MaryJane

Cannabis

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First this / then this

Photography

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The tranquility of Amsterdam. 🇳🇱

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If you could only smoke one, which one would you choose????  🔥🔥

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Smoke or pass??  Purple Haze 🔥🔥

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Today was the day to replenish stock

BooksAndArticles

You've probably experienced that feeling of hunger that feels like a black hole in your stomach after using weed, right? The famous munchies can affect any stoner, whether beginner or experienced. And, even though it can sometimes be useful (especially if you have problems with your appetite), for most people it can become inconvenient and even irritating. So how do you control the munchies?

It can be smoked, vaporized or even ingested: there is a consensus that marijuana makes us want to eat a delicious snack. This can be a challenge, whether in situations where you don't have anything to snack on nearby or even if you're trying to control your weight. Therefore, finding the right ways to deal with munchies is an important mission in any user's journey.


WHAT IS LARICA?

The munchies are that inexplicable feeling of hunger that appears after consuming marijuana. But how is it caused, and what are the reasons behind this effect?


Marijuana induces the feeling of hunger mainly due to the interaction of its main addictive component, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), with our endocannabinoid system. THC activates cannabinoid receptors. This complex network of receptors in the brain and other parts of the body regulates several physiological processes, including appetite and energy balance.


Furthermore, THC acts on primitive areas of the brain, including those that control emotions and appetite, interacting with receptors that normally respond to chemicals produced by the body itself, called endocannabinoids. They can also promote the release of the hormone ghrelin, known for stimulating hunger and increasing sensitivity to smell, making food aromas more intense and increasing the desire to eat.

Studies indicate that THC can stimulate neurons that normally shut down during meals, promoting more intake when marijuana is consumed. Additionally, THC increases the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This can make the food perceived as tastier, encouraging the consumption of available snacks.


HOW TO CONTROL LARICA?


Now that you understand what happens in your body that leaves you feeling extremely hungry, write down these tips on how to control your munchies:




MAINTAIN A GOOD MEAL ROUTINE

Apparently, you're more likely to give in to the munchies (especially your less healthy food cravings) if your eating routine isn't quite up to par. Therefore, a good recommendation is to understand how to control your appetite throughout the day, distributing your meals well. Creating a schedule with breakfast, lunch, dinner and some suitable snacks between these larger meals can be a great idea.

Also, test the best time to consume marijuana: use it before or after a large meal to see how your body behaves. Before the meal, if it whets your appetite in a healthy way, great! And if, after the meal, it doesn't generate any triggers because you're already feeling satisfied, even better.




DRINK WATER!


Sometimes thirst is misinterpreted as hunger by our brain. It happens! Therefore, staying well hydrated can help eliminate the empty feeling in your stomach.

Clinical trials have found that water can effectively reduce appetite and even help with weight loss. Water fills the stomach but has no calories. And it also won't create a hole in your credit card at the end of the month, unlike the fast food you order every time after lighting one up.

If water doesn't satisfy your cravings, you might want to try something a little tastier, like good tea. Teas are great because they come in a variety of flavors, they're hydrating, and best of all, they're usually very affordable.




GET A GOOD EXERCISE


Research has already shown that physical exercise, especially aerobic exercise, helps suppress the distribution of ghrelin, the hunger hormone. So, if you already know that you're going to want to eat everything in sight after having a few drinks, plan a light run, a bike ride or even a walk, if you prefer a low-impact sport.

The best thing here is that you will now combine the useful with the pleasant. In addition to fighting the munchies, this is the best way to finally get your summer project out of the drawer and be happy with your butt on the back of your head!



DESTROY YOUR MIND (AND YOUR MOUTH)


It's not just after using marijuana that we use food as a way to pass the time, right? Anyone who has anxiety knows that it can become a way of distracting our minds. So, if you don't want to use a snack in this way, the best way is to distract yourself in other ways.

If you're not into exercise, which I mentioned above, there are other, lighter ways to keep busy. Watch a silly series or movie. Take the opportunity to read that book you never stopped to read (if you can concentrate enough to do so). Or play that video game you love. All of this will help you take your mind off the munchies and stay away from carbs.


REDUCE HARM WITH HEALTHY SNACKS
Okay, you're about to give in to the temptations of the munchies. But how about doing this while reducing damage? Between a bag of snacks or a fruit smoothie, choose the second option.

If you've tried everything and still feel incredibly hungry, run to the kitchen — but stick to healthier options. Avoid simple carbohydrates, such as pasta made with white flour or processed sugars, and focus on foods rich in fiber. They will keep you satisfied for longer and also give your body a boost.

 

Yes: you won't always be able to win. But by learning how to control the munchies, you can make your own strategies and understand exactly how your body works. Self-knowledge is everything, right?


If you have other strategies, leave them here in the comments.



To the next!

LARICA: HOW TO CONTROL HUNGRY AFTER USING MARIJUANA

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Before the War on Drugs took over the world, different plants were used and explored freely in medicine, religion and other aspects of ancestral societies.  Coca is one of them.  The coca leaf began to be used millennia ago in South America for various properties.  It was only processed and turned into cocaine for the first time in 1859.

 So why are there so many taboos on her?

