Cannabis Review Quarterly - 2023 - Eleven

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SOUGHT AFTER CONTENT Published quarterly, Cannabis Review Quarterly is the perfect resource to discover all that’s happening within the cannabis industry.

CRQ is a sophisticated, informative publication that will keep you updated about the ever-changing cannabis space in our local communities, the region and the Massachusetts commonwealth.

EXCEPTIONAL AUDIENCE REACH

CRQ Magazine reaches an audience of more than 250,000 adults** through a combination of print and digital media platforms.

4 SEASONAL EDITIONS

TO REACH READERS ALL YEAR LONG PUBLICATION SCHEDULE CURRENT: Fall Edition: October 2023 Winter Edition: January 2024 Spring Edition: April 2024 Summer Edition: July 2024 ** Sources: Nielsen Scarborough Research Study, Spring 2021; ComScore, Fall 2021

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CR STAFF Publisher and CEO George Arwady garwady@repub.com

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Content Review Tiera Wright

Cannabis Review Quarterly (CRQ) is published by The Republican. Our offices are at 1860 Main Street, Springfield, MA 01103. All advertising is subject to the terms and conditions of the CRQ rate card, and all advertising submitted is subject to the approval of the Publisher. The Publisher reserves the right to cancel an advertising order or reject or edit any advertising copy or images. The Republican Co. shall not be liable for incorrect ad placement. Liability for failure to publish an ad shall not exceed a refund of or credit for the original price of the ad. Liability for an error will not exceed the cost of space for the section the error occupies. Credit will be allowed for the first insertion only. Advertisers should check ads upon publication. The contents of this publication are copyrighted 2023. The Republican Co. All rights reserved. No portion of CRQ may be reproduced in any form without the consent of the Publisher.

royales NOW AVAILABLE Elevate your smoking experience with Fernway’s new ultra-premium 1-gram joint.

because you deserve the best.

PLEASE CONSUME RESPONSIBLY. FOR USE ONLY

BY ADULTS 21 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER. KEEP OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.MARIJUANA SHOULD NOT BE USED BY WOMEN WHO ARE PREGNANT OR BREASTFEEDING. THIS PRODUCT HAS NOT BEEN ANALYZED OR APPROVED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION (FDA). THERE IS LIMITED INFORMATION ON THE SIDE EFFECTS OF USING THIS PRODUCT, AND THERE MAY BE ASSOCIATED HEALTH RISKS. MARIJUANA USE DURING PREGNANCY AND BREAST-FEEDING MAY POSE POTENTIAL HARMS. IT IS AGAINST THE LAW TO DRIVE OR OPERATE MACHINERY WHEN UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF THIS PRODUCT. KEEP THIS PRODUCT AWAY FROM CHILDREN. THERE MAY BE HEALTH RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH CONSUMPTION OF THIS PRODUCT. MARIJUANA CAN IMPAIR CONCENTRATION, COORDINATION, AND JUDGMENT. THE IMPAIRMENT EFFECTS OF EDIBLE MARIJUANA MAY BE DELAYED BY TWO HOURS OR MORE. IN CASE OF ACCIDENTAL INGESTION, CONTACT POISON CONTROL HOTLINE 1-800-222-1222 OR 9-11. THIS PRODUCT MAY BE ILLEGAL OUTSIDE OF MA.

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CRQ FALL 2023

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TABLE OF

contents 4

Welcome to Cannabis Review Quarterly

28 I’m trying to concentrate

Product Previews

30 Hidden Hemlock

14 Fall Product Line Up

33 Navigating the Green Landscape

or CRQ as we like to call it.

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A look at popular and soon-to-arrive products in the cannabis market.

Experience the bounty of harvest time with Canna Provisions.

16 The Drinkable Company Toasts high life with new business.

19 Fall, the Arts, the Berkshires ...oh and cannabis!

22 Growing Cannabis

A closer look at these popular products.

Brothers talk business and stocking stuffers

Milestones and challenges in Massachusetts’ cannabis sector.

36 Native Sun Plants seeds for better than ever flowers.

38 In A Class Of Their Own Students study cannabis at UConn.

40 Green Wednesday

in the Great Outdoors.

Black Friday, cyber Monday... what’s green Wednesday?

27 Outdoor Cultivation

42 Fact vs. Myth

A Western MA Guide.

Cover Photo: Hidden Hemlock by Nate Blais.

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CANNABISREVIEWQUARTERLY.COM

Effects of cannabis.

Note to readers: Please consume responsibly. Cannabis and related products may cause impairment and may be habit forming. For use only by adults 21 years of age or older. Keep out of the reach of children.

Products shown in this magazine have not been analyzed or approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). There is limited information on the side effects of using these products, and there may be associated health risks. Marijuana used during pregnancy and breast-feeding may pose potential harms. It is against the law to drive or operate machinery when under the influence of this product.

KEEP THESE PRODUCTS AWAY FROM CHILDREN. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product.

Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. The effects of Edibles may be delayed by two hours or more.

In case of accidental ingestion, contact poison control hotline 1-800-222-1222 or 9-1-1.

This product may be illegal outside of MA.

STORY BY LAUREN LEBEL PHOTOS SUBMITTED CARAMEL APPLE DROPS COURTESY OF INSA

Product PREVIEWS

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253 X FATHEADS STRAWNANA GUSHERS LIVE HASH ROSIN COURTESY OF 253

extra punch for those seeking a more potent experience. “Each puff carries subtle hints of cannabis-derived terpenes and high-quality flower,” Sadiq added. A 1g pre-roll costs $21. Cannabis and sales tax not included.

BOSTON BUD FACTORY Location in Holyoke

VISIT BOSTONBUDFACTORY. COM FOR MORE INFO

DELI BAR

253

Location in Turner Falls

VISIT 253FARMACY.COM FOR MORE INFO

EMERGEN-C SATIVA FLOWER

“The combination of Orange Push Pop and Sunset Sherbet in this particular strain is truly exceptional,” shared 253 Wholesale Manager Yusef Sadiq. “Emergen-C buds are tightly packed, light green, and adorned with striking patches of purple and orange. Additionally, they are covered in trichomes, lending them a frosty appearance.” The aroma it produces is like freshly squeezed orange juice.

“It is important to consider your level of experience when consuming this strain, as the initial effects may be quite strong,” Sadiq said. The cost of Emergen-C is as follows: 1g preroll/$10, 1g pre-packed/$12 and 3.5g pre-packed /$35. Cannabis and sales tax not included.

binoids in this concentrate provide a smooth and flavorful smoking experience.” Sadiq said it is ideal for those seeking a “potent” and “enjoyable encounter,” and makes for a clean experience. For .5g, it costs $30, or 1g/$50. Cannabis and sales tax not included.

253 INFUSED BLUNTS

253’s latest product is infused pre-roll blunts, with natural cannabis terpenes extracted from their strains.

Sadiq said, “We never use shake or trim, only small-batch flower blended with our premium concentrates. Our expertly crafted blunts provide a phenomenal cannabis experience that’s perfect for any occasion and can be shared among friends.” Rolled in organic gum paper from the acacia tree, the pre-rolls are packed with an

253 X FATHEADS STRAWNANA GUSHERS LIVE HASH ROSIN This is the start of 253’s new line of solventless extracts. “253 and Fatheads have joined forces to create Strawnana Gushers Live Hash Rosin using a one-of-a-kind extraction process,” Sadiq shared. “This product has a pleasant fruity scent and taste, resembling the beloved Strawnana Gushers strain. The full-spectrum composition of terpenes and canna8

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COURTESY OF BOSTON BUD FACTORY

Boston Bud Factory has the largest craft Deli Bar in Massachusetts, with over 20 different strains from a variety of craft cultivators across the state. Before making a purchase, Frank Dailey of Boston Bud Factory said every customer should get to see and smell the products, helping to find the perfect strain. “Studies have shown that terpenes play a large role in the overall effect so the best way to find the perfect terpene profile is to smell each option.

Customers are often surprised by what strains resonate most with their sense of smell and that helps find the products for each customer,” Dailey said. He shared that Boston Bud Factory staff travels all over the state to find the best cultivators. This includes local brands such as RiverRun Gardens, Gibby’s Garden, Mill Town Agriculture, Trade Roots, Impressed, Tower Three, J Bam Cultivation and HighMark Provisions, to name a few.

Deli Bar strains range in price from $7-$12 depending on the cultivator and the potency. “When you want the highest quality products at the lowest prices you go straight to the factory, Boston Bud Factory,” Dailey said.

THC COOKING OIL

COOKIES & SCREAM

Boston Bud Factory will soon be launching its newest product, THC Cooking Oil. “For those consumers who want to make their own edibles or infused dinners, this product is the way to go,” Dailey shared. “Made with the cleanest solvent-free extract and Palm Derived Coconut Oil, the cooking oil is vegan and flavorless.”

THC Cooking Oil can be used at home to make brownies, cookies, ice cream, or just about anything else.

“THC Cooking Oil can also be used to infuse just about any home-cooked meal or homemade baked good – the options are endless,” Dailey said.

Boston Bud Factory will have recipe cards available for some items such as brownies and cookies. The recipe cards will help consumers figure out how to properly dose the food for the desired effect. According to Dailey, one bottle of THC Cooking Oil can make the equivalent of 10 packages of premade edibles, and at a cost of only $40 per 1000 mg, this makes home use much more affordable.

COAST CANNABIS CO.

