In December 2018, hemp was federally legalized across the United States. Decades of needless and oppressive policy was finally undone, but unlike the slow and gradual state-by-state rollout of marijuana*, characterized by grueling months-long and sometimes years-long license application processes, unregulated hemp CBD was unleashed into everyday grocery and beauty stores in a matter of weeks.

So what’s the difference? What’s the difference between the CBD I get at a Whole Foods and a dispensary? The two plants are very similar and to make things worse, people often incorrectly use the terms interchangeably. While both plants are considered “cannabis”, there are many differences between hemp and marijuana.

THC and CBD content

Perhaps the biggest distinction between the two plants — and the one that causes the most confusion — is the THC content in the plants. THC is the psychoactive chemical in cannabis. It’s present in higher concentrations in marijuana than in hemp. THC is the component that is highly regulated and still not allowed in many areas. Marijuana plants have a 5% to 30% content of THC while hemp plants have content below 0.3%.

In contrast, hemp plants have much higher concentrations of CBD. This is just one of the many cannabinoids present in cannabis plants that have therapeutic effects. Hemp plants are often cultivated for CBD for people who are looking for the medicinal qualities without the psychoactive effects.

Full-spectrum CBD and CBD isolate

And perhaps what is the most confusing distinction between the different plants and products, is the difference between full-spectrum CBD and CBD isolate. CBD isolate, as the name might suggest, is the pure, crystalline form of the CBD molecule. Extracting isolate from hemp and marijuana produces the exact same result: a chunk of CBD molecule.

Full-spectrum CBD however, contains all the cannabinoids, flavonoids and terpenes that distinguish different strains and quality of cannabis, as well as producing the much-sought-after and elusive “entourage effect”.

Cultivation

The conditions in which hemp and marijuana grow are drastically different as well. Hemp crops grow outdoors in large fields. The plants thrive in a variety of environments, making them easy to grow all over the world. Their growth cycle is 108 to 120 days.

Marijuana plants are much more finicky when it comes to growing conditions. For this reason, most marijuana plants are grown indoors in a greenhouse or other carefully controlled environment. Temperature, humidity, and light are all factors that must be monitored closely for marijuana to thrive. The female plants are the desired plants. Any male plants are removed from the area to avoid pollination to ensure the THC content remains high.

Why are hemp and marijuana grouped together?

Hemp and marijuana are vastly different in terms of their composition and their usage. Hemp doesn’t have the same effects as marijuana, but it was banned in the United States for decades because of the Controlled Substances Act of 1970. The law banned several problematic drugs but didn’t differentiate between the different forms of cannabis. Today, it’s generally understood that this was not an accident but in fact the culmination of racist propaganda to sway public opinion against hemp, as it began to threaten the timber industry’s position as our primary source of paper.* As a result, hemp became illegal to cultivate even though it wasn’t used for the same purposes. It also created all of the misconceptions that people have about the plant today.

Times are changing and more people are learning the differences between marijuana and hemp. They’re also embracing all of the benefits of both of these types of cannabis. Take time to explore all of the amazing things that cannabis has to offer.

*As described, the differences between hemp and marijuana are just as political as they are scientific. As culture and policy shift, the distinctions not only become more complicated, but they also reveal the racist and oppressive nature of our language and discourse. It is for this reason that we here at Flowertown do not encourage or condone the use of the term “marijuana” as it’s history and use has been a long-standing tool in the targeting of marginalized communities. However, the differences between these plants are so nuanced that the term is more convenient coining a new term that might further confuse readers.

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Romance is in the air, but it could definitely do with some company. Cannabis goodies can improve your Valentine’s Day plans whether you’re just setting the mood or igniting a little extra passion.

Arouse by Dosist – CC BY

Cannabis in the clouds

If you and your significant other are staunch flower lovers there are two strains you should definitely consider: Skywalker and Atomic Northern Lights. These hybrids mix euphoria with a nice body high that doesn’t make you immobile.

For the more discreet, arouse by dosist offers our California readers a scintillating vaporizer pen. This THC-forward formula will have you cozying up to your partner in no time.

Queen Green by Kushed Candles – CC BY

Relaxing aromatherapy

Set the stage for your romantic tryst with a QueenGreen candle or two. Despite its name, this member of the Kushed Candles lineup is actually rather sweet with enough musky undertones to prevent it from being overbearing. The candle comes in a wide range of sizes, including some 6 oz gold travel tins — in case you’re hitting the road this Valentine’s day.

