The study is part of a series of data that explores the impact of the pandemic since it started in 2020.
Genetic testing service 23andMe holds the DNA information of millions of people, providing a useful tool for researchers who want to learn more about different conditions. And that includes long COVID.
A new survey conducted by the genetic testing site revealed some interesting information on long COVID and the type of people that are more likely to experience it. Among their findings: women are more likely to experience long COVID, along with people who manage mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.
The data was obtained from 100,000 self-reports, which makes it different than the majority of other scientific studies, which rely on data shared by government entities.
“We’re able to paint a more complete picture of the COVID experience than would be possible from just using medical records,” Dr. Stella Aslibekyan, a genetic epidemiologist for 23andme, told SF Gate.
A closer look at the study shows some risk factors for long COVID, including having a diagnosis of anxiety or depression, which can increase your risk of developing long COVID symptoms by two-fold. Preexisting conditions like cardiometabolic diseases also increased the risk of long COVID, this time by 90%.
More than half of the participants reported no difference after getting vaccinated. Those who did claimed vaccines improved their symptoms.
There was some conflicting evidence brought up by the study. While it found that women were more affected by long COVID than men, real-world data shows the opposite; men are more likely to experience long COVID and are also more likely to die from the virus.
According to the article which highlights 23andMe’s findings, this study is part of a series of data that explores the impact of the pandemic since it started in 2020. Some areas of interest mentioned include blood types and how these can affect the prognosis of the virus and the impact of genetics and COVID-19.
The cannabis and LGBTQ rights movements have been connected from the beginning, as they mutually supported reform throughout the decades. “Arguably, neither would exist as they do today if not for the other,” said Tyme Ferris, founder and CEO of cannabis brand Pantheon Collective. Here is how cananbis and LGBTA rights have intertwined.
The decades have been tumultuous for each effort. Both movements saw positive progress in the 1960s. Some states decriminalized homosexual activity, and various favorable Kennedy and Johnson-era reports on the plant were submitted. However, progress turned to regression in the 70s under the Nixon administration.
Photo by Anete Lusina from Pexels
Per the Controlled Substances Act, cannabis was listed as a Schedule I drug, considered to have maximum abuse potential but no medicinal value. This classification came “Even though the Shafer Commission, formed by Nixon, recommended decriminalizing cannabis,” said Pantheon Collective co-founder Thomas Kupiec.
The 80s were equally devastating for both movements. As the drug war raged on, HIV and AIDS impacted the gay community as it reeled from the virus. Between 1981 and 1990, over 100,000 people died from AIDS, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
As the disease ravaged the U.S., President Ronald Reagan chose not to address the issue until 1987. At the same time, he continued the Nixon-era War on Drugs, headlined by the ‘Just Say No’ campaign.
Without medical guidance, marijuana proved effective in treating various HIV and AIDS-related symptoms, including wasting syndrome, nausea, chronic pain and anxiety.
“In most places deeply touched by the AIDS crisis, there’s a nexus between marijuana reform and gay rights,” said journalist and podcaster Jay Lassiter.
Rather than pushing for cannabis access, America doubled down on punishment. Bills like 1984’s Comprehensive Crime Control Act, 1986’s Anti-Drug Abuse Act and the controversial three-strike sentencing bills were enacted.
Still, LGBTQ advocates pushed on for the rights of their community and medical cannabis access.
In 1996, the decades-long efforts of the two movements helped push California’s Proposition 215 to become the first bill to legalize medical marijuana. The bill’s co-author, Dennis Peron, had been a cannabis advocate since the 1970s after his partner used marijuana while living with AIDS.
Since then, the two movements have remained closely linked, for better or worse. Neil Lequia, founder and board president of cannabis-industry LGBTQ organization The Full Spectrum, said queer individuals are more likely to experience substance abuse and mental health issues than straight individuals.
Lequia said cannabis use “is a coping mechanism” to combat pains associated with their queer lifestyle, including bullying and family separation.
Despite the increased likelihood of use, he feels that queer people are not adequately represented in the cannabis industry.
“I see a lack of us in the industry despite being more likely to use it,” Lequia said.
Photo by daniel james via Unsplash
Some Notable Names Leading The Movement
Queer individuals are one of the core groups helping to advance reform in the U.S. As NORML founder Keith Stroup wrote in 2020, other influential groups included Black jazz musicians like Louis Armstrong, who helped catalyze the movement with continuous pot use despite facing arrest several times.
