‘Cannabis As A Panacea’ Revisited

Cannabis

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October 24, 2022

Saying that cannabis is a panacea would imply that cannabis cures all types of diseases. Even in real life, it’s difficult to find one solution that fixes every problem.

The cure-all cannabis narrative has left many rational humans with unsettling feelings about cannabis legalization. Just Google “cannabis -panacea” and what you’re likely to come up with are a number of rebuttals. If anything, the world is just moving from the prohibition era when cannabis was demonized for being one of the greatest ills in society.

Just as a reminder, here are some legendary Henry Aslinger quotes on cannabis:

“You smoke a joint and you’re likely to kill your brother.”
“Marijuana is an addictive drug which produces in its users insanity, criminality, and death.”
“Some people will fly into a delirious rage, and they are temporarily irresponsible and may commit violent crimes. Other people will laugh uncontrollably. It is impossible to say what the effect will be on any individual.”
“If the hideous monster Frankenstein came face to face with marijuana, he would drop dead of fright.”

With such a past that we are only beginning to recover from, it’s not surprising that any attempt to sanitize the herb is met with the level of fire and fury that it deserves. It doesn’t help that cannabis is still regarded as a compound with “no medical use and a high potential for abuse” under federal law. How then can the same plant be a panacea?

medical marijuana — Photo by simpson33/Getty Images

What Is a Panacea?

Merriam-Webster defines panacea as “a remedy for all ills and difficulties.” Saying that cannabis is a panacea would imply that cannabis cures all types of diseases. Even in real life, it’s difficult to find one solution that fixes every problem.

So this panacea narrative automatically comes across as a desperate attempt at marketing snake oils to an unread audience. If anything, such “exaggerated” claims seem to be doing more harm than good to the legal industry, at least superficially. But is cannabis really a “cure-all” remedy and where does such a narrative even come from? Here is a good argument for considering cannabis as the ultimate panacea.

Endocannabinoid System Supports the Panacea Narrative

The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is a unique system that’s responsible for maintaining a state of physiological balance in the body. In other words, it maintains a state of physiological balance in all bodily systems. The ECS has been implicated in the following vital functions in the body:

Pain
Sleep
Metabolism
Stress
Hormonal control
Immune Function

The endocannabinoid tone refers to the overall state of one’s endocannabinoid system. When the tone is insufficient it causes what’s referred to as clinical endocannabinoid deficiency (CECD) which is basically a state of disease.

Here’s where cannabis comes in.

Cannabis is the only known plant that produces compounds called cannabinoids that interact directly with the endocannabinoid system. In this way, cannabinoids are able to support a deficient endocannabinoid system and in the process bring healing as physiological hemostasis (balance) is restored.

marijuana — Photo by 3 Pelos/Getty Images

A highly cited review study that was published in the Febs Journal concluded that “Targeting endocannabinoid system activity may have therapeutic potential in almost all disease affecting humans.” The study was titled, ” Modulating the endocannabinoid system in human health and disease: successes and failures.

Given the far-reaching influence of the ECS, is cannabis not “close enough” to being a panacea of sorts?

Qualifying Conditions Support the Panacea Narrative

Medical cannabis is legal in 37 states. These states have legalized medical marijuana programs and consequently a list of conditions that qualify for medical cannabis treatment. Even as the list of qualifying conditions keeps ballooning, what is there already is quite impressive as it ranges from the most basic to the most complex diseases. Some qualifying conditions include pain, nausea, epilepsy and seizures, multiple sclerosis, HIV/AIDS, cancer, PTSD, ALS, Alzheimer’s disease, and neurodegenerative diseases among others.

With such a list it’s not surprising that cannabis is considered a panacea.

More Clinical Research is Needed

Both preliminary and clinical evidence have proved that cannabis is not hype-up snake oil. Given the relationship with the ECS, cannabis potentially has several therapeutic applications, possibly more than standard drugs. Unfortunately, the schedule 1 status makes it difficult for researchers to explore this plant exhaustively. Not until there’s a change in the status quo will be able to understand the full therapeutic scope of cannabis and rule out every possibility of cannabis being the panacea.

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

What The Latest Studies Say About Cannabis And Postpartum

Cannabis
CBD

Terry Hacienda

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October 23, 2022

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What The Latest Studies Say About Cannabis And Postpartum

CBD has been attracting more women than ever because of its ability to help with a wide range of women’s health issues.

Giving birth to a healthy, beautiful child is the dream of every mother. However, there’s no way to prepare for the darkness that is postpartum depression. It can range in severity from mild baby blues to severe depression. When it’s more serious, it can induce symptoms in new moms such as extreme anxiety, mood swings, crying spells, thinking about hurting someone else including your baby, anger, and much more.

The symptoms of postpartum depression can last anywhere from a few days after labor to as much as a weeks, and even months beyond especially if you haven’t treated it. Untreated postpartum depression can actually be a dangerous situation for both mother and child, which is why medical help is necessary.

newborn baby — Photo by RODNAE Productions via Pexels

Postpartum depression is more common than we think. According to experts, around 85% of mothers will go through some kind of mood swings after giving birth. Despite this, treatment can be tricky because of all the new things a mom is going through especially with physical change, lack of sleep, and the fact that you are breastfeeding so it isn’t advisable to take mood stabilizers when doing so. Ensuring that you get proper self-care and rest is essential for nipping postpartum depression in the bud, and natural treatment.

