Category: Education

Halloween is just around the corner!

There are many reasons why people love the holiday. Still, for the most part, Halloween attracts those who go nuts for the macabre, gory, terrifying, and mystifying.

One thing that marks the Halloween season is the scores of horror movie marathons that litter all sorts of TV channels and streaming platforms during this time of year.

Now, we know that not everybody is a fan of horror films, and the idea of using cannabis to help enhance the experience of watching one may be the last thing you want to do. But there’s no denying that the horror genre and cannabis use has been linked in some way or another for decades now.

Keep reading to learn more about the interesting relationship between cannabis and horror and what movies you should check out this Halloween.

The Counterculture

Now, you may be wondering why people have created a connection between the horror genre and cannabis. 

Some suggest that this connection is because horror films and cannabis and those who enjoy them are considered outliers, forbidden fruits of the social norm. Throughout history, both have attracted unique and interesting people from all walks of life that are just looking for a way to process emotions, ideas, and trauma.

While it may seem unconventional to some that someone would turn to a terrifying horror movie or a perception-altering substance, there’s still no denying that the catharsis both provide is real.

The Pros of Mixing Cannabis Use with Horror Movies

We know it’s not for everyone, but those who do like to smoke some flower or eat an edible before getting comfortable for a night of jump scares and more have their reasons.

If you already love horror movies without using cannabis, you’ll probably like it while using cannabis.

Cannabis enhances the experience by heightening your senses, suspending your disbelief, adjusting your focus, and funneling any paranoia through a thrilling lens.

Classics For The Film Aficionado

It’s easy to get caught up in all the new horror films released every year. Don’t forget that those films are inspired by the classics that set the stage for the horror genre to take off.

“Psycho” (1960)

Watching this Hitchcock classic is the perfect way to start a horror movie marathon. Who hasn’t heard of Norman Bates and his murderess mother? If you have never seen this thriller full of twists and turns, we highly recommend you pop some popcorn (for the munchies) and get ready for a film that will have you checking your back; you know, just in case.

“The Exorcist” (1973)

While some people prefer gory and grisly murders, others prefer a more supernatural approach. “The Exorcist” is a story of a battle between good and evil, as an exorcist is sent to help save a young girl possessed by demonic spirits.

Although a controversial film, audiences marveled at the storytelling and special effects that ultimately made “The Exorcist” one of the film industry’s first ‘blockbusters’ and one of the only horror movies ever to be nominated for Best Picture.

“Night Of the Living Dead” (1968)

Directed by George Romero, this film cemented him in film history as the master of the modern ‘zombie film.’ Unlike the modern interpretation of zombies, these cannibalistic, re-animated dead were once depicted as trance-like undead slaves produced by voodoo rites.

While it was a low-budget, independent debut film, for 96 minutes, audiences experienced groundbreaking, genre-defining work as Romero conveyed his interpretation of a dehumanized society with the film’s explicit violence, rawness, cannibalism, and somber ending.

We could go on forever about what classics you should watch this Halloween. Some honorable mentions include:

• “Dracula” (1931)
• “The Birds” (1963)
• “Nosferatu” (1922)
• “Poltergeist” (1982)
• “Halloween” (1978)
• “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” (1974)

Modern Horror Classics

We could include so many movies on this list, so we’ll do our best to fit the best ones in.

“A Nightmare on Elm Street” (1984)

A quintessential teen slasher, “A Nightmare on Elm Street” stars Freddy Krueger, one of the most well-known antagonists of all time. A child murderer in life and demonic child murderer in death, Freddy terrorizes the screen by invading the dreams of teens and causing a mind-altering sequence of horrifying encounters.

This film will have your mind turning from start to finish, as even the ending, ever ambiguous, leaves more for your imagination to assume. 

“The Shining” (1980)

A mix of paranormal and human horror, this film was Stanley Kubrick’s masterful take on the traditional concept of a haunted house. While its title is that of its source material, Stephen King’s third novel under his name, Kubrick’s creation carries little resemblance to King’s work.

The film follows a father (Jack) and his descent into madness, fueled by both physical and intangible forces, while isolated with his family (his wife Wendy and young son Danny) in a snowed-in resort. The family soon finds themselves affected by a “psychic photograph” that depicts a series of historic murders that occurred on the resort’s property.

The film’s title refers to the psychic abilities of the resort’s head cook (Halloran) and Jack’s son, which add an otherworldly point of view into the world beyond the living.

“Shaun Of the Dead” (2004)

What would be a list of must-see horror movies without acknowledging the horror/comedy genre?

