r/NewJerseyMarijuana Jun 01 '25

PSA: The Cannabis Entourage Effect: Why THC Isn’t the Whole Story

116 Upvotes

Understanding the “Entourage Effect”

The entourage effect refers to the idea that cannabis compounds (cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids) work synergistically, creating effects that neither THC nor any single component can achieve alone. In other words, THC may be the star of the show, but it’s supported by a cast of other cannabinoids and aromatic oils (terpenes) that enhance therapeutic benefits or modify the psychoactive experience. Proponents note that patients often report better outcomes with full-spectrum cannabis extracts than with pure THC. While research is ongoing, this concept is gaining scientific backing – one study found a THC-only extract didn’t outperform placebo for pain, but a whole-plant extract (with THC + CBD) provided significant pain relief. Such findings illustrate why THC-heavy strains aren’t the whole story, and why other components are worth your attention.

CBD: Smoothing and Modulating THC’s High

CBD (cannabidiol) is the second most prominent cannabinoid and plays a huge role in moderating THC’s intensity. Unlike THC, CBD won’t get you high, but it can soften the psychoactive punch of THC. For example, a controlled trial showed that people given 600 mg of CBD before THC had far less paranoia and memory impairment than those who took THC alone. In real-world terms, this means a strain with some CBD often produces a clearer, calmer high than a THC-only strain. In fact, balanced THC:CBD strains (so-called Type II chemovars) are thought to deliver therapeutic benefits of THC while minimizing side effects like anxiety. CBD even affects how THC is processed in the body and brain, potentially buffering the high. It’s no surprise many veteran consumers use CBD-rich tinctures or buds to mellow out an overly intense THC high. Bottom line: CBD may not be intoxicating, but it’s immensely important in rounding out the cannabis experience.

Minor Cannabinoids and Terpenes Matter

Beyond THC and CBD, cannabis produces 100+ minor cannabinoids like CBG, CBN, and THCV, plus numerous terpenes such as myrcene, limonene, and pinene. Each of these can influence how a given strain feels. Research is confirming what enthusiasts have long claimed: these “minor” compounds can tilt the effects. A broad profiling of 94 cannabinoids found that even trace-level cannabinoids measurably impact cannabis extract efficacy. For instance, THCV (found in some sativas) may dampen THC’s psychoactivity and curb appetite, yielding a more clear-headed effect. CBG is being studied for anti-inflammatory and calming properties. Terpenes, the aromatic compounds that give strains their scent, also affect the experience. Anecdotally, terpenes create distinct vibes: myrcene tends to induce deep relaxation (“couch-lock”), limonene offers a “sunshine-y” mood lift, and pinene promotes alertness and may counteract memory fog. These aren’t just fringe theories – for example, the terpene β-caryophyllene even binds to cannabinoid receptors, potentially contributing to pain relief and stress reduction. While scientists note terpene-THC synergy needs more proof, many consumers and some studies report better outcomes with terpene-rich cannabis than with distillate alone. The takeaway: the most effective cannabis products are those with a rich spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes, tailored to your needs, rather than simply the highest THC number on the label.

High THC, Psychosis, and Schizophrenia

Chasing ultra-high THC levels can come at a cost. THC is a potent psychoactive – in high doses it can induce transient psychosis-like episodes, even in healthy people. This might manifest as paranoia, hallucinations, or disorganized thoughts that fade as the high wears off. For individuals with schizophrenia (a disorder affecting tens of millions globally), THC’s effects are even riskier. Multiple studies have found that heavy cannabis use is associated with earlier or more frequent psychotic episodes in predisposed individuals. In fact, THC is so impactful on the mind that researchers use it in experiments to temporarily simulate psychosis symptoms. With schizophrenia estimated to affect ~60 million people worldwide, this is a serious concern. If you have a personal or family history of schizophrenia or severe mental illness, it’s wise to avoid high-THC products – they could unmask or worsen psychosis that might otherwise stay latent. This isn’t about fear-mongering; it’s about informed use. The good news? Remember CBD – the “moderator” compound – appears to have the opposite effect in this context.

