Muscimol Effects Unraveled: From Sedation to Altered Reality

Muscimol is a naturally occurring psychoactive compound with a history as rich and diverse as the mushrooms from which it is derived. Most notably found in the Amanita muscaria, commonly known as the fly agaric or fly amanita, muscimol is responsible for the characteristic psychoactive effects associated with this iconic red-and-white mushroom. When ingested, muscimol effects can vary greatly, from sedation and muscle relaxation to euphoria and hallucinations.

It is important to note that recent attention on muscimol has been driven by a resurgence of interest in the Amanita species, particularly in the United States. This renewed interest has resulted in the emergence of various muscimol products, including Muscimol gummies, Muscimol isolate, tinctures, Amanita powder, Amanita chocolates and many alternative forms of muscimol consumption.

It’s important to approach new muscimol products with caution due to potential variations in safety, quality, and legality. While they offer alternative forms of consumption and exciting possibilities for exploration, it is crucial to prioritize safety and responsibility when considering these products.

Microdosing might be the best way to experience the benefits of Muscimol

Muscimol Effects Revealed: Exploring the Potential Uses of the Psychoactive Compound

Chemistry and Mechanism of Action of Muscimol

Muscimol is an isoxazole, a class of organic compounds characterized by a five-membered heterocyclic ring structure. Its chemical structure is similar to that of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), allowing it to bind with high affinity to the GABA A receptors in the brain.

The GABA A receptors are the primary inhibitory receptors in the brain, meaning they reduce neuronal excitability. When muscimol binds to these receptors, it mimics the action of GABA, leading to increased inhibition of neuronal activity. This action is not uniform across the brain but rather varies depending on the region. For instance, in the hippocampus, a region involved in learning and memory, muscimol can lead to amnesic effects, while in other areas, it might induce sedative or hallucinogenic effects.

Muscimol in Nature

Muscimol is primarily found in the mushrooms of the Amanita genus, most notably the Amanita muscaria and Amanita pantherina. These species are widespread across the Northern Hemisphere, spanning North America, Europe, and Asia. They typically grow in symbiosis with various tree species in forested environments which makes growing them in a lab a very complicated problem.

Muscimol Isolate: A Potent Extract from Amanita Muscaria – Properties, Effects, and Usage
(Image credit: Amanita Mushrooms)

Within the mushroom, the concentration of muscimol varies, typically with higher levels found in the mushroom cap compared to the stem. It’s important to note that muscimol is not the sole psychoactive compound present in these mushrooms. Another compound known as ibotenic acid acts as a prodrug to muscimol, meaning it is metabolized into muscimol in the body, contributing to the overall psychoactive effect.

However, it is worth mentioning that ibotenic acid can have undesirable side effects. To mitigate these effects, it is recommended to properly prepare the mushrooms before consumption. This involves drying and heating them to convert the ibotenic acid into muscimol, thereby enhancing the desired psychoactive properties while minimizing potential adverse reactions.

What are the main differences between Psilocybin and Muscimol?

Muscimol Effects

Understanding the effects of Muscimol can be complex as they vary between individuals. Additionally, these effects are dose-dependent, ranging from mild sedative and hypnotic effects at lower doses to more intense hallucinations and delirium at higher doses. Due to the variability in potency among individual mushrooms and even within different parts of the same mushroom, determining an accurate dose can be quite challenging.

It is important to note that the effects of muscimol can be unpredictable and vary from person to person. Here is an overview of muscimol’s effects and dosage considerations.

Effects of Muscimol:

  1. Sedation and Muscle Relaxation: Muscimol has been reported to induce a sedative effect, leading to relaxation and a sense of calmness.
  2. Euphoria: Some individuals may experience a state of euphoria, characterized by feelings of happiness and well-being.
  3. Hallucinations: Higher doses of muscimol can lead to hallucinations, including visual distortions and vivid sensory experiences.
  4. Altered Perception: Muscimol can alter perception and enhance sensory experiences, resulting in a different perception of reality.
  5. Amnesic Effects: In certain brain regions, such as the hippocampus involved in learning and memory, muscimol may induce amnesic effects.
Discover the Power of Amanita Mushroom Caps: A Journey with Muscaria and Pantherina
Discover the Power of Amanita Mushroom Caps: A Journey with Muscaria and Pantherina

Dosage of Muscimol: Determining an accurate dosage of muscimol can be challenging due to variations in potency among different mushrooms and even within different parts of the same mushroom. It is crucial to approach muscimol dosage with caution and start with lower doses to assess individual sensitivity.

As always, follow the golden rule of Start Low and Grow Slow, and if possible, consider microdosing first.

Here are some general dosage considerations:

  1. Threshold Dose: The threshold dose of muscimol, where subtle effects may be noticeable, is reported to be around 5-10 milligrams (mg).
  2. Mild to Moderate Effects: To experience mild to moderate effects, a dosage range of 10-15 mg of muscimol is often suggested.
  3. Higher Doses: Higher doses of muscimol, typically above 15 mg, can potentially lead to more intense hallucinatory experiences. However, these doses also come with an increased risk of side effects and a more profound impact on consciousness.

It is important to remember that individual reactions to muscimol can vary significantly, and responsible use is essential. Due to the risks and potential uncertainties associated with consuming wild mushrooms, it is recommended to approach muscimol use with caution and consider consulting with experts or mycologists for guidance on safe and appropriate dosages.

These high-potency Amanita gummies will take you deep into your own soul

Potential Therapeutic Uses of Muscimol

Here are some of the potential therapeutic uses of muscimol:

  • Anti-epileptic
  • Anxiolytic
  • Muscle relaxant
  • Promoter of restorative sleep

Muscimol is a GABA A receptor agonist, which means it binds to and activates these receptors. GABA A receptors are involved in a variety of functions, including sleep, anxiety, and movement. Muscimol has been shown to have anti-epileptic, anxiolytic, and muscle relaxant effects in animal studies. There have been a few small clinical trials of muscimol in humans, but more research is needed to confirm these findings and to determine the therapeutic uses, optimal dose and even safety of muscimol for human use…

So for now, we can only say that the above are potential benefits. We will continue to monitor the advance of research and let know once we learn more.

Yes, your urine is psychoactive now…

The Historical and Cultural Context of Muscimol Use

The use of Amanita muscaria as an entheogen, a substance used for spiritual or ritualistic purposes, dates back centuries, if not millennia. Its use is particularly notable in Siberian shamanic traditions, where the mushroom was consumed in religious ceremonies. The shamanic rituals involving Amanita muscaria were believed to facilitate communication with spirits and induce altered states of consciousness. Remarkably, due to the unique excretion pattern of muscimol, the urine of individuals who had consumed the mushroom was also ingested, as it still contained significant amounts of the active compound. This practice demonstrates the cultural significance and reverence attributed to muscimol and the mushrooms that contain it.

Beyond these traditional uses, Amanita muscaria and its active compound muscimol have held a captivating place in popular culture, symbolizing the psychedelic experience and playing a role in various folklore and fairy tales. The distinct appearance of the red-and-white fly agaric mushroom has made it an enduring symbol in art, literature, and mythology, further solidifying its cultural significance.

Celebrate Spring with a Mind-Expanding Journey: The New Legal Muscimol Tincture
Celebrate Spring with a Mind-Expanding Journey: The New Legal Muscimol Tincture

Safety Considerations and Potential Risks

While muscimol’s effects may intrigue some, it is crucial to emphasize the potential risks and safety considerations associated with its use. Side effects can include nausea, sweating, decreased motor coordination, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness. Moreover, given the high variability in potency between individual mushrooms and the potential presence of other compounds, such as ibotenic acid, there is a significant risk of accidental overdose.

Additionally, Amanita mushrooms can contain compounds that are toxic in high doses. Ibotenic acid, for example, can lead to neurotoxic effects when consumed in excessive amounts. Therefore, consuming these mushrooms, even for the purpose of experiencing the effects of muscimol, poses substantial risks. It is essential to exercise caution, educate oneself about mushroom identification and safety measures, and consider consulting with experts or mycologists before attempting to consume wild mushrooms.

One tip you should always follow is that Amanita mushrooms should be carefully dried and heated so that most of the Ibotenic acid will be converted into Muscimol. While you can eat raw mushrooms, and many do, too much Ibotenic acid will make you feel very bad, so stick with the dried powder if you are only taking your first steps with these mushrooms.

