There are three main types of cannabis: Sativa, Indica, and hybrid. Sativa and Indica have their own unique properties and effects, and hybrids mix and match portions of both to create combined effects or highlight a specific effect or flavor profile. At Options Medical Center we understand this can be confusing, so we wanted to take a moment to explain each of these varieties.
Commonly associated with “couch lock” or referred to as “In da Couch” indica strains are usually associated with a heavy sedation and relaxation effect. Many consumers enjoy indica as an end of day or nighttime strain due to these properties. This particular cannabis strain may be best enjoyed when you are looking to relax more so than in a social setting.
Sativa strains are associated with a more uplifting clear headed happy effect vs. the relaxed sedated effects of an indica. The two types are almost exact opposites in the way they affect the consumer. Many consumers enjoy a sativa as more of an all-day productive option to relieve symptoms without the heavy sedation effects of an indica. Sativa is best enjoyed for most consumers in a lively and active environment, especially involving socializing.
A hybrid strain can be the best of both worlds and is usually either Sativa or Indica dominant which will give you a good idea of the effects of each particular strain. As mentioned before, the dominance of the cross will determine if the effects are more sedating or uplifting depending on if it is a Sativa or Indica dominant hybrid. A hybrid strain can incorporate things like a high CBD concentration, from one strain and a sedating, relaxing effect from another, providing the benefits of both an Indica and a Sativa.
Options Medical Center in Wheat Ridge and Boulder, Colorado carries all three types of cannabis in flower, concentrates, edibles, and more. Our menus make it easy for you to determine which strain you are looking for, and provide more on what to expect. Come in or contact us from our contact page on our website and let us provide you with some of the best medical and recreational cannabis and cannabis products in the state of Colorado!
Extracts or concentrates are commonly referred to as wax, shatter, and oil. They are a relatively newer entry into the world of cannabis. At Options Medical Center, we want to clear up the information regarding extracts and concentrates. The three types of concentrates featured here are oil, wax, and shatter. All three have their own unique benefits and properties, and we are happy to share this knowledge with our customers and patients.
Cannabis oil is extracted from the marijuana plant and contains high levels of THC and CBD, including many other cannabinoids. The levels of these cannabinoids are much higher than the levels found in the flower or even resins. Along with the high levels of potency and THC, oil is reported to be beneficial for people with many conditions including epilepsy, anxiety, multiple inflammatory diseases, and has even shown evidence in impacting the growth of certain cancers. More and more research is being done that will shed more light on the medical benefits of cannabis oil and its relationship with modern medicine.
Wax is one of the lesser stables of the concentrates. Due to this, it is a little more tricky to consume. Wax is extracted from the cannabis plant in a special process using butane. Wax is known for its lower THC level (around 70%) and buttery, gooey consistency. Buttery versions are referred to as budder while more crumbly dryer versions are called crumble.
Shatter is almost identical to wax as far as the butane extraction process, but it is characterized by a more translucent clear appearance and is much more stable, so it makes consumption easier. The name shatter refers to the concentrate’s tendency to shatter when using it. There is also a more gooey shatter that pulls and snaps when taking some to dab; both are glass-like in appearance and translucent. Typically higher in THC than wax (closer to 90% THC), it also appears to last longer due to its potency and ease of use for dabbing.
At Options Medical Center pride ourselves on carrying some of the best concentrates in the state of Colorado. Check out both our medical and recreational options and visit us to find our locations, hours of operation, and more.
One of the overlooked advantages of vaping recreational cannabis rather than smoking is the ability to change your “high” based on the amount of heat applied. If you’ve never made any adjustments to your vaporizer’s temperature setting, it’s time for you to start experimenting and finding the sweet spot for the effects you desire. Vaping temperature control is easy once you understand the basic principles behind it.
Cannabis contains over 400 unique compounds including cannabinoids (responsible for the medical and euphoric effects) and terpenes (providing unique flavors and potentially providing unique effects. Each of these compounds has a unique boiling point. When the proper temperature is applied, these chemicals sublimate into a gas and can be inhaled, while the inert carbon in the plant does not combust into tar or harmful carcinogens. The specific compounds that are inhaled will affect each person differently.
Low temps between 310 and 330 degrees Fahrenheit are recommended for those who want an emotional pick-me-up while remaining focused, productive and relaxed. You’ll get a good dose of THC, but not an overpowering dose and the low temp terpenes will contribute to a smooth experience.
