Cannabis Guides Articles | Cannabis Central https://www.veriheal.com/blog/guides/ Industry News From Veriheal Tue, 13 May 2025 20:50:49 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.1 https://www.veriheal.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/v-lime-150x150.png Cannabis Guides Articles | Cannabis Central https://www.veriheal.com/blog/guides/ 32 32 Should I Disclose Cannabis Use to My Doctor? https://www.veriheal.com/blog/should-i-disclose-cannabis-use-to-my-doctor/ https://www.veriheal.com/blog/should-i-disclose-cannabis-use-to-my-doctor/#respond Wed, 14 May 2025 10:00:07 +0000 https://www.veriheal.com/blog/?p=38564

Visiting the doctor can be nerve-wracking. On top of the general anxieties associated with these appointments, the idea of having to disclose cannabis use to a medical team can add another layer of stress to patients. While it may be tempting to leave this aspect of medical history undisclosed, patients should be aware of the...

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Visiting the doctor can be nerve-wracking. On top of the general anxieties associated with these appointments, the idea of having to disclose cannabis use to a medical team can add another layer of stress to patients. While it may be tempting to leave this aspect of medical history undisclosed, patients should be aware of the risks of not telling their doctor about their cannabis use. 

HIPAA protection for cannabis users

Health Insurance Portability and accountability act HIPAA and stethoscope.
Photo Credit: iStock

When doctors ask patients about their cannabis use, it’s to inform their medical care, not to get them in trouble with the law. What patients share with their doctors is confidential – and doctors are not law enforcement. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, or HIPAA, ensures this promise. If a doctor does violate HIPAA, patients may file a complaint with the Department of Health and Human Services or their state Board of Medicine. 

Patient-doctor confidentiality is in effect across all states, not just ones where cannabis is legal. These confidentiality laws span far beyond cannabis, covering the use of many illegal substances. Patients can feel safe sharing their full medical history, including any drug use, with their doctors, knowing that the information will remain between the patient and doctor. 

“Our main focus is on your health and how to partner with you to improve your health. We really have no interest in getting anyone in trouble,” writes Rachael McGuirk, MD, in a blog posted on The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center website. 

However, if a patient discloses drug use that indicates serious harm to the patient or others, including children, dependents, or unborn fetuses, doctors may be legally obligated to make a report to the proper authorities. If the patient is pregnant and has a positive urine drug screen, then this may even include arrest or mandatory social services reporting. 

Why do doctors want to know about cannabis use?

Doctors ask about cannabis use to inform the medical care they provide. While some people opt not to disclose their cannabis use, leaving out crucial medical history can be dangerous and negatively impact the care they receive. Here’s why:

Cannabis users need more anesthesia 

Cannabis and anesthesia both affect the central nervous system, which can impact the amount of anesthesia needed for sedation and pain prevention. Studies have suggested that regular cannabis users require more anesthesia than those who do not consume cannabis–up to 220% more

Cannabis users should be honest about their usage before any medical procedures to ensure they receive an adequate dose of anesthesia. In fact, the American Society of Anesthesiologists lists cannabis use as one of the eight things to tell your physician or anesthesiologist about before surgery. 

Cannabis can interfere with certain medications. 

While many non-drowsy medications do not pose a significant risk of complications when paired with cannabis. However, there are some prescription drugs that, when taken with cannabis, can cause unwanted side effects or risks. 

Most commonly, cannabis may enhance side effects like drowsiness or dizziness with CNS depressants like sedatives and alcohol. This is of particular concern to elderly and fragile persons at risk of falls and fractures.

Research indicates that cannabinoids may also interfere with the activity of enzymes that break down and eliminate several common medications. This can result in decreased effectiveness of the drug as well as increased risk of negative side effects. 

For example, the blood-thinning drug Warfarin is shown to interact poorly with cannabis. Cannabis may interfere with the metabolism of the drug, which can increase the risk of bleeding. 

READ: Should You Tell Your Employer About Your Medical Card

Will my doctor treat me differently if I tell them about cannabis use?

Generally speaking, doctors ask about cannabis use to ensure they have a full picture of their patient’s medical history and can provide the right care. They don’t ask to pass judgment on their patients. 

We are not here to judge someone’s character or behavior. If someone comes to me with a certain issue or something that’s bothering them, I try to address it. I try to put myself in the patient’s shoes and see why they went down that route,” writes Mohab Ibrahim, MD, PhD, in a blog posted on the University of Arizona Health Sciences website. 

Unfortunately, while HIPAA guarantees patient-doctor privacy, it doesn’t always guarantee a positive, productive conversation outcome. Even with cannabis use becoming more normalized across the United States, the stigma around its use persists, especially in certain healthcare settings. A recent 2024 study finds that “patients who use cannabis experience stigmatization in the healthcare setting that may limit disclosure of cannabis use history.”

Doctors have historically reported low levels of cannabis knowledge, indicating that they need additional cannabis-related education to provide better patient recommendations. This lack of knowledge stems from doctors having no formal cannabis education in medical school, a topic that our very own Dr. Abraham Benavides, MD, studied and pioneered. The research acknowledges that this can often lead to a disconnect between doctors and patients, which can cause tense or uncomfortable conversations about cannabis use. 

Despite the risk of potentially uncomfortable conversations with their doctors, patients can rest assured knowing their provider cannot report or get them in trouble for cannabis use as long as they are not pregnant. While not always possible with insurance and other factors, patients should aim to work with a doctor who makes them feel safe, comfortable, and free from judgment. 

How to talk about cannabis with your doctor

Whether asking about potentially using cannabis for a medical condition or simply disclosing its recreational use, patients should remember that doctors have these sorts of conversations frequently. Doctors should react professionally and non-judgmentally, with the patient’s well-being at the forefront of their minds. 

Patients should know that doctors do not typically have extensive knowledge about medical cannabis for certain conditions. Often, they’ll need to seek out a doctor who is well-informed and comfortable about discussing the topic in depth. 

But for those simply disclosing cannabis use as part of their medical history, the discussion should be as simple as that—a part of their medical history. Once patients have disclosed their cannabis use, doctors can assess if there are any potential risks related to the medical care they plan to provide.

Final thoughts 

Until cannabis is federally legal and doctors have more access to comprehensive research, patients will have to navigate a healthcare system where some doctors know more about cannabis than others. 

While conversations about cannabis can be nerve-wracking for some patients, they are important in a medical setting. Doctors need to know if their patients will require more anesthesia for surgeries or anticipate potential complications from prescription medication. 

Patients can take comfort in the knowledge that their medical history, including their use of cannabis and other drugs, is protected under HIPAA privacy laws. Simply disclosing cannabis use to a doctor will not result in legal trouble as long as they are not pregnant and pose no threat to themselves or others, such as a child or dependent. 

 

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How To Weigh Weed: A Guide To Weed Measurements https://www.veriheal.com/blog/a-guide-to-cannabis-measurements-and-weights/ https://www.veriheal.com/blog/a-guide-to-cannabis-measurements-and-weights/#comments Tue, 13 May 2025 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.veriheal.com/blog/?p=18953 Cannabis on a digital weighing scale

Getting comfortable with the most common weed weights and measurements can really come in handy when shopping for cannabis products. Gram, eighth, quarter, ounce—there are plenty of ways to measure cannabis, and just as many slang terms to go with them. Ultimately, these cannabis measurements can make shopping for marijuana by weight feel confusing fast....

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Cannabis on a digital weighing scale

Getting comfortable with the most common weed weights and measurements can really come in handy when shopping for cannabis products. Gram, eighth, quarter, ounce—there are plenty of ways to measure cannabis, and just as many slang terms to go with them.

Ultimately, these cannabis measurements can make shopping for marijuana by weight feel confusing fast.

In this article, we’ll cover the basics of weed measurements, including the weight of each amount, the meaning of slang terms, the average prices, and how much cannabis you can consume for each weight. 

How is Weed Measured?

Cannabis flower, also called buds, are dried, cured, and sold by weight, usually in grams. While most products use metric units, cannabis products use imperial terms like ounces and pounds. Dispensary packaging lists cannabis’s weight in these terms.

Knowing these standard weights like grams, eighths, quarters, and ounces—plus common slang like “dime bag” or “dub”—makes shopping for cannabis easier and helps you get the most for your money.

Most people buy flower in small amounts, but purchasing larger quantities is also common, especially for medical cannabis patients who can buy marijuana in higher weight quantities. Dispensaries commonly run bulk sales on flower, which can lead to steep discounts when buying higher cannabis weight quantities. 

If you’re growing cannabis at home, weighing your harvest plays a key role during the jarring process and helps you track yields for future growing seasons.

Cannabis Measurement Tools and Techniques

One gram of cannabis buds on digital scale isolate on green background. Weighing marijuana with digital weight.
Photo Credit: iStock

When measuring cannabis flower, a few common measuring tools and techniques include: 

Digital Scales: These deliver highly accurate weight readings, often down to 0.01 grams. Most come with a tare function, letting you zero out the weight of a container before adding cannabis so you get an exact measurement of just the product.

Analog Scales: Analog scales display weight using a dial and are known for their durability. While they’re less precise than digital scales, they don’t rely on batteries, making them a reliable backup.

Volume Measurements: Cannabis users use volume measurements in specific situations, like measuring finely ground flower or liquid concentrates, even though weight is the standard method.

Estimating Weed Weights Without Using a Scale

If you don’t have a scale handy and want to estimate cannabis weights by appearance and feel roughly, use this quick visual guide:

Gram: You can eyeball a gram of cannabis by comparing it to the size of a quarter. Depending on how dense the bud is, it may look smaller or larger. In terms of weight, a gram feels about the same as a small paper clip.

Eighth (3.5 grams): An eighth of weed looks about the size of an average kiwi and weighs just over a penny (3 grams). 

Quarter (7 grams): If rolled into a ball, a quarter-ounce of cannabis would resemble the size of an apple. It’s similar to a standard postcard or a pair of metal tweezers for weight reference.

Half (14 grams): A half-ounce of bud weighs about the same as a #2 pencil or an empty aluminum soda can. It looks like a small handful of popcorn, about the size of a medium tennis ball, or a slightly larger grapefruit.

Ounce (28 grams): Visually, an ounce of flower takes up about as much space as a small coconut. You can compare its weight to a compact disc, five quarters, 10 pennies, or a slice of whole-grain bread.

Pound (453 grams): A pound of cannabis is about the size of a watermelon and weighs roughly the same as an American football. 

