How to Buy Cannabis in Colorado

8 Tips on How to Buy Edibles in Colorado

Cannabis edibles in Colorado have evolved significantly over the last decade. They've transitioned from homemade pot brownies to legal, perfectly-dosed treats. Gooey caramels, chocolate bars, THC and CBD gummies, and microdosed mints are among the many diverse shapes and sizes available. But buying and trying edibles for the first time can be a bit intimidating. To ensure a great experience, here are 8 tips on how to buy edibles in Colorado.

Consider Your Dose 

If you have a sweet tooth but standard recreational tolerance, maybe you’d prefer to have several 2.5mg bites than just one 10mg piece. On the other hand, perhaps you’re a medical patient that requires a 200mg dose. More than likely, two 100mg bites are preferred over twenty 10mg pieces! 

Point being, THC tolerance among novice consumers, daily users, and medical patients varies greatly. But here’s a generalized list regarding adult-use tolerance: 

But of course, this is only a generalization and likely best to guide new users. If you’re a patient seeking medical advice regarding dosing, contact Leaf 411, a free hotline allowing conversations with licensed, cannabis-trained nurses.  

Choose a Product that Contains a Proper Amount of THC

Once you've determined your ideal dose, whether you're a heavyweight seeking 100mg or a newbie seeking 10mg, be sure to choose a proper product. The packaging will include lab test information from a third party, the amount of THC and CBD in milligrams per serving, and the number of servings in a package.

Review Other Label Information 

The label will tell you whether the edible is butter or oil-infused, or if it was created with a solvent-based extraction. The packaging will also include a list of ingredients, nutritional facts, and any allergy information. These days, cannabis companies consider users’ allergies and dietary restrictions, so know that gluten-free, sugar-free, vegan, and more options are available.

Additionally, the product's packaging should explicitly state that it contains cannabis. There should be a plainly visible THC icon on the label. This will prevent accidental consumption by family members, roommates, house guests, etc. If you have kids and pets around the house, keep the edibles out of their reach.

Consume Responsibly 

Though weed is legal in Colorado, it doesn't mean you abuse its use. We believe that cannabis should enhance your daily life; not in any way hinder it. Select an edible that complements your way of living and needs. 

If you’re seeking creativity, consider a terpene-infused sativa gummy. If you’re consuming to improve the quality of your sleep, maybe a CBN-infused edible would benefit you. 

Always Ask your Budtender for Suggestions

Terpenes and novel cannabinoids might be foreign to new consumers, but that’s where your budtender comes in. A competent salesperson can assist you in selecting an appropriate edible that suits your needs. Plus, they’ve likely tried everything on the shelves, so they can provide honest, first-hand recommendations. 

Don’t Combine Cannabis and Alcohol

We all know that cannabis and alcohol don't complement each other. Edibles are not an exception to this rule. If you're going to consume edibles, it's best to stay away from alcohol until the effects have subsided. 

Furthermore, if you take them both simultaneously, you won't be able to distinguish between the effects of the edible and the alcohol, which could affect your future dosing.

Remember Cannabis Can Interfere with Other Medications

Cannabis-infused products can interact with other medications, causing adverse side effects. Did you know that there are some situations where using cannabis can make other drugs stronger or weaker?

CBD (cannabidiol), a marijuana and hemp flower byproduct, is currently the subject of increased research. Since CBD is processed in the liver, taking other medicines that use the same pathway can change how well the body processes them.

CBD and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol, the active compound of cannabis) have been demonstrated in lab research to impact enzymes involved in processing a wide range of drugs. They include blood thinners and antidepressants, suggesting that cannabis could potentially modify their function.

But there isn't much research in this field, unfortunately. So, if you're regularly on medication, it's a good idea to consult a cannabis medicine professional or doctor before consuming marijuana. Please reach out to our partners at Leaf 411 for a free consultation.

Identify the Best Type of Weed Edibles to Buy

There are various types of weed edibles, some of which are:

Food Edibles

These are the most frequently-used type of edible, and to many, it remains the best (and most tasty!) edible. You can find a wide variety of full-spectrum food edibles, such as chocolates, gummies, and cookies, as well as other savory snacks.  

