You can get a decent night’s sleep with a CBD pillow spray. THC’s natural substitute, cannabidiol oil, is a processed cannabinoid. A good spray will be a few inches from the pillow’s surface. Using the spray from a distance will allow a higher CBD concentration while holding it closer to the pillow will deliver a lower dose. After spraying the pillow, leave it for about three minutes. It will allow the CBD to absorb the pillow and ensure it doesn’t smell too strong. It will also bring back the relaxing effects of your CBD-infused pillow.
Processed cannabinoid
Cannabidiol is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid produced from cannabis plants. This substance has numerous uses and is widely used as a medicine for various conditions. It is made through the decarboxylation of plant material, which involves heating the plant to activate the chemical compounds that are present in it. These chemicals are then extracted from the plant using a solvent. The solvent used for the extraction process can be innocuous or hazardous, depending on the type of cannabinoid produced. The final product is usually stored in a cool, dry area.
In addition to treating symptoms in humans, cannabinoids may help reduce symptoms of certain diseases, including cancer. But some cancers may respond more rapidly to cannabinoids than to traditional therapies. For this reason, doctors must use great care when prescribing cannabidiol to patients with cancer.
Natural alternative to THC
As a natural alternative to THC, cbd pillow spray has several benefits. First, CBD is a non-psychoactive compound in cannabis and has been shown to reduce insomnia symptoms better than delta-9 THC, the active component in marijuana that produces the psychoactive effect. Insomnia is associated with circadian rhythm disorder, which affects the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. This disorder can develop due to physical or mental ailments or age-related changes in sleep patterns.
It improves sleep
CBD pillow spray has a soothing scent and helps people fall asleep. It contains less than 0.3 percent THC, so you won’t get high while you sleep. It can also reduce stress and anxiety. The mist can be applied to your pillow before going to bed. Unlike other forms of CBD, this spray doesn’t leave a taste or a dizzy feeling.
CBD has produced some encouraging outcomes in terms of lowering anxiety and restlessness. Additionally, it can reduce discomfort and enhance the quality of sleep. CBD and a relaxing sage aroma are combined to create CBD pillow sprays. It has a natural cotton cover.
It is melatonin-free
If you have chronic insomnia, CBD can help you sleep. Research shows that 70% of Americans experience insufficient sleep at least once a month, with as many as 11% experiencing it every night. In addition, between 50 and 70 million people in the U.S. suffer from sleep disorders, which is likely to rise as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to sweep the country. For millions of people, this disrupts their sleep schedule and leads to high anxiety and stress. CBD could be the solution to this problem.
Melatonin regulates the circadian rhythm. It peaks at about 2 or 3 a.m. when used in supplement form; it can help people fall asleep and stay asleep longer. However, its effects depend on the dosage, and higher doses can make you drowsy.
It is easy to use
Before using CBD pillow spray, you need to choose the right brand. Review customer reviews to determine whether a product works. Spray CBD directly or on the pillowcase for convenience. Ensure to shake the bottle well before spraying.
CBD pillow sprays contain low amounts of THC and thus are safe for use during sleep. In addition, they are easy to apply and do not cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. The sprays are often infused with additional ingredients to help prevent allergic reactions. It is always better to buy a pure product than any other product.
Before using solventless, it’s essential to talk to your doctor. The use of solvents may increase your risk of developing a medical condition. Consult with a pharmacist before using this product. Also, make sure to discuss its benefits with your physician.
Vape cartridges produced without the use of solvents
Unlike traditional cannabis vapes, solventless vape cartridges do not undergo any chemical extraction. This means that the terpene content is not degraded, allowing you to get the maximum effect from your cannabis vape pen. Soluble vape cartridges are made with high-quality cannabis flowers. They do not contain flower rosin, which does not work in California solventless vape cartridges. Soluble vape cartridges also do not contain any THCA, which is terrible for the health of the vape pen.
However, this method does come with its own set of potential risks. The wax in rosin can be problematic, as it hinders the vaporization of the substance. It also interferes with the proper functioning of the heating element, making the cartridge prone to clogging.
Cannabinoids and terpenes extracted from the flower
A solventless extraction is a process for extracting the cannabinoids and terpene content of the flower without using solvents. The process also preserves the terpenoid and cannabinoid profile of the flower. The results are neutral or acid-like compounds. The extraction is not harmful to human health. Regardless of the method used, cannabis concentrates are made from the accumulation of trichomes, which contain terpenes and cannabinoids. Different extraction methods produce different concentrations; some strip out all compounds, while others leave the full spectrum of compounds intact. The type of cannabis extractor used in a solventless extraction method is also essential. When using solventless extractions, talk to your physician about possible side effects. For example, if you have diabetes, you should consult your physician before using a solventless extraction method. However, cannabis oil and other products made from cannabis oil are not harmful to human health.
Health benefits
Solventless concentrates are a healthier alternative to traditionally smoked cannabis. Instead of harmful solvents, they only contain cannabinoids and terpenes in the cannabis material. These concentrates taste better and have a smoother smoke than traditionally smoked cannabis. Solventless cannabis concentrates are also a better option for people with sensitive lungs. Solventless cannabis concentrates can be made using a rosin press or other marijuana-related equipment. It’s a natural alternative that won’t harm your lungs. You can press your favorite strain and enjoy the health benefits of solventless concentrates without worrying about chemical composition. Solventless extraction is also a safer workplace for extraction workers. The absence of flammable solvents means fewer safety precautions and health regulations. The solventless extraction process can be less complex but requires different temperature control than other extraction methods. Solventless extraction facilities may need large amounts of ice or cold water. In some cases, specialized water service companies may also be necessary.
Legality
Solventless cannabis extracts are becoming more popular and commercially viable thanks to various new technologies. These methods utilize heat, pressure, ice, and water to extract the cannabis plant without using solvents. The result is a high-purity and potency product without the risk of contaminants and residue. Health-conscious consumers are increasingly choosing solventless products. The solventless process has numerous benefits, including preserving the plant’s natural expression. Because it does not involve chemical substances, solventless products are legal and contain no residual solvent. Furthermore, solventless products undergo rigorous testing to ensure no chemicals or solvents in the product. In short, using solventless concentrates is the safest way to ensure that the cannabis you’re ingesting is free of chemicals.
Today brings us to the third and final review of Mirth Provisions’ beverages, and while parting is such sweet sorrow, sometimes the best are saved for last! In this review, I’ll be sharing my experiences with the Sparkling Pomegranate beverage, yet another from the Legal sub-brand. But there’s a slight twist in this particular beverage that threw me for a loop: this is a virgin tonic. I’ve been reviewing quite a few THC drinkables in the past few reviews and this THC-free beverage is something I’ve not yet had the pleasure of trying. If you’re unfamiliar with what cannabis is and are curious how drinkable THC works, I’ll briefly overview these topics before getting to the actual product review. If you’re looking for a smooth and refreshing flavor to kick back and relax after a long day, the Sparkling Pomegranate Virgin Beverage from Mirth Provisions might be just the thing to quench your thirst and delight your taste buds!
Cannabis: A Brief Overview
The cannabis plant, scientifically known as cannabis genus, is actually the mother plant of both marijuana and hemp. The only way to distinguish the two is that hemp contains 0.3% THC while marijuana contains significantly more. The number 0.3% doesn’t have any special significance but was randomly decided as a way to differentiate between the two. The compounds found in the cannabis plant are called cannabinoids. When cannabinoids are derived from federally legal hemp, they are considered federally legal in accordance with the 2018 Farm Bill. It might sound ridiculous, but if those same cannabinoids are derived from marijuana, they are deemed as illegal and may land you in legal trouble if you are caught possessing or consuming them. Many states have legalized the recreational and medicinal use of marijuana while others are still staunchly resisting the use of the seven-tipped plant. Others have legalized the use of hemp but have banned certain cannabinoids like Delta-8 THC, HHC, and others, citing that the chemical extraction required to make them viable is enough to be classified as controlled substances.
When it comes to marijuana, there are three strains: indica, sativa, and hybrid. Indica is a deeply sedating strain that can leave you feeling “locked in da couch” whereas sativa is a more uplifting and clairvoyant strain that is commonly used during the day. Hybrid strains are a combination of the two but can lean towards either sativa- or indica-dominant. Depending on how you prefer the effects of your high, you should pay close attention to the strain used in the cannabinoid-infused product you select. There are many types of products available, the most common being edibles like gummies, soft-baked goods, and capsules or inhalables like pre-rolls, flower, and vape cartridges. Yet there’s a new product that’s starting to gain traction in the industry: drinkable THC!
Drinkable THC: What Is It?
Simply put, drinkable THC is a beverage that has been enhanced with THC. Since THC is an age restricted compound, you’ll have to be 21+ in order to purchase and consume any cannabis-infused product. Here at CBD Origin, I’ve reviewed lemonades, sodas, seltzers, and other beverages that all have various flavors and dosages of THC. Some of these products have recommended dosages based on their THC content while others leave the dosage amount solely up to the consumer. You’ll want to start off slowly with your dosages until you have had a chance to see how your body reacts to that specific amount of THC. First time users may enjoy a mere 5mg whereas intermediate and more advanced users may prefer 10mg or more. Remember that you can always start off slowly and increase your dosage over time, but there’s no way to reverse the effects of consuming too much THC in a single sitting.
If THC isn’t your thing but you’d still like to harness the healing properties of the cannabis plant, don’t despair… you still have options! As mentioned earlier, hemp is the derivative of cannabis that contains less than 0.3% THC. The cannabinoid found in greatest abundance is CBD, which will not cause any psychoactive effects and comes in a variety of forms. There are many options when it comes to CBD-infused beverages and many come with other non-psychoactive cannabinoids like CBG, CBN, and more. Yet there’s another option that isn’t widely available but hopefully that will change in the very near future: virgin THC beverages. Virgin THC beverages are similar to CBD but differ in that while marijuana was used, the THC content has been completely removed. You’ll still be able to enjoy all the health benefits of the marijuana plant without any fear of getting the psychoactive effects. Which brings us to our product review of the day. I give you…the Pomegranate Sparkling Beverage from Mirth Provisions!
Mirth Provisions: The Story Behind The Brand
Based on their catch phrase “pursue happiness”, Mirth Provisions emerged to help people find joy in the little things. According to the Oxford Dictionary, the word “mirth” means “amusement, especially as expressed in laughter.” The name is rather fitting when you consider that one of the main side effects of marijuana is an enhanced sense of humor. Mirth Provisions seeks to give you an uplifted mood and calming relaxation with each and every one of their products. In fact, the brand actually branched off into four unique sub-brands: Giant, Swift, Medicinal, and Legal. Feel free to check out the first three brands at your leisure, but today I’ll be focusing on the Legal brand.
The Legal sub-brand by Mirth Provisions features five exquisite flavors: Rainier Cherry, Lemon Ginger, Cranberry, Espresso Mocha, and the star of today’s review, Pomegranate. Since all of these flavors are crafted with cannabis, you’ll only be able to purchase them in-store. The Mirth Provisions website has a store locator tool called “Find Mirth” that lets you enter your zip code to find the store nearest you. The majority of these stores are located on the West Coast, so you might have a bit of a drive depending on where you live. I’ll be reviewing the Pomegranate sparkling beverage but with one slight twist: it’s a virgin cannabis beverage. I wasn’t able to find a direct link for this specific variation, but it’s possible that Mirth Provisions hasn’t had a chance to officially list this product on their company site. Until then, keep reading to learn about my first-ever experience with Mirth Provision’s Virgin Pomegranate Sparkling beverage!
I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing two incredible THC-enhanced beverages from the Mirth Provisions Brand: the Lemon Ginger and Blackberry Lemonade, both equally intriguing in their flavors and effects. Yet there’s a third beverage I’ll be reviewing today from this brand: the virgin Pomegranate sparkling beverage. That’s right, there is absolutely no THC in this particular flavor. You might be asking yourself, “What’s the point of a cannabis-infused beverage if you can’t get high?” It’s true, there doesn’t seem to be much of a point of a THC drinkable that lacks, well, THC. But consider this…there’s alcohol-free beer, isn’t there? And what about sugar-free soda? Both of these beverages have a key ingredient removed in order to satisfy a niche group of people. Virgin THC beverages work exactly the same way; you’ll still be gleaning all the benefits of the cannabis plant and other ingredients used in this beverage but won’t be subjected to any intoxicating effects.