This dried Amanita powder are the perfect raw material for your self discoveries

Legality and Regulation of Muscimol

The legal status of muscimol varies considerably across countries and states. In some jurisdictions, it is considered a controlled substance, while in others, it is legal to possess and consume. However, even where it is legal, the sale of Amanita mushrooms may be regulated in some countries due to their potential for misuse and the health risks associated with their consumption. It is important for anyone considering the use of muscimol to familiarize themselves with the local laws and regulations pertaining to this substance.

Generally speaking, in the US, most states allow the use of Amanita mushrooms as they are not a scheduled product.

Can you legally buy Amanita Mushrooms in your city?

Muscimol Effects – Conclusion

The effects of muscimol are a fascinating subject of exploration. From its sedative and hypnotic properties to the potential for hallucinations and altered reality, muscimol offers a diverse range of experiences. The dose-dependent nature of muscimol further adds to its complexity, requiring caution and responsible use.

Understanding muscimol and its interaction with the GABA A receptors provides valuable insights into the complexities of brain chemistry and the potential for novel therapeutic interventions. As our knowledge of muscimol continues to evolve, further research and scientific investigation will shed light on its full potential and expand our understanding of its effects and applications.

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The post Muscimol Effects Unraveled: From Sedation to Altered Reality appeared first on Cannadelics.

Review: The Hitoki Saber: Portable Laser Power

When the laser-powered Hitoki Trident vaporizer debuted, it caught the attention of cannabis aficionados from Long Beach to Long Island. The patent-pending device offered the ultimate vaping experience with an uber-modern edge. Now, founders Joe and Jack Tran are at it again with their new Hitoki Saber, which is a smaller, portable rendition of the Trident. The Saber claims to be the world’s first modular laser that can be attached to a water pipe.

I wanted to learn more about the Saber, so I spoke to the Tran brothers to get some solid tips on using the device for maximum results before trying it myself.

The Saber’s Top Features

The Saber uses the same laser technology as the Hitoki Trident, so it’s an excellent choice for health-conscious consumers—no need for butane or even hemp wicks to burn your buds. Like the Trident, the Saber offers you the cleanest and most flavorful smoking experience by combusting cannabis with light energy, giving a clean hit that lets you taste the flavor of your flower. The terp-tasting experience is Joe’s favorite thing about the Saber, and he says it has to be experienced first-hand to understand the difference.

“The super potent, pungent, tasty aroma and aftertaste that lingers when you use lasers as a combustion source is unmatched as far as anything I’ve tried,” Joe says. “When you have some excellent stuff and you hit it with the laser—even after the hit, when you inhale and exhale—every breath brings back the smell and taste. You have to try it to understand and appreciate the experience.”

The Hitoki Saber’s modular design allows for easy use with any 14 mm or 18 mm glass piece. This adaptability is Jack’s favorite aspect of the device. “I love seeing how seamlessly the Saber fits into all types of rigs,” he says.

The unique modular design makes using and cleaning it a breeze. The Saber is multi-functional, meaning it works with both flower and concentrates. Additionally, it has three temperature settings with blue being the highest for concentrates; green for fresher, denser blends; and red for drier flower.

According to Joe, part of what makes the Saber so user-friendly is that it was specifically designed around feedback from Hitoki Trident customers. “Our customers wanted glass instead of acrylic, something that didn’t tip over as easily, and more compact and easier to handle. So, we designed the Saber to be lighter and more compact,” Joe says.

The Hitoki Saber is the world’s first modular water pipe.

Hitoki’s dedication to satisfying its customers is evident with the new Saber.

“We always want to create things everyone can enjoy, and the smaller size fits into people’s lifestyles,” Jack adds.

Not only is the Saber easy to use and take with you, but it’s also extremely efficient. (It is powered by lasers, after all.)

“Hitoki laser products are designed for customers to get the most out of their flower or extracts,” Joe says. “A huge chunk of our customers have told us that they consume less with the same effect.” 

Like with anything new, there’s a learning curve to using the Hitoki Saber. And when it comes to getting the most out of your device and having the best experience possible, the Tran brothers remind customers to remember these three things for a great draw every single time:

Always use the device’s dual tool: “The pointy end is for clearing air holes that may get clogged. The flat end flattens the surface of your flower, which will allow the laser to get an even ignition. This means the glowing ember will spread evenly throughout the loading chamber as you draw.” 

Don’t hit it like a bong or a pipe; hit it like a vaporizer: “For the best results, take a medium-to-long comfortable inhale to give the laser time to build an ember. The resulting exhale produces nice thick vapor clouds and the best-tasting experience.”

Keep it clean. “After every 10-30 hits, clean it thoroughly. Doing this will make it easy to clean the next time you need to clean it and keep everything tasting the way the craft growers intended it to.”

My Experience Using the Hitoki Saber

Full disclosure: I’m already a fan of Hitoki’s flagship Trident laser bong and was excited to try the new Saber to see how the smaller version would hold up compared to the original.

The first thing I noticed when unboxing the Saber was the noticeable size difference compared to the Trident. It’s a much more portable device, making it perfect for tokers on the move. You can throw the Saber into your backpack and easily take it wherever you go. But don’t be fooled by its compact size—the Saber still packs plenty of punch and can be used 60 times per charge. It takes 45 minutes to fully charge.

The next thing I noticed was how luxe the device felt. The upgrade to a glass chamber makes it feel sturdy and has a good weight. 

Ok, so five stars for form, but how well does it function?

I quickly disconnected the laser chamber by turning it counterclockwise and loaded the ceramic heating chamber with some delicious organically grown Wedding Cake. Jack’s words echoed in my ears as I remembered to even out the flower with the flat side of the metal dual tool. The loading chamber can take .2, .3 or .5 grams of flower. I then reassembled the base and connected it to the Hitoki glass bubbler. The stage was set—it was time to ignite the lasers.

Following the instructions, I clicked the button on the top five times to power on the Hitoki Saber and heat up the laser. Depending on your preference, you can switch between three power levels by clicking the button to rotate to your favorite temperature setting. I decided on green for my deliciously resinous ground buds. I double-tapped the button again to activate the laser, which lasted for ten seconds (alternatively, you can hold it down while you inhale and release it when you’re finished). I remembered Joe’s advice and drew in long and slow, fully realizing the delicious taste of the flower. The resulting exhale was a cloudy plume that left me feeling relaxed and euphoric.

The high-quality Hitoki Saber is packed with features that make it an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable, efficient and conversation-starting device. The updated modular design is user-friendly and while it is small, this super cool cylindrical device provides a truly elevated experience.

The post Review: The Hitoki Saber: Portable Laser Power appeared first on Cannabis Now.

The Royal Highness of Hash Making

The swirl of excitement around developments in the cannabis industry is at an all-time high, with an endless parade of biz cons and trade shows trumpeting the latest innovations in genetics, technology, equipment, and extraction. The Dank Duchess cuts through the noise with her passion for traditional hash making and her mission to educate people about the subtleties and nuances of creating the most phenomenal melt in the world.

It’s a cool gray day in Far Rockaway in Queens, New York, when we meet via video call, and The Dank Duchess is in peaceful repose on a blanket on the beach as gulls cry and waves crash in the distance. She recently moved back to New York City, where she grew up as a first-generation Panamanian American.

“I moved away at 17,” she says. “And 26 years later, I’m home.”

Duchess speaks thoughtfully, with the slightly formal tone of an educator, as she unfurls the details of her life and career in cannabis. After graduating from Howard University in Washington D.C., where she studied mathematics and psychology, Duchess moved to Miami, where she smoked weed for the first time.

“I didn’t have my first puff of cannabis until I was out of college for two years,” she says. “And it was because I had this boyfriend, who I thought was pretty brilliant, but I didn’t understand why he smoked so much weed because weed was going to kill you. Right? Everyone knew that.”

Nevertheless, one day she felt the pull to try it when one of his glass pieces struck her as particularly beautiful.

High Times Magazine, November 2022

“It called me,” she says. “And I felt like anything that could be associated with it couldn’t be that bad. So I had my first puff, and yeah, it’s cliché, but my life changed. I suddenly went from a binary perspective, where everything was very black and white, to seeing all these different shades of gray—it was almost a visual opening up of doors. I was amazed.”

Very soon after that, Duchess started growing her own cannabis. But after a decade of growing in Miami, she wanted to shake off the stresses of living in a state where simple possession of a joint could land you in jail. She considered moving to Seattle, but “it was so gray it made me sad,” she laughs. So instead, she chose Oakland for its sunnier weather and because the city had passed an ordinance making adult cannabis offenses Oakland’s lowest law enforcement priority.