Written by Edgar Wright and Simon Pegg, Wright directed this romantic zombie comedy (a “rom-zom-com”) while Pegg played the role of Shaun, a downtrodden London salesman that must deal with his girlfriend, mother, and stepfather all while he and his friend Ed, try to survive a zombie apocalypse.

Inspired by classics like George Romero’s (we mentioned him earlier) “Dead” trilogy, Wright and Pegg’s film initially had commercial success, having grossed $30 million worldwide on a $6.1 million budget. It then went on to receive two nominations at the British Academy Film Awards, with some calling it one of the greatest comedy films ever made. It only makes sense that this gem quickly acquired a cult following.

“Get Out” (2017)

Written, directed, and co-produced by actor, comedian, and filmmaker Jordan Peele, “Get Out” was his directorial debut, and a box-office hit. Peele would go on to win the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay and was also nominated for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor (Daniel Kaluuya).

This psychological thriller is equal parts horror, social commentary, and even comedy. While the story innocently starts with a young black man (Kaluuya) meeting his white girlfriend’s family for the first time, shocking secrets soon come to light that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

Ranked by the Writer’s Guild of America as the greatest screenplay of the 21^st century, the film creatively explores the implications and historical relevance of “covert” racism in modern society by depicting the antagonists as white, “New York liberal” types. Lanre Bakare wrote in The Guardian, “It exposes a liberal ignorance and hubris that has been allowed to fester.”

Ultimately, this film will have your mind whirling in circles with insane plot twists, murder, mind control, and more.

Modern horror film honorable mentions include:

• “Us” (2019)
• “The Cabin in the Woods” (2011)
• “The Ring” (2002)
• “The Silence of the Lambs” (1991)

Celebrate Halloween with North

Are you ready for Halloween? Whether you’re planning a night in or need a way to relax and recuperate after a day out celebrating, we can help!

North’s premier medical cannabis products are just what you need to get your body and mind feeling right, even when you’re watching a horror movie.

Check out our Pevely and Hillsboro menus to see what might work best for you. You can come in and purchase your products, order them and pick them up with our drive-thru, or have them delivered.

Edibles are different foods or beverages infused with cannabinoids, like THC and CBD. They are a healthy and highly effective alternative to smoking, but there are some things first-time users should know.

A widespread mistake when consuming edibles is consuming too much at once. It’s crucial to understand what your edibles contain, their potency, and their effects on the body before ingesting them.

Once you know that edibles tend to produce a more potent body high as well as changes in cognition, perception of time, memory, and movement, you’ll be able to pick the dose that’s right for you.

Why Should You Take Edibles?

Many medical patients prefer to take edibles because they do not require patients to inhale smoke or use any extra equipment.

The prolonged effects of edibles are particularly beneficial for patients that are combating specific ailments like chronic pain.

Edibles are also a good option for consumers because you know exactly how much THC and/or CBD you are consuming. There’s no guessing game here.

What Do Edibles Taste Like?

The flavor of your edible depends on the potency and flavor profile of the cannabis products used when making it. Some edibles hide the taste of cannabis more than others.

There are also quite a variety of edibles available in today’s market. From fruity gummies to chocolate bars to sodas, there’s something for everyone.

Sativa vs. Indica

Sativa and Indica are the two primary strains of cannabis.

Sativa creates more of a head high, meaning it has more functional, uplifting, and energetic effects.

When thinking about the effects Indica has on the body, think about “In the couch.” This refers to the fact that Indica creates a more sedated body high. Most edibles are a mix of the two, called a hybrid.

When picking which edible you want to experiment with, first decide what type of high or relief you’re seeking. This will tell you which edibles to narrow your search down to.

Another form available is CBD edibles, which offer potential medical benefits and are non-psychoactive. This means you’ll experience relief without the high.

How Do Edibles Work?

Edibles are different from other forms of consumption because of how the THC enters the bloodstream. There are two categories of edibles:

1. Sublingual– dissolves under the tongue (i.e., tinctures and hard candies)
2. Orally ingested-ingested and processed by the liver (i.e., chocolate bars, gumdrops, and baked goods)

A sublingual has a faster onset, at about 15 minutes, and its effects will last for about two to three hours. However, an orally ingested edible takes anywhere between 30 minutes and two hours to kick in, about four hours to reach its peak effect, and can last as long as eight to ten hours. Why is this?

Well, when you orally ingest an edible like a gumdrop, it must be processed through the stomach and intestines before it makes its way to the liver.

