Cannabis Decarboxylation: What Is It, How It Works, Why It’s Important

April showers bring May flowers, but cannabis flower is the best no matter what month it is! With the change in season comes new flavors to try. Give your buds a springtime makeover with some of our favorite canna-flavors.

Spring Cannabis Terpenes

Terpenes are the famous compounds that give cannabis strains their unique flavors and aromas. But did you know that terpenes can also be found in hundreds of other plants?

When choosing a seasonal cultivar, we recommend looking at three terpenes that are often associated with spring-like flavors:

• Linalool is a terpene that is also found in lavender and lilacs. Strains that are rich in linalool often have floral notes with hints of spice. The flavors are similar, offering light, sweet tastes that pair with woodsy undertones.
  
  
• Geraniol is another floral terpene that is commonly found in roses and geraniums, giving these plants their desirable scents. This versatile chemical is also used to make citronella and rose oils. 
  
  
• Myrcene is one of the most common cannabis terpenes. It has a herbaceous aroma with hints of mild, sweet earth. 

Top 10 Best Strains for Spring

Revive yourself after a cold winter with these cannabis strains for spring:

Strawberry Cough

Sativa-Dominant Hybrid

Nothing says spring like fresh strawberries, which is why this famous strawberry strain is on our list. Strawberry Cough was created by High Times cultivation editor Kyle Kushman, and it’s believed to be a cross between the Haze and Strawberry Fields strains. It’s no surprise that the flavors and aromas it offers are linked with this fresh, sweet berry. Proceed with caution, though, as Strawberry Cough has a THC percentage that can reach up to 26%!

Rainbow Sherbert

Hybrid

Sherbet, Sherbert, whatever you call it, it’s a fan favorite. Bred by crossing the delicious Champagne and Blackberry cultivars, Rainbow Sherbet is an evenly balanced hybrid that encompasses all the berry sweetness of its parent cultivars, along with a higher THC percentage of 20% - 22%. Expect a fruity bouquet of flavors that turns slightly minty and earthy throughout your session.

Grape Ape

Indica-Dominant Hybrid

Grape Ape is a classic strain with even more famous parents: a mix of Mendocino Purps, Skunk, and landrace strain Afghani. The name comes from its deep purple buds, but it also presents strong, grape-like qualities. This indica-dominant hybrid is berry sweet, with undertones of sugary earth. THC levels are a moderate yet approachable 18% - 21%.

Granddaddy Purple

Indica-Dominant Hybrid

The Granddaddy Purple strain goes by many names: GDP, Granddaddy Purps, Purple, and Granddaddy Purple Kush. GDP is a cross between Purple Urkle and Big Bug, offering a sky-high THC percentage of up to 27% and a smaller CBD level of 1%. Don’t let the earthy, berry smells fool you; this one is not for cannabis newbies.

Sherbet

Indica-Dominant Hybrid

Sherbet, also known as Sunset Sherbet, is an indica-dominant hybrid that was created by combining the infamous Girl Scout Cookies (GSC) and Pink Panties strains. This flower is packed with nostalgia, offering the sugary tang of tropical fruits mixed with undertones of creamy mint. Its THC percentage ranges from 15% - 19%, making it a good strain for beginners.

Blackberry Kush

Indica-Dominant Hybrid

Blackberry Kush, also known as BBK, is an indica-dominant hybrid that offers an abundance of classic cannabis flavors and aromas. A cross between the Blackberry and Afghani strains, it leans heavily toward the skunky and fuel-like palate, balanced with the sweet berry notes of its Blackberry parentage. THC levels are a moderate 17%.

Berry White

Indica-Dominant Hybrid

Berry White, also known as White Berry, is the perfect combination of its celebrity parents, Blueberry and White Widow. Expect your session to start with sweet-and-sour blueberries, ending with hints of doughy spice that are reminiscent of a morning pastry. This indica-dominant hybrid offers a THC percentage of 19% - 23%, so start low and go slow.   

Harlequin

Sativa-Dominant Hybrid

Harlequin is often on lists of beginner strains due to its nearly 1:1 ratio of THC (7% - 15%) and CBD (4% - 10%) percentages. It has a unique lineage, which includes landrace strains Columbian Gold, Thai, and Swiss. In addition to its approachable cannabinoid count, Harlequin offers a sweet herbal flavor profile with aromas of mangoes and citrus fruits.

