Can Weed Help With Headaches? With Some – Yes!

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November 9, 2022

Can Weed Help With Headaches? With Some – Yes!

Marijuana can reduce pain and provide some additional benefits, such as relaxation, calmness, improved sleep, and many others.

The definition of a headache is a throbbing or constant pain arising from any region of the head, as well as the face or neck. Headaches can severely aggravate your quality of life. They make you irritated, tired, absent-minded, and unable to engage in your daily activities to the full extent. Even simple tasks such as shopping, watching a TV, typing, driving, etc., can turn out to be a nightmare when you suffer from a headache. But can marijuana help with headaches?

Some types of headaches, such as cluster headaches, migraines, hemicrania continua, thunderclap headaches, and others, may be tough to cope with, as they last longer and have more severe symptoms and intensity.

5 Ways To Beat A Hangover That Actually Work — Photo by fizkes/Getty Images

In many cases, headaches can be relieved by taking an over-the-counter pain killer, resting, or reducing neck tension (a nice massage is always a good option). Unfortunately, common drug and non-drug interventions are not always helpful. Medications may be ineffective and cause side effects in some patients, leaving them one on one with their pain. However, it does not mean that pain is inescapable, as there are effective ways to relieve it through marijuana use.

The use of marijuana for migraine treatment has been widely reported in scientific literature. For example, a 2020 scholarly research by Cuttler and colleagues found that cannabis can reduce headaches and migraines by half. “Yes, even migraines!” confirms Tom Stevenson, CEO of Bonsai Cultivation. According to Stevenson, marijuana has a strong positive effect if used correctly and in appropriate dosages. This article explains why people can use cannabis for migraines and other types of headaches and what types are best for this purpose.

Scientifically approved by Henrietta Szutorisz, Ph. D — Updated on April 27, 2022

DISCLAIMER: This article is not intended to substitute professional medical advice but serves only for informing the audience. If you have a severe headache accompanied by other symptoms or cannot relieve it with available medications, we strongly recommend consulting with a healthcare professional.

Most Common Types of Headaches

Before we dwell in more detail on the pain-killing properties of weed, let’s discuss the most common types of headaches that can be addressed through marijuana use. Headaches are typically divided into two main groups:

Episodic headaches
Chronic headaches

The former group includes headaches that occur occasionally but no more than 15 days a month. They are usually milder than chronic headaches, which occur more often and are associated with severe pain that is difficult to manage.

Experts from Stanford Health Care explain that all headaches can also be divided into primary and secondary. Primary headaches are not a symptom of a more serious condition or disease. They occur due to the inflammation of pain-sensitive parts of the head and neck caused by unfavorable lifestyle factors (e.g., alcohol abuse, sedentary lifestyle, lack of sleep). Primary headaches can be easily treated with painkillers, including marijuana. According to Sheila Dedenbach from Heavenly Sweet, “Cannabis has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help with headaches and is also a natural neuroprotector (our federal government holds patents for this very use), helping reduce the production of damage-causing compounds.”

Examples of primary headaches reported most often include the following:

Migraine
Tension headache
Cluster headache
Hypnic headache

However, headaches are not limited to these types. They can be caused by different factors (e.g., caffeine use, menstruation, etc.) and affect different brain parts.

Secondary headache signifies some serious problem in the brain. It can be addressed only by treating the underlying cause, such as a tumor, brain injury, aneurism, etc. Secondary headaches are excruciating and sudden, and they often require urgent care. Does marijuana help with headaches of this type? Although using marijuana in the case of secondary headaches to relieve pain may be dangerous and ineffective, someone who is undergoing treatment for a brain tumor can find cannabis to be helpful to alleviate symptoms.

How Exactly Does Weed Help With Headaches?

So, how exactly can weed help headaches? Scientific studies have shown that marijuana helps eliminate pain through inflammatory, glutamine, opiate, and serotonin pathways. Cannabis also possesses dopamine-blocking properties, helping to improve negative mood states in conditions such as anxiety, depression, and recovery from addiction.

How does weed help with headaches on the physiological level? The effects of weed on the human body are better understood if one looks closer at the so-called endocannabinoid system. This system located in the brain and spinal cord regulates numerous physiological processes, such as:

Inflammation
Pain
Stress regulation
Metabolism
Synaptic plasticity
Thermogenesis
Neural development, etc.

Cannabinoid 1 (CB1) and 2 (CB2) receptors constitute the core of this system. Cannabis modulates CB1 and CB2 during weed consumption, resulting in positive health effects such as relaxation and pain relief.

The best thing about all this is that marijuana can be used differently, depending on the severity of pain and personal preferences. The primary use of cannabis is via smoking, but vaporization and dabs are also very popular. Products using edible, oil-based, and topical forms of cannabis are also becoming more popular. They are widely used as first-line methods against headaches. Dried cannabis flowers, cannabinoid-rich oils, and topical products may effectively treat migraines and headache-related pain.

Experts confirm the effectiveness of different cannabis forms. Here are two excerpts illustrating it:

“Yes! Even topicals can help. Our Balm is extremely powerful for headaches, just rub it on your temples and back of your neck” – Laurel (Lo) Friesen, Founder and CEO of Heylo Cannabis.

