Driving through Mendocino County on U.S. Highway 101 gives you a chance to see what this California region is best known for — wilderness, waves and wineries. You can now add “weed” to that list of highlights available right off the 101 as the cannabis community has begun to step out of the shadows. In the heart of Mendocino’s wine country, Emerald Pharms in Hopland is a medical cannabis dispensary that offers an educational and medicinal look at this newly regulated plant in their unique location.
“It is quite exciting being a cannabis dispensary in the midst of a touristy wine country,” said Chelsea Lucich, director of Emerald Pharms. “We are a perfect destination for cannabis tourism and educating the canna-curious people who will be taking such a tour.”
Visiting patients are able to learn about the medicinal cannabis produced in Mendocino and, more importantly, the ways in which cannabis and its many forms can be used for different kinds of relief.
“When working with a patient, we first must explore the patient’s tolerance and experience with cannabis,” Lucich said. “Do they already have a relationship with the plant? If so, do they enjoy the effects of THC or would they prefer a non-psychotropic approach such as CBD? We then listen to the individual patient needs, what symptoms they are experiencing and what relief they are seeking from cannabis.”
The atmosphere inside is welcoming and spa-like, with a nice rustic-modern feel. Complementary Yerba Mate tea is available to sip while you peruse the well curated selection of products. Large digital menu boards highlight what’s available. Natural wood elements and clean lines add to the charm. If there’s a crowd waiting, you can take advantage of the adjacent Solar LIving Institute and tour the grounds, or take a peek inside the Real Goods Store.
Emerald Pharms works with Northern California producers and farmers to obtain a selection of THC and CBD dominant products, including flowers, edibles, topicals, tinctures, sublingual sprays, gel caps, and strain-specific vape oil cartridges. They also sell seeds and clones. You may not find all your favorite brands here, but they have a wide range of offerings and the knowledge to help you find the one you’ll be happy to walk out with.
“It is of importance that the product maker and or grower have their heart and soul in the medicine making process,” said Lucich. “Energy and intention is everything when it comes to plant magic. We look for top quality, organic, and lab tested products that are presented in beautiful compliant packaging.”
Written by Allison Edrington
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