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Why Canadian Cannabis Companies With US Operations Can Still List On NYSE & NASDAQ

To say that the NYSE and NASDAQ are complicated venues for Canadian marijuana companies to break into would be an understatement. Is it worth the trouble?

By Nina Zdinjak

With cannabis still being illegal on the federal level — classified as a Schedule 1 controlled substance with “no currently accepted medical use” — companies in the sector find it difficult, if not impossible, to list on major U.S. stock exchanges like the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ.

Neither of these stock exchanges accepts companies that sell cannabis in the U.S., even when operating in states where adult-use consumption is now legal. That’s because federal law trumps state law. And, with the feds and the state not being in sync on this important issue, confusion and controversy pop up on a regular basis. Is medical marijuana legal in nursing homes and assisted living facilities? Can sports leagues allow athletes to medicate with cannabis? What about the V.A.?

Michigan May Get Its Own Marijuana Stock Exchange
Photo by Anna Nekrashevich from Pexels

Why Choose NYSE Or NASDAQ Over OTC? What’s The Difference? 

Some might argue that a public company is a public company, no matter which stock exchange its shares are being traded on. Most companies, however, strive to place their stock on well-established and prestigious markets such as the NYSE or NASDAQ. Of course, these two exchanges are harder to get into because they have special requirements like minimum stock prices and total market capitalization.

Markets like the OTC (over-the-counter), however, have fewer restrictions. This often makes them the only choice for smaller and less well-known companies.

It should be noted that some OTC stocks can be more volatile, with swings that result in quick losses or gains. In addition, small-capitalization stocks are often less controlled and checked by the Securities and Exchange Commission. This is why investors tend to feel more secure about investing in companies that trade on the two traditionally prestigious markets.

Worth The Legwork?

To say that the NYSE and NASDAQ are complicated venues for Canadian marijuana companies to break into would be an understatement. Benzinga wanted to learn more, so we reached out to Sebastien St-Louis, president, CEO and director of Canadian cannabis company HEXO Corp (NASDAQ: HEXO). This cannabis producer is based in Gatineau, Quebec, and focuses on the recreational cannabis scene.

how to invest in marijuana stocks
Photo by Darren415/Getty Images

Last year, Hexo expanded its partnership with Molson Coors Beverage Company and formed a joint venture to launch non-alcohol hemp-derived CBD beverages in Colorado.

Previously, the two companies teamed up and created another joint venture to produce a non-alcoholic cannabis-infused beverage for the Canadian market called Truss Beverages.

But Hexo’s focus on the U.S. market doesn’t end there, especially now that cannabis legalization can be felt in the air. Thus, the cannabis giant recently finalized the acquisition of a Fort Collins, Colorado-based production facility — its first in the U.S.

“We’re very excited to have zoning from the municipality for all cannabinoids, which means that once we have federal legalization we already have the municipal requirements for eventual THC production,” St-Louis told Benzinga.

RELATED: Does Big Business Provide A Better Look Into Cannabis Reform Than Capitol Hill?

This way, the company has secured more distributorships in Fort Collins, incorporated its ‘Powered by Hexo’ solutions and is preparing the ground for possible federal legalization.

Regarding the recent Cannabis Administration & Opportunity Act, introduced by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and fellow Sens. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore), St-Louis called the draft bill “certainly ambitious.”

While Hexo’s CEO is encouraged by the language of legalization in the bill, he believes that due to the complexity of the process it could be another three years before the process is complete. Not keen to wait that long, St-Louis said, “we are actively pursuing a structure that would allow us to enter the market in a legal fashion faster than the full-blown legalization.”

After all, some 80% of U.S. adults already have access to legal cannabis on a state-by-state basis, St-Louis noted.

To make all things work, have U.S. operations and be listed on the NASDAQ, a company must be “hyper compliant.”

“Well, we’re doing it legally, and that’s not easy, but we’re only dealing in legal substances and hemp. So, everything at Fort Collins is actually sourced from hemp-derived CBD. So, we’re not touching the THC molecule until full legalization,” St-Louis explained.

person using phone and laptop computer
Photo by Austin Distel via Unsplash

And that seems to be the key. Sticking to hemp until U.S. laws change.

Being compliant with all government regulations and having a super technical approach have enabled Hexo to be a legal entity to operate in the U.S. and still be listed on a major stock exchange.

High Goals In $10B Worth Canadian Market, Focus On U.S.

The company is dead serious about its future and expansion strategy, having made several acquisitions, with the most recently announced being the purchase of Canadian cannabis producer Redecan for $925 million in cash and stock.

In a few years, the Canadian market could be worth up to $10 billion, and St-Louis believes it will be dominated by three top players. He is aiming for Hexo to be one of them, and that’s why the company is making important consolidation moves.