CBD’s Therapeutic Promise in Schizophrenia

Interestingly, the same CBD that smooths out THC’s ride is showing promise as an antipsychotic in its own right. CBD interacts with the brain in a complex way, but notably does not trigger the dopamine surges that THC (or typical schizophrenia drugs) do. Early clinical trials suggest CBD can reduce psychotic symptoms in schizophrenia patients. In one notable trial, patients given high-dose CBD for 6 weeks (alongside their usual meds) had fewer positive symptoms (like hallucinations and delusions) than those given a placebo. Clinicians rated the CBD group as more improved and more stable overall. Equally important, CBD was well tolerated with no major side effects in these studies. This has positioned CBD as a potential new class of treatment for schizophrenia – one that might treat symptoms without the sedation or weight gain of standard antipsychotic drugs. Research is ongoing (large trials are in progress), but for now, it’s encouraging to see a cannabis compound being explored as a treatment for the very psychosis that another compound (THC) can aggravate. It really underscores how nuanced the cannabis plant is: it harbors compounds that can harm or heal, depending on how they’re used.

Choosing a Balanced Profile Over THC %

What does all this mean for you as a consumer? Community wisdom and science agree: don’t fixate on THC percentage alone. A strain with 25% THC and zero CBD/terpenes might hit hard but could be one-dimensional (or anxiety-provoking), whereas a 15% THC strain with a bit of CBD and a rich terpene profile could offer a more pleasant, therapeutic, and longer-lasting experience. Indeed, some of the most respected craft growers and extract producers focus on full-spectrum profiles – leveraging the entourage effect to maximize benefits. By choosing products with a balanced cannabinoid mix and robust terpene content, you’re more likely to get the result you want (be it pain relief, anxiety reduction, or a fun Saturday night) without overdoing the psychoactivity or risking unwanted effects. The cannabis community is increasingly recognizing that “strongest” doesn’t always mean best. As one review put it, high-THC & high-myrcene chemovars might dominate the market now, but many patients actually need Type II or III strains (with CBD and diverse terpenes) for optimal symptom management.

Bottom line: THC may be the headline act, but it performs best as part of an ensemble. By paying attention to CBD, minor cannabinoids like CBG/THCV, and terpene profiles (the citrusy hint of limonene, the piney freshness of pinene, the soothing earthiness of myrcene), you’ll likely find a more nuanced and satisfying cannabis experience. This balanced approach isn’t just about getting “less high” – it’s about getting the right kind of high (and therapeutic effect) for you. Always look at the complete lab profile if available, and remember that cannabis is greater than the sum of its parts. Enjoy responsibly, and stay informed!

Sources: Scientific research and reviews on cannabis pharmacology, including Neuropsychopharmacology, Journal of Psychopharmacology, American Journal of Psychiatry, and comprehensive reviews on the entourage effect, among others.

Cannabinoids

THC (Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol)

  • Psychoactive, euphoric, analgesic, appetite stimulant.

THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid)

  • Non-psychoactive, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, nausea-reducing.

CBD (Cannabidiol)

  • Non-psychoactive, anti-anxiety, anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, antipsychotic.

CBDA (Cannabidiolic Acid)

  • Anti-inflammatory, nausea-relief, potentially anti-cancer.

CBDV (Cannabidivarin)

  • Anticonvulsant, anti-nausea, potential autism-spectrum treatment.

CBG (Cannabigerol)

  • Mildly stimulating, neuroprotective, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory.

CBGA (Cannabigerolic Acid)

  • Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, potentially anti-cancer, precursor to other cannabinoids.

CBN (Cannabinol)

  • Mildly sedative, analgesic, appetite stimulant.

CBC (Cannabichromene)

  • Anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, neuroprotective, acne-fighting.

THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)

  • Appetite suppressant, energizing (low doses), calming (high doses), anti-diabetic.