Just like Mirth Provisions’ Lemon Ginger beverage, the THC-free Pomegranate Sparkling beverage came in a darkly stained glass bottle with a gold cap that had to be removed with a bottle opener. Since there wasn’t any THC in this beverage, I took the liberty of pouring the contents of the entire bottle into my glass. The liquid was a deep reddish brown and had a very light carbonation that fizzed while pouring. The scent carried a rich fruity sweetness that surprised me and I was eager to see what this virgin THC beverage tasted like. I tentatively brought the beverage to my lips and took my first sip.
The Initial Consumption
As many consumers know, there are several words that attempt to describe the carbonation levels. The carbonation levels in seltzers and sodas are usually quite aggressive whereas sparkling water and drinks are significantly softer. The latter is how the carbonation of the Pomegranate beverage felt. The bubbles were very faint and it was more of a light tickling in the back of my throat. I’m not a huge fan of carbonated beverages so the light bubbles were perfect for me.
As far as the pomegranate flavor itself, it was quite smooth and flavorful. I was reminded of a popular pomegranate beverage sold in oddly shaped bottles, but the flavor wasn’t quite as tart. Interestingly enough, I also detected a bit of an apple flavor and immediately consulted the ingredients list. Sure enough, apple is listed as the fourth ingredient! I’ll be going over the details of the product packaging in the next section but I was delighted to be able to taste two delicious fruit flavors in the same sip and just had to share.
I prefer to pre-chill my beverages and the cold sensation was wonderfully refreshing on my palate. I could easily see myself downing an entire bottle of this with an evening meal or all on its own. I finished the entire glass easily within five minutes and did not feel any psychoactive effects. I was very pleased that there was no cannabis flavor while drinking the beverage nor any harsh bitterness as an aftertaste. I also did not notice any coating on my tongue and teeth; had it not been for the bold mention of “cannabis-infused beverage” on the label, I would have thought it was a regular carbonated fruit juice! While I would have loved to sample the full THC version, the virgin variation was flavorful and satisfying. 10/10 would try again!
Product Packaging
The Virgin Pomegranate Sparkling beverage would have looked identical to the one depicted on the Mirth Provisions website, save for a large white label on the back that boldly proclaimed “Virgin Tonic. Contains NO THC.” The front of the label had the word “Legal” in fancy script and was accented by the brand logo and was marked as a “Sativa” blend. Two icons on the front warned that this is an age-restrictive product and is not suitable for kids to drink. The right side showed a brief blurb about the flavor and confirmed that real pomegranate juice and cannabis extract were used in its creation. The left side showed the full ingredients list as well as customary warnings about the intoxicating effects of their full THC variety. If you care to leave a review about how you enjoyed the product, there’s a special website that you can visit to share your thoughts, as well as the company’s official name and product’s batch number.
There are two things that I would change about the product packaging: first of all, having to use a bottle opener to open the bottle was quite frustrating. Not only do you have to own a bottle opener (or some other tool to open it) but the bottle cannot be resealed. Unless you plan on drinking the entire contents in one sitting, this seems to be problematic for first-time consumers who only want a small amount. Which brings me to my second issue: there is no recommended consumption amount. Since this is a virgin THC beverage, this wasn’t an issue, but I’ve noticed this theme with other Legal beverages from the Mirth Provisions brand. Perhaps it’s intentional to let the user figure out how much to consume, but it would have been nice to see how many servings are in a bottle and how many servings to consume in a single session. Aside from that, the product packaging was crisp, professionally designed, and contained all the necessary information for curious users who like to know what they’re consuming.
Conclusion
Mirth Provisions may have missed the mark when it came to the other two flavors I reviewed, but I was blown away by the crisp and refreshing flavor found in the Pomegranate Virgin beverage. The pomegranate flavor was smooth and sweet with the perfect balance of tartness. The apple flavor really came through at the end and gave a lovely sweetness to mellow out the tartness of the pomegranate. The carbonation was perfect for me, as I’m not a huge fan of the harsh bubbles from sodas and seltzers, and the gentle tickling in the back of my throat was wonderfully pleasant. While I didn’t experience any effects due to this being a virgin beverage, I am extremely curious to see how the flavor would differ had this been infused with the full 100mg THC content. I heartily enjoyed this premium flavor and can easily recommend it for consumption by itself or enjoyed with a meal. If you’re looking to experience the benefits of the cannabis plant but aren’t quite ready to commit to the hard-hitting high, the Virgin Sparkling Pomegranate Beverage from Mirth Provisions might just be for you!
If you’ve had the opportunity to sample any of the products from the Mirth Provisions’ lineup, whether it be the Legal beverages or one of their many other goods, I invite you to share your experiences in the comments below! Cannabis is quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with in terms of medicinal and recreational use. Rather than selecting a product blindly and hoping for the best, you have the option to read in-depth product reviews that offer a chance to know the product before you buy it. If you have any suggestions on what brands or product to try next, feel free to reach out to us! Here at CBD Origin, we’re always looking for reputable brands to brag about and products that consumers of all levels can enjoy. Be sure to check back soon for more reviews on products found throughout the country. Until we meet again!
The perception of marijuana is changing rapidly as more states acknowledge and push for the legalization of both medicinal and recreational use. As its legalization expands, you’ll start to see more marijuana products pop up throughout the country. One category of marijuana products is rapidly growing in popularity: drinkable THC! Sodas, lemonade, tonics, and more are becoming available and can be enjoyed with a meal or on their own. In today’s product review, I’ll be checking out the Mango Tropical Storm beverage by Green Revolution. This potent blend features a 20:1 ratio of CBD to THC, and I’m curious how this unique combination plays out in a cannabis-infused drink. But first, a word about what cannabis is and what exactly THC drinkables are. Join me on my journey through this new category and ultimately decide if this form of cannabis is right for you!
What Is Cannabis, Exactly?
While many people equate cannabis to marijuana, cannabis is actually the mother plant of both marijuana and hemp. Marijuana contains a substantial amount of Delta-9 THC (more than 0.3% THC), the cannabinoid responsible for getting the user high but is currently going through a fierce legal debate for both medicinal and recreational use. Hemp, on the other hand, contains only trace amounts of THC (0.3% or less) and is considered legal on a federal level. Hemp-derived cannabinoids contain psychoactive and non-psychoactive cannabinoids, some of which you may already be familiar with (CBD and Delta-8 THC are the most famous).
Marijuana is categorized into three types, also called strains: indica (known for its deeply sedating effects), sativa (popular for its uplifting and creative effects), and hybrid (a combination of the two). These strains are incorporated into a variety of products that are either edible or inhalable. Yet there’s a new type of product on the market that might just be the middle ground you’ve been searching for: drinkable THC!
Drinkable THC: The Cannabis Product You’ve Been Waiting For
Both edibles and inhalables have their own unique pros and cons. Edibles take longer to kick in but the high can last for hours. Edibles are also more tasty to consume, usually in a soft and chewy gummy or a decadent home-baked treat. In contrast, inhalables kick in almost instantly (usually 5 minutes at most) but the high is short-lived and fades away after about an hour or two. Inhalables also have a bit of a learning curve, meaning you’ll have to have some prior knowledge of smoking/vaping and different inhalation techniques.
And then there’s THC’s newest category: drinkables. Drinkable THC is unique in that it can replace ordinary beverages that can help mask the bitter flavor of marijuana. Some are carbonated, some are fruit-flavored, but the end result is always the same…it gets you high! Drinkable THC (along with other marijuana-infused products) is usually limited to states that have legalized the recreational use of marijuana within that state, meaning you won’t be able to purchase this type of product online. If you’re fortunate to live in a state that sells cannabis-enhanced beverages, your experience with THC is about to get a lot more enjoyable!
The Green Revolution Brand
In the spirit of revolting against the negative connotation surrounding marijuana, The Green Revolution brand offers both CBD and THC products. But there is a catch; in order to even view the THC products, you’ll have to select either Washington or California. THC products from the Green Revolution Brand (and any brand that carries marijuana-infused products) are not available for sale online. After a moment of deliberation, I selected the Washington option. It took the site a few seconds to load, but the products available were beautifully displayed with professional photos and calming pastel colors. There is a “Order Pickup” for consumers to place an order at a location nearby (just enter the zip code).
I clicked on the “Products” tab and selected “Cannabis Drinks” from the drop-down tab. Rather than just displaying rows of cannabis drinks, a full-blown informative section was displayed that included what cannabis drinks are, their benefits, consumption advice, and reasons to use them. I quickly skimmed this section and continued scrolling until I found what I was looking for: the Wildside beverages option. There are seven flavors available, each with a small icon in the top right hand corner that denotes if the effects are “Chill”, “Relief”, “Fly”, or “Elevate.” Depending on the type of high you desire, these little icons can help you decide which flavor to choose. I encourage you to explore the site in its entirety, but for now I’ll focus on the flavor of today’s review: the Mango Tropical Storm. This particular beverage has a 20:1 CBD:THC ratio. Since the bottle size I’ll be reviewing is a 17oz, this means that the 200mg CBD + 10mg THC + 10mg CBG. There are two different strength options for this flavor, so be sure to read the label carefully before completing your purchase. The Mango Storm CBD option I’ll be reviewing today is marketed for “Relief” and has the lower of the two THC strengths. I”m excited to see what this option tastes and feels like, so let’s jump into the full-blown review of this intriguing cannabis-infused beverage!
Wildside Mango Tropical Storm Product Review
I’ve always been a fan of tropical flavors, especially mango. I was excited to see how this fruit inclusion would translate in a cannabis-enhanced beverage. In a previous review I did on Ray’s Strawberry Lemonade, there was almost no detectable flavor of bitter marijuana. I was hoping for the same with Green Revolution’s WIldside Mango and eagerly tore off the plastic seal and unscrewed the plastic cap. I held the bottle to my nose and was overjoyed to smell a rich ripe mango scent. I would liken the overall scent as mango with a hint of apricot and tropical fruit salad. I noted the markings on the side of the bottle and poured out a third of the bottle into my waiting glass, slightly more than the recommended dosage. The color of the beverage was surprisingly light with a milky white hue. A very light froth from the carbonation settled quickly and my mouth began to water in anticipation. I brought the beverage to my lips and after a moment of savoring the fruity scent, I took my first sip.
The Initial Consumption
Whatever expectations I had when smelling the drink were instantly dashed upon my initial consumption. While the carbonation was mild, the flavor was immediately unpleasant and had me instantly reaching for a bottle of water to rid my mouth of the taste. The mango flavor was light in the beginning but was quickly overshadowed by the strong and bitter flavor of the weed. In fact, the taste of marijuana was extremely similar to how it smells when smoked. There was a bitter aftertaste that intensified rapidly and lingered on my teeth and tongue after swallowing. I was glad to finally finish the small portion and immediately had to brush my teeth to rid my mouth of any traces of the offending flavor. I made a mental note of the time and settled in to await the effects.
After about an hour, I only felt slightly buzzed. There was a very light dizziness coupled with a faint tingling that was relaxing and pleasant. My eyes didn’t feel droopy or heavy and I felt remarkably awake and alert. I had a very light dry mouth which was quickly pacified with a few sips of water, and let me tell you, water never tasted so good! I felt warm and relaxed but not an overwhelming heady high that left me feeling locked to my couch or mind-numbingly hazy. Overall, it was an extremely light high that felt like it could have been stronger but was limited due to the low amount of THC consumed. I went to bed feeling a little disappointed in the high but promised I would take more the following evening.
The Second Attempt
When I was ready for my second attempt the following night, I decided to read the label a bit more carefully. This is where I discovered that instead of 10mg of THC per serving, there was 10mg of THC in the entire bottle! That meant that only drinking a third of the bottle in my initial consumption, I had only taken 3mg of THC in total. No wonder the high hadn’t been as strong as I wanted! Sighing at my mistake, I poured out the remaining liquid into my glass. According to the bottle’s serving chart on the label, there was about 7mg of THC remaining. I decided to add some ice to the liquid to see if it tasted better chilled. The flavor was a bit more bearable when it was cold, but there was still a very bitter weed flavor that masked almost all of the tropical mango flavor. I downed the liquid as quickly as I could to get it over with and immediately rinsed my mouth with water. Since the effects started to kick in the previous night after about an hour, I knew I had some time to wait.