Drink Edibles

THC-infused beverages include coffee, tea, mocktails, and sodas. When it comes to drinks, be sure to double-check dosing. Most are “single-serve” products that allow you to drink the entire can in one sitting, often dosed at 10mg THC. However, others come with a dosing cap, similar to what you’d see with over-the-counter liquid medications. 

Tinctures

These are MCT oil-based or alcohol-based extracts. Tinctures are designed to be absorbed by the tongue and mouth. When using a tincture, you slip a few drops under your tongue and allow them to absorb orally for a few minutes. The cannabis in the tincture then enters the bloodstream and produces the effects. Tinctures have been around for a while, although they are not as popular as other edibles.

Cannabis capsules

Cannabis capsules are often preferred by medical patients, providing an effective and safe oral delivery mechanism. These capsules are often flavorless and offer a discrete method of ingesting THC. 

Where to Purchase Edibles

Edibles can be purchased at a legalized marijuana dispensary, which can be found in most counties throughout Colorado. Note that most dispensaries sell edibles online, too, which makes for even more convenient pick-ups. 

If you’re looking for a long-standing, credible company, consider edibles made by Medically Correct. We are dedicated to patient care, and we pride ourselves in producing products that suit our customers’ needs. Our brands include incredibles, Nove, and Quiq, available in hundreds of retailers you can discover using our store locator.  

by Danielle

The Six Best Medically Correct Cannabis Products for Summer

This Season's Cannabis Product Must-Haves

Take a deep breath because summer is almost here! After all the anxiety, frustration, and struggle during the year-that-must-not-be-named, it feels good to see the slow return of summer activities and events. If there’s one thing we all deserve, it’s a busy schedule filled with concerts, beach days, and weekend getaways! The only thing that can make these experiences better is by indulging in your favorite cannabis products for summer. 

Cannabis can elevate your mood while keeping your mind and body at ease. We’ve all earned some rest and relaxation, so now is not the time to allow overthinking, stress, or anxiety to take away from your summer to-do list. And Medically Correct has just what you need to help you create unforgettable experiences. 

Check out our six picks for the best cannabis products to have with you this season! 

Say hello to your new summer cannabis faves!

No more sheltering from the outside world. It’s time to break out that summer wardrobe and make those vacation reservations. And with these six awesome products, you’re almost guaranteed a fun, chilled-out summer!

1. incredibles Summer Peach Gummies

What better treat to take to the beach than these sweet peach gummies! Breathe in that salty sea air as you gaze out to the horizon feeling cool, calm, and unbothered. Stress and worry are not invited to your mini-getaway! 

Pair with: Sea, sand, and a colorful beach umbrella

Available at: Oasis Cannabis Superstore, Solace Meds Fort Collins, 

Average cost: $15.00 per 100mg THC (ten 10mg THC pieces per pack)

Adult-use; various states including Colorado

2. trupura CBD Extra Strength Salve

Getting outdoors does the body well, especially during the summer. After being cooped up inside for so long, it’s time to hike, swim, bike, and do whatever we can to get moving! And by having this extra-strength CBD salve on hand, you can help manage any pain that creeps up. Don’t let sore muscles put a dent in your plans -- these cannabis products for summer are essential!

Pair with: Running shoes, mountain bike, and hiking backpack

Available at: Full Circle Salon and Spa, Meadowlark64, or shop online!

Average cost: $48.00 per 1000mg container

Ships online nationwide

3. Clear Creek Extracts Pineapple Express x Sour Lemon Meringue 1000 mg DUO Pod

Two is better than one! Switch between these yummy summer flavors to set the mood no matter where you are. The sour lemon meringue will definitely hit the spot during an outdoor BBQ. Or, if you have a big day planned ahead, a quick hit of the pineapple express will keep you moving. 

Pair with: A daytime adventure or a night out on the town

Available at: Wolfpac Federal, Green Cross Rifle

Average cost: $50.00 for 1g increments

Adult-use; Colorado exclusive

4. incredibles S'mores Bar

We all know the staple of any good campout is the ooey-gooey s’mores, and the incredibles S’mores Bar will take your favorite campfire treat to the next level! A tasty blend of marshmallows and milk chocolatey graham crackers will help you settle in and keep warm while stargazing.  

