LowKey Dispensary

What Is Kief and Is It for You?

Kief is generally considered the original cannabis concentrate. Kief has been consumed for hundreds (if not thousands) of years, and the recent growth of recreational cannabis and its expanding role in the culture has thrust kief back into the collective consciousness. Kief is used for everything from spicing up a classic joint to adding extra potency to a cup of coffee. 

What is Kief?

Most seasoned stoners will likely recognize kief, even if they’re unfamiliar with what it’s called. Kief is made from the sticky, crystal-like coating on cannabis and, when accumulated, is the fine, sticky brown, yellow, green powder at the bottom of a grinder. Kief is made by separating the terpene- and cannabinoid-packed trichomes—what gives cannabis its flavor, aroma, and effect—from plant material. 

Why Consume Kief?

Kief is commonly thought of as the original cannabis concentrate because of the relative simplicity in which it’s made. Most modern cannabis concentrates are made using solvents and high-tech processes that often require a lab. Conversely, making kief is straightforward, natural, and results in a final product that is rich-smelling, clean-tasting, and potent. 

Is kief more potent than flower? Yes. Flower is packed with terpene- and cannabinoid-rich trichomes, but it also contains other plant material like bracts, calyxes, and sugar leaves, 9which in the end makes it a less concentrated product. Kief is made of just trichomes, which makes it inherently more potent than cannabis flower. In general, flower ranges from 25% to 35% THC, while kief typically contains between 50% and 80% THC.

How to Collect Kief 

There are two primary ways kief is collected: with a grinder and with screens.

Collecting kief in a grinder often results in a product made from a wide range of strains and a unique mix of terpenes and cannabinoids, which many users enjoy. 

Collecting Kief by Screening  

The use of screens is a more involved method for collecting kief, but it’s a better option for those looking to acquire a large amount of very pure kief. Kief boxes—a series of microscreens built into a box—are a more scientific and effective way to separate kief and ultimately allow you to both process more flower and get a purer product. 

Purchase Kief 

If collecting your own kief sounds like too much effort, you can purchase it at your local dispensary, such as Lowkey Dispensary in Boston’s Codman Square. Keep in mind, the kief you find at the dispensary is probably purer than what you collected at home—which means it’s stronger and likely a lighter color (because it contains less plant material). You can also order online and pick up in store.

• Add to a bowl: The addition of kief to a bowl is so popular there’s even a term for it, “crowning the bowl.” Sprinkling kief on top of a bowl is a tried-and-true way to add a little punch to your next smoke session.  

• Roll into a joint: Much like adding kief to a bowl can give it an extra kick, so can putting a pinch of kief in a joint. Another popular method for consuming kief with a joint is to roll a “twax joint.” That is a joint that has cannabis oil on its outside and has been rolled in kief. Beware, twax joints are super-strong and not for the uninitiated. 

• Homemade hash: Hash is one of the oldest forms of cannabis concentrates and is simply kief that has been heated and pressurized. The easiest way to make hash is to simply rub kief in your hand until it makes a ball. A more involved method uses a hair iron and parchment paper to press the kief into hash. 

• Coat flower: Covering cannabis flower in kief to create “moon rocks” is another popular use for the concentrate. Moon rocks are made by coating bud with cannabis oil and rolling it in kief. Don’t grind moon rocks—the kief and oil will stick to your grinder—before smoking, rather, break them up by hand before smoking. Like twax joints, moon rocks are super-potent and not for rookies.

• Cook up cannabutter: You can use kief to make your own cannabutter, which you can then turn into your favorite edibles. Unlike flower, kief doesn’t require straining—and thanks to its potency, a little goes a long way. Remember you need to decarboxylate (heat) kief to activate the THC. 

• Brew coffee with a kick: Looking for a really strong cup of coffee? Mix decarbed kief into your coffee when you need more than a pick-me-up and for a cup that packs more than a caffeine high. 

 Caution to New Cannabis Consumers 

Like other cannabis concentrates, new users should proceed with caution when trying kief—it’s incredibly potent, which makes it easy to go overboard. Keep in mind the “low and slow” mantra when beginning with cannabis. That is, start with low doses and slowly increase the strength of doses over time. 

Lowkey Dispensary  

Whether you want to purchase some high-quality flower to make your own kief or buy some pre-made kief, Lowkey has all your cannabis needs covered. At Lowkey, you’ll find everything from Boston’s best flower to some of the city’s strongest kief. You’ll also find expert advice. Our budtenders can guide you through processes like how to best crown a bowl or how to roll a twax joint.

Go Green with Cannabis this St. Patrick’s Day 

St. Patrick’s Day has long been thought of as a boozy holiday and evokes thoughts of busy bars, green beer, and rough hangovers. However, people are changing how they celebrate St. Paddy’s Day and making it even greener. Thanks to an increasing number of states that have legalized recreational cannabis, more and more people are choosing to center their celebrations around weed, rather than alcohol. 