The jazz movement started a reform push that genuinely got underway in the 1960s. Dan Goldman, freelance writer and founder of the LGBT drug legalization organization, leGAYlize It!, said the cannabis rights movements began with gay leaders like Allen Ginsberg.
“While there was almost certainly cross-cultural pollination in cities like New Orleans in the mid-20th century between the jazz cigarette aficionados and LGBT artists, the reform movement begins with gay beat poet Allen Ginsberg and the founding of LeMar (Legalize Marijuana) in the East Village of New York City in 1964,” Goldman said.
LeMar is credited as the earliest cannabis advocacy organization, with members forming prohibition protests beginning in 1965.
In addition to Peron, Ferris said that Harvey Milk and ally Mary Jane Rathburn, aka “Brownie Mary,” helped advance the medical movement in the Bay Area.
Milk was integral in supporting legal cannabis, including the passage of the non-binding ballot initiative policy Proposition W, which aimed to decriminalize cannabis. Rathburn, for her part, sold infused brownies to AIDS patients in the Bay Area, baking dozens of brownies a day.
Lassiter cited leaders on the east coast during that period, including Malcom Gregory Scott and Dr. Doug Ward.
Photo by DBenitostock/Getty Images
Ward has been considered a leading expert in AIDS treatment for over four decades. Scott, a writer and AIDS survivor, was discharged from the Navy for being gay and then went on to help overturn restrictions against LGBTQ service members. Scott also credits cannabis with helping save him from a near-fatal AIDS-related medical issue in the 90s.
Lassiter credited AIDS patients for helping change public perceptions of medical cannabis reform.
“These activists were smart enough to basically trade on their misery to reframe the cannabis discussion, and that’s a hell of a legacy to leave behind,” Lassiter said.
Representation Matters
As cannabis consolidates, leadership at the top is becoming less diverse for women and minority groups.
Data compiled by Marijuana Business Daily in 2021 found that women cannabis executives fell from 36.8% in 2019 to 22.1% in 2021. Minority leadership declined from 28% in 2019 to 13.1% in 2021.
LGBTQ Operators Want To See Change
Renee Gagnon is a Canadian operator and the first female transgender CEO of a publicly-traded marijuana company in British Columbia, HollyWeed North Cannabis Inc. now Emerald Health Therapeutics Inc.
Gagnon, who has held five licenses to date, said her efforts were accepted as a male, but “Now I’m not quite good enough” or that “There’s a more sellable dude we can hire who ‘knows how things work.'”
Gagnon added, “Until gender equality happens, the other inequalities will lag on.”
The type of CBD, intake method, and potency will all influence your decision. These aspects should be tailored to your lifestyle preferences and desired results.
You will see goods like cannabis-oil-infused food, confectionery, patches, oils, tinctures, ointments, and more as larger corporations enter the marijuana production sector. There are more sub-types and speciality products inside each of these product categories. Cannabis or Hemp oil is one of the broadest classifications.
If you’re looking to buy hemp oils, delta-8 gummies, capsules or tea, these are some of the most crucial things to keep in mind.
Types of Hemp Edibles
Many individuals believe that Hemp oil is generic and that all cannabis-derived oils are the same. While this may have been true in the past, various kinds of cannabis oil are available. Many of these kinds are only found in certain areas.
For example, certain strains of cannabis originated in Australia, and you can get them in their purest form or as blended oil containing various types of oil derived from various strains of cannabis. Oil has the advantage of being significantly easier to transport than the plant itself. You may be confident that you will receive oil in excellent condition, whether it comes from another country or a different region of the country. Ensure you know whether you’re getting the right oil or gummies for your needs and which strain you’re getting.
Hemp source
CBD is derived from two types of cannabis: regular marijuana and hemp, a type of marijuana. The main difference between these two sources is that hemp should have less than 0.3% THC.
Cannabidiol derived from hemp is legal in the United States, while CBD derived from cannabis may not meet these requirements. All the hemp edibles made from hemp plants are safe to consume because it ensures that they contain the legal quantity of THC. However, users should check their state’s rules on edible hemp-derived products.
