Vaping nicotine has become the most common type of substance use among young people, according to a long-term national study headed by University of Michigan researchers.
For the past four years, nicotine vaping has surpassed alcohol and cannabis use among eighth-graders, said Richard Miech, principal investigator of the Monitoring the Future Study.
In 2022, 7% of eighth graders had vaped nicotine in the past 30 days as compared with 6% who used alcohol and 5% who used cannabis. In 2021, the numbers were tied between nicotine vaping and alcohol use among 10th graders, said Miech, but in 2022, nicotine vaping grew among that group.
“It’s the first time we’ve seen both eighth and 10th grade where nicotine vaping beats all other forms of substance use,” said Miech.
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Vaping Spiked In 2018-09
Nicotine vaping was first added to the Monitoring the Future study, which started nearly a half-century ago, in 2017 and spiked in 2018 and 2019, the most notable increase of any substance use throughout the history of the study.
“These were the largest increases we’ve ever seen in 48 years for any substance that we’ve ever tracked,” Miech said.
In 2019, then Michigan’s Chief Medical Executive declared a public health emergency over the increase in teen e-cigarette use. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s administration was the first in the nation to undertake to deal with the increase.
In 2020, tobacco vaping plateaued among young people and dropped in 2021 and 2022 as did the prevalence of alcohol and cannabis use. The dip occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic when students were attending school remotely, Miech said.
“School is a pretty big risk factor for substance use,” said Miech. “That’s where the older kids are who use substances and encourage the younger kids to use them and that’s where you can get substances from your schoolmates.”
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Another explanation is the vaping brand JUUL, which has been accused of marketing to children by making the flavors attractive to young people, such as bubble gum, mint and chocolate.
“The U.S. has banned such flavors in cigarettes, specifically because they attract children,” said Miech. “In 2018 and 2019, no such bans on flavors in vaping devices were in place. Nowadays, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) is working on enforcing such a ban for vaping products, although you can walk into any gas station or drug store and see all kinds of vaping flavors remain readily available.”
While there are no written rules for smoking weed, common courtesy and respect will go a long way.
Whether you are a guest or a host, there are some important rules of smoking weed that should always be followed. Here, we take a look at the most common rules that should apply when enjoying cannabis in a social setting.
Experienced smokers may already have these rules down pat, but for the new smokers out there, it is important to be aware of weed etiquette. Before joining any smoking circle, be sure to go over these tips so you can enjoy a positive social experience.
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Share and Share Some More
This is perhaps one of the essential week smoking etiquette tips you should follow. If you are invited into a smoking circle, it is always common to bring some cannabis and contribute. If you take time to consider the cost of marijuana, it can be costly to share with others, and the price can quickly add up. When you join in, be sure you add your own to the mix and share with others. Not only will others appreciate the sharing process, but you will benefit in the long run by not always being the supplier in the circle.
Don’t Push Others
In the weeds culture, peer pressure is not acceptable. Not everyone present will want to take part in the process. If you realize that someone has passed a turn, be sure to avoid putting any pressure on them to smoke. Each individual will have different levels of tolerance, and some may meet their threshold faster. Never push anyone to smoke more or to smoke at all if they are not partaking in the smoking circle.
Rights of the Roller
It is a general rule that the person who rolls a joint or packs a bowl will be the first to hit. This will apply even if the roller is not the owner of the weed. Some will be polite and offer the first puff to another, but generally, the roller gets the first hit.
Avoid Germ Sharing
Even though sharing is caring in a smoking circle, never engage if you are feeling ill or have a cold. The last thing you want to do is spread any germs among your fellow smokers. If you want to still be involved, bring your own stash and avoid sharing with others, explaining that you are not feeling well.
Don’t Be a Sinner
Greed is one of the cardinal sins, and it is frowned upon in a smoking circle. Based on stoner etiquette, it is impolite to be greedy with the weed being shared. When smoking a joint, two or three puffs is acceptable, and one or two when smoking a bowl. More than that will break the basic rules of social smoking.
Ask for Help
Not everyone has the same levels of experience, and new smokers may have difficulty rolling or preparing a bowl. If it is your turn, and you are unsure of what to do, ask your peers for help. People understand that it can take time to learn how to roll properly and will be willing to share their expertise.
Left to Right
One commonly followed weed etiquette when smoking in a circle is to always pass from left to right. There is no particular meaning behind this. It is done to make sure that everyone gets their share equally and that no one is ever let out of the circle.
