Love it or hate it – country music is a powerful genre…but what about the music and marijuana?

While it has always been popular, in the last few years it has had an explosion of fans.  In the US alone, over 139 million listen.  And not just old school like Barbara Mandrell, Dolly Parton, or Randy Travis…the new generation of singers including Zach Bryan, Luke Combs, Sturgill Simpson, Morgan Wallen, and Colter Wall. While drinking is big in the scene, what is the connection between country music and cannabis.

Country music and cannabis share a fascinating and evolving relationship, reflecting broader cultural shifts. While historically the genre leaned toward conservative values, recent years have seen a growing acceptance of marijuana within country music, both in lyrics and among its artists.

Cannabis has become a symbol of individualism and freedom within the genre. This aligns with country music’s tradition of storytelling about personal struggles and breaking societal norms. The changing legal and publicl landscape of marijuana in the U.S. has influenced this shift, making cannabis a more socially acceptable topic for mainstream audiences.

The Fresh Toast is a daily lifestyle platform with a side of cannabis. For more information, visit www.thefreshtoast.com.

Copyright 2025 The Fresh Toast. Distributed by TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

How Do These Apps Work?

At the core of these apps is artificial intelligence. By analyzing data from a variety of sources, including user preferences, strain profiles, and medical information, these apps are able to recommend strains that are best suited to your specific situation. Some apps even use machine learning to fine-tune their suggestions based on your past choices or feedback, meaning the more you use them, the better they get at knowing what you like.

For instance, apps like Leafly and Weedmaps offer detailed strain filters, allowing users to choose strains based on factors like effects (e.g., calming, uplifting), THC/CBD content, and even flavor profiles. This helps people who may have specific needs (like dealing with anxiety or chronic pain) find the most effective strain without the trial and error that usually comes with cannabis shopping.

The Benefits of AI-Driven Strain Recommenders

So why is this helpful? Let’s break it down.

1. Personalized Recommendations: One of the best features of these apps is their ability to customize suggestions based on your preferences. If you’re looking for a strain that will help you sleep, but without the couch-lock effect, the app will recommend strains that fit your exact needs. This takes the guesswork out of cannabis selection, helping users make informed choices. 
2. Medical Assistance: For medical marijuana patients, these apps are a game-changer. Conditions like anxiety, chronic pain, and insomnia are just some of the issues people turn to cannabis for. Apps like Releaf App offer a symptom tracker that helps users log their experiences, which is then used to suggest strains that have worked best for others with similar symptoms. This can help patients find more targeted relief and even share their findings with healthcare providers. 
3. Educational Tool: Cannabis can be a complex plant, and many people still don’t know exactly what works best for them. Strain recommendation apps often provide educational content on different cannabinoids (like THC and CBD), terpenes (the compounds responsible for flavor and aroma), and their effects. This can empower users to make more informed decisions about their cannabis use. 
4. Time-Saver: Cannabis stores can sometimes feel like an overwhelming maze of options. If you’ve ever stood in front of a dispensary counter wondering where to start, you know what we mean. With AI-powered apps, you can quickly narrow down the possibilities and get a suggestion that fits your needs, saving you both time and stress. 

Real-World Examples

Several apps have already made a mark in the cannabis industry with their strain recommendations. Leafly, for example, has been a go-to resource for cannabis enthusiasts and medical users alike. With its vast database of strain reviews and ratings, it offers detailed insights into the effects and qualities of each strain, allowing users to find the right one for their needs. Meanwhile, apps like Strainprint and Releaf App are taking things a step further by letting users track their experiences and receive personalized recommendations based on that data.

Final thoughts

Whether you’re a casual user looking for the right strain for a chill night or someone seeking relief for a medical condition, AI-driven strain recommendation apps are making the process easier, faster, and more personalized. As technology continues to evolve, these apps will only get better at fine-tuning their suggestions, making sure you always find the strain that’s just right for you. So, why not let the power of AI help you unlock the full potential of cannabis? It’s a smarter, more tailored way to explore this amazing plant!

Both are seen as vices, both have potential downsides, but the public views them differently.

