Written by Arian Roman

As 2022 marches on, we can observe tangible changes in the celebration of Black History Month, Pride Month, and (now) Juneteenth. 

What Does Juneteenth Represent?

On June 19, 1866, a year after the emancipation announcement, freedmen and women in Texas formed the first annual  "Jubilee Day". Early celebrations of this holiday were primarily used as political rallies to give voting information to newly freed African Americans. 

In 2016, at the age of 90, Opal Lee, the "grandmother of Juneteenth", walked from Fort Worth, Texas to Washington D.C. to petition for federal holiday status. Juneteenth finally became a federal holiday on June 17, 2021. Juneteenth is the first new federal holiday since Martin Luther King Jr. Day became one in 1986. Juneteenth is a day of celebration and remembrance that although slavery has ended, there is still so much work to be done in the United States.

Opal Lee, 94, and hundreds of others walk towards downtown Fort Worth from Evans Avenue Plaza during the first national Juneteenth holiday on June 19, 2021
Opal Lee, 94, and hundreds of others walk towards downtown Fort Worth from Evans Avenue Plaza during the first national Juneteenth holiday on June 19, 2021. (Photo by AMANDA McCOY via Star Telegram)

Opal Lee with President Biden and VP Kamala Harris

US Vice President Kamala Harris and Opal Lee (2nd L), the activist known as the grandmother of Juneteenth, with US President Joe Biden before signing the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, in the East Room of the White House, June 17, 2021, in Washington. (Photo by Jim WATSON / AFP) (Photo by JIM WATSON/AFP via Getty Images)

Cannabis History and Black History Are Closely Tied Together 

Enslaved laborers work on hemp farm. Source: John Winston Coleman Jr. via the University of Kentucky.

“Black history is cannabis history. Black history is the United States history. The good, the bad, and the ugly are all permanently interlaced. So when we celebrate hemp legalization or pop fireworks on July 4th, we also need to acknowledge in the same breath that Black people’s literal blood, sweat, and tears are behind those celebrations.”

– DM Blunted

 

American cannabis is deeply intertwined with Black history and our nation’s troubled legacy of institutionalized racism. In fact, in the United States, cannabis was originally cultivated by enslaved people. Born in Kentucky, the American hemp industry flourished because of the forced labor of West Africans in which they grew the hemp seeds carried by their Virginian slave-masters. Kentucky became the biggest producer of American hemp and home to one of the largest populations of enslaved people. Things remained this way for almost a century until the Civil War forced a decline in demand.

Cannabis Businesses Have a Unique Role in the Celebration of this Holiday

We must not forget that black and brown folks sit behind bars in cities and states where recreational and medical cannabis prohibition continues. Even in Colorado, where adult use is legal and cannabis consumption is equal across racial demographics, Black people face much higher arrest rates than white people. Although cannabis arrests are down, there is a distinct and unsettling racial disparity. 

With legal cannabis programs in place, the public eye is finally addressing the cannabis-related inequalities and injustices in communities of color. These discussions range from equity programs that include business incubation, technical assistance, and distribution of new business licenses to no-charge expungements for cannabis-related arrests. 

Graph of racial disparities in cannabis arrests (2018)
(Image by SHAYANNE GAL/Business Insider)

Juneteenth is an example of a holiday that only Black businesses should rightfully commoditize. For some African Americans, Juneteenth is synonymous with financial liberation. The legalization of cannabis and the creation of social equity programs do not equal reparations for slavery by any means. But these equity programs can level out the playing field and start transforming the lives of descendants of enslaved people, ultimately helping them build generational wealth.  

Juneteenth in the 21st Century Faces Predatory Capitalists

From Walmart’s tone-deaf “Juneteenth” flavored ice cream to aisles filled with companies' cringe-worthy attempts to capitalize on historically-excluded populations, we have sadly reached a point in history where cultural movements are quickly manipulated for profit. 

Walmart's Exploitative Marketing
(Photo by LAINE DOSS via MIAMI NEW TIMES)

Social media platforms, targeted ads, and fast-moving corporations seeking to capitalize on messaging that will give them a competitive advantage rather than serve the collective. Cannabis industry stakeholders, for example, should focus on ending the stigma and unfair targeting African Americans face daily concerning marijuana charges. 

How You Can Get Involved

Supporting Black cannabis brands is the bare minimum non-Black consumers can do, especially since this demographic is routinely imprisoned and arrested at 3x the rate for this plant

The fact that this industry was built on the backs of African Americans, much like the rest of the United States, and yet Black cannabis brands continue to struggle is unacceptable. As an industry and a community, we can do better. We need to support one another, especially during this grueling socio-economic time.

Check out Cannaclusive's "Accountability List" for more information on how cannabis brands are showing up, and the ones making a difference in the space. 

At the start of my career in cannabis, long before I founded Kush Queen, I learned about the path to legalization in California and the shared history of the LGBTQIA+ community with cannabis.

From that moment on, I made it my mission to honor the Queer activists who came before us, the true OGs we can thank for providing us with safe access to this plant.