You don’t need the luck of the High’rish to green up your St. Patrick’s day—Boston’s Lowkey Dispensary has some great ideas to get blarney stoned this year. 

Pot Parade  

You might not discover a pot of gold in Boston on St. Patrick’s Day, but you will almost assuredly find a good time. Boston, home to Lowkey Dispensary, is one of the best places in the country to celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day and there’s no better place to start than the city’s famed parade, which unofficially began in 1737 as a way for Irish immigrants to celebrate their heritage, but got its official start when the parade moved to from downtown to South Boston in 1901. 

Infusing cannabis into your parade experience is a great way to make the day more magical. Before heading to the parade route, puff on an Irish-inspired strain of flower—like Pot of Gold, Lucky Charms, or Green Crack—or chomp on a green-colored edible and take in the spectacle of Irish bands, bagpipers, dancers, floats, and numerous colorful characters walking the three-mile route while surrounded by 500,000 to 1,000,000 other spectators soaking in the Irish cheer. 

Enjoy the Greenery

If surrounding yourself with up to a million other Irish enthusiasts isn’t your idea of a good time, consider simply getting outside and getting stoned. In many places around the country, like Boston, St. Patrick’s Day occurs at a time when winter is in retreat and spring is arriving—and while you might not find Emerald Isle level greenery, the region is generally becoming more verdant this time of year. Remember public consumption of cannabis is forbidden, so smoke at home or consider a discreet product like an edible before heading into the great outdoors.  

St. Patty’s Day Party 

A St. Fatty’s Day party is an awesome way you and your ganja-loving group can celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. In addition to shamrock decorations, add some extra green to your event with a selection of pre-rolls or stock up on some flower—think Irish Cream or Four Leaf Clover—and papers in preparation of rolling some big joints and blunts that would leave leprechauns trembling in their buckled boots. Remember to say sláinte, a traditional cheer before taking a toke. Another option is to redefine what’s in the “pot” at the end of the rainbow by making a multi-colored assortment of edibles available to your guests. 

Just because you’re throwing a St. “Pot”rick’s Day party doesn’t mean you need to skip on the beverages. Rather than green beer or a selection of Irish whiskeys and liquors, consider a cooler filled with cannabis-infused beverages or whip up some alcohol-free cannabis mocktails like a minty pot tody. 

Chill Out 

Although many people think of St. Patrick’s Day as a time to party, others consider themselves lucky to have the chance to kick back and be a couch potato. If your plans are to smoke and stream this holiday, here are some movies that pair well with pot and St. Paddy’s Day:

• Leap Year: If you’re hoping to get lucky this St. Patrick’s Day, consider watching this rom-com about a woman who travels to Ireland to propose to her boyfriend with your special someone. 
• Boondock Saints: Those looking for a more action-packed movie should check out this flick set in Boston about two Irish brothers who seek to eradicate the city’s criminal underworld. 
• The Departed: No matter how calming a strain your smoking is, this Oscar Award-winning film—also set in Lowkey’s home city of Boston—about a cop infiltrating the Irish mob will have you on the edge of your seat. 
• Darby O’Gill and the Little People: Enjoy this classic about an Irishman matching wits with the King of the Leprechauns with something strong like a concentrate to truly capture the magic of this film. 
• Leprechaun: Although many may want to shy away from horror flicks while high, this movie about a murderous leprechaun trying to reclaim his gold is as silly as it is scary.  

Get Baked

Saint Patrick’s Day is the perfect time to put your cannabis culinary skills to the test and try out a classic Irish recipe or invite your friends over for “pot” luck. There are tons of incredible recipes available that either include cannabis or in which you can substitute cannabis, from Irish breakfasts like cannabis-infused corned beef hash to dinners like real “pot” pie to desserts like this cannabis chocolate stout cake. 

Looking for an option that will satisfy your stoner and non-stoner friends alike? Consider whipping up some traditional Irish soda bread and serving it with both butter and cannabutter.  

A Lowkey Holiday

Lowkey Dispensary in Dorchester’s Codman Square has everything you need for a shamrocking St. Patrick’s Day. From superb flower to a vast assortment of delicious edibles to high-quality concentrates, you’ll find what you need to make your St. Paddy’s day a little extra green and experience the luck of the High’rish.

Pets and Pot: A Bad Combination  

Attitudes about how we spend our free time are shifting in households across the U.S. For example, more people are consuming cannabis thanks to increased legalization—a recent poll found a record number of Americans have tried marijuana. Another shift in U.S. households is the growing number of pets found in them. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), more than 23 million American households (almost one in five) adopted a pet during the pandemic.  

