Hydrolife Magazine October/November 2016 (CAN Edition)

grow. heal. live. enjoy. 

OCT/NOV 2016 // CAN 

LOOKING 

FORWARD 

THE FUTURE 

OF CANNABIS 

SEEKING A MILDER DOSE 

MARIJUANA AND ALZHEIMER'S 

THE ART OF CURING YOUR CROP

inside 

08 from the publisher / 10 own it / 12 ask kyle / 46 ask a nurse / 74 the chill list 

grow. 

14 Canopy Management 

For Maximum Output 

20 Cut and Dried 

24 How to Grow Your Own 

from Seed 

34 The Art of Curing Your Crop 

heal. 

48 Seeking a Milder Dose 

50 Marijuana and Alzheimer’s 

54 It’s Time to Consider Cannabis as 

a Treatment for Substance Abuse 

56 Queens of Cannabis 

40 Breeding with Autoflowering 

Cannabis 

6 


myhydrolife.ca

live. 

58 Loose Lips Sink Ships: 

Securing Your Home Grow 

60 Do We Need Cannabis 

Breathalyzers? 

enjoy. 

68 Baking a Fool of Myself 

72 Trick-Or-Treat, it’s 

CannaWeen! 

62 BC's Best Bud 

66 5 Cannabis Skincare 

Products You’ll Want to Try 

myhydrolife.ca grow. heal. live. enjoy. 7

from the publisher 

October/November 2016 

volume 1 - number 4 

CONTRIBUTORS 

Billy Bishop 

Ben Burkhardt 

As medicinal marijuana gains 

acceptance in more jurisdictions, 

more stories are coming to the forefront 

revealing how cannabis healed a person where 

traditional drugs could not, or could but with 

severe side effects. We all want that miracle cure to 

be found where everybody is safe, where everybody is 

happy and where everybody is healthy. It’s a lot of pressure 

to apply to a plant species. In this issue we explore how 

studies taking place show how cannabis consumption could 

play a big part in the prevention of Alzheimer’s. We also look in 

to how cannabis makes a strong argument to include it as part of 

addiction treatment for those with substance abuse issues. In our 

Ask a Nurse segment, a desperate mother turns to cannabis for 

her ailing son who suffers from epilepsy. The pharmaceuticals 

he takes result in harsh side effects, and as a mother, she seeks 

a better way for him. While these anecdotal pockets continue 

to grow, lawmakers and medical practitioners are slowly 

coming around to the reality that cannabis can help people. 

Institutions like Scripps Research Institute, among others, 

are working to provide the data to back up these anecdotes. 

While there is progress in some areas, there are setbacks in 

others. Despite being a possible solution to North America’s 

opiate-related death epidemic, politicians and policy 

makers continue to dismiss marijuana with a shrug. 

Until that changes, people will continue to 

seek alternatives, and more and more those 

alternatives will include cannabis. When 

it comes to reducing pain suffered by a 

loved one, it’s only natural. 

Grow, Live, Heal & Enjoy. 

Jessica Ferneyhough 

Colleen Graham 

Cory Hughes 

Kyle Kushman 

Gibson Lannister 

Grubbycup 

Lee G. Lyzit 

Lacey Macri 

Jenn McGarrigle 

Alan Ray 

Alex Rea 

Watermelon 

Diane Young 

Published by 

Hydrolife Magazine 

Inquiries to 

info@myhydrolife.ca 

No part of this magazine may be reproduced 

without permission from the publisher. The 

views expressed by columnists are personal 

opinions and do not necessarily reflect those 

of Hydrolife or the editor. 

Publication agreement number 40739092 

Printed in Canada 

8 


myhydrolife.ca

own it 

1 

2 

3 

4 

own it 

1. Make it personal with Custom 

Herb Grinders. Just upload 

your own image to their 

website, select a colour and 

choose a grinder and you’ve 

got your very own custom 

herb grinder. Even better, 

order one as a gift. The 

grinder features diamond 

cut teeth to ensure easy 

and consistent grinding; 

strategically cut holes to 

allow tobacco or herb to 

easily fall through to the next 

chamber; magnetic clasping 

lids to keep contents safe in 

case it is dropped; 100 per 

cent rust resistance; and a 

lifetime guarantee. 

– customeherbgrinders.com 

2. NoGoo is takin’ the icky out 

of sticky. NoGoo non-stick 

containers are made of 

platinum-cured silicon, 

allowing you to get 100 per 

cent of any sticky substance 

out without leaving anything 

on the sides of the jar. 

If using glass or plastic 

containers doesn’t work 

for you, you’ll be amazed 

by NoGoo non-stick 

containers. NoGoo products 

are shatter resistant, heat 

resistant up to 450°F, freezer 

safe, microwave safe and 

dishwasher safe. 

– nogoononstick.com 

3. Place the Quest F9 Radial Air 

Mover beneath your grow 

table to prevent stagnant, 

water-logged air that causes 

plant-killing molds and fungi. 

This low-profile air mover fits 

easily into grow rooms and 

circulates 925 cubic feet of 

air per minute. Connect up 

to six F9s on a single 15-amp 

circuit. This easy-to-carry 

unit has no lights to ensure 

total darkness during night 

cycles. Why put your plants 

at risk? Add the F9 air mover 

to promote a clean growing 

environment for your crop. 

– questhydro.com 

4. To use the 7 Pipe Twisty 

Glass Blunt, pack up to 1.5 

grams of cannabis into the 

glass tube and twist the 

screw counter-clockwise 

into the tube. After that, all 

you need to do is light the 

end and puff, puff, pass. 

To ash your herbs, simply 

twist the screw clockwise 

and the ash will get pushed 

out the glass leaving fresh 

herbs for your next toke. The 

Twisty Glass Blunt can also 

be inserted and used with 

any 14-millimetre bong. The 

Twisty Glass Blunt is perfect 

for medicating on-the-go. 

– 7pipe.com 

10 


myhydrolife.ca

5 

6 

7 

8 

5. The Blade Scale 100 is one 

of the world’s most popular 

digital pocket scales. Its 

major benefit is that the 

display is underneath 

the scale and pops out 

to the side with a click of 

the button. This allows 

the entire surface area of 

the scale to be used for 

weighing. The Blade Scale 

100 weighs up to 100 

grams in increments of 

0.01 grams and is available 

in six different colours. 

– herbscales.com 

6. Dixie Elixir’s Sparkling 

Pomegranate is tangy, tart 

and totally refreshing, 

and contains no artificial 

colouring and less sugar 

than a traditional soda. It is 

infused with 90 milligrams 

of THC and comes with a 

dosing cap, making it easy 

to control how much you’re 

consuming. So call up a few 

friends worth sharing with, 

because this elixir is simply 

too good to keep to yourself. 

– dixieelixirs.com 

7. Shield N Seal’s SNS750 is a 

professional vacuum sealer 

that seals up to 16 inches 

wide. It features a roll 

holder that holds a 50-foot 

roll, has a smooth, easy 

cutter and a marinate mode. 

The SNS750 creates airtight, 

leak-proof, odour-proof and 

secure seals and is made 

of heavy-duty professional 

grade stainless steel. If you 

need to keep it fresh, you 

need to use the SNS750. 

– shieldnseal.com 

8. Do you have a checkered 

past? The Vans Vault 

Checkered Past collection 

pays tribute to the company’s 

design heritage with a 

series of Original Classic 

styles. The checkerboard is 

a sacred emblem in Vans’ 

50-year history, appearing 

on cherished footwear 

forms from early beginnings 

under the family-owned Van 

Doren Rubber Company to 

its modern-day status as a 

global icon in action sports, 

music, fashion and art. 

– vans.com 


ask kyle 

Q 

I am just starting my own project and have heard 

different pros and cons for seeds and clones. 

Which one do you think I should start with? 

a 

The choice to use seeds 

or clones to start your 

cultivation project isn’t about 

which is better…or is it? The 

truth of the matter is that you 

can’t have one without the 

other. Clones are made by taking a shoot 

or cutting from a plant and using rooting 

hormone and specially prepared media 

to encourage the growth of roots, thereby 

creating an exact genetic copy of the 

plant it was taken from. A seed is not an 

exact genetic copy of anything. It is the 

progeny of male pollen contacting female 

flowers and voila … sexy plant love 

makes a baby! That baby or seed will 

have some of the characteristics of the 

mother and some from the father. These 

seeds can be either male or female. 

So why would one decide to use seeds 

or clones if they had the choice to do 

either? I grew my first eight years from 

seed only. Granted, this was 1987 to 1996 

and there wasn’t really any place to buy 

clones or seeds. So after being given the 

most amazing Northern Light #5 x hash 

plant seeds I began to breed my own. 

Necessity forced this upon me as I had 

nowhere to turn after my bag of seeds 

ran out. This required choosing a male 

which would be allowed to pollinate the 

female or females in the room. Selectively 

choosing specific females for breeding 

is usually the best option. It’s better 

to pollinate one or two plants since you 

can get hundreds, even thousands of 

seeds from just one. Seeded marijuana 

hasn’t been saleable since the 80s. 

I would isolate my male somewhere 

before it starts to throw pollen. When my 

selected female(s) have reached midflowering 

I would introduce the girls 

to the boy, install a fan and let nature 

take its course. As I became a little more 

knowledgeable I realized you could 

collect the pollen from the male and 

apply it more precisely to the flowers 

using a Q-Tip. 

Keep the female plant away from 

the rest for 24 hours. This allows time 

for the baby-making. Then spray the 

entire plant surface including the pot 

and media with clean water. Water 

renders the excess pollen inactive 

so you can return them to the garden 

without seeding your entire crop. 

When you plant these seeds they will 

grow a plant which is unique. Each 

seed can have dramatic variations, 

or can be quite similar. Successive 

generations of breeding with the 

same female and/or male can produce 

stability over a seed line. 

Cloning is a whole different story. 

It ensures that every plant you plant 

will be female and also be relatively 

similar if not identical in growth characteristics 

and the finished product it 

will produce. This is the way to go for 

most new cultivators. 

Cloning helps minimize the amount 

of resources you’ll have to invest. 

Simply purchase the number of 

clones you need, take them home 

and transplant. Because they’re 

already rooted plants and ready to 

grow, for the novice it can be a little 

easier to get them thriving. 

With clones you may never have 

to worry about males, pollination 

or wondering if the seeds will pop. 

But there are drawbacks. Seeds 

grow stronger plants which are 

more resistant to disease, pests and 

negative stress in general. 

Clones from over-hybridized 

strains will sometimes get weary 

over time being cloned over and 

over. Some people refer to this as 

genetic drift. I believe it to be symptomatic 

of cutting clones from less 

than optimal mother plants. 

I suggest doing a little research online. 

There are several comprehensive 

online strain databases which 

can be found with a simple search. 

They provide details on hundreds of 

popular strains. Things like flowering 

time, potency, even a description of 

some of the reported benefits attributed 

to each strain. Making your own clones 

is easy, as well. You just need a mother 

or donor plant that you can take cuttings 

from. A cutting is usually taken 

from the upper, more vigorous part of 

the plant. I like to take cuttings that are 

around five inches long. When they’re 

cleaned up and ready to dip in rooting 

hormone they’re around four inches. 

Only take strong, healthy cuttings 

that won’t be likely to wilt shortly 

after you stick them. 

Kyle 

Photo by Kyle Kushman 

Kyle Kushman is an internationally renowned marijuana 

cultivator whose collaborations have earned 13 Medical Cannabis 

Cup awards, including three US Cannabis Cups for Best Flowers. As 

the creator of Vegamatrix, the only line of vegan and organic nutrients 

designed for growing cannabis, Kyle continues to make advances for 

people who want to cultivate the purest, cleanest medicine possible. 

Do you have a 

question for Kyle? 

Email editor@myhydrolife.com 

to get an answer. 

12 


myhydrolife.ca

grow 

by Ben Burkhardt 

Manipulating your crop’s canopy to achieve maximum yields requires good 

note taking and an understanding of the species you are growing and the 

environment you have created for it. If you are operating a commercial 

grow, it also requires good communication by your team. Ben Burkhardt 

draws from his experience to provide best canopy management practices. 

14 


myhydrolife.ca

grow 

A room full of Purple White Lightning at Broken Coast Cannabis, a commercial grower in British Columbia. 

As gardeners gain the experience 

of seeing many crops grown to 

completion, they develop a perspective 

that allows them to anticipate what 

a plant will become based upon its 

genotype and structure, even when it’s 

in the early vegetative stage. This allows 

for precise control of the flowering 

canopy structure well before the plants 

reach flower. Encouraging gardeners 

to record notes on each batch, take a 

detailed visual assessment of each 

completed batch before harvest, and 

perhaps even take a photo to jog the 

memory, is recommended. Seeing the 

result of a crop or batch, viewing the 

related data and making adjustments 

that will in theory improve the previous 

result is the best method of increasing 

canopy output and efficiencies. 

Sharing accurate yield data is crucial 

and that information should drive the 

decisions made regarding gardening 

technique and logistics. If operating a 

commercial grow, I recommend having 

a full-time employee just to assemble 

the data from the garden. If the garden 

is large and the vegetative and flowering 

growth is managed separately by 

different departments, there should be 

strong communication and the end result 

of the vegetative team’s effectiveness of 

plant contortion and pruning should be 

studied and constantly improved. 

