cannabis oilsCategoriesBenefits of Cannabis Cannabis Concentrates Education
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All You Need to Know About Cannabis Oils

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Cannabis oils are a concentrated form of the cannabis plant. All cannabis oils and concentrates are derived directly from fresh flower that has been put through an extraction process in order to produce the desired potency and consistency.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”26676″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text]

Oils versus Flower

The typical range of potency in cannabis flower is between 14% reaching up to 30% in some cases. Most strains fall around the 16-20% THC mark, making it a solid option. For customers looking for something more potent, however, cannabis oils are the best choice. As cannabis oil is a concentrated form of cannabinoids, which have been stripped from the flower and processed, these products can have THC levels ranging from 60% up to 90%. This results in a product that is 4-6x more potent than flower!

Types of Oils

There are various cannabis oil products on the market currently including phoenix tears (also known as Rick Simpson Oil / RSO), clear distillates, vape pen oil, CBD oil and more. Depending on the production method, these oils are derived using different types of extraction processes and solvents to produce the desired effects. [/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”26679″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row content_placement=”top”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Butane Hash Oil (Honey Oil)
Butane Hash Oil, also known as BHO or Honey Oil, is a potent concentrate that can come in oil, budder, shatter and wax consistencies. It is so named for the use of butane throughout the extraction process.
CO2 Oil
CO2 extraction is another method that uses CO2, as opposed to butane, to strip cannabinoids from the plant. This is considered a “green solvent” and is still new to the industry. The resulting concentrates can range from oil, budder, shatter and wax consistencies but do not retain the same terpene profile as butane processes.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Rick Simpson Oil / Phoenix Tears
Rick Simpson Oil is typically a full spectrum oil that uses all of the plant matter and contains high levels of THC, typically around 50-60% and 10-15% CBD. True Rick Simpson Oil is typically a combination oil whereas Phoenix Tears tend to be pure THC.
CBD Oil
Similar to the above products, CBD oil is a potent and pure product where CBD is the main component instead of THC. CBD oil has proven beneficial for reducing seizures, managing pain and boosting mood and is typically derived from hemp versus Indica or Sativa cannabis strains. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Most cannabis oils will also be combined with a carrier oil, such as MCT (coconut oil), olive oil, hemp oil or grapeseed oil. These carrier oils are a necessary component that help the body to absorb the concentrated cannabis.

How to Dose

It is estimated that cannabis oil is a 6:1 ratio when compared to dry flower – essentially, this means every 6 ml of oil is equivalent to 1 gram of flower. As a result, most patients will find relief with a daily dose of 0.5 to 1.5 ml of THC cannabis oil. However, if you are brand new to cannabis oil, the effects will be much stronger and you may only need 0.25ml.
Of course, this can be adjusted if you have more severe symptoms one day or if you are not getting the necessary relief from the suggested dose. However, it is important to allow the oil time to be absorbed, so do not re-dose until at least 4 hours have passed to ensure you give it a chance to work.
While cannabis oil takes longer to work than smoking a joint, the effects also last longer and can provide all-day relief.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”26680″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text]

Benefits of Cannabis Oil

Given the high concentrations of cannabinoids found in THC or CBD cannabis oil, it is a very potent option for patients seeking relief. Depending on which type of oil you have chosen, you may see different benefits. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

Benefits of THC Oil

THC is a very potent property that provides a multitude of benefits including:

  • Reduces inflammation by controlling the immune response
  • Releases neurotransmitters to improve mood and manage mood disorders
  • Stimulates appetite through the release of the hormone “ghrelin”
  • Reduces oxidative stress in the cells to prevent cell death
  • Reduces the production of amyloid – a protein linked to Alzheimer’s

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Benefits of CBD Oil

CBD is another popular cannabinoid that produces little to no psychoactive effects, but has a host of medical benefits including:

  • Reduces inflammation by controlling the immune response
  • Relieves mild, moderate and even severe pain
  • Reduces depression by increasing serotonin production
  • Reduces anxiety by managing blood flow and brain activity
  • Reduces seizures by managing GABA, a hormone linked to seizures and heightened excitability in the brain

