With Covid-19 impacting us for the last two years, the world is rapidly searching for ways that we can effectively manage the virus, despite the variants that constantly pop up. Finally, it seems that research is progressing and it’s the cannabis industry at the forefront of the latest research advancements by researchers affiliated with Oregon State University. These researchers conducted a study that suggests that cannabis compounds prevent Infection by the Covid-19 Virus.

The COVID-19 pandemic includes at least 272 million cases worldwide, 5.3 million deaths, and over 600 000 new cases daily. While the rollout of vaccines is underway, the rapid spread of COVID-19 underscores the need for new treatments.

Background Information:

In January 2021, this study looked into the possibility that cannabis may offer some help for patients with COVID-19. The study looks at one of the primary biological events that occur in patients with severe acute respiratory distress cases from COVID-19, something called a “cytokine storm.”

C.Sativa, a type of cannabis, was found in a cytokine storm study to reduce multiple cytokines and pathways related to inflammation and fibrosis. Two of the cytokines that C.Sativa reduced were TNFa and IL-6, which are thought to be the main targets when trying to block a COVID-19 cytokine storm and acute respiratory distress syndrome.

In another study done in September of 2020 on mice, they found the following;

“Several reports demonstrated that cannabidiol (CBD), a phytocannabinoid produced by the cannabis plant, can block IL-6 in several models of inflammatory diseases.”

What do the studies say in 2022?

A report on the research, “Cannabinoids Block Cellular Entry of SARS-CoV-2 and the Emerging Variants,” was published online on January 10th, 2022 by the Journal of Natural Products.

COVID-19 is caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). Researchers have found that the viral spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 to the human cell surface receptor angiotensin converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) is a critical step during the infection of human cells. The researchers looked into the following possibility:

“Therefore, cell entry inhibitors could be used to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection as well as to shorten the course of COVID-19 infections by preventing virus particles from infecting human cells.”

Researchers discovered that cannabinoids increase the cell’s response to several key proteins produced by the coronavirus genome, which is an effect that had not been discovered prior to the study. Researchers also looked at how the proteins from the genome operated in human kidney cells and healthy control cells, both with and without cannabinoids.

Cannabis and its effectiveness against new variants:

The spike protein is the same part of the virus targeted by Covid-19 vaccines and antibody therapies. In addition to the spike protein, SARS-CoV-2 has three more structural proteins as well as 16 nonstructural proteins and several compounds van Breemen characterized as “accessory” proteins, all of which are potential targets for drugs developed to prevent Covid-19.

The two compounds commonly found in hemp - called cannabigerolic acid, or CBGA, and cannabidiolic acid, or CBDA - were identified during a chemical screening effort as having potential to combat coronavirus. In the study led by Richard van Breemen, a researcher with Oregon State’s Global Hemp Innovation Center, they found that cannabinoids bound to spike proteins found on the virus and blocked a step the pathogen uses to infect people, stating that;

“Cannabigerolic acid and cannabidiolic acid prevented infection of human epithelial cells”

This means that cell entry inhibitors, like the acids from hemp, could be used to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection and also to shorten infections by preventing virus particles from infecting human cells. They bind to the spike proteins so those proteins can’t bind to the ACE2 enzyme, which is abundant on the outer membrane of endothelial cells in the lungs and other organs.

The study then goes on to state that the most important piece of evidence found was that CBGA and CBDA were equally as effective against the alpha and beta variants. The abstract ends off on a highly positive note, expressing that cannabinoids do in fact have the potential to prevent and likely treat infection by SARS-CoV-2.

What other benefits could cannabis pose for Covid-19?

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1. Anxiety
   The number of people reporting high levels of anxiety has sharply elevated during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The factors most strongly associated with high anxiety during the pandemic include loneliness, marital status, sex, disability, whether someone feels safe at home or not and work being affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
   
   There is understandable concern about the impact of the pandemic on people’s well-being. Fortunately, though, compounds within cannabis have shown impressive anxiety-reducing qualities, particularly CBD, which has been shown in studies to increase serotonin activity and lower cortisol levels.

Is Cannabis safe to consume for Covid-19 patients?

