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4 Pothead pinkies up, please!
How to best handle the social side of weed smoking is not a new one — but it IS an important one. After all, nobody wants to be rude in public — especially while sitting around the proverbial peace pipe with friends, right?
8 Little Jack Horner...err, Herer
6 Another stoner anthem (whoooo-oooah!)
Are you feeling a little green around the gills? Do you have a case of the munchies that just won’t quit? Well, friend, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve compiled a list of the most famous songs about cannabis that are sure to take you on a musical journey through the hazy world of weed.
4-5 Keep your pot elbows off the table
6-7 Epic stoner anthems
8-9 The man, myth and legend: Jack Herer
10-11 Cooking with cannabis
12 File this under “mind-blown”
13 Hemp’s uphill battle
14-17 Cover story: The mysterious origins of 420
18-20 Weed reviews
21-26 Ask a couple of potheads
27 Dispensary listings
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Ever heard your stoner friends raving about finding an ounce or six of Jack Herer at their local dispensary? Well, there’s a reason for that. The Jack Herer story is one of man, myth, and legend — and the weed strain is one of the best you can smoke.
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Got something on your mind? Have a joke or a story idea or just something that the world needs to know? Send everything to editor@dgomag.com
It’s April! Our favorite stoner month!
Illustration: Matt Clark for Lil Bud Designs Cover design: Ryan Brown for DGO Mag
Let’s talk about keeping our sticky little stoner elbows off the table, shall we?
While there are still plenty of questions left to be answered about ye old cannabis plant,including the massive one: when federal prohibition will end, one question we have had pop up time and again is on pot etiquette. Yes, we’re talking about minding your weed manners.
How to best handle the social side of weed smoking is not a new one — but it IS an important one. After all, nobody wants to
be rude in public — especially while sitting around the proverbial peace pipe with friends, right?
Right. So rather than committing an accidental weed faux paus, we’ve decided to confront the issue head on instead.
If you’re wondering whether to pass the dutchie to the left or right hand side, or whether it’s OK to swap spit via a fat joint with your buddies, here’s everything you need to know for minding your pot p’s and q’s. Follow these and you’ll be the politest pothead to ever pot.
Don’t say we never taught you anything.
Hey there, newbie toker! Let us give you a little advice: Don’t go all Cheech and Chong just because you can legally smoke weed where you live. Just because it’s legal doesn’t mean you should puff puff pass…out like a dummy.
Think of it like this: if Twinkies were discontinued for a while and then suddenly made a comeback, would you eat the entire box in one sitting? (Actually, don’t answer that either. It’s better if we both pretend the answer is no.)
One of the most important rules of imbibing is to take it easy and enjoy your
high one hit at a time.
Look, we all know that one guy from college who drank himself under the table and made a fool of himself. Don’t be that guy when it comes to weed. Sure, light up, but for the love of all that is green, don’t take it to the extreme like some kind of frat boy. You’re not trying to impress anyone here.
Remember, you’re an adult, not a teenager trying to sneak a toke behind the bleachers. So let’s keep it cool, and enjoy responsibly, shall we?
Rule #2: Pass it to the left. For real. For real real.
The second rule is simple: It’s the golden rule of passing the joint.
Passing the joint is rocket science, people. Just remember that classic tune, “Pass the dutchie to the left-hand side.” And for the love of all that’s good, listen to it on repeat until it’s ingrained in your brain. Don’t pass to the right. Don’t pass to the front. Always to the left.
But here’s the twist: it’s not just any left-hand side. It’s the clockwise left-hand side. Got it? Great. Told you it was simple.
Rule #3: Be blunt about the bud.
If you want to be a polite pothead, it’s time to get your communication skills up to snuff. Don’t just throw a blunt full of some unknown herb at your buds and hope for the best. We’re not playing weed roulette here. Be courteous and specify what you’re packing instead.
After all, you wouldn’t make a super strong cocktail without warning your friend, would you? Let’s just hope you’re not that person.
So, let’s apply the same concept to weed. Not everyone is a seasoned smoker or vaper, and it’s not cool to knock their socks off without warning. We’ve all smoked too much a time or two and it’s not fun. Don’t be rude to your homies like that. Instead, you should let your people know if it’s indica or sativa, or maybe some wild and crazy hybrid that will make them visit the recesses of their brains — the ones they avoid like the plague..
After all, everyone deserves to know what they’re getting into, right? So inform, inform, inform!
Rule #4: Don’t blindside your buddies with incognito edibles.
Oh, hello there, sneaky little weed chef. Are those special brownies you’ve brought to the party? Don’t be shy, let us in on the secret. Look, we’re all here to have a good time, but let’s not get too crazy, okay?
We don’t need any unsuspecting
victims accidentally eating your supercharged, THC-packed goodies and ending up seeing pink elephants dancing in their heads. So, why not label your creations with a little something, something? It doesn’t have to be fancy, just a little sign that says, “Warning: Pot Brownies Ahead!”
Trust us, your friends will thank you for it. Plus, it gives you a chance to show off your creative skills. Maybe draw a little pot leaf on the sign or make it in the shape of a joint? Get creative, baby. Just remember, communication is key. So, label those treats if you want to be the Miss Manners (or Mr. Manners, or Thister Manners) of marijuana. It’s the only way.
Let’s get one thing straight - just
because you can light up legally doesn’t mean you should be smoking wherever you please. Don’t be that guy who just sparks up without any consideration for the people around you. It’s just plain rude, and nobody likes a rude pothead.
Listen, if you want to smoke at a party, make sure you ask your host first. And even then, take it outside like a civilized human being. No one wants to be hotboxed in their own living room. And if you’re in public, just hold off on the smoke sesh altogether. Trust us, that mom pushing a stroller doesn’t want to explain to her kid why it smells like Snoop Dogg’s tour bus.
Bottom line: Be respectful and use some common sense. Weed may be legal, but that doesn’t mean you get a free pass to be a jerk.
#6: Tap into your
If you want to be a polite pothead, it’s time to put on our fancy pants and practice our table manners. Just like Grandma taught us, keep those elbows off the table. Those bongs can be pricey, not to mention pieces of art. We don’t need your clumsy self knocking it over and spilling that stinky bong water all over your friend’s expensive rug.
Trust us, that’s not the kind of impression you want to leave on your buddy’s new pad. So let’s keep it classy and keep those elbows off the table, shall we?
Hey, hey, hey! Don’t be that person who ruins the vibe with peer pressure. It wasn’t cool in high school, and it’s even less cool when you’re pushing 30. Look, if you want to smoke, go for it! You’re an adult and you can make your own decisions. But don’t force your friend to light up if they’re not feeling it. We all have our own preferences, and that’s okay.
Plus, if you pressure them too much, they might end up like that one guy who’s passed out on the couch after one puff. Let’s keep it chill and respect each other’s choices.
This should go without saying, but if you’re planning to light up at someone else’s place, make sure you have their blessing before puff-puff-passing around that good stuff. And if you’re the one hosting the party, don’t be stingy with your stash. Share the love, man!
And speaking of sharing, be kind to the rookies. Don’t rush them or be a buzzkill if they don’t know how to pass it clockwise. We all started somewhere, right? So, take a chill pill, sit back, and enjoy the ride.
— DGO Staff» Don’t smoke in silence. Tune into this playlist of epic pothead ballads to get in the mood for an excellent smoke sesh.
Are you feeling a little green around the gills? Do you have a case of the munchies that just won’t quit? Well, my friend, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve compiled a list of the most famous songs about cannabis that are sure to take you on a musical journey through the hazy world of weed. From reggae to rock, hip hop to psychedelic, these tunes will have you feeling like you just took a hit off
the good stuff. So roll up a fatty, grab your headphones, and get ready to groove to some of the best stoner anthems of all time!
“Legalize It” by Peter Tosh (1976): Peter Tosh knew what he was talking about. Why keep weed illegal when you could be legalizing it and making bank? This reggae classic is a must-listen for anyone who wants to relax with a little ganja.