“I knew that I wasn’t ever gonna be worrying about any kind of legality—and that made me flourish,” Duchess says. “I took that opportunity to grow a good amount of weed on my roof.”

Duchess wanted to write about cannabis as well. She was an avid magazine reader and felt weed media, in particular, failed to include diverse voices and perspectives. Soon after landing in Oakland, she went to a HempCon event, where she spotted the industry pioneer and hash-making legend Frenchy Cannoli. She knew Frenchy was a contributor to Weed World Magazine, so she seized her chance and asked him to coffee, not suspecting that the meeting would transform her life.

They’d briefly met at a High Times Cannabis Cup in June of that year, where she remembers being dazzled by the superabundance of concentrates at that event: “BHO was flowing like a river.” She saw a huge crowd gathered around a booth and made her way to the front.

“I expected to see the most beautiful golden nuggets, dabs, crumble… and all I saw was chunks of chocolate. I was super disappointed because I don’t like chocolate.”

She said as much as she turned to leave, “and this little voice says, ‘This is not chocolate. This is hashish.’” It was Frenchy.

dank duchess
Courtesy The Dank Duchess

“So I got my first dab of hashish, and it was awesome,” Duchess says. “And I took a picture with this little French man and went about my business.”

A few weeks later, she moved to California. She knew that besides growing great weed, she could offer a writer’s perspective that was sorely lacking.

“In 2014, I felt like there was nobody writing for any of the cannabis magazines who really related to my situation,” Duchess says. “And I don’t feel like that’s changed much at all. Part of the issue is that there are cultural concerns we’d rather have addressed by people of that culture. You don’t see many Black and brown faces in cannabis media.”

As a longtime subscriber of Weed World, she was determined to write for the mag. Frenchy was an esteemed contributor, with highly regarded articles like “The Lost Art of the Hashishin” and multi-part series on the origins of concentrate and cannabis terroir. Duchess knew they’d have plenty in common, but she was surprised by just how much: “We were both web designers in the ’90s; Frenchy went on to do purse design in Japan, and I did landscape design, so we traded stories of being hardcore designers.”

Frenchy asked if she’d be interested in writing for Weed World—on one condition. She’d need to learn how to make hash. “I’m always honest about this,” Duchess says, shaking her head at the memory.

“I was disappointed that Frenchy felt that for me to write about hash, I’d have to learn to make hash because I didn’t care about that. I moved to California to contribute to cannabis media and to grow more weed. Hash did not appeal to me.”

However, she didn’t want to miss an opportunity, so a month later, Duchess found herself in Frenchy’s basement, making hash for the first time.

“It was Sept. 10, 2014. What we used to do back then was, after the hash was collected from the plant, we would air dry it. That took seven days. On the 17th, I pressed the hash. I celebrate Sept. 17 every year because, on that day, I knew that there was no way I wasn’t going to do this for the rest of my life. It was everything.”

Under the gray Far Rockaway sky, Duchess glows with the recollection, her voice warm.

“I fell into caressing the hash the way when I’m writing, I want to caress words about hash. Hash making is so visceral. And when done well, it’s so beautiful. The aesthetics are mind-blowing—and the effects. Whew!”

Thus began her hash career, as she learned the traditional art of hash making using a method called bottle tech, now colloquially known as “Frenchy tech,” in which a hot bottle of water is rolled over hash to both homogenize and partially decarboxylate it. Armed with newfound knowledge, Duchess started profiling hash makers for Weed World. She’d learn their backstories and methods and sample their melts. 

dank duchess
The Oakland rooftop grow.

“Every single hash maker I interviewed contributed to my hash-making style,” Duchess says, “and Frenchy’s foundation is a good 60 or 70%.”

She’s written over 100,000 words about dozens of hash makers, production, growing, and experiencing the wonders of hashish in all its forms. She’s posted much of her learning online, with “how-to” videos on YouTube and Instagram.

“People I’ve never met thank me for teaching them hash making through the internet,” Duchess says.

She also posts about how she integrates cannabis, hashish, and psychedelics into her everyday life.

“I’ve found that my approach has been key in reaching women who often feel mansplained to,” she says. “I’ve told stories about wins and losses, and my life journey is the background for exploring mind, body, and soul.”

Duchess found a second home in the cannabis community when she visited Barcelona in 2015.

“I was recognized in San Sebastian by one of my favorite hash makers—Edu, a.k.a. Blue Ice,” she says. “That set off a series of introductions that have proven immeasurably beneficial in my growth as a processor.”

Hash-loving Spain has been the perfect environment for Duchess to flourish in, both as a hash maker and a writer. It’s also the only place she’s ever run afoul of the law—in March 2017, she was arrested for hash possession and spent two days in solitary confinement.

Photo by Nate Hammer, Homegrown Cannabis Co.

“I was released with a warning to not get into any trouble in Spain,” she says.

But in September 2018, she was served by the U.S. Department of Justice with a notice that she was being charged with international drug trafficking and could face five years in prison.

“My tremendously good lawyer had that reduced to two years,” Duchess says. “I had the option of taking a two-year ban or returning to Spain to fight my case.”

After years of seeding her place in the Barcelona cannabis club ecosystem, she was reluctant to turn away, so she fought the case and was acquitted in February 2019.

Now that she’s back in her hometown, Duchess plans to continue teaching the traditional style of hash making as a consultant. She’s also considering collaborating with growers on limited offerings, rather than seeking a New York license for herself, she says: “I’d like to be able to touch resin all over the state.” In addition to her consulting and educational work, Duchess plans to build a content platform focused on high-quality concentrates and their makers and another focused on Black and brown women in cannabis. She also has a line of eyewear coming out in collaboration with Method Seven, called “The Duchess,” designed for indoor growers with a sense of style.

Duchess is also keeping her eye on regulators and lobbyists as legal weed comes online. 

“I feel like the future for New York is bright,” she says. “It’s such a huge market that opportunities for influence on the global scale are infinite. What happens here influences everything. And I feel like right here is where I need to be.”

thedankduchess.com

This story was originally published in the November 2022 issue of High Times Magazine.

The post The Royal Highness of Hash Making appeared first on High Times.

Presenting the High Times Cannabis Cup Oregon: People’s Choice Edition 2023

In one of the most beautiful states in the U.S., the High Times Cannabis Cup Oregon: People’s Choice Edition returns for the first time since 2020. Oregonians, get ready to see what cannabis business owners in your state are made of!

Back in 2020 during the height of the pandemic, High Times endeavored to bring its People’s Choice Edition to Oregon. In January 2021, the winners list showed heavy hitters like Strawberry Guava, Mimosa, Platinum Candy Mintz, and Blueberry Muffins take first prize. Pre-rolls and concentrates made from Banana Punch Live Rosin, while Tropicanna Cookies Solventless Rosin Vapes and a variety of delicious infused chocolates from brands like Crop Circle Chocolate, Alchemy Naturals (previously known as Lunchbox Alchemy) and baked foods from Hapy Kitchen, and Koala Edibles took the cake.

Now two years later, things have changed for the better. The World Health Organization officially announced that COVID-19 is no longer a global health emergency. The cannabis industry has continued to thrive, and Oregon is a hotbed for cannabis growth and innovation (not to mention a home to psilocybin too!) This time around, our High Times Cannabis Cup Oregon: People’s Choice Edition 2023 has been expanded to include categories such as infused pre-rolls, solvent and non-solvent concentrates, and sublinguals, capsules, tinctures and topicals as well:

Entry Categories:

  1. Indica Flower (3 entries max per company)
  2. Sativa Flower (3 entries max per company)  
  3. Hybrid Flower (3 entries max per company)
  4. Pre-Rolls (2 entries max per company)
  5. Infused Pre-Rolls (1 entry max per company)
  6. Solvent Concentrates (2 entries max per company)
  7. Non-Solvent Concentrates (2 entries max per company)
  8. Vape Pens & Cartridges (2 entries max per company) (category may split)
  9. Edibles: Gummies & Fruit Chews (3 entries max per company)
  10. Edibles: Chocolates & Non-Gummies (3 entries max per company)
  11. Sublinguals, Capsules, Tinctures + Topicals (3 entries max per company)

This summer between July 17-19, products will be submitted for intake at Shadowbox, our intake partner, located in Portland. Our team will carefully curate the judge kits, which will become available for purchase on July 29. From there, Oregonians will have the opportunity to pick up a kit to judge products for nearly two months, with a deadline set for September 24. Finally, we invite everyone to tune into our digital awards show to be held later this year on October 9.