While most people consume cannabis by smoking it, it is not the only way to consume it. Companies like ourselves offer multiple variations of consumption like edibles, tinctures and more that have very low THC, yet still offer the same benefits.

After the last two years of uncertainty, illness and chaos due to the pandemic, it’s relieving to see that cannabis has shown a lot of potential in fighting against COVID-19 and could potentially offer new solutions to tackle the pandemic.

Where can you get CBDA and CBGA products from?

The team here at Black Tie CBD is relieved and grateful that we’re a part of an industry that is helping to better global health in such an impactful way. As a company, we've seen the value in CBDA products and we've just released our brand new CBDA isolate so you can keep safe too.

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Black Tie hemp isn’t just beloved by our customers. Despite being a relatively new establishment, Black Tie has already won numerous awards for our CBD and hemp products. That’s why we wanted to show you highlights of our newest and best strains.

Here are our latest strains for 2022;

1. GRANDADDY PURPLE (INDOOR) CBD HEMP FLOWER

Grandaddy purple is a CBD-rich hemp flower, best to enjoy CBD at its safest source. This hemp strain specifically contains over 23.80% cannabinoids, and is extremely rich in terpenes like Myrcene.

Myrcene

On average, myrcene represents over 20% of the terpene profile in modern commercial strains, although individual samples vary widely in their terpene content. Herbal medicines containing myrcene have a long history of being used as a sleep aid in folk medicine.

Primary Terpenes: Ɓ-Farnesene, Beta-Myrcene, Linalool, Guaiol, Ɓ-Limonene (2.42%)

Primary Aromas:  Grapes, Berries, Candy
Smell Profile: This flower boasts a pungent "purple" scent - if you're familiar with the aroma of classic purple cannabis strains. The smell is a rich floral aroma with strong nodes of berries and candy. Pinch the buds to release a pungent Kush scent from within.
Taste Profile: Dry hit the blunt to reveal a bold, sweet grape flavor. The flavor is defined by tones of berries and cand. A mouth-watering flavor that is thick on the palate but smooth on the throat.
Preferred Time of Use: Afternoon / Evening
Phenotype: Indica-Dominant Hybrid
Density: Medium-High
Total CBD – 16.27%
THCa - .8%
THC (Delta9) - 0.07%
Total Cannabinoids Analyzed – 19.92%

2. ORANGE COOKIES (INDOOR) CBD Hemp Flower

ORANGE COOKIES -This indoor hybrid strain is aH-mazing. From the looks, to the taste, the experience, and the effects. The Orange Cookies are light green buds with bright orange hairs that glisten with trichomes, and is high in. This strain is a sativa-dominant hybrid marijuana strain made by crossing Orange Juice with the renowned Girl Scout Cookies.

The dominant terpene of Orange Cookies is Terpinolene.

As an essential oil, terpinolene may have antibacterial and antifungal qualities, according to a 2005 study. Terpinolene carries an array of smells you might find in cannabis: It’s piney, floral, herbaceous, and even a little citrusy.

Density: Medium - High
Primary Terpenes: Beta-Caryophyllene, A-Bisabolol, Guaiol
Primary Aromas: The buds present a sweet mandarin orange scent with kushy undertones.
Taste Profile: Take a dry hit on the joint/blunt to reveal a sweet mandarin orange flavor. The smoke is pleasant and tingling sensation in the mouth as well as a sweet orange aftertaste on the lips. A kushy backend lingers on the palate.
Preferred Time of Use: Daytime - Anytime
Phenotype: Hybrid
Total CBD - 14.5%
THC (Delta 9) - None Detected
Total Cannabinoids Analyzed - 15.78%

3. Delta8 Infused Sour Diesel CBD Hemp Flower

Sour Diesel, often called Sour D, is a sativa-dominant cross between Chemdog 91 and Super Skunk. Sour Diesel CBD has a 70:30 sativa-to-indica ratio. The chunky, forest green buds of the Sour D have a shine to them as this strain is heavily coated with Delta8.  Some reportedly experience mental stimulation in the form of creativity from this sativa-dominant delta8 infused hemp hybrid, producing medium to large-sized highly dense buds. This strain is dominant in the caryophyllene terpene.