While we love to see pets living the “high” life in their new homes, the fact is pets—especially dogs—and pot aren’t always a great mix. Ask any dog owner and they’ll confirm their four-legged friend’s innate ability to get into everything, including their stash.  

Dogs on Dope  

As cannabis becomes more common in households across the country, so are cases of dogs consuming cannabis; between 2017 and 2020, the ASPCA Poison Control Center’s national call volume for cannabis ingestion jumped from 1,436 to 3,923 cases. Similarly, the Pet Poison Hotline also saw a 400% increase in the number of calls they took about marijuana-related incidents over a six-year period. 

The connection between legal cannabis and canine consumption is apparent. In California, where recreational marijuana has been legal since 2016, call numbers grew by 276% between 2016 and 2020. In Colorado, numbers have risen elevenfold since the state legalized weed in 2012.   

How long a dog will feel the effects of cannabis consumption will depend on a variety of factors, including the size of the dog, the amount of cannabis ingested, and the strength of the cannabis consumed. Marijuana intoxication is rarely fatal for our four-legged friends, but you should still seek veterinary advice if you suspect your dog has gotten high on your supply.

You’ll also want to remain aware of the other methods by which your dog might ingest cannabis. For example, eating a roach left in an ashtray, drinking bong water, and digging a cheesecloth used to make cannabutter out of the trash are all ways dogs can inadvertently consume cannabis. Along these lines, it’s also a sound strategy to pay attention to what your dog is up to when walking outside—after all, there is no telling if the “tasty” morsel your pup managed to scrounge off the sidewalk or in the park is edible or not.

Signs Your Dog Got into Your Stash  

Dogs are man’s best friend, but marijuana isn’t a dog’s best friend. If you’re unsure whether your dog has eaten weed, there are some tell-tale symptoms of cannabis consumption: 

• Unsteadiness on their feet (acting drunk) 
• Dilated pupils/glazed look in their eyes  
• Agitation  
• Hyperactivity  
• Vocalization/barking  
• Elevated temperature  
• Dribbling urine  

Just as the timeline for feeling the effects of cannabis can vary for you, it can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour for your pup to start showing signs of having gotten into your pot. Also, not every dog will experience the same symptoms; some may show just one or two signs while others can cover the entire range of indicators. 

Before heading to the vet, clean any residual cannabis product from your dog’s face, fur, and paws so they don’t ingest any more if they lick themselves. Also, try to get a feel for how much marijuana (and the amount of THC) they ingested—for example, did they just sneak a lick from a bowl containing cannabutter or did they eat a whole cannabis-infused cookie?  

Treatment for Weed Consumption in Dogs  

Treatment for dogs who consume cannabis depends on a number of factors. Some dogs will simply get sent home to ride it out under their owner’s watchful eye while others will receive inpatient treatment. It’s common for vets to treat specific symptoms, like administering a sedative to ease anxiety or medications to bring your dog’s temperature back to normal.  

Decontamination is another potential treatment used by veterinarians. One method vets use is giving dogs activated charcoal—a liquid your pet drinks—which helps neutralize the toxin and prevent further absorption. Another way vets achieve decontamination in dogs is to induce vomiting.  

The Lesson of the Tail  

Most dogs make a full recovery after consuming cannabis within a few days. Ensure your dog receives the best care and most appropriate treatment possible by consulting your vet immediately, being honest with them about what happened, and sharing as much relevant information as possible. Dogs eating marijuana is becoming an increasingly common sight at vet offices across the country—they’re not shocked and the more information they have, the less likely they are to run expensive tests.  

Lowkey Dispensary  

Lowkey Dispensary in Boston’s Codman Square is making a case to surpass your four-legged friend for the title of man’s best friend. Lowkey has everything new and seasoned cannabis users expect from a dispensary, ranging from ultra-knowledgeable staff to high-quality products and all the accessories needed to enjoy cannabis. Just remember—when you bring a bag home from Lowkey, keep it somewhere secure and out of reach from your dog. 

Tips for Your First Visit to a Cannabis Dispensary

It was only in 2018 that the first recreational-use cannabis dispensary opened in Massachusetts. Since then, they’ve popped up all over the Bay State, including Lowkey Dispensary. Although dispensaries are becoming a more common sight in communities across the state, there are still a number of people who have yet to visit one.

If you’re cannabis curious, but you’re not sure what to expect or are intimidated by the idea of a trip to a dispensary for the first time, here are some tips to make your first visit a great one.

1. Set a Goal

Much like the number of dispensaries in Massachusetts has grown in recent years, so have the number and types of products they offer. There are a ton of products available—including flower, concentrates, and edibles—which can make it overwhelming for both new cannabis consumers and cannabis veterans alike to know exactly what they want. This is why we encourage visitors to think about factors like how they prefer to consume and the effects they want (or don’t want) before visiting.