The three-dimensional structure of the 

flowering canopy consists of square 

footage and depth. If growing medium 

size plants, the bud sites can be productive 

several feet into the canopy. The 

nuances of specific genetics lead to 

varying results, as certain examples will 

grow taller with better light penetration 

through the canopy due to skinny sativa 

dominant leaves, or may generate worthwhile 

flowers in a limited light condition. 

Topping, or pruning, is the practice of 

removing the tip of a branch to encourage 

lower growth and to inhibit a plant from 

stretching. It also creates more primary 

nodes that will add additional flower 

If growing medium size 

plants, the bud sites can 

be productive several feet 

into the canopy. 

sites by allowing the lower branches to 

catch up in vertical growth closer to the 

light. Although often abused, this is the 

most common example of contorting a 

plant for optimal yield. 

Like all plant contortion techniques, 

topping is inevitably plant count and 

strain specific. Many genetics will 

grow vertically, with an overly large 

central cola, creating the likelihood of 

bud mould and reduced yields due to a 

limited amount of bud sites positioned 

close enough to the light. If executed 

at the right time, to the correct degree 

and with adequate lighting, topping a 

plant once or twice is usually all that’s 

required. Once a cutting has been 

propagated for a few weeks and is beginning 

aggressive vertical growth, it 

should receive its initial topping, which 

forces the lower branches to catch up 

vertically with the central primary 

node before the plant has grown large, 

making it the most efficient time to do 

so. This typically results in three or four 

primary nodes, which may or may not 

be adequate, depending upon the crop’s 

growth structure and plant density per 

square foot. When more nodes are required, 

it is recommended to top in the 

vegetative stage once more, doubling 

them from six to eight. 

16 


myhydrolife.ca

grow 

Topping is additionally effective when 

the flower room is full and plants need 

to be held in the vegetative stage longer 

than necessary. Although this may cause 

smaller top flowers and more branches 

to manage than necessary to achieve 

the desired yield from the upper canopy, 

without cutting them back, they may 

become unruly, starched specimens that 

are unsuitable for maximum output. If 

done correctly during vegetative growth, 

topping won’t be necessary once the 

plants transition to flowering. 

Freshly grown branch plant material 

is rather pliable, allowing a gardener 

to gently bend the stalks in the opposite 

direction requiring it to work to correct 

itself and allow lower branches to catch 

up vertically, allowing for superior 

exposure to light. Another option is 

to ‘knuckle’ the branch by making an 

aggressive bend that creates a 90-degree 

near-break in a branch that then 

will heal and drastically reduce that 

branch’s vertical growth, maintaining 

its node sites rather than removing the 

branches. It’s usually used for damage 

control once things are getting out of 

hand vertically in flower. 

If executed at the right 

time, to the correct degree 

and with adequate 

lighting, topping a plant 

once or twice is usually 

all that’s required. 

The best practice for limiting unwanted 

vertical growth after minimal topping 

is to utilize high PAR, or light intensity, 

to prevent the plant’s upper branches 

from reaching toward the light, as they 

are saturated already. This results in the 

plant being forced to focus growth on 

thicker, stronger branches and increased 

vertical height on the lower branches, 

while still allowing for the stresses plant 

material close to the light to heal with 

no consequence once in flower. This is 

extremely effective in allowing shorter 

plants within a batch to catch up with the 

rest for an even canopy as well. While 

some lights are now equipped with dimming 

capabilities, the other option is to 

manually adjust the height of your light 

to the desired distance above the plants. 

An even canopy of God Kush and Lemon Haze plants in the veg/growth phase at Broken Coast Cannabis. 

Although PAR meters aren’t necessary to 

accomplish this, they can be a useful tool 

to dial in exact light intensity and study 

nuances across the garden. 

While often best to use the lower 

canopy to maximize yield, inevitably 

there will be some branches exposed to 

limited light. As a result, they are weak 

and unusable for any worthwhile flower 

production. These should be removed 

as they are a waste of the plant’s energy 

and susceptible to pests and disease. 

The technique of ‘lollipopping’ is the 

practice of removing lower branches 

with the purpose of focusing more of 

the plant’s energy to the higher, more 

productive nodes. While effective, it is 

important to be conscious of the balance 

required, allowing the useful branches 

to remain, while removing the rest. It’s 

common for gardeners to be overly aggressive, 

underestimating the potential 

output of the lower branches. The number 

of lower branches that are useful will 

be strain-specific, as some genetics have 

wider leaves, affecting light penetration 

through the canopy, and specific genetics 

possess varying abilities to have useful 

flower production in lower light conditions 

at the bottom of the canopy. 

A specific strain’s growth pattern and 

structure will dictate how it should best 

be vegetatively contorted. This is accomplished 

by considering the key factors 

that influence the creation of an optimal 

canopy: growth pattern, plant density, 

ability to flower on low-lit branches and 

the explosive initial vertical growth in 

flower. A well-constructed canopy is 

instrumental in increasing yields while 

reducing the cost of production. 

Ben Burkhardt entered the adolescent 

medical marijuana industry in 1998 in San 

Francisco and then Los Angeles. He then 

relocated to Denver, where he owned 

and operated the largest indoor grow 

facility in the country, an infused products 

division and more than a dozen retail 

locations. He is now pursuing national 

and international opportunities with his 

company Sunlight Green Systems. 

18 


myhydrolife.ca

grow 

CUT AND DRIED: 

A MONTHLY LOOK AT DIFFERENT MMJ STRAINS 

BY BILLY BISHOP 

This may be my favourite strain ever. 

Really. It’s got everything I ever 

wanted in a bud. And more... 

Sour OG 

Sour OG’s very high THC content 

(more than 25 per cent) provides 

an uplifting and relaxing emotional 

high paired with a pain dampening 

body buzz. Personally, this strain’s 

effects on a wide spectrum of 

medical conditions is outstanding. 

Under simple test conditions, Sour 

OG was used as a treatment for 

the complex web of symptoms 

associated with post-concussion 

syndrome. The results of our tests 

revealed that the pain management 

side of Sour OG is truly outstanding. 

And surprisingly fast-acting. 

Its muscle relaxant side, also very 

effective at treating symptoms of 

IBS, made damaged neck muscles 

and nerves relax within a very short 

time. So it is with some surprise 

that Broken Coast’s Sour OG also 

gives the most satisfying and 

uplifting emotional high possible. 

This is really the finest point of this 

strain as a medicinal treatment; its 

boundlessly joyful emotional high 

helps with the psychological stress 

and mood imbalances caused by 

long-term injury or medical 

conditions. This is possibly the most 

uplifting hybrid you will find today. 

Background 

Sour OG is a genetic cross between 

Sour Diesel and OG Kush (which 

manages to cram the best of both 

worlds into one tidy bud). 

Physically beautiful 

Darker green with a strong frosting of 

well-developed, highly visible trichomes. 

Dark purple leaves with caramel 

highlights at the tips look delicious. 

Large, dense and sticky clusters of wellshaped 

colas are packed together in a 

complicated branching structure. These 

are the definition of pretty nugs. 

Lovely Smell 

Strong but nuanced odour with subtle 

sour chlorophyll notes at the high end 

and a sweet, burned caramel/vanilla at 

the low end. Nuances of green tea and 

cucumber. These amazing and complex 

fumes burst out of the canister and filled 

the room with a sour piney haze when 

first opened. This odour turned smooth 

and earthy as it began to produce 

smoke. End result: mouth watering. 

Sublime Taste 

The initial taste was smooth and mild 

with strong diesel tones undercut with 

a citrus sourness. The piney smell when 

fresh quickly morphs into a hot buttered 

popcorn flavour once smoked. There is 

clearly a high level of complex terpenes 

in Sour OG. This taste only gets more 

complex and caramel-like as it settles 

into your taste buds. 

Opinion 

My favourite strain yet from my 

favourite medical provider. With the 

development of this Sour OG, Broken 

Coast Cannabis has outdone itself yet 

again. This bud is tasty, strong, effective 

and, most of all, uplifting. 

Grown under the strictest environmental 

controls at Broken Coasts Cannabis’ facility, 

Sour OG represents the most effective 

of available medicinal options. It is exemplary 

of the very high standards Broken 

Coast holds itself to. Broken Coast Cannabis 

is a medical marijuana producer 

based in British Columbia, licensed under 

the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, 

and adhering to the Marihuana for Medical 

Purposes Regulations. 

Broken Coast Cannabis recognizes that 

medicinal cannabis provides many people 

with natural and effective relief from a 

variety of adverse medical conditions. 

They are committed to providing fast, reliable 

service and providing their clients 

with a wide variety of the highest quality 

marijuana strains at competitive prices. 

Their strain catalogue is regularly audited 

and updated to include the latest improvements 

in medical marijuana genetics. 

All Broken Coast Cannabis products 

are extensively tested to ensure they 

are pesticide and fungicide free, 

free from harmful heavy metals and 

harmful pathogens. Their medicalgrade 

marijuana is grown and cured 

under strictly controlled environmental 

conditions. This results in the cleanest, 

highest grade product possible, and offers 

the most effective relief for patients. 

The test subject for Sour OG suffers from 

extended post-concussion syndrome. This 

is a complex disorder in which various 

symptoms including headaches, nausea, 

dizziness and depression can last for weeks, 

months or years after the injury that caused 

the concussion. 

20 


myhydrolife.ca

grow 

How to Grow Your 

Own from Seed 

Back in the last millennium, before cloning 

swept the country like the hula hoop, people 

actually grew cannabis plants from seed. 

Primitive, huh? But where there’s a will, 

they’ll surely find a way. While that’s 

all changed now (hello, cloning!) 

you can only clone so many 

times before you have to buy 

more plants or get back 

to basics with seeds. 

by Diane Young 

24 


myhydrolife.ca

grow 

Growing from seed is all about the 

quality of your seeds. Plants will 

never be better than the seeds they grew 

from. Back in the day, there weren’t any 

seed shops, so seeds were saved from 

exceptional buds, but it was all a crapshoot 

with a lot of trial and error. Luckily, 

now we know better. 

Starting from seed isn’t difficult and 

you don’t need to be an experienced 

gardener, but the process is a journey 

in stages, not a direct flight. Cannabis 

plants are perfect for growing from seed 

because they have a short life cycle. 

That being said, be prepared to check 

your plants every day for moisture, 

insects, diseases, nutrient deficiencies 

and light. If you can’t make the time 

and work commitment, perhaps you 

should forget the idea. Here’s my list of 

what I used for my first grow. Nothing 

high-tech—my growroom was a walk-in 

closet with louvered doors and a clothes 

bar to hang my lights: 

• A four-foot table or two sawhorses 

with plywood on top 

• A piece of thick plastic or a waterproof 

tablecloth for spill protection 

• Potting soil for seedlings 

• Clean sand 

• Five-gallon pail for mixing soil 

• A four-foot shop light with 

chains and S hooks 

• One full-spectrum red fluorescent 

grow light 

• One regular white fluorescent 

tube bulb 

• Light timer 

• Five-ounce opaque drink cups 

• Eight-ounce drink cups 

• pH kit 

• Plant flats or trays 

• Plastic kitchen wrap 

LIGHTING 

If you’re on a budget, fluorescents offer 

the biggest bang for your buck. Don’t 

forget to factor in the cost of electricity 

and bulb replacement. To make sure all 

my plants got an equal amount of light, 

I turned the trays 180 degrees every day. 

I especially liked the ease of raising 

the shop light one link at a time as the 

plants grew. You can maximize your 

light by using a room with white walls or 

surrounding your grow table with movable 

reflective foil-covered cardboard or 

hanging sheets of Mylar—mirrors don’t 

work well for reflecting light. 

GERMINATION 

Mature cannabis seeds are dark 

brown, sometimes with swirly 

patterns or stripes. Discard immature 

pale or greenish-coloured seeds. I’ve 

never started seeds in soil, preferring 

the Japanese method of proving seeds 

first; there’s no sense planting duds. I 

germinated my seeds in a moistened, 

loosely rolled up paper towel on a 

plate in indirect light on the kitchen 

counter where I could keep an eye on 

their progress. Keep the paper towel 

moist, but not lying in a puddle of 

water or the seeds will rot. 

Some seeds germinate in a couple of 

days, while some take up to a week, 

depending on their temperature. It’s 

helpful to know that the seeds will 

produce male and female plants. Back 

in the Dark Ages, I always started 16 

cups of seeds in hope of ending up 

with four females. That’s no longer a 

problem if you buy feminized seeds, 

which are guaranteed to be females. I 

planted two sprouted seeds about one 

inch apart per cup because frequently 

one seedling would be bigger and 

stronger than the other. Go with the 

bigger one and pinch off the smaller 

one at the soil level. 

“ 

IF YOU’RE on a budget, fluorescents offer the biggest bang 

for your buck. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of electricity 

and bulb replacement.” 

26 


myhydrolife.ca

grow 

“ MATURE CANNABIS seeds are dark brown, 

sometimes with swirly patterns or stripes. Discard 

immature pale or greenish-coloured seeds.” 

