Alaska Leaf — Jan. 2019

THE ENLIGHTENED VOICE

# 33 | J A N U A RY 2 0 1 9

HAPPY NEW YEAR ALASKA BECOMES 1ST STATE TO LEGALIZE ONSITE CANNABIS CONSUMPTION!

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INDEPENDENT CANNABIS JOURNALISM SINCE 2010

Ask for At yo u r

Marijuana has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming and addictive. Marijuana impairs concentration, coordin or machinery under its influence. Their are health risks associated with consumption of marijuana. For use only by a Marijuana should not be used by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

l o c A l r e tA i l e r

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11 Editor’s Note 12 national News 18 alaska news 22 chena cannabis 24 alaska weeds 26 hemp law 28 highly likely 32 Strain Of The Month 36 the health issue 52 TASTY RECIPES 54 edible review 56 concentrate review 58 product review 60 sativas vs. indicas 62 patient profile

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SHERRY & BRANDON GILBERT C H E NA CAN NAB I S

2 4 ALASKA WEEDS P R EVI E W

5 2 CANNABIS COOKIES

TAS T Y R EC I P E S

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3 649 THE HEALTH ISSUE

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SATIVAS VS. INDICAS GUIDE

jan. 2019

10

62

HOW PATIENT BRENT MCCARTHY USES CANNABIS TO BATTLE CHRONIC PAIN AND PROMOTE CANCER ADVOCACY

jan. 2019

STORY BY SIMONE FISCHER @SIMONEFISCHERR | PHOTO by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS

T H E E N L I G H T E N E D VO I C E

FOUNDER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Wes abneY | wes@NWleaf.com | 425-219-6155

CONTRIBUTORS

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Boom Media Photos

Daniel bermaN | photography & design daniel@bermanphotos.com

Sarah Climaco Editing Mary Crockett Features

ART DIRECTOR

Steve Elliott National News Will Ferguson Features

BRANDON PALMA | BRANDING & DESIGN brandon@eighthdaycreate.com

Simone Fischer Profiles

CONTENT DIRECTOR

Danielle Halle Features Pacer Stacktrain Features Nate Williams Features Brandon Vosika Illustration Laurie & Bruce Wolf Recipes

AJ AGUILAR | CONTENT & CURATION aj@eighthdaycreate.com

ADVERTISING joshua stahle | ADVERTISING SALES Josh@AKLeaf.com | 907-317-2536

We do not sell stories or coverage. We are happy to offer design services and guidance on promoting your company’s recreational, commercial or industrial Cannabis product or upcoming event. We are targeted and independent Cannabis journalism. Email or call to discuss advertising.

The incredible news that Cannabis consumption will be allowed onsite in licensed Alaska retail Cannabis shops that meet stringent requirements was met with lots of celebratory tokes late last month. We are eager to see how the law evolves and grows to accommodate the wide range of businesses that will want access to this real future.

Learn more about the law on pg. 18. cover photo by daniel berman for ALASKA Leaf

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ABNEY

Editor’s Note Thanks for picking up the 1st Health Issue of Alaska Leaf!

Health is wealth as the saying goes, and Cannabis plays a big role in the modern healthcare paradigm. From topicals to pain relief, cancer treatments to stress relieving dabs at the end of a work day, Cannabis can help in many ways.

The most powerful part about this medicine is the fact that it is a plant. As big corporations and pharmaceutical manufacturers begin wading into the industry with billions of dollars, we can protect and preserve by growing our own. This is the most powerful thing we can do as Cannabis patients and consumers.

Even as how we buy and use the plant changes, we can have our own in the yard, closet or garage.

Holistic and practical, gardening for health is the truest form of wealth.

By replacing half the medicine cabinet with Cannabis, we discover the true power we have waiting in a pot of dirt.

So as you enjoy the new year and plan your resolutions, I encourage you to try growing your own Cannabis this year. Take your healthcare into your own hands, and connect with the plant that provides for us all.

I promise you won’t regret it!

Thanks for reading and sharing the Leaf, and happy gardening in 2019!

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AS YOU ENJOY THE NEW YEAR AND PLAN YOUR RESOLUTIONS, I ENCOURAGE YOU TO TRY GROWING YOUR OWN CANNABIS THIS YEAR.

-Wes Abney jan. 2019

AKLEAF.COM

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E S TA B L I S H E D 2 0 1 0

national news

CULTURE

ECONOMICS

Pot Perfume Hits Oregon Market

Maryland’s Medical Cannabis Sales Hit $96 Million

WHAT’S BEING CALLED THE FIRST ever cannabis infused fragrance is now for sale in Oregon.

Imeon is available in-store only at OLO Fragrance in Portland, reports WKRN. OLO teamed with vape pen company Quill on the project.

The base for the fragrance is the Purple Hindu Kush strain of cannabis. Lemon, tobacco, and frankincense are also used.

Imeon is described as “elegant, woodsy and warm.” It has no THC, meaning it won’t get you high. The price is the only high involved; it costs $95 a bottle.

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MARYLAND’S MEDICAL CANNABIS industry brought in $96.3 million in sales during its first year, reports The Baltimore Sun. Between 250 and 350 patients a day are applying to be certified by the state for medical marijuana. Nearly 52,000 patients bought 730,000 individual products from licensed dispensaries across Maryland since sales became legal in December 2017.

First-year sales more than doubled one industry expert’s earlier forecast of $46 million.

POLITICS

CANNABIS CAN STILL GET YOU FIRED IN MICHIGAN

aklEAF.COM

MICHIGAN CANNABIS USERS are adjusting to the reality of the situation, and they have little choice. It’s written right into the new state law legalizing cannabis.

A section of the “Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marijuana Act” explains that employers are still allowed to screen and dismiss employees and applicants for cannabis use.

“This act does not prohibit an employer from disciplining an employee for violation of a workplace drug policy or for working while under the influence of marihuana,” the Act reads. “This act does not prevent an employer from refusing to hire, discharging, disciplining, or otherwise taking an adverse employment action against a person with respect to hire, tenure, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment because of that person’s violation of a workplace drug policy or because that person was working while under the influence of marihuana.”

jan. 2019

BY STEVE ELLIOTT / TOKESIGNALS.COM

(1) "Marijuana has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming and addictive;” (2) "Marijuana impairs concentration, coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under its influence;” (3) "There are health risks associated with consumption of marijuana” (4) "For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children;” and (5) "Marijuana should not be used by women who are pregnant or breast feeding;”

national news POLITICAL

aklEAF.COM

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Maryland Panel Bans Cannabis Advertising THE MARYLAND MEDICAL CANNABIS COMMISSION inDecember voted unanimously to ban billboard, radio, TV, and most online advertising by marijuana companies.

Representatives for the companies said they would fight the move in the Maryland General Assembly when it convenes next month, reports The Baltimore Sun. The new rules also ban advertising in newspapers and magazines that cannot prove that 85 percent of their audience is over 18 years old. Leaflets and flyers are also banned in most public and private places.

Internet ads must be accompanied by an age-verification page that users have to answer. Cannabis advocates claim that essentially bans online ads, since there’s no way to verify accurate ages.

The commission’s move comes just as Maryland’s medical cannabis industry is rapidly growing.

“This is a total ban on advertising,” said Mackie Barch, chairman of the Maryland Wholesale Medical Cannabis Trade Association. Barch said the commission banned advertising in response to the concerns of just two state lawmakers who got upset about a single billboard on Route 50 depicting Adam and Eve smoking a joint.

jan. 2019

NATIONAL

New York Could Go Legal In 2019 CANNABIS ADVOCATES EXPECT NEW YORK GOV. ANDREW Cuomo to call on the Legislature to legalize recreational cannabis during his first budget address in 2019, reports NBC News.

“We’re drafting legislation,” said Rich Azzopardi, a spokesman for the governor.

Cuomo earlier this year launched a working group to make legislative recommendations based on a study on “regulated marijuana” unveiled in July. The study concluded, “The positive effects of a regulated marijuana market in New York State outweighs the potential negative impacts.”

“There’s a lot of hope for it in the legislative session,” said Kassandra Frédérique, New York State director of the Drug Policy Alliance. “We’re ready with a checklist to hold them accountable.”

BY STEVE ELLIOTT / TOKESIGNALS.COM

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Marijuanahas intoxicating effects andmaybehabitforming andaddictive.Marijuanaimpairs concentration,coordination,andjudgement.Donotoperate vehicleormachineryunderits influence.Therearehealthrisks associatedwithconsumptionofmarijuana.Foruseonlybyadults 21andolder.Keepoutofreachofchildren.Marijuanashouldnotbeusedbywomenwhoarepregnantorbreastfeeding

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anchoragecannabisbusinessassociation.com D E S I G N CO U R T E S Y O F G R E AT N O R T H E R N C A N N A B I S The Anchorage Cannabis Business Association (ACBA) is committed to strengthening legal cannabis business opportunities by creating a close network of members who can provide support and advice in navigating this budding industry. ACBA and its members are dedicated to following existing laws and changing the perception of cannabis through positive community interaction. Become a member! Contact acbassn@gmail.com to get started.

Like us on Facebook! WARNING: Marijuana has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming and addictive.

