Zahara Guide to Halloweed

In the season of pumpkins, costumes, and delightfully eerie tales that send shivers down your spine, what if you could take your Halloween movie nights to the next level? From silly to mind-bending thrillers, these films offer the perfect blend of chills, thrills, and, of course, those intense moments that only seem to intensify when you’re under the influence. Whether you’re a seasoned stoner or just looking to celebrate the season with some plant medicine, this is your guide to our top 5 Halloween movies that take on a whole new dimension when viewed through the haze of the mind-altering herb. So, roll one up, dim the lights, and let’s explore the must-watch Halloween movies for an elevated experience!

Based right here in Massachusetts, Hocus Pocus tells a whimsical story of Salem’s haunted history. The Sanderson Sisters’ comedic antics, enhanced by your altered state, take on an even zanier charm. Binx the cat’s wisdom becomes profound, and the spooky shenanigans become a surreal, laughter-filled escapade. With every cackle and spell, you’ll find yourself enchanted by a journey into Halloween magic.

“Beetlejuice” is a surreal descent into the absurd and the afterlife. As the strange and supernatural unfold, the bizarre antics of Beetlejuice take on an extra layer of wild humor. The strange marriage of the living and the dead becomes a kaleidoscope of weirdness, offering a trippy, laughter-filled journey into the macabre, perfect for an uplifted state of mind.

Watching the original “Halloweentown” movie while high is an otherworldly experience with the whimsical town and its enchanting characters coming to life in vivid troves of colors. Marnie’s magical journey takes on a new dimension, and the spooktacular adventures become an intoxicating, delightful escapade, turning this classic into a bewitching, mind-bending delight for the senses.

An original darkly delightful experience, the “Addams Family” movies eccentric family’s morbid antics and peculiar charm take on an extra layer of absurdity. Every quirky moment and twisted turn becomes a psychedelic rollercoaster of humor and oddity. It’s a mind-bending journey into the delightfully eerie world of the Addams Family, tailor-made for an altered state of mind.

The original “IT” movie is a chilling rollercoaster through the eerie streets of Derry; but when high, Pennywise’s malevolence feels more sinister, and the Losers Club’s fear becomes palpable. As the terror unfolds, your heightened senses amplify the horror, making the red balloons and unsettling transformations all the more spine-tingling. It’s a nerve-wracking, mind-bending descent into the depths of fear.

As the credits roll and the final exhale of smoke dissipates, it’s clear that Halloween movies and cannabis make for a perfect pair. These five films have taken us on a journey from haunted towns through the realms of the afterlife. Each one, with its unique charm and eerie allure, promises an unforgettable experience when enjoyed with a little extra “spirit.” Whether you’re seeking thrills, laughter, or a twist on the traditional, remember that these films, when viewed through the lens of cannabis, offer an adventure like no other. So, this spooky season, let your imagination run wild, and let the cannabis-infused movie magic begin!

Halloween, the spookiest holiday of the year, is just around the corner! Whether you’re attending a Halloween party, trick-or-treating, or just looking to get into the festive spirit, choosing the right costume can make all the difference. In 2023, some exciting and creative costume trends are taking center stage. Let’s dive into out top 10 Halloween costumes of 2023 and get inspired for this year’s costume contest at Zaharafest on October 28th!

Whether you’re stereotypical Barbie, dance party Barbie, or weird Barbie, this iconic movie has provided quite a few costumes for everyone to rock this Halloween. But for 2023, we think weird Barbie is the supreme look for this Halloween season with this painted hot pink puffy dress and yellow snakeprint socks from Amazon! Don’t forget to draw all over your face and mess up your hair to complete the look.

Evoke suspense and intrigue in M3gan’s hauntingly stylish persona with this costume set from Amazon, mirroring her sleek, enigmatic allure. With an air of mystery, you’ll embody the character’s chilling charisma, bringing the suspense of the silver screen to life. Your costume will be a haunting reminder that some mysteries are best left unsolved, adding an eerie twist to the Halloween festivities.

Tap into your Kenergy with a fashion-forward, Ken-inspired look. Whether you’re grooving on the dance floor, or striking a pose in your Mojo Dojo Casa House, no Ken-inspired costume is complete without the faux Minx coat, two pairs of sunglasses, and lightning headband. We found this Ken costume set on Amazon that would match perfectly with a pair of black joggers and running shoes to complete the look.

Join the Addams Family for a spooky soirée and watch as your Halloween night takes a delightfully sinister turn. Slip into a gothic style black dress with a white collar shirt like this one from Amazon, and Wednesdays’ signature braids for the irresistible charm that’s both eerie and alluring. Accentuate her morbid humor with a deadpan expression and some dry humor to match.

Don this shimmering mermaids-tail skirt and white seashell-looking top, completing the look with flowing red hair and a daring spirit. As Ariel, embrace the spirit of adventure and let your voice be heard as you bring the beloved character to life. As Ariel, you’ll capture the enchantment of the ocean and the allure of the human world!