Pair with: Cozy flannels, a big campfire, and starry skies 

Available at: Organic Alternatives, Twin Peaks Dispensary

Average cost: $18.00 per 100mg THC bar

Medical and adult-use; various states including Colorado

5. Quiq 1:1 Tincture

Splash your lemonade or iced tea with a dash of this minty cool tincture. Add a wide brim hat and a fan, and now you can be lounging on your lanai in style, just like the Golden Girls! Because seriously, who doesn’t want to be Betty White?

Pair with: A sunny lanai and your favorite tunes

Available at: Fermont County Cannabis, The Healing Canna

Average cost: $50.00 per 100mg bottle

Medical and adult-use; Colorado exclusive

6. Nove Island Coconut Bar

Let the sweet coconut taste transport you to the tropics while basking in the glow of a coral and orange sunset. There’s nothing like savoring a piece of dark chocolate while feeling the warm summer breeze on your skin. Ride those island waves deep into the night! These new luxury chocolates are absolutely a must-have cannabis product for summer.  

Pair with: A lei, hibiscus hair flower, and a new pair of shades

Available at: Simply Pure, Kaya Cannabis 

Average cost: $20.00 per 100 mg/10 pk bar

Adult-use; Colorado exclusive 

Shop your local dispensary online or in-store to snag your cannabis must-haves for summer!

Our brands at Medically Correct are featured in numerous dispensaries across the country. Shop online to see if we’re available at your local dispensary!

Don't see a dispensary listed near you? Try widening your search using our store locator. You can even filter your results so you know which types of products each store carries.

Be sure to tag us with your summer cannabis haul at @medicallycorrectllc so we can get in on those summer vibes. Cheers to you and the great days ahead!

by Danielle

Cannabis and Anxiety: What Does Science Say?

If you suffer from anxiety, you are not alone. Anxiety is the most common mental condition in the United States, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. The disorder affects 40 million Americans every year, so 18.1% of the population! Anxiety disorders are highly treatable, yet only 36.9% of those suffering from anxiety receive treatment: meaning less than half of the impacted demographic. 

How is anxiety treated?

In addition to pharmaceuticals, therapy, and other lifestyle tweaks, medical cannabis is rising in popularity as a way to manage anxiety. There’s typically no cure for anxiety; it’s just something most people have to live with. Anxiety is an approved condition under various states’ medical cannabis programs, with thousands of patients taking advantage of the budding (no pun intended) industry to improve their mental health. 

Cannabis and anxiety: what does science say? 

Currently, cannabis research is limited, partly due to the plant’s federally illegal status under U.S. law. This means we don’t have many tangible resources supporting cannabis for anxiety. 

Cannabis is considered a Schedule I Substance, meaning it's considered as highly addictive without any potential for medical value. Meth, heroin, and yes, even cannabis, are all on this list alongside each other, holding equal potential for damage in the eyes of the federal government. 

The medical cannabis programs across the country say otherwise, but the impenetrable federal red tape prevents scientists from conducting key cannabis research, legal businesses from utilizing safe banking solutions, and businesses from effectively marketing cannabis products -- creating a gap. 

With that being said, we do have access to some scientific research and anecdotal evidence, which build a strong case for cannabis and anxiety! When it comes to mental health conditions, and anxiety especially, it’s important to consume cannabis the “right” way: meaning the right way for your body and brain. 

How does cannabis help anxiety? 

If you know anything about cannabis, you probably know some people experience anxiety when they consume it. This is because of the THC in cannabis. THC isn’t bad, but it can cause anxiety in some people. There are a lot of different reasons why someone might feel anxious after consuming high-THC cannabis, including:

• Simply too much THC for them 
• Not eating enough before consuming
• Consuming cannabis in a wildly-stressed state of mind
  • Sometimes, cannabis can bring out deep-seated (or not so deep-seated) emotions we are already feeling, further exacerbating internal stress. It helps to take a few deep breaths and calm your mind as much as possible before consuming cannabis. This way, it can continue the job and further relax you!
• Genetics
• Hormones

According to a 2017 report published by the University of Washington, THC appears to decrease anxiety in lower doses and increase anxiety in higher doses. The same report notes CBD to also decrease anxiety in all doses explored. Unlike THC, CBD does not create a psychoactive effect. After consuming CBD, you’ll likely feel more relaxed, focused, and balanced. CBD is most often derived from hemp. 

