5 Stoner Superstitions to Know to Celebrate a Magical St. Phatty's Day

As we approach St. Phatty’s Day, the luckiest day of the year for cannabis enthusiasts, it’s time to peel back the layers of mystique and delve into the quirky superstitions that float around the weed-smoking world like a cloud of aromatic smoke. From mango munching to passing to the left, let’s explore the superstitions that add a sprinkle of magic to our toking rituals.

1. Munching Mangoes: The High-Flying Myth
Ever heard that eating a mango before sparking up can elevate your high to cloud nine? While it sounds like a fruity fairy tale, there’s a nugget of truth buried in this myth. Mangoes contain myrcene, a terpene also found in certain cannabis strains. However, the evidence is hazy at best. So go ahead, snack on a mango, but don’t expect miracles—just a delicious pre-toke treat!

2. Pass to the Left: A Counterclockwise Conundrum
In the hazy circles of stoner culture, passing to the left is gospel. But why left, you ask? Blame it on the hippies, or perhaps the Victorian-era butlers—the reasons are as foggy as the room. However, one thing’s for sure: pass to the right at your own risk. So, take two hits max of that Ozone Lky Charmz Vape and pass counterclockwise, unless you’re feeling rebellious—then, all bets are off.

3. The Curse of the White Lighter: A Lighter Shade of Superstition
White lighters: innocent tools or harbingers of doom? Legend has it that the tragic fates of rock icons—Jim Morrison, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin—were sealed with white lighters in hand. Snopes.com debunked this myth, but the stigma persists. So this St. Phatty’s Day, pick up a green lighter and avoid the pinch of the cannabis community.

4. Bowl Etiquette: The First Hit Dilemma
To hit or not to hit, that is the question. When packing a bowl, tradition dictates that the packer relinquishes the first hit to the next in the rotation. But is it a noble act of generosity or a puff of hypocrisy? Sometimes, the green hit isn’t the sweetest, and troubleshooting mid-sesh is nobody’s idea of a good time. So, pack your bowl and puff with pride—just mind the chokehold.

5. 420: The High Noon of Superstitions
Ah, the sacred hour of 4:20—the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Originating from school escapades in Northern California, 420 transcended its roots to become a universal symbol of cannabis camaraderie. Miss the mark, and your St. Phatty’s Day may lose its luster. Whether it’s 4:20 a.m. or p.m., light up, puff, puff again, and pass.

In the end, cannabis superstitions are as varied as the shades of green on St. Phatty’s Day. Some are rooted in history, others in whimsy, but all add a sprinkle of magic to our toking traditions on this most fortunate of days. So, as you raise your glass—or your vape—to good luck, embrace the quirks, and let the good vibes flow. After all, in the realm of cannabis, superstition is just another way to catch a little luck of the high-rish.


Keeping Cannabis Fresh: A Friendly Guide

Whether you’re new to the world of cannabis or a seasoned aficionado, one thing we can all agree on is the importance of keeping our stash fresh. Let’s dive into some practical tips and tricks to ensure your cannabis remains flavorful and potent for longer.

Optimal Storage Containers
To preserve the freshness of your cannabis, investing in the right storage containers is key. Look for airtight containers made of glass or metal, as they offer superior protection against air, light, and moisture. Avoid plastic containers, as they can generate static electricity and potentially degrade the quality of your buds.

Keep It Cool, Dry, and Dark
Cannabis thrives in cool, dry, and dark environments. Exposing your precious buds to excessive heat or humidity can lead to mold and degradation. Find a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight, such as a closet or drawer, to store your stash. Remember, maintaining the right environment is crucial for preserving the potency and flavor of your cannabis.

Say No to Freezing
While it may seem logical to freeze your cannabis to extend its shelf life, this practice is not recommended. Freezing can cause trichomes (those delightful resinous crystals) to become brittle and break off, resulting in a loss of potency and flavor. Stick to keeping your stash in a cool and dry environment instead.