Once in the liver, the THC within the edible breaks down into a substance thought to be about ten times stronger, called 11-hydroxy-THC. This metabolite is smaller than THC and can more easily enter the brain than inhaled cannabis. This is what makes edibles both strong and long-lasting.

Keep in mind that everyone metabolizes THC differently and at different rates. We suggest that one should consume something fatty, like cheese or avocado, before eating an edible. This will help your body process THC oil. This is excellent advice for those that experience first-pass metabolism.

First-past metabolism is a problem that limits the effectiveness of many common substances. In the case of THC, instead of your body breaking it down into a more potent metabolite, the compound is cleared from the body without effect.

What Dosage Is Best for You?

A word of advice, go low and slow. If you are new to edibles, especially if you are new to cannabis consumption, you’ll want to start at a low dose and slowly move your way up in dosage until you reach one that fits your needs. The following is what you can generally expect from specific doses:

• 1-2.5mg – for beginners; provides a mild effect and can help reduce pain, anxiety, and can act as a sleep aid
• 2.5-10mg – has a more prominent effect; expect euphoria, laughter, and stronger symptoms of relief
• 10-20mg – do not surpass 10mg if you are not an experienced cannabis consumer; expect strong euphoria and sedation
• 20+mg – best for patients that warrant such a high dose

Start with a beginner’s dose and wait two hours. If you don’t feel anything after two hours, you may try upping your dosage by a small amount. However, if this is your first time consuming edibles, it is advised that you wait about 24 hours before trying more just to ensure that there is not a delayed reaction.

Help! I’ve Eaten Too Much!

Don’t panic. “Know what you’re doing is safe. You can’t overdose on it [cannabis]. As long as you keep telling yourself that, you’ll be much better off,” says Mike Heller, co-founder of MJ Wooly, which helps companies infuse their foods and beverages with cannabis. Heller is correct; you’re safe.

Drink a glass of water and try to take a nap. Others suggest that fresh air and chewing peppercorn balls may help bring you back to planet earth. If you feel like you can’t wait it out, try taking 15mg of CBD to counteract the THC in your system.

To avoid taking too much, make sure you know just how many milligrams of THC are in each product you buy. You should also know if you need to cut it into pieces or if you can eat the whole thing. Note how much you start with, how much time you wait for it to kick in, and how much you’re adding (if you choose to add more).

Edibles—An Overview

So, edibles, what are they? Edibles are a food or beverage infused with cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Most edibles are made with a hybrid strain, a mix of Sativa and Indica. This gives you a body high with characteristics of a head high.

Go low and slow. For a beginner, you should experiment with a starting dose of about 2.5mg, wait two hours and then add more if you feel the effects aren’t powerful enough. If you don’t feel anything, wait 24 hours before ingesting any more edibles to ensure that you will not experience a delayed reaction.

Don’t take edibles on an empty stomach. Preferably, consume your edibles after eating something with a healthy amount of fat. And remember that edibles naturally take longer to take effect. They reach their peak at around four hours and wear off anywhere between six and eight hours.

Overall, edibles are a great alternative to smoking or vaping cannabis as you know exactly how much THC you are consuming in a sitting, and often it’s more cost-friendly, as you get more bang for your buck.

Start Your Journey with North Today!

Shop North today at our Hillsboro or Pevely locations. We offer a wide variety of premium cannabis products at a competitive price. Plus, we’ll even deliver your products straight to your door!

If you’re new to edibles, a great product to start with is Honeybee edibles. Check out the Hillsboro and Pevely menus to see which Honeybee gumdrops are available at your location. Honeybee is powered by Proper Cannabis, a facility in St. Louis that cultivates premium cannabis and processes it into a pure, tasteless distillate. It is then passed to their culinary team to make all sorts of tasty treats. We can promise an exceptional variety of gumdrops for any consumer looking for all kinds of benefits.

For more information, please call or reach out to us here. Our patient consultants are highly experienced and happy to talk through any questions you may have!

Humans have used cannabis for thousands of years for different reasons. From making clothes to creating medicine, cannabis has benefited society in many ways.

When you first think about cannabis, your mind probably goes straight to its medicinal purposes, but did you know that this plant, particularly hemp, can help the planet?

Just as cannabis use can help individuals with various medical conditions, its growth and use can also help keep our planet healthy. Keep reading to learn precisely how cannabis can positively impact the planet.