Locations across Massachusetts

VISIT COASTCANNABISCO.COM FOR MORE INFO

COOKIES & SCREAM

COAST Cannabis Co-Founder Angela Brown shared a few new products including the Cookies & SCREAM, a 100mg white chocolate bar. “Celebrate this Halloween season with COAST’s Cookies & SCREAM bar,” Brown said. “This all-organic bar combines creamy white chocolate, organic chocolate cookies and a touch of blood – organic cocoa butter blood that is… Eat if you dare!”

Brown said consumers should take the recommended amount which is 5mg/1 triangle. She added, “Wait at least two hours before consuming more – start low and go slow!” The chocolate bar ranges in price from $25-$30.

LIVE ROSIN GUMMY LINE

Introducing COAST Cannabis’ latest sensation are Live Rosin Gummies.

COURTESY OF COAST CANNABIS

“Elevate your cannabis experience with our brand-new line of delectable gummies,” Brown said. “Live Rosin extract is a premium, solventless cannabis concentrate renowned for its purity and potency. This gentle yet effective method preserves the plant’s natural terpenes, cannabinoids and flavor compounds.” Flavors include Tropical Punch, Strawberry Guava and Lemon Lime. Brown encourages taking the recommended amount – 5mg/1 gummy – and waiting at least two hours before consuming more – start low and go slow! The gummies range in price from $25-$30.

FERNWAY

Locations across Massachusetts VISIT FERNWAY.COM FOR MORE INFO

FALL FLAVOR PACK

Fernway’s Fall Flavor Pack is out now with the return of a popular aroma and the introduction of a new one. According to Fernway CMO and Co-Founder Liam O’Brien, the Pumpkin Spice was a hit last fall and is back for a limited time, along with

a new friend, Honeycrisp. O’Brien described it as “crisp and juicy like a handpicked apple.” The flavors are available in 0.3g Travelers, ranging in price from $25-$35; 0.5g 510 vape cartridges, $45-$55; two-pack joints, $13-$18 and five-pack joints, $35$40, “so that everyone can join in the ultimate autumn sesh,” O’Brien said.

THE FERNWAY ROYALE

The Fernway Royale is not just a joint, it is a statement of style and a testament to the pursuit of the finest things in life, O’Brien shared. The ultra-premium one-gram pre-rolled joint – which came out in October – is packed with prime, flavorful and potent Fernway Flower, wrapped in ultra-thin rice paper and completed with its signature luxe ceramic tip.

“The result is a smoking experience that’s as much about flavor as it is about flair. It’s about embracing the full spectrum of life’s pleasures and enhancing them with the smooth, satisfying smoke of a Royale,” O’Brien said. The product costs $15.

CRQ FALL 2023

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THE FERNWAY ROYALE COURTESY OF FERNWAY

get going in the fall.” He noted that Florence Cannabis is cultivated only in soil and its small, limited batches are hand grown and trimmed. Daddy Fat Sacks are available in eighths of flower and pre-rolls. The eighths average around $35 and the pre-rolls average around $10.

GG22

THE FERNWAY 1420

“Embrace abundance with the Fernway 1420 – a distinctly superior tin of premium cannabis flower that’s all about bringing you the luxury you deserve, at a price that’ll make you smile,” O’Brien said. As it is packed with 14 grams of potent and flavorful 20% plus THC cannabis, the product is for those who know exactly what they want and will not settle for anything less. O’Brien explained that Fernway partnered with the finest THE FERNWAY 1420 COURTESY OF FERNWAY

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CANNABISREVIEWQUARTERLY.COM

growers to share their obsession with quality – leaving consumers in for a treat. “Whether you prefer to roll joints, pack bowls or vape bud, now you can get more of the best, because you deserve the best,” he added. The Fernway 1420 will be released in November and will range in price between $80-$90.

FLORENCE CANNABIS CO.

“The large buds from this batch will delight the consumer with robustness and flavor,” Rivers said. “The cannabinoids and terpene profiles create an amazing entourage effect that you will only find with craft, soil grown flower.” He went on to say that the “smooth and mellow effects,” paired with the blueberry-like aroma, make this a “great anytime strain.”

GG22 is available in eighths and halves of flower, as well as pre-rolls.

The eighths average around $35, the half ounces average around $100 and the pre-rolls average around $10.

Florence Cannabis Co. products are available at Liberty in Easthampton, Enlite in Northampton, Stem in Haverhill, Indica in Adams, New England Regional Dispensary in Clarksburg, The Vault in Webster and Devine in South Egremont.

Location in Florence

VISIT FLORENCECANNABISCOMPANY.COM

DADDY FAT SACKS

Florence Cannabis Co. has introduced a couple of new products including Daddy Fat Sacks.

“Fresh out of our small indoor facility, this sativa leaning strain is a cross between Blue Dream and Airborne G-13,” said Florence Cannabis Company Founder and Operations Director Chris Rivers. “It has some of the strongest we’ve ever had in the house and stays true to its name, delivering chunky, frosty buds that give the user a nice, uplifting experience perfect to

HADLEAF Location in Hadley

VISIT HADLEAFDISPENSARY.COM FOR MORE INFO

FATHOM FLOWER

Hadleaf has launched several new products including Fathom’s Flower, a sun grown craft cannabis. Assistant Store Manager Dave Moson said, “Their strains are carefully selected for their complexity, rich flavors and wide spectrum of effects.” Hadleaf has a variety of sativa, hybrid and indica options in stock – all available in buds, popcorn buds and pre-rolls.

Not only is Fathom Flower tasty and effective, but Moson said it is also affordable with prices ranging from $17-$30 for an eighth, and $10-$12 for a pre-roll.

smooth chocolate.” The bar is made of rich European milk chocolate, blended with natural maple flavors at 5mg of THC per piece, retailing for $25.

CARAMEL APPLE DROPS

CRUDE BOY 1G VAPE CARTRIDGES

“Crude Boys started as a grassroots effort to get amazing quality cannabis to friends and family, and it remains a passion project for the connoisseurs on their production teams to this day,” Moson said. Crude Boys one gram vape cartridges are preloaded with one gram of premium top shelf distillate oil and are available at Hadleaf in a variety of strains such as Lemon Kush, Blueberry Haze, Gelato and White Truffle, to name a few.

“Not only does Crude Boys bring amazing quality to the table but they also have amazing prices in the range of $30 to $40 for a one gram vape cartridge,” Moson noted.

HASHABLES COURTESY OF HADLEAF

INSA

Locations in Easthampton, Salem and Summerfield

VISIT MYINSA.COM FOR MORE INFO

MAPLE WAFFLE CHOCOLATE BAR

“Experience the illuminating New England foliage with our new Maple Waffle Chocolate Bar,” said Head Chef and Director of R&D Julian Rose. “Delight in the enjoyment of a warm waffle drizzled with real maple syrup, wrapped up in a velvety

“Instead of standing in line to bob for apples at the local fall festival, head to the nearest Insa location and grab the signature Caramel Apple Drops,” Rose said. “This offering is a variation of the original Sour Green Apple Drops, chef-curated with deep, rich caramel flavors that perfectly balance the tart bite of sour apple.” Made with natural fruit puree, caramel flavors and a light dusting of sugar, this decadent edible experience is unlike any other. Insa’s Caramel Apple Drops retail for $25.

PUMPKIN SPICE VAPORIZER

As the seasons change, Insa’s Pumpkin Spice Vaporizer combines cannabis with the warmth of pumpkin, cinnamon and nutmeg. “Every inhale will bring a cozy, familiar embrace of the autumn season,” Rose said.

HASHABLES SOLVENTLESS GUMMIES

Moson described Hashables as a “synergy of ice water hash and scintillating flavor.” He continued, “Zap yourself into a dreamy dimension with these full-spectrum hash-infused edibles. Formulated with solventless dry-cured hash and natural flavors, the effects of these edibles are potent and full-bodied.” Hashables are available at Hadleaf in three different flavors including Tropical Typhoon, Peachy Mango and Watermelon Jolt.

At 5mg per gummy and 100mg total in a package, these are a great option for a consumer with any level of experience, Moson shared. Averaging in price from $25-$30, Hashables are comparable to most other gummy options available, but stand out because of the cannabis oil and the way it is extracted. Moson noted that the product took home an award at this year’s High Times Cannabis Cup.

FATHOM FLOWER COURTESY OF HADLEAF

CRQ FALL 2023

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LOST FARM GUMMIES COURTESY OF PIONEER CANNABIS CO.

PIONEER CANNABIS CO.

Location in Brimfield

VISIT PIONEERCANNABISCOMPANY.COM FOR MORE INFO

LOST FARM GUMMIES

Pioneer Cannabis Co. CEO Maura Doyle shared some of its new product offerings including Lost Farm Gummies. “These strain-specific, plant-based 5mg THC gummies are infused with 100% live resin for a distinctively full spectrum high,” she said.

Each bag offers 20 effect-based gummies and Pioneer always keeps an indica and sativa option on its shelves, so customers have access to their desired effect. The flavors range from Juice Peach x Mimosa to Wedding Cake x Raspberry. The gummies can be purchased for $30.

The Pumpkin Spice Vaporizers are available in 500mg cartridges and dart pods that retail for $40 and 350mg pens that retail for $30.

PEANUT BUTTER SMOOCHES

“Although Halloween might be a little way away, it’s never too early to crave your favorite candy,” Rose said.

“Indulge in a new spin on a beloved classic, Insa’s Peanut Butter Smooches – the munchies journey you didn’t know you needed.” The pairing of rich, European milk chocolate and smooth, salty peanut butter is made even better with an infusion of THC. Each bite-sized “smooch” packs 5mg of THC with 20 pieces per package.

The product retails for $25 a pack and is now available in Massachusetts retailers.