Part of the reason is medical marijuana offers a range of therapeutic benefits, supported by emerging research and patient experiences. Here are 100 positive words highlighting its advantages. These include relief from pain, nausea, reducing, vomiting, controlling, spasms, easing, tremors, improving sleep, managing anxiety, alleviating,depression, stabilizing mood, enhancing focus and concentration, help with arthritis inflammation, and appetite stimulating Also, cannabinoids like THC and CBD provide targeted relief for epilepsy and seizures. They improve quality of life by addressing symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS), Crohn’s disease (IBD), Alzheimer’s progression prevention.

The YouGov poll, which involved nearly 20,000 American adults, found that 58% of respondents consider regular alcohol use more harmful to a person’s health than regular marijuana use. This sentiment spans across political lines, with 64% of Democrats, 59% of independents, and 52% of Republicans agreeing that alcohol poses greater health risks.

When examining the health impacts of both substances, marijuana consistently emerges as the safer option:

1. Overdose Risk: While alcohol overdose claims tens of thousands of lives annually, there has never been a recorded case of a fatal marijuana overdose.

2. Brain Health: Contrary to popular myths, studies suggest marijuana may have neuroprotective properties, while alcohol is known to permanently damage brain cells.

3. Addiction Potential: Researchers consistently report that marijuana is far less addictive than alcohol, with alcohol potentially causing severe physical withdrawal symptoms.

4. Injury and Violence: Alcohol use is strongly associated with increased risk of injury and violent behavior, whereas marijuana use has not been linked to such outcomes

The shift in public opinion is already influencing consumer behavior. More than half of marijuana users report drinking less alcohol or abstaining entirely after using cannabis. This trend is particularly pronounced among young adults, who are nearly three times more likely to use marijuana daily compared to alcohol.

As perceptions change and legalization expands, the alcohol industry faces a growing challenge. The rise of cannabis poses a threat to alcohol sales, with many consumers viewing marijuana as a safer and more desirable alternative. This could be why so many alcohol corporations have invested in cannabis businesses.

The Fresh Toast is a daily lifestyle platform with a side of cannabis. For more information, visit www.thefreshtoast.com.

Copyright 2025 The Fresh Toast. Distributed by TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

Step 1: Check the Legalities

First things first—know your laws! In the U.S., cannabis laws vary widely from state to state. As of 2025, 23 states have legalized recreational cannabis use, and many more allow medical use. However, restrictions on home cultivation differ. For example, states like California allow adults over 21 to grow up to six plants for personal use, whereas others may limit cultivation to registered medical users only (California Department of Cannabis Control, 2024). Always double-check your local regulations before getting your hands dirty.

Step 2: Planning Your Garden Space

Cannabis can be grown indoors or outdoors, each offering unique advantages. Indoors, you have complete control over your plant’s environment—light, temperature, humidity—but you’ll need to invest in equipment like grow lights and ventilation systems. Outdoor growing is generally cheaper, harnessing the power of natural sunlight, but is subject to the whims of weather and pests.

Location is key. Cannabis loves sun, so if you’re planting outdoors, find a spot that gets at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. If you’re going indoors, a spare room or closet will do, as long as you can control the light cycle and maintain good airflow (Cannabis Training University, 2023). Don’t forget about privacy—your garden should be discreet if you have neighbors nearby.

Step 3: Choosing Your Seeds

Here’s where the fun really begins—picking your strains! There are hundreds of cannabis strains, each offering different effects, flavors, and growing requirements. For beginners, consider starting with hardy strains like Northern Lights or Blue Dream, known for their resilience and relatively forgiving nature. Indica strains are often shorter and bushier, making them ideal for indoor growing, while sativas can grow tall and thrive outdoors.

Make sure you’re buying seeds from a reputable source. Many online seed banks ship discreetly to ensure privacy and legality (High Times, 2024). Look for feminized seeds, which are guaranteed to produce the valuable female plants that bear buds, as opposed to male plants, which are often culled to prevent pollination.

Step 4: Germination and Planting

The germination process is straightforward—think of it as “waking up” your seeds. A popular method is to place seeds between damp paper towels for a few days until they sprout tiny roots. Once sprouted, they’re ready to be transferred into soil or your chosen medium.

