Blogs
The Environmental Impact of Cannabis
by JARS | December 11, 2024
Explore the environmental impact of cannabis. From energy consumption in indoor grows to water usage and waste, cannabis cultivation and production can have notable ecological effects. Awareness and sustainable practices are essential for minimizing the environmental footprint of this burgeoning industry. As we edge closer and closer to an irreversible climate crisis, more consumers are concerned about the environmental impact of the products they consume—and cannabis is no different. Even though it is a seemingly harmless plant, its commercialized production and consumption may not be as eco-friendly we hoped. From packaging waste to chemical extraction processes, there are a number of ways in which cannabis may negatively affect Mother Earth. Here, we’ll discuss share some information on the environmental impact of cannabis and what you can do to help move the industry toward a more sustainable future. When you think of a lush green plant, you don’t usually think about it being harmful to the planet—and you would usually be right. However, the commercialization of cannabis and the sheer scale of many grow operations can have a major effect on the environment. Even when growing weed outside as nature intended, researchers have found that cannabis itself may be a significant source of pollution when grown in large quantities. The University of North Carolina’s Gillings School of Public Health, the University of Colorado Boulder, and England’s Lancaster Environment Centre led a comprehensive study examining the environmental significance of terpenes, the natural plant oils that give marijuana its signature funky scent. Despite the fact that terpenes may be able to produce certain therapeutic effects when consumed, they may also be a form of volatile organic compound (VOC). In this particular study, the team grew four strains of marijuana in an enclosed environment over a period of 90 days. During that time, the researchers measured the terpene release and used their findings to calculate the emissions potential in a full-scale outdoor grow. The team of researchers found that cannabis has the potential to more than double the existing rate of VOCs in the atmosphere. This may be a cause for concern because VOCs interact with other contaminants in the environment to create ozone, otherwise known as an unstable toxic gas. Their findings estimated that the added VOCs caused by cannabis cultivation could produce more than 2,000 metric tons of ozone per year—from the legal cannabis market alone. Fortunately for us, ozone levels are less likely to spike in plant-rich environments that are typically used for outdoor growing. Air pollution is one potential impact of growing outdoor cannabis, but indoor grow operations have their drawbacks as well—mainly water and energy. A commercial grow op typically consumes electricity 24 hours a day to power necessary lights and fans. To put things in perspective, in 2015, an average household in Boulder County, Colorado, consumed 630 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per month. By contrast, a 5,000 square foot indoor grow facility in the same county used 41,808 kWh per month. That’s nearly 7 times the amount of the average home. To even out the scales, some jurisdictions are taking steps to encourage more eco-friendly energy usage in cannabis cultivation facilities. In Boulder County, for example, growers are required to use renewable energy or pay a higher rate for every kWh used. That money is then used to fund green energy initiatives, like the development of eco-conscious equipment for cannabis cultivation. Water usage can make a major impression on the environment as well. According to a 2015 BioScience report, cannabis requires a minimum of 22 liters of water per plant per day during the prime June-to-October growing season. That equals an impressive 3 billion liters per square kilometer of greenhouse space. Because of these massive water demands, some grow ops are seeking out green alternatives, like filtering and recycling their water through a filtration or reverse-osmosis system. Others are turning to hydroponic systems, which solely rely on recycled water and nutrients instead of traditional soil and water methods. So even though growing weed takes up an incredible amount of energy and water, many growers are looking for more green ways to make this plant magic possible. Yes, even smoking weed leaves a footprint on our precious planet. The act itself may be relatively harmless, but even consumption is filled with wasteful practices. To start, think of all the packaging you get when you purchase any cannabis product. Whether it’s an eighth of weed or a childproof bag of edibles, each and every product comes in some sort of packaging. To reduce waste, remember to thoroughly clean your packaging and recycle what you can. You can even get creative by reusing some of the jars as mini planters or candy bowls—we all get the munchies right? Beyond the issue of packaging, the legal cannabis market is rife with disposable products that leave a lasting impression on the planet. Take disposable vapes for example: Once you’re done with the cannabis concentrate inside, it gets thrown out. Same thing with disposable lighters. Once the little bit of butane is gone, it gets thrown into the trash as well. If you want to reduce your personal carbon footprint, opt for a rechargeable vape pen where only the cartridge gets thrown out rather than the entire pen. You can also invest in a classy reusable or rechargeable lighter that will last you a lifetime, rather than the cheap ones you might find at the gas station. This option not only helps the environment but also makes you look incredibly cool. Even though cannabis cultivation and consumption may have a negative impact on the environment, the power is in our hands to encourage the industry to move toward a more earth-friendly future. Invest in reusable cannabis products, recycle what you can, and ask our budtenders about brands that support green initiatives. Mother Earth will thank you for it later.The Environmental Impact of Cultivation
Outdoor Cannabis Cultivation
Indoor Cannabis Cultivation
The Environmental Impact of Consumption
The Bottom Line
Will Smoking Cannabis Lower My Body Temperature?