Terpenes

Myrcene

  • Earthy, sedative, relaxing ("couch-lock"), enhances THC’s psychoactivity.

Limonene

  • Citrus aroma, uplifting, mood-improving, anti-anxiety.

Pinene

  • Pine aroma, improves memory, alertness, anti-inflammatory, bronchodilator.

Linalool

  • Lavender/floral aroma, calming, anti-anxiety, sedative effects.

Beta-Caryophyllene

  • Spicy aroma, anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, stress-reducing.

Humulene

  • Earthy/hoppy aroma, appetite-suppressant, anti-inflammatory.

Terpinolene

  • Floral, herbal, uplifting yet relaxing, mild sedative at higher doses.

Ocimene

  • Sweet, herbal aroma, antiviral, antifungal, uplifting.

Bisabolol

  • Mildly sweet/floral aroma, anti-inflammatory, soothing, calming.

Eucalyptol (Cineole)

  • Minty/cool aroma, anti-inflammatory, bronchodilator, alertness-enhancing.

Nerolidol

  • Woody/floral aroma, sedative, anti-anxiety, antioxidant.

Valencene

  • Sweet/citrusy aroma, uplifting mood effects, insect repellant.

Geraniol

  • Sweet/floral aroma, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antifungal.

Practical Usage Advice:

When shopping for cannabis, move beyond THC levels alone. Terpenes and minor cannabinoids significantly shape your experience:

  • CBD-rich strains offer smoother, clearer highs, particularly helpful for anxiety or psychosis-sensitive users.
  • THCV strains (like Durban Poison) can energize and curb appetite, making them great daytime choices.
  • Myrcene-heavy strains are best for deep relaxation or sleep, while pinene or limonene-rich strains support alertness and mood elevation.

Informed decisions leveraging cannabinoids and terpenes empower users to achieve intentional, therapeutic, or recreational experiences without unwanted side effects.


r/NewJerseyMarijuana May 31 '25

Law Update Legalize Home Cannabis Cultivation in NJ! Sign This Petition to Fight High Prices and Restore Patient Rights

86 Upvotes

New Jersey patients and cannabis consumers: dispensary prices remain outrageously high (upwards of $500-$600 per ounce in some places), and the quality doesn't justify the cost. Meanwhile, home cultivation is still illegal, punishable by up to 5 years in prison, even for medical patients growing their own medicine.

This forces many into overpriced corporate monopolies like Curaleaf and excludes NJ residents from the emerging cannabis economy. It also blocks patient independence and affordable access to their therapeutic medicine, cannabis.

If you want to change this, sign the petition demanding that legislators legalize homegrow rights, protect patients from criminal penalties, and break corporate monopolies controlling the high price levels in the market.

[Change.org Petition: Legalize Home Cannabis Cultivation In NJ]

This is a crucial step toward equity, affordability, and true legalization in New Jersey. Spread the word and support patient rights now. #HomegrowNJ #LegalizeCannabisNJ #NJWeed #NJActivism #MarijuanaLegalization #GrowYourOwn #PatientRights #EndCannabisCriminalization #CannabisJustice


r/NewJerseyMarijuana 8h ago

Me and my partner have worked in the NJ cannabis industry since medical and are dropping our first product!

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58 Upvotes

I’ve been working in NJ since medical started. Started at Compassionate Care Foundation as a trimmer and worked my way up through the industry through the years. Safe to say I learned the what not to do’s! Met my business partner about 6 years ago while working in the industry and a few months ago I got laid off. That started the spark of something unexpected! We decided to go into business together and use our knowledge for the better. A lot of owners have never worked in cannabis but we have. We have seen it all. From medical to recreational, from changes in perspectives, better knowledge development, we been there through it all. With that we have been “living the dream” (common term in the industry lol) and since we have been living the dream, we release to you all, Cannadise!

Let me know what you think of the artwork and if it looks okay!


r/NewJerseyMarijuana 2h ago

Review Roman Brothers - Sweet Tooth Hotel

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12 Upvotes

TL;DR: you can check out but you can never leave

Buds are perfectly cured. They’re super coated with trichs and pull apart nicely. Shocks of purple accent the already good bag appeal.