Handle with Care
When handling your cannabis, it’s important to treat it gently. Excessive squeezing, crushing, or grinding can damage the delicate trichomes and reduce the overall quality of your buds. Invest in a good quality grinder to ensure a consistent grind without overdoing it.

Beware of Air and Light
Both air and light can degrade the cannabinoids and terpenes in your cannabis, diminishing its overall quality. Avoid leaving your stash out in the open for extended periods and opt for opaque containers to shield it from harmful UV rays. Remember, airtight and light-proof containers are your buds’ best friends.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your cannabis fresh, flavorful, and potent for longer periods. Remember, a little care and attention go a long way in maintaining the quality of your stash. So, whether you’re saving some buds for a special occasion or stockpiling your favorite strains, proper storage is the key to preserving that cannabis goodness.


Where Do Cannabis Strains Get their Crazy Names?

Have you ever wondered how those funky and creative names for different cannabis strains come about?

When it comes to naming cannabis strains, there are a variety of factors at play. Let’s start with the most obvious one: appearance. Many strains are named after their physical characteristics or the way they look. Think of strains like “Purple Haze” or “White Widow.” These names give you a vivid mental image of the strain’s colors or the frosty trichomes covering the buds.

Another common source of inspiration for strain names is their aroma and flavor profiles. If a strain has a particularly pungent smell or a distinct taste, breeders often incorporate these characteristics into the name. Names like “Blueberry Kush” or “Lemon Skunk” immediately evoke thoughts of fruity or citrusy delights. And “Sour Diesel” is said to have acquired its name due to its strong, diesel-like aroma. 

Cultural references play a significant role in strain naming as well. Pop culture, music, movies, and even historical events have all served as inspiration for cannabis strain names. For example, the iconic strain “AK-47” pays homage to the famous Soviet rifle and hints at its potency.

Sometimes, cannabis strains are named after the breeder or the individual who discovered or popularized them. These names often carry a sense of pride and recognition for their creators. A strain like “Jack Herer” pays tribute to a pioneer and legend of the cannabis world.

Of course, there’s also room for a healthy dose of creativity and humor when it comes to naming cannabis strains. Breeders and enthusiasts love to come up with catchy and amusing names that stand out from the crowd. Strains like “Pineapple Express” or “Gorilla Glue” not only grab your attention but also add an element of fun to the cannabis experience.

It’s worth noting that strain names can vary from one region to another, depending on local preferences and trends. What might be called “OG Kush” in one place could have a different name in another, yet still refer to the same strain. This can sometimes lead to confusion, but it also adds to the colorful tapestry of cannabis culture.

In recent years, as cannabis legalization has expanded, the industry has become more regulated. This has led to some standardized naming practices to ensure consistency and clarity. For example, many strains now include the name of the breeder or the company responsible for their creation to establish authenticity.

So, the next time you come across a unique or intriguing cannabis strain name, take a moment to appreciate the creativity and thought that went into it. Whether it’s inspired by appearance, aroma, cultural references, or simply a touch of humor, strain names add a touch of personality to the world of cannabis.


Demystifying Cannabinoids

You may have heard the term “cannabinoids” thrown around in discussions about cannabis. But what exactly are cannabinoids?

 

The Basics

At their core, cannabinoids are a diverse group of chemical compounds that are naturally found in the cannabis plant. They interact with our body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a vital role in regulating various physiological processes.

 

The Star Players

The most well-known cannabinoid is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis. However, there’s more to cannabinoids than just THC. Cannabidiol (CBD) has gained significant attention for its potential therapeutic properties, and there are over 100 other cannabinoids that have been identified so far, each with its unique characteristics.

 

How They Work

When cannabinoids enter our body, they interact with receptors in the endocannabinoid system. The two primary receptors are CB1 and CB2, which are found throughout our bodies. CB1 receptors are primarily concentrated in the brain and central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are more abundant in the immune system and peripheral tissues.

 

Effects and Benefits

The effects of cannabinoids vary depending on the specific compound and its interaction with our body. THC can induce a sense of euphoria and relaxation, while CBD is non-intoxicating and is often associated with potential therapeutic benefits such as pain relief, reducing anxiety, and promoting sleep. Other cannabinoids, like cannabinol (CBN) and cannabigerol (CBG), are also being studied for their unique properties.