At Kush Queen, Pride is Honoring a Shared History

In the 1980s, Queer community leaders in San Fransisco ushered in the beginnings of legal cannabis as they worked to ease health and wellness struggles around the AIDS epidemic. Their real-life needs brought legitimacy to the medical cannabis conversation. Pictures of my Queer community heroes hang in my office; Cleve Jones, Dennis Peron, and Mary Jane Rathburn look over me as I run Kush Queen.

Brownie Mary, wearing one of her signature buttons. SCOTT SOMMERDORF / SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE / POLARIS

Brownie Mary, wearing one of her signature buttons. SCOTT SOMMERDORF / SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE / POLARIS

Also on my wall of heroes is Marsha P. Johnson, another great reminder of gay liberation and how we got here today. Her beautiful smile beams back at me as I write this

For those not familiar with her story, Johnson was a trans activist, self-identified drag queen, and a true survivor living in New York City. She was also one of the first protesters at the Stonewall riots in 1969. Many recall Johnson having thrown the first brick outside of the club, but the truth is no one really agrees on who or what started it (was it a brick? a bottle? or city cobblestone?). 

Marsha P. Johnson Poster by MICAH BAZANT
Marsha P. Johnson Poster by MICAH BAZANT

Nonetheless, everyone does agree that Johnson and fellow trans activist Sylvia Rivera played a massive part in the spontaneous protest against a police raid in those early morning hours. This act of social uprising is often viewed as the first Pride celebration, sparking a series of events that would change the LGBTQIA+ community forever. 

Pride is Revolutionary and Non-Conforming

Pride (as we know it today) is all about Queer celebration and love, but its roots are steeped in the journey of equal rights, visibility, and the acceptance of LGBTQIA+ people. It was never about rainbow-tinted capitalism, fleeting social media icons, and albeit, even super fun parades. Pride is about Queer liberation. 

"Stonewall was, at its core, about people reclaiming their narratives from a society that told them they were sick or pitiful or didn’t even exist," writes Shane O’Neill, a journalist for the New York Times. 

A 1970 photo of Marsha P. Johnson handing out flyers in support of Gay Students at NYU is seen here courtesy of the New York Public Library's "1969: The Year of Gay Liberation" exhibit.  Diana Davies/NYPL/Handout via Reuters, FILE
A 1970 photo of Marsha P. Johnson handing out flyers in support of Gay Students at NYU is seen here courtesy of the New York Public Library's "1969: The Year of Gay Liberation" exhibit. Diana Davies/NYPL/Handout via Reuters, FILE

After Stonewall, a new generation of gay activists emerged and organized, creating resources like the Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR). These events and grassroots organizations focused on Queer individuals gaining access to equal rights as citizens while also helping the community find dignity, acceptance, and a sense of belonging within society. STAR, for example, provided housing and support to homeless LGBT youth and sex workers in New York City.

Pride is About Community and Peers Supporting Peers

For everyone at Kush Queen, Pride is about more than just a seasonal festivity, it’s about taking a stand, increasing visibility, and supporting our Queer communities all year round. 

This year Kush Queen is donating 20% of proceeds from our Pride Collection to The Social Impact Center, founded by beloved Queer cannabis hero Felicia Carbajal, as well as to the Trans Latina Coalition, a local Los Angeles community-led, and founded organization.

Kush Queen 2022 Pride Collection

Our Pride Collection for 2022 features a Delta 8 THC water-based and latex-safe infused lube and 1:1 Delta 8 THC and CBD Trans Flag-inspired bath bomb in honor of our trans brothers and sisters.

Kush Queen Pride Collection 2022

Queer Liberation is Still Needed

Currently, countless pieces of appalling legislation are moving through state governments as an attempt to target the rights of trans people, attack trans youth, and reverse decades-worth of progress. 

According to the advocacy group, Human Rights Campaign, over 300 anti-LGBTQ+ bills were proposed in 2022 alone.

Sam Ames, the director of advocacy and government affairs for The Trevor Project recently explained to CBS news "research has shown that as many as 85% of trans youth say that they are watching these debates over their identity play out,". Ames continues "the direct results of these bills when they pass are to take away things that we know are correlated with increased mental health and decreased suicide risk: sports team participation, seeing yourself represented in a classroom, being accepted by your parents and your healthcare professionals. These are all associated with significantly lower odds of attempting suicide." 

It feels like Queer liberation is more important than ever, especially with such blatantly coordinated attacks against people who identify as such. 

Pride is Personal

Inclusivity and visibility are part of Kush Queen’s DNA. From the all-gender restroom to the Queer individuals who appear in our content and work behind the scenes, Kush Queen's identity as a brand is unapologetically gay.

Kush Queen CEO Olivia Alexander protesting
Pride inspired Crystal Cult vape

 

As I get choked up thinking about my own experiences and identity, I can’t help but think about what a personal intimate experience celebrating Pride is for me. As a human, I self-identify not only as the CEO of this company but as a Queer woman surrounded by countless other Queer people in my life. People who are my family, friends, and frankly, my inspirations. I think of my parents raising a Queer son in South Louisiana and not once did anything but accept him for who he was. 

Since its inception, Kush Queen has celebrated Pride (year-round) and has raised well over $40,000 for Queer organizations, something I'm incredibly proud of.

Shop the 2022 Pride Collection and join our community for community support.

