chronic pain

darnold1975

Back in the Day My Body Worked: A Geological Study of My Decline

“Back in the day might be gone. I’m still here. Creaking. Leaking. Laughing. And refusing to go quietly into anybody’s geological record.”

-This Puzzled Life

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. “Back in the day” has officially stopped being a cute phrase. It has started functioning like a geological timestamp. We are no longer dealing with nostalgia. We are dealing with archaeology. And while we’re gathered here, let’s honor another painful reality. My pelvic floor, which has resigned from its position without notice, severance, or gratitude for years of loyal service. I used to laugh. I used to cough. I used to sneeze with confidence. Now? Every joyful moment is a bodily gamble. And my cats are watching me like I’m a malfunctioning water balloon.

My bladder used to be a vault. Fort Knox. A steel‑reinforced bunker. Now it’s a screen door in a hurricane. One giggle? A sprinkle. One cough? A drizzle. One sneeze? A flash flood warning. Tink, the union rep, carries a clipboard labeled “Mama’s Moisture Incidents.” Every time I laugh too hard, she checks a box and sighs like she’s disappointed in my performance review.

Meanwhile, My Colon Has Entered Its Renaissance. I don’t know who gave my colon the confidence to act like this, but it’s out here freelancing. A sneeze? “Let me contribute.” A cough? “I have thoughts.” A laugh? “I brought snacks.”

Piper, the dramatic CEO, escorts me to the bathroom like I’m a VIP guest at a scandalous event. Tail high. Judgment higher. Coco, head of security, treats every cough like a breach. And every laugh like a full‑scale emergency. If I chuckle, she sprints over like, “Ma’am, did something escape? Do I need to file a report?”

My Body Has Entered a New Era without consulting me, my ancestors, or the household democracy. Now my cats circle me like I’m a congressional hearing titled, “What Happened To Mama’s Knees.” Aging is not gentle. It is not poetic. It is a jump scare.

Piper has drafted a formal complaint titled, “Mama’s Joints: A Concerning Increase in Snap,Crackle, and Pop.” Tink follows me around like a Victorian widow who just discovered her inheritance is gone. Every time I bend over, she gasps like I’m performing a dangerous stunt. Coco treats my memory lapses as suspicious activity. If I walk into a room and forget why, she escorts me back out like, “Ma’am, this area is restricted until you recall your mission.”

Nobody warned me that aging comes with random brain glitches. I’ll be mid‑sentence, mid‑thought, mid‑Southern‑monologue and suddenly, poof my brain throws up a blue screen like an old Dell computer. My cats stare at me like I’m buffering. Tink even tapped my forehead once like she was checking the Wi-Fi connection.

I used to move like a person. Now I move like a haunted rocking chair. Every step is a creak. Every stretch is a negotiation. Every time I sit down, I release an involuntary “old person exhale” that sounds like I’m letting go of trauma. And the cats judge with the intensity of Southern aunties at a baby shower.

My knees have officially submitted paperwork titled, “We Did Not Sign Up For Stairs.” They’ve requested a mobility scooter, a heating pad stipend, and a written apology for every squat I’ve ever attempted. Piper stamped it “Approved” before I even finished reading it. I dropped something on the floor. I looked at it. It looked at me. We both understood it was staying there. Coco sniffed it and gave me a look that said, “Wow. She’s gone.” I sneezed. Just one. A cute one. And my bladder and colon both said, “Tag‑team?” My cats stared at me like I had just lost a custody battle with gravity.

“Back in the Day” Has Become a Unit of Measurement. Once upon a time, “back in the day” meant five years ago. Now it means before three presidents, two pandemics, and the rise and fall of skinny jeans. Scientists have the Jurassic, Triassic, and Cretaceous periods. We have

  • Back in the Day (Early Period): When my knees still believed in me.
  • Back in the Day (Middle Period): When I could sneeze without filing an insurance claim.
  • Back in the Day (Late Period): When my bladder wasn’t a part‑time sprinkler system.

Even my cats treat “back in the day” like it’s a historical documentary. Piper says, “Which era are we referencing, ma’am? Pre‑creak or post‑snap?” Tink stares out the window like she’s remembering a lost lover. Coco waits by the door like I’m supposed to take her there.