“Yes! We’ve made our own homemade salve that we use as a headache balm. It provides immediate relief!” – Melissa Beseda, Founder and Co-Owner of Wildwood Flower Farm.

Another vital thing to know about cannabis is that its effects can be maximized when it is combined with other treatments and wellness practices. Sam McAdam from Floravega confirmed that it does not work in isolation: “While cannabis has been reported to aid in headaches, users must also take other factors into consideration such as hydration, nutrition, sleep, etc., and use cannabis in collaboration with overall wellness practices to feel their best.” Luc Krol from the Amsterdam Seed Center agreed and added: “Yes. Weed can help to get rid of a headache, depending on what kind of headache. For a hangover, smoke weed and DRINK WATER 😉”

So, don’t expect cannabis to instantly relieve pain and prevent future headaches because much depends on individual sensitivity, which is not yet fully understood. However, smoking marijuana in appropriate dosages and frequency can bring significant health benefits if you stick to a healthy lifestyle.

CBD Headache Treatment

Not all active ingredients contained in marijuana have the same effect and application for headache treatment. Cannabidiol (CBD), which is mainly used in the form of CBD oil, has been a popular remedy for headaches. This legally available, non-intoxicating ingredient has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and is not habit-forming, so you get all the benefits without health risks.

Research on CBD effects is scarce, but anecdotal evidence shows that rubbing CBD oil for migraines onto your forehead may have a desired calming and pain-killing effect. For example, CBD topical creams or ointments may help with tension headaches caused by tight neck muscles at the base of the skull. CBD may also reduce headaches’ symptoms, such as light and sound sensitivity and nausea.

Does CBD help migraine? Evidence to answer this question is lacking. However, CBD for migraines combined with other treatment options may bring optimal outcomes. For example, Anthony Bear, CEO of Bear Blend, acknowledged the positive effects of CBD on headaches and recommended complementing it with body practices: “It really depends on the person and the cause of the headaches. I would recommend long-term silent meditation to deal with chronic headaches.”

THC Headache Treatment

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is another active ingredient of weed that positively affects headaches. However, it is not generally used for reducing pain on its own. THC and CBD are often combined to both prevent and treat headaches. Combining these components acts as good prophylaxis against headaches and relieves pain in acute headache cases. In fact, scholars found that CBD and THC combined are as effective as amitriptyline.

However, the optimal CBD to THC ratio may vary depending on the pain severity and individual characteristics. Akasha Ellis, the Co-Founder and Farm and Operations Lead of Ventura Seed Company, stated: “I tend to take a much higher amount of CBD to THC. And does again allow me to relax and get a good night’s rest.”

A word of caution about HTC is required, though. In some people, THC consumption may lead to addiction. Although many people don’t believe this, but it’s a well-established fact. A lot of work is focused on parental THC exposure effects on the offspring of users, which is especially vital for pregnant women who don’t wish to take meds for headaches.

Top 7 Cannabis Strains For Headaches

It is difficult to determine which cannabis strains and cannabinoid compounds are more effective for specific headache types. It all depends on multiple factors, so it makes sense to try different strains and dosages to find the option that works for you. Here is the list of cannabis strains that AskGrowers.com recommends to start with:

ACDC

This CBD-based strain has strong anti-inflammation effects, which explain its usefulness as a painkiller during headache episodes. It is widely used for relieving pain because, unlike many other strains, ACDC allows a person to stay focused and productive. So, if you are looking for pain relief and do not need psychoactive effects, ACDC may be the best option for you.

OG Kush

This strain also has enough CBD to reduce pain and inflammation. Accessibility is its main benefit, as you can easily find it in any local dispensary. It would be best to use this strain before the pain becomes full-blown.

Blackberry Kush

This stain contains more THC than CBC. Unlike ACDC, it can cause a powerful feeling of euphoria, which distracts from pain and relieves the muscles.

Harlequin

This weed strain has a balanced THC/CBD ratio, so you can enjoy its calming and pain-relieving effects without having to worry about a foggy mind and sedative effects. If you need to decrease pain to be able to complete your work or study, Harlequin is a good option. It will keep you alert and concentrated and remove the uncomfortable throbbing feeling in your head. Like OG Kush, Harlequin is most beneficial when taken soon after the first symptoms of headache occur.

Purple Kush

People suffering from migraines know how exhausting pain can be and how difficult it is to fall asleep when it is bothering you. Purple Kush is the weed strain most useful for people facing both pain and sleep disturbance. Dominated by THC, Purple Kush makes the body relax, which is crucial for falling asleep. However, this strain won’t take the pain away quickly, so it’s best to use it when you have time to relax and wait for the much-desired relaxation.

Good Medicine

A cross-breed between Appalachian and Harlequin, this strain boasts a perfect balance between CBD and THC. It means that it can both relieve pain effectively and help with sleep. It is excellent for those willing to remain active and focused throughout the day while also enjoying a good rest at night.

CBD Critical Mass

This is another THC/CBD balanced strain reducing inflammation and pain associated with headaches. You will get a gentle euphoria and mild pain relief, just enough to keep you going.