The beauty of starting seedlings in 

the opaque cups is that you can see the 

root growth. Poke some drainage holes 

around the cup bases. It’s quicker to do 

the drain holes with the cups in a stack. 

As you finish each cup, slip it in the 

other end of the stack or you’ll waste 

crumpled up cups. Mix the potting soil 

with enough sand to give the fluffy soil 

more body. Add water gradually, mixing 

well to moisten. 

Fill the cups with the soil mix and tap 

each cup a couple of times on the table 

to eliminate air pockets. Add more soil 

if needed, tap it down again to leave a 

half-inch space between the top of the 

soil and the rim of the cup. Repeat until 

all the cups are filled. Set up your grow 

table and lights. Ready? The table is 

all set. The lights are on. The cups are 

shoulder to shoulder in rows, waiting to 

fulfill their roles. 

PLANTING 

My tools of choice for planting were a 

small wooden matchstick and a wooden 

toothpick. I made two small holes 

with the clean end of the match about 

one-quarter inch deep and a half-inch 

apart and not too close to the side 

of the cup. I picked out two sprouted 

seeds at a time from the paper towel, 

careful not to touch the sprout, and 

dropped them into the match holes 

and used the tip of a toothpick to scuff 

soil into the holes, then lightly tamped 

the spots with one finger. Keep the 

remaining sprouted seeds covered so 

they don’t dry out. Repeat until all the 

cups are planted. 

Put as many cups that fit into shallow 

flats or trays and then drape a long piece 

of kitchen plastic wrap over everything, 

tucking the ends under the trays to create 

a mini greenhouse. When this step 

is finished, the plants get to sunbathe 

under the lights for the next six weeks or 

so of the seedling phase. 

In a few days, two primary leaves 

will appear and you can do your happy 

dance. Soon the next pair of leaves will 

appear and the first ones will drop off. 

If condensation forms under the plastic 

wrap, uncover the seedlings to release 

the excess moisture and then replace 

with fresh wrap. During the seedling 

phase, keep the soil moist but not wet 

and only water from the bottom from so 

the roots stretch down long and strong. 

WATER 

Water with a spray bottle until the 

first leaves appear, and then water 

from the bottom; the soil around the 

stem needs to stay dry to avoid stem 

rot. Fill pitchers or buckets with tap 

water and let sit uncovered until room 

temperature and the chlorine has 

evaporated into the air. Hard water is 

fine, but don’t use artificially softened 

water because it contains too much salt 

and other harmful additives. 

28 


myhydrolife.ca

grow 

“ YOU COULD use fish 

or seaweed emulsions or 

any of the other excellent 

natural fertilizers 

available at your local 

hydroponics supplier.” 

FERTILIZER 

I’m an organic gardener. While I 

don’t object to a little bloom booster 

to convince some reluctant annuals 

to step it up, I want everything that 

goes in my body to be as natural as 

possible. Plants need nitrogen to grow. 

When I had access to a mountain of 

free rotted horse manure, I fertilized 

with manure tea. Throw a shovelful of 

manure in a bucket, fill with water, let 

it sit a couple of days and water with 

the tea. It worked fine for me. There are 

“hot” manures and “cold” manures. Hot 

manures have the highest nitrogen, 

but have to be aged. Cold cow manure 

has lower nitrogen but can be used 

hot out of the barn. Rabbit manure is 

cold, but some growers call it nitrogen 

on steroids. If slogging around in 

barnyards doesn’t appeal to you, you 

could use fish or seaweed emulsions 

or any of the other excellent natural 

fertilizers available at your local 

hydroponics supplier. 

pH 

Check your soil pH regularly. Plants 

grown in soil like a pH of about 7. If your 

soil drops below 6, add a light sprinkling 

of ground limestone before watering. If 

the soil is above 8—too alkaline—sprinkle 

around a concoction of cottonseed 

meal, lemon peel and ground coffee. 

REPOTTING 

Discontinue the plastic wrap when the 

third set of leaves appear. When you see 

that the roots have reached the bottom 

of the cups, it’s time to repot the little 

darlings into the eight-ounce cups. In 

my experience, the plants do better 

stepping up to the bigger cup instead 

of going directly into three-quart pots. 

Repotting can be tricky, so take your time 

here. The plants shock easily with too 

much jostling or rough handling. Get 

the larger cups ready, poke the drain 

holes and fill with enough soil mix so the 

seedlings will be at the same depth as 

in the first cups. Before removing from 

the smaller cups, lightly water them so 

everything stays together. 

30 


myhydrolife.ca

grow 

Tip the cup upside down in your open 

hand with the seedling stem between 

your fingers. Gently squeeze the sides 

of the cup with your other hand and 

the seedling will drop out in one piece. 

Don’t pull it out by the stem! Place the 

seedling in its new home, fill around it 

with more soil, and make sure it isn’t 

deeper or shallower than in the smaller 

cup. This is important. Compress the 

soil lightly for any air pockets. 

VEGETATIVE STAGE 

During the vegetative phase, leave the 

lights on 24/7 and as close to the leaves 

as possible without touching. If the 

lights are too high, the stems will grow 

weak and spindly. You want the plants 

to remain compact. When your plants 

really take off, they may grow an inch 

a day. Keep a sharp eye on the distance 

between the tops of the plants and the 

lights. Fluorescents are cool and won’t 

burn the leaves, but keep adjusting 

your lights upwards to stay ahead of 

the growth. Rotate your plants so they 

all get enough light. When plants are 

starting to bud, rough handling or a 

sudden change in temperature or light 

will drive them into shock. When you see 

your plants are beginning to outgrow 

the cups, it’s time to pot up again, this 

time to three-quart containers commonly 

found at nurseries. Always wash used 

pots in hot soapy water before reusing. 

“ WHEN YOUR plants 

really take off, they may 

grow an inch a day. Keep a 

sharp eye on the distance 

between the tops of the 

plants and the lights.” 

SEXING 

Toward the end of the vegetative and 

budding phase, you’ll be able to sex 

your plants. Males have two pollenfilled 

sacs that are easy to see and 

females have a pair of white V-shaped 

hairs. One male plant is enough to 

pollinate all your females so they 

produce seeds. I didn’t grow for seeds, 

so I quickly yanked all the male 

plants. Male plants are low in THC, are 

harsh-tasting and give many people 

a massive headache. Unpollinated 

females produce more flowers, buds 

and THC. 

For even more plants, remove the 

unproductive lower stems and 

leaves on your plants, and then make 

two or three shallow downward slices 

on the main stem with a clean blade 

and insert a graft slip dipped in root 

stimulant in each cut. Put a small piece 

of tape around the cuts. The grafts can 

be other varieties, not just the same as 

the host plant. Soon you’ll have new 

growth from all your grafts, giving you 

maximum yields. 

Diane Young has had her food and gardening articles published in the Burlington 

Free Press, The Boston Globe, The Christian Science Monitor, Country Journal and 

other regional publications. Soon after, Troy-Bilt commissioned her book, Community 

Gardening in North America. A New England gardener, Diane lives in Maine and Mexico. 

32 


myhydrolife.ca

grow 

THE 

by Cory 

RT 

Hughes 

OF 

CURING 

YOUR CROP 

You’ve worked hard to grow a potent and flavourful 

crop, but now what? Follow Cory Hughes’s advice 

to keep your cannabis fresh and mold-free during 

storage, and don’t forget to burp your nugs. 

34 


myhydrolife.ca

grow 

y 

“When 

a plant is harvested, 

it will lose 80 per cent of its 

moisture before it is consumable. 

You want to start the curing 

process before your 

buds get to 

that point.” 

our months of hard work in the garden have paid off 

and your crop is almost ready to go. Your plants are 

harvested and the nugs are trimmed and dried. The next 

steps you take will determine not only the potency of your 

cannabis but its essence, flavour and aroma. The curing 

process is essential in putting the finishing touches on 

the beautiful green buds you’ve worked so hard to grow. 

Proper curing and storage of your finely crafted buds will 

make or break your finished product. 

The first step in properly curing your cannabis is making 

sure your buds are properly dried. You want your 

buds in an optimal moisture zone. When a plant is harvested, 

it will lose 80 per cent of its moisture before it is 

consumable. You want to start the curing process before 

your buds get to that point. Ideally you want your buds at 

around 30 to 35 per cent moisture, a fraction of their original 

wet weight. Any more moisture than that and you risk the 

development of mildew and mold once sealed in an airtight 

environment. If you dried your flowers too long or at too high 

of a temperature, you may need to rehydrate them. Just make 

sure that your weed is in that Goldilocks zone before you 

begin your cure. If you are not sure, you can test your bud by 

simply bending a stem. If the stem breaks or starts to break, 

then it is sufficiently dry. If it continues to bend, it should 

probably dry for another day or more. 

One of the chemical secrets to curing is cannabergerol, or 

CBG. Cannabergerol is the chemical precursor found in cannabis 

that metabolizes into THC. It is believed that CBG has 

profound medical impact on its own. CBG reduces pressure in 

cell walls and is a big part of cannabis treatment for glaucoma. 

It is considered to be the primary cannabinoid, 

as it is broken down inside the plant in order to 

create THCA, CBDA and CBCA. We are all 

familiar with THC and CBD but CBC, or 

cannabichromenic acid, is by far the 

lesser known of the cannabinoids. 

Due to its involvement in the creation 

of other cannabinoids, CBG 

is usually found in concentrations 

of less than one per cent 

in finished products. 

After the plant is harvested, 

the metabolic process that 

creates THC from CBG 

continues. This results in 

THC levels rising long after 

the buds have been collected. 

Some people choose 

to begin the curing process 

in paper bags to make sure 

they are adequately dry. I 

haven’t found this to be a 

necessity, so I go straight for 

airtight glass jars. A mason 

jar or a jar with a flip-tight lid 

are optimal as they perfectly seal 

and keep air out. You will want 

to place as much marijuana in your 

jar as possible in order to force out as 

much of the remaining air as you can. Always 

date your jars so as to not confuse them 

with other batches you may have already started. 

Creating Potency and Flavour 

The primary functions of curing are potency and flavour. As 

the chemical components of the plant matter break down over 

time, it shifts the taste from an overly earthy and green flavour 

to flavours that are more palatable that we can more readily 

associate with particular strains. This process is conducted by 

aerobic bacteria present in the plant at the time of harvest. The 

bacteria consume the chlorophyll in the cannabis making the 

taste and overall experience less harsh. Just like your grow, 

your curing buds thrive in a micro-environment dependent 

on specific conditions in order to nurture the process. If your 

buds are overly moist when you start to cure, you run the risk 

of allowing mold to grow, which can lead to harmful bacteria 

destroying the fruits of your labour. 

36 


myhydrolife.ca

grow 

It is important to keep your cure in a dark room or storage 

area. Light will degrade THC and interfere with the metabolic 

process taking place in your jars. Maintenance of the microenvironment 

is vital to keep your good bacteria thriving and 

your bad bacteria at bay. Your temperatures should be slightly 

lower than your growroom at around 10-24˚C. Now that 

you have an idea of what conditions you need to cure your 

cannabis, you can begin without further delay. 

Burp Your Nugs 

The key to curing your cannabis is burping your jars. That 

means after allowing the metabolic process to work, periodically 

opening your jars to let out the built-up carbon dioxide 

and moisture the buds have shed. Every grower has their own 

schedule of burping and they all vary greatly. For buds that are 

in the right humidity zone, you should burp them daily for approximately 

30 minutes. Everyone will have an opinion on the 

time, however, 30 minutes is sufficient to expel the gasses and 

allow the micro-environment to return to an acceptable relative 

humidity. Some choose to use an RH meter to determine the 

amount of time they burp their buds. You should keep the relative 

humidity above 55 per cent. Below that threshold your buds 

don’t have the moisture required to allow the metabolic process 

to continue. If you burp your nugs and find you still have a 

relative humidity more than 70 per cent then they need to come 

out of the jar and be allowed to dry more thoroughly. How long 

you cure for is really up to you. Most growers will tell you that 

with daily burping under the right conditions, your buds should 

be delicious and potent in three weeks to a month. Others who 

have cured their cannabis for months or even years claim that 

their product only improved the longer it cures. If you have the 

patience to cure your weed for six months or more, you are a 

better person than I. 

“If 

your buds are overly 

moist when you start to cure, 

you run the risk of allowing 

mold to grow, which can lead 

to harmful bacteria destroying 

the fruits of your labour.” 

Stick With Jars 

Now that you have properly cured some dynamite bud, it is 

time to prep it for storage. Storing your weed under proper 

conditions will preserve your THC content and allow for 

quality consumption at a later date. I think it goes without 

saying, but never use plastic bags for storage, or anything 

else. Stick with your airtight glass jars. Some prefer darkcoloured 

glass to prevent light from creeping in but if you 

are keeping your jars in a drawer or closet, clear jars are just 

fine. Glass doesn’t breathe like plastic. Avoid freezing your 

cannabis. The freezing process turns the trichome brittle. You 

can end up damaging your buds when there is really no need. 

Molds and mildew will spread at high temperatures, so never 

allow your stored weed to go above 25˚C. All in all, keep 

your airtight jars of cannabis in a cool and dark location that 

won’t be disturbed by your day-to-day routine. For long-term 

storage, you still want to burp your jars once or twice a month 

just to let out the gasses your buds will continue to give off. 