Common Cannabis Measurements and Quantities

Here’s a simple, quick breakdown of the most common weed measurements:

  • Gram (g)

  • Eighth = ⅛ oz = 3.5 grams

  • Quarter = ¼ oz = 7 grams

  • Half = ½ oz = 14 grams
  • Ounce = 28 grams
  • Pound = 453 grams: Technically, 16 ounces should equal 448 grams, but due to rounding differences between metric and imperial systems, you’ll often hear 453 grams as the standard for a pound.

These measurements help keep things consistent, whether the cannabis consumer is buying a little or a lot. 

Weed Weight Slang 101

While dispensaries will have the actual weights listed, you may hear others refer to these weed weights in slang terms in person or online, such as:

  • Slice: An eighth (1/8 oz), also referred to as a  “cut” or “egg.”
  • Nickel Bag: Typically referring to a half a gram to 1 gram.
  • Dime Bag: Usually 1 gram.
  • Dub: Often referring to about 1–2 grams.
  • Half: Referring to a half ounce, also often called a “half-zip”. 
  • Zip: Slang for an ounce (28 grams), also known as “O.”
  • Quap: Referring to a quarter pound, also called a “QP.”
  • Pack: Often referring to a pound of weed.

READ: A Quick Start Guide to Making Cannabis Tinctures

Marijuana Weights And Prices

While every dispensary will differ in rates, several other factors influence the price of cannabis, such as:

  • Location: State and city laws and local supply and demand directly impact cannabis prices.

  • Quality: Higher-quality or top-shelf strains typically sell for more than lower-grade options. Budget options like “smalls” or popcorn buds often go for less than regular-sized buds.

  • Wholesale vs. Retail: Wholesale cannabis costs less, while dispensaries charge more to cover overhead and profit margins.

The average ranges in cost, and the estimated number of joints you could roll out of each weight (depending on the size of each joint) include:

Gram of Weed:

  • Weight: 1 gram

  • Price: $10–$20

  • Joints: 1–2

A gram is the smallest amount of cannabis you can buy and is perfect for trying out a new strain. A gram is usually enough to roll one or two joints, depending on how big you like them.

Eighth of Weed:

  • Weight: 3.5 grams (⅛ oz)

  • Price: $25–$60

  • Joints: 6 – 10

An eighth is one of the most popular cannabis amounts. It’s an excellent option for a few days of personal use, casual sharing, or getting a more significant sampling of a new strain.

Quarter of Weed:

  • Weight: 7 grams (¼ oz)

  • Price: $40–$100

  • Joints: 10–14

A quarter gives you twice the amount of flower as an eighth, making it a solid choice if you’ve found a strain you enjoy. It’s ideal when you want more than just a few consumption sessions and need a stash that lasts a bit longer.

Half-Ounce of Weed:

  • Weight: 14 grams

  • Price: $100–$300

  • Joints: About 28 – 30

A half-ounce is perfect for regular cannabis users who want to stock up on their favorite strain without running out too quickly. It typically yields about 28 half-gram joints and offers a cost-effective way to buy in bulk. If you buy this quantity or more, it’s crucial to store your cannabis correctly to maintain its freshness and potency.

Ounce of Weed:

  • Weight: 28 grams
  • Price: $150–$350
  • Joints: About 56 – 84

An ounce is the legal possession limit in many states and often gives you the best price per gram. It’s a wise choice if you want to stock up significantly on your favorite strains and take advantage of bulk discounts. 

Pound of Weed:

  • Weight: 453 grams (16 oz)

  • Price: $500–$1,000

  • Joints: About 450 – 900

You typically won’t find a pound for sale at an average dispensary, but it is a common measurement for growers or bulk buyers in legal markets. 

Quick Tips for Choosing the Right Amount of Marijuana to Purchase

  • Trying a new strain? Start with a gram or an eighth.

  • Found your favorite? Buy a quarter or more to save money and make fewer trips to the dispensary.

  • Roll often? Remember that the average joint uses 0.3–0.5g, while blunts use 1–2g.

  • Buying in bulk? Make sure you can use it before the quality declines. When buying cannabis in bulk, remember to properly store it so it stays fresh and the THC does not degrade too quickly. 

If you want to save even more money buying cannabis, especially in bulk weights, having a medical marijuana card is ideal. Medical marijuana cardholders often have exclusive benefits, including:

  • Higher weight purchase limits
  • Lower taxes (up to 25% savings)
  • More significant savings at dispensaries (such as 15% or more off the order total)
  • Access to exclusive products and higher potency options
  • Priority service at dispensaries
  • Peace of mind with legal protection

Key Takeaways 

Understanding weed weights, prices, slang, and measuring tools makes cannabis shopping and growing easier and more informed, especially for beginners. 

Knowing how much you’re buying and what it’s worth helps you avoid overpaying and choose the right amount for your cannabis consumption frequency. Obtaining or renewing a medical marijuana card enables you to save more on bulk cannabis by lowering costs, increasing purchase limits, and purchasing exclusive products.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is Weed Weighed?

Most people weigh weed in grams, but sellers often list larger quantities in fractions of an ounce, like an eighth (3.5g), a quarter (7g), or a full ounce (28g). Using a digital or analog scale ensures measuring your cannabis accurately, so you’re getting exactly what you’re paying for.

How Many Joints Are in 1 Gram of Weed?

One gram of weed usually rolls one to two standard-sized joints, depending on how much you pack into each one.

How Many Buds are in 1 Gram?

The number of buds in a gram varies based on the strain, density, and trimming, but you’ll typically get one to three small buds.

How Much Weed is 10 Grams?

Ten grams is just under a half-ounce (14g) and enough for about 20 to 30 joints, depending on size. It’s a good middle-ground quantity for regular cannabis users.

How Big is 7 Grams of Weed?

Seven grams, or a quarter ounce, is enough to roll roughly 10 to 14 joints. It’s a popular size for people who’ve found a strain they enjoy and want more than just a few consumption sessions.

How is Weed Quality Measured?

Growers and consumers measure weed quality by evaluating its appearance, aroma, trichome coverage, potency, and how well it was grown and cured. The top-shelf flower typically costs more because it looks better, smells stronger, and delivers more potent effects. If you want to check for quality after purchase, watch the ash color after you burn your weed. High-quality cannabis typically leaves behind soft, white ash, while poor-quality bud often produces dark, chunky ash.

What Does 14 Grams of Weed Look Like?

Fourteen grams is a half-ounce of cannabis—about enough to fill a small sandwich bag loosely. It typically yields around 28–30 half-gram joints, which is excellent for regular cannabis users, which is excellent for regular cannabis users.

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Can You Get Deported for Smoking Weed? https://www.veriheal.com/blog/can-you-get-deported-for-smoking-weed/ https://www.veriheal.com/blog/can-you-get-deported-for-smoking-weed/#respond Wed, 07 May 2025 10:00:26 +0000 https://www.veriheal.com/blog/?p=38524 Is smoking weed a ground for Deportation

According to data recently released by Human Rights Watch, between 2002 and 2020, just over 127,000 people were deported for cannabis-related offenses. This number accounts for 35% of all deportations where drug-related charges were the most serious offense. Notably, this time includes several years when cannabis was illegal on both the state and federal levels....

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Is smoking weed a ground for Deportation

According to data recently released by Human Rights Watch, between 2002 and 2020, just over 127,000 people were deported for cannabis-related offenses. This number accounts for 35% of all deportations where drug-related charges were the most serious offense.

Notably, this time includes several years when cannabis was illegal on both the state and federal levels. (Colorado and Washington, the first two states to legalize recreational use of marijuana, did not pass their initiatives until 2012). It’s safe to assume, then, that this gray area, where cannabis was only legal in a few places and on some levels and illegal in plenty of others, created more opportunities for deportation. But what about now? Can smoking weed still lead to deportation in 2025?

The short answer is yes. Despite medical cannabis being legal in 39 states plus Washington D.C., and recreational use being legal in 24 states as well as Washington D.C., cannabis possession is still a deportable offense.

The Federal Issue

A Golden Balance Scale beside a Laptop

Cannabis possession and use are deportable offenses because cannabis is still classified as an illegal substance at the federal level.

Before the mid-1800s, cannabis was legal in America. Hemp served as one of the country’s primary crops, and many over-the-counter medicines included marijuana. Several states even accepted hemp as a form of legal tender. 

However, around 1860, concerns began to arise over potential negative side effects. In 1914, the US government passed the Harrison Act, making drug use a crime. Forty years later, in 1956, the Federal Narcotics Control Act included cannabis, imposing stiff penalties for its use or possession. In 1970, President Nixon signed the Controlled Substances Act into law, officially classifying marijuana as a Schedule I substance with no acceptable uses. 

At that point, it became a federal offense to possess, sell, or cultivate weed. Penalties for citizens range from misdemeanors and fines to felonies and life behind bars. But, of course, those penalties look different for non-citizens.

Good Moral Character

One key factor that US Citizenship and Immigration Services considers when determining an individual’s case is good moral character (GMC). Defined as “character which measures up to the standards of average citizens of the community in which the applicant resides,” GMC is intentionally vague, but essentially attempts to weed out those who have serious criminal offenses, like murder, or grave ethical violations, like assisting in a genocide. This requirement is also where cannabis possession and use come into play. 

According to the Immigrant Legal Resource Center, any level of association with cannabis can be grounds for the government to deny naturalization or citizenship, or to begin the deportation process. It cautions, “Noncitizens who admit that they have used marijuana, or been employed in the legitimate cannabis industry, can be denied naturalization for lack of good moral character. The same conduct can be a basis for a finding of inadmissibility, either as an ‘admission’ of a controlled substance offense or because it gives the government ‘reason to believe’ the person is a drug trafficker.”

Human Rights Watch reports the same thing. “Any drug conviction, including simple possession of a small amount of a controlled substance—except for a first offense of possessing a small amount of marijuana—bars noncitizens from being able to apply for many types of relief from deportation. Immigration judges cannot consider factors like a person’s family or community ties, length of residence in the country, the minor nature of the offense, or the hardship the family would face if deportation occurs.”

READ: Immigrants Could Face Deportation for Legally Consuming Cannabis

A Small Amount of Marijuana

Man Hand Holding Small Silver Tray with weed

That all being said, a recent change to the law now allows no-fault forgiveness for one single possession of a “small amount” of marijuana. According to Title 8, Chapter 12 of the U.S. Code, “Any alien who at any time after admission has been convicted of a violation of (or a conspiracy or attempt to violate) any law or regulation of a State, the United States, or a foreign country relating to a controlled substance… other than a single offense involving possession for one’s use of 30 grams or less of marijuana, is deportable.”