A sediment of memories. A fossil record of who you were before your joints started sounding like porch furniture in a horror movie. It’s weird. It’s humbling. It’s hilarious. It’s a little holy. My mind may wander. But it wanders toward wisdom. My body may creak. But it carries stories. My memory may glitch. But my spirit is sharper than ever. And my cats, judgmental, dramatic, chaotic, they’re my witnesses, my companions, my furry little archivists of this new era.

I’ve had more surgeries than a Real Housewife. And my uterus didn’t just get removed. She angrily quit. If she had a LinkedIn profile, she would list my hysterectomy as, “Voluntary separation from a hostile work environment.” She walked out, slammed the door, and said, “Y’all figure it out.” My gallbladder left early. My appendix said, “I was never needed anyway.” My tonsils left before the chaos even started. Now it’s just me, my stitches, and three cats running a post‑op reality show.

Things That Now Count as Cardio include putting on socks. Rolling over in bed. Getting out of a low chair. Sneezing. Thinking about laundry. And walking past the mailbox. My Fitbit is confused. It thinks I’m training for a marathon.

Aging may be turning my bladder into a leaky faucet. And my colon into a chaotic intern. But I’m still here laughing. Coughing. Sneezing. Leaking. Creaking. And telling the story. If my organs want to leave, fine. But the comedy? The comedy stays right here with me.

This is my era, the Drip Drop Dynasty, and I rule it with dignity, humor, and a strategically placed bathroom. Back in the day might be gone. But I’m still evolving. Still ridiculous. Still holy. And still funny enough to survive the Renaissance.

Affirmation: “I honor this body, this era, this chaos, and this comedy. I rise today with wisdom in my bones. Fire in my spirit. And three judgmental cats who remind me I’m still unstoppable.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#ThisPuzzledLife

darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Dank OG Concentrate Strain

“Some strains relax you. Dank OG unplugs you and plugs you back in at 50% brightness.”

-This Puzzled Life

 Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Crack your knuckles. Clear your schedule. And maybe put your phone on Do Not Disturb. This one’s thick, sticky, and spiritually committed to humbling you. Today, I want to talk to you about a strain that represents the funk that we will be discussing this month. And it’s a strain that’s concentrated called Dank OG.

Dank OG as a concentrate is not here to play. Flower Dank OG already walks around with that “I’ve seen some things” energy. But once you turn it into wax, badder, rosin, or shatter, it becomes the strain equivalent of a Southern auntie who takes off her earrings before she speaks. This is old‑school gas turned into a modern‑day thunderclap.

Dank OG comes from the legendary OG Kush line. The backbone of half the gas-heavy strains people swear by today. The lineage for this strain is OG Kush × Unknown Kush Hybrid. This is the family tree of strains that smell like they were raised in a garage. Taught discipline by a mechanic. Is blessed by a pine forest. And has that classic “sit down before you fall down” energy.

The terpene Profile consists of Myrcene, Limonene, Caryophyllene, and Pinene. Concentrates amplify everything. The aroma, the flavor, the punch, and the personality. Dank OG’s terpene profile hits like a gospel choir of gas. In concentrate form, these terpenes don’t whisper. They testify.

Dank OG concentrate tastes like someone bottled the smell of a gas station parking lot after a summer rain and then added pine needles for decoration. The flavor profile are made up of heavy diesel, deep earth, sharp pine, a warm, peppery finish, and that unmistakable OG “who turned up the gravity” aftertaste. This is not a dessert strain. This is a “wipe your tools on your jeans and get back to work” strain. Dank OG concentrate hits with the force of a memory you forgot you had. This is also a couch-lock classic. A “don’t make plans” strain. A “why does my blanket feel emotional” strain.

Patients often reach for Dank OG concentrates when they need relief from chronic pain, stress and anxiety, insomnia, muscle tension, overthinking, post-socializing exhaustion, and that feeling where your brain won’t stop narrating your life. The concentrate form makes these effects faster, stronger, and longer lasting.

