If you've been looking for more information about CBD hemp flower, then this article is for you. We’ll be taking a look at what CBD hemp flower is and even check out some of the most popular CBD flower varieties! CBD is increasingly becoming one of the most popular natural compounds in the world! One of the best things about CBD is its versatility. There are a variety of different ways you can take CBD, including CBD flower, which is the most natural way to introduce CBD into your daily routine. In the following article, we’re going to take a look at why CBD flower is so popular, how CBD flower is different from regular flower or bud, and some of the most popular CBD flower strains on the market. How Is CBD Flower Different From Regular Cannabis Flower? One of the most popular new CBD products available is CBD flower, or hemp flower. Most CBD products use CBD that is sourced from hemp plants. This is because hemp is naturally high in CBD and low in THC. The CBD flower, or hemp flower, is the bud portion of the hemp plant. CBD is non-psychotropic. What does this mean? It means that CBD flower isn’t going to get you high like other marijuana flowers will. It has no psychoactive properties. There are a variety of different ways you can enjoy CBD flower, including smoking it in a joint or cone, pipe, bong, or vaporizer. Vaping is one of the most popular ways to enjoy hemp flower because the flower itself isn’t heated to the point of combustion. Vaping is a healthier alternative to smoking but does require the purchase of an electronic vaporizer (don't worry, if you need one, we have you covered). The flower is heated to the point that the CBD is released as a vapor and inhaled. The leftover flower is discarded afterward. What Are Some of the Most Popular Strains of CBD Flower? The most popular fresh CBD flower sold at Simply Crafted CBD is the premium Otto Cherry Hemp CBD flower. It’s cured with terpenes from a number of different cannabis strains. The different combinations of strains allow you to choose a variety of CBD flower that suits your needs. Some of the different features of our popular strains of CBD flower are: Ancient Lime – Ancient Lime is the perfect daytime CBD flower. It offers you a vibrant, sweet, and delicious flavor that delivers sativa-like energizing effects that are perfect for creativity. Suver Haze – a special strain with a very strong, intoxicating terpene profile. With an incredible 18.4% CBD content, forest green buds and a sweet aroma similar to that of tropical fruit, Suver Haze is sure to leave you satisfied on all fronts. Strawberry Shortcake – Strawberry Shortcake was developed by mixing a special J3 cut from a strain called "Juliet", together with Strawberry Diesel, a strain that exudes sweet, strawberry aromas. The CBD-level of Strawberry Shortcake can reach up to 21%, making it a very potent variety that induces uplifting, energetic, and cerebral effects. Lifter – Lifter is one of the most popular CBD hemp strains due to its consistency. Users can expect a light energetic lift with a sense of alleviation in the body and mind. Presenting itself with sweet and citrus flavors, Lifter is great for soothing the body while focusing on the task at hand. Sour Lifter – Sour Lifter energizes, making it great for daytime use. It produces strong cerebral effects, which may be overpowering to novice users. Sociable and fun, the effects of this strain are felt upon first taste. Sour Lifter's pungent, fuel-like aroma speaks to the sheer strength of this strain. Sour Space Candy – Sour Space Candy is a great daytime strain when you’re looking for an enlivened calm. Deep notes of lemon, cheese, and tropical fruit give this extraordinary CBD hemp flower a look and smell that's simply out of this world. Sour Blueberry Diesel – Blueberry Diesel is a cross of two favorite strains, Blueberry and Sour Diesel. It is probably best known for its strong blueberry smell with hints of fuel from its Diesel lineage. Super Lemon Haze – True to its name, Super Lemon Haze has a strong citrus aroma and zesty flavor. The strong lemon taste makes it one of the most uplifting hemp strains around. Grape Ape – Grape Ape, propagated by Apothecary Genetics and Barney’s Farm, is a mostly indica strain that crosses Mendocino Purps, Skunk, and Afghani. Named for its distinct grape-like smell, this indica is known for providing carefree relaxation that can help soothe pain, stress, and anxiety. Cherry Pie – Cherry Pie's parents are Granddaddy Purple and Durban Poison. With buds that are dense and full of orange hairs and a touch of purple, this strain smells of sweet and sour cherry pie. The effects have been known to come on in minutes and stick around for a couple hours. Blueberry Pie – Blueberry Pie is the indica-dominant hybrid of two famous strains, Girl Scout Cookies and Blue Dream, that was crossed with industrial hemp. Grown in the Umpqua Valley, this amazing strain is sure to help you at the end of your day. Cookies – Cookies is a versatile strain that's good for any time of day. It has a sweet flavor that delivers a balanced hybrid effect. It’s a great strain for anyone searching for a balanced effect from their CBD flower. OG Kush – OG Kush has strong citrus notes and delivers a balanced and soothing effect due to its hybrid qualities. Legendary OG – True to its Kush background, Legendary OG is heavily sedating. It elevates the mind while helping soothe aches and pains throughout the body. Its indica-dominant qualities make it a great nighttime selection. Bubba Kush – This batch of high CBD hemp comes straight from the Oregon sun and soil. Deep notes of lemon and clove aromas give way to tastes of cocoa and coffee. Critical Kush – If you’re looking for a nighttime strain of CBD flower, then Critical Kush is the perfect choice for you. This CBD flower delivers an indica-like experience that’s soothing, calming, and relaxing. Lemon Kush – The sweet flavors of lemon and citrus mix exceptionally well with earthy kush undertones. Lemon Kush is the perfect solution for when the stresses of life have you feeling sour. NY CBDiesel – Derived in part from the infamous NYC Diesel strain, NY CBDiesel is a sativa-dominant, high-CBD strain with all the amazing qualities of its parents. NY CBDiesel is a great daytime strain with a strong lemon and pine aroma and very stimulating effects. Purple Frost – Purple Frost is an indica-dominant hybrid bred and produced by Samadhi Farms. A pungent cross of Obama Kush and Skunk #1, Purple Frost offers a bouquet of spices, diesel fuels, but with a round, earthy undertone. Harlequin – Harlequin is a 75/25 sativa-dominant strain renowned for its reliable expression of CBD. A descendant of Colombian Gold, a Nepali indica, and Thai and Swiss landrace strains, you can depend on Harlequin to provide clear-headed, alert sativa effects. Chardonnay – Bred by HGH Seeds, Chardonnay is a beautiful purple CBD cultivar created by crossing Black Rose with Cherry Wine. It gets its dark purple color from Black Rose and its flavor profile from Cherry Wine. Expect notes of fresh strawberry-rhubarb jam and candied raspberries, which are accompanied by the non-euphoric effects of CBD genetics. Elektra – Elektra CBD hemp flower has hints of sweet pine with a taste of citrus, just before melting into a deep wood flavor. Elektra is great for those afflicted with joint and muscle fatigue or overall discomfort. Its ability to help you relax is sure to put you in a great mood any time of day. Hempress – The Hempress is a blend of Oregon Cherry (Z7 x Z6) x Abacus. It has a sweet floral aroma and taste. This strain is extremely dense! High in the rare cannabinoid CBC, and rich in both cannabinoids and terpenes. Remedy – Remedy is a high-CBD strain created as a collaboration between Mr. Nice and Resin Seeds, the creator of the famed Cannatonic strain. The breeders developed Remedy by crossing a Cannatonic female with an Afghan and Skunk male from Mr. Nice. Purple Hawaiian Haze – Purple Hawaiian Haze is a sativa cannabis strain that derives its name from its parent strains and emits a scent reminiscent of tropical fruits and flowers. Enjoy its uplifting, calming effects, perfect for any time of day. Zkittlez – Another great nighttime strain, Zkittlez has a very fruity flavor that combines the tastes of grapes and berries for a delicious fusion. It’s best used at night because of its indica-like calming and soothing properties. When it comes to choosing a CBD flower that’s suitable for you, you should think about choosing one that meets your day or night requirements. The great thing about CBD flower is that with so many different strains of hemp flower to choose from, there’s sure to be one that suits you. If you've been looking for a natural alternative to CBD oils and tinctures, then CBD flower could be the perfect choice for you! If you would like to learn more about CBD flower, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Our friendly and professional team are always happy to answer any questions you have. If you’re currently taking any medication, always speak to your doctor or health care provider before trying CBD.

