Cannabis Education

Recreational Cannabis Dispensary in Worcester, MA

What is Cannabis?

Cannabis is a plant that has been used for various purposes for centuries. It contains compounds called cannabinoids, with two primary ones being THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).

THC, or Tetrahydrocannabinol, stands as a key cannabinoid present in cannabis and is accountable for the psychoactive effects often linked with cannabis consumption.
CBD, or cannabidiol, a non-psychoactive compound, has demonstrated efficacy in addressing pain relief, inflammatory issues, and stress, among various other benefits.

Psychoactive Effects & How THC Works

Mind-Altering: It interacts with receptors in the brain, altering perception, mood, and consciousness.

The Endocannabinoid System (ECS), a vital biological system responsible for regulating a variety of physiological processes, engages with THC in its interaction.

Different Types of Cannabis

Understanding the types of cannabis that are better suited for you can enhance your cannabis experience. They are typically broken into three main categories:

Indica

Indica strains are known for their relaxing and sedative effects on both the body and mind.

Common Characteristics:

Body High: Indicas often induce a “body high,” leading to a sense of physical relaxation.

Sleep Aid: Indica has shown to be helpful for promoting sleep and relieving insomnia.

Evening Use: Indicas are often recommended for evening for people wanting to wind down at the end of a busy day.

Sativa

Sativa strains are associated with more energizing and uplifting effects.

Common Characteristics:

Energetic Buzz: Sativas tend to provide a more cerebral and uplifting experience, promoting creativity and focus.

Daytime Use: Sativas are often recommended for daytime use as they may not induce drowsiness.

Social Effects: Users may feel more social and talkative when consuming Sativa strains.

Hybrid

Hybrid strains are a combination of both Indica and Sativa, offering a balance of their respective effects.

Common Characteristics:

Balanced Effects: Hybrids aim to provide a mix of relaxation and stimulation.
Varied Effects: The effects of a hybrid strain can vary widely based on the specific genetics and ratio of Indica to Sativa.

Methods of Consumption

Cannabis can be consumed in various ways. Explore different methods to find what suits your lifestyle best.

Smoking:

Inhaling the smoke produced by burning cannabis flowers.

Smoking is one of the traditional and quickest ways to feel the effects of cannabis. The heat activates cannabinoids, making them rapidly enter the bloodstream through the lungs. Common tools include pre-rolls, pipes, and bongs.

Vaporizing (Vaping):

Inhaling vaporized cannabis through a vaporizer device.

Vaporizing involves heating cannabis to a temperature that releases cannabinoids without combustion. This method is considered less harmful than smoking, as it produces vapor instead of smoke. Vaporizers come in various forms, including portable pens and desktop devices, providing a smoother inhalation experience.

Edibles:

Consuming cannabis-infused food or beverages.

Edibles offer a discreet and long-lasting way to experience the effects of cannabis. The cannabinoids are metabolized through the digestive system, leading to a delayed onset compared to smoking or vaping. It’s crucial to start with a low dosage, as the effects can be potent and take longer to kick in. Common edibles include brownies, gummies, and beverages.

Tinctures:

Placing liquid cannabis extracts under the tongue.

Tinctures are concentrated liquid extracts that can be absorbed sublingually. This method provides a faster onset than edibles but slower than smoking or vaping. Tinctures are versatile, allowing for precise dosage control. The effects are generally milder compared to edibles, making them suitable for those seeking a more controlled experience.

Topicals:

Applying cannabis-infused creams, balms, or lotions to the skin.

Topicals are designed for localized relief without inducing a psychoactive high. They interact with cannabinoid receptors in the skin and underlying tissues, making them suitable for addressing pain, inflammation, or skin conditions. Topicals are non-intoxicating and provide a therapeutic option for those who want to avoid ingestion of cannabis.

Safety Precautions

Avoid Driving Under the Influence:

- - Cannabis can impair coordination and reaction time. It is illegal to drive or operate heavy machinery while under the influence.

Use Quality Cannabis:

- - Purchase cannabis from dispensaries to ensure quality and minimize the risk of contaminants.