2. Do Some Research

Dispensaries like Lowkey love to share knowledge about cannabis and guide consumers on their journey. That said, having some basic knowledge beforehand is beneficial. Lowkey’s blog is an excellent source of information for new consumers looking to learn the basics about weed while also offering insight into the latest happenings in cannabis culture.

4. Build a Budget

Cannabis products cover a wide cost spectrum. A rough idea of what you want to take home and how much you’re willing to spend can help your budtender find the right products, at the right price, for you.

5. Have the Correct Form of Payment

Cannabis is legal in Massachusetts, yet remains illegal federally which makes checking out at your local dispensary a bit different than at a big-box store. For example, it’s highly unlikely they accept credit cards or Apple/GooglePay. This makes cash king at most dispensaries—although the acceptance of debit cards is increasingly common—and it’s a good idea to have enough green in your wallet to cover whatever you’re planning to purchase. If you’re light on cash, don’t sweat it, dispensaries often have an on-site ATM.

Ultimately, each dispensary is unique in the form of payment it accepts and the resources they provide to their customers. Know what they are before you go.

6. Bring Your ID

Only patrons over the age of 21 are allowed to enter a dispensary. To prove your age, you’ll need a valid ID on you even if you clearly look older than the mandated age. Valid identification includes state-issued driver’s licenses, state ID cards, passports, passport cards, and military IDs.

7. Ask Questions

With a steady stream of new cannabis products entering the market, even seasoned stoners have something to learn. Budtenders, like those at Lowkey, work day in and day out with cannabis and know about everything from the newest products to the unique characteristics of a particular strain. Don’t let their knowledge and experience go to waste, go ahead and ask for their input. An added bonus, when you build a rapport with a bartender, they can better help you on your next visit.

8. Remember, No Pressure

Although there are many differences between shopping at a dispensary and more traditional stores, there are also a lot of similarities. For example, entering a dispensary doesn’t obligate you to make a purchase any more than it does at the supermarket, convenience store, or big-box retailer. Feel free to come in, ask questions, poke around, get your bearings, and leave without making a purchase. Of course, we hope you like what you saw and you come back!

9. Wait Until You Get Home to Consume

Navigating a dispensary for the first time is thrilling and while we’re sure you’re excited to try your purchase, wait until you get home or to a private place to partake. It’s illegal in Massachusetts to consume cannabis in public and to drive under its influence. At best, enjoying your purchase immediately after leaving the dispensary can hurt a dispensary’s image in the community; at worst, it can lead to legal trouble for you.

10. Choose the Right Dispensary

Everybody has their own idea of the ideal dispensary, but, in general, the best dispensaries, like Lowkey, share certain characteristics—like being staffed by friendly, knowledgeable people who are able to answer your questions, and having the appropriate cannabis products for the experience you’re seeking.

Some dispensaries will even align with your values. For instance, Lowkey Dispensary is one of just a few Black-owned dispensaries in Boston and the state of Massachusetts as a whole. Our team isn’t just committed to delivering an exceptional customer experience, we’re also focused on creating diversity in an industry where it’s severely lacking—nearly 75% of the Massachusetts marijuana workforce is white.

The History of the Bong

You might not give much thought to the multitude of bongs lining the shelves of your local dispensary, but the tradition of smoking cannabis out of a bong dates back thousands of years. Throughout the history of the bong, it’s been the go-to device for people across the globe—spanning seemingly every social class—and continues to adapt to the changing needs of cannabis consumers.

What is a Bong?

A bong is a device used to smoke marijuana flower. Bongs use water as a filter (which is why they’re often called water pipes) to cool weed smoke and allow for deep, smooth inhalations. Bongs come in all shapes and sizes and range from simple devices made of soda bottles to handblown glass works of art.

Early History of Bongs

There is extensive evidence of the use of bongs dating back thousands of years and new discoveries are still being made. It was just 2013 when archeologists discovered what are thought to be the world’s oldest bongs in what is now southern Russia.

Early African Bongs

Prior to the discovery of the Scythian bongs in Russia, the oldest known bongs were thought to come from Ethiopia. Two ceramic bongs were excavated in the Lalibela Cave, dating back to the 13th/14th century. No matter the exact age of the bongs, they predate the introduction of tobacco to Africa.

Early Chinese Bongs

Cannabis has a long history in China; recently, pot-smoking paraphernalia that dates back 2,500 years was discovered in the country. That said, it wasn’t until the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries that the region embraced the bong. It’s believed that bongs were introduced during the Ming Dynasty (1368 to 1644) and gained popularity in the following Qing Dynasty (1644 to 1911/12) It’s even rumored that Dowager Empress Cixi—who ruled China for almost five decades—was buried with her prize bongs.