Hi, it's Olivia Alexander here, founder of Kush Queen. I pretty much live and breathe our brand. But when I'm not at HQ working, I'm usually on the interwebs, and lately, I have been doing a ton of podcasting.

I really enjoy podcasting because it allows for long-form content, and let's be real, I love to talk. Naturally, conversations around cannabis, being a female CEO in the space, and my other personal interests, like psychedelics, all came up. I wanted to share some of my latest interviews with you for your listening pleasure, and hey, maybe you'll fall in love with one of these podcasts and binge some episodes (like I have done many times).

 

Kendalls World | Mindset | Spirituality | Travel

I sat down with Kendall Furman, content creator and social media influencer dedicated to exploring travel, wellness, and more on Kendall's World.

In my episode of Kendall's World, we chat about all the healing benefits this plant offers. Furman isn't as experienced with cannabis, and she can't seem to find the right type of high, so I obviously dive into the complexity and uniqueness of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). I also teach her about endogenous cannabinoids and the myths surrounding cannabis.

Furman is an engaging host and even has video episodes on her Spotify. Her favorite new Kush Queen product is our CBG-infused Diamond Hands Gummies (which she's been raving about on her IG stories). Thanks, boo!

 

From Pot To Popular

Rosie Mattio is an acclaimed and accomplished woman in cannabis. Mattio is the founder of Mattio Communications, a powerhouse cannabis PR agency based in New York City. In addition to lifestyle and cannabis, the firm is also interested in working with brands from another emerging market, psychedelics.

On this industry-focused podcast, From Pot to Popular, we discuss what it's like to be a woman in cannabis, why representation in this industry matters, and why small businesses really, really matter (especially in cannabis).

While you're at it, check out this amazing byline by Mattio, on "Why 2022 will be a defining year for women in cannabis".  

 

That Budtender Podcast

Finally, I stopped by That Budtender Podcast for some serious girl talk and Seth Rogan slander. Hosted by cannabis journalist and Kush Queen ally, Bianca Blanche, listening to just one episode will have you craving a full sesh with the ex-budtender.

As a former budtender myself, fun fact: we actually got our start at the same dispensary but different years, Blanche and I give a well-deserved nod to the OG days of cannabis. Trust us, a lot has changed since then.

On my episode of That Budtender Podcast, we're getting a little stoney and speaking from the heart. We go over why I hate celebrity-driven cannabis brands, my experience consuming entheogen plants for my mental health, and dealing with the anti-cannabis tyrants at Instagram and TikTok.

There’s truly such an endless world available of podcasts and conversations. From Thirdwave to The True Beauty Brooklyn Podcast, I have over 16 hours of content on this playlist. I also have a bunch of exciting interviews coming up, so make sure to check them out. Not so much for me, but for the incredible women behind these amazing podcasts, especially if you're interested in learning more about women entrepreneurship, wellness, cannabis, and other psychedelics.

Follow us at Kush Queen for more interviews and brand updates!!

At Kush Queen, our hope for the cannabis industry is for those within it to be as diverse as the people who use this plant.

We started this company with infused bath bombs because we recognized how approachable this product is and how much a stigma breaker it could be. Destigmatizing cannabis, and the people who use it, has always been our mission as a brand.

Model mesmerizes with Kush Queen's CBD bath bomb

Photo Courtesy of Kush Queen

In honor of Black History Month, we at Kush Queen are celebrating the incredible individuals working towards and advocating for real change in cannabis - more specifically, for a socially equitable space. With skyrocketing taxes and very little support, the disenfranchised communities (whose backs this industry was built on) are sadly getting left behind. The truth is the cannabis industry as a whole has a long, long way to go before becoming the equal playing field it needs to be. Thankfully, these inspiring and selfless Black entrepreneurs are working incessantly towards making social equity in cannabis a reality. 

 

Successful Reality Television Executive turned Cannabis Industry CEO

Whitney Beatty, CEO and founder of Josephine & Billie's.

Whitney BeattyFounder, CEO Josephine & Billies and The Apothecarry


Whitney Beatty is a woman of many talents. After leaving her career in entertainment, she founded Apothecarry, a luxury accessories company for the modern-day smoker. Then, inspired by the golden days of Jazz and cannabis Teapads, Beatty opened Josephine & Billies, the first dispensary in the country designed by and for women of color. Beatty secured the first equity investment from The Parent Company (TPCO), California's largest vertically integrated omnichannel cannabis platform, where Jay Z is the Chief Visionary. 

Beatty currently sits on the board of Supernova Women, an organization working for equity in the legal cannabis space. 

On top of it all, she is an inspiring and hilarious mother sharing her life on social media. Beatty is a powerhouse in every sense of the word, and the cannabis industry is better with her in it. 

 

The #RapPriestess, also known as the West Coast Wave Goddess 

Blunt Blowing Mama - Lizzy Jeff smokes a cannabis joint

Lizzy JeffFounder, Zen and Kush


We have admired, followed, and enjoyed the work of Lizzy Jeff for years. 

A cannabis OG, rap priestess, medicine woman, and founder of Zen and Kush, Lizzy Jeff delivers plant medicine, spirituality, and community in one erotically delectable serving. Her unique events nationwide feature healing, sensuality, community-building, education, and wellness workshops. These events aren't called an after-dark experience for no reason; this is Ascension at its finest and most seductive. 

