Does Consuming Cannabis Break Your Fast?

Cannabis

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September 9, 2022

Does Consuming Cannabis Break Your Fast?

With so many beneficial compounds found in the cannabis plant, these can help supercharge your body with inflammation-fighting and immunity-boosting goodness.

Intermittent fasting is one of the most popular health trends today. Generally defined as abstaining from food and drink for a set number of hours, there are multiple ways that one can fast and still enjoy its health benefits.

Whether you choose to fast every day for at least 10 hours or more, fasting has been proven to improve health in many ways, including: autophagy (the body’s natural way of cleaning out damaged cells), promoting weight loss, improving cognitive function, reducing insulin resistance, fighting inflammation, improving heart health, and so much more. Fasting daily, or even during specific days in a week or month, is a practice that more people are doing.

cannabis weight loss — Photo by Shidlovski/Getty Images

In addition, it has been a growing trend for people to integrate cannabis into their healthy lifestyles. Individuals also use cannabis before or after a workout. A recent survey of 600 individuals in states where adult-use cannabis is legal showed that 81.7% of people recommended using marijuana with their workout. “The majority of participants who endorsed using cannabis shortly before/after exercise reported that doing so enhances their enjoyment of and recovery from exercise, and approximately half reported that it increases their motivation to exercise,” said the study’s authors.

Cannabis certainly complements a healthy lifestyle in several ways:

Motivation for exercise
Workout recovery
Stress relief
Fights inflammation

…and so much more. Having said that, will consuming cannabis break your fast?

Cannabis & Fasting

Depending on how you consume cannabis, the answer varies. The good news is that if you inhale or vaporize cannabis, then it won’t break your fast. Feel free to have a few puffs in the morning even during your fasted state prior to a workout. Cannabis does not contain any calories nor macronutrients, so smoking it will not result in an insulin response. On the other hand, it can still provide you with all the health benefits of the plant and even assist with fasting, autophagy, fat loss, and gut rest.

Cannabis oils will also break your fast. Most cannabis oils use coconut oil as a carrier oil, which has calories.

However, take note that cannabis-infused edibles and drinks will definitely break your fast. Edibles and drinks contain calories and various macronutrients that will stimulate an insulin response in your body and thus break the fast. This is why inhalation is the best way to consume marijuana if you are fasting.

Some individuals still continue to consume under 20-50 calories to gently break a fast, depending on how strict you are or the type of fast you are doing. There are many who are still able to fast effectively or stay in ketosis even while consuming under 50 calories when fasting. Cannabis-infused black coffee, tea, or coconut carrier oils are acceptable in small amounts while still providing you with the metabolic and weight loss benefits of fasting.

Take note, though, that some people experience an increased appetite when consuming THC in any form. So if you are one of those people who are prone to the munchies, you may be better off smoking high-CBD or CBD strains while fasting. In addition, some people may also experience mild stomach upset when consuming CBD coconut oils on an empty stomach. If you have a sensitive stomach, you may be better off inhaling cannabis instead of CBD oils.

Consuming CBD can actually be beneficial for people who practice intermittent fasting. A study found that CBD engages different receptors in the human body, as opposed to THC which stimulates the CB1 receptors which are responsible for appetite stimulation. It suggests that CBD can be beneficial for those who are trying to suppress their appetite while fasting

Cannabis Use Supports Fasting

People use cannabis because of the myriad of health benefits. One of these is to regulate and balance hormones to improve many important bodily processes including sleep and metabolism. As a result, you can experience more energy, burn calories, and sleep better just because of fasting alone. Of course, eating well and exercise will boost these health benefits.

For those who are looking to regulate hormones, cannabis can also support your fasting. The endocannabinoid system helps to regulate stress, fertility, immunity, memory, our moods, sleep, and many other functions. When consuming THC and CBD products, it helps to regulate some of the most important hormones in the body including cortisol, melatonin, and insulin. This is also the same reason why many women use cannabis products to correct any hormone imbalances.

It’s also good to know that cannabis can help support your weight loss goals. This is one of the most popular benefits of fasting, and a reason why many people practice it in the first place. The ability of cannabis to regulate insulin and help maintain a healthy body mass index might be the little push you need to shed a few unwanted pounds.

marijuana expire — Photo by Ivan-balvan/Getty Images

On top of that, studies show that cannabis helps promote autophagy. This, in turn, helps reduce neuron changes associated with age while increasing longevity.

Conclusion

Using the right cannabis products can complement your wellness routine, intermittent fasting included. With so many beneficial compounds found in the cannabis plant, these can help supercharge your body with inflammation-fighting and immunity-boosting goodness.

If you are new to combining cannabis with fasting, remember to listen to your body. It will take any body some time to adjust to fasting so it’s always good to start slow: begin with 10 hour fasts, and gradually work your way up to your desired fasting plan.

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

7 Best Marijuana Strains To Help With Better Health

Tia Moskalenko

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September 9, 2022

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7 Best Marijuana Strains To Help With Better Health

While there’s no strain that will specifically boost your immune system, you can use these strains to lower stress levels that will then strengthen your immunity.

The ongoing pandemic awoke an important discussion that people haven’t had for a while; how to boost the immune system. People are popping vitamins and eating citrus fruits in a bid to protect themselves from the virus, while some folks have been looking into marijuana as well.

But are there strains that protect against the virus or a prevention treatment that people can look into? We take a dive into what we already know and have.

Does Cannabis Work for Colds and Viruses?