Marijuana impairs concentration, coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under its influence. There are health risks associated with consumption of marijuana. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children. Marijuana should not be used by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

alaska news

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PAVING THE WAY TO ONSITE\ CONSUMPTION A day in the making since Cannabis was legalized in Alaska finally arrived on December 20, as the Alaska Marijuana Control Board voted 3-2 to finally pass regulations regarding onsite consumption. Following the day after the board received public comments for and against the proposal, the vote came as a huge victory for the industry and sets the stage for Alaska to be the first state in the country to allow consumption on site.

However, the regulations proposed will allow only certain businesses to participate, allow areas to opt out entirely, as well as impose limits. Alaska Leaf breaks down what this means for the Cannabis industry, the state and you.

aklEAF.COM

T

he push for any form of on-site consumption started as soon as Cannabis as legalized in Alaska. However, until now, this had always resulted in frustration for the industry. It seemed each time the issue was brought forward to the board, the board would kick the can down the road to deal with at a later date. Various regulations were proposed in this time, then sent out for public comment and reviewed the regulations would be revised and then sent back out for comment, again.

It was a cycle that seemed endless until this last summer when compromise seemed to have been struck.

The regulations that passed on December 20 were proposed at the August Control Board meeting and had the most traction of any proposal.

This process culminated in the December 19 public comment forum at the Anchorage Crime Lab. At this meeting, the turnout was fantastic.

For over three hours, impassioned members of the industry and concerned members of the community were able to voice their opinions of what this could mean for the state. The next day, members of the board debated the regulations while taking into consideration the hours of public testimony. After a brief exchange of ideas, the issue came to a vote. Silence overtook the room as members of the board cast their vote for or against, and the moment it as clear it had passed emotion overtook the room. Loud applause and cheering from almost all in attendance.

Finally, Alaska has taken a step towards onsite use.

The regulations do still have hurdles to clear. A review from the Alaska Department of Law is next, and then off to the Lt. Governor’s desk for either approval or veto.

This could all happen quickly, this could take months.

But the first step has been taken.

jan. 2019

ON-SITE CONSUMPTION will now be allowed with an endorsement to a retail license. The retail store must be freestanding, and the consumption area must be separate from the retail space and must be secure. Indoor consumption areas will require proper ventilation, and outdoor consumption areas will be allowed but must be secured and away from other buildings ventilation.

What this means: Not all retail stores will be able to host a consumption space. Only a few select stores will qualify by either being a freestanding structure or having an outdoor area to set up a consumption site. Only retail stores can, at the moment, apply for an on-site endorsement.

A STORE MAY NOT sell more than one gram of flower, and edibles containing more than 10 mg of THC for onsite use. Concentrates are not permitted for onsite use.

What this means: LIMITS! As of now, you will not be able to smoke more than one gram of flower, or enjoy more than 10mg of edibles in a day at an onsite location. We believe we can move to get these limits increased in the future, as these limits make these on-site areas more of tasting rooms instead of lounges. Also, the fact that concentrates are not included in this is a letdown.

A STORE MAY NOT sell more than one ounce of flower per day to any customer.

What this means: This affects all stores, not just retail locations offering on site. Customers are now restricted to no more than one ounce per day. Previously, this was one ounce per transaction and the new wording could be problematic. It will be very difficult for stores to track who is buying what throughout the day over changing shifts without a sort of customer tracking system that registers every customer. That kind of system would be a huge violation of privacy and is already not allowed. So, I see a potential conflict here.

This is only a first step. There will be many steps that follow, as this was never going to be an easy fight. The almost three-year-long fight for on-site should have made that part rather obvious. Once these regulations are up and running, we can push to amend them as we as a community see fit, and allow all of us who enjoy this wonderful plant more rights and opportunities to really enjoy ourselves. I am personally looking forward to hanging out at a lounge with friends in the future, but that future is still farther away than I would like it to be.

WHAT’S NOT ALLOWED? *NO CONCENTRATES *NO TEMPORARY EVENT PERMITS *NO NON-RETAIL STORE ENDORSEMENTS What this means: Since only retail stores are allowed for endorsement, we are essentially locking the industry out of being innovative. Lounges, infused eateries, infused spas and salons. There are numerous business opportunities that could involve Cannabis but will not have that chance under these regulations.

BY JOSHUA STAHLE/ALASKA LEAF

VA C A T I O N S W E E T S B O O K I N G D A I L Y

This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. There may be health risks associated with con consumption of this product. For use only by adults 21 and older. Keep out of reach of children.

BUSINESS spotlight

CHENA CANNABIS >>TheFamilyThat GrowsTogether

Chena Cannabis co-owner Sherry Gilbert with her son, Brandon, at their Cannabis shop in North Pole.

aklEAF.COM

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jan. 2019

By MARY CROCKETT FOR ALASKA LEAF | PHOTOS by DANIEL BERMAN & DAVY BERRY, 907 ADS

it was one snowy day in fairbanks when Sherry Gilbert and her son, Brandon Gilbert, were cracking jokes about starting a Cannabis business. Knowing full well the risk they were entertaining, it wasn’t until five months later in May that they were looking seriously at properties for a place to start their cultivation and retail shop.

This new endeavor presented a fresh set of challenges.

But this didn’t stop the Gilbert’s from finding the perfect location to begin their legal Cannabis business.

One can’t help but wonder what sparked the Gilbert’s interest in Cannabis. Why take such a risk? At first, Sherry grinned and answered simply, “I grew a little back in the 70s, but back then, you didn’t even know if it was male, female, or whatever else.” Brandon’s experience with Cannabis, however, began more medicinal in nature.

After contracting a case of rheumatic fever from an untreated case of strep throat—a condition affecting less than three percent of individuals diagnosed with strep—he was prescribed five years worth of antibiotics, shots two times a month, and an assortment of pain killers. It was here that Brandon politely declined the opioid prescriptions and treated himself with Cannabis.

Looking back on it, Sherry admits that it took time for her to become comfortable with the situation. But she also realizes that six years ago, her then 18 year old son could’ve become an opioid addict, rather than the proud business owner he is today.

“anyone that visits Chena Cannabis and meets Sherry and Brandon Gilbert will agree that they are quite the revolutionary and dynamic duo.”

1725 Richardson Highway, North Pole, ak | (907) 488-0489

AKLEAF.COM

While Sherry chose to accept her child consuming Cannabis, she also built her career with the State of Alaska for 17 years, where she worked as everything from a small claims clerk in Fairbanks to a correction officer in Nome.

During this time, Sherry regularly worked extra jobs in which she was required to file an ethics disclosure for to the State of Alaska—from bartending to security work. However, when she filed her disclosure regarding a Cannabis business, it was declined.

Following further inquiry, Sherry was informed that the Alaska Police Standard Council had voted unanimously to revoke the police certificate of anyone that works for, or is on the license of, a Cannabis business. Gilbert was suddenly facing not only having her police certificate invalidated, but also being dismissed from the career she had worked to maintain for so long. Not to be bullied or dissuaded, Sherry held off on her Cannabis pursuits momentarily—putting in her two weeks notice with the State of Alaska before they could fire her.

A mother and son team in the Cannabis scene is undoubtedly a rarity, and anyone that visits Chena Cannabis and meets Sherry and Brandon Gilbert will agree that they are quite the revolutionary and dynamic duo.

For the most part, you’ll find Sherry running the retail side of the operation while Brandon is busy cultivating in the storage facility behind the shop—together providing the North Pole with high quality access to legal Cannabis.

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jan. 2019

SHOP REVIEEW

6209 MIKE ST #2A ANCHORAGE, AK OPEN DAILY NOON-9PM | AKWEEDS.COM

REVIEW by JOSHUA STAHLE / ALASKA LEAF

PRODUCTS 5/5

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For not yet being open, I was quite impressed with the selection the store has built up for opening day.

With a good amount of strains grown in-house and none of their product yet on the market, this will be a must stop location for those looking to get their hands on something new. I must recommend their Panama Red. Boasting a wide selection of pre-rolls and various concentrates, there is something for everyone. They also offer a pre-roll pack of four at a great price for those looking to try various strains.

HISTORY & VALUES

4/5

The only knock here is they are brand new to the market and are just starting to build their story. The owners have seemingly turned over every stone to locate some of the best choices and the best environment for their store. Making the customer’s needs the priority, I wouldn’t expect anything less than a stellar experience once they open up the doors. Typically, I like to talk to several budtenders when we do our store reviews, but with this particular store being a preview, we did not have that opportunity. From my conversations with the owners, however, I would be very surprised if they don’t have top-notch budtenders on opening day.

ENVIRONMENT & VIBE

aklEAF.COM

5/5

I was blown away as soon as I walked in the door from what they have done with the space that they have available. On one side of the store is a display case that runs almost the entire length of the wall. Well lit with displays of their in-house grown strains, it’s an eye catcher. Behind the counter is also one of the most unique storage methods I have come across to date — a series of lockers with windows that peer inside. Inside will be the strains that they are selling, and by writing the strain name on the windows, give the setup a very unique menu feature. The green overhead lighting ties it all together.

Alaska Weeds is the next store in line to open its doors to the Anchorage area. Due to open soon, we had the pleasure of checking the place out before the doors officially open to the public. Set up off of 64th Ave. and C St., the place will definitely be worth a visit once the doors open!

jan. 2019

PHOTOS by BOOM MEDIA

ALASKA WEEDS

AKLEAF.COM

THE OWNERS HAVE SEEMINGLY TURNED OVER EVERY STONE TO LOCATE SOME OF THE BEST CHOICES AND THE BEST ENVIRONMENT FOR THEIR STORE. jan. 2019

OPINION

by JERRY WHITING for ALASKA LEAF

HEMP, HEMP, HOORAY?