This new addition to the code seems to come as the country’s attitudes towards cannabis have begun to change. According to recent data collected by the Pew Research Center, 88% of American adults now believe that cannabis should be legal for medical or recreational use. A self-reported Gallup News survey found that 15% of American adults smoke weed regularly. As cultural perspectives shift and more states move to decriminalize and legalize marijuana, it makes sense that there would be more leniency regarding cannabis use and deportation. 

Still, noncitizens must keep in mind the second part of Chapter 12, which says, “Any alien who is, or at any time after admission has been, a drug abuser or addict is deportable.” Because addiction is not standardized— meaning, there is no widely recognized set of parameters that define addiction to cannabis or any other substance— it would not be difficult for one to argue that anyone with a known history of cannabis use could be characterized as a drug abuser or addict and denied legal entry. The gray area, it turns out, is still an issue.

Looking Ahead

In April 2024, the Biden administration proposed a plan that would move cannabis from a Schedule I drug to a Schedule III drug. This change would recognize the medical benefits of cannabis and allow for more research and study. And while it would still classify marijuana as a controlled substance, it would be the biggest federal step toward legalization since the 1950s. It also would likely have major impacts on the way cannabis use and possession affect noncitizens’ citizenship and deportation statuses, perhaps even removing it entirely from the list of deportable offenses. 

Of course, with the Trump administration now in office, the outcome might be quite different. While the President has yet to make a statement either way, many in his camp have been vocal about their opposition to legalization and would likely not be inclined to support the rescheduling. So, for now, it seems, noncitizens would still do best to err on the side of caution when it comes to smoking weed. 

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What Gives Urine Its Distinctive Smell? https://www.veriheal.com/blog/why-does-my-urine-smell-like-weed/ https://www.veriheal.com/blog/why-does-my-urine-smell-like-weed/#respond Tue, 06 May 2025 12:00:48 +0000 https://www.veriheal.com/blog/?p=35093

Sometimes, your urine has a strange, weed-like, or other abnormal smell, and you might not be sure what’s causing it. This common experience often leads to online searches driven by curiosity or concern about potential health issues. This article explores some of the most common reasons behind a cannabis-like urine odor and other types of...

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Sometimes, your urine has a strange, weed-like, or other abnormal smell, and you might not be sure what’s causing it. This common experience often leads to online searches driven by curiosity or concern about potential health issues.

This article explores some of the most common reasons behind a cannabis-like urine odor and other types of odd urine odors. We’ll cover how factors like diet, medications, hydration, and underlying health conditions can influence how urine smells. Plus, steps you can take to manage or reduce unusual urine smells, and when it might be time to seek medical attention. 

Why Does My Urine Smell Like Sulfur?

Someone on sitting on a toilet bowl
Photo Credit: iStock

Cannabis can change how your body smells—including your urine. After consuming cannabis, the body absorbs and breaks down THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) into different byproducts called metabolites. These metabolites exit the body through sweat, urine, and other bodily fluids.

Some other byproducts the body breaks down include sulfur-containing compounds like dimethyl sulfate and dimethyl trisulfide. These sulfur-containing compounds can cause a sharp, skunky, or weed-like odor. When your body processes the sulfuric and phenolic compounds naturally found in cannabis, these strong-smelling chemicals are metabolized and released in urine and feces. 

Some foods, especially those high in sulfur, can also make your urine smell strong or sulfur-like, such as:

  • Asparagus: It contains a unique compound called asparagusic acid. After the body breaks down asparagus, it produces sulfur-based metabolites, giving urine a noticeable odor. Interestingly, some people metabolize it differently enough not to give off a urine smell, or can’t smell it altogether.

  • Other foods: Foods like onions, garlic, broccoli, cabbage, fish, and cumin also contain sulfur compounds that can affect urine smell.

Eating these foods is perfectly fine and carries many health benefits. What you eat can directly influence the smell of your body and urine, but just don’t let it stop you from eating these wholesome and nutritious superfoods.

Health Conditions and Other Things That Can Affect the Smell of Your Pee

In general, urine gets its distinctive smell from the waste products your body removes during digestion and metabolism, such as:  

  • Urea: This is a nitrogen-based compound that forms as your body breaks down protein. It makes up a large part of urine.

  • Ammonia: Formed when bacteria break down urea, especially in sitting urine. Ammonia gives urine a more noticeable, concentrated smell.

  • Other waste products: Waste products such as electrolytes, volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) mentioned above, and different compounds also add to the overall odor of urine.

Typically, changes in urine smell can be harmless and have much to do with what you put into your body. Several factors can influence the smell of your urine, such as:

  • What you eat
  • How hydrated are you
  • Your age
  • Being pregnant
  • Medications you’re taking

For example, eating certain foods can make your urine smell strong and distinct, while drinking plenty of water can help keep the odor mild or barely noticeable. Some antibiotics, especially sulfonamides, can also cause urine to smell strongly. 

When dehydrated, urine tends to have a more pungent, concentrated smell. Although some variation in odor is normal, sudden or intense changes can signal a health problem—like a urinary tract infection (UTI) or other medical condition that needs attention.

Health Conditions That Affect the Smell of Urine

Several health conditions can also cause unusual urine smells by altering your body’s chemistry. For example, people with diabetes may notice a sweet or fruity urine odor due to excess sugar in the urine, called glycosuria. With conditions like diabetes, kidney problems, or other conditions, excess sugar gets expelled in the urine because the body can’t use glucose properly.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common culprit when it comes to medical conditions that change urine odor. Bacteria in the urinary tract can create foul-smelling chemicals as they grow, giving urine a strong, unpleasant odor. In more serious cases, a bladder fistula can allow fecal bacteria to enter the bladder, leading to severe infection and changes in urine smell.

Liver disease can also cause changes in urine odor, developing into a musty or fishy smell. This happens when a damaged liver can’t properly break down and eliminate certain substances. As these compounds build up in the body, this changes how urine smells.

Another symptom called ketonuria occurs when the body produces high levels of ketones, which also affect urine smell. Ketones can give urine a fruity or acetone-like scent. Ketonuria can show up in many situations, including the following:

  • Diabetes
  • Fasting or starvation
  • Eating disorders
  • Alcohol use disorder
  • Prolonged and intense exercise
  • High-protein or low-carb diets
  • Severe vomiting (such as during pregnancy) or diarrhea
  • Infections or sepsis
  • Burns and fevers
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Nursing while malnourished
  • Use of SGLT-2 inhibitors (a type of diabetes medication)

Note that the uncontrolled buildup of ketones, such as in diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) or advanced AUD, is considered a life-threatening emergency and should be treated by local emergency medical services right away.

READ: How Long Does Weed Stay In Your System?

Things You Can Do if You Have Smelly Pee

A woman drinking water from a glass bottle

Staying properly hydrated helps manage urine odor by allowing your body to effectively dilute waste products, which keeps your urine light in color and mild in smell. When you drink enough water, your body flushes out toxins more effectively. 

On the other hand, dehydration increases risk of metabolic, kidney, and cognitive diseases. Plus, it concentrates urine, making it darker and smelling stronger. 

To stay properly hydrated, drink about 11.5 cups (2.7 L) daily if you’re a biological woman, 15.5 cups (3.7 L) if you’re a biological man, and even more water if you’re pregnant. You may also need to adjust your water intake based on your activity level, climate, or elevation. Older adults may drink slightly less but are at higher risk of dehydration, especially if they have one or more chronic conditions.

Vitamin C tablets may help with urine odor, but it’s essential to consult your doctor before taking them, especially if you’re already on other medications or treatments. Vitamin C can potentially interact with certain medications, so it’s best to seek professional advice. Additionally, while citrus juice or fruits contain vitamin C, their acidity may worsen urine odor or irritation. 

Cranberry juice is an exception when it comes to strong-smelling urine. It can help reduce urine odor by limiting the growth of certain bacteria. Cranberries contain natural compounds that may stop bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract walls, potentially lowering the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs)—a common cause of strong urine smells. 

Note that cranberry juice can also add a lot of sugar, which can cause or worsen glycosuria and diabetes. Cranberry capsules or tablets are available but may carry less of the presumed active ingredient, proanthocyanidins (PACs). In general, try to avoid sugar additives.

Since the type of foods you consume can also affect the smell of your urine, consider limiting or avoiding them if you dislike how they make your urine smell. Some of the best foods to avoid that could make your urine smell strong or unusual include:

  • Asparagus
  • Garlic
  • Onions
  • Fish or seafood
  • Coffee
  • Brussel sprouts
  • Certain strong-smelling spices (i.e., cumin and curry)
  • Alcohol
  • Cooked cabbage
  • Broccoli 

The intensity of a food’s effect on urine smell varies from person to person because genetics and individual metabolism influence how the body processes what you eat. These changes in urine odor are usually temporary and fade once your body finishes metabolizing the food.

However, drinking plenty of water can help dilute urine and reduce strong food odors. Products designed for internal deodorizing may also neutralize urine smells.

Getting a doctor’s examination to rule out bladder and urinary tract infections or other medical conditions can also be a good idea.

When Should You See a Healthcare Provider About the Smell of Your Urine?

Changes in urine odor often result from harmless factors like diet, medications, or hydration, but persistent, unexplained changes could indicate a medical issue. If you notice persistently strong, frequent, foul, fishy, or sweet-smelling urine, seeking medical advice is essential. Especially along with any physical symptoms like pain or fever. 

Your doctor can help rule out any underlying health problems, providing you with reassurance and the care you need.

Contact your doctor if the urine odor comes with other symptoms, such as:

  • Pain while urinating
  • Frequent urges to urinate
  • Fever
  • Cloudy or bloody urine
  • Sudden changes in urine color
  • Strong back pain
  • Persistent changes in urine odor without an apparent dietary or medication-related cause.

These signs could indicate a urinary tract infection, kidney issues, or other conditions that need prompt medical care. For instance, if you notice strong, foul, or sweet-smelling urine, especially when accompanied by other symptoms, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider to rule out potential health concerns. 

You can typically manage urine odor by staying hydrated and monitoring your diet. However, if you notice a persistent sulfur smell and pain or discomfort, see a doctor to check for underlying conditions. Being mindful of the factors that affect urine odor can help you seek timely care and address health issues early.

Key Takeaways

What you eat, how much water you drink, your medications, and your health all affect urine odor. While smells like cannabis or sulfur may seem concerning, they often stem from simple causes like diet or dehydration.