The high took a bit longer this time, perhaps because of my previous THC consumption the previous night. I started to feel something after about an hour but it was noticeably (and thankfully) stronger. I experienced waves in the high where it seemed to be getting stronger but would always settle into a comfortable and relaxed state. There was a light tingling in my hands, arms, and face and my eyelids felt slightly droopy but not enough to make me want to close them completely. I noticed that I felt warm and slightly drowsy, but not so much that I was unable to focus or wanted to retire to my bed. There was a noticeable tickling in my chest and throat that made me feel a bit itchy (almost like a mild allergic reaction) and I found myself coughing sporadically. I felt a bit dizzy and disoriented, as if the room was spinning. Yet this was quite pleasurable and I noticed a hazy cloud descend upon my senses. I experienced a delightful enhancement to my sense of touch and taste. The high seemed to peak at the 90 minute mark and I felt incredibly warm and relaxed. The familiar sensation of a weighted blanket descended upon me and I was comfortably drowsy and peaceful. It felt almost like I was sleeping with my eyes open, and time seemed to slow down. After about 3 hours, I managed to break out of the couch lock long enough to make it to my bed. I drifted off to sleep almost immediately and was able to sleep soundly throughout the night. Upon waking, I did not feel any lingering effects or need to shake off the mental cobwebs of the night before. Overall, I was much more satisfied with the effects of the second attempt compared to the low THC amount of the first attempt.
Product Packaging & Lab Testing
Green Revolution’s Wildside Mango Tropical Storm came in a tall slim 17oz bottle that would have been clear if not for the label that wrapped around it. The label was decorated beautifully with freshly cut mangos, a bright red portion that effectively sealed the cap, and a green stripe that cut across the whole bottle to distinguish it as a “relief” type of beverage (side note: I noticed that on the company website this same stripe was purple for “chill”, blue for “elevate”, and yellow for “fly”).
The label was covered in small badges that showed it was not intended for children, only for consumers 21+, contained CBD, and two different badges stating that the effects were nano and fast acting. The bottom of the label (the part I misread) stated that the CBD: THC ratio was 20:1, contained 10 servings in the 17oz bottle, and had a total cannabinoid content of 200mg of CBD, 10mg of THC, and 10mg of CBG. Directly to the right of this was a clear stripe down the label with small markings that displayed the numbered servings ( 1 servings, 2 servings, 3 servings, etc.). A lengthy nutrition facts label was placed next to the serving chart along with a detailed ingredients list. The company’s social media platforms and company website was listed directly below this along with recycling instructions and a badge stating the beverage was GMO free.
The left of the bottle contained a direct copy-and-paste description from the company website of the product description. A little text box beneath this section showed information that I had completely overlooked in my initial consumption: how much of each cannabinoid was in each serving. There were two cautionary warnings not to operate motor vehicles and that the effects may take up to 2 hours to fully kick in. Lastly, there was a sticker placed directly on the bottle that had a QR for scanning the lab results, a manufacture date, a best by date, and even the extraction method (ethanol)! The amount of information on the label was shocking and I only wish I had taken the time to read it more thoroughly before taking my initial sip!
Conclusion
Green Revolution’s Wildside Mango Tropical Storm was a rollercoaster ride from start to finish. I was so excited to try the flavor based on the initial scent but was brutally disappointed with the intense bitterness (both from the first sip and the linger aftertaste) from the weed, despite having a low THC content. My initial high was very smooth but not at all what I was hoping for since I’d rushed through reading the bottle and ultimately only consumed 3mg of THC. The second attempt was much better with 7mg of THC, and the high was smooth and deeply relaxing, just what I needed after a long day. I was delighted to experience the rich euphoria and sedating effects from the second consumption.
While I can only assume that consuming the entire bottle of 10mg may have been more intense, I’m thankful to have experienced both ends of the spectrum with a very light high from 3mg versus an intense high with just 7mg. If you can make it past the unpleasant flavor of mango mixed with incredibly bitter weed, I’m confident you’ll enjoy the effects as much as I did. Despite this flavor not meeting my expectations, I can only wonder what the other flavors taste like (especially the Summer Peach and Pink Grapefruit!) and I look forward to trying more from the Green Revolution Brand.
My next product review will be returning to the Mirth Provisions brand, once again from the Legal subbrand: the Blackberry Lemonade! I don’t see this flavor listed on the Mirth Provisions website, so perhaps we’ll be getting a first glimpse or a final look at a discontinued flavor. But regardless of why it’s not listed, I’m excited to sample this fruit and lemonade flavored beverage and experience the effects in all its glory. I hope you’ll join me as I continue to explore the multitude of brands that carry THC drinkables and other exciting cannabinoid-enhanced products. Until we meet again!
Ahhh cannabis. One of the most controversial topics throughout history; it’s been villainized as a gateway drug or praised for its healing properties. Lawmakers throughout the country are shifting views on the legality of the cannabis plant, and many states have approved it for both recreational and medicinal use. This radical change has sparked the creation of all sorts of cannabis-infused products, ranging from familiar favorites like baked goods and gummies to the more traditional form of joints and pre-rolls. Yet there’s a new category of weed products that is disrupting the industry and I’m excited to share it with you: THC drinkables! Meet the Blackberry Lemonade by Legal, a sub brand of the Mirth Provisions company. As an avid lover of lemonade, I look forward to whetting my whistle on a tall glass of this refreshing beverage. But before I launch right into the details of this cannabis-enhanced drink, I’ll briefly go over a few misconceptions about marijuana, go into a bit of detail about drinkable THC, and do a quick overview of the Mirth Provisions and Legal brands. If you’re ready to swap out your ordinary lemonade for some mirthy goodness, you’re in for a real treat!
What Is Cannabis, Exactly?
For many, the term “cannabis” is a broad term that basically means weed. But what many people don’t realize is that cannabis is actually the mother plant of both hemp and marijuana. The distinction lies in the amount of THC found in both plants: if the plant contains 0.3% THC or less, it’s called “hemp” whereas anything above that amount is called weed. In 2018, a bill known as the Farm Bill or Agricultural Act was passed that changed the cannabis world in a big way. A clause in the bill stated that hemp and its compounds (called cannabinoids) would be legal on a federal level, provided that it does not exceed a maximum amount of 0.3% THC. The market for cannabinoid-infused products exploded, allowing compounds like Delta-8 THC, Delta-10 THC, HHC, and THC-O to become available for sale and consumption. Lawmakers in various states began to implement their own legislation regarding the legality of hemp and its cannabinoids within that state. As such, you should always consult your state’s laws before trying to purchase or consume any cannabinoid-enhanced product. If you’re lucky enough to live in a state that allows both marijuana and hemp plants to be bought and sold, you’ll have unfettered access to a myriad of products that are sure to bring you to new heights. Now that the preliminary stuff is covered, it’s time to tackle this fascinating category of cannabis-infused products. I give you…THC Drinkables!
Drinkable THC: The New Kid On The Block
The applications for drinkable THC are plentiful: replacing your alcoholic beverage with a cannabis-infused one, enjoying it with a meal after a long day, treating yourself to a fast-acting high with a flavor that masks the bitter taste of cannabis, and lastly, eliminating unwanted coughing fits. Drinkable THC also offers an in-between option between inhalables and edibles. The effects of inhalables activate within mere minutes, but you’ll most likely go through some unpleasantries like coughing fits, skunky odor that fills the room, not an option for people who don’t vape/smoke. Edibles, on the other hand, come in a variety of shapes, flavors, and strengths and are ideal for those with a sweet tooth or those who have little to no experience with THC. Yet the effects of edibles are often delayed and can take anywhere from 45-90 minutes to kick in. Once they do, the high can linger for several hours and may even transfer over to the following morning. Beverages enhanced with THC offer a middle ground of sorts as they deliver a fast-acting high that lasts for several hours and are available in lemonades, sparkling beverages, seltzer waters, and so much more. Keep in mind that just like alcoholic beverages, cannabis-infused beverages are only sold to persons 21+ years and are not available for purchase online.
What To Expect When Consuming THC Drinkables
Regardless if you’re a seasoned THC user or a timid newbie, it’s crucial to start off with small doses. This can be especially difficult if the product you’re consuming tastes absolutely incredible. Most companies will list a recommended dosage by either marking suggested servings on the label or stating how much should be consumed in plain text. Others will simply list the total THC content of the bottle and leave you to calculate how much to consume. Every individual’s tolerance levels will vary, meaning it will take some trial and error (and lots of patience!) to pinpoint your ideal dose. First time users might prefer a 5mg dosage while more intermediate users prefer anywhere from 10-20mg. Remember you can always take more after you’ve waited an appropriate amount of time (usually two hours) but you might be in for a rocky road if you consume more THC than your body can handle. Debilitating effects such as extreme drowsiness, increased paranoia and anxiety, and others can make for a highly unpleasant high. Some of the more pleasurable effects include a dreamy euphoria, full-body high (tingling in your extremities), heightened sense of taste and touch, and sharper focus and creativity. Some THC drinkables will have several cannabinoids mixed in to deliver what’s believed to be an “entourage effect” where your body can derive multiple benefits from multiple cannabinoids. One such drinkable THC product was the subject of my last review, the Green Revolution Wildside Mango Tropical Storm beverage. I encourage you to check that out if you haven’t already done so, but right now it’s time to check out Mirth Provisions and their unique Blackberry Lemonade THC-Infused Beverage!
The Mirth Provisions & Legal Brand
With the daily stresses of adulthood and working hard throughout the day, sometimes you need something to lift your spirits and help you find mirth in the situations of life. That special something is found in Mirth Provisions, a brand so dedicated to happiness that they named their entire company around it. The word “mirth” is an archaic one but it literally means “amusement, especially as expressed in laughter” as defined by the Oxford Dictionary.
To help you “pursue happiness” (proclaimed as their motto), Mirth Provisions offers four distinct sub-brands: Giant, Swift, Medicinal, and the one I’ll be reviewing today, Legal. In their proclamation to “pursue happiness”, Mirth Provisions. I encourage you to check out the first three of these sub-brands, but today I’ll be focusing on the Legal brand. You won’t be able to purchase any of the Mirth Provisions products online, but thanks to the handy “Find Mirth” tool on the company website, you can locate the retailers closest to you. Almost all of the retailers are located on the West Coast, so you might have to take a road trip if you’re curious to sample these beverages and products for yourself!
In my last review of the Mirth Provisions brand, I reviewed the Lemon Ginger Cannabis beverage. This particular flavor was quickly located on their company website, but when it comes to the Blackberry Lemonade flavor, I could not find it. I was extremely puzzled why all of the other flavors had their own product picture and description, yet the Blackberry Lemonade flavor was mysteriously absent. I was able to locate the flavor as part of a web browser search, but am perplexed why the Mirth Provisions website does not show it. I will gladly update this review if and when I find out why, but until then, my knowledge will be based off of the bottle’s label and the product review itself. Speaking of which, it’s time for our first look at the Blackberry Lemonade Cannabis Infused Beverage by Mirth Provisions’ Legal lineup!
The bottle that housed Mirth Provisions’ Blackberry Lemonade was sealed with a gold cap that required a bottle opener to pry off, so I implore you not to use your teeth or keys if you can help it. Similar to the Lemon Ginger beverage, there was no recommended dosage listed on the label. I did some quick math to determine that since there was 100mg of THC in the entire bottle, I should only drink about one-third of the contents for an approximate 30mg serving. I used a ⅓ cup to pour out some of the beverage into my waiting glass and was surprised to see a dark murky red liquid splash into the glass. I was even more surprised when I held the glass to my nose to judge the scent. The musky scent was exactly what you’d expect of a lemonade beverage blended with a high weed content, and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little concerned. Nevertheless, I brought the glass to my lips and prepared to take my first sip.
The Initial Consumption
Upon tasting the Blackberry Lemonade for the first time, I had an extremely adverse reaction to it. The flavor was difficult to pinpoint exactly but tasted strongly of something tart and slightly unripe. The unpleasant flavor tasted NOTHING like the sweet blackberry and tart lemonade goodness I had envisioned; rather, it was tart and sharply sour with a heavy bitterness of weed at the end. There was a noticeable coating that remained on my tongue and teeth and I tasted the flavor of weed at the very back of my throat. The carbonation was so little that I would have forgotten had it not been for the light foaming when it was poured and the light tickling on my tongue. With all my dabblings in cannabis, I have learned that enjoying the beverage pre-chilled rather than adding ice or consuming at room temperature aids in the overall enjoyment. Unfortunately, having the beverage pre-chilled did nothing to mask the harshly unpleasant flavor. I nursed the drink for about five minutes, willing myself to finish the entire poured amount. I was relieved when the last drops were finally gone and immediately went to brush my teeth and rinse with cold water. I made a mental note of the time and busied myself with other tasks as I waited for the effects to kick in.