For many moms, cannabidiol (CBD), the non-psychoactive compound in marijuana, has been a lifesaver.

How CBD Can Help Moms Fight Postpartum Depression

CBD has been attracting more women than ever because of its ability to help with a wide range of women’s health issues. Millions of women are now taking CBD, and companies have even created entire lines of product specifically focused on women’s health.

There have been numerous studies backing up CBD’s efficacy in treating depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. In one study from 2021 conducted by Realm of Caring (ROC), individuals who consumed artisanal CBD products were shown to have significant decreases in symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as better sleep and less pain. The study also clarified how much CBD was effective to treat mood disorders.

“The biggest misconception this study addresses is that CBD doses need to be between 400-600mg before positive psychiatric effects can be achieved,” explains Dr. Nicolas Schlienz, Realm of Caring’s Research Director. “We observed positive effects in people taking an average of only about 60 mg per day, 1/10 of that dose,” he added.

In a 2021 study, researchers analyzed the benefits of laboratory tested CBD over the course of six months on 279 subjects. The participants were suffering from moderate to extreme cases of anxiety, depression, and pain. Those who had more severe cases demonstrated great relief from taking CBD. “This study on CBD-rich products demonstrates the potential of RWE (real-world evidence) for the advancement of medical cannabis research and practice guidelines, especially in a world where CBD use is exponentially increasing but scientific data are limited. It revealed that CBD-rich treatments have a beneficial impact on patients with self-reported moderate or severe symptoms of pain, anxiety, or depression and overall wellbeing but not in patients with mild symptoms,” the authors wrote.

breastfeeding baby — Photo by Fanny Renaud via Unsplash

Unfortunately, as of the time of writing, there is still a lack of studies focused on the effects of CBD on breastfeeding mothers as well as the breastfed baby. Experts are still collecting data to determine if there is any impact. The studies we do have show that THC can be passed down to the baby through breastmilk, even though ancient cultures have been using THC even while breastfeeding (and still do, such as mothers in Jamaica). It’s worth stating that mothers already contain some level of cannabinoids in breast milk which are produced by our very own endocannabinoid system.

The presence of endocannabinoids are important because they contribute to the development of babies. They are vital in stimulating appetite and encouraging babies to suckle, and it’s widely demonstrated that breast-fed babies are clearly much calmer after they feed. It is a known fact that endocannabinoids are present in breastmilk though scientists are still unsure which ones these are.

Mothers who are interested in using CBD for postpartum depression are recommended to talk to their health care providers. It’s also important to do your own research on products and brands, as it’s always recommended to choose CBD products that are made by reputable manufacturers. Using isolate and clean, organic CBD is your best chance to avoid consuming those that may contain harmful contaminants including bacteria, pesticides, and heavy metals. These can cause harm to the baby as they are transmitted through the breast milk. You also want to consume hemp-derived CBD that doesn’t contain any traces of psychoactive THC.

Currently, the FDA still advises against the use of any cannabis product while breastfeeding. But we hope that new research changes that. At the end of the day, this is a choice between breastfeeding moms and their doctor.

mom and baby — Photo by RODNAE Productions via Pexels

For those who want peace of mind, you can opt to use topical CBD products because these don’t enter the bloodstream the way that edibles, inhaled CBD, and drinks do. In fact, many moms also find relief using topical CBD to help with sore nipples and muscles.

In addition, there are other things that moms can do to help speed up healing from postpartum depression. These include getting regular mild exercise, asking for help, working with a therapist, and maintaining relationships with loved ones during your recovery.

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

Are You A Mosquito Magnet? This Might Explain Why

News

Maria Loreto

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October 23, 2022

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Are You A Mosquito Magnet? This Might Explain Why

Some people attract more mosquito bites than others. And now researchers think they know why.

Some people attract more mosquitoes than others. Or so they say. But researchers found that this statement might have some merit and that it’s possible for mosquitoes to have some preferences in the humans they bite.

While theories suggest that blood type, clothing and bacteria have parts to play when it comes to mosquitoes’ decision to bite humans, a new study suggests that smell has something to do with this.

Researchers Finally Understand How COVID-19 Affects The Sense Of Smell — Photo by Samantha Gades via Unsplash

The study, published in the journal Cell, suggests that mosquito preference is based on someone’s smell. Sadly, it might be something that’s innate in people and thus something they can’t change or influence over the course of their lives.

The study was conducted over a three year period and involved eight participants who would wear nylon stockings over their arms for six days. Researchers would then take these stockings and expose them to mosquitoes in order to see which stocking they would naturally gravitate towards.

Researchers found that one of the participants in particular was four times more attractive to mosquitos than the runner-up participant. They were also 100 times more attractive than the least attractive participant.

In a statement from Rockefeller University, the study’s lead author, Leslie Vosshall, wrote about carboxylic acid, an element that the subjects that mosquitoes loved produced in larger quantities. “There’s a very, very strong association between having large quantities of these fatty acids on your skin and being a mosquito magnet,” she said.

Researchers said that they wanted to see if mosquitoes would be attracted to different people, but that wasn’t the case. Results showed that mosquito magnets are likely to remain that way throughout their lives, thus being more exposed to various diseases.

