Summer is one of our four favorite seasons here at Greeley Gallery. The rain has finally ceased, and the days are long and warm, drawing us outdoors to socialize. A good ol’ fashioned barbeque is the perfect solution to providing screen-free socializing outside – and we can’t forget the fantastic food. Alcohol is another typical staple at barbeques for anyone 21 years or older, and when living in Portland, who can resist a local microbrew on a sunny day. But sometimes, it’s nice to have an alternative, especially once we get a little older and hangovers that last far longer than in our youth.
Well, luckily for us, the cannabis industry has created an assortment of cannabis-infused beverages, providing an alternative to alcohol that still offers you a great time. See, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the active compound in cannabis responsible for the psychoactive high weed is known for, which stimulates the release of dopamine, known as the “feel good” chemical because it produces a mind-altering euphoria, and increases our pleasure sensors while simultaneously lowering our inhibitions. All of which sounds very similar to the effects one or two alcoholic beverages can produce. However, there are four other reasons we suggest including weed drinks at your next barbeque.
Makes Your Food Taste Even Better
While burgers and hot dogs are the traditional backyard BBQ menu, there are plenty of delicious items to grill, from veggie kabobs to pizzas – and all of them taste even more scrumptious when you’re high, thanks to the notorious munchies. THC is thought to play a role in producing a hormone called ghrelin which stimulates appetite centers in the brain. Also, studies show that when THC interacts with CB1 receptors in the brain, it enhances our sense of smell – and since our sense of smell and taste are closely linked, the heightened smell magnifies the flavor of the food, encouraging us to eat more. You might even win a hotdog or pie eating contest!
Socially Stimulating
While cannabis still carries a reputation for laziness and inducing a lack of motivation in consumers, there are actually a wide range of cannabis strains with stimulating effects. Conversations while high can be enlightening experiences, whether by inspiring deep discussions or uncontrollable laughter. Either way, you’re bound to have a good time and boost connections. We recommend any flavor of Magic Seltzers, or for those with a higher tolerance or who really want to party, you can’t go wrong with a Magic Number Soda.
No Hangover
I know we’ve mentioned this probably a million times in previous posts, but the fact that weed doesn’t leave you clinging to the toilet or cause your head to pound is a game-changer. Alcohol can make us feel on top of the world while we’re under its influence, but often times it leaves us feeling like we were run over by a garbage truck the following day. The only “hangover” research indicates cannabis causes results in some slight brain fog the day after consumption. However, even then, the studies are decades old, include less than 15 men with zero women, and the results vary from person to person.
Healthier
The health benefits of cannabis are, by now, well-known and documented. While most health benefits are attributed to cannabidiol (CBD), THC has an impressive list too. Easing chronic pain and anxiety are probably the two most well-known benefits, but there are several other lesser-known ways cannabis improves our health. For instance, did you know that cannabis – both THC and CBD – act as neuroprotectants? This means cannabis protects our brain cells from damage. Meanwhile, alcohol is a neurotoxin which damages our brain.
Final Thoughts
It seems like a no-brainer to include cannabis beverages at the next backyard BBQ, given everything we’ve discussed today. Heck, this makes us want to crack open a delicious Delta 9 right now! Stop by our Greeley Gallery cannabis dispensary in north Portland any day of the week and take your pick from our wide selection of refreshingly cold weed drinks from our refrigerator. We’re open from 7am to 10pm for your convenience, and we’d love to see you.
Written By: Katrina Paulson