Mindful Dosage:

- - Start with a low dosage, especially if you are new to cannabis. Allow time for the effects to kick in before considering additional consumption.

Stay Hydrated:

- - Cannabis can cause dry mouth. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking water before, during, and after smoking.

Know Your Limits:

- - Be aware of your tolerance level and avoid excessive consumption. Overconsumption can lead to discomfort, anxiety, or other adverse reactions.

Keep Emergency Supplies Handy:

- - Have snacks, water, and other comfort items nearby in case you experience the munchies or need to address any discomfort.

Choose a Safe Environment:

- - Select a comfortable and safe setting for smoking. Avoid areas with potential hazards or situations where you might feel uncomfortable.

Store Cannabis Safely:

- - Keep cannabis products stored in a secure place, especially if there are children or pets in the vicinity. Cannabis products are typically sold in child-proof packaging.

Be Respectful of Others:

- Consideration for others is essential. Be mindful of non-smokers or individuals who may be sensitive to the smell of cannabis. Smoke in designated areas when necessary.

Cannabis FAQ

What do I need to come to your store?

Adult-use recreational dispensaries require a 21+ Valid, government-issued ID, we have an atm at our store and accept debit from select banks.

How much can I buy at the dispensary?

The Daily allotment of purchasable cannabis is 28 grams or 1 ounce. This can consist of:
- 28 grams of flower
- 5 grams of concentrate
- 500mg of edibles
Other products beyond flower have a flower equivalent in weight so you can combine multiple products as long as it doesn’t go over your daily limit.

Where can I consume cannabis?

It is illegal to consume cannabis in public spaces in MA, this includes parks, public transportation, sidewalks, etc. Cannabis is currently allowed to be consumed at a private residence. There is a consumption lounge up the street called The Summit Lounge and we hope for more to come in the future.

What Types of products can i purchase?

Flowers, Pre-Rolls, Edibles, Vapes, Concentrates, Topicals, and Tinctures. Major Bloom offers a vast array of products at a competitive price. Please navigate our menu to find out more!

Do you guys have specials or discounts?

Since we are not a medical dispensary we cannot offer exclusive discounts. We do offer comptetive pricing and a loyalty program that is free to sign up.

2800 BC

Cannabis has been used for its alleged healing properties for millennia. The first documented case of its use dates back to 2800 BC, when it was listed in Emperor Shen Nung's (regarded as the father of Chinese medicine) pharmacopeia.

1908

The American Medical Association's Council on Medical Education requested that The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching commission a survey of all US and Canadian medical schools in order to create standards of exclusivity.

1914

Congress passed the Harrison Narcotics Tax Act which set the foundations of the War on Drugs as we know it today. Sellers of narcotics were required to register with the government and pay a tax.

1930

The Federal Bureau of Narcotics (Now DEA) was officially created and Harry Anslinger was appointed as the Commissioner. Anslinger was notoriously and unashamedly racist and used his position to spread false propaganda about marijuana and its users that still exists today.

1936

Anti-Marijuana propaganda was increasing. The infamous film "Reefer Madness" was released.

1944

The New York Academy of Medicine published "The LaGuardia Report" which stated that "contrary to popular belief, use of marijuana did not induce violence, insanity or sex crimes, or lead to addiction or other drug use." Harry Anslinger denounced everyone involved with the report.

1969

Timothy Leary was arrested in Texas (1966) for violating the Marijuana Tax Act of 1937. Leary brought his case to the Supreme Court where they ruled that the Marijuana Tax Act was Unconstitutional and violated Leary's Fifth Amendment right against self-Incrimination as it compelled him to pay taxes on an illegal substance. (Possession of marijuana was illegal in Texas)

1970

The "1970 Act" established the National Commission on Marijuana and Drug Abuse to assess the medical and addictive properties of marijuana. The Commission reports to congress stated that marijuana was not as dangerous as popularly believed and recommended decriminalization of possession of small personal amounts of marijuana.