Dank OG branded concentrates have placed in regional concentrate competitions, often recognized for Best Solvent Concentrate, Best Rosin, and Best Hybrid Extract. Dank OG carries the same award‑winning terpene backbone that judges (and seasoned smokers) consistently fall in love with. It’s that gas, pine, earth, and that unmistakable OG punch. 

Each batch of Dank OG, like any cannabis strain, can have slight differences depending on how it’s grown, harvested, cured, and extracted. Terpenes shift. Potency shifts. The vibe shifts. That’s part of the magic. And Dank OG itself has earned recognition in concentrate categories across multiple regional competitions. Its lineage, especially OG Kush, is where the trophy case really starts overflowing. Thanks for reading! And keep blazin.’

Affirmation: I honor the rest my body asks for, even when the world demands more.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Bubble Bath Strain Review

“Peace isn’t something you find. It’s something you steep in.”

-This Puzzled Life

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Today we’re stepping into the tub of truth with the strain Bubble Bath. It’s a strain that doesn’t just relax you. It baptizes you in a whole new denomination of “mind your business and moisturize your spirit.”

Bubble Bath is an Indica-dominant hybrid. It’s a cross between  The Soap × Project 4516. The Soap is a cross between Animal Mints × Kush Mints. Project 4516 is a cross between Gelato 41 × Gelato 45. It’s the kind that whispers “sit down somewhere” but with manners. This lineage is basically a family reunion where everybody smells expensive. Nobody brought paper plates. And someone’s aunt is definitely reading tarot in the corner.

Bubble Bath hits like a spa day in a smoke cloud. And the flavors consist of a creamy, soft vanilla, fresh herbal mint, a little floral soapiness (but in a “rich auntie’s bathroom” way, not “hotel lobby dispenser” way), and a lingering sweetness that feels like warm steam on your face.

The terpene profile is Limonene, Linalool, and Caryophyllene. Together they create a “take your bra off and exhale” moment. Bubble Bath is the strain you call when your whole nervous system is filing HR complaints. It may help with chronic stress, anxiety, insomnia, and muscle pain. This is the strain for when you need to be held but by THC instead of a person.

Please keep in mind that depending on differences in grows depends on what area of the country it is grown in. Ther will also be slight differences depending on when, where the plant was grown. Thanks for reading! And keep blazin.’ Have you tried this strain?

Affirmation: I release the noise. I welcome the softness. And I let my spirit settle like warm water.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#ThisPuzzledLife

darnold1975

What Are Cannabinoids?

“I’m high on life. Oh, wait, sorry, that’s just marijuana.”

-Unknown

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to talk to you about cannabinoids. And with terpenes this medicine is saving lives.

What are cannabinoids? They are a group of chemical compounds found primarily in the Cannabis sativa plant. And the plant contains about 540 chemical substances. They interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates various functions that include mood, appetite, pain, and sleep. And there are also different types of cannabinoids (https://www.nccih.nih.gov, 2025).

Types of Cannabinoids

·        Phytocannabinoids: Naturally found in the cannabis plant such as THC and CBD

·        Endocannabinoids: Cannabino9ids produced by the human body, as anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG).

·        Synthetic cannabinoids: Man-made cannabinoids designed to mimic the effects of phytocannabinoids such as “K2” and “Spice” (https://nida.nih.gov, 2025).

What are specific phytocannabinoids and their functions?

·        Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): psychoactive compound that produces euphoric “high:. It also helps with nausea, pain, and appetite stimulation.

·        Cannabidiol (CBD): Non-psychoactive compound known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties.

·        Cannabigerol (CBG): Known as the “mother of all cannabinoids” because others are synthesized from its acidic form CBGA. It is non-psychoactive and is being researched for potential neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial effects.

·        Cannabinol (CBN):  A minor cannabinoid that forms as THC ages and degrades. It is mildly intoxicating but primarily known for its sedative properties and p[potential use as a sleep aid. I can tell you that I search for strains high in CBN for severe insomnia. The strain that almost instantly puts me to sleep is Purple Cheisel. 

·        Cannabichromene (CBC): A non-psychoactive cannabinoid that’s being studied for its potential effects on pain and inflammation. This one will definitely help with chronic pain.