Can Weed Cause Headaches?

Although marijuana has a milder effect on pain than medications, it should not be overused. The problem is that weed consumption may either relieve pain or cause it. James from TJ’s Gardens explained: “I have heard this can go both ways – all dependent on the individual and the particular cultivar.”

Long-term modulation of CB1 receptors in the central nervous system due to regular marijuana use was found to increase the risk of headaches caused by medication overuse and rebound headaches in specific populations. Prolonged periods of exposure to marijuana or weed consumption in high doses may diminish the effectiveness of treatment. Situations causing rebound headaches include but are not limited to the following:

Increasing the dose too fast
Regularly exceeding recommended doses
Discontinuing treatment after prolonged (more than 1-month-long) use

Other scholars doubt that cannabis causes overuse headaches, making it superior to more conventional treatments. However, evidence in this regard is inconsistent. Until more evidence is available, it is better to reduce marijuana use and pay more attention to how pain manifests itself and in what situations. For example, pain occurring or intensifying after cannabis use may point to its overuse or improper use.

Conclusion

Headache pain can be debilitating and exhausting. It drains your energy and makes you feel dizzy and weak. If you do not want to take over-the-counter painkillers for some reason, marijuana may help you relieve pain. Does weed help headaches? Absolutely! It can reduce pain and provide some additional benefits, such as relaxation, calmness, improved sleep, and many others.

Finding the right THC/CBD and a suitable weed strain is important for enjoying the optimal benefits of marijuana. However, we discourage you from experimenting without consulting a healthcare specialist or your physician first. More importantly, if you have excruciating pain and other symptoms, which occur suddenly, it is better to ask for professional help.

This article originally appeared on AskGrowers.com and has been reposted with permission.

Moldy Colorado Weed Bad For Medical Patients

Lydia Kariuki

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November 9, 2022

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Moldy Colorado Weed Bad For Medical Patients

While most states agree that mycotoxin testing is necessary, the regulatory limits vary significantly from one state to another.

By Lydia Kariuki

It goes without saying moldy Colorado weed is bad for medical patients. The Colorado Department of Revenue (DOR) together with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) has issued a Health and Safety Advisory regarding unsafe cannabis from a Colorado-based dispensary, Living Rose Wellness. Over 200 batches of cannabis were tested and found to have unsafe levels of mold, yeast, and aspergillus and were therefore declared unsafe for human consumption. Thankfully they are quick acting.

The Colorado Springs based dispensary which is registered as SJD, LLC did not adhere to MED Rule series (4-100) standards when submitting the batches of marijuana for testing. When the batches were retested, it was found that the safe limit, for total yeast, mold, and aspergillus, according to Colorado Marijuana Rule 4-115, had been exceeded. Fungus thrive in environments that have a high moisture content. Properly cured cannabis should have a moisture content of about 10%-12% to deter fungus growth.

marijuana — Photo by 3 Pelos/Getty Images

While most states agree that mycotoxin testing is necessary, the regulatory limits vary significantly from one state to another. States that test for aspergillus include Alaska, California, Michigan, Nevada, and New York. Labs need to use a testing method that is approved by the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC® International).

DOR has advised the public against consuming the moldy cannabis products from the affected dispensary. Consumers are to return the products to the dispensary for proper disposal, they also have the option of destroying the cannabis at home. DOR has also directed that any adverse effects associated with the consumption of the moldy cannabis should be reported to Marijuana Enforcement Division.

Marijuana Patients Denied Organ Transplant Due to Risk of Aspergillosis

In 2017, a patient in Maine was removed from the Maine organ transplant list because of previous marijuana use. This story was first highlighted by CNN. The Maine transplant program took this drastic step after two patients (with previous marijuana use) succumbed to aspergillosis after receiving a transplant. In a press release statement, the Maine Transplant program stated that the patients can be put back on the list once they were off marijuana.

The aspergillus is a saprophytic fungus that is frequently found in soil and helps to eliminate carbon and nitrogen from the atmosphere. Aspergillus spores, which are very tiny, are easily spread by strong air currents in a grow room. While aspergillus spores may not cause harm in healthy individuals, they are likely to cause aspergillosis in immuno-compromised patients. Those consuming immunosuppressants are also at a higher risk for developing aspergillosis. Aspergillosis can be fatal when it impairs breathing or causes bleeding in the lungs. The aspergillosis can quickly move from the lungs to the kidney, brain, and even heart.

A study that was published in 2016 demonstrated higher incidence of invasive aspergillosis after kidney transplant. The outcome of patients who developed aspergillosis after kidney transplant was also poor. A different study also showed that aspergillus infection is associated with higher morbidities and poorer outcomes after lung transplant.

surgery — Photo by SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY/Getty Images

Marijuana Use in Transplant Patients: Clarity Needed

A 2019 survey that was conducted by researchers in conjunction with the Executive Committee of the Infectious Diseases Community of Practice of the American Society of Transplantation sought clarity on marijuana use in transplant patients. The researchers observed a “discordance among transplant centers in their perceived risks of marijuana use as opposed to complications actually observed.”