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Compassion Concentrates

All concentrates manufactured at Compassion Concentrates (including our shatter, live resin, edibles, clear distillate and phoenix tears) are produced using butane extraction (versus alcohol or CO2) to strip the desired components from the plant. This process filters butane through plant material to separate the cannabinoids, terpenes and trichomes from the plant itself. This particular extraction method is known to produce some of the strongest concentrates on the market and also preserves the terpene profiles to result in extremely flavorful concentrates.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Mother of CannabinoidsCategoriesCannabis Terpenes Education
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Meet CBG-A: The Mother of Cannabinoids

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Cannabis is comprised of various elements from cannabinoids to terpenes to flavonoids. When it comes to cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, they make up a large portion of the cannabis plant. In higher quality strains, the THC content can be 25-30%! However, THC and CBD are not the only cannabinoids that can be found in the cannabis plant. In fact, there are estimated to be dozens, maybe even hundreds, of these elements.
While THC and CBD are the two most well-known cannabinoids, there is another that should be taken note of: CBG-A, which is sometimes referred to as the “mother of all cannabinoids”.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”26657″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text]

What is CBG-A?

Cannabigerol (CBG) or cannabigerolic acid (CBG-A) is a minor cannabinoid that actually plays a major role throughout the cannabis plant. In fact, CBG-A is the chemical catalyst for both of the popular cannabinoids – THC and CBD! When heat is applied to CBG-A through the process of decarboxylation, it changes the structure of the cannabinoid, resulting in the neutral form of CBG (as well as THC, CBD, CBC), which then become “active” compounds. The genetics of the strain itself are what determines the conversion to either THC or CBD.
CBG-A is known as the “mother of all cannabinoids” due to this phenomenon and is often converted into another form before ingestion even takes place. This is why it may be minor in regard to concentration levels when smoked, but is still a vitally important cannabinoid.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row content_placement=”top”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

Benefits of CBG-A

Beyond its incredible affect on cannabinoids, CBG on its own is a non-intoxicating and non-psychoactive component with various medical qualities.
According to a 2009 study, it was proven that CBG can lower intraocular eye pressure, making it a potent treatment for individuals suffering from glaucoma.
Another study, published in 2011, found several other benefits for CBG including antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties as well as antidepressant potential. This study also concluded that CBG can benefit those suffering from anxiety and muscular tension as it helps to inhibit the uptake of GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid), a neurotransmitter. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”26658″ img_size=”large” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]This amazing cannabinoid is also believed to benefit individuals with psoriasis by inhibiting growth of the offending skin cells, as well as promoting appetite, lowering blood pressure and also decreasing inflammation – particularly associated with inflammatory bowel disease.
A more recent 2015 study shows promise for CBG against Huntington’s Disease as it has a unique ability to protect neurons. And – if that isn’t impressive enough – it was also shown to block receptors that cause cancer cell growth in a study the year before.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”26661″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text]

Strains High in CBG-A

As CBG-A converts to THC-A and CBD-A and then later THC and CBD, it is hard to find high quantities of this cannabinoid. While hard to find, they are not entirely rare. Here are a couple strains that are found to be high in CBG / CBG-A.
Williams Wonder
William’s Wonder is a well-known legend as it is a rare, 100% pure Indica. This strain has been around since the 1980s offering users great taste and high potency with THC levels of 20-25%. Unique to William’s Wonder, it also has a high CBG potenty of around 30%.
Exodus Cheese
Exodus Cheese is a Sativa-dominant strain that is a cross between Skunk and Cheese. It packs quite a punch with THC levels reaching up to 18%. This strain is quite potent with a skunky, cheesy aroma and flavor.
Destroyer
Destroyer is a rare 100% pure Sativa strain that was created by crossing a Meao Thai with a Mexican x Colombian strain. This strain is a destroyer of stress and bad moods and can help alleviate pain and depression. This strain has lower THC at 10-15%, but is known for having higher concentrations of CBG.
With the interest growing in the benefits of this cannabinoid, we may very well see CBG oils and tinctures on the market soon![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

CategoriesCannabis Terpenes Education
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Cannabis Terpenes 101: What is Beta Caryophyllene?

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]So far we have discussed several different terpenes including Limonene, Cineole and Delta 3 Carene but it doesn’t stop there! In fact, there are hundreds of different kinds of these aromatic components that exist within cannabis plants. The next terpene in our series is Beta Caryophyllene, which is sometimes referred to as the “cancer fighting terpene”. [/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”26641″ img_size=”large” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text]

Lesson in Beta Caryophyllene

Beta Caryophyllene is found not only in cannabis, but also in hops, black pepper and even rosemary. This terpene works similar to CBD in that it only targets the CB2 receptors, and therefore does not produce a psychoactive component.

