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A dosage Guide

Marijuana has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, and with the legalization of marijuana in many states, more and more people are turning to this plant as a treatment option for a variety of conditions and symptoms. However, with so many strains and forms of marijuana available, it can be overwhelming to know how much to take and when. In this blog post, we will discuss proper marijuana dosage and titration for different routes of administration, with an emphasis on using the smallest amount possible to achieve the desired effect. We will also explain the impact of potency and provide tips for tracking your progress to find the best method, strain, and dosage for your specific needs. Proper Dosage for Different Routes of Administration Marijuana can be consumed in a variety of forms, including flower, edibles, oils, tinctures, and topicals. Each form has its own unique characteristics and potential effects, and requires a different method of dosage. Flower: When smoking or vaporizing flower, it is important to start with a small amount, such as a single inhale and wait at least 10-15 minutes before taking more. This will allow you to gauge the effects and determine if you need more to achieve the desired effect. Edibles: With edibles, it is important to start with a low dose, such as 5-10mg and wait at least 1-2 hours before taking more. The effects of edibles can take longer to onset, but can last much longer than smoking or vaporizing. Oils and Tinctures: With oils and tinctures, it is important to start with a low dose, such as 5-10mg and wait at least 30 minutes before taking more. Topicals: Topicals, such as creams, lotions, or balms that are applied to the skin do not have a standard dosing method as it depends on the product and the area being treated. It’s best to follow the instructions on the product or consult a healthcare professional for guidance. The Impact of Potency The potency of marijuana refers to the amount of THC and CBD present in the plant. THC is the compound responsible for the psychoactive effects of marijuana, while CBD is the non-psychoactive compound that is believed to have medicinal properties. The potency of marijuana can vary greatly depending on the strain and form of the plant. When selecting a strain or form of marijuana, it is important to consider the potential effects and the amount of THC and CBD present. Some strains and forms may have higher levels of THC and lower levels of CBD, while others may have higher levels of CBD and lower levels of THC. It’s always a good idea to start with a low dose and work your way up as needed. Tracking Your Progress Tracking your progress is an important step in finding the best method, strain, and dosage for your specific needs. A good way to track your progress is by keeping a journal, where you can record the following: Date and time of consumptionMethod of consumptionStrain and form of marijuanaDosageEffects (positive and negative)Any changes in symptomsBy keeping a journal, you can easily look back and see what worked and what didn’t, and make adjustments as needed. In conclusion, marijuana can be a beneficial treatment option for a variety of conditions and symptoms. However, it is important to start with a low dose and work your way up as needed, taking into consideration the form of consumption, the strain and the desired effects. By tracking your progress, you can find the best method, strain, and dosage to alleviate your symptoms effectively. Cannabis Tracking Journal

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Marijuana selection, possible effects & ways to consume

Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is a plant that has been used for medicinal and recreational purposes for thousands of years. With the legalization of marijuana in many states, patients and consumers have access to a wide variety of strains and forms of the plant. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know which strain and form of marijuana is right for you. In this blog post, we will discuss the potential differing effects of various strains of marijuana, as well as various forms and routes of administration to assist you in your selection. Different Strains of Marijuana There are many different strains of marijuana, each with its own unique chemical makeup and potential effects. The two main strains are Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica. Sativa strains are known for their energizing and uplifting effects, making them a popular choice for daytime use. They are said to have a more uplifting, cerebral high and are often used to help with creativity, focus, and anxiety. Indica strains, on the other hand, are known for their sedating and relaxing effects, making them a popular choice for nighttime use. They are said to have a more relaxing, body-centered high and are often used to help with pain, insomnia, and anxiety. Hybrid strains are also available, which are a combination of sativa and indica strains. These strains are designed to provide the best of both worlds, and can be used to target specific conditions or symptoms. Hybrid strains can be classified as sativa-dominant, indica-dominant, or balanced hybrids. Different Forms and Routes of Administration Marijuana can be consumed in a variety of forms, including flower, edibles, oils, tinctures, and topicals. Each form has its own unique characteristics and potential effects. Flower is the most traditional form of marijuana and is typically smoked or vaporized. This form allows for quick onset of effects and can be easily adjusted to achieve the desired level of intoxication. Edibles are food products that contain marijuana and are ingested. Effects can take longer to onset, but can last much longer than smoking or vaporizing. Oils and tinctures are forms of marijuana that are taken under the tongue or added to food and drinks. These forms are a good option for those who want to avoid smoking or vaporizing. Topicals are creams, lotions, or balms that are applied to the skin. They are used to target localized pain and inflammation and are not psychoactive. In conclusion, marijuana can be a beneficial treatment option for a variety of conditions and symptoms. With so many strains and forms of marijuana available, it is important to do your research and talk to a healthcare professional to find the best option for you. It’s also important to remember that marijuana can have potential side effects, so it’s always best to start with a low dose and work your way up as needed.