Cannabis prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Many growers swear by soil mixes that include ingredients like compost, perlite, and coconut coir. If you’re growing in pots, start small and transplant as your plants grow.

Watering is crucial—too much can lead to root rot, while too little will cause wilting. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and be aware that cannabis has a sensitive pH range, preferring slightly acidic soil (pH 6.0-7.0).

Step 5: Lighting, Nutrients, and Maintenance

Cannabis is a light-loving plant, so if you’re growing indoors, invest in good-quality LED or high-pressure sodium (HPS) lights. The light cycle is vital—young plants need about 18 hours of light a day, while mature plants in the flowering stage need about 12 hours of light (Cannabis Grow Bible, 2024).

Nutrients are another essential aspect of growth. Cannabis plants require a balanced mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, along with micronutrients like calcium and magnesium. You can buy specialized cannabis fertilizers or make your own organic compost.

Step 6: Harvesting Your Buds

After months of care, your cannabis plants will start showing signs that they’re ready for harvest. Look for buds that are dense and coated with trichomes (tiny, crystal-like structures). A magnifying glass can help you see the color of the trichomes—when they turn from clear to a milky white, it’s usually a good indicator that they’re ready (Ed Rosenthal, 2024).

Cutting, drying, and curing your buds properly is essential to ensure the best flavor and potency. Trim the buds, hang them upside down in a dark, ventilated space for a week or two, and then cure them in glass jars for a few more weeks. Patience pays off in the end!

Final Thoughts

Growing cannabis is more than just a hobby; it’s an art and a science that can be incredibly rewarding. With the right planning and care, you’ll enjoy the fruits of your labor—literally. And whether you’re in it for the relaxation, the therapeutic benefits, or just the satisfaction of growing your own, there’s nothing quite like harvesting your own cannabis garden.

So, roll up your sleeves, put on your gardening gloves, and start planning your own cannabis adventure. Happy growing!

Sources:

• California Department of Cannabis Control. (2024). “Cannabis Cultivation Regulations.”
• Cannabis Training University. (2023). “Indoor vs. Outdoor Cannabis Growing.”
• High Times. (2024). “Top 10 Cannabis Strains for Beginners.”
• Cannabis Grow Bible. (2024). “Light Cycles for Cannabis Growing.”
• Ed Rosenthal. (2024). “The Complete Guide to Cannabis Harvesting and Curing.”

While consumer use soars, mom and pop businesses are struggling, a shutdown will be be another blow to the marijuana industry

Despite state legalizations, the cannabis industry, which has been operating in a federal legal gray area due to the conflict between state and federal laws. And despite being a cash cow for regional government economies, it could face increased uncertainty during a government shutdown:

State-licensed marijuana operators, already existing in a legal limbo, may face additional uncertainty regarding their status and future operations. Questions about the retroactive effect of rescheduling on existing tax liabilities for marijuana operators would remain unresolved during a shutdown.

Rescheduling marijuana to Schedule III would potentially ease restrictions on medical research and help millions of patients. From military veterans and chronic pain suffers to cancer patients, medical marijuana has become mainstream and a mainstay. A shutdown could delay more progress, impacting ongoing and planned studies and patients.

While a government shutdown would likely be temporary, its effects on the marijuana rescheduling process could have lasting consequences:

The expected timeline for a final rescheduling rule, initially anticipated for September or October 2024, would likely be pushed back significantly3.

The momentum gained in the rescheduling process, including the public comment period that garnered a record 43,000 comments, could be disrupted2.

Any delays or interruptions in the process could potentially strengthen arguments in ongoing legal challenges, such as the lawsuit brought by Doctors for Drug Policy Reform questioning the DEA’s witness selection process

The Fresh Toast is a daily lifestyle platform with a side of cannabis. For more information, visit www.thefreshtoast.com.

Copyright 2025 The Fresh Toast. Distributed by TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

A traditionally conservative country, what is Poland’s take on marijuana?