Benefits of Beta Caryophyllene

Often touted as a “cancer fighting terpene”, Beta Caryophyllene is a powerful component that has dozens of amazing benefits! [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row content_placement=”top”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

1. May Prevent Cancer

The first, as mentioned, is that Beta Caryophyllene can help inhibit tumor growth when used in conjunction with a high fat diet. It is also believed, if oxidized, that Beta Caryophyllene can not only inhibit growth of cancer cells but also induce self-destruction of those cells.

2. Improves Metabolism and Mitochondrial Function

Mitochondria, as you may remember from High School science, is the powerhouse of the cell – meaning it helps to manage many functions at a cellular level. Beta Caryophyllene has been shown to help improve these functions to produce results including increased longevity, improved metabolism and stress management. This is particularly beneficial to individuals that suffer from anxiety or chronic stress, as proven in 2014 study.

3. Protects Against Neurodegeneration

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”26642″ img_size=”large” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Another impressive quality of Beta Caryophyllene is its ability to protect against neurodegeneration. One of the ways that this is possible is the potent anti-inflammatory properties of this terpene, which help to reduce neuroinflammation and relieve stress on the cells, therefore reducing oxidative stress, which can break down cell structure. This is particularly beneficial to individuals suffering from Parkinson’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis or age-related illness such as Alzheimer’s. In addition, it can help reduce leaky blood-brain barrier, which can occur after a stroke.

4. Reduces Pain

Reducing pain is a common benefit with many cannabis compounds, such as THC, CBD and other terpenes. Beta Caryophyllene is no different being a potent anti-inflammatory agent itself! This is a great benefit for individuals suffering from Multiple Sclerosis, Inflammatory Bowel Disease and arthritis or pain from injury.
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Strains High In Beta Caryophyllene

While THC and CBD are responsible for producing several key benefits, and regulating the absorption of cannabinoids into the endocannabinoid system, terpenes also provide many benefits. This helps consumers to choose the most ideal strain depending on what result you are looking for – whether it is pain relief, inflammation reduction or even to help reduce tumor growth.
The benefits of Beta Caryophyllene are vast, and there are a few strains that are known to have a higher amount of this terpene including:
OG Kush
OG Kush is a Sativa-dominant hybrid that produces balanced effects. This strain can be a hard-hitter that combines extreme happiness and euphoria with powerful physical relaxation. As a result, OG Kush is ideal for managing stress and anxiety and is commonly used to treat Alzheimer’s Disease, depression, bipolar disorder and chronic pain.
Bubba Kush
Bubba Kush is pure Indica strain that produces an potent body high that will leave you couch locked. With an earthy and sweet taste and piney scent, this strain will help to wash your stress away. It is praised for being able to alleviate insomnia, depression, stress and/or ADD/ADHD.
Chemdawg
A near-even hybrid, Chemdawg delivers on both cerebral and physical fronts. The clear cerebral high helps promote creativity alongside a sleepy body high that battles insomnia and helps to relax tense muscles. This strain has a spicy and piney taste that helps melt anxiety and pain. This strain helps to produce Sour Diesel, which is also high in Beta Caryophyllene.
Rockstar
Rockstar is an Indica-dominant hybrid (not to be confused with Rockstar OG or Rockstar Kush). This is the parent of the Rockstar strains and boasts moderate THC content that can help with improving mood and relaxing the body – without leaving you sedated. This strain is favored for insomnia as well as managing muscle spasms and tremors.
Skywalker OG
Skywalker OG is an 85% Indica-dominant strain that has THC levels that can reach up to 25%. A spicy, herbal scent is combined with a diesel taste in this strain to produce a very heavy high that leaves users relaxed and couch locked with a pleasant euphoria and strong case of the munchies![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

What is Delta 3 CareneCategoriesCannabis Terpenes Education
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Cannabis Terpenes 101: What is Delta 3 Carene?