HOW THE LAW HAS CHANGED

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New federal definition of industrial hemp: cannabis sativa L. with less than 0.3 percent delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol by dry weight.

Not total THC, not even THC-A which is most of what the plant makes.

Just delta-9-THC. Hemp has been removed from the Controlled Substances Act and therefore is no longer illegal under federal law. No more Schedule 1 status.

aklEAF.COM

State laws will continue to define cultivation, but interstate commerce is a go!

The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has “regulatory authority” over hemp used in food products or supplements, with the exception of hemp seeds, hemp seed protein and hemp seed oil. Hemp-derived products including CBD marketed as food or supplements or those making curative or therapeutic claims, will be regulated by the FDA.

jan. 2019

The passing of the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (a.k.a.

The Farm Bill) is a game changer of epic proportions. I’m not one to sing the praises of politicians, but we owe Mitch McConnell a special shoutout. Without his support, we wouldn’t be celebrating the loosening of restrictions on hemp at the federal level. With hemp cultivation legal and licensed in several states already, the rise of federally legal hemp means everyone will be jumping on their tractor this Spring.

Challenge #1 With everyone planting hemp for CBD

extraction, where will all those seeds come from?

Unfortunately, many hemp farmers will plant questionable cultivars that wander over 0.3 percent THC. Because most will plant regular, not feminized seeds, there will be acres of co-ed hemp across the land. Mary Jane’s and Mary John’s side-by-side. What will happen when all those male plants flower and spread their pollen far and wide? Ask the pot farmers downwind! Did you know pollen can travel 3 to 5 miles?

Challenge #2 Learning curve. Most new hemp farmers

don’t have previous experience growing marijuana.

It’s a new crop to those used to growing corn, wheat, soybeans, etc. My advice? Read Jorge Cervantes book, “The Cannabis Encyclopedia: The Definitive Guide to Cultivation & Consumption of Medical Marijuana”. Your county extension agent won’t be of any help. My hope is that new farmers will do their homework, share notes with others, local or online, and strive to improve next year.

Challenge #3 Lack of harvest infrastructure. Growing

hemp is easy compared to harvesting it. Every farmer scoffs and ignores my advice: “Plant only what you can

harvest plus 10 percent in case you get lucky.” Ask yourself how you’re going to cut it, dry it, cure it and store it before planting 10, 20, 50 acres or more. Just because you can doesn’t mean you should.

If you don’t have an indoor facility that can maintain 60/60, 60 degrees and 60 percent humidity, you can’t dry your precious harvest correctly, let alone store it without mold and mildew ruining your crop.

The more you grow, the harder it is to harvest it all correctly. Better a smaller, high-quality crop than a large, poor one. Buyers will become pickier as the CBD market grows, and large processors will want uniform plant material to work with. This means fewer cultivars with consistent chemical composition. The only way to scale efficiently is standardization throughout the whole supply chain beginning with the raw hemp. Big Ag isn’t interested in multiple strains, only the ones they can grow in bulk and dial in, time after time. Big Ag customers don’t want to deal with a gaggle of small family farms.

If I win the lottery, I’m going to invest in hemp as food.

I dream of the day when hemp milk is an option at Starbucks. Why import Canadian hemp seeds to make hemp milk when farmers in Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, et al. can not only supply our needs, but the export market too.

Will we see USDA organic hemp farms? Let’s hope so.

There’s no reason we can’t look forward to that familiar logo on a wide variety of retail products.

Access to banking services for the hemp ecosystem? It’s no longer Schedule 1 so why not?

My hope for industrial hemp in 2019 is that CBD-rich hemp will fill the void in states lacking access to recreational or even medical marijuana.

When organically grown hemp is used to make whole plant a.k.a. full spectrum preparations, consumers and patients across the nation will finally have access to wholesome medicine.

A wide range of cannabinoids, even without delta-9THC, is just what’s needed by so many who suffer in pain.

Hemp to the rescue!

“I DREAM OF THE DAY WHEN HEMP MILK IS AN OPTION AT STARBUCKS.”

Visit LeBlancCNE.com/podcast

HIGHLY LIKELY #41

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RICKI LAKE The iconic talk show host has turned her focus to Cannabis, becoming both a documentary filmmaker and a vocal advocate for MMJ. Lake will deliver the keynote presentation at the Cannabis Science Conference in Baltimore, MD April 8-10, 2019.

aklEAF.COM

F

ormer talk show host and actress Ricki Lake is the sort of celebrity that was made for the culture of the quirky 90s.

Originally from Baltimore, Lake was a character in many of oddball director Roger Walters films of the late 1980s, but she rose to stardom through her appearance in his breakout cult-classic “Hairspray” as Tracy Turnblad, the film’s protagonist.

Lake’s acting career eventually led to her hosting the popular daytime talk show, “The Ricki Lake Show,” which became a syndicated program on television in the 1990s and into the 2000s.

Lake’s quirky-and-smart character and her terrific personality made her a natural in the role, as it seemed like she could get anyone to talk about anything. And, at just 24 years old, she was the youngest person to ever host a talk show on network television. For here on, she would be forever sealed into the zeitgeist of Generation X. She finally decided to hang up the microphone and cease production on “The Ricki Lake show” in the mid-2000s, choosing to work on documentary filmmaking.

Her first film was directed with longtime collaborator Abby Epstein was a breakout hit. “The Business of Being Born” is an exploration of the maternity care system in America, which offered a critical look at the modern medical-industrial complex and its impact on society.

Learn more about Lake’s documentary >> WeedThePeopleMovie.com

Cannabis for people with chronic Now, over a decade later, Lake RICKI FINALLY illness – especially children. is back in the spotlight again for a DECIDED TO “Weed the People,” premiered at different reason – Cannabis activism.

SXSW 2018 to rave reviews.

She’s again joined forces with EpHANG UP THE Rather than look at the recreationstein to produce “Weed the People” MICROPHONE al benefits of Cannabis, the film crea film that truly looks at Cannabis ates the argument for the reschedthrough its health benefits – especialAND CEASE uling of Cannabis as a Schedule 1 ly for children suffering from chronic PRODUCTION drug by the federal government. conditions.

“It’s not about legalization, regThe idea for the film came to her ON “THE RICKI ulation, or getting high,” Lake told because of her late husband’s reLAKE SHOW” IN Salon.com. search on medical Cannabis, which “It’s about children dying of he utilized because of several chronic THE MID-2000S cancer and the heroic docs and scihealth conditions. entists putting their time into this...Scientists can’t do Seeing how Cannabis helped her husband, and science because it’s a Schedule I drug. But [medical how it could help others – Lake became convinced marijuana] has been used to treat many innocuous that this medicine should not be a Schedule 1 ailments, such as anxiety and pain, and now it’s substance. She’s become a Cannabis advocate used to shrink tumors.” by making a case for the medicinal application of

Highlighting Cannabis pioneers who paved the way to greater herbal acceptance. jan. 2019

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STRAIN OF THE MONTH

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PURPLE TRA aklEAF.COM

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weet, floral, pungent and dense — four simple words to describe this Purple Trainwreck grown by Alaska Cannabis Exchange. These profiles carry on through the smoke, with a spiced earthy note on exhale. The high is utterly euphoric, grasping at the back of your head and pulling you back into your chair, and it doesn’t take long to grab hold. Sinking from there down through your neck and shoulders, finally encompassing the whole body in a euphoric haze. Note that this is a high CBD strain testing in at 8.7 percent — you can definitely tell after a few tokes. Available at Enlighten Alaska and worth a smoke if you enjoy CBD!

jan. 2019

THE HIGH IS UTTERLY EUPHORIC,

GRASPING AT THE BACK OF YOUR HEAD AND PULLING YOU BACK INTO YOUR CHAIR

AINWRECK REVIEW by ALASKA LEAF | PHOTO by BOOM MEDIA

jan. 2019

jan. 2019

AKLEAF.COM

ALASKA CANNABIS EXCHANGE

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THE HEALTH ISSUE 3 7 / W h a t M a k e s H e a lt h y C a n n a b i s ?

38 / Microdosing your Cannabis 4 0 / C a n n a b i s : n e c e s s a ry f o r g o o d h e a lt h 42 / The power of a little THCV 4 4 / Q & A : T h e K n o x F a m i ly o f d o c t o r s 46 / q&a: dr. brück clift + medical mj

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the health issue

HEALTH C

ART BY BRANDON PALMA / 8THDAYCREATE.COM FOR ALASKA LEAF

WHAT MAKES HEALTHY CANNABIS?

BY PACER STACKTRAIN FOR ALASKA LEAF

ever Since the first cannabis shops opened up,

1. grow practice Is the producer growing indoors, outdoors, or in a greenhouse setting? This makes a lot of difference not just in terms of structure, flavor and density of the Cannabis, but also in terms of the pest control management they use.

2. Nutrient regimen Is the producer using synthetic or natural nutrients?

Are they a living soil producer or do they use cocoa?

Are they using mineral salts or home-brewed teas?

3. Pest control Reputable growers will typically be up-front about their pest control management. Many are proud of the lengths to which they go to ensure clean Cannabis. You can look for certifications like Clean Green certified, DEM pure, or any of the other third-party certifications as well.