Joining a social weed-smoking event can be an enjoyable experience, and you should always remember to not just be a taker. If you are unable to bring your own cannabis to the party, bring along something else. Adding beverages and food to the mix will make for an enjoyable evening, and your peers will be very thankful for any contribution.
Be Respectful
Never assume that smoking is acceptable in all situations. If you are new to a circle, be sure to ask if there are any limits, especially when it comes to people’s personal space. If you are entering someone’s home, be respectful of all surroundings. Clean up after yourself and watch for any ashes that may land on the floor. Being respectful goes a long way and is one of the major rules of smoking weed with others.
No Torching!
If you are sharing a bowl, the green hit is always the best. Be sure to share this with others. Instead of burning the entire surface when you light up, try to burn only the edges so that others can enjoy a green hit as well.
Other Considerations
While there are no written rules for smoking weed, common courtesy and respect will go a long way. Smoking with friends can be an enjoyable experience, and many stoners prefer to smoke in the company of others. By learning about weed etiquette, you can be sure you will be accepted into a smoking circle and invited back for more.
Clear the Chamber – If using a bong or pipe, always clear the chamber before passing it along. Stale smoke leaves a bad taste and can cause an awful cough, so clear it out before sharing.
No Smoke Blowing – Even if you are among many other smokers, blowing smoke is never accepted. It is general weed etiquette to avoid blowing smoke directly in the face of anyone.
Be Informative – If you bring weed to a group, inform others of the strand. Some smokers prefer Indica over Sativa, and vice versa, so always let people know what you have.
Welcome All to the Group – Using cannabis can be a fun pastime, but many can feel anxious or nervous. If there are new smokers in the circle, make sure they feel welcome and comfortable. Never pass judgment on newbies or those that prefer to pass.
Remove Seeds – If you are bringing weed to the party, be sure it is clean. Take time to remove seeds and any stems. They taste bad when they burn, and they can cause pops and sparks.
Wrapping It Up
By following these tips for weed smoking etiquette, you can reduce any chances of an embarrassing situation and have a great time with your friends. Keep in mind that all circles will be different, and some may have specific rules in place. Be sure you ask about these ahead of time and let others know if you have your own preferences when sharing.
Patients can benefit from the anti-anxiety properties of cannabinoids, as well as its ability to fight depression.
Strokes are one of the top leading causes of death globally. There are three types of strokes: ischemic, hemorrhagic, and transient ischemic. Ischemic strokes are the most common. Stroke survivors are also at risk of suffering long-term disability, though the prognosis and outlook greatly depends on several factors.
Some of the factors that affect the outlook of stroke survivors includes the patient’s age, kind of stroke, treatment, and one’s overall health. Most stroke survivors need to be confined in the hospital for proper rehabilitation and to improve prognosis, and it’s also common for many to require occupational, speech, or physical therapy for some time. Cannabinoids can also help to reduce inflammation in the body to improve healing.
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Now, studies show that cannabis may be beneficial for stroke survivors. Patients can benefit from the anti-anxiety properties of cannabinoids, as well as its ability to fight depression. After all, stroke survivors are prone to suffering from mental health disorders especially depression given the disabilities many of them have to live with.
But a recent study out of Italy revealed that daily consumption ofSativex (nabiximols), a proprietary spray containing THC and CBD, doesn’t result in cardiovascular problems among stroke survivors. Italian researchers analyzed the safety of Sativex among 34 stroke survivors who were suffering from spasticity.
“No cardiovascular treatment-emergent adverse drug effects emerged during nabiximols treatment, namely no significant fluctuation of blood pressure and heart rate, nor ischemic or hemorrhagic events occurred. During nabiximols treatment, self-assessed blood pressure and heart rate did not change compared to the baseline condition,” wrote the researchers. “No patients showed significant acceleration or decrease in heart rate or change in rhythm and none required an additional ECG or cardiological evaluation during the study.”
“These data support the cardiovascular safety of nabiximols,” they concluded.
Meanwhile, another 2022 study revealed that cannabidiol (CBD) is beneficial as post-stroke treatment. “Pretreatment of CBD could ameliorate the stress oxidative in cortex (as center of ischemic damages) and neuronal death in cortex and striatum (as penumbra), which it can be a great achievement,” reads the study.