Our bath bombs are often made to her music as it's commonly on repeat at Kush Queen headquarters. We are constantly inspired by her passion for activism and her celebration of the divine feminine. 

Give Lizzy Jeff a follow for alternative ways to heal that embraces masculine and feminine energies while connecting you deeper to your spiritual roots. 

 

Startup Advisor, Accountability Keeper, and Co-Founder in Cannabis, Tech, and Wellness

Mary Pryor, Co-founder, Cannaclusive

Mary Pryor - Activist, Writer, Founder Cannaclusive


Mary Pryor is one of the most powerful women in the cannabis industry. Pryor is an activist, media expert, and the founder of Cannaclusive, a platform created to facilitate fair representation of minority cannabis consumers. 

If you haven’t heard of Pryor’s work with Cannaclusive, then this is your intro. Cannaclusive is currently working to solve the industry's biggest issues: diversity, equity, and part of its namesake - inclusion. Her work with the Accountability List, a living breathing document that holds cannabis companies accountable, is some of the most important work currently taking place in cannabis. 

Pryor has appeared in and contributed to countless publications like Refinery 29, New York Times, and Instyle; her piece on diversity in cannabis for SELF is one of our personal favorites. 

 

The Ivy Leaguer and Former Athlete turned Cannabis Maven 

Nadir PearsonCo-founder Get Hybrid, Founder Student MMJ Alliance 

Nadir Pearson, a graduate of Brown University and founder of Student Marijuana Alliance for Research and Transparency, is one to watch in cannabis. A leader, advocate, and entrepreneur, he has worn many impressive hats in his young career. 

Inspired by sneakerhead culture, Pearson founded Get Hybrid, the cannabis industry’s first release date calendar where you can find new cannabis drops and product launches in one place. Pearson’s accomplishments have been featured in Forbes and Huff Post; he’s also a very talented writer himself. 

One thing we love about Pearson is that he thrives on creating educational cannabis content. He is certainly the future of the industry and we cannot wait to see what big things he does in the future. 

 

Award-winning Business Coach, Strategist, and Serial Entrepreneur

Glam University CEO Sabrina Peterson

Sabrina Peterson - CEO & Founder Pretty High Co and Glam University


Sabrina Peterson dedicated herself and her businesses to be a powerhouse for female empowerment- socially and financially. 

Peterson turned facing a 23-year indictment into Pretty High Co, making CBD and cannabis products. She is a mother and content creator who is always making us laugh while feeling inspired. Peterson is undoubtingly a champion for women and people of color in cannabis. 

Late last year, Peterson invited Kush Queen out to a weekend cannabis educational workshop for women and we left oozing with excitement for how she brings opportunities, shares education, and keeps things transparent about the industry. 

 

It takes great courage and tenacity to go against the cannabis corporate machine. Through the community these amazing advocates continue to build, these inspirational cannabis professionals are aiding in creating visibility, changing the stigma, and opening doors for more BIPOC individuals to come.

 

 

Kush Queen, CBD, and Small Business Saturday. 

The past 4 years of Kush Queen have been an incredible journey of love, growth, perseverance, and of course, CBD. Waking up every day to share our passion in a rapidly growing market, we have experienced our highest highs and some courage-required lows. But I can attest to every second being worth it. 

Take a read through our reflections and a photo scroll through memory lane!

What a Year for CBD Momentum and Market Conditions

Kush Queen's first warehouse facility.

2019 will always be a historic year for CBD. With the Farm Bill passing in the Senate and the House in early December 2018, the new year promised to be an exciting growth year for CBD.

At the time, Kush Queen was experiencing incredible growth. Our team was evolving, constantly improving and making production adjustments to ensure we are creating the same high-quality CBD experience with every single handmade product.

Mid-summer, payment processing in the CBD industry came crashing down. Many in the industry went months with no ability to accept payments online and had to face tough decisions to keep their business afloat. 

Through the grit and determination of our team and the patience and loyalty of our customers, Kush Queen made it through that chapter. As a small business innovating in a rapidly expanding industry we cannot say thank you enough to our customers, fans, friends, and family for the support. For example, on the eve of our first big mainstream event, one of our lows transformed right into one of the highest highs – BeautyCon LA

Kush Queen Is Visibility, Wellness, and Innovation

Olivia Alexander starting Kush Queen CBD in her family garage.

In the same spirit of getting our dream up and running like Amazon, Google, and Disney, we started Kush Queen in our family garage. The Kush Queen brand was born out of our sister company, The Crystal Cult. The Kush Queen was a vape that turned into the beginning of a community. So many kush queens were out there but the cannabis industry’s male slated products left room for a newcomer with a different vision. 

Kush Queen grew out of a community of like-minded individuals wanting to create a different type of space – a creative outlet for cannabis-derived health and wellness.

Our vision is to create a space for anyone to gain access to high-quality health and wellness products made from the healing cannabis plant. 

It’s All-Hands-On-Deck  

Kush Queen CEO Olivia Alexander mixing CBD topicals.

It takes a village, including you! We are a small, family-operated business. We’ve got a tight-knit crew of people that all believe in a dream of making things better. From CBD to our workplace vibe, the Kush Queen team is dedicated to one another and making the best CBD products on the market. We’re savages but like the kind you want to invite over to sesh with and meet your mom! With every challenge we face, we turn inward, use our products, innovate and move forward!   