·        Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (THCA): The non-psychoactive precursor to THC, found in raw cannabis. When heated it converts to THC. It has potential anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.

·        Cannabidolic Acid (CBDA): The raw, unheated precursor to CBD, found in fresh cannabis. When heated it converts to CBD. It may have stronger anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea effects than CBD in its raw form.

·        Delta-8 THC: A psychoactive compound similar to THC, though its effects are less potent. It occurs in small quantities in the cannabis plant but can be synthetically produced from CBD (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov, 2023). I don’t personally have a problem with the idea of delta-8 and delta-9 products. What I do have a problem with is the fact that they are not regulated and are sold in gas stations to people making them sick. Those products are not safe at all. Because we don’t know what all is in them.

The topic of cannabinoids has a lot of information available. And I won’t bore you with all the very distinct information. As I have said about terpenes, get to know your cannabinoids. It’s imperative when seeking to fine tune your cannabis regimen. Thanks for reading! And keep blazin.’

Affirmation: My mind, body and spirit are my top priority. Cannabis aids with each.

 ***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Zero Gravity Strain Review

“Zero Gravity is that sacred moment when your spirit unhooks from the chaos and remembers how light it was meant to feel.”

-This Puzzled Life

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy, go away. Today we’re talking about a strain that doesn’t just relax you. It elevates you. Zero Gravity is the cannabis equivalent of unhooking your bra, kicking off your shoes, and floating three inches above your own problems. It’s the strain you reach for when the world has been loud, messy, and entirely too people-forward. Zero Gravity doesn’t argue with you. It doesn’t negotiate. It simply says, “Baby, let’s rise.”

T.H. Seeds developed Zero Gravity, and its lineage traces back to the late 1990s. The mother strain, Gravity, began appearing in Amsterdam around 1999, distributed in small batches by legendary breeders Neville and Shanti Baba from Mr. Nice Seeds. Gravity was originally created for Sensi Seeds and traveled globally before returning to Amsterdam, where T.H. Seeds crossed it with a landrace Afghan indica to produce Zero Gravity.

To achieve that, they reached back into the old-school vault and pulled out two legends Hash Plant x Northern Lights #5. Hash plant is a cross between Afghani Landrace x Northern Lights #1. Northern Lights #5 is a cross between Afghani landrace x Hawaiian (Sativa). While the exact release date of Zero Gravity isn’t pinned to a single year, its roots stretch back to the early 2000s. Its genetic journey beginning in the late ’90s. Making it a strain with deep, globe-trotting heritage and a reputation for cosmic calm.

When these two came together, Zero Gravity was born. It’s a strain that quickly gained traction in medical markets for its ability to quiet the mind without knocking you out. Patients loved it. Budtenders recommended it. And soon enough, recreational consumers discovered it and said, “Oh, this is the one for when I want to float, not fold.” Over time, Zero Gravity became a cult favorite. The strain for people who want to feel weightless without losing themselves.

Top terpenes for this strain are Myrcene, Caryophyllene, and Limonene. Patients report relief from stress, anxiety, chronic pain, muscle tension, insomnia, and mood elevation. It’s the strain for when your brain needs a timeout and your body needs a hug. It’s the strain that reminds you that you don’t have to carry everything. You can float. You can rest. You can unplug from the noise and drift somewhere softer. It’s not just a high. It’s a reprieve. A moment of weightlessness in a world that loves to pull you down.

Zero Gravity isn’t just a strain. It’s a permission slip. A cosmic hall pass. A reminder that you don’t have to stay tethered to every worry, every expectation, every loud voice trying to rent space in your head. It doesn’t demand productivity. It doesn’t ask for performance. It simply offers peace. The kind that wraps around your body like a warm quilt and whispers, “You’re safe now.”Whether you’re healing, hiding, or just trying to make it through the day without cussing someone out at Dollar General, Zero Gravity is here to lift you. Not to escape. But to remember what it feels like to float.

Please keep in mind that each grow will be different and the flower’s effects will differ depending on which region of the country that the plant is grown. Thanks for reading! Keep blazin.’