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Another in our cannabis terpenes series is Delta 3 Carene. Unlike THC and CBD, which are cannabinoids that occur in large amounts in the cannabis plant – up to 30% THC in some cases – terpenes are not found in as high quantities. In fact, most cannabis plants have less than 2% terpene content. That makes the influence of terpenes all the more impressive when you consider how much it affects aromas of particular strains, as well as the medical benefits.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”26624″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text]

Lesson in Delta 3 Carene

Delta 3 Carene is not exclusive to cannabis. In fact, this terpene can be found in basil, bell peppers, cedar and pine trees and even rosemary. This terpene has a cedaresq aroma, but actually has a taste that resembles lemon.

Benefits of Delta 3 Carene

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Often referred to as the bone-repairing terpene, Delta 3 Carene has some very potent medical qualities. This is largely due to the potent anti-inflammatory properties exhibited by this terpene.
Anecdotal evidence and research shows us that Delta 3 Carene can actually boost bone healing for a quicker recovery. This is largely beneficial for individuals suffering from arthritis, bursitis, fibromyalgia and researchers are hopeful it can benefit individuals battling osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. This can also prove beneficial from anyone recovering from malnutrition.
While extremely impressive, bone healing is not the only benefit presented by Delta 3 Carene. This powerful terpene is also able to:

  • Relieve acute inflammation, such as with arthritis or fibromyalgia
  • Increase bone growth and bone repair, especially in cases of malnutrition or injury
  • Stimulate memory to help improve retention – good news for Alzheimer’s patients!

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Strains High In Delta 3 Carene

Arjan’s Ultra Haze
A Sativa-dominant strain that has won top 3 in the High Times Cannabis Cup on four separate occasions for best Sativa. The effects of this strain are deeply introspective and motivational and can be great for fighting fatigue as well as chronic pain, stress and even appetite loss.
Super Lemon Haze
Super Lemon Haze is another award-winning Sativa-dominant strain. This is a Washington original that won in the Medical Sativa category at the 2014 Seattle Cannabis Cup. This strain is a combination of Lemon Skunk and Super Silver Hazy and produces a peppy cerebral high with increased energy and creativity.
Skunk #1
This strain boasts a decidedly skunky aroma (hence the name) and moderate THC levels. As an Indica-dominant strain, Skunk #1 is best for evening use. It generates an energetic cerebral high with deep body relaxation.
Super Silver Haze
Super Silver Haze is a Sativa-dominant strain with a smooth and sweet taste that resembles peaches. This strain produces potent effects with a body-oriented buzz that promotes rest and relaxation.
If you are looking for a memory boost, or have an injury you want to heal quickly, Delta 3 Carene is definitely a terpene to try![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

What is CineoleCategoriesCannabis Terpenes Education
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Cannabis Terpenes 101: What is Cineole?

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Cannabis is composed of several amazing compounds, the two most important of which are cannabinoids and terpenes. Most cannabis smokers are familiar with cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, which produce the coveted experience and medical benefits reaped from cannabis. The other important compound are terpenes, which are responsible for giving strains their unique aroma – as well as providing other benefits. [/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”26596″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text]

Lesson in Cineole

We have previously discussed Limonene, but that is only one of many common terpenes. Another is Cineole, which is also known as Eucalyptol. This is due to cineole being commonly found in the eucalyptus plant. This terpene is responsible for the unique smell of the eucalyptus plant, but also exhibits hints of rosemary and fresh mint.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”26601″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Benefits of Cineole

Beyond the stimulating and relaxing scent, cineole has many other benefits. In fact, it is commonly referred to as the “memory-enhancing terpene”. In fact, this terpene is believed to be able to reduce symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease! According to one study, cineol was found to decrease inflammation caused by amyloid beta plaques, which are believed to be the cause of Alzheimer’s disease.
Cineole also has several other benefits, which include:

  • Powerful anti-inflammatory effects
  • Ability to reduce swelling
  • Can increase the effect of cannabinoids by assisting them with crossing the blood/brain barrier
  • Improves memory and concentration
  • Increases mental and physical energy

Another study done by the Natural Health Research Institute, found a positive correlation was found between cineole levels and the participants cognitive abilities. In addition, cineole was found to be an effective treatment for asthma due to the terpenes potent anti-inflammatory properties. A 2012 study in the Journal of Asthma provides further proof of this by showing how cineole can improve lung function and reduce dyspnea in asthma patients.