 The truth is that, like many other plants, the coca leaf was criminalized by prohibitionism.  Those who suffer are local populations who have to fight to defend the right to use a fundamental element of connection with their own culture.  It is as traditional and important an element as magic mushrooms, peyote, tobacco and other plants (and fungi) of power.

 So, to help demystify its uses, we brought you an article full of information about this delicacy.  Would you like to know more about it and remove the prejudices surrounding coca?


WHAT IS COCA LEAF AND WHAT IS IT FOR?

 Coca is a plant native to South America, specifically the Andean regions.  Its scientific name is Erythroxylum coca.  It is known for its leaves, which contain alkaloid substances, and is most famous for cocaine.  This molecule is extracted and processed through different chemical processes.  Here, we have already talked about it and its byproducts.

 Coca leaves have a long history of use by indigenous cultures in the Andes, dating back approximately three thousand years B.C. They are traditionally chewed, usually along with an alkaloid-containing substance called “llipta.”  However, they are also used to make teas and infusions.


In Andean cultures, coca to this day plays important roles in religious, social and medicinal rituals.  It is considered a sacred plant and is used in shamanic ceremonies, as offerings to the gods, and to alleviate fatigue at high altitudes.

 Additionally, coca leaves have stimulant properties and can help combat altitude sickness, common in mountainous regions.  They are also used to increase energy and physical endurance, especially in areas where physical work is common.



ORIGINS OF THE USE OF COCA LEAF

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The use of coca, as we mentioned previously, dates back millennia in South America, when pre-Columbian civilizations inhabited the continent.  Traces of its leaves have been found in ancient tombs in Peru.  In Chile, mummies dating back approximately 4,000 years ago were analyzed and found to have traces of cocaine in their hair.

 Although there are few detailed descriptions of ancestral rituals involving coca, they were diverse and encompassed:

 practices in oracles and offerings;

 social integration;

 cures performed by shamans;

 tribal initiations and rituals.

The world's knowledge of coca only emerged after the arrival of the Spanish.  They did not understand the ritual and magical uses of the plant, which led to its prohibition between the years 1560 and 1569. In the 17th century, during the Spanish inquisition, it was even associated with witchcraft.  However, indigenous peoples rejected the impositions of the Catholic Church and fought against these colonialist measures.



 THE TRADITIONAL USE OF COCA AND ITS MEANINGS

 According to the Chacruna Institute, “coca is the means by which communities direct energy towards individual and collective work, while offering relief from physical and metaphysical problems.”


According to the article, for traditional cultures, even today, coca is much more than a plant or source of income.  It is seen as something sacred and fundamental to culture.  Along with other power plants, it represents an indigenous social system that values the balance between individual and collective needs, the connection between the human and natural world, and the influence of forces that can be seen — and others that are more mysterious.

 In many cultures, such as the Garza Clan of the Muruy-Muyna (Witoto) people of the northwestern Amazon region, coca personifies the divine feminine.  It symbolizes dialogue, spiritual connection, physical strength and clarity of thought.  Known as jibína in the Muruy-Muyna language, the plant still represents the very essence of virtuous thinking.

 There and in other parts of the region, it is used in the form of Mambe (in Spanish) or jíbie (in Muruy-Muyna).  The substance consists of a green powder obtained after roasting, grinding and sieving coca leaves.  It is then combined with dried yarumo leaf ash, which enhances the coca flavor and reinforces its effects.  The Mambe, according to indigenous knowledge, carries the benevolent spirit of coca, the kind energy of the first woman, who brought wisdom and guidance to the people.

 Another form of traditional consumption is coca leaf tea, legal only in Bolivia, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Chile and Argentina.  However, some of these places are fighting for the reclassification and regulation of the plant as a whole.


HOW DOES COCA COMPARE TO COCAINE?

Although cocaine comes from coca, comparing its leaves with the white powder bought in stores is oversimplifying things.  This is because, to become the cocaine that many of us know, the plant goes through a chemical transformation that involves hydrochloric acid and other chemical substances, including various diluting agents.

 This chemical process converts the alkaloids naturally present in coca into cocaine hydrochloride.  It is quickly absorbed by the body, causing an almost immediate and intense, but quick, euphoria.  In recent years, another huge problem with cocaine is its mixture with fentanyl.  This extremely potent opioid is capable of causing overdoses even in small quantities.  Therefore, sample testing is essential to ensure safety and Harm Reduction in its use.

 The coca leaf has a notable concentration of nutrients, particularly calcium, vitamin A, iron, phosphorus and vegetable protein.  In addition to being mildly stimulating, it has properties that help combat symptoms such as dizziness, nausea and shortness of breath that can occur at high altitudes.  Chewing it can also aid digestion.

So, did you like this information?  We hope they help you better understand this incredible plant, coca.


To the next!



COCA LEAF AND ITS TRADITIONAL USES

One of the most emblematic countries in marijuana culture, Jamaica receives many tourists who are looking for cool experiences with the plant.  But is it 100% legal?

Land of Bob Marley, the Rastafarian religion and lots of marijuana… is that true?  Jamaica is a true natural paradise, with paradisiacal beaches with blue sea and white sand.  However, most tourists really want green – and the country has already become one of the main global routes when it comes to cannabis tourism.  But many doubts hang in the air when it comes to the legality of the plant there.