Overall Effects
What this THC-enhanced beverage lacked in flavor was quickly forgiven by how quickly the effects kicked in. I began to feel slightly buzzed after about half an hour and was surprised to notice that my eyelids felt noticeably heavier. I felt the high intensify after about 45 minutes and I descended into the warm euphoria I had been yearning for. I experienced an intense couch lock and a sensation of a weighted blanket settled comfortably upon my whole body. Time seemed to slow down and I felt as if my entire body was vibrating with a delicious tingling, particularly in my hands, face, mouth, and feet. I had some trouble focusing on particular tasks but I did notice that my creativity levels were much higher. I experienced dry mouth and found enormous enjoyment from long gulps of water. Watching TV became a wonderment as my sense of humor had increased and kept launching me into fits of giggles. The effects of the high lasted for several hours, occasionally bordering on too much, but I was able to successfully quell any paranoia or discomfort that threatened to pop up. I finally retired to bed and fell asleep almost instantly, where I slept soundly through the night. Despite the incredible effects in the evening, I was a bit surprised to feel some of the effects still lingering. The “hangover high” as I like to call it, wasn’t anything debilitating or impossible to deal with but more like a slight dizziness. The mental cobwebs eventually disappeared after about an hour and I was able to successfully begin my day.
Product Packaging
The first thing that I noticed about the Blackberry Lemonade was how different the label is compared to the other products listed on the website. The Mirth Provisions website displays the bottles as darkly stained bottles with a modern-style label that appears professional and well-designed. In comparison, the Blackberry Lemonade label, although housed in a darkly stained glass bottle, was quite plain as it sported a tan label with simple lettering and a small image of a blackberry on the side, so I’m not quite sure if this is a brand new flavor that’s just been launched or one that was recently discontinued.
I noticed several similarities in the label that allows me to safely assume that at some point, Mirth Provisions did indeed craft this beverage. The label itself says “Legal” and has the Mirth Provisions website on the back. The beverage is clearly labeled as a hybrid strain and utilizes all-natural ingredients. The same design style for both the age restriction and inclusion of cannabis was used in the small logos on the front. On the back of the label, you can view the full list of ingredients, warnings not to operate motor vehicles, and to keep out of reach of children. Based on my previous experience with the Legal beverages of Mirth Provisions, I wasn’t surprised with the absence of any markings, recommended dosages, or how many servings were in the bottle. Yet there was some sort of wholesome appeal as the bottle was simple and quiet, something I’d expect to find in an all-natural foods store.
Conclusion
Mirth Provisions Blackberry Lemonade gave me quite a few mixed emotions. On one hand, I was a bit annoyed to not find this particular flavor listed on the company website but somehow available on random sites that popped up in a browser search. Upon consuming the beverage, I was completely turned off by the flavor. There is nothing remotely blackberry or lemonade about this scent or flavor and the carbonation was so light it’s almost not worth mentioning. But its redeeming qualities lies solely in the effects. The high was magnificent and the effects began extraordinarily fast. A mere thirty minutes had passed and I was already noticing some telltale signs like droopy eyes and a light mental haziness. The effects intensified and gave me immense pleasure as the high progressed. I loved the rich euphoria that allowed me to fully relax and bask in the smoothness of the high. There was a bit of anxiety as I began to prepare for bed but I was able to successfully fall asleep within minutes of going to bed. There was a slight hangover high upon the following morning but it was not debilitating nor did it linger for more than an hour.
This THC-infused beverage gave me quite a powerful high that I wasn’t expecting to enjoy so much. If you have a chance to try this unique flavor from Mirth Provisions, I implore you to share your experience in the comments below! I’m curious what others think about the flavor and effects and I’d love to hear from you! In my next review, I’ll be returning to the Mirth Provisions brand once again, but with a twist that even I wasn’t prepared for: a “virgin” version of the Sparkling Pomegranate beverage. That’s right, there is NO THC in this variety of the Legal flavors. If you’re looking to harness the power of cannabis without subjecting yourself to the heady effects of THC, I invite you to join me once again as I review countless brands and products throughout the U.S. Hope to see you again soon!
In a world where the legality of cannabis continues to change, sometimes you need to laugh a little and just enjoy the ride. Today’s product review promises to make that ride a tad more enjoyable with the delicious high that kicks in surprisingly quickly…say hello to the Lemon Ginger Lemonade from Mirth Provision’s Legal lineup! Now before you wrinkle your nose at the mention of ginger (like I did), remember that ginger is a strong flavor and when paired with a tart citrus like lemon, it may help mask the bitter taste of the cannabis. Only one way to find out! But before diving headfirst into this refreshing carbonated beverage, let’s review what cannabis and drinkable THC is.
Cannabis, Simplified
You’ve no doubt heard the word “cannabis” many times, probably more frequently as cannabis continues to become legalized. But many people confuse the term as simply another word for marijuana. If you’re one of those people, you’re partially right! Cannabis is actually the mother plant of both marijuana and hemp. Experts determined that the term “marijuana” would refer to cannabis that contained more than 0.3% THC while “hemp” would define cannabis that contained 0.3% THC or less. If this number seems random, that’s because it is! There is no specific reason why 0.3% was chosen, but it has been the determining factor for quite some time now and has proven to be effective.
When it comes to marijuana, there are three categories to choose from: sativa, indica, and hybrid. These categories are often referred to as “strains.” A sativa strain is usually uplifting and energetic, sparks creativity and focus, and is popular for daytime use. Indica strains are easily remembered by the phrase “in da couch” because of the deeply sedating effects that help you relax at the end of the day. Hybrid is a mix of both sativa and indica but will usually have a more dominant strain to make it sativa-dominant or indica-dominant. Some strains have unique names like Maui Wowie, Jack Herer, Granddaddy Purple, Strawberry Cough, and so forth. These specific strains usually have a distinct flavor and smell that allow them to be instantly recognized and heartily enjoyed. Regardless of which one you choose, it’s always good to know whether you’re consuming a sativa, indica, or hybrid strain and thus know which effects to expect.
Drinkable THC: The New Cannabis Product On The Market
For most of us, we’re fairly familiar with the most common types of marijuana products: edibles and inhalables. Edibles come in the form of gummies or homemade baked goods whereas inhalables are hand-rolled joints and pre-rolls. New forms of cannabis-infused products are popping up every day, but the one form that has taken the market by form is known as drinkable THC. These cannabis-infused beverages come in all sorts of forms and flavors that include sweet sodas, bubby seltzers, and of course, refreshing lemonades! The flavor of the beverages serves two purposes: one to mask the bitter flavor of the marijuana and the other to activate quickly since it’s technically a consumable. The key difference is how the THC-infused beverage is digested.
With inhalables, the marijuana bypasses the digestive system and is absorbed directly into the bloodstream via the lungs. The reaction time is extremely quick, taking about five minutes to kick in but only lasting for an hour or two. With edibles, the digestive system breaks down the food and only then can the THC be processed into the bloodstream. Edibles tend to have a lengthy start time (usually with 30-90 minutes) but the high lasts for several hours and the effects can even extend to the next day. Drinkable THC is sort of a middle ground. While it still must be processed by the digestion system, the THC in the liquid is processed much more quickly. The effects usually kick in after about half an hour and can last for several hours. Win-win, right? Now that you’ve got a better grasp on how drinkable THC works, let’s check out the parent company of today’s product review. I give you…the Legal brand from the Mirth Provisions company!
The Mirth Provisions & Legal Brand
According to the Oxford Dictionary, the word “mirth” means “amusement, especially as expressed in laughter.” One of the most notable side effects of marijuana is an uplifted mood, particularly with an increase in sense of humor and giggling fits. Mirth Provisions promises to do just that with their motto “Pursue happiness.” The brand splits off into four unique categories: Legal (the star of today’s review), Giant, Swift, and Medicinal. I’ll let you explore those last three on your own, but right now I’d like to briefly touch on the Legal brand.
Remember how I said that marijuana comes in three distinct strains of indica, savita, or hybrid? The Legal brand specifies which strain is incorporated into each of their five flavors. The Rainier Cherry is a hybrid blend, Espresso Mocha and Pomegranate are both sativa blends, Cranberry features a blend of both THC and CBD, and last but not least, Lemon Ginger is an indica blend. While you won’t find Mirth Provisions or any of their sub-brands for sale online, the site offers a handy “Find Mirth” tool on their site that allows you to enter your zip code and find a brick-and-mortar retailer near you. The majority of the retailers are located on the West Coast, so you’ll have to take a road trip in order to sample this unique brand. I have a few of their flavors up my writing sleeve, so if you’re curious to see what each flavor tastes like as well as the effects, keep on reading to experience the effects right along with me! In today’s product review, I’ll be sampling the Lemon Ginger Lemonade and sharing all of its indica glory in the next few paragraphs. Let’s begin!
I noticed in the product picture on the Mirth Provisions website that each bottle has an old-school bottle cap that seems to require a bottle opener in order to open. The one I received had a convenient screw-off cap that allows the bottle to be resealed once opened. I admired the label for a few seconds but quickly realized there wasn’t any recommended serving size or markings on the label. I was a bit surprised to not see any instructions or information on how much should be consumed in a single sitting. I did a bit of quick math and decided that since there’s 100mg of cannabis in the entire bottle, a tenth would equal about 10mg so I’d need about 3/10s of the bottle to reach my desired effects. I grabbed a ⅓ cup from my baking drawer and carefully poured some of the bottle’s contents into the small cup. I then poured the contents into a tall clear glass to observe the color, carbonation, and scent.
Even while I was pouring, I could smell the rich citrus and ginger scent right away. The liquid was a very light yellow with a slight brown tinge to it, no doubt from the lemon and ginger ingredients. Now, I like my drinks chilled in order to avoid ice cubes melting and diluting the flavor, but feel free to drink this beverage however you like. There wasn’t any foaming or erratic bubbling, but more of a quiet and unassuming beverage. I brought the glass to my lips and took my first sip. My taste buds were immediately treated to the tart tangy flavor of the lemon but I could also taste the unmistakable flavor of ginger. Both of these strong flavors were very effective in masking the initial taste of the marijuana, but I definitely noticed a slightly unpleasant bitterness towards the end of the glass. There was a very light aftertaste that was somewhat bitter but not overwhelming to the point where I had to set the glass down. In fact, the flavor was extremely flavorful and refreshing to drink. The label advertises that it’s a carbonated beverage, but nowhere near as intense as the carbonation in soda or seltzer. I polished off the drink in less than five minutes and was sorely disappointed when my rationed serving had been fully downed. I made a mental note of the time and busied myself with small tasks to await the effects.
The Effects!
I started to feel a light buzz just before the half hour mark. After thirty minutes had passed, I started noticing some tell-tale signs that the high was beginning. My mouth got noticeably more cotton-mouthed and I sipped on freshly chilled water with great gusto. Due to the dry mouth, my tongue felt dry and sandpaper and clung to the roof of my mouth. I began to feel very relaxed and heavy, like a weighted blanket had been thrown on me and I had no desire to push it off. I noticed a heavy tingling in my face, arms, and stomach. I absolutely didn’t want to move from my position on the couch and found it difficult to prod myself into getting up at all. My eyelids began to droop so heavily that I had difficulty in keeping them fully open. Time seemed to slow down and I was shocked to see it had only been an hour since the high had started, as I felt like the high had been ongoing for much longer than that.
I began to feel drowsy and was drawn to my bed with the promise of sweet sleep awaiting me. I felt a sense of peace and calm, and was warm and comfortable throughout the high. My sense of touch was heightened, and the cool pillow felt like heaven on my face. I checked my eyes in the mirror after about an hour and was surprised to notice that despite being fully high, there was no redness at all. I enjoyed the high for several hours until the need for sleep fully overwhelmed me and I fell asleep very quickly. I awoke the next morning feeling refreshed and well-rested, with no lingering effects or mental cobwebs to battle through. Considering that the high had lasted for several hours, I was very happy that there was no hindrance in my morning routine.
Product Packaging
The Lemon Ginger Sparkling beverage that I received varied slightly from what was displayed on the company website. I didn’t see any indication on the product packaging that showed it contained an indica strain, but this was clearly stated on the website. The bottle was a very large glass bottle that was tinted darkly, making it impossible to see the color of the liquid but still see-through enough that I could see how much was remaining in the bottle. The front of the label displayed the Mirth logo as well as the sub-brand Legal. There were a few disclaimers on the front stating that this product is cannabis-infused, contains THC, and thus has age restrictions.