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A discussion about marijuana tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal

Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is a widely used recreational drug that can have a range of effects on the body and mind. While marijuana is often considered to be a relatively harmless drug, it can lead to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal in some individuals. In this blog post, we will discuss these three aspects of marijuana use, and provide information about how to recognize and address them. Tolerance: Tolerance occurs when a person’s body becomes accustomed to a certain level of marijuana use, and they need to use more of the drug to achieve the same effects. Tolerance is a common phenomenon with marijuana and other drugs, and it can lead to increased use and the potential for negative effects on the body and mind. Some of the signs of tolerance include needing more marijuana to achieve the desired effect, using marijuana more often, and using marijuana in higher doses. Dependence: Dependence is a condition in which a person feels compelled to use marijuana despite the negative consequences it may be having on their life. Dependence is characterized by physical and psychological symptoms, such as withdrawal symptoms when not using marijuana and an inability to control or reduce marijuana use. Dependence can lead to addiction, which is a severe form of dependence characterized by compulsive drug-seeking behavior and a lack of control over drug use. Withdrawal: Withdrawal occurs when a person who is dependent on marijuana stops using the drug, or significantly reduces their usage. Withdrawal symptoms can include irritability, anxiety, insomnia, depression, loss of appetite, fatigue, and vivid nightmares. These symptoms can be uncomfortable and can make it difficult for a person to stop using marijuana. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these signs, it may be a sign of a marijuana use disorder, and it is important to seek professional help. There are many options available for substance abuse treatment, and professionals can help guide individuals towards the best course of action for their specific needs. It is important to note that tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal can happen to any individual who has been using marijuana for a prolonged period of time and/or in large quantity, regardless of the reason of use (recreational or medicinal). And it is crucial that one should be aware of such risks and take necessary precautions. In conclusion, marijuana use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal, which can have negative effects on an individual’s health and well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling with these issues, it is important to seek help from professional resources, such as specialized treatment centers or substance abuse programs. Remember that addiction is a disease that can be treated and help is available.

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Things to be conscious of about Marijuana