Listen to your body—consult a healthcare provider if persistent, unusual odors occur with other symptoms. Staying hydrated, mindful of your diet, and alert to changes can help you manage urine odor and maintain your health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Causes My Urine to Smell Like Weed?

After consuming cannabis, the body metabolizes THC into various compounds, including sulfur-containing metabolites like dimethyl sulfate and dimethyl trisulfide. These substances can cause urine to emit a distinctive, skunky, weed-like odor. ​

Why Does My Urine Smell Like Skunk?

Consuming certain foods rich in sulfur compounds, such as asparagus, garlic, and onions, can result in a skunky urine odor. Dehydration can also concentrate urine, intensifying urine odors. ​

Why Does My Pee Smell Like Weed When I Don’t Smoke?

Even without smoking, consuming cannabis in other forms or even consuming foods high in sulfur can lead to metabolites that produce a weed-like urine odor. Additionally, dehydration can concentrate urine, enhancing any urine odors. 

Why Does My Pee Smell Like Skunk?

You can often manage urine odors effectively by staying hydrated and being mindful of your diet. Consulting a healthcare provider is advisable if the odor persists without these factors.​

Why Do I Smell Weed When There Is None?

A phantom weed or other smell is known as phantosmia or olfactory hallucination. The phantom smell may appear constantly or come and go. Phantosmia can result from various common conditions, such as allergies, colds, and upper respiratory infections. Neurological issues like epilepsy, stroke, or Alzheimer’s disease may also cause it, or it may be linked to nasal problems or exposure to certain substances. The cause varies from person to person. If this occurs frequently, seek medical advice for proper evaluation.​

Other substances can also smell similar to cannabis, making you think you smell weed. These include beer, certain cheeses, skunks, body sweat, and even plants like crucianella.

Is the Smell of Weed Harmful?

The odor itself is not harmful. Most substances with noticeable smells outdoors aren’t present in concentrations high enough to cause long-term health effects. Additionally, the sulfur, phenolic, and terpenoids responsible for cannabis-related odors are beneficial to human health. Secondhand cannabis smoke, however, can potentially irritate the airways, depending on the person’s sensitivities. 

When I Open My Legs, It Smells Like Urine.

Urinary incontinence, infections, or poor hygiene practices could cause a persistent urine-like odor in the genital area. Consulting a healthcare provider can help identify the cause and provide appropriate treatment.

 

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Demystifying The “Low THC” Medical Cannabis Programs https://www.veriheal.com/blog/demystifying-the-low-thc-medical-cannabis-programs/ https://www.veriheal.com/blog/demystifying-the-low-thc-medical-cannabis-programs/#respond Mon, 28 Apr 2025 19:38:09 +0000 https://www.veriheal.com/blog/?p=38463 low thc cannabis

As of April 2025, 39 states, three U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia have some form of medical cannabis program. Each program is unique, and some states only offer low-THC medical cannabis for those who qualify. But what does “low-THC cannabis” really mean? And what products can patients in these states actually purchase?  We’re...

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low thc cannabis

As of April 2025, 39 states, three U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia have some form of medical cannabis program. Each program is unique, and some states only offer low-THC medical cannabis for those who qualify.

But what does “low-THC cannabis” really mean? And what products can patients in these states actually purchase?  We’re here to clear the smoke and demystify the low-THC medical cannabis programs in both Georgia and Texas. 

What Does Low THC Mean?

A low THC cannabis program allows qualified patients to access cannabis products with limited tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content. The goal of these programs is to provide the medical benefits of marijuana products without the intoxicating effects associated with THC. 

In Georgia and Texas, the definition of low THC differs. However, both programs allow qualifying patients to purchase products that meet specific qualifications and potencies. Though these programs are more restrictive than most states’ medical marijuana programs, patients can access a variety of products, some of which are more potent than one might think.

In both states, the amount of THC in each product is measured by weight. For example, cannabis products in Georgia can contain no more than 5 percent THC by weight. No, that doesn’t mean that cannabis products in Georgia only have 5% THC, like you’d see on a label in the dispensary. Rather, this “by weight” measurement impacts the processing of cannabis products. 

Take these Fine Fettle Soft Drops, for example. The package as a whole contains 200mg of THC total. However, because the potency is measured by weight in the processing stage, each Soft Drop in the 20-pack contains 10mg THC, which is comparable to some lower-dose edibles in other states. 

As such, patients in Georgia and Texas can often access ingestible products and tinctures with similar dosages and can adjust their medical cannabis routines accordingly. 

Georgia’s Low-THC Medical Cannabis Program

Georgia’s Low THC registry allows certified patients to possess up to 20 fluid ounces of low THC oil. All cannabis products in Georgia must contain no more than 5% THC by weight. 

Smoking or vaping of cannabis is currently not allowed under Georgia law. As such, available products include tinctures, capsules, and topicals. 

READ: Meet the Duo Leading Georgia’s Fight for Medical Cannabis Access

Before accessing medical cannabis products, Georgia residents must meet with a doctor who is certified to assess their eligibility for a Georgia medical marijuana card. and have one or more of the following conditions for medical cannabis access. Currently, Georgia’s program lists 17 qualifying conditions. 

These conditions include: 

  • AIDs, when the syndrome is severe or end-stage
  • Alzheimer’s disease, when such disease is severe or end-stage
  • Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, when such a diagnosis is severe or end-stage
  • Autism spectrum disorder, when 
    • (a) The patient is 18 years of age or older, or 
    • (b) patient is less than 18 years of age and has been diagnosed with severe autism
  • Cancer, when such diagnosis is end stage, or the treatment produces related wasting illness or recalcitrant nausea and vomiting
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Epidermolysis bullosa
  • Intractable pain
  • Mitochondrial disease
  • Multiple sclerosis, when such diagnosis is severe or end-stage
  • Parkinson’s disease, when such diagnosis is severe or end-stage
  • The patient is in a hospice program, either as an inpatient or outpatient
  • Peripheral neuropathy, when symptoms are severe or end-stage
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder resulting from direct exposure to or witnessing a trauma for a patient who is at least 18 years of age
  • Seizure disorders related to the diagnosis of epilepsy or trauma-related head injuries
  • Sickle cell disease, when such diagnosis is severe or end-stage
  • Tourette’s syndrome, when such syndrome is diagnosed as severe

Along with having one or more of the qualifying conditions, a patient must be able to prove they are a Georgia resident with a valid driver’s license or state identification card. Georgia charges $25 for annual registration, which is a separate fee from your approval/recommendation from a licensed doctor.

Texas’s Low-THC Medical Cannabis Program

Similar to Georgia, Texas allows cannabis products that do not exceed a certain THC potency. Cannabis products in Texas may not contain more than 1% THC by weight.

Additionally, the Compassionate Use Program in Texas only allows for oral ingestion of low-THC products. While capsules and tinctures are available, smoking or vaping cannabis is illegal, even under the low-THC program. In some cases, Texas does allow smokable hemp products that contain less than 0.3% delta-9 THC. 

Through the Compassionate Use Program (CUP), the state’s Department of Public Safety (DPS) operates an online registry of qualified physicians who can prescribe low THC to patients with specific medical conditions. The registry is designed to prevent more than one doctor from registering the same patient. The doctor can input safety and efficacy data regarding the patient’s treatment into this registry for best practices..The registry is also accessible to law enforcement agencies. 

DPS also manages the licensing of businesses that dispense low-THC cannabis to patients. By law, CUP is limited to Texas residents who have one or more of the following conditions.

After the doctor approves a patient for the CUP, the doctor will enter a prescription in the Compassionate Use Registry of Texas (CURT). After that, the patient can pick up the prescription at any approved dispensary. Patients must submit their ID, name, date of birth, and the last five digits of their Social Security number.

To get a Texas medical marijuana card, Veriheal can connect you with a certified practitioner in your area who can answer all your questions and determine whether you’re eligible for their Compassionate Use Program. 

Could These Low-THC Laws Change?

As states continue to experience leadership changes and introduce new ideas for evolving laws, the future could bring significant developments for medical cannabis programs in Georgia and Texas. 

Public opinion is already shifting: a 2023 poll found that roughly 76% of Georgia residents support full medical marijuana legalization. Meanwhile, a February 2025 survey revealed that 62% of Texans favor the legalization of adult-use cannabis for adults 21 and older. These numbers reflect a growing disconnect between public sentiment and existing policy frameworks.

While expanding cannabis access in these states has historically faced political resistance, there are emerging signs of potential change. In Georgia, some lawmakers have shown increased willingness to discuss expanding the state’s low-THC program into a more comprehensive medical marijuana system, though progress has been slow and often met with bureaucratic hurdles. In Texas, a traditionally conservative stronghold, modest expansions of the state’s Compassionate Use Program in recent years indicate that incremental reform is possible, especially as public support continues to rise and as neighboring states adopt more permissive laws. However, significant barriers remain, particularly among leadership figures who have historically opposed broader legalization efforts.

Still, as new officials are elected and advocacy efforts gain traction, pressure may mount on both state governments to better align legislation with the will of their constituents. If current trends continue, both Georgia and Texas could see meaningful expansions to their cannabis programs in the coming years, especially as advocates consistently put pressure on those in power. 

Final Thoughts

Among those who are certified to receive low-THC cannabis in Georgia and Texas, many feel that the low percentage and minimal choices for product selection limit them. Many continue to be curious about the state of cannabis reform under a new presidential administration.

For those with medical status and those without medical status but wish to be a part of it, advocating for the benefits of cannabis on their conditions can be a helpful movement for continuing to show their local government that the plant is beneficial to their lives and overall health as a state citizen.

As political officials continue to change and the mindset on cannabis keeps evolving, there can be pushes for change in both Georgia and Texas to achieve the next level of medical cannabis status to benefit those within the program.

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Cannabis Trichomes: The Key to Potency and Quality https://www.veriheal.com/blog/cannabis-trichomes/ https://www.veriheal.com/blog/cannabis-trichomes/#comments Mon, 28 Apr 2025 12:00:44 +0000 https://www.veriheal.com/blog/?p=3742 Macro Shot of Frosty Cannabis Bud with Trichomes

What gives cannabis its powerful effects, rich aroma, and frosty appearance?  The answer lies in crystal-like structures called trichomes that cover the surface of cannabis flowers. This is where the cannabis cultivation magic happens because they produce and store the majority of compounds responsible for the plant’s potency, flavor, and therapeutic benefits. Trichomes are the...