Cannabis Reduces Carbon Dioxide

Carbon dioxide is the primary greenhouse gas. As of 2019, it made up 80% of all greenhouse gases produced by human activity. As a significant contributor to global warming, we must develop ways to reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

Traditionally, we have relied on extensive forests, like the Amazon Rainforest, to absorb vast amounts of carbon dioxide. Unfortunately, deforestation means we are using up trees faster than we can replace them. This means there is less greenery to counterbalance carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere.

This is where cannabis comes in. Cannabis can absorb more carbon dioxide per hectare than any forest or commercial crop. We call this process of taking carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in the soil carbon sequestration.

Hemp is known to grow quickly in a wide range of nutrient-poor soils while only needing small amounts of water and little to no fertilizers. These properties make hemp one of the most efficient carbon dioxide converters.

Cannabis Paper

It takes trees longer to grow to maturity than it does cannabis. It’s estimated that over a 20-year cycle, one acre of hemp can produce as much paper as four to ten acres of trees.

Hemp paper can also be recycled eight times in its lifetime, compared to the three times for wood-pulp paper. Hemp also uses much less water and chemicals than wood-pulp paper.

Cannabis Fashion

Did you know that the fashion industry is responsible for about 10% of the global carbon dioxide emissions each year? “It also accounts for about a fifth of the 300 million tons of plastic produced globally each year,” according to Rachael Dottle and Jackie Gu.

When you think about how much textiles are wasted each year (about 11.3 tons), it’s frightening to think about their effect on the environment.

While cotton production and manufacturing are not exactly eco-friendly, it’s better than the alternative the fashion industry seems so keen on using, polyester.

In 2015, polyester production for clothing emitted 282 billion tons of carbon dioxide, triple that of cotton.

The danger of polyester is that it’s a plastic that creates microplastics that pollute the oceans, freshwater, and land and endangers the animals that consume them. Unfortunately, Australian scientists estimate that there are between 9.25 to 15.86 million tons of microplastics sitting at the bottom of the ocean alone.

Hemp may just be our answer to these problems. One acre of hemp can produce as much material as two to three acres of cotton and is four times warmer.

Hemp fabric is also:

• Odor-resistant
• Breathable
• Fire resistant
• UV-protectant.

Hemp is also biodegradable, meaning that all the clothing that ends up in landfills will cause less damage to the planet if we make it with hemp.

Cannabis Plastic

Most of the plastic we use is created with fossil fuels and takes over 400 years to decompose. This fact is more than a little scary, considering we have about 9.2 billion tons of it to deal with.

You may be surprised to know that some of the earliest plastics we created used hemp cellulose fibers. While making a 100% hemp-based plastic alternative is hard, companies can use plastic made from hemp and other plant fibers. Coca-Cola and Lego are already doing such a thing.

Like in fashion, by switching to hemp, we can reduce the number of toxins we are exposed to and how much plastic ends up in our landfills.

Cannabis As Renewable Biofuel

Just as with plastics, we want to reduce the world’s reliance on fossil fuels. At the University of Connecticut, researchers have discovered that industrial hemp contains properties that make it an attractive raw material for making sustainable biofuel.

The study showed that hemp biodiesel has high conversion efficiency, as the researchers were able to convert 97% of the hemp oil into biodiesel. People can also use it at lower temperatures than any other biodiesel currently available.

We make hemp into biodiesel by pressing the hemp seeds into oil. The fermented stalk can also be used to make ethanol and methanol.

In any diesel engine, you can use hemp biodiesel fuel, completely unmodified.

The benefits of biodiesel are that it is:

• Biodegradable
• Non-toxic
• Produces fewer greenhouse gases

How Can You Help Protect the Planet?

As you can see, there are many benefits to using cannabis as an alternative for many things, from clothing to paper, fuel, plastic, and paper. However, that’s just all that cannabis can do.

Proper cannabis production can also stabilize and replenish damaged soil. Hemp can clear contaminated soil of metals, pesticides, solvents, oil, and other harmful materials.

To help our planet, you can help support bills and laws that promote the growth of cannabis for the reasons we pointed out in this blog.

This Earth Day, we can all take a moment to think about what we can do to help our planet last for billions of more years. Perhaps, adopting hemp as a part of our everyday life would be the next step in ensuring a bright future for planet Earth.

Shop North Today!

Are you looking for a reliable medicinal cannabis dispensary? Well, you’ve found two in North dispensaries. Visit one of our locations, either in Hillsboro or Pevely.

We care about our customers and their experience. That’s why we always have knowledgeable staff members to help guide you through the decision process. We also offer delivery!

Do you have questions about our services? Contact us today, and we’ll help you in any way we can.