Warnings about Marijuana or Cannabis Use Marijuana has not been analyzed or approved by the FDA, that there is limited information on side effects, that there may be health risks associated with using Marijuana, and it should be kept away from children. When under the influence of Marijuana, driving is prohibited in MA by M.G.L. c. 90, § 24, so motor vehicles and machinery should not be operated Registered Qualifying Patients or consumers may not distribute or sell Marijuana to any other individual, and they should return unused, excess, or contaminated product to the Marijuana Treatment Center or Dispensary from which they purchased the product, for disposal. Illicit distribution of cannabis products could result in fines, arrest and barment from cannabis retail establishments. Facts regarding substance abuse signs and symptoms Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is a widely used recreational drug that is legal in some parts of the world and illegal in others. While marijuana is often considered to be a relatively harmless drug, it can lead to substance abuse and addiction in some individuals. In this blog post, we will discuss the signs and symptoms of marijuana abuse, as well as information about referral options for substance abuse treatment programs. Signs and Symptoms of Marijuana Abuse: *Using marijuana more often or in larger amounts than intended *Difficulty controlling or reducing marijuana use *Spending a significant amount of time using marijuana or recovering from its effects *Cravings for marijuana *Continued use despite knowing it is causing problems in one’s life, such as relationship issues, financial problems, or problems with work or school *Giving up important activities in order to use marijuana *Using marijuana in dangerous situations, such as while driving *Continuing to use marijuana despite physical or psychological problems *Tolerance, which means needing more marijuana to achieve the desired effect *Withdrawal symptoms when not using marijuana, such as anxiety, irritability, insomnia and depression If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these signs or symptoms, it may be a sign of a marijuana use disorder, and it is important to seek professional help. Referral Options for Substance Abuse Treatment Programs: *Primary Care Physician or Psychiatrist: These healthcare professionals can provide a referral to a specialized treatment center or program that is appropriate for the individual. *Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): SAMHSA is a government agency that provides resources and information about substance abuse treatment programs and facilities, including a referral service to help individuals find a treatment program that is right for them. *National Helpline: A confidential, toll-free helpline that is available 24/7, providing information about substance abuse treatment and referral services for individuals and their families. In conclusion, marijuana abuse can lead to serious problems, and it is important to seek help if you or someone you know is struggling with a marijuana use disorder. There are many options available for substance abuse treatment, and professionals can help guide individuals towards the best course of action for their specific needs. Please note that marijuana is a illegal drug, with possession and consumption illegal in most of the countries and states. So please do check with the local laws before taking any actions mentioned in the blog post.

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A Beginner’s Guide to Cannabis Concentrates 