As heat is increased to the 330 to 370-degree range, more THC is expressed, and you can expect more euphoria, elevated mood, and enhanced sensory awareness. Music will sound sweeter, food will be more satisfying, and you’ll enjoy relaxed activities such as reading, gaming or socializing (this temperature range is ideal for feeling “high” while remaining social.)
Note: A nice bonus to vaping at low to moderate temperatures is that most of the THCA decarboxylate into THC even though it’s not converted into a gas. That means the browned, leftover cannabis is perfectly toasted and ready to be consumed as an edible! Simply sprinkle into your favorite snack when you’re ready for a more intense edible experience.
Somewhere between 370 and 430 degrees is where you can expect the most intense effects of your cannabis. Whatever the “normal” effects of your cannabis are, you can expect them to be exaggerated here. Indicas or indica heavy hybrids will give you a full body “stoned” feeling. Sativas will push you to energy levels that seem boundless. And the release of THCA at this temperature will CURB your appetite rather than stimulating it.
Temperatures higher than 430 degrees Fahrenheit are just not efficient and you risk combusting your cannabis – Bitter, harsh smoke is produced and you lose all of the benefits of vaping.
It’s important to remember that vaping temperature control has limitations based on the strain of cannabis you’re using. A sativa will always have stronger energizing effects than an indica regardless of temperature as an indica will always be more sedating. Think of temperature as controlling the intensity of the effects rather than the effects themselves. If you don’t like heavy metal, cranking up the volume on that Metallica song won’t make you enjoy it anymore. You need to begin with music you enjoy before finding the intensity where you enjoy it the most.
Temperature control is more about individual preference than an exact science, but these guidelines should provide you with a foundation to begin experimenting on finding your own sweet spot. If you’re still looking for the “perfect high” with temperature, come in to Options Medical Center and let our staff help you find the strain you’ll prefer and the temperature range you’ll be most comfortable with. Our daily deals give you plenty of opportunity to try something new without beating up your wallet. You can get batteries for 20% off on Tuesdays and vape cartridges 20% off on Wednesdays!
We here at Options Medical Center are constantly asked why the prices of medical flower are different than recreational, even for the same strain. We understand this can be confusing for the average customer, and we are here to help.
The main difference between recreational and MMJ pricing is due to taxes. In addition to standard state and local taxes that are applied to both medical and recreational cannabis products, there is a 15% Colorado Retail MJ tax is applied to only recreational product. Also, when any recreational product is transferred, whether it be from grow to lab or grow to store, it is taxed at a rate of 15% called an excise tax. This extra cost that is not applied to medical marijuana makes the production cost of recreational flower significantly higher. However, this excise tax is only applied the first time a batch of flower is transferred. The cost per pound that the 15% excise tax is applied to is established by the Marijuana Enforcement Division every six months in a calculated AMR (average market rate). There is an AMR for flower, trim, clones, and even seeds that all recreational companies must pay when moving product. This is a lot of information for the average customer to keep up with, especially because so much of it is ever changing, so we are always here to answer your questions! Check out our prices right on our website for both recreational and medicinal (MMJ) flower.
Low-Dose cannabis use… it’s not all about getting STONED. If you have questions about anything in this post, don’t hesitate to come into our store to speak with a budtender, or contact us.
Low-Dose use, or micro dosing, is defined as consuming low amounts of cannabis to experience the health benefits but to avoid the psychoactive effects.
One of the benefits of this approach is that daily activities are not impaired by the psychoactive effects that marijuana can have at higher doses. For example, an individual who suffers from anxiety may benefit from a small dose of THC that takes the edge off, but also allows them to retain cognitive and motor functions for every day activities. In addition, greater amounts of THC may trigger more intense anxiety, but the micro dose provides just the right amount of relief.
The theory behind Low-Dose cannabis use is backed by science! Recent research has led to a better understanding of the body’s cannabinoid system, which scientists have named the ECS. The ECS has a vital role in many aspects of our body’s health, and cannabis can influence this for better or worse. Just like all things, there is always a point where one can have ‘too much of a good thing,’ while that threshold will be different for each individual user, it is important to know.
Some issues individuals have found relief with micro dosing include stress, depression, anxiety, and pain. Some users also claim improved focus and sleep. Because historical limits on cannabis research have prevented studies on these claims, user experiences provide important insight for patients seeking relief. The future of cannabis research as more states legalize does look bright! Clinical research is already showing support for these claims and the demand for more research is driving progress.