4. Cure This one you’ll have to judge for yourself at the point of purchase. Curing is one of the most overlooked aspects by growers. We’ve all had the experience of smoking “wet” weed. Often, if something smells fantastic but tastes terrible when consumed, this is an identifier of improperly cured Cannabis. Many disagree on the ‘white ash’ test, but I’ve found that with the growers I know that put the time into curing, the ash burns white every time.

AKLEAF.COM

I have been on a mission to try to understand what exactly is going into my lungs and body as I consume Cannabis.

Even with considerable effort, I’m sad to say that I still don’t know. While it’s true that our testing and regulatory system is the envy of the modern Cannabis world, it seems like every month we see a new story about a supposedly reputable farm engaged in some less than reputable practice.

I’ve also witnessed a lot of shifting of blame when someone gets caught doing this.

Yes, it’s true that the labs should catch pesticides or mold (or worse) before they hit the market, but producers shouldn’t be using illegal pesticides or trying to push tainted weed on the public.

This problem presents an interesting dilemma for consumers: what constitutes healthy Cannabis?

One could really get into the weeds on this issue, talking about the nuances of growing methods, pest control and cure. Though, at the end of the day, I think it comes down to producers being transparent.

I encourage the Cannabis consuming public to put the heat on producers in this regard. They won’t tell you what nutrient system they’re using? Shady.

They’ve moved facilities often? Funny business.

Failed a few inspections? Definitely a red flag.

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When you’re learning about a producer, here are some critical things to consider

jan. 2019

the health issue aklEAF.COM

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MICRODOSING YOUR CANNABIS

Consuming just a little bit of Cannabis used to be something we all just had to deal with from time to time. Less than a decade ago, most of us had a “dealer” and with them, a practice of procuring our herb in a manner that was often inconvenient, sometimes anxiety-inducing and, on occasion scary. Naturally, this had the effect of scarcity on the amount people consumed, and how often they consumed it. What I’m trying to say is – there were times when things ran dry – and when it did, we had to cut back on how much we consumed.

Fast forward to today, a time in history where there’s more Cannabis being produced than ever before.

We live in a time where we can walk into stores to purchase Cannabis, and do so in forms we never imagined before. With the sheer abundance of Cannabis in our daily lives, it can be hard not to gravitate toward a sort of macro-dosing. But there are questions to be answered – is all of that smoke healthy? Are huge, lung-crushing dabs hazardous to our health?

We’ve all had the experience of consuming a large amount of Cannabis, only to find that the next time we smoke it takes more to get as high. This is especially true for edible consumers, where the tolerance builds quite rapidly. And with that tolerance comes a reduction in the offer effect, or therapeutic benefits of this miraculous herb.

But how does one learn what the right amount for them is? How much is the right amount to consume?

The answer really, is that your body knows – but your brain gets confused.

We’ve all felt the therapeutic benefits of this herb, but our endocannabinoid system hasn’t been tested to the degree that warrants actual scientific, or medical conclusions, so all we can really do is try to listen to our own bodies to discover what feels right. And, because Cannabis is a non-physically addictive substance, the possibility of taking a break from consumption is a real benefit, albeit one that requires a bit of willpower.

Many of us have had the experience of not getting high the first few times we consumed Cannabis. While we don’t truly understand why this happens, we do know that Cannabis tolerance works differently than other drugs like alcohol or tobacco.

Scientists theorize a “sensitization period” when one begins using Cannabis, where it takes a few times for the body and brain to develop the CB1 receptors that allow us to feel high. That’s why sometimes it takes a person a few tries before they really experience being high. Then, there’s the nuance of the physiological and psychological effects of Cannabis. In general terms the idea of being “high” vs. being “stoned.”

tiny tokes for a try

1.

First, you’ll need a tolerance or “T” break. This can take place over two to seven days; what you choose to do is really up to you. But, a good way to judge how much time your receptors need to reset likely depends on how much Cannabis you consume and how often you do. Once you’ve gotten to the point that you feel your cannabinoid receptors have reset so to speak, you’ll be primed to try microdosing.

jan. 2019

2.

Take just one small hit off of whatever type of device or smoking apparatus you typically use. If you’re a concentrate-only user, take a little dab or a very light hit off of a pen or vaporizer. If you primarily use edibles, try a very low dose (say 2.5mg or under). Note: this can be really hard, especially if you were previously accustomed to, say, smoking a joint at a time. Try setting a timer for 5-10 minutes and notice what you feel like. This will be your gauge as to how much it takes to get you to the place you want to be.

3.

The beauty of microdosing Cannabis is that you introspect a bit. You get a good idea of how your mood, mind, and body are being affected. You’ll begin to be able to really discern the difference between what “high” and “stoned” means for you (hunch: I bet you’ll like “high” better) and start moving toward experiencing one more over the other.

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this very special herb can

actually allow us to have a sort of first experience all over again. Most of us never get to feel that because it’s so plentiful now, but it is absolutely essential and wonderful.

BY PACER STACKTRAIN FOR ALASKA LEAF | ART BY BRANDON PALMA / 8THDAYCREATE.COM FOR ALASKA LEAF

AKLEAF.COM

I really enjoy the feeling of being high.

the health issue

WHY CANNABIS IS NECESSARY FOR GOOD HEALTH Cannabinoid Deficiency Syndrome (CDS)

aklEAF.COM

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is a progressive concept in Cannabis research that shows linkages between common illnesses and diseases like migraines, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Crohn’s Disease, Celiac Disease, ADHD, and many others afflicting large populations in the U.S. Dr. Ethan Russo MD, a leading scientist, has been hypothesizing concepts of CDS and been a part of the research conducted by GW Pharmaceutical--all under the supervision of the FDA, NIDA, DEA, and other governmental organizations at the only legal Cannabis cultivation and research facility in the U.S., located at the University of Mississippi.

Research surrounding CDS and the described illnesses and diseases involve a relationship with our endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of ligands and receptor sites that exchange information between our body systems.

Via the ECS, our bodies naturally produce endocannabinoids such as Anandamide, which mimic externally ingested cannabinoids known as phytocannabinoids - including THC and CBD - to carry information or activate receptor sites to stimulate a reaction. The ECS is innervated throughout all systems of the body and is the modulating system that creates homeostasis or equilibrium.

Due to the unique structure, actions and innervations within all body systems, the ECS is not well understood.

However, it is known to play a role in key functions of the body, which helps to maintain homeostasis.

Current medical theories suggest a clear linkage between being deficient in cannabinoids and the prevalence of prominent diseases and conditions.

There is a major impediment to conducting research

jan. 2019

BY JAMES SCHWARTZ RN, BSN, LNC CEO | CASCADEHIGH

on this topic: Cannabis is classified as a Schedule source of a wide variety of pharmaceutical 1 drug under the Controlled Substances Act, which treatments originated from naturally means that a substance has been deemed to have no occurring plants, animals, and other therapeutic value and a high risk of abuse. natural sources. So, the healing power of As such, research organizations are banned from plants is a well-documented fact and one studying the substance.

I embrace. As a health scientist, I am a This creates a problem to either prove its firm believer in evidence-based medicine effectiveness and safety, or disprove false claims. and science. Without the ability to study For scientific health research, large group, longCannabis and its many therapies, it’s term, variable controlled studies impossible to prove its are critical to providing concrete effectiveness. evidence in clinical trials.

However, what the These studies are referred to preliminary evidence as double-blind randomized and working hypotheses control trials, or RCTs, which strive around CDS proves to suggest a clear to eliminate bias and control me is that Cannabis is a variables. linkage between “wellness drug”, similar If research can’t be done, it to daily vitamins, that being deficient is extremely difficult to provide we should all ingest in in cannabinoids evidence or conduct RCTs. Data one form or another. and research on Cannabis is That said, there are and the extremely limited and has only been many ways of ingesting prevalence conducted under direct government cannabinoids, including of prominent control and supervision, or has THC, that would not been completed with privately cause any psychoactive diseases and funded companies with limited effect because it has not conditions. resources and a few small-group, been decarboxylated. human clinical trials.

One example is As a parent, a healthcare professional, a Cannabis juicing. There are also other methods that user, and a licensed “adult use” Cannabis producer, I prevent the occurrence of psychoactive recognize I have a bias. effects and other cannabinoid compounds When using critical thinking, we need to recognize that are not psychoactive to begin with. our own bias and preconceived ideas about a These compounds and methods have been subject. I realize my opinions on Cannabis come demonstrated to be safe, even for children. from a true belief in the power of this plant, which is Cannabis is safe, has many medicinal the reason I am not only a proponent of Cannabis benefits, and appears even necessary for but also a producer. As a nurse, I know very well the good health. If you don’t believe me, seek healing power of plants; as most know, the primary the truth for yourself.

Current medical theories

ART BY BRANDON PALMA / 8THDAYCREATE.COM FOR ALASKA LEAF

the health issue

THE POWER OF A LITTLE THCV

BY WILL FERGUSON @710DENCIES

42

THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)

is often referred to as the sports car of cannabinoids. The compound is composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms that follow the usual phytocannabinoids structure of being insoluble in water, but extremely soluble in fat/lipid-based solvents. Interestingly, THCV becomes psychoactive exclusively in high doses, as it acts as an antagonist of the CB1 receptor in lower doses. Smoking a high THCV strain results in a clear, and focused high, which is sadly shorter-lived than the effects of THC. THCV is also an appetite suppressant, whereas THC is an appetite stimulant. Smoking strains higher in THCV can cut the munchies while also delivering a powerful, yet functional high.

aklEAF.COM

What are the benefits of THCV?