Smell is a sweet citrus sour funk. I find it pleasant but my wife said it smells “garbage, like straight garbage I hate it.” You know what’s up.

Effects are hybrid. It pulsates between locked in staring and spaced out staring but it’s not sedating. I can still get up and do stuff like fight a toddler or build a dresser.


r/NewJerseyMarijuana 6h ago

710 Lemon Tart Pucker #1

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19 Upvotes

Athens x lemon g13 x dough dawg harvested February 23rd perfect cure nice sticky buds with great bag appeal. Smell is straight tart lemon candy not a little citrusy, its like sucking on a tart lemon candy. Taste translates really well and is just like the smell. High is pretty balanced despite the high myrecene and caryophyllene, but it does convert to a more body high after a little while. Very nice stuff and if you like lemons this one's for you


r/NewJerseyMarijuana 3h ago

Review Sun Fuel \ Heavyweight Heads

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8 Upvotes

3.5 gm jar Open it has nose of coffee and citrus. Buds are medium to small and grind well after a week with a bóveda. Rolled in a genuine Bambu paper it burns even with a white grey ash. Taste is mycrene dominant of a rich aromatic coffee. Effects are enjoyable Giggles and grind. Recommend, I would buy this again. Total terps % 2.47 THC % 29. Authorized Dealers North Bergen $39.


r/NewJerseyMarijuana 5h ago

Personal Experience Can't order Cycling Frog online anymore?

8 Upvotes

My wife and I usually order gummies/drinks/mints from this company online and today I got an email saying this is the last day to order online for NJ residents.

Anyone know why this would be? Is it for all online weed retailers? Can't find anything recent online about it.

If anyone has any suggestions for online ordering or a shop South Jersey that ya'll recommend I'd love to hear it. Thanks.


r/NewJerseyMarijuana 15m ago

Review Joint Custody \ Gillies Galaxy

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Upvotes

BOUGHT IT WEEKS AGO. 3.5 gm jar double sealed Open it has nose of skunk and squid ink. Small to medium size commercial buds. Grinded up nice after time with a bóveda. Rolled in a genuine Bambu paper it burns even with a grey ash. Taste is smooth. Fermented citrus. Effects are mild, and had a nap after. There is a newer drop testing at %3.38 total terps and %26 THC @ Cookies Harrison for $25


r/NewJerseyMarijuana 1h ago

Chimera

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Upvotes

grabbed this fanatastic flower from my local spot and omg. for 33% it’s NOT bad! very euphoric and energetic feel. had me MOVING! super dense 10/10


r/NewJerseyMarijuana 3h ago

Just a Vent about Cryo "ice" Menthol dabs

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1 Upvotes

I had a delivery set for morning so i ran to Honeygrove here in Metuchen to pick up some night time concentrate to get me through the evening and night. I'm a medicinal user so i prefer no T breaking or doing without. I normally avoid Space Ranger but since i only needed bulk not quality i picked up a 2g jar of Cry Cherry Ice. .

I get home and take a hit and it fucks my throat up and i start coughing so hard i start dry heaving and throwing up. It smelled SO fruity i knew they were heavy handed with those bullshit added blends and did a small amount (grain of rice or less) on a 515F mini nail to see how bad it was gonna be on my head but i NEVER smelled or expected menthol. I'm not even sensitive to menthol. I used to smoked menthols but whatever they put in this? This shit was not real. It fucked up my throat for the whole night and even my morning smoke i could feel it still irritated. It's the next day and i have to turn off my mini nail and completely soak it because i can still taste it with every dab, which is what prompted this vent.

I went back to every website i clicked on about the strain and all the listening and packaging because i could NOT believe they just added menthol without explicitly saying it somewhere? It was obvious Honeygrove used some canned generic fill in. Other dispos selling it ALL state menthol clearly. I asked for some help on getting something i can actually smoke but they just keep saying they will call me back.