Thank You For Supporting Our Small Business

Kush Queen CBD warehouse with Olivia leaning on bubble wrap.

Our passion for this plant and its power to transform lives keeps us motivated! Thank you for believing in our dream. It is with gratitude we operate every day from the heart and it is our privilege to have you as part of our family. 

The irony of small business Saturday is that it was started by a corporation. A corporation that will not do business with CBD companies. The irony is really so 2019. 

And with that, we pour some CBD on it! Stock up on CBD with the holiday sale going on now. 

Follow our lead and make this holiday season the most chill you’ve ever experienced. The Ultimate Kush Queen CBD Gift Guide will navigate you through gifts for just about anyone in your life!

It’s the most wonderful time of year when we eat, drink, shop, and spread joy. And at the same time, we also run ourselves ragged with events, to-do lists and trying to make the most of the holiday season. On top of that, it’s flu season, its sugar season, and not only is it the most wonderful, but also one of the busiest times of the year. 

The KQ team is here to make gifting easy and meaningful with our first annual Kush Queen CBD Gift Guide!

Kush Queen CBD Gift Guide Text over scene of presents.

Why should you gift CBD, anyway?

Gifting CBD is a truly powerful experience for both the giver and receiver. Giving the gift of CBD to a friend or loved one is more than giving them a cool product, it’s a wellness experience. CBD has the power to transform someone’s daily routine into less pain, better sleep or better skin. From daily self-care to a better night’s rest, The Ultimate Kush Queen CBD Gift Guide has it all. 

We put together a list of Kush Queen CBD wellness and beauty products to make your holiday shopping easy as pie. It’s not just the holidays and the start to a new year, it’s the birth of a new decade. 

Treat Yoself text over Kush Queen CBD wrapped presents.

First Things First, Let’s Take Care of Y-O-U

There’s nothing selfish about self-care. Be your own Santa and treat yourself to a little something under the tree—we co-sign! 

If you are seriously splurging this holiday season, these two CBD products won’t break the bank and will help you recover from this crazy time of year. 

Renew CBD Sugar Scrub and Cafe Latte CBD Bath Bomb

Exfoliate your winter skin with our Renew  CBD sugar scrub and boost your energy with our Cafe Latte CBD bath bomb. Both of these products are under $15–your skin and wallet will thank you! 

Limited Edition Champagne Collection

If you want to splurge on yourself this year the 2019 Limited Edition Champagne Collection is a perfect gift from You, to You.

Our limited edition holiday set includes a 100mg CBD Champagne bath bomb, a 150mg Champagne bubble bath, and a 1000mg CBD Champagne tincture. If you are looking to create a moment this holiday season, the Champagne collection is it. 

Mom Wants CBD Text over bath tub with bubbles.

Trust us –  Moms want to try CBD this Holiday Season

Sometimes we forget that moms are just like us! All they want is to get sleep better, ease stress and improve their skin—CBD can help Mom. 

Defynt CBD Skin Serum

Your mom will be talking to about your gift year-round when you give her Defynt Skin Serum. The antiserum is packed with vitamins, hyaluronic acid, 250mg of transdermal CBD, and a host of ingredients that will leave her skin glowing. 

Alice and Olivia x Kush Queen Collection

If your mom needs a different kind of TLC, treat her to our luxury CBD collaboration with alice+olivia. Give her the collection everyone’s talking about our 200mg CBD Bath Bomb, our 150mg Bubble Bath, or our Lavender CBD Body Lotion

Kush Queen Sleep CBD Bath Bomb

It seems like ALL moms need more sleep and we’ve got something for every level of sleep deprivation. For those mamas who just need help getting a better night’s rest, the 25mg Sleep CBD Bath Bomb is perfect for her. For a mom who suffers from insomnia or just can’t sleep through the night, gift the 200mg Sleep CBD Bath Bomb to give her a dreamy night of shut-eye. And for the Goldilocks moms who needs all the rest she can get to make her family run like clockwork, give her the 100mg Sleep CBD Bath Bomb so she can drift off as soon as her head hits the pillow. 

Dad Knows What's Up Text over Gummies RX bottle and CBD gummies.

For Daddy or Zaddy

Relieve CBD Bath Bomb – 200mg

If your dad’s an old pro with the cannabis plant, you’ll want to grab him our 200mg Relieve CBD Bath Bomb. He will not believe the pain-relieving power of 200mg of CBD and essential oils in a full-body soak. You’ll make a pro-bath taker out of Pops with this gift. 

Melt CBD Relief Lotion 

If he’s new to the CBD game, gift him our Melt 2oz 100mg CBD Relief Lotion. Tell him to put it where it hurts or ask mom to rub it on his shoulders after a busy week. He’ll feel the power of the nanotechnology CBD and essential oils and become a CBD evangelist in no time. 

GummiesRX – 350mg

If you’re looking to gift your dad with daily wellness, we suggest Gummies RX 350mg CBD gummies. The delicious taste comes from our small batch handmade approach to CBD gummies. The dose will hit him just the right way so that he feels better, but not high. 

Kush Queen CBD Gift Guide, It's Bro Out Time text over presents.