The result will be cannabis that is as good, if not better than it 

was on the day it was stashed away. 

Cory Hughes is a former police officer turned full-time 

commercial grower in Denver, Colorado. 

38 


myhydrolife.ca


grow 

BREEDING 

WITH 

Autoflowering 

CANNABIS 

BY GRUBBYCUP | When it comes to 

breeding cannabis, autoflowering is one 

of the most basic types of genetic traits of 

the plant, as it follows the laws of simple 

recessiveness and dominance. Specifically, 

it is a recessive trait. A brief review of high 

school biology reveals how it all works. 

40 


myhydrolife.ca

grow 

Cannabis normally requires long 

dark periods to trigger flowering, 

but there are varieties that will flower 

regardless of the lighting conditions. 

These are known as autoflowering 

varieties. Not all cannabis traits are 

as simple to explain, which is part of 

what makes autoflowering a good example 

for beginning breeders to start 

with. For the purposes of this article, a 

few exceptions and special cases have 

been omitted for clarity, since even 

at the most basic level, it is a complicated 

enough topic that to some may 

seem confusing at first. 

Gregor Mendel, a friar who conducted 

experiments with pea plants in the mid- 

1800s, tracked traits such as seed shape 

and flower colour, and developed basic 

rules for understanding genetic inheritance 

such as the concept of dominant 

and recessive traits. Although some 

traits are complicated and require more 

than one gene to express, autoflowering 

is one of the most basic types of genetic 

traits and follows the laws of simple 

recessiveness and dominance. Specifically, 

it is a recessive trait. 

Of importance to breeders, both experienced 

and aspiring, autoflowering is 

an easily observable simple Mendelian 

recessive trait. It is generally quick and 

easy to determine if a given adolescent 

plant is autoflowering or standard just 

by keeping it in short (or non-existent) 

dark periods for a few weeks. If the 

plant stays in growth, it is standard, if it 

flowers it is autoflowering. 

Cannabis is a diploid, in other words, 

it gets one chromosome from the pollen 

of the father, and one from the ovum 

of the mother. This means it will have 

two genes (one from each chromosome 

strand), each of which can be one of two 

alleles, either autoflowering or not. 

If we refer to the photodependant 

(standard) allele as P (upper case P), 

and the non-photodependant allele 

as p (lower case p), then the child 

plant will receive two—one from each 

parent. If the father is true breeding 

(homozygous) for photodependancy, it 

will have the allele P on both genes— 

the same is true for the mother. Seeds 

made from such pairings will result 

in offspring that is also true breeding 

for photodependancy. The father will 

contribute either a P or a P (because he 

has two big Ps, and will pass on one or 

the other). The mother will contribute 

either a P or a P (because she has two, 

and will pass on one or the other). 

While technically there are four 

combinations possible, effectively it 

doesn’t make much difference because 

all of the combinations result in PP 

(true breeding for photodependancy). 

This is why breeding a standard 

cannabis plant with another standard 

cannabis plant will result in standard 

cannabis offspring. The same is true 

of autoflowering. If both parents are 

true breeding for autoflowering, they 

will each have pp, and their offspring 

will autoflower (since they will receive 

a p from each parent). However, if one 

parent is PP (standard) and the other is 

autoflowering (pp), then all of the seeds 

will be Pp, since they will get one of 

the two P from the first parent, and one 

of the two p from the second parent. 

Having both the allele P and the allele 

p (heterogeneous for autoflowering) 

makes them a hybrid. 

“Cannabis 

is a diploid, in other words, it gets one 

chromosome from the pollen of the father, 

and one from the ovum of the mother.” 

42 


myhydrolife.ca

grow 

“The first 

generation after crossing a true breeding 

standard plant with a autoflowering plant 

will create seeds that are photodependant 

and will not autoflower.” 

Since they have the alleles for both 

photodependancy and autoflowering, 

their phenotype (physical expression) 

will depend on dominance. Dominance 

determines which one breaks the ties in 

these instances. In this case, photodependancy 

is dominant, so the resulting 

Pp seeds will all be photodependant. 

This is why the first generation after 

crossing a true breeding standard plant 

with a autoflowering plant will create 

seeds that are photodependant and 

will not autoflower. However, the hybrid 

seeds aren’t useless. If the heterogeneous 

seeds from the above are crossed 

together, then the autoflowering trait 

will reappear: 

• The hybrid father will contribute 

either his P or p. 

• The hybrid mother will contribute 

either her P or p. 

• The resulting combinations are 

either PP, Pp, pP or pp. 

• The PP will be true breeding for 

photodependancy, and will show 

photodependancy. 

• The Pp and pP will be heterogeneous 

for photodependancy but 

will still show photodependancy 

because of dominance. 

• The pp will be true breeding 

for autoflowering, and will 

show autoflowering. 

It is important to note that because of 

dominance there is no way to visually 

tell the difference between PP, pP and Pp. 

They will all be photodependant—only 

the recessive pp from this generation can 

be easily identified as true breeding. 

A practical experiment can illustrate 

the above: 

STEP 1: Take a standard cannabis 

plant and cross it with an autoflowering 

variety. It doesn’t matter which supplies 

the pollen as long as one is male and 

the other is female. 

STEP 2: Grow out the resulting seeds. 

They should act as if they were standard 

seeds. Select the best male and at least 

one female and cross them together. 

STEP 3: Grow out those seeds under 

growth (no long dark period) lighting. 

Due to the reasons explained above, 

there should be about 75 per cent 

that don’t autoflower and 25 per cent 

that do. The more seeds planted, the 

closer the results should be to the 75 

to 25 per cent ratio. 

One benefit to breeding for a recessive 

trait is that all of those that autoflower 

would have been true bred for autoflowering 

and can be bred together to make 

more autoflowering seeds. 

Even if a breeder isn’t fond of 

autoflowering varieties, the process 

and learning experience of working 

with them can help expand their 

understanding of how genetic traits 

work in a way that is easy to see and 

will give tangible results and feedback. 

Applying Mendelian genetics to simple 

traits in the real world can not only help 

cement an understanding of the basic 

principles of genetics, but can impress 

onlookers when predictions are proven 

accurate, or at least reasonably close. 

Grubbycup has been an avid indoor gardener for more than 20 years. His articles 

were first published in the United Kingdom, and since then his gardening advice 

has been published in several languages. He is also considered one of the leading 

authorities on crochet hydroponics. 

44 


myhydrolife.ca

heal 

Herbal 

ASK A NURSE: TIPS FOR PARENTS 

Q 

Dear Nurse Jessica, 

My child has epilepsy and the current 

pharmaceuticals she has been taking are causing 

harsh side effects. There are so many different 

cases online and in the news that give me hope 

that cannabis oil is effective, but I am not sure 

where to go because my neurologist won’t help 

us and has turned us down completely after 

I finally mustered up the courage to ask. I left 

feeling like a bad mother to have even brought 

it up. Since I don’t really have friends that are 

connected, what do you think I should do? 

Mother 

Dear Mother, 

Your call to cannabis is an intuitional pull as 

A 

you seek harmonious treatment for your child. 

Your concern and consideration show you 

are a good mother—you don’t need to question 

that. You did what you were supposed to 

do and the treatments have not been effective up to this 

point. Now it’s time to incorporate cannabinoids and establish 

homeostasis to calm your child’s internal storm. 

Just recently I drove through the night to meet with a family 

about seven hours from my nest. The family was told there 

was an unexpected shortage in the pharmaceuticals her 

son had been taking since age three. There was only a short 

window of time to switch drugs. During this time, the boy’s 

mother soon discovered the side effects of her son’s medication 

detoxing were as powerful as those that accompany 

heroin withdrawal. For a 10-year-old, I thought, how is this 

legal? His mother told me that if she would have known how 

powerful the drugs were, she would have never agreed to giving 

them to her son. Other pharmaceuticals presented came 

with the same laundry list of toxicity and side effects. It feels 

like experimental poisoning sometimes. 

Although her neurologist wouldn’t write a prescription for 

cannabis, she persisted until the doctor was willing to write 

a referral to a cannabis clinic that could help. This step is 

critical for access. Waiting lists and patient overload are 

leaving time-sensitive cases to wait for access to cannabis, 

especially pediatrics. 

This mother and I spent time together making oil from 

high-CBD cannabis and prepared her son’s medicine with 

different methods and different temperatures. Doing all of 

these things alone can come with some hesitation, so this 

is why we rise up—to support our community in need. I believe 

that together we can facilitate great healing through 

cannabis consciousness. 

My advice to you is to try reaching out to local cannabis 

clinics, dispensaries or a licensed producer for answers and 

advice. There are cannabis educators, clinic operators, nurses, 

doctors, growers and other parents out there who can help you. 

My experience in the cannabis community is that if someone 

doesn’t know the answer, they will often do their best to find 

you someone who can. 

Listen to your intuition and keep pushing until you get what 

you know is right for your child. Join groups online and find 

other parents who can share some of their journey with you. If 

the doctors you are working with can’t help at this time, there 

are others who will—trust me. I believe that the world needs 

more physicians and neurologists to confidently step forward 

to protect and facilitate pediatric access to cannabis. We need 

more support systems for families. 

Nurse Jessica 

Jessica Ferneyhough, a registered practical nurse, brings a 

unique approach to care, empowering patients as a medicinal 

cannabis nurse and horses for healing advocate. Do you have a 

question for Jessica? Email editor@myhydrolife.com. 

46 


myhydrolife.ca

heal 

SEEKING 

A MILDER 

o s e 

– AN INTERVIEW 

WITH A GROWER 

The genetic diversification of cannabis has managed 

to broaden its range of effects and properties, which 

have in turn made it more appealing for a wider 

variety of people. It´s no surprise, then, that more 

people are starting to grow cannabis in order to 

explore its medicinal or recreational properties. 

“Ever since I started growing, I’ve always been on the lookout for 

strains with a milder effect,” says Carlos, a 66-year-old grower 

growing a wide variety of Dinafem seeds. When Dinafem received 

Carlos’ first email, the seed bank was excited by his enthusiasm 

and the results he had achieved. That was several years ago and 

Dinafem has been in regular contact with Carlos ever since. As told 

to Dinafem, here is Carlos’ story of healing through cannabis. 

Thanks to cannabis, I was 

able to stop taking most 

of the medication I was 

using and my quality of life 

improved dramatically. 

WHEN AND WHY DID YOU 

START GROWING? 

I started growing in 2000, the same year I 

turned 50. I had been taking very strong 

medication from the pharmacy for a long 

time but I hadn’t noticed any improvement, 

so after having a good hard think, I decided 

to stop taking those drugs and try cannabis. 

WHICH CONDITION OR ILLNESS 

DO YOU SUFFER FROM? 

I´ve been treated for depression and several 

other problems that are associated with that 

or otherwise, including chronic pain, high 

blood pressure, anxiety and insomnia. 

HAS CANNABIS 

HELPED TO 

SOOTHE OR REDUCE 

THESE PAINS? 

I was looking for 

something mainly 

to improve my 

mood, relieve pain 

and make me feel 

more relaxed so I could get to sleep. I 

think cannabis has helped me. Thanks to 

cannabis, I was able to stop taking most of 

the medication I was using and my quality 

of life improved dramatically. This change 

was not a quick process, but it took place 

little by little over the course of almost three 

months. It wasn´t easy to stop taking my 

medication either, but I was able to do it 

and cannabis helped me. 

48 


myhydrolife.ca

DID YOU KNOW ANYTHING 

ABOUT MARIJUANA BEFORE 

YOU STARTED GROWING IT? 

Before I decided to start growing, I hardly 

knew anything about the plant and I´d 

never used it before. I spent two years 

reading a lot of books and magazines 

about cannabis and gathered all the 

information I could find on the Internet. 

Without any particular planning, I 

found the perfect spot on my patio—it 

was sunny, sheltered and discreet for 

growing these plants. I started growing 

when I felt ready to do so. 

HOW DO YOU GROW YOUR PLANTS? 

I grow around three or four plants per 

year during the outdoor season, which 

is from May to October. I use white plant 

pots that have a capacity of around 25 

liters and double them up by placing 

one inside the other. I prepare the soil by 

mixing garden center earth with perlite 

and vermiculite and I add a couple of 

handfuls of peat and manure. I water 

the plants with water from the normal 

supply, leaving it to rest in a container 

for 48 hours to remove chlorine, and 

I adjust the pH level to 6. During the 

holidays, I use a basic watering system 

that has a programmable function. I 

only use two eco-friendly products for 

getting rid of pests—neem and Bacillus 

thuringiensis. To feed the plants, I use 

organic bloom and growth fertilizers for 

everyday use, plus vitamin and mineral 

complexes from time to time. 

WHAT´S YOUR OPINION 

OF THE NEW CBD STRAINS? 

Ever since I became a grower and user 

of cannabis, I´ve always been on the 

lookout for strains with a milder effect 

that don´t affect me too much in my 

daily life, so the emergence of new 

CBD varieties has been great news 

for me. I´ve grown Critical + CBD and 

Shark Shock CBD and I´ve noticed how 

these varieties not only give me all the 

feelings of well-being that come with 

cannabis, but they also don´t pose any 

problems when it comes to psychoactive 

effects that are too potent. They don´t 

give me anxiety and, best of all, I´ve 

never had a “white-out” with these types 

of strains. I´ve also found that these 

high-CBD versions are particularly 

effective against muscle pain and are 

generally very relaxing. 