The federal government removed hemp from the Schedule I Substances list in 2018, effectively paving the way for an exploding American CBD market. However, as we mentioned before: marijuana remains on this list. 

Hemp and marijuana are cousins, both considered to be cannabis plants. The difference? The THC content. Per the 2018 Farm Bill (the bill which removed hemp from the Schedule I Substances list), hemp must contain less than 0.3% THC to be legally sold. Therefore, all of the CBD available to you at the grocery store and online is derived from hemp, so the products you can purchase without a medical marijuana card or visiting the dispensary - like trupura CBD! 

Here are four key ways to best utilize cannabis products for your anxiety: 

1. Microdose your cannabis

When you think of cannabis consumption, you might think of the typical stoner. Someone chain-smoking four blunts in a row, or spending their entire life high and hazy. When it comes to wellness, being stoned isn’t the goal: it’s simply being well. If you’re consuming cannabis for anxiety, we can imagine your goal is relaxing enough to function throughout the day. 

In this case, you don’t want to be stoned. Enter microdosing. Microdosing is exactly what it sounds like: dosing your cannabis in micro amounts. This way, you’re still reaping the benefits of cannabis, but you aren’t too high to go about your day. Microdosing works by stimulating the endocannabinoid system, just like cannabis in larger amounts. The endocannabinoid system is a biological system every human being has, and it’s how cannabis works in our body! 

2. Choose products with sedative properties & shop with terpenes in mind

You might hear the words “indica” and “sativa” and wonder what they really mean. Truth be told, in the grand scheme of things, the words don’t mean much. Cannabis is a complex plant, full of different compounds like cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. 

Rather, approach it this way: “I’m looking to relieve my anxiety, so I need to find something that will relax me.” This opens you up to a world of potential. From here, you can begin looking at different methods of consumption, dosing suggestions, terpene content, and cannabinoid ratios. Try a 1:1 ratio of CBD to THC for anxiety relief, like this Black Cherry chocolate bar from incredibles. 

When it comes to terpenes, they have therapeutic properties of their own! Myrcene, for example, is just one terpene thought to relieve anxious feelings. Read this blog post we wrote about terpenes to learn more; they’re amazing compounds. 

3. Try a hemp-derived CBD product first

If you’ve never tried cannabis before, you might first consider trying a CBD product derived from hemp! This way, you won’t experience any psychoactive effects. You might find you need something more (like THC), or CBD might be just what the doctor ordered.  

Research suggests something called endocannabinoid deficiency syndrome might be at fault for various diseases. Studies like this one ponder endocannabinoid deficiency syndrome’s role in fibromyalgia, migraines, and IBS. Hemp-derived CBD can introduce cannabinoids in your body, gently waking the endocannabinoid system, without overloading you with THC. 

If you think you need THC to start and you live in a legalized state, go for it. We always recommend starting low and going slow until you learn your perfect dose. Pay close attention to how your body feels after consuming cannabis. This way, you can quickly identify how much is too much. 

4. Try a fast-acting product

Fast-acting cannabis products allow you to quickly gauge your tolerance. Traditional edibles can take up to an hour to kick in, sometimes even longer. When this happens, it’s easy to overdo it and regret it just a few hours later - especially when you’re feeling anxious and just want to find relief. Quiq White Chocolates are formulated with rapid absorption technology and like the edible we highlighted above, it offers a 1:1 CBD:THC ratio. 

When you’re learning how much your body can tolerate, it’s best to utilize the rapidness of Quiq and avoid overconsumption. After learning your dose, then consider incorporating traditional edibles like the cherry dark chocolate.  

Ready to try cannabis for anxiety? 

We want to emphasize that we are not doctors. We aren’t qualified to give medical advice, but we sure know a lot about cannabis and we know actual experts who can give medical advice! 

Before introducing cannabis into your wellness routine, reach out to professionals like the nurses at Leaf 411. It’s a free hotline that provides the general public education and directional support about cannabis. There, you can talk through any concerns you might have about trying cannabis. Once you’re given the green light - come and shop with us.

by Danielle

Cannabis for Better Sleep: What Does Science Say?