First, one’s immune system would have to be compromised for them to get the virus, which then lets us know what we need to guard. While eating foods rich in vitamin C is great, people also need to manage their stress levels so as not to weaken the immune system. Cannabis helps lower stress, which in turn helps strengthen the system. If you can help it, don’t overthink the pandemic or the virus. Instead, focus on getting through one day at a time.

Second, it helps to be cautious when smoking during these times. You would be putting yourself and others at risk if you passed a joint around, even if the people you are smoking with are known to you personally. The best way to combat this virus is to eat right, observe personal hygiene, lower stress levels through cannabis if you are a user, and mask up as has been recommended. It would also do no harm to try the best cannabis strain for pain if you have inflammation or general fatigue. While it will not protect you from the virus, it will give you relief from pain.

smoking marijuana — Photo by LightFieldStudios/Getty Images

While marijuana is known to treat conditions such as epilepsy and cancer, you don’t just get to pick up any strain and hope for the best. It is recommended that you see a doctor who will administer the right one for your condition as well as the required dosage.

Let’s look at some of the strains known for pain relief, inflammation, and fighting fatigue.

Best Strains for Pain Relief

Though there are quite a number of these on the market, these two are the best known for pain relief.

Blackberry Kush
Harlequin

Blackberry Kush

Basic characteristics:

13 – 15% THC
0.82 – 1.27% CBD
Terpenes: Linalool, Pinene, Terpineol, Ocimene, Phellandrene, and Geraniol
Feelings associated with its use: Creativity, Hunger, Talkative, Tingly, Giggly.

Blackberry Kush has been known for long as one of the strains that relieve pain, among other things. Given its levels of THC, it is quite strong and known to treat severe headaches and migraines while also releasing an uplifting effect to the user. Some users say it also helps with eating and sleeping disorders, anxiety, and stress.

Harlequin

Basic characteristics:
5 – 8% THC
8.81 – 11.19% CBD
Terpenes: Pinene, Bisabolol, Sabinene, Phellandrene, and Geraniol
Feelings associated with its use: Creativity, Concentration, Talkative, Calmness

The lower levels of tetrahydrocannabinol in this strain do not make it any less effective than others. It only means the anxiety and paranoia associated with higher levels of THC are countered while releasing a relaxed mood and easing pain for users. It is ideally used by those who suffer chronic pain.

Best Strains for Inflammation

Cannabis is generally known for its anti-inflammatory properties, though the best-known strains for this are GSC and AC/DC.

Girl Scout Cookies – GSC

Basic characteristics:

17 – 19% THC
0.51 – 1.16% CBD
Terpenes: Pinene, Humulene, Carene, Ocimene, and Phellandrene
Feelings associated with its use: Relaxation, Sedation, Focus, Uplifting.

This award-winning strain has been used for a long by patients to combat nausea, loss of appetite, severe pain, and even inflammation. It is also one of the best cannabis strain for sleep because when the body is relaxed and not in pain, you are able to fall asleep. Unless growers come up with an even better option, GSC is likely to stay at the top of the tables for a long time.

AC/DC

Basic characteristics:

1 – 4% THC
16.67 – 19.01% CBD
Terpenes: Limonene, Valencene, Sabinene, and Ocimene
Feelings associated with its use: Creativity, Giggly, Arousing.

People suffering from chronic pain that is made worse by THC are recommended to go for this strain. Being low on THC, it will not make you high, but will work on pain and have a calming effect. AC/DC is common among users suffering from epilepsy and the consequences of chemotherapy.

Best Strains to Fight Fatigue

Cinex and Cannatonic have different compositions, but they are both ideal for fighting fatigue. Since they also help calm the mind, they are some of the best cannabis strains for mental health too.

Cinex

Basic characteristics:

13 – 17% THC
0.52 – 1.16% CBD
Terpenes: Myrcene, Linalool, Ocimene, and Phellandrene
Feelings associated with its use: Euphoria, Hunger, Calmness, Focus.

This super energizing and mood-improving strain does the brain some good. It works for those dealing with depression, ADHD, and chronic pain.

Cannatonic

Basic characteristics:

6 – 9% THC
9.31 – 11.44% CBD
Terpenes: Limonene, Linalool, Valencene, and Phellandrene
Feelings associated with its use: Focus, Creativity

This strain’s composition makes it a calming, uplifting option for those suffering from severe mood swings. It also treats chronic pain, migraines, and spasms effectively.

Best Cannabis Strain for Insomnia

Motorbreath

Basic Characteristics:

22 – 24% THC
0.48 – 1.7% CBD
Terpenes: Linalool, Camphene, Valencene
Feelings associated with its use: Relaxation, calmness

Due to its high levels of THC, this strain leaves the user with a relaxing high that even the most stubborn insomniac is likely to be knocked out. Other common uses include pain relief for Arthritis, Bipolar disorder, and Muscular dystrophy.

Conclusion

While you will easily find a specific cannabis strain for anxiety, you will not find one that fights viruses and boosts the immune system. Since scientists have yet to prove that an existing strain can combat viruses, you should not use cannabis for this purpose. What you can do is use it to lower stress levels that will then strengthen your immunity. Important Note: Do not smoke cannabis if you have any respiratory conditions. There are other more appropriate ways, such as edibles and topical application on localized pain.

California’s New Child Welfare Law Goes Into Force — Here’s What Weed-Using Parents Need To Know

Marijuana Legislation

Benzinga Staff Writer

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September 8, 2022

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California’s New Child Welfare Law Goes Into Force — Here’s What Weed-Using Parents Need To Know

During social worker investigations, a parent’s or guardian’s use or possession of cannabis is treated in the same manner as their use or possession of alcohol and prescription drugs.