Affirmation: I release the weight I was never meant to carry, and I rise soft, steady, and unbothered.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

CBD Awareness: My Cats Said I’m Legally Required to Calm Down

 “My cats said CBD won’t get me high. But it will keep me from acting like a Walmart parking lot Greek tragedy. And honestly, that feels like growth.”

-This Puzzled Life

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Let the ancestors lean in the doorway with their arms crossed. The moment that smoke hit the ceiling fan, my household convened an emergency session of the Feline Administration to discuss CBD Awareness Month. And the cats had notes.

Piper, Coco, and Tinkerbell marched in like three county commissioners who did not read the briefing packet. But absolutely intend to argue about it. Piper arrived first. She’s was dragging a legal pad she stole from my desk. She hopped onto the coffee table. Cleared her throat and announced, “CBD Awareness Month is important because humans are stressed, chaotic, and prone to hollering at inanimate objects. We must intervene.”

Coco strutted in next. And late on purpose. She believes time is a social construct. And also because she was busy knocking something off a shelf. She plopped down. Tail flicking and said, “CBD is fine. But why do y’all keep buying the expensive treats and then acting surprised when I eat the whole bag?”

Tinkerbell arrived last with the energy of a Southern auntie who already decided the meeting was foolish. But came for the snacks. She sat like a sphinx and declared, “CBD is the plant spirit that keeps y’all from crying in the Walmart parking lot. We support it.”

The Cats’ Official CBD Purposes

According to the Feline Administration, CBD has three sacred functions.

  • Stress & anxiety relief-“Because y’all vibrate like a microwave on popcorn mode.”
  • Chaos reduction-“In theory, though, I’ve seen no evidence.”
  • Increased compliance with feline demands- Tinkerbell insists this is scientifically proven by staring at me until I give her treats.

Then they expanded the list like they were reading off a menu.

  • Calms the humans-“Because y’all vibrate like a cheap motel air conditioner.”
  • Inflammation & pain-“Your knees sound like a haunted rocking chair.”
  • Sleep support-“You need it. We need you to need it.”
  • Mood regulation-“You get dramatic,” all three say in unison.
  • General human foolishness-“Self-explanatory.”

They also want it noted that CBD helps humans stop doom scrolling. Stop overthinking texts. Stop reorganizing the pantry at 3 a.m. and stop crying at dog food commercials. It gives you the ability to forgive yourself for eating an entire sleeve of cookies. And the mystical moment when you realize you are the drama. But also the solution.

Piper hopped onto the table with a binder labeled CBD: A Non‑Psychoactive Situation. Coco dragged in a whiteboard she absolutely cannot read. Tinkerbell arrived late again, ready to deliver a TED Talk titled Calm Down, Human: The Plant Is Legal Now.

Piper began: “CBD is federally legal as long as it comes from hemp and contains less than 0.3% THC. Which means, human, you can stop whispering like you’re buying contraband behind the Piggly Wiggly.”

Coco: “It does not alter your mind. It alters your attitude. And frankly, we support that.”

Tinkerbell: “It’s non‑psychoactive. Which means you’re not getting high. You’re getting functional. You’re getting emotionally moisturized. You’re getting less likely to cry over a dropped chicken nugget.”

The Guidelines (Because Apparently I Needed Rules)

Piper, now self‑appointed Director of Human Regulation, laid out the official policies.

  • Do not give CBD to cats without a vet’s approval. “We are perfect as‑is.”
  • Humans should use CBD responsibly. “Meaning don’t take it and then try to assemble furniture.”
  • CBD is not a personality trait. Tinkerbell says this while staring directly at me.
  • If CBD helps you chill, hydrate, and mind your business, the cats approve. Especially the “mind your business” part.

Then they sat me down like I was on trial.

Piper said, “We’ve observed the pacing. The muttering. The dramatic sighing. And the emotional support snacks. Clearly, CBD awareness is overdue.”

Coco added, “And while we support your journey, we would also like to know why you get the calming treats and we get vibes.”

