Pectin vs. Gelatin: What is in Your Gummy?
July 26, 2021
There are a lot of criteria when choosing cannabis gummies: CBD/THC content and ratios, flavors, consistency. But there's one criterion that perhaps you've never considered: whether the gummies are made from animal by-product.
A majority of cannabis gummies use gelatin as a base
While it is often said that gelatin is a protein made from "horses' hooves," that hasn't been true for a very long time. But the reality isn't much better: gelatin is made from the skin, bones, and connective tissue of livestock animals, as a by-product of meat and leather production. These days, pigs are the main source of gelatin.
Vegan gummies use pectin
For that reason, you might want to opt instead for vegan gummies, such as Wana Brands which are made with pectin vs gelatin. You don't have to be a vegetarian or vegan to want to avoid animal by-products in your cannabis edibles because let’s face it, that just sounds unappetizing.
Pectin comes from citrus fruits
Animal welfare and health aren't the only considerations. Pectin makes for a higher-quality product overall. It tastes better and has a better texture. Pectin is a fibrous component of fruits and vegetables. The kind that is used in foods is usually derived from citrus fruits. Wana tested more than 30 types of fruit pectin resulting in gummies that are the perfect consistency, and taste juicy, like real fruit.
Differences between gelatin and pectin
Pectin is both high in fiber and carbohydrates while gelatin is not, however, gelatin provides protein. In order for pectin to gel liquids, sugar and a source of acid must be present. Gelatin does not require sugar to gel. Pectin requires heat to thicken while items made with gelatin require a cool temperature and time in a refrigerator to gel. Pectin is high in fiber and so may help lower your total cholesterol levels as well as LDL, or bad cholesterol. The fiber in pectin might also help you lose weight, while the protein in gelatin is naturally filling.
An ideal choice for cannabis-infused gummies
Wana gummies are hand-crafted, with all-natural coloring, flavoring, and sugar, are gluten-free, and contain no mineral oil or artificial sweeteners, both of which can cause stomach upset. Wana gummies are infused with premium tinctures during the cooking process to ensure optimal taste and consistency, and come in a wide range of flavors and cannabinoid blends, from 100% THC to CBD-dominant ratios, and everything in between. All are lab-tested to ensure reliability and consistency.
A novel, quick-acting gummy.
Wana recently launched the Wana Quick Fast-Acting Gummies featuring fast-acting technology and a novel edible experience. Traditional edibles can take up to two hours to feel the effects, a downside for many people. With the Wana Quick Fast-Acting Gummies, you'll feel the effects in just 5-15 minutes! In addition, these unique gummies have Delta-9-THC effects, similar to an inhalation effect, and last just up to three hours, versus the usual six hours with other edibles. So consuming is not such an investment of time.
Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
Related posts
THC may be the most famous cannabinoid, but did you know it doesn’t actually exist in the cannabis plant? It begins as a different cannabinoid called Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (THCA), which does not provide psychoactive effects. To convert THCA into THC, it must be decarboxylated by exposing it to heat or light.
THCA and THC may be closely related, but the characteristics and effects of these two cannabinoids differ greatly. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between THCA vs THC, the conversion process, potential benefits, and ways to use them.
Introduction to Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant. You have likely already heard of THC and CBD, but there are actually more than 500 known cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant!1 These compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to produce various effects. It’s essential to understand what cannabinoids are and how they may affect you, as they play a significant role in the therapeutic and recreational use of cannabis.
What is THCA?
THCA is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in raw cannabis–specifically in the plant’s smokable flowers. It is the precursor to THC and has a distinct chemical structure that prevents it from binding to cannabinoid receptors in the brain.2 This means trying to eat raw cannabis flower, stems, leaves, etc. will not provide intoxicating effects.
Cannabis flower with high levels of THCA is often consumed raw, typically through juicing, to take advantage of the potential health benefits without the psychoactive effects of THC.3
What is THC?
THC, formally known as Tetrahydrocannabinol, is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces an “intoxicating high.” In order to convert THCA into THC, it must be decarboxylated, or exposed to heat or light. This removes the carboxyl group from THCA, converting it into THC. When THC is consumed, it binds to the CB1 and CB2 receptors in your brain and body, producing its characteristic effects, known as a “high.”4
How is THCA converted to THC?