The back of the label contained a full list of ingredients as well as warnings not to drive or operate machinery. One thing I would have liked to see was some sort of consumption instructions, such as how much to consume for a full dosage. The label also didn’t display any sort of labeling to show how many servings were in a single bottle and how much THC was in that single serving. I was able to figure it out using basic math, but it would have been nice for the company to include this as well. Not a dealbreaker by any means, but it would have been easier for first-time users to know rather than guessing blindly and consuming too much. Lastly, I loved the bottle cap redesign. The bottle displayed on the brand website requires a bottle opener to pop off and is not resealable, meaning you’ll have to transfer any remaining liquid to a different container to prevent the carbonation from going flat. The one I received had a twist off plastic cap that made resealing the bottle extremely simple.
Conclusion
I was not expecting to enjoy the Lemon Ginger sparkling beverage as much as I did. Ginger is a bit of a personal preference, but I believe it was absolutely necessary in this particular flavor. The lemon was sharp and tart and the ginger helped to mask any noticeable bitterness in the flavor. The carbonation was light and refreshing and was easy to sip comfortably. The effects kicked in shockingly quickly after about half an hour and lasted for several hours. I felt warm and relaxed throughout the entire high, and at no point did I feel overwhelmed or experience increased uneasiness. I was able to fall asleep quickly and enjoyed a refreshing slumber until I awoke the next morning. The effects of the high did not overlap into the next morning and I was delighted to not have to battle any mental cobwebs while starting my day. I had a few issues with the label itself and listed some of my suggestions to improve the label, but aside from these personal preferences, the Lemon Ginger Cannabis-Infused beverage from Legal (Mirth Provision) was a fantastic form of drinkable THC and I look forward to trying more from this incredible lineup.
Have you tried any of the exquisite flavors from the MIrth Provisions lineup? If you have, be sure to share your experiences in the comments below! In my next review, I’ll be taking a break from the Mirth Provisions brand (but don’t worry, this brand will be making a reappearance very shortly!). This time I’ll be checking out the Wildside Mango Tropical Storm THC-Enhanced Beverage from Green Revolution. With a 20:1 CBD:THC ratio, I’m excited to see how this flavor tastes, hits, and delivers. Hopefully you’ll join me again soon as I explore the various cannabis and hemp-infused products from retailers across the country!
Root beer is often an acquired taste; you either love it or hate it. Those who love it drink it with ice, add a few dollops of ice cream to make a root beer float, or even make their own (seriously, the Amish in Pennsylvania are famous for theirs). Those who hate it avoid it like the plague, citing the weird flavor and heavy molasses aroma as being too much to handle. While I don’t outright hate it, my feelings toward root beer are mostly nostalgic. Growing up, I had it excitedly pushed upon me as a real treat that 1) tasted unlike any other beverage I’d previously tried, and 2) would send my taste buds into a delighted frenzy. For me, root beer is a carbonated beverage that holds fond memories of my childhood, and that, not the flavor, is why I lean more toward loving it rather than hating it. When I received the THC-infused version, I was curious to see how my adult self would react to the tender flavor I remembered from decades ago. Join me as I delve into the Root Beer Cannabis Soda by Blaze in all its glory!
Setting The Record Straight About Cannabis
When you hear the word “cannabis,” your mind probably goes straight to the villainized seven-tipped leaf that brings a psychoactive high once consumed. Yet cannabis is actually the mother plant of both hemp and marijuana, known as cannabis genus. The differentiation of hemp versus marijuana lies in the total THC content. If the plant contains 0.3% THC or less, it is referred to as hemp, whereas marijuana has a considerably higher THC content. The 2018 Farm Bill ruled that as long as a cannabis-infused product contains 0.3% THC or less, it is deemed federally legal. While many states accepted this ruling and incorporated it into their own legislation, other states created their own laws regarding the consumption of any hemp-derived cannabinoid. You’ll need to check your local laws before attempting to purchase or consume any cannabinoid-infused product.
The word “cannabinoid” refers to any of the 100+ known compounds found naturally in the hemp plant. There are even some cannabinoids that are synthetically created from existing cannabinoids. Some of the most popular cannabinoids are CBD, Delta-8 THC, and Delta-9 THC. When derived from hemp, these cannabinoids are legal on a federal level. The opposite is true when the cannabinoids are derived from marijuana, despite being the same exact cannabinoids. This might seem ridiculous, but this is how the law defines it. If you live in a state that has already legalized the sale of recreational marijuana, you may have already seen a variety of marijuana products in dispensaries and smoke shops, ranging from gummies and baked goods to packets of ground-up flower ready for use in a bowl or bong. But there’s one category of marijuana products that is quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with: drinkable THC.
Drinkable THC: The New Kid On The Block
The market for drinkable THC is incredible and offers a variety of popular beverages that promise to delight your taste buds. Similar to alcoholic beverages, these THC-infused beverages are restricted to adults 21+ and usually to the state in which they’re manufactured. For example, the Ever Green Herbal company (the parent company of Blaze) is located in Washington State. You’ll have to purchase your THC-infused beverage in a brick-and-mortar establishment as opposed to simply ordering online, but many companies (including Ever Green Herbal) offer a Store Locator option on their website to help you find a store near you.
Drinkable THC products include lemonade, sodas, tonics, and other flavored beverages. Some brands will include other cannabinoids like CBD to further enhance the cannabinoid content. Depending on the THC content, you may not even taste the cannabis flavor and will be tempted to down the entire bottle. Some manufacturers will list the recommended dosage right on the product packaging while others will show a chart of the recommended “serving size.” It’s important to read the bottle’s label before cracking open the bottle, as consuming too much THC can have extremely unsettling side effects (i.e., extreme drowsiness, heightened paranoia/anxiety, difficulty sleeping, etc.) that may result in a roller coaster high. Try starting off with a low amount, such as 10 mg, and work your way up from there. Once you have a better grasp on how your body reacts to this amount, you can increase your dosage until you find your sweet spot. Blaze’s Cannabis-Infused Root Beer Soda contains 10mg of THC, so I’ll be drinking the entire bottle and reviewing its effects. Before I relay my experiences with this drinkable THC, I’d like to briefly recap the Ever Green Herbal brand and highlight some of the other flavors they offer in case you find yourself in a retailer that sells them.
The Blaze (Ever Green Herbal) Brand
I recently reviewed one of Blaze’s Orange CreamPie Soda in a previous review and was delighted with both the sweet creamsicle flavor and the deeply relaxing effects. Yet the site also offers a sprawling selection of cannabis-infused products ranging from chocolates, mints, beverages, energy shots, and more. The site features a “Where To Buy” tab that allows you to enter your zip code and tailor the results to stores near you. Since the site doesn’t offer an online ordering option, this feature is especially handy for those not willing to spend hours hunting down a store that sells these tasty treats.
The Blaze brand falls under the Ever Green Herbal brand which is found in the Beverages tab on the brand website. Blaze offers a mouthwatering selection of eight flavors, featuring cheeky names like Dr. Robert’s Wild Cherry and Wild Mountain Honey. If you’re looking to enhance your favorite flavors with a touch of cannabis and are located in the Evergreen State, the Blaze brand has got you covered!
While you won’t be able to purchase any of these flavors online, you can view pertinent information like potency levels, nutrition information, size options, and a full ingredients list. Blaze also offers a recommended serving size right in the product description, a helpful option for newbies or inexperienced THC consumers. I prefer my beverages chilled rather than diluting the flavor with ice, but feel free to enjoy these sodas however you like. Now that I’ve covered the basics of both the Ever Green Herbal and Blaze brands, it’s time to check out this long-awaited review of their cannabis-enhanced root beer soda!
Root Beer Cannabis Soda Product Review
The origins of root beer stem from the sassafras root, used for its rich flavoring. Unfortunately, sassafras has been banned by both the FDA and the European Commission of Health due to the chemical safrole being classified as carcinogenic. Safrole is still found in cinnamon, black pepper, and nutmeg, but the amounts are most likely low enough to not cause concern. Manufacturers have found other ways to imitate the sassafras flavor by using safrole-free sassafras and similar-tasting root beer extracts.
I spent a few minutes looking up various ingredients in Blaze’s Root Beer soda to see which extract was used in the flavoring. While I was able to successfully identify Quillaja Saponaria as the foaming agent, the actual root beer flavoring is a bit vague, listing only “natural flavoring” and caramel color in their ingredients list. Rather than deterring me, this ambiguity left me more curious to see how this flavor tasted and smelled compared to my childhood memories. I twisted off the white cap and held the bottle to my nose. My nostrils were warmly welcomed by a rich and frothy scent that sent me spiraling into a giddy nostalgia. I wasted no time pouring the beverage into my waiting glass and was delighted to see a rich foamy head form as I poured. The contents of the bottle filled up only half of my glass and I admired the rich brown color once the foam had settled. Since the recommended serving size is an entire bottle, I savored the rich scent for a few more seconds before taking my first sip.
My eyes closed in pleasure as the unmistakable taste of root beer washed over my taste buds. The smooth carbonation was delightful on my tongue and I found myself wishing for a few hearty scoops of vanilla ice cream to create a root beer float. There was no discernable taste of hemp nor was there any unpleasant bitterness from the cannabis. Had I not known beforehand that this was a cannabis-infused beverage, I would have sworn that this was a regular root beer soda. Due to the strong root beer flavor, it took me several minutes to polish off my half-glass. Yet the flavor was rich and refreshing and I heartily enjoyed every sip. I did notice a slight coating on my teeth and tongue, but this could have been from either the cannabis or the sugar. I made a mental note of the time and made myself comfortable while waiting for the effects to kick in.
The Effects
After about half an hour, I started to feel my eyelids growing heavy and a light dizziness whenever I turned my head too quickly. These are the tells that the high is starting and I knew that it wouldn’t be long until the full effects of the high kicked. Once the 45-minute mark passed, the high began to intensify and I reveled in the deeply relaxing effects. I felt warm and slightly drowsy, and it became difficult to keep my eyelids fully open.I basked in the warm and weighted sensation that settled upon me, similar to what a weight blanket feels like. A gentle tingling sensation ran throughout my body but was most noticeable in my face, hands, stomach, and feet. Watching TV proved to be fascinating and overly enjoyable as my sense of humor skyrocketed and I launched into fits of giggles quite frequently. My mouth started to feel a bit dry and a pronounced sense of couch-lock kicked in, leaving me feeling lethargic as time seemed to slow down. I suddenly found myself craving something sweet and was able to break free of the couch lock long enough to find something to satisfy my munchies. After snacking on a variety of sweets in my kitchen and fridge, my lethargy and drowsiness finally coaxed me to retire to bed. Before passing out completely, I passed by a mirror and got a bit of a shock that my sclera (whites of my eyes) were noticeably reddened. “Weed eyes” are a common side effect of marijuana that I had forgotten about, so don’t be alarmed if this happens to you as well. After inspecting my eyes a bit further, I finally made my way to bed and fell asleep almost instantly. I had been high for about 2 hours at this point and I’m sure the high would have lasted much longer had I been able to withstand the drowsiness. Yet I awoke feeling refreshed and well-rested without any “hangover high” hindering my morning.
Product Packaging
The product packaging for the Blaze Root Beer was nearly identical to the Orange CreamPie Soda I’d reviewed a few weeks ago. The glass bottle was wrapped completely in a plastic wrapper that differed only in its brown color and flavor name. I was once again reminded of the somewhat misleading bottle shape that inverted inwards on the bottom to make it seem like the bottle was a standard 8-12oz size. Since I had experience with the bottle design already, I was not surprised that the contents of the bottle only filled my glass halfway.
I was also reminded of the playful carnival-like design with the spiral font and bright orange and brown colors. The front of the label stated the flavor name (Root Beer), total THC content (10mg), and age restrictions (21+). The right side of the label listed a detailed nutritional panel and full ingredients list, complete with a batch number, QR code, and manufacture date listed directly above. I tried scanning the QR code but all that popped up was the batch number, which my smartphone mistakenly identified as a phone number. I would have preferred the QR code to redirect me to the company website, but perhaps the QR code is for internal use or wasn’t fully functional just yet.
Lastly, the left side of the label had a clear strip from top to bottom that showed how many milligrams of THC were left inside the bottle. I’ve seen this before as a way to gauge serving sizes without pourting the bottle’s contents blindly into a glass, but since the serving size was a full bottle, this seemed a bit redundant. This side of the bottle also listed the legal disclaimers, required warnings, and consumption suggestions. I appreciated the amount of information listed on the label and I’m sure new and experienced users alike will as well.