By Joana Scopel

Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) signed a bill including provisions for social workers who are called to investigate child welfare to treat parental cannabis use in the same manner that they do for alcohol.

However, Assemblymember Reggie Jones-Sawyer (D), who sponsored the legislation, said in a summary of the bill that “cannabis use alone should not be a basis for state intervention into family life.”

“As is the case with alcohol and prescription medication, parents and guardians should be allowed to safely and legally use cannabis without fear of having their children permanently removed from their care, provided there are no other concerns regarding the child’s safety,” Jones-Sawyer added.

foster care — Photo by Kindel Media via Pexels

What Is The Law All About?

According to the legislation, the state Department of Social Services (DSS) is required to update “all regulations, all-county letters, and other instructions relating to the investigation of a minor” to stipulate that “when a social worker is investigating an alleged case of child abuse or neglect, a parent’s or guardian’s use or possession of cannabis is treated in the same manner as a parent’s or guardian’s use or possession of alcohol and legally prescribed medication.”

Meanwhile, California NORML, which has defended the rights of marijuana smokers since 1972, mentioned the enactment of the new law in a tweet.

Last year, the Superior Court of New Jersey, Appellate Division, held that a parent’s recreational cannabis users cannot suffice as the sole or primary reason to terminate that parent’s rights – unless the Division of Child Protection and Permanency (Division) proves case-specific evidence that the marijuana usage endangers the health, safety or welfare of the child.

Cannabis Developments In California

Newsom recently signed two other marijuana bills. One of them amends an existing law that allows registered patients to use MMJ products in hospitals while the other legislation provides protections for medical cannabis patients against discrimination in health care, reported Marijuana Moment.

Among the measures awaiting Newsom’s signature is legislation that would provide job protections for people who use cannabis outside of work. The proposed bill, passing through both houses of the legislature, would prohibit people from losing their jobs for smoking marijuana outside of work. Specifically, it would prohibit companies from punishing those who fail a certain type of drug test.

Newsom has until the end of September to decide whether to sign it into law. If signed, the law would take effect on Jan. 1, 2024, and California would become the seventh state in the United States to protect employees who smoke marijuana off the clock.

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

Cancer Is On The Rise For People Under This Age, Reveals New Study

Maria Loreto

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September 8, 2022

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Cancer Is On The Rise For People Under This Age, Reveals New Study

A new study shows that cancer is on the rise across the globe and that’s mostly caused by an unhealthy lifestyle.

A new study has some concerning results for people under the age of 50. It suggests that cancer is on the rise for this demographic and that the problem is global, affecting most countries.

The study, published in the journal Nature Reviews Clinical Oncology and conducted by researchers from Brigham and Women’s Hospital, shows that since the 1990s, a variety of cancers including breast, colon, kidney, and more, are on the rise for people under the age of 50. The research suggests that a sedentary lifestyle and bad diet are responsible for these developments.

office employees — Photo by Annie Spratt via Unsplash

Study authors conducted an analysis of a variety of data that showed the importance of people’s diet, lifestyle, weight, environmental exposure, and microbiome — factors that have all dramatically shifted over the years.

“Each successive group of people born at a later time have a higher risk of developing cancer later in life, likely due to risk factors they were exposed to at a young age,” said Dr. Shuji Ogino, a professor and physician-scientist in the Department of Pathology at the Brigham.

Ogino said that this risk of early onset cancer is predicted to increase with every new generation, mostly due to people partaking in behaviors that are cancer risk factors and our culture’s reinforcement of these. Highly processed foods, alcohol consumption, sleeping less, leading a sedentary lifestyle, and more, have all been on the rise since the 1950s.

Researchers didn’t go into any specific cancer that has become more common over the years. Instead, they focused on the fact that people are less healthy that in years past, thus being more at risk of cancer. They claim that in order to paint a clearer picture for future generations, it’s important for studies on cancer to include young children, tracking their health and development over longer periods of time.

Said Dr. Ogino, “This is not only more cost effective considering the many cancer types needed to be studied, but I believe it will yield us more accurate insights into cancer risk for generations to come.”

Cannabis Can Help Treat Cancer, But Can It Also Prevent It?

Terry Hacienda

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September 8, 2022

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Cannabis Can Help Treat Cancer, But Can It Also Prevent It?

Medical cannabis is a promising alternative to opioid-based medications. But the research on cannabis, particularly for the treatment of cancer-related pain, is lacking in understanding, and the findings are debatable.

Urologic cancers are cancers that attack the structures and organs of the female and male urinary tract as well as the male reproductive structures. Urologic cancer is the general term for cancers of the kidney, testicles, bladder, penis, and prostate.

The Cancer Society of America believes that urological cancers make up about 23% of all commonly diagnosed cancer. The treatment and diagnosis of urological tumors have greatly improved considerably due to better detection, sophisticated imaging, and the discovery of disease-specific molecular markers.

Urologic cancers (or malignancies of the urinary system ) are suspected of having connections to genetic, lifestyle, environmental, and other factors. Methods for treating and identifying urologic malignancies have gotten better over time, and patients are now given a variety of alternatives based on their needs and goals.

breast cancer — Photo by fstop123/Getty Images

Cannabis and Medical Treatment

Cannabis sativa L. is the most significant source of phytocannabinoids and has been employed as a herbal treatment for generations. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is made up of endogenous ligands (endocannabinoids), receptors, and metabolizing enzymes. It is crucial for many pathological and physiological processes.

In order to influence the onset or spread of diseases, including cancer, synthetic cannabinoids and phytocannabinoids may interact with the elements of the endocannabinoid system or other cellular pathways. Cannabinoids have mostly been used in cancer patients’ palliative care to treat pain, treat nausea, and increase appetite.