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How CBD Can Help Stroke Survivors
There are many ways CBD can be utilized by stroke survivors to improve their prognosis and quality of life. It helps stroke patients in numerous ways, including:
Antioxidant properties: Cannabidiol has well-known antioxidant benefits, which come in handy for helping the body get rid of poisonous cells while reducing cellular oxidation. In fact, laboratory studies which date back as far as 1998 show that CBD contains higher antioxidant levels than Vitamins C and E. These make CBD an excellent supplement for improving overall cardiovascular health for stroke survivors.
Since oxidative damage is a hallmark feature of stroke patients, supplementing with CBD can help reduce the damage it causes. The human body relies on antioxidants to help stabilize the free radical levels within the body, thus preventing them from causing further damage.
Anti-inflammatory benefits: Several studies point towards the anti-inflammatory properties of CBD. When the body has too many inflammatory cells especially macrophages and monocytes, it can cause ruptures in the cardiovascular plaques and contribute to the formation of thrombus. All of these greatly increase the risk of strokes occurring. In addition, inflammation lingers in the area where blood clots form in a person who has suffered a stroke. Studies show that CBD is a powerful anti-inflammatory and it also helps to reduce oxidative stress.
Reduce high blood pressure: Anyone who has chronic high blood pressure will have an increased risk of stroke. This is why doctors always treat blood pressure, to prevent the risk for stroke. In addition, stroke survivors who have high blood pressure can suffer from another stroke when this isn’t treated.
Studies show that just 600mg of CBD can help decrease resting blood pressure. Another study shows that CBD may help reduce blood pressure because of its vasodilatory properties, and its ability to widen the blood vessels.
Protect brain cells: When a stroke occurs, this damages neurons. Without proper treatment, neurons can suffer from a lack of food and oxygen, which can cause damage and eventual neuron death. When this occurs, there is long term damage to the nervous system. CBD has been proven useful for supporting neuron health, most especially in its ability to support calcium ion handling, which nerves need to send electrical impulses, as well as neuron metabolism.
Improve blood flow to the brain: Poor blood flow to the brain causes ischemic strokes. This is why patients of ischemic strokes need to work on improving blood flow to the brain, preventing any more damage or the risk for another stroke. CBD can help with this most especially because of its terpene content. Several terpenes have been shown to improve cerebral blood flow, most especially borneol, eucalyptol, and caryophyllene oxide.
CBD itself can help improve cerebral blood flow because it helps to modulate serotonin receptors, which assist in the regulation of blood that enters the brain.
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Conclusion
If you or a loved one has suffered from a stroke and would like to explore the benefits of CBD for recovery, be sure to talk to your doctor. There are many ways you can medicate with CBD but it’s important to consume CBD in its most high-quality and pure from to reduce the risk of any contaminations. For example, CBD isolate and hemp oil contains the highest amount of antioxidants.
Talk to your physician to determine the best way to integrate CBD with traditional therapies, which can often be the best way to recover from strokes. CBD is not a cure-all, though it can work best with other remedies.
Kids and toddlers exposed to cannabis can have adverse reactions to the drug, including trouble walking, talking, and even breathing.
One of the biggest and most unexpected concerns that has appeared in the wake of marijuana legalization is the fact that kids are very into edibles. These products have historically come in packages that are eye-catching and fun, imitating popular brands and becoming the perfect vehicle for kids to get accidentally high.
A new study shows that more and more children are stumbling upon these edibles. So much so, that in only five short years, the number of children exposed to cannabis by way of edibles rose 1,375%! It’s a dangerous thing and one that parents should be on the lookout for.
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The study, published in the journal Pediatrics, found that accidental exposure to marijuana made up more than 40% of poison exposure calls to poison centers across the US — just in 2020 alone.
Between 2017 and 2021, there were over 7,040 exposures to cannabis edibles in kids; in 2017 there were 207 cases reported, while in 2021 there were over 3,054.
While doctors are aware of the rising trend, they were still surprised by the magnitude of the results. CNN spoke with one of the co-authors of the study, Dr. Antonia Nemanich, who shared her opinion and why it’s important for parents to protect their kids from misplaced marijuana products.
“I work in the [emergency department] as well as taking calls for the poison center, and so even though I was seeing more cases coming through the ER, when we looked at the data nationwide, we were definitely surprised,” said Nemanich.
She claims that many factors are responsible for these numbers, not just marijuana legalization. Pandemic regulations, and the fact that there are more cannabis products than ever could be influencing these numbers.
It’s also possible that by 2021, doctors had more understanding of cannabis and were more prepared to understand the symptoms of marijuana poisoning in kids.