THCV has been proven to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce insulin resistance, making it a good option for those with diabetes. THCV has antioxidant properties, which can slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s disease.

Surprisingly enough, THCV also counteracts anxiety and is often sought out to quell panic attacks. People suffering from PTSD may also find some relief by smoking or ingesting THCV, as it does not suppress emotions entirely. It also stimulates new bone cell growth, making it a great option for osteoporosis, osteogenesis and other bone conditions.

THCV has antioxidant properties, which can slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s disease.

jan. 2019

ART BY BRANDON PALMA / 8THDAYCREATE.COM FOR ALASKA LEAF

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the health issue

INTERVIEW BY NATE WILLIAMS @NATEW415

MODERN\MEDICINE Q&A WITH DR. RACHEL KNOX

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With legal Cannabis federally on the horizon, we will soon see mainstream medicine begin to incorporate, synthesize and otherwise utilize this plant within their practices. Until that time, our current medical system ensures there are only a few doctors who have studied the plant and are knowledgeable about its applications not just anecdotally, but on a clinical level. jan. 2019

Meetdr.JaniceKnox,Dr.rachelknoxanddr.davidknox,

mother, daughter and father, three members of a four-member family of MD doctors who have not only adopted Cannabis into their regular practice, but have quite possibly developed our country’s first legitimate Cannabis-friendly clinic since before prohibition.

The American Cannabinoid Clinics was brought to life in Portland, Oregon after Janice was asked to cover shifts at a Marijuana Card clinic and was exposed to vastly different types of patients than she anticipated. It didn’t take long for the family to make the realization that a truly non-discriminatory clinic didn’t exist and that they were perfectly poised to step up and fill a gap. Both Rachel and Jessica Knox (not pictured) graduated from Tufts University in 2012 with MD and MBA degrees, and they have been steadily developing their professional medical careers while simultaneously helping their parents establish the American Cannabinoid Clinics.

This brilliant family is truly an asset to the Cannabis industry. Never before have we had medical professionals on our side in such a fashion, with skin in the game in the form of their own practice. These individuals are serving patients and spreading knowledge among Cannabis consumers. They are also helping educate and change the minds of other medical professionals.

Northwest Leaf was fortunate enough to catch up with Dr. Rachel Knox to learn more about the American Cannabinoid Clinics and get her perspective on this industry and its future.

PHOTOS BY DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS

How long have you and your family been practicing medicine and at what point was Cannabis incorporated as part of your curriculum?

My parents, Dr. David and Janice Knox, have been practicing medicine for 40 and 39 years respectively. Dr. David is retiring from the field of emergency medicine at the close of this year, and Dr. Janice spent 32 years in anesthesia before her shifting focus into Cannabis Medicine. Dr. Jessica and I have been practicing for three years after completing our residency programs in preventative and family medicine.

After several years of writing Cannabis authorizations independently, Dr. David and Janice introduced Cannabis medicine to my sister and I. The four of us, fascinated by the science of Cannabis and the physiology of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS), came together to form the American Cannabinoid Clinics where we could provide patients with much more than an authorization to use Cannabis, but with comprehensive guidance and integration of Cannabis into their care management plans.

As a medical professional, what do you believe is the biggest hurdle for our industry to reach acceptance by the majority of others in your field? Conventional medicine finds

itself beholden to a standard of medical evidence rooted in the peer review of rigorous clinical trials.

The “gold standard” is the double-blinded, randomized and placebo-controlled trial. While there exists tens of thousands of scientific and preclinical trials in Cannabis and endocannabinology, there are fewer clinical trials, and very few “gold standard,” “phase 3” trials providing sufficient evidence that Cannabis is beneficial or clinically meaningful to humans.

This is the kind of evidence that institutions can get behind. And until they do, the clinicians who are licensed and employed by these institutions - even those who believe Cannabis might be effective for their patients - are limited in their abilities to offer it.

What is your personal relationship with the plant?

When and how was the American Cannabinoid Clinic established? The

American Cannabinoid Clinic was formally established in the spring of 2017 after two years of providing integrative cannabinoid care in our former collective practice. It was established to deliver patient-centered, integrative cannabinoid care to every patient looking for a personalized approach to addressing their health and healing. This is our mission. The goal of the ACC is to provide patients with direct access to providers who are not only extensively knowledgeable in Cannabis therapies, Cannabinoid Medicine and Endocannabinology, but compassionate in their approach and commitment to supporting patients in their pursuits of achieving optimal wellness through Cannabis therapies and other natural, lifestyle modalities. To this day patients continue to struggle with health care providers who don’t support their use of Cannabis, or who either cannot or are not comfortable doing so. ACC providers are happy to provide such support.

What have you seen in the way of successful treatments and what are some that did not work?

All ACC patients find success with Cannabis therapies to varying degrees. The degree to which a patient reaches that success is dependent on so many factors: the Cannabis product used, the method of use, the frequency of use, the chemical profile of any given Cannabis product used, the therapeutic strength of any product used, adherence to non-Cannabis modalities and lifestyle changes necessary to tone the ECS, the state of their medical condition or disease, and more.

How do federal and/ or local regulations affect your practice?

At the ACC we adhere to the standard of clinical medicine as defined by our licensing

lab-based research on Cannabis? Where do I start? At this very

moment, there are multiple clinical trials underway to advance what we know about the benefits of whole plant Cannabis in PTSD, cancers, CTE, seizures and more. There are multiple clinical societies focused on Cannabis therapeutics, and myriad medical Cannabis conferences are held throughout the year each year globally that are well attended by healthcare professionals. While it might not be apparent to the general public, the climate is changing amidst the medical community.

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How can you speak to pesticides and their role in any potentially adverse side-effects from Cannabis? When we consider Cannabis

as medicine, we must demand that it be held to the highest standard. Medical grade Cannabis is free of pesticides, meaning that pesticides should be non-detectable in any Cannabis product tested, from raw plant to concentrates and everything in between. Pesticides, heavy metals, microbes, mycotoxins and molds can be extremely dangerous, especially to immunocompromised patients. They certainly aren’t healthy. And for anybody wanting to use Cannabis with the intent to prevent or treat disease, they should be mindful to use only the purest Cannabis products that have been thoroughly tested for toxic substances, and that is as close to organic as possible.

In your opinion, would there BE a difference in the medicinal value of two plants, cloned from the same mother, one grown organically in soil in the sun and one grown using synthetic nutrients in a soilless medium indoor?

The more natural the better. Despite all our advancements, even come 2019, we have yet to prove that the human mind can outdo nature.

AMERICANCANNABINOIDCLINICS.COM

jan. 2019

AKLEAF.COM

First, let me set the context that I believe that the health of any organism is wholly dependent on that organism living a natural lifestyle. While lifestyle implies an amalgamation of multiple habits and behaviors, the most imperative is the consumption of food (i.e. fuel aka nutrients). And not just any food, but food naturally designed for it. Whole human bodies require whole foods that are meant for human consumption. What does this mean? This means unprocessed foods in their natural state, unadulterated by pesticides, heavy metals, antibiotics, hormones, toxins, preservatives, fillers, and other unnatural chemicals. While much of our conventional foods are designed and intended for human consumption, they aren’t appropriate for it.

I believe the same is true for medicine. Traditional medicine depended on whole botanicals (i.e. plants, herbs and oils) to promote health and induce healing. Whole plant medicines have wider therapeutic and safety windows because they are full of vitamins, minerals and a myriad of other compounds that work synergistically to do so. Not only this, but the human

body recognizes these “This is the kind of evidence that constituents as natural, institutions can get behind. And until as it, too, has evolved to they do, the clinicians who are licensed depend on many of these constituents to maintain and employed by these institutions homeostasis or internal even those who believe Cannabis might be balance. Take the ECS, for example. The ECS of effective for their patients - are limited every mammalian body in their abilities to offer iT.” responds much more dynamically to the whole Cannabis plant than any authorities. We do not prescribe, distribute or isolated constituent from it, and this is to no handle Cannabis. So we do not violate any state surprise. That being said, Cannabis holds a or federal regulations. special place in medicine and in the hearts of this family of doctors because it lead to the What is being done within discovery of the ECS — the most important the professional medical physiologic system of the human body, and community to expand the focus of our clinical practice. access to clinical or

the health issue

INTERVIEW BY WES ABNEY @BEARDEDLORAX

aklEAF.COM

46

Q&A

Dr. BrĂźck Clift is a family primary care physician in Palmer, AK who focuses on prenatal, obstetrics and pediatric care. She has experience and passion for medical Cannabis and currently writes authorizations for medical use for patients who qualify, and has been working with medical Cannabis patients for several years.

A native Alaskan born in Bethel and raised in Aniak, Dr. Clift opened her practice in Palmer two years ago.

We interviewed her for The Health Issue to discuss medical uses of Cannabis, why she offers the service, and who can benefit from being authorized in a state with legal recreational Cannabis.

jan. 2019

PHOTO BY BOOM MEDIA FOR ALASKA LEAF

What type of practice do you run, and what inspired you to enter the healthcare field?

oped that template based on Colorado and California medical regulations because [Alaska] didn’t have our own. Our medical board hasn’t yet come up with any specifics, but that is something that has been discussed, and I’m on the board as well.

was it hard growing up in a remote area? I grew up in rural Alaska and

You had to create your own criteria for MMJ cards?