Conclusion
Despite my misgivings about consuming a root beer soda (again, I enjoy it for the nostalgia, not so much the taste), I was delighted by Blaze’s rendition of a cannabis-infused soda. The flavor and foamy head were exactly as I remembered a root beer soda should be. The effects were quick to begin and lasted for several hours, leaving me feeling incredibly warm and relaxed. I wasn’t that surprised to not taste any cannabis flavor due to how strong a root beer flavor usually is. Aside from the bottle shape being a bit misleading and the fact that these sodas are limited to sale within Washington State, I had no complaints about this deliciously refreshing THC drinkable. If you have a craving for a root beer float with a kick of THC, I strongly encourage you to check out the Root Beer Cannabis Soda by Blaze!
My next product review continues this trend of cannabis-infused beverages, but this time with a slight twist: I’ll be reviewing a virgin tonic (read: no THC) in the form of the Sparkling Pomegranate by Legal from the Mirth Provisions company. I’m a huge fan of pomegranate, either in fresh fruit or flavored products, and I’m curious to see how this translates in a sparkling beverage. I look forward to sharing my experiences with this and other fascinating cannabinoid-infused products from brands across the country. Be sure to check back soon and as always, feel free to leave a comment below to share your experiences with the rest of us. I’ll see you on the flip side!
The once villainized cannabis plant has brought forth a rich assortment of cannabinoids that have been popularized as a safer and more enjoyable way to get high. Best of all, these cannabinoids are legal! When derived from federally legal hemp, these cannabinoids can be infused into all sorts of delightful products including inhalables, edibles, and even drinkables! Delta-8 THC is one of these cannabinoids and has quickly become a force to be reckoned with in the cannabinoid industry. Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, the market is chock-full of enticing product types that can easily fit any user’s preference ranging from the pickiest palate to the lowest budget.
Today I’ll be reviewing the Chill Plus CBD Delta-8 THC Poppin Gel Capsules – 400X from the Diamond CBD brand. I’ve encountered this brand before when I reviewed their Chill Plus Delta-8 THC Gummies a few months ago. I was delighted then and hopefully I’ll be delighted with this particular product as well. But before reviewing the product, I’ll start off with a brief recap on what Delta-8 THC and what to expect while enjoying its heady effects. If you’re already familiar with this psychoactive cannabinoid, feel free to skim down to the Diamond CBD brand overview. Let’s begin!
Delta-8 THC: A Brief Overview
There’s a bit of confusion surrounding the cannabis plant that I’d like to clarify. Cannabis is not just another name for marijuana. It’s actually the mother plant, known as cannabis genus. There is actually no scientific differentiation between cannabis and hemp. The actual difference was created many years ago and it was decided that hemp would be the name for any plant containing 0.3% THC or less. Anything more would be referred to as marijuana. This is why you won’t feel any effects when smoking or consuming raw hemp. Cannabinoids, on the other hand, are the naturally occurring (and sometimes synthetic) compounds found within the cannabis plant. When cannabinoids are derived from hemp, they are considered federally legal in accordance with the 2018 Farm Bill. The same exact cannabinoids derived from marijuana are illegal, despite being the same compounds. It might seem silly at first, but this is how the law dictates it.
Delta-8 THC is often referred to as “diet” or “lite” weed, as the effects are indeed quite potent, just not as incapacitating as traditional marijuana. Many users who have been scarred by marijuana prefer the less intense high and enjoy the cannabinoid safely since it is federally legal. While marijuana is becoming legal for use both medicinally and recreationally, some users do not care for the skunky odor and debilitating effects, thus creating an entire market for the less-intense Delta-8 THC cannabinoid. Delta-8 THC is thought to be the middle ground between the non-psychoactive CBD cannabinoid and the overwhelming Delta-9 THC cannabinoid (the active compound in weed). Instead of sacrificing the high to glean the health benefits of the hemp plant, now you can enjoy both, all while remaining clear-headed and in control! If you’re curious to learn more about how Delta-8 THC works naturally with your body’s endocannabinoid system, I encourage you to check out some of my previous articles: How Does Delta-8 THC Affect the ECS, What Using Delta-8 THC Feels Like The First Time, Guide to Delta-8 THC Products on the Market, and A Simple Guide To How Is Delta-8 THC Made.
What To Expect On Your Delta-8 THC High
This is a tricky question to answer because your high will depend on several factors unique to you. Your age, weight, gender, metabolism, previous exposure to THC, and other factors all play a role in how high you’ll feel, how long the effects will last, and how much of a dosage you should consume. That last one is often tricky, so you’ll have to be patient and play around with the dosages a bit before finding your sweet spot. A good rule of thumb is to start off with 5-15mg of a particular product. Once you’re comfortable with that dosage, you can increase it to 15-25mg. Anything stronger than 30mg is considered a high dose and may cause potentially negative side effects if you’re not prepared for it. I’ve had the unfortunate experience of consuming 50mg in a single sitting and was overwhelmed with extreme paranoia, sleeplessness, racing mind, and trouble falling asleep. If you do end up consuming too much Delta-8 THC in a single sitting, the most important thing to do is to remain calm. Keep in mind that these effects won’t last forever. Try snuggling with a pillow, family pet, or loved one to help soothe your uneasiness. Be sure to stay hydrated, as you will most likely experience some dry mouth. Once you’ve taken more Delta-8 THC than you can handle, you will definitely remember the amount NOT to take. Remember that it’s not a race to find your perfect dosage; play around with it and have fun. Getting high is the reward for finding the dosage that’s best for you.
Delta-8 THC comes in a truly astonishing assortment of products, and the market keeps growing every day. Edibles like gummies and softgels are often the first choice for new users, as they are easy to dose and there’s usually no discernible flavor of hemp. Sublinguals are also a popular choice, usually in the form of tinctures or oral strips that go under your tongue for a few seconds before swallowing. Inhalables are the most advanced form of Delta-8 THC consumption and are best enjoyed by vapers and smokers who already have some knowledge of vapor inhalation. Regardless of which method you choose to consume, there will usually be a recommended dosage listed by the manufacturer. Gummies range from a half to a whole gummy, tinctures usually have graduated droppers for precise dosing, and inhalables are usually 1-3 puffs. Once you get a better idea of your ideal dosage, you can figure out how much more or less of the recommended dosage to consume.
The Diamond CBD Brand
Diamond CBD stocks an impressive selection of cannabinoids in a sprawling selection of products, ranging from familiar favorites like disposables, vape carts, gummies, capsules. Their more exclusive items feature Delta-8 THC-infused products like baked goods, chocolate bars, hard candies, and others. Rather than eliminate CBD completely from their catalog, Diamond CBD rebranded their CBD + Delta-8 THC collection as the Chill Plus Delta-8 THC line. Their catalog is categorized by product type or by mood, both of which are helpful for new users. The site is overflowing with information about commonly asked questions, stunning product pictures, colorful graphics, and so much more.
The site also features a mind-boggling number of 10,000+ verified customer reviews, which makes sense once you realize the sheer volume of products and brands that the Diamond CBD brand carries. The prices for their products vary depending on the strength and quantity of the product sold, but the site offers a 30% discount for their subscription service and additional discounts for signing up for their newsletter, free shipping, and buy one get one deals for specific products. I strongly encourage you to spend some time browsing the site at your leisure, but right now I’ll be focusing on the Chill Plus Delta Force Capsules.
These Popping Gel Capsules come in six different strength options, starting off at a mere 400mg (20 capsules featuring 10mg of Delta-8 THC + 10mg of CBD per capsule) for $26.99 and scaling all the way up to a whopping 3500mg (100 capsules featuring 25mg of Delta-8 THC + 10mg of CBD per capsule) for $143.00. These potent softgels, along with everything else on the site, have Lab Reports images posted directly into the product’s description. These pictures seemed a tad more difficult to view compared to traditional PDFs, but I was more surprised to see lab results from two different labs. Since lab testing is both expensive and time-consuming, it was reassuring to see how dedicated Diamond CBD is to both purity and potency. I could go on and on about the prowess and professionalism of the company’s website, but I’ll leave that up to you. Right now it’s time to check out these unique Chill Plus CBD Delta-8 THC Poppin Gel Capsules – 400X from Diamond CBD!
Chill Plus Delta-8 THC Popping Gel Capsules Product Review
I realize that capsules aren’t usually a user’s first-choice when it comes to cannabinoid consumption. Psychoactive edibles in the form of gummies have quite a bit of appeal due to the use of bright colors, familiar shapes, and enticing flavors. Capsules, on the other hand, don’t offer much to be desired at first glance. But consider this: if you’re not a fan of the bitter hemp aftertaste from some products, don’t really like sugary sweets, or prefer a product type that’s quick and effective, capsules were designed with you in mind.
The Chill Plus Delta-8 THC Popping Gel Capsules came packaged in what looked like a prescription pill bottle, complete with the tinted orange plastic, white child-proof cap, and a product label that looks nearly identical to the pharmaceutical design. I’ll go into more detail about the product packaging in the next few paragraphs, but what instantly caught my attention was the color of these capsules. Most capsules are clear to show the light yellow oil within; yet these capsules were a vibrant robin’s egg blue color. The capsule was very squishy and soft, so I don’t recommend squeezing them out of fear of it rupturing. The size was
about the same as an Advil Liqui-Gel and very smooth to the touch. I rolled it between my thumb and forefinger for a moment, then popped it into my mouth. After some deliberation, I decided to take two. Since there’s 10mg of Delta-8 THC and 10mg of CBD in each capsule, I wanted to stay as close to my sweet spot dosage of 25mg as possible. The capsules were easy to swallow and did not leave any aftertaste or filmy aftertaste on my teeth and tongue. I quickly made a quick note of the time and waited for the effects to kick in.
The Effects!
I began to feel a light buzz after about 45 minutes. The high gradually intensified after about an hour, leaving me feeling very warm and relaxed. My eyelids began to feel very heavy and I struggled a bit trying to keep them fully open. While I didn’t experience any dry mouth, there was a slight dryness in the back of my throat that had me taking continuous sips of water. I began to feel somewhat drowsy but surprisingly was able to summon more energy to finish tasks I had started before experiencing the heady effects of the high. While there was a noticeable mental haziness, I was still able to form coherent thoughts and recall memories with ease.
As the high progressed, the haziness increased to the point where I got slightly dizzy. I felt a moderate couch lock, almost like a weighted blanket was keeping me firmly in place. I enjoyed a warm euphoria that kept me feeling extremely relaxed and very comfortable. I felt a gentle tingling in my feet, hands, face, and arms that allowed me to enjoy a heightened sense of touch. The high peaked around the 90 minute mark but was still going strong after two hours. I finally retired to my bed after two hours and was able to fall asleep almost instantly. When I awoke the next morning, I didn’t feel any of the lingering effects or grogginess. I actually felt energized and refreshed, fully ready to tackle whatever the day had in store.
I actually ended up trying just a single capsule to see how the effects would be, but it felt more like a microdose with very minimal effects. The high was almost non-existent and there wasn’t much of more than a light mental fog during the high. If you’re looking for a light motivation or gentle day use, one capsule will definitely be enough to consume. But for a deeply relaxing and euphoric high, I was extremely happy with a two-capsule dosage.
Diamond CBD General Information
Lab Testing
When it comes to lab testing, Diamond CBD doesn’t mess around. Despite their huge volume of products, the company has multiple test results from various independent third-party labs. If you’re already on a product page and want to view the results for that specific product, Diamond CBD lists those results directly on the product’s page. If you’re curious about other products or have a batch number to find that particular lab report, their CBD Lab Reports section of the site allows you to enter either the batch number or product name. Lastly, you can also view the product’s lab results by scanning the QR code listed directly on the product’s packaging.
Lab testing from independent third-party labs is time-consuming and expensive. It was quite impressive to see all the lab results listed in such an organized fashion and even more impressive that multiple labs were used. While the FDA doesn’t mandate that cannabinoid-infused products be tested, these tests are an excellent way to build consumer confidence and trust. Yet there are some unethical companies who seek to benefit from the time and money spent on these tests by pirating the results and doctoring them to seem authentic. If you ever have questions or doubt the validity of these test results, you should reach out to the lab directly. Once you provide the batch number and product in question, you should be able to safely confirm that the results are indeed accurate.