“At the moment, on a consolidated basis, we have more market share than the next leading incumbent,” St-Louis said pointing out that Hexo already sells “more dollars of cannabis products in Canada than Tilray (NASDAQ: TLRY).”

Trying to grow more value for its shareholders, the company is aiming to reach a 30% share in Canada, which St-Louis believes is within reach. At the moment, Hexo’s share in Canada stands at around 17%.

RELATED: Canada Or US: Which Cannabis Industry Is Better Positioned To Go National?

Pushing to reach that goal in the next few years, the company’s merger and acquisition strategy is now looking towards the U.S.

While the company has all the licenses needed to export to Europe, St-Louis explained to Benzinga that its current strategy around Europe is to closely monitor and be ready for the adult-use market.

“We’re not aggressively pursuing the medical market in Europe today. We think that market is overly saturated and, much like we did in Canada, we’re going to focus on the recreational use when it opens up.”

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

Will Work Weed Drug Testing End

The federal government’s powers have shrunk significantly in relation to maintaining the plant’s prohibition status.

The vast majority of Americans are in favor of cannabis legalization, and a large chunk of the population live in cannabis-friendly states. This means there are more people who have a legal right to consume cannabis within their state, but could potentially run into trouble with their place of employment. With the mainstreaming of marijuana, will work weed drug testing end. No one taste for alcohol use and with legalization, will it go away?

Photo by 400tmax/Getty Images

To understand this, we need to dive into the nature of cannabis-testing and why it became the standard. We also will be addressing what these new canna-friendly norms currently means for multi-state businesses — especially when it comes to company policy.

What’s the reasoning behind workplace testing?

Before we can jump into the future of workplace testing, we need to first take a look at when it originally started. According to the ABA, the US corporate culture got its ‘hard-on’ for workplace drug testing during the Raegan administration.

You know the movie-star turned president who helped birth D.A.R.E and escalate the war on drugs. Raegan mandated that federal employees undergo drug testing in order to be employed by the government. Shortly after, the private sector did the same.

The reason to justify this shift in policy was, “pre-work drug testing increases workplace safety and productivity”.

Of course, in the 1980s you could say stuff like that, pay a few scientists to rig up some circumstantial “evidence” to support their premise and, presto-change-o, you’ve got yourself a national policy embedded into the very fabric of capitalism.

RELATED: Amazon’s Big Cannabis Move: Why Company Drug-Test Policies Matter More Than Ever

The new drug testing companies that arose to satisfy the demand for testing, drug kits, and everything associated with the practice were ecstatic. They had a new seemingly endless revenue stream backed up by government incentives.

Even if someone came and empirically proved that cannabis does not decrease workplace safety and that on average cannabis consumers take fewer sick days than their non-smoking counterparts.

By this time, there was money to be made and both Uncle Sam and Corporate Carl were groping American freedom while claiming that it was all for their benefit!

Fortunately, those kinds of things never happen in 2021…don’t they?

Oops – drugs won!

The 1980s and the 1990s were the “good years” if you ask a Drug Warrior. “Drug warriors” — as they liked to call themselves — were people who actively profited from the War on Drugs, whether you’re talking about local law enforcement, to every federal agency politicians could invent.

That’s when they could be “tough on crime” by busting non-violent drug users, while not solving crime where it mattered most. You know, like human trafficking, murders, and rapes.

illinois pot offenders how to get your marijuana offense wiped clean
Photo by FatCamera/Getty Images

As long as they had a few red-eyed Rasta’s sitting behind bars, they were going to get money from Uncle Sam, and eventually the military’s old toys.

However, during the 1980s the Aids Pandemic was in full swing and it turned out that a little plant known as cannabis really helped sufferers with a condition called Aids Wasting SyndromeIt also allegedly helped with pain management, cancer, glaucoma, etc.

Suddenly, being tough on crime meant attacking medical patients with a tank and well, the optics would certainly ruin any argument in favor of sustaining such a policy. But by this time it was too late; people were finding medical relief in cannabis, and eventually a few states began legalizing it for medical purposes.

Fast forward a few decades and more than half of U.S. adults have tried marijuana. It’s still illegal on a federal level, but the federal government’s powers have shrunk significantly in relation to maintaining the plant’s prohibition status.

Once the federal government removes cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act (CSA)

This is when things will get interesting. Even now, under modern cannabis laws, companies are having a hard time knowing how to respond. The government might have competently implemented these laws and instilled it into corporate culture, but their incompetence at rectifying their mistakes have left chaos for the time being.

However, eventually the federal government will have to give into the will of the people. This means legalization is inevitable.

RELATED: End Of Pre-Employment Drug Testing Doesn’t Mean You Can’t Still Be Fired For Marijuana

At this point, testing people for cannabis would be problematic and the odds of companies maintaining employment will be staggeringly low.