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“There was a particular spike during the pandemic years,” said Nemanich, due to the fact that kids spent most of their time at home. “I think all of that plays into this, and the regulations haven’t kept pace with the increased prevalence of the product.”
Kids and toddlers exposed to cannabis can have adverse reactions to the drug, including trouble walking, talking, and even breathing.
States like New York have tried to curb these incidents by preventing marijuana brands from packaging edibles in ways that are appealing to children. While this may curb kids’ interest, it seems like a bandaid. At the end of the day, parents must hide their weed from their kids, stashing it in a location that’s private and difficult to access.
Undoubtedly, it is unusual in modern society to see an illicit product become legal and accessible for purchase. Because no generation since the times of prohibition can recollect such a transition from illegal to legal, it’s reasonable that there are concerns and fears about cannabis legalization. Nonetheless, this topic, like most issues that parents are forced to confront, can serve as a wonderful springboard for parents to explain the truth about substance abuse and use in our culture, irrespective of how we feel about it.
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First, parents and children must grasp what cannabis legalization entails for everyone. The rules and legislation differ significantly from state to state. Still, it’s vital to recognize that cannabis consumption is considered a substance designated for adults. In states like Colorado, it is unlawful for anyone under the age of 21 to possess or consume cannabis, and it is also prohibited to drive while under the influence of cannabis.
The federal law in the United States remains unchanged, meaning cannabis remains illegal. The minimum age requirement to use cannabis in Canada also varies by province. However, it is likely to be 18 across many places. While this information may appear minor, it is vital to remember when discussing marijuana use with your child.
Discussing With Your Kids
When discussing a complex subject with your kid, the best place to start is by providing them with the best information and facts you can gather. Conducting a web search with your kid to learn about cannabis and its effects on the human body is an excellent place to start. For example, you can learn about how marijuana compounds influence the body, the plant’s effects on the developing brain of an adolescent, sleep, judgement, and overall wellness.
Just as with alcohol, you can explain to your child the dangers of marijuana as a mind-altering substance, particularly for adolescents who are still going through physical and emotional growth. You can give your child the “task” of looking up several articles that go through the consequences of marijuana use on the brain from a medical standpoint. Use these articles as a starting point for a conversation on cannabis.
Talking to your child about cannabis legalization may be simple if you disapprove of it. It may be more challenging to persuade your youngster to understand the adverse effects of marijuana use if you are an advocate for its legalization or currently use it yourself. Remember that even if marijuana is legal in your state and regardless of how you personally feel about its legalization and use, it is still unlawful for anyone under 21. You should use this knowledge to decide what to teach your child.
Next, while talking to your child about marijuana, consider their age. Information can be best provided to younger kids (elementary age) on a need-to-know basis. It can be helpful for older children (middle school or high school age) to assist in separating reality from fiction on what cannabis is and its effects. Even if your child may object and claim that they already know everything about it, don’t let them off the leash that quickly.
Children of this age may believe they already have all the details based on information passed down through peer groups. However, as with alcohol and sex, much of their data is mostly false. Hence, it would help if you started the dialogue. Allow your youngster to speak freely until they have told you everything they know. If some information is inaccurate, ask them follow-up questions and provide the correct information.
Your child may ask challenging questions about cannabis use, and you should be prepared to respond as intelligently and honestly as possible. The following are some probable comments/queries you may encounter and some responses you may find beneficial.
Does legal weed mean it’s not dangerous to use?
Clarify to your child that this isn’t always the case. There are various legal substances, such as tobacco, alcohol, and opioids, that can be hazardous or even deadly if used or misused. That also applies to cannabis.
Is weed a safer alternative to alcohol?
Point out that just because the headlines aren’t reporting deaths directly related to marijuana usage doesn’t mean it’s a safer substance to use. Reiterate that using cannabis impairs decision-making skills and lowers inhibitions, which can lead to poor decisions that are potentially deadly.
Have you ever tried cannabis?
First, ensure your response is brief and to the point without going into too much detail. Try not to dwell on the past. But instead, dwell on what you learned and understand now as an adult and why you worry for your child and their future.
What should I do if I am tempted?
You can tell your child, “We expect you to abstain from using any substances since we know their potential health risks. We are always available if anything ever pops up and you require assistance.” In addition to declaring that you would be around for them, improve your child’s confidence by practicing some replies for when this occurs.
Conclusion
A one-time chat with your youngster about this topic will not suffice. This is a discussion you should have with your child beginning in their pre-teen years and continuing through high school or college. Allowing your child to know that you are there for them every moment along the way, and continuing the dialogue at each phase of their growth, will go a long way to keep your kid substance free.