For Your Bro – Everyone Will Thank You

Soaked CBD Shower Gel

Show your know-it-all brother the high tech side of CBD. Soaked CBD shower gel has transdermal nanotechnology that allows the CBD to absorb directly into your bloodstream. Your brother will not only be impressed with the technology, but he’ll also love the way CBD elevates his daily shower. The citrus notes and CBD will boost his mood to the point that he won’t even seem like your brother anymore! 

GummiesRX – 750mg

Everyone loves a CBD gummy, especially the small-batch handmade gummies from Kush Queen. Your brother will be hooked on Kush Queen CBD from these 750mg GummiesRX gummies. From athletes to stressed out banker bros, CBD gummies offer an easy delivery method for daily consumption.  

Kush Queen CBD Gift Guide, Cuffing Szn Approved text over presents.

BAE/Life Partner/Wife/House Husband

Kush Queen CBD Lube

Its cuffing season, so we know you need to grab a gift for your BAE. They will love our CBD water-based lubricant with 30mg nano CBD. Nano CBD is broken down to a particle size so small it can absorb through your skin and into your bloodstream. It’ll increase blood flow to the area and you’ll never use a lubricant without CBD again!

The Love CBD Collection

The Love Collection is the perfect gift set for your BAE if you’ve got a little more money to spend. At $69.69 (we couldn’t help ourselves) it includes 2, Love 25mg CBD bath bombs and 1 water-based CBD lubricant. They’ll be so blissed out that they won’t even realize this gift is a gift for you, too! 

Kush Queen CBD Gift Guide, G-ma is down text over presents.

Grandma and Grandpa – Can’t Forget CBD For Them!

Melt CBD Relief Lotion

You will wow your grands by giving the gift of Melt—the pain lotion so good it has a cult following. Grab the 2oz 100mg CBD Melt Relief Lotion for those just starting out with CBD or those with mild aches. Grab the 16oz 200mg CBD Melt Relief Lotion or the 16oz 800mg CBD Melt Relief Lotion for those grands with bad backs. This lotion will secure your spot as the favorite grandchild! 

Education Moment – Drive home the point to them that all grands should be dropping oral CBD every day to help fight every day issues and feed their endocannabinoid system. For under $50 you can gift your grand and educate them on the CBD molecule and their endocannabinoid system. You’ll become their trusted guide to CBD healing, which will spread throughout their sewing circles and bridge clubs! 

The CBD Wellness Collection

The CBD wellness collection is a perfect combination of high dosed CBD products for your granny and/or gramps. The CBD Wellness collection includes a 500mg Bäre Tincture, a 100mg CBD Immunity Bath Bomb, and a Melt CBD Relief Lotion. This trifecta will introduce them to a new life free of pain and full of enjoyment.

Kush Queen CBD Gift Guide, Hook It Up Sis text over presents.

Reduce the Stress For Your BFF

Black Magic CBD Bath Bomb

Our black magic bath bomb is like giving your BFF a deep tissue massage for $12.99! This CBD Bath Bomb is the perfect bath to gift your BFF because it’s sexy black, dosed with 25mg CBD, packed with organic essential oils, and won’t stain their tub. They’ll love you 4EVA for giving them a product that provides a full-body topical experience without the price tag of a spa visit! 

Kingdm Foto Blur

Give your glam BFF the gift of CBD beauty, Kingdm Foto Blur CBD Primer, winner of Refinery 29’s Beauty Innovator Award for best primer. They’ll love you for giving them our pore blurring, skin softening primer that’ll work for their skin while providing and solid foundation for their make-up. 

The Relief CBD Collection

If you’re shopping for your BFF who deals with pain, they’ll love the Relief Collection, The perfect combo for that BFF in pain, The Relief Collection includes 3 Relieve 25mg CBD Bath Bombs and 1 2oz 100mg CBD Melt Relief Lotion. From monthly periods to those with severe pain, this power combo is packed with CBD and essential oils that make it the ultimate CBD gift set. 

Kush Queen CBD Gift Guide, Who's A Good Boy text over presents.

Woof Queen For Your Fur Baby 

Woof Queen CBD Bath Bombs

Your fur baby has an endocannabinoid system too. Stuff their stocking with treats that will help maximize their wellness with CBD. These products are pawfect pet CBD products to gift your furry loved ones. 

Woof Queen Lavender will ease bath time for the tiny pups who shake in their sink baths, and Woof Queen Relieve will help those older puppers with aches and pains. 

Bäre CBD Tincture

Coat a treato with Bäre 500mg CBD tincture or drop it onto their food daily for a hypoallergenic dose of CBD pawfect for your pooch or kitten. 

Kush Queen Christmas Tree with cbd bath bomb ornaments.

Shop Small, Shop Smart with the Kush Queen CBD Gift Guide

We hope the Kush Queen CBD Gift Guide has made it easier for you to shop for the ones you love. 

When you gift Kush Queen CBD you’re not just gifting CBD, you’re supporting a women-founded small business with handmade products. You’re gifting your family and friends products made by our family and friends. It’s truly a gift that keeps on giving. 

Join our mailing list for all the codes for the biggest sale of the year starting November 28! 