This is because cannabis can stay in your system for up to 90 days (mostly about 30-days or a few weeks if you smoke rarely). This means that someone could have smoked a joint last week at a birthday party and then can get fired a week later for “having cannabis in their system”.

Cannabis For Mental Health In The Workplace — How Canada Is Showing Us The Way
Photo by Campaign Creators via Unsplash

If the premise of making the workplace safer never testing for impairment, but only for the presence of an actual drug…well I hate to say that America got swindled by her politicians.

And this leads us to where we are today, in a limbo leaving companies scratching their heads.

A few things a company can do to cope with the times

According to the ABA, there are a couple of things companies can do now from a legal perspective. Firstly, adapt different codes based on regions. If you’re in a state with stricter laws, you can create “state specific” clauses.

The other alternative is to simply not continue with such an archaic practice. Perhaps, we should judge people not by the contents of their urine sample, but by their productivity and character instead.

Bottom line

As we get to the end of this joint, we wrap it up with a quick reminder that one of these days you’re going to be able to buy weed in a Seven Eleven. Sure, it won’t be the best bud, but it will get the job done.

Cannabis has already entered into the mainstream zeitgeist. Hell, if Iron Mike Tyson is smoking the Cheeba and running a cannabis farm, you know that the people have smoken!

Let’s get rid of this intrusive and humiliating practice of screening people for drugs. Besides, drugs don’t tell you who a person is. If you want that, just check their browser history!

Exercise May Improve Memory And Delay Alzheimers

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Exercise has long been associated with brain and memory benefits, but a new study is pivotal in understanding why.

A new study conducted on mice shows that a hormone produced by exercise can boost and improve your memory. One of the hormones produced, called irisin, promotes healthy brain development and can improve Alzheimer’s disease in rodents. Previous research conducted on humans shows that they also produce this hormone, and that exercise could curb dementia and memory loss that occurs due to aging.

Published in the Nature Journal, the study was conducted by comparing two groups of mice; one that was unable to produce the irisin and another that produced normal amounts.

RELATED: Eating This 5 Times A Week Can Extend Your Life

5 Memory Boosters That Actually Work
Photo by Robina Weermeijer via Unsplash

Mice were instructed to run for a few days, with the mice that produced irisin performing well on rodent tests of memory and learning. Mice that were unable to produce irisin had more issues with performance, confirming the researcher’s theory that irisin is pivotal when it comes to experiencing brain benefits due to working out.

Despite not mentioning how many hours per day the mice ran, the study found that all mice who worked out showed more neurons than usual, with the mice that produced no irisin developing cells that had lower synapses and were overall less effective. Once irisin was introduced to these mice, their performance increased considerably, with rodents of all ages showing boosts in performance, including senior rodents with Alzheimer’s.

RELATED: CBD Slows Onset Of Alzheimer’s, Finds New Medical Study

Exercise has long been associated with brain and memory benefits, but this study is pivotal in understanding why. The hormone irisin plays a key role in terms of benefits experienced via working out. Per the New York Times, the hormone might also be developed as a drug in the near future, helping treat diseases like Alzheimer’s and slowing the decline of brain health.

While there’s still a long way to go in terms of understanding how irisin impacts humans, this study is an important first step in understanding the connection that exists between brain and memory health and working out.

Research Finds Multiple Benefits Of Rare Cannabinoids

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Rare cannabinoids work as supplements to endocannabinoids, and so far there have been more than 50 clinical studies about their benefits.

Despite the lack of significant research dollars to the health advantages of cannabis, researchers are beginning to understand the cannabinoids found in the plant go way beyond those that most people are familiar.  Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive cannabinoid in the marijuana plant, and cannabidiol (CBD), a nonpsychoactive compound that is believed to relieve pain, reduce anxiety and induce sleep.  Now research finds multiple benefits of rare cannabinoids.

But with more than 200 known cannabinoids and an increasing amount of research, cannabis consumers are increasingly interested in what’s known as “rare cannabinoids,” even though it’s still unclear what benefits they may have.

These Are The Next Big Cannabinoids To Go Mainstream
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Cannabinoids trigger beneficial effects through interacting with the human body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates sleep, appetite, mood, memory, production and fertility. Endocannabinoids are molecules the body makes to keep internal functions moving properly. They connect with endocannabinoid receptors that are found throughout the body to notify the ECS that it needs to step in. Enzymes break down endocannabinoids after they’ve carried out their mission.

Rare cannabinoids work as supplements to endocannabinoids, and so far there have been more than 50 clinical studies about their benefits.

Rare cannabinoids such as cannabigerol (CBG), cannabinol (CBN) and tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) are thought to have more beneficial medical properties than THC and CBD and don’t contain the psychoactive properties of THC.