“Because I Got High” by Afroman (2000): This song is a cautionary tale about the dangers of getting too stoned. From forgetting to clean your room to miss-
ing a job interview, Afroman hilariously chronicles the many ways that marijuana can derail your life.
“Smoke Two Joints” by The Toyes (1983): Two joints are always better than one, right? This classic tune celebrates the joys of smoking weed and chilling out with your friends.
“The Next Episode” by Dr. Dre ft. Snoop Dogg (1999): Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg might not come right out and say it, but there’s no mistaking the fact that they’re talking about smoking weed in this song. Whether you’re blazing up with your crew or just vibing out at home, “The Next
Episode” is a great tune to get you in the mood.
“Hits from the Bong” by Cypress Hill (1993): Cypress Hill knows how to party, and “Hits from the Bong” is their anthem. From the smooth flow to the dope beat, this song is a classic for a reason.
“Kaya” by Bob Marley (1978): Bob Marley was a legend, and “Kaya” is one of his best songs. This ode to cannabis is all about relaxation, good vibes, and enjoying life to the fullest.
“I Wanna Get High” by Cypress Hill (1993): Cypress Hill is back on our
list, and this time they’re all about getting high. Whether you’re smoking a blunt, hitting a bong, or just enjoying a chill evening, “I Wanna Get High” is the perfect tune to serve as the soundtrack to your smoking session.
“Mary Jane” by Rick James (1978): Rick James might be a little sleazy (OK, a lot sleazy), but he knows how to get down with some Mary Jane, and we’re here for it. This funky tune is all about indulging in your favorite herb and having a good time — and you just really can’t pass up the beat, especially when you’re stoned.
“Pass the Dutchie” by Musical Youth (1982): Who says kids can’t enjoy a little marijuana? OK, OK, the law does. But Musical Youth is the exception to that rule, at least in this case, because they’re the musical geniuses behind “Pass the Dutchie,” a classic tune that celebrates the joys of sharing a joint with your friends.
“Gin and Juice” by Snoop Dogg (1993): Snoop Dogg is back on our list, and this time he’s all about sipping on gin and juice and getting high. Whether you’re cruising in your ride or just chilling with your homies, “Gin and Juice” is the perfect tune to get you hiiiiiiiigh as a mother.
“Stoned Immaculate” by The Doors (1971): Jim Morrison might be gone, but his music lives on. “Stoned Immaculate” is a psychedelic trip that’s all about the creative inspiration that comes from smoking weed.
“Sweet Leaf” by Black Sabbath (1971): Black Sabbath knows how to rock, and “Sweet Leaf” is one of their best tunes. This heavy song celebrates the joys of smoking marijuana and chilling out with your friends. Plus, who doesn’t love a little Ozzy here and there?
“Rainy Day Women #12 & 35” by Bob Dylan (1966): This classic Dylan tune is famously known for its repeated chorus “Everybody must get stoned”, which was interpreted by many as a nod to cannabis use. However, Dylan himself has stated that the song is not actually about weed, but rather a protest against societal conformity. Nevertheless, the song became an anthem for stoners and was embraced by the counterculture movement of the 60s.
“Legalize Me” by Slightly Stoopid (2018): This song by the Californiabased band Slightly Stoopid is a straightforward call for the legalization of marijuana. Released in 2018, the song reflects the growing acceptance of cannabis use and the push for reform of outdated drug laws. Slightly Stoopid is known for their blend of
rock, reggae, and punk music, and their procannabis stance has been a staple of their lyrics and live shows for many years. The band has been vocal about their support for legalization and even started a cannabis-focused record label called Stoopid Records.
“Smokin’ on” by Snoop Dogg ft. Wiz Khalifa (2011): Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa teamed up for this catchy weed anthem. The song is all about smoking, with lyrics like “Roll another one, cause
I’m winning” and “I got papers, let’s roll one, smoke up”. The music video features the two rappers indulging in massive joints and hotboxing a car. It’s safe to say that Snoop and Wiz know a thing or two about the subject matter.
“We Be Burnin’” by Sean Paul (2005): This dancehall hit features Sean Paul singing about the joys of smoking weed. The chorus repeats the line “We be burnin’ not concernin’ what nobody wanna
say” while the verses describe the different strains of marijuana and their effects. The song was a big hit and even landed on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
It
Up” by Cypress Hill (2000): This classic Cypress Hill track is — you guessed it — all about smoking weed. Who’da thunk it, what with Cypress Hill being at the helm and all? The song is an epic stoner anthem and features lines like, “I’m higher than a kite, I’m gettin’ lifted tonight” and “I got my weed and my brew, and my crew, we can smoke enough to fill a room.” The group has long been associated with cannabis culture and has even launched their own line of cannabis products.
“Just Another Day” by Too $hort (1992): This weed-centric song by rapper Too $hort is all about the everyday life of a stoner. The chorus repeats the line “Just another day, livin’ in the hood, just another day around the way, feelin’ good,” while the verses describe smoking weed and hanging out with friends. The song is a classic of the West Coast hip hop scene and has been sampled by many other artists — and if you’re a good stoner, it’s on rotation on your playlist right now. Yes, that’s a hint. Go add it.
Well, folks, we’ve reached the end of our journey through the 20 most famous songs about cannabis. Hopefully, you’ve discovered some new tunes to add to your stoner playlist, or at least had a good laugh at some of the classics. Remember, music and weed go together like peanut butter and jelly, mac and cheese, or Cheech and Chong.
So next time you’re toking up, why not turn up the volume and let these tunes take you on a trippy ride? And who knows, maybe one day we’ll be singing about federally legal weed and celebrating with a whole new set of tunes.
Until then, keep on blazing and grooving to the sound of these timeless stoner classics.
— DGO StaffEver heard your stoner friends raving about finding an ounce or six of Jack Herer at their local dispensary? Well, there’s a reason for that. The Jack Herer strain is one of man, myth, and legend — and it’s highly regarded (pun absolutely intended) as one of the best strains you can smoke.
Oh, and it’s also incredibly elusive. You won’t typically find it on the shelves at any dispensary — in Colorado or otherwise. And when you do, it definitely won’t be around for long. Like, you better get there yesterday if you track it down.
So what’s up with this strain? Given the mystique surrounding Jack Herer, and the incredible difficulty that comes with trying to track it down, we figured it may be time for a good old fashioned primer. Here’s everything you should know about how Jack Herer, the strain and the man, came to be.
Who was Jack Herer — and why is he important to modern cannabis culture?
Jack Herer (1939-2010) was an American cannabis activist and author, often referred to as the “Emperor of Hemp”. He was born in New York City and later moved to Los Angeles, where he became involved in the cannabis movement in the 1960s and 70s.
Herer was a passionate advocate for the legalization of cannabis, and believed that the plant had the potential to revolutionize multiple industries, including paper, textiles, and medicine. He is perhaps best known for his book “The Emperor Wears No Clothes”, which was first published in 1985 and has since become a seminal text in the cannabis community.
In the book, Herer traces the history
of cannabis and argues that it has been suppressed and demonized by governments and corporations for decades due to its potential to threaten established industries. He also advocates for the legalization of cannabis for medicinal and recreational purposes, and provides information on how to cultivate and use the plant.
Herer was also instrumental in the creation of the Jack Herer strain of cannabis, which is known for its high THC content and energizing effects. The strain is named in his honor and is widely considered to be one of the most popular and sought-after strains in the world.
Throughout his life, Herer worked tirelessly to promote the benefits of cannabis and to advocate for its legalization. He passed away in 2010, but his legacy as a pioneer of the cannabis movement lives on today.
The myth of Jack Herer refers to the story surrounding the origin of a popular strain of cannabis, which is named after Jack Herer. According to the myth, Jack Herer discovered a hidden strain of cannabis while on a mission to find the perfect cannabis plant that could be used for both fiber and medicinal purposes.
The story goes that while Herer was traveling through Afghanistan in the 1970s, he came across a secret stash of cannabis seeds that had been preserved by a group of nomadic farmers. These seeds, according to the myth, were said to be from the original cannabis plant that was grown thousands of years ago in the ancient region of Mesopotamia.