Smoking cannabis may make you feel cooler temporarily, but it doesn't actually lower your body temperature.
Do you ever feel like snuggling up in your softest blanket after lighting up some flower from JARS? Well, you’re not alone. When you consume cannabis, goosebumps on your arms or feeling a tad chilly is actually a very common side effect alongside dry mouth, red eyes, and a potentially increased heart rate.
Based on this, we can hypothesize that cannabis does affect us physically beyond its psychoactive effects — but is cannabis actively making you feel cold temperature, or could there be another element behind this phenomenon? To answer the question, will smoking cannabis lower your body temperature, read on for our essential guide on your cozy conundrum.
Does cannabis lower your body temperature?
The short answer? Yes, cannabis actually does reduce your body temperature—temporarily, that is.
A phenomenon dubbed THC-induced hypothermia, it is not as serious as the name might make it sound. It simply means that when you’re exposed to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), your skin and muscles feel slightly cooler for a short period of time.
It appears that cannabis cools us down and reacts similarly to:
Wasabi
Hot mustard
Red chili flakes
Although these foods might feel hot and spicy on your tongue, they can also help cool you down. It’s an ancient trick that has long been used in culinary cultures across the world. For example, if you’ve ever had super spicy food at a Thai restaurant, that’s because Thailand can be notoriously hot and humid. Locals eat this spicy food in order to help them stay comfortable when it’s hot AF outside.
This reaction is thought to be controlled by a specific cell receptor called the TRPA-1 receptor. Tiny but mighty, this receptor may be responsible for other reactions like:
Dealing with pain
Reducing inflammation
Regulating body temperature
Many believe that when you consume something spicy or enjoy some freshly ground cannabis, this receptor activates and causes a cool-down effect and pain-shielding reaction. So if you’re feeling a little chilly after smoking a bowl, it’s a perfectly normal side effect.
How to deal with the cannabis cooling effect.
We know that you might feel a little cold after you smoke cannabis so we want to share some of our favorite ways to handle that chilly feeling.
Snuggle up with your favorite movie or show.
Binge-watching and cannabis go hand-in-hand so take this as a sign to kick back and catch up on the latest trending series. By the time you finish watching, you’ll feel right as rain.
Make a cup of tea.
Nothing warms the soul quite like a steaming hot mug of tea (or hot cocoa if you have a sweet tooth). We suggest trying an herbal tea that may have some added therapeutic benefits. For example, ginger tea may help settle the stomach and chamomile tea may improve sleep and relaxation.
Lounge in the sun.
Soaking in some Vitamin D is a surefire way to reduce those goosebumps on your arms. Take a quick walk outside to get your body moving and reap the benefits of some daily sunshine.
Take a bubble bath.
You don’t have to be cold to indulge in a hot bubble bath but it’s certainly a great excuse. Treat yourself to a self-care moment in the bath to warm your skin and soothe your muscles.
Stay cozy.
Next time you’re feeling slightly cooler after smoking cannabis, just know that you are not alone. Use our tips to cuddle up and get cozy, and you’ll be back to normal in no time. For more tips, tricks, and insider information make sure to stay tuned for more on the blog.
JARS
December 10, 2024
How To Elevate Your Next Smoke Sesh?
Are you looking for something new to elevate your next smoke session? Are you stuck in a smoke session rut and want to take your cannabis experience to new heights? We're here to help, down below are some surefire ways to help take your smoke sesh to the next level.