Decarboxylation is the key process that transforms THCA into THC. This chemical process, initiated by applying heat or through prolonged exposure to light, removes a carboxyl or carbon dioxide molecule group from THCA, transforming it into THC.16 Common methods of decarboxylation include smoking, vaping, baking, or using a decarbing device. This process is crucial in cannabis product manufacturing to ensure the cannabinoids are activated, and THC can produce its psychoactive effects.5
Here are the common methods of decarboxylation:
- Heat: Bake dried cannabis flower in an oven, vape or smoke cannabis, or use a specialized decarboxylation device.
- Time: Over time, THCA can slowly convert into THC at room temperature.
- Light: Exposure to UV light can also cause decarboxylation, though this method typically happens unintentionally when cannabis isn’t stored properly.
Key Differences Between THCA and THC
This topic is highly technical and can be confusing! Here’s an easier breakdown of the main differences between THC vs THCA:
Psychoactive Effects
The most significant difference between THCA vs THC flower lies in their psychoactive properties. THCA is non-intoxicating and doesn’t produce a “high” because it doesn’t bind to the brain’s cannabinoid receptors.6 In contrast, THC is psychoactive and responsible for the effects associated with cannabis use.7 Additionally, a full-spectrum THC product contains various cannabinoids, producing an entourage effect when consumed.
Medical Applications
THCA and THC may have therapeutic applications, but more studies are needed to verify the potential medical effects. THCA is believed to have anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective,8 and antiemetic properties. It may be beneficial for those who have arthritis or suffer from neurodegenerative diseases. On the other hand, THC may help relieve pain, stimulate appetite, and manage symptoms related to conditions like multiple sclerosis and cancer.9
Legal Status
The legal status of THC vs THCA differs significantly. THC is federally illegal in the United States, but it is allowed for medical or recreational use in some states.10 THCA, derived from hemp, is currently legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, provided it contains less than 0.3% THC. However, this is subject to change as regulations evolve.11
THCA in Raw Cannabis
THCA is abundant in raw cannabis, especially in the leaves and flowers. Consuming raw cannabis, such as through juicing or adding it to smoothies, may provide the benefits of the non-psychoactive cannabinoid without the intoxicating effects of THC. This method is popular among those looking to harness the potential therapeutic properties of cannabis without experiencing a “high.”12
THC in Cannabis Products
The presence of THCA vs THC in products you purchase from a dispensary vary based on the type of product you buy.
- Edibles, tinctures, or topicals typically only contain THC as the decarboxylation process occurred as the product was being manufactured.
- Disposable vapes and vape cartridges contain THCA, which is decarboxylated automatically by the battery’s heating element.
- Cannabis flower and marijuana concentrates contain THCA, and they require manual decarboxylation. Simply light the flower or concentrate in the consumption device of your choice to convert THCA to THC.
Potential Benefits of THCA
Unfortunately there isn’t enough cannabis research to be able to confirm its benefits, but there are a number of studies that may lead to further breakthroughs. When it comes to THCA, there are areas in which it could provide relief to patients:
- Neuroprotective - Support brain health and protect against neurodegenerative diseases like dementia.13
- Antiemetic - Reduce nausea and vomiting, which may be especially beneficial to chemotherapy patients.14
- Anticonvulsant - Reduce seizures in epilepsy.15
Frequently Asked Questions
Your favorite budtender is a great resource if you have questions. Here are a few of the most common we hear.
Can I consume THCA without experiencing psychoactive effects?
You can consume THCA, which is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid, without experiencing intoxication.
What’s the best way to preserve THCA in cannabis?
To preserve THCA, avoid exposing cannabis to heat or light, as these will trigger decarboxylation, the process that turns THCA into its active THC cousin.
How do THCA concentrations vary in different cannabis strains?
THCA concentrations vary similarly to THC levels. If a cannabis strain has a high THC content, it will also contain a lot of THCA.
Can I find products that contain only THCA?
Many products contain THCA only, and THCA diamonds are the most popular.
Choosing Between THCA and THC
Here’s a brief recap and summary about the differences between the two: THCA and THC are cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. THC is psychoactive and is only activated when cannabis is decarboxylated. THCA is currently legal across the US pursuant to the 2018 Farm Bill, while THC is only legal for medical and recreational use in some states.
To choose between THCA and THC, consider your needs and preferences. If you're unsure, ask a budtender at your local dispensary for guidance.
