My experience with high CBD ratio products is limited to my time in Colorado more than five years ago. While I enjoyed the balanced pain and anxiety relief that these provided, I haven’t tried many from Illinois producers. When I had the chance to sample two of these cartridges, Bedford Grow’s Shawnee Hills 3:2 and Cherry Rainbow 2:3 from Mariibis Springfield, I jumped at the chance.

ILNJ photo: Shawnee Hills 3:2

Shawnee Hills is a balanced hybrid cross of Girl Scout Cookies and Big Hurt. This 3:2 cartridge tested at 33.85% THC, 50.2% CBD, and 89.01% total cannabinoids. The most prevalent terpenes were b-caryophyllene, a-humulene, and b-myrcene. Cherry Rainbow is a hybrid cross of Dubble Rainbow and Cherry Wu. This 2:3 cartridge tested at 45.21% THC, 31.96% CBD, and 82.04% total cannabinoids. The most prevalent terpenes were b-caryophyllene, limonene, and a-humulene

I tried the Shawnee Hills first and found a natural earthy flavor that featured hints of black pepper, earth, citrus peels, and floral tones reminiscent of lavender. The high levels of CBD made for a very smooth hit and even smoother effects.

ILNJ photo: Shawnee Hills 3:2

With more CBD than THC, the cerebral effects were limited to a lightly elevated mood. Physically, I was surprised at how well the high CBD worked to lessen my back pain and reduce inflammation all over my body. I felt lighter and moved easier for hours following a handful of hits but never once did I feel high.

The Cherry Rainbow was, as the name would suggest, much more fruit forward. Tangy lemon, berry, and sweet pine were the strongest flavors. There were some lighter green bell pepper and grassy tones that closed out the exhale.

ILNJ photo: Cherry Rainbow 2:3

The effects here reflected the higher THC numbers but remained light and manageable. The cerebral effects left me talkative and social with a wide open headspace. While I noticed the reduced back pain and reduced inflammation again, I didn’t get the body “lightness” that the 3:2 pen provided.

ILNJ photo: Cherry Rainbow 2:3

It’s rare that I find something that really surprises me at its effectiveness. These CBD ratio pens did just that.

It’s easy to see how the lighter cerebral and stronger anti-inflammatory physical effects could fit into my life. Patients seeking heavy physical relief while avoiding a strong “high” would be well served.

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FDA Disclaimer: The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from healthcare practitioners. Please consult your healthcare professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product.

Effects & Medical Attributes are based on anecdotal evidence. Individual experiences can be varied.