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Macro Shot of Frosty Cannabis Bud with Trichomes

What gives cannabis its powerful effects, rich aroma, and frosty appearance? 

The answer lies in crystal-like structures called trichomes that cover the surface of cannabis flowers. This is where the cannabis cultivation magic happens because they produce and store the majority of compounds responsible for the plant’s potency, flavor, and therapeutic benefits. Trichomes are the plant’s primary defense mechanism, protecting it from pests and environmental stressors.

Whether you’re a cultivator aiming for a high-quality harvest or a cannabis consumer wanting to discover what makes a premium cannabis product, understanding trichomes is essential to appreciating high-quality cannabis.

 

What Are Trichomes and Why Do They Result in High-Quality Cannabis?

Close-up of Trichomes on Cannabis Bud

Trichomes are tiny, hair-like glands that cover the surface of cannabis plants. Primarily found on the flower (buds) and leaves, the word “trichome” comes from the Greek word for “hair”—a fitting name for their delicate, hair-like appearance. These tiny structures create a shiny, sticky layer on cannabis flowers, giving them their signature frosty look. They also produce and store cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and terpenes.

Terpenes are the aromatic compounds in cannabis that give the plant much of its unique scent. Terpenes also enhance cannabis’s therapeutic and psychoactive effects through the entourage effect. Cannabinoids like THC produce psychoactive effects, while CBD and other compounds contribute to overall therapeutic benefits. The concentration and combination of the compounds shape the overall impact of the cannabis-consuming experience.

People often refer to trichomes as the ‘crown jewels’ of cannabis because they play such a critical role in determining the quality, potency, and therapeutic benefits of the final product. Trichomes store up to an impressive 90% of a cannabis plant’s THC in its trichomes. Trichomes also protect cannabis plants from pests, pathogens, and environmental stressors. Their sticky resin deters herbivores and helps the plant survive harsh conditions. 

Researchers have identified hundreds of trichome metabolites, including hundreds of cannabinoids and terpenes, yet we still lack a complete understanding of cannabis trichomes. That’s because genetic differences, growing conditions, and environmental factors influence trichome development and metabolite production. High metabolite levels in cannabis should be toxic to the very cells that produce them, prompting further research into how our cells manage and properly store these components.

Some of the types of trichome metabolites include:

  • Terpenoids: Also called terpenes, they are a diverse class of metabolites, including monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and diterpenes, known for their role in plant defense and growth.
  • Phenylpropanoids: These compounds play a role in secondary metabolism, stress responses, and plant-environment interactions.
  • Flavonoids: These compounds aid plant defense and participate in various metabolic processes.
  • Methyl ketones: These specialized metabolites are found in glandular trichomes that contribute to flavor and insect resistance.
  • Acylsugars: Glandular trichomes produce these compounds as well. Acylsugars generally protect against insect and fungal attacks.
  • Cannabinoids: Glandular trichomes in cannabis produce cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), which in turn gives rise to virtually all other cannabinoids like CBGΔ9-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA).

 

The Importance of Trichomes in Cannabis Cultivation

In a 2019 study, researchers at the University of British Columbia (UBC) explored how trichomes produce and store compounds like phytocannabinoids and THC resin during cultivation. 

Stalked trichomes form from flat, red precursors with no stalks and produce fewer terpenes, researchers found. Studies using ultraviolet (UV) light reveal stalked trichomes emitting a bright blue color. ​

UV light studies also help scientists understand trichome maturation in cannabis flowers and identify optimal harvest times. The trichome appearance indicates plant maturity, and understanding these visual cues tells cultivators the ideal time to harvest cannabis while achieving the desired effects on the final product.

Clear Trichomes: Clear trichomes appear as the plant transitions from vegetative to flowering. At this stage, the trichome glands produce resin, signaling that peak THC concentration is approaching. However, other cannabinoids are still developing, so cultivators know it’s still too early to harvest the cannabis plant.

Milky Trichomes: When trichomes turn milky or cloudy, the plant continues producing THC and nears harvest time. Most cultivators wait until 50-70% of the trichomes turn cloudy, and the rest become amber before harvesting to achieve a stronger euphoric effect.

Amber Trichomes: As trichomes transition from amber to brown, they indicate that the cannabis plant has matured. However, growers seeking high THC levels must harvest quickly during this transition, as THC begins to degrade into cannabinol (CBN), a compound known for its more sedative effects.

 

Why are Trichomes Important in Cannabis Consumption?

Trichomes heavily influence the final cannabis product and determine the overall quality of what you consume. The tiny crystals that make up trichomes produce and store raw cannabinoids like THCA, CBDA, and CBGA —along with terpenes that shape effects, flavors, and aromas. 

As more states legalize cannabis, consumer demand for high-quality, reliable products increases. However, inconsistent trichome production challenges producers and buyers alike. Genetics, environment, soil, light, and nutrients affect trichome density and cannabinoid profiles. 

Scientists still struggle to understand these relationships fully, making ideal cultivation increasingly challenging. As such, current breeding and cultivation methods often can’t guarantee precise cannabinoid concentrations across different plants.

Inconsistent results have driven producers to “lab shop,” seeking higher THC reports. These practices create consumer distrust and inaccurate labeling. However, many medical patients rely on consistent dosing for cannabis benefits like pain or appetite stimulation. 

A promising method called phytomicrobiome manipulation introduces beneficial microbes to the plant’s roots, potentially stabilizing THC and CBD levels. Standardizing this technique could lead to more predictable, effective cannabis products and a brighter future for cultivation and consumers.

 

What are the Three Different Types of Trichomes on a Cannabis Plant?

Trichomes come in three main types: bulbous, capitate-sessile, and capitate-stalked. The appearance varies depending on the kind of trichome. Some resemble tiny microscopic bulbs, while others have a stalk and head that can be seen with the naked eye.

Bulbous Trichomes: Bulbous trichomes are the smallest of the three types and cover the entire surface of the cannabis plant. They remain invisible to the naked eye and measure just a few micrometers in size. Although experts don’t fully understand their exact function, they believe these structures secrete resin, contributing to the plant’s cannabinoid and terpene profile.

Capitate-Sessile Trichomes: Slightly larger than bulbous trichomes, capitate-sessile trichomes develop before the cannabis plant begins to flower. They sit flush against the plant’s surface, particularly on the underside of leaves and stems. Although they do produce some cannabinoids, their output remains relatively low. As the plant matures, many trichomes evolve into capitate-stalked trichomes responsible for higher cannabinoid production.

Capitate-Stalked Trichomes: Capitate-stalked trichomes are the largest, most abundant, and the only type visible to the naked eye. They measure between 50 and 100 micrometers and have a long stalk with a bulbous, mushroom-like head. These trichomes primarily produce cannabinoids and terpenes and play a key role in determining the potency and aroma of cannabis. They typically appear during the flowering phase, and growers use their color and maturity to determine the optimal time for harvest.

 

Key Takeaways

Cannabis trichomes are tiny, crystal-like structures on the plant’s surface that store the key compounds responsible for its potency, flavor, and therapeutic effects. They play a crucial role in shaping the overall cannabis experience because they contain cannabinoids like THC and CBD, as well as terpenes. 

Cultivators also use the appearance of trichomes—whether clear, milky, or amber—to determine the optimal harvest time while maximizing the end result effects. Trichomes also protect the plant by acting as a defense mechanism. 

While research on trichomes has expanded, scientists continue to explore how genetics and environmental factors affect their development. Understanding trichomes helps both consumers and cultivators ensure a high-quality, reliable cannabis product.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Does the amount of trichomes determine potency?

Yes, the amount of trichomes plays a significant role in potency. Trichomes store raw cannabinoids and terpenes that influence aroma and effects. While a higher trichome density suggests higher potency, the cannabinoid and terpene concentrations in the trichomes determine the plant’s strength.

What is the most critical trichome?

Capitate-stalked trichomes are the most critical. They are the largest, most abundant, and primary producers of cannabinoids and terpenes, playing a vital role in determining potency, flavor, and overall cannabis quality.

What determines the potency or strength of cannabis?

Cannabis potency depends on the concentration of cannabinoids, primarily THCA and CBDA, stored in the trichomes. Genetics, growing conditions, and harvesting time influence cannabinoid and terpene combinations, impacting the plant’s strength and effects. Keep in mind that the plant’s raw THCA must be “decarbed” first, typically with heat, to become psychoactive THC.

What are the perfect trichomes for harvest?

The ideal harvest time occurs when 50-70% of the trichomes are milky or cloudy, with the rest turning amber. At this point, the plant contains the highest THC concentration, producing potent and euphoric effects. Overly amber trichomes indicate THC degradation into CBN, which has sedative and weakly psychoactive properties.

What increases cannabis potency?

Optimizing genetics, controlling environmental conditions, and enhancing nutrient applications can increase cannabis potency. Phytomicrobiome manipulation, which introduces beneficial microbes to the roots, can stabilize and potentially boost metabolite production, including THCA and CBDA.

What are the four types of trichomes?

Cannabis plants primarily have three types of trichomes:

  • Bulbous Trichomes: The smallest and invisible to the naked eye, these cover the plant and likely secrete resin.
  • Capitate-Sessile Trichomes: Slightly larger, these develop before flowering and produce a small amount of cannabinoids.
  • Capitate-Stalked Trichomes: The most prominent and visible, these mushroom-shaped trichomes produce most cannabinoids and terpenes
  • Some sources also refer to Cystolithic Trichomes as a fourth type, though these hair-like structures do not produce cannabinoids.

What should trichomes look like when cannabis is ready to harvest?

When cannabis is ready to harvest, most trichomes should appear milky or cloudy, indicating peak THC levels. Ideally, 50-70% should be cloudy, with a small percentage turning amber, signaling the THC to CBN transition.

At what stage are trichomes best?

Trichomes are at their best when they are primarily cloudy or milky, as this indicates the highest THC concentration, which occurs near the end of the flowering phase, just before they turn amber and degrade into CBN.

Do trichomes turn into kief?

Yes, trichomes can turn into kief. Kief is a powdery substance made of detached trichome heads, which accumulate at the bottom of a grinder or are sifted from dried cannabis. It is highly potent due to its high cannabinoid and terpene concentration.

Do trichomes get you higher?

Yes, trichomes contribute to cannabis’s psychoactive effects upon decarboxylation after harvesting. Since they store THCA and other cannabinoids, consuming decarbed (not raw) cannabis with more well-developed trichomes typically results in stronger effects.

