Characterized by a sudden onset of paralysis in the facial region, Bell’s palsy is a well-documented medical condition that afflicts as many as forty thousand individuals annually in the United States. This condition goes by various names worldwide, including facial nerve palsy, idiopathic facial palsy, facial paralysis, and Antoni’s palsy. It affects individuals irrespective of gender, though pregnant women are more likely to develop symptoms. The precise causes of Bell’s palsy remain unknown. There is a compelling connection between Bell’s palsy and the cannabis plant because the symptoms are similar to the benefits of cannabis use. Cannabis plants have the capacity to closely interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, facilitating a series of robust interactions that aid in alleviating inflammation, pain, and the degeneration of nerve cells. Furthermore, their antimicrobial properties contribute to the fight against viruses. By enhancing neural health, various components of the cannabis plant bolster the body’s immune response to Bell’s palsy symptoms. The following provides a concise overview of various aspects of Bell’s palsy and the effects of the cannabis plant in this context. What is Bell’s Palsy? Bell’s palsy is a medical condition defined by inflammation of the 7th cranial nerve, resulting in pressure on the fallopian canal within the skull. This, in turn, leads to the stiffening and paralysis of multiple facial areas, encompassing the eye and jaw. Bell’s palsy typically afflicting only one side of the face. Research indicates that this paralysis arises from diminished oxygen and blood supply to the nerve cells in this specific area. This causing a noticeable droop on one side of the face, with symptoms typically being of temporary nature. How Can Cannabis Help Bell’s Palsy? The cannabis plant is renowned for its remarkable therapeutic potential. With over 100 cannabinoids and multiple terpenes working in harmonious synergy, they create what is known as the entourage effect. Formal research on the use of cannabis for Bell’s palsy treatment is limited, it shows promise in in various ways. Here’s a few ways cannabis can assist the body in combating the symptoms of Bell’s Palsy. Bell’s palsy occurs when the cranial nerve becomes inflamed. The connection between Bell’s palsy and cannabis is rooted in the neuroprotective capabilities of cannabis plants. The cannabinoids and terpenes found in the cannabis plant promote improved nervous system health. Collaboratively, they engage with the endocannabinoid system, facilitating the regular regeneration of nerve cells. This, in turn, mitigates the severity of Bell’s palsy symptoms and significantly reduces associated risks. Inflammation stands as the primary culprit behind Bell’s palsy symptoms. Luckily, the cannabis plant emerges as an extraordinary solution for alleviating inflammation throughout different body regions, including the nervous system. Notably, THC and CBD, the cannabis plant’s most potent cannabinoids, excel in this role. Their efficacy serves to counteract the impact of diverse viruses. For centuries, cannabis plants have been employed to alleviate headaches. Bell’s palsy is often marked by discomfort in various areas, such as the head, jaw, and behind the ear. Cannabis is well-suited for addressing this because it helps the body in pain management and timely reduction of pain signals. Treating Bell’s Palsy With Cannabis in Maryland If you are experiencing symptoms of Bells Palsy, we can help. Dispensary Works is a Southern Maryland medical marijuana provider committed to providing the best cannabis product to patients as part of their overall health program. Our highly trained staff is here to help you select the best cannabis for your particular needs. We are here to guide you as you uncover the world of marijuana. If you would like to learn more about who we are and what we do, contact us today!
Grow West: Meet the Grower Event
Grow West (Meet the Grower) Event Wednesday, October 25⋅2:00 – 6:00pm
How Does Cannabis Affect Motivation?