 Although it is the birthplace of incredible genetics and one of the main icons of marijuana culture, Jamaica has come (and still goes) a long way in search of legality.  This entire struggle, which began in the 1960s, only found a certain “happy ending” in 2015. And even so, the scenario is far from perfect.

 If you want to understand a little more about this country's history with cannabis and the legal status of the plant there, you're in the right place!  Here, we'll tell you a little more about Jamaica's fascinating relationship with marijuana, as well as everything you need to know legally if you want to visit.


SO, IS MARIJUANA LEGAL IN JAMAICA?

not exactly!

 Despite Jamaica's reputation as a marijuana paradise, the country only relaxed its laws regarding the plant in 2015. Currently, possession of small amounts of marijuana for personal use has been decriminalized.  But if you are caught using less than 56.6 grams without a prescription, or using the plant in public, you will be fined 500 Jamaican dollars (about $5).


Jamaicans can also have up to five plants in their homes for personal use.

 Meanwhile, 100% legal marijuana in Jamaica is intended for medical, therapeutic or religious purposes.  This includes purchasing marijuana when the plant has been prescribed in another country!  In other words: if you have a prescription from here in Brazil, you will now be able to buy flowers, extractions and other products legally in the country.  If you are caught carrying it, you will also not be subject to a fine.

 If you don't have a recipe, it's not difficult to get it in your own territory either.  Jamaican doctors issue medical marijuana cards for a much wider range of conditions than doctors in other locations, including.  Anxiety, insomnia and chronic pain are legally treated with cannabis under Jamaican law.

 So the answer to the question “is marijuana legal in Jamaica?”  is: if you have a prescription, yes.  Totally.  If you don't have it, it's not a crime to use it.  But you may have to bear some administrative sanction (in this case, a humble fine).


RELIGIOUS USE OF MARIJUANA IN JAMAICA


Jamaica's relationship with marijuana began about two hundred years ago, when, at the end of the 17th century, workers from the West Indies brought the plant there.  In a short time, it became a basic input for the local population.  The tropical climate was perfect for the adaptation of cannabis, which began to be used in teas to treat conditions such as asthma and chronic pain.  It was also used in tinctures made with rum, or in other oral and topical preparations.  There, it came to be called ganja.

 But Jamaica's most famous relationship with cannabis is through Rastafarianism.  The religion was founded by Leonard P. Howell in the 1930s, and quickly spread throughout the region.  Howell made smoking a sacred practice, believing that the plant grants divine wisdom and healing to those who smoke it.

 Described as “the herb of wisdom” or “the sacred herb” within the religion, marijuana is fundamental to Rastafarianism.  Religion was even one of the biggest drivers for the regulation of the plant, which is now legalized for religious use – which gives practitioners more freedom.


WHAT ABOUT MEDICAL MARIJUANA IN JAMAICA?

 Jamaican law is highly permissive for those seeking medical or therapeutic marijuana.  Each patient may purchase up to two ounces from licensed dispensaries as long as they have a valid prescription.  Smokable strains, topicals, tinctures, as well as all types of cannabidiol (CBD) products are available.

 However, smoking in public is not legal.  Private residences and smoke lounges in dispensaries are the only places where you are allowed to light up your joint in Jamaica.

 To buy medical marijuana there, you must:

 Have a valid prescription from a foreign doctor;  or
 Visit a Jamaican doctor approved by the Ministry of Health to prescribe marijuana;  or
 Speak with medical professionals who practice at some dispensaries.
 You can even fill out a medical form to get a prescription at some dispensaries.  Some of the more prominent locations include Epican Jamaica in Kingston and Island Strains Herb House in Montego Bay.



How do I know if my condition qualifies me to buy there?  

Any condition that causes pain, nausea and muscle spasms will definitely give you access to a medical marijuana prescription in Jamaica.  These include insomnia, migraines, cancer, ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, HIV/AIDS, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, seizures, and many other conditions, both physical and mental.


THE PROBLEMS OF MEDICINAL LEGALIZATION IN JAMAICA

Since 2015 until now, a lot has changed in Jamaica's cannabis scene – some for the better, and others not so much.  The director of the first legal marijuana company there, Balram Vaswani, told Leafly that work began in 2013, and just five years later, in 2018, the company Kaya Herb House was opened.

 But, in addition to the amount of bureaucracy, Vaswani opened people's eyes to several other problems that were appearing there.  One of the biggest issues, for him, was the difficulty of preserving the region's native genetics.


In recent decades, due to the repression of the war on drugs and external influences, many of the country's classic strains have taken a backseat.  In the 1980s, there was a predominance of sativas in Jamaica.  However, as California began to shape the industry and, consequently, what consumers were looking for, classic indicas such as OG Kush were introduced.

 From then on, local breeders mixed genetics – and not always intentionally.  Cross-pollination ended up mixing everything up and making all marijuana more generic, without its unique characteristics.

 Some local growers, like the owner of Kaya Herb House, are trying to fix this through landrace seeds.  They want to rescue the plant's ancestry, and not become just another place for the dissemination of American genetics.  And we think this is so beautiful!



IF YOU WANT TO SMOKE IN JAMAICA, REMEMBER:

 Don't do this in public!

 Take your prescription or look for a local professional.

 Prices range from US$10 per gram to US$80 per ounce, according to a 2021 survey by Cannigma.  However, they may have undergone some changes since then.

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To the next!