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Summer Trip? Here are the Most Cannabis Friendly Cities in America https://www.veriheal.com/blog/cannabis-friendly-cities-america/ https://www.veriheal.com/blog/cannabis-friendly-cities-america/#respond Thu, 24 Apr 2025 10:00:19 +0000 https://www.veriheal.com/blog/?p=38435 A man and a woman on a bus. Cannabis friendly cities

Few things go together better than weed and exploring a new city. As cannabis legalization grows across the country, so does cannabis tourism. A recent report by the Global Cannabis Tourism Association found that the cannabis tourism market grew by 20% annually between 2022 and 2024, highlighting a growing trend of travelers who want to...

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A man and a woman on a bus. Cannabis friendly cities

Few things go together better than weed and exploring a new city. As cannabis legalization grows across the country, so does cannabis tourism. A recent report by the Global Cannabis Tourism Association found that the cannabis tourism market grew by 20% annually between 2022 and 2024, highlighting a growing trend of travelers who want to enjoy cannabis on their trips (or safely access their medicine).

If you’re looking for inspiration for your next destination, consider these cannabis-friendly cities in America. 

 

Las Vegas, Nevada

Photo Credit: The Nevada Independent -Planet 13 expands Vegas footprint with acquisition of rival cannabis dispensary

It’s not all gambling and yard-long margaritas in Vegas; the cannabis scene has taken on a life of its own in Sin City. Among the many dispensaries operating across town, Vegas is home to Planet 13, the world’s largest dispensary open 24/7. Located just a short drive outside of the Vegas Strip, Planet 13 offers free shuttle services to most hotels on the Strip every day of the week. 

And that’s just the beginning of the cannabis-friendly atmosphere in Vegas. The lively city also features several consumption lounges where tourists can mingle in exclusive tasting rooms and lean into the social aspect of the plant. These lounges, paired with plenty of smoke-friendly rentals and hotel options, make for an extremely 420-friendly destination. 

 

Denver, Colorado 

Denver is high on the list of cannabis-friendly cities, and for good reason. As the capital of one of the first states to legalize recreational cannabis, the city has made a name for itself in the world of weed tourism with a surplus of stores, events, and outdoor activities that pair well with a little cannabis. 

Between the 420 Mile High Festival (hosted by none other than Tommy Chong this year), the various cannabis consumption venues, and a bustling cannabis culinary scene, it’s easy to see why so many cannabis lovers flock to Denver for a getaway. Let’s not forget Colorado Cannabis Tours, which offer cannabis-centric experiences that celebrate cannabis culture and bring together like-minded people for fun activities. 

Cannabis in Denver is also considered very affordable and easy to find, with four times more dispensaries than the average city. 

 

Sacramento, California 

Referred to as the cannabis capital of California, Sacramento has made quite a name for itself in the cannabis scene. According to one study, Sacramento is home to the lowest cannabis prices in the country, with one high-quality ounce averaging $212. 

Beyond the affordable options, Sacramento’s cannabis culture is alive and well, with plenty of dispensaries, farms, and delivery services operating across the city. The city is about to get even more cannabis-friendly, too. The Sacramento city council approved the launch of a cannabis lounge pilot program last year, with consumption lounges likely to open in the next year. 

 

Portland, Oregon 

Like Sacramento, Portland is known for its affordable cannabis. The city is ranked as the second-lowest for cannabis prices, with a high-quality ounce costing consumers about $213. This West Coast city has fully embraced the cannabis culture, making it a wonderful destination for any cannabis enthusiast. 

Visitors can check out the Potlandia Experience Bus Tours, which venture throughout the city to check out microbreweries, food carts, and popular attractions. Or they can hop on a Weed & Waterfalls tour, which celebrates the natural beauty that surrounds the City of Roses. 

With nearly six times more retailers than the average city and many food carts featuring cuisines from around the world, Portland is a hot spot for cannabis lovers—especially those with the munchies.

 

Kansas City, Missouri 

Although recreational cannabis has only been legal in Missouri for a few years, Kansas City has quickly soared to become a cannabis travel destination. In a 2024 report of best cannabis cities, Kansas City was named the most improved, jumping from the No. 22 spot to No. 9 between 2023 and 2024. 

The same report found that Kansas City already has twice the number of dispensaries per capita as Los Angeles, despite legalizing the recreational sale of the plant six years later. The dispensary experience itself is a bit different in Kansas City, with deli-style service and drive-thru options. 

Between its world-famous barbecue, the lively sports community, and its vibrant jazz scene, Kansas City is a fantastic destination for tourists looking to immerse themselves in a city’s unique culture with the added bonus of easy access to legal weed. 

 

Seattle, Washington 

Like Colorado, Washington was among the first states to embrace legal cannabis more than a decade ago. Seattle has long been a cannabis-friendly city, having first hosted the Washington Hemp Expo in 1991, which later became the iconic Hempfest. The event was a protest over the prohibition of cannabis, which played a significant role in ushering in the state’s eventual legalization of the plant. 

Today, Seattle remains a solid destination for cannabis-loving tourists. With 29% more cannabis stores than the average city, there’s no shortage of affordable weed tucked among the rolling hills and mountain views. 

 

Best practices for cannabis travel 

While all of the above cities are great destinations for cannabis-loving travelers, keep in mind that they all have unique laws and regulations around the plant. Public cannabis consumption is generally not legal, even in cannabis-friendly cities. Use your best judgment and be aware of the laws when sparking up in a new place. 

It’s also illegal to cross state lines with cannabis, even when traveling between states with legal cannabis. While it may be tempting to cruise from Seattle to Portland with your favorite Seattle brands, it’s technically illegal to enter Oregon with Washington weed, for example.  

Pay close attention to your accommodations, too. Even in cannabis-friendly cities, many hotels, Airbnb, and other lodging options prohibit guests from smoking or vaping. Fortunately, most cities do offer cannabis-friendly lodging–you just have to look for it. If you plan to spark up where you’re staying, be sure to find a place that allows consumption. Websites like Bud and Breakfast can help narrow down the options. 

Looking for more recommendations? Check out our cannabis road trip guide for even more ideas. 

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Cultivating Cannabis In Extreme Environments and Innovative Growing Techniques https://www.veriheal.com/blog/cultivating-cannabis-in-extreme-environments-and-innovative-growing-techniques/ https://www.veriheal.com/blog/cultivating-cannabis-in-extreme-environments-and-innovative-growing-techniques/#respond Wed, 09 Apr 2025 10:00:32 +0000 https://www.veriheal.com/blog/?p=38318 Cannabis cultivation

Growing cannabis in extreme climates has its unique challenges—and even unique benefits. These challenges have required cannabis cultivators to develop equally unique and innovative solutions. Whether in desert heat, Arctic cold, high-altitude terrain, or urban settings, each environment still requires cultivators to maintain the proper light, water, temperature, and UV levels needed to grow high-quality...

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Cannabis cultivation

Growing cannabis in extreme climates has its unique challenges—and even unique benefits.

These challenges have required cannabis cultivators to develop equally unique and innovative solutions. Whether in desert heat, Arctic cold, high-altitude terrain, or urban settings, each environment still requires cultivators to maintain the proper light, water, temperature, and UV levels needed to grow high-quality cannabis plants.

In this article, you’ll discover how cultivators get creative and grow cannabis in even the most challenging terrains!

Cultivating Cannabis in Desert Conditions

Growing cannabis in arid desert climates is a unique challenge. Still, thriving cannabis plants can be cultivated in even the harshest desert conditions with the right strain selection and innovative techniques. 

One significant challenge when growing cannabis in a desert climate is water management. This is due to rapid evaporation caused by intense heat. To use less water, a drip irrigation system is commonly used in this region because it releases water directly to the root zone desert. Deep watering, a method some cultivators use, involves soaking the soil thoroughly but less frequently. This method encourages enhanced root growth, making the cannabis plants more resilient to drought. 

Adding polymers or hydrogels can help cannabis cultivators retain soil moisture and release it slowly to the plant roots. Mulching can also effectively maintain moisture by covering the soil and minimizing exposure to the harsh sun.

Soil quality is crucial for growing cannabis in desert conditions. The ideal soil should hold moisture while allowing proper drainage to prevent root rot. A mix of sandy or silty soil and organic matter, along with vermiculite, perlite, or coco coir, can create a well-balanced base that helps with water retention.

Temperature control is another vital factor when growing cannabis in arid climates. Desert climates often have intense heat and low humidity. Although cannabis can tolerate high temperatures, prolonged exposure to extreme heat can stress plants. 

To protect the cannabis plants, cultivators use shade cloth during peak sun hours and air circulation around the plants to prevent stagnant, hot air buildup. Cannabis plants thrive in humidity levels between 40% and 70%, commonly at the lower end of that humidity range in desert regions, but it is still acceptable. 

Choosing the right cannabis strain is also key for desert cultivation. Sativa strains, native to hot, dry regions, survive better in arid conditions due to their thicker leaves that retain moisture and smaller surfaces that minimize water loss. 

Popular desert region-resistant strains include:

  • Durban Poison
  • Super Silver Haze
  • Afghan Kush
  • White Widow
  • Jack Herer
  • Northern Lights

Desert climates frequently have strong winds that can erode soil or stress cannabis plants. Building wind barriers around the growing area or using garden fabric helps cultivators protect plants from strong gusts. Rock borders or planting low-growing cover crops can also prevent soil erosion. 

Despite the many challenges of growing cannabis in arid climates, there are some potential benefits. For instance, the low humidity makes it difficult for mold to form, and common pests that prefer damp environments are less likely to affect cannabis plants in drier regions.

Growing Cannabis in the Arctic

Growing cannabis in Arctic regions is wildly challenging—but still offers some surprising advantages for cultivators.

The Arctic is a harsh environment for growing cannabis because of the frigid temperatures, long periods of darkness during the winter, and short, cooler summers. This makes outdoor cannabis growing almost impossible without substantial intervention and innovation.  

Cannabis plants require significant light to grow, and the limited daylight hours in Arctic regions severely hinder natural plant development. Even greenhouses in these areas are logistically and financially challenging because of the cannabis plants’ growth environment needs.

Some cannabis cultivators do grow their cannabis plants outdoors, however, using auto-flowering or “day-neutral” cannabis strains as an alternative. These strains do not depend on light cycles to trigger flowering but mature based on age. This allows growers to work around the short summers of the Arctic. 

Auto-flowering strains also grow more rapidly than non-auto-flowering strains but still require careful growth methods. Cannabis cultivators can further manipulate light cycles by covering plants with blackout material or using light deprivation techniques that mimic shortening daylight hours and trigger flowering before the fall equinox. These methods create a complete growth cycle before the cold season.