This article originally appeared on MyCannabis.com and has been reposted with permission.

Smoking Weed Vs. Edibles ,Which Is Better For The Brain?

Cannabis

Tom Gaffey

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November 9, 2022

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Smoking Weed Vs. Edibles ,Which Is Better For The Brain?

Reducing the smoke you inhale, as well as controlling your dosage are both ways to ensure your body and brain enjoys the benefits of weed without the potential downsides.

Everyone who enjoys marijuana has their preferred method of consumption. In these advanced and semi-legal times, that can be anything from vaporizing to eating to drinking or even good old fashioned smoking. Each way of consumption has a high that kicks in a little differently and comes with its unique set of benefits and downsides.

While many of the pros and cons associated with how you consume your weed are minor and superficial, others are a bit more serious. In fact, the way you consume your marijuana can even affect how healthy (or unhealthy) the substance is for your body — even your brain. After all, all the organs that interact with THC eventually lead to the brain in one way or another. When it comes to eating or smoking your weed, which is better for your brain health?

cannabis mental health brain — Photo by wildpixel/Getty Images

Why Smoking Weed Is Both Better and Worse for Your Brain

People prefer smoking weed instead of eating it for many reasons, but one of the main ones is the speed in which weed hits you when you smoke versus when you eat it. As we previously reported, smoking weed kicks in much faster than edibles. This not only allows you to get high quicker (which is often the goal), but it also prevents you from consuming too much THC at once. It is much easier to control your dosage and prevent overdoing it, which is great since overdoing it can have negative effects on the brain, including memory issues and paranoia.

Smoking weed, however, can do some real damage to your lungs. As we previously reported, cannabis can cause all sorts of lung issues over time. While these lung issues might seem bad enough to steer you towards a different consumption method, there is also evidence that suggests poor lung health can even affect your brain. According to the book An Overview and Management of Multiple Chronic Conditions, “Lung disease and impaired lung function were associated with greater risk of dementia and mild cognitive impairment through both Alzheimer’s disease and cerebrovascular aetiologies.”

While it might be easier to dose and get high quickly, the potentially compounding health issues with consistently smoking your weed might be why many consumers prefer to eat their THC.

smoking marijuana — Photo by rez-art/Getty Images

Edibles Are Smoke Free but Have Their Own Brain Baggage

Perhaps the biggest and most obvious brain and health benefit of eating your weed is that there is no inhaled smoke involved. By ingesting your THC you remove many of the potentially negative health effects that can damage your lungs and, in turn, even your brain. While this is great news for your lungs, consuming edibles comes with its own set of health risk factors that can mess with your brain.

According to the CDC, “edibles, or food and drink products infused with marijuana, have some different risks than smoked marijuana, including a greater risk of poisoning.” The reason for this, according to the CDC, is that because it can take up to two hours to kick in, novice users may consume more and more, resulting in a dangerous overconsumption. While cannabis overdoses (also known as acute cannabinoid overdose) are not a common symptom when consuming cannabis, and not directly life threatening, they can have negative brain effects.

Per Healthline, “The combination of the highly variable THC concentration and the long latency period of edible cannabis products makes them very easy to unintentionally overconsume, which can lead to unwanted symptoms, such as paranoia and impaired motor ability.” Paranoia and other mental problems are never good for your mental state or brain health, not to mention they completely ruin any chance of enjoying your experience.

In the end, careful consumption, regardless of how you consume your marijuana, is best for your brain and body as a whole. Reducing the smoke you inhale, as well as controlling your dosage are both ways to ensure your body and brain enjoys the benefits of weed without the potential downsides.

Marijuana Reform Is In The Hands Of Students, Says President Biden

Maria Loreto

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November 8, 2022

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At an election eve campus rally, Joe Biden talked about the importance of students’ votes when it comes to decriminalizing marijuana.

Marijuana reform is in the hands of students, says President Biden and the reason he’s optimistic about this country’s future.

On Monday, President Biden attended a rally at Bowie State University in Maryland, one of the nation’s historically Black schools, where he momentarily broached the topic of marijuana and decriminalization.

“With your vote, I’m keeping my promise [that] no one should be in jail for the mere possession of marijuana, and their record should be expunged,” said Biden.

“Remember, the power is in your hands. You’re one of the reasons why I’ve never been more optimistic about America’s future.”

While the Biden administration hasn’t supported marijuana legalization outright, it is the most pro-cannabis administration in history, issuing pardons for non-violent cannabis convictions and often speaking up about the impact that the war on drugs has had on communities of color.

Biden has made it clear that he hoped to improve the lives of Black Americans with his pardons. While his support for the cause is only a first step, it represents an important moment.

vote — Photo by Element5 Digital via Unsplash

Earlier this month, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer talked about passing a marijuana banking and expungement bill, which will significantly affect the lives of people involved in the cannabis industry and those who have non-violent records with the drug.

“I am working in a bipartisan way with Democrats and Republicans to take the SAFE Banking Act, which allows financial institutions to involve themselves in cannabis companies and lend money to them—but it also does some things for justice, such as expunging a record,” he said in a debate.