1981

Reagan was elected President and aggressively pursued the War on Drugs. Nancy Reagan started the "Just Say No Campaign" and travelled the country to spread her message. In 1985 2-6% of the population saw drug abuse as the Nation's number one problem. By 1989 that number was at 64%.

1994

Bill Clinton signed the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994 establishing the Three Strikes rule which dictates mandatory life imprisonment without the possibility for parole for federal offenders with three or more convictions of serious violent felonies or drug trafficking crimes.

2013

The Cole Memo was Issued under the Obama Administration. The Cole memo deprioritized enforcement against Marijuana relative to other Drugs and outlined 8 priorities that state legal marijuana operations should follow.

Where are we now?

Between 2001 and 2010, there were 8,244,943 marijuana arrests. 7,295,880 or 88% were for marijuana possession. In 2010, more than 20,000 people were incarcerated on the sole charge of marijuana. From 2010 to 2018, about 50% of all drug arrests were for marijuana. Black people are 3x more likely to be arrested for marijuanan possession.

1900

Until the late 1800s to early 1900s, there were no common standards for the medical profession within North America There were colleges and schools focused on herbal and other traditional forms of medicine.

1910

The 1908 Survey would ultimately yield the "Flexner Report" Issued by Abraham Flexner, a German-Style medical researcher from John Hopkins University who advocated a rigidly scientific approach to medicine which overlooked herbal traditions.

1925

The United States Military organized a committee to research the effects of marijuana. The results, which were never publicized, concluded that the deleterious effects of marijuana had been exaggerated and recommended that no restrictions be placed on its use.

1932

Concern about increasing use of marijuana as well as false or non-existent "research" linking its use to crime, prompted the federal government to act. The FBN encouraged state governments to accept responsibility for the "problem" by adopting the Uniform State Narcotics Act.

1937

The first drug related law explicitly tailored against marijuana was passed. The 1937 Marijuana Tax Act required that individuals pay a tax of up to $100 an ounce of marijuana. This was a way for the government to track and harass Marijuana users, particularly Mexican Immigrants. $100 in 1937 would be worth $2,130 today.

1951

Congress Passed the Boggs Act, a strict anti-drug Act that categorized Marijuana with heroin and other hard drugs. Physicians challenged this categorization in Congress. Anslinger combated their protests by creating the gateway drug theory and presenting it to Congress.

1970

President Nixon signed into law the Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and Control Act, which included the Controlled Substances Act, effectively launching the War on Drugs. Marijuana was categorized as a schedule one substance pending further research - but any further research has been and continues to be ignored.

1977

Jimmy Carter was elected President of the United States. Carter's Campaign platform supported federal decriminalization of marijuana.

1988-1993

The Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988 created the office of National Drug Control Policy which during George H.W. Bush's administration focused on arresting more drug offenders in "targeted communities". This incentivized police to arrest low level offenders because their performance reviews were and largely continue to be based on arrest numbers.

1994

During Clinton's presidency drug arrests rose by 46%. More Blacks were imprisoned than ever before in American History.

2018

Jeff Sessions under the Trump Administration repealed the Cole Memo.

Cannabis Education

What is Cannabis?

Cannabis is a plant that has been used for various purposes for centuries. It contains compounds called cannabinoids, with two primary ones being THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).

THC, or Tetrahydrocannabinol, stands as a key cannabinoid present in cannabis and is accountable for the psychoactive effects often linked with cannabis consumption.

CBD, or cannabidiol, a non-psychoactive compound, has demonstrated efficacy in addressing pain relief, inflammatory issues, and stress, among various other benefits.

Psychoactive Effects & How THC Works

Mind-Altering: It interacts with receptors in the brain, altering perception, mood, and consciousness.

The Endocannabinoid System (ECS), a vital biological system responsible for regulating a variety of physiological processes, engages with THC in its interaction.

Different Types of Cannabis

Understanding the types of cannabis that are better suited for you can enhance your cannabis experience. They are typically broken into three main categories:

Indica

Indica strains are known for their relaxing and sedative effects on both the body and mind.