“Some subjects were in the study for several years, and we saw that if they were a mosquito magnet, they remained a mosquito magnet,” said Maria Elena De Obaldia, another of the study’s authors. “Many things could have changed about the subject or their behaviors over that time, but this was a very stable property of the person.”

Still, the research could prove useful in the future, especially when it comes to making effective mosquito repellents.

No One Is Giving Your Kids Weed At Halloween, But Here’s How To Prevent Them From Eating Some By Accident

Terry Hacienda

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October 22, 2022

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No One Is Giving Your Kids Weed At Halloween, But Here’s How To Prevent Them From Eating Some By Accident

Since it’s virtually impossible to tell an edible from regular food these days, it’s become critical for parents and guardians to take extra care around children.

People who give children THC edibles give all the other responsible consumers a bad rep. And with Halloween just around the corner, it’s important for parents to keep their kids safe from THC-infused edibles disguised as candy.

For us adults, the fact that cannabis edibles don’t smell or taste differently from regular candy is a bonus — but that obviously is not okay for kids. We don’t want young ones to suffer from getting high, and worrying their parents sick for that matter.

There has been an increase in cases of children consuming cannabis in states where it’s legal. In Colorado, there was even a case of a two year old child having a marijuana overdose. Meanwhile, in other mature markets like Colorado and California, kids around the age of 8 suffered from cannabis poisoning. It is certainly rare, but there is still a chance of it happening.

Since it’s virtually impossible to tell an edible from regular food these days, it’s become critical for parents and guardians to take extra care around children. They have no idea they’re ingesting cannabis edibles. Many companies even manufacture edibles and sell them in packaging designed to look like popular brands of candy, cookies, and cereal.

While marijuana is well-tolerated by adults, it can be traumatic and severe for young children and infants. In many cases, they have to be taken to the emergency room of a hospital to help manage their symptoms.

Edibles may take a while for its effects to be felt, even in children. Here are some signs you can look out for:

Weakness
Panic
Intoxication
Excessive sleepiness
Paranoia
Slurred speech
Slowed breathing
Ataxia (difficulty balancing)

You know your child best, so observe for other signs and behaviors that aren’t typical of them.

halloween cannabis — Photo by smileitsmccheeze/Getty Images

However, there are some ways you can prevent your kids from accidentally ingesting cannabis edibles. This isn’t important just around Halloween, but year-round:

Go trick or treating with your kids, and don’t accept homemade candies without properly sealed packaging from known brands. Check for any treats that may have been tampered with. Throw away any candy that has been opened.

Tell your trick-or-treaters not to consume any candy before you personally inspect them. At the very least, if they are old enough, ask them to keep all the wrappers so that you can check if there were any edibles given to them in the bags. If you live in a state where cannabis is legal either medically or recreationally, any good parent will take the few minutes it requires to inspect the Halloween candy of their child before they consume it.

Talk to your children about the potential risks of accidentally eating marijuana edibles. This will educate them about the stress and the dangers of ingesting marijuana. It would also be a good opportunity for older children and teens to have discussions about underage use of marijuana and what it can do to their health, paving the way to talk about alcohol and tobacco use too.

While the nationwide cases are few and far in between, it’s still best to avoid the risk. THC edibles are also more costly compared to actual candy, so the chances of adults giving them out is truly rare. But you never know if you have someone malicious lurking around your neighborhood that could actually lace candy and give some out.

If you are a cannabis-consuming parent yourself, it always helps to keep the candies far away from children’s reach. Treat them the same way you would toxic products and pharmaceutical medications. Using child-safe or child-resistant packaging is always recommended, especially with a clear label.

marijuana edibles candy — Photo by IRA_EVVA/Getty Images

What To Do If You Think Your Child Ate And Edible

In the event that you suspect your child may have eaten marijuana edibles, the most important thing to do first is to stay calm.

Try to obtain information such as by checking what candy or edible your child may have possibly consumed. See how much they ate by comparing how much was in the package, and how much of it is left. Check for any information on the packaging about how much THC it contains.

If you notice that your child is excessively sleepy, breathing deeply, having a hard time breathing, or any other changes in their normal behavior, calling 9-1-1 is best.

Alternatively, you can also visit the nearest emergency room and give them as much information as you possibly can. You may also call poison control even if your child is acting normally. They will let you know if you can monitor your child from the comfort at home, and when it’s best for them to see a medical professional.

The most important thing to remember is that no child has ever died from a marijuana overdose. They will be uncomfortable for a while, but all will be fine. It’s just best to avoid getting their hands into THC edibles for the meantime.

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

Sleeping Less Than This Many Hours A Night Is Linked With Various Health Issues

Maria Loreto

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October 22, 2022

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Sleeping Less Than This Many Hours A Night Is Linked With Various Health Issues

A new study shows that not enough sleep makes it more likely for people to suffer from different chronic illnesses, including cancer and depression.

Sleeping is incredibly important, with health practitioners recommending a minimum of seven hours a night. Now, a new study says that sleeping less than five hours a night can lead to various health problems, among them, cancer, heart disease, depression, and more.

The study, published in the journal PLOS Medicine, used data from more than 8,000 people in the United Kingdom with no known chronic diseases. Participants reported their sleep habits every four to five years along with some clinical examinations for a period of 25 years. Results showed that the older people were and the less they slept, the worse the prognosis.