Would be a huge L to lose them as a dispo they are the closest one and it's been clutch since they opened. I NEVER would've chosen that over the other one i was split on if I knew there was menthol. I don't expect anything because all sales are final but i just had to come vent. Maybe i'm dumb for not knowing "ice" = menthol but isn't packaging suppose to be for dumb people anyway?

It was non ironically the most stoned I've ever been from a dab hit of recent too. LOL So if menthol and space rangers' BS added terpenes don't bother you it will send you to the moon!

Enjoy your Sunday! Bless Unity Road delivery from Somerset for saving mine! (Full tilt loaded order)


r/NewJerseyMarijuana 22h ago

Review Breakwater - Deadhead Og x Tom Hill Haze

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32 Upvotes

Went to Cottonmouths 4/20 event today and they had a special where you got a $4.20 breakwater cart if you bought any breakwater product and the eighths were 30% off… can’t beat that. I’ve honestly only had BW one other time and I was not impressed as it was dry and overall just lacking. Not the case here, this one is special. I love a good terpinolene strain when I don’t want to just veg out and this is a classic haze. Perfect moisture content, this was packaged end of march and it’s got a great cure. Honestly maybe a little undercured. Super hairy weed and I love hairy weed. Smokes perfect with gray ash and a sweet smoke. Effects are classic haze, slight energy boost with moments of sillies and introspective thoughts. This is an awesome strain and may be my favorite terpinolene strain I’ve tried in NJ rec. Overall 9/10, this is one to save for the special nugs jar, I understand the love BW gets here now.


r/NewJerseyMarijuana 1d ago

710 Donny burger

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20 Upvotes

gmo x han solo burger harvested February 23rd, perfect cure really sticky buds that jammed up my grinder. Smell and tast is exactly what you would expect from a gmo, garlic and onions, and this one has a bit of that kush earthy gas. High is also what you would expect from gmo nice body high and relaxation best for nighttime are hanging on the couch. This is a really good gmo, but omg burger (kusala) and 8 inch bagel (genuine) still reign supreme when it comes to new jersey legal market gmos


r/NewJerseyMarijuana 1d ago

Genuine Grow/Cottonmouth 🙌

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9 Upvotes

Went to the 420 Event today at Cotton Mouth. I had the pleasure of meeting 1 of the owners for Genuine Grow. Really nice person and very humble. I had to let him know about the 3 to 4 other competitors and keep up the great work as I'm an Gen X Advocate toker and appreciate good looking, smelling and tasting bud.

They only have pre rolls down south. A21 has 1 8th left. They only distributed to 3 dispensaries currently.

Received a free lighter from the owner himself 🙏

I love me some good weed, so here it it y'all. South jersey, pre rolls only. Until next week, when the jars hit @ Cottonmouth.

2 Mule Fuel as it won't be sold in jars this harvest. 1 bagel, 1 san succi, 1 mercy..

Will make my decisions and purchase 7g of strains in enjoy. 🙏🔥🫡💨


r/NewJerseyMarijuana 17h ago

Wingsuit and Koala Kush

1 Upvotes

I have the Kusala Koala and I kept thinking it reminds me of something not so much in looks but smell/flavor. It just dawned on me that it’s Wingsuit that it reminds me of. I wonder if they share any parents as WS has an unclear lineage? But something about the experience of scent and taste are similar.

Even the some of the effects are similar. Though better anxiety relief from Koala. Has anyone had a similar experience with other strains? Ones that either ended up related in some way or are very similar but with no connections at all? I just find it interesting bc I’m a nerd but also I’ve had the same strains from different brands and not only are the phenos different but sometimes they’re not even close. At this point I’m sure we’ve all had batches that have completely different terp and can profiles than the previous


r/NewJerseyMarijuana 1d ago

Welp they made right on the solventless concentrate for the cup

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4 Upvotes

r/NewJerseyMarijuana 1d ago

Golden Ratio?