While you may still be learning about delta-8 THC , there's already an even newer cannabinoid hitting the market: delta-10 THC . This recently discovered cannabinoid is another almost identical molecular cousin to delta-9 THC, but with somewhat lesser psychoactive effects, similar to delta-8. You can think of delta-10 as a lite version of a traditional marijuana extract. The problem with this "lite" version of Delta-9 THC, is that we don’t know much about it yet, and its origins are pretty sketchy. Still, despite this and the fact that its legal status is not quite clear, a few companies have already started to sell delta-10 products online and in dispensaries throughout the United States. Where Did Delta-10 THC Come From? Delta-10 only recently made its way onto the market, and it's still uncertain how exactly it was first produced. The current story is that a cannabis company in California, Fusion Farms, bought some outdoor-grown biomass to make concentrates. However, in order to try to protect the cannabis from California's wildfires, the plants had been previously sprayed with a fire-retardant chemical by the company that sold the biomass. Unaware of this, Fusion Farms proceeded with the extraction, but quickly noticed something different about the crystals that were forming. On closer examination, they realized a new compound was taking form. After testing this new compound, it was initially thought to be something like CBC (cannabichromene), but not identical. This mysterious new cannabinoid was then sent to a third-party laboratory to try to determine what exactly had been created. After several months of rigorous testing, the cannabinoid was ultimately classified as delta-10 THC. What Are The Different Types of THC? The three different types of tetrahydrocannabidiol refer to where the bond on the carbon chain occurs. Delta refers to the decarboxylation process, wherein heat causes the cannabinoid to become active and have its full effects. The location of the bond is important, because it seems to greatly determine the effects of the compound. Delta-9 THC is known for its strong psychoactive and analgesic properties. These properties are still present in both delta-8 and delta-10, but to a lesser degree. The main difference between delta-8 and delta-10 is that, while delta-8 is often described as mildly sedating, delta-10 is usually described as somewhat stimulating. What aRE thE Effects Of Delta-10? Currently, most of what we know about the effects of delta-10 THC is based on what we know about the body's endocannabinoid system and how other cannabinoids interact it. Since very few studies have been conducted so far, it's hard to form anything more than a weak hypothesis. In one study conducted on pigeons, delta-10 was administered and supposedly caused a less potent high than delta-9 THC. Needless to say, many more studies are necessary before any conclusions can be drawn. The other main source of information on delta-10 THC comes from its users' experiences. Where delta-8 THC is often described as a more mellow high, similar to a lite version of a traditional indica, delta-10 THC has been said to be more similar to a mild high from a sativa cannabis strain. This information is no more than anecdotal, though, as far more research is needed to gain any real understanding of the effects of delta-10 THC. Is Delta-10 THC Safe? A cannabinoid that's the result of contamination from a fire retardant chemical doesn't sound very safe. Luckily, the company that discovered delta-10 felt the same way about the original batch, so it was disposed of. Since then, several labs have been trying to recreate the process to make more delta-10 THC, but with a safer, more eco-friendly catalyst this time. Given the hype surrounding delta-8, there has been a huge buzz about delta-10 in the cannabis industry. However, very few companies have actually began to sell any delta-10 products. As the cannabis industry grows, these newly discovered cannabinoids will be researched more. From that research, hopefully safer methods of production will be discovered, so that delta-10 products can be made more accessible to buy online and in dispensaries near you. Even so, whenever you're trying a new cannabis product, remember to start with a low dose, and only buy products from legal dispensaries and sources that show where their cannabis comes from and how the extractions are produced. Also, when you buy any cannabis products - including CBD, CBG, or good old-fashioned delta-9 THC - make sure to check for COAs (Certificate of Analysis), so that you can be sure there are no solvents, toxins, or other impurities in the product you plan to buy. Is Delta-10 THC Legal? Much like its cousin delta-8, delta-10 THC is in a somewhat legal grey area. Because both are derived from industrial hemp and contain less than 0.3% delta-9 THC, they are technically both legal on a federal level . However, 11 states have already specifically banned Delta-8 THC from being sold, so it's likely the same will be done in regards to delta-10. As of May 2021, only two states, Alabama and North Dakota, are actively pushing legislation to specifically ban delta-10 THC. Still, before you buy delta-10 THC products, be sure to check your own state's most current laws and regulations, and use all cannabis products responsibly.

Every year, there are a handful of marijuana strains vying to be the best of the best. These are the strains that everyone is trying to get their hands on in dispensaries or to germinate seeds in their garden. To find out the best strains, we gathered data from the industry, observed asked growers, and used google trends. There are a few strains new to the scene, but some of the most popular strains this year are bonafide classics. Continue reading below to find out what the top 10 strains of 2021 are. 10. White Fire White Fire is a classic strain that's remained a staple in dispensaries for a handful of years. That doesn't seem likely to end anytime soon, thanks to its incredible lineage of Fire OG and The White. The result is an incredibly potent strain that's covered in trichomes made up mainly of THC and, interestingly, CBG. The unique cannabinoid profile gives White Fire its uplifting and heady effects that are great for socializing and creativity. 9. Ztrawberriez Hot off the presses from DNA Genetics is a strain that's already making waves. Ztrawberriez is a cross between the classic Gelato and Strawberry Banana. The result is an incredibly terpy strain that smells like strawberries and has a candy flavor profile. On top of that, Ztrawberriez is a real heavy-hitter, with a THC content of 25% or higher . One hit of Ztrawberriez will send your body through the couch and your mind into the sky. 8. Gelato No top 10 cannabis strain list is complete without Gelato , no matter what year it is. Gelato is the base of so many upcoming strains that, even by proximity , it deserves a spot on this list. Gelato is a strain that was created from Sunset Sherbet and Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookies, resulting in the revolutionary bud that we know and love today. Fruity and creamy flavors and aromas will give way to relaxing properties and aid in pain relief after a few tokes. Take it from us-- Gelato is a strain that you'll need to try at least once if you haven't already. 7. Zkittlez Having a candied terpene profile is what sets Zkittlez apart from the rest. Although Zkittlez was making the rounds four or five years back, its legacy has remained strong in the hearts and minds of the cannabis industry. It's endured so long because of its incredible genetics, which is made of a cross between Grape Ape and Grapefruit. The marriage of these strains produced Zkittlez, which is packed full of terpenes and CBG. Aromas of tropical, sweet, and fruit flavors all waft from the multi-colored colas that this strain is known for. One delicious hit will leave you focused, uplifted, and relaxed all at the same time. 6. Purple Punch Like other strains on this list, Purple Punch is a bit older but has had a resurgence in popularity lately. Purple Punch first hit the scene in 2013 as a cross between Larry OG and Granddaddy Purple (GDP). It was only a few years ago that the cannabis industry caught on to this sleeping giant , and this year it's more popular than ever. Purple Punch is an indica heavyweight that is known for leaving its users in complete relaxation. After a few hits, it's a one-two knockout to the mind and the body. From there, you'll drift into a peaceful evening without worry or into a long slumber. 5. Apple Fritter Although relatively unknown, Apple Fritter is making a name for itself this year. Shrouded in mystery, Apple Fritter is believed to be a cross between Sour Apple and Animal Cookies. Unlike most of the other strains on this list, Apple Fritter is known for its incredible potency . It might be one of the most potent strains out there, leaving its users totally couch-locked. 4. Kush Mints Another mints strain, known as Kush Mints , is starting to come out on top. Kush Mints is the result of a cross between Animal Mints and Bubba Kush. The hallmark of this incredible new strain is the unique minty flavor that it possesses. The unique terpene profile makes it taste like minty cookies . On top of that, Kush Mints is incredibly strong, breaking through 27% THC content on the regular. If you're looking for a relaxing, uplifting, and euphoric strain, then Kush Mints might be the one you're looking for. 3. Wedding Cake Wedding Cake is a strain that may never lose its spot from the top three, at least for the foreseeable future. That's because Wedding Cake is a true connoisseur strain that combines fantastic effects, flavor, and potency. For that reason, Wedding Cake has racked up rewards in 2018 and 2019, including The Cannabis Cup . That should come as no surprise, thanks to its incredible effects, which can aid pain relief and create a feeling of pure relaxation. That's not to mention Wedding Cake's flavor, which has earthy notes underlying its prominent sweet and creamy taste. 2. Ice Cream Cake Ice Cream Cake is the marriage of two of the most well-known connoisseur strains—Wedding Cake and Gelato #33. This strain is chock-full of cannabinoids and delicious terpenes. Its THC content sits around 21%, which isn't a mind-blowing amount. However, the real reason this strain exists is for its incredible flavor, aroma, and effects. Its unique flavor profile has hints of sweet vanilla, cream, and fresh dough . This treat is especially suited for people who want to use it at night time. That's because Ice Cream Cake has soothing properties that help bring down anxieties and pain—leaving you with a restful afternoon and a good night's sleep. 1. Runtz If there's one strain that's blowing the competition away this year, it's Runtz . Runtz was created by the masterminds at Cookies by crossing two classics, both already on this list—Zkittlez and Gelato. Once again, Runtz was created years ago but has steadily risen before becoming a viral hit . This incredible strain is absolutely doused in trichomes top to bottom, giving it pure power and a fruity flavor profile. The best part about Runtz is that it's a strain that will get you on your feet. One smooth and creamy hit of Runtz will help you feel uplifted, euphoric, and ready to take on the day. Which Strains Will You Try? At the moment, many of the new strains on this list are only available at renowned dispensaries in legal cannabis states. The reality for many Americans in states without legal cannabis is that it may not be possible to try these strains. Luckily, there is an amazing alternative—CBD hemp flower strains. At Simply Crafted , we have a dispensaries worth of hemp flower strains that will provide you with the same aroma, flavors, and relief as the THC-rich strains found here. All you need to do is visit Simply Crafted and start browsing our refined selection of CBD and CBG flowers, which are all tested and grown to the highest standards. Don't wait--try some of the top strains in the cannabis industry today with CBD flowers.