As per Hempercamp, a CBD and hemp products review website, hemp source and subsequent harvesting is the key to get the finest quality edibles, which are little expensive. Many consumers sometime complains of substandard products that flooded the market with cheap price.
It is wise to buy from the right dispensary or online store. Want to know how to find the best marijuana dispensaries near your place? You can take the help of Google Map and search phrases like “how to buy weed near me” or “recreational dispensaries near me” or “CBD stores near me”. The “near me” phrase helps you to get the location of the nearest dispensaries from Google.
Photo by IRA_EVVA/Getty Images
Buying Fresh
Hemp gummies and capsules are made with preservatives, and it does not matter if it is fresh or not but hemp oil, like any other organic product, has a shelf life after which it can no longer be used. Ideally, it would help if you bought as fresh as possible to ensure the highest possible quality. The hemp oil begins to deteriorate and distort at a microscopic level once removed. The more recent the purchase, the fewer these alterations will have occurred. Hemp oil will only last two years in storage at most. After that threshold, it is best not to continue to use it.
Best Flavors
Although the strain from which the oil is obtained has a natural flavor, many manufacturers enhance the flavor with different added substances. If you want the most natural flavor, choose something cold-pressed and containing no artificial flavors. If you are looking for CBD gummies specifically, there is a wide range of flavors available, including watermelon and mint chocolate. If you’re using tinctures or something else where the flavor is more obvious, you might want to try flavored hemp oil.
Quantity of Purchase
While buying in bulk is always cheaper, lesser quantities of hemp oil are preferable. Get a tiny quantity to test the flavor, and if you like it, purchase more. Furthermore, because the flavor and effect of the oil can change with time, you should purchase an amount that will last you no longer than 6 months. After 6 months, the substance may begin to taste and behave significantly differently, so it’s better to keep a fresh supply on hand. Other hemp products like capsules and gummies usually last longer, up to 1 or 2 years.
Best Places of Purchase
Local shops are convenient and accessible and found across the states, but that’s frequently where the benefits end. When purchasing hemp oil locally, you can rely completely on the employees’ product knowledge. This limits your research possibilities and the products you can choose from. Local stores typically carry two varieties of hemp products, which is significantly less than internet sellers. The best way to buy is online. You can do all the research and read reviews and view authentic certifications, which would only help you make the best choice.
Third-Party Lab Reports
CBD companies often subject their products to third-party testing to ensure their efficacy, authenticity, and safety. Most companies use independent labs to examine their products for hemp profiles, chemicals, heavy metals, solvents, and various other contaminants. The brands then post the findings of third-party lab tests on their websites for all to see.
Photo by Kindel Media via Pexels
Choose premium hemp edible with a third-party lab-testing system. The results will provide you peace of mind, knowing that the creators and the analysts are willing to take responsibility. Third-party lab tests are essential for internal control, ensuring that each batch of hemp extract follows the protocols.
The Right Concentration
When deciding between different hemp oils especially, individuals look at the concentration first. Because everyone is different and reacts to CBD differently, there is no one-size-fits-all CBD dosage. Some people will benefit from dosages of as little as 5–10 mg, while others will need upwards of 50 mg. So which concentration should you choose?
Low-concentration hemp oil and products are typically chosen for micro-dosing, administering extremely small dosages of CBD throughout the day to keep endocannabinoid levels stable. People who are new to this use low-potency oils to find the proper dosage and evaluate the cost-effectiveness of their product. Low-concentration oils and products may be prohibitively expensive when using high dosages of hemp. The lower the price per milligram of hemp, the longer the product will last.
Bottom Line
When it comes to purchasing hemp oil and other edibles, research on the subject is crucial. Always double-check the hemp source, extraction procedures, third-party testing, corporate transparency, and reputation among CBD consumers. The type of CBD, intake method and potency will all influence your decision. These aspects should be tailored to your lifestyle preferences and desired results.
For the first time, researchers were able to increase the levels of THC and CBG in a cannabis plant.
Researchers from the University of Jerusalem have managed to manipulate the number of cannabinoids within a cannabis plant.
According to The Jerusalem Post, the research increased the plant’s THC level to 20%, something that could help create new strains with more medicinal power and in boosting crop yields.
The researchers were led by Professor Alexander Vainstein and managed to increase a variety of cannabinoid levels, among them THC and CBG, which were increased by 17% and 25% respectively. Researchers were also able to increase the number of terpenes — aromatic elements within the plant that are linked with euphoric and strong medicinal effects — by 20 to 30%.
