MAC Recipes: We will start adding recipes for you to make Edibles in the safety and comfort of your home. Stay tuned! *Please consume safely & responsibly*
There are various ways to change this recipe for different results (longer Decarb time, longer simmer time, etc). We believe going “LOW AND SLOW” while simmering is best (Low temp & slow/long simmer). If you have a favorite method for Cannabutter please share! *Information on testing potency pulled from Leafly.com*
Here is a recipe for Infused Olive Oil. You will need this for future MAC Recipes!
Try out this recipe for RSO Infused Avocado Oil! This will help you make your own savory edibles at home and will be used in upcoming MAC Recipes.
Are you a s’mores lover? If yes, this recipe is a must have. Ingredients: • 10 Graham cracker squares • 10 large marshmallows • 1 (100mg) Chocolate bar- try a flavored one to spice things up! Instructions: 1. Heat broiler & line a small pan with aluminum foil. 2. Break the graham crackers in half. Top graham crackers with a marshmallow and put remaining graham crackers to the side. 3. Broil just until the marshmallows tops brown. 4. Break chocolate into 10 squares. Carefully remove the pre-assembled cracker halves w/marshmallow from the pan. Top each with 1 piece of chocolate and the other half of the graham cracker. *May increase dose by adding more chocolate if desired* Enjoy safely & responsibly! **Typical “starter dose” is around 5mg. These would be a step up from that, so please enjoy safely and responsibly.**
Here is a recipe for Shortbread Cookies! 😋 Please enjoy safely & responsibly! Do you have a favorite edible recipe? Please share!
Love applicators? Then you’ll be stoked about this SUPER EASY recipe for “LITT Cosmic Brownz”
This is not an edible but is definitely a great recipe to have on deck!
Weekend vibes got you feeling hungry? Try this savory medicated recipe for Loaded Mashed Potatoes!
Super easy recipe for Infused Roasted Garlic. Simply spread a little on toast & enjoy!
Dream of making your own Infused Gummies? Check out this quick and easy recipe to do so using a Distillate Applicator! *Consume safely & responsibly!
Pinene, the terpene found within pine and coniferous plants.
An informational guide to Pinene, the terpene or essential oil, found within MAC’s small batch cannabis.
Terpenes are the aromatic oils that give each strain their aroma and taste. Pinene, as the name suggests, offers a distinctive pine scented aroma. Of the many terpenes found naturally in the world, only a handful are considered “major”. Pinene, like myrcene and limonene, when present in large enough quantities, deliver a discernible medical effectiveness.
Looking at MAC’s menu, you’ll notice the test results include two types of Pinene: Alpha-pinene and beta-pinene. Alpha-pinene is said to convey the aroma of pine needles while beta-pinene is known to have an odor of basil, parsley, dill, rosemary, or hops. Alpha-pinene is most prevalent among the two within cannabis.
Pinene is one of the hundreds of terpenes found within the cannabis plant.
Macro detail of cannabis bud with visible hairs and trichomes in late flowering stage.
The predominant type of pinene in cannabis, alpha-pinene, is also the terpene that may offer the most therapeutic and medicinal benefits. Additional research has shown that alpha-pinene provides potential benefits acting as an anti-inflammatory, anticancer and antimicrobial, in addition to providing respiratory relief and providing neuroprotective properties.
Pinene’s Potential Medicinal Effects & Benefits
Liquid pinene terpene isolate next to coniferous branch isolated on white background.
Anti-inflammatory
In 2015, researchers published a study in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine which states alpha-pinene’s ability to exhibit multiple anti-inflammatory properties in animal cells. In addition to that research, the British Journal of Pharmacology published a study in 2011 finding pinene to be a powerful anti-inflammatory agent capable of delivering relief to patients with cancer, multiple sclerosis, Chrohn’s disease, and several other conditions that feature a root cause of inflammation (even if the inflammation occurs at the cellular level, such as in cancer).
Anticancer
In 2013, a study found that pinene reduced the size of cancerous tumors and its therapeutic use as an anticancer agent show promise as an effective cancer fighter. Studies in animals have concluded that both alpha and beta-pinene have significant anti-tumor properties appearing to have synergistic effects when consumed together.