Have you ever experienced the invigorating effects of smoking, where you were inspired to either hit the gym or dive into your writing with newfound energy? Conversely, you may have also encountered moments when cannabis left you feeling excessively relaxed, making it challenging to take any action. The impact of this herb on motivation is multifaceted. Explore the research findings on the relationship between cannabis and productivity in the following section. The Positive Effects of Cannabis on Motivation The connection between marijuana and motivation is intricate. Commonly, many people assume that cannabis use leads to idleness. However, certain data suggests that cannabis may not significantly diminish the drive to be productive. In a 2022 study featured in the International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology, researchers gathered data from 274 adult and adolescent cannabis consumers. They discovered that frequent cannabis use, occurring between 3 to 4 times a week, had no correlation with apathy. Additionally, the results indicated that cannabis users experienced lower levels of anhedonia, which is the reduced capacity to derive pleasure, compared to non-users. So, does cannabis dampen motivation? In certain scenarios, it can. Nevertheless, numerous marijuana enthusiasts discover that partaking in cannabis use boost their productivity. Let’s delve into some of the positive impacts of cannabis on motivation: The Negative Effects of Cannabis on Motivation There’s no denying that cannabis can induce lethargy and erode one’s internal drive. Let’s delve into some of the adverse impacts of weed on motivation: Tips For Using Cannabis to Boost Motivation If you’re a frequent cannabis user seeking to maintain motivation, there are specific strategies you can employ to prevent apathy from creeping in. These tactics encompass responsible cannabis use, strain selection, and timing your consumption appropriately. Let’s explore these methods in more detail below: Cannabis Use and Motivation in Maryland Dispensary Works is a Southern Maryland marijuana dispensary committed to providing the best cannabis product to our patients and clients. Our highly trained staff is here to help you select the best cannabis for your particular needs. We are here to guide you as you uncover the world of marijuana. If you want to learn more about who we are and what we do, contact us today!
Trulieve Pop-up | Monday, September 25
TrulieveMonday, September 25⋅11:00am – 1:00pm
Select/Grassroots Pop-Up | Friday, September 22
Select/GrassrootsFriday, September 22⋅4:00 – 6:00pm
Verano Pop-Up | Thursday, September 21
Verano Pop-UpThursday, September 21⋅3:00 – 5:00pm
How to Clean a Glass Pipe
Cleaning your glass pipe is an essential maintenance task for any discerning smoker. Over time, resin and residue buildup not only affects the taste of your herbs but also hinders the pipe’s functionality. Fortunately, with the right techniques and a bit of effort, you can restore your glass pipe to its pristine condition, ensuring a smoother, more enjoyable smoking experience. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps necessary to effectively and safely clean your glass pipe, so you can savor your favorite cannabis flowers with clarity and satisfaction. Dissemble Your Glass Pipe Most glass pipes are simple, one-piece deals. Others are complicated conglomerations of glass bits. If your glass pipe falls into the former category, don’t try to disassemble it — you’ll likely break the pipe and cut yourself in the process. We give you permission to move on to step two. But if your glass pipe falls in the latter category, dismantle that sucker in preparation for the next step. Rinse With Hot Water Using hot running water is a highly effective way to kickstart the cleaning process of your glass pipe. The force of the running water serves to dislodge some of the surface resin that accumulates over time, while the warmth of the water begins to dissolve the adhesive bonds holding the residue in place. To maximize the effectiveness of this method, aim to use the hottest water you can comfortably handle, and you may even consider donning dish-washing gloves (the less fashionable yellow ones). These gloves not only protect your hands but also enable you to increase the water temperature, providing an extra boost to the cleaning process. It’s worth noting that while we once experimented with 18″ cowhide welding gloves to achieve boiling-lava-hot water, we found that dish-washing gloves are the superior choice for this task. Place Your Glass Pipe in a Plastic Container Following the hot water rinse, it’s time to stow your glass pipe safely for the next cleaning step. Place it inside a small Ziploc bag or a sealable plastic container, which we’ll loosely refer to as “Tupperware” here, encompassing various soft plastic storage options. It’s important to opt for a soft plastic container because the next cleaning stage requires