Per researchers, the goal of the study was to “intervene in the biochemical pathways in the cannabis plant” in order to manipulate the production of active substances. This was achieved by manipulating a neutralized active virus in the plant. “We examined the infected plants and found that the levels of the substances in question had indeed risen,” wrote the researchers.
“These study results will be valuable both to industry, to increase the yield of active substances, and to medical researchers to cultivate and develop new strains for medical cannabis users,” recapped Vainstein.
The University of Jerusalem has done some groundbreaking work in the field of cannabis since the 1970s, including synthesizing important cannabinoids like THC, CBD and CBG.
This study marks the first time when the level of a cannabinoid was modified on a cannabis plant, something that could expand on cannabis’ medicinal capabilities. In terms of the industry as a whole, these findings could result in new business opportunities and openings for making a profit.
The Federal Government could be sued by a coalition of multi-state operators (MSOs) in the cannabis industry, reported Marijuana Moment.
The coalition says it will sue the Feds because they believe that its marijuana policies are unconstitutional.
Abner Kurtin, founder and CEO of Ascend Wellness Holdings told Marijuana Moment that this is an “industry-wide effort.” Kurtin said that Curaleaf and TerrAscend are also working closely with him.
There will be two lawsuits filed in federal district court. One will challenge the Controlled Substance Act (CSA). The plaintiffs argue that prior court rulings on the federal government’s authority over intrastate commerce should not apply to marijuana companies.
The second lawsuit will focus on Code 208E of the IRS, which impedes cannabis businesses from deducting federal taxes.
According to Kurtin, the lawsuit could have retroactive consequences and, cannabis companies could theoretically receive deductions going back years.
It seems that lawmakers in in the state for lovers aren’t spreading it for marijuana consumers. Virginia develops new way to punish cannabis consumers sends a message to locals and tourist alike. According to the proposition which came with a recently revealed two-year state budget, possession of over 4 ounces of cannabis in public would be considered a Class 3 misdemeanor, posing a fine of up to $500 plus a criminal record.
Additional offenses would be viewed as a Class 2 misdemeanor, with punishment including up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
This is the third time in 2022, that the state’s legislative leaders have come up with new crimes for cannabis possession, Richmond News writes.
Photo by Kelly L from Pexels
The General Assembly is scheduled to review the budget during a special session on Wednesday. The budget compromise is supported by House Appropriations Chair Barry Knight (R-Virginia Beach) and Senate Finance and Appropriations Chair Janet Howell (D-Fairfax).
In the meantime, a GOP-led House of Delegates subcommittee voted down legislation that would allow recreational marijuana sales earlier this year. Republicans promised to revisit the issue sometime next year, with mid to late 2023 being the earliest retail sales could begin.
Thailand Wants To Ban Public Transport Drivers From Using Cannabis Before Driving
Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health announced several weeks ago that three types of cannabis oil had been deemed essential medicine, allowing doctors from 893 government hospitals to prescribe cannabis extract oil to patients in selected circumstances.
With the country on the verge of legalizing home cannabis cultivation on June 9, the Land Transport Department is now pushing for a law that would prohibit drivers from using marijuana before driving, reported Nation Thailand.
Officials are looking to set up cannabis regulations for public transport, said the Public Health Ministry, which previously revealed that it will push for legalization.
Ministry Deputy Permanent Secretary Thongchai Keeratihatthayakon warned on Sunday that marijuana use remains illegal. In addition, the ministry also plans to work with the Consumer Protection Board on preventing the advertising of cannabis products and services.
The Southeast Asian country was the first in the region to legalize cannabis for medical use in 2018, with a provision for all households to cultivate cannabis and sell it.
North Carolina On Track To Legalize Cannabis
North Carolina, one of the six states where both medical and recreational use of cannabis is still illegal, might be the next to legalize the plant.
Senate Bill 765, introduced Monday, will advance through the general assembly again this month, Port City Daily writes.
If enacted into law, the legislation would allow adults 21 and older to possess up to 2 ounces of marijuana or an equivalent amount in products. Those caught in possession of over 2 ounces could face a civil penalty of $25.
Photo by Olena Ruban/Getty Images
The bill would also allow the cultivation of up to two mature and two immature marijuana plants for personal use at home.