Tinkerbell stared at me unblinking, like she was reading my aura and finding overdue library books in it. She then hopped onto the altar (my coffee table). Placed one paw on my forehead, and proclaimed:

“May your joints be loose. Your sleep be deep. Your snacks be plentiful. And your spirit be unbothered. May CBD soften your edges but not your boundaries. And may you never, ever forget to refill the treat jar.”

The sage crackled. The ancestors nodded. And the cats declared CBD Awareness Month officially adjourned. Piper knocked over a plant. Coco demanded lunch. Tinkerbell stole my pen. The plant is innocent. The human is the problem. Thanks for reading! Keep medicating.

Affirmation: “I am calm, collected, and legally compliant. I soften my edges, not my boundaries, and I do it with the confidence of a cat who just knocked something over on purpose.”

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#ThisPuzzledLife

darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Skywalker OG Vape Cart Review

“People say stoners forget things. I say we remember what matters.”

-Unknown

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy, go away. Today, I want to tell you about another strain that was one of the first strains that I tried. This packs a punch to the dome and its name is Skywalker OG.

Skywalker OG is a potent indica-dominant hybrid strain. It is a cross between Skywalker x OG Kush. It’s a cross between Blueberry x Mazar-I-Sharif. OG Kush is a cross between Chemdawg x Lemon Thai x Hindu Kush. All of these strains are amazing while standing alone. This is definitely a strain that I see as one of my all-time top cannabis strains. This strain has won two High Times Cannabis Cup awards.

Top terpenes are Myrcene, Limonene, and Caryophyllene. Medical patients report relief from such conditions as chronic pain, insomnia and other sleep disorders, stress, anxiety, mood, and appetite stimulation. I also want to say that this strain is good for PTSD. This one will put you to sleep and helps a lot from chronic pain. If you need a strong strain to help suppress uncomfortable symptoms, this strain is for you. I smoke this as a vape cart. We know that the tastes are different based on it being a solvent  being use to make it. However, I can definitely taste the citrus and pine flavorings. But first make your nest and get comfortable. If you’re a novice smoker, please don’t get to bold. Because it will show you who the boss really is. Thanks for reading! Keep blazin.’

Affirmation: I excel at smoke tricks.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

What Are Terpenes?

“Terpenes can enhance the effects of cannabinoids when combined or take with them.”

-Montana Department of Revenue

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy, go away. Today, I want to talk to you about terpenes. I am going to do my best to break it down in the easiest way possible.

In plants, terpenes are a natural defense against herbivores and pests. They also play a part in the attraction of beneficial organisms ensuring plant survival and reproduction. Some terpenes protect the plants from environmental stressors like heat and UV radiation. They also function as signaling defense mechanisms (www.nature.com, 2025).

Terpenes are organic compounds responsible for the aromas and flavors of cannabis strains and other plants. And cannabis has over 150 identified terpenes in the plant. However, many exist in such low concentrations that  there may not significantly contribute. 

Beyond aromatic qualities terpenes are also studied for therapeutic benefits like pain relief, anti-inflammatory, and anti-anxiety effects, among others. The factors that influence terpene profiles are genetics, growing conditions and the plant’s developmental  stage. Here are a few terpenes and explanations.

§  Myrcene: known for earthy flavors and associated with  pain relief and relaxation. This is one of the main terpenes that I look for in my medicine. It is a  big one that helps with chronic pain.

§  Caryophyllene: has the “pepper like” flavor that also helps with pain relief.

§  Limonene: responsible for the citrusy aroma. And helps with mood elevation.

§  Pinene: correct! This one is responsible for the pine scent which can also help to elevate mood. I will tell you that most of the negative anxiety experiences that I have with cannabis is due to this “panic attack provoker.” And that is why I tend to enjoy hybrids.

§  Linalool: responsible for flora aromas and relaxation. Helps with the ability to combat stress and ease body aches, reduce muscle spasms, relieve pain, and anxiety.

§  Humulene: is used for inflammation and weight control. And helps to tame those terrible munchies.

§  Terpinolene: has been shown to help inhibit tumor growth and have positive effects on cardiovascular disease (www.cannaflower.com, 2021).

Terpenes and other medical benefits:

§  Aromatherapy and Flavoring: Terpenes are used in essential oil, perfumes, and food.