Cannabinoids also showed anticancer benefits in a variety of cancer types in multiple cell cultures and animal experiments.

A Study on Cannabis and Urological Cancer

A recent study which was published in the journal Cancer Medicine looked into the link between the incidence of urological malignancies and cannabis use. Researchers examined the cannabis usage of 151,945 people who had information on cannabis usage in the UK Biobank between 2006 and 2010.

“Crude and maturity level incidence ratios of various urological malignancies were examined in the total cohort and subgroups,” according to the study’s methodology. “For survival analysis, Cox regression was used,” according to the study undertaken by academics from France, the United Kingdom, and China.

For the result of the study, according to the researchers, frequent prior use of marijuana was found to be a strong defensive factor for prostate cancer and renal cell carcinoma in multivariable analysis. Another link was seen between previous cannabis usage and bladder cancer, as well as renal cell carcinoma in women but not in males. The study also discovered no link between testicular cancer and the use of cannabis.

In conclusion of the research, it was stated that there was a link between preexisting cannabis usage and reduced risk of prostate cancer, bladder cancer, and renal cell carcinoma. The inverse relationship between marijuana and both bladder cancer and renal cell carcinoma is found only in females and not found in males.

Medical Cannabis In Advanced Cancer Treatment

According to information published in the journal Cureus, patients who have advanced cancer respond positively to medical marijuana.

Researchers from the Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse, New York, studied the use of marijuana by people with cancer for palliative purposes. All the trial participants were registered in the medical marijuana registry of the state.

In line with previous research, 85% of individuals (the majority) reported improvements in their symptoms after using cannabis, with almost half reporting decreases in discomfort. In line with earlier studies, a sizable portion (45%) of the participants reported reducing their use of opioid painkillers. Less than 4% of subjects reported any negative effects from using medical marijuana products.

The scientists came to a conclusion that “medical cannabis seems to have an essential function in the palliation of symptoms in advanced malignancies with few adverse effects.” Prioritize prospective research that looks into this therapeutic approach.

Effects of Medical Cannabis on Cancer-Related Pain

Opioid analgesics have historically been the principal treatment for cancer-related pain. Ninety-five percent of patients reported treatment success in a recent Cochrane collaborative evaluation of opioids as treatment for cancer pain, which thoroughly evaluated 152 publications with 13,524 patients. However, most patients did not adequately estimate pain reduction.

cancer patient marijuana — Photo by FatCamera / Getty Images

The studies that served as the foundation for the treatment choice were outdated, had small sample sizes, and had negative reaction rates that ranged from 11 to 77%, leading one researcher to conclude that the quality of the findings in support of opioid medications is low. That is likely one of the factors contributing to the majority of oncologists’ perception of opioid treatment as risky and the need for alternative medicines.

Medical cannabis is a promising alternative to opioid-based medications. The research on cannabis, particularly for the treatment of cancer-related pain, is lacking in understanding, and the findings are debatable. The effects of cannabis on cancer-related pain and, sparsely, on other cancer symptoms have been the subject of relatively few randomized clinical trials and even fewer cohorts. As a result, there is only a minimum recommendation for using marijuana to relieve cancer pain.

Although these studies relied on randomized clinical experiments, the majority of them had tiny sample sizes, necessitating further research. A more current meta-analysis revealed that Nabiximols had no beneficial effect on cancer pain. However, a recent study found that the majority of cancer patients asked their oncologist for medical cannabis treatment.

Patients typically tolerate the negative effects resulting from these cannabinoids, which are classified as mild to moderate in severity. The most frequent negative effects include sleepiness, xerostomia (dry mouth), vomiting, and nausea. The use of cannabinoids as a treatment for cancer-related pain is usually regarded as harmless.

However, drug-to-drug interactions need to be considered. Recent prospective and retrospective investigations found that administering immunotherapy along with medical cannabis treatment resulted in lower response rates.

Bottom Line

Owing to the fact that it is a relatively new phenomenon, more findings or research has to be carried out in regard to the full effect or benefit of cannabis as a treatment for cancer. However, studies are already showing some positives. The recent study on cannabis and urological cancers has shown that rye use of medical cannabis has helped patients alleviate the pain caused by cancer.

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

Medical Cannabis Alleviates Neurological & Pain-Related Ailments, New Study Shows

Benzinga Staff Writer

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September 8, 2022

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Medical Cannabis Alleviates Neurological & Pain-Related Ailments, New Study Shows

Of the 808 study respondents, 77% reported positive effects — with 28% citing reduced pain, 18% noting improved sleep, and 22% experiencing reduced anxiety.

By Joana Scopel

An online study conducted by Realm of Caring, a cannabis nonprofit advocacy organization, and researchers at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine found that “medical cannabis consumption can improve the quality of life for those who could not find reprieve from traditional methods.”

Study results, published in Frontiers in Pharmacology, showed that medical cannabis helped mitigate various neurological disorders and pain-related ailments that were impacting participants.

medical marijuana — Photo by Visivasnc/Getty Images

“Realm of Caring takes part in IRB-approved (Institutional Review Board) research to ensure we are truly helping individuals to improve their quality of life,” said Sasha Kalcheff-Korn, executive director for Realm of Caring.

Method: Study participants who consumed medicinal cannabis were invited to complete anonymous surveys to provide feedback about their experiences. “Of the 808 study respondents, 77% reported positive effects — with 28% citing reduced pain, 18% noting improved sleep, and 22% experiencing reduced anxiety.