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REBELLE’S GAS TANK STRAIN

“We are one of the first dispensaries in the state to carry Rebelle Flower and we – and our customers – were thrilled with the addition of their quality flower to our menu,” Doyle said. “A women owned cultivator, they have a strong line of strains including Papaya Rumcake and Triangle Mints, but a favorite at Pioneer is Rebelle’s Gas Tank strain.” Reminiscent of the most classic OG Kush, Gas Tank offers an enhanced cannabinoid and terpene profile, she shared. This strain is generally a high tester and has a pungent aroma. Rebelle prerolls can be found at Pioneer for $12, along with its eighths of flower sold for $40.

WANA’S STAY ASLEEP

Doyle said Pioneer often hears from customers that are struggling with sleep. The first question Doyle and

her team ask is, “Is your trouble with falling asleep or staying asleep?” She shared that a good majority have the issue of staying asleep and to meet those customers’ needs, Pioneer added Wana’s Stay Asleep to its offerings, which has been popular.

“These tasty Dream Berry gummies offer a gentle, calibrated solution to the root causes of sleeplessness – including stress and physical tension,” Doyle said. “Their custom blend of CBD, CBN, CBG, THC and more than 30 specialized terpenes deliver restful, long-lasting sleep with no next day grogginess.” Wana’s Stay Asleep is offered in a package containing 20 gummies and can be purchased at Pioneer for $32.

REBELLE’S GAS TANK STRAIN COURTESY OF PIONEER CANNABIS CO.

Please Consume Responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. For use only by adults 21 years of age or older or persons holding a patient registration card. Keep out of the reach of children. This product has not been analyzed or approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). There is limited information on the side effects of using this product, and there may be associated health risks. Marijuana use during pregnancy and breast feeding may pose potential harms. It is against the law to drive or operate machinery when under the influence of this product KEEP THIS PRODUCT AWAY FROM CHILDREN. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. The impairment effects of edible marijuana may be delayed by two hours or more. In case of accidental ingestion, contact poison control hotline 1-800-222-1222 or 911.

This product may be illegal outside of MA.

253 Millers Falls Road, Turners Falls www.253farmacy.com 413-863-5765

Monday—Saturday 9am—8pm

Sunday 10am—7pm

CRQ FALL 2023

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STORY BY DAN MCCARTHY IG: @ACUTALPROOF PHOTO SUBMITTED

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Fall product line up

Experience the bounty of harvest time

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T

he fall winds blow a bit differently these days, with new winds changing the way in which we experience the Autumnal Equinox. Therefore it’s important not to lose sight on the bounty of harvest time in Fall, and this array of products found at Canna Provisions stores in Holyoke and Lee are the best way to welcome the slow slide towards (*looks around*) …the holidays.

Hiking

1. Yamna Live Resin-infused 2.5gram

Smash Hits Hippy Slayer Cannagar That should explain what you’re dealing with here. It also may help you explain to the trees why they are so beautiful in fall. Ditch the cigar, light up a Cannagar.

2. Smash Hits Doctor Durban soda

Considering the physical exertion required for leisurely hikes up moderate inclines, a little blast of energy never hurts, and this sugary cola using Durban Poison terpenes is often used by some astronauts to get them back on their game in space. Not really, but the effects are indeed out of of this world.

Foraging

3. 1906 Boost

100% vegan, no colors or flavor.

A quick 5mg swallowable pill to do exactly as the name suggests, especially when you’re on hour 4 of a mushroom foraging expedition and need a new gear to finally land those special fungi you’ve been seeking….

Outdoor Dining

4. Fernway Pumpkin Spice

.5g vape cartridge Those Fernway minions keep pumping out vape carts using distillate and re-introduced plant-y terpenes in various formulas not seen since the invention of flavor. And if Pumpkin Spice is your flavor of Autumn, here’s a way to keep it in your pocket while dining al fresco this fall.

Tolerating the change in attitude for bosses/employees

5. Pre-packed .3g Glass Chillum

of Smash Hits MAC1 or California Raisins Something about the crackling fire season and full sprint towards the holidays gets some in extreme good or bad moods, all depending on how the holidays hit. When you need something that’s already packed up, ready to go, and reusable, these prepacked chillums of Smash Hits fresh flower will be your ace in the hole.

6. Wana 1:1 CBD/THC Strawberry

Margarita chews: Look sometimes you gotta take it down a notch. Or someone else in your proximity does. When either happens while at home or even out in the world especially at the office, let’s say - it’s good to have balance. Wana’s 1:1 CBD/THC chews give you a low psychoactive high, high-everything else repair kind of overall feeling, and the taste makes you think of Strawberry Margaritas. Never a bad thing.

Celebrating the kids being back in school 7. Value Zip

Full ounces (known as “zips” to the culture, if you’re new here) means having a nice supply at your disposal, especially now that the kids are back in school. The shake and value sized buds backed in these are 1-ounce of solid flower at value pricing. It really should begin to clarify why this product is called Value Zip.

8. 1906 Gamer

These days many parents are parents who like games. Video. Board.

Phone. And with the kids out of their hair, gaming will indeed commence.

Land a single pack of 1906 Gamer and you get a 5mg THC pill loaded with botanicals from Siberia that enhance mental focus, a root from Ayurveda to support cognitive func-

tion, and Galangal, which provides fast energy and enhances alertness.

Family gatherings 9. Incredibles Peanut

Budda Budda Bar 100mg of white chocolate, pretzel clusters, and peanut butter may describe why this Incredibles product won the 2013 High Times award for edibles. Eating it makes it more clear.

10. Smash Hits Haze soda

Let the Lemon OG Haze strain from Smash Hits, whose lemon lime flavors not only harken to a classic lemon lime soda most know, but it provides a pop of clarity and refreshing disposition after consumption. Just what’s needed when the in-laws are around.

Football and fall sports

11. 1 ounce of Ghost Train Haze wax

Crispy Commission Now that the games are back and Taylor Swift has made the entire world look at Kansas City, it’s worth stocking up for the season ahead.

One way is to make a neverending plate of nachos. Another way is to do that, but also have 1oz of the classic Ghost Train Haze sativa in wax form by the concentrate masters at Crispy Commission.

12. Chem D OG Ounce

This is one of the greatest legends in US cannabis genetics, the original Chem D from Smash Hits Director of Cultivation, Greg “Chemdog” Krzanowski. The stuff that reporters for High Times weren’t allowed to bring in the building in the 1990s as they got too many complaints by its intense diesel and garlicky funk aroma. Energy, creativity, and dreaminess go in when smoking this; stress, anxiety, and general pain often see themselves out. Now that it’s here, it’s time to treat yourself.

Check out these products on the menu in Holyoke or Lee at cannaprovisions.com

CRQ FALL 2023

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STORY BY STAASI HEROPOULOS PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Spa Day Article

The Drinkable Company

toasts high life

with new business

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CANNABISREVIEWQUARTERLY.COM

D

epending on which analysis is trending, the cannabis infused beverage market is between three and six billion dollars a year and growing at a double-digit pace. Mark Mahoney had that in mind when he and his partners cheered the opening of their new company that makes and sells drinkable cannabis—aptly named The Drinkable Company.

From twelve-ounce soda, cold brew and tea, THC infused drinks are drawing a growing number of devotees from a broadening demographic.

Mahoney, co-founder and CEO of the company, calls new consumers the cannabis curious.

“When I was doing my research a couple of years ago, I went into dispensaries all over the country, including New England, and I was surprised to see the demographic of people in there. The core set is 21- to 45-years old. But I saw a ton of people who were 60-85,” observed Mahoney.

The company’s drinks come in a variety of flavors—from orange, cola and root beer soda to wild berry and strawberry tea, to a variety of cold brew coffee. The drinks range from no to low calories, limited sugar and 5mg of THC that can take less than ten minutes to kick-in.

“What I wanted to do was bring the social aspect of consuming cannabis to the beverage market and make it equal to consuming alcohol,” said Mahoney.

“It’s also a way to mitigate pain and sleep better, and it’s healthier than alcohol, which destroys your kidney and liver.”

FOUNDING FORMULA

The Drinkable Company was founded last May—products hit shelves last August. With headquarters in Danvers, MA, there are production facilities in Gloucester and Maine. The business works with partners and licensees to manufacture, market and distribute beverages, which are sold in nearly 80 dispensaries in Massachusetts and 30 in Maine.

Mahoney has aggressive growth plans, looking to expand operations throughout New England as well as New York and New Jersey. He’s counting on the people who live there

“We’re looking at whether we should be adding ingredients to our products like electrolytes or probiotics.” to indulge, along with tourists eager to buy what is banned back home.

“Dispensaries in Vermont, and especially Maine with its seacoast and mountains, bring in a lot of people looking for recreational cannabis. The early metrics indicate New York and New Jersey are also viable markets,” said Mahoney.

Mahoney is still in the early stages of product development. He’s getting a good idea of who is drinking, now he wants a better taste of what else consumers want. “We’re looking at whether we should be adding ingredients to our products like electrolytes or probiotics,” he said.

Ever since consuming cannabis became legal, the caution flag has been warning people, especially new users, to go slow until they know how their body will react.

“We always tell people if they’re new to cannabis, to drink half a can and wait about 20 minutes to see how you feel and go for the rest if you’re okay. There’s no hurry, take it slow.

Everybody reacts differently because of their metabolism or digestive track,” he said.

For now, beverages feature only THC, but the intent is to begin infusing CBD in due time. “Right now, we’re offering full spectrum THC. We’ll be CRQ FALL 2023

17

While imbibing indica and sativa appears to date back many millennia, The Drinkable Company is taking what’s old and making it new again.

introducing new products over the next couple of quarters that have different ratios of CBD and THC,” said Mahoney.