§  Potential Therapeutic Effects: Research indicates potential health benefits include:

o   Anti-inflammatory: Helps with chronic inflammation

o   Analgesic: pain relief

o   Anti-anxiety and antidepressant:they promote calming effects and improve mood. Linalool is found in lavender.

o   Antioxidant: Protects cells against damage

o   Antimicrobial and antifungal combat bacterial and fungal infections

o   Sleep improvements: Terpenes like myrcene have sedating effect and promote relaxation.

o   Neuroprotective effects:Potentially help protect neurons from damage and degradation.

o   Cancer research: Early studies suggest potential anticancer properties (www.medicalnewstoday.com, 2025).

All these points describe how the terpenes in cannabis and other plants can be so helpful to us and to our ecosystem. I invite you to know the terpenes that work best for you even if you are not personally use cannabis. They are an essential part in healing and management of various debilitating conditions. Thanks for reading! And Know Your Terpenes!

Affirmation: I will allow myself to accept my pain today and embrace the things that relieve it.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Afghan Kush Strain Review

“I don’t rise and shine. I wake and bake.”

-Unknown

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to tell you about another strain that is a grassroots strain for us. Its name is Afghan Kush.

Afghan Kush aka Afghan OG is a pure indica. And it’s origins are that it’s a landrace strain from the Hindu Kush mountain range in Afghanistan. And specifically, it’s the area near the Pakistan border, specifically thriving in the Amu Darya River Valley. It’s considered one of the original cannabis indica types. And it was introduced to Western breeders via the “Hippie Trail” in the 1960s and 70s. I did get a strong taste of pepper in my bud. But the flavor profile includes an herbal, pine, spicy, sweet, and woody notes. A definite must have in your stash.

Patients report relief from  chronic pain, depression, insomnia, loss of appetite, migraines, PMS, PTSD, and stress. And I can attest to each one of these. Afghan Kush is a very heavy and potent indica. And it’s so strong that you don’t just have “couchlock,” you become a space cadet. So, it’s not a strain that I would recommend for daytime use. Please keep in mind that each grow will be different and the flower’s effects will differ depending on which region of the country that the plant is grown. Thanks for reading! Keep blazin.’

Affirmation: With each inhale, I return to myself.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Budtender Moment: OG Kush Strain Review

“If you can’t remember my name, just call me ‘indica,’ I’ll still put you down.”

-Unknown

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to tell you about another strain that when you talk about cannabis this strain will likely be discussed. And it’s the classic and very wonderful OG Kush strain.

OG Kush is an 80/20 indica-dominant hybrid strain. It’s a cross between Chemdawg x Lemon Thai x Hindu Kush. Chemdawg is believed to be from Thai and Nepalese landrace strains. However, the exact lineage is unknown. And it’s also said to originate from bag seed found at a  Grateful Dead concert in the 90s. Lemon Thai is a cross between a classic Thai landrace strain. And it’s crossed by Dutch Flowers x Hawaiian sativa. Hindu Kush is a landrace strain from the Hindu mountain range. This strains origins start in Florida. The “OG” is sometimes called “Original Gangster, “ “Ocean Grown” or “Original Grower.” And it’s known to be a foundational strain. Matt “Bubba” Berger cultivated the strain from an accidental cross involving Lemon Thai x Chemdawg. Berger then brought the genetics to Los Angeles in 1996. Josh Del Rosso refined its cultivation and distribution thereby solidifying its legendary status.

Top terpenes in this strain are Myrcene, Limonene, Caryophyllene, Linalool, and Pinene. Patients report relief from stress, anxiety, chronic pain, insomnia, depression, and appetite loss. This strain is perfect for breakthrough pain. This strain is perfect for breakthrough pain. “Couchlock” is readily available even without being asked. So not one to use during the day unless you have time for the effects to wear off before doing an activity. Oh, and keep the Cheetos available for mass consumption. Please keep in mind that each grow will be different and the flower’s effects will differ depending on which region of the country that the plant is grown. Thanks for reading! Keep blazin.’

Affirmation: The plant guides me toward clarity, not escape.

***Don’t forget to watch the video!***

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