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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

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!***

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Tiger’s Blood Vape Cart Strain Review

“Marijuana is proof that plants are smarter than people give them credit for.”

-Unknown

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to tell you about a strain called Tiger’s Blood.

Tiger’s Blood is an indica-dominant hybrid. Many sources trace Tiger’s Blood back to OG Kush genetics. Some product listings suggest it may be bred from Tiger Paw × OG Kush. In the cannabis world, strain genetics can differ between breeders and regional markets. This means that Tiger’s Blood may not have one universally accepted pedigree. And like the snow cone flavoring it’s a mixture of berry tastes.

The top terpenes in this strain are Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Limonene, Pinene, and Linalool. Patients report relief from chronic pain management, muscle relaxation, inflammation relief, stress, anxiety, relaxation, sleep, appetite stimulation, muscle spasms and cramps. This particular strain I’m using in a vape. And I really like it. It’s one that I can use on the go but without the “couch lock.” Thanks for reading! Keep blazin’.

Affirmation: Cannabis helps me slow down, listen inward, and breathe.

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

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Purple Punch Strain Vape Cart Review

“Cannabis doesn’t take you away from reality. It changes how you look at it.”

-Unknown

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to tell you about a strain called Purple Punch.

Purple Punch is an 80/20 indica-dominant hybrid. It is a cross between Larry OG x Grandaddy Purple. Larry OG is a cross between OG Kush x SFV OG (San Fernando Valley). And what powerful strains those genetics are. Grandaddy Purple is a cross between Purple Urkle x Big Bud. All of these genetics are well known historic strains.

The most prominent terpenes in this strain are Myrcene, Caryophyllene, and Pinene. Patients report relief from conditions such as stress, anxiety, insomnia, appetite loss, and body aches. What I can tell you about this strain is that you will feel like you got purple punched. It is a very potent strain as flower. But in this vape cart, it’s not long before you get that punch. I can attest to the above relief from stated conditions. This one will put you out and give you some much needed pain relief.

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

Affirmation: My vibe affects my high.

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

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Coffee Creamer Strain Review

“The best conversations happen with a little cannabis and a lot of honesty.”

 — Unknown

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, as we’re facing 2026 with our horrible administration, what would go great with those discussions with friends and family. We all know that many of us are coffee drinkers. And what better strain to go with the coffee and conversations but a little bit of coffee creamer.

Coffee Creamer is a 70/30 indica-dominant hybrid. It is a cross between Zkittlez x Kush Mints. I immediately tasted the creamy flavoring in this strain.

Top terpenes in this strain are Myrcene, Caryophyllene, and Limonene. Patients report relief from conditions such as stress, anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, muscle tension, and appetite stimulation. And for me, it helped gently rock me to sleep. And if you’re needing something after a hard day to relax, this strain will do it. Thanks for reading! Keep blazin’.

Affirmation: I deserve relief, peace, and moments of ease.

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

#Thispuzzledlife

darnold1975

Budtender Moment: Obama Runtz Strain Review

“When I was a kid, I inhaled frequently. That was the point.”

-Barack Obama

Light the charcoal. Sprinkle the sage. Negative energy go away. Today, I want to tell you about a strain called Obama Runtz by River Remedy/The Sipp. I don’t know about you, but after a year of the current administration, I needed to see some hope. And this strain makes me miss the days of former president Obama.

Obama Runtz is a 70/30 indica-dominant hybrid. It is a 3-way cross between Afghani x OG Kush x Runtz. Afghani is another landrace indica strain found in the mountains of Afghanistan. OG Kush is a very popular indica-dominant hybrid strain that is a cross between Chemdawg x Hindu Kush. Runtz is a very popular hybrid that is a cross between Zkittlez x Gelato. These three strains are some of the first ones that I tried when I first began using medical cannabis. So, a combination of all three has made for an enjoyable experience.

The top terpenes for this are B-Caryophyllene, a-Humulene, Caryophyllene Oxide. The medical benefits include relief from depression, chronic stress, anxiety, nausea, appetite loss, insomnia, and other sleep conditions. And when the political environment gets too heavy, this strain is perfect for taking you down a few notches and help you chill. Thanks for reading! Keep blazin.’

Affirmation: I am manifesting more cannabis into my life.

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

#Thispuzzledlife