Hemp Information
Diamond CBD prides themselves on using some of the finest hemp available. Their hemp is grown on farms throughout the United States is both organic and non-GMO. Diamond CBD doesn’t disclose the location of these farms or offer any detailed information about their extraction process, but does state that the entire process of growing, extracting, and manufacturing is carefully overseen. Their “FAQ” section urges consumers to support brands that use CO2 extraction over dangerous solvents, but it did seem a bit odd that their own extraction process was not detailed. I realize this information isn’t the deciding factor when selecting a cannabinoid-centric brand, but it’s always encouraging to read about where and how these products are created.
Product Packaging
I briefly mentioned the product packaging earlier as looking very similar to a prescription bottle. I’ve tried to rationalize the product packaging as something that would deter underage users from consuming it or as something that would discreetly fit in with actual prescription medicine in a medicine cabinet or purse, but the truth is that I don’t like it. Some states actually prohibit the marketing of Delta-8 THC as medicine for certain mental or physical disorders, and the packaging for this product goes against all of that. I feel that the product packaging suggests that the user is either taking or abusing prescription medicine and sets a bad precedent for softgels as a viable Delta-8 THC product.
The label even goes so far as to have the word “Diamond” written in script to mimic a doctor’s handwriting. The print is extremely small which makes it difficult to read and a small sticker on the label looks very similar to a pharmacy’s price tag. The entire design just rubs me the wrong way and I would prefer a more consumer-friendly packaging, such as a resealable pouch or clear plastic/glass jar. In an effort to be more positive
about the product packaging, I will say that the information on the bottle is extremely well-put together. The cannabinoid content is explicitly stated, the serving size is a single capsule (which is an excellent dosage for first time users), and there is even an expiration date listed. I realize that capsules are a difficult product to package attractively, but I do wish that Diamond CBD had chosen an alternate method for packaging these capsules.
CONCLUSION
While I wasn’t a fan of the product packaging for the Chill Plus CBD Delta-8 THC Poppin Gel Capsules – 400X from Diamond CBD, I heartily enjoyed the effects of these softgels. The high came on smoothly and lasted for several hours. I experienced a warm euphoria coupled with deep relaxation and not once did I feel overwhelmed or uneasy. I also appreciated the lack of dry mouth and munchies, but I will say that food and water tasted incredible. Lastly, I was surprised by the two different dosages I tried, once with two capsules and the second time with just one. The low Delta-8 THC content in a single capsule is ideal for daytime use, while the double dose was wonderful for evening use after a long day. I realize that some users prefer a more discrete method of cannabinoid consumption and these capsules make it easy to do just that. The capsules were easy to swallow, did not leave any bitter aftertaste or filmy coating on my tongue and teeth, and the effects began to kick in much sooner than I anticipated. If you’re not a fan of sugary edibles or skunky inhalables, these capsules offer a much less-noticeable form of Delta-8 THC consumption.
In my next review, I’ll be checking out another product from the Forever Green Herbal brand, this time a Root Beer Soda from their Blaze Cannabis Soda lineup. Root beer is a bit of an acquired taste, but don’t wrinkle your nose in disgust just yet. I’ve been accustomed to the unique flavor of root beer ever since my childhood, though I haven’t had it in quite a few years. This nostalgic flavor makes me curious to see how it translates with the addition of cannabis, and I’m excited to share my thoughts with you on this THC drinkable. Be sure to check back soon for this and other full-blown reviews from cannabis and cannabinoid-infused products from brands across the country! Until next time, fellow cannabinoid lovers! I hope to see you again soon for my next product review!
Ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with something soft and chewy that carries a kiss of apple flavor in every chew? Then prepare your taste buds for the star of today’s product review: the Sour Apple Delta-8 THC Gummies by Kush Burst! These exquisite gummies are more than just cannabis leaf-shaped sweets; each gummy packs an impressive 50mg of Delta-8 THC per piece that promise to transport you to a deliciously heady high. This will be the second Delta-8 THC brand I’ve reviewed that offers a high cannabinoid content in their gummies and I’m curious to see how these gummies compare to the Treetop Hemp Co. Peach gummies (which I encourage you to read at your leisure). If your THC tolerance is high and Delta-8 THC gummies just don’t seem to have an effect on you or if you’re ready to dive into a much more intense high, these potent treats were crafted with you in mind! But before we get into that, let’s briefly recap what Delta-8 THC is and what to expect during your high.
What Exactly Is Delta-8 THC?
Delta-8 THC, short for Delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol, is one of the most popular hemp-derived cannabinoids on the market. Delta-8 THC is very similar to marijuana but offers a less intense high that allows the user to remain clear-headed and in control. Without getting too scientific and technical, Delta-8 THC has a double bond on the 8th carbon chain whereas Delta-9 THC (the psychoactive compound in marijuana) has a double bond on the 9th carbon chain. When Delta-8 THC is processed by your body’s natural endocannabinoid system, the effects are not as powerful and won’t leave you feeling as overwhelmed or incapacitated as you would on a marijuana high. Many users report feeling relaxed, drowsy, energetic, creative, motivated, enhanced sense of touch and taste, increased appetite, and more. If you’ve been scarred by the high from marijuana usage, you may enjoy the more subdued high that comes from this federally legal cannabinoid.
How Much Delta-8 THC Should You Consume?
Each user’s high may vary depending on a variety of factors such as weight, gender, metabolism, previous exposure to THC, and others. Because of these variances, it’s important to start off slowly with your dosages. Most companies will suggest a recommended dosage depending on the type of product being used but ultimately it’s up to you how much to consume. If you’re new to the world of Delta-8 THC, try starting off with about 5-15mg and see how you feel. If this low dosage doesn’t have the desired effect, try increasing it to 15-30mg. Anything over 30mg is considered a high dose and may have some unpleasant side effects (i.e., intense drowsiness, heightened uneasiness, uncomfortable dry mouth, etc). Delta-8 THC is available in almost any form you can think of, ranging from edibles like gummies and capsules to inhalables like cartridges and flower. There are also sublingual product types like tinctures and oral strips (taken orally underneath the tongue), hard candies, and even drinkables! Regardless of which product type you consume, it’s important to be patient and find the dosage and product you’re most comfortable with. Now that you have a better understanding of what Delta-8 THC is and how to enjoy it, it’s time to check out the brand responsible for today’s product review: Kush Burst!
The Kush Burst Brand
The Kush Burst brand is unique in that they only offer a single product type: gummies. Many brands are focused on dominating the market with a slew of product types that are infused with every cannabinoid imaginable. For some users, this is a fantastic option as it allows them to be loyal to a single brand as well as trying a multitude of products that they’re interested in. Yet for new users, the sheer volume of products types and cannabinoids can be both intimidating and overwhelming. Kush Burst seeks to eliminate that stress by perfecting a single product type that is ideal for new and experienced users alike. Unfortunately, the Kush Burst brand does not sell their products online; you’ll have to use their Store Locator option to find a location near you to snag these treats. This might seem frustrating at first, but with so many states arguing about the legality of hemp-derived cannabinoids, Kush Burst seems content to derive their sales from wholesale accounts from states that officially allow the controversial cannabinoids to be sold.
Kush Burst currently offers eight tantalizing flavors, each crafted with organic ingredients that are gluten free and non-GMO. The company prides themselves on their accurate dosages as well as their juicy flavor, which is briefly described for each of their gummies. Kush Burst’s gummies come in both Delta-8 THC and THC-O options, but the company website promises a new lineup of cannabis-infused sweets in the near future. The website itself is composed of a single page that is devoid of any pricing, lab tests, or While the company claims that their products are rated 5-star by customers, these 42 reviews are not available for viewing. I tried to click on the customer reviews but was unsuccessful, so I’m not quite sure how these reviews were obtained. But even though these customer reviews aren’t accessible online, that’s why you’re here reading this review, right? I’m excited to share my experiences with the Sour Apple gummies from Kush Burst with you in the hopes that you have a chance to try them for yourself!
Kush Burst Sour Apple Delta-8 THC Gummies Product Review
I’ve noticed that Delta-8 THC gummies are traditionally offered as cubed- or square-shaped, with the occasional rings, belts, or other familiar shaped sweets that remind me of candy from my childhood. Yet the Sour Apple gummies from Kush Burst are artfully shaped like cannabis leaves! I eagerly tore open the resealable pouch and was immediately infatuated with the rich and authentic green apple flavor that wafted from the bag. My mouth began to water as I plucked a single gummy out to inspect it further. I immediately noticed that there was a distinct leaf imprint that allowed the sugar crystals to settle into the crevices, effectively enhancing the detail of these gummies. The gummy was roughly the same size as a quarter and quite thick. Since these gummies contain double the amount of Delta-8 THC that I’m comfortable consuming in a single sitting, I decided to cut the gummy in half. This was much easier said than done. The consistency of the gummy was extremely sticky and it took a few tries to completely sever the sweet in half. Once I had two identical halves, I carefully set the one half back in the bag and popped the other into my mouth. I’m a huge fan of fresh fruit and I was expecting these gummies to taste like how they smelled. While the first couple of chews were riddled with a rich green apple flavor, it was quickly overtaken by a strong flavor of hemp that completely eradicated the fruit flavor. I was a bit disappointed that the pure fruit scent didn’t translate as well in the actual flavor, but chalked it up to the high Delta-8 THC content. The gummies weren’t overly sour or apple-flavored, but the texture was much more chewy than I expected. Once I had finished chewing, I quickly swallowed and was surprised that there were no pieces left in my back teeth or coating that remained on my teeth or tongue. Yet immediately after swallowing, I had to rinse my mouth out with water due to the strong bitter aftertaste.. The bitter flavor stubbornly remained after several sips of water, but finally dissipated after a few minutes. I made a quick mental note of the time and busied myself with small tasks while I waited for the high to begin.
The Effects!
One thing I liked about these gummies was that the activation time is listed twice on the packaging: 25-45 minutes for the effects to begin and a full hour for the full absorption. True to its word, I did feel slightly buzzed after about an hour. My eyelids felt somewhat heavier and I had a light dry mouth. I experienced minor tingling in my face, arms and feet. I felt warm and relaxed, but not the heady high I was anticipating. I wondered if I really should have consumed the entire gummy but I didn’t want to risk consuming more than I could handle. I ended up going to bed after an hour and a half, feeling disappointed with the high. I decided to give these gummies one more chance because I really wanted to like them. I ended up eating the other half the following night, but much earlier in the evening to give the gummies more time to kick in.
This time, the high started to feel more intense after an hour and 40 minutes. My eyelids drooped with how weighted they felt and I had a much stronger tingling in my feet, face, stomach, and hands. I experienced a deep drowsiness coupled with warm relaxation. This was the high I was looking for! Apparently I had not allotted enough time for the effects to kick in the night before, but this time I had eaten the gummies earlier and my efforts were rewarded. The high descended upon me at a slow creeping rate rather than overwhelming me with fast and heady effects. My focus and energy levels seemed much more elevated, and I noticed that I had enhanced creativity and better memory. There was a much more noticeable dry mouth and I found myself constantly drinking water to refresh my parched palate. After about two hours, the couch-lock sensation was noticeably stronger and I was perfectly content to remain in a sitting position on my couch. The drowsiness that came with the high intensified to the point that I was ready to go to sleep. I slept well throughout the night and awoke the following morning feeling refreshed and ready to start the day. There were no lingering effects or mental cobwebs to battle through, and I was much happier with the effects the second time around.
Hemp Information
The Kush Burst website didn’t offer much information about their hemp, only stating that they use “organic ingredients of the highest quality.” I was not able to find any information about where the hemp comes from, the extraction method used, or how the products are created. The website offers a vague snippet on their sugaring and drying process, stating that it is “second to none” but doesn’t go into great detail about this process. The facilities are listed as being “state of the art” but again, no further information is listed. This information isn’t vital to the success of the company, but it’s usually appreciated by users who are curious about the creation process of such consumables. I realize that the website is more of a placeholder rather than an actual means of purchasing, but I was a bit disappointed with the lack of information on their one-page website.
Lab Results
Kush Burst proudly advertises that their gummies are subjected to testing by third-party independent labs, but there’s a catch: the lab tests are only listed via a QR code on the product packaging. You’ll have to find these gummies in an actual store in order to scan this QR code. I successfully scanned the QR code on the back using my smartphone’s camera and was redirected to a DropBox link. I tapped on the option to view the PDF and a short three-page report was immediately displayed. The picture in the lab results displayed five of the eight flavors that Kush Burst offers, but was unable to discern which of these five flavors were tested. Yet the information listed fell in line with what Kush Burst claimed (0.019% Delta-9 THC, 0.985% Delta-8 THC, and 474.47 mg per pouch) so I was at least satisfied with that. I would have liked to see the test results for each flavor as well as the THC-O and Delta-8 THC options, but I understand that these tests are expensive and time consuming. At the very least, I was happy to see that the Sour Apple flavor was in the picture on the lab test results.