Sources
1. “Cannabis (Marijuana) and Cannabinoids: What You Need to Know,” National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/cannabis-marijuana-and-cannabinoids-what-you-need-to-know
2. “Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA),” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/tetrahydrocannabinolic-acid-thca
3. “What is THCA and what are the benefits of this cannabinoid?” Leafly, September 16, 2022, https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/what-is-thca-and-what-are-the-benefits-of-this-cannabinoid
4. “Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC),” National Library of Medicine, November 12, 2023, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563174/
5. “Explore THCA Flower: Effects, Benefits & More at ACS Laboratory,” ACS Laboratory, July 10, 2023, https://www.acslab.com/cannabinoids/thca-flower-effects-benefits
6. “ Affinity and Efficacy Studies of Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid A at Cannabinoid Receptor Types One and Two,” National Library of Medicine, May 1, 20167, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5510775/
7. “THCA,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/thca
8. “Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid as a potent PPARγ agonist with neuroprotective activity,” National Library of Medicine, November 2, 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5731255/
9. “Therapeutic Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids,” National Library of Medicine, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK425767/
10. “A psychoactive hemp product is available where marijuana is banned due to loophole,” NPR, August 28, 2023, https://www.npr.org/2023/08/28/1196454017/a-psychoactive-hemp-product-is-available-where-marijuana-is-banned-due-to-a-loop
11. “THCA meets legal definition of hemp, operators say - but not everyone agrees,” MJBizDaily, March 19, 2024, https://mjbizdaily.com/does-thca-adhere-to-legal-definition-of-hemp/
12. “Eating raw weed” Can it get you high?” MedicalNewsToday, February 25, 2022, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/can-you-get-high-from-eating-raw-weed
13. “The Cannabinoids, CBDA and THCA, Rescue Memory Deficits and Reduce Amyloid-Beta and Tau Pathology in an Alzheimer’s Disease-like Mouse Model,” National Library of Medicine, April 6, 2023, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10095267/
14. “Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid reduces nausea-induced conditioned gaping in rats and vomiting in Suncus murinus,” National Library of Medicine, September 17, 2013, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3792001/
15. “Evaluation of the Possible Anticonvulsant Effect of Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid in Murine Seizure Models,” National Library of Medicine, February 10, 2022, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8864425/
16. “What is THCA? Guide to One of the Acidic Cannabinoids,” Leafwell, https://leafwell.com/blog/tetrahydrocannabinolic-acid-thca-cannabinoid
Use of Marijuana Concentrate may lead to: Psychotic symptoms and/or Psychotic disorder (delusions, hallucinations, or difficulty distinguishing reality); Mental Health Symptoms/Problems; Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) (uncontrolled and repetitive vomiting); Cannabis use disorder/dependence, including physical and psychological dependence. Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
WhatisIt,HowisItMade,&More/Blog-RSO-Mobile_Thumbnail-1200x900.jpg)
Rick Simpson Oil, commonly known as RSO, is a marijuana concentrate known in the cannabis community for its high potency and potential therapeutic benefits. But what is Rick Simpson Oil, what is RSO used for, how is it made, and how do you use it? In this guide, we’ll dive into the history, intriguing story of its namesake, production, and more.
What is RSO?
Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) is a potent cannabis extract known for its high THC content. Unlike other cannabis concentrates, RSO, which looks like oily tar, is specifically formulated to contain a full spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes found in the cannabis plant. The oil is often used for its potential therapeutic properties, such as pain relief and other medicinal benefits.1
The Story of Rick Simpson
It’s all in a name, right? Rick Simpson is the creator of RSO. He is a Canadian medical marijuana activist and engineer who gained fame by creating cannabis oil with a goal to treat his own health issues. Simpson’s journey with cannabis started in 1997 when he suffered a severe head injury, leading him to explore the medicinal properties of cannabis after traditional treatments failed.
In 2003, he was diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. Again, he turned to cannabis oil after reading a 1975 study that suggested cannabis oil may have slowed cancer growth in mice. Once in remission, Simpson believed the cannabis oil treatment cured his cancer. He has since become an advocate for the use of RSO for cancer patients, as well as for pain relief.2
Does RSO Work?