No one likes having raccoon eyes or feeling irritable all day after a sleepless night. Unfortunately, falling and staying asleep can be hard, especially as we get older. This begs the question, is cannabis the answer to sleep-related issues like insomnia? Some of our own consumers say absolutely!

“I LOVE the [incredibles Sour] Gummies. I have 6 titanium rods in my back & my spine is fused so it’s very difficult to sleep, but these gummies help me fall asleep & stay asleep. They are the best thing ever made!”

“I have MS, arthritis, and chronic inflammation. I take one of these [incredibles Red Licorice Gummies] every night before bed. I have been completely pain-free for months.”

Scientific studies are providing more and more proof that the human body was built for cannabis. So where does the research stand on getting better sleep?

Sleep Survey Says Yes, No, and Maybe

Scientists aren’t wasting time uncovering all of the relaxing and sedative effects cannabis provides, but when it comes to sleep, some research shows mixed results. 

One study observing patients both with and without sleeping problems found that cannabis shortened the time it took for them to fall asleep. Another in 2019 found that almost 67% of the participants experienced better sleep by using CBD. 

However, other studies have found some people experience higher rates of insomnia after trying to limit night time usage. There’s also evidence that heavy marijuana use in younger adults could cause them to develop sleeping problems later on in life. That’s why researchers like Kimberly Hutchison, an associate professor in the Sleep Medicine Program in the Department of Neurology at OHSU, are pushing for more long-term research and limiting the barriers placed on cannabis research.

“Research on cannabis and sleep is in its infancy and has yielded mixed results with significant biases. So, additional control and longitudinal research is critical to advance our understanding of research and clinical implications along with short and long term risks.”

How Does the Endocannabinoid System Affect How We Sleep?

Up until about thirty years ago, researchers didn’t even know the endocannabinoid system existed. Now studies are showing how much of an impact this biological system has on our overall health! 

Scientists believe the endocannabinoid system is perhaps the most important factor in how we maintain balance in our physiological functions. This includes everything from our appetite, cognitive processes, and yes, even sleep. It can even affect how we dream!

Terpenes and Cannabinoids and REM Sleep, Oh My!

So what’s its connection to cannabis, you might ask? Well, as it turns out, researchers have discovered that this system is partly made up of compounds similar to the ones found in the cannabis plant! These are called endogenous cannabinoids and studies show our body produces at least six different types.

Meanwhile, the cannabis plant has over 100 known cannabinoids! Many scientists are studying which ones are beneficial for sleeping problems and other health conditions. The three we hear about most often are CBD, CBN, and THC. 

THC is associated with the “high” many people feel when consuming cannabis. Its sedative effects can make it easier to fall asleep. THC can also reduce the time a person spends in REM sleep and increase slow-wave sleep, thereby reducing how much we dream. This has shown to be a positive side effect in patients with PTSD who frequently have nightmares.

CBN is not as well-known, but some studies find it could be a powerful sedative. These effects are amplified when combined with THC. CBD has gotten extremely popular in the last few years, especially for its therapeutic benefits with little to no psychoactive symptoms. Some doses of CBD can increase alertness during the day and reduce daytime sleepiness. It’s also been shown to be helpful with insomnia and dramatically improve the quality of one’s sleep.

Another part of the plant that impacts the effects of cannabis is terpenes. Terpenes are small, aromatic molecules that give cannabis its taste and smell. About 150 different terpenes have been identified and different strains can have multiple combinations of terpenes. Some of the ones associated with improving sleep include:

• Myrcene
• Caryophyllene
• Terpineol

Cannabis Products to Try for a Good Night’s Sleep

All of these cannabis compounds will produce different effects at varying degrees based on the plant’s terpene profile, THC:CBD ratios, and method of consumption. Trying out different cannabis products is the best way to see which one does the most for your mind and body. 

Here are a couple of cannabis strains and edible options that you can try to help get you to sleep as soon as your head finds your pillow!