The Glass Bong

The father of the modern bong is commonly thought to be a glassblower—also called a lampworker—named Bob Snodgrass. Snodgrass, known as the “godfather of glass” and the “the godfather of the bong renaissance” gained notoriety in the 1970s while traveling around the country blowing glass pipes in a mobile studio and often following the Grateful Dead.

Snodgrass is best known for his aesthetically pleasing water pipes and is widely credited for making the first color-changing bongs and being the originator of borosilicate glass bongs. Borosilicate glass allows for a very low coefficient of thermal expansion, meaning it will not crack under extreme temperature changes like regular glass. It’s in part thanks to Snodgrass’s artistic flair and innovation that bongs remain a staple of smoking weed today.

The Modern Bong

Glass remains the standard for bongs today, but other materials are making inroads. Silicon is one material in particular that is gaining favor. It offers properties similar to glass but is far more durable and commonly considerably more affordable. Other bong makers are turning to traditional materials—such as wood and metal—when making water pipes.

The Etymology of the Word Bong

Bongs have been on the tip of the tongue from their early origins in southern Russia and Africa to their more recent popularity in China and the U.S. However, we have the Thai language to thank for the word “bong”—it comes from the Thai word “bɔ̂ɔŋ,” meaning “a hollow piece of bamboo or wood.”

There are a number of theories as to how it entered into the U.S. lexicon. Two of the most prevalent are that the word was brought back to the states by soldiers returning from Asia—either from the Pacific Theater of World War II or Vietnam, depending on your source.

Lowkey Dispensary

Whether you’re looking for a bong that’s a piece of art or an everyday workhorse water pipe, Lowkey has an option for you. From mild to wild, we can help pair you with a water pipe that meets the needs of you and your favorite flower. Check us out in Dorchester’s Codman Square.

The Rose Petal Blunt The Rose Petal Blunt—Better Than a Box of Chocolates  

Looking to crush Valentine’s Day this year and impress your stoner sweetheart? Make it a high holiday and roll a rose petal blunt. The perfect marriage of romantic sentiment and passion for pot, rose petal blunts are great for sparking romance and setting that special someone’s heart aflame.  

First Love  

Internet personality Sasha is largely considered the creator of the rose petal blunt. A video she posted in September 2017 on Twitter, showing how to roll a rose petal blunt, has racked up over seven million views to date. One of the most appealing aspects of the rose petal blunt is its simplicity: it’s just a classic blunt rolled with rose petals instead of tobacco leaf.  

In addition to the sweet sentiment of a rose petal blunt, roses have long been a staple of traditional medicine and today are found in everything from essential oils to personal care products. The health benefits associated with roses include: 

• Anti-inflammation  
• Improved immunity  
• Eased digestion  
• Reduced menstrual cramps 

Roses have also commonly been thought of as mood boosters and may help lower anxiety and stress, which makes them a powerful partner when coupled with cannabis. 

Rose petal blunts don’t just look nice, they smell nice too. Rose and cannabis both share the floral-smelling terpene nerolidol which is known for its pleasing scent and relaxing effect. Also helping keep you and your cannabis companion calm is the soft, less harsh taste rose petal blunts deliver.

What You Need to Flirt with Making Rose Petal Blunts 

The tools needed to make a rose petal blunt aren’t all that different from what you need to roll a regular blunt:  

• High-quality flower  
• Grinder  
• Lighter  

You’ll also need:  

• Oven  
• Small baking sheet
• Rose petals  

 Since you’re going to smoke the rose petals, it’s a good idea to look for roses that haven’t been treated with chemicals. Look for organic flowers or ask a family member or neighbor if you can raid their garden for a few rose petals. A rolling tray is also useful, particularly for first-time rose petal blunt rollers, as it helps keep everything organized and avoid waste.  

How to Roll a Rose Petal Blunt  

Rolling a rose petal blunt is a little more time-consuming than rolling a regular one, but it’s time well spent, especially if it impresses that special someone.  
 

1. Arrange three or four rose petals on a baking sheet.
2. Set the oven to broil and cook the petals for 10 to 15 seconds*.
3. Lick the bottom of the petals (to make them sticky) and arrange them in an overlapping row.
4. Put the rose petal wrap back in the oven for another 10 to 15 seconds to help it fuse more securely.
5. Allow the rose petal wrap to cool for roughly two minutes.
6. Fill your wrap with ground flower.
7. Roll up your rose petal blunt like you would a regular one, tucking one edge of the rose wrap under the other and licking the edges to form a seal.
8. Place the rolled blunt back in the oven for 10 to 15 seconds to secure the seal.
9. Wait two more minutes to allow everything to firm up.
10. Spark it up and enjoy!

*Every oven is unique, and rose petals come in different shapes/thicknesses. Consequently, it may require a bit of experimentation to perfect your rose petal broiling skills. 