Antimicrobial
One study published in the Swiss scientific journal, Molecules, tested the ability of both alpha and beta-pinene to fight Candida Albicans, a yeast fungus found in the human gut flora, that can be harmful if there is an overgrowth. The results of this study concluded that pinene was a powerful tool in combating this fungus. Because of Pinene’s antimicrobial abilities, this powerful terpene is commonly used as a topical antiseptic, making it potentially effective in treating bacterial and viral infections.
Antidepressant
Animal studies suggest that the uplifting effects felt by cannabis could be due to the presence of beta-pinene and linalool. Beta-pinene appears to produce these effects on mood in a similar way that antidepressant medications work. Some users experience paranoia and negative thoughts when consuming large quantities of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Pinene has exhibited effects that buffer the effects of THC, aiding users stay calm and relaxed while still enjoying THC’s psychoactive effects. This is an example of the entourage effect, in which cannabinoids and terpenes modify and buffer the effects of one another.
Respiratory
Another study published in the Swiss scientific journal, Molecules, tested pinene’s ability to fight viral activity in cells. This study established pinene’s ability to fight bronchitis and act as a possible bronchodilator. This in conjunction with pinene’s anti-inflammatory properties, are reported to aid those affected by respiratory issues such as asthma.
MAC’s small-batch cannabis strain, Berry Chill #7, isolated on white background.
MAC Strains High in Pinene
Many assume pinene is abundant in strains that smell like pine, but this isn’t always the case. No matter how great your sense of smell is, always refer to the test results on the container. MAC’s variety of small-batch cannabis offers high quality flower with full test results listed on the menu and the container. Some of MAC’s favorite high pinene strains are Berry Chill #7, Queen Mandarin, Harlequin, Punch Breath and Jack Herer.
Stay tuned for upcoming blog posts that dive deeper into each individual terpene found within MAC’s house strains or come spark up a conversation with any of our agents!
An informational guide to Caryophyllene, the terpene or essential oil, found within MAC’s small batch cannabis.
Structural formula of Caryophyllene placed over image of black pepper.
Terpenes provide a wide array of aromatic properties ranging from floral to musky. Caryophyllene, also known as Beta-Caryophyllene, is the primary terpene known for the spicy and peppery aroma that is distinguishable in certain strains. Looking at the spectrum of aroma that comes from terpenes, when it comes to the spicier side of the spectrum, Caryophyllene takes the cake.
Caryophyllene is one of the hundreds of terpenes found within the cannabis plant.
Macro shot of cannabis plant showing trichomes and hairs.
Caryophyllene is most commonly found in black pepper, cinnamon, oregano, cloves and hops. It’s one of the most thoroughly studied terpenes found in cannabis, with research dating back to the 1960s from Harvard researcher and organic chemist, E. J. Corey. Notable as a dietary cannabinoid, Caryophyllene is a frequent natural food additive, providing a sweet taste to enhance citrusy and spicy flavor profiles.
Caryophyllene has been studied to show no known psychoactive effects, but its unique molecular structure makes it the only known terpene to display characteristics of a cannabinoid by directly interacting with the CB2 receptor in the endocannabinoid system. This attributes to Caryophyllene’s powerful anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to potentially treat anxiety and depression. In addition to these properties, Caryophyllene is also widely considered to provide digestive protection, pain relief, and acts as an antibacterial agent.
Scientist holding cannabis plant and cannabis extract with gloves.
Additional research has been studied to show Caryophyllene’s anti-microbial properties which has been shown to be effective at preventing both the growth and adhesion of the candida fungus. This fungus is commonly found in humans that are taking immunosuppressive drugs and/or undergoing transplants. Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment are one of the most susceptible groups to fungal and bacterial infections, and the group which stands the most to gain from the benefits of Beta-Caryophyllene.
Caryophyllene strains are generally understood to have a pain-relieving effect as a direct result of inflammation reduction. Due to Caryophyllene’s binding affinity for CB2 receptors in the brain, this terpene may also be able to have substantial effects on brain health and mental well-being. Using strains high in this terpene can create experiences that provide a sense of calm in the gut, which may aid in treating anxiety related issues in addition to a feeling of general well-being.
Promising research has been conducted on animals to uncover the effects of Caryophyllene, however, more research is needed to fully understand its effects on human health, both physically and mentally.
MAC Strains High in Caryophyllene
Photograph of Mass Alternative Care’s house strain Cookies and Cream.