Feeling Sleepy After Smoking Weed? Here's What You Can Do — Photo by Jamie Street via Unsplash

Participants aged 50-years-old, who slept less than five hours a night, had a 30% risk to develop chronic diseases. These numbers increased with age. For example, at 60, participants who slept less than five hours had 32% of risk, while at 70, they had 40% of risk.

Chronic diseases are varied, ranging from arthritis to cancer. All of these became more likely when people slept less than they should.

Researchers shared some of the study’s limitations, including the fact most participants were white men and that all were civil servants, meaning that they had higher odds of being healthier than the average population. Then there was also the fact that the research relied on self-reported data, something that is considered less reliable than if participants were to be monitored and tracked throughout all of these years.

Adequate sleep has been known to help people in a range of way, from managing their weight to improving the health of their skin. It’s a process that’s good for mental and physical health and that affects us in ways that are almost untraceable. While it’s something that we do every day, sleep is often relegated, with people putting a priority on other aspects of their lives.

Still, more and more studies are coming out and helping us understand just how important sleep is and why people of all ages should prioritize it.

Religious Anti-Marijuana Groups Are Getting Louder — And They’re Ready To Take Action

Benzinga Staff Writer

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October 21, 2022

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Religious Anti-Marijuana Groups Are Getting Louder — And They’re Ready To Take Action

In North Dakota, religious groups have teamed up with law enforcement members in a push against Measure 2, which would legalize recreational marijuana.

By Jelena Martinovic

Religious people are less likely to support legal marijuana than those describing themselves as atheists and agnostics, according to a Pew Research Center survey conducted last year.

The poll revealed that barely half (54%) of respondents who identify with any religious group think that cannabis should be legal for medical and recreational use. At the same time, roughly three-quarters (76%) of surveyed US adults who consider themselves atheists, agnostics, or “nothing in particular” want to see the plant legalized.

While cannabis advocates and shareholders are tireless in their push to legalize marijuana, religious activists are rooting for the opposite.

Just a few weeks after the Amendment 3 — which seeks to legalize adult-use cannabis in Missouri this fall — was criticized by Catholic bishops who urged Missourians to vote “no” on the amendment, religious organizations in North Dakota and Arkansas followed suit.

religion — Photo by Ric Rodrigues via Pexels

Islamists & Christians Agree On Marijuana

In North Dakota, religious groups have teamed up with law enforcement members in a push against Measure 2, which would legalize recreational marijuana, reported KVRR.

A North Dakota Catholic Conference statement insisted that Catholics are obliged to “protect human life and the common good.”

Islamic advocates seem to be on the same page as Christians, at least regarding cannabis.

“From a religious point of view, from the Islamic point of view, any intoxicant for that matter is forbidden,” said Mohamed Sanaullah, a board member at the Islamic Society of Fargo-Moorhead. “Again, it’s a personal decision. If they’re more religious, they probably should be voting no.”

North Dakota sheriffs, deputies, police chiefs and peace officer associations all share a similar stance on the issue.

“It [marijuana legalization] will greatly strain our law enforcement resources which are already strained,” said Fargo Police Chief David Zibolski who shared concerns regarding how legalization would affect his department. “It will exacerbate an already existing issue with addiction.”

In his view, marijuana should be treated the same as alcohol. He cautioned that children could be affected the most if the plant is accessible.

“Even when you talk about it being for only 21 and older, well, just like any other prescription medication that adults bring into their homes, kids have access to it,” Zibolski said. “That also increases their ability to get a hold of it easier.

Kristie Spooner, the chair at Healthy and Productive North Dakota went a step further, saying that cannabis can cause psychosis in addition to other mental health issues.

Still, members of New Approach ND support cannabis legalization in North Dakota as well as its responsible use.

“Most people, myself included, would rather have a system regulated from seed to sale,” said Mark Friese, New Approach’s treasurer. “Regulated safe, checked marijuana with it being done in the light of day, legitimately with businesses that are subject to regulation.”

catholic — Photo by Tetra Images/Getty Images

Arkansas Activists Are Moving On From Words To Deeds

Meanwhile, in Arkansas, David Couch, the attorney behind the state’s medical marijuana amendment, is working to defeat recreational cannabis legalization efforts by Responsible Growth Arkansas (RGA).

Couch joined forces with the church-based Family Council Action Committee to fight against Issue 4, which would make adult use of cannabis legal, reported The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.

Couch held a joint news conference on Wednesday with Jerry Cox, executive director of the committee. In it, Couch said that he is currently touring the state and meeting with church groups, chambers of commerce, as well as other groups and organizations that are against the proposed marijuana policy change.

Cox revealed that the committee has distributed roughly half a million flyers headlined “Arkansas Does Not Need Another Drug Problem” and “Deadly meth, opioids, heroin and fentanyl are already destroying too many lives” to local churches.

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

Can Visitors Able To Buy Medical Marijuana in DC?

Maria Loreto

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October 21, 2022

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Can Visitors Able To Buy Medical Marijuana in DC?

The mayor signed a bill to allow tourists to buy medical marijuana while they stay in the nation’s capital.

Tourists and visitors are able to buy medical marijuana in Washington, DC. The measure is predicted to boost tourism and encourage people to travel to the nation’s capital.