Cannabis Bouquet by Lowell Smokes – CC BY

A bouquet they’ll never forget

Send some green flowers this year with Lowell Farms’ cannabis bouquet. The arrangement features about an ounce worth of marijuana for a cool $400. Lowell Farms will only deliver within Los Angeles, but you can find out if they ship to a California dispensary near you!

Love CBD Bath Bomb by Kush Queen – CC BY

A tantalizing bubble bath

Whether you’re drawing a bath for your loved one or joining them for some bubbly footsie, you can’t go wrong with a bath bomb. The irreverent Kush Queen’s Love CBD Bath Bomb, which ships everywhere, is all about soaking up the mood. For a more intense effect, you can try out their 1:1 CBD to THC version at your local California dispensary.

Easy Cannabis Cookbook by Amazon – CC BY

A cannabis-infused dinner

Want to skip the busy restaurants where someone’s proposing every few minutes? Enjoy a nice night in with a cannabis-infused meal. “The Easy Cannabis Cookbook” by Cheri Sicard will walk you through the creation of sweet and savory edibles. Control the dose as you see fit, for a jovial culinary experience.

Dark Chocolate Bar by Satori Chocolates – CC BY

Some decadent chocolates

What’s Valentine’s Day without chocolate? Satori makes delicious milk and dark chocolate bars that are so easy to eat, you might forget that each square is 10 mg of THC (don’t forget that, please).

Awaken by Foria Wellness – CC BY

A sensual lubricant you’ll use past February

Foria’s Awaken lubricant is not only a hot cannabis product, it’s knocked some regular lubricants off some nightstands. It’s oil-based so it doesn’t play well with latex and should be used with silicone toys. Awaken only contains CBD, so it can be enjoyed by all, but its THC sister, Pleasure, is only available in California, Colorado, and Canada.

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Whether you are single or taken this holiday, Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to explore your sensuality. Here are five of our favorite cannabis products that will level up the romance and increase intimacy.

Sensuali-Tea by Kikoko – CC BY

Kikoko’s Sensuali-tea

Available in California.

Kikoko offers a variety of excellent cannabis-infused herbal teas for every occasion, but take one look at the reviews for Sensuali-Tea and it’s clear that this product is something special. Their organically sun-grown cannabis is blended with other natural aphrodisiacs and plant medicines like rose petals to relieve anxiety and cloves to increase blood circulation (aka enhance performance). An Organic Hibiscus Cardamom Rose Tea made for connection and intimacy, Sensuali-tea intensifies orgasms and promises “utterly heavenly sex.” For those curious, caffeine-free tea bags are sold in individual packets or in a tin of ten. Single this Valentine’s Day? Consider buying a few tins and hosting a Kikoko High Tea Party for other singles to mix and mingle.

The Passion Pen or Arouse Pen by Dosist

Available in California.

Dosist actually offers two different vape options for a night of intimacy. The Passion Pen delivers “a euphoric feeling designed to increase sensuality and heighten your sexual experience,” while their Arouse Pen is formulated to “help you feel aroused and enhance your excitement.” Both products are THC-dominant with small amounts of CBD to enhance the relaxing effects without getting lazy. While we’re not sure what the difference between the two really is, Dosist says it’s in the terpenes: the Passion Pen incorporates myrcene and limonene for a musky citrus flavor, while the Arouse Pen is primarily made up of linalool and farnesene for a spicy yet floral aroma. If you want to do your own comparison, skip the 200 dose pen and buy their 50 dose pen in both Passion and Arouse.

Passion by Dosist – CC BY

Passion

Arouse by Dosist – CC BY

Arouse

High Love by 1906 – CC BY

High Love

Available in Colorado.

This Colorado-based company mixes two well-known aphrodisiacs into one sexy chocolate bar

Incorporating everyone’s favorite strain, Blue Dream, into a medley of plant medicines catered to improving sexy time and infused into rich dark chocolate. The blend includes some lesser-known medicinal plants like “damiana to curb inhibition, Catuaba to increase sexual desire, theobromine for energy, Ashwagandha to reduce stress and boost libido, and Muira Puama, known as the ‘Viagra of the Amazon.’”

Quiver Sensual Pleasure Oil by Herba Buena – CC BY

Herba Buena Quiver Sensual Pleasure Oil

Available in California.

