechargeable battery and vibrations plus colored LEDs used to alert consumers about temperature changes and settings) the design aesthetics of the Ripper are, simply put, ahead of their time. A space-age conical bubbler that guarantees cool vaping, paired with subtle LED lighting and ergonomic touches make this Ripper a formidable new entry into the American vaping space.
Red Eye Tek® Metallic Terminator Finish Revolution Pull-Out
It’s time to turn and burn with Red Eye Tek® Metallic Terminator Finish Revolution Pull-Out. Featuring a never-before-seen six-chambered design, the Revolution allows you to preload your smoke sesh before you even start. With this patent-pending technology, you can create a series of personally curated freshies to maximize both the flavor and variety of your next sesh. Whether you’re loading it up with multiple strains for the ultimate taste test, or just ensuring a fresh hit for your buddies without having to “corner the bowl” the Revolution’s unique design is your ticket to a convenient, functional and world-bending water-pipe experience every time. Operation is simple; load the six mini-chambers with your choice herb—then puff, puff, click, pass. Can you imagine accessing multiple strains of flower through one clever device? Imagine no more; join the Revolution today and experience it for yourself.
Grateful Dead 510 DL Series by Pulsar
The Dead will live forever in our hearts—and now, thanks to Pulsar, they can live in your pocket, too. Make your love for Jerry and Co. known while keeping your consumption preferences on the downlow with a 510 pen that’s designed to look like any standard nicotine vape and adorned with the timeless artwork of the supergroup that keeps on Trucking. Choose from the 510 Dl Auto-Draw with a 320Mah battery, the DL 510 Auto-Draw 2.0 with a 1000mAh battery, silicone mouthpiece, and an LED display screen, or finally, the 510 DL 3.0 Twist Variable Voltage that features a handy dial for instant voltage adjustment with a 650mAh battery and a 6-month end-user warranty. If you find yourself sneaking tokes while tracks like “Fire on the Mountain” or “Scarlet Begonias” kick in the background, Pulsar’s Grateful Dead 510 DL series might be your ticket to a Sunshine Daydream.
As we enjoy great advantages from the inventions of others, we should be glad of an opportunity to serve others by any invention of ours, and this we should do freely and generously. Benjamin Franklin
Hits Blunt
“Hits Blunt.” It started as a viral internet meme that took the digital world by storm; now it’s an innovative, savvy smokers’ brand of choice head shop staples. Hits Blunt is now in the vape, deltas and even mushroom game, but their flagship product is still their original blunt wraps made from 100% organic hemp, a big step up from the traditional wrap made from tobacco. Featuring the texture, size, and flexibility of a traditionally acquired tobacco blunt wrap, these bad boys are reinvigorating an inhalation technology that’s been part of popular culture since before Snoop Dog ever even tried the Indo. With packs that include 2 wraps each, retail for about $1.50, and that come in flavors like blueberry, white grape, and “sweet,” Hits Blunt is on track to make blunt smoking more popular than 2Pac ever imagined.
THE CASE FOR SWITCHING
Why Smokers Should Vape Nicotine
In my last column, I outlined a beginner’s guide to nicotine vaping, with the goal of encouraging smokers to try a product that has helped me and millions of others quit cigarettes forever. I briefly mentioned that vaping is “demonstrably safer than smoking, owing to the lack of combustion products in vapor,” but I didn’t elaborate on that point.
Now that you know switching is a relatively simple process, I want to make the case that it’s essential. Here are just a few reasons why adult smokers should at least try to switch.
Way Safer
The bottom line first: nicotine vaping is significantly less harmful than smoking. A comprehensive review published in the Annual Review of Public Health concluded that the health risks associated with vaping are substantially lower–about 95 percent lower–than those related to smoking. The report actually went further and concluded that the long-term effects of vaping are likely to be relatively benign compared to the severe health consequences of smoking.
chemicals, with most devices containing nicotine, propylene glycol, glycerin, and flavorings. As a result, vapers are exposed to a significantly lower concentration of toxic substances, reducing the potential for long-term health complications.
Breathe Easier
Several studies have demonstrated that switching from smoking to vaping can lead to improvements in lung health. A review published in
By Alli Boughner Vice President American Vapor Manufacturers Association
Indeed, recent research has found no “significant difference in the cardiovascular risk of exclusive e-cigarette use compared with nonuse of cigarettes and e-cigarettes.”
Financial Benefits
The bottom line first: nicotine vaping is significantly less harmful than smoking . . . health risks associated with vaping are substantially lower–about 95 percent lower–than those related to smoking.
the journal Nature concluded that vaping “improves lung function” with smokers who switch reporting fewer respiratory symptoms as a result. These findings suggest that nicotine vaping likely mitigates some of the long-term respiratory effects associated with smoking.
Reduced Risk of Cardiovascular Disease
Why? Decreased Exposure to Toxic Substances
Traditional cigarettes contain over 7,000 chemicals, including at least 70 carcinogens. In contrast, and as I mentioned last month, vapes typically contain far fewer
Smoking is a well-established risk factor for cardiovascular disease, including coronary heart disease, stroke, and peripheral arterial disease. However, the risk of cardiovascular disease appears to be significantly lower among vapers compared to smokers.
In addition to the health benefits, switching from smoking to vaping can also result in significant financial savings. According to one estimate, vaping is roughly 80 percent less expensive than smoking. Over time, these savings can add up to many thousands of dollars. That’s notable because many smokers are less affluent than their non-smoking neighbors and the cost of cigarettes is a major financial burden for them.
Take the easy road
In many cases, making the right decision for your health is difficult. It might involve taking an expensive medicine or radically changing your lifestyle. That’s not the case with vaping. Not only can you enjoy nicotine while drastically cutting the risk to your health, you can get it through a delivery method that emulates smoking and save money in the process. What better combination could you ask for?