The 69-page bill requires the formation of a Cannabis Equity Reinvestment Board with the mission of addressing economic disparities for families and communities affected by excessive drug enforcement. It would also set up a Cannabis Control Commission to oversee the “sale, purchase, transportation, manufacture, consumption and possession” of marijuana.
In the meantime, it seems that North Carolinians would like to see cannabis legalized. Over half of the state’s voters support the legalization of marijuana for recreational use, while almost three-quarters of residents would vote for medical marijuana, as per statewide polling data from Nexstar Media Group and Emerson College.
Will Tax Cuts Fuel Growth Of California Cannabis Market?
Cannabis sales in California have yielded nearly $4 billion in marijuana tax revenue since the market’s launch in 2018.
However, for the first three months of 2022, the Golden State garnered roughly $294 million in cannabis revenue generated from the excise, cultivation and sales tax on marijuana, representing a decline from $317 million for the corresponding period of 2021, the Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) reported last week.
The legislative analysts said the decrease could be attributed to “amended and late returns and other tax return adjustments.”
Nevertheless, Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) recently unveiled an updated budget proposal that would eliminate the state’s cannabis cultivation tax and revise cannabis tax revenue allocations. The revised budget plan is considered a tool to combat the state’s illicit market.
Photo by smodj/Getty Images
Moreover, a recent study found that California could increase legal cannabis sales and bring in 123% more in total monthly cannabis-related tax revenue by 2024 by eliminating the cultivation tax.
While cannabis advocates warned earlier this year that cutting state cannabis taxes will have “an immediate, negative impact on thousands of children living in poverty and children of color across our state,” the state Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO) highlighted in its update on Thursday, that the Newsom’s proposal “would use 2020-21 cannabis tax revenues to establish a funding target for the programs that receive those revenues.”
Detroit Grants First Recreational Marijuana License To Grower
Detroit granted a recreational marijuana business license to Doghouse Farms, over two years after the process got underway.
The grow operation situated on the city’s east side is now ready to start selling on the recreational market, reported Crain’s Detroit Business.
The business has invested approximately $4 million in a 25,000-square-foot cultivation facility. For over a year, Doghouse has been selling medical cannabis.
“A (recreational license) is the only reason we came to Detroit,” Eric Slutzky, Doghouse’s CEO told Crain’s. “The city taking this long really cut the knees out of the local market, but we had faith the city would do the right thing.”
Keep in mind that doctors are a wealth of knowledge, but medical marijuana and its benefits are a very new science and not all medical professionals are up to date with the latest developments.
It is completely understandable to have skepticism towards prescription pain medication. America’s opioid crisis continues to take record numbers of lives, while many others live quietly addicted to pain medication.
If you injure yourself or require surgery, you are likely going to experience pain. You also might want nothing to do with potentially-addictive pain medication when it is offered. Marijuana, as we have previouslyreported, can be a great alternative to opioids. But will your doctor prescribe you weed instead of painkillers?
Health care professionals can’t actually prescribe pot because the federal government still classifies marijuana as aschedule 1 drug. In other words, your doctor can’t exactly toss out your opioid prescription and write a new one for medical marijuana. Depending on the state, however, the doctor might be able to assist you in using marijuana as medical therapy for your recovery. The bigger question is, is your doctor willing to sign off on this?
Photo by Jupiterimages/Getty
Be Honest With your Physician
There is no point in beating around the bush, or trying to deceive your doctor. They have seen it all, and can spot a liar. If you want marijuana instead of other pain medication, just plead your case.
The current opioid crisis in the country is not a secret. A physician is likely going to be far more receptive to a patient who is honest about not wanting to use opioids, but instead prefers the marijuana route. If you are afraid of the dangers of opioids, or their adverse side effects – be vocal. This won’t guarantee you a medical marijuana card, but it opens up a dialogue to alternative treatments.
Being honest about your marijuana use can also help you before a surgery and in treatment. Your doctor needs to know if you use marijuana, and if so how much. “In order to know which medicines and how much to use, your doctor needs to know ahead of time how much and how often you use marijuana,” according toHarvard.
Do Your Research
When you prepare to earn your doctor’s blessing for marijuana to ease your pain, know the facts. This is not always an easy thing to do, as medical research on marijuana continues to struggle since it is illegal on a federal level. This lack of research, in fact, is what keeps physicians and organizations from wholeheartedly embracing medical marijuana today.