• Granddaddy Purple - An OG indica strain you can’t miss out on trying. A true classic with a sweet taste and plenty of myrcene to help lull your mind to sleep.
• 9lb Hammer - This strain will crush your insomnia like...well, a hammer! Thanks to its heavy myrcene and caryophyllene terpene profile, you’ll be melting into your sheets.  
• Trupura CBD Relax Softgels - These 600mg CBD softgels are a triple whammy against restless nights. Add a little beta-caryophyllene and melatonin, and you have the perfect mixture for a night of rest and relaxation. 
• Quiq Indica Dark Chocolates - It’ll only take about 5-15 minutes before your eyes will be begging to close. Plus, with this edible’s rapid absorption technology, you’ll feel quicker, stronger effects at just half the dosage.
• incredibles Snoozzzeberry Gummy - Say goodnight and don’t expect to wake up ‘til morning! These amazing gummies infused with CBN will be insomnia’s worst nightmare.

Don’t Forget to Speak to a Professional Before You Start Counting Sheep

Before trying any of the products suggested above, always remember to speak with a licensed medical professional first. We also advise talking with a cannabis-trained, registered nurse from Leaf 411. There’s no limit to their wealth of information when it comes to managing your health with cannabis.

Medically Correct is chock-full of award-winning products and informational blogs to help guide you along your cannabis journey. We don’t like losing out on sleep, so why should you?  Shop online and pick-up from your local Colorado dispensary today!

by Danielle

Cannabis for Pain Relief: What Does Science Say?

Believe it or not, pain relief is the most common reason people seek cannabis! A 2019 study published in Health Affairs showed 62% of medical cannabis patients are looking to ease their chronic pain. 

“We now know that chronic pain is indeed the most common qualifying condition for which people obtained medical cannabis licenses. Given the context of the opioid epidemic and the consistent observational studies that report medical cannabis patients substituting cannabis for pain medications, we now have a better sense of how widespread that practice and rationale may be,” said the study’s lead author, Kevin Boehnke, PhD. 

Cannabis and the opioid crisis

It’s no wonder why people are putting down the pills and picking up the hippie green plant instead. When it comes to abusing opioids, there’s a common justification: “My doctor prescribed me this medication. Therefore, I am not addicted.” It’s an easy lie to believe because your doctor did prescribe you that pill. Why would they give you something that could hurt you? 

It’s important to keep in mind, just because something is prescribed to you by a physician, doesn’t mean it comes without risks. Check out some of these sobering statistics from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services about opioid misuse: 

• In 2019, it’s estimated that 10.1 million people aged 12 years or older misused opioids over the prior year. Specifically, 9.7 million Americans misused prescription pain relievers, while the remaining 745,000 people used heroin. 
• More than 760,000 Americans have died since 1999 from a drug overdose. Two out of three overdose deaths in 2018 involved an opioid. 
• The national rate of opioid-related hospitalizations was 297 per 100,000 population in 2016.

Can I overdose on cannabis?

Currently, cannabis has not been proven to be the cause of any fatal overdose. 

This set of parents, for example, tragically lost their 22-year-old son unexpectedly. They firmly believe cannabis was responsible for their son’s death, as it was found in his system when he died and he was an advocate for the plant. Despite this belief, the examiner who conducted his autopsy concluded cannabis did not cause his death, and doesn’t list it as the cause of death on his death certificate. While experts might point out other side effects to watch out for after consuming cannabis, such as paranoia, racing heart, potentially distorted vision, etc., nearly all of them agree that overdosing on cannabis just isn’t possible. This pair of grieving parents, unfortunately, did lose their son to a heart attack, according to the examiner. 

What does science say about cannabis for pain relief? 

So far, the FDA has not approved cannabis to cure or treat any disease, and that includes chronic pain. With that being said, there is an enormous amount of research and anecdotal testimonies that support cannabis for pain relief. This research sparked the installation of medical cannabis programs in over half the country, with surely more to follow! In terms of credible research rooted in scientific processes, here’s what we know about cannabis and pain so far: 

• A 2016 research paper discovered cancer patients used 64% fewer opioids for cancer-related pain when medical cannabis was integrated into their routine. 
  • This piece of research also notes:
    • Cannabis consumption was associated with a better quality of life in patients with chronic pain
    • Cannabis came with fewer side effects and medications used
• Harvard University says cannabis seems to ease the pain associated with multiple sclerosis, as well as general nerve pain. 
• This 2015 review exploring cannabis to relieve pain found several of the conducted trials yielded positive results. The trials focused on patients with chronic pain, neuropathic pain, and multiple sclerosis. “Marijuana or cannabinoids may be efficacious for these indications,” reads the study.  

