There has been a long raging debate about eating raw marijuana for ages. Both sides for and against this methodology of consuming cannabis have valid points that should share the spotlight.
Today, we are going to have a look at both sides and figure out where we stand.
Temecula marijuana gives you a complete breakdown of whether or not you should consume raw cannabis.
First, however, we are going to have a look at the makeup of a living cannabis plant.
The Chemical Structure Breakdown
Living Cannabis plants have a different chemical structure in comparison to the dried plant we get in the dispensaries and beyond. If you bring home a fresh cannabis plant, they do not contain the psychoactive compound i.e., THC; they do provide a compound called tetrahydrocannabinol acid (THCA). This compound is non psychoactive in nature but possibly therapeutic.
Once the crop is appropriately harvested and stored, some of this THCA turns into THC, which is why a large number of growers put their plants through a process of decarboxylation, the process of activating THC.
The High Factor
The reason we feel high when we smoke or ingest weed in any other form is that it enters our bloodstream and then reaches the receptors that are responsible for making us feel the way we think. However, when you eat that flower raw, you are wasting it. The trace amounts that do enter our body are expelled through the digestive system.
If eating is your chosen method of consumption, then try eating edibles that follow the proper approach to decarboxylation of cannabis for achieving the appropriate effect. This means you need first to extract it using a carrier. This can be either oil, butter, or alcohol.
There Are Benefits Too
If you are planning to eat raw cannabis, then do not expect the same results as smoking or vaping. Instead, you are looking at a very different set of benefits.
Eating raw cannabis is like eating any other leafy green vegetable, more like spinach or kale. Unless you are a salad or juicing enthusiast, it is going to be a hard sell to you, but I will give it a shot.
The Nutritional Breakdown
It is a powerful vegetable with an amazing nutritional profile. The composition is that of
1. Protein
2. Fatty Acids(omega 6,3,9 and stearic and palmitic acid)
3.Vitamins (B1, A, C, and E)
4. Minerals (calcium, iron, etc.)
Notice the absence of THC? That is because it is reduced to a green vegetable instead of herb if you juice it or have it raw. But studies have shown that it has the potential to :
1. Treat arthritis and lupus because of the existence of anti-inflammatory properties
2. Help in neurodegenerative diseases due to its neuroprotective properties
3. Aid in appetite loss and nausea because of antiemetic properties
4. Anti-proliferative properties help stop the spread of malignant cells of prostate cancer.
5. Prevent cell damage
Some research has also pointed towards the possibility of CBD being a stronger antioxidant than vitamin C or E. This is revelation has to lead to the conclusion that when you eat raw cannabis just because of the sheer amount of CBD you are consuming you are consuming a great antioxidant source.
Other Compounds In Raw Cannabis
Cannabigerol (CBG)
This is called the mother of all cannabinoids. This is because, with the right enzymes, you can transform it into the ardic form of CBC, CBD, or THC. It is non- psychoactive and has the capability to stimulate new brain cell growth.
THCA
Abundant in all strains that have THC. This cannabinoid is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
CBD
The crowning jewel of cannabinoid has antipsychotic properties that act as an alternative treatment for psychosis and anxiety.
CBN
It is known to reduce the intraocular pressure; this is great as an alternative to THC for substantial pain relief.
This is all that you need to know before you indulge in some raw cannabis binging. Just be sure that there is no way you will be getting high. Medical marijuana Temecula will always advise you to check up with a doctor before you begin with any kind of cannabis consumption.