Ever since I became a grower and user of 

cannabis, I´ve always been on the lookout 

for strains with a milder effect that don´t 

affect me too much in my daily life. 

HOW DO YOU USE MARIJUANA? 

I mainly use a vapourizer. I think it´s 

one of the best ways of using cannabis 

because you get the immediate 

hit of a joint but without any of the 

disadvantages. You notice the effect 

from the first inhalation and then you 

can adjust it to suit yourself. I used to be 

a smoker and it took me quite a while to 

get used to using it, but once I got over 

that, there were nothing but advantages. 

I have two portable vapourizers and 

a table-top one. I use them every day. 

Sometimes I make a sponge cake to 

last a few days, but the thing about 

eating cannabis is that there´s always a 

possibility of the effects turning out to be 

too strong or not as expected. 

OUT OF ALL THE TYPES OF DINAFEM 

SEEDS YOU´VE GROWN, WHICH 

VARIETIES ARE YOUR FAVOURITE? 

I think Critical +, California Hash 

Plant, Shark Attack, Cloud # 9 and 

White Siberian are particularly good. 

Species based on hybrids of Skunk and 

Northern Lights, such as Critical + or 

California Hash Plant, work particularly 

well for me. I use them during the day 

because not only do they have a nice 

and relaxing physical effect, but their 

psychoactivity levels make me feel calm 

and creative. For deep relaxation and 

getting to sleep, I prefer pure or hybrid 

indica strains like Shark Attack and 

White Siberian. Their genetics have 

proven to have great medicinal value. 

They give me relief from pain and help 

me get some much-needed sleep. 

HOW DOES THIS 

COMPARE TO BEFORE? 

Before the wave of CBD varieties came 

on the scene, you would have to use 

strains of cannabis that were high in 

THC but cure the buds for much longer 

before using them in order to get effects 

similar to those I´ve just told you about. 

Sometimes you have to leave them for 

a year or even longer, but that´s not 

always possible if you don´t have a 

ready supply of them. New CBD strains 

share the exact characteristics of their 

cannabis families with regards to their 

scent, flavour, productivity, etc. The only 

difference I´ve noticed is the proportion 

of cannabinoids, which is something 

that comes across in the effects. 

WHY DO YOU CHOOSE 

DINAFEM SEEDS? 

I started growing with the only seeds 

that were available back in the early 

2000s—regular, expensive seeds from 

a bank in the Netherlands. When I 

discovered Dinafem, I was able to buy 

quality, feminized seeds in a wide 

variety. The seeds are always fresh, 

very well-packed and they germinate 

easily. The genetic quality is excellent 

and the varieties are very accurate and 

stable. With their latest range of CBD 

strains and high-CBD autoflowering 

varieties, Dinafem has shown how 

committed they are to cannabis for 

medicinal purposes by making it 

easier for both therapeutic users and 

those who prefer their cannabis mild to 

use it more sustainably. 


heal 

Marijuana 

Alzheimer's 

+ 

Studies taking place at the 

Scripps Research Institute show 

that cannabis consumption 

could potentially play a big 

part in the prevention of 

Alzheimer's disease. 

by Alan Ray 

Good News for Consumers 

50 


myhydrolife.ca

heal 

Worried about losing your memory? Forget it! When it 

comes to Alzheimer’s disease, the news for baby-booming 

hippies—especially the 420-friendly ones— sounds pretty good. 

In the wake of the tsunami of new discoveries into the medicinal 

and meditative properties of medical marijuana, studies have 

indicated marijuana may hold even more benefits for the brain, 

especially as it pertains to memory; 

specifically, Alzheimer’s. 

While many jokingly laugh at 

the sometimes short-term memory 

loss associated with marijuana 

usage, for people with Alzheimer’s, 

memory loss is much more than 

not remembering what you were 

just talking about but literally 

forgetting who you are talking to. 

This fight is against permanent 

memory loss and studies are being 

conducted that show marijuana 

could potentially play a big part in 

its prevention. 

Controlled 

Laboratory Studies 

One institution at the forefront 

of this war is the prestigious 

Scripps Research Institute whose 

laboratories conducted studies on 

tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC (the 

active ingredient in marijuana), 

with results that show serious 

promise in the battle against the 

disease that erases life. 

The Scripps study revealed 

that THC inhibits the enzyme 

acetylcholinesterase (AChE), which 

tends to act as a molecular escort 

in accelerating the formation of 

amyloid plaque in the brain of 

Alzheimer’s victims by reducing 

acetylcholine. Research has shown 

that levels of acetylcholine are 

exceptionally low in the brains of 

Alzheimer’s patients. Understandably, not all researchers agree 

as to whether or not the presence of beta-amyloid plaques in 

the areas of the brain that are crucial to cognition and memory 

is a cause or merely a symptom, nonetheless, their presence 

remains a hallmark of the disease. 

The Scripps study titled “A Molecular Link Between the Active 

Component of Marijuana and Alzheimer’s Disease Pathology” 

was supported by the Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology at 

Scripps Research at the National Institutes of Health. 

While the exact causes of Alzheimer’s disease aren’t fully 

known, there is much we do know. For decades, extensive 

research—both neurobiological and biochemical—has led 

to discoveries that may provide therapeutic strategies that 

will effectively stop or perhaps significantly slow down the 

progression of the disease, which would be incredibly good 

news for Alzheimer’s patients and their families. 

The Alzheimer’s Association reports about 4.5 million Americans 

currently suffer from this disease with that figure expected to 

rise to a frightening 16 million by the year 2050. Additionally, 

in a survey conducted by the National Center for Health 

Statistics, it was learned that about one-half of all nursing home 

"In the wake of the tsunami of new 

discoveries into the medicinal and meditative 

properties of medical marijuana, studies have 

indicated marijuana may hold even more benefits 

for the brain, especially as it pertains to memory." 

residents suffered from Alzheimer’s disease or a related malady. 

Furthermore, the National Institute on Aging concluded that 

the cost of caring for Alzheimer’s patients in America currently 

exceeds $100 billion annually. Any help in reducing those 

respective numbers would be of tremendous benefit to the quality 

of life of Alzheimer’s patients, their families and the economic 

burden that treatment of this disease causes them. 

Positive Signs 

The effectiveness of the plaque-inhibiting properties of THC 

appears quite promising in the fight against Alzheimer’s. 

According to Dr. Kim Janda, (Ely Callaway, Jr. Professor of 

Chemistry at Scripps Research), “In a test against Propidium, 

one of the most effective inhibitors reported to date, THC 

blocked AChE-induced aggregation completely, while the 

Propidium did not.” The cholinergic system inside the brain 

uses acetylcholine as a neurotransmitter and it appears it is 

most affected by Alzheimer’s. Stunningly, the study showed that 

THC is a “considerably superior inhibitor of (amyloid plaque) 

aggregation” when compared with four currently approved 

drugs for treating the disease. 

52 


myhydrolife.ca

THC vs. Traditional Drugs 

The drugs currently used in 

Alzheimer’s treatment work 

by inhibiting the active site of 

acetyl cholinesterase, the enzyme 

known to degrade acetylcholine. 

Propidium, one of the most 

effective inhibitors used in the 

treatment of Alzheimer’s, pales in 

comparison to the effectiveness 

of THC’s plaque-inhibiting ability. 

The results of the study showed 

that THC blocked AChE-induced 

aggregation completely, while 

Propidium did not. 

Moreover, Dr. Janda went on 

to say, “When we investigated the power of THC to inhibit 

the aggregation of beta-amyloid, we found that THC was 

considerably more effective than two of the approved drugs for 

Alzheimer’s disease treatment (Donepezil and Tacrine), which 

reduced amyloid aggregation by 22 and seven per cent 

respectively while at twice the concentration used in 

our studies.” 

The professor concluded, “While our study is far from 

final, it does show there is a previously unrecognized 

mechanism through which THC may directly affect the 

progression. While we certainly are not advocating 

the use of illegal drugs, these findings offer convincing 

evidence that THC possesses remarkable inhibitor qualities, 

especially when compared with AChE inhibitors currently 

available to patients. Our results are conclusive enough to 

warrant further investigation.” 

While currently there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, there is 

hope offered by the results of studies such as this one 

performed by Scripps. Meanwhile, we can all be hopeful a 

permanent cure will soon be discovered. It would be ironic 

indeed if that ol’ devil weed, so often blamed for short-term 

memory loss, actually played a key role in the discovery of a 

cure against permanent memory loss. 

Alan Ray has written five books and is a New York Times 

bestselling author. Additionally, he is a multi-award winning 

songwriter with awards from BMI and ASCAP respectively. Alan 

lives in Tennessee with his wife and two dogs: a South African 

Boerboel and a Pomeranian/Wolverine mix. 


heal 

by Lee G. Lyzit 

It’s Time to 

Consider Cannabis 

as a Treatment for 

Substance Abuse 

The non-toxicity of 

cannabis provides 

a strong incentive 

to make it a part of 

addiction treatment 

programs across 

the globe. 

Massachusetts, like many other states, 

is experiencing an increasing amount of 

deaths due to opiate addiction. Instead 

of relying on traditional methadone 

treatments, there are hundreds of opiate 

addicts who are turning to medical cannabis 

to curb the withdrawal symptoms 

associated with heroin or other opiates, 

such as morphine. 

“We have a statewide epidemic of 

opioid deaths,” says Dr. Gary Witman 

of Canna Care Docs. “As soon as we 

can get people off opioids and on to a 

non-addicting substance—and medical 

marijuana is non-addicting—I think it 

would dramatically impact the amount 

of opioid deaths.” Witman has treated 

about 80 patients who were addicted 

to either opioids, anti-anxiety medication 

or muscle relaxers with cannabis 

through a one-month tapering program. 

He claims that after treatment, more than 

three-quarters of his patients stopped 

using the harder drugs altogether. 

So why would cannabis be a better 

choice than a pharmaceutical like 

methadone? The answer lies in how safe 

cannabis is to consume. When a patient 

is experiencing withdrawal symptoms, 

it is common for health officials to 

substitute other drugs to ease the 

withdrawal process. Of all the possible 

substances that can be used as a 

substitution, cannabis is the least toxic. 

“ 

If the goal is to decrease 

the body count...the goal 

would be to get them on to a 

chemical that is safer.” 

54 


myhydrolife.ca

In reference to treatment for addiction, 

Dr. Harold Altvater, a physician 

from Massachusetts, says, “You are 

basically taking something that can 

be very harmful for an individual and 

substituting it with another chemical 

that has a wider safety margin. So, if 

the goal is to decrease the body count... 

the goal would be to get them on to 

a chemical that is safer.” Dr. Altvater 

has successfully used cannabis as a 

substitute for other commonly used 

addiction treatment medications. 

Medical cannabis has been tremendously 

beneficial to people suffering 

from a wide variety of ailments. Many 

people are familiar with medical cannabis 

being used as a treatment for 

epilepsy, chronic pain and cancer, but 

there are hundreds of other beneficial 

uses for medical cannabis. The key to the 

medicinal properties of cannabis lies in 

the chemical compounds known as cannabinoids 

found in the plant. 

Currently, there are more than 100 

different cannabinoids that are unique 

to the cannabis plant and there are still 

more to be discovered. The two most 

widely known and most often used 

cannabinoids for patients are CBD and 

THC. Cannabis is a non-toxic alternative 

to many potentially dangerous 

pharmaceutical treatments and it is 

no surprise that an increasing amount 

of patients are turning to cannabis for 

medical treatment. Addiction, including 

addiction to hard drugs and alcohol, is 

among the many conditions that can be 

treated with medical cannabis. 

The use of medical cannabis as a 

treatment for addiction is still controversial. 

This is partly due to the conflicting 

opinions among medical professionals 

regarding the addictive properties of 

cannabis itself. Although there are some 

contradictory studies regarding the addictive 

nature of cannabis, there is one 

thing the studies do agree on: cannabis 

is nowhere near as harmful as alcohol or 

opiates. There are studies that show cannabis 

is a potentially effective treatment 

for patients recovering from addictive 

substances such as alcohol or heroin. 

“ 

In the states where medical 

cannabis is legal, there 

is significant evidence to 

show that medical cannabis 

effectively treats every 

one of these common 

withdrawal symptoms.” 

One study in particular performed in 

2009 by the Laboratory of Physiopathology 

of Diseases of the Central Nervous 

System found that in animals, injections 

of THC derived from the cannabis plant 

helped eliminate dependency on opiates 

such as morphine and heroin. 

One of the more obvious reasons 

cannabis should be considered as a 

treatment for addictive disorders is 

that it is already used to treat many of 

the common side effects of substance 

withdrawal. Withdrawal from alcohol 

or hard drugs generally produces 

symptoms such as anxiety, depression, 

pain, nausea and sleeplessness. 

In the states where medical cannabis 

is legal, there is significant evidence to 

show that medical cannabis effectively 

treats every one of these common 

withdrawal symptoms. This is why 

medical cannabis is such a logical 

choice for addiction treatment. 