If you’re an interested competitor, we’ve got plenty of options to help get your products into the hands of the people! Pricing depends on the number of products being submitted, with one entry set at $250 (non-refundable), two entries at $100 each (non-refundable), and three entries or more at $100 each (deposit per entry held, refunded when all entries are successfully submitted). There are also a limited number of sponsorships available, and entry fees are waived for those who choose to sponsor the event. Please keep the following in mind for entries:

Entry Requirements:

  • Flower: (228) 1-gram samples. We will not accept any 3.5-gram entries.
  • Pre-Rolls & Infused Pre-Rolls: (228) samples: Pre-Rolls will be capped at 2g flower-only each; Infused Pre-Rolls are capped at 1g total net weight each as the combination of flower and concentrates is then only considered a full weight of concentrates. 
  • Concentrates & Vape Pens: (228) .5-gram samples. We will not accept any 1-gram entries. Batteries required for carts.
  • Edibles: (100) samples with 100mg THC max.
  • Sublinguals, Capsules, Tinctures + Topicals: (60) samples with 500mg THC max.

Each of our People’s Choice Cups showcase such a unique selection of products available to consumers in each state, from Massachusetts and Michigan to New Mexico and Southern California. We can’t wait to see what Oregon has in store for everyone.

A special thank you to our Official Intake Partner, Shadowbox!

Exclusive dispensaries coming soon!

The post Presenting the High Times Cannabis Cup Oregon: People’s Choice Edition 2023 appeared first on High Times.

Product Review: GAGS E-Rig by The Kind Pen

When I got the offer to do this review, I was stoked. As a professional writer, one of my favorite things to do—in any industry—is try the newest technologies. And as a human, one of my favorite things to do is smoke cannabis concentrates. So when I was approached about reviewing the GAGS system from The Kind Pen, it was like my birthday and Christmas rolled into one. At the same time, the fact that those two things are my favorite to do gave this particular concentrate vaporizer a very high bar to clear, because I’ve tried enough of them doing my own independent research. The GAGS didn’t clear that bar so much as circumvent it; despite, or perhaps because of this, it still made it to a permanent spot in my rotation.

Somehow both sleek and hefty, the GAGS comes in multiple colors (I was lucky enough to get purple), and it won’t look bad on a coffee table or shelf. Because the touch-button is integrated, the whole thing doesn’t necessarily look like a smoking device—a feature that plays in its favor in terms of displayability. I don’t feel the need to hide mine when less-pot-friendly guests are over. However, the weight of the base and the delicate quality of the glass do mean that the GAGS is not necessarily the most portable way of smoking. Still, there are plenty of extremely portable ways of smoking concentrates, including other products from The Kind Pen, so if the GAGS is mostly an at-home sesh machine, so be it. Odds are, if you’ve found your way to this review or the GAGS, you have a few other smoking devices and don’t need to carry this specific one around.

This is particularly true for the form of concentrates I found myself using most frequently with the GAGS, which is…*drum roll, please*…cartridges, for god-knows-what reason. Don’t get me wrong, I do use good, authentic cartridges—I initially tested the GAGS out with Jetty Extracts Solventless XXX, if you want to get specific with it—but that doesn’t mean I think they’re the purest way of smoking. In fact, before this, I ran through one cartridge every few weeks. So I was deeply surprised to find that I had gone through three cartridges in the two weeks following the arrival of the GAGS. In case you’re not getting what I’m saying: I use this thing nonstop. I use it nearly as much as I use my PuffCo Peak, which I’m obsessed with. The GAGS is now a daily driver for me. And, while I’m reluctant to admit it, I pretty much never use anything but cartridges with it. 

Courtesy Carolyn Hanson

So, how did we get here? Because honestly, upon opening the box, I had a hard time figuring out how to use the system and almost never used cartridges. I couldn’t tell if you were supposed to put water in it, although nowhere on the packaging or in the instructions does it tell you that you should (you shouldn’t). I also couldn’t really determine whether you were supposed to pick the globe up and hit it, or hit it with the globe on the base like you would basically any other smoking device. I’m of the firm belief that when it comes to stoner products, you have to remember you’re building for the stoned. Good, clear instructions on what to do and what not to do go a long way, particularly when you’re dealing with something digital like the GAGS. The last thing you want to do is get water onto a component you’re not supposed to and fry the whole thing, and when you’re dealing with cannabis most devices of this complexity use a water filtration system. Maybe it’s a nitpick, but the instructions weren’t very clear and that made getting off the ground with the device a bit difficult. 

Once I figured out how to use it, however, I was flying. This thing gets you absolutely ripped. I tried the cartridge before the ceramic or quartz nails, purely out of sheer laziness (it’s so easy), and the sort of dry-dab-nectar-collector-type-thing it has going on will have you in an absolute haze. Seemingly, there is genuinely something to the idea that you’ll get higher from a harsher hit, and dry dabs certainly provide that. If you want an intense hit from loose concentrates, go for the ceramic or quartz nails, which also screw in through the 510 threaded connector. 

The ceramic nail is your run-of-the-mill ceramic nail encased in a metal conductive sleeve. Because it has to screw into the connector, there’s going to be a metal component, so I can’t fault them for that. It works like any ceramic nail will, just make sure (as with most nails of this type) that you get your concentrates onto the bottom of the nail, not the sides. The quartz nail, on the other hand, is different from your standard quartz nails. It’s not a banger or a bucket, instead it’s a 3-rod system where wire is wrapped around the rods to heat them up. Both nails worked perfectly fine, but I’m not personally a huge fan of the intensity of dry dabs of that magnitude, so I’ve found myself sticking with using the GAGS for cartridges.

Courtesy Carolyn Hanson

But what a good system it is for cartridges. Wow. The GAGS is massively convenient. For those moments when you need a no-fuss option of just something to smoke, it’s right there and I find myself reaching for it more often than not. An example? When I’m running out the door, the Uber is already downstairs, and I don’t have the time to pack a dab. I just tap the button a few times, watch the cup fill up, hit it, and go on my merry way. It’s great for getting very high, very efficiently in terms of time and effort. It’s also great for the terminally lazy, because you rarely need to charge it and there’s no clean up, save for the occasional cleaning of the globe. This should come as good news if you don’t want to deal with the whole q-tips and cleaning situation that typically comes with loose concentrates. 

Also, not for nothing, the user-friendliness once you know how to use it is insane. You don’t pull on it; instead, the GAGS sort of hits it for you, so the cup slowly pools with extremely thick smoke from the bottom to about halfway up. My partner and I have taken to asking each other “Want a glass of milk?” every so often when we’re offering the other a hit, because it genuinely looks like a glass of milk. It’s been a fun way to smoke when people are over due to the ease of pouring a hit for someone else. You can even sip it, if you so choose, because the mouth is so wide. Is that how you’re supposed to hit it? Probably not. But it does make for a great party trick. 

Ultimately, the GAGS is a very novel system, and it does its job of getting you high impeccably. If convenience is a priority for you at home, or you want a new, fun way of smoking cartridges, this will become a staple for you. If you really need the portability, go buy a 510 battery or a disposable. This is meant for the mantle.

The post Product Review: GAGS E-Rig by The Kind Pen appeared first on High Times.

THC-A Diamonds: The Ultimate High-Potency Hemp-Derived Cannabis Concentrate

Looking for a strong hemp-derived cannabis concentrate that packs a punch? Look no further than THC-A diamonds. With a THC-A content of 99.9% or higher, these crystals are one of the most potent hemp-derived cannabis products on the market. And as part of our Deal of the Day, you can now try THC-A diamonds at unbeatable prices. But what exactly are these diamonds, and why are they so popular among cannabis enthusiasts? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the new product and explore some of the key topics related to this high-potency cannabis concentrate.

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Looking to enhance your cannabis experience with a highly potent concentrate? THC-A diamonds may be just what you’re looking for.

What are THC-A Diamonds?

THC-A diamonds are a type of hemp-derived cannabis concentrate that is made using fresh high-THCA hemp flower and a hydrocarbon extraction method. The resulting product is a pure, potent crystalline substance that is free from any additives or contaminants. The diamonds get their name from their appearance, which resembles small, glittering diamonds.