Amnesia Haze

Sativa-Dominant Hybrid

A potent strain (20% - 22% THC) with an impressive lineage, Amnesia Haze should be on the list for any seasoned cannabis consumer. It’s a cross between several heirloom strains–Afghani, Hawaiian, and Thai–and offers tart, lemony tastes that mix perfectly with aromas of sweet earth. Truly a unique vacation for your senses.

Lavender

Indica-Dominant Hybrid

Lavender, or Lavender Kush, is an indica-dominant hybrid that descends from the Afghani Hawaiian, Big Skunk Korean, and Super Skunk cultivars. Enjoy a floral, herbal sensory experience, combined with a high THC percentage of around 27%.

Spring into Spring Strains

Since spring is the time for new beginnings, why not find a few new favorite strains? If you’re unsure which of these marijuana strains you’ll like best, chat with your budtender.

Find a Dispensary

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.

Are you one of those people who toss and turn at night, desperately trying to catch some ZZZs? If so, you're not alone. Sleep issues plague millions of individuals worldwide, leading them to seek solutions in various forms, including the use of cannabis. But what's the deal with cannabis and sleep? Does it really help, or is it just another fad? Let's dive into the research and separate fact from fiction.

What Does the Research Say About THC & Sleep?

Whether you’re new to the cannabis world or you’ve been here for a while, you’ve likely heard of the sativa vs indica debate. Sativa has a reputation for being uplifting while indica has a reputation for chilling you out. We know now that those qualities are largely anecdotal at best and fabricated at worst. We aren’t sure if these effects people experience have anything to do with the plant's genetic makeup or if it’s a placebo effect based on expectations.

Then, you might have heard whispers about THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) and their potential to induce sleep. However, when we peek into the realm of scientific research, we find a surprisingly sparse landscape. While we can see cannabinoids can react with the body and may affect sleep, they could also just cause the munchies. Moreover, we aren’t sure what complications might interfere with that process, such as existing conditions, tolerance levels, and more. In short, we need to do a lot more research.

Cannabis May Promote Sleep

So where does that leave us? Well, right now we can only say that cannabis may promote sleep. One study, intended to evaluate the effects of medical marijuana on pain levels, also showed that some of the consumers also found medical cannabis useful in managing sleep problems. After dosages were adjusted for age, sex, medication use, and pain level of the patient, medical cannabis seemed to do a better job of ensuring consumers could get more undisturbed—that is, not waking up as much—compared to non-medical cannabis consumption. Unfortunately, there is also evidence that tolerance levels can interfere with this potential benefit, meaning that it’s possible the more you use medical cannabis for this issue, the less effective it will be.

Exploring Cannabis & Sleep

So, what do you do if you want to see if cannabis will help you with sleep? First, you need to understand that it's a complex web of interactions between cannabinoids, terpenes, and your body's endocannabinoid system. Some research indicates that cannabis could aid in falling asleep faster, staying asleep longer, or even experiencing more restorative sleep cycles. But everyone is different. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a strain to see if it helps you sleep.

Pick the Right Cannabinoid

Not all cannabinoids are created equal when it comes to sleep. There's CBN (cannabinol), CBD, and, of course, THC. Each has its own set of potential effects on sleep:

• CBN: Research suggests that consuming CBN for sleep may promote relaxation and aid in falling asleep—particularly when combined with THC. Studies have indicated that CBN may have potential therapeutic benefits in other disorders, but extensive research needs to be done to understand with any certainty if CBN offers benefits for sleep troubles or any other condition. 
  
  
• CBD: Some research suggests CBD may help improve sleep quality because of its ability to help regulate certain systems in the body. CBD topicals may also offer some discomfort and soreness in muscles and joints, leading to better sleep. Without further research, we can’t definitively say what CBD can do for certain conditions, including sleep.
  
  
• THC: While some individuals report experiencing better sleep after consuming THC, the research on its direct impact on sleep remains limited. Taking THC for sleep may influence sleep patterns and promote relaxation, but its effects can vary depending on dosage and individual tolerance. 
  
  

Understanding the distinct properties of each cannabinoid can help you make informed decisions when choosing cannabis products for sleep support. However, it's important to note that your body’s response to cannabinoids may vary, and you should always talk to your doctor first, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or concerns.