Perhaps the biggest argument against 

cannabis being used as a treatment for 

addiction is that one drug is just being 

substituted for another. This argument 

is quite flimsy because most addiction 

treatment programs include substituting 

dangerous (in some cases, highly addictive) 

pharmaceutical drugs for the drug 

the patient is trying to quit. As can be 

imagined, this causes a whole new set of 

problems for the patient. 

I believe that as more is learned about 

the healing powers the cannabis plant 

has to offer, we will surely see its place 

as a treatment for addiction solidified. 

The non-toxicity of cannabis provides 

a strong incentive to make it a part of 

addiction treatment programs across the 

globe. It is so important for an individual 

to do his or her own research regarding 

cannabis and its healing properties. With 

more independent research, we, as a 

society, will be able to get past the stigma 

and false information spread by a select 

few. Only then will we truly be able to 

discover all of the healing properties the 

cannabis plant has to offer. 

Lee G. Lyzit has been involved in the 

medical cannabis industry for nearly 15 

years. His passion for natural healing drives 

him to learn as much as he can about 

the cannabis plant. Lee breeds his own 

strains of cannabis to create concentrated 

glycerine and coconut oil extracts. 


heal 

dispensary profile: 

Queens of 

cannabis 

Providing healthy, soothing cannabis solutions to medical conditions, time spent at Queens of Cannabis is like easy 

country living in the heart of Toronto. Jessica Ferneyhough takes us on an intimate tour of the wellness dispensary 

and explains why owners Brandy and Tania are so motivated to make you feel better. 

Medicine woman who get up, show up and stand up 

for the rights of their citizens to dignified access to 

cannabis as medicine, the Queens of Cannabis, located 

at 848 Bloor St. W, Toronto, ON, right in the heart of Bloor 

Court, have always kept their standards high. It is the 

ones on the front line who challenge the norm and refuse 

to comply that make change. Holistic cannabis in a 

wellness dispensary. 

As a cannabis 

“ When you leave you will leave 

feeling recharged, knowing that your 

purchase power is your voice. ” 

nurse, it’s reassuring 

to know where to 

send your patients 

who need medicine 

the same day and 

want the human-tohuman 

contact with 

impeccable flower selection. Maybe 

they need oil, or a CO 2 pen and 

some topicals because they have 

a throbbing headache. Perhaps 

their menstruation pain and 

endometriosis has kept them 

from leaving their bedroom for 

days and they need a yoni plug 

made from cannabis infused 

coconut oil and frankincense. 

Do you suffer from constipation? 

Don’t be shy, bowel management is 

key. The Queens have a solution with a 

natural back door slid (a.k.a. cannabis suppository) from 

Freedom’s line. 

Once you have aligned with your medicine of choice, 

book an energetic treatment and lounge on the couch to 

read about cannabis with your dog. Every time I go, it 

feels like country comfort in the middle of the Big Smoke. 

Founders Brandy and Tania met and connected 

because they both live with chronic pain and had 

discovered cannabis to treat their symptoms. 

Brandy has been suffering from chronic pain 

since 2005, and has tried handfuls of ineffective 

pharmaceutical cocktails that burnt her stomach 

lining leaving her in worse condition than when she 

first went to the doctor. She found 

cannabis to be the only 

effective medication 

for chronic pain 

in 2013 and has 

never looked 

back. “My lifestyle 

has improved 

drastically since I allowed 

myself to ignore the stigma associated with 

cannabis. Now I live my life, rather than living 

a life where pain is running it,” she says. 

Tania’s experience within the cannabis industry 

began after becoming an MMAR patient in 2009. 

As a chemist and consultant for medical cannabis 

labs, Tania has a wide variety of expertise. She 

began baking edibles for other patients who were 

suffering with chronic pain and illnesses. Edibles 

are equivalent in effect to tinctures and edible oils, 

which are a valuable tool for most ailments, and are 

appealing to the pallet (which helps ingestion of 

medication for those who struggle with appetite for 

health reasons). Health care practitioners encourage 

ingestion over combustion so having edibles 

available is essential to patient care. Patients are 

encouraged to try edibles before smoking for most 

ailments. These women only staff the most versed 

female tenders. When you leave you will leave 

feeling recharged, knowing that your purchase power 

is your voice. With a paper bag of medicines and 

a heart full of community, you will be thankful you 

went in. 

Nurse Jessica 

56 


myhydrolife.ca


live live 

LOOSE 

LIPS 

SINK 

SHIPS: 

SECURING YOUR 

HOME GROW 

It is extremely important 

for cannabis growers to 

protect their gardens by 

implementing security 

measures. Cameras, audible 

alarms, canines and secrecy 

are all security measures that 

can aid in the protection of 

your cherished plants. 

by Lee G. Lyzit 

Apart from 

the countless 

lives that have been 

negatively affected, the 

war on drugs has created 

a distorted black market 

pricing structure for illegal 

substances. Although we 

are slowly seeing a shift in 

the way government and law 

enforcement view cannabis, 

the fact is that cannabis is still 

valuable. Thieves and scoundrels 

who are constantly on the lookout 

for opportunities and vulnerabilities 

will gladly snatch up a valuable 

cannabis crop if given the chance. It 

is extremely important for cannabis 

growers to protect their gardens by 

implementing security measures. 

58 


myhydrolife.ca

PERSONAL SECURITY CAMERAS 

AND AUDIBLE ALARMS 

There are countless personal security 

products available for home or commercial 

use. Many cannabis growers 

choose this level of security because 

it is simple, effective and discreet. 

Multiple-camera security systems are 

affordable and can easily be linked to 

an online server so they can be monitored 

from anywhere. A camera system 

is great at identifying a thief and can 

even be used as evidence if the police 

get involved. The downside is that 

camera systems alone don’t necessarily 

stop the damage before it is done. If the 

plants are destroyed, they cannot be instantly 

replaced, regardless of the perpetrator 

being apprehended or not. This 

is where an audible alert system can 

come in handy. Audible alarm systems 

can be used as stand-alone systems or 

in conjunction with a security camera 

system. When there is a breech, an earsplitting 

alarm is sounded. A would-be 

thief is often deterred when there is a 

siren screaming from the premise. 

PROFESSIONAL 

SECURITY SYSTEMS 

Although not as commonly used as 

personal systems, a professional security 

system can be an effective way to deter 

thieves. Professional security systems 

can include cameras, alarms, motion 

sensors or a combination of these 

security measures. Professional security 

systems are monitored by a security 

company. Each company is a little 

different, but these systems are great for 

growers who are not in the same vicinity 

as their grow sites. If there is a problem, 

the security company will intervene or 

contact law enforcement to intervene. 

Most professional security systems are 

affordable and are set up so the grower 

pays a low monthly fee. 

ANIMAL PROTECTION 

Man’s best friend is surely worth 

mentioning when it comes to garden 

security. Most robbers will think twice 

before messing with Cujo. Guard 

dogs, especially ones trained for that 

purpose, can go a long way in garden 

security. Many professional cannabis 

growers have dog runs set up around 

the perimeter of the garden so that a 

thief would have to attempt to cross a 

moat of highly trained mutts. In most 

cases, just the sight of a big, snarly 

beast will send a burglar running with 

his tail between his legs. 

LOOSE LIPS SINK SHIPS 

The old phrase, “loose lips sink ships” that 

originated during World War II couldn’t be 

more true for cannabis growers. In other 

words, don’t show anyone or talk to anyone 

about your garden. I have seen novice 

growers make this mistake time and time 

again. Many new growers are excited. 

They want to show all their friends and tell 

anyone who will listen. Stop it! The most 

effective and important security measure 

any cannabis grower can implement is 

to not talk about the garden. Remember 

the first rule of Fight Club: You do not talk 

about the fight club. If cannabis growers 

took this rule seriously, they would greatly 

reduce their chances of being burglarized. 

In most cases, a cannabis heist is done by 

a “friend” or colleague. It is as simple as 

this: you can’t steal what you don’t know is 

there. The best way to keep your cannabis 

plants safe is to refrain from showing 

anyone or telling anyone about them. 

“THIEVES AND SCOUNDRELS WHO ARE 

CONSTANTLY ON THE LOOKOUT FOR 

OPPORTUNITIES AND VULNERABILITIES 

WILL GLADLY SNATCH UP A VALUABLE 

CANNABIS CROP IF GIVEN THE CHANCE.” 

LIGHTS AND ODOURS 

This should be more common sense than 

an actual security measure, but it is 

important to make sure the garden appears 

normal to the public eye. If a glowing light 

or strong odour is emitting from a building, 

chances are good that someone will notice. 

Always be sure your lights are contained 

and you treat odours with a carbon filter or 

other odour-neutralizing devices. 

For new growers, it can be difficult to 

perceive the gravity of good security 

measures. After spending a lot of money on 

growroom equipment, not to mention the 

time it takes to grow plants to maturity, the 

last thing you want is a crook to come in 

and snatch up your hard work. Cameras, 

audible alarms, canines and secrecy 

are all security measures that can aid in 

the protection of your cherished plants. 

Whether you are a commercial cannabis 

grower or a hobbyist medical marijuana 

enthusiast, implementing adequate garden 

security can mean the difference between 

profitable yields and utter devastation. 

Lee G. Lyzit has been involved 

in the medical cannabis industry 

for nearly 15 years. His passion 

for natural healing drives him to 

learn as much as he can about 

the cannabis plant. Lee breeds 

his own strains of cannabis to 

create concentrated glycerine 

and coconut oil extracts. 


live 

Do we need cannabis breathalyzers? 

Roadside breathalyzer tests for alcohol have been a useful 

tool for law enforcement to remove impaired drivers from 

our roads. Should similar measures be applied to drivers who 

take cannabis? Alex Rea explains why he doesn’t think so. 

by Alex Rea 

It’s no secret that cannabis is more 

available and its use is increasing. 

With increasing use of cannabis, governments, 

police and anti-drunk driving 

organizations are calling for strictly 

enforced low limits on cannabis use 

while driving. Numerous tech companies 

are rushing to develop roadside breathalyzer 

and testing technologies capable of 

identifying minute amounts of cannabis 

metabolites. The undeniable fact is that 

testing positive for THC is not the same 

as being impaired. Recent research has 

confirmed that specific drug levels cannot 

reliably indicate driver impairment. 

Caught up in the effort to curb drugged 

driving are the legitimate patients using 

cannabis to improve their lives. These 

patients are being put at risk of being 

criminalized with little evidence of harm 

to road users or themselves. States such 

as Washington and Colorado have set 

legal limits for concentration of THC in 

blood while driving. 

Many lives have been lost due to the 

impairment of alcohol while driving. 

Drinking and driving has been reduced 

in large part due to public-service efforts 

and strict enforcement of roadside alcohol 

testing. Perhaps that’s what makes 

roadside cannabis testing so appealing. 

The easy reaction is to equate alcohol 

and cannabis. Driving under the 

influence of alcohol leads to deaths in a 

straightforward and predictable way; the 

effects of alcohol lead to impairments in 

both decision making and motor skills. 

Evidence shows that alcohol leads 

drivers to drive faster and with less 

control and reaction time leading 

to dangerous consequences. The 

same cannot be said for cannabis. 

Research conducted by the NHTSA 

has concluded that when adjusting 

for other factors such as age and 

gender, THC presence alone poses no 

statistical increase in crashes. 

Breathalyzers work for alcohol 

because there is a consistent 

relationship between blood alcohol 

level, impairment and levels detected by 

the testing equipment. The relationship 

is so strong that these technologies 

have stood the test of litigation to prove 

to judges that beyond reasonable 

doubt, they are accurate. It’s easy to use 

the same logic of alcohol to apply to 

cannabis. 

The profits from the company that successfully 

produces a breathalyzer technology 

could be immense; the potential 

market could be every police jurisdiction 

with a legal limit or a will to root out 

cannabis users. The consensus has been 

that it is not a question of if but when we 

will introduce a roadside breathalyzer. 

As our society figures out how to deal 

with cannabis use on the roads, there is 

still a glaring question looming over this 

issue: are cannabis breathalyzers the 

only way to have safe roads? 

Before the use of Breath Alcohol 

Content testers, there was the field 

sobriety test; a simple test to help law 

enforcement determine if an individual’s 

cognitive and spacial perceptions are 

so impaired that driving is dangerous 

and therefore illegal. There is no way to 

have perfect road safety with no crashes, 

so there may be an argument for using 

traditional methods to judge impairment 

rather than a catch all limit which will 

criminalize people unjustifiably. 

The main issue with drug impairment 

testing is that it is a more complex 

chemical and neurological relationship 

than alcohol. Five nanograms of THC 

could have no effect or a strong effect 

depending on the user. An experienced 

medical user may be unaffected by 

such an amount and be a safer driver 

because they are not in pain. States are 

trying to set a limit on cannabis use to 

discourage impaired driving but there 

is little scientific evidence to support 

the use of a strict limit for any drug. 

The most reliable way to ascertain 

impairment is the traditional method 

of a field sobriety test (with reasonable 

grounds to conduct the investigation). 

The difficult yet logical conclusion is 

that a roadside breathalyzer may be an 

improper way to do policing. It may cost 

police forces too many resources, likely 

won’t improve public safety and would 

unnecessarily impact innocent drivers 

with legal costs and disruptions to life. 

