Technologies driving the cannabis industry forward

The legalization of weed in over 20 states of the U.S. ushered in a new era of cannabis consumption, bringing with it lots of scientific breakthroughs and technological innovations.

Let’s look at the major technologies that are driving things forward. 

Terpene isolation technology

Terpene Isolation technology isn’t new.

The niche market has long used it to process concentrates. Still, now that more and more people have become aware of the therapeutic benefits of terpenes, it has found use in creating customized profiles with specific medical outcomes.

Over a hundred terpenes are found in cannabis, each of which has its profile.

All-time favorite linalool, for example, is famous for its lavender scent and powerful soothing effects. In addition, linalool helps treat conditions such as anxiety and depression.

Pinene, on the other hand, is a strong painkiller. Therefore, it is a key ingredient in blends designed for medical patients recovering from chemotherapy, surgeries, and injuries.

However, with terpene isolation technology, it has become possible to separate those terpenes, which allows growers to boost their fragrance.

In addition, this technology can achieve new synergetic properties that are more effective in treating specific ailments. 

Nanoencapsulation

Another cannabis technology that has a growing impact on the consumption of marijuana is nanoencapsulation.

It is essentially a technique that allows producers to encapsulate the cannabinoids in a smaller emulsion. This technology can increase the bioavailability of CBD, ensuring that most of it ends up in your bloodstream.

And you are making it easier to dilute the product in beverages. Furthermore, providing vast opportunities for the cannabis food market. 

Blockchain

One of the most significant obstacles many cannabis companies face is finding a bank accepting the money. This is so because weed is still officially illegal on the federal level.

However, as cannabis tech is advancing at an unprecedented pace, problems like these can be easily solved by turning to blockchain.

Many companies use blockchain technology to record transactions and track their assets across business networks, and cannabis businesses are no exception.

There’s even been invented a blockchain-based cryptocurrency called Paragon Coin aimed to help the cannabis industry overcome the challenges.

Another reason why many cannabis brands are turning to the blockchain is that it ensures that the product you buy is by the farm it says it’s from and delivered securely to the destination. 

Online distribution

The way people buy weed these days has also changed a lot. After the legalization of weed, dispensaries now have full rights to put the stuff on display so you can see all offers. And marijuana technology has taken the whole process even further.

Today we already have many weed apps that allow you to familiarize yourself with various medical and recreational cannabis products. You can even order whatever you like for delivery to your doorstep.

What is coming next is the vertically integrated trading platform. Its goal is to cover all of the links in the marijuana supply chain and give manufacturers and growers access to the data to develop new products. 

Law enforcement

Due to the mind-altering properties of weed, the government has set a legal limit for cannabis that they consider safe to drive.

The problem is that cannabinoids can linger in the bloodstream for weeks after consumption. So it is difficult for officers to determine if you exceed that limit.

That’s where a cannabis breathalyzer from the Hound Labs company comes in. Using this device, you can take a quick breath test and see if you’re eligible to drive or if it’s best not to and save yourself a lot of trouble.

The only thing to note is that it is breath-detectable. So, for example, it won’t be of much use for those who prefer to consume marijuana through vapes, oils, or edibles.

However, things are changing rapidly, and other detection methods will likely be found very soon. 

Final thoughts

To bring it to the chase, even though the marijuana industry is still faced with many challenges, as more countries in the world become more cannabis-friendly, it will only continue to evolve.

Many companies already take advantage of technology, making selling and distributing their products more streamlined and user-friendly, but many more will come soon. So, keep yourself updated and enjoy! 

EDITOR’S NOTE: This post was written by Helga G., Editor and Contributor at AskGrowers.com.

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