What You Need to Know About Cannabis Concentrates  Cannabis concentrates—also called cannabis extracts—are an increasingly popular product, thanks to their rich flavor and potency. Concentrates generally have THC levels around 50%, but they can creep as high as 90%. Consumers are also attracted to the wide variety of different types of concentrates available, along with the multiple ways to consume concentrates, ranging from alone to infused in a joint to an ingredient in an edible.      What are Concentrates?    Cannabis concentrates are made by isolating the active ingredients in cannabis (most notably, cannabinoids and terpenes) from excess plant material. Cannabinoids and terpenes are responsible for the effects, aroma, and flavors produced by a cannabis product—and in their concentrated form, produce a product that is very potent, extremely aromatic, and rich in flavor.    Different Kinds of Cannabis Concentrates    Keeping track of the numerous types of cannabis concentrates is hard for even seasoned stoners; there is a multitude of products that go by different names and are consumed in various ways. That said, cannabis concentrates are most commonly broken down into two groups: concentrates created without using a solvent (solventless) and those extracted using solvents.      Solventless extracts do not use any additives to separate active ingredients from plant matter; rather, they rely on the use of pressure, temperature, and agitation and produce a comparatively less-refined product with more plant matter left behind.     Solvent extracts, as their name implies, use a solvent to separate the active ingredients in cannabis from plant matter, producing extremely pure substances with a minimal amount of plant material remaining.     Adding more complexity to the understanding of concentrates is that they can further be broken down into subsets of extraction.     Solventless Cannabis Extracts     There are three primary subsets of solventless cannabis extracts: water extracted, mechanically separated, and sifted.     Water Extracted Cannabis Concentrates     Bubble hash, ice hash, and ice wax are names given to products made using water extraction. Bubble hash is made using ice water and a series of bags (called bubble bags) or screens which are used to separate plant material from the valuable trichomes, the part of the plant that contains terpenes and cannabinoids. The quality of ice hash is commonly determined by how well it melts and is often ranked on a scale of one to six, with six (full melt) considered the highest quality bubble hash.     Mechanical Concentrates     Rosin is made using a combination of heat and pressure. The resulting product is a sticky golden oil with the consistency of tree sap. Rosin is prized for its rich flavor and pleasant aroma, although it’s typically less potent than other types of concentrates. Many consumers appreciate that no chemicals are used in its creation.     Sifted Concentrates     Kief is a powdery and somewhat sticky substance that looks a lot like pollen. Kief is made by running dry cannabis buds through a series of screens or sieves. Kief is also commonly collected in grinders, which are typically equipped with a separate chamber called a kief catcher. A popular use for kief is to add extra potency to flower by sprinkling it on top of a bowl (called crowning a bowl) or adding it to a joint, known as twax.    Solvent Concentrates There are two primary subsets of solvent cannabis extracts: CO2 extracts and hydrocarbon extracts.     CO2 Extracts     CO2 extract is best known for producing CO2 oil—typically a viscous golden liquid treasured for its potency and flavor and most commonly used in vape cartridges. However, CO2 oil can also come in other consistencies, such as shatter, crumble, and wax. CO2 extracts are made by using pressure and carbon dioxide to separate valuable compounds—like terpenes and cannabinoids—from plant material.     Hydrocarbon Extracts    Hydrocarbon extracts typically use butane or propane as a solvent to separate cannabinoids and terpenes from plant matter. Some consumers are turned off by the use of hydrocarbons, but it’s worth noting that they’ve been used in food extraction for decades and are also used to produce a variety of flavorings and colorings. Hydrocarbon extracts take the form of a broad spectrum of products, largely named after the consistency of the final product, such as:     Shatter is a gold- or amber-colored product with a glass-like consistency that tends to crack or shatter when broken apart.      Crumble is a soft, brittle substance usually yellow in color; named because it crumbles easily.     Wax goes by many names, including budder, badder, and sugar. As its name implies, it has a soft, malleable consistency that resembles wax.     Sauce is different from other hydrocarbon extracts; it contains two parts and possesses cannabinoid-rich crystals floating in terpene-rich oil to create an exceptionally potent and flavorful product.    How to Enjoy Cannabis Concentrates    Just as there’s an abundance of different cannabis concentrates, there are also a wide variety of ways to enjoy them, including dabbing, vaping, and baking them into edibles. They’re also commonly used to increase the potency of another cannabis product, such as being infused in a joint or added to a bowl.     Use Caution with Concentrates    The popular mantra about consuming cannabis, start low and go slow, applies particularly well to concentrates. Cannabis concentrates are powerful and it’s a good idea to start with a small amount and gradually increase consumption until you reach the desired effect. Remember, you can always consume more cannabis, but you can’t un-consume it.     Plant Dispensary     Whether you’re looking for some flower to collect your own kief or some super-powerful sauce, Plant Dispensary has you covered. Plant stocks a large variety of both solvent and solventless concentrates and a broad spectrum of products—from vapes and dabs to concentrate-infused pre-rolls. Not sure what you’re looking for? Still confused by the huge number of concentrates available? Stop into Plant Dispensary and have one of our experienced budtenders guide you through our selection of cannabis concentrates.  

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  Shedding the Stoner Stereotype