How does cannabis for pain relief work? 

Let’s first talk about cannabinoids like the above study briefly mentioned. Cannabinoids are compounds found in the cannabis plant; there are over 100 known ones, but you might know the most popular ones as CBD and THC. To keep it simple, THC is the compound responsible for creating a high. CBD won’t intoxicate you, but it’ll give you a lot of the same benefits THC does! 

Once these cannabinoids enter the body, they meet something called the endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system is a biological system every human being has. The endocannabinoid system is equipped with receptors, CB1 and CB2 receptors to be specific, and they interact with cannabinoids like THC and CBD. 

THC fits the CB1 receptor perfectly. You’ll find heavily concentrated areas of the CB1 receptors in the brain stem, spinal cord, nervous system, and other parts of the body. The CB2 receptor engages a lot with CBD, but they don’t directly fit each other like CB1 and THC. Find CB2 receptors in our vital organs, immune cells, the brain, our skin, digestive system, and more. 

The endocannabinoid system continued

Experts believe the endocannabinoid system is responsible for bringing our body to homeostasis and restoring balance in the areas where we need it the most. That’s why you hear people recommending cannabis for so many different issues: because we have endocannabinoid receptors in basically every part of our body! Cannabinoids are a direct target to those receptors. 

Don’t believe us? We don’t blame you, because you haven’t heard much about the endocannabinoid system. Modern medicine doesn’t talk about it, much less make it a part of their treatment plan. However, universities like UCLA have even devoted an entire research initiative to the endocannabinoid system, with plenty of content to learn from already! We also mentioned Harvard’s opinion on cannabis for pain relief in the above section highlighting credible pieces of research. So yes, the endocannabinoid system exists and there’s thorough research to prove it!

But no, you probably won’t hear about it from your doctor unless you ask. That’s not necessarily the doctor’s fault, though. Cannabis is still federally illegal to this day, despite over half the country legalizing it in some fashion. This makes things infinitely harder for physicians, whether it’s a professional stigma or they simply don’t have the necessary research that federal funding would be able to provide. 

How do I consume cannabis for pain relief?

This is a great question, because there isn’t just one answer! Typically, when people (new consumers) think of cannabis, they think of smoking it. Thankfully, that’s not the only way to get your daily dose of cannabinoids. Smoking isn’t ideal for people with asthma or those who are uncomfortable inhaling smoke. Cannabis is versatile, so the way you consume it can be, too! Here are some of the best ways to try it if you don’t want to smoke:

• Grab an infused-bite from award-winning edibles company, incredibles
• Use a topical! Cannabis-infused topical products target the endocannabinoid receptors in our skin to offer direct relief for pain, like this fast-acting Extra Strength Salve from Quiq.
• Try a CBD product. Hemp-derived products like this chocolate bar from trupura CBD are a great option for people who don’t want to consume THC! 

Explore different types of pain relief and shop online through Medically Correct! We always recommend consulting with an educated physician who knows your medical history before proceeding. Consider speaking with a licensed, cannabis-trained nurse at Leaf411 for a free evaluation.

by Danielle

Cannabis and Older Adults: Finding Your Ideal Solution Among Today's Product Selection

Senior citizens looking to improve their quality of life are making a beeline for the marijuana dispensaries! 

Older adults over age 60 are among the fastest-growing group of cannabis consumers in the United States. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found only 0.4% of adults age 65 and older reported using cannabis products between 2005-2006. By 2015, that percentage doubled and then doubled again in 2018 to nearly 4.2%.

The continued rise in elderly patients who are ‘cannacurious’ means there’s an even bigger need for good educational resources. With the correct information, older adults can feel more confident and safe when deciding to include medical marijuana into their lifestyle.

How Has Cannabis Changed Over the Years?

Interest in medical marijuana has increased thanks to reduced stigma, state legalizations, and newly discovered research on the benefits of cannabis for specific conditions primarily afflicting elderly patients. Some older adults enjoy cannabis recreationally to help them stay physically active. Many more use medical marijuana and CBD for chronic pain, sleeping problems, and mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. 