Mass Alternative Care offers a variety of strains sourced from world-renown breeders. Cannabis varieties that contain high concentrations of Caryophyllene include Glue Zauce, Cookies and Cream, Dosidos X Bully Kush, Chemdawg and Punch Breath. For a current menu listing, please view our medical menu and adult use menu.
Stay tuned for upcoming blog posts that dive deeper into each individual terpene found within MAC’s house strains or come spark up a conversation with any of our agents!
Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) is one of the many cannabinoids found within cannabis plants. THCV is a psychoactive compound being researched for its health benefits and ability to produce a motivated, alert and invigorated feeling of euphoria. Unlike THC, THCV acts as an appetite suppressant and research has been shown that THCV can help reduce or even prevent panic attacks. Further research has shown that THCV is effective in providing symptom relief for those affected by PTSD, Parkinson’s Disease, Seizures (including Epilepsy) and Alzheimer’s Disease.
An informational guide to Limonene, the terpene or essential oil, found within MAC’s small batch cannabis.
Imagine this, you just picked up an eighth of Crumbled Lime. You get home and it’s time to take a look at what’s in the container. You pop the top and are smacked with the overwhelming aroma of citrus and lemon. Where did that scent most likely come from? Limonene.
Marijuana leaf and citrus lemon isolated on white background.
Limonene is one of the hundreds of terpenes found within the cannabis plant.
Limonene is one of the hundreds of terpenes found within the
cannabis plant. Terpenes work with cannabinoids and additional present terpenes
to boost a strain’s effectiveness, this is called the entourage effect.
Limonene is one of the most common terpenes found in cannabis, also found
naturally within the rinds of citrus fruits (orange, grapefruit, lemon and
lime) as well as seeds of caraway and dill, rosemary, mint and juniper.
If you missed last week’s post, or are new to cannabis, then you’re probably wondering, “What are terpenes?”. Terpenes are naturally derived chemicals found in the essential oils of the cannabis plant. The shiny, sticky, mushroom-shaped crystals found on the leaves and buds of the cannabis plant are called trichomes, where terpenes are made and stored.
Macro shot of Mass Alternative Care’s house strain Coughy Cake’s Sister.
Limonene’s Potential Medicinal Effects & Benefits
In traditional medicine, limonene has been used as a component of remedies for bronchitis, heartburn and gallstones. Thankfully, there’s extensive research studying the effects of Limonene on the immune system. Studies have shown that Limonene possesses antibacterial, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. These results are certainly promising in the combat against bacterial resistance, however additional studies are needed to better explain how this is achieved.
The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of Limonene may attribute to its analgesic (pain relief) properties. This is why the common terpene can be found within some topical pain relievers.
There is further research still being conducted for Limonene’s beneficial effects on mental and mood disorders. A 2013 study published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine found evidence that Limonene improved anxiety-like states by interacting with the brain’s serotonin system. MAC’s strains high in Limonene are reported to provide relief with stress and anxiety, creating an elevated mood.
Despite the research available, little is still known about how Limonene interacts in the brain and body, and what doses are required to achieve desired effects. Many studies use high doses, much higher than what’s naturally found within cannabis.
Macro shot of cannabis plant showing trichomes isolated on black background.
MAC Strains High in Limonene
Many assume limonene is abundant in strains that smell like
lemon or citrus, but this isn’t always the case. No matter how great your nose
is, always refer to the test results on the container. MAC’s variety of
small-batch cannabis offers high quality bud with full test results listed on
the menu. The combination of terpenes found within a strain can create unique
aromas making single terpenes difficult to distinguish, but not impossible to
identify. Some of MAC’s favorite high Limonene strains are Crumbled Lime, Glue
Zauce, Dosidos X Bully Kush, Wedding Crasher, Sour Power OG and Coughy Cake.
Stay tuned for upcoming blog posts that dive deeper into
each individual terpene found within MAC’s house strains or come spark up a
conversation with any of our agents!
An informational guide to the terpenes found naturally within Mass Alternative Care’s small-batch cannabis.
Macro detail of cannabis flower (Sour Diesel strain) isolated over black background.
