MMJ: Live the Life

What’s the deal with CBD? I recently had what was advertised as a hemp “CBD” tea at a cafe but I didn’t think they could legally sell that. - J. Boggs

Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, is a great anti-inflammatory and anxiety reducer. It works great in teas (HerbalCanna makes a fantastic CBD-infused chai), tinctures, edibles and salves (I really like the Saturn Ranch brand CBD body balms). Since CBD is non-psychoactive – it doesn’t get you “high” – many folks feel like it’s OK to sell CBD-infused products in a non-dispensary setting. And while it’s not really a big deal, CBD is classified as a Schedule I drug by the DEA.

Allow me to clarify: Last year, the DEA released a new set of rules about cannabis, wherein they stated that CBD derived from a cannabis plant is still Schedule I. However, CBD derived from a non-cannabis plant like hemp is fine to sell and distribute. What can I say? The government thrives on technicalities. There are plenty of companies that will ship a bottle of CBD-infused syrup to anyone in the country. I hope they have good lawyers.

Here in Cali you should be fine. Enjoy your tea. Pinkies up!

I want to get my doctor’s rec/card so that I can hang out at all these newfangled, fun cannabis events. I want to hit the comedy shows, the farmers markets, the fancy dinner parties. And, I would like to buy weed at a dispensary, because my OG weedman moved out of town. But I don’t understand the process. Like: If I get a rec, aren’t there only certain places I can buy from? -The DM

Psh. Once you have a letter of recommendation, the world of weed is yours! You can hit up any dispensary or delivery service. Getting a card is easy and cheap. Grab a coupon, see the doctor, live your life!

You are right about all these new events. I have even heard of a 420-friendly strip club in San Francisco. I cannot wait for the day when cannabis social lounges are as prevalent as bars and coffee shops.

I am trying to get my past marijuana arrests expunged. What should I do? - Doug E. Fresh Start

You have to fill out a form and petition the court. Esteemed lawyer and all-around cannabis defender Omar Figueroa is hosting a seminar in Sebastopol on Aug. 5; hit him up. Good luck.