energetic movement, and glass-to-glass or metal-to-glass contact can potentially lead to cracks, chips, or even shattering of your pipe. In case you’re without any plastic storage containers, don’t worry; creativity can come to the rescue. We’ve, at times, repurposed a neglected plastic cold-meat container from the back of the fridge (after thorough cleaning, of course) when standard options were unavailable. An old peanut butter jar? Absolutely. A Gatorade bottle will do, as long as your pipe can fit through the mouth. However, steer clear of metal travel mugs and similar hard containers. The key here is to use soft plastic or suitable alternatives for the job. Submerge Your Glass Pipe Now, proceed by adding a minimum of ¼ cup of rubbing alcohol and at least one tablespoon of salt into the container. If you’re dealing with a larger glass pipe, it’s advisable to increase the quantities to ½ cup of rubbing alcohol and two tablespoons of salt. It’s not crucial to be exact with the measurements; the key is to ensure both ingredients are present in sufficient quantities relative to the size of your glass pipe. Rubbing alcohol, with its mild acidity, serves to break down the sticky resin that accumulates within the pipe. Salt, on the other hand, acts as an abrasive agent, working in harmony with the acid to enhance the cleaning power of the solution. Shake it Up After you seal the baggie or plastic container, shake it vigorously. This moves the alcohol and the salt through all the tiny curves and crevices and breaks up the marijuana resin that has gathered there. When you think you’ve shaken enough, shake more. You may have to do this for at least five minutes to really dislodge the sticky mess. If you’ve added enough alcohol to completely cover each piece, you can let them soak for 10 to 15 minutes, and then come back and shake some more. This is especially useful if you’ve built up layer upon layer of resin from prolonged use. More Hot Water Take your glass pipe out of the baggie or container, and dispose of the used alcohol. Then, thoroughly rinse everything with hot water. This rinsing process is crucial for eliminating any leftover resin, salt, and alcohol residue. In case you encounter persistent residue in tight or narrow sections, such as the stem, consider using a pipe cleaner or a bottle brush to delicately remove the remaining buildup. Once you’ve successfully removed all traces of residue, give everything another final rinse with hot water. Allow all components to air dry completely before using your glass pipe again, ensuring a clean and fresh smoking experience. Repeat the Process If it has been weeks, or perhaps even months (we hope not!), since your last glass pipe cleaning, you might need to go through the entire cleaning process once more, possibly even multiple times. Over time, with the aid of alcohol, salt, and consistent agitation, the layers of residue will gradually dissolve, unveiling the pristine glass beneath the accumulated buildup. Glass Pipes and Cannabis in Maryland Maintaining your glass pipe’s cleanliness doesn’t need to be a daunting task, nor do you have to resort to harsh cleaners filled with toxic chemicals. Dispensary Works is a Southern Maryland marijuana dispensary committed to providing the best cannabis product to our patients and clients. Our highly trained staff is here to help you select the best cannabis for your particular needs. We are here to guide you as you uncover the world of marijuana. If you want to learn more about who we are and what we do, contact us today!
The 7 Stages of Being High
Few things compare to the sheer relaxation, delight, and bliss that comes from sharing some top-notch cannabis with friends and experiencing that delightful high together. It’s the perfect opportunity to strengthen bonds, unwind, and shed the stress accumulated from a demanding workday or week. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler on this journey or you’re gearing up for your very first trip in the near future, the descriptions listed here will provide fresh perspectives on the THC experience. From euphoria to profound contemplation, these seven stages of extreme intoxication are relatable to all. Embrace the adventure! Stage 1: What Just Happened? Just ten seconds ago, you found yourself taking one hit too many from the dragon-shaped bong making its rounds. Your vision blurred, your lungs seared with intensity, and you fought valiantly not to cough (although, inevitably, you did). At that moment, you couldn’t shake the feeling that your friends were silently judging your fit of coughing, and just five seconds ago, you were pondering the trajectory of your life… until it all changed. Tetrahydrocannabinol made its way past the blood-brain barrier, snugly nestled into the CB1 receptor, ignited your neurons, and suddenly, you were soaring through a vivid blue dream. One instant you were coughing (and quite well at that), and then, in the blink of an eye, you