One of the first things you hear around Mass Alternative Care (MAC) is, “It smells so good in here, I wish I could bottle the smell for myself!” And there’s a reason for that. Not only does MAC grow on site in its Chicopee, MA facility, MAC also harvests, dries, cures and processes it within these walls. One of the most fun things as a cannabis consumer is being able to smell the wide range of fragrances that each strain produces. From cheese to citrus – listen to your nose. So where does that smell come from exactly? And why does that matter? The answer is – terpenes.
Terpenes are naturally derived chemicals found in the essential oils of the cannabis plant.
Terpenes are naturally derived chemicals, hydrocarbons to be
exact, found in the essential oils of the cannabis plant. Have you ever seen an
extremely frosty bud, covered in those shiny, sticky mushroom-shaped crystals?
Those are called trichomes. Trichomes can be found on the leaves and
buds of the cannabis plant, where terpenes are made and stored.
Cannabis flower (White Critical strain) with visible trichomes.
Now you’re probably thinking, why does the cannabis plant
make trichomes naturally, if they are used to elevate our perspective? Well,
they do a lot more than that. Trichomes act as a defense mechanism in nature, protecting
the plant from natural predators like insects and animals. Fragrant terpenes
help repel these threats, keeping the plant alive.
Cannabis is an incredibly diverse plant, with diverse
benefits. There are over 100 different identified terpenes in the cannabis
plant, with much progress on their classification and effects. Terpenes can be
broken down into broad categories, with each category further narrowing down by
smell and effect that correlates with specific terpenes. So now you know a
little bit of what terpenes are and why they are found on the plant, but WHY do
they matter to the cannabis consumer?
They can affect both body and mind.
A strain high in Limonene will have a citrus aroma, most likely providing elevated mood and stress relief. Limonene is prevalent in zesty sativa strains, giving sativas their stereotypical uplifting or daytime effect. In large amounts, limonene has shown medicinal properties by providing anti-cancer effects, anti-inflammatory effects, pain relief and nausea relief. More can be said about Limonene – but we’ll go over that extensively in another post.
How can I learn more about terpenes?
Each product on MAC’s menu that has been tested for terpene content has their terpenes listed within the test results. Become familiar with your favorite strains to learn what you’re smelling, tasting and feeling.
Common terpenes found within Mass Alternative Care’s strains
are: Beta Caryophyllene, Myrcene, Limonene, Alpha and Beta Pinene, Humulene,
Linalool, Nerolidol, Ocimene and Terpinolene.
Stay tuned for upcoming blog posts that dive deeper into
each individual terpene found within MAC’s house strains or come spark up a
conversation with any of our agents!
CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of many chemical compounds (also called cannabinoids) produced by cannabis. CBD oil simply refers to an extract of cannabis or hemp that is formulated to contain high levels of CBD, and may capture varying levels of other plant compounds.
Products containing only CBD are non-intoxicating, unlike THC-rich products which cause the high commonly associated with cannabis. This makes CBD a popular remedy among consumers looking for clear-headed relief of their symptoms. (Which symptoms, you ask? More on that below).
“CBD oil” is really a catch-all term used to describe CBD extracts more generally. While shopping for CBD oil, you’re likely to come across many different forms. The following products are some of the most popular forms of CBD oil.
CBD tinctures are liquid extracts that are applied under the tongue, where CBD is absorbed and enters the bloodstream. They typically come in a glass bottle with a dropper for dosing built into the lid.
CBD capsules are filled with oil and swallowed like a traditional supplement. These are packaged like bottles of vitamins or supplements, containing gelcaps filled with a golden oil.
CBD Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) refers to an alcohol-based extract that can be ingested or applied to the skin. It’s commonly packaged in a plastic plunger or applicator.
Dabbable CBD oil includes CBD-rich butane hash oil, live resins, rosin, and other forms used for a somewhat elaborate flash vaporization process known as “dabbing.” We wouldn’t suggest beginners start here, but we mention it so you understand what you are (or aren’t!) shopping for at your next visit to the cannabis shop.
For more information on which forms of CBD most reliably deliver their advertised dose, check out the results of Leafly’s CBD investigation.
What are the effects and benefits of CBD oil?
The first question on your mind right now might be,will CBD oil get me high? The short answer is no, most will not. But that can depend on where you’re buying your CBD oil.
On its own, CBD is a non-impairing compound. Any CBD products you purchase online or at retailers like grocery and drug stores are required to contain less than 0.3% THC; that trace amount of THC will not result in detectable euphoric effects.