“This research spotlights several concerns that we actively address, such as providing information to the medical community, partnering with quality product companies for more affordable options, and providing free one-on-one support to alleviate unwanted side effects. Realm of Caring will continue to collect and publish data to ensure we fulfill our mission,” Kalcheff-Korn added.

Study participants also described many of the issues they face as medical cannabis patients, such as difficulty in finding adequate providers who know how to dose cannabis, what strains are most helpful to alleviate specific ailments and which consumption methods work best with their treatment plan.

“Regarding patient concerns, commonly reported problems included a lack of information for medical cannabis support (with 16% of participants citing this concern), as well as 12% reporting prohibitive costs as an additional apprehension,” reads a press release.

Through research and education, the Realm of Caring (RoC) aims to facilitate the mainstream acceptance of cannabinoid-based therapies and build an empowered community. In addition, RoC reiterated its commitment to researching novel healthcare options aimed at improving quality of life.

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

DC Judge Sides With Government Worker Fired For Using Medical Marijuana

Maria Loreto

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September 7, 2022

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DC Judge Sides With Government Worker Fired For Using Medical Marijuana

An employee that lost her job due to testing positive for marijuana was protected by the Office of Employee Appeals in D.C. She was reimbursed for all back pay and benefits.

A medical marijuana patient who was fired from her job back in 2020 for being intoxicated while at the office has won a big court battle. The D.C. Office of Employee Appeals (OEA) recently ruled in the worker’s favor, reversing her termination and ordering the responsible parties to reimburse her for all back pay and benefits that she missed out on.

Marijuana Moment reports that the employee petitioned for termination in April 2021. She said that the Office of Unified Communications “falsely accused” her of being impaired while on the job, and that her supervisors used the fact that her eyes were red and that she was talking quietly as sufficient reasons to demand a drug test.

drug test — Photo by RapidEye/Getty Images

She explained that her eyes could’ve been red due to lack of sleep and that, at the time, she was capable of doing her work properly. She said that she hadn’t used cannabis on the day of the drug test, but that she had used it over the weekend before the drug test. She then provided the necessary paperwork to show that she was a medical marijuana patient.

“OUC was negligent in how it handled the process for reasonable suspicion of impairment from drugs,” said Monica Dohnji, senior administrative judge for OEA. Dohnji added that supervisors had no evidence that their employee was sufficiently impaired and she wasn’t able to complete her duties.

“Because Employee was allowed to perform her duties and did in fact adequately do so after being observed by her supervisors, I find that [the supervisors] did not reasonably believe that Employee’s ability to perform her job was impaired,” wrote the judge in the final ruling. “As such, I further conclude that a reasonable suspicion referral was unwarranted.”

As marijuana becomes legal in a variety of states, lawmakers are trying to create protections for residents. The process is slow and there’s much to be done, with most states having some form of protection for medical marijuana patients. Still, as time passes, more laws are appearing and protecting workers from drug tests and losing their jobs over using a drug that’s legal in their state.

Are Orange Hairs On Cannabis Related To Potency?

Cannabis

Sam Anderson

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September 7, 2022

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Are Orange Hairs On Cannabis Related To Potency?

Looking at the color of your weed can be a great indicator of strain quality, effects, and more. Here’s what you need to know about orange hair on weed.

We all know that one defining characteristic of weed is its gorgeous array of colors. And while we can all appreciate the beauty of a deep green nug, there’s something special about those with orange hairs. They make many strains appear exotic and are something intriguing cannabis users. No matter what strain of cannabis you choose, there are various tiny colorful weed hairs found throughout the buds. But are orange hairs on cannabis related to potency? Let’s take a closer look at this phenomenon.

marijuana flower — Photo by Christina Hempfling / EyeEm/Getty Images

Marijuana Plant Anatomy

Cannabis plants have a similar anatomy to other plants. To understand why cannabis produces orange hairs, we need to familiarize ourselves with marijuana plant anatomy.

● Nodes – Separation of branches from the stem occurs in these areas. On most nodes, buds grow and fan leaves develop.

● Cola – Several buds are grouped very closely together, usually near the bottom branch. Atop the main stem is the most significant and largest cola.

● Bract – The female plants’ reproductive parts are encased in small, teardrop-shaped leaves known as bracts. These are the locations from which the pre-flowers emerge just before they flower.

● Calyx – The flower itself, consisting of resin glands and buds. A protective layer of bracts surrounds the calyx, covering the plant’s reproductive organs. Here, seeds are formed. (Resin glands and buds)

● Pistils – This is the orange hair protruding from the calyxes. Pistils are the female plant’s sex organs, also known as stigmas. Pistils are one of the earliest signs that a cannabis plant is beginning to flower.

● Trichomes – These bulbous resin glands create a frosty, sticky resin containing cannabinoids and terpenes. Cannabinoids and terpenes are present in greater concentrations in more resinous flowers.

Orange Hair On Weed

Known as flower pistils, these orange hairs are what catch pollen from the male plant. The pistils of the female cannabis plant serve as reproductive organs. Their purpose is to capture pollen from male plants during blooming. Pollen is sucked back into the plant by the weed hairs. Pollen pollinates or fertilizes pistils once it contacts them. The female plant will start producing seeds at that point.

However, cultivators take away the male plants from the field during the growing season to suppress pollination so the female plants can concentrate on producing flowers and not seeds. As a result, cannabinoids and terpenes are produced in greater quantities.

In flower production, clusters of pistils shoot from the main bud and rise to their maximum height, which allows them to collect pollen. During the final stage of the flower’s development, the pistils have dried up and turned darker. As a result, they have also receded into the plant somewhat.