Alex Rea is vice-president of Homegrown Hydroponics in Toronto, Ontario, and the 

co-founder of Phytomedical, a cannabis consulting clinic. As a patient, advocate and 

business person in the cannabis industry, Alex has a keen understanding of the political, 

economic and social hurdles that underpin cannabis as medicine in North America. 

60 


myhydrolife.ca


live 

BC’S BEST 

BUD 

BY JENN MCGARRIGLE | Just south 

of Nanaimo, a city of about 85,000 

people on Vancouver Island in British 

Columbia, is one of the largest 

and most sophisticated medical 

cannabis cultivation facilities in the 

world. Tilray offers pharmaceuticalgrade 

medical cannabis products to 

patients, pharmacies and researchers 

in Canada, Australia, the European 

Union and the Americas. CEO Greg 

Engel shares a few more details for 

Hydrolife readers. 

62 


myhydrolife.ca

live 

"WALK INTO THE COMPANY’S STATE-OF- 

THE-ART, $26-MILLION FACILITY ON ANY 

GIVEN DAY AND YOU’LL SEE ROUGHLY 40,000 

PLANTS GROWING IN 31 CULTIVATION ROOMS." 

If you want the best, most reliable, consistent and potent medical cannabis 

available in Canada, make sure you’ve got Tilray on speed dial. The owners of the 

Nanaimo, BC-based company jumped into the green scene three years ago, after 

legal conditions became just right for large commercial growers who were able to 

offer consistent, high-quality supplies of cannabis grown in controlled conditions. 

At the time, the Canadian government changed the rules regulating access to 

medical cannabis, allowing patients to choose from multiple licensed producers. 

Privateer Holdings, Tilray’s parent company, along with investors from around 

the world, all of whom believe in access, saw an opportunity to dive into the 

medical cannabis business. 

The company’s name was selected by the Privateer team in collaboration with 

Heckler Associates—the same branding company that helped name Starbucks. 

“Til” is meant to represent or call to mind the tilling of the earth and “ray” refers to 

rays of the sun. 

In April 2014, the first order shipped out, and the company has grown in leaps 

and bounds since then to become one of the country’s largest and most respected 

licensed producers. Tilray has also begun to offer its pharmaceutical-grade 

products to patients, pharmacies and researchers in Australia, the European 

Union and the Americas. 

Walk into the company’s state-of-the-art, $26-million facility on any given day 

and you’ll see roughly 40,000 plants growing in 31 cultivation rooms, as well 

as three labs and 10 manufacturing and processing areas. Tilray grows more 

than 50 different strains of medical cannabis. “We started out with a much 

broader selection of strains and then in response to feedback from our patients, 

we reduced the offering to a core group of strains to ensure patients have a 

consistent supply of the same strains to meet their personal needs,” explains 

CEO Greg Engel. “Having discreet rooms with controlled conditions enables 

us to manipulate different variables, such as water amounts, light exposure, 

nutrient delivery systems and more, on a strain-by-strain basis at different points 

throughout the plants’ life cycles.” 

Growing cannabis in such controlled conditions allows Tilray to offer its 

customers peace of mind through unparalleled quality and consistency. 

“Thousands of patients across Canada depend on us for consistent access to safe, 

reliable, pure and effective medicine every day,” says Engel. “Our team of experts, 

which includes PhD research scientists, professional managers, manufacturing 

executives, patient advocates, botanists and horticulturalists, are industry leaders 

in their fields who are on the cutting-edge of advancing the science, safety and 

efficacy of medical cannabis for physicians and patients.” 

Tilray’s dried flower products include both THC-only strains and CBD strains that 

contain some THC. With the Supreme Court of Canada’s historic ruling earlier this year 

affirming Canadians’ constitutional right -to possess non-dried forms of marijuana, 

64 


myhydrolife.ca

GETTING TECHNICAL 

JOSHUA EADES, TILRAY’S 

VICE-PRESIDENT AND CHIEF 

SCIENCE OFFICER, SHARES 

SOME OF THE COMPANY’S 

SECRETS TO SUCCESS IN 

THE GROWROOM: 

“In a largescale, 

high-tech 

cultivation 

facility like Tilray, 

technologies 

that allow for 

automated, 

precise control are paramount. 

For instance, our automated 

nutrient delivery system allows 

our horticulture team to easily 

control and monitor delivery of 

water and nutrients to plants. These 

systems allow customized nutrient 

recipes that can be administered, 

for instance, to different strains in 

different rooms. The same is true for 

automated environmental controls 

that ensure the temperature and 

relative humidity in each cultivation 

room is at the perfect level to 

promote healthy plant growth. 

All data from these systems is 

logged and tracked, allowing for 

the monitoring of trends that may 

impact plant growth. The most 

important investment we made, 

in addition to bringing in the best 

employees possible, was our 

environmental control systems. 

In terms of our extract-based 

products, we have invested in hightech 

equipment to maximize the 

extraction of beneficial compounds 

found in the cannabis plant. We are 

able to accurately formulate these 

products to ensure precise dosing 

for our patients. This extraction 

equipment uses supercritical liquid 

CO 2 , which evaporates from the 

final product as a harmless gas, 

and is thus considered a solventless 

extraction method.” 

To learn more and view patient 

videos, visit tilray.com. 

"MEDICAL 

CANNABIS HAS 

ENORMOUS 

POTENTIAL 

TO SUPPORT 

PATIENTS AND 

PHYSICIANS 

LOOKING FOR 

ALTERNATE 

TREATMENT 

OPTIONS." 

the company is also able to offer patients alternatives 

to smoking. The company’s line of extract products—the 

widest selection available under the federal MMPR 

program in Canada—is produced using state-of-the-art 

ethanol and CO 2 extraction methods to preserve delicate 

cannabinoid and terpene content. “Some of our patients, 

for instance pediatric patients wishing to access our 

CBD products, do not wish to consume a dried flower 

product via smoking, and the extracts are an excellent 

alternative for these patients,” says Engel. “These extracts 

offer patients and physicians more precise control over 

dosage as well as a convenient alternative to smoking or 

vapourizing. Extracts are also critically important for the 

future of research investigating medical cannabis as a 

therapy for specific conditions. We currently offer both THC 

and CBD drops, which are oil-based products.” 

Engel believes medical cannabis has enormous 

potential to support patients and physicians looking 

for alternate treatment options. To better understand 

the possibilities, Tilray is funding clinical research to 

advance the scientific understanding of the safety and 

efficacy of cannabis as a therapeutic treatment option 

for patients with various conditions, and is working on 

several clinical trials in Canada, Australia and Spain. In 

2016 and 2017, the company also plans to open additional 

production facilities in Australia, the EU and the US. 

Jenn McGarrigle is a writer, editor, gardener, mountain biker 

and nature lover who has lived on the West Coast all her life. 

When she’s not telling stories and helping people get the 

word out about the exciting things they do and why they do 

them, you’ll find her on the trails or in her garden. 

myhydrolife.ca 

grow. heal. live. enjoy. 65

live 

5 

Cannabis 

Skincare 

Products 

You’ll Want 

to Try 

Cannabis and hemp have 

made their way into many 

parts of our lives, and our 

daily hygiene routines are no 

exception. From body lotions 

and washes to shampoos and 

perfumes, CBD is making an 

appearance in a variety of 

skincare products and anyone 

can take advantage of this 

boom in canna-beauty. 

by Colleen Graham 

The Benefits of Cannabis Skincare Products 

First of all, it’s important to distinguish cannabis and hemp: 

cannabis refers to the flower while hemp refers to the seeds and 

stems. The majority of beauty products use hemp oil because 

CBD-only products can be sold across straight lines; THC products 

need to be sold in the state they are produced. 

On the beauty front, we are not missing out on much with this 

dominance of CBD products. Hemp oil is a natural moisturizer 

and one of the least greasy base oils, so it’s perfect for soaps, 

lotions and balms. It is also anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and is 

filled with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. 

Topically, you will get muscle and skin benefits from CBD 

lotions and salves, and they can be used to relieve minor aches 

and pains as well. Some spas are getting on the cannabis 

bandwagon and offering massages with THC-infused oils that 

offer even more relief. These medicinal ointments are also 

popping up in more and more dispensaries. Overall the point 

of hemp-based beauty products is to bring their basic benefits 

into our everyday lives. Many are also formulated to give you 

a calm feeling and contain fragrances designed to soothe your 

mind and relieve stress. 

Weed-infused beauty products will not get you high. They are 

not designed to penetrate your skin and won’t enter your bloodstream, 

so just think of them as another natural alternative in 

your skincare regimen. 

So do we have you convinced? If so, we encourage you to 

check out any of these hemp-tastic beauty products. 

1 

Dr. Bronner’s Hemp Tea Tree 

Pure-Castile Soap 

What can’t you do with this amazing soap? 

From cleansing your face to mopping the floor, 

Dr. Bonner’s Castile Soap can clean it all, but 

it’s particularly revered for its acne-fighting 

ability. This soap is organic and fair trade and 

has a nice woody scent. The hemp seed oil’s 

anti-inflammatory properties combined with tea 

tree essential oil—known for antimicrobial and 

antibacterial qualities—makes this all-natural 

soap as effective as benzoyl peroxide. The hemp 

oil also counteracts the dryness some people 

experience with tea tree alone, making Dr. Bonner’s 

Castile Soap a real winning combination. 

– drbronner.com 

Colleen Graham is a writer and 

freelance photographer from 

the Midwest who specializes 

in mixed drinks and covering 

the liquor industry. She is the 

Cocktails Expert for about.com 

and author of the book ¡Hola 

Tequila! Gardening and 

kayaking with her husband are 

two of her favourite pastimes. 

66 


myhydrolife.ca

2 

Hempz Triple Moisture Herbal Shampoo 

We put our hair through a lot of turmoil and it can easily become dry and look dull. This 

moisturizing shampoo from Hempz is the perfect solution, especially when paired with 

their Whipped Creme Conditioner. Made with 100 per cent pure and natural hemp seed 

oil and mild cleansers, Hempz shampoo is designed to give your hair the moisture and 

protection it needs, leave it smooth and soft, and avoid harsh chemicals that can lead to 

further damage. The grapefruit-peach fragrance is a day-long delight and if you have 

other hair issues, Hempz probably has a solution for you. 

– hempz.com 

3 4 

Apothecanna 

Everyday Body Crème 

Apothecanna is leading the 

industry in healing lotions 

and they have crèmes 

specifically designed for 

either pain and stress 

relief. The favourite 

for everyday use as a 

moisturizing lotion has to 

be the Everyday Crème. 

A mix of essential oils 

like mandarin, cedar, 

geranium, calendula and 

sweet orange combine 

with CBD cannabis oil 

to create a lotion that 

moisturizes while the 

scents calm your mind 

and soothe your spirit. It 

is an all-body, all-day lotion that is sure to leave you 

feeling great. 

– apothecanna.com 

5 

Nature’s Gate 

Hemp Body Wash 

What better way to 

start your day than 

a shower with a 

soothing, creamy 

body wash? If 

you’re looking for 

a feel-good shower 

soap without harsh 

perfumes, Nature’s 

Gate Hemp Body 

Wash is the one for 

you. This one features 

hemp seed oil, milk 

thistle and dandelion, 

and it gets the 

perfect lather with a 

loofah or pouf. The 

fragrance is pleasant, 

best described as an 

earthy botanical that 

both men and women 

can enjoy. It leaves 

your skin moisturized 

and stimulates your 

senses so you are 

ready to face the day 

ahead. 

– naturesgate.com 

Demeter Fragrance Library Cannabis Flower 

Aromatherapy takes on a whole new meaning when it comes to cannabis perfumes and 

we’re going far beyond that hippie favourite of patchouli oil. This is a popular category 

in hemp-based beauty and a favourite among the masses is Demeter’s Cannabis 

Flower. The fragrance has sweet floral and slightly spicy notes and you will not be 

disappointed if you love the smell of cannabis. However, it will not leave you smelling 

like you just smoked up. Instead, it’s masked very well and the blend is mysteriously 

pleasant. You can try it out for just a few dollars. If you like it, the scent is replicated in 

other products, from room sprays to shower gels. 

– demeterfragrance.com 


enjoy 

by Watermelon 

A FOOL OF MYSELF 

A Cannabis Culinary Column 

Cookies are Sweet. 

Victory is Sweeter. 

Her days on Wreck Beach selling watermelon and ginger snap cookies were easy before her arrest. 

Then came the difficult days before a judge. In her latest column, Watermelon explains how she 

fought the law and won. She also shares the recipe that got her into trouble in the first place. 

68 


myhydrolife.ca

enjoy 

“ 

WHY WOULD 

I willingly let 

them label me 

a criminal when 

clearly I am not?” 

In my last column, I told you all about getting arrested on a nude 

beach for allegedly trafficking ginger snap cookies. The comedy 

ensues. I am told to get dressed and taken to the police station 

where I am stripped searched. They wanted to know if I had anything 

“dangerous down there.” Hilarious? (Not right away though.) 