Over the last decade, dabbing has taken the cannabis industry by storm. Dabbing concentrates was at one time only for the most dedicated stoners, but now it's firmly entered the mainstream. There are so many different concentrates to choose from, such as budder, live resin, shatter, sauce, and much more. On top of that, there's a vast range of cannabinoids to dab, such as Delta-9 THC, CBD, and Delta-8 THC. Now you might be wondering--what exactly is dabbing, how does dabbing work, and what's the difference between concentrates? No matter whether you're a beginner or an expert, you're sure to learn something by continuing to read below. What is Dabbing? Dabbing is the process of making cannabis concentrates and vaporizing them in either a dab rig or a dab pen. The reason that it's called dabbing is because you only need a little dab of concentrate to feel the intensely potent effects. That's the reason why people love dabbing, and no other form of cannabis consumption can compete with the strength and potency of dabbing. What's a Dab Rig? A dab rig is the most iconic piece of dabbing equipment, and it looks like an ordinary bong. The major difference is that a dab rig has a quartz or ceramic nail or banger instead of a bowl. Instead of heating the concentrate, the nail or banger is heated to extremely high temperatures. Once hot enough, a dab of concentrate is instantly vaporized once it touches the nail or banger. From there, the vaporized cannabinoids are inhaled directly into the lungs. What's a Dab Pen? A dab pen is for those who want to have a portable dabbing experience. Dab pens, also known as wax pens, look a lot like e-cigarettes or vaporizers . The only difference is that a dab pen usually has an exposed atomizer with coils or a ceramic chamber that gets super hot. The coil or chamber heats up the dab for dabbing on the go —no dab rigs or blow torches necessary. How Do I Start Dabbing? If you want to start dabbing, then you'll need a few essential tools . First and foremost, you'll need to get your hands on either a dab rig or dab pen. To get the real dabbing experience, we recommend going for the dab rig. However, a dab rig requires a few essential items. First, you'll need a dab rig with a nail or banger. Then you'll need to get your hands on a blow torch to heat the nail or banger. You'll need a metal or glass dab tool to put a dab into the superhot nail or banger. Last but not least, you'll need some high-quality cannabis concentrate. To dab, you need to heat your nail up until it's red hot, let it cool for a minute, and then put the dab on it with your dab tool. The concentrate will instantly vaporize as you inhale the dab. What's the Best Temperature for Dabbing? The ideal temperature for dabbing falls between 350-600°F (176-315°C). However, the temperature you vape at plays a big role in how the dab tastes and feels. Dabbing at a lower temperature of 350-400°F (176-204°) is excellent for getting flavorful, terpene-packed dabs. From 500-600°F (260-315°C), you'll get clouds of vapor but less flavor. Anything above 600°F (315°C) and you'll have thick, smoky clouds, but most of the flavor will be lost. An increasingly popular way of dabbing are e-rigs and electronic nails. Traditionally, it's time consuming and difficult to get set-up and to get the ideal temperature for dabbing. These desktop vaporizers and portable e-nails bypass the need for a blow torch, and allow for the full rig water-filtration experience without the hassle. There are several different types of smart rigs and vape attachments for rigs to choose from, with both quartz and ceramic heating elements as well. What Concentrates Can I Dab With? Although there's a wide range of concentrates, the most popular are three types known as shatter, budder, and live resin. However, there are other types, such as crumble, rosin, and terp sauce. The reason why there are so many different types of concentrates is because of the extraction process. A different extraction process results in various kinds of cannabis concentrates. Shatter Shatter is a type of cannabis concentrate that looks like a slab of hard candy . Usually, shatter is a brittle and transparent piece of concentrate that's gold or dark brown in color, with just a slight bit of stickiness to it. Because it's not sticky or gooey, shatter is an incredibly easy extract to handle and is an excellent concentrate for beginners to start out with. Cannabis connoisseurs, on the hand, usually complain that shatter is a bit plain tasting because it does lack terpenes. Budder (Wax) Budder concentrate takes on the form of a waxy, sticky substance, with the consistency of butter—hence the name. Budder is popular among all types of dabbers because of how easy it is to handle. Budder can look brownish or radiate a light golden color. On top of that, budder is incredibly terpy, and dabbing it at a low temperature will provide incredible flavor. Live Resin Live resin is the cream of the crop when it comes to cannabis concentrates. Live resin is created by extracting flash-frozen cannabis plants, which retains all terpenes, cannabinoids, flavonoids, and essential oils. The result is an almost runny concentrate that is chock-full of terpenes and cannabinoids. Once you dab live resin, you'll have a hard time going back to other concentrates. What's the Difference Between Delta-9 THC, CBD, and Delta-8 THC? Besides the many types of concentrates, there are also different types of cannabinoid concentrates. Delta-9 THC The most common type of cannabis concentrates you'll find are delta-9 THC concentrates. These concentrates are usually just called THC concentrates, and they can be found in legal and medical dispensaries around the country. Many of these concentrates are either pure delta-9 THC or a full-spectrum concentrate that includes CBD and other cannabinoids. These dabs are the strongest you'll find, and one hit will elevate you to a level you never thought possible. CBD CBD dabs are a little more niche but can be purchased mostly nationwide. Although CBD doesn't make you high, some people feel relief from a high dose of CBD. You can find live resin CBD with terpenes, as well as pure CBD isolate dabs. Both usually have a very small amount of delta-9 THC in them. Delta-8 THC Delta-8 THC has become extremely popular lately because it's a less-intense version of delta-9 THC. However, it might seem counterintuitive to take a hefty dose of delta-8 THC. The thing is, delta-8 THC dabs provide a very clear, uplifting, and functional high compared to delta-9 THC. With delta-9 THC, there's always a risk of becoming too high or too paranoid, but that's not the case with delta-8 THC dabs. On top of that, delta-8 THC dabs are available across the USA, unlike delta-9 THC Get the Best CBD and Delta-8 THC Concent If you're eager to start dabbing, you may find that getting delta-9 THC concentrates isn't possible due to your state's cannabis laws. Luckily, CBD and delta-8 THC concentrates are available for purchase in most states. Now all you need to do is find CBD or Delta-8 THC concentrates from a reliable and reputable company. Luckily, Simply Crafted already produces the best CBD and delta-8 THC concentrates on the market. These concentrates are produced as live resins, so you're going to get incredible flavor and effects. On top of that, each concentrate is tested, so you know you're getting safe and potent concentrates. If you're ready to start dabbing, then look no further than CBD or delta-8 THC concentrates from Simply Crafted .