The Differences Between THC and THC-A

While THC (AKA Delta-9 THC or Delta-9) and THC-A are chemically similar, they have some important differences. THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces a potent high, while THC-A (Tetrahydrocannabinolic_acid) is non-psychoactive. However, some cannabis enthusiasts prefer THC-A over THC because it is believed to have some potential medical benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.

All that being said, it’s important to note that when THC-A is heated – such as when it’s smoked, vaped, or dabbed – it converts into THC. As a result, although it is sold as hemp, it is used as cannabis because the user experiences an almost identical feeling, and this product is highly psychoactive. It’s essential to be aware of this fact when using products that contain high levels of THC-A. These products can produce psychoactive effects that are very similar to those of cannabis.

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Potency and Usage of THC-A Diamonds

THC-A diamonds are some of the most potent hemp-derived cannabis products available, with a THC-A content of 99.9% or higher. This makes them an ideal choice for experienced users who are looking for a high-potency product with strong, fast-acting effects. As a result, unless you are an experienced user, it’s important to use this product responsibly and in moderation, as their potency can be overwhelming.

THC-A diamonds can be used in a variety of ways, including dabbing, vaporizing, and even sprinkling onto a joint or bowl of cannabis flower. They’re a versatile product that can be enjoyed alone or mixed with other cannabis products to enhance their potency and effects. Some cannabis enthusiasts also like to use it to make their own cannabis-infused edibles and tinctures.

Effects of Dabbing THC-A Diamonds

Dabbing is a popular method of consuming cannabis concentrates, including THC-A diamonds. To dab, you’ll need a dab rig, a torch, and a dab tool. First, heat up the nail on your dab rig using the torch until it’s hot enough to vaporize the diamonds. Then, use the dab tool to place a small amount of diamonds onto the nail. As soon as the diamonds come into contact with the hot nail, they’ll vaporize, producing a thick, flavorful vapor that you can inhale.

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Dabbing with THC-A diamonds produces a strong, fast-acting high that can be quite intense for inexperienced users. The effects are typically felt within seconds of inhaling the vapor and can last for several hours. These diamonds are known for producing a euphoric, uplifting high that can leave you feeling happy, relaxed, and creative. They’re also popular among medical cannabis users for their potential pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects.

Legality of THC-A

One of the most common questions about THC-A diamonds is their legality. Since they are made from hemp-derived cannabis, which is legal under federal law, THC-A is also legal as long as they contain less than 0.3% THC. This means that you can enjoy the benefits of THC-A without having to worry about breaking any laws.

Storage and Safety

You should store this product in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. This will help to preserve their potency and flavor over time. It’s also important to handle the diamonds with care, as they can be fragile and prone to breaking. When dabbing, it’s important to use a dab tool to avoid accidentally damaging the crystals.

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When it comes to safety, it’s important to purchase THC-A diamonds from a reputable source that uses high-quality plants and safe extraction methods.

Deal of the Day

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Whether you’re an experienced dabber or new to cannabis concentrates, THC-A diamonds are a great choice for anyone who wants to experience the ultimate in potency and purity. Just remember to start low and grow slow, as these diamonds are strong!

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Conclusion

In conclusion, THC-A diamonds are a highly potent and desirable hemp-derived cannabis concentrate. Whether you prefer to dab, vape, or mix with other cannabis products, the diamonds are a versatile and high-quality product that’s sure to impress. And with our Deal of the Day, there’s never been a better time to try THCA diamonds for yourself!

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The Cannadelics Sunday Edition

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With The Cannadelics Sunday Edition, you’ll be the first to know about new products, exclusive discounts and promotions. Don’t miss out on this fantastic resource – sign up for our weekly newsletter below:

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The Hasheesh Eater

My moods naturally tend to sway towards melancholia, and cannabis edibles are a great aid in combating my down days as they can shift my perspective more drastically than smoking weed or dabbing. My favorite edibles include ice water hash, aka water hash or bubble hash. Hash-infused edibles feel more potent and have a certain brightness that I don’t find in other infusions. I think it’s fun to bend time a bit by taking an edible before a yoga class and getting progressively higher as the practice goes on or taking an edible before a nap and waking up blitzed. But when it comes to the potency and effects of edibles, aren’t the results solely based on the milligrams of THC? Why do I prefer hash edibles over edibles made with cannabis flower or THC distillate? Isn’t 10 mg of THC just 10 mg of THC, regardless of the delivery method? With cannabis edibles, there are a lot of personal factors to consider. While we know little about why certain edibles seem to hit harder than others, we can hone in on a few solid leads: the way THC is absorbed and the other chemical components in cannabis resin beyond THC. 

The Hasheesh Eater

When it comes to the history of cannabis consumption, edibles take the lead over smoking. While Greek historian Herodotus records an ancient nomadic people, the Scythians, breathing in cannabis smoke as part of a tented funeral ritual, historians believe that our understanding of the psychoactive element of this plant likely occurred when we came into contact with the sticky, resinous substance that its flowers left behind on our hands. With origins in India, charas was the first cannabis concentrate, and our ancestors ate it before they smoked it. 

“Oral ingestion was the most common method of consuming cannabis drugs prior to the spread of smoking from the New World after the fifteenth century, along with tobacco,” Robert Connell Clark and Mark Merlin write in the book Cannabis: Evolution and Ethnobotany

In Pots and Pans: A History of Eating Cannabis, author Robyn Griggs Lawrence details that “The Atharva Veda, a Hindu scripture written between 2000 and 1400 BCE, referred to cannabis as an ingredient in an intoxicating drink called soma. Griggs outlines that a cannabis drink originating in India called bhang includes cannabis leaves and flowers made into a paste combined with other ingredients including milk. 

Cannabis edibles made their way to Europe through a few different colonial channels. In the book Cannabis by Jonathon Green, Green explains that an attempt to expand the French kingdom took Napoleon to Egypt, where his troops discovered cannabis in its concentrated form, hashish. 

Hash history gets murky because “hash” was used interchangeably with “cannabis.” Many early gonzo-style drug writers experimented with edibles, often created with cannabis flowers rather than cannabis resin, but called the substance they were ingesting hash. In 1840 French physician Dr. Jacques Joseph Moreau swallowed an edible mixture containing cannabis, writing later in his 1845 book Hashish and Mental Illness that its influence caused a “thousand fantastic ideas” to flow through his brain. Moreau believed ingesting cannabis might reveal how to treat mental illness. 

“One of the effects of hashish that struck me most forcefully and which generally gets the most attention is that manic excitement always accompanied by a feeling of gaiety and joy inconceivable to those who have never experienced it,” Moreau wrote. “I saw in it a mean of effectively combating the fixed ideas of depressives, disrupting the chain of their ideas, of unfocusing their attention on such and such a subject.” 

Needing more test subjects beyond himself, Moreau aligned with leading literary writers in Paris, France, and formed the Club des Hachichins. This group would regularly meet to ingest coffee infused with hashish, more specifically dawamesk, a green paste made with cannabis flower mixed with a fat, butter, or oil, as well other ingredients such as cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, pistachio, sugar, orange juice, and cantharides, a substance produced by beetles used as a sexual stimulant called Spanish fly.  

While writers like Charles Baudelaire proliferated stories of cannabis exploration in Europe, Fitz High Ludlow popularized cannabis use in America with his 1857 book, The Hasheesh Eater.

“It was the first American drug book,” cannabis historian Michael Aldrich explains to me over a phone call. “That was the first American cannabis book. It was the first American confessional.”

The book is modeled after author Thomas De Quincey’s Confessions of an English Opium Eater and describes Ludlow’s vivid, surreal experiences ingesting cannabis in high doses.

“[Ludlow] was sort of patterning it after De Quincey, but his story is much different when he gets the stuff he flies over Schenectady or wherever he was in upstate New York and flies over the pyramid heading for the Great Wall of China,” Aldrich says. “That’s quite an adventure.”

While Ludlow writes of ingesting “hasheesh” within the book, he describes taking a specific tincture called Tilden’s Extract. Back then, the medical use of cannabis tinctures in America was beginning. As the mixtures evolved, they often included additional medicinal ingredients beyond cannabis.

“[Ludlow] drank Tilden’s Extract, which was a very powerful extract, and it was in liquid form,” Aldrich says. “I have one type of cannabis tincture that has chloroform in it. This was for children. When they were coughing or screaming, give them a little dose of this and shut them right up.”