 

Beyond Cannabis

While cannabinoids are predominantly found in cannabis, they can also be found in other plants. For example, some species of Echinacea produce cannabinoids. However, the concentrations and effects of these non-cannabis cannabinoids may differ from those found in cannabis.

 

The Science and Research

Research on cannabinoids and their potential applications is a rapidly evolving field. Scientists are investigating their potential therapeutic benefits for various conditions, such as epilepsy, chronic pain, inflammation, and mental health disorders. As more research unfolds, we gain a better understanding of how these compounds can positively impact our well-being.

Cannabinoids are truly remarkable compounds that interact with our body’s endocannabinoid system and offer a wide range of effects and potential benefits. Whether you’re interested in the therapeutic applications, the science behind it, or simply curious about their role in cannabis, cannabinoids provide a fascinating subject for exploration. As always, it’s essential to stay informed, consult professionals, and make educated decisions. Happy cannabinoid adventures!


What is THCV?

THCV stands for tetrahydrocannabivarin, which is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. It is structurally similar to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound in cannabis that is responsible for the “high” feeling.

 

THCV is known for its potential therapeutic effects, which include appetite suppression, anxiety relief, and possible treatment of diabetes and metabolic disorders. It has also been studied for its potential as an anti-inflammatory and anti-convulsant.

 

It is important to note that THCV is found in relatively low concentrations in most cannabis strains, and its effects can vary depending on the dose and other factors. Additionally, THCV is not widely researched, so much of its potential benefits and drawbacks remain unclear.


All About Cannabis Terpenes

Cannabis terpenes are aromatic compounds found in the cannabis plant that are responsible for its distinctive scent and flavor. They are a type of organic molecule that is produced by many different plants, including cannabis, and are often used in aromatherapy and as flavorings in food and drink.

Terpenes are found in the trichomes of the cannabis plant, which are the small, hair-like structures that cover the buds and leaves. There are over 100 different terpenes that have been identified in cannabis, each with its own unique scent and flavor profile.

Terpenes are also thought to play a role in the effects of cannabis, as they are believed to interact with other compounds in the plant, such as THC and CBD, to produce various therapeutic benefits. Some terpenes, for example, are thought to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, or anxiolytic properties.

Some of the most common terpenes found in cannabis include:

Cannabis bud and leaf with sliced lemon depicting limonene terpene.

Myrcene has a musky, earthy aroma and is thought to have sedative effects. It is also found in mango and hops.

Cannabis bud and leaf with hoppy, pepper, lemons and fir needles Caryophyllene, humulene limonene and pinene terpenes concept on grey background.

Limonene has a citrusy scent and is thought to have mood-boosting and anti-inflammatory effects.

Pinene: has a pine-like scent and is thought to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.

Cannabis buds and leaf with red color pepper in small bowl. Caryophyllene terpene concept on grey background.

Caryophyllene: has a spicy, peppery scent and is thought to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.

It’s important to note that the effects of terpenes on the body and mind are still being studied, and much more research is needed to fully understand their potential therapeutic benefits.


What is the Difference Between Indica and Sativa?

Ordering cannabis for the first time can be very intimidating. There are so many strains to choose from, and they all seem to look and smell the same, especially when you’re a beginner. So how do you pick which type of flower to buy?

Cannabis strains are sorted into three types: indica, sativa, and hybrid. Each type has its own benefits, and the right strain for you might vary based on your mood, time of day, pain levels, and location.

Knowing the difference between indica vs sativa vs hybrid strains will help guide you so you can find cannabis products that you’ll enjoy the most. In this article, we’ll tell you all about your options so you can go to the dispensary confident and excited for your first haul!

How THC & CBD Affect Your Body

Indica, sativa, and hybrid are useful categories that give you a great deal of information about each cannabis strain. However, there are a few more factors at play that you should know about first.