MARIJUANA IN JAMAICA: AFTER ALL, IS IT LEGAL OR NOT?

MARIJUANA IN THAILAND: UNDERSTAND THE COUNTRY’S POLICIES

It's because this publication looked more like an article.

Thailand is one of the newcomers to the short list of places where marijuana is decriminalized. But what are your policies like? Here, we tell you more about it!

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After all, what are the policies related to marijuana in Thailand like?

Well, not everything is as it seems: Thailand has a (lack of) policy regarding the plant that is extremely new and confusing. There are few legally permitted products, and the party atmosphere that apparently dominates the place may be about to end. This is because the new government there has just expressed its interest in completely banning adult use in the country.

Are you curious to understand how all this is happening? Here, we bring you up-to-date information about marijuana in Thailand and the country's current cannabis scene. Come dive into this new reality with us!



AFTER ALL, IS MARIJUANA LEGAL IN THAILAND?


Contrary to appearances, marijuana is not fully legal in Thailand for adult use. But there have been significant changes to cannabis-related policies in recent years!

In June 2022, Thailand became the first country in Asia to decriminalize cannabis, allowing it to be cultivated and consumed almost freely. However, there are some restrictions, such as a ban on cannabis products with more than 0.2% THC. Furthermore, the legislation allows anyone over the age of 20 to purchase and consume marijuana — as long as they are not pregnant or breastfeeding.



These changes represent a very significant transformation from Thailand's previous stance on marijuana. Before cannabis was criminalized in 1935, the plant was widely used in Thai cuisine and medicine. During the 1970s and 1980s, there was a more tolerant attitude toward marijuana, but the government intensified its “war on drugs” in the following years, resulting in arrests for recreational use and tightening of narcotics laws.

The recent change in legislation indicates an openness to exploring the medicinal and economic benefits of cannabis. Cannabis tourism, for example, is booming there! But it also suggests challenges, such as the emergence of a deregulated market and the need for adjustments to legislation to address these issues. And it is because of them that the country's new government is proposing, once again, to ban all non-medical use there.



WHAT CAN AND CANNOT?


It may seem like a total party with no rules to those watching from the outside, right? But in fact, there are still some restrictions associated with this decriminalization of marijuana in Thailand. For example:

THC limit: Cannabis products with more than 0.2% THC are illegal in Thailand;
age and condition: the purchase and consumption of marijuana is only permitted for people over 20 years of age. It is prohibited for pregnant or lactating women;
Public places: Smoking in public is technically illegal and subject to public nuisance fines, which can be as high as $780. In extreme cases, it is possible to receive a prison sentence;
cultivation and possession in small quantities: legislation allows the cultivation of cannabis for personal use in small quantities. Additionally, people can possess a reasonable amount of marijuana for personal consumption;
Domestic travel: People can carry marijuana on planes for domestic flights in Thailand.
However, today, anyone who visits the country has a different view of how things are in practice. Not all of these rules are applied — what allows for all this freedom is not exactly the absence of parameters, but rather supervision. And this greatly benefits those who go there to enjoy the new scenery, of course.



WHAT A TOURIST NEEDS TO KNOW ABOUT MARIJUANA IN THAILAND


stores only display hemp (cannabis with less than 0.2% THC) and other flowers with a higher THC content, although they are technically not allowed. But something that caught our attention is that neither edibles nor hashish and other extractions are legal.

That doesn't mean you don't find concentrates there. Many dispensaries have some options available, but they are not displayed. You have to ask the sellers, and many give you a hard time. It is also difficult to find high-quality concentrates. She managed to buy a few grams of temple ball-shaped hashish — around 800 baht for two grams. Flowers cost between 700 and 1,000 baht per gram.



AND WHAT ARE THE FUTURE PROSPECTS?


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For now, it's difficult to say how long Thailand's cannabis paradise will last. According to the latest news, it was already an election promise from new Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to end the legal loopholes that allowed the adult use of marijuana in Thailand.

A new law was proposed in early 2024 in an attempt by authorities to crack down on the industry, after a previous bill failed to gain the backing of parliament. According to Thavisin, restricting the use of marijuana to medicinal purposes would be a response to “concerns about addiction”.

Under this new bill, anyone who smokes marijuana without authorization for medical use will have to pay a fine of up to 60,000 baht ($1,720). Those who sell marijuana or concentrates for adult use can face up to a year in prison or fines of 100,000 baht, or both penalties.

In other words: although beautiful, the scenario is extremely uncertain.



To the next!

Blue Honey can be a delicious way to use your magic mushrooms. Here, we explain more about how to do it and its advantages!

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If psilocybin is your substance of choice (or at least one of them), you should, like us, always be looking for new ways to try it. This is because the flavor of natural magic mushrooms can be challenging for some more sensitive palates! And, among chocolate and tea recipes, we found one that caught our attention: Blue Honey.

Blue Honey is a simple, practical and delicious way to store your psilocybin-rich mushrooms effectively. With it, you prevent the oxidation and degradation of your beloved fungi and, in addition, you gain a delicious way to dose your psychedelic experiences!

But after all, what is Blue Honey, how is it made and how to dose it? Here, we will clarify all this for you! Come with us to dive into this topic.



WHAT IS BLUE HONEY?