Strains High in Cineole

This terpene is bound to improve your smoking experience while assisting with several mental facets. Apart from rosemary and eucalyptus, cineole (eucalyptol) is also commonly found in cannabis. A few strains that have high levels of this particular terpene are:[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row content_placement=”top”][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Super Silver Haze
Super Silver Haze is a Sativa dominant strain that results in an energetic and long-lasting body high. The effects are ideal for individuals battling high stress levels or those suffering from a lack of appetite or nausea.
Bubba Kush
Bubba Kush is a 100% Indica strain, which produces a potent and relaxing body high that will leave you couch locked. This is a predominantly nighttime strain that is favored for its ability to alleviate insomnia, depression, stress and ADD/ADHD. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”26602″ img_size=”full”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Girl Scout Cookies
Girl Scout Cookies is a 40:60 Indica-dominant hybrid. The mix of Sativa and Indica genetics provides the best of both worlds to produce a powerful, happy and euphoric high accompanied by couch-lock body effects and sedation. Ideal for treating anxiety, stress, depression and even appetite disorders, this strain is a great option for many medical patients.
Headband
Headband is a 60% Indica-dominant strain named after its famed cerebral effects. This strain delivers a strong blend of creativity and euphoria but can result in spaciness, which may hinder productivity. This strain is a great choice for individuals suffering from chronic pain and anxiety.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

CategoriesCannabis Terpenes Education
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Cannabis Terpenes 101: What is Limonene?

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Cannabis is comprised of many components including cannabinoids (such as THC and CBD), terpenes and flavonoids. Terpenes are produced from the resin glands in cannabis, as well as fruits, flowers and various other plants. These terpenes are what give particular cannabis strains their unique aroma – but, that’s not all they do![/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”26591″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text]

Lesson in Limonene

Let’s take a look at limonene, which is a fairly popular terpene found in a variety of strains.
As the name suggests, limonene is a terpene with a particularly citrustry aroma. This terpene is common in citrus fruits and fruit rinds, cleaning products and even cosmetics. Limonene is not only responsible for giving particular strains their unique smell, but it has other benefits as well.

Benefits of Limonene

Besides the aromatic citrustry scent produced by this terpene, it has a variety of other benefits as well. The unique terpene benefits are part of what gives each cannabis strain their particular medical properties.
Limonene, in particular, is known for the following effects:

  • Boosts mood
  • Relieves stress
  • Powerful anti-inflammatory properties
  • Antifungal properties
  • Antibacterial properties
  • Can help cure cancer, according to a 2015 study shows the effects on breast cancer
  • Potential to help with heartburn and gastric reflux
  • Helps the body assimilate other terpenes and cannabinoids

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Strains High In Limonene

Unlike THC which can occur in amounts of 14% to 25% in cannabis plants, terpenes do not carry the same biomass and are typically found in trace amounts of under 2%. These levels can vary from harvest-to-harvest depending on various environmental and growth factors, same as with THC.
While not found in large amounts, limonene is concentrated enough to give the following strains their particular citrusy aroma, as well as playing a role in the effects.
Super Lemon Haze
Super Lemon Haze is a Sativa-dominant strain that produces a heady and uplifted cerebral high, resulting in creativity, energy and euphoria. The effects from this strain make it an excellent tool for battling depression, fatigue, anxiety, chronic pain and even nausea.
Durban Poison
Durban Poison is a pure Sativa strain that has a potent and happy head high perfect running daytime errands or if you need a creative boost. As a result, this strain is effective for managing depression, anxiety, chronic pain and even nausea.
Jack Herer
Jack Herer is another Sativa strain that produces distinctive cerebral effects. Jack Herer is ideal for errands and daytime activities and can make the user feel happy, bubbly and euphoric while also spurring energy and creativity. This strain is most effective for managing bipolar disorder, anxiety, migraines, PTSD and ADHD.
Sour Diesel
Sour Diesel is a 90% Sativa-dominant strain that produces an invigorating cerebral high. The effects are very potent, making this an ideal wake-and-bake flower. Sour Diesel is sure to spark creativity, provide energy and boost mood, giving you your best day! As a result, this strain is excellent at relieving anxiety, depression and fatigue.
OG Kush
OG Kush is a near perfect hybrid with a 55:45 Sativa/Indica ratio. This strain produces an intense cerebral euphoria before melting you into your sofa. The Sativa effects are ideal for managing depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety while the body effects are great for relieving pain.
If you are looking for a boost in mood or relief from stress, heartburn or even cancer, try a strain high in limonene and start getting relief today![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]