Caryophyllene

The terpene caryophyllene is present in many herbs and spices, including black pepper, basil, and oregano, and cannabis strains with high levels of it deliver a spicy, funky warmth to the nose, similar to cinnamon and cloves. What makes caryophyllene an intriguing terpene is its relationship with our endocannabinoid system, particularly, its ability to bind to CB2 receptors. Because of this, it comes with a host of potential medical benefits.

Density: Medium-High

Primary Aromas: Pine, Stinky Cheese, Gasoline,

Smell Profile: The smell of the delta-8 coating is immediately detected upon opening the container. Pinch the buds to find the true smell of the buds within which begins with a hint of pine followed by a strong whiff of stinky cheese and finishes with nodes of truck stop Gasoline. It's funky in a real good way.

Taste Profile: This one is Gas. The taste is Diesel Fuel with a mild earthy undertone. The throat grab is medium to harsh as the delta8 coating makes for a heavy finish. May want to hit this one slowly.

Time of Day usage: Daytime / Afternoon

Phenotype: Sativa-Dominant Hybrid

Total Cannabinoids Analyzed – 42.5%

Total CBD – 13.74%

THC Δ8 - 27.54%

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If you’re a cannabis user, you’re probably familiar with the sugary, crystal-like appearance that appears on the flower, leaves, or bract - known as trichomes. Trichomes are produced across the cannabis plant, which holds the plant's cannabinoids and terpenes. Most people recognize trichomes as the ‘tiny hairs’ on the plant, so it’s likely that you’ve already seen them.

So, what are trichomes?

The word trichome originates from the Greek word “Tríchōma,” which means growth of hair. The actual definition is “appendages on plants, algae, lichens, and certain protists.” - These tiny outgrowths, or sources of resin, allow the production of cannabis concentrates like; shatter, cannabis oil, hash, and wax. Each trichome has a unique size, shape, and biochemical function.

Trichomes are minuscule biological cannabinoid factories found predominantly on the flowers and sugar leaves of weed, providing a variety of functions and benefits to the plant. Scientists have said that trichomes could affect leaf temperature and photosynthesis, or more complicated functions, such as pest-deterrence via their physical structures or production of compounds, as studied by George J Wagner, stating that trichomes;

“Guide the path of pollinators or affect photosynthesis, leaf temperature, or water loss through increased light reflectance as in desert species.”

What are the different trichomes?

Scientists have identified three categories of trichomes found on cannabis plants:

1. Bulbous trichomes
2. Capitate-stalked trichomes
3. Capitate sessile trichomes

It is believed that trichomes function as a form of survival for the cannabis plant. The sticky resin that coats the plant provides a frontline defense against fungus, insects, and herbivores. Trichomes also play an essential role in helping cannabis grow in difficult climatic conditions.

1. Bulbous trichomes
2. These are the smallest type of trichomes, sometimes being as little as 10 microns wide - which is actually a fraction of the largest size. These can be found across the surface of the plant - but are too difficult to see.

2. Capitate sessile trichomes

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These trichomes are larger than bulbous trichomes, with enough cell    numbers to form a trichome head and a very short base. These trichomes have a width of around 20-30 microns, which are not as large as the final category of trichomes, nor as easy to see.

3. Capitate-stalked trichomes

These are much larger and can be seen by the naked eye. These range from 50-100 micrometers wide typically. Capitate stalked trichomes have a stalk that is made from cells known as epidermal and hypodermic cells. On top of the stalk is the head of the resin gland, the ‘capitate.’ The ball-shaped head of the resin gland has a waxy outer cuticle layer which acts as a ‘skin.’ Inside the resin head are the cannabinoids and terpenes. These are produced by specialized cells in-between the top of the trichome stalk and the spherical resin head.

Cannabis trichomes typically appear early in the flowering stage on healthy plants. As trichome heads age, they go from being completely clear to opaque, milky white, and, eventually, amber. See below for reference;

What do the different trichome colors mean?