Basically self-regulate who gets access? Does that make you nervous?

I do full-spectrum family medicine, prenatal to end of life care. My favorite part is the obstetrics, delivering babies and dealing with moms and children. Why? That is honestly a hard question. I always knew I wanted to do medicine and frankly always knew it would be family medicine, but I didn’t know what the different specialties were.

didn’t have any physician to model after other than my uncle, a gastroenterologist in Arkansas. He had started his own practice and that was inspirational to me, but I wasn’t really interested in the digestive system as much.

What I wanted to do was work with the whole family and not limit myself to where I would live.

Since you began your own practice in Palmer two years ago, have you enjoyed running it on your own?

It has a lot of flair - I like Palmer a lot. It’s really quaint and there’s a diverse group of people to work with. I want to increase my obstetrics a lot. I could see more patients for sure, but I think I have a pretty good diverse population of patients, and I’m not bored during the day. I go from one thing to another and none of the visits are the same.

Where does Cannabis as an area of specialty fit in with your family practice? I grew up in

Alaska, so I think that Cannabis has been part of the culture here for as long as I can remember. So I don’t think that anyone would have thought it very unusual for a clinic. In fact, medical Cannabis was legal before it was [recreationally] legal, but there was nowhere to buy it. So even before it was legalized I had written medical cards. It fits in great because there’s such a diverse population of people who use Cannabis.

Whether they’re using it recreationally or medicinally, a lot of them have questions, and they don’t have a lot of resources to get those answers. So having them come in to talk, even if not to get an evaluation or card, is helpful.

How do you feel about Cannabis use, both medically and recreationally? Cannabis is

How do you screen who you write authorizations for?

I have a standardized template that I created that I do try to go through in a systematic way, asking the same questions and going through the same criteria. I devel-

Yes, I come up with what makes sense to me based on regulations other states have come up with. I feel a little uncomfortable, but not too bad given that it is recreationally legal in the state. The application is fairly safe if I use my understanding of the appropriate medical uses for Cannabis. Those are well established for the most part, and so I go by neuropathic pain, seizure disorders, chronic cancer-related pain. Some of those are the more obvious reasons I would sign for a card.

Since Cannabis is legal in Alaska, what are the reasons people come in for a MMJ card? Because we’re

in a state where recreational use is legal and they don’t have to have the card to use it, I try to find out their motivation to use it.

Sometimes it’s because they have a court case, a government job or an insurance issue. Those are some of the reasons people come. And I do a lot of evaluations because pain clinics will continue to treat patients who use Cannabis with a card. There are also situations where employers require it, or will be more lenient about urine drug screens if they have the card.

How do you feel that people “ self-medicating” or finding benefit with recreational Cannabis should get authorized?

If they have questions about their use, they should come in and discuss those with their doctor. I don’t recommend everyone get a card, even if they do find benefit because it puts you on a list. It means you are honest about your use, that you can’t purchase firearms, and it means that if anyone went looking (like the federal government) they would know. Unless you have a reason to get the medical card - like your job, insurance, child custody or pain management, I probably wouldn’t. I would be happy to see any patient to discuss the pros and cons and risks and benefits associated with CBD use, but that doesn’t mean they have to get the card.

Is it common to see patients scared to admit they use Cannabis?

Yes, and that happens frequently amongst my pregnant population and my parents.

They worry that they’ll end up with a stigma from their healthcare provider, and are worried about drug testing and having their children taken away from them because in the past that might have happened. It comes up more amongst prenatal patients, and they want to know the potential effects.

What is your opinion on using Cannabis while pregnant? Well,

because so little is known and the route for ingestion is generally smoking, it’s discouraged. The effects on the fetus are fairly unknown to subtle, and because of the higher rate of other substances being used, it’s hard to get specific data for Cannabis use alone during pregnancy.

Smoking increases carbon monoxide in the bloodstream and may decrease nutrients to the placenta, but I do believe the effects might be more from smoking than due to THC and CBD. In fact, the endogenous Cannabinoids (naturally occurring) are required for placentation.

The endocannabinoid system is at play in the birthing process, but its role is unclear.

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What is your message to people thinking about talking to you or their doctor about Cannabis use? I don’t judge people who come

to me. I specifically see a lot of pregnant women who have a history of Cannabis and drug use in general. For those patients who have questions, and are not sure who to talk to, I would probably be a good resource for them, especially if they find themselves in an uncomfortable situation with their healthcare providers. I would encourage people to try their provider out; they might find that they don’t have the stigma or the judgment expected! And if you’re using Cannabis and have any psychiatric issues or are on psychiatric medication, talk to your provider.

BRUCKCLIFTMD.COM

jan. 2019

AKLEAF.COM

safe as a medicine and recreational substance, and as a recreational substance, I think it’s the safest. By comparison to tobacco and alcohol, it is absolutely safer. And of course I believe that it has medicinal uses, and CBD and THC have different uses and different potential side effect profiles. There isn’t a lot of information still about how Cannabis can help in many ways, but it’s developing exponentially.

“I would encourage people to try their provider out; they might find that they don’t have the stigma or the judgment expected!”

jan. 2019

__ __

BY MATTHEW MEYERS FOR ALASKA LEAF

OIL

_________________

______ • B. J. •

(8)

( )

wipe off, wet a cotton swab in isopropyl alcohol and wipe again ONLY once the banger is mostly cooled down.

If you are using a laser, wait until it’s below 200 F or until the isopropyl doesn’t sizzle when applied.

Health conscious dabbing might be a bit more work and money but it’s well worth it. We only have one body; get the most out of it during your precious time here on this beautiful earth!

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Use a cleaner burning butane torch as opposed to cheaper propane options, like the Blazer Big Shot, which we also featured in our Dec. 2018 issue Stoner Gift Guide.

Make sure to properly clean your banger before reheating it. If you notice smoke during the reheating process, your banger wasn’t fully clean. It’s easiest to wipe out when the banger is still warm, if you need added strength to your cotton swabs use two at once for added stability. If you still notice some oil that won’t

38437

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( )

(3)

the health issue

the temperature

that you vaporize your extracts at is important when considering health and enjoyment. Terpenes can convert into more harmful vapors at higher reaction temperatures, so it’s all about patience and timing.

The traditional method involves using a timer to count the heat up and cool down times (which vary depending on the banger). This can be less accurate if you want to take multiple dabs in a row, which is when a laser thermometer comes in handy. You can use these infrared lasers to ensure that every dab is at a consistent, low, healthy temperature. We featured an amazing tabletop hands-free laser thermometer called the Temp Tech in our Dec. 2018 Stoner Gift Guide.

There are also great electronically heated nails that ensure your rig is always ready to dab! Gadgets like the Temp Tech and e-nails will inevitably make hitting the perfect temp easier, allowing us to make the most out of all these delicious concentrates and extracts on the market! Without the proper temperature, it’s also much harder to judge flavor and overall quality of the oil you’re dabbing.

Last month, I discussed the importance of learning what your Cannabis was fed and treated with all of its life. This point is even more relevant when considering concentrates as whatever qualities the starting material has will be amplified in the extraction process.

Extraction is science, not magic, and therefore it’s always worth looking for higher quality over the cheapest prices!

We are also witnessing an evolution of more solvent-less extracted concentrates hitting the Washington market. I recommend trying a solventless option to see how it compares to hydrocarbon, CO2 or other solvent extracts. Everyone has their preference, but health-wise there is a strong argument towards using extracts that don’t use any solvent to concentrate the product. Some certification standards like DEM Pure even forbid any hydrocarbon extraction for their certified farms!

Another important factor of healthy dabbing is using a high-quality dabbing surface. There are many different grades of quartz. I recommend bangers made from GE 214 or Herdus Quartz to avoid impurities in your dabbing surface. There are also some amazing inserts coming onto the market that can instantly upgrade the dabbing surface of any banger! These inserts are mainly made from quartz, silicon carbide, or lab-grown ruby and sapphire, although other technologies exist.

It’s also essential to note that it’s unnecessary to hold in the vapor from a dab like you might with a bong rip. Extracts are rapidly absorbed into the lungs and also can expand the longer they stay in, so it’s good to exhale promptly (sometimes a couple extra times on a larger dab).

DABS

HEALTHY DABBING

ART BY BRANDON PALMA / 8THDAYCREATE.COM FOR ALASKA LEAF

AVAILABLE FROM SOUTHSIDE GARDEN SUPPLY

ANCHORAGE / WASILLA / SGSAK.COM

RECIPES

by laurie wolf Photos By Bruce wolf

BAKED GOODS

MAKING COOKIES is one of my favorite ways to spend a chilly, rainy afternoon. Especially when infusing cookies is incentive to make a few of my best loved recipes. You can even eat and freeze the rest for months of munching and gift giving. Why wait until next Christmas, your friends will love you more if you gift year-round! All of these cookies were infused with the indica strain Candyland from Eco Firma Farms. This euphoric strain manages my anxiety quite beautifully. #DontFearTheEdible!

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GINGER PISTACHIO THINS Makes about 24 cookies 2 tablespoons canna-butter 1/4 cup chopped skinned pistachios, rinsed if salted ½ cup sugar 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons crystalized ginger, finely chopped 2 large egg whites 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

1. Heat oven to 325 F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or nonstick baking mats.

2. In large bowl, stir together confectioners’ sugar, cocoa, flour and salt.

1. Heat oven to 300 F. Coat two baking sheets with cooking spray or parchment paper. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

aklEAF.COM

2. Add pistachios and stir until the butter is lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Stir in sugar. Add flour, egg whites and both gingers and whisk until smooth.