CBD lube may seem like a novelty, but it does so much more than kick up the heat in the bedroom.

The reasons why CBD lube works are multifaceted, much like the people who use it. Just about anyone can benefit from a product that makes sex and masturbation more pleasurable, but CBD lube is an absolute game changer for people who experience:

  • Pain resulting from sexual trauma
  • Pain caused by conditions like vaginismus, endometriosis, and childbirth
  • Decreased libido or sexual desire due to hormonal changes or medications
  • Dryness experienced post-menopause or after radiation treatments
  • Tension or an inability to relax, especially related to the pelvic floor

CBD lube works by creating a pathway to more enjoyable sexual contact. This concept goes beyond a novelty or trendy sex product and truly becomes a tool for healing. 

Kush Queen CBD Lube displayed on a rose to show silky, smooth texture.

What’s on the Inside Counts For CBD Lube To Really  Work

Of course, what’s in the lube matters tremendously, especially for those in need of sexual healing. Kush Queen CBD lube is water-based, making it safe for use with latex and silicone, so whether you’re embarking on solo-play or engaging with a partner, you can enjoy the benefits of CBD lube without the hassle or worry. 

Unlike many CBD lubes on the market, Kush Queen CBD Lube is actually a lubricant and not an oil-based formula infused with CBD. Each ingredient is paraben-free and was carefully selected for its safety and efficacy, resulting in a product that’s inclusive to all. 

The CBD we use is broken down into nanoparticles that are 2,000 times smaller than pores, which allows for rapid absorption and increased bioavailability. The topical application of CBD allows the cannabinoids to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) and is the key mechanism behind why CBD lube works for such a wide spectrum of needs. 

Why CBD Lube Works for So Many Folx

The reason why Kush Queen’s Ignite works wonders on so many bodies is its ability to trigger multiple physical reactions through localized application and the CBD’s interaction with the ECS. 

It’s no secret that genital arousal is characterized by blood flow to the region resulting in erect and swollen genitalia and increased sensitivity. As a vasodilator, CBD works to relax the muscles of the arteries allowing blood to flow through with more ease. The results are increased arousal, an increased depth and frequency of climax, and a diminishment of pain and tension.

Relaxation is another effect that adds to why our lube works so well for so many. When we explore our sexuality or engage with partners, self-conscious or non-sexual thoughts may arise, distracting from the experience. The inability to get out of our heads and into the moment limits our ability to be in our bodies and present with the sensations were experiencing. The topical application of CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system to ease tension in the body and relax muscles, allowing comfort to pave the way for pleasure. 

Verified buyers of Kush Queen CBD Lube report results ranging from intensified orgasms in healthy womxn to “penis hugs” from happy husbands and renewed sexual satisfaction for post-menopausal womxn to pain-free intercourse for the first time ever, a wide spectrum of people are discovering how and why CBD lube works for their intimate needs. 

Choose Pleasure, Choose You

Simply putting into practice the intention of increasing pleasure for yourself and/or your partner will have a positive effect on your sex life. By putting pleasure first and making the extra effort you send the signal to yourself that enjoyable sex is a priority. After all, it is your birthright. 

When viewed through the lens of compassion for sufferers of painful sex, people dealing with reproductive dysfunction, and those experiencing hormonal changes or mental conditions that result in decreased sexual desire and satisfaction, the use of CBD in the bedroom can be seen as therapeutic.

Decreased tension and sensations that anchor you to the present moment work synergistically to alter the experience of sex for the better. 

How empowering to be able to reconnect with your sexuality after feeling disconnected from it and from yourself with a little help from Kush Queen CBD Lube.

Satisfy Your Curiosity

If you’ve read through this entire blog, then your intrigue with CBD lube must be peaking by now. Take the plunge into pleasure and order your bottle of Ignite today!

CBD is inarguably all the rage as you can access products nearly anywhere in person or online. Yet so many people don’t know or understand how to use CBD or why they should use Kush Queen products daily. My philosophy in regards to cannabinoids is preventative and consistent use. As an every day, multiple times a day user, I believe in keeping my endocannabinoid system nourished. Today’ I’m sharing a recap of my recent trip to New York for Fashion Week. 

Never in my wildest dreams could I imagine the places and spaces Kush Queen would take me. One of those places is New York Fashion Week to celebrate the launch of our collaboration with alice+olivia. Fashion Week. New York. Kush Queen. I am still shook.  

NYFW CBD Travel Diary

I use cannabis to live my life free from mood stabilizing pharmaceuticals which requires me to think through my life and plan ahead. Upcoming travel always means I up my daily dose and stay mindful of my sleep patterns. So much about any type of cannabis use is about finding what works for you by learning from others. Here are the notes from my NYFW travel diary.

The Pre-Game – Planning and Adjusting My CBD Dosing

Traveling and changing time zones can be one of the biggest triggers for me. Pre-flight stress always creeps in 72-36 hours before take-off. A few years ago, I built out a CBD routine to ease into traveling. Trust me, you want to give this a shot if you share the same type of pre-travel feelings. 

My pre-traveling CBD ritual includes: 

  • Gummies RX, in the morning and at night the day before my flight. I also keep these with me at all times just in case I need to take the edge off mid travels. 
  • A pre-flight CBD bath. I swell up on airplanes, so I use our new 200mg alice+olivia Bath Bomb to prep my body for the long flight and help ease my pre-flight stress. 