The bill is called the SAFE Banking Act and while it has passed the House, it has been stalled by the Senate time and time again.

Which Weed State Will Beat Its $1.3 Billion Record Sales

Cannabusiness

Green Market Report

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November 8, 2022

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Which Weed State Will Beat Its $1.3 Billion Record Sales

Visitors to the state have consistently accounted for nearly one-third of all adult-use sales in Illinois, with 31% of sales being to out-of-staters in October.

By John Schroyer

Recreational cannabis in Illinois continues to boom, with sales in October this year surpassing $131 million, according to state data.

Sales continue to grow annually, and with two months in the year left to go, the state is on track to beat its 2021 sales totals of $1.3 billion. Through October, adult-use sales totaled $1.2 billion, according to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.

marijuana money — Photo by Cappi Thompson/Getty Images

In 2020, the first full year of recreational cannabis sales, Illinois sold $669 million in cannabis products.

Visitors to the state have consistently accounted for nearly one-third of all adult-use sales in Illinois, with 31% of sales being to out-of-staters in October.

In addition, medical marijuana sales in Illinois hit $28.4 million for the month of October, according to data from the state Department of Public Health. Medical sales totals for the year so far are just under $294 million, and overall medical sales since 2015 have reached $1.5 billion.

And there’s likely only more growth on the way, with more retailers and other business types slated to launch in coming months.

This article originally appeared on Green Market Report and has been reposted with permission.

What To Expect When You’re Expecting Cannabis Legalization In Tuesday’s Midterms

Marijuana Legislation

Benzinga Staff Writer

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November 8, 2022

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Clearly, success across the board is not guaranteed, but recent history has shown that cannabis legalization has enjoyed significant victories at the polls.

By Maureen Meehan

Voters in five mostly red states will vote Tuesday on whether or not to legalize cannabis for adult use: Arkansas, Maryland, Missouri, North Dakota and South Dakota. And, despite their conservative leanings, there’s a good chance most of them could say yes to cannabis, which underscores the increasingly bipartisan support for legalization.

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Beto O’Rourke, speaking at 2022 SXSW, said it best: “I’ll let you in on a secret: Republicans like to get high just as much as Democrats.” Naturally, if O’Rourke is elected as Governor of Texas, he says he’ll legalize weed posthaste so as to join “most of the rest of the country, most of the rest of the free world.”

Clearly, success across the board is not guaranteed but recent history has shown that cannabis legalization has enjoyed significant victories at the polls.

Legal Cannabis Is On The Rise And The Sky Has Not Fallen

If adult-use cannabis legalization indeed passes in these five states, the number of fully legal weed states could jump from 19 to 24, not counting D.C. and two US territories and this could fortify the case for legalizing weed at the federal level. Another 18 states and one US territory have legal medical marijuana programs. That’s quite a broad swath of the United States with legal weed in one form or another and the sky thankfully has not fallen.

All of this begs an important question: why hasn’t the President, who needs every ounce of support he can get, legalized the consumption and possession of cannabis nationwide? The President’s pardon last month of simple federal cannabis violations notwithstanding, full federal decriminalization and across-the-board expungement would do wonders for the country, the economy, the ghastly over-crowded prisons and not to mention the ratings of the current Oval Office resident and his party. After all, national polling suggests that most Americans think marijuana should be legal in some form as well as cannabis banking.

In addition to these five states that will be voting to legalize cannabis, Ohio, Texas and Wisconsin will be voting on local cannabis ballot questions and Colorado is voting on whether or not to legalize psychedelics.

This article originally appeared on Benzinga and has been reposted with permission.

Czech Republic To Follow Germany & Legalize Cannabis

Maria Loreto

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November 8, 2022

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Czech Republic To Follow Germany & Legalize Cannabis

The Czech Republic is the first country in Europe to draw inspiration from Germany by making a plan to legalize marijuana.

The Czech Republic is following in Germany’s footsteps. Forbes reports that the country will soon be legalizing cannabis and will coordinate a plan with Germany in order to share data and make the legal transition as seamless as possible.

The country is currently drafting a bill to be presented in March 2023. Legalization is expected to go into full effect in January 2024.

There Have Been Fewer Cases Of Synthetic Cannabis Poisoning In Legal States — Photo by Mayara Klingner via Getty

“We are in contact with our German colleagues, and we have repeatedly confirmed that we want to coordinate by consulting each other on our proposals,” shared Jindřich Vobořil, the country’s drug commissioner, in a Facebook post.

“My colleagues in Germany are talking about permitted quantities, and they don’t have the cannabis clubs that we foresee. I certainly want to hold the cannabis clubs until my last breath. This model seems very useful to me, at least for the first few years.”

While the Czech Republic hasn’t legalized cannabis, it’s considered one of the more progressive countries in Europe when it comes to cannabis laws. In 2010, it decriminalized cannabis possession and in 2013 it legalized the drug for medical use. The Czech Republic also cultivates hemp with 1% of THC for industrial purposes; other countries in the EU that allow for this cultivation have much lower tolerances of THC.

Legalizing recreational cannabis will likely produce some revenue, especially since the country has a relaxed attitude towards the drug, with citizens more likely to embrace the change.