Herer reportedly smuggled these seeds back to the United States, where he grew the plants and began to cultivate the strain that would eventually bear his name. The Jack Herer strain is known for its uplifting and energetic effects, and is highly sought after by cannabis enthusiasts.
While there is some truth to the story — primarily related to Jack Herer’s involvement in the cannabis industry — it is largely considered to be a myth. While Herer was certainly an advocate for the legalization of cannabis and wrote extensively about its potential uses, there is no concrete evidence to support the idea that he discovered a secret strain of cannabis while traveling through Afghanistan.
Regardless of its veracity, the myth of
Jack Herer continues to be an important part of the cultural history of cannabis, and has helped to cement the strain that bears his name as one of the most beloved and sought-after varieties in the world.
Well, the Jack Herer strain is highly sought after for several reasons. First and foremost, it is known for its unique and powerful effects. The strain is a sativadominant hybrid, which means that it provides an energizing and uplifting high that is perfect for daytime use. It is also known for its cerebral effects, which can help to enhance focus and creativity.
In addition to its effects, the Jack
Herer strain is also prized for its flavor and aroma. It has a distinct, spicy flavor profile that is often described as earthy, with hints of pine and citrus. The aroma is similarly complex, with a blend of sweet, woody, and spicy notes that are immediately recognizable.
Finally, the Jack Herer strain is also highly prized for its potency. It typically has a high THC content, which can range from 15% to 24% or more, depending on the specific variety. This makes it a popular choice for experienced cannabis users who are looking for a strong and long-lasting high.
Overall, the combination of unique effects, distinct flavor and aroma, and high potency make the Jack Herer strain a perennial favorite among cannabis enthusiasts. Its popularity has only grown over
the years, and it is widely considered to be one of the most iconic and beloved strains in the world.
While the Jack Herer strain is not necessarily considered rare, the truth is that it can be more difficult to find than other strains — and that’s due to a few different factors.
For starters, the Jack Herer strain can be challenging to grow, which means that not all cannabis cultivators are able to successfully produce it. The plant requires a lot of attention and care, and it can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases. This means that the yield of the Jack Herer strain is often lower than other varieties, which can contribute to its relative scarcity.
And, the Jack Herer strain has been the subject of trademark disputes over the years, which has led to confusion and fragmentation within the cannabis industry. Some companies have claimed to own the rights to the strain, while others have produced their own versions of it under different names. This has made it more difficult for consumers to find the original Jack Herer strain and has contributed to its reputation as a rare and elusive variety.
Add in the popularity of the Jack Herer strain, and that means that it can sell out quickly at dispensaries and on the black market — if you can even track down someone claiming to possess it. Plus, many cannabis enthusiasts specifically seek out this strain due to the fact that it’s elusive and hard to come by, which can make it harder to snag at times.
Overall, while the Jack Herer strain is not necessarily considered rare, it can be more difficult to find than other varieties due to a combination of factors, including its challenging cultivation process, trademark disputes, and high demand among consumers.
— DGO StaffGreetings, fellow cannabis connoisseurs! Are you tired of the same old boring ways of consuming your favorite herb? Well, fear not, because you don’t have to continue the same old consumption methods! Why not try making your own cannabis gummies instead?
That’s right, folks, we’re talking about little jelly-like candies that pack a punch and put a smile on your face (assuming you’ve dosed correctly).
Oh, don’t roll your eyes. You don’t have to have chef-level skills in the kitchen to create your own weed gummies (I’m a weed gummy, I’ma I’ma weed gummy). In fact, you just need to follow some basic steps to help you create your very own batch of delectable and potent treats. All you need are a few basic ingredients and some creativity — and maybe a few paper
towels and some gumption to get things going (and sticky).
So grab your aprons, your cannabis tincture, and your sense of humor, and let’s get cooking!
What you need:
1/2 cup cold water
1/4 cup corn syrup
2 (3oz) packages of flavored gelatin
2 1/2 packets of unflavored gelatin
1-2 teaspoons of cannabis tincture or oil*
What you do:
Now, let’s get started with our kitchen debauchery!
- First, gather your ingredients: cold
water, corn syrup, flavored and unflavored gelatin, and cannabis tincture or oil. The recipe calls for 1-2 teaspoons of cannabis tincture or oil, but be sure to adjust according to your personal tolerance and preference.
- Next, in a saucepan, mix together the cold water and corn syrup, and add the flavored and unflavored gelatin until it dissolves. As you stir, you’ll begin to see the mixture transform into a smooth and liquid texture.
- Now comes the fun part. Add your cannabis tincture or oil to the mixture and stir well to ensure it’s evenly distributed. Pour the mixture into a greased silicone mold or a baking dish lined with parchment paper, and place it in the refrigerator to set for at least an hour.
- Once the gummies have set, you can
remove them from the mold or use a knife or cookie cutter to cut them into your desired shapes. Be sure to store your cannabis gummies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Remember, the potency of your gummies will depend on the strength of your cannabis tincture or oil, so always measure accurately and start with a small dose if you’re a beginner. With a little creativity and experimentation, you can make your own delicious cannabis-infused gummies to enjoy at your leisure.
*Need a cannabis oil recipe? No praaaaab, Bob! There’s one on this page for ya!
Are you feeling like you need to spice up your cooking game — or do you just need some sweet cannabis oil to add to your DIY weed gummies? Well, you’re in luck, my friend! You can follow our recipe for a homemade batch that’ll make your taste buds sing and your mind...well, let’s just say it’ll take you to a happy place.
So let’s get cooking, but remember, always consume responsibly and never forget the golden rule: “Don’t eat the whole brownie at once!”
Ingredients:
1 ounce of dried cannabis flower or 2-3
ounces of cannabis trimmings
2 cups of carrier oil (such as coconut oil, olive oil, or avocado oil)
Cheesecloth
Large glass mixing bowl
Cooking pot or slow cooker
Thermometer
Glass jars with lids for storage
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 240°F (116°C).
Break apart the cannabis flower or trimmings into small pieces and spread
them evenly on a baking sheet. Bake the cannabis in the oven for 30-40 minutes to activate the THC, stirring occasionally.
In a cooking pot or slow cooker, add the carrier oil and decarboxylated cannabis. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 hours.
Monitor the temperature of the mixture using a thermometer and keep it between 200°F and 240°F (93°C and 116°C).
After 3-4 hours, turn off the heat and let the mixture cool for 30-60 minutes.
Strain the oil through cheesecloth into a large glass mixing bowl.
Pour the oil into glass jars and seal them tightly.
Store the jars in a cool, dark place.
Note: Dosage and potency can vary depending on the quality of the cannabis used and the amount consumed. Always start with a low dose and increase gradually as needed. It is also important to be aware of the potential risks and side effects of consuming cannabis oil, especially for individuals with certain medical conditions or who are taking medication.
Exciting news, folks! The University of Utah is gearing up to build a brand new Center for Medical Cannabis Research, and we couldn’t be more thrilled. Just recently, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox signed House Bill 230 into law, giving the green light for this much-anticipated project to take shape.
So why is this such a big deal? Well, for starters, the Center for Medical Cannabis Research will be an absolute game-changer for Utah’s healthcare industry. With the goal of becoming a research hub, the center will oversee all cannabis-related studies happening in the state and help identify any gaps in patient accessibility. This means doctors and healthcare professionals will have access to more comprehensive information about cannabis, allowing them to make more informed decisions about patient care.
But that’s not all. Representative Jennifer Dailey-Provost, the bill’s sponsor, has even bigger plans in mind. In the future, she hopes to establish a National Institute of Health-approved medical cannabis cultivation site right here in Utah. This would
put Utah on the map as a leader in medical cannabis research, and further bolster the state’s already impressive agricultural heritage.
“I figured if Kentucky can do it … we can create one in Utah as well,” DaileyProvost told The Daily Utah Chronicle.
According to Dailey-Provost, Utah legislators had been considering studies that were conducted out of state instead of conducting their own research. .