There are over 100 different cannabinoids, but only about a handful are common. Of course, there are the most common cannabinoids, THC and CBD, but there are other minor cannabinoids, too, like CBN. Although it's found in small amounts, CBN is a commonly found cannabinoid in cannabis flowers. Now you might be wondering—what is CBN, and what's it good for? Find out all that and more as we tell you everything you need to know about CBN. What Is Cannabinol (CBN) Like CBD, cannabinol (CBN) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid. That means that CBN doesn't make you feel high. However, CBN is unique because of the way that it's made. Most cannabinoids are produced by the cannabis plant itself, but CBN isn't . Normally, CBG is created by the cannabis plant first, and then enzymes turn the CBG into other cannabinoids like THC and CBD. CBN, on the other hand, is actually a byproduct of THC degradation . That means that CBN comes directly from 'damaged' THC. By damaged, we don't mean the THC is broken, but THC turns into CBN from too much sun exposure, heat, or time . In fact, CBN was one of the first cannabinoids discovered back in 1896 for that reason. That's because storage and transport in the 1800s was poor and most cannabis flowers imported from abroad likely had much of the THC turn into CBN. That's why fresh bud usually contains less than 1% CBN. The longer the weed is around, the more CBN it'll have—especially if that weed isn't properly stored. Since CBN is a byproduct of THC, it's not possible to make a high CBN strain. The only way to get a lot of CBN is to let some weed age like a fine wine . How Does CBN Work? CBN works through the same system that CBD, THC, and other cannabinoids do—something called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a complex system of receptors responsible for the body's homeostasis . That means if we get injured, sick, or something isn't right, the ECS kicks in to help us feel better and return to a healthy state. In the ECS, there are two types of receptors, called CB1 and CB2. You can think of these receptors as locks and cannabinoids as keys . When the cannabinoids connect (or unlock ) the ECS receptors, something happens. CB1 receptors are responsible for making us feel high, and it's the receptors that THC binds to. CB2 receptors help activate the immune system. The exciting thing about CBN is that it's able to connect (or unlock) both CB1 and CB2 receptors. Now you might be wondering—if CB1 causes psychoactive effects, doesn't that make CBN psychoactive? Not necessarily, because researchers have found that CBN has a quarter of the potency of THC. It's possible that CBN may be psychoactive but only in extremely high amounts. What Are the Benefits of CBN? The fact that CBN can interact with both ECS receptors has gotten researchers interested in the cannabinoid. Since CBN can interact with CB1 receptors without the feeling of being high, it could be helpful for cancer patients. That's because CBN could cause appetite stimulation and anti-nausea without the overwhelming effects of THC. The effects of CBN could also be helpful for those with glaucoma. Since glaucoma is treated with THC, CBN could be used instead—once again without the high from THC. On top of that, CBN may be able to protect neurons in the brain. One study found that CBN could delay the onset of neurological diseases like ALS. Most interestingly, a study found that CBN and CBD together may be able to produce a powerful anti-inflammatory effect. The thing is, CBN and CBD alone didn't have the same effect as when they were together. It's possible that the sedative and relaxing effects of cannabis are from the combination of CBN and CBD. After all, anti-inflammation can soothe muscles and dull pains—perfect for pure relaxation and sleep. Try CBN Today CBN may have many therapeutic qualities that can support a wide variety of physical ailments. Luckily, you're likely already getting the benefit of CBN from full-spectrum CBD tinctures, hemp flowers, and any other cannabis product that already has CBN in it. In that case, you'll want to purchase your cannabis products from a safe, reliable, and professional cannabis company. That's where Simply Crafted comes in because they have a wide range of CBD, Delta-8 THC , CBG, and CBN products that are all lab-tested for safety. If you want only the highest-quality cannabis products with CBN, then head on over to Simply Crafted today.

Nearly everyone has heard of CBD, the hemp-derived cannabinoid that's taken the world by storm due to its supportive qualities. However, a lesser-known cannabinoid is quickly gaining attention as the mother of all cannabinoids . Meet cannabigerol, which is commonly referred to as CBG. Read along to understand everything you need to know about CBG, from CBG flower to its many uses, and everything in between. What is CBG? CBG is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in hemp plants. However, CBG plays a significant role in regards to dominant cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD. CBG is known as a precursor cannabinoid because it is responsible for creating THC and CBD. As hemp flowers mature, they contain an abundance of cannabigerolic acid. From here, the CBGA acts as a precursor to THCA and CBDA, which are the inactive forms of THC and CBD. As hemp flowers mature, more and more CBGA converts into THCA and CBDA. Once the hemp flowering cycle completes, the final product is nearly void of CBG. Because of this, CBG is viewed as a scarce cannabinoid. Up until now, it's been rare to find hemp concentrates with a significant concentration of CBG content, let alone CBG flowers. CBG Flowers Ever since the boom of CBD flowers, hemp breeders have been busy creating new and exciting varieties. Now hemp breeders see the value in CBG-dominant hemp flowers, which is why the list of CBG-dominant strains are growing by the day. Similar to CBD-dominant hemp flowers, CBG-dominant hemp flowers are legal to purchase at storefront shops or online. As long as the CBG-dominant hemp flower in question contains less than 0.3% THC, it's legal. Remember, CBG flowers are not psychoactive, which means you can indulge in them without feeling the disorienting effects of THC. The Effects of CBG-Dominant Hemp Flowers Depending on the CBG concentration, along with the terpene content, CBD-dominant hemp flowers can create a multitude of effects. Typically, users experience an elevated mood, decreased stress, increased levels of relaxation, and an urge for a good night's rest. Whether you vape or smoke CBG flowers, you can expect the effects to last between 1-3 hours. Each individual may experience varying results due to their personal tolerance. Overall, the effects of CBG are reminiscent of CBD, but include a deeper sense of relaxation and clarity. The Supportive Qualities of CBG One of the primary reasons to consume CBG-dominant hemp flowers is to experience their supportive qualities. Current and ongoing research points to CBG as a therapeutic compound that assists with a wide range of mental and physical issues. Let's take a look at a list of potential issues that CBG can support. Chronic Pain Inflammation Alzheimer's Disease Huntington's Disease Glaucoma Bacteria Depression Anxiety And More As with other cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, CBG directly binds with CB1 and CB2 receptors within the endocannabinoid system. Once CBG stimulates the endocannabinoid system, a cascade of effects is triggered throughout the body. Specifically, the immune systems and the central nervous system are thrown into motion by the endocannabinoid system. What Type of CBG Product is The Best? Any type of verified CBG-dominant product can lend a supporting hand. However, it's a fact that CBG concentrates are expensive and challenging to find. If you're looking for a financially reasonable way to consume CBG, then CBG-dominant hemp flowers are the route to choose. Unlike CBG concentrates, CBG flowers do not have to undergo a long and expensive extraction process. Instead, CBG flowers are harvested from hemp plants, which are subsequently dried and cured. In general, you can find incredibly potent CBG-dominant hemp flowers that range from 14-20% CBG and above. As a cherry on top, CBG flowers are rich in terpenes, which enhances their effects, flavor, and aroma. Is CBG Right For You? Ultimately, only you can decide if CBG is right for your needs. Whether you desire to feel an enhanced sense of relaxation or stimulate your inner creative, CBG flower is a potent and effective product. Finding CBG flowers online has never been easier, and there's no better time than now to experience the supportive qualities that CBG has to offer. If you’re ready to indulge in a connoisseur-grade CBG-dominant hemp flower, then look no further than Simply Crafted’s organically grown Wedding Cake . Clocking in at 20% CBG, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more potent, flavorful, and effective CBG-dominant hemp flower online.