IN THE OLD, OLD DAYS

It would appear infused drinks are new ways to enjoy a drug that is more commonly smoked or eaten. But dosing beverages dates back 7,000 years to when cannabis seeds were ground and mixed with water along with rice, millet and barley primarily in China and India.

The Atharvaveda—a collection of scriptures, hymns and incantations from the early 1500s—also mention a cannabis infused beverage. The sacred writings indicate cannabis leaves and buds were ground into a paste, which was combined with milk, sugar, spices and other ingredients to make bhang, which was consumed at religious festivals and events.

While imbibing indica and sativa appears to date back many millennia, The Drinkable Company is taking what’s old and making it new again.

“We just think that’s a homerun,” said Mahoney. “It’s gaining momentum and opening doors for people looking for new ways to party or relax.”

For more information about The Drinkable Company, its products and where they’re available, visit www.drinkableco.com.

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CANNABISREVIEWQUARTERLY.COM

STORY BY LAUREN LEBEL PHOTOS ISTOCK

Fall, the arts, the

Berkshires ...oh, and cannabis!

I

t is fall art season in the Berkshires, meaning there are several upcoming events that are enjoyable for people of all ages.

Whether you decide to load the family in the car or make an individual trek to the entertainment destination, more likely than not, a little boost of energy will be needed at some point throughout the day. To aid in staying awake or grant a midafternoon jolt are several products waiting to be purchased at dispensaries along the way. To provide you with fun, fall ideas, below is a list of some festivities happening in the Berkshires and the closest dispensary to it. Consider this a two-for-one special!

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EVENT: This year’s ArtWeek Berkshires will run from Oct. 14-22.

The annual celebration showcases local creativity with more than 100 hands-on or behind-the-scenes events and open studios across the region, including gallery shows, live performances, poetry readings and painting demos, to name a few.

DISPENSARY: While ArtWeek Berkshires occurs in more places than one, Theory Wellness in Great Barrington is the perfect dispensary to stop at if you are traveling in the northern Berkshires. Serving as both a medical and recreational dispensary, Theory carries a variety of products such as flower, pre-rolls, vaporizers, concentrates, edibles and more. One of its products – a staff pick – is Theory’s Smores Milk Chocolate Bar. Combining crunchy graham cracker bits, sweet mini marshmallows and creamy milk chocolate, the bar is an effective treat that leaves consumers feeling happy and energetic. The 20-piece chocolate bar retails for $15.

EVENT: Ghosts, goblins and ghouls, oh my! On Oct. 27, from 8 - 10 p.m., “Ghosts of the Berkshires” Author Robert Oakes will be leading a ghost tour at Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum, 104 Walker St. in Lenox. Participants will walk through the haunted, historic estate and hear stories of eerie encounterings, while possibly experiencing their own.

DISPENSARY: To settle some nerves before the fright, stop in at Canna Provisions in Lee. Canna Provisions has an extensive menu with some fall features including Mixtape Smash Hits. The pre-rolls are ready to smoke, making for a quick and convenient way to consume cannabis. For 1g, it costs $8.

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CANNABISREVIEWQUARTERLY.COM

EVENT: In the spirit of Halloween, the Catamount Lodge in South Egremont is hosting its first “Black Cat Bash,” on Oct. 28 at 6:30 p.m. The event serves as a costume party for people over 21. There will be music, food stations, a photo booth and a special fire dance performance.

DISPENSARY: Also located in South Egremont is Devine, a retail cannabis dispensary and CBD store. To avoid hitting the afternoon slump, Devine sells Zenith Cold Brew Coffee that is infused with cannabis for the “perfect kick with the perfect buzz,” retailing for $8.

EVENT: Mass MoCA in North Adams is inviting the people to meet the artists-in-residence during open studio on Nov. 2 from 5-7 p.m. Admission is free.

DISPENSARY: Clear Sky Cannabis in North Adams has an assortment of products to choose from. One of its most popular products is Lost Farm’s Mimosa x Juicy Peach 100mg chew. There are 20 gummies per package, costing $30.

EVENT: The Pittsfield Farmers Market, the first teen-run market in the region, is set to return on Nov. 11 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. It features live music, chef demos, workshops and children’s activities, to name a few.

The market is at the Zion Lutheran Church, 74 First St., and takes place each second Saturday of the month, November through April.

DISPENSARY: Bloom Brothers in Pittsfield is a brand-new, state of the art facility that has it all. If you are looking for a controlled dosage, try Hexies, a gelatin-based fruit chew that comes in a variety of flavors.

Each chew has about 5mg of THC, with 20 servings in each pack. This popular product costs around $15.

EVENT: From Nov. 25 through Dec. 17, every Saturday and Sunday, the Deerfield Inn offers horse drawn wagon rides. The outdoor activity is “perfect” for a fall afternoon, as it is a private ride and only lasts 30 minutes. It costs $75 for four people, and $5 for each additional person up to eight. Reservations are encouraged.

DISPENSARY: Elevating your cannabis experience one puff at a time is Happy Feelings in Greenfield. One of its most popular product offerings is Mile 62 Prepack Triangle Kush. In only five minutes, consumers will begin feeling effects that can last up to a few hours. For an eighth ounce, the product costs $35.

EVENT: On Dec. 1, 2 and 3, the town of Stockbridge is hosting “Main Street at Christmas” at the Stockbridge Chamber of Commerce, 50 Main St. The town was made famous by Norman Rockwell’s painting of the village during the holidays, as it is decorated with festive lights and wreaths. The celebration offers activities for all, including live performances, historic property tours, holiday markets and much more.

DISPENSARY: Located in nearby Great Barrington is Calyx Berkshire Dispensary, a women owned cannabis boutique. While there are many offerings, one that stands out is cannabis infused ice cream. If you have never tried it before, Cloud Creamy’s Java Butter medium roast coffee ice cream is a must – with brownie bites and dark chocolate chips infused as well. For a 50mg container, it costs $30.

EVENT: Throughout the month of December, “A Christmas Carol” will be performed at the Unicorn Theatre in Stockbridge. The show can be enjoyed by the whole family and will be sure to put you in the holiday spirit.

References: berkshires.org/, theorywellness.org/ma/great-barrington-recreational-cannabis-dispensary/, cannaprovisions.com/, devineberkshires.com/, shopclearsky.com/, bloombrothers.com/, happyfeelings.shop/, calyxberkshire. com/, letsrebelle.com/

DISPENSARY: Rebelle in Great Barrington has everything you need to get you through any event. To “bump” up the energy, Boost Drops is the answer. These swallowable pills are a 100mg sativa, sold for $20, in a 20-pack tin.

With many events on the horizon, it is important that you are feeling your best. In preparation for any type of day, make sure to stop in at a local dispensary … you will not regret it!

To learn more about fall art season in the Berkshires, visit berkshires.org.

Medical Marijuana Evaluations le h e a l th N o w do in g te n s! e v a lu a t io

Do you qualify?

Affordable • Convenient We are here to help MariMed Consults Call 413-455-1081 or text 413-351-9172

1985 Main St. Suite 209 Springfield, MA

www.marimedconsults.info marimedconsults@gmail.com Qualified Patients Certified with CCC

CHRONIC PAIN • INSOMNIA • ANXIETY • CANCER GI DISEASE • LOSS OF APPETITE • & MORE CRQ FALL 2023

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STORY BY STAASI HEROPOULOS PHOTOS BY NATE BLAIS

GROWING CANNABIS in the

great

outdoors

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CANNABISREVIEWQUARTERLY.COM

A

s leaves begin turning color and foliage aficionados embark on leaf peeping journeys, this is also a special time of year for pot growers peeking at their plants.

“We harvest our plants when the leaves turn from a beautiful green to yellow, purple, brown and red—the same fall colors we see on trees.

Before then the plant is still going through its growth cycle,” says Erik Williams, co-founder and chief operating officer (COO) for Canna Provisions in Lee and Holyoke, and a cultivation in Sheffield in the Berkshires.

Canna cultivates some 700 plants outdoors, along with another 1,100 inside its growing facility in Sheffield.

Williams says growing cannabis outdoors presents both opportunities and challenges to anyone interested in a DIY experience. Doing it yourself leads to an immense sense of pride and is one of the reasons at-home cultivators are digging into the action. It’s like growing the top tomato or the most pristine pepper.

“It’s about the achievement. It’s that same sense of satisfaction when you’re growing cannabis. You trim it all up, put it in jars and give it away. It’s the same benefit you get psychologically and emotionally from gift giving,” says Williams.

There’s also consuming the cannabis and bartering it with others who want to trade what they’ve grown or made. But before any of that happens, a tiny plant or two, or twelve get placed in the soil as people begin their growing season. Twelve is the maximum number of plants two people are allowed by law to grow at the same address.

WHERE TO PLANT POT The first thing growers have to decide is where to raise their crop. It turns out the best place for a pot plant, is in a pot, not the soil.

“I would almost never recommend growing cannabis plants in the soil. I really don’t know many people that plant directly into the ground in New England. They’re growing plants outside but putting them in some sort

ABOVE: Outdoor Hippy Slayer from Smash Hits cannabis.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Sun grown Berkshires outdoor cannabis from Smash Hits cannabis.

“It’s really difficult to grow in Massachusetts because of the drastic temperature changes— everything from high winds and droughts to too much rain can really ruin an entire crop,”

says Erik Williams,

COO AND CO-FOUNDER, CANNA PROVISIONS.

of pot or bucket that can easily be brought inside when the weather turns bad,” says Williams.