This article was developed in partnership with Cannabis.net
The FDA is concerned about the rise in popularity of CBD products in spite of a largely unregulated market and hence has been making efforts to stem the tide.
The U.S Food & Drug Administration (FDA) plans to issue new regulatory recommendations for the CBD industry due to prevailing concerns on consumer safety. In a statement that was provided to the Wall Street Journal, the agency has expressed its intention to regulate CBD in food and supplements in the coming months after it has completed reviewing three petitions from citizens relating to the matter.
The value of the CBD industry is expected to attain a value of $4.6 billion by 2026, according to a recent FDA report. However, CBD is currently neither approved as a food supplement nor as a drug, but some sellers have been marketing CBD products as such.
The FDA has not been happy with the lack of regulation in the industry and has, in the past, issued warning letters to CBD companies using false and unsubstantiated claims to market their products.
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“Given what we know about the safety of CBD so far, it raises concerns for FDA about whether these existing regulatory pathways for food and dietary supplements are appropriate for this substance. FDA is currently reviewing three Citizen petitions related to this, and we plan to respond to them soon,” reads in part a statement from the FDA that was issued to the Wall Street Journal.
CBD can be derived from both hemp and marijuana, even though hemp is legal federally while marijuana is not. In fact, the primary difference between hemp and marijuana is the concentration of the intoxicating cannabinoids THC. For hemp to be legal federally it must not exceed a 0.3% concentration of THC. Marijuana strains can have THC amounts exceeding 30%.
Given the poor regulation in the CBD industry, some CBD products usually exceed the recommended THC limit. Some CBD products in the market have been found to be contaminated with high levels of pesticides and heavy metals. Lastly, some CBD sellers make false claims on CBD products to make them more appealing to consumers.
The FDA is concerned about the rise in popularity of CBD products in spite of a largely unregulated market and hence has been making efforts to stem the tide. The new FDA recommendations that will be unveiled soon will help to streamline the CBD industry so it can maintain a steady growth rate in the next coming years.
“Kansas really needs to legalize medical marijuana and help those who need it,” said Lee Bretz, who added that more needs to be done in Kansas to help terminally ill patients.
In Kansas, marijuana is entirely illegal and penalties for possession are exorbitant. As Benzinga recently reported, 69-year-old Greg Bretz, who was in the final stages of terminal cancer, was visited by police in his room allegedly for possessing a vaping device and edible THC paste earlier this month.
Although Greg was not arrested, he was issued a ticket from the Hays Police Department. Now, a week after the unfortunate event, the charge was dismissed, per a local news outlet.
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However, Greg’s son Lee Bretz said it’s just not enough. “Well, it makes me feel good, but it still doesn’t stop the fact that you know, the damage is done to him.”
In their defense, Hays Police chief Don Scheibler said “that day, the officer emailed the city prosecutor requesting that the charge be dismissed.” Scheibler affirmed that officers “were concerned about the potential fire hazard, but more importantly, they were also concerned about how it made him feel sick.”
The Hays Police Department and Hays Medical Center are now receiving threats. According to Scheibler, a mischaracterization of this incident as a “raid” resulted in the story spreading worldwide.
Medical Marijuana Legalization Is Needed
“Kansas really needs to legalize medical marijuana and help those who need it,” said Lee, who added that more needs to be done in Kansas to help terminally ill patients. “The chemo hadn’t been too kind to him, so he’s been exploring some other options, and it seemed to be helping him out a little bit, but that all went south when he got turned in by one of the hospital staff.”
Scheibler said that while the conversation around medical marijuana should continue, he stressed that the officers involved were acting in accordance with state and city law. “We shouldn’t have laws on the books that we don’t want enforcing, and if we want to be compassionate, if we want to help people, we have to address this issue in some fashion,” added Scheibler.
“I think what I’m going to do is — and any member is more than welcome — is to take this information and create the bill,” Sen. Rob Olson, chair of the 2022 Special Committee on Medical Marijuana recently said.
Many people enjoy CBD for its relaxing and calming effect on the body and mind. In addition, the cannabinoid is also known to relieve some pain and help users sleep.
Have you noticed the uptick in CBD products sold at many businesses such as small coffee stands and even your local convenience store? CBD has skyrocketed in popularity as people are being introduced to its range of potential benefits.