The effectiveness of RSO is a topic of much debate and ongoing research. While anecdotal evidence and some preliminary studies suggest that RSO may have the potential to treat specific medical conditions, there is no conclusive scientific evidence to fully support these claims.3
So, in short, “Does RSO work?” The answer is maybe. The THC-rich Rick Simpson Oil may improve appetite, relieve pain, and reduce nausea and vomiting in cancer patients,4 while THC and CBD, produced by the plant’s trichomes, may make cancer cells respond better to radiation.5 It may also help reduce or control epileptic seizures.6 However, more research is needed to fully understand the medical applications of cannabis.
How is Rick Simpson Oil Made?
Rick Simpson Oil is made through a highly concentrated extraction process in which high concentrations of cannabinoids–primarily THC–and terpenes are extracted from cannabis flower through the use of a solvent. The extract is refined and solvent is removed, leaving behind a thick, tar-like substance that is typically sold in a syringe.
Please note that this process should not be attempted at home as it is extremely dangerous and requires a professional-grade lab and materials.
RSO Oil vs Cannabis Oil
RSO and cannabis oil are derived from the cannabis plant, but they differ in their contents and intended use. RSO is known for its high THC content and full-spectrum cannabinoid profile, which activates the entourage effect because of how these cannabinoids and terpenes interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. In contrast, cannabis oils are formulated to highlight specific cannabinoids, like CBD, and may not contain the full range of plant compounds found in RSO.
How Do You Use Rick Simpson Oil?
RSO, like other cannabis concentrates, can be consumed in a variety of ways.
RSO Syringe
Because RSO is so potent, accurate dosing is crucial. One of the most popular ways to purchase RSO is in a syringe, which allows the consumer to monitor even the smallest amount of the product. May patients choose RSO syringes for sublingual (under the tongue) consumption or topical applications.
RSO Edibles
RSO edibles can be purchased at a dispensary as its own product, or consumers can use an RSO syringe to add the concentrate to any food or beverage. Remember that since RSO has already been decarboxylated, it should only be added to food or drink that is ready to be consumed.
RSO Capsules
Encapsulating RSO is another convenient option, allowing you to ingest the oil in a controlled, discrete, and tasteless dose.
Vaporizing or Smoking
While not as common, RSO can be added to cannabis flower to vaporize or smoke. Remember to account for the sticky consistency when deciding how you want to consume your infused flower. We recommend a glass pipe that is easy to clean rather than attempting to make RSO-infused joints or blunts.
How Do You Dose RSO?
Dosing RSO can be challenging because of its potency. It’s recommended to start with a small amount, roughly the size of half a grain of rice, and then gradually increase the dose once you know how Rick Simpson Oil affects you. Consult with your favorite budtender or a licensed medical marijuana professional if you need dosage and other RSO advice.
Answering FAQs About Rick Simpson Oil
There is a ton of mystery around this unique concentrate, so we’ve compiled a list of the most popular questions we hear at our dispensaries.
How do you use an RSO syringe?
An RSO syringe can be used to dispense the oil sublingually or topically. It can also be added to food and drinks or put in a capsule for easy ingestion.
Can I make RSO?
No, you should not attempt to make RSO at home. The extraction process can be extremely dangerous due to the use of highly explosive solvents. Cannabis cultivators have professional equipment operated by extraction experts to ensure a safe process.
Can you smoke RSO?
Because RSO is a sticky liquid, you won’t be able to smoke it by itself. However, you can use it to infuse your cannabis flower for a more potent experience.
Can you dab RSO?
You can dab with RSO, but it’s not a common method because of its sticky consistency.
Can you cook with RSO?
Rick Simpson Oil can be added to various sweet or savory recipes to make edibles, but you should not add it until the food is completely cooked. This is because RSO has already been decarboxylated, so further exposure to heat will cause the THC to degrade.
Purchasing RSO
Rick Simpson oil has a fascinating history, and it makes sense that cannabis enthusiasts want to try RSO for recreational use. Remember that the concentrate is highly potent, so follow the newbie cannabis user’s advice of starting low and slow. Talk with your budtender if you want to know more about RSO.