The bill was signed by mayor Muriel Bowser, and will allow tourists to self-certify as medical patients for the duration of their stay. This will make it possible for them to purchase marijuana without the need for a doctor’s recommendation.

The bill was unanimously approved and increases the amount of medical marijuana a patient can possess from four to eight ounces. It also makes it easier for residents of neighboring states to get medical marijuana in DC for whatever reason.

In July, Bowser signed into law the Medical Marijuana Self-Certification Emergency Amendment Act of 2022, which allows residents to self-certify as medical marijuana patients and buy cannabis from licensed retailers. This new bill extends those rights to tourists.

Non-DC residents (domestic & intl. visitors) are now eligible for a temp medical cannabis patient registration. Registrations are valid for 30-days, can be used immediately upon completion of application.

Apply: linkhttps://abra.dc.gov/node/1626021

— DCGov_ABRA (@DCGov_ABRA) October 21, 2022

Marijuana Moment spoke to Dr. Chanda Macias, the founder of the National Holistic Healing Center, a dispensary in DC, who praised the new law.

“This will lead to increased patient access to plant-based medicine and will introduce new patients to the flourishing local medical marijuana landscape. These most recent actions are proof that Washington, DC is leading the way as it relates to expanding patient access to all,” she said.

DC has some of the most confusing marijuana laws in the country. While it’s legal to grow and possess marijuana, it remains illegal to sell it. Still, while frowned upon, “gifting” remains an option, which means that people can purchase marijuana through a loophole in the law, allowing sellers to gift them marijuana while selling an item.

white house — Photo by Francois Galland/Getty Images

Making matters more confusing is the fact that marijuana is illegal on the federal level, meaning that people possessing it in areas like government buildings, national parks, and more, could face penalties. These areas make up large parts of DC, making it possible for people to break the law without knowing they’re doing so.

Following Biden’s decision to pardon marijuana offenses, as the law stands, he is the only person who could grant pardons to residents of Washington, DC Other states in the country have the ability to deal with this process independently, making the pardons more seamless.

5 Fall Foods That Go Great With Marijuana

Tom Gaffey

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October 21, 2022

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5 Fall Foods That Go Great With Marijuana

Some of the more popular flavors of fall have been known to improve the taste of weed, while others can even work to enhance and balance your high.

Autumn is a time for cozying up to a fire, admiring the leaves as they change color, and also a time for switching it up in the kitchen. Light summer fare gives way to hearty and festive fall meals each year as the days shorten and grow colder. From hearty stews packed with root vegetables to pumpkin spice and everything nice, fall has a flavor profile all its own.

If you are a cannabis lover and live in an area that is currently experiencing the lovely change in seasons, you might wonder how you can maximize your fall experience by using cannabis as a tool. Sure, you can get high on a lovely foliage walk, but it’s the tastes and smells of fall that really warm the soul.

While cannabis works with nearly all of fall’s flavors, these five foods stick out as fall foods that pair perfectly with pot. Some improve the flavor, while some can even work to enhance and balance your high.

Apples

Apples and cannabis go hand in hand, literally. Nearly every pot smoker has resorted to turning an apple into a cannabis pipe in a desperate moment, finding that it isn’t such a bad idea. Apart from this makeshift smoking device, apples have even more in common with cannabis than you might think.

The sweet yet tart flavor from fresh apples brings out some of cannabis’s more nuanced flavor. In fact, some strains of weed have even started to taste like apples. According to healthcare technology company Verilife, “In many instances, cannabis cultivators discover new flavors, or try to create new flavors, with selective breeding between strains. This process is what gives us the wide array of apple-flavored cannabis that’s available on the market today.”

So pairing an apple-flavored weed with an apple baked good feels like a no brainer. Not to mention, cooking apple-flavored anything will transform your home into a cozy fall wonderland.

Pumpkin Spice

Thanks to a certain coffee chain, fall just isn’t fall without pumpkin spice. There is pumpkin spice everything, from coffee to candles to soap to candy. While there is so much of this flavor in October that it can be a bit off-putting, consider adding some of that pumpkin spice to your marijuana.

Pumpkin and the spices associated with it, like nutmeg, allspice and ginger, all possess strong flavor. If nothing more, this helps mask some of the less desirable tastes found in marijuana. In addition to the strong flavor, pumpkin and marijuana, as it turns out, have a bit of a symbiotic relationship. According to the medical marijuana doctor site DOCMJ, “When consumed alongside cannabis, pumpkin can stimulate the mind and energize the body while helping your body relax.”

Why not give this combination a try? Who knows, maybe once you add some weed, pumpkin spice really does live up to the hype.

Chocolate

Chocolate really starts to find its place in the home as the weather cools off. From Halloween candy to hot cocoa, chocolate is a mainstay during the colder months. Not only is chocolate delicious, but it is frequently combined with marijuana, and not just because its fat content and flavor lends itself perfectly to edibles.

There is some scientific evidence that chocolate can enhance your normal cannabis high, due to the fact that it causes stimulation to some of the same receptors and marijuana.