Should You Be Vaping Or Smoking Your Cannabis Flower? — Photo by Jeff W via Unsplash

What Does Orange Hair On Weed Mean?

Now that we know what orange hairs and pistils are, let’s explore orange hair on weed a bit more. Orange kush strains readily produce fertile pistils, which are among the first signs that a marijuana plant is beginning to flower. The plant’s female flowers grow from the bud, or calyx, which is their base.

Pistils are not always orange. While in the vegetative stage, the hairs are white, and as they approach the flower stage, they begin to change color. Originally yellow, they become orange as they enter the flowering stage.

RELATED: What Does Good Weed Look Like?

Some flowers mature into vivid orange and purple strains with hues that are actually more red or brown in color. However, various strains can yield different results depending on how they were cultivated. In some strains, the pistils can take on a pink or purple hue.

Do Orange Hairs On Weed Get You High?

The vibrant orange hues indicate something extraordinary has occurred, right? When you ask whether orange hairs on weed get you high, you are actually asking, “do pistils contain THC?” There’s a common misbelief that buds covered with colorful hairs are more potent. However, this isn’t accurate. At the flowering stage, pistils are crucial, but the trichomes are what contains THC. So, orange hairs on weed don’t get you high. The crystals on your cannabis are what get you high.

Do Orange Hairs Signify Potency?

Despite the widespread belief that colorful buds are more potent and will pack more punch, that’s not necessarily true. While the pistils of a plant are an integral component of its flowering process, they are not responsible for the strain’s cannabinoid content.

It is far better to focus on the trichomes instead. The reason “reg weed” has so little THC is because of its trichomes. On the other hand, due to its incredibly high resin content, dank weed has a frosty appearance due to its high concentrations of trichomes.

Purple Cannabis — Photo by Robert Przywojski/Getty Images

Why Is Some Weed Purple?

The color of purple weed does not indicate strength, contrary to popular belief. So why is it this color? According to its position in the spectrum, anthocyanin, a water-soluble flavonoid, has different colors based on pH values. At low pH levels, it appears blue; at higher pH levels, it appears purple, and at the highest pH levels, it appears red.

As an indica strain, most purple strains of cannabis lock you onto the couch and produce a heavy narcotic effect ideal for relieving pain and promoting sleep. However, there have been recent breeding programs that combine purple strains with other genetics to reduce the drowsiness effect while increasing the uplifting effect of sativas.

Putting It All Together

As it turns out, the prettiest buds aren’t always the most potent. So, what should you look for when trying to determine THC potency? Trichomes, or white crystals, are a good indicator of potency and should be present in high numbers on potent buds.

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.

This Holistic Practice Could Boost Women’s Sex Drive

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Sex

Maria Loreto

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September 7, 2022

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This Holistic Practice Could Boost Women’s Sex Drive

Studies like this show how beneficial a holistic approach to medicine can be, and how addressing the body overall can improve different facets of people’s lives.

According to a new study, this relatively common practice could help women experience a higher sex drive. The research, published in the journal Sexual Medicine, claims that acupuncture can kickstart a woman’s libido and improve the lives of those with sexual dysfunction.

Over the course of more than three years (October 2018 to February 2022), researchers examined 24 female participants who shared similar traits; while they were of different ages — between 28 to 45 — they were all involved in regular relationships and experienced some form of sexual dysfunction.

Here's How Your Gut Health Can Affect Your Sex Life — Photo by We-Vibe Toys via Unsplash

The women underwent two or three acupuncture sessions a week, with needles inserted in different parts of the body, including the top of their heads, stomachs, over the ovaries, under their knees, ankles, feet and lower backs.

They filled out a questionnaire before and after their treatments, rating a variety of factors related to sexual pleasure and functioning, like sexual desire, arousal, lubrication, experiences with orgasms, and more.

After the treatment was conducted, all women reported better scores. In regards to sexual desire, the benefits were even greater, with 23 out of 24 participants claiming they experienced an improvement in arousal.

While far from definitive, the study is promising, especially when viewed as a supplement to help symptoms and not cure them. Sexual dysfunction is a complex issue, one that affects men and women due to their lifestyle decisions and/or relationship dynamics.

Studies like this show how beneficial a holistic approach to medicine can be, and how addressing the body overall can improve different facets of people’s lives. While researchers may not completely understand why acupuncture has this effect on women, by stimulating their central nervous systems it appears to stimulate chemicals and lead to positive results.

Indica Or Sativa: Which Is Best To Treat Anxiety?

Terry Hacienda

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September 7, 2022

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Indica Or Sativa: Which Is Best To Treat Anxiety?

A growing body of research evidence shows that marijuana can reduce anxiety symptoms, including separation and social anxiety.

According to the American Psychological Association, anxiety is a major depressive disorder or mental health issue characterized by fear, worried thoughts, and tension. It also causes physical changes, such as increased heartbeat, shaking, trembling, panic attacks, and high blood pressure.

Although each person has different symptoms related to anxiety, the typical signs and symptoms of anxiety disorder are restlessness, emotional distress, feelings of worry, concentration problems, increased irritability, sleep apnea, insomnia, panic disorder, social phobia, behavioral change, mood disorders, etc.

Causes of Anxiety

Causes of anxiety vary from person to person. Many people have a single symptom that causes distress, while some have multiple symptoms. However, the most common causes of anxiety include:

Environmental triggers or external stimuli, such as relationship problems, family issues, financial difficulties, or challenges in maintaining a better work-life balance, can cause anxiety.
Studies show that genetics can also cause anxiety. For example, if your father, mother, or grandparents had anxiety, the chances are that you may suffer from the condition.
Major depressive disorders such as stress and depression, can increase anxiety levels. Although medications like antidepressants, narcotics, and chronic pain relievers can ease tension, some people have side effects after prolonged use.