Experts say the climate in New England is not very hospitable to growing plants outdoors. Spring can surprise growers with a late frost, or there may be a fall freeze sooner than expected, dooming cannabis the same way cold spikes kill flowers.

“It’s really difficult to grow in Massachusetts because of the drastic temperature changes—everything from high winds and droughts to too much rain can really ruin an entire crop,” says Williams.

“People are watching the weather

for the potential of a frost. You can either cover your plants with tarp or plastic—or you can bring them inside,” he says.

Very few people had problems keeping their plants moist this summer because of ongoing, heavy showers.

But even as water is critical to a plant’s survival, overdoing it can leave them soggy and rotten. Striking the right balance takes time and attention.

“Every single morning the very first thing we do is literally shake every single plant and go through with a leaf blower to dry all of our plants. Moisture on your buds is your enemy,” he says.

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“Every single morning the very first thing we do is literally shake every single plant and go through with a leaf blower to dry all of our plants.

Moisture on your buds is your enemy!”

Pictured: Outdoor Stardawg (Corey Cut) from Smash Hits cannabis.

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CANNABISREVIEWQUARTERLY.COM

SEEING THE LIGHT While bringing plants inside is a recommended action in foul or freezing weather, keeping plants in the dark when they do come indoors is critical.

“One of the most common mistakes people make is not keeping plants in the dark, which is an important part of growing cannabis,” says Williams.

When a plant is outside it benefits from the regular cycle of light during the day and darkness at night. Keeping plants lit all the time interrupts their photoperiodic cycle, disrupting growth and flower production.

The quality of soil across the Bay State varies from one region to another. It can be especially good in parts of Western Massachusetts. “The Connecticut River Valley benefits from centuries of silt that’s run off, so it’s nutrient rich. There’s some really great soil there,” says Williams.

Since not all soil is created equally, Williams recommends having it tested at a garden store or university to make sure there are no heavy metals in the

dirt, and to ensure it has the right level of pH and nutrients.

All spring and summer, gardeners are at war with pests and their pestilence. Cannabis growers face the same struggle and the weapons at their disposal, from chemical to organic, are available at lawn and garden stores.

But the best bet to ward off bugs is to be a lady.

“If you’re seeing ladybugs in your garden, that’s fantastic. There are tons of ladybugs out there that eat harmful insects. Having lots of ladybugs

is a very good thing in any cannabis garden,” says Williams. Ladybugs are available for sale at some lawn and garden centers or online.

Growing cannabis outdoors involves a lot of work, but Williams says the rewards are rich.

“I happen to like outdoor cannabis a lot. It comes so close to natural expression and the flavors really come through,” he says. “Mimicking Mother Nature by using artificial light indoors can be expensive, and no light is as good as the sun.”

ADULT CIDER? YES PLEASE!

NON-STOP APPLE PICKING

HIGH. QUALITY. CANNABIS.

IS IT REALLY FALL WITHOUT PUMPKIN SPICE?

S’MORES 2.0

Order ahead for quick pick up

RECREATIONAL CANNABIS

DISPENSARY LOCATIONS

HOLYOKE 380 Dwight St (413) 650-2500

LEE

.

220 Housatonic St (413) 394-5055

Please Consume Responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. For use only by adults 21 years of age or older. Keep out of the reach of children. This product has not been analyzed or approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This is limited information on the side effects of using this product, and there may be associated health risks.

Marijuana used during pregnancy and breast-feeding may pose potential harms. It is against the law to drive or operate machinery when under the influence of this product. KEEP THIS PRODUCT AWAY FROM CHILDREN. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. The effects of Edibles may be delayed by two hours or more. In case of accidental ingestion, contact poison control hotline 1-800-222-1222 or 9-1-1. This product may be illegal outside of MA.

CRQ FALL 2023

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STORY BY DAN MCCARTHY IG: @ACUTALPROOF PHOTOS BY NATE BLAIS

Outdoor Cultivation:

A WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS GUIDE Greg “Chemdog” Krzanowski of Smash Hits cannabis gives his outdoor the sunshine and smell test.

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CANNABISREVIEWQUARTERLY.COM

I

f you’ve ever considered cultivating your own cannabis garden under the Massachusetts sun, sprouting your ambitions has never been easier thanks to legal home grow. Whether it’s for therapeutic, recreational, or personal connection, growing cannabis outdoors presents a unique opportunity to reap what you sow. Here’s your roadmap to a fruitful harvest as outlined by legacy market cannabis icon and Smash Hits cannabis Director of Cultivation, Greg “Chemdog” Krzanowski, who is about to release his first ever batch of true all-outdoor flower using some of his oldest genetics going back 30 years.

THE DAILY ROUTINE: Morning Dew: One of the essentials for healthy cannabis growth is ensuring the leaves remain dew-free in the mornings. Dew retention can cause mold or disease. Pro tip? A leaf blower can be your morning companion to blow off the dew and safeguard your plants.

Harvesting: Come late September to mid-October, it’s time to reap.

However, remember, every plant is unique. Some local favorites for outdoor cultivation include our Hippy Slayer, Urkle x Tres Dawg, and our classic Stardawg (Corey Cut) strains. Just incredible terpenes profile and reaching full potential under the natural wind, rain, and sun of the Berkshires. And don’t forget: The real fun and magic happens in the cure afterwards, so let’s those buds cure well and you’ll have some amazing flower.

BE VIGILANT: Bugs & Pests: Outdoor cultivation inevitably invites pests. Keep a close eye, and if you notice unwanted guests like caterpillars, head to your local gardening store for solutions.

THE BASICS: ESSENTIALS FOR OUTDOOR CULTIVATION A Leaf Blower: For morning dew management.

High-quality Soil: Bio365 is a trusted choice.

Pots: At least 7-gallon capacity or a well-prepared garden bed.

Pesticides: No. Use natural solutions like ladybugs for those unwanted guests.

TIMING IS EVERYTHING: Planting Time: On the East Coast, particularly in the Northeast, the ideal time to plant outdoors is around June 1st. By this time, the frost is usually over, and the conditions are apt for young plants, ideally around a foot tall.

Growth Phase: Ensure you don’t overcrowd your plants. They need room to breathe and grow. Initially, feed them with vegetation food. As the sun alters its course and days start getting shorter, it’s a signal to switch to bloom feed.

A FIRM FOUNDATION: Soil Selection: A strong foundation ensures a thriving plant. We recommend using Bio365 soil, renowned for its nutrient-rich composition. If starting with a clone or seed, once your plant is about a foot tall, it’s ready to be planted in this nurturing bed.

Container Size: If you’re going with pots, a minimum of 7-gallon capacity is advisable. If planting directly into the ground, dig a sizable hole and infuse it with Bio365 soil for the best results.

Regular Watering: Especially if you’re skipping daily checks.

For those seeking a head start, Canna Provisions and Smash Hits offers a wide variety of clones. Ready to bring your green thumb to the cannabis world?

Sign up for their email list to get first-dibs on clone drops.

For more tips on outdoor cultivation and Smash Hits cannabis visit cannaprovisions.com

CRQ FALL 2023

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STORY BY STAASI HEROPOULOS PHOTOS SUBMITTED

I’m trying to

concentrate I

f you take time to concentrate, you can get more out of cannabis than you ever thought possible.

Concentrated, turbocharged THC and CBD are much more potent and pleasurable than the dialed down variety.

“Any time we take those wonderful THC and CBD cannabinoids on the flower and make the product stronger by condensing them, that’s the concentrate,” says Lisa Black, head of training and education at Insa. Based in Massachusetts, Insa manufactures and sells cannabis products in Springfield and Easthampton as well as Florida and Ohio.

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CANNABISREVIEWQUARTERLY.COM

Insa and others create concentrates by stripping out excess plant materials or impurities from the cannabis, increasing and enhancing the effects of THC and CBD. “You’re not only getting a concentrated amount of those cannabinoids, which is amazing, but you’re also getting a concentrated amount of terpenes. The higher the terpene content, the more you’ll see the personality of the strain you love,” says Black.

When CBD’s personality blossoms, it becomes even more relaxing and does a better job relieving inflammation and pain. Concentrates connect

with THC to deliver a heartier high while blocking pain, elevating mood and boosting energy better than ever.

Industry experts are saying concentrates have become so popular, they may begin outselling products without the added attraction. But boosting the impact of cannabinoids comes with a word of caution.

“They might be a little intimidating for some because they’re so powerful but they have so much to offer,” says Black.

“We advise people to take it slow. We want to make sure people are using our products in a safe, comfortable way. We don’t want anyone to have a bad experience and then not use cannabis. That would be a nightmare for everyone, and we take that very seriously.”

Concentrates are most commonly used in vaping and smoking—but they’re also found in edibles, lotions, tinctures and topicals. Straight up, these products have the desired effect many people are looking for, while others want concentrated products to amplify their experience.

“We’re here to educate people

and the first thing we ask is, ‘Why do you want to use concentrates?’ The biggest reason is they want something very powerful.

Concentrates can also be clean tasting because you’re not necessarily burning them and without combustion, they’re easier on your lungs,” says Black.

People familiar with more traditional products may take a while to get comfortable with concentrates.

“But once you have a little practice, concentrates can integrate seamlessly into your cannabis routine and save you a lot of time. If you’re smoking a bowl or two to get to the effects you want, a little dab of concentrates will give you those same effects more quickly—then you can get on with your day and not be inhaling all that smoke.

That’s a huge benefit,” says Black.

There are so many ways to use concentrates, but Black says a great method is vaping.