Growing Cannabis in a greenhouse is still technically viable in Arctic regions but requires significant heat management. Twin-wall polycarbonate panels provide excellent insulation while allowing light transmission, and insulated metal panels on the sides enhance heat retention. Heat retention curtains minimize heat loss during cold spells, while smart controllers automate heating and humidity levels. 

Humidity control is critical in cold-climate greenhouses to prevent mold. Cannabis cultivators in Arctic regions use horizontal or vertical airflow systems to circulate warm air and maintain consistent temperatures. At the same time, dehumidifiers remove excess moisture and condensation to further protect cannabis crops from mold.

However, indoor cultivation is the ideal method in Arctic climates. This allows cultivators to shield plants from extreme weather and removes the challenges of greenhouse growth. Using high-quality LED or high-intensity discharge (HID) lights, along with temperature controls and automated timers, cannabis plants have the necessities for optimal growth—even in the most frigid conditions.

One surprising advantage of growing cannabis in Arctic regions is the extended daylight hours during the peak of summer. In locations such as Whitehorse, the capital of northwest Canada’s Yukon territory, the “midnight sun” provides 18+ hours of daily sunlight during the growing season. The extended sunlight exposure creates enhanced resin and cannabinoid production, and the low humidity and high altitude reduce the risk of pests and mold. 

As temperatures drop quickly after harvesting the cannabis plants, Arctic growers can store them in this naturally cold environment, reducing energy use and costs during the curing and extraction.

Cannabis Cultivation in High-Altitudes

Growing cannabis in high-altitude regions also has its pros and cons. Research shows that cannabis grown in mountainous areas produces a high level of terpenes, cannabinoids, and flavonoids. Cannabis plants grown at higher elevations can offer more pungent aromas and potent effects. 

High-altitude growth does have its challenges, however. Certain environmental factors affect cannabis growth in high-altitude areas, like Colorado, such as temperature fluctuations, high winds, increased UV exposure, and shortened growing seasons. High elevations also often have shorter growing seasons, making techniques like germinating seeds indoors a common practice.  

Cannabis cultivators can invest in climate control systems, including heaters, coolers, and ventilation fans, which can help prevent plant stress during temperature fluctuations. Greenhouses or hoop houses can also protect from extreme weather conditions. 

Watering is also a challenge in high-altitude regions due to quicker evaporation. To counter this issue, cannabis cultivators use specific irrigation and nutrient regimens.

High altitudes have intense sunlight and cooler nights, which promote potent cannabis plants by boosting resin production through increased UV exposure. However, some sun protection is still necessary to prevent plant stress. Shade cloths or protective sprays can help prevent sunburn and reduce plant stress. 

While fewer pests harm cannabis plants at higher elevations, cultivators still take preventive measures. Monitoring for pests and plant diseases and performing pest control are vital to growing healthy cannabis plants.

These regional conditions can also lead to extended plant maturation periods. Cultivators in these regions pay careful attention to trichome development before harvest. Harvesting at the ideal time helps cannabis growers ensure the buds are at the highest possible level of potency, flavor, and quality.

Choosing the right strains is also vital for successful high-altitude cannabis cultivation. Indica-dominant strains and hybrids are ideal for high-altitude regions due to their hardiness and resilience to cooler temperature swings.

Vertical Farming and Urban Cultivation

Vertical farming is a way to cultivate high-yielding, consistent-quality medical cannabis in a controlled environment year-round—even with minimal land or space, such as in urban settings. Stacked layers of crops are often incorporated into structures like skyscrapers, warehouses, shipping containers, and greenhouses or utilized in areas otherwise unsuitable for farming. Using vertical growing systems, cannabis cultivators maximize even smaller grow spaces. 

This growth method helps lower plant cultivation costs while improving the cultivators’ competitiveness in the medical or recreational marijuana market. While traditional horizontal growing works in many settings, vertical space is often unused. Implementing a vertical grow system utilizes every inch of the space. 

Innovative water management allows cannabis cultivars with urban or vertical farms to grow their plants. Many use closed-loop water systems, which reduce water usage and costs by minimizing runoff and recapturing water for treatment and reuse.

While vertical farming offers significant benefits, it still requires careful cannabis cultivation. Before growing cannabis plants, floor levelness, ceiling height, and potential obstructions must be carefully considered. Lighting, irrigation, and airflow are other essential considerations for the growing space.

As the demand for cannabis grows with more and more states legalizing it, especially in urban areas, vertical farming will likely continue to expand. 

Growing Cannabis in Space

A company called BioHarvest has developed a way to grow the key active components of cannabis—trichomes. Using a bioreactor, this innovative approach helps researchers focus on cultivating only the essential parts of the cannabis plant. This eliminates the need to grow the entire plant while only producing the beneficial part. 

The microgravity conditions in space could even produce cannabis crops with more potent medical properties than what can typically be grown on Earth. Space-grown cannabis might even contain valuable cannabinoids in much higher quantities. This could lead to the potential of creating full-spectrum cannabis plants that offer even more effective treatment options for conditions like palliative diseases.

Unfortunately, BioHarvest’s cannabis isn’t yet approved for International Space Station (ISS) use, and astronauts are prohibited from being high or drunk in space for safety reasons. Still, with space tourism having potential for the future, tourists will likely want to enjoy marijuana or alcohol while in space.

 

Key Takeaways

Cannabis cultivation in extreme environments, whether in the desert, Arctic, or high-altitude regions, requires meticulous growth strategies. These climates present challenges like temperature fluctuations, UV control, and water management. But with the right approach, cannabis plants can thrive even in the harshest conditions. 

 

As the demand for cannabis continues to grow, these cutting-edge cultivation techniques will likely become an even more crucial part of ensuring there is an adequate supply of high-quality medical or recreational cannabis in even the most challenging cultivation regions.

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How To Enhance Your High and Make It Last Longer: 13 Tips and Tricks https://www.veriheal.com/blog/how-to-enhance-your-high/ https://www.veriheal.com/blog/how-to-enhance-your-high/#comments Tue, 25 Mar 2025 12:00:06 +0000 https://www.veriheal.com/blog/?p=3072 how to enhance your high and make it last longer woman eating mango

Each cannabis consumer has a different tolerance level. For some, a puff of a joint could be enough for a giggly high. For others, it can take more consumption by smoking or with edibles. As such, many individuals who experience higher tolerances search for different and new ways to enhance their high and make it...

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how to enhance your high and make it last longer woman eating mango

Each cannabis consumer has a different tolerance level. For some, a puff of a joint could be enough for a giggly high. For others, it can take more consumption by smoking or with edibles. As such, many individuals who experience higher tolerances search for different and new ways to enhance their high and make it last longer.

A tolerance break is always an option. However, for many who use the plant for medical purposes, taking a tolerance break is not always an easy option for managing their overall well-being. Below, we’ve listed 13 tips and tricks to enhance your high for long-lasting effects. 

How To Make Weed High Last Longer

If you’re looking for ways to make weed highs last longer, you’ve come to the right place. Low-energy routines can sometimes cause a lull in how you are feeling with your everyday cannabis experiences.

Store Your Cannabis Differently

The way you choose to store your cannabis matters. It can affect the product’s potency and, ultimately, the length of your high. When purchasing weed products, note the expiration date and make sure to store each type of cannabis product properly

Try to avoid storing cannabis in plastic containers, as they have been known to destroy the trichomes of the plant. If you want to make your weed stay potent for longer, keep your buds in glass or steel jars and store them in dark and cool spaces.

Consume After A Workout

One of the best factors for enhancing your high is considering timing when you consume. Many weed consumers choose to partake before or after a workout for more prolonged effects. 

You may have heard of a ‘runner’s high’ before. A runner’s high is caused by anandamide, which creates a euphoric feeling and pain relief during exercise.

A study was published in 2013 that examined THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) blood levels in 14 cannabis users after 35 minutes of exercise on a stationary bike. The results showed that “exercise enhances plasma THC levels in regular cannabis users.” The rise may be coming from releasing THC from fat stores, and is correlated with body fat. This is further supported by a 2014 preclinical study that also showed exercise and fasting can increase cannabinoid levels in blood plasma in THC-pretreated mice.

So, reward yourself with some great weed the next time you make it through that workout.

Change Your Cannabis

When dispensary shopping, you may notice the typical hype surrounding high THC strains. Did you know that these are not always the strains that will give you the most potent highs and could actually lead to adverse effects?

The entourage effect is a theory that explains the synergistic effects of combining phytonutrients, cannabinoids, terpenes, cannflavins, and hundreds of other plant compounds. Terpene profiles are a source of diversity among cannabis plants, creating many unique strains and products. 

Recently, a 2023 study shows that over a dozen of our favorite cannabis terpenes can activate the CB1 receptor. In doing so, many common terpenes like linalool, limonene, and more can increase the high of THC. This is not to mention all the other potential additive benefits they share and contribute to.

These synergistic effects create a more optimal, therapeutic, and harmonized experience. The next time you shop for cannabis, consider finding strains or products that detail their cannabinoid and terpene profiles – rather than isolates just showing one high THC percentage.

Mix Up Your Routine

A simple change of routine or scenery can be beneficial for maintaining a potent weed high. If the first thing you like to do in the morning is take a hit off a bong (no judgment here), getting chores done first or jumping straight into your day can prolong the first sesh of the day.

If you consistently like to smoke cannabis on our couch, try getting outside on a porch or taking a short walk before you head back inside to spark up. Camping or smoking on a hike (legally and safely) can help elevate the moment and keep things fresh.

Change Your Consumption Methods

If you only smoke cannabis and just don’t feel like you’re getting the same effects anymore, or you notice that it takes more weed than usual to achieve the same high, it could be time to change things up.

Let’s look at a few popular ways to change it up with your consumption methods to try to increase the effects of cannabis.

One-Hitters

Let’s say that you’re a bong lover: you take hits from the bong every day. Believe it or not, even if you switched to a smoking method like one-hitters or just a small dry bowl, you may notice a change in how the cannabis typically feels from your average session setup.

If the opposite is true, bongs are a great way to enjoy a sesh, and if you mainly consume out of one-hitters or small bowls, a bong could be perfect for switching things up.

Vaporizers

Vaporizers are a simple and easy way​​ to change up your consumption. If you aren’t a fan of smoking dry flower, dry herb vaporizing may be a more suitable option. You can also try a concentrate vaporizer if you prefer convenience and ease.