3. Drop the batter by heaping teaspoons, about 2 inches apart, onto the prepared baking sheets. Bake, one sheet at a time, until golden, 12 to 15 minutes.

4. Immediately transfer the cookies with a spatula to a rack to cool.

5. If the cookies begin to stick before all are removed, return the pan briefly to the oven.

jan. 2019

3. Beat in egg whites, one at a time, with an electric mixer on low. Add vanilla extract and beat for 1 1/2 minutes on high speed, scraping down the sides of the bowl several times.

CHOCOLATE WEED DREAMS Makes about 28 cookies 2 1/8 cups sifted confectioners’ sugar 8 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour Pinch of salt 3 large egg whites 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 ½ cups almonds, toasted and chopped * ½ cup walnuts, toasted and chopped* 2 tablespoons canna-butter, melted and cooled 1 1/2 ounces bittersweet chocolate, grated 4 teaspoons cocoa nibs

4. Fold in almonds, chocolate and the cocoa nibs until evenly distributed. Spoon the dough by heaping tablespoons onto the baking sheets, about 2 inches apart.

5. Bake the cookies in batches in the center of the oven, until dry and glossy on the surface but still soft in the centers, about 12-15 minutes.

6. Let cool on the pan for 10 minutes.

Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool.

* Toast nuts by baking in a 350 F oven for 5-7 minutes.

Chop when cool.

ORANGE CHOCOLATE LOVIES Makes about 30 cookies 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour 1/3 cup cornstarch 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder 3/4¼ teaspoon salt 3/4 cup sugar, divided 2 tablespoons canna-butter, softened 2 tablespoons canola oil 1 large egg white 2 teaspoons freshly grated orange zest 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 3 tablespoons orange juice 2 ounces dark chocolate, melted 1. Heat oven to 350 F. Coat two baking sheets with cooking spray.

2. Whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder and salt in a mixing bowl; set aside.

3. In a mixing bowl cream 1/2 cup sugar, butter and oil with an electric mixer on medium speed until fluffy.

4. Add egg white, orange zest and vanilla; beat until smooth.

Beat in orange juice. Add the dry ingredients and fold in with a rubber spatula just until combined.

5. Drop the dough by teaspoons, 2 inches apart, onto the prepared baking sheets. Place the remaining 1/4 cup sugar in a saucer. Roll the dough into small balls, dip in the sugar and place on the sheets sugar side up. Press down gently.

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6. Bake until the cookies are just starting to brown around the edges, 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer the cookies to a flat surface (not a rack) to crisp.

7. In a microwave safe bowl melt the chocolate. Drizzle over the cookies. Allow chocolate to set.

AKLEAF.COM jan. 2019

product review

54

aklEAF.COM

APRIL’S LEMON DREAMS COOKIES

M

OMO’S BAKERY has always been a reputable source for quality edibles, and by the judge of these cookies, it’s well earned. Soft, yet crunchy, and sweet yet tart, and drizzled in a white chocolate glaze, these little Lemon Dreams cookies do not disappoint. After eating the whole container, these have a very relaxing effect. Find these delicious cookies at most Alaska dispensaries.

jan. 2019

Sweet yet tart, and drizzled in a white chocolate glaze...

5MG THC PER COOKIE, 5-PACK review by ALASKA LEAF STAFF | PHOTO by BOOM MEDIA

GREAT TASTE

NO FILLERS

100% PURE CANNABIS OIL

MATANUSKA SUSITNA VALLEY, ALASKA AKMIDNIGHTSUN.COM 907.495.0711 MARIJUANA HAS INTOXICATING EFFECTS AND MAY BE HABIT FORMING AND ADDICTIVE. MARIJUANA IMPAIRS CONCENTRATION, COORDINATION, AND JUDGMENT. DO NOT OPERATE A VEHICLE OR MACHINERY UNDER ITS INFLUENCE. THERE ARE HEALTH RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH CONSUMPTION OF MARIJUANA. FOR USE ONLY BY ADULTS 21 AND OLDER. KEEP OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN. MARIJUANA SHOULD NOT BE USED BY WOMEN WHO ARE PREGNANT OR BREAST FEEDING.

product review

56

SUGAR CANDY ROSIN

by LADY GRAY

aklEAF.COM

W

E HAVE SEEN some exceptional rosin from Lady Gray, and this batch of Sugar Candy Rosin is no different.

With over an 11 percent terpene content, as soon as you open the container it reminds you of that. An overwhelming smell of sugar-coated candy, almost like a peach ring, fills the air. After taking a good dab of this rosin, it really brings those terps to the lungs — sugary sweet and fragrant notes fill the palate.

The flavor lingers, as does the high.

A nice sedating effect, I’d definitely say this would be a great evening or after dinner smoke. Available at Permafrost Distributors, a fantastic choice for those who like the terps.

jan. 2019

A nice sedating effect, I’d definitely say this would be a great evening or after dinner smoke.

68.7% THC | 8% TERPENES review by ALASKA LEAF STAFF | PHOTO by BOOM MEDIA

product review

BOOM BLUNT

by GREATLAND GANJA

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aklEAF.COM

T

HE BOOM BLUNT is something a little new I haven’t seen in the Alaskan market yet.

Neatly packaged in a glass tube, you find a palm leaf blunt filled with one gram of flower, however, it doesn’t end with that.

Inside that flower is a quarter gram of CO2 extract that runs the center of the blunt. An advisory on the package states “not intended for single serving use,” of course which sounded to me like a challenge.

The burn on this was pretty good (usually adding hash into pre-rolls can cause uneven burning). However, it seemed to burn fairly consistent!

Not recommended for novice smokers, unless you’ve got some friends to help.

jan. 2019

A 1.25g hand-crafted palm blunt from premium flower injected with unadulterated CO2 extract. review by ALASKA LEAF STAFF | PHOTOS by BOOM MEDIA

/ NWLEAF @NWLEAF

GREEN SOURCE GARDENS | PHOTO BY @BERMANPHOTOS

THE WORLD’S FIRST PHARMACEUTICAL GRADE CBD NASAL SPRAY

INSTANT ABSORPTION, INSTANT RELIEF

NASADOL.COM

health & science aklEAF.COM

60

Sativa vs. Indica ativa for the mind, Indica for the body—that’s a general rule of thumb anyway. Here we find the plant species Cannabis sativa L. and its two main sub-species used for medicinal purposes: Cannabis indica and Cannabis sativa. The type chosen will greatly influence the medicinal outcome, as each has its own distinct set of characteristics.

Cannabis sativa is often characterized as uplifting and energetic, with the effects of sativas being more cerebral. Cannabis indica offers an effect often described as a pleasant body buzz.

Indicas are great for pain relief and for an overall sense of calm and serenity. Let’s compare and contrast the differences between these two types of Medical Cannabis, and also meet a third--Cannabis ruderalis—who many are starting to become more familiar with.

First off, there is debate in the scientific community on the question of whether indica and sativa represent two distinct species, or whether they represent subsets of the same species. In other words, two different species may have evolved from the same genus, or perhaps one species split along geographic lines. Regardless, Cannabis divided into two easily distinguishable plants. Sativas are found growing wild in almost all equatorial regions of the globe, while indicas thrive in southern Asia and the Indian subcontinent. The two species have traditionally been cultivated and bred for specific uses—sativas more for straight smoking and indicas for making hashish. These practices continued for thousands of years, without the two lines ever crossing paths. A combination, or hybrid, was created by man to garner the best effects of both for improved medicinal outcomes.

These hybrids are commonly called strains, and typically represent some varying percentage of Cannabis indica and Cannabis sativa genetics. Through selective breeding techniques and hybridization, new strains are created to select for and perfect certain desirable attributes while diminishing the less desirable. These attributes can range from optimizing the plant for certain growing environments (indoor vs. out), to the potency and medicinal effect of the end product (varying ratios of active constituents). The varying ratios of the hybridized genetics influence the medicinal outcomes through the expression of the uniqueness of the parent plant’s chemistry.

The plant’s chemistry is dictated by Cannabinoids and terpenes, which are the active compounds found in Cannabis. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD) are two of more than one hundred known Cannabinoid compounds that are center stage for medicinal activity. THC is the only psychoactive compound in the medicine, and CBD seems to have much more to offer Medical Cannabis patients.

Indicas are higher in CBD than THC, and sativas are the opposite with higher THC than CBD. Therefore, many hybridized medicinal strains are indica-dominant. Terpenes are the aromatic compounds of Cannabis, giving rise to the distinctive odors. Sativa plants are generally sweet and fruity, where indicas are stronger smelling with a stinkier, skunky odor. Cannabis contains over one hundred identified terpenes, with 20 commonly found in higher concentrations. These odor compounds have unique smells and known physiological effects. An association of the individual odoriferous qualities and known effects can lead to better choices in medicine, and more predictable outcomes.

jan. 2019

Explained “MEDICAL CANNABIS PATIENTS NEED TO ARM THEMSELVES WITH THE INFORMATION NECESSARY TO MAKE MORE TARGETED CHOICES IN THE SELECTION OF THEIR MEDICINE, AND PROPER DELIVERY FOR THEIR CONDITION.”