Each type of marijuana contains a balance of the cannabinoids CBD and THC. They’re picked up by your body’s endocannabinoid receptors, which regulate many functions in your body, including sleep, appetite, memory, and mood.

THC is the compound in cannabis that gets you high. It binds to the CB1 receptors in the brain and produces psychoactive effects. Generally, the higher percentage of THC in a cannabis strain, the more intense your high will be.

CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that’s gained a ton of popularity in recent years. You won’t get high when you take CBD alone. However, it can help with a wide variety of medical conditions on its own.

When you combine THC with CBD, you’ll experience a less intense, more relaxed high. CBD reduces THC’s ability to bind to your body’s CB1 receptors, reducing its psychoactive effects. Some people even use CBD to come down when they get too high.

There’s evidence that marijuana strains that are high in THC can help patients with:

Chronic pain
Inflammation
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Cancer
HIV and AIDS
Glaucoma
Nausea
Insomnia
Low appetite
Anxiety
Muscle spasms

You might want to try a CBD-heavy cannabis strain if you’re dealing with any of the following symptoms:

Seizures and epilepsy
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Inflammation
Autoimmune disorders
Chronic pain
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBS)
Nausea
Migraine
Depression
Anxiety

So how do indica vs sativa vs hybrid strains stack up when it comes to their cannabinoid profiles?

Sativa strains tend to have a higher percentage of THC, while indica strains have more CBD. That’s part of the reason that your body can react so differently to each strain of cannabis.

Terpenes can also make a huge difference in how a strain affects your body. These compounds are found in the essential oils of the cannabis plant, and they give each strain its own unique flavor, scent, and appearance.

There are a variety of terpenes in each type of cannabis. Some of the most common terpenes include limonene, myrcene, humulene, and pinene. Here’s our rundown of the most popular terpenes and how they can make a difference in your cannabis’s profile.

If you’re a medical patient, you might find that strains with certain terpenes work best to treat your condition. An experienced budtender at your local Ascend dispensary can help you pick out a type of flower that will best fit your needs.

Indica vs. Sativa: A Breakdown

So let’s cut to the chase: what are the other differences between indica and sativa strains?

Cannabis Indica

Indica and sativa plants look very different. Indica plants tend to be short and bushy with broad, dark green leaves, as you can see from our sativa vs indica chart .

Indica strains were first documented in 1785, when Jean-Baptiste Lamarck published his description of a new type of cannabis that he had collected in India. In Latin, “indica” means “of India.”

Some indica strains can contain a lot of CBD, but that doesn’t mean that you won’t experience any psychoactive effects.

Indica strains make you feel:

Relaxed or sleepy
Stuck on your couch (couch lock)
Sedated
Pain-free
Warm
High in your body

Some of the medical benefits most associated with indica strains include:

Pain relief
Sleep aid
Migraine relief
Reduction of inflammation
Seizure treatment
Muscle relaxation

When looking at indica vs sativa for pain, many patients prefer indica strains. They are more likely to contain terpenes that are compatible with pain relief. Plus, indica can relax your muscles, leading to a calming experience.

Ascend carries a wide variety of indica strains. Some of our favorites are:

So indica creates a strong body high that will leave you relaxed and pain-free. What do sativas do?

Cannabis Sativa

Sativa plants are tall and slim. They have light green leaves, and can be easily distinguished from indica plants.

Cannabis sativa has been grown and used medicinally throughout history. It originated in Eastern Asia, and was first classified by Carl Linnaeus in 1753. In Latin, “sativa” means “things that are cultivated.”

Most sativa strains are heavy on the THC without a lot of CBD. When people smoke sativa, they’re usually looking to get as high as possible to get the full effects of the cannabis, and CBD can bring down their high.

Sativa strains make you feel:

Energized
Creative
Happier
Like you’re having mild hallucinations
Like your thoughts are racing
Ready to face the day

Some of the medical benefits most associated with indica strains include:

Pain relief
Reduced depression
Reduced nausea, especially in cancer patients
Increased appetite
Increased ability to pay attention, especially in ADHD patients

When choosing between indica vs sativa for pain, indica is generally considered the best option. However, people with chronic pain may need relief in the morning or early afternoon when it doesn’t make sense to use an indica strain. Sativa can also contain terpenes that relieve pain, so don’t count them out if you’re searching for help for your chronic pain.