On June 1, 2021, Amazon announced they would be removing marijuana from their list of drugs that employees are tested for. Moving forward, cannabis will be treated the same as alcohol in regards to employee use - not allowed at work, but okay after hours. This change was made alongside other new policies aimed at treating employees better all around. The fact that Amazon is allowing its employees to use cannabis when not at work is considered a big deal because the company currently employs 1.3 million people, so its attitude carries a lot of influence and could even lead other employers to change their drug policies as well. What made Amazon change its mind about marijuana? The United States government, maybe. THE M.O.R.E. ACT OF 2020 Amazon's attitude shift comes in light of the M.O.R.E. Act ( Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act) that was passed by Congress on December 4, 2020. The M.O.R.E. Act would take marijuana and tetrahydrocannabinol off the Drug Schedule list, making marijuana legal on a federal level. This would allow states and local governments to set their own laws and regulations in regards to cannabis. The Act would also work retroactively, restoring rights and freeing millions of incarcerated Americans. For now, the Bill has only passed the House of Representatives and still must pass the Senate and be signed by the President before it's a law. Much like the Federal Government, Amazon has a long way to go before it allows cannabis to be sold in any capacity. In fact, Amazon is even stricter than the United States government. Despite the Farm Bill of 2014 making CBD and other hemp-derived products federally legal, Amazon still prohibits the sale of cannabidiol and other cannabinoids. While you can easily buy hemp oil and hemp gummies, you still cannot buy CBD oil on Amazon. Amazon has a zero-tolerance policy for anything containing cannabidiol, cannabigerol, or any other cannabinoid, regardless of its federal legal status. Marijuana Marketplaces Most major online marketplaces - like Amazon and Ebay - prohibit the sale of any cannabis or hemp-based products because there are too many variables from state-to-state and country-to-country. Payment, delivery and storage of these types of items can pose a problem. Despite the SAFE Banking Act of 2018 , payment processors almost all shun CBD sales, and they completely prohibit THC. When it comes to delivering cannabis products, USPS, UPS, and other carriers do allow shipment of CBD and other Farm Bill compliant hemp-derived products, but only when accompanied by COA's and other paperwork. As it stands now due to federal laws, THC products are strictly forbidden from being shipped by any mail carrier, even in green states where cannabis is completely legal. Just because THC products aren't allowed by mail carriers doesn't mean you can't get them delivered - and not just by your local drug dealer. There's no shortage of weed delivery services and dispensary locaters out there. Right now you can easily download multiple apps on your phone that will let you order weed online if you're living in a green state, or order CBD online if you're in any other state. One of the most famous of these types of services is Weedmaps , which was started in 2008 to help locate medical marijuana dispensaries. Today, you can use it or any other similar site to find cannabis and CBD near you and even schedule delivery. The one thing you can't do on these platforms, though, is pay for your CBD or THC online. S.A.F.E. Banking Act of 2018 Because of banking restrictions, cannabis marketplaces usually can't facilitate the full transaction of a sale; they can only schedule your appointment or make your reservation. This inability to provide the complete experience definitely leaves an opening for places like Amazon - if you could buy cannabis there, and even subscribe to CBD products that you like - but there are still some obstacles to overcome before you can even buy CBD on Amazon, much less THC. The M.O.R.E. Act would make THC legal on a federal level, but each state would then be able to choose to allow or prohibit it within their state. After 7 years of CBD being legal on a federal level, only three states have chosen to ban its sale, so maybe THC would be similar. On the other hand, the recently discovered cannabinoid Delta-8 THC has already been banned in 11 states, so it may be more likely that delta-9 would be banned in an even higher number of states. Either way, the chance of you being able to buy weed on Amazon anytime soon is pretty slim. Drones Delivering Dope If the M.O.R.E. Act were to be signed into Law, it would be years before you could expect to have Amazon drones delivering your weed. More likely, Amazon weed delivery will look similar to its alcohol delivery, meaning it will go largely unnoticed and unused. Alcohol has been available on Amazon since 2017 when it bought Whole Foods and acquired liquor licenses all over the United States. However, unlike its grocery delivery, its confusing policies and heavy restrictions have caused Amazon's alcohol delivery to go largely unnoticed, and even more unused by consumers. People go on Amazon to buy electronics, phone cases, and all sorts of random stuff, but they're not generally shopping for fine wine, whiskey, or weed. Instead of a general online marketplace, consumers looking to buy cannabis and alcohol usually look to niche platforms, like Drizly and Leafly . In post-prohibition, post-COVID times, when people are looking to buy CBD and other cannabis products online more frequently, online weed delivery services and other cannabis retail platforms are more likely to corner the market, and Amazon will remain the king of selling everything else.

The Minnesota House of Representatives voted on Thursday to legalize marijuana for adults in the state. This is the farthest the measure has ever traveled in the state Legislature, and it passed with 72-61 in favor, including nearly all Democrats and six Republicans. MN Governor Tim Walz supports the bill and has commented that he would sign off on it. Still, with opposition from the Republican-led Senate and just a few days left in the regular 2021 session, it is unlikely to become law this year. However, it could still become an issue on which voters could decide directly, as a 2022 ballot measure. At any rate, it is an important step in the direction of recreational marijuana legalization in the state. House Majority Leader Ryan Winkler (DFL-Golden Valley) - who, along with Speaker Melissa Hortman (DFL-Brooklyn Park) and others in the House, initially filed the measure in February - has stated the bill is "a long time coming." He continued, "Minnesotans have decided it's time to legalize cannabis and right the wrongs of the criminal prohibition of marijuana that has failed Minnesotans and has failed Minnesota." The law would allow Minnesotans aged 21 or over to possess up to ten pounds of marijuana in their homes, and up to two ounces in public spaces. It is also, like other similar measures recently adopted in New York and elsewhere , meant to address the disproportionate toll taken by marijuana policing on communities of color. It would accomplish this by automatically expunging low-level marijuana convictions and creating a special board to review others. The bill also sets up a legal marketplace for distribution, establishes labeling and safety requirements, and dedicates revenue generated from the legal sales to regulation, youth access prevention, and substance abuse treatment programs. Despite all this, as in New York, Republicans strongly oppose the measure. Their main objections seem to be mostly based on fear: for the safety of highways, due to a perceived increase of drivers under the influence of the newly legal substance; for the possibility of increased substance abuse in the workplace, in various industries; and, of course, the old "gateway drug" fear, that legal marijuana will somehow lead directly to harder drugs like heroin and cocaine. Other opponents of the measure argue that Minnesota should first focus on fixing its medical marijuana program - which has been ridiculed from all fronts - before moving onto the recreational side. As it stands now, Minnesota's medical marijuana program remains one of the nation's strictest, with no raw flower allowed even to those suffering terminal illnesses, so it is no surprise to find such opposition to this measure even after all the state has been through in the past year. Ironically, some say that the two different marijuana reform parties in Minnesota may have divided the vote enough in the 2020 election to cost Democrats the Senate, which, in turn, may have ultimately set back the cause of reform. However, as a result of this, it is now politically wise for Democrats to show support for legalization, in light of the possibility that they may have lost favor with their progressive base by not uniting on this issue. With so many still suffering incarceration for nonviolent marijuana offenses, this goes well beyond the personal freedom to enjoy cannabis products. As Representative Rena Moran (DFL-St. Paul) stated on Thursday, "We can't keep relying on the status quo. Today the Minnesota House is taking one of the most significant steps toward racial equity."