While antidepressants are a good option for anxiety, they may also elevate the condition. In addition, hormonal changes during pregnancy, neurological disorders, neuropathic pain, neck and back pain, and chemical imbalances in the brain that increase cortisol production can also cause anxiety.

The Endocannabinoid System

Understanding the endocannabinoid system is essential before using cannabis indica or Sativa strains for anxiety and other depressive disorders. The endocannabinoid system encompasses three critical components: 1). Endocannabinoids, 2). Receptors 3). Enzymes.

Endocannabinoids, also known as endogenous cannabinoids, are natural molecules your body produces. Although these molecules are similar to cannabinoids, the difference is that your body makes them via biological mechanisms.

Endocannabinoid receptors exist throughout the body and play a critical role in sending and receiving signals from and to the central nervous system. CB1 and CB2 receptors are the primary cannabinoid receptors. The formers exist in the central nervous system, and the latter in the peripheral nervous system, including the immune system.

Endocannabinoid enzymes are an integral part of the system and act as a catalyst to streamline metabolism and regulate the endocannabinoid function at neuronal and peripheral levels.

A research study published on NCBI states that the endocannabinoid system is crucial in streamlining various body functions, including appetite and digestion, reducing chronic pain, optimizing metabolism, triggering inflammatory responses, and strengthening the immune system.

It also improves mood, learning, memory, sleep, sensory and motor control, heart function, muscle development, musculoskeletal formation, skin and nerve function, and the reproductive system. Understanding the endocannabinoid system is essential because it lets you determine and analyze how marijuana treats anxiety.

social anxiety — Photo by fizkes/Getty Images

Marijuana for Anxiety

A 2017 research study shows that over 9,000 people in the United States said that marijuana, including indica and sativa strains, offers a wide range of health benefits, including anxiety relief.

About 50% of the study participants noted that marijuana reduced stress, depression, and anxiety symptoms. Cannabis users must understand that marijuana contains two primary active ingredients: THC and CBD.

The first is a psychoactive compound that can make a person “high.” The second one, CBD, is a non-psychoactive compound primarily used for medical purposes. The psychoactive effects of THC can overcome depressive symptoms.

THC vs. CBD

THC stands (tetrahydrocannabinol) is a primary cannabinoid found in marijuana or cannabis plant. The compound gets you “high” and interacts with the endocannabinoid system through receptors.

In addition, THC is a potent compound with a strong affinity for CB1 and CB2 receptors. Binding to the CB1 and CB2 receptors positively affects your mind and body by reducing pain, stimulating appetite, and decreasing anxiety and stress.

On the other hand, CBD (cannabidiol) is another cannabinoid found in cannabis products. Compared to THC, CBD does not make you “high” and has fewer side effects. Many studies have proven that CBD accurately interacts with numerous receptors of the endocannabinoid system.

However, there is a need for more research to determine whether CBD interacts with both CB1 and CB2 receptors. The good news is that CBD found in the cannabis plant or marijuana can treat various health conditions, including:

Inflammation
Epilepsy
Headaches
Migraines
Stress
Depression
Anxiety
Autoimmune disorders
Post-traumatic stress disorder
Pain relief

marijuana joint — Photo by Vanessa Nunes/Getty Images

The Difference Between Indica and Sativa and Hybrid

Indica and sativa are the two primary types of cannabis plants or marijuana. Both are the best strains and are beneficial for various medical conditions. Both strains are excellent anxiety treatments.

However, sativa has more energizing and invigorating effects, relieving stress, depression, and anxiety and improving focus, concentration, and creativity. Cannabis sativa can also treat a wide range of health conditions.

Let us differentiate between the indica, sativa, and hybrid strains to help you make an informed decision and choose a product that best fits your needs.

Indica

Knowing the CBD to THC ratio is crucial to understanding the unique effects of indica on your brain. Indica strains have a high CBD content and mild to moderate THC. Indica strain or marijuana can produce calming effects, reduce nausea, increase appetite, reduce discomfort, and relieve pain.

Experts recommend consuming indica at night because it has physical relaxation effects. Hindu Kush, Granddaddy Purple, and Afghan Kush are the most popular indica plants or strains available in pharmacies.

In addition, indica is an excellent marijuana product and a reliable relaxation source for many people. So, it can reduce the symptoms of depression, stress, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.

Likewise, indica can improve muscle relaxation, release mental exhaustion, increase appetite, boost dopamine and serotonin levels, and decrease acute and chronic pain and digestive disorders, such as nausea, vomiting, and cramps.

cannabis dispensary — Photo by Zummolo/Getty Images

Sativa

Sativa is a form of marijuana with a different CBD to THC ratio compared to indica strains. Sativa has higher doses of CBD and lower doses of THC. The primary difference between indica and sativa is that the former does not make you “high,” and the latter can produce “high” effects on your brain.

However, studies show that sativa is more energizing and can reduce anxiety-related symptoms efficiently and quickly. You can use sativa-dominant strains to improve relaxation, increase creativity, and boost productivity.

Because sativa has excellent stimulating effects, you can use it in the daytime. Durban Poison, Panama Red, and Acapulco Gold are the most popular sativa strains available in pharmacies. These products can help you achieve the desired effects.

Some studies highlight that sativa has a THC to CBD ratio that may not wholly overcome anxiety symptoms. Fidgeting, increased heart rate, hypertension, and nervousness are common signs of anxiety.