Ascend carries a wide variety of indica strains. Some of our favorites are:

Blue Dream
Sugar Cones
Granny Skunk
Jet Fuel OG
Peanut Butter Cookies

Contrary to popular belief, there aren’t just sativa and indica strains. They can be combined in unique ways to form different types of cannabis called hybrids.

Hybrids

Hybrid strains can give you the best of both worlds! These varieties have traits of both sativa and indica strains, so their effects can be a combination of relaxing and energizing.

You can choose a hybrid strain  that’s either sativa or indica-dominant. While some options have a 50/50 ratio, it’s more common for a strain to lean one way, like 80/20 or 70/30.

One common hybrid is the ruderalis strain. It’s much shorter than your average plant, which you can see on the sativa vs indica chart. They also have thick and sturdy stems. Crossbreeding ruderalis is one of the ways that cannabis cultivators create new hybrid strains.

Each hybrid cannabis strain will taste and smell different depending on the plants it was crossbred with. They can also offer widely varying effects, especially based on their terpene profiles.

Each hybrid strain is a crossbreed of two existing marijuana strains with different percentages of THC and CBD. If you want to know which strains make up a hybrid or the ratios of sativa vs indica, you can ask a budtender at Ascend Cannabis.

Some of the most popular hybrid strains that you can buy at Ascend right now include:

Apple Fritter
Bubba’s Gift
Banana Pudding
Lavender Gelato
Birthday Party

Potential Side Effects

Cannabis use has a wide variety of benefits, whether you’re using indica vs sativa vs hybrid. However, weed can have some potential side effects as well.

Some of the most common side effects to using cannabis include:

Dry mouth
Dry eyes
Shortness of breath or trouble breathing (if smoking)
Anxiety, which can be severe
Paranoia
Tiredness
High heart rate
Low blood pressure

These side effects are minimal, and should go away after cannabis is out of your system. This can be a few hours if you took sativa vs indica edibles. If you’re uncomfortable, simply calming down in a safe space and waiting it out is the best option.

Knowing Which Type of Strain Is Right For You

Wondering what kind of strain to choose? Here are some factors to consider.

Medical history
If you’re using cannabis medicinally, what condition are you trying to treat?
Do you have any medical conditions that could make it riskier to use cannabis, including hypertension, schizophrenia, rapid heart rate, pregnancy, or some psychiatric disorders?
Desired effect
If you want to feel energized and excited to face the day, take a sativa vs indica edible or smoke a sativa strain.
If you want to relax and close the day out on a chill vibe, choose indica.
Price
Indicas vs sativas vs hybrids usually don’t have a significant price difference. You always know you’re getting the best price when you shop with Ascend Cannabis.
Type of consumption
Indicas, sativas, and hybrids can be consumed in a variety of ways, including inhalation, ingestion, oral absorption, and topical methods.
Some dispensaries don’t differentiate between sativa vs indica edibles. This can make it trickier to know what type of weed you’re consuming.
Dosage
Indica and sativa strains can be dosed in the same way. However, they do contain different amounts of THC and CBD, so you will feel higher on some strains than you do on others.
When taking sativa vs indica vs hybrid edibles, start with a low dose (5-10 mg) and work your way up. If you take too much the first time, you run the risk of having a bad reaction.

Knowing the difference between indica vs sativa vs hybrid makes it much easier to pick out a new strain of cannabis, whether you’re shopping in-store or online. Many customers experiment with all three types of marijuana to find the strain that works best for them.

If you’re still not sure what type of cannabis to pick, that’s okay! The expert budtenders at Ascend Cannabis can walk you through the cannabis buying process from start to finish, taking the time to understand you and your needs.

Ascend Cannabis carries a wide variety of indica, sativa, and hybrid strains. Shop now to get the best indica and sativa consumables on the market!