Some vaporizers can handle both concentrate and flower, though not simultaneously. Wax extracts are highly concentrated in THC content, meaning that fewer or even half the puffs can deliver the same amount of cannabinoids as an entire cannabis flower session.

Bear in mind that regularly consuming concentrates can skyrocket your tolerance, so if lowering your tolerance is your goal, concentrates may not be the way to go. 

Edibles

Maybe just taking some time away from smoking and pursuing edible products could do just the trick for changing up your tolerance levels. Edibles interact with the body differently than if cannabis is consumed through inhalation methods, such as smoking a bong.

When cannabis is ingested, it must be processed through the liver. This process makes it much longer for the effects to be felt, taking around an hour. However, when the body breaks down THC, it can offer substantially longer and more intense weed effects. 

If you want to learn more about homemade edibles, check out our guides on infusing cannabis butter and coconut oil.

Beverages

An interesting effect of consuming THC beverages is that they can offer a distinct type of weed high. Some consider THC drinks to deliver the impact quicker than other ingestibles like gummies. This is because the active ingredients are absorbed more rapidly and efficiently into the bloodstream. 

Many onset times can range from 15 to 30 minutes. By contrast, edibles need to be broken down in the digestive system before the THC can be absorbed, and so take at least two to three times longer. The liquid form of THC allows you to digest it quicker, more effectively, and absorb it faster.

THC beverages can be easier to predict and are timely for those who don’t want to inhale cannabis but also want a rapid effect.

How Long Does A High Typically Last?

The duration of a weed high can vary. Typically, many find that it lasts between one and six hours.

Different methods of consumption, as mentioned above, can have different effects on the onset time. For example, vaping can result in a quicker onset (1-3 minutes) but a shorter duration of a high (1-2 hr). Edibles need time to digest in the body before a high can be produced, causing up to 4-6 hours of impairment. And smoking cannabis can have an onset time that is either instant or within a few minutes, like vaping.

Cannabis interacts with the body primarily through the endocannabinoid system, a unique communication system that maintains a state of balance, also known as homeostasis.

8 Foods To Enhance The Effects Of Cannabis

The most natural way for consumers and medical patients to increase their THC intensity, as well as the longevity of the way effects, can be connected to food.

If you’re curious about how food can help amplify the benefits of cannabis, keep reading!

Mango

This fruit is one of the most talked about foods regarding different types that can elevate your weed high. There is some preclinical scientific evidence that is responsible for this, by potentially activating CB1 directly and perhaps increasing delivery of cannabinoids to the brain. 

Mangoes contain a high concentration of myrcene, a terpene that offers various benefits, such as euphoria, relaxation, pain relief, couch lock, and joy. When consumed in combination with THC, these effects are believed to be heightened, creating a more intense high.

Myrcene has been proven to have effects related to relieving pain, is used as a sedative, and offers anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties. Because of these medical benefits, it could be interpreted that the cannabis effects will increase. However, this is likely a direct effect of the terpene, which is found not only in cannabis strains but in mangoes as well.

Some suggest that if you are using mangoes to intensify your weed high, try consuming mangoes or mango juice around 45 minutes before cannabis consumption.

Broccoli

Broccoli is a food that has been shown to increase the effects of cannabis. It is packed with a terpene called beta-caryophyllene, which may enhance the high experience by also increasing cannabinoid transport across the blood-brain-barrier and through the mouth.

Like many cannabinoids, this terpene works with the endocannabinoid system and the brain to provide various effects, such as pain reduction and anti-inflammatory properties.

Beta-caryophyllene is claimed to be a terpene that can also provide a strong sensation of relaxation when consumed with THC. But, it does not get you high on its own because it doesn’t hit CB1.

Sweet Potatoes

These root vegetables have plenty to offer – both in nutrition, digestive health, and may impact your cannabis session. Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamin E and vitamin B. These sweet treats also produce a feel-good chemical in the brain called serotonin.

Vitamin B6, found in sweet potatoes, can help regulate emotions. When consumed in combination with THC, the effects of these vitamins, minerals, and serotonin production can elevate the feelings of euphoria during your weed sesh.

Chocolate

Awesome, right? Chocolate contains a neurotransmitter and endocannabinoid called anandamide, which is also naturally produced by the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). Anandamide is sometimes called a “bliss molecule” because it binds to the CB (cannabinoid) receptors in the body. This can stimulate a state of bliss and joy. 

By eating some chocolate before consuming cannabis, the thought is that you might be increasing your anandamide levels while also stimulating the CB receptors that THC binds to. However, the evidence isn’t quite there yet. Still, anecdotally, the result is a natural yet more intense feeling of well-being while having them last longer.

The combination of chocolate with THC can help with relieving pain, regulating mood, boosting memory, appetite control, fighting against anxiety and depression, and anti-nausea effects.

Black & Green Teas

Both green and black teas contain high concentrations of a compound known as catechin. The compound is actually a flavonoid, widely known and used for its antioxidant, relaxing, and sedative effects.

When drinking tea, mainly green tea, before consuming cannabis, it may help to counteract feelings of paranoia or anxiety if these are feelings being experienced during a weed high.

The relaxing effects of teas with catechin, combined with the euphoric effects of cannabis, can lead to a strong impact from both. Note, however, these teas also have tannins which can cause or worsen dry mouth, like THC.

Nuts & Eggs

Nuts and eggs are high in omega-3 fatty acids. These omega-3 fatty acids can bind to cannabinoid receptors and help cannabinoids like CBD (cannabidiol) and THC move through the body faster. 

Research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids help in reducing the symptoms of depression and anxiety.

When combining the consumption of cannabis with nuts or eggs, it is believed that the omega-3 fatty acids increase the absorption and therefore the effects of the plant, as well as potentially extend the length of the experienced high.

Coffee

Caffeine is an active ingredient in coffee that, at high doses, promotes reinforcing interactions between CB receptors and adenosine. Preclinical research also shows that caffeine can have an impact on worsening the short-term memory of a THC high through these receptor interactions.

Another study found that over a hundred metabolites are connected to caffeine intake, including metabolites that map to the endocannabinoid system. Because of this, coffee could modulate the ECS.

Considering these impacts, it is possible that drinking coffee before cannabis consumption could lead to more potent effects.

Beer

This one is a bit of a curveball for our list. While it is essential to be cautious about consuming alcohol alongside cannabis, it is known that the two boost the euphoric effects of one another when consumed at the same time.

In general, alcohol is known to slow down the enzyme that also breaks down THC. Therefore, it boosts the intercity and duration of both elements in your system.

Many call the combination of consuming alcohol with cannabis to be known as being ‘cross-faded.’ Effects like sedatives and drowsiness could be amplified by taking both and further increased by certain medications (e.g., benzodiazepines, muscle relaxants, barbiturates), which can be unsafe.

Beer is made from hops, which contain high concentrations of terpenes, including myrcene. Consuming beer alongside a blunt or bowl of a suitable strain could have similar effects to consuming mangoes before cannabis.

Infused cannabis beverages made with coffee, tea, kombucha, non-alcoholic cider, or even alcoholic drinks are becoming more mainstream.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Last Longer When High?

If you’re wondering if weed can help in the bedroom, it depends. According to studies, men are more likely to report increased time of intercourse when high on cannabis compared to women. It may also increase the perception of time spent during sex, too. 

Another 2020 study found a connection between the frequency of cannabis use and increased sexual function for men. More consistent users report improvements in erectile function and orgasms.

How To Stop Greening Out?

Greening out is when a person consumes too much cannabis.  It typically causes reactions like nausea, dizziness, paranoia, or anxiety.

The immediate action is to drink lots of water, take deep breaths, get comfortable, and rest. If being still is discomforting, a short walk or spending time outdoors could help ease the THC high quickly.

Is It Normal For A High To Last 24 Hours?

If you are smoking flower or dabbing concentrates, a high could range from 1 to 4 hours on average. If consuming edibles, it will be dependent on the THC strength that is digested and could last from 2 hours to up to 24 hours in some extreme cases. Particularly if the user is a beginner and the dose was too strong (>20–50 mg THC).

Some people report feeling high the next day after consuming cannabis, but there is actually little to no good quality evidence of impairment the next day. High levels of THC in the blood the morning after using weed could cause a person to feel still high.

Do You Sleep Longer When High?

Cannabis is well-known for helping many people sleep. In a study, out of 1,000 adult-use customers, 74% report taking cannabis to help them fall asleep and stay asleep longer.

High doses of THC can be sedating to the user. Indica strains are known for promoting sleepiness, and there are products, such as gummies, formulated specifically to help those looking to sleep longer when high before laying down for sleep.

How To Get High Faster From Edibles?

Depending on body composition and metabolism, on average, edible highs can take 30-90 minutes to set in.

If you are looking to get high faster from THC edibles, there are a few things to consider. First, taking edibles on an empty stomach can help them digest faster. But you’ll also want to consider the potency before consuming without food in your stomach.

Next, be sure to consider the THC dosage of the edibles and what your own personal tolerance level tends to be. Some edible products are made with nanoemulsified cannabinoids, which process THC faster because more of it bypasses the digestive tract, entering the bloodstream quicker. Regular cannabinoids rely on standard digestion and the presence of fats.

What Drinks Enhance Your High?

  • Tea – Black and green teas are known to contain certain compounds that help promote relaxing and sedating feelings associated with cannabis consumption.
  • Coffee – Drinking coffee can create interactions between CB receptors in our brain with adenosine and caffeine. This combination can promote strong synergy connected to the endocannabinoid system.
  • Kombucha – This fermented tea will have probiotics, aiding digestion and gut health. When combined with compounds in cannabis, the combinations create a high concentration of antioxidants.
  • Beer – Alcohol can slow down the enzyme that also breaks down THC. Because of this, it can boost the duration and the intensity of a weed high. However, this combination can be unsafe due to elevated blood alcohol levels and dehydration.

What Gets You High The Longest?

High-quality, whole-plant cannabis products. Start researching terpenes that impact you, THC potencies, and the method of consumption that you use when attempting to get high and stay high for a while.

While flower and concentrates can get you high quicker, the high may not last as long as desired. Therefore, we need to consume more to achieve the desired effect. Edibles take longer to set in but tend to have more prolonged highs.

Considering the tips above on lifestyle tips, beverages, and food can help promote more potent and extended-lasting cannabis highs for an excellent experience.

Note: The content on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be professional medical advice. Do not attempt to self-diagnose or prescribe treatment based on the information provided. Always consult a physician before making any decision on the treatment of a medical condition.

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