“What we hear from providers, especially physicians, nurse practitioners, PAs who can recommend [cannabis] as a medication is that they just don’t feel like they have enough information to really confidently recommend this as part of a comprehensive health care plan,” DaileyProvost said.
The primary goal of the Center for Medical Cannabis Research is to become a hub that monitors all research being conducted in the state, as well as “identify gaps in patient accessibility, and support researchers and going out and finding grounds, doing the work, talking to other
states about what work is going on.”
Dailey-Provost has loftier goals, too. In the future, she would like to have a National Institute of Health-approved (NIH) medical cannabis cultivation site in Utah.
“There are only six in the nation that grow medical grade cannabis that is eligible for study by NIH grants,” she said. “I think Utah with its robust agricultural heritage, we have an opportunity to maybe be a center for meeting those needs for research being done at the National Institutes of Health.”
The bill’s passage also earmarks $650,000 to fund the Center for Medical Cannabis Research, which comes from the Department of Health’s Qualified Patient Enterprise Fund. University of Utah Associate Vice President Dr. Rachel Hess said they want to do everything they can to help usher in this new era of medical cannabis research.
“Obviously, everything can’t be accomplished in one year, but the legislature has really made a longitudinal commitment,
so ensuring that the science that is prepared to go…can go in the first year and then staging subsequently after that are the key steps…to ensure that we really are able to deliver on the promise of this vision,” said Hess.
And while medical cannabis is taking center stage, it’s not the only plant medicine in the spotlight. Psilocybin, a powerful compound found in magic mushrooms, is also gaining attention in Utah. A bill was recently introduced that would allow psilocybin therapy to be legal for patients with qualifying conditions. For those struggling with anxiety, depression, and PTSD, this could be a game-changer in their journey towards healing.
All in all, it’s clear that Utah is taking a progressive approach to plant medicine research, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds. So here’s to the new Center for Medical Cannabis Research and all the exciting breakthroughs it will bring!
— DGO Staff
File this under ‘Things we never thought would happen,’ please
The recent explosion of hemp-derived synthetic cannabinoids like Delta-8, Delta-9 and other intoxicating cannabinoids has been both a blessing and a curse, depending on your vantage point. In states where prohibition of cannabis still lingers, the Delta products have been a godsend for some cannabis enthusiasts, allowing them legal-ish access to THC in some form or fashion. But in other states, like Colorado, where the cannabis industry reigns supreme — and real, clean cannabis products are easily accessible — the vibe is a bit different, to say the least.
Lawmakers in the state of Colorado passed a bill that limited the sale of Delta-8 products in May 2022, effectively curbing the distribution of the synthetic cannabinoid products in the state. And now, a task force has recommended that the state take a tougher stance on all intoxicating hemp-derived products. The task force, created by Senate Bill 22-205 during last year’s legislative session, was formed in response to the federal legalization of hemp in 2018.
If you’re unfamiliar with the controversy over these products, here’s a quick primer. While hemp and marijuana are both cannabis plants, they differ in their THC content. If the THC level in a hemp plant or product exceeds 0.3 percent, it is considered marijuana by the federal government. Some hemp plants have been selectively bred to have low THC levels and high levels of CBD, but CBD can be easily converted into various isomers of THC. Some of these forms are not prohibited by the federal government, and that’s where the issue comes in.
A loophole in the Farm Bill has led to the emergence of newer forms of THC, like Delta-8, 9, and 10 THC. All of these are technically derived from hemp oil, which is used to synthetically create these forms of THC. Little is known about the safety or efficacy of these synthetic cannabinoids, and there is a widespread lack of regulation for the industry producting them. In turn, some states have banned them outright, but they are technically “legal” to sell and possess in most states. And, a quick Google search is all you need to purchase these types of products from just about anywhere in the nation.
This online free-for-all has created a lu-
crative market for some hemp businesses, allowing them to rake in the cash on the demand for these synthetic cannabinoids — and some in the hemp industry want to outright allow the sale of intoxicating hemp products inside and outside dispensaries.
Still, many in the cannabis industry are calling for strict rules or outright bans for modified cannabinoids. And, the task force in Colorado, which is made up of members from the marijuana and hemp industries, public health officials, and cannabis regulators, and the group, recently recommended regulatory and statutory changes regarding intoxicating products derived from hemp.
While the Colorado task force believes there are a number of compounds that should not be targeted, including 10 specific cannabinoids and hemp extractions are considered non-intoxicating, including CBD, THCV, CBC, CBT, CBL, CBE, CBG, CBDV, CBN, and multi-compound hemp extracts, it does suggest a stronger enforcement approach toward at least 26 variants of synthetic THC derived from hemp.
In particular, the group has set its sights on Delta-8, 9, and 10 THC. The task force found that these modified hemp cannabinoids are being sold online and in traditional retailers like smoke shops and gas stations — and are easily accessible by anyone who wants to purchase them. And that’s where the change may come in.
The task force is now recommending that all forms of hemp-derived THC be considered intoxicating and therefore should not be allowed to be manufactured or sold in Colorado unless licensed and approved by the state’s Marijuana Enforcement Division. An exception is suggested for businesses in Colorado that ship hemp-derived products to other states with different laws.
The report by the task force proposes that hemp products containing up to 2.5 milligrams of THC per serving may be sold at stores other than dispensaries in Colorado, provided that state regulators require the inclusion of non-intoxicating cannabinoids like CBD at a ratio that ensures the product is non-intoxicating.
The report also notes that full-spectrum hemp products typically contain
1.0 to 2.0 milligrams of THC per serving but are considered non-intoxicating due to ratio considerations. The task force recommends a CBD-to-THC ratio of 15 to 1 as an appropriate standard.
It’s worth noting that products made from hemp containing non-intoxicating compounds are not subject to the same restrictions. Hemp companies may also use other potentially intoxicating compounds if they can prove that they are considered non-intoxicating by the scientific committee. But that doesn’t cut the proverbial mustard for everyone, mind you.
Representatives from the cannabis industry argued that even a 2.5 milligram THC dosage is too high and poses a threat to public safety if sold outside of regulated marijuana spaces. Still, critics and proponents alike have suggested that the recommendations proposed by the task force will need to be revisited in the future, regardless of any laws or regulations created this year. This is because new sources of cannabinoids, created through
technologies such as gene editing of seeds, crops, soil, and microorganisms, are changing the regulatory landscape and economic outlook of hemp and cannabis.
The report also recommends the formation of a state cannabis science committee that would help state agencies evaluate scientific data and research related to cannabinoids. This includes their safety profiles, the potential for intoxication, and determining the appropriate classification for these compounds.
So, will there be any movement on the laws in the near future based on the findings of the task force? Well, not yet. According to the General Assembly’s bill tracker, no bills related to intoxicating hemp have been introduced in the state legislature, but that doesn’t mean it won’t happen.
DGO StaffEditor’s note: This story was originally published in the April 2022 issue of DGO. It’s an oldie but a goodie, and we’re running it again in honor of our favorite month: April, which is when we get to celebrate our favorite holiday: 420. Hope you enjoy!
Any good stoner can tell you that the term “420” has, for many decades, been used in reference to good ol’ marijuana—and the act of smoking marijuana in particular. This term, which has, over the years, been adopted by potheads across the globe, is now used in everything from Snoop
Dogg’s clever raps to the neon signs of cannabis coffee shops in the Netherlands. It can also be found plastered across a variety of products, from kitschy weed paraphernalia to weed and edible packaging and stonerfriendly clothing.
But while nearly any cannabis user (and perhaps even those who abstain) can tell you what 420 means, not many people know the true ori-
gins of the term. For most, this mysterious numeric slogan seemed to appear out of thin air in the 1970s, at a time when cannabis was widely embraced by the hippie and counterculture crowds. And, it has remained a source of confusion in the time since.
Still, there are plenty of vague myths and stories about the
supposed origins of 420 — a holiday we celebrate not just every day at 4:20, but also one month out of the year. And what month is that, you ask? Well, it’s this one.