If you think micro dosing might help you, stop by and check out our selection! A store favorite is Canyon Cultivation’s Chew IT gummies. These gummies come in 2.5mg doses and taste great! Other options include Incredibles’ Red Licorice gummies (5mg pieces) and Canyon Cultivation’s Suck ITs hard candies (2.5mg pieces). Our selection of drinks and tinctures are also great for micro dosing. While there are not many brands offering micro dosed products at this time, the trend is spreading and we anticipate seeing a lot more of this in the future as users realize the benefits.
We here at Options Medical Center are committed to offering a wide range of products to suit our customers’ needs. Take a look at our menu, check out our Daily Deals page, or take a moment to learn about our innovative growing system. Come in today to experience some of the best cannabis and cannabis-infused products in Wheat Ridge, with some of the best daily dispensary deals in Wheat Ridge and beyond!
Photo by Drew Taylor on Unsplash
Options Medical Center carries a wide variety of cannabis products for both medical and recreational customers at our dispensary in Wheat Ridge, Colorado. One of the best products for experiencing the health benefits of cannabis is oil. Cannabis oil comes in both Cannabidiol (CBD) and Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) versions so it’s important to know the difference of each and what they can do for you. We here at Options always want to make sure our customers and patients are informed before, during, and after their trip to see us.
The most important difference to keep in mind between THC and CBD oils is that THC oil has psychoactive effects and is typically associated with getting “high,” and CBD oil is nonpsychoactive and leans more toward health. Also, THC oil consumption can be illegal in some states and impairs ones ability to do things such as operate a motor vehicle, whereas CBD oil does not provide the intoxicating effects that THC does so it is more widely accepted.
As we previously mentioned, THC oil and THC vape oil are typically associated with the psychoactive properties of marijuana. They should only be used when there is no intention to operate heavy machinery, make important decisions, etc. The effects of THC oil include fatigue, relaxation, altered senses of sight, smell and hearing, reduced aggression, and hunger. Due to these effects, THC oil is used medicinally for dealing with the side effects of many conditions and treatments such as chemotherapy, AIDS treatments, spinal injuries, tremors and seizures, Parkinson’s, MS, and Glaucoma.
CBD oil in contrast to THC oil has no psychoactive properties at all. Due to this it is more widely accepted in places that THC and cannabis are not allowed to be sold or consumed. Also, it is recommended for those that still want to be able to operate heavy machinery, spend time with people, etc. Due to the fact it has no psychoactive properties, it is used in the treatment of arthritis, different types of anxiety, schizophrenia, depression, and appetite in cancer treatment patients. It is also used to reduce psychotic symptoms, treat nausea and convulsions, anxiety, and inflammation.
Next time you need cannabis, see us at Options in Wheat Ridge. We have been a part of the cannabis industry since 2012, and are dedicated to providing personalized service and individualized care to our customers and patients. We strive to provide the best cannabis to Colorado at all times. If you have any questions about THC or CBD, or any other cannabis products, come on in and see us or contact us here.
For consumers and entrepreneurs alike in the marijuana industry, there has been an ongoing battle to find safe and secure ways to handle payments. Due to fuzzy regulations regarding the handling of money from marijuana transactions, nearly all banks have refused service to dispensaries. This has left them holding large amounts of cash that they were unable to transfer into digital transactions such as credit or debit cards. Now, CanPay is helping to solve this problem by creating a whole new payment system from the ground up.
CanPay is a payment system designed to help both dispensaries and consumers make more secure transactions. It is an app based payment system that allows consumers to make purchases directly from their checking accounts at any local dispensary in the CanPay system. Once you have your account set up, which only takes a few minutes when you have all the necessary information, all you have to do is open the app, request a pin, and begin the transaction. The dispensary will open the app on their end, accept the transaction and send it through. This whole process takes only moments and works similarly to other app-based payment systems, such as Venmo.
During the creation of CanPay, there were a number of challenges to overcome. First and foremost, the creators wanted something that would function similar to a debit payment in Denver dispensaries. This meant that it had to be cash-free and connected to consumer checking accounts for easy access. Another problem was ensuring that the dispensaries held active checking accounts with a local bank following all state regulations regarding marijuana, as well as the federal level Cole Memo guidelines. This ensures that all of the money moving through the system is safe and secure, and there is a high level of transparency. In doing so, you will see a line item on your bank account for each transaction, clearly telling you where the money went so it can be traced back. The system also had to have plenty of security features in place to ensure that the identity of the purchaser is known and no fraud is committed. This means protecting the consumer’s bank account information from the dispensaries as well. Part of their extensive security measures is the use of purchase pins. When you log in to your account to make a purchase, you are given a unique purchase pin that is only good for a one-time use and expires in 30 minutes. It is virtually impossible for someone to steal or hack your sensitive information to make fraudulent purchases!