Poland has been a conservative country. The Catholic Church has been deeply ingrained in Polish culture and identity for centuries. But there is a change stirring, about 70% of population identified as Catholic in the 2021 census, down from 87% a decade earlier. The Church played a significant role in the transition from communism and dictatorship to democracy. It has been in the news recently, so where is Poland and cannabis? While the country has some of Europe’s most restrictive drug laws, recent developments in medical marijuana policy have created a unique situation.

The Polish cannabis market has shown significant growth potential. It quadrupled from in 2021 and is expected to more than double by 2026. As of 2021, over 2.3 million people in Poland consumed cannabis, both legally and illegally, with illicit users accounting for more than 60% of all consumers.

However, the medical cannabis system faces several challenges:

1. Reliance on imports: Polish law prohibits domestic production of medical cannabis, making the country entirely dependent on imports.

2. Insurance coverage: Medical cannabis treatment is not covered by health insurance, leading to high costs for patients.

3. Supply issues: Lingering registration and supply audit procedures can cause shortages.

4. Limited availability: Medical cannabis is usually only available in pharmacies by special order.

Despite the restrictive laws, there has been a notable increase in cannabis prescriptions. The number of prescriptions issued for medical marijuana in Poland increased sixfold recently, along with a rise in prescriptions for opioid medications.

There is growing support for cannabis reform in Poland. A working group in the Polish parliament, the Sejm, has drafted legislation proposing changes similar to those in Germany. However, the ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party has not shown support for these reforms, making significant changes unlikely before the 2024 parliamentary election. During WWII, they developed a a reputation for being strong willed and good fighters, so it will be interesting to see what happens.

Copyright 2025 The Fresh Toast. Distributed by TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

Why Cannabis Is Trending Among Seniors

Cannabis use among adults aged 55+ has been steadily rising. According to a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine, the number of older adults using cannabis has increased tenfold in recent years. Many seniors are turning to cannabis as a natural alternative to manage issues like arthritis, insomnia, and anxiety.

As more states legalize cannabis, dispensaries have evolved into welcoming, educational spaces that cater to first-time users. The days of shady dealings are long gone—modern cannabis products are tested, labeled, and tailored to meet specific needs.

Start with the Basics

Cannabis contains two main compounds that provide its effects:

• THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): Responsible for the psychoactive “high.”
• CBD (Cannabidiol): Non-intoxicating and often used for therapeutic benefits like pain relief and reduced inflammation.

For those new to cannabis, starting with a CBD-dominant product or a strain with low THC levels is ideal. A popular option among older adults is “Harlequin,” a strain high in CBD that provides relaxation without a strong high.

Choosing the Right Product for Your Needs

The cannabis market offers a variety of products, each with unique benefits:

• Tinctures and Oils: These are taken under the tongue for quick absorption and easy dosing. Ideal for beginners seeking consistent effects.
• Edibles: Gummies, chocolates, or beverages infused with cannabis. Start with a low dose (2.5–5 mg THC) and wait two hours before consuming more.
• Topicals: Lotions, balms, or patches applied to the skin. Perfect for targeting localized pain without any psychoactive effects.
• Flower (Bud): The traditional method of smoking cannabis. This provides fast relief, but it’s best to start with one small puff and observe how you feel.
• Vapes: A smokeless option that’s easy on the lungs. Be sure to purchase from reputable brands to avoid harmful additives.

Trending Strains and Custom Options

Many dispensaries now offer themed or custom cannabis strains for specific moods and occasions. For instance, “Grandma’s Garden” might be a relaxing indica with lavender notes, while “Morning Breeze” combines sativa’s uplifting effects with a gentle calm. These strains are designed to help users achieve a particular vibe, from soothing aches to sparking creativity.

Some popular strains for older adults include:

• Blue Dream: A balanced hybrid for mild pain relief and relaxation.
• ACDC: A CBD-rich strain for anxiety and inflammation.
• Northern Lights: A calming indica, perfect for unwinding before bed.

Start Slow and Stay Comfortable

The golden rule for cannabis beginners, especially seniors, is “start low and go slow.” If you’re using edibles, allow plenty of time—effects can take up to two hours to kick in. For tinctures or vaping, effects come on more quickly, making it easier to adjust your dose.

Equally important is your setting. Choose a relaxing, familiar environment, and consider having a trusted friend or family member nearby to guide you.