Outdated Preconceptions About Cannabis Users The common stereotype of cannabis consumers being young, lazy, unmotivated individuals on the fringes of society has perpetuated itself for decades—from the tie-dyed dead heads of the 1960s to today’s video game dropouts living in their parents’ basements. Stereotypes about cannabis users persist, but many of these preconceptions were untrue from the start and poorly portray today’s diverse group of cannabis consumers. It’s time to retire these “stoner” stereotypes. The Stereotypical Stoner The word “stoner” isn’t simply slang from cannabis culture you’ll only find in back issues of High Times—the idea is mainstream. It even appears in the dictionary. Per the Britannica Dictionary:   Definition: a person who uses drugs frequently : a person who is often stoned on drugs (such as marijuana) Example: The movie’s a comedy about a couple of stoners. In fact, it’s in movies that many stereotypes of cannabis users have been created and preserved. For example, the weed-infused, counterculture-inspired adventures of Cheech and Chong in the 1970s gave way to the 1980s Fast Times at Ridgemont High’s stoned surfer Spicoli, who paved the way for 1990s The Big Lebowski’s unemployed, robe-wearing, weed-smoking protagonist “the Dude,” which comes full circle to the 2000s Cheech and Chong-influenced stoner buddy comedies like Pineapple Express and Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle. The Modern Cannabis Consumer The issue with prior portrayals of cannabis users is that to some extent or another is that they no longer hold true as cannabis is becoming increasingly ingrained in everyday culture. Recreational cannabis is now legal in 19 states and Washington, D.C. According to Gallup—the well-known research and polling organization—a record-high 68% of U.S. adults believe marijuana should be legal. In August 2022, for the first time in Gallup polling, more Americans said they smoked weed than had a cigarette. With more and more “regular” people consuming cannabis, it’s time to reevaluate how we think about cannabis users. Five “Stoner” Stereotypes That Have to Go 1. They’re Lazy The belief that stoners are lazy do-nothings who just hang around all day is a far cry from the truth. Some of the world’s most successful and famous people have been known to consume cannabis from time to time. More so, you’ll find cannabis enthusiasts among the icons of seemingly every field. For example, business magnates like Bill Gates and Richard Branson, authors such as Hunter S. Thompson and Steven King, actors like Woody Harrelson and Morgan Freeman, musicians like Snoop Dogg and Rihanna, and scientists like Carl Sagan are all known cannabis users. Even former U.S. President Barack Obama admitted to smoking pot as a kid. 2. They’re Stupid It’s not just that cannabis consumers are often portrayed as unmotivated layabouts, they’re also commonly depicted as uneducated, or worse, unintelligent. While many believe that the vocabulary of cannabis consumers is limited to one-symbol words that are the staple of skate and surf culture—like “bro,” “man,” and “dude”—they are often actually highly intelligent people who have reached the pinnacle of their field. The average cannabis user is likely college educated and just as likely to work as CEOs as they are working in a coffee shop or dispensary. 3. They’re Confined to the Couch The slouched-over stoner parked on the couch doesn’t capture the reality that many cannabis consumers are active. Numerous people enjoy nothing more than combining cannabis with their favorite activities, such as going for a hike or taking a yoga class. In fact, some of the world’s best athletes consume cannabis. For example, Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian in history, MMA legend Conor McGregor, NBA all-time scoring leader Kareem Abdul Jabar, and Heisman Trophy winner Ricky Williams are among the many notable athletes known to smoke weed. 4. They Live on Junk Food Thanks to the ever-growing ranks of delicious edibles and the occasional bout of the munchies, it’s easy to think cannabis lovers live on pizza, fast food, and convenience store staples like chips, candy, and cookies. That said, the diet of most stoners is similar to that of everyone else. In fact, the fusion of high cuisine with cannabis is becoming increasingly common as more and more states legalize weed. 5. They’re Criminals One of the ugliest stereotypes about cannabis users is that they’re all criminals. The trope dates back to the misinformation spread about cannabis in the 1930s through media such as the film Reefer Madness, which linked cannabis with everything from a hit-and-run accident to manslaughter to suicide to hallucinations and descent into madness. According to one study, the average cannabis consumer earns more than $50,000 a year in wages, on par with the median U.S. salary. The fact is, while the average cannabis consumer might steal the last Oreo, they’re probably not stealing your television. Stopping the Stigma of Cannabis You can’t pigeonhole today’s cannabis consumers—they encompass a broad spectrum of people from all genders, ages, backgrounds, and beliefs. Plant Dispensary is an advocate for ending the negative stereotypes associated with cannabis and is working to create a welcoming atmosphere for everyone in cannabis culture. Our dispensary is home to a range of products that are sure to appeal to all types of users. Not sure what you’re in the market for? You’ll get no judgment from us. What you will get is expert assistance from one of our experienced budtenders.