were simply gone. This stage is called the “What Just Happened?” stage and is argued to be one of the favorite stages. Stage 2: Euphoria Euphoria marks the second phase of the cannabis high, typically emerging mere minutes after THC consumption. During this stage, you’re enveloped in happiness and excitement, your spirits soaring. A wide grin or uncontrollable laughter is always just a heartbeat away. You’re brimming with energy, experiencing a light-headed, giddy sensation. The urge to dance is irresistible. You might find yourself singing along to your movements, punctuated by occasional laughter or even tears of joy. You feel an overwhelming desire to embrace everyone you encounter, and a sense of invincibility takes hold. You yearn to leap from cliffs, soar into the skies, or drift upon the open sea. In this moment, you feel capable of anything, as your high guides you through a spectrum of ecstatic emotions. Stage 3: Deep Thinking Contemplation takes its place as the third stage in the journey of getting high. During this phase, your thoughts delve deeply into life, love, and all that holds significance. It’s the moment when you start reflecting on your life’s aspirations and the strategies to attain them. At this juncture, introspection takes center stage as you contemplate the person you aspire to become. Creative ideas and plans take root, and you’re driven to see them through to fruition. This state of mind can become a valuable asset. By acknowledging and guiding your thoughts, you gain the ability to steer them toward positive outcomes. Some individuals even claim to have discovered their life’s purpose during this very stage. Stage 4: Slight Paranoia After a while, you may begin to notice a creeping sense of unease settling in. Paranoia represents one of the less pleasant stages of being high. You might find yourself fixating on potential problems in your life or harboring fears that something negative is looming. Your thoughts accelerate, and you become engrossed in every minuscule detail, uncertain about what lies ahead. Perhaps you spot someone gazing in your direction and entertain thoughts of them trying to pilfer your stash. The sound of footsteps behind you makes you jump, and you wonder who it might be. Worries about law enforcement’s proximity may also plague your mind. Don’t worry! It’s important to recognize that all of these concerns are products of your imagination. None of them hold any real substance, and they tend to dissipate almost as swiftly as they surface. Stage 5: Did I Already Eat? One of the quirkiest stages of being high is the insatiable hunger that suddenly strikes. You become acutely aware that you haven’t eaten since breakfast, and thoughts of food gallop into your mind. You find yourself yearning for all kinds of indulgent treats, from pizza to burgers, ice cream, chips, and fried chicken – you’re ready to devour anything in your path. Some may rediscover their love for sweet treats, ordering up their favorite brownies, candies, and a delectable chocolate cake. Your hunger is so intense; it’s almost as if you haven’t eaten in a week. For those who typically struggle to consume enough food, this stage is an incredibly welcome one. Stage 6: Rewind Please Following a satisfying meal, a sense of relaxation washes over you, and the high begins to wane. There’s certainly no harm in indulging a little more. Why not roll up a few more joints or grab some additional laced cookies, settle in, and relive those earlier phases? Perhaps a few repeats will enhance your overall enjoyment. While you’re at it, explore new ideas, give your home a makeover, or engage in various activities that are enjoyable while high. This stage encompasses all the sensations but with a twist. Your body initially feels heavy and lethargic, then reverts to its vibrant, energetic self. It’s as if you just completed a marathon. You experience a delightful blend of weariness and newfound energy. Stage 7: Satiation And now, we’ve arrived at the ultimate stage in the realm of being high. It’s that moment when you’re content and brimming with happiness. You sense that you’ve reached your limit, and you’re ready to head home. This is why they call it reaching the seventh heaven of being high. It’s because, at this pinnacle of satisfaction, you understand that you’ve experienced everything you could ever desire from your cannabis journey. If you happen to consume a bit too much, drowsiness may creep in. Your eyelids grow heavy, your speech becomes a tad slurred, and your movements slow down. You might even catch yourself drifting off mid-conversation or while attempting to focus on something. Your thoughts start to meander and wane, and concentration
The Ultimate Guide to Cannabis Edibles