Terpenes Matter

It's not just about cannabinoids; terpenes also play a crucial role in the cannabis-sleep equation. These aromatic compounds not only give cannabis its distinct smell and flavor but may also contribute to its therapeutic effects through the entourage effect—a theory that everything in cannabis, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, contribute to its effects. Certain terpenes, like pinene and linalool, are believed to possess properties that could enhance the sleep-inducing potential of cannabis.

Timing is Key

When it comes to using cannabis for sleep, timing is everything. If you smoke cannabis, you will feel the effects of it faster. If you consume cannabis edibles for sleep, there will be a delay between when you eat it and when you feel its effects. It's all about finding the sweet spot—navigating the delicate balance between when your body starts noticing the effects and what effects last long enough to potentially help you sleep through the night. Only you can determine what will work right for you.

Consumption Methods

The age-old debate: smoking/vaping versus edibles. Each method of consumption has its pros and cons if you’re trying to see if cannabis works to help you sleep. The choice ultimately boils down to personal preference and lifestyle. Some swear by the quick onset of smoking or vaping, while others prefer how long edibles take to create an effect because it allows them to finish up their nightly routine before lying down. It's a game of trial and error to find what works best for you.

Answering FAQs about Cannabis & Sleep

Now, let's address some burning questions about cannabis and its impact on sleep. Here are a few insights based on current research and anecdotal evidence:

Does CBN help with sleep?
CBN has garnered attention for its potential sleep-inducing properties. Some research suggests that CBN may act as a sedative, promoting relaxation and aiding in falling asleep. However, further studies are needed to fully understand its effects on sleep quality and duration.

Does THC help with sleep?
THC is one of the primary cannabinoids found in cannabis and is known for its psychoactive effects. While THC may have sedative effects, it could also be stimulating to someone who has never indulged or who has consumed large doses. Because there’s no clear evidence that THC is effective in helping with sleep, it’s best to just see how you feel when you consume it. 

Does CBD help with sleep?
CBD has gained popularity for its purported therapeutic properties, including its potential to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. That said, for some people small amounts of CBD can have the opposite effect, causing alertness at low doses. It’s also possible that CBD and THC can work together in unique ways to affect sleep, so it’s important to try different dosages to know what works for you.

Using Cannabis for Sleep

There's still much we don't know about the relationship between cannabis and sleep. Early research is promising, but it's essential to approach the topic with a healthy dose of skepticism and a willingness to explore further. So, if you're struggling to catch those elusive ZZZs, cannabis might work for you, and it might not. Because of the uncertainty, we recommend trying different strains and products to see if you can find something that works for you.

Find a Dispensary

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.

This content is not intended as medical advice. The information provided is meant to encourage cannabis education, not replace direct patient-healthcare professional relationships. Always consult your primary care physician or other healthcare provider prior to using cannabis products for treatment of a medical condition. Any statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products referenced are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Products are only available where consumption of cannabis is legal.

You can read a thousand articles on just as many blogs, and at the end of the day, the most important thing to know about buying cannabis is this: check your label. Understanding the information presented on a cannabis product label is crucial for making informed choices and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. In this guide, we'll break down the components of a cannabis label, providing insights into product names, cannabinoid ratios, terpene profiles, lab testing, and important dates.

What is a Cannabis Label?

A cannabis label, or dispensary label, is a detailed informational panel attached to a cannabis product. It provides a smart dispensary shopper with essential details about the contents of the package and the properties of the product—like the cannabinoids found in the product, the weight of it, and other ingredients that may be found in it. Each element on the label serves a specific purpose in guiding consumers through their cannabis experience, much the same way an ingredients label informs your choices at the grocery store.

Product Name or Strain

The product name or strain is often the first piece of information you'll encounter on a cannabis label. Names can be just creative or indicate the strains that parented the flower you’re considering. You will also likely get an indication about whether the strain is indica, sativa, or hybrid. Most strains will be hybrids, and you may see a ratio of indica to sativa on the package. If you see that a strain is 100% indica or 100% sativa, this means that it is a landrace strain, which is a strain that is original to a certain location in the world. 

Total Cannabinoids

Depending on the makeup of your strain, you’re likely going to see a variety of abbreviations, including THC, CBD, THCA, THCV, etc. THC and CBD are the major cannabinoids that most cannabis enthusiasts—whether you’re new or have been in the industry for a while—know. The other abbreviations are additional minor cannabinoids or cannabinoid precursors that may also be found in your strain. This total cannabinoid makeup will give you a better idea of what you’ll find in your strain, and as you experience more types of strains, can help you better understand the cannabinoids that provide the best experience for you.

