Summary – 1 Minute Read.
In the 1960s and 1970s, the “Brotherhood of Eternal Love,” a group of psychedelic surf smugglers in Southern California, began experimenting with early cannabis extraction methods to create potent concentrates, laying the groundwork for modern dabs. Concurrently, CIA projects like MK-Ultra were exploring psychedelics, indirectly contributing to broader knowledge about psychoactive substances. Over time, extraction techniques evolved significantly into sophisticated methods producing highly purified concentrates such as shatter and wax. This evolution has made dabbing a popular method for consuming cannabis, notably among medical users requiring high doses for chronic conditions.
“Psychedelic Surf Smugglers and the CIA: The Birth of Dabs”
The history of dabs is as colorful and complex as the culture that surrounds cannabis itself. One of the most intriguing tales involves psychedelic surf smugglers and, surprisingly, the CIA. Here’s a breakdown of how these elements came together to invent dabs.
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Origins of Psychedelic Surf Smugglers:
- In the 1960s and 1970s, a group known as the “Brotherhood of Eternal Love” emerged in Southern California.
- These surfers were not just chasing waves; they were deeply involved in smuggling hashish and other psychedelics from countries like Afghanistan.
- Their mission was to spread peace, love, and higher consciousness through mind-altering substances.
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Early Extraction Methods:
- The Brotherhood began experimenting with various extraction methods to create more potent forms of cannabis.
- They used rudimentary techniques involving alcohol or butane to extract THC-rich resin from cannabis plants.
- This early form of concentrate laid the groundwork for what we now know as dabs.
Callout: Did you know? The term “dabbing” refers to the act of vaporizing concentrated cannabis extracts on a hot surface!
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CIA’s Involvement:
- During this time, the CIA was conducting its own experiments with psychedelics under projects like MK-Ultra.
- Some theories suggest that there was an indirect influence between these two groups due to overlapping interests in psychoactive substances.
- While there is no concrete evidence linking the CIA directly to the invention of dabs, their research into drug effects certainly contributed to broader knowledge.
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Evolution into Modern Dabs:
- Over decades, extraction techniques have evolved significantly.
- Modern methods involve closed-loop systems and supercritical CO2 extraction, resulting in highly purified concentrates like shatter, wax, and crumble.
- Understanding What is THCa can help you appreciate how these modern concentrates maintain high levels of cannabinoids without degradation.
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Cultural Impact:
- Dabbing has become a popular method for consuming cannabis due to its potency and quick onset effects.
- It’s especially favored among medical users who require high doses for relief from chronic conditions.
In summary, while psychedelic surf smugglers may have kickstarted the journey towards creating dabs with some possible unintentional help from CIA-funded research, it’s clear that this evolution has shaped contemporary cannabis culture profoundly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Question: Who were the Brotherhood of Eternal Love?
Answer: Surfers smuggling hashish and psychedelics in the 1960s-70s.
Question: What did the Brotherhood aim to spread?
Answer: Peace, love, and higher consciousness.
Question: What early extraction methods did the Brotherhood use?
Answer: Alcohol or butane to extract THC-rich resin.
Question: What does “dabbing” refer to?
Answer: Vaporizing concentrated cannabis extracts on a hot surface.
Question: Was the CIA directly involved in inventing dabs?
Answer: No direct evidence links CIA to dabs’ invention.
Question: How have extraction techniques evolved over time?
Answer: From rudimentary methods to closed-loop systems and CO2 extraction.
Question: Why is dabbing popular among medical users?
Answer: High potency and quick onset effects for chronic conditions.
Helpful Links:
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Brotherhood of Eternal Love:
- Wikipedia: Brotherhood of Eternal Love – A comprehensive overview of the group known for their involvement in psychedelic smuggling and cannabis culture.
- Rolling Stone: The Brotherhood of Eternal Love – An article detailing the history and influence of this iconic group.
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Early Extraction Methods:
- Leafly: History of Cannabis Concentrates – A detailed look at the evolution of cannabis extraction techniques from early methods to modern practices.
- High Times: A Brief History Of Cannabis Extracts – Insight into how early extraction methods paved the way for today’s concentrates.
Callout: Did you know? The term “dabbing” refers to the act of vaporizing concentrated cannabis extracts on a hot surface!
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CIA’s Involvement:
- History.com: MK-Ultra – Information on CIA’s MK-Ultra project which experimented with psychedelics, contributing indirectly to broader drug knowledge.
- The Guardian: MK-Ultra and Psychedelic Research – Exploration of how CIA’s experiments may have influenced underground drug cultures.
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Evolution into Modern Dabs:
- Weedmaps: What are Cannabis Concentrates? – Breakdown of modern concentrate types and extraction methods.
- Leafly: What is THCa? – Understanding THCa, a key component in high-quality dabs.
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Cultural Impact:
- Forbes: The Rise Of Dabbing In Cannabis Culture – Examination of how dabbing has reshaped cannabis consumption trends.
- Medical News Today: Benefits and Risks of Dabbing – Analysis on why medical users prefer dabs and potential health implications.
Definition:
- Psychedelic Surf Smugglers: Individuals involved in the illegal transportation of psychedelic substances, often associated with surf culture.
- CIA: The Central Intelligence Agency, a U.S. government agency responsible for intelligence and national security.
- Dabs: Concentrated doses of cannabis that are made by extracting THC and other cannabinoids using a solvent like butane or carbon dioxide, resulting in a sticky oil or wax-like substance.