“Blue Honey” is basically honey with magic mushrooms. This preparation method involves adding powder or small pieces of psilocybin-rich mushrooms to honey. The goal behind this is to create a more convenient and tasty way to consume these fungi, while also allowing for more efficient storage.

By mixing mushroom powder into honey, the psilocybin is preserved, and the honey serves as a pleasant medium for administering the mushrooms. If you already have experience with them, you should know that their bitter taste can even cause some discomfort. So, if you don't like chocolate or even capsules so much, Blue Honey could be the perfect alternative for you.

The name “blue honey” refers to the fact that, over time, the psilocybin present in mushrooms can oxidize and turn a dark blue color. Although honey itself does not change the color blue, the term is used to indicate that honey is enriched with the psychoactive alkaloid present in magic mushrooms.

The reason behind honey's magical preserving powers is twofold. First, honey contains an antibacterial agent we've all heard of, hydrogen peroxide. This allows the bacteria to be controlled to the point where humans can consume it thousands of years later. The second fascinating aspect of preserving honey is gluconic acid, which increases acidity by reducing the pH of honey. Incredible, isn't it?




WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF BLUE HONEY?

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Some of the advantages associated with using “Blue Honey” are:

preservation of psychedelic properties: as we already mentioned, honey works as an excellent preservative! Thus, it allows the preservation of the hallucinogenic properties of mushrooms for a practically indefinite period. The absence of cooking processes also avoids the risk of damaging the mushrooms, as high temperatures can degrade psilocybin;
Ease of Storage: Blue Honey preparation offers a convenient way to store mushrooms. Just remember to label your jar of honey to avoid trips from unsuspecting people!
ease of dosage: by calculating the dosage on the jar of honey, it becomes easy to determine how many teaspoons are needed to achieve the desired effect. This provides good control over the amount of psilocybin consumed;
power control: knowing the proportion of honey to mushrooms allows you to adjust the strength of the mixture according to your preferences. You can make a stronger or milder mixture, depending on your tolerance and intention;
Less uncomfortable experience: Blue honey offers a more palatable alternative to consuming magic mushrooms compared to chewing them pure. The taste of honey can make the experience more pleasant for those who find the texture or flavor of dried mushrooms unpleasant;
variety in the form of administration: Blue Honey offers a unique and more refined alternative for the administration of psilocybin. It could even be a way to add them to other recipes and dishes! A smoothie sweetened with this honey, for example, is delicious.





HOW TO MAKE BLUE HONEY?


To make your blue honey, you will need:

4.62g of ground magic mushrooms;
132g of honey (the more liquid, the better);
glass jar to store.
STEP BY STEP:
Start with the mushrooms. Grind them in a spice grinder or food processor until they turn into a powder. It is important to ensure that there are no large pieces!
On a small scale, weigh your ground mushrooms until it weighs 4.62 grams. Add this to your clean, dry glass jar.
Add 136 grams of honey to the pot and stir slowly but consistently until all the mushrooms are completely mixed with the honey. Store in a cool, dry place.
Your jar now contains 4.62 grams of mushrooms, which results in the following measurements: 22 teaspoons of 0.2 grams (microdose) or 8 tablespoons of 0.5 grams each (larger microdose).



Of course, you can increase the amount of mushrooms to adjust according to your tolerance or preferences, or increase the recipe following these proportions for a milder effect. People who love a microdose enjoy the option of using honey for this on a daily basis — without necessarily having strong psychedelic effects.





HOW TO DOSE IT?


The dose will depend greatly on the type of experience you are looking for



So, did you enjoy discovering more about delicious blue honey?


To the next!

BLUE HONEY: FIND OUT WHAT IT IS AND HOW TO MAKE PSYCHEDELIC HONEY

Kratom is a medicinal plant widely explored in Asia.  Here, we will talk more about its therapeutic potentials!

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The more we study, the more we understand that each culture has its power plants.  Unfortunately, the moment they become popular, we lose their traditional contexts—which leaves us face to face with risks that, on many occasions, could be avoided if we had more respect for the rituals and wisdom of indigenous peoples.  And that appears to be the case with kratom!



Popular in Central Asia, this little plant from the coffee family has psychoactive properties that have been explored for hundreds of years by the local population.  Its uses in rites and natural medicine seem to be well tolerated, with some mild side effects.  But, when the dose increases, its use can become risky!

 Today, we came to talk about kratom, its uses, benefits and risks.  After all, to reduce harm, there’s nothing better than a lot of information, right?  Come with us and discover this very traditional substance (and so controversial in the West)!


WHAT IS KRATOM?

 Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tree belonging to the coffee family, found mainly in Thailand and neighboring countries.  Traditionally in Southeast Asia, kratom leaves are chewed or brewed into tea to combat fatigue, improve work productivity, and are sometimes used in religious ceremonies.  Furthermore, this little plant has been used for hundreds of years to treat symptoms such as pain and diarrhea, and is occasionally used to replace opium.

 The main active ingredients of kratom are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine.  According to research, these compounds interact with opioid receptors in our brain.  Users report varied sensations, such as increased energy, relaxation, pain relief and even mental confusion.

 Historically, the leaves were chewed or used to make tea.  However, today it is also often processed into powder form and encapsulated, or even crushed and smoked, like tobacco or marijuana.  Kratom dosage can influence the effects, with low doses acting as stimulants and high doses inducing drowsiness or a dreamlike state (that feeling like you're dreaming, you know?).



WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF KRATOM?

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Kratom can produce effects that vary depending on the dose ingested.  In small doses, usually a few grams, the effects tend to be stimulating, with manifestations such as:

 alert state;

 sociability;

 euphoria;

 slight reduction in motor coordination.

 These stimulant effects usually occur quickly, within about 10 minutes of ingestion, and can last up to approximately 1.5 hours.

 On the other hand, in larger doses, between 5 and 15 grams of dried leaves, it can have sedative effects.  This can result in more intense feelings of tranquility and euphoria, potentially lasting longer, up to six hours.




WHAT ARE THE POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF KRATOM?


 Currently, little is still known about the plant's properties — mainly in terms of research and scientific evidence.  Much of what we know is more related to personal accounts and experiences with her.  However, some studies indicate that the leaves can help with:

 Pain relief: Kratom contains mitragynine, which binds to opioid receptors in the brain, providing pain relief.  Thus, research explains that it can increase pain tolerance;
 improved mood: some users report antidepressant and anti-anxiety effects after consumption, possibly due to the interaction of mitragynine with opioid receptors;
 sedative effects: studies show that, in higher doses, kratom can have sedative effects, leading to feelings of tranquility and euphoria;
 managing opioid and opiate withdrawal symptoms: some people use the plant in an attempt to manage a problematic relationship with opioids and alleviate withdrawal symptoms;
 Potential Additional Benefits: According to studies, kratom is also associated with anti-inflammatory effects, increased immunity, and appetite suppression.
 It's important to note that although some report benefits, research into kratom is still in the early stages.  Therefore, the safety and effectiveness of these uses need to be better understood.  Furthermore, it is associated with side effects.  Shall we explore them a little more?



WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF USING KRATOM?

Kratom use has been linked to a considerable list of negative effects.  Some of the most reported are:

 weight loss;

 dry mouth;

 chills, nausea and vomiting;

 changes in urine and constipation;

 liver damage;

 muscle aches;

 dizziness;

 somnolence;

 hallucinations and delusions;

 depression;

 suppression of breathing;

 convulsions, coma and death.



According to data collected by the Mayo Clinic, between 2011 and 2017, control centers in the United States received approximately 1,800 reports involving the use of kratom, including cases of death.  Additionally, babies exposed to it through breastfeeding have developed withdrawal symptoms.  In animals, the plant appears to be more potent than morphine, but has been associated with liver damage.

 It is not known exactly what level of kratom is toxic in humans.  As with some other pain medications and adult-use substances, it is possible to overdose.

 It is crucial to emphasize that these negative effects are related to high doses of the substance.  In traditional uses, such as teas and infusions, the plant does not appear to pose significant health risks.




So, did you enjoy finding out more about this exotic plant?  We believe that information is the greatest way to reduce harm!  This way, you can weigh risks and benefits and understand how each substance can contribute (whether positively or negatively) to your life.



To the next!

KRATOM: WHAT IS ITS USES, BENEFITS AND RISKS

Recent research suggests that ibogaine-assisted therapy may be useful for different conditions.  But what substance is this?  Find it out!

In the scene of psychedelic research, ibogaine emerges as a fascinating substance!  It has attracted the attention of scientists, therapists and the curious looking for innovative alternatives to address mental health challenges and problematic substance use.

 Extracted from the root of the iboga plant, originally from Central Africa, ibogaine has a rich history in traditional ritual practices.  More recently, it has been explored for its promising therapeutic properties.  And unfortunately, saying that it is being exploited is quite literal: like other substances sacred to traditional people, the history of ibogaine is a testament that colonialism continues to victimize different native groups around the world.

 Today, we're going to talk a little more about this substance, delving into its origins, exploring its therapeutic potential and examining the most recent research on it.  So, we hope to help you deeply understand how ibogaine can play a crucial role in the field of mental health — but how its studies and uses should be treated with respect.




Shall we explore all this?



 WHAT IS IBOGAINE?

 Ibogaine is a psychedelic alkaloid substance found in the root of the Tabernanthe iboga plant, native to central Africa.  Traditionally, it has been used in ritual practices and religious ceremonies by indigenous communities.  These ceremonies often involve ingesting iboga root as a means of seeking spiritual insights, healing, and guidance.

 Initially used by the Pygmies, the original group from Gabon, Iboga was introduced to others, such as the Bantu and Fang, through the Bwiti.  Bwiti, an animist practice, is based on the cult of ancestors.  In it, iboga is used in initiation and healing rituals to promote community healing and spiritual growth.  Certain Bwiti sects, such as the Fang, incorporate elements of Christianity out of necessity for assimilation during colonization.  In southern Cameroon, he is known as Ziliang or Mimbiri.

 Throughout the 20th century, Catholicism stigmatized the Bwiti.  In recent years, the conservative evangelical church has become the main threat, being considered evil by Gabon's Christian majority. Despite some respect for these traditional practices, a widespread attitude of fear and contempt persists, undermining efforts to conserve and protect the Bwiti and iboga.

 In terms of research, ibogaine continues to be the subject of scientific studies.  They seek to better understand its effects, safety and potential therapeutic applications.  Therefore, it is essential to approach ibogaine with caution and respect — due to its powerful nature, the ancestral knowledge related to it, and the challenges associated with its use!


WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF IBOGAINE?

![1000005484.jpg](https://m.stacker.news/18124)



Ibogaine produces long-lasting psychedelic and dissociative effects.  Studies show that, when ingested, this alkaloid interacts with different parts of our central nervous system.  They include dopaminergic, serotonergic, nicotinic, GABA, and muscarinic receptors.

 After ingesting ibogaine, its psychedelic effects usually begin to appear within a few hours.  They are divided into three phases:

 visionary phase: This first phase takes effect within one to three hours of ingesting ibogaine.  Users generally keep their eyes closed during this phase, which can last between four and eight hours;

 introspection phase: can begin within four to eight hours of ingesting ibogaine.  It typically lasts eight to twenty hours and is characterized by reflective emotions and powerful insights;

 residual phase: about 12 to 24 hours after first ingesting the plant, the effects of ibogaine diminish in the residual phase.  At this stage, there is a decrease in alertness levels and an increase in the need for sleep.



Negative effects include nausea, dry mouth, vomiting, temporary paralysis and even a heart attack.  Therefore, its use is delicate and should only be done in specific contexts.



THERAPEUTIC USE OF IBOGAINE AND POSSIBLE BENEFITS

 Most of the research involving ibogaine focuses on its use in treating problematic drug relationships.  Although the exact mechanism of ibogaine's anti-addictive effects is still unclear, initial studies suggest that it influences nicotinic receptors, opioid receptors, and dopamine and serotonin transporters.

 A 2016 study involved 30 opioid-using participants who were given approximately 12 mg/kg of ibogaine.  The results were evaluated 12 months later.  One month after treatment, half of the participants reported not having used opioids.  In the twelfth month, seven participants managed to avoid using opioids.

 Researchers have determined that ibogaine is not a cure for addiction.  Instead, it stops the addiction.




THE PROBLEMS AROUND THE EXPLORATION OF IBOGAINE

![1000005485.jpg](https://m.stacker.news/18125)


According to the social organization Blessings of The Forest (BOTF), dedicated to conserving Gabon's cultural and natural heritage, 95% of iboga and ibogaine sold online comes from plants that were stolen from protected forests by poachers and sold to consumers in the West.  And, far beyond the issue of theft, there is also the problem of cultural appropriation and the general lack of reciprocity with Gabonese communities.

 Psychedelic retreats, often led by white people, are becoming increasingly popular on the American continent.  While some Gabonese feel that the alliance of foreigners will help protect Iboga and destigmatize it within and outside Gabon, there is also justified concern that Bwiti and Iboga are being exploited.

 Colonization established a foundation of fear and distrust of foreigners—and colonization did not end.  After all, as we already know, the so-called “psychedelic renaissance” is full of colonialist practices.  This happens with different sacred elements, from ayahuasca to magic mushrooms, peyote, the Bufo alvarius frog, and many others.

 Author Jullian Mulligan, in DoubleBlind Magazine, writes: “True reciprocity is not just about moving the source of obtaining medicine from your native region to a laboratory, but also about recognizing and respecting the community where iboga comes from and sharing with this community the economic benefits arising from the rapid expansion of the ibogaine treatment market.  Without this, colonization patterns will continue.”



 So, did you like this information?  We hope they help you understand the importance of preserving local cultures, which deserve our respect.

IBOGAINE: WHAT IS IT AND WHAT ITS EFFECTS?

![1000005431.jpg](https://m.stacker.news/18015)

Are they served??  🤤🤤

Do you suspect that you have adulterated or contaminated hashish in your hand?  The first step is knowing how to identify!  Come and understand the signs.

Contaminants and adulterants are a recurring problem in the marijuana industry, and can affect all its products and by-products.  Hashish and concentrates are no exception.  There is a wide range of elements that have the potential to contaminate them, and transform what could be medicinal into a huge risk to our health.

 The production of concentrates, specifically solvent-free concentrates such as ice water hash (or bubble hash) and rosin, does not remove certain contaminants during the extraction process.  This means that any contaminants found in the plant prior to extraction, apart from the plant matter, will be transferred to the final products.  In solvent extractions, there is an increased risk of contamination by the solvents themselves resulting from poor purging.  This is all without counting what can be added to the concentrate before sale.

 As consumers, we need to understand that paying attention to the quality of what we use is no frills.  Quite the opposite: throwing away contaminated or adulterated juice may seem like a waste of money at first glance, but it will save you countless expenses to repair the damage.  In fact, it can save several years of your life too.


Quality is serious when it comes to marijuana and concentrates.

 To help you better understand all of this, let's talk a little more about adulterated or contaminated hashish and what strategies you can use to identify a sample that is potentially dangerous to your health.


WHAT CAN CONTAMINATE HASHISH?

 To talk about contamination, we need to revisit some points about the quality of the concentrates!  The main factors that can indicate or influence the quality of a hashish are its potency and purity.  This means that:


Different marijuana plants will produce resins with unique chemical profiles that vary in potency and the amount of terpenes. But, generally speaking, it is the potency of the material that will be responsible for the potency of your extract.


A material can be contaminated even before it becomes an extraction, during the cultivation, harvesting, curing and drying process (when we talk about products made from dry matter).  In this case, we are talking about pesticides, heavy metals and mold.