Sources
1. “What Is Rick Simpson Oil?” Leafwell, https://leafwell.com/blog/what-is-rick-simpson-oil-rso/
2. “The Ultimate Guide to Rick Simpson Oil (RSO),” CannaMD, https://www.cannamd.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-rick-simpson-oil-rso/
3. “Preclinical and Clinical Assessment of Cannabinoids as Anti-Cancer Agents,” Frontiers, October 7, 2016, https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2016.00361/full
4. “What is Rick Simpson Oil? Your Complete guide to RSO,” Leafly, September 30, 2022, https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/what-is-rick-simpson-oil
5. “Can Rick Simpson Oil Treat Cancer?” Healthline, June 20, 2023, https://www.healthline.com/health/rick-simpson-oil-cancer
6. “Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) for Cancer: Does It Work?” WebMD, June 22, 2024, https://www.webmd.com/cancer/rick-simpson-oil-for-cancer-overview
Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
Butane hash oil, also called BHO, is a type of cannabis concentrate that is extracted through a closed loop system that requires BHO. In fact, some of your favorite concentrates are likely created using BHO. In this article, we’ll explain how these concentrates are made, and what makes them different from other products.
What is BHO?
BHO goes by a variety of names–honey oil, butane honey oil, hash oil–but it’s a misconception that the finished product is in fact BHO. Concentrates that are extracted through the use of this solvent come in a variety of forms, including badder, wax, crumble, and shatter.
How is BHO Made?
BHO is a powerful chemical that is both highly flammable and toxic, and should only be used by trained professionals.1 Cannabis cultivators pack the cannabis plant material into a closed loop system, then they introduce chilled butane to separate the THC-containing trichomes. After a series of steps that include heating, freezing, pressure, and agitation, any residual butane or other undesirable byproducts are removed. The finished product is the desired marijuana concentrate.1
What Are the Different Types of BHO Extracts?
Cannabis is an endlessly versatile plant, and the same can be said for the extracted concentrates. When using any BHO concentrate, be prepared for an extremely high level of THC–as high as 90%!2
Shatter - Shatter is a translucent and brittle form of BHO. It gets its name from its glass-like appearance and texture. Shatter is known for its high potency and is enjoyed by many cannabis enthusiasts while dabbing, a method of vaporizing and inhaling concentrates using a dab rig or pen.
Wax - BHO wax has a silky smooth texture, like warm, pliable candle wax. Wax tends to be easier to handle and is popular among users who enjoy an easy-to-handle concentrate for their dabbing or want something to dip the end of their joint in.
Crumble - As the name suggests, crumble is a dry and crumbly version of BHO. It is easy to break apart and is commonly used for dabbing or adding to vaporizer pens.
How Do I Consume Butane Hash Oil Concentrates?
BHO can be consumed in various ways, but the most common is dabbing. This process requires a dab rig or dab pen and a quartz, titanium, or ceramic nail. If your dab rig isn’t electric, you would use a butane torch to heat the nail. Once the nail is hot, a small amount of BHO is placed on it, and the vapor is inhaled through a mouthpiece.
Some cannabis enthusiasts also enjoy twaxing,3 which is the term for when a consumer adds wax to a joint or bowl. This is typically done to increase both the flavor and potency of flower.
FAQs About BHO
If you've got more questions about BHO, we've got you covered.
Can I make BHO at home?
No, attempting to make BHO at home is extremely dangerous. There have been instances in which amateur BHO-makers have been severely injured by this process.
Is BHO the same as wax?
Wax is one of the popular consistencies of BHO extracts, but not all BHO products are wax.
Can I eat BHO?
Technically, yes, but it’s not recommended. Cannabis concentrates must be decarboxylated to produce any effects.
Purchasing BHO Concentrates
BHO products come in many forms, and new ones are frequently introduced to the market. Check out the BHO products available at your dispensary, and talk to your budtender to learn more or to find the BHO product that’s right for you.
Sources:
1. "Butane Hash Oil (BHO)," Weedmaps, June 25, 2021, https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/butane-hash-oil-bho
2. "What is BHO? All About Butane Hash Oil," Marijuana Packaging.com, August 14, 2023, https://marijuanapackaging.com/blogs/resources/what-is-bho-all-about-butane-hash-oil
3. "What is Twaxing," Cannaconnection.com, August 13, 2020, https://www.cannaconnection.com/blog/18515-what-is-twaxing
Use of Marijuana Concentrate may lead to: Psychotic symptoms and/or Psychotic disorder (delusions, hallucinations, or difficulty distinguishing reality); Mental Health Symptoms/Problems; Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) (uncontrolled and repetitive vomiting); Cannabis use disorder/dependence, including physical and psychological dependence. Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