Although sativa can increase your energy levels and produce euphoric effects, it may not treat nervousness or consciousness. In a nutshell, sativa is good for depression, chronic inflammation/pain, focus/concentration, creativity, productivity, serotonin production, and increased relaxation in the daytime.

Hybrid

Hybrid forms of marijuana that contain both indica and sativa strains have become popular recently. Grown in greenhouses and on farms, hybrids combine indica and sativa strains.

Regarding the CBD to THC ratio, scientists and researchers increase the THC percentage in hybrids to ensure the compound interacts with CB1 and CB2 receptors and produces anti-anxiety effects.

Hybrids also benefit people who undergo radiotherapy, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. Using hybrids during daytime or nighttime depends on the user’s specific needs and the effects of the chemical compounds. Some people prefer the daytime use of hybrids for deep relaxation.

Various popular hybrids strains include indica-dominant or indica-dom and sativa-dominant or sativa-dom or sativa-dominant hybrid. Some hybrids have a balanced THC and CBD ratio and equal concentration of indica and sativa strains. Blue Dream, Trainwreck, and Pineapple Express are popular hybrids on the market.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Indica and Sativa

How to choose the best cannabis strains? Different strains have different effects on people suffering from anxiety. Many men and women do not understand whether indica or sativa plants are beneficial for major depressive disorders like stress, depression, and anxiety.

Both indica and sativa are popular strains. There are various factors to consider when choosing strains of cannabis or between the two marijuana strains for anxiety. The purpose is to select the right strain. So, consider the following elements or characteristics to make an informed decision.

cannabis marijuana flower — Photo by Yarygin/Getty Images

Chemotype

Chemotype is a primary factor when choosing between indica and sativa strains. Chemotype refers to the ratio of THC and CBD for the strain. Bear in mind that the increase and decrease of THC or CBD can improve or reduce the effects of marijuana on CB1 and CB2 receptors.

So, make sure you know the CBD to THC ratio before choosing a specific strain. Depending on your needs, you can select THC-dominant, CBD-dominant, or balanced marijuana strains.

Terpene

Although many people ignore consider terpene profile, it is an essential factor because it determines the taste and smell of a strain. Remember, this can positively or negatively impact the therapeutic effects of a strain on your body and mind. Therefore, you must determine the terpene profile of sativa or indica to make an informed decision.

Potency

Potency is another crucial factor when deciding between indica or sativa strains. A strain’s overall potency is essential to determine before consuming marijuana. For example, a strain that contains over 20% THC produces a “higher” effect than a strain with 5% or 10% THC. Remember, potency usually applies to THC because it is a compound that makes people high.

Final Words

A growing body of research evidence shows that marijuana can reduce anxiety symptoms, including separation and social anxiety. However, marijuana with low THC levels can decrease stress/anxiety efficiently and quickly.

On the other hand, marijuana with high THC doses can increase the risk of stress and anxiety. However, lower doses can relieve anxiety. Moreover, CBD-dominant indica or sativa can decrease anxiety disorders at all doses without any side effects because this compound does not make you “high.”

Remember, each individual responds differently to marijuana. Therefore, you must thoroughly research and consult a marijuana doctor before consuming the substance.

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

The Fresh ToastThe most trusted name in cannabis

With so many beneficial compounds found in the cannabis plant, these can help supercharge your body with inflammation-fighting and immunity-boosting goodness.

Cannabis & Fasting

Cannabis Use Supports Fasting

Conclusion

While there’s no strain that will specifically boost your immune system, you can use these strains to lower stress levels that will then strengthen your immunity.

Does Cannabis Work for Colds and Viruses?

Best Strains for Pain Relief

Best Strains for Inflammation

Best Strains to Fight Fatigue

Best Cannabis Strain for Insomnia

Conclusion

During social worker investigations, a parent’s or guardian’s use or possession of cannabis is treated in the same manner as their use or possession of alcohol and prescription drugs.

What Is The Law All About?

Cannabis Developments In California

A new study shows that cancer is on the rise across the globe and that’s mostly caused by an unhealthy lifestyle.

Medical cannabis is a promising alternative to opioid-based medications. But the research on cannabis, particularly for the treatment of cancer-related pain, is lacking in understanding, and the findings are debatable.

Cannabis and Medical Treatment

A Study on Cannabis and Urological Cancer

Medical Cannabis In Advanced Cancer Treatment

Effects of Medical Cannabis on Cancer-Related Pain

Bottom Line

Of the 808 study respondents, 77% reported positive effects — with 28% citing reduced pain, 18% noting improved sleep, and 22% experiencing reduced anxiety.

An employee that lost her job due to testing positive for marijuana was protected by the Office of Employee Appeals in D.C. She was reimbursed for all back pay and benefits.

Looking at the color of your weed can be a great indicator of strain quality, effects, and more. Here’s what you need to know about orange hair on weed.

Marijuana Plant Anatomy

Orange Hair On Weed

What Does Orange Hair On Weed Mean?

Do Orange Hairs On Weed Get You High?

Do Orange Hairs Signify Potency?

Why Is Some Weed Purple?

Putting It All Together

Get started on your cannabis wellness journey

Studies like this show how beneficial a holistic approach to medicine can be, and how addressing the body overall can improve different facets of people’s lives.

A growing body of research evidence shows that marijuana can reduce anxiety symptoms, including separation and social anxiety.

Causes of Anxiety

The Endocannabinoid System

Marijuana for Anxiety

THC vs. CBD

The Difference Between Indica and Sativa and Hybrid

Indica

Sativa

Hybrid

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Indica and Sativa

Chemotype

Terpene

Potency

Final Words

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