“Your journey can start with vaporizers because they’re so easy to use. It’s a fun little toy,” says Black. “Concentrates can be intimidating. But once you learn a little bit more, you realize they’re not that scary. They really have a lot to offer people.”

Manufacturers use concentrates in many of their products. The high-test ingredient comes in many forms and can be purchased separately, allowing users to experiment with it. But it’s a good idea to contact product experts for advice.

TOP RIGHT: BALLER JAR 4G Baller jars contain an impressive 4 grams of concentrates, offering value and enjoyment.

Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or an aspiring aficionado, the jars provide intense flavors and unforgettable experiences.

LEFT: LIVE RESIN DISPOSABLE PENS Extracted from freshly harvested flower, Live Resin preserves the full-spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes from the original plant.

CRQ FALL 2023

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STORY BY LAUREN LEBEL PHOTOS BY HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN

Hidden

Hemlock

H

idden Hemlock was started in 2018 by two brothers, Jeff and Greg Bellino; however, the roots and experience goes back much further. For more than 20 years, the Berkshire natives have been growing weed, following in the footsteps and learning from family that has been growing for over 50 years.

Jeff shared that their dad first grew weed around 1968, a “different time” where people would “get in a lot of trouble for it.”

Living in the middle of the woods, Jeff and Greg grew up farming straw30

CANNABISREVIEWQUARTERLY.COM

talks business and stocking stuffers

berries, peaches, apples, cucumbers and tobacco outdoors, which later led to farming indoors as well.

With master’s degrees in environmental science and environmental engineering from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, on top of experience in the field, the Bellino’s decided

to take their knowledge and passion and turn it into a business.

Jeff shared that the permitting and application process was a “long haul,” however, Greg accredited their prior experience for assisting them in the work, as everything was done on their own.

Originally permitted for the town of Middleborough, the Bellino’s started there as they lived in Eastern Massachusetts at the time. After experiencing issues with permitting, they ultimately decided to return home to Western Massachusetts and several years later, opened Hidden Hemlock in Westfield.

Greg said it is “difficult” to obtain funding for a microbusiness, which made receiving a license even harder.

He went on to say that everyone that was interested in cannabis already had equity with another company so they could not invest in Hidden Hemlock. From the state roll out to becoming operational was a battle, he added.

The family owned and operated microbusiness first started growing on Halloween in 2021. Jeff noted that it ironically ties into their brand, which has a “creepy” and “spooky vibe.”

Hidden Hemlock grows small batch, organic, indoor cannabis, while also making some solventless concentrates.

HIDDEN HEMLOCK IS FOCUSED ON QUALITY PRODUCTS.

Most of what is grown is their own genetics that have been bred for more than 20 years, Greg shared. Everything is in organic soil, which is more expensive – like fruits and vegetables – it costs more but the product is better.

The Bellino’s went on to describe Hidden Hemlock’s product as “unique strains that no one can get.

Jeff explained that Hidden Hemlock’s canopy is only about 2,500 square feet, but based on the demand, another flower grow is being added and is currently in the design and permitting stage.

Today, Hidden Hemlock can be found in 50 stores across Massachusetts, with plans of expanding to more.

When it comes to a microbusiness, Jeff said creating relationships are most important. For instance, Greg shared that a lot of people will seek out their products based on its feedback. Whether it be from door knocking, cold calling or simply showing up, people are becoming aware of Hidden Hemlock.

Other ways Hidden Hemlock gets their name out there is through recommendations from dispensaries or word of mouth.

“The product definitely speaks for itself,” Greg said.

Hidden Hemlock will also fill custom orders. For instance, when talking with a dispensary, the Bellinos will send over a menu of what is available, but if something custom is wanted, they will fulfill that request.

Hidden Hemlock’s staple products are flower and prerolls, but will also offer multipack pre-rolls, novelty pre-rolls, pre-gram pre-rolls, non-solventless concentrates such as kief and rosin along with cross joints.

“We’re not remediating our cannabis. If we choose to do rosin, it’s just a small batch,” Greg said.

Jeff added, “We’re not doing it because we have poor quality stuff, it’s just because we like to smoke it.”

As the Bellinos are the ones making the decisions, if they

LOCAL BROTHERS GROWING LOCAL BUDS Since 2018

Small batch Grown in Organic Soil Family Owned hidden-hemlock.com @hiddenhemlockma

HIDDEN HEMLOCK

Please Consume Responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. For use only by adults 21 years of age or older or persons holding a patient registration card. Keep out of the reach of children. This product has not been analyzed or approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). There is limited information on the side effects of using this product, and there may be associated health risks. Marijuana use during pregnancy and breast feeding may pose potential harms. It is against the law to drive or operate machinery when under the influence of this product KEEP THIS PRODUCT AWAY FROM CHILDREN. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. The impairment effects of edible marijuana may be delayed by two hours or more. In case of accidental ingestion, contact poison control hotline 1-800-222-1222 or 911.

CRQ FALL 2023

31

feel like making something different or testing something, they do it in the process room. If it works, the product will be sold, which makes each one unique.

“Everything is made to order – we don’t harvest a batch and then just turn it all into pre-rolls and wait for someone to order it,” Greg said. Once it comes out of cure, it is trimmed and grinded up with whole flower to make the order. “Everything is fresh,” he shared.

Jeff noted that once a product is out of cure, it is typically sold out within a couple of weeks.

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With several products to choose from, Hidden Hemlock has a variety of options for any occasion, especially the upcoming holidays.

Forget the real candy canes – an extra-large pre-roll tube that resembles a candy cane is much better.

If you are looking to spice up the Christmas season and add a little something special to someone’s stocking, Hidden Hemlock has the answers for you.

Its “biggest sellers” are the standard eighths and pre-rolls, Jeff shared.

He noted that most of their pre-rolls

are made from whole ground flower – top quality bud – which differs from most people’s pre-rolls. As a microbusiness, Greg said this allows them to “stand out” and “be different” from the big multi operators, which is crucial.

“Because we’re so small, we like to get creative and make some novelty items,” such as holiday themed packaging for pre-rolls, he said.

The holiday packaging goes beyond Christmas, with printed theme options for New Years, Valentines Day, Halloween and more. “[We] try to grow strains that sort of have a holiday theme,” Jeff said. Last Christmas, Hidden Hemlock had a specific candy cane strain.

Greg said they also have some “old school” strains that are popular as well.

Additionally, Hidden Hemlock has a variety of multipacks, along with producing its custom orders.

Pricing for the products depends on the strain and the location.

To find Hidden Hemlock at a dispensary near you, visit hidden-hemlock. com or find them on Instagram @ hiddenhemlockma.

If a reader has an idea for a novelty item, contact brothers@hidden-hemlock.com.

STORY BY DENNIS HOHENBERGER PHOTO BY DON TREEGER

THE NOW CLOSED TRULIEVE CANNABIS GROWING FACILITY IN HOLYOKE

Navigating

green the

landscape

Milestones and challenges in Massachusetts’ cannabis sector

B

y the end of 2021, the Massachusetts cannabis landscape had evolved significantly. The number of licensed establishments had increased, and the sales figures were $1 billion.

In 2016, Massachusetts voters approved the recreational use of cannabis for adults over 21. This decision led to the emergence of retail outlets throughout the state in 2018.

The Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) was appointed to manage these changes. The agency first oversaw the medical cannabis system launched in 2012. The CCC enforces regulations, greenlights operating licenses, and contends with challenges in the cannabis sector.

In a recent development, state Treasurer Deborah Goldberg suspended CCC chair Shannon O’Brien on Sept.

14. The commission would not specify the length of O’Brien’s suspension or the reason.

Fiscal strategies supported this growth, including a state sales tax, an excise tax, and an optional local tax.

The CCC also implemented social equity programs. Recognizing past injustices linked to marijuana prohibitions, the initiatives aimed to support historically marginalized communities.

The rapid growth of the cannabis sector in Massachusetts also presented challenges. Some towns opted to prohibit cannabis businesses. Nonetheless, the industry continued to progress, with sales reaching $5 billion, a notable increase from the $4 billion mark achieved eight months earlier.

setts, with its established infrastructure and regulatory framework, remained a significant player in the Northeast.

By September, sales in the state surpassed $1 billion, adding 53 new Marijuana Retailers and four Marijuana Delivery Operators., according to the CCC. HOLYOKE’S EXPANDING CANNABIS SCENE The city of Holyoke emerged as a significant player in the cannabis narrative.

The Paper City’s growth wasn’t merely fortunate. Instead, it stemmed from the City Council’s full support. Unlike

Only Boston outpaces Holyoke in cannabis special permits.

Nearby states, such as Maine, Rhode Island, and Connecticut, also reported growth in cannabis sales. Yet Massachu-

Northampton, which passed a moratorium on special permits, Holyoke has no such restrictions.

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Only Boston outpaces Holyoke in cannabis special permits. Recreational and medicinal pot shops are restricted to Holyoke’s industrial zones, which once buzzed with three-shift papermills and factories.

Boston Bud, Canna Provision, GTI (Green Thumbs Industry) Daze, and Holyoke Cannabis Dispensaries dominate the city’s marijuana scene.

The Palmer Planning Board recently recommended amending an ordinance raising the number of cannabis retailers from three to four. An industry lawyer drafted and submitted the amended rule the board (3-2) approved nearly intact.

Special permit public hearings are common agenda items before Holyoke’s Ordinance Committee. Upon the committee’s recommendation, the City Council rarely rejects a special permit request, a critical step in the state licensing process.

