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While pre-rolls and bong hits are certainly a good time, have you ever thought about juicing raw cannabis? The power of raw weed contains high levels of terpenes along with unique cannabinoid acids. Raw cannabis for juicing can be done with flowers, leaves, or a combination of the two — and can easily be added to smoothies to up the benefits.
We’re sharing the health benefits of using raw cannabis in a regular diet. Try our raw cannabis smoothie recipe below to see the impressive benefits of the raw plant.
Why Should I Consume Raw Cannabis?
The cannabis plant possesses over 750 secondary plant metabolites that can be beneficial for the body. These include cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, all of which contribute to the unique aromas of different strains.
Over 150 cannabinoids have been identified by recent scientific studies. These compounds from the plant can interact with the human body through the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which brings about various physiological effects.
Terpenes are found in almost all types of life forms on the planet. They possess medicinal properties through anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial benefits. Lastly, flavonoids are another set of compounds in cannabis and are associated with health-promoting effects – typically associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties.
These metabolites found in cannabis are believed to induce therapeutic effects when consumed. Remember that certain compounds are denser in plant leaves than in budding flowers.
Health Benefits Of Raw Cannabis
By adding raw cannabis to a smoothie, you’re elevating your healthy intake with the power of the green plant through significant benefits.
Antioxidants
Cannabis leaves contain compounds that act as antioxidants. These can help the body protect itself from damage caused by unstable molecules known as free radicals. Free radicals are born naturally in the body but can also be elicited by illness, stress, or environmental factors.
Too many free radicals building up in the body can cause oxidative stress, which is linked to aging and degenerative diseases such as arthritis, cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s.
Instead of disposing of cannabis leaves, these benefits are motivation to consume them in methods like smoothies and salads that can help combat oxidative stress.
Anti-Inflammation
Too much inflammation in the body can be associated with various chronic health issues.
In addition, poor diet, environmental toxins, excessive stress, and infections can all contribute to the development of inflammation – potentially leading to chronic inflammation.
Entourage Effect
Eating cannabis leaves and flowers can enhance your experience with consuming different parts of the plant. This is due to multiple cannabinoids interacting with the body simultaneously to produce what is known as an “entourage effect.”
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The entourage effect occurs when different cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds are combined. This combination provides complementary effects with unique potential for therapeutic benefits.
Raw cannabis can introduce a full range of phytochemicals into the body’s system. This will allow for an experience of the plant’s beneficial properties to their full capabilities.
How To Juice Your Plant For Raw Cannabis Smoothies
These quick tips can help if you are preparing raw cannabis to be added to your smoothie.
Tip #1: Roll The Leaves
Take the cannabis leaves that you are planning to use. Roll the leaves into tight cylinders when adding them through the juicer. This will help ensure the leaves are processed appropriately to keep all the beneficial properties.
Tip #2: Add In Fruits And/Or Vegetables
Add your favorite fruits, vegetables, or protein powder for how you prefer your smoothie to be built.
Apples and cucumbers are examples of food with a high water content, helping to create enriching smoothies for your day-to-day intake.
Tip #3: Use A Wheatgrass Juicer
If you want to add cannabis juicing to your routine, the type of juicer you use will be pivotal. Wheatgrass juicers are well-regarded for working at lower temperatures and using a press to extract the juice.
PB&J Raw Cannabis Smoothie Recipe
With the knowledge of how the raw cannabis plant can up your smoothie game, you’re ready to get into action! We put together a simple raw cannabis smoothie recipe that requires no juicing – just a blender!
Here’s a delicious smoothie recipe that will satisfy your cravings and provide nutrition for your day.
You Will Need
Up to 0.5 oz of raw cannabis – leaves and flowers
Handful of ice cubes
One large, ripe avocado – skin and seeds removed
A large handful of strawberries
One spoonful of peanut butter
1 tsp of coconut oil
(Optional) – 1-2 doses of choice protein powder
Instructions
Add all ingredients to a standing blender.
Blend!
Pour into a glass. You may want a straw, depending on the thickness.
Enjoy!
Final Thoughts
Smoothies are already so healthy. Why not make them even better for you?
Adding raw cannabis to your homemade smoothies is an excellent source of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. This is a way to use cannabis for the benefit of long-term health and not just the short-term effects that we typically feel while smoking.
Regular consumption of raw cannabis can help the body over time. Providing benefits like antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and the entourage effect.
Whether you use a juicer or a standing blender, consuming raw cannabis is a great perk for changing up your smoothie game.
Hannah Vysoky is a cannabis content writer and marketer. Her work has been featured in Thrillist, Leafly, Different Leaf Magazine, and more. She holds a deep passion for the green plant and shares on product reviews, frequently asked questions, and cultural outlooks.
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