You might like to try hempettes (“hemp cigarette”) for their relaxation properties or to help you stop smoking tobacco. Either way, we’ve got you covered on all things CBD cigarettes. Keep reading to find out about the best CBD cigarettes, and what they’re all about.
What Is a CBD Cigarette?
CBD is THC’s nonintoxicating sibling. Both cannabinoids come from the same cannabis plant. They even have strikingly similar chemical structures. The difference between the two is the way our bodies react to them.
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While THC connects with receptors in the brain to give users a high, CBD has an opposite interaction with the same receptors. CBD, with less than 0.3% THC, is not psychoactive, and it will often only bring on a sense of calm for users. CBD cigarettes are stuffed with hemp that is high in CBD. These cigarettes, also called hempettes, look like your average tobacco cigarettes.
Unlike tobacco cigarettes, the best CBD cigarettes have no chemicals or additives. High-quality hemp flower naturally includes some other minor cannabinoids in small quantities. These will not get you high either.
Terpenes, which come from the CBD flower, may also be in your hempette. They are harmless. But, they do contain flavorful compounds that make CBD cigarettes taste much better than tobacco cigarettes.
Can You Smoke CBD?
You can smoke CBD, but is it safe? No matter what is in your cigarette, there is an inherent risk when smoking.
Smoke inhalation can damage your lungs and throat whether it’s tobacco, marijuana, or hemp. Still, hemp cigarettes contain no tobacco or nicotine. Hempettes do not have the same risks as smoking cigarettes.
CBD does not contain nicotine. Nicotine is a highly addictive chemical found in tobacco cigarettes that gets people hooked. CBD should not cause addiction because it cannot form the same chemical dependence.
Smoking CBD and Alternative Methods
The choice to smoke CBD is more popular than other methods because of its effectiveness. Some prefer to consume their CBD orally with drops or edibles. Others choose to administer their CBD topically through lotions.
There are many preferences between CBD users. Yet, many find that smoking is the best way to allow the cannabinoid to go into the lungs, the bloodstream, and finally circulate through the body.
When you smoke CBD you can feel the effects of it immediately. Other, alternate methods could take hours to start feeling the effects. Even then you may not be receiving all the CBD you took, because it isn’t in your bloodstream.
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Benefits of Smoking Hempettes
Many people enjoy CBD for its relaxing and calming effect on the body and mind. In addition to this, the cannabinoid is also known to relieve some pain and help users sleep.
People all over are using CBD to treat a host of medical conditions despite more research needed to confirm that the product does in fact help. The following conditions are what some people use CBD for.
PTSD
Chronic pain
Insomnia
Headaches and Migraines
Depression and anxiety
There is no concrete research that CBD effectively treats these conditions, though individuals claim it does. It is recommended that you speak to your doctor before using CBD to treat any of your health concerns.
Other benefits of smoking CBD include saving money if you are switching from tobacco. Since CBD contains no addictive substances, it is up to you how many you smoke throughout the day.
You are likely to smoke less when switching to CBD and kick the craving, therefore you’ll spend less money on habit-forming cigarettes.
Another perk is that they smell better. Whether your normal smoke is marijuana or tobacco, anyone walking past you can smell it and identify it. Hemp smoke smells cleaner and will not linger on your skin or clothing.
More good news is that you will not overdose on CBD. There is much evidence from clinical trials that prove the cannabinoid is safe to consume in high volumes.
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Side Effects of Smoking CBD Cigarettes
As discussed, the main risk factor in smoking CBD is smoke inhalation that can lead to respiratory problems later on. Still, there has been no link discovered between smoking cannabinoids and cancer.
Other side effects such as the following have been reported after consuming high amounts of CBD.
Headache
Diarrhea
Nausea
Excessive sleepiness
These symptoms are most often mild or not experienced at all by CBD smokers. Cannabis may affect how organs process prescription drugs. Speak with your doctor about how CBD may affect your medications.
How Does CBD Feel?
Everyone reacts to CBD a bit differently it seems. Additionally, CBD will feel different depending on the method you use to consume it. For example, smoking hempettes can feel much different than eating a CBD gummy.
High-quality CBD with no THC in it will never make you feel high. Even with low amounts of THC, you may not be able to detect feeling; unless you are smoking high amounts of CBD, you should also feel no side effects.
What you will feel when you smoke CBD is relaxed and calm. It all depends on the amount and the person taking it, but you could also experience feeling happiness or a small burst of energy.
Why did the USDA set the dividing line at 0.3% anyway? Why not 0.5% or 1%? The answer to that question lies in Canada and in the work of research botanist Dr. Ernest Small.