BY DR. SCOTT ROSE

Cannabis INDICA

SATIVA

PLANTS ARE SMALLER IN STATURE, RELATIVELY SHORT AND BUSHY. THE LEAVES ARE MUCH MORE WIDE AND BROAD. SHORTER PERIOD TO GROW, MATURE, MORE BUSH-LIKE WITH HIGHER YIELDS MAKING INDICA A MORE POPULAR CHOICE FOR INDOOR CULTIVATION. BUDS GENERALLY MORE PUNGENT AND SKUNKY ODOR.

PLANTS ARE TALL AND ROUND, TO LEAN AND SPINDLY. THE LEAVES ARE LONG AND THIN. TAKES LONGER TO GROW, MATURE, AND REQUIRES MORE LIGHT THAN INDICA. YIELD IS USUALLY LOWER THAN INDICA, BUT QUITE POTENT. BUDS GENERALLY SMELL SWEET AND FRUITY.

MORE LIKELY TO HAVE HIGHER PERCENTAGES OF CBD

GENERALLY HIGHER IN THC THAN CBD.

EFFECTS OFTEN DESCRIBED AS A PLEASANT BODY BUZZ, MORE RELAXING, STRESS RELIEVING, AND AN OVERALL SENSE OF CALM AND SERENITY.

EFFECTS ARE UPLIFTING AND ENERGETIC. MOSTLY CEREBRAL, OFFERING A FEELING OF OPTIMISM AND WELL-BEING, AS WELL AS PROVIDING A GOOD MEASURE OF PAIN RELIEF.

GOOD CHOICE FOR NIGHTTIME USE

GOOD CHOICE FOR DAYTIME USE.

EFFECTIVE AS A RELAXANT FOR ANXIETY, PAIN, NAUSEA, SLEEP, APPETITE STIMULATION, MUSCLE SPASMS AND TREMORS, AMONG OTHER SYMPTOMS. THEY ARE KNOWN TO INDUCE “COUCH LOCK” AND MANY FIND THE SEDATIVE EFFECTS UNDESIRABLE DURING THE DAY.

EFFECTIVE IN APPETITE STIMULATION, RELIEVING DEPRESSION, MIGRAINES, CHRONIC PAIN, LACK OF FOCUS AND NAUSEA. THEY CAN HAVE A SPACEY EFFECT, AND THE HIGHER THC CAUSES SOME INDIVIDUALS PARANOIA AND ANXIETY.

SOME POPULAR INDICAS : OG KUSH, PURPLE URKLE, AFGHANI, ROMULAN, BLUEBERRY, NORTHERN LIGHTS

RUDERALIS FLOWERS EARLIER THAN C. INDICA OR C. SATIVA, NOT AS TALL, CAN WITHSTAND MUCH HARSHER CLIMATES. INDIGENOUS TO CENTRAL ASIA, CAN BE FOUND WILD IN MIDWESTERN NORTH AMERICA. BUDDING BASED STRICTLY ON AGE AND NOT ON CHANGES IN LENGTH OF DAYLIGHT. LOWER THC CONTENT THAN EITHER CANNABIS SATIVA OR CANNABIS INDICA. FREQUENTLY CROSS-BRED WITH CANNABIS INDICA TO PRODUCE PLANTS WITH HIGHER THC CONTENT, AS WELL AS THE HARDINESS AND REDUCED HEIGHT OF CANNABIS RUDERALIS. KNOWN AS AUTO-FLOWERING.

SOME POPULAR SATIVAS : SUPER LEMON HAZE, HEADBAND, JACK HERER, SOUR DIESEL

HYBRIDS CREATED BY CROSS-BREEDING TWO OR MORE DIFFERENT STRAINS TO CREATE A NEW STRAIN. CREATED TO RETAIN CERTAIN DESIRED CHARACTERISTICS. MOST CANNABIS VARIETIES AVAILABLE TODAY ARE HYBRIDS. BEST OF BOTH WORLDS, VARYING THC TO CBD RATIOS, AND BLENDED TERPENE CONTENT .

MANY PATIENTS BENEFIT FROM THE USE OF HYBRIDIZED STRAINS. SOME POPULAR HYBRIDS : BLUE DREAM, WHITE WIDOW, GG #4, GIRL SCOUT COOKIES

Through limited research and anecdotal report, we are now aware of specific strains that are effective for specific medical conditions and symptoms. Strains are being mixed and matched to select and enhance desired medicinal effects for the benefit of patients. And this body of knowledge is ever increasing. Here, Medical Cannabis patients need to arm themselves with the information necessary to make more targeted choices in the selection of their medicine, and proper delivery for their condition. Efficient, effective, proper use will further help shift the paradigm away from “the smoking of pot”, to the use of Cannabis as the important medicine it is.

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patient profile

CBD is an excellent cannabinoid for those dealing with chronic pain. CBD is recognized as an anti-inflammatory ally for those who want to skip opioids, but still keep pain levels under control.

by SIMONE FISCHERR @SIMONEFISCHERR

USING CANNABIS FOR CHRONIC PAIN AND BECOMING A CANCER ADVOCATE Brent McCarthy is a long-time

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Oregon Medical Marijuana Program (OMMP) patient advocating for Cannabis consumption for chronic pain and cancer.

After he lost his aunt to cancer and his fiancé was diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma (a type of kidney cancer), he uses his voice to help others who might be in the same position.

McCarthy is an avid Cannabis-user and supporter of furthering the research of the plant’s healing potential. He smoked a few times a kid but was more into drinking at the time. It wasn’t until McCarthy was 32 when he started using Cannabis consciously. The legality of Cannabis made it difficult to consume consistently and the threat of punishment after consumption kept many potential users at bay.

He started using Cannabis medicinally later in his adult life, after an industrial accident while working as a commercial construction worker. He broke his T-12 and T-1 vertebrates, and additionally broke his hip and femur.

To top it off, McCarthy was diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), a common issue that affects a person’s GI tract - often related to stress.

After dealing with chronic pain stemming from brutal accidents on the job, McCarthy opted for an official OMMP card in 2002.

In McCarthy’s experience, Cannabis strains with the cannabinoid CBD work best to manage his chronic pain.

“I prefer some CBD in there. Stephen Hawking’s Kush by Alphakronik has been a godsend – or, a hard indica. I love purples and Grand Daddy Purple [GDP] is one of my favorites. I’m a big fan of the old strains like God Bud or Panama Red too,” said McCarthy.

CBD is an excellent cannabinoid for those dealing with chronic pain. CBD is recognized as an anti-inflammatory ally for those who want to skip opioids, but

still keep pain levels under control.

The Cannabis genetics company Alphakronik created an entire CBD seed line for medical users like McCarthy.

McCarthy sticks to full-extract Cannabis oil, or FECO and dabs mostly.

Full-extract oil is an excellent choice for patients who are on a budget but still want a powerful dose of Cannabis.

McCarthy said he relies on “FECO for long-term pain issues and dabs for acute pain relief.”

After he lost his aunt to cancer almost five years ago, McCarthy became an outspoken advocate for Cannabis treatment in cases of cancer and helps patients with accessing the medicine they need to heal.

His fiancé Marissa, was diagnosed with Renal Cell Carcinoma, a kidney cancer that originates in the lining of the proximal convoluted tubule, a part of the very small tubes in the kidney that transport primary urine.

RCC is the most common type of kidney cancer in adults, responsible for approximately 90 to 95 percent of cases.

“She has been fighting this cancer for six years and moved to Oregon from Chicago for Cannabis access. She and I just had a child by surrogate, so we can harvest stem cells from the umbilical cord

and hopefully save her life and get rid of the cancer for good.

I never thought in my wildest dreams at 46 I’d be a father again.

But you’ll go to any length for someone you love,” he said.

Despite McCarthy’s success with using Cannabis, there are challenges to using Cannabis as a treatment option in today’s climate.

McCarthy said access is much more difficult nowadays when you need large amounts of material for daily medicine.

The limit of one ounce (28 grams) of flower per day that was changed back in August of 2018, has affected OMMP in Oregon dramatically, pinching their access to higher quantities when buying from local retailers. When dealing with massive amounts of chronic pain or cancer (like McCarthy’s fiancé), OMMP patients must have access to the amounts of Cannabis they need to heal themselves.

Recent draconian changes ushered in by the OLCC at the expense of medical patients, who are unfairly blamed for “unregulated market activity” in recent months.

Patients like McCarthy, his fiancé Marissa and patients in similar situations, are put at a serious disadvantage due to the state’s insatiable regulatory greed on all things Cannabis.

HE STARTED USING CANNABIS MEDICINALLY LATER IN HIS LIFE, AFTER AN INDUSTRIAL ACCIDENT AS A CONSTRUCTION WORKER. jan. 2019

PHOTO by DANIEL BERMAN @BERMANPHOTOS

at first

10% OFF

when you come in with your loved one this Valentine’s Day. Mention ‘Leaf’ to obtain discount. Valid February 14th, 2019.

Limit one 10% discount per visit, per customer. May not be combined with other specials, offers, or promotions.

Both locations are open 9am to Midnight, seven days a week!

Downtown • 541 W 4th Ave • 907.929.WEED | Dimond • 1901 W Dimond Blvd • 907.334.KUSH

Marijuana has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming and addictive. Marijuana impairs concentration, coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under its influence. There are health risks associated with consumption of marijuana. For use only by adults twenty-one and older.

Keep out of the reach of children. Marijuana should not be used by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. | Downtown: #11966 | Dimond: #16610