Leading Holyoke’s Planning and Economic Development, Aaron Vega provided insights into this growth. Vega served as Holyoke’s representative on Beacon Hill when voters approved the cannabis ballot measures.

Vega noted approvals for “36 special permits” and highlighted “three growth facilities online,” complemented by five fully operational dispensaries.

He elaborated on the city’s unique strengths, attributing its growth to abundant space, competitive energy pricing, and a ready and willing workforce.

Yet, for all its achievements, challeng-

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es persist. Vega discussed the uphill battle of establishing brand loyalty in an increasingly competitive market. He compared other sectors, musing on the balance between brand preference and consumer convenience.

As neighboring states, like Connecticut, also move toward legalizing cannabis, Holyoke businesses face an evolving landscape. Vega notes, “The trick is brand loyalty,” with the advent of other major dispensaries, such as one in Springfield, businesses must be innovative in maintaining their clientele.

“It’s tricky because brand loyalty may exist. But the reality is that even like a liquor store, I can go to any liquor store and get five different varieties of vodka. So do I need to travel half an hour to get my favorite vodka?” Vega said.

The City of Holyoke has brought in millions of dollars in revenue tied to host and mitigation agreements.

Beyond market dynamics, Vega touched upon broader societal challenges. He expressed concerns about the lack of dedicated and safe spaces for cannabis consumption. On location consumption is forbidden in Massachusetts. Such areas, whether public or private, are integral for a maturing cannabis industry, and Vega expressed optimism that future regulations might address this gap.

as they needed. They’ve also pulled out of Colorado and Massachusetts.”

He noted that Trulieve’s was the first to get product to market, followed by a series of price cuts. “The business model, it seems, didn’t work anymore for them.” There are indications of internal challenges, leading the company to pull operations and causing job losses.

Vega added that the City of Holyoke was working with Trulieve’s broker and real estate group to attract new owners, not necessarily in the cannabis sector. However, he noted the challenges ahead, stating that Trulieve “will owe a substantial tax bill next year—over $300,000.”

He supports an indoor gardening or food production tenant for the Trulieve building. “The infrastructure in that building would be more than suitable for several indoor growing operations.”

Trulieve’s brief time in Holyoke was not without controversy, as a worker’s death was reported in January 2022.

The tragedy triggered state and federal investigations focused on worker safety.

Newly hired Lorna McMurray, 27, was reportedly working in the company’s pre-rolled joint section when she experienced breathing problems. Federal investigators noted that McMurray was grinding cannabis flowers. The dust triggered an allergic reaction, resulting in McMurray’s death.

TRULIEVE’S HOLYOKE EXIT In June, Trulieve announced it was shuttering its over 120,000-square-foot growing and cultivation operation at 56 Canal St. in Holyoke.

“I think two things happened with Trulieve. They are a multi-state operator, and their stronghold is in Florida,” Vega said. “The numbers at their other facilities across the state weren’t as good

INDUSTRY’S FUTURE: TRENDS AND CHALLENGES Brendan McKee of Silver Therapeutics dived into industry trends and dynamics. McKee highlighted how Massachusetts had experienced price shifts recently, suggesting that these movements ultimately benefit the consumer.

In some instances, prices dropped by 30-40%, representing a dramatic shift in the market to meet consumers’ expectations.

Besides retail locations in Palmer, Williamstown, and a slated shop in Boston, Silver Therapeutics operates in Maine and Vermont. The company has focused on smaller, rural communities for retail shops.

While Holyoke was a consideration,

Silver Therapeutics worried about the already saturated market.

McKee was vocal about aspirations for the industry, particularly emphasizing the potential benefits of comprehensive loyalty or discount incentives for customers. He stressed the critical role of “delivery programs.” He disagreed with state rules that require two-person teams for home delivery.

In his view, such programs wouldn’t just be a nod to modern convenience but are essential for ensuring accessibility, especially for those with mobility concerns or other limitations.

McKee didn’t shy away from addressing more systemic issues either. He put a spot-

PHOTOS SUBMITTED

“Our team members are the lifeblood of our operations, interfacing with consumers daily.” light on the problem of dormant Host Community Agreements (HCAs). In his opinion, these unused HCAs could be stalling industry growth.

He made a case for re-evaluating them, mainly if they act as barriers for newer, dynamic businesses eager to enter the market. In many communities, it’s a “race to the finish,” as retailers sprint toward opening.

McKee shifted the focus to the human element of the cannabis industry. He spoke about Silver Therapeutics’ commitment to its staff. “Our team members are the lifeblood of our operations, interfacing with consumers daily,” he shared.

He underlined the invaluable role of consumer feedback in shaping the future, emphasizing that businesses must remain agile, responsive, and always attuned to the voices of their customers.

To encapsulate, Massachusetts’ cannabis sector, though relatively young, stands at a critical juncture. It has tasted success, navigated challenges, and held vast potential for the future.

McKee said strategic and timely adjustments are essential for the industry to realize its potential truly. Such refinements will ensure a balanced growth trajectory that serves both businesses and consumers.

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STORY BY STAASI HEROPOULOS PHOTOS SUBMITTED

Native

Sun

PLANTS SEED FOR BETTER THAN EVER FLOWERS

N

ative Sun is flying high with stellar retail sales, so much so it has built and is processing cannabis flowers in its new cultivation center in Fitchburg.

Until now Native Sun purchased products from wholesalers, distributing them through its retail stores in Hudson and North Attleboro. But with sales projected to double in the next year, and expectations of its own “robust” 36

CANNABISREVIEWQUARTERLY.COM

wholesale business, Native Sun has brought flower production in-house.

“We’re solely focused on producing packaged flower and biomass. We don’t have extraction. We don’t do pre-rolls or edibles. As of right now, all we produce is flower and other forms of cannabis biomass we send to partners for production,” says Matt Gamble, Native Sun chief operating officer (COO).

Native Sun is now a vertically inte-

grated business, producing and selling product out of its current dispensaries along with one to come in Braintree.

“Our mission is to give people access to the best that cannabis has to offer. For us, that means cultivating our own products because ultimately, the only way to control the quality of what we sell in our stores is to make it ourselves,” he says.

BOTTOM LINE BOOSTING

Financial benefits could also accrue to the company, eliminating third party wholesalers and keeping costs down by curating its own flowers. “There are definitely financial benefits to being vertically integrated, but ultimately, the pursuit of a better flower experience is really what’s driving us,” says Gamble.

Along with increased quality, Gamble says consumers may also reap other benefits from this new business model.

“This gives us an advantage in that we can sell our flowers for a very affordable price. People can get high-quality products without breaking the bank because we’ve realized the efficiencies of being vertically integrated,” he says.

Native Sun grows and processes around 5,000 plants, and because that’s being done in-house now, the company has gone on a hiring spree, adding 50 jobs in production. “One of the key features is our flowers are all hand trimmed. We don’t have a single trimming machine,” says Gamble.

Native Sun is taking a phased-in approach to rolling out production, occupying only part of the 72,000 square foot facility. Gamble says there’s room to grow if the market expands as he projects. “We have a lot of room to ramp-up based on how our sales go.

We want to keep ourselves very flexible,” says Gamble.

Native Sun will continue purchasing stock from third parties because the company does not produce edibles, beverages or the vast majority of the other cannabis-related products. But with its flower-cultivation operation, the company will not only produce product—it will wholesale it to other retailers.

As consumer demand increases for well-cured, aromatic flowers, a “stinky” crop could give Native Sun the sweet smell of success.

CANNABIS CONSTRICTION?

The word on some social media platforms is the market for cannabis is constricting. But Gamble is betting the naysayers are wrong.

“Sales in June and July saw record high revenue in Massachusetts. People are spending more money on cannabis than ever, but the competition for that business has increased dramatically. The effect you feel as a retailer or producer may be constricting, however, the market is growing,” he says.

More than half a dozen years ago cannabis users came out of hiding when consuming the plant and its byproducts became legal. Now that they’ve gotten a taste of the highlife, consumers have become more discriminating.

“They have more refined palates.

They’re looking for better, more qualitative products than have been supplied so far,” says Gamble.

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STORY BY STAASI HEROPOULOS PHOTOS SUBMITTED

STORY BY LAUREN LEBEL PHOTOS ISTOCK

UCONN A class of their own

STUDENTS STUDY CANNABIS AT UCONN Matthew Debacco, an adjunct faculty member of the Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture in the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources, with cannabis growing at the Agricultural Biotechnology Laboratory Greenhouse on April 6, 2023. (Peter Morenus/UConn Photo)

F

unded by a one-million-dollar grant, the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources (CAHNR) at the University of Connecticut is becoming a national leader in cannabis research and education. The university aims to bring “scientific expertise to one of the nation’s most lucrative crops.”

The initial grant making a cannabis research and cultivation program possible came from medical marijuana production companies Curaleaf, CTPharma and Fine Fettle. Funding allows graduate students to uncover new information about how the production of cannabinoids and terpenes occurs in developing female cannabis flowers.

The popular program is attracting a growing number of graduate and undergraduate students wanting to work in the weeds of the cannabis industry.

“The large number of undergrad-

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uate UConn students who wanted to gain experience with cannabis plants by enrolling in independent studies and working with graduate students sug-

FIRST IN THE NATION

CAHNR took the cue and developed a course focusing on an introduction to cannabis horticulture. This course was

UConn has been cited as among the top universities in the country in the area of cannabis scholarship.

Professors teaching cannabis courses have experience with plant molecular biology, plant horticulture, and biotechnology. gested that developing coursework on cannabis horticulture would be attractive to them,” said Dr. Gerry Berkowitz, UConn professor plant molecular biology.

the first cannabis horticulture course developed by a bona fide academic institution in the U.S. Approximately 260 students enrolled when it was first offered the spring of 2019.