How to Spice Up a Valentine’s Day Rose Petal Blunt 

A ménage à trois is a potent potion for spicing up your rose petal blunt, and concentrates are an appealing third party. Try adding a thin layer of shatter, wax, or resin instead of licking to seal the blunt to really feel high on love. 

Final Toke  

A rose petal blunt is possibly the perfect present to woo that special stoner. Lowkey Dispensary stocks everything you need to play cannabis Cupid this Valentine’s Day, from first-class flower to advice on the ideal strain for a blunt for your beloved. You might even find pre-rolled rose blunt shells and pre-rolled blunts—just don’t wait until the last minute. Like dinner reservations and show tickets, rose petal blunts go fast in February! 

How to Marry Marijuana and Valentine’s Day 

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, which has us thinking about love. While we hope Cupid’s arrow finds its mark this year—no matter what strain of love you’re looking for—one thing you can count on is cannabis being the perfect partner for creating a romantic Valentine’s Day.   

Play Cupid with Cannabis

Cannabis goes hand in hand with most holidays, so it should come as no surprise that it’s becoming increasingly popular to pair marijuana with Valentine’s day celebrations. Whether you and your stoner sweetheart are simply looking for a relaxing activity or hoping to pump up the passion, here are a couple of reasons to wed weed to your Valentine’s day this year. 

Lowers Inhibition 

When you’re in the mood for love, nothing kills it quicker than anxiety. Cannabis can help crush feelings of worry, tension, nervousness, and fears relating to specific events or situations. Studies have shown that CBD has potential as a treatment for general anxiety, while low doses of THC can help reduce stress and uneasiness. It’s important to note that high doses of TC can have the opposite effect, and make anxiety worse. Simply, cannabis can get you—or your partner—out of your head, into the present, and feeling frisky.  

Libido Booster

Reduced anxiety + increased comfort = better sex, and there is a growing amount of research and studies to back this notion up. The most notable effects of marijuana occur in women. A recent study found that women who used marijuana before sexual activity experienced increased sex drive and better orgasms than those who abstain. Men can also benefit from bud; research from Spain indicates that cannabis use leads to more satisfying sexual experiences for both men and women. Ultimately, cannabis can help you set the bedroom ablaze.    

Sativa For Your Sweetie  

Some cannabis is more conducive to amorous activities than others. Since cannabis affects everyone uniquely, it can take some experimentation to find which strain brings the sexual healing stronger than Marvin Gaye. In general, people looking for love gravitate toward Sativa products, rather than Indica. Sativa and Sativa-leaning hybrids are known for producing full-body highs and relaxative properties. They also have a reputation for increasing sensitivity during sex and intensifying orgasms.   

Be Loved and Be Safe

Remember, like candy hearts, chocolates, and other Valentine’s Day treats, you can get too much of a good thing. There’s nothing sexy about a marijuana-induced meltdown and you’ll want to save getting super-stoned for a less important occasion. When using any cannabis product, it’s important to remember the mantra, start low and go slow—start with a low dose and slowly increase it to find the desired effect without going overboard. After all, there is no “emergency text” or safe word to end a bad date with Mary Jane. 

How to Celebrate Valentine’s Day With Cannabis and Your Crush 

Cannabis can make you and your partner more amorous, but you don’t have to save the sweet stuff just for the bedroom. Lowering stress and anxiety makes it easier to connect with a long-term partner or open up to a potential new love interest. It can make jokes funnier, food taste better, and help you forget that awful blind date. Below are a few ideas for incorporating your other love—cannabis—into Valentine’s Day.  

Breakfast in Bed 

Valentine’s isn’t the day for the same old wake and bake. Aim to impress by treating your sweetheart to breakfast in bed. After all, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Whip up a batch of homemade cannabutter—or grab some at your local dispensary—and get cooking. A little dab will do in, or on, everything from grab-and-go staples like muffins and scones to favorites like waffles and pancakes. Not exactly a casanova in the kitchen or baked goods beau? No worries, a drop of tincture or cannabis oil can turn almost any dish into a marijuana-infused meal. 

Netflix and Chill 

Crowded restaurants, busy movie theaters, and high expectations can make going out on Valentine’s Day a hassle. One alternative is to stay in and cuddle on the couch with your crush and some cannabis. Create some atmosphere before sitting down to watch a movie on your favorite streaming service by drizzling cannabutter over a freshly popped bowl of popcorn or grabbing an edible that reminds you of your favorite movie theater. 

Wondering what to watch? You can’t go wrong flirting with these weed-friendly romantic comedies:

• Half Baked 

• Outside Providence 

• Knocked Up 

• Newlyweds 

• Mallrats 

Get Outside 

Leaving the house doesn’t require heading to a busy restaurant or show, it can simply mean going outside and getting some fresh air. Grab a pre-roll or your favorite strain and bowl and take your beloved on a hike to a secluded spot and smoke up while surrounded by nature. Walking together isn’t just romantic, walking can create bonds and boost your mood. 