In a 1971 article for The International Journal of Addictions, Oriana Josseau Kalant writes that the Tilden’s Extract that Ludlow ingested was “roughly twice as potent as the crude resin and ten times as potent as marijuana.”

Fueled by Fat?

Dropping back down into experiments of contemporary hash consumption, cannabis expert Elise McDonough tells me she has long preferred hash edibles because she believes the flavor of ice water hash is superior to the vegetal taste of chlorophyll that can come when making edibles with cannabis flower as opposed to cannabis resin. It’s also easier for cooking, she says, because it’s a homogenous ingredient that evenly spreads the THC dose and can be used much like a spice.

Cannabis edibles are more powerful and long-lasting than smoking weed because of how our bodies process them. When we ingest edibles, the THC transforms into 11-hydroxy-THC, which is two to three times more potent. But to get to the point of ingestion, the THC in cannabis must first be activated.  Raw cannabis flowers contain the acidic form of THC, THCA, which needs to be converted to THC through heat to get us high. In edibles, this process is called decarboxylation, a step that needs to take place for both cannabis flower and hash. Cannabinoids are fat soluble, so they are often combined with a fat, like butter or oil, to make them more bioavailable. New edible innovations encapsulate cannabinoids in coatings that make them water-soluble.

“Perhaps hashish is the drug which ‘loosens the girders of the soul,’ but is in itself neither good nor bad. Perhaps, as Baudelaire thinks, it merely exaggerates and distorts the natural man and his mood of the moment.”
– Aleister Crowley, The Psychology of Hashish

The ability of cannabis to be absorbed into our body plays into McDonough’s theory as to why certain cannabis edibles might hit harder than others containing the same milligrams of THC. 

“What I have long suspected and is my hypothesis is that you’re going to feel a much more intense and long-lasting effect if you’re eating edibles where the active ingredient is combined with some kind of fat,” McDonough says. “What I have noticed personally and anecdotally is that when I eat edibles that are made with cannabutter or that are made with some kind of full-fat infusion, they are much more intense than when I eat gummies or drink a drink, and I think that’s because of the lack of fat in emulsions for drinks and for gummies.”

Cannabis gummies and drinks often contain THC distillate, a form of cannabis concentrate that has already been decarboxylated and only contains THC rather than including the other chemical elements within the plant’s resinous trichomes, such as terpenes. In the edibles space, nanotechnology, manipulating matter on a small scale, has also recently introduced water-soluble cannabis concentrates.

McDonough’s theory about full-fat activations rings true in one of my favorite ice water hash based edibles, Space Gem gummies. Unlike other gummies that rely upon distillate as the active ingredient, Space Gems contain ice water hash combined with a fat, coconut oil.

“Ice water hash is just like a concentrated flower high,” Space Gems founder and CEO Wendy Baker says. “I like the fact that the cannabinoid is kept whole, the trichome is kept whole. You have all these different cannabinoids, and you’re not stripping the cannabinoids of certain things. You’re keeping them whole.”

The fact that the cannabinoids in ice water hash also include other elements present in cannabis resin, like terpenes, could also play into the speculation of why edibles crafted with hash seem stronger.

Whole Plant Compounds

The pharmacokinetic (PK) profile of edibles, or the speed at which our bodies absorb cannabinoid molecules, depends on the product formulation. Cannabis formulation expert James Prendergast has worked with companies such as Cannacraft and LEVEL using different infusion methods and input ingredients. He tells me the fat component in certain edibles affects the onset time of edibles as the amount of lipids helps with the uptake of THC. 

“The PK profile will help determine how a high feels because that impacts how quickly it comes on and how strong it is. Like the total update by availability,” Prendergast says.  

Also in play, he says, are the “whole plant compounds that come along when you don’t purify THC fully.”

“The effect you get from, say smoking flower or using a vape is largely colored by the terpene profile,” Prendergast says. “That’s really what determines whether it’s a sativa or indica kind of feeling. I think in the past, I didn’t really have a belief—and I say belief because there’s not enough research on this—that terpenes were going to be taken up in your stomach. It seemed like that was kind of far-fetched… A lot of research shows from a medical perspective that whole plant extracts like RSO and things like that are more effective.”

Within his work to craft edibles for LEVEL, Prendergast says he noticed differences in the effect of cannabis edibles depending on the product’s terpene profile. Other compounds within cannabis resin, such as flavonoids (phytochemicals found in cannabis and other plants thought to provide health benefits), also might have a hand in the effects of edibles, he says. 

Flavonoids and other non-terpenoid, non-cannabinoid compounds could explain why hash edibles—like the ice water hash capsules by Community Cannabis that have kept me balanced lately—might particularly appeal to my endocannabinoid system

“Hash contains those, so it really is a sort of rounded whole plant input material,” Prendergast says.

As shown in scientific research, cannabis is not a single compound product. The entourage effect, or the “suggested positive contribution derived from the addition of terpenes to cannabinoids,” likely explains why hash edibles are my favorite. While we wait to unlock the science behind edible formulations, I’m joining in the long history of self-experimentation of drug writers in the past and will keep eating cannabis to stimulate my creativity and keep the blues at bay. 

The post The Hasheesh Eater appeared first on High Times.

Product Review: The G Pen Hyer Is The Crossover Vaporizer for Dab Purists

I’ve smoked cannabis for over twenty years now, and I’ve never really been about torching dabs. Spoiler alert: not a big rig guy. It’s just such a pain sometimes to clean and maintain. Your torch runs out mid-dab, a banger shatters because you let the new guy do it himself, all the sticky dab tools and isopropyl alcohol—it’s a lot. Or maybe I’m just high maintenance and prefer the alternatives.

Conversely, I’ve been someone who’s enjoyed vaporizer devices since my first chalked up balloon almost two decades ago. In my professional experience, I’ve tried almost everything on the market at this point. And if the G Pen Hyer is anything like their other Roam and Micro+ models (both of which I own), it gave me all the confidence in the world that this vaporizer would be just as fun and effortless to use. 

As you might imagine, burning your finger with a flaming torch or scolding yourself on hot glass is something you probably aren’t fond of. Burnt bowl pieces and bangers are usually par for the course for any avid smoker. You know who you are. Finding that perfect temperature each time for every type of cannabis extract is an art that most everyday smokers may never master. Then came along the G Pen Hyer. No more burnt coils from overuse. No more piping red hot glass. I’m talking about full flavor and maximum power. On its highest setting the Hyer hits like a true glass dab rig—like a truck. On its lowest setting you get a full entourage effect of flavorful terpenes and psychoactive cannabinoids. It truly is one of the best crossover electronic devices for cannabis that I have ever experienced. It’s like the Keurig for concentrates.

The G Pen Hyer is a dual-use, smart-heating, portable e-rig that you can use with any concentrate, and even flower. It’s designed to pair with any glass-on-glass water piece and includes a big quartz chamber heating element slide piece that’s tethered magnetically to a diesel-looking battery, boasting an LED color-coded user interface with five temperature and timer settings to optimize each individual experience. The temperature range for the concentrate tank starts low at 482 degrees and rises up gradually in increments of 90 degrees, all the way up to 842 degrees. The dry herb tank’s temperature settings start much lower at 356 degrees and increase slowly at 18 degree increments up to its hottest setting at 428 degrees. So, I figured the best way to review this product would be to try out both concentrates and flower at each of the five temperature settings to see how the incremental increases affected the cannabis itself. I did this for over a week to get a true feel for the device and to understand how each different cannabis product tasted and burned.

One thing I found was that the power on this rig was really legit. It boasts a powerful 6,000mAh lithium-ion battery with rapid, pass-through charging via USB-C: meaning this thing pumps energy and charges fast. I gave it a full charge when it arrived and have used the Hyer at least 3 times a day for a week, mostly on lower temperatures mind you. Even as I write this review, I still haven’t had to charge it again. Another cool feature is the quartz tank itself which is quite large and has plenty of room for over a half gram. The concentrate cap, which is magnetically attached and made of anodized aluminum with a ceramic liner, has dual airflow holes for smooth functionality. It includes a stainless steel wax tool that can be screwed into the top or side of the tank cap for easy placement and accessibility. The Hyer gets bonus points for that little feature.

Some of my findings I couldn’t be more thrilled to share. I had a lot of skeptical friends, many of which in the cannabis industry who are hardcore dabbers, that couldn’t imagine not using a torch. The Hyer changed those mindsets. This is the first e-rig or vape device that I’ve gotten big clouds with and gives you a flavor profile that is second to none to other high-end vape devices. Choosing the right temperature and duration of your burn is what makes all the difference. 