We are heading into the first decade of scaled commercial hemp production in the United States since the 1920s. As a law firm that has been helping cannabis businesses succeed since 2010, we couldn’t be more excited. And for good reason: the recreational market is expanding. Hemp is legal. CBD and other cannabinoids are fast becoming (if not already) household names. The international market is taking form and access to banking services is expanding. Public support is increasing. This looks like a great decade for cannabis.
But the USDA’s interim rules governing the production of hemp threaten significantly this economic juggernaut. Perhaps the most dubious rule is the total THC testing standard. To briefly summarize, the 2018 Farm Bill defined hemp as “[t]he plant species Cannabis sativa L. and any part of that plant . . . with a delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol concentration of not more than 0.3 percent on a dry weight basis.” The USDA then adopted a total THC testing requirement by which total THC is the molar sum of delta-9 THC and delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (“THCA”).
The industry consensus is that the total THC requirement is impractical and likely devastating to cultivators and, therefore, to every business in the hemp supply chain. By way of contrast, several states previously had tested only for a .3 percent concentration of delta-9 THC, which everyone agrees is a more forgiving standard.
But why did the USDA set the dividing line at 0.3% anyway? Why not 0.5% or 1%?
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The answer to that question lies in Canada and in the work of Dr. Ernest Small, a research botanist who began studying and writing about cannabis in the 1970s. In 1976, Small and his colleague, Arthur Cronquist, published “A Practical and Natural Taxonomy for Cannabis,” which set a dividing line between hemp and marijuana at 0.3 percent THC for purposes of establishing a biological taxonomy.
Dr. Small’s approach is not the only one. Cannabis had been subjected to different taxonomical treatments by Linnaeus in 1753 and Lamarck in 178. Indeed, the proper taxonomical treatment of cannabis is still debated says Antonino Pollio in “The Name of Cannabis: A Short Guide for Nonbotanists.”
Small never intended his 0.3 percent demarcation to have legal significance. In a 2018 interview with the Winnipeg Free Press, Small—who continues to research and write about cannabis—explained:
At that time, when I did that study and published it, I had no idea that that would be used as a practical measure for countries licensing the amount of THC that would be permitted in order to grow it.”
Yet relied on it was. First by the European Union, whose Common Agricultural Policy caps THC concentrations at 0.2 percent to be deemed hemp, and later by the United States, which codified the 0.3 percent dividing line in the 2018 Farm Bill. This was done despite a 2016 article Small published with a colleague in the journal Agronomy in which described 0.3% THC as the “arbitrary threshold at which cannabinoid content is used to distinguish strains of hemp from marijuana.”
Take Action
All is not lost. Laws can be changed—telephone, write, or email your congressional representatives. Regulations can be rewritten—the USDA recently extended the comment period on the interim final rule until January 29, 2020.
When the syndrome develops, which takes a few years, the consumer will experience various problems such as nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and disturbed eating patterns.
Daily and long-term use of cannabis can cause a rare condition with symptoms including nausea and an unsettled stomach. What is cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), what causes it and here is how to treat it.
Many researchers tried to give more details on CHS and its causes, but it requires more studies as it is a fairly new condition. The first cases were reported in 2004 in South Australia, where doctors started treating cannabis users for vomiting, stomach pain, and more. The people who experienced these issues were long-term cannabis users.
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Diagnosing the condition is often tricky, considering that many users go for treatment without mentioning using marijuana. In most cases, the symptoms disappear entirely once the user stops consuming cannabis. However, as legalization is still in progress, the number of people using marijuana is increasing, and so is the number of those with CHS.
CHS is a rare phenomenon. In most cases, it occurs in people who use marijuana for years (usually 1-5), a few times per day (3-5 times).
Main Causes of Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome
Some research suggests that cannabis hyperemesis syndrome is caused by the daily and long-term use of marijuana. The number of people diagnosed with CHS is increasing due to more states in the US legalizing marijuana. However, the number of regular users who develop weed sickness is not high. Some studies suggest that genetics plays a part. There is a lack of evidence that would fully support the current theories around CHS, which is why further research is necessary.
Cannabis has several active components, and since it is very complex, it affects every user differently. One of its main ingredients is THC that features anti-nausea effects. But what has been noted is that if someone uses cannabis regularly for an extended period, the results could be the opposite. Some theories suggest that THC can make cannabinoid receptors act contrary to how they should behave. As a result, the consumer may experience cramps, vomiting, stomach pain, and other issues.