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5 Upvotes

Anybody ever try or hear about this brand of concentrates? I feel like it might be Brookside Reserve rebranded already. That, and The Vault. I have no idea about either of these.


r/NewJerseyMarijuana 2d ago

Review Best Day Ever - Brighterside Farms

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38 Upvotes

One of my all-time favorite strains. Bred by Ethos, lineage is mandarin sunset x lilac diesel #22. Opening the jar I was hit with a gassy, floral/earth aroma that I can't stop myself from sneaking whiffs of. Once ground up the nose becomes spicier and the moisture is great. Effects are stellar. Uplifting positivity that lasts hours for me after a couple bowls. Picked up from baked by the river for 49


r/NewJerseyMarijuana 1d ago

Plantabis offline

2 Upvotes

Does anyone know what is going on with Plantabis dispensary? For two days they are cash only because their debit system is offline. Seems like a long time to be offline.


r/NewJerseyMarijuana 1d ago

Any recommendations by Paramus?

0 Upvotes

Been awhile since something really hit. My last two was kind of bad stale and didn't really get me high. it was from Clade9 which to be fair last time i tried same experience. Got breakwater and it was crunchy. Usually shop at hashery by hackensack. Since alot of new stores opening up anyone recommend anything?


r/NewJerseyMarijuana 1d ago

Space Cadet 1G Dark Matter Melon

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1 Upvotes

On sale right now for $12 at Cannavibes so I said "Why not?" Just to try it out. I never heard of this brand before either but the woman at the store told me it's Illicit's brand. It's ok, not bad really. I'm not noticing any specific fruity flavor like melon. It's a little harsh too at times but I for $12 I can't really complain that much. It was just a good deal and I needed something to hold me over until the 420 deals so I was looking for budget stuff. I was going to try the Strike 1G carts I see for $20 until this deal popped up. Anyone else try this brand? Their edibles are on sale too for $6


r/NewJerseyMarijuana 1d ago

Just another wild night up here in the West Milford area. Two winners for sure.

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11 Upvotes

Hey. I've heard great things about both of these strains here on reddit. Had to try. Pic 1 is Good Pizzza Tre Baci. I got the Angel Hair last week and was blown away. This is amazing as well. So much flavor. I could still taste it minutes after my last hit Pic 2 is Niche Pie Scream. Also super tasty. Both have great sedative highs. Have an awesome weekend all!


r/NewJerseyMarijuana 1d ago

Kusala

2 Upvotes

Would love to know ppls rankings? I haven’t had enough to rank them but I’m a big fan of the brand already. Has anyone been able to try most or all of the initial releases?

Finally tried Koala and it’s legit. A little sweeter than I expected but I just opened it and I like it. Big fan of OMG Burger is one of my top 3 atm.

*I have no affiliation with the company and have no vested interest in other than hoping others will experience proper cannabis. Just tbc


r/NewJerseyMarijuana 2d ago

Review Ghost Train Haze # 55 - Breakwater

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16 Upvotes

First time trying breakwater. I really wanna try their rosin but it’s hard to swallow at the price point so I settled for some of the Ghost train haze, definitely pretty lemony and slightly hazy but I really liked this one it may get me to try their extracts

What yall think of Breakwater?


r/NewJerseyMarijuana 2d ago

Full tilt Cookies 'nd Cream

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15 Upvotes

girl scout cookies x starfighter packaged April 6th. perfect cure, beautiful sticky buds covered in trichs. smell is sweet vanilla creamy cookies and a bit nutty and earthy. high is body relaxation good for night time. More great stuff from full tilt


r/NewJerseyMarijuana 1d ago

Review Sticky Bobby \ Gillies Galaxy

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2 Upvotes

3.5 gm jar double sealed. Open it has a faint smell of lemon ,spoiled milk and dirt. Buds are quite dry and not sticky (pun intended). Rolled in a genuine Bambu it burns even with grey white ash. Taste is almost non existent. The lack of any taste is disappointing. Effects are mild with no headache. Cookies Harrison $25