by Megan Subbs

On Dec. 6, 2018, Michigan became the 10th state to legalize recreational cannabis. While that means cannabis consumption/possession are technically legal, there are no recreational locations available as of yet.
Best estimates are late 2019 into 2022, giving the state time to set up regulations and licensing, but that doesn’t mean you have to wait until then to be informed. Currently, medical marijuana cardholders can purchase cannabis products and gift them. Additionally, there are a wide range of CBD products available now for purchase and use.

This month, I talked to Ashley Manta, the CannaSexual. CannaSexual® is a word Manta created to describe anyone who mindfully and deliberately combines sex and cannabis to deepen intimacy and enhance pleasure. It has grown into a lifestyle brand used to represent pleasure-focused events and educational workshops and is now federally trademarked. Manta has become known as “the CannaSexual” as a result of her passion and expert knowledge about sex and cannabis. She was also dubbed “America's High Priestess of Pleasure” when she appeared on the January 2019 cover of Sexual Health Magazine.

First of all, let’s define what the difference between CBD and THC is. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD) are both cannabinoids with the same chemical make-up, but the smallest difference in their structure creates vastly different results when used.

CBD is a non-high inducing cannabinoid extracted from either cannabis or hemp plants. It’s anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety properties have been making it popular among people (and pets!) seeking relief from a variety of ailments, including anxiety, depression, pain related to arthritis, multiple sclerosis and more.

THC has a biphasic effect, meaning it has different effects at high and low doses. At low doses, you experience euphoria, the munchies and feeling good in your body, or body buzz; once you cross that threshold, you can get anxious, nauseous, paranoid or dizzy. The threshold is different in everyone and once you cross it, there is no turning back. You can’t smoke less, you can’t eat less — you just have to ride it out.

“We really encourage new consumers to start really, really slow with tiny amounts to see how your body does and then gradually add more,”

Ashley Manta, the CannaSexual

“Edibles for newbies I don’t recommend except in exceptionally low doses —1-2mg tops. It’s so easy to overdo it with edibles and then you’re stuck on that ride for several hours.”

CBD allows for heavier consumption before the therapeutic benefits emerge.

“Research has suggested that the more CBD, the better,” she said. “…You can start with 10-25mg.
It all depends on your body and what works for you.”

Much like trying different kinds of hot sauces, a process of trial and error has to take place. But for the most part, you don’t have to worry about over dosing on CBD.

“Worst case is that you feel really really really relaxed,” Manta explained.

THC and CBD work well together and are even more effective than either on their own.

“We’ve found the more cannabinoids that are present, the more terpenes, they work synergistically in what we call the entourage effect,” Manta said.

So what does this all mean? This means that
there are many ways to enjoy cannabis, and you have more options than ever to choose how to consume it.

Inhale-able Methods Smoking flower, vaping flower, vaping oil, vaping concentrate/dabs is a common method of consumption. Concentrates are not for beginners!

Tinctures
Sublingual absorption is actually one of the most bioavailable ways of consuming.

Vaginal Suppositories
Great for menstrual cramps. Women who have endometriosis can experience relief from application to lower abdomen or intravaginally.

Topical Applications
Topical applications are localized to the area of application. You will not feel high. “It’s like Icy Hot,” Manta said, “It works where you put it.”

Dangers to Consider
Manta always recommends being mindful of overdosing. Start off with small doses until you can recognize the effects different products have with your body. Make sure that your cannabis products have been tested and are free from pesticides and that your vape pens are not cut with PG or PEG, chemicals commonly added to oils to help with viscosity.

“If your oil doesn’t taste good, you’re vaping too high or it has something in it that it shouldn’t,” Manta said.

I also inquired if everyone working at a dispensary is knowledgeable on all of the products.

“In theory that would be great,” Manta expressed. “Just because they work there doesn’t make them an expert…It’s very advisable to do your own research. Go in with specific questions.”

This is just a primer on the benefits of cannabis. Being something that is experiential, its important to know there will be a learning curve.

RESOURCES
Ashley Manta: Ashleymanta.com/cannasexual Foria: Oriapleasure.com
Norml: Norml.org
Women Grow: Womengrow.com
SuperNova Women: Supernovawomen.wordpress.com

Megan Stubbs

Dr. Megan Stubbs is a Sexologist, the job you never saw on career day. For insightful tips or a good laugh, find her on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and SexologistMegan.com.