My cookies are stamped Exhibit A. I am photographed in the 

best pin-up pose I could muster at the time. Big smile on my tearstained 

face. Arms at an angle behind my head. My hips slightly 

askew. Then finger prints, a phone call to a random lawyer, some 

yoga in the cold steel cell, and my eventual release on a promise to 

appear. 

In order to charge me with trafficking ginger snap cookies they 

had to send those cookies to a lab to be tested. I was charged initially 

with Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking. But trafficking 

what? Ginger snaps? The test results came in and I was charged 

with trafficking in cannabis ‘resin’, which obviously seemed suspect 

because there was no resin in Exhibit A. Then off to trial we 

go. Not one, not two, but three separate trials. 

I was getting arrested a lot in those days. 

After careful cross-examination of the Crown Prosecutors’ lab 

technician, it was discovered the only reason I was being charged 

with trafficking in cannabis resin was because Standard Operating 

Procedure (SOP) at that time said if no defining botanical features of 

the marijuana plant can be seen but cannabinoids are present, they 

automatically call it cannabis resin. 

My lawyer, John Conroy, brought in a cannabinoid scientist named 

Dr. David Pate. The good doctor suggested on the stand that there is 

no actual resin in the cookie sample. With some scientific prodding, 

the Crown’s lab guy had to agree. I asked my lawyer to propose if it’s 

possible I put hemp seeds or hemp oil in my cookies. Would cannabinoids 

still be present? The Crown’s witness agrees again. 

Turns out there are lots of cannabinoids. Not all are illegal. They 

would need to isolate them in cookie batter to prove which ones 

are prosecutable. Then they would need to weigh that measurement 

and find out how severe my sentence should be. 

In Canadian law at that time, 30 grams or under of cannabis 

marijuana carried a lesser sentence than over 30 grams. One gram 

of hash (a.k.a. cannabis resin) carried a lesser sentence than over 

one gram. Yes. One gram! Implying resin is 30 times stronger than 

marijuana and should be treated as such during sentencing. 

At the time, they could not prove origin of source or quantify 

measurements. They simply tested for cannabinoids and if 

those were present SOP says you automatically charged 

a person with trafficking in cannabis resin. When botanical 

features can be identified you charge them 

with trafficking in cannabis marijuana. 

In the end everyone agreed I was charged 

with the wrong thing, therefore I had not 

committed the crime I was charged with. 

Finally, to my great relief, for the third 

time, I heard that gloriously freeing 

word: Acquitted. The gavel drops, 

curtains close, and the comedy show 

is over. 

Before any of this happened, of 

course, I was offered multiple plea 

bargains. Almost threatened to plea 

bargain. But I refused adamantly. I 

wanted someone to look me in the 

face while they were giving me a 

criminal record. All for some delicious, 

well-made ginger snap cookies. I was 

then and I still am a hard-working, wellrespected 

woman in my community. Why 

would I willingly let them label me a criminal 

when clearly I am not? 

70 


myhydrolife.ca

Most cases around this time got plea bargained out. Hardly 

any cannabis charges even went to trial. I was the first to test 

the waters in court on edibles and this is what we discover. We 

punched a lot of holes in this aspect of law and demonstrated a 

lot of flaws. Flaws that cost people their freedom. Their dignity. 

Their savings. Their jobs. 

Never plea bargaining is a great tool for modern cannabis 

activists. We all want our day in court, and I am perfectly willing 

to go again one day. It is a great place to be active. If you are 

successful there, you’re successful to marijuana lovers everywhere. 

If nobody plea bargains, all those cases go to court. In court, the 

Crown must assert the law you broke and then prove those allegations 

against you. In other words, you don’t have to prove your innocence, 

they have to prove you are guilty. The laws on cannabis are 

so perforated with inconsistencies, at least where I live, that I do not 

think anyone really knows the laws on cannabis as they are written. 

The grey area continues to widen. 

So, when real cases go to court, they tend to demonstrate constitutional 

discrepancies. The government is then asked to re-script 

the law to comply with the constitution or abolish it. So demand 

your day in court should you get charged with loving our favourite 

green leafy vegetable. With that I would like to share with you my 

criminally delicious ginger snap cookie recipe. Cookies are sweet. 

Victory is sweeter. 

Ginger Snaps 

Ingredients: 

3/4 C oil 

20 g shake flour 

1 C brown sugar 

4 tsp molasses 

1 egg 

2 C flour 

2 tsp baking soda 

1 tsp cinnamon 

1 tsp ginger 

1 tsp cloves 

“ 

WE PUNCHED a lot of 

holes in this aspect of 

law and demonstrated 

a lot of flaws.” 

Steps: 

• Pre-heat oven 

to 350°F. 

• Sauté oil and shake 

flour on low heat for 

30 minutes. 

Let cool slightly. 

• Combine all dry 

ingredients. 

• In a bowl, mix 

molasses, sugar, 

shake oil and egg. 

• Add dry ingredients 

and mix well. 

• Form into small 

balls and roll in 

white sugar. 

• Bake at 350˚F for 

12-15 minutes. 

• Store in air-tight 

container. 

To see Watermelon in action, check her out on YouTube. Baked: 

Cooking with Mary Jean is a special show that features one 

special ingredient: cannabis! Follow Watermelon, a.k.a. Mary 

Jean Dunsdon, on Twitter @weeddiva to never miss an episode, 

or sign up for updates at potent.media. 

grow. heal. live. enjoy. 71

enjoy 

TRICK-OR-TREAT 

IT’S CANNAWEEN! 

by Lacey Macri 

Halloween isn’t just for 

kids, anymore. More 

and more, adults are 

partaking in grown-up 

treats on the scariest 

night of the year. 

Lacey Macri provides 

a twist on tradition 

for qualified medical 

marijuana patients. 

72 


myhydrolife.ca

Just because you aren’t a child doesn’t mean you can’t indulge 

on Halloween. On that same note, always make sure 

your cannabis-infused edibles are stored in a safe place out of 

reach of children and pets. Try these top five rated treats on 

a night in when you aren’t operating vehicles or machinery 

so that you can simply relax and enjoy all of the 

fruits of what infusion progressives have to offer. 

HI-FI CHOCOLATE BARS: BEST BANG 

FOR YOUR BUCK 

The marriage of chocolate and medical 

marijuana is by no means a new 

combination. This year, finding 

the absolute best cannabis-infused 

chocolate bar is at the forefront of 

every canna-trick-or-treater’s Halloween 

priorities. The Hi-Fi chocolate bar series is 

undeniably awesome. Ranging in donations 

from $10-$20, you can walk home from your 

local collective with one of these 200 milligram 

bars that may likely be enough to 

last you the whole week, depending on 

your tolerance. With this particular 

bar, I can’t emphasize the concept 

of tolerance enough. Do not 

underestimate the strength of 

these bars based on their 

superb flavour. It is quite 

possible that you will mistake 

these bars for a canna-free candy 

because they are so perfectly 

blended for optimal flavour. The Hi-Fi 

200 milligram bars are split into four 

sections, each as 50 milligram servings. I 

would not recommend eating more than one 

square at a time until becoming more familiar 

with your tolerance as it relates to this specific 

edible. The Hi-Fi chocolate bars are 

both a trick and a treat in one delicious 

crudite, so tread lightly and enjoy. 

FLAMING HOT WEETOS: THE 

MUST-HAVE GUILTY PLEASURE 

The ultimate munchies are now available 

in a cannabis-infused version of one 

of America’s favourite snacks: Flaming Hot 

Weetos. Available in three-ounce packages at 

a strength of 150 milligrams THC combined with 

1.8 milligrams CBD, this might be your best bet for 

a post-supper snack that will satisfy your craving for 

junk food while simultaneously medicating. You will 

notice a mild hint of cannabis in your first few bites, but 

the spicy seasoning helps to mask the pungent flavour and 

aroma of the medicine. The nutrition facts report that there are 

approximately three servings per package, so be careful not to 

scarf down the whole bag at once if it is your first time trying. 

If you want to save your Weetos for later, they stay relatively 

fresh if the bag is clipped and stored in the refrigerator up 

to a few weeks, surprisingly. 

AWAKENING MINTS: FOR GUYS 

AND GALS ON THE GO 

Dixie Elixirs’ line of mints is the quick fix 

in the crowd. If you feel an oncoming 

headache, nausea, back pain, or mild 

“You will notice 

a mild hint of 

cannabis in your 

first few bites, 

but the spicy seasoning helps to 

mask the pungent 

flavour and aroma 

of the medicine. ” 

sense of mental or physical discomfort of any kind, these mints 

will help take the edge off while allowing you to remain alert 

throughout the day. Available in five- or 10-milligram tablets 

in the Awakening, Relaxing and Synergy formulas, there 

is something for every qualified MMJ patient. Although 

the packaging is somewhat reminiscent of birth 

control pills, it is also very functional. This discrete 

packaging approach makes it easy to medicate 

in public for those who have obtained their 

scripts so as not to alarm those of a different 

lifestyle. If you are new to MMJ, this may 

be a good place to start, as the effects 

are mild and the doses are light. 

COUSIN ANDY’S HARD 

CANDY BUTTONS: THE 

NIGHTCAP REFRESHER 

Cousin Andy’s catalogue continues to grow, 

for those who are inclined to partake. These affordable 

hard candy buttons make a perfect 

refreshment for the middle of the day 

or for an after-dinner nightcap when 

added to your favourite non-alcoholic, 

carbonated beverage. There is 

a very mild trace of cannabis 

flavour when eaten as a hard 

candy, but if you are fizzing 

it out in a drink, it becomes 

even more difficult to detect. 

At 50 milligrams per button, this 

is a perfect dose for those who have 

some experience with MMJ, but aren’t 

looking for serious symptom management 

on a per serving basis. Enjoy it with a 

hearty meal for the perfect balancing act. 

CHEEBA CHEWS: 

CUT TO THE CHASE 

For those looking for a medication that 

has the ability to alleviate even the 

most severe symptoms, Cheeba 

Chews take the cake for strongest 

medicinal value in a small-package 

size. Each standard chew contains at 

least 70 milligrams of medicine, some 

being pure THC or CBD, and others offering 

a hybrid between the two. Because they are 

basically the size of a Tootsie roll, it is hard to split 

them up into multiple servings. If you are unsure 

about your tolerance, try taking a bite of one before 

swallowing it whole. These powerful bites are perfect for 

sleep deprived individuals or those who experience severe 

pain. The manufacturer has also released a new line of recreational 

cannabis edibles in select locations that offer milder 

doses for a gentler delivery. Cheeba Chews offer 11 different 

products in 800-plus dispensaries and have won three Cannabis 

Cup awards, so you know it’s got to be the good stuff. 

Lacey Macri works as head of sales at CleanGrow, focusing her 

time on business development within the company. She received 

a bachelor’s degree in communications and psychology from the 

University of California-Davis, where she worked at the California 

Aggie student newspaper on campus. 

myhydrolife.com grow. heal. live. enjoy. 73

y Gibson Lannister 

ADIAM 

BLACK WEDDING 

Swedish-born, Berlin-based 

artist Adiam is stunning 

everyone with her first fulllength 

album Black Wedding. 

She is a musical bumblebee 

collecting honey from many 

flowers, creating something 

new. Black Wedding is 

transfixing and memorable; 

it’s an experience from 

beginning to end. 

5 

AGES & AGES 

SOMETHING TO RUIN 

Chilled out indie pop rockers 

Ages & Ages remain at the 

forefront of their craft with 

their third album Something 

To Ruin. The band’s raw 

choral sound causes an 

unrelenting desire to sing out 

loud. Spark one up and sing 

along, won’t you? 

4.5 

LAUREN MANN 

DEARESTLY 

After a four-year hiatus, 

Canadian singer/songwriter 

Lauren Mann surprised her 

fans with an incredible followup 

to her critically acclaimed 

debut album. With Dearestly, 

Lauren has dropped the 

extended moniker “& the Fairly 

Odd Folk”, keeping things 

simple. Dearestly is a true 

masterpiece and will hopefully 

be recognized as such. 

5 

Gibson Lannister has 

been a musician for 

more than 15 years and 

continues to expand his 

knowledge of theory 

and technique. 

OH PEP! 

STADIUM CAKE 

Australian folk-pop duo Oh 

Pep! have released their 

debut LP Stadium Cake, and 

it is awesome! Far-reaching 

and relentlessly catchy, Oh 

Pep! delivers in a way that 

progresses and expands the 

genre. We all deserve music 

like this in our lives. 

4.5 

POLYMATH 

PLYMTH 

Pol-y-math // noun – a person 

of wide-ranging knowledge or 

learning. PLYMTH is the debut 

EP of alternative electronic 

group POLYMATH. They are 

a musical collective centered 

around two permanent 

members: Logan Carroll and 

Tanner Corley. PLYMTH is 

bright and shiny, the way 

something new should be. 

4.5 

TERRA LIGHTFOOT 

EVERY TIME MY MIND 

RUNS WILD 

Terra Lightfoot is my new 

rock and roll hero! There 

is something astoundingly 

potent about Every Time My 

Mind Runs Wild. Terra dips 

her toes in a bit of everything: 

rock, folk, soul, country and 

blues. I can only imagine how 

good her live shows must be. 

4.5 

74 


myhydrolife.ca

Hydrolife Magazine October/November 2016 (CAN Edition)

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

Delete template?

Save as template?