TheCDC, for example, said “even though pain management is one of the most common reasons people report for using medical marijuana in the United States, there is limited evidence that marijuana works to treat most types of acute or chronic pain.” This means coming to your doctor with information, studies, and applicable reasons for your desire to use marijuana instead of other pain medication is a great way to keep your doctor from telling you “there just isn’t enough information.”
Keep in mind that doctors are a wealth of knowledge, but medical marijuana and its benefits are a very new science and not all medical professionals are up to date with the latest developments.
Photo by SageElyse/Getty Images
Listen To Your Doctor’s Advice
At the end of the day, remember your doctor is giving you a knowledgeable opinion, and you should not brush it off. Medical opinions and treatment plans should be respected to avoid unnecessary risks. If your doctor does not support marijuana as a substitute for pain medication, take this advice seriously.
Keep in mind that if your doctor does not support your desires to use medical marijuana, you can also seek a second opinion. After all, according toNORML, more than two thirds of health clinicians believe that marijuana can be used medically.
If you find that multiple medical professionals are telling you marijuana is not the solution, you should heed their advice. After all, marijuana is not a “cure all.” Some conditions require specific treatment plans that do not involve cannabis.
Although the process may take some time, the relief that comes from cannabis therapy can lead to a greatly improved quality of life.
According to the Global RA Network, more than 350 million people around the world are impacted by arthritis. This makes arthritis one of the most common conditions on the planet. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that arthritis is the number one cause of disability in the country, affecting about 1 in every four Americans.
As common as arthritis may be, there is still no quick fix to the pain that accompanies it. Those who struggle with arthritic pain seem to be in a constant search for relief. Fortunately, proper treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent the disease’s progression. But finding what helps can be a challenge.
Doctors recommend a variety of different treatment options, from nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), to steroids, and other options that help with pain. However, cannabis has also shown to bring help for many though patients often have difficulty finding information on how it can help.
Arthritis is a general term that describes inflammation in the joints. The condition impacts joints connecting two bones such as fingers, wrists, hips, back and knee joints. Redness, minor swelling and sensation of heat are commonly associated with arthritis, leading to chronic pain, stiffness and limited range of motion. This inflammation occurs when substances from white blood cells are released into the blood or affected tissues to protect the body from what is considered foreign invaders. This release restricts the blood flow to the affected area and may result in redness and warmth. This protective process often stimulates surrounding nerves and causes pain.
How Cannabis Can Help
Cannabis is a known and recognized anti-inflammatory. Studies have shown that cannabis can have a positive effect in taming inflammation, as well as a myriad of ailments associated with inflammation — including arthritis. The entourage effect associated with the plant’s combination of terpenes and cannabinoids, including THC, is also thought to help improve results.
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) of the human body is modulated by diet, sleep, exercise, stress, and many other factors, including exposure to cannabinoids like CBD and THC. Modulation of the ECS is crucial to maintaining homeostasis related to inflammation and analgesia. The good news is that studies have shown clear evidence regarding the efficacy of cannabis in treating this inflammation.
Preclinical and clinical studies using cannabis-based therapy have shown to provide both analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, with an overall alleviation of clinical symptoms in animal models of arthritis, highlighting its promising therapeutic application for humans. For example:
Other animal studies suggest that certain terpenes like linalool, BCP, eucalyptol, and limonene reduce inflammation, adding to the strength of the entourage effect.
As a result of these studies, it is believed that cannabinoid receptors and other receptors are thought to play a role in managing arthritic symptoms, as well as modifying inflammation. Despite these findings, the development of cannabis-based therapeutics remains in its infancy, with further investigation into its efficacy and safety profile in patients still required.
So what is the best approach to incorporating cannabis into an arthritis treatment program? First off, consider beginning with one dominant cannabinoid at a time and one product at a time (for example, a full spectrum CBD product). Incorporate other cannabinoids as needed and tolerated–and introduce them slowly over time. Begin with a very low 0.5-3mg dose of THC, and then increase slowly by 1-2 mg every other day as needed. Consider utilizing different daytime and nighttime regimens to reduce the risk of potential side effects. Also consider incorporating an acidic cannabinoid like CBDa, which has been shown to be effective at reducing inflammatory pain.