The latest cannabinoid to captivate the public is Delta-8 THC. If you aren’t already a cannabis aficionado, you may not know that there are many correspondents of THC, Delta-9 being the most widely known and the one that gets users high. Delta-8 is a less potent analog produced naturally in both legal classifications of cannabis: marijuana, and hemp. The reason Delta-8 is controversial is it can be derived from hemp and can get users high. Why is Delta-8 THC Controversial? Hemp-derived products gained legal access because of their inability to intoxicate. Delta-8 serves as a workaround way to legally enjoy the effects of THC without visiting a dispensary. Online retailers all over the United States are taking advantage of D8’s legal status, but not without any controversy from both regulatory boards and the cannabis community. The DEA’s Interim Final Rule (IFR) In August of 2020, the US Drug Enforcement Agency clarified their position on synthetic cannabinoids by stating, “All synthetically derived (THC) remain Schedule I controlled substances.” It is unclear if the statement directly relates to the rise in Delta-8 THC and the confusion around the wording of the 2018 "Farm Bill" or synthetic forms of THC like "spice" or "K2." More recently, many States have clarified their stances on the controversial cannabinoid. The issue remains complicated as states each take a different approach when dealing with D8. While most states are following the DEA's lead by banning Delta-8 products, others call to take a closer look and review how Delta-8 can fit into the legal cannabis market. Before we jump into the current state of D8 in the US, we will cover some of the basics to help explain the source of controversy and get a feel for where we are headed. What is Delta-8 THC? Delta-8 is a naturally produced cannabinoid. If you ever checked out your lab tests provided by your favorite CBD oil retailer, you have noticed trace amounts of D8 showing up in your product. The cannabinoid in this amount can add benefits the same way THC does but won’t affect users to the extent of getting them high. Because D8 is only naturally produced in trace amounts, manufacturers alter CBD to create a substantial amount. When Delta-8 is taken in significant quantities, it will deliver a less intense high comparable to Delta-9 THC. The Effects Most D8 consumers report a "lite" or "mild" high compared to using a cannabis product. They feel less paranoid, have clarity, and don’t experience any grogginess after they come down. Delta-8’s ability to produce a high is possible because its molecular structure resembles that of THC. When Delta-8 enters the bloodstream, the cannabinoid activates both CB1 and CB2 receptors. Delta-8’s interaction with the ECS may be more complex than a less efficient method of getting high. The cannabinoid has some effects that are much different than D9, such as more appetite stimulation and less anxiousness, and it is up to 200% more effective in treating vomiting and nausea. Medicinal Benefits Delta-8’s ability to interact with the ECS sheds new light for researchers looking to further our understanding of all cannabinoids. While we have a long way to go, the beginning stages of D8 research do look promising. Preliminary research in rat models suggests that D8 could increase the appetite more than its close counterpart. Delta-8 could be a solution to multiple health complications without making the user egregiously high. Many people suffering from cancer treatments use THC to increase their appetite, but are turned off by the intoxicating effects. The most promising use for Delta-8 is treating vomiting in patients who are taking cancer treatment drugs. A small study found that after taking treatments of D8 before and after their cancer drugs, the patients stopped throwing up. Products Delta-8 has made its way into all types of cannabis products , including edibles, vape cartridges, flower, and tinctures. Many companies are infusing Delta-8 with terpenes to deliver a more catered experience than taking an isolate. How Delta-8 THC Is Made Some of the controversy surrounding Delta-8 is regarding how it is produced. While it does exist in trace amounts in hemp, making enough to create a product requires some chemistry. The Delta-8 products available online are using D8 that has been converted from CBD isolate. The process is called isomerize, and needs isolate CBD to be dissolved into glacial acetic acid. Once D8 is produced, it can then be infused into products. Many retailers are adding terpenes to create a more natural experience. The Future of Delta-8 is Uncertain Our current debate is over whether Delta-8 is synthetic or not. The DEA’s recent IFR doesn’t explicitly mention Delta-8, causing retailers to defer to the Farm Bill. Recently, many states have outlined a response ranging from banning the substance, categorizing it as marijuana, or giving the green light to retailers that don’t consider Delta-8 a synthetic cannabinoid. News about Delta-8 is coming out every day. If you are interested in using D8 products, be sure to check out your state’s stance on the controversial cannabinoid.

The cannabis industry has come a long way in just a couple of decades. Governments loosening restrictions on cannabis products has given millions of people legal access and furthered our understanding of the plant. As the industry shifts from the shadows of the black market to a billion-dollar legal industry, we are inevitably seeing major changes take place. Consumer information regarding cannabis once came from home growers, blogs, obscure books, and drug dealers. Now that a legitimate career in the cannabis industry is not only possible but highly lucrative, researchers, doctors, and scientists have moved into this space. One of the remnants of the former black market is the terminology used to classify cannabis. Sativa and indica have long served as the means of determining the species. When a consumer walks into a dispensary, they are tasked with choosing between indica, sativa, and hybrid, then to go further by picking a specific strain. While these terms have served the black market and the beginnings of the legal cannabis industry, they may not be the best way of determining what strain will give the uplifting effects you expect from a sativa, or the sedating feeling of an indica. Lamarckian Theory of Evolution Cannabis science first emerged in the late 1800s with biologist Jean Baptiste Lamarck. Before Charles Darwin formulated his theory of evolution by observing animals' unique characteristics on the Galapagos islands, Lamarck had a theory of his own. He believed that animals evolved over their lifespan to adapt to their environments. The theory states that the parent would pass on to the offspring traits they had acquired during their life experiences. Darwin’s book, The Origin of Species, would disprove Lamarck’s theory in the 19th century. Lamarck also had a theory about cannabis. He believed plants developed traits based on their geographical location. The plant’s physical appearance and the climate in which it had developed would determine the effects. We moved away from Lamarck's theory of evolution, but his cannabis science is still prevalent today. Debunking Cannabis Pseudoscience As researchers learn more about cannabis, we understand that determining the effects based on appearance is flawed. If you go on Leafly right now, you will read many descriptions of indica strains that have uplifting effects, and sativas that deliver the famous "couch-locking" qualities. In any other medical field, this would be considered unacceptable. For the industry to grow and help as many people as possible, we must evolve the ways in which we classify cannabis. PLoS One Study In 2015, a group of Canadian researchers conducted a study to find if there was a genetic difference between plants that are considered indica vs. those labeled sativa. The researchers examined the chemical makeup of 81 marijuana and 43 hemp strains. They found that the correlation between genetic composition and species was only moderate. Furthermore, they discovered strains that were labeled as sativa having the exact same genetics as a strain labeled as indica. They note in the study that the nature of breeding within the black market possibly led to inaccuracy in tracking the ancestry. Dr. Ethan Russo One of the pioneers of cannabis research, neurologist and psychopharmacology researcher Dr. Ethan Russo agrees that the current classification system is flawed. He states in an interview discussing the debate over cannabis genetics, “one cannot in any way currently guess the biochemical content of a given cannabis plant based on its height, branching, or leaf morphology.” Cannabis is a complex plant. Judging the effects based on appearance alone is no longer necessary. As the industry grows, more research is conducted, and our testing infrastructure increases, we expect to see a more science-based approach to describing the effects of cannabis. Using Chemical Composition to Determine Sativa, Indica, Hybrid We are already using chemical composition to classify legal and illegal cannabis. Hemp is considered to have levels of THC 0.3% or lower in the US, and marijuana is classified as having any THC level greater than hemp. Hemp and marijuana flower is tested by companies to determine what category it falls under. To better communicate the user experience, we can use the chemical composition of the plant for species classification as well. Cannabis researchers like Dr. Russo believe that terpenes are the driving factor in what creates the experience after consuming cannabis. Strains with a high concentration of terpenes like beta-caryophyllene and myrcene are what create the indica effects. Sativa strains deliver a euphoric boost of energy due to their high concentrations of terpenes like alpha-pinene and limonene. Genetics and geography may have once played a major role in what terpenes are most likely to be featured in a specific strain. After centuries of cross-breeding