What are THC to CBD Ratios?

THC and CBD, as the major cannabinoids found in cannabis, can play a pivotal role in how you experience a strain. Some strains will have little to no CBD in them, while other strains, especially beginner strains, might have more CBD than THC. It’s important to understand the THC-to-CBD ratio of your product because it can change the way cannabinoids work with your endocannabinoid system. THC will cause psychoactive effects, and CBD may create more balanced or even therapeutic experiences for some cannabis enthusiasts. Ultimately, it’s good to experiment with different ratios to understand the best CBD-to-THC ratio for your body.

What is THCA and CBDA?

THCA and CBDA are the acidic forms of THC and CBD found in raw cannabis. When cannabis is decarboxylated, THCA and CBDA turn into THC and CBD, respectively. For some manufacturers, they prefer to list the total percentage of THCA or CBDA in a product, rather than tell you how much THC alone is in it. For other companies, both THC and THCA in a product are listed to ensure you know how much THC is already in your flower and how much will be added to the flower once you decarb it.

What is TAC?

TAC, or total active cannabinoids, provides a comprehensive measure of all the cannabinoids found in a product. It includes not only CBD and THC percentages but also other minor cannabinoids contributing to the overall effects that your endocannabinoid system experiences. For many cannabis enthusiasts, both recreational consumers and medical marijuana patients, the TAC is a great way to understand how you may feel when you imbibe. 

Terpene Profile

Terpenes are aromatic compounds in cannabis responsible for its distinctive scents and flavors. As research continues around terpenes, we’ve come to realize that there’s a possibility terpenes also play a role in the effects you feel while consuming cannabis. Understanding the terpene profile on a label allows consumers to anticipate the sensory experience and potential effects of a strain based on previous experience with a similar terpene profile.

Lab Testing

Lab testing information is crucial for verifying the safety, quality, and potency of a cannabis product. It’s also what differentiates the regulated cannabis market with the unregulated cannabis market. Lab testing can ensure you understand what is in your product in addition to the cannabinoids or terpenes, such as pesticides, solvents, and more. If lab testing information isn’t present on the label, talk to your budtender to get a better sense of where you can find that information on the product you’re interested in.

Dates

You don’t ignore dates on your groceries, and you shouldn’t ignore dates on your cannabis. Dates on a cannabis label are critical for understanding the product's freshness and shelf life. Key dates include:

Harvest Date

The harvest date is when the marijuana flower was actually taken from the growing plant. The closer the date is to when you’re purchasing, the more likely you’re receiving a fresh product. With marijuana, the fresher, the better.

Packaging Date

Cannabis, once harvested, has to be packaged and sealed. That date of packaging should always be close to the harvest date. The packaging date is also a great way to understand when you should have fully consumed your product.

Expiration Date

While cannabis doesn’t necessarily expire, it does get to a point where it’s just not as effective despite if you store flower properly. The expiration date is the date in which your cannabis starts changing its profile and may not provide the same oomph you expected. While it is possible to consume your marijuana after the expiration date, it’s important to check it for any strange smells or visual disturbances prior to indulging. If you see something looks weird or smells weird, just toss your product and go get something fresher. 

Variations by Cannabis Product

Labels are unique to their cannabis product, and variations occur depending on the type of product you’re interested in purchasing. For example, you will get nutritional facts on edibles, but those nutritional facts won’t be on flower that you’re not supposed to eat. Here are some more variations: 

Flower

For cannabis flower, labels often emphasize strain information, cannabinoid percentages, terpene profiles, and dates. You may even find a batch ID number that will allow you to figure out where your cannabis flower came from.

Edibles

Edible labels often have a lot number (much like a batch ID) and will also come with an expiration date and nutritional facts. You’ll also see an indication of how much THC is in a serving, so that you can make an informed decision about how much you should consume.

Tinctures

Tincture labels provide information about the concentration of cannabinoids per serving and may include additional ingredients. If you like to microdose, tincture labels make it easy so you understand the dosage you're getting per drop of tincture. 

More About Cannabis Labels

Cannabis product labels serve as a gateway to a deeper understanding of the products they represent. As the industry evolves, labels are becoming more standardized, providing consumers with clearer and more transparent information. Like with any other label, you should give it a read to better understand the product you’re purchasing. If you ever see something you don’t understand, just ask your budtender.

Find a Dispensary

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.