Cannabis edibles present an entirely distinct way to indulge in the benefits of weed. Nonetheless, consuming edibles might feel daunting, particularly for newcomers or those who’ve had unfavorable experiences before. The good news is that guaranteeing a secure, accountable, pleasurable edible experience is remarkably straightforward. In this article, we will discuss the ultimate guide to cannabis edibles. What Are Edibles? Cannabis edibles are designed to be consumed, just as you might have guessed. In contrast to smoking or vaping, edibles introduce cannabis compounds into the bloodstream through the digestive system. Consequently, edibles take considerably more time to take effect compared to inhaling smoked or vaporized flowers or concentrates. The variety of cannabis edibles available is virtually limitless. Some classic choices encompass baked goods like brownies and cookies, as well as sweet treats like gummy bears. However, the creative potential extends to almost any meal or snack that can be infused with cannabis. In legal markets, you’ll also find an array of innovative products on the shelves, including chocolate bars, fudge, pasta sauce, lemonade, truffles, coffee, honey, and a diverse range of offerings. What’s the Difference Between CBD and THC Edibles? Within cannabis, there exist numerous chemical components, yet the prevalent pair are THC and CBD. THC stands as the primary intoxicating element responsible for the distinctive cannabis high, whereas CBD is a non-intoxicating compound widely incorporated into health and wellness items. Distinguishing CBD and THC edibles primarily hinges on their chemical composition and consequent effects. THC-infused edibles induce a sense of euphoria, while CBD-infused ones do not. It’s worth noting, however, that certain edibles might incorporate varying ratios of THC and CBD, leading to differing effects. What Are the Benefits of Using Edibles? Cannabis edibles offer several advantages that make them an appealing alternative to smoking, vaping, or dabbing. Stronger and longer-lasting effects: Given that cannabis edibles undergo digestion, they not only require more time to take effect, but they also deliver cannabinoids to the body at a gradual pace. With THC edibles, this results in a longer-lasting, gradual elevation. Edibles generally contain higher concentrations of cannabinoids compared to a few puffs from a joint or vape. When consuming THC edibles, the liver processes the compound and converts it into the potent metabolite 11-hydroxy-THC—a form of THC that crosses the blood-brain barrier more readily than delta-9 THC. While CBD edibles don’t induce intoxicating effects, they are also metabolized by the liver, resulting in a gradual release of the compound. Easy Dosing: Another advantage of edibles lies in their potential for precise dosing. When smoking or vaporizing cannabis, dosing primarily relies on estimating the number of inhalations taken, offering limited insight into the actual quantity consumed. Conversely, edibles enable straightforward dosing. In certain legal cannabis markets, edibles must bear clear labels indicating the cannabinoid content per serving. This ensures consumers experience controlled and enjoyable effects. Granted, dosing homemade edibles might be somewhat more challenging, but it remains easier compared to dosing methods such as smoking a joint. Discretion: Unfortunately, individuals who use cannabis still encounter outdated stigmas and preconceptions. Even medical patients can face scrutiny for their cannabis use. Fortunately, edibles offer an avenue to bypass such biases, presenting a straightforward, discreet, and non-smoking approach for both recreational and medicinal cannabis consumption. Experimentation: Creating edibles can be effortlessly accomplished at home using infused canna-butter or oil, which can be integrated into any culinary creation. This empowers cannabis users to explore various dosages and recipes, uncovering new ways to experience a high that transcends the sensations of smoking. How Long Does It Take For Edibles to Kick In? After eating an edible, your digestive system must first break it down before the cannabinoids initiate their effects. The duration of this process varies based on factors such as the type and potency of the edible, your metabolic rate, existing stomach contents, and notably, your tolerance level. As a general guideline, you can anticipate feeling the effects of an edible approximately an hour after consumption. If not, it’s advisable to extend the waiting period by an additional 30 minutes before considering an increased dose. This precaution stems from the fact that while the onset of the edibles’ effects takes time, the high can escalate rapidly. Best Edibles in Maryland Interested in learning more about edibles Dispensary Works is a Southern Maryland marijuana dispensary committed to providing the best cannabis product to our patients and clients. Our highly trained staff is here to help you select the best cannabis for your particular needs. We are here to guide you as you uncover the world of marijuana. If you want to learn more about who we are and what we do, contact us today!