Top Chef’s Casey Thompson named Quiver “the best lube ever,” while SF Chronicle Green State calls it “the best intimacy oil” yet. Herba Buena promises heightened awareness, lubrication, and euphoria. Their special blend is formulated to “enhance arousal, extend orgasm, and ease menstrual cramps.” With hints of vanilla, cinnamon, and clove, this oil is not only great for the main event but romantic massages as well. Also, be warned: like all oil-based lubes, this product is not latex-condom safe.

Awaken by Foria Wellness – CC BY

Foria Awaken

Can be shipped anywhere.

Not in California or Colorado? Not to worry–the weed lube brand, Foria, has come up with a solution. Their new product, Awaken, is designed to deliver similar effects to their original THC-infused lube for women that don’t live in legalized states. With a rich mint and chocolate aroma, Awaken combines 8 natural aphrodisiacs with hemp-based CBD to heighten pleasure and ease discomfort. Like the lube above, this product is coconut oil-based and therefore does not work with latex.

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Cannabis is well known for its natural healing properties. With all the research being done, you’ve got to wonder if there’s anything cannabis can’t treat. In addition to helping people suffering from chronic pain and PTSD, cannabis can also be used to treat dermatological conditions.

Eczema and rosacea are two of the most common conditions plaguing children and adults in the United States. There are treatments for both, but many come with a slew of unwanted side effects. Those in the cannabis industry have developed dozens of lotions, creams, and other skin products to offer a natural alternative. Take a look at how cannabis can help you overcome the dry, itchy, and red skin that goes along with these conditions.

What is eczema?

Eczema is a skin condition that affects both children and adults. Their immune systems go crazy and cause the skin to become itchy and irritated. It’s a condition that affects nearly 30 million people in the United States. Doctors aren’t really sure what causes it, but there are certain triggers that make it worse. The triggers vary from person to person, but some of the most common are soaps, cleaning products, food allergens, and illnesses.

When it comes to treating eczema, the best course of action is to avoid triggers. Unfortunately, that’s not always possible. Antihistamines and corticosteroids are the most common medications used to treat eczema and the itching that it brings on. People with eczema also use special moisturizers and soaps that don’t irritate the skin or cause a reaction.

How can cannabis help?

The best way to treat eczema with cannabis is with cannabis-infused creams. Applying cannabis topically and directly on the affected areas ensures that the therapeutic compounds go right where they’re needed. Cannabis is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which is key in treating eczema — a condition that is largely caused by inflammation. Additionally, cannabis has antimicrobial properties that help battle the Staph infections that are common in patients with eczema. Using creams and oils regularly help keep the skin moisturized and eczema breakouts to a minimum.

What is rosacea?

Rosacea is a skin condition that affects more than 16 million people in the United States. It’s often misdiagnosed as adult acne. It appears as redness on the cheeks and nose, but can spread to the forehead and chin or even the ears, chest, and back if not treated properly.

Because rosacea appears with visible blood vessels, bumps, pimples, and redness in the face, its effects go beyond just physical discomforts. Many adults with rosacea develop depression and anxiety as a result of the change in appearance. Most patients experience a drop in self-confidence and self-esteem, which all affect other aspects of their daily lives.

There is no cure for rosacea, but there are a few standard treatments. Steroid creams and antibiotics help to control inflammation and infections that can make the effects of rosacea worse. Some people opt for laser treatments to help lessen the appearance of the blood vessels.

How can cannabis help?

Cannabis can help treat rosacea in several ways. The best way to utilize cannabis is topically. Creams and lotions keep the skin moisturized while the anti-inflammatory properties of cannabis go to work at minimizing the appearance of rosacea. Vaporizing, smoking, or ingesting cannabis helps treat the psychological effects that go along with the condition. Both CBD and THC can help with relaxation and reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.

Eczema and rosacea are two of the most common skin conditions. Unfortunately, there is no cure for either one. The good news is that both are treatable to a certain extent with cannabis. Explore the different options for cannabis creams and get some relief from your dry, itchy, and red skin.

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When you are thinking about road tripping to Vegas with your friends, you’re probably thinking about loading up on snacks, pit stops, and all the things you want to do when you get there. One thing to consider for your trip is planning your cannabis use when you get there.