Per Vobořil, cannabis will be available to purchase in licensed pharmacies and dispensaries. Municipalities will also play a significant part in this nascent cannabis plan, having the choice to allow or ban cannabis sales in their area. The commissioner has also talked about the importance of preventing smoking, meaning that the government will probably encourage and promote other forms of cannabis consumption.

germany cannabis — Photo by SusanneSchulz/Getty Images

Last month, Germany announced that they were legalizing marijuana. The bill that’s being drafted will allow adults to purchase cannabis in pharmacies and specialty shops like coffee houses. Cannabis will also be produced domestically, avoiding the possibility of international conflict.

Understanding THC And TAC On Cannabis Labels

Sam Anderson

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November 7, 2022

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Understanding THC And TAC On Cannabis Labels

When you’re shopping for a cannabis product, you should definitely take the percentage of TAC into account in addition to the THC in order to make an informed decision. Here’s why.

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by all the information on cannabis labels like THC vs. TAC? After all, there are a lot of acronyms, percentages, and ingestion methods to learn about, and finding the right product may seem tricky at first. The good news is that with a little Canna 101 education, you’ll know exactly what your product label means.

While THC may be the most well-known cannabinoid next to CBD, the TAC number may be the most important figure on a cannabis label. Exactly what does TAC stand for, and why is it relevant? And, does TAC get you higher?

What is TAC?

TAC stands for Total Active Cannabinoids, which refers to the concentration of active cannabinoids present when the cannabis was tested in a lab. In contrast to pharmaceuticals, which typically consist of only one active compound, cannabis consists of a variety of active molecules.

According to estimates, cannabis (hemp and marijuana) contains over 400 compounds, with over 100 of them being cannabinoids. Generally, they can be categorized as follows:

Cannabinoids
Terpenoids
Flavonoids
Alkaloids
Glycoproteins

Cannabis products are measured by their TAC, which measures the concentration of total active cannabinoids. Some key cannabinoids to consider include:

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

Tetrahydrocannabinol is commonly referred to as THC, which is the main constituent of marijuana. Scientifically, it is called delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol or delta-9-THC in its active state. In addition, this produces the euphoria or “high” associated with marijuana consumption. It is generally believed that a high produced from high concentrations of THC will be more intense than one with low concentrations of the ingredient.

Cannabidiol (CBD)

In terms of popularity and demand, CBD is perhaps the best-known and most in-demand cannabinoid, in addition to THC. CBD has a range of potential health benefits including relieving stress and inflammation. The TAC includes any CBD in your product. Most importantly, CBD is non-intoxicating, in contrast to THC.

Cannabinol (CBN)

CBN is commonly thought of as the sleep cannabinoid. There is a wide range of therapeutic effects associated with non-intoxicating CBN. According to early research, cannabinol may reduce pain and improve sleep.

Cannabigerol (CBG)

As a non-intoxicating compound, CBG may reduce the psychoactive effects of THC, similarly to CBD. By doing so, cannabis users can enjoy the benefits of THC without being impaired by intense highs.

While this effect may be mediated by the endocannabinoid system, this effect could also be due to CBG’s effects on the alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, which dampens sympathetic nervous system activity.

Cannabichromene (CBC)

While this compound was first identified 50 years ago, its benefits remain unclear. Nevertheless, it is known that similarly to THC and CBD, CBC also derives from cannabigerolic acid (CBGA). However, not much is known about how the less common cannabinoids affect human biology.

TAC is often mistakenly referred to as Total Aerobic Count by novices in the industry. It differs from Total Active Cannabinoids in that it refers to a different aspect of the plant’s composition. Using the total aerobic count, you can measure how many microbial cells are present in the cannabis sample.

THC vs TAC: Why do they differ?

As the name implies, TAC specifies the chemical composition of any hemp or cannabis plant by providing a list of its active cannabinoids. Therefore, TAC represents the product’s total cannabinoid levels. In contrast to THC, which is just one compound, TAC takes into account the entire spectrum of active cannabinoids contained within the product.

How are THC and TAC related?

There is a significant interaction between THC and TAC components. For example, CBD can potentially decrease anxiety from THC, altering the overall psychoactive experience.

Also, it is worth noting that certain TAC cannabinoids, for example, CBGA, contribute to the production of THC. CBGA, a form of CBG that is acidic, breaks down into CBG and then breaks down further into other cannabinoids, such as THC.

How does TAC influence the entourage effect?

In theory, the entourage effect describes the synergistic interaction of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids in cannabis. According to the theory, all the cannabis plant’s components, including phytocannabinoids and terpenes, enhance each other’s effects.

The TAC plays a major role in the entourage effect. However, along with cannabinoids, there are other compounds of importance, including fatty acids, terpenes, and flavonoids. And although the majority of the other compounds are not well understood, the entourage effect relies on all of them.

Cannabis strains are characterized by their unique flavors due to terpenes. Cannabis crops are not the only crops that produce terpenes, as every plant, fruit, and flower produces them. Some common terpenes include limonene, pinene, linalool, and eucalyptol. Moreover, terpenes can exert psychoactive effects, which is why some terpenes are sedating.