Stay-At-Home Spa 

Those with a desire to treat their special someone to the lap of luxury will want to consider an at-home spa day. There are a variety of cannabis-infused products that can help add some buzz to your spa, ranging from lotions to bath salts. There’s even cannabis lube, which is a surefire way to provide a happy ending to your spa date. 

Love Bud

Cupid is known for his arrows, but cannabis is his secret weapon. Don’t make cannabis a third wheel this Valentine’s Day—rather, find creative ways to incorporate it into the occasion and create a relaxing atmosphere where you and the object of your affection are comfortable sharing everything from your feelings to intimate moments. 

Local dispensaries, like Lowkey Dispensary, are those special someones who can help you fulfill your cannabis desires. Stop by Lowkey Dispensary and work with a budtender for everything from finding the right flower to make cannabutter with, to edibles that stimulate amorous appetites, to topicals that will turn a hot stone massage into a hot stoned massage.

Joints, blunts, bowls, and brownies are staples of old-school cannabis culture. However, walk into your local dispensary today, and you’ll find a wide variety of products. One such product that’s growing in popularity is cannabis tinctures. 

The History of Cannabis Tinctures

It may seem like cannabis tinctures are a new product—especially when compared to standbys like joints and bowls—but, prior to the prohibition of marijuana, they were one of the most common methods for consuming cannabis. Cannabis was added to the United States Pharmacopeia in 1850, was widely used throughout the country as medicine, and was readily available in pharmacies and general stores until the 1937 Marihuana Tax Act effectively banned the sale and use of cannabis.

What is Cannabis Tincture?

Cannabis tinctures are products made by using a solvent—such as alcohol or oil—to extract terpenes and cannabinoids from the plant. The result is a cannabis-infused liquid with varying concentrations of terpenes and cannabinoids. Tinctures are commonly divided into three distinct categories: THC-rich, CBD-rich, or a blend of the two. 

• THC tinctures are popular with weed enthusiasts and produce a psychoactive effect (the “high” often associated with marijuana). THC tinctures are available only in states where cannabis is legal.
  

• CBD tinctures are federally legal, thus more widely available than THC tinctures. CBD tinctures don’t provide psychoactive effects, but can help ease everything from pain to anxiety.
• Blended tinctures are available only in states where cannabis is legal. Blended tinctures deliver a broad effect provided by the presence of multiple cannabinoids. The effect is dictated by the blend—the higher the ratio of THC to CBD, the more psychoactive it is; conversely, the lower the percentage of THC, the less psychoactive the effect. 

The Benefits of Cannabis Tinctures 

There are pros and cons to every cannabis product. Cannabis tinctures have their perks, and the multitude of benefits they provide is a primary reason for the increase of interest in them. 

Tinctures are Convenient 

Cannabis tinctures are small, portable, and discreet—they are nearly indistinguishable from numerous other wellness products and supplements sold in amber-hued bottles. Unlike many other pot products, Cannabis tinctures also do not require any accessories. That’s right, no rolling papers, pipes, or lighters are needed.  

Tinctures are Discreet 

In addition to their discreet packaging, they’re also an inconspicuous way to consume cannabis. They have no distinguishable odor and it’s easy to take a dose without anyone suspecting what you’re up to. Unlike smoking, there is no tell-tale cloud of smoke or stinky scent. 

Tinctures are Easy to Dose 

The majority of tinctures come with a dropper with four markings: 0.25 ml, 0.5 ml, 0.75, and 1 ml. Using the milligrams of THC in the bottle, the number of milligrams per dose, and dose size, you can fairly precisely control how strong of a dose of THC you’re getting.   

Tinctures are Fast Acting 

Tinctures are most commonly taken sublingually. That is, the drop or drops are placed under the tongue where it’s absorbed. Sublingual application allows the THC to enter your bloodstream rapidly, with effects setting in within 10 to 30 minutes. 

Tinctures are Hygienic 

While there’s something special about passing a joint around or sharing a pipe, it’s more than just marijuana you’re sharing, you’re also sharing germs. On the other hand, if handled properly, the droppers used to dispense tinctures never touch anyone’s mouth or hands. 

Tinctures are Smoke-Free 

In addition to calling attention to what you’re doing, some people find smoke irritating, while others prefer to avoid the carcinogens and toxins contained in cannabis smoke. Simply, tinctures provide a smoke-free alternative for cannabis. 