and genetic development, it doesn’t make sense to classify based on appearance and lineage alone. Terms such as "indica-forward" or "sativa-like" are already being used in dispensaries around the world. Researchers like Dr. Russo contributed a great deal to further our understanding of cannabis. If you are interested in his work, check out his famous article, Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. An Ever-Evolving Plant and Industry There isn’t another plant on earth that has been in demand like cannabis while still labeled as a dangerous drug. Part of what makes the industry special is the pioneers who helped with its evolution under the legal radar. Many parts of the black market will never go away, but it is important to understand why we use terms like indica and sativa. In the near future, we expect to see terpenes playing a major role in people’s purchasing decisions. Taking into account the entire chemical composition of cannabis when choosing a strain will dramatically help recreational and medical cannabis users. We aren’t calling to uproot the terminology used in every dispensary on earth, but to recognize that the current system is flawed, and to understand where it comes from. The terms sativa and indica, coined by Jean Baptiste Lamarck, will likely never go away, but to give the best suggestions possible to users, we must take into account all determining factors. SOURCES https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3165946/ https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/can.2015.29003.ebr https://www.analyticalcannabis.com/articles/cannabis-sativa-vs-indica-is-there-a-difference-311780 https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0133292

One of the most contentious ongoing political debates is the legalization of the cannabis plant. Countries worldwide are moving slowly towards decriminalizing or legalizing the use of the marijuana plant either recreationally or medically. The story of the legalization of cannabis in the US starts as far back as the early 1900s. We've taken a look at the story so far and what is happening now with the introduction of new CBD products. We've also looked at which states now allow CBD, marijuana, and other cannabis products in 2021, and what might be next for the CBD industry. The 17th to the 19th century If we start right back at the beginning, the hemp plant, from which cannabis is made, was grown in huge numbers during the 17th century. The plant was produced to be turned into hemp material which was used to make rope, sails for ships, clothing, paper, and other items. In fact, the first draft of The Declaration of Independence was made using hemp paper. While the plant was grown everywhere, cannabis wasn't used recreationally on a large scale. Hemp was so useful that it was a legal requirement at one point for all farmers to grow at least a small amount of hemp. According to the Ministry of Hemp , even George Washington grew the plant. In the late 1800s, the hemp plant's potential medical use started to become apparent, and so cannabis extracts were made and sold in pharmacies across the US. There were very few regulations for medicines at the time, so cannabis extract could be sold for many medicinal issues, and many people started taking it recreationally. It became a fashionable drug, taken more cleanly and safely than opium, which was also popular at the time. 20th Century laws Until the 1900s, the only law surrounding the hemp plant was that farmers had to grow it to meet rising demand. However, in the first few years of the new century, the government became aware that more and more people were drying the plant and using cannabis recreationally via medical prescriptions. The first laws surrounding cannabis were meant to control the sale of medicines and poisons. In 1906, the Pure Food and Drug act labeled cannabis as a drug and placed it alongside other restricted substances. It was a drug that was easily accessible in most states, but a drug nonetheless. The law was tightening in 1910, meaning cannabis was only legal on a doctor's prescription. Over the following years, state after state began to ban the use of Marijuana, even going as far as stopping farmers from growing the plant. Between the year 1911, when Massachusetts first changed its law, and 1933 when North Dakota and Oklahoma banned Marijuana, 29 states passed laws regarding cannabis. Then, in 1937, the Marijuana Tax Act was enacted, effectively banning cannabis at a federal level. Extracts of the plant were permitted in some medical cases, but this was the principal law that turned the hemp plant into a prohibited substance. changes in the 60s and 70s Not much changed over the next few decades. Cannabis became an illegally traded drug finding its way into music festivals, parties, and the hands of people of who knew where to look. Police tried to curb its usage where they could, but cannabis never went away, despite the laws. Then, in 1969, the Marijuana Tax Act was struck down in the famous court case Leary V United States. This court case was the first of many to come. With the Tax Act no longer applicable, the US government quickly put the Controlled Substances act into place in the 1970s, which declared cannabis a Schedule I drug, preventing all use, including medical applications. However, despite this federal law, the 70s saw several states start to decriminalize possession of small amounts of cannabis. Texas was the first state to do so in 1973, declaring four ounces or less only a misdemeanor. Oregon fully decriminalized cannabis that same year. Alaska, Maine, California, Ohio, and Colorado followed suit in 1975. Then in 1978, New Mexico made a monumental move, recognizing the medical value of Marijuana. A year later, in 1979, Virginia changed its laws to allow cannabis to be used by doctors in some cases. Quite the opposite, throughout the 1980s, laws were adapted to increase jail time at a federal level for anyone found distributing Marijuana. attitudes Shift in the 1990s The 1990s opened with a new amendment to drug laws called the Solomon-Lautenberg amendment. This new law meant anyone caught on a drug offense would have their driving license taken away for at least six months in an attempt to discourage drug usage. However, the law came with a loophole which meant states could "opt out" of the law if they wanted to. The most states to have enacted the law at any one time was 19. Today, just four states continue to uphold this law; Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, and Texas. Then, in 1996, California became the first state to legalize medical cannabis. Proposition 215 came into force on November 5th and passed with 5,382,915 votes in favor and 4,301,960 against. Arizona tried to do the same immediately after California's success, but a technicality prohibited it from doing so. In 1998, Oregon, Alaska, and Washington legalized medical marijuana, with Maine following in 1999. A new millennium and a new dawn for cannabis Hawaii welcomed the new millennium by legalizing medical cannabis in the year 2000, closely followed by several more states over the following years. By 2012, 19 states had legalized medical marijuana, and most other states had decriminalized it. In 2012, Washington and Colorado took significant steps and became the first states to legalize the recreational use of cannabis. Finally, in 2014 the Agricultural Act was passed. Commonly called the Farm Bill, this bill made a clear distinction between the hemp plant, otherwise known as cannabis sativa L., and marijuana. Hemp became defined as a cannabis plant with a concentration of delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, lower than 0.3%. Suddenly, hemp could be grown legally and openly. Before this law came into play, even legal products such as hemp rope or hemp clothing had to be made from hemp grown abroad. 2014 was also the year in which the Rohrabacher–Farr amendment was passed. This amendment means the federal government can no longer spend money interfering with state cannabis laws. In 2018 another farm bill made the distinction between hemp and marijuana clear under the controlled substances act. This means any plant or product made from hemp with a THC concentration lower than 0.3% is legal. Finally, THC became a controlled substance. This meant that other cannabinoids and extracts from the cannabis plant were legal and could be turned into consumer products such as CBD oil. However, the growth of hemp is still controlled, and each state is required to have laws and processes in place for testing and checking the plants. The law is constantly changing to reflect the growing demand and need for medical and recreational cannabis. Most recently, the state of New York legalized recreational weed in March 2021 and, chances are, more states will do the same. Hemp, CBD, THC, and cannabis today The history of cannabis is long, convoluted, and full of twists and turns. But what really matters is where do we stand today? CBD, which stands for cannabidiol, is growing in popularity. More and more people are turning to CBD oils, gummies, and drops to help with everything from anxiety to back pain. CBD is just one component that is found in every plant in the cannabis family, including Marijuana. However, since the 2014 and 2018 Farm Bills, CBD is hanging in the balance between legal and illegal . It's a major component of both medical marijuana and the hemp plant. In reality, THC, another chemical compound found in marijuana but not hemp, is responsible for the high feeling people get from smoking marijuana. It's THC which is very strictly controlled. All 50 states have laws that allow CBD in one form or another. They vary in degree, but for practical purposes, CBD is widely available across the US. Technically, CBD derived from marijuana (not hemp) is federally controlled. However, this is rarely enforced, and marijuana-derived CBD is generally only accepted if prescribed by a doctor. Hemp-CBD is widely accepted and used medically and