Extra Sources

https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/what-is-cannabis-ruderalis

https://wayofleaf.com/cannabis/ailments/medical-uses-for-sativa-strains

https://www.diffen.com/difference/Cannabis_indica_vs_Cannabis_sativa

https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/sativa-indica-and-hybrid-differences-between-cannabis-types

https://cannabisresearch.mcmaster.ca/news/2017/11/01/who-shouldn-t-use-medical-cannabis

Keywords:

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Wasn’t sure exactly where to put this keyword since I don’t know what’s on the chart. If I see it or get a rundown of what’s on it, I can increase the keyword density.

Site made me pick a specific dispensary before any product links, so these are for their Detroit store.

Link to hybrid guide here?


Cannabis Distillate vs. Isolate

Cannabis distillate and isolate are both forms of concentrated cannabis extracts, but they differ in terms of their composition and how they are made.

Cannabis distillate is a highly potent extract that contains a high concentration of THC, CBD, or other cannabinoids. It is produced by using a process called fractional distillation, which involves heating the cannabis extract to a specific temperature to separate and isolate the different components of the extract. Cannabis distillate can be used in a variety of products, such as edibles, vape cartridges, tinctures, and topicals.

On the other hand, cannabis isolate is a pure form of a single cannabinoid, typically either THC or CBD. It is made by using a process called chromatography, which involves separating the different cannabinoids and removing all the other components of the cannabis plant, such as terpenes, flavonoids, and other cannabinoids. Cannabis isolate is typically sold as a powder or a crystalline form and can be used in a variety of products, such as edibles, topicals, and capsules.

In summary, cannabis distillate contains a high concentration of different cannabinoids, while cannabis isolate is a pure form of a single cannabinoid. Both have their own unique uses and benefits, and which one you choose depends on your individual needs and preferences. It’s important to note that both cannabis distillate and isolate can have potent effects, and should be used with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Additionally, the legal status of cannabis products varies by country and state, so it’s important to be aware of the laws in your area.


What is Solventless Live Rosin?

Solventless live rosin is a type of cannabis concentrate that is made without the use of solvents such as butane or CO2. Instead, it is made using a technique called “rosin pressing,” which involves applying heat and pressure to cannabis flowers or hash to extract the resinous trichomes.

The term “live” refers to the fact that the cannabis material used to make the rosin is fresh and has not been dried or cured. This helps to preserve the terpenes and other volatile compounds in the plant, resulting in a more flavorful and aromatic concentrate.

Solventless live rosin is considered to be a high-quality cannabis extract because it is free of any residual solvents or chemicals and is made using only natural, mechanical methods. It is also a popular choice among those who prefer to consume cannabis in a more natural and organic form.


How Can You Tell if Cannabis is Good Quality?

Determining the quality of cannabis can be subjective and can vary depending on personal preferences and experiences. However, there are some factors that can help you determine if cannabis is of good quality:

  1. Appearance: High-quality cannabis should look fresh, with bright green leaves, healthy trichomes, and no visible signs of mold or pests.
  2. Aroma: Good cannabis should have a pleasant and strong aroma, which can vary depending on the strain. A strong and distinct scent is usually a sign of high-quality cannabis.
  3. Taste: The taste of cannabis should be smooth and flavorful. If the taste is harsh or unpleasant, it may be a sign of lower quality cannabis.
  4. Potency: The potency of cannabis can be measured by the amount of THC and CBD present in the strain. High-quality cannabis should have a high potency and provide a strong and consistent effect.
  5. Smoothness: When smoking or vaping cannabis, it should be smooth and easy to inhale. If it’s harsh or causes coughing, it may be a sign of lower quality cannabis.
  6. Test results: Some cannabis strains are tested for purity and potency by independent laboratories. Checking the test results can provide additional information about the quality of the strain.

It’s important to note that quality can vary depending on the strain, the growing conditions, and the methods used to cultivate and harvest the cannabis. Therefore, it’s recommended to purchase cannabis from reputable sources and to experiment with different strains to find the one that works best for you.