Safety First

• Know the Law: Cannabis laws vary by state and country. Make sure you’re purchasing and using it legally.
• Talk to Your Doctor: If you’re on medications or have existing health conditions, consult your doctor to avoid potential interactions.
• Don’t Drive: Cannabis can impair coordination and judgment. Wait until the effects have worn off before getting behind the wheel.
• Secure Storage: Store cannabis products safely out of reach of children, pets, and anyone for whom it’s not intended.

A Better Path to Wellness

For older adults curious about cannabis, the key is to approach it as a tool for enhancing wellness. Whether it’s relieving joint pain, improving sleep, or simply finding a moment of peace, cannabis offers a wide range of possibilities.

As you start your journey, lean on the expertise of dispensary staff who can recommend products tailored to your needs. And don’t be afraid to experiment with trending strains or custom blends designed for relaxation or vitality.

Cannabis is no longer just for the young or counterculture—it’s becoming a mainstream option for adults of all ages seeking a natural way to feel their best. Take it one step at a time, and you might find that this ancient plant has modern benefits just for you.

Bye-Bye Plastic, Hello Eco-Friendly Packaging

Did you know that the cannabis industry generates over 150 million tons of packaging waste annually? That’s a mountain of plastic containers, zip-top bags, and single-use items piling up in landfills. Thankfully, brands are stepping up their game with innovative, sustainable packaging options.

Take Sana Packaging, for example. This company creates packaging from 100% reclaimed ocean plastic and plant-based hemp materials. Not only does this reduce waste, but it also supports a circular economy. By choosing these options, cannabis businesses are cutting down on their carbon footprint and helping clean up our oceans.

Even simple changes, like switching to biodegradable joint tubes or compostable pre-roll packaging, can have a massive impact. For consumers, this means less guilt about the waste and more feel-good vibes with every purchase. And let’s be honest: that makes your next sesh even better.

Organic Farming: The Real Green Revolution

Cannabis farming, like many agricultural industries, has its share of environmental challenges. Traditional growing methods often rely on chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and energy-intensive setups. These practices can degrade soil quality, pollute water sources, and emit greenhouse gases.

Enter organic cannabis farming. This method focuses on soil health, biodiversity, and natural pest control, avoiding synthetic chemicals altogether. Farms like Flow Kana in California’s Emerald Triangle use regenerative agriculture practices, which not only produce cleaner, chemical-free cannabis but also sequester carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. That’s right—these farms are actually helping combat climate change.

Another win? Organic cannabis farming usually requires less water, thanks to healthier soil that retains moisture. With water shortages becoming more frequent, especially in states like California, this is a game-changer.

The Ripple Effect of Going Green

So why does sustainability matter in the cannabis world? First, consumers are demanding it. A 2023 survey by Brightfield Group found that 62% of cannabis consumers prefer eco-friendly brands. People are more conscious than ever about how their choices affect the planet, and companies that embrace sustainability are building strong, loyal followings.

Second, it’s about setting an example. As a rapidly growing industry (projected to hit $57 billion globally by 2027), cannabis has a unique opportunity to lead the way in sustainable practices. Imagine if every industry followed suit—we’d be looking at a much greener future.

Finally, sustainable practices just make sense for the plant itself. Cannabis has been celebrated for its healing properties and connection to nature for centuries. Why not grow and package it in a way that honors that legacy?

A Greener High

The next time you light up, consider how your favorite products got to you. Are they supporting organic farming? Are they packaged in materials that won’t outlive you by 500 years? Making sustainable choices not only supports the planet but also sends a message to the industry that we want better for our Earth.

So here’s to getting high the eco-friendly way. Because being green doesn’t just look good—it feels good, too.

The administration has spent very mixed signals…will consumers turn to hemp if marijuana is outlawed again?

Hemp’s versatility is unmatched. From textiles to construction materials, this wonder crop offers sustainable alternatives to traditional products. Hemp fibers can be used to create strong forms of concrete, while its stalks provide raw material for textiles1. This adaptability positions hemp as a key player in the green economy, aligning with growing environmental concerns.