Be sure to keep a daily journal to track progress, as well as to document which treatment is working. Utilize a simple pain scale of 0-10, with 10 indicating the worst pain and track daily how both the pain and range of motion are progressing. By keeping an accurate record of what is being consumed, patients can find the precise combination of dosage and product that works for them. It may take some time to identify the exact cannabis treatment that provides relief, and there may end up being multiple different solutions for varying levels of pain.
Although the process may take some time, the relief that comes from cannabis therapy can lead to a greatly improved quality of life. The health benefits of managing arthritis effectively can lead to increased physical activity, and better enjoyment of everyday activities. In addition, many patients are able to reduce or eliminate other medications with the use of cannabinoids leading to an even more improved quality of life.
Katherine Golden, RN, is CEO, executive director and founder of Leaf411, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2019 with a mission to provide education and directional support to the general public about the safe and effective use of legal cannabis (marijuana and hemp). A registered nurse for more than 27 years, Katherine received her Associates of Science degree in nursing from El Camino College School of Nursing in Torrance, California and has obtained multiple cannabis-nursing certificates through The Medical Cannabis Institute Global, Radicle Health Cannabis Therapeutics for Medical Professionals and Healer. For more information or to schedule a consultation with a Leaf411 nurse, call 844-LEAF411 (844-532-3411) or visit leaf411.org.
For now, it seems that cannabis will be growing in market share over the coming years and the next generations will consume it far more openly than previous generations.
It turns out that the youths of today are far more interested in consuming cannabis as they are smoking tobacco and drinking alcohol. While some might think this is bad news, it is in fact much better news than you could anticipate.
A recent study, published int the Journal of Adolescent Health, revealed researchers with the University of Washington assessed trends in alcohol, nicotine, and non-prescribed pain reliever use among a cohort of over 12,500 young adults (ages 18 to 25) in Washington State following adult-use cannabis legalization.
They reported, “Contrary to concerns about spillover effects, implementation of legalized non-medical cannabis coincided with decreases in alcohol and cigarette use and pain reliever misuse.” Researchers did find that the prevalence of past-month e-cigarette use increased post-legalization.
Mayara Klingner / EyeEm via Getty
Authors concluded, “Our findings add to evidence that the legalization of non-medical cannabis has not led to dramatic increases in the use of alcohol, cigarettes, and non-prescribed opioids. … The findings indicate that the most critical public health concerns surrounding cannabis legalization and the evolution of legalized cannabis markets may be specific to cannabis use and related consequences.”
Commenting on the study’s findings, NORML’s Deputy Director Paul Armentano said: “Real-world data from legalization states disputes longstanding claims that cannabis is some sort of ‘gateway’ substance. In fact, in many instances, cannabis regulation is associated with the decreased use of other substances, including many prescription medications.”
In essence, the researchers at UW confirmed something that cannabis activists have known since the dawn of modern legalization. When you legalize and regulate cannabis, there are no associated increases on other drugs — and seemingly, it has the opposite effect.
It seems that cannabis acts more as a “gateway out of drugs” as we discussed in an article last week. What we’re seeing is that people are tending to swap out their other drugs for cannabis. Medical patients use fewer opioids, tobacco addicts quit, alcoholics significantly reduce their consumption, psychiatric patients reduce their anxiolytic intake, and much more. Cannabis, in a way, consolidates the effects of all these other substances, and provides a more robust return on investment.
Photo by Ruslan Alekso via Pexels
Personally, I prefer getting stoned.
I’ve long stopped drinking, except for when I want to get a little buzz on. However, for me alcohol is almost like taking a harder drug. I don’t take LSD just because, I always take it with an intent. Similarly, I don’t open a bottle of wine or some Whiskey unless I want to get a bit tipsy.
However, I can go months or even years without wanting or needing alcohol. For me, my main drug of choice is cannabis and it has been for over twenty years. That’s because I don’t get hungover as with alcohol, and I don’t have such severe withdrawal than what I get from tobacco.
Furthermore, since cannabis takes longer to consume per gram than tobacco, it lasts longer, meaning I spend less money on achieving almost the same effect as what alcohol and tobacco would give me. It seems, the youth caught onto this truth as well.