In true stoner tradition, the month of April—and the day of April 20th in particular — brings with it tons of cannabiscentric celebrations in honor of the old weed code. There are weed-centric music events, parties, festivals across not just Colorado, but most of the nation—prohibition state or otherwise. And what better way to celebrate the annu-
al festival of marijuana festivities than to take a peek behind the curtain to find out the origins of 420? We can’t think of one.
So, without further ado, here’s what you should know about the myths, stories, and — of course — the one true origin of 420.
Debunked 420 origin myth #1: Cop code
The cop code theory If you ask a stoner about the origins of 420, there’s a solid chance that they’re going to cite a common, but incorrect, myth about how this term originated from a penal code in California. In particular, there is a prevailing belief that 420 was the California police code for marijuana offenses, and stoners simply adopted the code as their term for weed.
But while that myth is especially prevalent, it ain’t true. In fact, there’s absolutely no evidence that supports the idea that 420 has anything to do with weed under California cop codes. In fact, Section 420 of the California penal code refers to obstructing entry on public land—not smoking
doobies on the corner with your friends.
And there’s no evidence that 420 originates from any other state’s penal codes, either. There are plenty of penal codes listed for 420 across the nation, but none of them have anything to do with marijuana.
Womp-womp.
There is, however, a California Senate Bill 420 that relates to the use of medical marijuana—and it’s no coincidence, either.
Back on New Year’s day in 2004, the Governor of California signed into law Senate Bill 420, which regulates marijuana used for medical purposes. But while this bill is related to weed and does make good use of 420, the truth is that this bill originated decades after the term 420 was associated with marijuana.
And, what’s more is that it was chosen because of the existing pop culture connection—not the other way around. In other words, the tail is wagging the dog on this one.
There are a ton of active chemicals in weed, including our favorite cannabinoid, THC, and about 60 other types of cannabinoids, too. And, the copious number of active chemicals in cannabis has, over time, led many a stoner to hypothesize that the term 420 refers to the active number of chemicals in marijuana.
But while this may seem like a good hypothesis, we’re going to burst your stoner bubble and tell you that this is not where the term 420 originated from. And it would have been wholly
incorrect if it had, as there are nearly 500 such components in marijuana—or perhaps even more, though the exact number is a source of debate among scientists and the pothead community at large.
The supposed origins of 420 aren’t all cop- and chemical-related. One of the more “unique” myths about the origin of 420 is that it comes from a 1939 short story called “In the Walls of Eryx” by H.P. Lovecraft and Kenneth Sterling.
This myth originated due to the story alluding to “curious mirage-plants” — which to be fair, do seem relatively similar to marijuana. And, even more coincidentally, these curious mirageplants get the story’s narrator higher than high, which happens, according to the narrator’s watch, at 4:20.
Seems like a credible theory, right? Right, but it’s not the actual origin of the term 420. Sorry, book nerds. It just so happens to be a crazy (and fascinating) coincidence that this story revolves around mirage-plants and getting stoned. Maybe they were alluding to magic mushrooms or peyote instead?
There’s also a belief among weed fanatics that the origin of 420 is rooted in the fact that April 20th is the date that Jim Morrison, Jimi Hendrix, or Janis Joplin died. And while this would be a good theory in theory, as each of these epic musicians were known to, err, dabble in drugs (or more), it isn’t the correct origin story. Morrison, Hendrix, and Joplin may be strongly tied to the emerging drug culture of their time, but their deaths have nothing to do with 420 becoming associated with cannabis culture.
In fact, not a single one of them kicked the bucket on April 20th, despite the prevailing belief that they did. Jim Morrison died on July 3rd, Jimmy Hendrix passed away on September 18th, and Janis Joplin (RIP her velvet- voiced soul) died on October 4th.
Not a single April death in the mix.
Have you heard the one about how April 20th is the best day of the year to plant your weed? If so, you may be under the impression that 420 originated from this mythical weed planting day. But…you guessed it. It didn’t. As you may have guessed, there is not a singular day in which it’s “best” to plant weed. The entire nation deals with different weather patterns and different seasonality changes, and as such, the best day to plant weed would have a huge variable across the country.
And, that’s not to mention that in most places, growing weed occurs indoors, under the lights, and in a relatively sterile environment. That’s especially true of legitimate grow operations, which have to control the environment to produce the best crops and keep out the nasty contaminants that can get all up in yo’ bud.
So, no. While you may make it a tradition to plant your bud on April 20th, that is not where the term originated from. Sorry, folks.
There’s another theory floating around about the origin of 420—and it stems from a curious place: LSD. According to this theory, the term 420 originated from the day that Albert Hofmann, a Swiss chemist who is known for being the first known person to synthesize, ingest, and learn of the psychedelic effects of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), first took a deliberate LSD trip. And this trip, according to legend, occurred at—you guessed it—4:20 p.m. on April 19th, 1942.
While Hofmann did indeed take his tirst deliberate LSD trip at 4:20 on this day—and his lab notes back it up—this was not the source of the 420 origins. As with other myths on this list, the timing of Hofmann’s trip is purely coincidental.
And, just to be clear, this date was not Hofmann’s first LSD trip. It was his first intentional trip. The first dose of LSD that Hofmann took was actually on April 16, 1943—a few days prior. And that was an accidental trip.
But that’s neither here nor there. The point here is that Hofmann’s LSD trip or trips have nothing to do with the origins of 420.
So what the heck does 420 stem from, if it doesn’t originate from Jim Morrison’s death, the prime weed planting day, or a Swiss researcher’s LSD trip?
Well, it’s simple. As with most slang terms, the term 420 originated from the mouth of babes. Or, in this case, not babes, per se, but rather four stoner teens who were on a mission to find a clandestine grow—and also needed a way to hide their penchant for pot from mom and pop.
Here. Let us explain.
Forget all of those other bogus stories about the origins of 420. The reality is that the term 420 can be traced back to a group of five California teens, nicknamed the Waldos, who used to hang out by a wall outside their San Rafael school (hence the nickname). This group—which consisted of Steve Capper, Dave Reddix, Jeffrey Noel, Larry Schwartz, and Mark Gravich—are directly responsible for bringing 420 to the rest of the globe, even if it was by accident.
It all started in the fall of 1971, shortly after the Waldos were told the story of a Coast Guard member who had planted a cannabis plant but could no longer tend to the crop. These weed-loving teens decided to try and find the cannabis plant with the help of a treasure map, which was supposedly procured from the plant’s owner himself.
Eager to find the abandoned plant, the group met up after their athletic practices outside of their high school to try and find the treasure marked on their maps. And, since all five members of the Waldos were athletes, they had to meet at the wall, right next to the Louis Pasteur statue, at precisely 4:20 p.m., when all of their practices were over.
From there, the Waldos would pile into a car and smoke some pot. Once they were a bit toasty, they’d go on their treasure hunt in the nearby Point Reyes Forest in search of the elusive, free herb.
“We would remind each other in the hallways we were supposed to meet up at 4:20. It originally started out 4:20-Louis, and we eventually dropped the Louis,” Waldos member Steve Capper told the Huffington Post.
They never found the plot—but they had a great time just searching for it.
“We were smoking a lot of weed at the time,” says Dave Reddix or Waldo Dave, now a filmmaker. “Half the fun was just going looking for it.”
Over time, the group continued using the term 420 to avoid getting busted for their cannabis use.
“Back then, we spent every day of our lives worrying about getting busted. Going to buy was a really secret thing,” Waldos member Steve Capper told The San Francisco Chronicle.
And, unsurprisingly, so did friends and acquaintances. This helped the term to spread like wildfire among the California stoner crowds.
Things really took off for 420 when the Waldos’ term was adopted by the Grateful Dead a few years later. But how the heck did that happen? How did a group of five teenagers manage to have their slang word for weed adopted by one of the biggest stoner bands to ever exist?
Well, it’s all due to a few handy connections, of course.