Product Packaging
It’s clear that Kush Burst spent a lot of time crafting the product packaging for the Sour Apple gummies. The front of the package was a rich green and displayed a freshly sliced Granny Smith apple with a cannabis leaf-shaped gummy right on the front. The flavor (Sour Apple), total strength (500mg), and mg per piece (10 pieces x 50mg) were clearly displayed, as well as the recommended activation time (25-45 minutes). The back of the pouch had a clear window to allow potential consumers to see the size, shape, and color of the gummies, which I thought was a nice touch.
The section above the clear window listed a playful description of the product, even going so far as to recommend these gummies for daytime use, as well as small badges that confirmed the gummies were organic, gluten-free, and hemp derived. I was fascinated to see recommended dosage chart displayed as well:¼ gummy for anytime use, ½ a gummy for an “in the feels” experience, ¾ gummy for “chill mode” and a full gummy to experience a truly heady high. Below the clear window listed the nutrition facts panel, ingredients list, suggested use, manufacturing information, and a scannable QR code for the lab results. The package was expertly designed and offered substantially more information than the actual company website.
Conclusion
I really wanted to like these Sour Apple Delta-8 THC gummies from Kush Burst. As an avid fruit lover and cannabinoid-infused product enthusiast, I had high hopes for these chewy treats. Yet I was a bit off-put with how long it took these gummies to kick in. I realize that every user’s experience is different, but I allowed the information listed on the product packaging to set my expectations rather than being patient. I gave up after 90 minutes with the first half, but the second half that I consumed the following night gave me the high that I had been looking for. The effects the second time around were much more pleasurable, but I wasn’t willing to eat an entire gummy and risk consuming too much Delta-8 THC in a single dose. The flavor of these gummies was delicious with the first few seconds of chewing, but the bitter aftertaste and lingering flavor of hemp required a few swigs of water to completely eradicate. The consistency of the gummy was indeed soft and chewy, but seemed a bit too rubbery compared to some of the other gummies I have enjoyed.
All in all, these Sour Apple Delta-8 THC gummies weren’t a terrible product, but they’re not the first one I’d reach for when looking for a calming euphoria after a long day’s work. If you happen to find these gummies in a store near you, I encourage you to share your thoughts in the comments below! I would love to know if your expectations and experiences differ from mine and I would certainly be open to trying more flavors and cannabinoids from the Kush Burst brand. In my next article, I’ll be reviewing the Chill Plus CBD Delta-8 THC Poppin Gel Capsules – 400X from Diamond CBD. I’ve reviewed this company before with their Chill Plus Delta-8 THC gummies and I’m curious to see how their capsules compare. Be sure to check back in soon for this and other in-depth product reviews from brands across the country. Hope to see you there!
Getting high used to be limited to the familiar seven-tipped plant known as marijuana. This powerful plant was criticized as being a dangerous “gateway drug” and had many unflattering names like “chronic” and “dope.” Yet the world has seen a remarkable change in perception in how marijuana is used; there are currently 38 states that have legalized marijuana for medicinal use and half of those states also allow the use of recreational marijuana. One such form of recreational marijuana is a unique form that is gaining popularity at an astonishing rate: drinkable THC! Today’s product review features a unique THC-drinkable called Orange Cream Pie Cannabis Soda by Blaze. If you’re ready to blaze your way through the bubbles and enjoy a deliciously euphoric high, you’re in for a treat with today’s flavorful cannabis-infused soda!
The True Definition of Cannabis
The definition of cannabis is often muddled amongst a myriad of terms. Cannabis and marijuana are often used interchangeably, while hemp is thought to be a completely different plant that simply doesn’t get the user high. The real truth is that cannabis is the mother plant; marijuana and hemp are identical in composition, but differ only in their total THC content. Hemp is defined as having 0.3% THC or less, whereas marijuana contains considerably more than 0.3% THC and is known for its debilitating effects.
Cannabinoids are the compounds found within either the hemp or marijuana plant. When cannabinoids are derived from federally legal hemp, they are considered legal in accordance with the 2018 Farm Bill. Yet if the cannabinoid is derived from marijuana, they are classified as illegal by the same bill. While it might seem a bit silly to have such restrictions, it all comes down to what lawmakers have deemed appropriate. With this cannabis-infused beverage, you’ll have to confirm that cannabis and marijuana are legal for recreational consumption within your state. Let’s talk a bit now about what exactly drinkable THC is and how it differs from the traditional forms of marijuana.
Drinkable THC: What Is It?
When it comes to consuming marijuana, your mind probably goes to either smoking a “clippy” or eating a gummy. Yet there’s a new way to consume edibles and it’s becoming one of the most popular forms to get high: drinkable THC! With THC-infused beverages, the beverage itself is often flavored and helps mask the taste of marijuana while offering a shockingly fast reaction time. These THC beverages come in seltzers, lemonades, sodas…the list goes on to include any non-alcoholic drink. Since edible weed must be digested before the effects kick in, it can take a considerable amount of time before you start to feel high. Drinkable THC helps to speed up that process since liquids are processed more quickly by the digestion system. Fair warning though…be careful not to drink too much in a single sitting! Most manufacturers will list a recommended dosage on the bottle, but it’s highly encouraged to start off small with your dosages. Once you have a better understanding on how your body reacts with a certain amount of THC, you can adjust your dosage to better meet your needs. Taking too much in a single sitting can result in increased paranoia and anxiety, extreme drowsiness, uncomfortable dry mouth, and others. If you’re not quite sure where to start, try a small serving of 5mg and work your way up from there. Now that we’ve discussed the merits of drinkable THC, it’s time to check the star of today’s show: The Orange CreamPie Cannabis Soda by Blaze!
The Blaze (Forever Green Herbal) Brand
The Blaze Cannabis Soda brand is actually a sub-brand of the Forever/Ever Green Herbal brand. While the parent brand isn’t listed anywhere on the product packaging, a simple browser search brought me to the company website in a matter of seconds. I was blown away by the beautifully presented products available on the site and even more surprised by the precise categorization the products were listed in: product type, brand name, and even dietary preferences. Since the product I’ll be reviewing is a drinkable, I clicked on the Beverage tab and was redirected to all of their drinkable cannabis. I selected the Blaze brand and was able to view all eight of their cannabis-infused sodas. Since there’s real cannabis in these drinkables, they are only available for purchase in retail stores within Washington State. This is why you won’t find any pricing or an option to purchase on the site. If you’re lucky enough to live in the Evergreen State, I encourage you to check out all eight of these flavors.
Even though there’s no option to purchase any of the Ever Green Herbal products, there are quite a few brands with many enticing products that you can view. Size options, full ingredient lists, nutrition information, and potency levels are conveniently listed for your browsing pleasure. I especially appreciated the consumption advice, as this information isn’t always offered. Now that I’ve tantalized your taste buds with all that Ever Green Herbal has to offer, it’s time to check out the first product I’ll be reviewing from this Washington-based brand. Let’s begin!
Orange CreamPie Cannabis Soda Product Review
My initial reaction to the name Orange CreamPie Soda was a bit muddled. Would it taste like a citrus-y dessert or more like a creamy citrus ice cream? There was only one way to find out! I twisted off the white cap and held the bottle to my nose. I was instantly greeted with the deliciously smooth scent of fresh oranges with creamy vanilla. After inhaling the mouthwatering scent, I carefully poured the beverage into my waiting glass. The serving size says an entire bottle, yet the entire bottle filled up just over half my glass. I noted that the carbonation was very light and had the same fizzy bubbliness of a regular orange soda. I tentatively raised the glass to my lips and took my first sip. My taste buds were awash in a sweet orange and soft vanilla cream flavor. If I had been blindfolded and drank the soda without knowing the flavor, I would have immediately pegged the flavor for an orange creamsicle. It was refreshing on my palate and delicious on my taste buds. There was no lingering flavor of cannabis, nor was there any detectable flavor of cannabis while drinking it. Due to how good the flavor was, I polished off the entire glass within five minutes. While I did feel a light coating on my teeth and tongue, it was quickly rinsed away with a quick swig of water. I made a mental note of the time and settled in to await the effects.
The Effects!
I began to notice the effects after only thirty minutes. My eyelids began to feel heavy and I noticed my mouth started to feel a bit dry. I began to feel a light mental fog coming on, usually my tell-tale sign that the high is starting. The high began to intensify after about 45 minutes, which is when I felt like the high had reached its full potential. I experienced a deep relaxation coupled with a soothing drowsiness. It was as if a warm weighted blanket had been draped across my entire body. I felt comfortable and relaxed and was very content to stay in my sitting position on the couch.
I experienced a delicious tingling in my face, stomach, and hands and enjoyed a heightened sense of touch. My eyelids started to droop and felt heavier with each passing minute. My sense of humor increased exponentially and I found myself easily amused, often bursting into fits of giggles. Time seemed to slow down and I grew noticeably more lethargic as the high progressed. I experienced a moderate sense of dry mouth as well as a craving for something sweet. My munchies were delighted with the snacks I ate and water tasted exquisite on my parched palate.
After about two hours,I happened to look in the mirror at one point and noticed that the whites of my eyes had reddened, a common side effect of marijuana, but still a bit surprising since I wasn’t expecting it. I felt a light dizziness coupled with a strong sense of couch lock, though I was able to make it to my bed before falling asleep completely. I awoke the following morning with no lingering effects and no disorientation, something that always worries me. I was able to begin my day without battling any mental fog or wait for the remnants of the previous evening’s high to finally go away.
Product Packaging
The Orange CreamPie Cannabis Soda from Blaze came in a glass bottle that was completely covered with a large and brightly colored plastic wrap label. The entire design had a very playful feel, like something you’d grab from an ice chest on a hot day at the carnival. The bottom of the bottle stated the total THC content (10mg) and age restrictions (21+). While the beverage contains no fruit juice, it was crafted with pure cane sugar for a more authentic flavor. The right side of the bottle contains a full nutrition facts label along with a detailed ingredient list. Just above this label was a second label with a batch number, manufacture date, and a QR code. Out of curiosity, I scanned the QR code, only for a number to pop up on my phone screen. The QR code seemed to be for internal use, as the number that popped up on my phone was the same number as the barcode. I was hoping that the QR code would either bring up the company website or lab testing results, but I was mistaken.
However, the left side of the label was extremely interesting. There was a clear slash down the side of the label with distinct markings on the side that showed how many milligrams of THC remained inside the bottle. Next to these markings were the required disclaimers and warnings along with consumption advice. After thoroughly inspecting the label, I realized something about the bottle itself. The bottom of the glass was actually inverted rather than being flat! I felt like this was a bit deceptive as it makes the bottle seem to be much larger than it actually is. I had been surprised that the bottle’s contents only filled about half of my glass, and now I realized why! Since the bottle only holds 6.3oz, I can only assume the design was meant to make the bottle seem more similar to the size and shape of other adult beverages that are sold in 8oz-12oz glass bottles. Aside from this, the bottle was well-designed and extremely informative. It’s clear that a lot of thought and effort went into the creation of both the bottle and the label.
Conclusion
I was very impressed with how powerful the high was despite only consuming 10mg of THC. Everything from the flavor, the effects, and the longevity of the high was quite impressive for a cannabis-infused soda. Even though the soda uses actual marijuana, the orange cream flavor effectively masked any bitter taste I was expecting. In fact, the flavor was so authentic that I almost forgot it was a cannabis-infused beverage! The effects kicked in very quickly and were long-lasting and extremely enjoyable. My only complaint would be that this soda is only available in Washington state, which of course isn’t a problem for current residents. I heartily look forward to trying more products from the Forever Green Herbal/Blaze lineup.
For those looking for a way to kick back and relax, leave your beers in the fridge and help yourself to a deliciously refreshing cannabis-infused soda like the Orange CreamPie Cannabis Soda from Blaze! In my next review, I will be returning to the beloved Delta-8 THC cannabinoid with the Green Apple gummies from Kush Burst! Much like the Treetop Hemp Co. Peach gummies I reviewed in earlier posts, these gummies pack a powerful 50mg of Delta-8 THC per gummy. If you’re seeking a mind-boggling high from a federally legal cannabinoid in the form of a soft and chewy sweet, this is one review you won’t want to miss. Check back soon for this and other in-depth reviews from cannabinoid companies around the country. I look forward to seeing you there!