5 Tips for Cooking with Cannabis in Maryland
As you venture into the world of cooking or baking with cannabis, the excitement to continue exploring will likely become irresistible. Once you grasp the essential basics, a journey of continuous learning unfolds naturally, evolving with each new recipe you undertake. If you’re new to the realm of baking with cannabis, brace yourself for an enjoyable surprise awaiting you today. In this article, we will discuss five tips to help guide you in cooking with cannabis. Choose the Right Cannabis Cooking Flower Strain Before embarking on your culinary journey with cannabis, it’s important to acclimate yourself with the specific strain you intend to incorporate into your dishes. Certain strains are particularly well-suited for this purpose. When diving into the realm of cannabis-infused cuisine, relying on your sense of smell can be an effective starting point. Allow your senses to guide you toward the cannabis strain aroma that resonates most pleasantly with your preferences. The spectrum spans from vibrant fruity notes to grounding herbal fragrances, presenting a variety of delightful flavors waiting to be discovered! You’ll appreciate that you took the time to find an aroma you enjoy when you smell your choice during the baking process. Decarb Before You Start Baking with Weed Prior to cooking, make sure you undergo the vital process of decarboxylation, often referred to as “decarb”. Neglecting this step by baking with un-decarbed cannabis will undoubtedly lead to unsatisfactory results, and it stands as one of the most common errors made by beginners. Decarboxylation is the process of “activating” cannabinoids through heat. The application of heat is what triggers the effects of cannabis, as evident when we ignite buds for smoking. If you’re seeking an initial cannabis cooking technique to embark upon, crafting cannabutter is a favorable choice we recommend. Regardless of what you choose to cook, it remains an absolute necessity to ensure your cannabis undergoes thorough decarboxylation before progressing further. You can decarb cannabis at home with just the appliances in your kitchen, smoking, vaping, or by using special decarb machines. Find Your Favorite Cannabis Recipes Whether your aspiration is to craft a simple delicacy or orchestrate an extravagant Danksgiving banquet, an array of cannabis-infused recipes awaits your selection. Once you embark on the journey of baking with cannabis, an entire spectrum of culinary creativity opens up, as you imbue marijuana into your recipes. To begin your quest for cannabis-infused recipes, start with a general flavor. Do you prefer sweet, savory, salty, spicy, sour, or some sort of combination? This is a perfect way to start narrowing in on what makes cooking with cannabis sound even more appetizing. You may also be considering the timeless cannabis-infused classics, like the beloved and familiar brownies. Chocolate is an excellent vehicle for concealing the subtle herbal essence inherent in edibles, offering a delightful solution to temper the distinct “green” flavor that may be present. Choose Your Ingredients Now that you’re brainstorming cannabis recipes, it’s time to pick which ingredients would go best with the dish. Make sure to follow the edible dosing guide while cooking. Most importantly, place your trust in your palate. Your discerning taste holds the key to what appeals to you. With experience, you’ll gradually uncover the intricate interplay between different strains and flavors, mastering the art of pairing and discovering how each complements the other. Get to Baking The time has come to embark on your cannabis-infused baking adventure! When it comes to cooking with cannabis, you have the flexibility to adjust a standard recipe or explore recipes specifically designed for cannabis. Keep in mind that edibles exhibit a slower onset (potentially taking a few hours to fully take effect). Begin with modest portion size and grant yourself a three-hour window before considering whether you’d like to indulge a bit more. Crafting cannabis-infused food is a delightful art to practice and eventually master. We hope this guide helps give you an idea of just how easy it is to get started cooking with cannabis! Best Dispensary in Maryland Ready to hit the kitchen? Dispensary Works is a Southern Maryland marijuana dispensary committed to providing the best cannabis product to our patients and clients. Our highly trained staff is here to help you select the best cannabis for your particular needs. We are here to guide you as you uncover the world of marijuana. If you want to learn more about who we are and what we do, contact us today!