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Where Did the Word Stoner Come From?

The Origins of the Term Stoner Stoner: noun (slang): a person who is habitually high on drugs, especially marijuana, or alcohol; a person who is usually stoned.  It feels like the word “stoner,” a term used to describe cannabis consumers, has been part of the lexicon forever. Like many of the words we use, the definition of the term “stoner” has evolved over time, shedding some of its derogatory origins and adapting its meaning to fit in a more cannabis-friendly culture.   What is a Stoner?  Aside from the dictionary definition, the word “stoner” is used to loosely describe a person who gets high or “stoned” on cannabis.   Unclear Etymology   The term stoner can trace its roots all the way back to biblical times and was used throughout the 1920s and 1930s, but according to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, it wasn’t until 1952 that it became closely associated with cannabis. The use of the term stoner became more widespread as cannabis use increased in the 1960s and 1970s. Today, the term is hotly debated due to its disparaging history, as some seek to redefine the term while others look to leave it in the past.      Biblical use: “stoner” can trace its roots to the term “stoned,” a word used to describe the punishment of sinners by pelting them in public with stones. This is one reason that the word stoner often has a negative connotation.        The 1920s and 1930s: people started to use the word “stoned” or “stone drunk” in the 1920s and 1930s to describe people heavily under the influence of alcohol. It’s probable that the word was used to describe the appearance of someone extremely drunk—a quality it shares with other similarly defined terms from the era such as potted, plastered, stewed, and tanked, as well as more modern words like hammered and smashed.     The 1950s: the term “stoned” became more commonly applied to cannabis, rather than alcohol, use in the 1950s. As mentioned above, Merriam-Webster traces it back to 1952, but the world’s most notable appearance was in the glossary of the 1953 book, The Traffic of Narcotics. The book was co-written by Harry J. Anslinger—Commissioner of the U.S. Treasury Department Bureau of Narcotics from 1930 to 1962—whose checkered legacy is notable for his anti-drug position, racism, and being the founding father of the War on Drugs.      The 1960s and 1970s: as cannabis became more widely used in the 1960s and 1970s, the term stoned became more common and made numerous appearances in pop culture—for example, the Rolling Stones’ 1963 song Stoned and Bob Dylan’s 1966 Rainy Day Women #12 and 35, better known for its refrain “Everybody must get stoned!”  Other Origin Theories of the Word Stoner  In addition to the more established origins of the term stoner and how it relates to cannabis, there are some other ideas as to where the word came from, including:     The word is derived from the Italian word stonato, which means confused or foggy.   The term evolved from the stone pipes that were popular for smoking cannabis in the 1970s.   The word is used to describe the often immobilizing effect cannabis can have.  The Evolving Meaning of “Stoner”  Language is fluid and just as the meaning of the word stoner changed from the 1920s to the 1950s to the 1970s, it continues to do so today. With the number of states legalizing cannabis on the rise and an overall shift in attitude toward cannabis in general—an overwhelming 91%  of U.S. adults say either that marijuana should be legal for medical and recreational use or that it should be legal for medical use only—being called a stoner doesn’t have the same pejorative undertones as it once did.   To some, being seen as a stoner not only has lost its stigma, it’s actually a good thing. This shift in perception is thanks in part to the growing number of famous and well-known people from seemingly every field who have been known to toke up from time to time. A quick scan of Rolling Stone magazine’s “50 Most Successful Marijuana Enthusiasts You Should Know” includes everyone from ice cream magnates like Ben & Jerry to billionaires like Bill Gates to renowned scientists such as Carl Sagan.   Today, while some see being a stoner as a badge of honor, others argue that we should move away from the negative words of the past and adopt words that speak to the normal and responsible use of cannabis. In 2019, Shirley Halperin, author of the book Pot Culture: The A–Z Guide to Stoner Language and Life, told the New York Times, “No one wants to say the word stoner anymore.”   Plant Dispensary   Whether you’re intent on reclaiming the word stoner and wearing it with pride or ready to move on to new words with more positive connotations—cannabis connoisseurs?—Plant Dispensary is the place for you. We stock everything bud buffs desire—from flower to edibles to concentrates, along with all the accessories you need for an enjoyable cannabis experience. New to cannabis? Stop into our dispensary and let one of our expert budtenders guide you on your journey. 