Anandamide, the “bliss” molecule that our bodies produce, is one of the compounds found in small quantities in cacao. More significantly, as we’ve reported before, “cacao features two others chemicals in higher concentrations that inhibit the breakdown of anandamide, as well as phytocannabinoids in cannabis including THC and CBD, potentially intensifying their effects. On top of this is theobromine, which also amplifies the effects of anandamide.” Talk about a match made in heaven!

Additionally, according to Veriheal, marijuana combined with chocolate can also fight off anxiety and even have anti-nausea effects. Sounds like a win-win.

Sweet Potatoes

It’s just not Thanksgiving without sweet potatoes. From cold sweet potato salad to sweet potato casserole, and of course sweet potato pie, this orange vegetable is a mainstay in fall cookery. Its earthy notes (especially when the skin is left on) lend it to being a great food to combine with weed. Not only does cannabis taste nice with sweet potatoes (think a browned buttered sweet potato with that lemon minty terpene flavor), but there are some health and wellness benefits to this combination.

According to MMJ Health, “The vitamins in sweet potatoes enable your brain to produce serotonin, which can eventually help you stabilize your feelings and enjoy a relaxing psychoactive experience.”

Root Vegetables

Carrots and beets and turnips, oh my! These hearty and colorful root vegetables begin to appear on menus at nearly every seasonal eatery as the leaves change colors and begin to fall. This is because root vegetables are in their prime in the Autumn, and are often some of the last foods to be harvested.

Best of all, these earthy and sometimes sweet edible roots can pair nicely with cannabis. There are several cannabis-infused root vegetables recipes out there. This route is a great one to take if you are vegan or health conscious. It allows you a high and tasty side dish without loads of butter and carbs. Just infuse the marijuana with oil instead of butter and add your usual spices. Earthy spices like rosemary, sage and tarragon help to further compliment this pairing.

How To Rehydrate Weed

Sam Anderson

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October 21, 2022

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It’s important to remember that prevention is the key to keeping your weed in good condition. Be sure to store your cannabis in a cool, dark place, ideally in an opaque glass container.

Do you have weed that’s gone a little dry? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’re going to teach you how to rehydrate weed and make it as good as new (or pretty close to it).

We’ll cover methods and tips from how to keep weed moist to how to make your weed sticky. So whether your buds are a little too dry or just not packing the punch you want them to, read on to learn how to rehydrate weed!

How to rehydrate weed

The weed you buy is carefully dried and cured by cultivators to optimize for the right amount of moisture. Cultivators will dry weed to have about a 15% moisture content and then cure it which takes the moisture content down to about 9%. This moisture level works harmoniously with the weed’s cannabinoid and terpene content.

When weed dries out too much, typically below a 6% moisture content, your weed begins to lose its potency. Over time, THC degrades to cannabinol (CBN), which gives your weed a different effect.

Weed dries out when it’s been exposed to too much direct sunlight or oxygen. To prevent yourself from having to learn how to fix dry weed (or how to rehydrate your weed) you should store your cannabis flower in an airtight container that doesn’t allow light in. Place it in a dry cool place, away from direct sunlight.

But if your weed is already dry, here is an easy-to-follow guide to rehydrate weed.

There are several methods to rehydrate weed. Our preferred method uses natural plant-based material and doesn’t put your cannabis at risk of getting too moist.

What you need to rehydrate cannabis with citrus peel:

Your dehydrated weed
A fresh citrus fruit (e.g. lemon, lime, orange, grapefruit, mandarin)
A knife
An airtight container (preferably opaque glass if you don’t have this you can use a glass jar, Tupperware container or sandwich bag)

cannabis testing — Photo by CasarsaGuru/Getty Images

How to rehydrate cannabis: step-by-step guide

Step 1: Wash and dry your citrus fruit.

Step 2: Use your knife to carefully remove the peel (no fruit on the interior part of the peel).

Step 3: Place your dehydrated weed into the glass jar.

Step 4: Place peel into the jar so that it is not directly touching your weed (2 inches by 4 inches of citrus peel is sufficient).

Step 5: Close the jar (or whatever container you’re using) so that it is airtight. Store jar in a dry and cool place away from direct sunlight.

Step 6: Over the next 24 hours open and close the container a couple of times to let air briefly in and out.

Step 7: Once you’ve “aerated” your weed for a day, use your rehydrated cannabis within 24 hours so it stays moist.

If you don’t have citrus available, you can complete this process using a piece of fresh lettuce. The great thing about using citrus fruit is that many of the terpenes are complementary to those found in cannabis, so not only will a citrus peel rehydrate your weed rehydrate, it will also make it smell nice too!

How to keep weed moist

Preventing weed from drying out means figuring out how to keep weed moist. The easiest way to keep weed moist is to ensure you are storing it properly. Many people like to keep their weed in a glass mason jar. This is great to show off your buds to friends and family, but it’s not good for maintaining the quality of your weed. To keep weed from drying out, store your weed in opaque glass jars.

marijuana in jar — Photo by ArtistGNDphotography/Getty Images

Another option to rehydrate your weed is to invest in a cannabis humidor. Cannabis humidors are built to maximize the freshness of your weed and can be a great investment depending on your needs.

If you’re not a fan of citrus, or the terpenes in a citrus clash with your cannabis strain’s terpene profile, there are other methods to rehydrate your weed.