This Halloween, unleash the chilling aura of Jigsaw from Saw X. You’ll become the embodiment of psychological horror, testing the boundaries with partygoers with twisted riddles and eerie traps. With the unmistakable puppet mask, paired with a tuxedo and red bowtie set from Amazon, the thrill of Jigsaw’s terror will linger long after the Halloween night concludes.

Embrace the magic of Swift’s iconic costumes from her various eras – from sparkling country looks to dazzling pop outfits. For 2023, we think this We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together music video inspired pajama set from Etsy is the way to go this Halloween. Sing your heart out, strike a post, and let your inner swiftie shine!

Step into the limelight and recreate Rihanna’s show-stopping look from her legendary Super Bowl LVII performance. You’ll embody power and confidence while rocking this red jumpsuit and red puffy jacket from Amazon, matched with a bright, red sneaker to complete the look.

It’s-a-me, Mario! Get ready to level up your Halloween with these Mario or Luigi (or as a dynamic duo with your partner!) costumes from the Super Mario Brothers movie, donning the iconic red and green overalls, caps, and mustaches! Embrace the adventurous spirit of the famous plumbers with teamwork, humor, and a touch of nostalgia!

With the anticipation of Priscilla Pressley’s movie autobiography, reminisce on the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll by dressing in the iconic signature style of Elvis. With a bedazzled jumpsuit and aviator glasses from Amazon, channel his magnetic stage presence and unforgettable charisma as you bring the legend back to life! Elvis’s timeless appeal and electrifying energy will make your costume a hit, leaving everyone All Shook Up and celebrating the spirit of the music icon for Halloween!

Whether you choose to embrace the spooky, the glamorous, or the downright hilarious, the key is to have fun and express your creativity. These top 10 costume ideas are just a starting point, and the perfect costume for you might be something entirely different and unique. So, as Halloween approaches, start planning, get creative, and enjoy the process of transforming yourself into someone or something else for a night of spooky fun and celebration!

Cannabis has been gaining attention for its potential role in the treatment of various medical conditions, including several types of cancer. Breast cancer, one of the most common and devastating forms of cancer among women, has been at the forefront of this search since the 1990s. While cannabis is by no means a miracle elixir, it’s essential to explore its current state as a potential treatment for breast cancer and the progress being made in this field.

Before delving into the cannabis research, it’s imperative to understand breast cancer. Breast cancer develops when cells in the breast tissue grow abnormally, and can be influenced by genetic, hormonal, or environmental factors. Early detection and treatment are key to improving survival rates, but current therapies, like chemo- and hormone therapy, often come with severe side effects.

Cannabis contains over 100 cannabinoids, with the two primary compounds being cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Some research shows that the activation of CB receptors by cannabinoids in the endocannabinoid system can aid as an antitumorigenic (NIH Source). However, researchers are still exploring how these compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system:
THC: May alleviate pain by reducing chemotherapy-induced nausea, stimulating appetite, and has been displayed as potentially inhibiting cancer cell growth in preclinical studies.
CBD: May provide relief for breast cancer patients by reducing pain, anxiety, and inflammation. While research is ongoing, CBD’s potential benefits make it a topic of interest in the management of breast cancer symptoms and side effects.

While promising, cannabis research for breast cancer is still in its early stages, since research on the topic didn’t begin until the 90s. Several clinical trials and studies are underway by organizations like the American College of Physicians and the National Cancer Institute, to better understand the potential benefits and risks. Some notable developments include:

• Phase I/II Clinical Trials: These trials are evaluating the safety and efficacy of cannabinoid-based treatments for advanced breast cancer. Here, researchers are focusing on specific formulations and dosages, and how safe the treatment is.
• Combination Therapies: Researchers are investigating how cannabis compounds can complement existing breast cancer treatments, potentially enhancing their effectiveness while reducing side effects.
• Hormone Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer: Some studies are exploring the interaction between cannabinoids and hormone receptors in breast cancer cells, particularly in hormone receptor-positive cases.

While cannabis shows promise, several challenges and considerations must be addressed:

• Lack of Standardization: Cannabis strains vary widely in their chemical composition, making it challenging to determine which strains are most effective for breast cancer treatment.
• Regulatory Hurdles: Due to conflicting federal and state cannabis regulations, researchers may not be able to access products that are legal in their state. Legal and regulatory restrictions leave researchers to navigate a complex landscape of laws and regulations.
• Safety and Side Effects: The long-term safety of cannabis as a treatment for breast cancer is not well understood, and the combination of cannabis and prescribed cancer treatments requires careful monitoring of side effects by a doctor.

The current state of cannabis research as a potential treatment for breast cancer is filled with promise and potential. While there’s still much to learn through research, preliminary findings suggest that cannabis compounds may offer benefits in managing symptoms, alleviating pain, and potentially influencing cancer cells. However, patients and healthcare providers should approach cannabis with caution, seeking guidance from medical professionals and staying informed about the latest research developments. With ongoing studies and increased awareness, we may one day unlock the full potential of cannabis in the fight against breast cancer.