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What is Rick Simpson Oil (RSO)? 

What You Need to Know About Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) is named after its inventor, Rick Simpson, a Canadian engineer and cannabis activist. RSO is known for its high potency and has been embraced by the alternative medicine community, particularly for the treatment of cancer.   What is RSO?  Rick Simpson Oil is an extremely potent oil—it can have a THC percentage upwards of 90%—derived from cannabis that’s dark brown or black in color, and has a syrup-like consistency. RSO retains a larger quantity of plant matter than other concentrates, which gives it a bitter vegetal or grassy taste. RSO was originally developed for medicinal purposes; consequently, it’s generally produced using indica cannabis strains, which are known for their sedative and calming effects.   Who is Rick Simpson?  Rick Simpson is a Canadian engineer who, following the development of his namesake oil, went on to become a cannabis icon. Rick Simpson’s first foray into medical marijuana was to treat issues resulting from a fall from a ladder in 1997—namely tinnitus and dizzy spells—which it did with great results.   Just a few years later, in 2003, Rick Simpson was diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. After learning of a study from the mid-70s in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute that concluded cannabis slowed tumor growth in mice, he was inspired to create the oil that today bears his name.   Simpson recovered from his cancer scare and maintained that his use of RSO was responsible for curing him. Following his recovery, Simpson became an advocate for medical marijuana and the healing properties of his oil.   It’s worth noting that while there is a voluminous amount of anecdotal evidence of the benefits of RSO, there is minimal scientific data to support it.    The Benefits of RSO  There’s an abundance of anecdotal evidence of the health benefits provided by RSO and proponents of RSO tout its use as everything from a painkiller to a cancer treatment to a cure-all for a variety of ailments. Conditions commonly treated with RSO include:      Appetite loss  Chronic pain  Depression   Migraines  Nausea  Sleep disorders  Stress  Tinnitus  There has been little scientific research to support the claims of RSO advocates and considerably more exploration is needed into the effectiveness of RSO (and cannabis in general) as a treatment. There are some indications, however, that cannabis could potentially play a role in treating cancer and easing the side effects of traditional treatment. Cannabis is becoming increasingly legal across the U.S.—it’s now legal in 19 states, two territories, and the District of Columbia. However, cannabis remains illegal federally, which restricts research into both the potential health benefits and drawbacks provided by cannabis products.   RSO vs. FECO   Rick Simpson Oil and full-extract cannabis oil (FECO) are alike in that they’re both highly concentrated forms of cannabis made using the whole plant, they resemble each other in appearance, and share similar-sounding names. The primary differences between the two are the extraction process and type of solvent used:      RSO traditionally uses naphtha as a solvent—although alcohol is also used—and is produced at a higher temperature than FECO.  FECO uses ethanol to extract the terpenes, cannabinoids, and other elements from cannabis and is produced at a lower temperature than RSO.  The result of the different methods and tools of production is two similar, yet unique products. RSOs are extremely high in cannabinoids, maintain more chlorophyll than FECOs, and are prized for their healing properties. FECOs also possess a large number of cannabinoids and don’t use naphtha (a product of distilling petroleum that is not food grade and not recommended for consumption) as a solvent. Proponents of RSO argue that the solvent is burned off in production.  How to Use RSO  Rick Simpson Oil is most often thought of with medical marijuana, but it’s also consumed recreationally. It’s known to produce a whole body buzz and euphoric feeling that can last between six and eight hours.    RSO is typically consumed in one of two ways: sublingually (under the tongue) or as a topical (on the surface of the skin). RSO is also commonly mixed into food—adding it to sauces, dips, dressings, and beverages is a popular method for disguising its bitter taste.    Exercise Caution Using Rick Simpson Oil  Rick Simpson Oil is quite potent and dosing is often tricky due to its consistency, which makes it easy to overconsume. It’s recommended that users—particularly those who are new to cannabis—proceed with caution the first time trying RSO. Users are advised to start with a small dose, such as an oil droplet about the size of a grain of rice, and adjust accordingly over time to achieve the desired effect.    If you do overdo it with Rick Simpson Oil, remember that while it can cause some unpleasant sensations, they will pass and there are no long-term negative effects.   RSO at Plant Dispensary   Interested in learning more about Rick Simpson Oil and whether it’s the right cannabis product for you? Plan Dispensary can help! Our expert budtenders can help match you to the right cannabis product to meet your desired effects and help ensure you have an excellent experience. 