Flavonoids, however, provide plant pigments, and are particularly noteworthy for their antioxidant properties. Aside from this, the mechanism by which they contribute to the entourage effect must still be explored.

cannabis flower — Photo by AYEHAB/Getty Images

THC vs. TAC: key takeaways

So, what’s the verdict? Is THC better than TAC? As we mentioned earlier, that’s not really the point of this comparison. The purpose of comparing TAC vs THC is not to identify which is more beneficial or “better” in terms of purity or potency. Instead, it means that when you’re looking for a cannabinoid product, whether it be for medicinal or recreational use, you should definitely take the percentage of TAC into account in addition to the THC in order to make an informed decision.

The TAC percentage provides a more detailed picture of the entire cannabis product. However, if strength is your main concern, you may want to look for a product that has a higher percentage of THC. Of course, it’s important to remember that everyone reacts differently to cannabinoids, so always start with a low dose and increase as needed.

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Whether you’re looking to improve your sleep, relieve daily stress, or relieve aches and pains, Jointly can match you with a cannabis or CBD product that can help. Jointly’s algorithm helps you discover top-rated products and brands that match your preferences, goals, and unique personality.

Sam Anderson is the content Director at Jointly, a cannabis wellness company powered by a proprietary data platform to help people reach their full potential. The company was created on the premise that purposeful cannabis consumption is the key to unlocking a better you. This article originally appeared on Jointly and has been reposted with permission.

MMJ Patients Don’t Have Gun Rights: Federal Court Rules On Nikki Fried’s Second Amendment Lawsuit

Benzinga Staff Writer

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November 7, 2022

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MMJ Patients Don’t Have Gun Rights: Federal Court Rules On Nikki Fried’s Second Amendment Lawsuit

In August, the DOJ asked a federal court to dismiss Fried’s lawsuit, arguing it would be too “dangerous to trust regular marijuana users to exercise sound judgment.”

By Nina Zdinjak

A Federal Court dismissed Nikki Fried’s Second Amendment lawsuit against the federal government seeking to allow medical marijuana patients to buy and own firearms.

Fried is Florida’s agriculture and consumer services commissioner.

US District Judge Allen Winsor wrote in the Friday ruling that “Florida’s medical marijuana users are ‘unlawful user[s] of . . . [a] controlled substance,’ so this law makes it a crime for them to possess firearms.”

cannabis gun — Photo by jirkaejc/Getty Images

Background

Fried announced the litigation at the Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference in Miami Beach on the 4/20 cannabis holiday.

The lawsuit argues that there is a conflict between state and federal law and that federal policy requires medical marijuana (MMJ) cardholders to choose between their state constitutional right to MMJ and their Second Amendment right.

“No patient should have to choose between medicine and employment, a roof over their head, access to capital or their Constitutional rights,” Fried said adding that the country’s marijuana policies are “irrational, inconsistent, and incoherent.”

Fried, a medical marijuana cardholder and gun owner, explained that MMJ patients face felony charges if they lie about their marijuana use on a federal firearm application.

In July, Fried’s lawyers and other plaintiffs argued that under the recent SCOTUS ruling, the current federal policy banning those who admit to using marijuana in a background check could not be enforced.

guns and marijuana — Photo by Creative-Family/Getty Images

In August, the DOJ asked a federal court to dismiss Fried’s lawsuit, arguing it would be too “dangerous to trust regular marijuana users to exercise sound judgment.”

Fried stated that she was disappointed that the DOJ decided to “double down on harmful prohibition policies. DOJ’s argument is as offensive as it is inaccurate.”

“I will never stop looking for outside-the-box ways we can further this fight until we achieve full and equitable legalization,” Fried said at the time.

Dismissal Highlights

Now, several months after the DOJ urged a federal court to dismiss the lawsuit, the ruling came in, with the federal court siding with the DOJ. The core of the judge’s ruling lies in the argument that individuals who consume cannabis are engaging in illegal activity at the federal level, even though medical marijuana has been legalized at the state level. This makes for the precedent to refute their gun rights.

“Laws keeping guns from the mentally ill likewise flow from the historical tradition of keeping guns from those in whose hands they could be dangerous,” the judge wrote. “Plaintiffs recoil at being compared to the mentally ill…but one does not have to label marijuana users mentally ill to recognize that both categories of people can be dangerous when armed. Although the prohibition reaches those habitually using marijuana (even if not currently under the influence), habitual drug users are analogous to other groups the government has historically found too dangerous to have guns.”

Furthermore, Winsor explained that this right can be retrieved, saying, “unlawful drug users can regain their Second Amendment rights by simply ending their drug use.”

This article originally appeared on Benzinga and has been reposted with permission.

How Much Does Weed Cost?

Cannabis

Tom Gaffey

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November 7, 2022

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Unlike products that are skyrocketing in price, cannabis is still illegal on a federal level, and therefore not regulated the same way.

The rise of inflation and increasing prices feels inescapable right now. From the grocery store to the news to politician’s speeches on the campaign trail, increased costs are currently embedded in everyone’s mind. For those who enjoy cannabis recreationally, or rely on its medical benefits, this talk of rising prices may have you worried about the price of weed. So, in the midst of this – how much does weed cost?