The Youth Prefer Vaping
While I’m an old school stoner that still loves joints, blunts, pipes and bongs, kids these days prefer vaping. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not opposed to the idea of vaping either. I have my own Pax unit and I love it!
However, young adults primarily consume in vaporized format mainly due to its convenience, its ease of use and overall discretion compared to the other formats.
A recent study, published in the Journal of Addiction, confirmed this trend:
Cannabis vaping is increasing as the most popular method of cannabis delivery among all adolescents in the U.S., as is the frequency of cannabis vaping, according to research at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health. The study found that the frequency of vaping cannabis among adolescents from all demographic groups is reported at six or more times per month, and rising faster than occasional use. Those who vape and smoke nicotine are more than 40 times more likely to also vape and smoke cannabis.
Until now time trends in vaping use had largely been unexamined including trends in use frequency, emerging disparities, and co-occurring use of other substances, which are all critical for surveillance and public health programmatic efforts. The findings are published in the journal Addiction.
Of course, the study focuses more on an alarmist perspective, but the fact remains that kids these days are going to vape more than any other way.
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez via Unsplash
Is This a Good Thing or a Bad Thing?
Of course, we want our youth to be as “drug free” as possible. Yet, if they choose cannabis over alcohol and tobacco, on a physiological level they will have fewer detrimental effects. Unlike alcohol, cannabis isn’t associated with violent behavior and unlike tobacco, it’s far less addictive.
This isn’t to say that kids aren’t vulnerable to addiction but if we have to choose between the lesser of evils — cannabis consumption is far less damaging than the other mainstream drugs.
Now, it’s about drug education. But one thing is certain, the youth today isn’t as interested in getting “obliterated” as my generation was, but they also are smoking more potent forms of cannabis — so ultimately, who knows what will happen.
For now, it seems that cannabis will be growing in market share over the coming years and the next generations will consume it far more openly than previous generations. The world is finally going green. The way it was always meant to be.
If the bill becomes law, cities in California would no longer be allowed to ban all medical cannabis access. The bill, however, does not alter cities’ right to limit or forbid adult-use cannabis sales.
After passing the Senate Business and Professions Committee by a vote of 8-3 in April, Senator Scott Wiener’s Bill 1186, which aims to ensure access to medical cannabis across California, was also approved by the Senate Governance and Finance Committee.
The bill passed the Senate with a unanimous bipartisan vote, and is now heading to the Assembly for policy hearing, reported Sierra Sun Times.
“Right now, 62% of California cities ban people from purchasing legal medicinal cannabis,” said Senator Wiener. “This fuels the illicit cannabis market and makes it difficult – if not impossible – for people to access the medicine they need. We need to ensure everyone can access medicinal cannabis if they need it; SB 1186 will restore this access across the state.”
On Thursday, California officials launched a new resource providing people with an interactive map showing exactly where marijuana businesses are permitted and where they’re blocked from opening, reported Marijuana Moment.
The map confirms that more than half of the state’s cities and counties do not permit any type of cannabis licensees to operate in their area.
Californians have a new tool to see where they can purchase safe and legal cannabis products from licensed retailers, and which cities and counties allow cannabis businesses to be licensed. Learn more: https://t.co/WDi9R4TRlf#CAcannabis#mappic.twitter.com/StQMqcl5gG
— CA Department of Cannabis Control (@CAcannabisdept) May 26, 2022
What does the current California law say?
California allows cities to forbid any and all marijuana sales, including MMJ, thus depriving those suffering from HIV, cancer, insomnia, arthritis and other illnesses and disorders from legally obtaining medical marijuana.
As a result, the illicit cannabis market is booming, which also puts its residents at risk of buying and consuming untested and possibly unsafe cannabis products.
New Bill Summary
Under the SB 1186 cities would be required to allow some kind of medical cannabis access. The choice of how to enable that access would be given to each city. Options include enabling medical marijuana delivery, storefront or both. But, most importantly, if the bill passes into law, cities in California would no longer be allowed to ban all medical cannabis access.
The bill, however, does not alter cities’ right to limit or forbid adult-use cannabis sales. The main idea behind the measure is to prioritize patient health by enabling them access to licensed stores or licensed deliveries.
After all, California was the first state in the U.S. to legalize medical cannabis in 1996, approving Proposition 215, and now medical marijuana is legal in more than 30 states.