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What is a Budtender?

Grow a Career in Cannabis as a Budtender Budtenders—a play on the words “bud” and “bartender”—hold an essential position in the cannabis industry. Budtenders work in dispensaries and directly assist customers, providing them with recommendations, guidance, and information on the purchase and use of cannabis products. In other words, budtenders are the face of the cannabis industry.   What is a Budtender?  Although the term budtender sounds like slang, it’s actually a real word. The term “budtender” was officially recognized by the Merriam-Webster Dictionary in 2018—although the first known use of the word dates all the way back to 1997. Budtenders are not medically trained, however, they’re responsible for informing customers about the effects, benefits, and overall experience of cannabis products, while also maintaining up-to-date knowledge of cannabis laws and regulations.   What Does a Budtender Do?  The duties of a budtender vary from location to location, but in general, the responsibilities of a budtender will straddle those of traditional customer service and retail positions—they’re commonly tasked with everything from stocking shelves to managing a register to providing product recommendations.   Typical responsibilities of a budtender include:  – Greeting and interacting with customers   – Answering questions about different products, strains, and methods of consumption  – Providing product recommendations to customers   – Offering advice on the safe consumption of cannabis   – Weighing and packaging products as needed  – Keeping the dispensary clean, organized, and presentable   – Processing customer payments   – Adhering to current cannabis-related legal restrictions  – Verifying medical marijuana cards or age identification  It’s also important that budtenders maintain up-to-date knowledge of the cannabis industry—such as information about new strains, products, regulations, and industry trends—to ensure that customers receive high-quality and trustworthy service.    How to Become a Budtender  A budtender is considered an entry-level position in the cannabis industry. Dispensaries look to employ budtenders with a substantial amount of product knowledge, however, the best dispensaries provide plenty of training opportunities to their staff. Some qualities dispensaries look for in a budtender include: – High-level customer service skills – Friendly demeanor   – Professionalism   – Strong communicator   – Dependable and trustworthy   – Multi-tasker   – Knowledge of cannabis products, strains, and methods of consumption  – Familiarity with cannabis-related slang and terms   Because budtender is a customer-facing entry-level position, it’s highly visible and there’s a lot of room for advancement. Budtenders who increase their knowledge of the industry and demonstrate leadership are excellent candidates for advancement—most commonly into a supervisory role at a dispensary, but also to other positions within the organization.   What Does a Budtender Earn?   Budtender salaries vary depending on everything from their geographic location to the size of the dispensary to their level of experience. According to Indeed, budtenders earn, on average, $14.77 an hour—not including tips—which is a little higher than the $14.25 minimum wage in Massachusetts. Those hoping to advance within an organization will be happy to learn that ZipRecruiter reports the average dispensary manager makes more than $62,000 a year.   Plant Dispensary   Plant Dispensary is committed to delivering the highest-quality service possible to our customers and that starts with our budtenders. We’re always on the lookout for motivated, talented, and professional people with a passion for cannabis. If you’re interested in delivering an exceptional experience to our customers and growing a career in cannabis, contact us today to learn more about open positions at Plant. 

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