How to make weed moist again (the paper towel method)

What you need:

Your dehydrated weed
A paper towel
An airtight container (preferably opaque glass if you don’t have this you can use a glass jar, Tupperware container or sandwich bag)

Steps to make weed moist again with a paper towel:

Step 1: Wet your paper towel and squeeze out all the extra water so that it is not dripping.

Step 2: Place your dehydrated weed into the glass jar.

Step 3: Fold your paper towel into a square and place it in the jar, making sure it does not touch your weed. You want rehydrated weed, not wet weed.

RELATED: Can You Freeze Weed?

Step 4: Close the jar (or container) so that it is airtight and store away from direct sunlight – somewhere dry and cool.

Step 5: Over the next 24 hours, open and close the container a couple of times to let the air in and out.

Step 6: Once you’ve “aerated” your weed for a day, consume your rehydrated weed within 24 hours.

How to make your weed sticky

Stickiness in weed is the result of two things: resin and humidity of the flower.

The resin in weed is produced and secreted from the trichomes. Resin is like sap and makes weed sticky
Weed’s stickiness is also impacted by its humidity level, which is determined by how much moisture the flower had after processing, the harvest date (i.e. how old it is), and how it was stored.

Prevention is the key to keeping your weed sticky. To make your weed sticky, keep it from drying out.

marijuana nug — Photo by Kirill Vasikev / EyeEm/Getty Images

Seven tips to keep weed from drying out:

Store in an opaque glass container
Store in a dark place
Store in a cool place
Store in a place that is away from heat sources
Do not place your weed in the refrigerator
Do not freeze your weed in the refrigerator
Don’t purchase too much at once

Final thoughts on rehydrating cannabis

It’s important to remember that prevention is the key to keeping your weed in good condition. Be sure to store your cannabis in a cool, dark place, ideally in an opaque glass container.

If you’re not able to consume all of your weed before it starts to lose its stickiness or freshness, don’t worry! You just learned that there are ways to revive dried-out cannabis.

Get Started on Your Cannabis Wellness Journey

Have you started your cannabis wellness journey? Jointly is a new cannabis wellness app that helps you discover purposeful cannabis consumption so you can achieve your wellness goals with cannabis and CBD. On the Jointly app, you can find new cannabis products, rate products based on how well they helped you achieve your goals, and track and optimize 15 factors that can impact your cannabis experience. These 15 factors include your dose, the environment in which you consume cannabis, who you are with when you ingest, how hydrated you are, the quality of your diet, how much sleep you got last night, and more. Download the Jointly app on the App Store or the Google Play Store to get started on your cannabis wellness journey.

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.

Does Your Medical Marijuana Card Work In Other States?

Terry Hacienda

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October 20, 2022

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Medical marijuana reciprocity states usually allow patients to use their cards to access dispensaries. However, some states are more lenient than others in this regard.

Currently, 36 states across the United States, including the District of Columbia, have medical marijuana programs. Considering so many states now permit the use of medical marijuana, it makes sense to wonder if you can use your medical marijuana card in another state.

If you are a certified medical cannabis patient traveling within the US, there are a few options for you to continue using your herbal medication. Because medicinal cannabis programs vary by state, we’ve put together an in-depth overview that covers all you need to learn regarding medical marijuana reciprocity in the US.

What Is Medical Marijuana Reciprocity?

Before getting into the specifics, it’s essential to comprehend how the idea of reciprocity relates to medical cannabis. Medicinal marijuana card reciprocity emerges when one state’s medical marijuana program accepts the validity of another state’s medical marijuana card and certificate. If you have a valid medical marijuana card in one state, you can use marijuana legally in another state if you travel there. However, you will be subject to the rules of the state you are visiting.

For holders of state-issued medical cannabis cards, 11 of these 36 states, including Washington, DC, the US Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico, presently grant medical marijuana program reciprocity. However, each state has its own set of reciprocity regulations. Depending on the state you are visiting, you may need to fill out a “visitor application” before traveling, sign documents within a local dispensary, or present your medical marijuana license or other form of identification before buying anything at a dispensary.

Please be aware that not all states allow medicinal marijuana patients to purchase all kinds of cannabis products. For instance, in some states, patients with medical conditions may not be permitted to consume cannabis-infused treats like cookies or smokable flowers.

buying marijuana dispensary — Photo by CasarsaGuru/Getty Images

States That Accept Out-Of-State MMJ Cards

Medical marijuana reciprocity states usually allow medical cannabis patients to use their cards to access dispensaries and buy their medication. However, some states are more lenient than others in this regard. To be eligible to purchase cannabis out of state, patients usually need to present both an ID and a current state-issued medical marijuana card. The following states accept out-of-state medical cannabis cards:

Arizona

Visitors who have a valid state medical marijuana card from their home state, or an equivalent, may possess and consume medical cannabis in Arizona. One ounce of marijuana can be possessed or consumed by qualified non-residents. Please remember that out-of-state patients cannot make purchases at Arizona-licensed dispensaries.

Arkansas

Before being allowed to buy medicinal marijuana in Arkansas, non-residents must apply as visiting patients and have a medical marijuana card from their home state. Application costs $50 and can be processed within 14 business days. If permitted, visiting patients in Arkansas have a 30-day period to buy medical marijuana.

Please be aware that even though medical marijuana dispensaries in Arkansas provide delivery, you will not be qualified for it since the product must be delivered to the location indicated on your medical marijuana license, which will be an address outside Arkansas. Visitors who are not residents must buy their medical marijuana there.