Common Characteristics:

Body High: Indicas often induce a “body high,” leading to a sense of physical relaxation.

Sleep Aid: Indica has shown to be helpful for promoting sleep and relieving insomnia.

Evening Use: Indicas are often recommended for evening for people wanting to wind down at the end of a busy day.

Sativa

Sativa strains are associated with more energizing and uplifting effects.

Common Characteristics:

Energetic Buzz: Sativas tend to provide a more cerebral and uplifting experience, promoting creativity and focus.

Daytime Use: Sativas are often recommended for daytime use as they may not induce drowsiness.

Social Effects: Users may feel more social and talkative when consuming Sativa strains.

Hybrid

Hybrid strains are a combination of both Indica and Sativa, offering a balance of their respective effects.

Common Characteristics:

Balanced Effects: Hybrids aim to provide a mix of relaxation and stimulation.

Varied Effects: The effects of a hybrid strain can vary widely based on the specific genetics and ratio of Indica to Sativa.

Methods of Consumption

Cannabis can be consumed in various ways. Explore different methods to find what suits your lifestyle best.

Smoking:

Inhaling the smoke produced by burning cannabis flowers.

Smoking is one of the traditional and quickest ways to feel the effects of cannabis. The heat activates cannabinoids, making them rapidly enter the bloodstream through the lungs. Common tools include pre-rolls, pipes, and bongs.

Vaporizing (Vaping):

Inhaling vaporized cannabis through a vaporizer device.

Edibles:

Consuming cannabis-infused food or beverages.

Tinctures:

Placing liquid cannabis extracts under the tongue.

Topicals:

Applying cannabis-infused creams, balms, or lotions to the skin.

Safety Precautions

Avoid Driving Under the Influence:

Cannabis can impair coordination and reaction time. It is illegal to drive or operate heavy machinery while under the influence.

Use Quality Cannabis:

Purchase cannabis from dispensaries to ensure quality and minimize the risk of contaminants.

Mindful Dosage:

Start with a low dosage, especially if you are new to cannabis. Allow time for the effects to kick in before considering additional consumption.

Stay Hydrated:

Cannabis can cause dry mouth. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking water before, during, and after smoking.

Know Your Limits:

Be aware of your tolerance level and avoid excessive consumption. Overconsumption can lead to discomfort, anxiety, or other adverse reactions.

Keep Emergency Supplies Handy:

Have snacks, water, and other comfort items nearby in case you experience the munchies or need to address any discomfort.

Choose a Safe Environment:

Select a comfortable and safe setting for smoking. Avoid areas with potential hazards or situations where you might feel uncomfortable.

Store Cannabis Safely:

Keep cannabis products stored in a secure place, especially if there are children or pets in the vicinity. Cannabis products are typically sold in child-proof packaging.

Be Respectful of Others:

Consideration for others is essential. Be mindful of non-smokers or individuals who may be sensitive to the smell of cannabis. Smoke in designated areas when necessary.

Cannabis FAQ

Adult-use recreational dispensaries require a 21+ Valid, government-issued ID, we have an atm at our store and accept debit from select banks.

The Daily allotment of purchasable cannabis is 28 grams or 1 ounce. This can consist of:

28 grams of flower

5 grams of concentrate

500mg of edibles

Other products beyond flower have a flower equivalent in weight so you can combine multiple products as long as it doesn’t go over your daily limit.

It is illegal to consume cannabis in public spaces in MA, this includes parks, public transportation, sidewalks, etc. Cannabis is currently allowed to be consumed at a private residence. There is a consumption lounge up the street called The Summit Lounge and we hope for more to come in the future.

Flowers, Pre-Rolls, Edibles, Vapes, Concentrates, Topicals, and Tinctures. Major Bloom offers a vast array of products at a competitive price. Please navigate our menu to find out more!

Since we are not a medical dispensary we cannot offer exclusive discounts. We do offer comptetive pricing and a loyalty program that is free to sign up.

2800 BC

1908

1914

1930

1936

1944

1969

1970

1981

1994

2013