The symptoms of CHS are divided into three main phases. The first is called the prodromal phase, the second is hyperemetic, and the third is the recovery phase.
Prodromal Phase
The prodromal phase is the first one, and the symptoms in this stage are usually abdominal pain, morning nausea, and urge to vomit. Other symptoms can be skin flushing, body temperature changes, and sweating. While this phase is on, most people will continue to eat normally. In addition, most users will continue to consume cannabis, thinking it will help them stop nausea and vomiting. The prodromal stage can last for a long time, in some cases for a couple of weeks, months, and even years.
Hyperemetic Phase
The second stage is called the hyperemetic phase, and during it, the vomiting is often pretty intense. To ease nausea, people will mostly use hot showers throughout the day. Some people take marijuana to ease nausea, but it only makes the situation worse.
The symptoms in this phase include feeling sick and nauseous, throwing up after smoking weed, dehydration, stomach pain, disturbance of eating patterns, reduced food intake, and weight loss. The syndrome represents a real medical issue. Extreme vomiting and intense tummy pain can plausibly lead to scromiting (the combination of screaming and vomiting). The phase lasts until the consumer stops with marijuana usage.
The last of three phases is the recovery stage. It starts the moment the user stops consuming cannabis. During this phase, all the symptoms will go away, and the person will go back to the standard eating patterns. In addition, people in the recovery phase generally feel better. The need for several hot showers or baths throughout the day will disappear as well. The stage can last from a couple of days to a few months. If an individual decides to turn back to marijuana by any chance, the symptoms will most likely return.
Diagnosis of the Sickness
Various health issues can cause repeated vomiting, and what needs to be pointed out is that CHS is a rare condition. The healthcare provider will ask the patient about the symptoms, and it will also ask about past health and issues if there were any. Then, a physical exam is necessary, including a stomach exam.
One of the things that can make the diagnosis faster and a lot simpler is admitting the consumption of marijuana to the doctor. For many health care providers, diagnosing the syndrome can be pretty challenging and can take a lot of time and effort. The main reason for that is that the patient does not report and mention their use of cannabis.
There are specific criteria to diagnose the syndrome. The first one is the patient has been consuming marijuana regularly for over a year. Some other things that can play a significant role are weekly cannabis usage, tummy pain, relief after taking a hot bath or shower, nausea, vomiting, etc. Other things that are considered are morning nausea, age (if the person is younger than 50), weight loss, and disturbed eating patterns.
If the health care provider diagnoses the CHS, it will be explained to the patient what is cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, and then it is the treatment time.
One of the first steps doctors suggest is to stop consuming marijuana. If a person experiences extreme vomiting and nausea, hospitalization that may last a few days could be necessary.
During the second phase, known as the hyperemesis phase, the patient might need treatment, such as:
Medicines for pain relief and anti-sickness
Constant hot showers or baths
Intravenous fluid replacement
Anti-nausea drugs
All of the above are short-term treatments. The only option to treat the condition long-term is to stop using marijuana.
In most cases, the symptoms of the syndrome will disappear pretty fast. The patient may feel much better in general within a few days, usually one or two. However, the symptoms can come back if the person starts consuming cannabis again.
The only way to prevent cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome is the complete absence of marijuana consumption. Unfortunately, people tend to consume cannabis for years and become chronic users before the CHS develops. That’s because the development of the syndrome takes a lot of time.
When a person has the symptoms, especially vomiting, it may cause additional issues such as dehydration. In addition, if the condition is not treated, some other complications may arise, such as weakness, muscle spasms, shock, to name a few. In the most severe cases, cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome can lead to kidney failure that can cause death.
Conclusions
CHS is caused by regular marijuana consumption. When the syndrome develops, which takes a few years, the consumer will experience various problems such as nausea, vomiting, weight loss, disturbed eating patterns, etc. The symptoms take three phases, and they can be extremely severe, especially in phase two.
The diagnosis of the syndrome is one of the trickiest parts of the story because people often fail to report using marijuana to their health care providers. Once the syndrome is finally diagnosed, the patient gets familiar with the condition, learns what CHS is, and begins treatment. The most important part of the recovery process is the stopping of weed consumption. If the patient continues to consume, the symptoms will come back.
The condition is a rare phenomenon and it does not affect all smokers. Every marijuana user should know the right dose. When the marijuana consumer experiences extreme vomiting for one whole day or more, contacting a health care provider is the best possible option.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for any prescribed medication. See your doctor first!
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