As we have previously reported, however, the price of cannabis is not rising with the rate of inflation. In fact, it is reaching astonishing lows in some cases. According to Cannabis Benchmarks’ recent U.S. Cannabis Spot Index, “Both Colorado’s and California’s spot prices for wholesale flower fell to new all-time lows this week with the outdoor harvest yet to come to market in full force.”

This dip in prices may have you wondering what is going on in the cannabis market. More importantly, it might have you wondering how much weed costs these days, exactly. But the answer is a bit tricky, mostly because it is still illegal on a federal level. Each state sets its own marijuana policies, and in turn the price of weed varies from state to state.

On average, according to OxfordTreatment.com, the national average for an ounce of high quality weed is currently $326, an ounce of medium quality weed is $266, and the national average price of a joint is $7.59. With this said, prices are not likely to rise in the next few months, and could even drop further overall. But this, of course, all depends on where you live. Perhaps the best question to ask in these uncertain economic times is where weed is the most expensive, and where it is the cheapest.

Where Is Marijuana Most Expensive?

Topping the list as the most expensive place to buy weed in the United States is Washington D.C., where, according to OxfordTreatment.com, an ounce of high quality weed is $597.88.

Next on the list is North Dakota, where an ounce of the same weed costs $383.6, followed by Virginia, where it costs $364.89. “These are places where marijuana use is somewhat restricted: In D.C. it is illegal to purchase, in North Dakota it’s only legal for medical use, and in Virginia it’s not legal at any level,” according to the same site.

To put it in even simpler terms, while a joint on average costs $7.59, in the Nation’s Capital, you are likely to pay almost double, at $13.92 a pop.

Where Is Marijuana Cheapest?

What most weed enthusiasts are really after is knowing where they can find the cheapest good weed in the country. If that’s what you’re looking for, head West. The state with the lowest price for quality weed is Oregon, where, according to the same Oxford Treatment data, an ounce of high quality weed will cost you just $210.75. The second cheapest state to buy weed is another West Coast state, Washington. Third on the list is Colorado, where an ounce of high quality weed is $241.74.

All three of these states have legal medical and recreational weed. The markets are well established in these states, as is the industry competition. This means there is ample supply and competition, which likely contributes to these lower rates for quality cannabis.

marijuana investing — Photo by Olena Ruban/Getty Images

Why the Price of Weed Is Falling

One statistic that puzzles some who follow the price of weed is why it has seemed to drop in the midst of the inflationary times of 2022. According to Andrew Livingston, director of economics and research at the Denver-based cannabis law firm Vicente Sederberg LLP, there are several reasons for this, including “heavy competition within the regulated market; high taxation rates; the undercutting of prices by illicit or unregulated operators, including street dealers; and the natural growing pains that come with running a business in uncharted territory,” he told CNN.

Everything from the illicit market to increased competition in established legal markets contributes to the low price of cannabis today. Also, unlike products that are skyrocketing in price, cannabis is still illegal on a federal level, and therefore not regulated the same way.

As Zoë Plakias, an assistant professor of agricultural, environmental and development economics at Ohio State University told Courthouse News Service, “If restrictions on the sale of cannabis were lifted, if cannabis was legalized at the federal level, and we saw trade across states, I think we’d see cannabis look much more like other types of markets.” Until that day, the price of weed will likely be more unpredictable and susceptible to many outside factors.

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Marijuana can reduce pain and provide some additional benefits, such as relaxation, calmness, improved sleep, and many others.

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Conclusion

While most states agree that mycotoxin testing is necessary, the regulatory limits vary significantly from one state to another.

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At an election eve campus rally, Joe Biden talked about the importance of students’ votes when it comes to decriminalizing marijuana.

Visitors to the state have consistently accounted for nearly one-third of all adult-use sales in Illinois, with 31% of sales being to out-of-staters in October.

Clearly, success across the board is not guaranteed, but recent history has shown that cannabis legalization has enjoyed significant victories at the polls.

Legal Cannabis Is On The Rise And The Sky Has Not Fallen

The Czech Republic is the first country in Europe to draw inspiration from Germany by making a plan to legalize marijuana.

When you’re shopping for a cannabis product, you should definitely take the percentage of TAC into account in addition to the THC in order to make an informed decision. Here’s why.

What is TAC?

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)

Cannabidiol (CBD)

Cannabinol (CBN)

Cannabigerol (CBG)

Cannabichromene (CBC)

THC vs TAC: Why do they differ?

How are THC and TAC related?

How does TAC influence the entourage effect?

THC vs. TAC: key takeaways

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In August, the DOJ asked a federal court to dismiss Fried’s lawsuit, arguing it would be too “dangerous to trust regular marijuana users to exercise sound judgment.”

Background

Dismissal Highlights

Unlike products that are skyrocketing in price, cannabis is still illegal on a federal level, and therefore not regulated the same way.

Where Is Marijuana Most Expensive?

Where Is Marijuana Cheapest?

Why the Price of Weed Is Falling

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