Clear Trichomes:

As a plant transitions into the flowering phase, noticeably the first trichomes appear. Young and immature trichomes feature a clear, translucent appearance. They maintain this appearance for the first part of this phase before their chemical composition changes significantly for the first time. This color indicates that THC and terpene production is at their peak, while CBD levels are still low. This means harvesting at this color will have a more cerebral psychoactive effect. However, it is still not ideal to harvest at this stage and should be harvested at the next.

Cloudy Trichomes:

Cloudy trichomes occur prior to harvest and indicate that cannabinoid levels have reached their maximum. This does not necessarily mean that it is an extremely potent THC strain, however, as that depends on other factors. While it doesn’t guarantee potency, it is a good indicator of when the strain has reached its production peak.

This is when most growers harvest their flowers, and it is generally considered the right time to harvest. You can also use the pistils as an indicator when more than 50% of the hairs have turned orange it means you’re at this stage.

Trichomes remain cloudy for approximately two weeks. Towards the end of this stage, they start to change appearance once again, indicating more developments in their phytochemical composition - which is why they start turning amber in color.

Amber Trichomes:

If trichomes have turned a visible amber hue, the cannabis plant has probably aged past peak potency. This trait makes trichomes a good indicator of when a plant is ready for harvest. Most growers pay close attention to the state of the plant's trichomes and try to harvest buds right when the trichomes are milky white before they have degraded to amber.

Trichomes turning amber indicate deteriorating THC levels, so it is a fine balance of checking on them several times a day to ensure that harvest happens at the peak moment for both high THC levels and the desired couchlock effects.

What impacts trichome production?

1. Stress training
   
2. Stress training can significantly increase yields when performed correctly. Higher yields tend to mean more trichomes. The process typically involves manipulating the plant's shape to distribute hormones more evenly across the top buds, allowing the plant to make better use of the light.
   
   However, the process of stress training can have negative consequences, like bud discoloration, re-vegging, or hermies, so it’s an ambiguous process to say the least. However, it is usually safe as long as you save any major stress for the last week or two before harvest.

1. Lighting
   
2. The light spectrum is one of the most fundamental parts of a cannabis plant’s ability to increase trichome production. The trichomes protect the plant from UV rays, which means that the more light the plant gets - the more resin it will produce.
   
   Some believe that exposing cannabis buds to UV-B light for the last 2-3 weeks before harvest can increase trichome production and overall potency. The most common source of UV-B light is Metal Halide grow lights.  

1. Temperature and humidity
   
2. Temperature and humidity have a massive effect on the growth of cannabis flowers. When temperature and humidity are adjusted to induce stress, the plant may increase trichome production as a defense mechanism.

1. Adjusting the environment
   
2. Each stage of cannabis plant growth influences the production of trichomes. The glands are highly fragile and volatile, which is why ensuring that the plant is growing in the right environment should be a priority - especially in the flowering stage. The purpose of adjusting heat periodically is to avoid the trichomes and terpenes from getting damaged by heat.
   
   This is the general rule of thumb when altering the environment:
   Humidity below 30% – Drop the humidity of the growth space below 30% RH for the last 2-3 weeks before harvest to increase trichome production.

Temperature between 70-80°F – Make sure your temperature stays under 80°F (26°C) to ensure the potency is not being baked right off your buds.

1. Supplements
2. It is essential to give your plants plenty of phosphorus and potassium during their flowering stage. Boosting trichome production requires that a cannabis plant is fed the correct amount of nutrients. If a plant is deficient in nutrients, it slows down all its functions.

Genetics plays the most significant role when it comes to getting the most trichomes out of your cannabis. Genetics are crucial If you want to achieve the best and most trichomes you can, so choosing genetics that produce an abundance of trichomes is essential.

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Black Tie hemp isn’t just beloved by our customers. Despite being a relatively new establishment, Black Tie has already won numerous awards for our CBD and hemp products. That’s why we wanted to show you highlights of our newest and best strains.

Here are our latest strains for 2022;

1. GRANDADDY PURPLE (INDOOR) CBD HEMP FLOWER

Grandaddy purple is a CBD-rich hemp flower, best to enjoy CBD at its safest source. This hemp strain specifically contains over 23.80% cannabinoids, and is extremely rich in terpenes like Myrcene. 