Courtesy G Pen

I found that for solventless rosin products and live resin extracts it was best to maintain the lowest setting (Blue) at 482 degrees for forty five seconds to ensure full flavor without burning off the delicate terpenes. A ‘low-temp’ dab, if you will, allows for these chemical compounds with lower combustion points to be fully absorbed into your lungs, not burnt off before you can benefit from them. At that range you’re getting the most medicinal properties from the plant, as well. When I bumped it up to 572 degrees (Aqua) and kept the same time setting, I found the live resin hit more powerfully with similar flavor, but the rosin lost some of its tasty punch. Cured shatter and badder tasted nicely at this setting too. Once I bumped the heat up to the Green (662) and Yellow (752) settings, I dropped the duration down to thirty seconds. This allowed for me to get a more concentrated, formidable hit without burning out the dab first. The Red setting is definitely where the OG dabbers want to be, as it’s surprisingly equal to any high end glass and torch. I recommend at least a quarter gram or more, as this setting will definitely burn your concentrate fast. You may want to drop it down to fifteen seconds to better control the heat.

Another cool feature is that G Pen offers a dry herb tank attachment that can be used to vaporize flower. This can be easily screwed into the slide piece to replace your concentrate tank. This tank starts at a lower temperature, so I found that ramping it all the way up to the Yellow and Red setting was best for burning flower. It needs to be ground up finely and packed loose, otherwise the top has a hard time burning through. The flavor is that of most electronic flower vaporizers, but I could definitely taste the difference when bouncing from different genetics. For me though, it was hard to compare once I’d tried the concentrate tank. That was the game changer. The Hyer makes me a believer that tech can compete with glass now. It made me remember how much I love the smell and taste of extracts oozing and bubbling throughout the house too. I’ve been smoking more concentrate now than I have in months!

The G Hyer is one the most innovative and rad products on the cannabis device market right now. It gives you the best of both worlds of glass and cannabis technology. It’s simple to use, easy to clean, has a long-lasting battery, delivers elite flavor, and packs a punch that dab purists can appreciate. At $249.95 the Hyer is a bargain when you compare it to the competition. This little baby is my new living room centerpiece now and she won’t be going anywhere for a long, long time.

The post Product Review: The G Pen Hyer Is The Crossover Vaporizer for Dab Purists appeared first on High Times.

2500mg THCA Diamonds: Unlocking the Power of a High-Potency Concentrate

For cannabis connoisseurs seeking novel and powerful experiences, 2500mg THCA Diamonds offer an intriguing and potent cannabis concentrate. With a high THCA content, these diamonds provide users with a unique and intense high. Currently, as part of our Deal Of The Day offers, you can get this innovative product with an additional 25% discount.

In order to fully appreciate the advantages of this groundbreaking product, it’s essential to dive into the properties of THCA, its range of effects, and the unique legal status that permits its online purchase. By understanding the uniqueness of THCA, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and truly elevate your cannabis experience with 2500mg THCA Diamonds.

Elevate Your Cannabis Experience with 2500mg THCA Diamonds

Are you ready to discover a new way to enjoy cannabis? Introducing 2500mg THCA Diamonds – a potent and innovative concentrate that’s capturing the attention of enthusiasts everywhere. Experience the unique power of this exceptional product, now available with special discounts and offers. Elevate your cannabis journey and explore the remarkable world of this high-potency product, currently on sale!

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THCA: The Precursor to Delta-9 THC

Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) is the precursor to Delta-9 THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. Found in raw cannabis plants, THCA undergoes a conversion to Delta-9 THC when heated through a process called decarboxylation. It’s important to note that while THCA itself doesn’t produce psychoactive effects, the conversion to Delta-9 THC during heating does indeed result in the familiar “high” associated with cannabis consumption. Consequently, using THCA products will provide the desired psychoactive experience.

Effects of 2500mg THCA Diamonds

The effects of 2500mg THCA Diamonds can vary depending on the user, the strain, and individual tolerance levels. However, some common effects include euphoria, relaxation, increased sensory awareness, and improved focus. For more experienced users, the high THCA content can provide a more intense and longer-lasting high compared to traditional cannabis products.

Given that the 2500mg diamonds are a high-potency product, users should approach them with caution, starting with a low dose and gradually increasing until they find their ideal balance.

2500mg THCA Diamonds - Magic Purp
2500mg THCA Diamonds

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Live-Rosin Diamonds: A Flavorful and Potent Alternative

For those who seek an even more flavorful and potent concentrate experience, the live-rosin diamonds are an excellent alternative to consider. These high-quality diamonds are made using a solventless extraction process that preserves the full spectrum of terpenes and cannabinoids, resulting in a more robust flavor profile and a highly potent product.

The process of creating live-rosin diamonds begins with fresh, frozen cannabis or hemp plants that are carefully selected for their high-quality terpene and cannabinoid content. These plants are then subjected to a cold-water extraction process, followed by a meticulous mechanical separation of the trichomes. The resulting rosin is then subjected to a controlled environment that encourages the formation of THCA crystals, or “diamonds.”

One of the key advantages of live-rosin diamonds is the preservation of the plant’s full spectrum of terpenes and cannabinoids, leading to a richer and more complex flavor profile. This is particularly appealing for cannabis connoisseurs who appreciate the nuanced tastes and aromas of different cannabis strains. Additionally, the solventless extraction process ensures a pure and clean product free of any residual solvents.

In summary, live-rosin diamonds offer a delectable and potent alternative for those seeking a more flavorful and powerful concentrate experience. They showcase the full potential of the plants by preserving the complete spectrum of terpenes and cannabinoids while providing a highly potent and enjoyable experience.

2500mg THCA Diamonds - Sundae Driver
2500mg THCA Diamonds

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Comparison of 2500mg THCA Diamonds with Other Popular Concentrates

Compared to other cannabis concentrates like shatter, wax, and live resin, 2500mg THCA Diamonds offer a higher potency and a more refined experience. While all these concentrates share similarities in terms of extraction methods and the presence of THC, THCA Diamonds stand out due to their crystalline structure and high THCA content. This makes them an attractive option for experienced users seeking a more intense high or those looking for more effective symptom relief.

The use of live-rosin in the creation of these diamonds is a significant advantage, as it involves a solventless extraction process. This not only ensures a pure and clean product free of any residual solvents but also results in a superior taste experience. The preservation of the cannabis plant’s full spectrum of terpenes and cannabinoids during the extraction process leads to a richer and more complex flavor profile, which is highly appealing for cannabis connoisseurs who appreciate the nuanced tastes and aromas of different cannabis strains.

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Storage and Preservation of THCA Diamonds

Proper storage and preservation of THCA Diamonds are essential to maintain their potency and quality. It’s best to store them in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Airtight containers or silicone jars are ideal for preventing exposure to air and moisture, which can degrade the product over time. When handled with care and stored correctly, the 2500mg THCA Diamonds can retain their potency for an extended period.

Tips for First-Time Users on How to Dose and Consume 2500mg THCA Diamonds Safely

For first-time users, it’s crucial to start with a small dose of 2500mg THCA Diamonds and gradually increase as needed. Due to their high potency, it’s easy to overdo it and experience uncomfortable side effects. THCA Diamonds can be consumed through dabbing, vaporizing, or adding them to a joint or bowl. However, dabbing is the most common method, as it allows for precise dosing and the rapid onset of effects.

Have you tried the new blend of THCA and Amanita Muscaria?

Legality and Availability of THCA Diamonds in Different Regions or Countries

The legal status of THCA products in the United States can be complex and may depend on federal and state laws. The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp (Cannabis sativa L. with less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC) from the Controlled Substances Act, essentially making it legal at the federal level. However, the bill does not specifically address the legal status of THCA or other cannabinoids derived from hemp.

As a result high-THCA products exist in a legal gray area, as they may not be explicitly legal or illegal under federal and state laws. The key factor for these products is that the Delta-9 THC content is below the 0.3% threshold established by the 2018 Farm Bill. Products like Delta-8 THC have also taken advantage of this gray area, as they are derived from hemp and may not be explicitly addressed in the legislation. This is known as the famous Delta-8 loophole.

Alternative THCA Products for Users Looking for Variety

If you’re interested in exploring other THCA products, there are several options available to suit different preferences. Some alternative THCA products include: THCA concentrates, THCA Tinctures, THCA Gummies, THCA Cartridges, THCA Disposables and more.