Looking back, we see just how much cannabis has changed from the ‘60s and ‘70s compared to today’s market. No more kilo bricks and meeting behind the school to toke up before class. Cannabis consumption has transcended beyond the average stoner. Not only has the flower become more potent, but experts say there are over 700 unique cannabis strains!

Probably the most crucial aspect that has changed is the rigorous lab testing required for all medical and recreational marijuana products. Consumer safety is one of the biggest factors for every cannabis business and dispensary. The industry as a whole is still relatively new, and regulations vary from state to state. Lab testing ensures all cannabis products being placed on the market are of high quality and contain no residual contaminants, such as pesticides or heavy metals.

Testing also helps determine the potency and terpene profile to ensure safe consumer experiences. Terpenoids are the aromatic oils found on the plant. These molecules are also responsible for the flavor you will taste whether you smoke flower, concentrates, or vape, and influence the effect of the product.

What Cannabis Products Work Best for Older Adults?

It’s your first trip to the dispensary, and what do you see? Options upon options. How do you know what will work best? 

Walking into a dispensary can be overwhelming and intimidating. Seeing all the various products and the scores of young patients might have you wondering if cannabis is right for you. Rest assured, you’re not alone in your thoughts. That’s why having the right knowledge is essential to make sure you have the best experience possible. 

The dispensary workers are trained to understand the differences, benefits, and disadvantages of every cannabis product sold in-store. Here’s a summary of the options many older patients choose to try:

• Edibles - Cannabis edibles are foods or drinks infused with THC and/or CBD that let you enjoy the effects of marijuana without needing to smoke or vape. Edible gummies and chocolate are popular choices for older patients because they’re easy to consume and discreet.
  It can take 30 minutes to two hours for the effects to kick in versus the immediate effects of smoking marijuana, but one edible can last you almost an entire day without needing another dose! The most common phrase you’ll hear for first-time cannabis users is, “start low, go slow.” Edibles with 2.5mg of THC are a recommended starting point for first-time cannabis users
  
• Topicals - Cannabis-infused balms, lotions, and oils offer the therapeutic benefits of marijuana without the high. Topicals are the most popular choice for localized pain relief, soreness, and inflammation. Some evidence shows they may even help with psoriasis, dermatitis, and arthritis.
• Patches - Transdermal patches are akin to nicotine patches, but instead, you’re getting a slow release of cannabinoids, the active ingredients found in cannabis. Along with their convenience, some patches will work for over 12 hours and up to 96 hours!
• Tinctures - Tinctures are liquid cannabis extracts that contain high levels of terpenes and cannabinoids. They can be applied under the tongue or mixed in with foods and drinks. Tinctures are fast-acting and are delivered using a dropper for easy dosing.

What Are the Potential Risks for Seniors Using Cannabis?

Just like with any other medicine, there are potential risks and harmful side effects from using cannabis. Impairments with attention span, motor coordination, and verbal memory can be amplified in older patients with preexisting brain impairments and struggle with pulmonary and cardiovascular conditions. Other seniors reported experiencing dizziness and fatigue. Some studies show it could also be harmful to those who recently had a heart attack.

Another point to consider is how cannabis interacts with other medications. It may cause certain medicines to stop working or lead to an increase in their side effects. 

Change in marijuana itself from what it was in the ’60s and ’70s also makes others wary of trying it. The potency has gradually gotten much stronger, and some worry that older patients won’t take dosing seriously because they remember what it was like when they first tried weed. 

However, many seniors have said these risks are avoidable by carefully dosing and monitoring your medication schedule. Cannabis has already become a suitable replacement to other pharmaceuticals for many older patients, especially those who were already experiencing adverse side effects from extended medication use.

Even with all the well-deserved recognition cannabis receives, you must always speak to your physician first before trying medical marijuana. Or, you can consult with Medically Correct’s nurse hotline partners at Leaf 411. This free cannabis hotline consists of trained nurses who provide education and directional support about legal cannabis use.

Cannabis Product Selections for Seniors Are Better Than Ever!

Older adults deserve well-crafted cannabis that suits their needs just as much as anyone else. Whether you’re a newcomer or are no stranger to the world of cannabis, Medically Correct offers a wide range of products from award-winning brands. Our edibles, vapes, topicals, and more are created by some of the top experts in the business.

We’re committed to supporting the health and wellness of our consumers, young and old!

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