How To Elevate Your Next Smoke Sesh
Are you looking for something new to elevate your next smoke session? Are you stuck in a smoke session rut and want to take your cannabis experience to new heights? We're here to help, down below are some surefire ways to help take your smoke sesh to the next level.
Investing in quality cannabis
First and foremost, let's talk about the importance of quality cannabis. You know how they say, "you get what you pay for"? Well, the same goes for cannabis. Investing in craft cannabis, also known as premium cannabis, is the key to taking your smoke session to the next level.
Not only is the quality and consistency top-notch, but finding a reputable dispensary that genuinely cares about and connects with its customers is a surefire way to ensure that you're getting the best of the best. Trust us, there's nothing like walking into a dispensary and having the staff help you pick out the perfect product for your lifestyle. So, don't skimp on the good stuff, and elevate your smoke session.
Let our staff find you the perfect products here:
Alternate the strains you are using
Now, let's talk about switching up the strains. Of course, we all know that different strains of cannabis can have different effects - some are more relaxing, like Indica strains, while others are more uplifting, like Sativa strains. But did you know that different strains can also have different tastes and aromas?
By alternating the strains you use, you'll not only experience a wider variety of effects, but you'll also be able to enjoy a more diverse taste and aroma experience. Plus, switching things up can prevent tolerance and allow you to experiment with new strains and discover the different effects and flavors they have to offer. And let's be real, who doesn't love a little variety in their life?
Food pairings
Let's talk about the fun stuff - amplifying the taste, aroma, and effects of cannabis. One way to do this is by pairing your cannabis with certain foods. For example, chocolate contains compounds like theobromine and caffeine that can enhance the effects of THC and create a more euphoric experience. So, grab a bar of high-percentage cocoa dark chocolate next time you plan a smoke session, and thank us later.
Cheese is another great option - it contains compounds like casein and tyramine that can enhance the effects of THC and create a more relaxing experience. Hard, aged cheeses like cheddar and gouda are perfect options.
Spicy foods, like those containing capsaicin, can also enhance the effects of THC and create a more intense experience. And let's not forget about fruits - mangoes, pineapples, and berries contain terpenes that can enhance the taste and aroma of the cannabis and create a more enjoyable experience. Herbs and spices, like peppermint, rosemary, and basil, also contain terpenes that can enhance the taste and aroma of the cannabis.
And last but not least, nuts and seeds like almonds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds contain healthy fats and oils that can enhance the effects of cannabis.
Aromatherapy
When enhancing your cannabis experience, why settle for the same old routine? Instead, take your next smoke session to new heights with the power of aromatherapy.
Imagine lighting a few scented candles, like lavender, which promotes relaxation, or peppermint, which can help to clear the mind. You can add a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil to a diffuser or simply apply it to a cloth and inhale the refreshing aroma. Not only will it mask any unwanted odors, but it'll transport you to a relaxing spa-like paradise.
Ever tried a cannabis-infused bath bomb? Check out how to make one here.
Switching up your methods
The kind of marijuana you smoke is just one way to make your experience more attractive. Your high will fluctuate significantly depending on how you smoke. If you've only recently started smoking joints, it might be time to upgrade to a bong or vaporizer. If you're having trouble getting high while using cannabis as you now do, try switching up your strategy.
With a bong, you can enjoy a smoother hit and a cooler smoke that's easier on the lungs, allowing you to inhale more deeply and fully appreciate the unique flavor profile of each strain. With a vaporizer, you can enjoy the full range of flavors and aromas without the harshness of smoke while also being considered a healthier option. So why not give your lungs a break and treat them to a smoother, cooler hit while treating your taste buds to a flavor explosion. Elevate your smoking game and take your cannabis experience to a next level high.
This is a foolproof guide to elevate your smoke session. By investing in quality cannabis, switching up the strains, and experimenting with foods and fruits that can enhance the taste, aroma, and effects of the cannabis, you'll be well on your way to taking your cannabis experience to new heights. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the ride! Because let's face it, life's too short to settle for a dull smoke session.
If you're looking for a great place to find quality cannabis, be sure to check out our dispensary here, where we offer a wide variety of premium strains and knowledgeable staff to help you find the perfect product for your lifestyle. So, grab some friends, some quality cannabis, and a bag of dark chocolate, and get ready to elevate your next smoke sesh to new heights.
JARS
December 10, 2024