One of hemp’s most significant contributions is CBD. Unlike marijuana-derived CBD, hemp-derived CBD is widely available and legal in most states13. The wellness industry has embraced CBD for its potential benefits, ranging from stress relief to sleep improvement. As research continues, the CBD market is poised for further expansion, offering a legal alternative to those seeking cannabis-related health benefits.

The hemp industry’s economic impact cannot be overstated. With the potential for federal rescheduling of cannabis and continued support for hemp cultivation, the sector is ripe for investment and innovation4. From small-scale farmers to large corporations, hemp offers diverse economic opportunities that could help revitalize rural economies and create new jobs.

The cannabis industry already seems to be hedging their bets. Wana Brands, a leader in edibles and other products, premier a hemp line. While marijuana’s legal status remains complex, hemp enjoys clearer regulatory standing and a larger market. The current administration’s support for hemp through the Farm Bill and subsequent USDA regulations has provided a stable foundation for the industry. This regulatory clarity could make hemp an attractive option for businesses seeking to enter the cannabis space without legal ambiguity.

The Fresh Toast is a daily lifestyle platform with a side of cannabis. For more information, visit www.thefreshtoast.com.

Copyright 2025 The Fresh Toast. Distributed by TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.

Ah, sleep — the magical reset button we all crave but often neglect. March 14, 2025, marks World Sleep Day, an annual global call to prioritize sleep health and tackle the widespread issue of sleeplessness. Here’s a wild stat for you: nearly one-third of people don’t get enough sleep. That’s a lot of folks walking around in zombie mode! So, why not use this day to shine a spotlight on sleep’s importance and explore ways to snooze better? Whether you’re into cozy new pillows, mindfulness apps, or sleep-friendly products like indica flower or CBN-rich cultivars, there’s something for everyone.

The Science of Sleep: Why It’s a Big Deal

First off, sleep is not just some passive activity where your body hits pause. According to the National Sleep Foundation, sleep is critical for memory consolidation, immune function, and even emotional regulation. Skimping on sleep has been linked to increased risks of heart disease, diabetes, and depression. Plus, it’s nearly impossible to crush your goals (or even survive a Monday) when you’re running on empty.

The CDC says adults need 7-9 hours of sleep per night, but about 35% of adults in the U.S. fall short of this target. That’s not just bad for your health — it’s bad for business. Sleep deprivation costs the U.S. economy over $400 billion annually due to lost productivity. If that’s not a wake-up call, what is?

Indica Flower and CBN: Nature’s Sleep Aids

When it comes to improving your sleep game, natural remedies are gaining traction. Ever heard of indica flower or CBN (cannabinol)? Indica strains of cannabis are often associated with relaxation and sleepiness, thanks to their unique terpene profiles, which include compounds like myrcene. On the other hand, CBN is a cannabinoid that’s gaining buzz for its potential to promote restful sleep without the intoxicating effects of THC.

Studies are still emerging, but early research suggests that CBN combined with THC may enhance sedative effects, making it a promising option for those who struggle with insomnia. Anecdotal evidence also supports these claims. If you’re curious, many wellness brands now offer products like CBN gummies, oils, or even infused teas. Just remember to consult your doctor before diving in.

Easy Sleep Wins You Can Try Tonight

Not ready to jump into the world of indica or CBN? No worries. Here are some simple, science-backed ways to improve your sleep:

• Stick to a Sleep Schedule: Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day helps regulate your body’s internal clock.
• Create a Sleep Sanctuary: Keep your bedroom dark, cool, and quiet. Consider investing in blackout curtains or a white noise machine.
• Power Down Early: The blue light from screens can mess with your melatonin levels. Try to unplug at least an hour before bed.
• Mind What You Eat: Avoid heavy meals, caffeine, or alcohol close to bedtime.

Celebrate World Sleep Day

This World Sleep Day, take a moment to assess your sleep habits and see where you can level up. Treat yourself to some cozy new bedding, try a relaxing bedtime routine, or explore natural products like indica flower and CBN. Sleep is a superpower, and you deserve to harness it. Here’s to waking up refreshed, recharged, and ready to conquer the world — after that morning coffee, of course. Sweet dreams!

Sources: National Sleep Foundation, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Sleep Research Society.