At the time, the Waldos had numerous points of connection to the band. For starters, Mark Gravitch’s father managed the
Grateful Dead’s real estate— and Dave Reddix’s older brother, who managed a Dead sideband, was also good friends with
Dead bassist Phil Lesh. As such, the boys had a ton of access to the Grateful Dead members, and were regularly a part of the
Dead shows in some form or fashion.
“There was a place called Winterland, and we’d always be backstage running around or on stage and, of course, we’re using those phrases. When somebody passes a joint or something, ‘Hey, 420.’ So it started spreading through that community,” Capper told the Huffington Post.
And—while that connection was a big boost for 420 on its journey to mainstream—it didn’t end with the Grateful Dead.
The first time Steven Bloom, then
a reporter and editor for High Times, heard the phrase 420 was at a 1990 Grateful Dead concert in Oakland, California. Prior to the concert, Bloom had been wandering through the congregation of hippies that would gather in anticipation of the show. While on his trek through hippie central, a Deadhead handed Bloom a flyer with a curious phrase.
It read: “We are going to meet at 4:20 on 4/20 for 420-ing in Marin County at the Bolinas Ridge sunset spot on Mt. Tamalpais.”
This intrigued Bloom, who started using it in his work on the storied pot
magazine—as did the other High Times staff. After the cacophony of stoner reporters and editors latched on to the term, it caused the term 420 to go global—and eventually led to the mainstream adoption of the stoner term.
With so many illicit tales of the origins of 420, it would be silly to assume you believe us on the origins of 420. But you don’t have to take our word for it— the Waldos have proof that they were directly responsible for the word being adopted into mainstream pop culture.
According to numerous reports, the
Waldos have a newspaper clipping and other 1970s stoner relics, like their original 420 tie-dyed flag, tucked away in a vault in a San Francisco bank.
In that newspaper clipping, members of the Waldos discuss wanting to just say “420” for his high school graduation speech—proof of the group’s use of this term. It’s also regularly referenced in postmarked letters between the group, which are filled with 420 references.
There has already been a global adoption of the term, at least among cannabis fanatics, and the unofficial 420 holi-
day has spurred numerous celebrations across the nation. As more states work to legalize marijuana, the term—and the 420 celebrations—will only continue to become more mainstream.
“It’s (420) basically just a celebration of cannabis. It’s mushroomed into our unofficial national holiday,” Dan Skye, an editor at High Times magazine, told ABC News in 2011.
And to think that it all started with a five-man, weed treasure hunting crew in California. Who knew?
Pro tip: If you’re going to spark up some GG#4, it might be a good idea to grab the remote beforehand.
Why, you ask? Well, because GG#4 will mellow you to the max. As in, you might find yourself too mellow to care about grabbing the remote, and will be content to watch “Jersey Shore” reruns instead.
Not that the mellow part is a bad thing. (I’ll let you make your own decisions on the “Jersey Shore” marathon.) It’s what GG#4 – a cross between Chem’s Sister, Sour Dubb, and Chocolate Diesel – is known for. The Diesel-heavy, indica-heavy strain has become highly sought after by cannoisseurs, thanks to its mellow body and head high.
While I knew that most people like GG#4, I was a little nervous about reviewing an indica-dominant strain because they can go either way for me. I either end up super stoned, happy, and plastered to the couch or I end up having to lull myself to sleep to get out of my own head because the strain screwed with me.
But, I’ll tell you right now that after a
couple of rounds of GG#4 that the only fear I have is that I might be turning into an indica-only convert. This stuff is great.
But not only is GG#4 great, it’s also very distinct, both in aroma and otherwise. When I popped open the lid, my counterpart, who was unaware of what strain was hiding in the canister, yelped: “That’s Gorilla Glue. I’d know that smell anywhere.”
While it’s not technically Gorilla Glue – the strain was dubbed GG#4 after trademark issues – I was impressed with her sniffing skillz.
It wouldn’t be difficult to identify GG#4 by the smell, though. The aroma of this strain is strong and earthy, with hints of chocolate, pepper, and coffee. It’s really quite pleasant.
The structure of GG#4’s buds are equally unique. They’re chunky and pale green in color, thanks to an abundance of white trichomes layering the surface. If you look closely, you can find little wisps of purple hairs throughout.
At first, the buds felt a little dusty, but
as I pushed them into the pipe, I found they’re also dense and sticky. Like, very sticky. Ol’ “Sticky-Icky-Icky” Snoop Dogg would be impressed, me thinks.
And, I’d venture to guess Snoop would also be impressed with GG#4’s effects, too. “Jersey Shore” marathon aside, the effects of this strain relieved me of work and life stressors in a near instant. I did have a head high, but in this case, I dug it. After two bowls, I wasn’t too stoned to move (I just didn’t want to), nor was I overly sleepy. I was content to watch junk TV, but sometimes you need the mental break.
I could smoke this strain right before
bed and let it lull me into a deep sleep, or I could partake mid-day and still get shit done. That’s pretty brilliant, you guys.
I can see why GG#4 has become a cannabis fan favorite. This strain does such a nice job of straddling the indica-sativa fence, and is one of the most versatile strains I’ve had the pleasure of encountering. It’s kind of like a weed version of those old “choose your own adventure” books, which, I suppose, is precisely what a good hybrid should be.
— DGO Pufnstuf»
One of the really exciting things about becoming an adult is every now and then you find yourself laying in bed for hours staring at the ceiling waiting for sleep to hit you. Instead, you’re laying there wide awake (somehow still wired) and thinking about everything from something really awkward you said five years ago to that project at work you’ve been avoiding for the last three weeks.
Unfortunately, this is exactly where I’m at right now with my sleep schedule. As the kids say, I’m over it. In an effort to beat this unwanted added bonus to my life, I decided to turn to the best place I knew for sleep deprivation: my local dispensary.
During my visit, I vented to my poor budtender (who I’m sure wasn’t interested in hearing my life story) about my difficulties sleeping. They recommended I try Cheeba Chews Sleepy Time edible.
Each pack comes with 20 pieces and has a 2:1 THC:CBN ratio with a mix of the old reliable melatonin. Each piece is dosed at 5mg of THC and 2.5mg of CBN. Never heard of CBN? Well, let’s get into it then!
CBN, or cannabinol, is a cannabinoid that doesn’t usually show up in high amounts of marijuana, unlike THC and CBD. Similar to CBD, CBN does not produce psychoactive effects except when consumed in large doses. Instead, it tends to make the user drowsy and can also be used to help any physical pain. This makes CBN an ideal ingredient in a sleep-assisting edible like Cheeba Chews Sleepy Time.
As I am a wimp when it comes to edibles, I only ingested one piece the first time I used this, not entirely sure what the effects would be. I figured I could always eat more if I didn’t feel they were working. I took one about 30-45 minutes before I went to bed as that’s usually about how long it takes for me to feel the effects of an edible.
I performed my usual nighttime ritual of flipping on a mindless TV show I’ve watched dozens of times, in this case, Forensic Files. One minute I was watching police officers investigate the source of a fatal fire, and the next I was drooling all over one of my poor couch pillows
dreaming about going to a wedding in which I had nothing to wear only to watch it get ruined by a giant of the Jack and the Beanstalk sort. No idea what this means for my psyche, but I’m choosing to see the silver lining in that I actually fell asleep in record time!
Somehow, I managed to lift myself from my stupor and stumble back to my bed where I continued to get a solid night’s sleep. Nothing could wake me up. Not even my alarm clock which I snoozed through at least three times.
The point is, not being able to sleep sucks. Trudging through your day when all you want to do is lay down on the floor and nap is no way to live. Stop your suffering and try Cheeba Chews Sleepy Time. Trust us, your eye bags will thank you.
— Sir Blaze RidcullyBeing an adult with insomnia is (not) super fun. Fortunately, Cheeba’s little miracle chews can provide a little sweet relief.
This isn’t going to be the usual weed review that you find on DGO Mag. There’ll be no tales of me believing that we’re all living in the Matrix or badly assembling furniture whilst stoned off my gourd.