 Planning Your Trip

The nearly five-hour drive to Vegas is one that can be a fun bonding experience with your friends, especially when great music and snacks are involved.

You can choose to hop on the 10 west or the 15 south, depending on which direction you are coming from. It’s always best to hit the road before rush hour traffic starts around 6 am or later on in the evening when it ends after 7 pm. Avoiding heavy traffic can cut a five-hour trip down to four hours, but also remember to drive safely!

Making sure your car is ready for the trip and you are fully stocked up on snacks are a must, but what about packing your cannabis with you?

While it may seem like a great idea to store your favorite flower or concentrate in your backseat, it’s 100% illegal to transport across state lines.

Unfortunately, this choice could lead to a misdemeanor or felony charge. But no worries–you’ll have plenty of options to make up for it when you get to your destination.

Hitting The Road

You’ve loaded all your friends in your car and you’ve checked that you have everything you need (don’t forget the sunblock as it gets extremely hot there). So what about stopping for the essentials during your drive?

Barstow is a famous pit stop on the way to meet lady luck. The quaint town is a good two-hour midpoint between Los Angeles and Vegas going both ways, with gas stations and fast food options to quickly refuel.

On the way to Barstow, think about taking a small detour and traveling up the historic route 66. Here is where you’ll take a step back in history from old diners to antique shops and even an ostrich farm. It’s not the easiest task to find the route, so try a website like this one if you are nervous about your GPS. Remember when you are driving that your phone service may go in and out, so having a map handy won’t hurt.

Places to Visit

You made it! Now what? You’re probably ready to head out with your friends, or relax a bit. Since cannabis use is legal in Las Vegas, there is a myriad of dispensary options for your taste.

Essence Vegas is located right across from the Stratosphere hotel at the southern end of the strip. The store boasts over 50 strains of flowers including topicals and concentrates. Guests can also enjoy a discounted Lyft ride using the code provided on their website.

The Apothecary Shoppe is also another highly rated location because it’s the only cannabis shop on the strip open 24/7. Guests can order online and pick up without hassle, just show your I.D. and you’re good to go.

Budtender by The Apothecary Shoppe – CC BY

Another cool dispensary to try is NuWu Cannabis, the only drive-thru shop in the city. They are also known for having one of the largest selections. If you are willing to venture away from the strip, this may be worth a try.

After consuming, you’ll be ready to get on with your stay. The beauty of Vegas is that it’s definitely not lacking in things to do. If you arrive at the city early in the morning, consider ziplining down the historic Fremont Street. At night, check out of the shows (J-Lo is performing!) before hitting the clubs or casino with friends.

Just remember, “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas”.

The post An Angeleno’s road trip guide to cannabis in Vegas. appeared first on Flowertown.

The holiday season is considered one of the most joyous times of the year. Yet for many, it’s a major cause of stress and anxiety. From finding the right Christmas gifts to dealing with holiday parties and out-of-town guests, the entire season can be emotionally and physically taxing. Now that you’ve gotten through it, reward yourself with these tips to decompress.

A hot cup of tea

Nothing is more relaxing than a hot cup of tea, except for a hot cup of cannabis-infused tea. The warm nectar helps soothe your body for an all-over relaxed feel. When you sip cannabis tea, your body gets an instant dose of THC and CBD. These cannabinoids have been proven to reduce stress, anxiety, pain, and inflammation among other health benefits.

When all of the shopping is done, food put away, and guests back in their own homes, curl up on the couch with a warm blanket and a hot cup of cannabis tea to feel all your stresses wash away.

Vaporizers for a good night’s sleep

Vaporizing cannabis is a great alternative to smoking. You get the positive effects without having to worry about carcinogens or other substances from the smoke. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about smells on your clothing if a few guests are still lingering past New Years (they’ll leave eventually, right?). If you stay up at night worrying about all of the things you need to do to regroup from the holidays, then vaporizing cannabis can help you get a good night’s sleep by helping you fall asleep and stay asleep.

A relaxing bath

Running around town to different stores to get gifts for the kids, a bottle of wine for your boss, and food for a dinner party really takes a toll on your body. Your body might feel achy and sore once the festivities are over and you have a chance to sit down for a minute. Dipping into a hot bath with bath bombs and soaps that contain THC help your entire body relax. Lotions, creams, and topical ointments rubbed on your sore muscles take away the aches and pains. Before you know it, you’ll be refreshed for the new year.

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