After adding all of those features, CanPay has become the best way to pay for cannabis purchases all around. It keeps both parties safe, while still being fast and effective at transferring money. CanPay has done their homework to ensure that the money is being moved legally with the consent of both parties. More than anything, it offers a safer, more convenient way to make purchases without carrying a large amount of cash or spending extra money on ATM fees. Options Medical Center in Wheat Ridge is now part of the network accepting your CanPay Denver Dispensary Purchases!
Photo credit: iconer/Shutterstock
Buying presents for the cannabis users in your life can be a challenge, especially if you don’t partake. We at Options Medical Center want to help make it easy for you by putting together a list of cannabis gifts for the weed lovers in your life. This is what a cannabis user’s Christmas list looks like for 2017:
IndioPro, $25 (battery only)
Vaporizers have taken the scene by storm, and it’s no surprise why. These convenient devices make dosing and using cannabis much healthier and more efficient. IndigoPro devices are some of the most reliable and offer a diverse line of indica, sativa, and hybrid flavors.
Space Case Titanium Grinder, $80, Space Case
Grinding weed can be a cumbersome and messy task – one that is exacerbated by higher-quality strains that are packed with THC crystals. Space Case’s titanium design accommodates this and makes it easy to grind large amounts, storing any loose THC crystals, or “keef,” conveniently at the bottom of the unit.
Nectar Collector Honeybird, $199, Nectar Collector
The pinnacle of cannabis gifts for THC concentrate users, Nectar Collector produces portable vaporizers that give a great dab in a convenient form factor. Water filtration creates a smooth rip in any size, and the percolator setup is sure to impress even the most experienced weed user.
Arizer Air, $175, Arizer
We mentioned the rising popularity of vaporizers and hope that’s clear now with this second vape entry on our list of gifts for weed lovers. What sets the Arizer Air apart from other vapes is the ability to use it on the go or mount it on a traditional water-filtrated glass piece for enjoyment at home.
Hemp Moisture High Expert Set, $40, The Body Shop
The winter months always present a challenge in the form of dry skin, and this definitely applies to cannabis users who may spend some extra time outside in the elements. The Body Shop offers this great gift set of hemp-infused skin care products that are sure to make a splash with the weed lovers in your life.
Grunge Off, $16, Amazon
Glass pieces are some of the most functional and beautiful forms of cannabis consumption, but they can often be a hassle to keep clean and pristine. Grunge Off Super Soaker should be in every marijuana lover’s arsenal and can save time for the more enjoyable aspects of using cannabis.
We hope this list helps prepare you for this holiday season and helps give the cannabis users in your life something they truly want. Browse our online selection or stop by the store for the best strains in Colorado and complete your 2017 cannabis gift shopping!
Oil, oil, oil! Everywhere you look these days there is cannabis oil, CBD oil, THC oil and many other varieties on store shelves. Colorado marijuana dispensaries are up to their ears in all different kinds of oils. Oils have many medical benefits, but what is the difference between hemp oil and cannabis oil? Which products are right for you?
To begin with, it’s important to understand the difference between hemp oil and cannabis oil. Both hemp and cannabis are part of the same family of plants, which is why they are often confused. However, when it comes to oils, hemp oil is actually produced by pressing hemp seeds, while cannabis oil comes from cannabis flowers. Hemp seed oil is high in fatty acids but free of cannabinoids. This means it contains some nutrients but cannot get you high. By contrast, cannabis or marijuana oil can contain cannabinoids and can be further broken down into THC oil and CBD oil.
If you’ve learned anything about marijuana nomenclature, you know that THC is the cannabinoid that is most often responsible for “getting high,” while CBD oils do not have a psychoactive effect and are credited with things like pain relief. Thus, when you see marijuana oils on the shelf, they will typically denote whether they are CBD or THC oils. Some oils available for purchase will be pure THC, some will have different ratios of CBD and THC, and some will be pure CBD.
As you explore marijuana dispensaries in Colorado, take a look at different oils and see what the main ingredients are. Remember that hemp seed oil is not the same as cannabis oil, and that THC and CBD produce different effects. If you are looking mainly for medical purposes, CBD will be your best bet, while THC is more about the psychoactive results and relaxation.