First time Trying Tincture 

Like other cannabis products, the best guideline for trying tinctures is to start low and go slow. The suggested method for finding your ideal dose is called titration and is the practice of slowly upping your dosage to produce the desired effect without going overboard. Most people opt for sublingual consumption, however, there are other ways to consume cannabis tinctures. Some users opt to drop the dose in their mouth and swallow, while others will add tincture to their food or drink. 

A word of caution if you’re swallowing cannabis tinctures or adding them to food or drinks: it can take longer to kick in and the effects can last longer. It can take roughly one to two hours to feel the effects and they can last upwards of six hours. If you’ve taken a dose of tincture either by swallowing or on food or drink, show some patience when waiting for the effects and give it some time before taking another dose. Thinking it’s not working and taking another dose is a common cause of overconsumption. 

Last Toke 

At Lowkey Dispensary, you’ll find the highest quality tinctures to ensure a reliable and positive experience. Lowkey Dispensary offers more than just products, we also deliver expertise. Our budtenders can help you find the right tincture that delivers the desired effect and assist you in calculating the right dose before you head home. Want to try making your own tincture? Let Lowkey provide the flower.

Despite using the smallest amount of weed possible, microdosing has become one of the biggest trends in the cannabis community. Microdosing is the practice of taking minute amounts of marijuana, which allows users to feel the effects of cannabis, but produces minimal psychoactivity (the feeling of being high). This is great for everyone from beginners just getting started with cannabis to seasoned consumers who want to enjoy the effects of weed during the day without it negatively affecting their productivity.

What is Microdosing Cannabis?

As its name implies, microdosing is the use of a small amount of cannabis throughout the day to feel mild and sustained effects. A “standard” dose of THC is 10mg (both Colorado and California public health organizations recognize 10mg as a single serving) while microdoses of marijuana are often as low as 1 mg.

The Benefits of Microdosing

Micordosing appeals to consumers for a variety of reasons.

New cannabis users like to microdose because it makes it easy to follow the maxim “start low and go slow.” Microdosing allows new weed users to find their limits without having an uncomfortable overconsumption experience.

Experienced cannabis users enjoy that microdising allows them to take advantage of the positive effects of weed—such as increased mindfulness, improved awareness, clearer thinking, a more collaborative spirit, and reduced anxiety—without the disruption of getting noticeably high.

Microdosing can also help manage the tolerance levels of new and casual cannabis consumers, while some regular users claim it’s harder to build a tolerance microdosing, since it doesn’t overwhelm the body’s cannabinoid receptors.

How to Get Started Microdosing

Everyone responds differently to marijuana and the optimal dose is unique to each user. It’s generally recommended that those starting microdosing begin by taking a dose between 1mg and 2.5mg, maintaining that dose for three to four days. After a few days, slowly increase the dose by 1mg increments until the desired effects are achieved. Keep in mind that finding the ideal dose involves trial and error, so clear your calendar of anything important when getting started. Also, remember that the goal isn’t to produce a psychoactive effect.

Methods of Microdosing

Everything from flowers to concentrates to edibles can be used for microdosing. That said, some methods are more suitable for microdosing than others.

Edibles for Microdosing

Edibles are far and away the product most commonly used for microdosing. Edibles are easy to transport and discreet, which is handy when consuming cannabis consistently throughout the day. It’s also easy to control dosage when consuming edibles, especially compared to other methods of consuming cannabis. In fact, numerous producers now make low-dose edibles intended specifically for microdosing.

Don’t forget that it can take up to two hours to feel the effect of edibles. If you don’t feel the effects of an edible right away, allow a few hours to pass before taking another dose. It’s easy to overdo it, even when eating low-dose edibles.

Other Methods of Microdosing

Edibles are the go-to product of many microdosers, but there are plenty of other methods for microdosing.

Vape pens are a good alternative to edibles for users looking to microdose, as they are discreet and portable. Some users control the amount they consume by limiting the number of inhalations and sticking to smaller puffs. However, the increasing interest in microdosing has led some manufacturers to create low-dose vapes that are ideal for microdosing.

Cannabis-infused beverages are similar to edibles (albeit not as inconspicuous) and make it very easy to control the amount of THC going into your system. Also like edibles, a number of manufacturers offer low-dose products for the microdosing market.

Flower is difficult to get a small, consistent dose with, but a chillum or one-hitter—and some practice—can make it possible. That said, flower is a better option for more experienced pot smokers.

Tinctures are absorbed sublingually—under the tongue—and are another inconspicuous and convenient way to microdose. Tinctures are generally high in THC, however, which can make finding the right dosage tricky.

A Dose of Lowkey Dispensary

If you’re interested in trying microdosing, visit us at Lowkey Dispensary or start your shopping experience online. Our budtenders can help you find the right cannabis product for you and the right potency for your needs. More than just microdoses, Lowkey carries everything from super-strong strains to low-dose edibles, along with all the accessories required by cannabis connoisseurs.