Hawaii

Hawaii’s out-of-state patient program is open to non-resident adult and minor medicinal marijuana patients (together with their legal guardian/caregiver) who have valid state-issued medical cannabis cards. This program permits out-of-state patients to possess, use, and purchase marijuana from authorized dispensaries in Hawaii. Every two weeks, registered out-of-state patients may buy up to four ounces.

Maine

Patients with a state-issued registry card or another form of identification may buy medicinal marijuana from a licensed dispensary in Maine. For a rolling 15-day period, a maximum of 2.5 ounces of cannabis products may be purchased.

Michigan

In Michigan, anyone with a valid state-issued medical marijuana card and an ID card can buy marijuana for medical purposes. However, dispensaries may choose to sell or not. Hence, verify again with your preferred dispensary to see if out-of-state patients are accepted.

The maximum amount of cannabis you can own or buy is 2.5 ounces. Due to the requirement that the delivery address matches the address on the medical cannabis card, out-of-state medical marijuana patients cannot obtain medical marijuana through delivery providers in Michigan.

Nevada

Patients with state or local government-issued medical marijuana card holders can buy medicinal marijuana from a licensed dispensary in Nevada.

New Hampshire

Due to restricted reciprocity, visitors who meet the requirements may only have two ounces of useable cannabis in New Hampshire. Visitors must present verification of a valid state-issued medical cannabis card and a note from their doctor confirming they have a qualifying medical condition (as specified by New Hampshire law). Please be aware that visitors are not allowed to purchase medical cannabis from a dispensary.

New Mexico

Patients may apply for a “reciprocity license” at an approved dispensary in New Mexico if they have a valid state-issued medical cannabis card, driver’s license, or another form of identification. Before visiting your preferred dispensary, make sure to phone and confirm that this service is offered, as dispensaries must be authorized to grant reciprocity licenses.

You must complete paperwork at a recognized dispensary to get a reciprocal license to buy medical marijuana in New Mexico without paying taxes. In-state and out-of-state patients visiting patients are permitted to possess and buy up to the exact amounts of medicinal marijuana. Every 90 days, 230 units may be purchased (8 ounces of dried cannabis flower). 200 milligrams of foods, topically applied substances, or

Oklahoma

Patients under 18 and those with US state-issued medicinal marijuana cards are allowed to apply for temporary patient IDs in Oklahoma. For 30 days, visitors to Oklahoma with this temporary ID can buy, use, and cultivate marijuana lawfully.

Puerto Rico

You’re in luck if you have a medicinal marijuana card from the US and are traveling to Puerto Rico! With a legitimate state-issued medical marijuana card, Puerto Rico permits reciprocal use of the drug. Upon arrival, you must sign up at a nearby dispensary and provide identity verification for your state-issued medical marijuana card.

Please be aware that visitors are not permitted to purchase dried marijuana flowers. It is legal to buy medical cannabis cartridges or infused goods.

Rhode Island

Rhode Island offers complete reciprocity for US residents with out-of-state medicinal marijuana cards. To register as an out-of-state patient, go to a Rhode Island medical cannabis dispensary with your government-issued ID and state medical marijuana card. Every 15 days, medical marijuana patients from within and outside the state may buy up to 70 grams of cannabis.

Utah

Medical cannabis users traveling to Utah with a severe ailment (as defined by Utah) and who have a valid state medicinal marijuana card are eligible to apply for a “non-Utah resident card.” Residents of Utah who have lived there for fewer than 45 days can also apply for a card designating them as non-Utah residents.

With this card, qualified new residents to Utah and visiting patients may buy marijuana from authorized dispensaries there for 21 days.

Washington DC

Non-residents must present a state-issued photo ID, their government-issued medicinal marijuana registration information (either in physical or digital form), and their prescribing doctor’s name and license number. Please be aware that NuggMD-issued medical cards are ineligible.

Conclusion

Cannabis-related laws are subject to change throughout time. Ensure to confirm any applicable legislation with the state’s cannabis bureau or the neighborhood shop you’ll be visiting before traveling.

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

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Some of the more popular flavors of fall have been known to improve the taste of weed, while others can even work to enhance and balance your high.

Apples

Pumpkin Spice

Chocolate

Sweet Potatoes

Root Vegetables

It’s important to remember that prevention is the key to keeping your weed in good condition. Be sure to store your cannabis in a cool, dark place, ideally in an opaque glass container.

How to rehydrate weed

How to rehydrate cannabis: step-by-step guide

How to keep weed moist

How to make weed moist again (the paper towel method)

Steps to make weed moist again with a paper towel:

How to make your weed sticky

Seven tips to keep weed from drying out:

Final thoughts on rehydrating cannabis

Get Started on Your Cannabis Wellness Journey

Medical marijuana reciprocity states usually allow patients to use their cards to access dispensaries. However, some states are more lenient than others in this regard.

What Is Medical Marijuana Reciprocity?

States That Accept Out-Of-State MMJ Cards

Arizona

Arkansas

Hawaii

Maine

Michigan

Nevada

New Hampshire

New Mexico

Oklahoma

Puerto Rico

Rhode Island

Utah

Washington DC

Conclusion

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