To learn more about different types of oil available in Colorado, visit Options Medical Center in Wheat Ridge today and speak to one of our specialists. We can help you select an oil that is best suited to your needs.
Microdosing is a newer concept in the cannabis world that most medical and recreational consumers have probably never heard of. So, what exactly is it?
Essentially, microdosing is consuming as little cannabis as possible, in order to gain the highest level of benefits while avoiding the side effects that can impact your functionality for day-to-day life.
Instead of smoking like a character out of Pineapple Express, consumers smoke small doses, usually 2.5 to 10 mg, allowing for relaxation of the mind, pain relief, and other benefits, without the paranoia, lethargy, and other side effects sometimes associated with cannabis use.
Microdosing is easiest when ingesting edibles as opposed to traditional styles of smoking marijuana. This is mainly because with traditional smoking styles it is difficult to control the THC content, as a single hit could contain more than the intended microdose.
Recreational edibles are required by Colorado law to be packaged in servings of 10mg or smaller, each piece with its own THC logo. Customers can then cut their edibles up into smaller pieces as desired to get intended effects and a better understanding of their tolerance. Here at Options we also carry Canyon Cultivation microdosed gummies that are 100mg of gummy edibles with 2.5mg serving sizes. They are available in indica, sativa, and hybrid flavors.
Another ideal way to microdose cannabis is through a tincture, as tinctures are required to specify the milligram dosage of their dropper filled at capacity. We carry multiple flavors of Dixie Dew Drop Tinctures that are available in 3mg servings.
Not as exact as ingesting edibles or tinctures that clearly have to mark their serving sizes, vape pens are another good option for consumers who are looking for a discreet way to smoke and consume cannabis without getting an intense high that flower or other concentrates can provide.
At Options Medical Center we have various vape pens by Craft, Concentrate Supply Co., and Indigo Pro. Each brand comes in a .5g cartomizer and will last the average marijuana smoker 100+ hits, giving consumers ample opportunity to find their ideal dosage to achieve an optimal high. However, the number of hits you can get out of each cart depends on several variables, most importantly being how long the user draws. Stop by our store to see all the choices available!
In order to find your ideal dosage, it is recommended that you not use marijuana for 24 hours in order to “reset” your body. We would recommend starting at 2.5-5mg, slowly increasing your dosage in those same increments until your desired effects are reached. You should consider how you are consuming the THC when timing out your additional doses. For example, edibles can take up to two hours to activate.
You should stay at the dosage that gives you the positive benefits you are looking for, without the side effects that can impair your daily life.
Once you’ve found your ideal dosage, you will be able to enjoy your recreational or medical marijuana with the smallest possible noticeable effect. For example, this means anxiety relief without crossing the line into paranoia, or pain relief with a clear mind.
The idea of microdosing cannabis is in clear contrast to the traditional stereotype of marijuana usage. The truth is, as the United States grows more progressive regarding marijuana usage for both medical and recreational purposes, more people will want to use it for various reasons, and not all of them want to get stoned in order to experience the benefits that cannabis can provide.
For more information, stop by our store and talk to our incredible staff. And remember, keep Colorado safe, if you dab, take a cab.
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Wheat Ridge Location
9085 W. 44th Street,
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Recreational Hours:
Mon - Fri: 9 AM - 9:30 PM
Saturday: 10 AM - 8:30 PM
Sunday: 10 AM - 7:30 PM
Welcome to Options Cannabis Co.! We're thrilled to serve you in Colorado, where cannabis consumption is legal at the state level for adults aged 21 and over; however, local regulations may vary. Cities, counties, schools, universities, and employers may have their own rules and consequences regarding cannabis use. Familiarize yourself with the specific laws in your area before making any purchases or consuming cannabis products. Check how marijuana laws differ in each county before you partake.
At Options Cannabis Co., we prioritize the well-being of our customers. It's important to note that the information provided on our website is intended solely for educational purposes and cannot substitute for professional medical advice. We advise users to seek medical advice, diagnoses, and treatments from a qualified medical professional regarding any health concerns or questions about cannabis use.
The use of cannabis, like any substance, carries potential risks. These risks may include impaired coordination, cognitive effects, and altered perception, which could affect your ability to drive or operate machinery safely. Additionally, cannabis use may have adverse effects on individuals with certain medical conditions or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. We advise all customers to exercise caution and moderation when consuming cannabis products and to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have underlying health concerns or are taking medications that may interact with cannabis.