 Concentrate extraction processes can allow the introduction of undesirable materials, ranging from small pieces of plant matter (leaf residues) to adulterants added on purpose to make the product yield.  All of this reduces the purity of the hash.

 When we think about solvent extraction processes, we also need to take into account possible contamination with the solvent used.  In both the legal and illegal markets, a poorly done purging process can be responsible for high concentrations of heavy chemicals in samples!


But it's not just that, no.  When it comes to contaminated hashish, there are some pretty shitty things (pardon the pun) that we need to take into account.  In the dynamics of the irregular European market, for example, one of the most common ways to transport hashish is by swallowing and then evacuating the sample.  This means that most of the concentrates found in cities like Madrid are contaminated with fecal coliforms.



AND WHAT IS USED TO ADULTERATE HASHISH?

Low-quality hashish is often adulterated with “cutting agents.”  These ingredients are added to increase the volume of the substance, making it more profitable and generating more profit when sold.  Adulterants found in hashish can range from residues of the cannabis plant, such as pieces of leaves, to products such as:

soap;

 petroleum jelly;

 beeswax;

 grease;

 licorice;

 henna;

 ground coffee;

 powdered milk;

 pine resin;

 barbiturates;

 ketamine;

 aspirin;

 glues and dyes;

 carcinogenic solvents such as toluene and benzene.


The low quality of adulterated hashish can lead a person to smoke more to get the same effect.  And, although not all of these adulterants may seem so dangerous, their high concentration in the body can cause numerous problems — mainly chemical pneumonia and, in the long term, other chronic diseases.




HOW TO IDENTIFY QUALITY HASHISH?

 When we think about measuring the quality of hashish, we can do the same as in the case of marijuana flowers and use our five senses:




 TOUCH

 High-quality solvent-free hash, fresh and well stored, is soft and can be molded by the heat of your fingers.  Old, low-quality hash is harder and more brittle, and needs to be heated substantially before it is soft enough to use.  Most hash falls between these two extremes, and the tactile qualities also vary depending on the methods used in extraction and pressing.




 SMELL

 Can you smell these terpenes?  If your hash has no smell or smells like grass, it is low quality.  High-quality hash will have a pleasant, pungent aroma that stays true to its original profile.  Hash that hasn't been dried enough can develop mold and other types of fungus — which you'll also notice by smell.  But be careful: many of the products used to dilute hash and make it more profitable may be odorless!




VISION

 Hashish can take on various shapes and colors, depending on the way it is extracted, the type of plant used, the way it was stored, how it was dried and several other characteristics.  Regardless of the type, high-quality hash should not be completely black or green.  Green, in this case, means a greater concentration of plant matter from the plant in your display.



 TASTE

 Ultimately, the most important thing is the taste of your sample.  It is in the taste that you can conclude the quality of your hash.  Hashish that has no taste at all or a strange, metallic or musty taste are signs that it could be bad for you.




HOW DO I TEST THE QUALITY OF MY HASH?
![1000005428.png](https://m.stacker.news/18007)


There are a few different techniques to understand if your hash is adulterated or safe to consume!  One of the best ways to check this is the lighter test.  The process involves taking a piece of hash and adding a flame to it.

 If the hash is of high quality, the resin will boil and bubble.

 If your hash catches fire and turns black, it means we have too many contaminants in the sample.  In other words: the hash is not of good quality.

 If the hash does not bubble, it may be of low quality and possibly contain contaminants.  Not to mention the high levels of plant material remaining.

 If it bubbles a lot and gives off a plastic smell, it could also mean that the sample was mixed with other oils.

There is also the hand pressing test.  To do this, simply take a sample of your hash and crush it with your fingers.  The less time, pressure and temperature it takes to become a homogeneous dough, the higher its quality.  If you want, you can also use a hot water bottle.


By combining the smells, experience, taste, appearance, and bubble factor, you should be able to distinguish between low and high quality.  When additional oils or resins are present, they often create an oily appearance and uncharacteristic smells.  This is often done in the case of BHO and other solvent extractions.




TESTS FOR EXTRACTIONS WITH SOLVENTS

 It will be very difficult to tell if your solvent extraction is well purged without a laboratory test.  But, in Brazil, this mission is practically impossible.  And it's a very complicated subject when we consider that, to adulterate extractions with solvents, several heavy chemicals that are toxic to health are used, such as:

 silica;

 tree resin;

 gum arabic powder;

 other products, ranging from gel to plastic.

 According to reports we received, there are people who take 1g of pure BHO and can transform it into up to 7g with heavy adulteration.

 Furthermore, it is not easy to notice tampering.  This is because most of the materials used to make them are odorless and tasteless (that is, odorless and tasteless).  Its boiling temperature is also very similar to that of concentrates, which means it melts and vaporizes in the same way.

 One way to test your sample is to place a little bit of it in isopropyl alcohol.  If it melts, it is possibly marijuana resin.  Otherwise, you're dealing with another product — and you've been beaten.



To the next! 🍁

Adulterated or Contaminated Hashish: How to Identify?

It's long overdue to acknowledge that medicine can come from teas, plants, flowers, or even from cannabis derivatives. And no, it's not just CBD oil that can help!

And you, do you agree?

MORE PLANTS, LESS PILLS!  🍁

Content about Cannabis, Gardening, extractions and libertarianism. 🍁🍁🌿