recreationally. CBD in different states Currently, 12 states allow hemp and marijuana-derived CBD to be used medically and recreationally: Washington, District of Columbia, Oregon, Alaska, California, Nevada, Colorado, Illinois, Michigan, Vermont, Maine, and Massachusetts. There are 30 states which have laws allowing limited use of CBD. These states only allow marijuana-based CBD for medicinal purposes but allow hemp CBD for recreational purposes. In addition, 28 states have regulations and restrictions in regards to CBD and what form it's in: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Utah, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Finally, these states do not allow Marijuana-based CBD for any reason: Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, and Texas. However, hemp-based CBD is accepted. The only exceptions are Nebraska and Idaho, which do not allow any CBD at all unless it has a 0% THC concentration. This is pretty hard to make but, in some cases, 0% THC CBD oil is allowed for medicinal purposes. This is judged on a case-by-case basis, and doctors can't just hand out a prescription. Marijuana and weed by state Marijuana or weed, which contains THC in low concentration, is also legalized in some states and decriminalized in other states. Each state enforces its laws with different penalty levels. In one state, you might get a small fine; in a neighboring state, you could get a considerably larger fine. It's worth checking each state's laws before you visit to make sure you don't break any rules. We've broken down everything you need to know. Recreational marijuana is allowed in the following states: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, South Dakota, Vermont, and Washington. New Mexico is now the most recent addition to the list, having passed a bill legalizing recreational marijuana just four days ago , in April 2021. In addition, another 30 states have taken steps to decriminalize weed in one form or another. In these states, it is legal for medicinal reasons when prescribed by a doctor. This means only two of the 48 states do not allow any marijuana use at all. Unsurprisingly, it's the same two states which don't allow CBD oil, Nebraska and Idaho. Other forms of cannabis As cannabis becomes more accepted, more research is being done, and then it becomes even more accepted. It is a positive cycle that will likely see more steps towards legalization over the coming years. Of course, like any consumer market, this means more products are being developed. As well as developing more products such as CBD oils, sweets and drinks, scientific studies are helping to uncover new compounds. A recent study discovered a cannabinoid known as Delta-8 . This compound is very similar to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Like its cousin, Delta-8 gives users a feeling of being high or euphoric. However, it is less potent and has a lower chance of inducing feelings of paranoia. In states in which THC products are legal, many people prefer Delta-8 products to complete THC. In some states where THC is not permitted, people are calling for Delta-8 to be made legal instead. Most Delta-8 products are made from hemp, not marijuana. Another newly-discovered cannabinoid getting its time to shine is CBG . CBG stands for cannabigerol, and it is yet another of the 120 compounds found in cannabis plants. Like CBD, CBG is thought to have some profound medical benefits , including anticarcinogenic properties. It is also believed to be an antidepressant and might block pain receptors, making it a suitable pain medication. So far, the potential benefits of using CBG oil outweigh the possible side effects, which are no more harmful than those of CBD. In the states where cannabis and cannabis-derived products (hemp or marijuana) are legal, CBG is also permitted, and is growing in popularity. Other states that allow the medical use of cannabis generally categorize CBG with CBD, if they make the distinction at all. Where do we go from here? The overall trend suggests that cannabis and cannabis products, including CBD, CBG, Delta-8, and THC, will become more widely available. As more studies are performed, scientists generally conclude that in small regulated amounts, marijuana and other cannabis products are safe. Of course, THC, the compound which gets you high, will likely remain tightly controlled for safety reasons. The growing of hemp and marijuana plants is still heavily regulated, meaning supply is limited. As restrictions loosen, prices for CBD and marijuana products will stabilize. The industry's current concern is making sure any imported plants or products are held to stringent quality standards. As more products become available, it is essential to ensure that consumers get exactly what they pay for. Controlling THC, and ensuring cannabis is grown and produced ethically, are crucial. As the legal cannabis market is still in its early days, we will undoubtedly see more laws come into place in the future. Still, new regulations will likely allow it to flourish safely, with appropriate checks, rather than restrict the industry. Federal rules may well help provide clarity for consumers, as the differences between states are so profound, it can be confusing.

Hemp flower often gets overlooked when people are shopping for CBD products. Many people looking for relief aren't aware that they can get the same cannabis smoking experience without the high. Often hemp flowers also have a greater amount of CBG in them than regular flower. The dual action of CBD and CBG can provide better relief than CBD alone. Join us as we take an in-depth look at what hemp flower is, how it's different from smoking THC-rich flowers, and where you can find the best hemp flower on the market. What Is Hemp Flower? Many people are often confused about what hemp actually is. Don't let the name confuse you—hemp is cannabis, ganja, marijuana—it's all the same thing. The only difference is hemp strains have almost no THC in their flowers. Breeders have been able to breed out the THC from hemp strains, leaving a high amount of CBD, CBG, and other cannabinoids. Now you might be wondering—how can that be legal to buy outside of a dispensary? Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill , CBD products that contain less than 0.3% THC are legal on a federal level. As long as the hemp flowers have about 0.3% THC or less, it's perfectly legal. How Does Hemp Flower Compare to Regular Weed? Smoking hemp flower provides a very different experience from smoking regular THC-filled flowers. For starters, CBD and CBG flower won't make you feel high. That means that you'll be able to function perfectly fine throughout the day. That also means that there's no risk of experiencing: ● Dry mouth (cottonmouth) ● Red eyes ● Overwhelming anxiety ● Lack of focus Just because you won't feel the high from THC doesn't mean you won't feel anything. Hemp flower can still make you feel calm, relaxed, and unstressed. The effect from hemp flower can be described as clean . The brain is clear and sharp, but there's a strong sense of well-being within the body. Of course, different people may feel different effects. Some feel energized, while others feel a little more sleepy . After all, CBD has many potential therapeutic benefits . Scientists studying CBD have found that it may help: ● Reduce pain ● Decrease anxiety and depression ● Protect the brain ● Lower blood pressure The other great thing about CBD is that you can't have too much. A study found that people who took massive doses of CBD concentrate had almost no adverse reactions. The only effect of having a lot of CBD is a feeling of drowsiness . Of course, that may be great news for those who want to use CBD to help them get a good night's rest . What Is CBG? Perhaps you've never heard of cannabigerol (CBG), but it's another cannabinoid produced by the cannabis plant. Usually, it's found in tiny amounts alongside THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids. In regular flower, THC and CBD are the most abundant cannabinoids. Since there's a tiny amount of THC in hemp flowers, CBG can play a more significant role. The interesting thing is, CBG is actually the father of all cannabinoids. That's because CBG is the first cannabinoid formed on hemp when it's growing. THC and CBD are both produced from CBG as the hemp plant matures. However, there's always a little CBG that remains after the flowers are ready for harvest. In theory , CBG has effects that are similar to both CBD and THC. In practice, CBG doesn't have any psychoactive effects, just like CBD. However, CBG does provide the potential benefit of both CBD and THC. CBG provides a clear head and stimulating effects and may help: ● Reduce pain ● Stimulate appetite ● Lower blood pressure ● Improve focus Who Is Hemp Flower For? People who want the ritual of smoking without the high. CBD and CBG flower smells and tastes just as delicious as regular flower. That's because hemp flower still has all of the terpenes you'd find on any regular flower. With CBD and CBG flower, you can maintain a clear head the entire day so you can focus on what you need to get done. Hemp flower is also great for those who need the benefits of CBD and CBG quickly. CBD or CBG oils, edibles, and tinctures can sometimes take hours to work their magic. Since hemp flowers are smoked or vaped, the effect is felt almost instantaneously. Hemp flower is also excellent for people who are trying to quit smoking nicotine. Having a joint of CBD and CBG hemp flowers can replace the cigarette experience. Even the science says that CBD may be beneficial for those trying to quit addictive behaviors. If you're ready to try top-shelf CBD and CBG hemp flower, just head to our flower collection . Simply Crafted CBD has dozens of CBD and CBG hemp flowers to choose from. Everything is lab-tested and professionally produced so that you can shop with confidence. Try a high CBD and CBG hemp flower strain today to discover firsthand all the benefits they have to offer.