Nah. This particular review is about microdosing, all thanks to Canyon ChewIT gummies. Canyon is a longtime marijuana company, producing cannabis-infused products for the medical marijuana industry since 2010.
Fortunately or unfortunately, I am one of those people who cannot function to save their life after ingesting marijuana whether that be smoking flower, eating edibles, or toking on a vape. I am done for. I don’t go into creative mode where I find myself writing beautiful poetry or becoming productive and do the dishes.
In other words, I am a slave to wherever I park my ass, for better or for worse.
Therefore, in a world where many marijuana products focus on higher and higher amounts of THC, experimenting with microdosing is of great interest to me.
For those of you who aren’t familiar, microdosing is ingesting only a small amount of a substance so you can still enjoy the effects but still function and not get high.
I picked up this pack during my latest visit to a dispensary. I went with the sativa option (the Blue Dream strain) of sour cherry limeade.
Other ChewIT options are sour lemonade, strawberry lemonade, sour watermelon lemonade, and pineapple lemonade.
Each pack comes with 40 gummies - 2.5 mg of THC each, so if you want to get stoned on these you’ll have to eat quite a few. I, however, did not purchase these to get stoned. At least, not right away. I wanted to see how I would function should I consume one gummy at a time.
ChewIT sour cherry limeade is a great sour candy. No weed taste - sweet initially before blooming into a full-on puckered tart flavor, enough so that I always make faces when I eat them.
But here’s where I admit something to you: I’ve never microdosed before. Usually when partaking in the ganja, I like to
go big or go home. I want to completely submerge myself in the utter fog that takes over. Sadly, this means I’m incapable of so much as operating a microwave when I’m stoned, but it’s the price I’m usually willing to pay.
It is not to partake and be able to function. The first time I tried a ChewIT gummy, I popped one of these thin, green squares on a Saturday afternoon.
I chose this particular day because I had no commitments so if this backfired impressively, at least I wouldn’t be high during a virtual game night with my family. Though come to think of it, that’s probably the best time to be stoned.
The effects were a mellow euphoria in which I had a clear head. For once, after partaking in some marijuana, I wasn’t laying helplessly on my couch. Or floor for that matter.
I felt a lot more energy to take a walk and work on a few projects before it eventually wore off and I took a nap for all my hard work. I can’t say that I felt it much in my body other than a very mild head buzz and felt very relaxed. The quarantine brain fog seemed to temporarily lift for a few hours even.
If you, like a lot of people, are interested in microdosing - whether it’s because you want a gentle intro to edibles or you just flat out don’t want to get stoned - Canyon ChewITs are a great place to start. Tiny, non-intimidating, and with lots of flavor options, it’s hard to go wrong with this line.
— Sir Blaze Ridcully
Ingesting small amounts of THC ain’t as pointless as it sounds — not with these excellent edibles, anyway
Hello out there! This is Blaze and Puf, your two friendly neighborhood potheads. We’re here to be your safe place for answers on all things pot. While we don’t necessarily love getting texts at 2 a.m. asking if it’s possible to overdose on weed (ahem, mom, ahem), we do like being the idiots who answer your deepest, darkest questions on things like, “How much THC is too much THC?” or “What is this that I’m vaping?”
So, in order to get you guys to stop texting us photos of some blurry lump of bright yellow wax at ungodly hours, we’re offering up this Q&A instead. You can ask us ANYTHING YOU WANT TO in here. There are no rules. You can even email us at 4 a.m. on a Tuesday if you want to. The world is your freaking pothead oyster!
So come one, come all with your silly, embarrassing, or just plain weird questions about weed, weed-related issues, and whatever else you can dream up. We’ll do our best to answer them in the best way possible. And here we go.
Blaze: When it comes to deciding whether it’s appropriate to tip or not, it usually comes down to customer service for me. I know lots of people have lots of different opinions on this, but that’s just how I feel about it.
In this case, however, I am a strong advocate for always tipping your budtender, if you can. Not only do budtenders do the very important task of getting you your weed, but a good budtender will take the time to make recommendations and educate customers on cannabis. Also, anytime you have to work a customer service job with a smile plastered on your face all day, you have my pity. So, yes! Tip your budtender, tip your barista, and tip your waiter.
Every time I go to a dispensary, I’m never sure whether I should tip my budtender or not. Should I be tipping?
Puf: Gurrrrrrrl (or boooooooy) — you better be tipping! You know how bartenders slang dranks for you in normal times when we’re not all stuck inside hating life? Yeah, it’s pretty much the same type of situation here. No, your budtenders aren’t using shakers to mix up your edibles (that would be cool as hell tho, right?) but they are offering you a service that you can’t get without them. Like, good luck getting the right dosage if your DIY-ing edibles. See you on the other side of that overwhelming trip, I guess.
And, you’re also really rewarding your budtender for their knowledge bank with your tip, too. Think about it. They’re the ones who know the answers to all your weird, noob, frustrating, out-there, or status quo questions when you aren’t sure what a strain is or what would be best for easing muscle soreness. They’re weed experts, man! Don’t you want to make sure they’re taken care of?
That said, I’m sure tipping isn’t **required** of you at any dispensary, but if you want to do the neighborly thing (and the good customer thing!) you best be tossing some dollar dollar bills their way when they ring you up.
And don’t just make it drizzle in the dispensary; make it raaaaaaain! If your budtender took a ton of time out of their day to tell you about the differences between Cheeba Chews and Ripple gummies, or if your budtender was extra patient while you counted out your cash roll, why not do them a solid and tip them out with a phat stack? You’d want someone to do the same for you, right?
I notice that a lot of dispensaries sell popcorn nugs. What is this and are they worth it?
Puf: Man, don’t you dare discount the popcorn nugs! These tiny little nugs aren’t cast-offs! They’re still the same weed you know and love. They’ve just had the unfortunate reality of landing lower on the cannabis plant’s branches as it’s being grown and cultivated.
Because these buds are usually found on the lower parts of the plant in areas close to the soil, they tend not to get the same amount of light, water, space, or nutrients that the buds that are higher up on the plant do. The lower location
of the branches causes them to produce smaller, more airy buds with fewer trichomes. These buds, technically known as larf, are colloquially known as popcorn buds when you’re in the weed shop.
Think of it like this: Popcorn nugs are like the runt of the litter. They’re lovable, cute, and best of all? They’re cheaper than some of the more phat nugs that are hand-picked for their stellar qualities.
Because these little buds don’t have that WOW factor that you’d get with full-price bud, they’re usually discounted and sold for a cheaper price than you’d get on those thicc bois from the top of the plant.
But considering that you’re freaking smoking the darn things or making edibles or concentrate, do you really need Instagram-ready bud to show off to your friends? Maybe, and that’s your call, but the popcorn buds on the plant can be a great way to score some stellar weed for cheap. And who doesn’t love a goddang deal?
So again, don’t you dare discount my little friends the popcorn nugs. They’re the real MVPs of the weed shop if you’re broke. Remember that.
Blaze: I personally love, love, love popcorn nugs. They’re just innocent mini nugs waiting to be smoked! Yes, they’re smaller
and not as potent as normal bud, but they’re still just as lovable.
These nugs tend to grow on the lower branches of a cannabis plant and have lower levels of trichomes, thus making them less potent, because they get less light than the rest of the plant. Also, they tend to be a bit cheaper than regular flower so they’re also a bit easier on your wallet.
people claim to feel a lot more relaxed, even tired. Like you said, CBD won’t make you feel intoxicated like THC products or alcohol will. In fact, CBD can actually make you feel better, especially if you’re having trouble sleeping or experiencing pain. CBD can be a great alternative to make you more healthy, wealthy, and wise, particularly if you use it medicinally.
Puf: Insert the obligatory “I am not a scientist/doctor/medical professional/someone who passed microbiology on the first try” here. That said, CBD can affect you in a variety of ways. It makes some people sleepy. That happens to my mom, which is why she won’t take it. She ain’t like being sleepy, I guess. Whatever floats your boat.