“The strong enrollment in this introductory course provided the rationale for expanding our course offerings in this area of horticulture. With a growing hemp industry in Connecticut, there were many companies with which students could undertake internships and ‘learn by doing,’” said Berkowitz.

The cannabis courses are part of the Sustainable Plant and Soil Systems (SPSS) major. Students can fulfill requirements for a cannabis cultivation minor by taking the introductory and advanced cannabis courses, an internship at a cannabis-related company and three additional SPSS courses in the area of plant and soil cultivation and management.

“Students develop an understanding of some of the common challenges with cannabis production and how to best identify and correct these issues. The advanced course focuses on aspects of the commercial industry. Students are provided with information about extraction, end products, jobs and current research,” said Berkowitz.

JOBS FOR SCHOLARS

The cannabis industry in the U.S. has expanded over the last five years, and it became apparent that students who received formal training in cannabis horticulture would be of value to the industry.

“Our goal in starting the program was to provide a cadre of trained students who would have unique knowledge in an area that would lead to jobs after graduation,” said Berkowitz.

UConn has been cited as among the top universities in the country in the area of cannabis scholarship. Professors teaching cannabis courses have experience with plant molecular biology, plant horticulture, and biotechnology.

Any student can complete the minor, and all students can take the introductory and advanced courses; there are no prerequisites.

“Due to constraints on federal support for the study of cannabis biology, and the lack of interest on the part of commercial cannabis companies to publish results about improving the value of the cannabis crop or openly share their knowledge, there is a paucity of solid

TOP: Lauren Kurtz, a graduate student studying in the Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture in the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources, examines cannabis plants at the Floriculture Greenhouse. June 20, 2022. (Jason Sheldon/UConn Photo) ABOVE: Jessica Lubell-Brand of the Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture in the College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources studies cannabis plants in a lab at the Agricultural Biotechnology Laboratory. July 29, 2021. (Jason Sheldon/UConn Photo)

research about cannabis plant biology published in refereed journals,” said Berkowitz.

UConn faculty and graduate students have presented their findings at numerous national and international conferences; organized the first UConn

cannabis research symposium held in March 2023; and published results of cannabis research.

Learn more about UConn’s cannabis program on the web at cannabis.cahnr. uconn.edu or by emailing cahnrcomm@uconn.edu.

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BY GIOVANNI CAVALLINI PHOTOS ISTOCK

GREEN

Wednesday

A

s cannabis is becoming more prevalent today due to the recorded breaking cannabis sales in MA, according to the Cannabis Control Commission website, another holiday is steadily becoming popularized during the holiday season. Green Wednesday, celebrated the day before Thanksgiving, is a fun smoke-filled day of sharing the best products bought or grown with your friends and family. The thirdhighest cannabis day of sales! Only beaten by 4/20 and the random 1st day in July in the calendar year.

Consumers have been flocking towards dispensaries to pick up enough goodies to share with their friends and family members. Thanksgiving is what many would refer to as the beginning of the holiday season (excluding Halloween). There is no better way to show your appreciation than sharing an in-

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fused edible or passing them a pristinely rolled product to begin the festivities in the coming weeks. Thankfully, many dispensaries are offering deals and promotions to support this up and coming holiday. Seeing as most of the industry is taking the day off (Thanksgiving) people are rushing to dispensaries to purchase the latest and greatest products the market has to offer, and in abundance too!

This year be sure to check out companies’ newest trend, the infused pre-rolls. This is no new invention, but a lot of cannabis distributers are bringing them to full-scale market because consumers are searching for even new ways to reach new heights. Green Thumb Industries released their version, Show Dog. A twist on their popular pre-rolls, Dog Walkers. Coming in their exclusive mini pack of 5 or in their 1g Big Dog

tubes, the Show Dogs are hitting the market strong with high testing THC numbers in popular strains. Or for those who need something a bit more discreet, try Fernway’s new flavored Pumpkin Spice or Honeycrisp vapes.

Coming in half-gram and their Traveler sizes, it’s the perfect opportunity to pair with family functions, apple picking and second-date lattes by the waterfront.

Looking for something edible to pass right behind the turkey stuffing and mashed potatoes? Coast Cannabis Co. has S’mores Milk Chocolate bars and Boysenberry gummies that are tremendous dessert items this holiday season.

With the gummies coming in a 1:4:1 THC: CBD: CBC ratio, it’s perfect for those who want a slight buzz to relief some of the awkward family tension and lubricate their social side.

According to Cannabis Business

Times who read through analytical data provided by Headset, more discreet products like edibles, drinks, and vapes receive higher volume of purchases during the holiday season. This, in my opinion, is due to the consumer not having to step away from everyone to enjoy cannabis. The ability to consume products without displeasing those non-users around you is a helpful feature of those tasty edibles.

The Cannabis Control Commission for the state of Massachusetts, provided statistics on Cannabis sales that have made a huge increase in sales in the adult-use market. In 2022 sales hit $1.42 Billion in just one year. The state recognizes since opening the market fully in 2018, retail sales have grossed $4.5 Billion. Meaning in 2022 alone the sales were almost half of the total profits from the beginning of the adult-use market.

This can be contributed to the growing majority of people in the state commonly accepting the use of cannabis and the ever-growing retail and medical dispensaries popping up everywhere. As family members and friends come to the state to visit, they’ll have an abundant number of options to choose from. Scoring some sweet goodies to share with their of-age consumers will be easier than ever. Edible treats like Betty’s Eddies Gummies, Camino’s Chews, Levia’s Beverages, or Double-Baked Baked Goods are fun and exciting ways to bring something sweet to the family’s Thanksgiving Dinner.

Shopping on Green Wednesday is another way to beat the rush of Black Friday. From regular retail stores doing huge promotions to the wild store traffic, stocking up the day before allows you to sit back and enjoy the festivities. If you would like to increase the amount of legal cannabis you’re allowed to purchase, think about becoming a part of the Massachusetts Medical Program.

The daily limits are higher and you’re provided with plenty of knowledgeable resources to help with many medical conditions. You no longer need to rush to the dispensary early Friday morning; you can save big on deals being offered

on Green Wednesday. Your future-self will thank you when waking up Friday morning and already having one task checked off your list.

While not every dispensary is on board with having a promotional sale on Green Wednesday, the tide is slowly shifting to become a more mainstream and popularized event in the Holiday Season. Places like Happy Valley dispensaries are extending their hours and providing free coffee in the morning and free pizza slices in the evening for those who come out to celebrate. Only 19.8% of discounts were offered to the public despite being a higher sales day than Black Friday. But, just like the cannabis market,

those numbers are bound to reach new heights in the coming years.

Celebrate this year by going to your local dispensary and asking what kind of deals they might have in anticipation of the holiday season and be sure to stock up with enough products for not only yourself, but enough to share. Your family will thank you!

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BY LAUREN LeBEL PHOTO ISTOCK

fact vs. myth:

Effects

of cannabis W hile there are many new, creative ways that cannabis is produced and consumed, there is still some stigma around the overall effects of the plant. In particular, there is the assumption that all forms of cannabis produce the same outcome, however, that is far from the truth.

According to Pharmanews Intelligence, “Different strains and forms of cannabis contain varying combinations of cannabinoids and other compounds, which can lead to different health effects.” For instance, CBD is non-intoxicating and might have therapeutic potential, whereas THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis.

The cannabis plant itself contains various chemical compounds with two primary classes of compounds with significant effects: cannabinoids and terpenes.

While THC and CBD are the most wellknown cannabinoids, there are over 100 others identified in cannabis.

“THC is the psychoactive compound responsible for the ‘high’ associated with marijuana use, and it can cause euphoria, altered perception, relaxation and increased appetite. Conversely, CBD is non-psychoactive and is more commonly associated with potential therapeutic effects like pain relief, reduced anxiety and anti-inflammatory properties,” (Pharmanews Intelligence).

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Cannabis strains and forms can have differing ratios of THC to CBD, which leads to diverse effects on users. While some strains may be high in THC and low in CBD, the result is a “more intense psychoactive experience,” compared to oth-

While THC and CBD are the most well-known cannabinoids, there are over 100 others identified in cannabis. ers that have balanced ratios of high CBD content for a more moderate, non-intoxicating effect (Pharmanews Intelligence).

On the other hand, terpenes are aromatic compounds that are found in cannabis, as well as other plants. “They contribute to the distinctive smell and taste of different strains and play a role in influencing the overall effects of cannabis,” (Pharmanews Intelligence).

Some terpenes bolster relaxation, while others might increase alertness or change how cannabinoids interact with the body.

“Terpenes are the thing that gives cannabis flavor and smell: some make you awake or sleepy,” said Peter Grinspoon, primary care physician and cannabis specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital and an instructor in medicine at Harvard Medical School.

“The combination of cannabinoids and terpenes in a particular strain creates what is known as the ‘entourage effect.’ This refers to the idea that the various compounds in cannabis work together synergistically, enhancing and modulating each other’s effects,” (Pharmanews Intelligence).

Cannabis effects can also be influenced by factors including the method of consumption – smoking, vaping, or edibles – the dosage, an individual’s tolerance and one’s overall environment and state of mind.

Before consuming any type of cannabis, it is important to know that its effects can vary greatly across individuals, and what might be experienced by one person may not be experienced by another.

As always, do some research to debunk those myths and learn the facts to make your cannabis experience a safe one.

References: pharmanewsintel.com/features/ top-10-myths-about-medicinal-and-recreational-cannabis

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