Myrcene

On average, myrcene represents over 20% of the terpene profile in modern commercial strains, although individual samples vary widely in their terpene content. Herbal medicines containing myrcene have a long history of being used as a sleep aid in folk medicine.

Primary Terpenes: Ɓ-Farnesene, Beta-Myrcene, Linalool, Guaiol, Ɓ-Limonene (2.42%)

Primary Aromas:  Grapes, Berries, Candy
Smell Profile: This flower boasts a pungent "purple" scent - if you're familiar with the aroma of classic purple cannabis strains. The smell is a rich floral aroma with strong nodes of berries and candy. Pinch the buds to release a pungent Kush scent from within.
Taste Profile: Dry hit the blunt to reveal a bold, sweet grape flavor. The flavor is defined by tones of berries and cand. A mouth-watering flavor that is thick on the palate but smooth on the throat.
Preferred Time of Use: Afternoon / Evening
Phenotype: Indica-Dominant Hybrid
Density: Medium-High
Total CBD – 16.27%
THCa - .8%
THC (Delta9) - 0.07%
Total Cannabinoids Analyzed – 19.92%

2. ORANGE COOKIES (INDOOR) CBD Hemp Flower

ORANGE COOKIES -This indoor hybrid strain is aH-mazing. From the looks, to the taste, the experience, and the effects. The Orange Cookies are light green buds with bright orange hairs that glisten with trichomes, and is high in. This strain is a sativa-dominant hybrid marijuana strain made by crossing Orange Juice with the renowned Girl Scout Cookies. 

The dominant terpene of Orange Cookies is Terpinolene.

As an essential oil, terpinolene may have antibacterial and antifungal qualities, according to a 2005 study. Terpinolene carries an array of smells you might find in cannabis: It’s piney, floral, herbaceous, and even a little citrusy.

Density: Medium - High
Primary Terpenes: Beta-Caryophyllene, A-Bisabolol, Guaiol
Primary Aromas: The buds present a sweet mandarin orange scent with kushy undertones.
Taste Profile: Take a dry hit on the joint/blunt to reveal a sweet mandarin orange flavor. The smoke is pleasant and tingling sensation in the mouth as well as a sweet orange aftertaste on the lips. A kushy backend lingers on the palate.
Preferred Time of Use: Daytime - Anytime
Phenotype: Hybrid
Total CBD - 14.5%
THC (Delta 9) - None Detected
Total Cannabinoids Analyzed - 15.78%

3. Delta8 Infused Sour Diesel CBD Hemp Flower

Sour Diesel, often called Sour D, is a sativa-dominant cross between Chemdog 91 and Super Skunk. Sour Diesel CBD has a 70:30 sativa-to-indica ratio. The chunky, forest green buds of the Sour D have a shine to them as this strain is heavily coated with Delta8.  Some reportedly experience mental stimulation in the form of creativity from this sativa-dominant delta8 infused hemp hybrid, producing medium to large-sized highly dense buds. This strain is dominant in the caryophyllene terpene.

Caryophyllene

The terpene caryophyllene is present in many herbs and spices, including black pepper, basil, and oregano, and cannabis strains with high levels of it deliver a spicy, funky warmth to the nose, similar to cinnamon and cloves. What makes caryophyllene an intriguing terpene is its relationship with our endocannabinoid system, particularly, its ability to bind to CB2 receptors. Because of this, it comes with a host of potential medical benefits.

Density: Medium-High

Primary Aromas: Pine, Stinky Cheese, Gasoline, 

Smell Profile: The smell of the delta-8 coating is immediately detected upon opening the container. Pinch the buds to find the true smell of the buds within which begins with a hint of pine followed by a strong whiff of stinky cheese and finishes with nodes of truck stop Gasoline. It's funky in a real good way.

Taste Profile: This one is Gas. The taste is Diesel Fuel with a mild earthy undertone. The throat grab is medium to harsh as the delta8 coating makes for a heavy finish. May want to hit this one slowly. 

Time of Day usage: Daytime / Afternoon

Phenotype: Sativa-Dominant Hybrid

Total Cannabinoids Analyzed – 42.5%

Total CBD – 13.74%

THC Δ8 - 27.54%