Blaze: That’s a tricky question because everyone responds to CBD a little differently. Some people claim not to feel anything at all when they ingest CBD. Other
It makes others relaxed and at ease but not sleepy. That can be a great fix for anxiety or high-strung personality types,
I know CBD isn’t supposed to make me stoned, but if I ingest it, how will it affect me?
but whether it will make YOU relaxed and at ease really depends on how your body reacts to it.
If we’re going on how it makes ME feel, well...that would be nonexistent. I don’t really feel anything when taking just plain ol’ CBD oil. (Don’t @ me, CBD manufacturers. It’s just the way I am!) That said, if I smoke a strain with CBD and THC in it, I can definitely tell the difference. I get more stoned and less anxious. So again, it’s all in how your body reacts to it.
My suggestion, if you’re worried about getting sleepy or too relaxed, is to try it out on a day when you don’t have much to do. That way if you’re rendered useless via relaxation, you can just hang and let it ride. But I would definitely not try it for the first time when you’re anxious
about a meeting or a big presentation or something. That right there is just asking for trouble.
I’ve noticed that whenever I smoke weed now it makes me super paranoid. Why does this happen and how can I stop it?
Puf: Speaking. Of. CBD.
This happens to me sometimes! I can get paranoid on some strains! And it freaking blows. I hate it. I don’t like being able to count my heartbeats because I can hear them in my head. I also don’t like feeling like I’m having trouble breathing, which is a new (and super
fun!) side effect of some strains for me.
My first suggestion would be to stop going straight up sativa with your strain choices. “Stahp it, Rahn,” to quote the best (and I mean worst) show ever, Jersey Shore. Sativas can amp up the paranoia and anxiety, and you may want to knock that crap off. Go for an indicaleaning hybrid or a straight up indica instead.
My second suggestion would be to try and pair CBD with the THC you’re intaking. If you’re not finding strains with a good mix of CBD and THC, get some CBD gummies or tincture and try to take them when you smoke or vape. CBD can be a huge help with the anxiety from smoking weed, and I’ve tried it myself. It tends to make me extra stoned, but anecdotally, I have noticed it takes a lot of the edge off (even though I know Blaze is going to shit talk and say otherwise below).
If neither of those work, my suggestion would be to really reel in the intake. Maybe you’re overdoing it. Getting super freaking stoned can be super freaking fun, or it can super freaking suck. You never know how it’ll go, so be careful and don’t overdo it. That alone could be the
source of your newfound weed anxiety, and cutting back could be the key to like, not hating life when you’re stoned.
Blaze: Getting paranoid if you ingest weed is definitely one of the less fun aspects of marijuana. I have multiple memories of sitting in my home, getting stoned, and becoming convinced that someone was trying to break in only to pass out an hour later without a care in the world.
Unfortunately, paranoia can be one of the side effects of THC because of how your brain connects with cannabinoids. You can avoid the heart-stopping terror of a marijuana-induced panic attack by, first of all, avoiding highly potent marijuana strains.
Instead, seek out CBD heavy products with lower amounts of THC. Though, if you’re Puf, this will only make you even more stoned. You can also watch how many increments of marijuana you ingest. Try taking just one gummy instead of two and how that affects your mental state when you’re stoned.
— Blaze Ridcully and DGO PufnstufBorder Buds, 1929 US-550, (970) 259-2639, borderbuds.com
Colorado Grow Co., 965 1/2 Main Ave., (970) 259-1647, coloradogrowcompany.com
Durango Organics, Bodo Park, 2 Suttle St., Suite F & G, (970) 259-3674, durangoorganics. com
Durango Organics, Grandview, 37 Co Rd. 232, (970) 426-4381, durangoorganics.com
Durango Rec Room, 145 E College Dr., (970) 764-4087, durangorecroom.com
The Greenery, 208 Parker Ave., Suite E, (970) 403-3710, durangogreenery.com
The Green House, 730 S Camino Del Rio, (970) 247-2420, thegreenhousecolorado.com
Kinfolk Farms, 83A Davidson Creek Rd., (970) 759-8683, kinfolk-farms.com
LOVA Canna Co –Durango, 1135 S Camino Del Rio, Suite 220, (970) 422-8029, lovaco.com
Mammoth Farms Dispensary, 927 CO-3, (970) 422-3282
Mountain Annie’s, 1644 CO Rd. 203, 970247-2190, mountainanniescannabis.com
Prohibition Herb, 1185 Camino Del Rio, (970) 385-8622, prohibitionherb.com
Rocky Mountain High, 120 E 36th St., (970) 259-4093, rockymountainhigh.co
Santé, 742 ½ Main Ave., (970) 375-2837, santecolorado.com
Telluride Bud Company, 3473 Main Ave., (970) 422-8311, telluridebc.com
Chronic Therapy, 1020 S. Broadway, (970) 529-2045, chronictherapy.com
Doobie Sisters, 695 N Broadway, (970) 5652345, doobiesistersco.com
Durango Organics, 1013 E Main St., (970) 565-6500, durangoorganics.com
The Herbal Alternative, 1531 Lebanon Rd., (970) 529-7007, theherbalalternative.net
LivWell Cortez, 1819 E Main St., (970) 5659577, livwell.com
Mountain Annie’s, 310 E Main St., (970) 564-5181, mountainanniescannabis.com
The Cultured Cannabis, 385 N Willow St., (970) 533-9931, theculturedco.com
LivWell Mancos, 101 Railroad Ave., (970) 533-9848, livwell.com
The Green House, 270 E Pagosa St., (970)
264-4420, thegreenhousecolorado.com
Pagosa Therapeutics, 235 Bastille Dr., (970) 731-4420, pagosatherapeutics.com
San Juan Strains, 356 E Pagosa St., Unit B, (970) 264-5323, sanjuanstrains.com
Smoke Rings, 266 E Pagosa St., (970) 2640942, smokeringsco.com
Pagosa Craft Dispensary, 127 Goldmine Dr., (970) 264-0833,.pagosacraftcannabis.com
High Grade Specialists, 600 Cloman Blvd. #1, (970) 731-3202, highgradespecialists.com
The Alchemist, 115 W Main St., (505) 2584180, thealchemistllc.com
Distinguished Dispensary, 4601 English Rd., (505) 278-8524, distinguisheddispensary. com
Dreamz Dispensary, 3501 E Main St., SUITE i-2, (505) 258-4680, dreamzcannabis.com
The Grass Station, 928 E Main St., (505) 2788825, tgs505.com
The Green House, 1901 East 20th St., (505) 258-4752, TheGreenHouseColorado.com
Oasis Cannabis Dispensary, 428 E Main St., (888) 505-3947, oasiscannabisnm.com
Purlife Farmington, 3024 E Main St., STE A, (505) 695-2360, purlifenm.com
The Reef Joint, 3000 E 20th St., Suite D2, (505) 278-8963, thereefjoint.com
Toke Dispensary, 4339 E Main St., Ste A, (505) 278-8823, ziatoke.com
Ultra Health Dispensary Farmington, 4251 E Main St., Suite D, (505) 258-4634, ultrahealth.com/new-mexico-dispensaries/farmington-2/
Farmco, 534 E. Broadway Ave., (833) 7773276, farmcousa.com
Grady’s Cannabis, 111 N. Main Ave., (505) 333-7456, gradyscannabis.com
Burnin’ Barrels, 2210 W Aztec Blvd., (505) 333-7583
Desert Flower, 111 W Chaco St., (505) 8010833, desertfloweraztec.com
The Green House, 1405 W. Aztec Blvd., TheGreenHouseColorado.com
BLOOMFIELD Treez, 816 W Broadway Ave., (505) 333-5608
KIRTLAND
Kind Life, 4354 US-64., (505) 716-8774, kindlifenm.com
» Well, don’t ye worry. These dispensaries will hook you up.
DGO’s Blaze and Puf answer your weed questions you are too embarrassed to ask anyone else.
Come one, come all with your silly, embarrassing, or just plain weird questions about weed, weed-related issues, and whatever else you can dream up. We’ll do our best to answer them in the best way possible