I love the higher dose CBD bath bomb because it’s stronger than our regular doses. It’s like carb-loading before a long workout; I was about to be exposed to germs, plane air, and a time zone change. Plus, floating in the bath is always a time I take for myself to clear my mind and bring myself into the present before traveling.

Sunday, September 8, 2019 – The Day Before the alice + olivia Presentation

Late Afternoon

I arrived at our amazing brownstone in Brooklyn and notice my post-flight swelling wasn’t as bad as usual, must have been my pre-flight CBD bath bomb. I take a full dropper of Bäre before heading to dinner, which is about a 33.3mg dose of CBD. Ahhh – comfy shoes (check), cute outfit (check), mind at ease (check)! 

(Late) Night Time

My fashion week looks arrived straight from the alice+olivia showroom. I popped a Gummies RX CBD gummy before getting fitted to keep my pre-show jitters from creeping in. After my fitting, I showered with our Soaked CBD shower gel and then lathered up in our alice+olivia CBD body lotion before heading to bed. No chance for bad sleep, aching feet or a restless mind to steal my slumber. 

Monday, September 9, 2019 – alice + olivia presentation

Mid Morning

A pre hair and makeup dose of CBD is always what I need. Anytime I am putting a full face of makeup on I wear our Defynt CBD Skin Serum and Kingdm CBD Primer under my make up. Many people ask why they should use CBD in their makeup routine? 

The 3 main reasons to use CBD with your makeup routine:

  1. CBD has anti-acne properties
  2. CBD is anti-bacterial
  3. CBD helps reduce redness. 

Mid Day

Arriving at the alice +olivia presentation is like a scene in a movie. Sophia Ritchie was posing on the carpet before me. Luckily, I had 4 CBD Gummies RX gummies in the car, which is a solid 50mg oral dose. The show is filled with incredible clothes and people; all of my senses were stimulated. What an incredible experience I will never forget. 

Also seems like NYFW needs to pour some CBD on it more than anyone!

Kush Queen CEO, Olivia Alexander at 2019 NYFW
Stacey Bendet and Olivia Alexander
Kush Queen's Olivia Alexander at alice+olivia presentation during NYFW

Tuesday, September 10, 2019

Mid Day

It’s our day off exploring in Brooklyn. I have never seen Dumbo, but love the history and charm of the area. We had a beer and bite and then we explored a shop nearby with CBD products. I decided to try a CBD beverage called Recess while we explore the area and trekked over the Brooklyn bridge. A light and refreshing taste in a cute can, but not sure if I would buy again. 

Olivia Alexander in Brooklyn, New York
Kush Queen CEO, Olivia Alexander

Before Bed

My feet are ravaged from wearing heels the day before and then walking most of the city. I lather them up in Melt CBD Pain lotion before bed and put on some socks. I can instantly feel my feet cool and my pain fades away. 

Wednesday, September 11, 2019 – Photoshoot Day

Morning 

Back in hair and make up again for a photo shoot. I toss two droppers of Bäre CBD Tincture into my cappuccino. My makeup artist Lauren lays a velvety smooth layer of Kingdm CBD Primer on before she starts on my look for the shoot. 

Late Night

I had a busy day with the shoot. Time for a super dosed bath with the alice+olivia 200mg CBD Bath Bomb and CBD Bubble Bath.  

Thursday, September 12, 2019 – alice+olivia Collaboration Event Day

Early Morning

I was woken up by a problem in LA with our payroll. Outside of travel, my next biggest trigger as a business owner is the banking industry. At this point, for me, CBD isn’t enough, so I smoke a joint, take a deep breathe and assess possible solutions. Things get resolved relatively quickly given the time zone change. Now we start to prep for the alice+olivia collaboration launch event. 

Early Evening 

Time for the alice+olivia x Kush Queen Meatpacking CBD Mocktail party. I had about 4, 25mg CBD mocktails, so you could say I am feeling GOOD. Keep an eye out for our upcoming alice+olivia events in La and Aspen – you need to get your hands on these mocktails!

Kush Queen x alice+olivia CBD Collaboration
Kush Queen CBD Mocktails at alice+olivia event
Kush Queen CBD Dream Team

Friday, September 13, 2019 – Head Home

Too Early in the Morning

My flight was at 4:45! Yes, you read that right. I’m crazy and I am on an early AF flight back to LA. No one should be up this early. I can’t be nice. So I take 2 full droppers of Bäre and sleep the entire way back to LA. 

The Aftermath 

Once I returned home, I had only 72 hours before I had to go to Hall of Flowers, a cannabis B2B show in Santa Rosa, CA. I also had to attend a wedding, so I could not and did not get sick. Sure, once I was home I ate 150mg of THC edibles and slept for 16 hours, but I didn’t catch anything. 

I always rely on CBD to help me through these work benders. Cannabinoids deliver an equilibrium I feel in my body and I am grateful that I have it in my life to help me be my best self. 

CBD is a great tool to help with traveling and non-stop work. As you read in my travel diary, I use Kush Queen products in a variety of ways, depending on what’s going on in my life. I start by thinking through my triggers and building my CBD routine out from there.