Have you tried the new 5g THCA disposables?

Deal of the Day and Delta25 Coupon

As part of our Deal of the Day, you can now get 2500mg THCA Diamonds with an additional 25% discount using the Delta25 coupon code at checkout. This offer provides an excellent opportunity for both new and experienced users to try this potent and innovative cannabis concentrate at a reduced price.

In conclusion, the new 2500mg THCA Diamonds is an exciting and potent cannabis concentrate that offers users a unique and intense experience. By understanding the characteristics and effects of THCA, as well as the various consumption methods and alternative products available, you can make an informed decision about whether 2500mg THCA Diamonds is the right choice for you.

Don’t forget to take advantage of our Deal of the Day and the Delta25 coupon code to experience this cutting-edge product at a discounted price.

2500mg THCA Diamonds

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The post 2500mg THCA Diamonds: Unlocking the Power of a High-Potency Concentrate appeared first on Cannadelics.

DIY Dab Rig in Your Very Own Home

Dabbing is on the rise, and it presents a different way to ingest weed, which is really just a different form of vaping. If you’re super into dabbing or looking to get started, and don’t want to buy a dab rig, (we all know glass breaks easily); perhaps there’s another answer. You can make a DIY dab rig with regular household items, in the privacy of your very own home. It’s pretty friggin easy… Read on for more information.

What’s a dab?

There’s smoking, which is done in different ways; bongs, pipes, joints, blunts. And vaping, which is also done in different ways; dry herb, oil, dabbing. Today, we’re focusing on dabbing. The difference between dab vaping and standard vaping, is mostly in the equipment used and what is being vaporized. Dabbing requires a smoking device called a dab rig, and is used for concentrates. Much like other forms of vaporization, this means heating the substance to a temperature which releases compounds, without burning the material.

Dabbing isn’t done with dry herb ever, it must be a concentrate. And unlike the vape pens and standard dry herb vapes, a dab rig actually looks like, and resembles, a bong. This kind of waterpipe is specifically meant for the vaping of thick oils and concentrates; and also uses the bong water filtration method to cool and filter the vapor. Like most bongs, dab rigs are made of glass. Unlike a regular bong, a dab rig employs the use of a nail (aka bangor). This creates different functionality from a bong.

Like a bong, a dab rig has a downstem, which is where the weed product is put for heating. However, instead of a standard bowl piece, it incorporates a ‘nail’; a thin, dish-like structure that goes inside the downstem. The nail is often made of quartz; but can also be made of titanium, ceramic, or glass. The nail is where heat is applied in order to achieve vaporization.


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Sometimes another piece is used with the nail, called a ‘dome’. This goes over the nail and works to evenly distribute the heat, and maintain the vapor. When a dome is used, the nail is heated with the dome put over it, and then the dome removed and the concentrate applied to the nail. Domes aren’t always necessary though, and those which don’t require them, usually have larger dishes, and a hole in the middle for the vapor to go through. A carb cap is another piece that is used in place of a dome.

A carb cap covers the concentrate during heating, and is then removed when the dabber is ready to take a hit. This piece can help regulate temperature and allows for dabbing at lower temperatures; which is preferable to some people, as it makes for a cleaner taste. Dab rigs also use percolators, a cooling device seen in many standard bongs. This makes for the bubbling action of the dab rig. There are several different deigns for percolators, like disc style, stackable, honeycomb, helix, and more.

How is dabbing done?

If the goal here is to help you with your own homemade DIY dab rig, then its best to know exactly what the setup is supposed to do. Understanding the mechanism is important in creating a DIY and workable version. With a standard setup, heat is applied in one of two ways; with a lighter (torch), or electric dab nail. For torches, butane is usually preferred, but this is personal preference. For an electric dab nail (e-nail), there’s generally a digital display to show precise temperature. This uses an electric current to heat rather than a flame.

To get down to basics, the whole thing works by heating the nail, and then applying the concentrate. This creates vapor, which is pulled through the water, and into the user’s mouth. Standard dabbing temps range from 315 – 450º F (157-232º C). A tool, called a dabber, is often required to get the product onto the dab nail, as the product is often sticky, and the nail gets too hot to touch.

If you’ll notice, it doesn’t matter which heating method is used, it’s never directly on the concentrate, as this could burn it. Since we’re not looking to burn anything, the nail is the part heated. And that heat is then used to vaporize the concentrate. Apart from this, and the angle of the downstem in the two smoking devices (bongs and dab rigs); they are nearly identical, and easy to confuse in a head shop when not paying attention.

DIY dab rig – Mason jar method

Maybe you’re not in a location where buying a dab rig is easy. Maybe you don’t have the money for a good one, or maybe you’re prone to breaking glass pieces and don’t want to add to the graveyard. Whatever the reason, you can actually make your own DIY dab rig, in the privacy of your own home. One of the most basic ways to do this is with a mason jar.

DIY dab rig with Mason jar

Options 1: DIY dab rig Mason jar materials: 1 Mason jar with a lid, 1 drill, 1 bendy straw, 1 plastic pen with ink removed, 1 titanium dab nail, aluminum foil, and 1 butane torch. The instructions go as follows:

  • With the drill, make two holes in the Mason jar of the same size, which can fit a pen covered in tin foil with no extra space.
  • Then wrap aluminum foil around the pen, and place into either hole to create a downstem for your DIY dab rig.
  • Put the nail inside the pen and hold it in securely with more aluminum foil. Make sure you create a good seal.
  • In the other hole, put in the bendy straw, and make sure its secure with more aluminum foil. Once again it must create a seal so air doesn’t escape. This is your mouthpiece. Some instructions say you can use a glue gun to seal it further, but this is personal preference as that can add more chemicals, especially when heated, (though realistically this is also an issue with using plastic parts like a pen).
  • Next you’ll fill the Mason jar with water. Make sure to use the right amount of water so you’re not sucking it into your mouth, or with too little (which causes harsher, dryer hits). The water should cover the downstem’s bottom.
  • Finally, put the lid on the jar, and use it by heating the nail, and applying the concentrate. This whole thing might only be good for a single use, but should you desire something more durable and longer-lasting, use glass rather than plastic and titanium. Those materials also make for a safer device with less fumes.

DIY dab rig – bong conversion method

Option 2: DIY dab rig bong conversion. This method employs a regular bong, which is made into a dab rig. Materials for this include: a bong, a bong adapter that fits your bong, and a nail that fits the bong’s joint. Follow these instructions:

  • Find your adapter. You might have never thought about bong gender before, so now’s the time. It’s pretty basic; if you put the bowl onto the joint, it’s female. However, if the piece slides into the joint, its male. This isn’t terribly important except for it dictates which kind of joint and which kind of adapter. Joints can range in size between 10-18 millimeters or so, regardless of gender. You will most likely use a male-to-male adapter. Just make sure to get the right one, for whichever bong you choose to use.
  • Get a nail that matches the joint size of the bong. Titanium isn’t the only option, but its generally the most preferable for how it conducts heat and offers some durability.
  • Use it – carefully. Bongs and dabs have downstems at different angles. Bongs are usually 45º, whereas dabs tend to be at a 90º angle. The 90º angle is to ensure that concentrate doesn’t fall out during the process, which it can at 90º. Something to take into consideration when using this method.
Bong can be used for DIY dab rig
Bong can be used for DIY dab rig

DIY dab rig – plastic bottle, hot knife method

Option 3: DIY dab rig with plastic bottle and hot knife. This method necessitates the following materials: metal butter knife with thick handle, dabber or paper clip, plastic water bottle, scissors, electric stove or torch, and optional silicon dab mat. Follow these instructions:

  • Take the water bottle and cut in half. You only need the top half, sans cap. In the bottom of this top half, make a notch which is where the hot knife goes, so make sure a knife can slide in with plenty of room.
  • Then heat the knife with your electric stove or torch lighter, and put it on a flat surface or the silicon mat.
  • Take the dabber or paper clip and use it to collect the concentrate and put it on the hot knife.
  • Take the bottle and move it over the knife using the groove you made. The groove should be big enough that the knife doesn’t come into contact with plastic.
  • Put your mouth on the mouth of the bottle, and inhale.

Conclusion

These are three popular (and easy-to-do) options for a DIY dab rig. You can search the internet to find other options if none of these work for you. These methods can be done in a matter of minutes, and with general household items for the most part; giving you a great ability for your very own homemade dab rig. Have fun and enjoy!

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