The research and development team at Grove Inc., a Henderson, Nevada-based innovator in the hemp and wellness industries, manufactures a full line of plant-based products with a focus on sustainability and customer satisfaction. The company’s team of organic farmers, biochemists, organic chemists, mixologists and food scientists are pioneers in the wellness industry.

While Grove has been focused on extracting CBD from hemp, it’s researching how some of the rare cannabinoids can be used to promote wellness.

RELATED: These Are The Next Big Cannabinoids To Go Mainstream

CBG, for example, is considered the “mother of cannabinoids” and is believed to fight inflammation, pain and nausea and may even slow the reproduction of cancer cells.

Studies have found that CBN, a cannabinoid that’s created when THC ages, may be a strong antibacterial agent that could be used to fight off infections the usual antibiotics can’t heal. It’s also been shown to stimulate the appetite, relieve glaucoma and reduce inflammation.

Scientists Discover New Cannabinoid That Could Be More Potent Than THC
Photo by Yarygin/Getty Images

CBN may even be a neuroprotectant that can be used to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), often called Lou Gehrig’s disease after the baseball player who was diagnosed with it.

THCV is being studied as a remedy for weight loss and management of obesity. It is believed to decrease the appetite, increase satiety and boost metabolism. It’s believed to be effective in controlling type 2 diabetes.

RELATED: Major And Minor Cannabinoids — Which Ones Do You Need To Know By Name?

Grove’s August 5, 2021 acquisition of VitaMedica, an online seller of supplements, puts it squarely in a position to compete in the vitamin and nutraceutical market to address consumers’ health and wellness needs as it delves deeper into introducing rare cannabinoids into its products. It combines Grove’s innovation in production with VitaMedica’s product line, which has been recommended by thousands of doctors and served more than 1 million patients, creating a network that Grove can tap into for clinical trials, studies, and continued research of the hemp plant.

“Our team at Grove gained a great company with an amazing product line that has generated more than $10 million in sales over the past several years and we believe has the potential for exponential growth from here,” Grove CEO Allan Marshall said at the time of the acquisition. “We at Grove are most excited about the team members we gained with the addition of Dr. (David) Rahm, Yvette LaGarde and their entire team. I believe the people you get when acquiring a company are of critical importance to the combined company’s success.”

Can You Blame Marijuana For Your Cannabis Addiction

It isn’t really the substance that is addictive, but your relationship or the narrative that you have constructed around the substance that is addictive.

Depending on who you ask, cannabis can be very addictive or not addictive at all.

If you ask psychiatrists and rehabilitation specialists, they will refer to “Cannabis Use Disorder” as proof that cannabis is addictive. But if you ask lifelong cannabis consumers like myself to quit cold turkey for a month or two, we would be able to do so without breaking a sweat.

This brings us to an importance cross road: Is it the substance that makes the addict, or does the addict choose the substance?

is cannabis addiction real
Photo by Sharon McCutcheon via Unsplash

My greatest addiction didn’t have anything to do with substances 

I could cite the various different studies on different substances, compare addictiveness qualities and argue that one drug is more addictive than another.

I wouldn’t be wrong.

However, as someone who can become quite obsessive with strategy challenges; one of the most difficult addictions I had to deal with had nothing to do with a substance.

I struggled with excessive gaming for years and while I wasn’t physically consuming anything, it was one of the hardest addictions for me to break.

RELATED: Is Marijuana Addictive? Let’s Discuss

I found quitting cigarettes after 15 years of use was easier than quitting gaming.

Now, did I have a justifiable reason to blame the game for my addiction? Or was it me; the addict choosing a vehicle of obsessive compulsion?

After having quit two very different addictions, I can surely say that while the substance may have addictive qualities, it’s always the addict pulling the trigger.

USPS Suggests PACT Act Compliance Exception For Mailing Hemp And CBD Products
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Are you blaming the addict?

In a way, yes! The addict definitely is the single most important factor in any type of addiction. The problem is that the addict loves to shift blame.

When I was excessively gaming, I would reason different justification for my actions to avoid the very real issues that was plaguing me.

RELATED: Why Legalization Could Actually Combat Cannabis Use Disorder

The addiction was simply an “easier choice” for my unconscious mind to process than to deal with the underlying issues. Thus, in essence, all addiction is a means of escapism.

Unless you are ready to deal with these underlying issues; the addiction will only continue to manifest in your life in order to avoid facing up to your hidden pains.

Addiction is mental malware that requires an anti-virus

The thing about an addict is that the addict knows what they are doing is not beneficial to their bottom line, but they do it anyway!

This is because the addiction has rewritten your mental algorithms to embed itself within what you believe to be your personality.

RELATED: If Cannabis Addiction Is Real, How Many People Are Affected?

In reality, the story of “you + your addiction” is the most compelling work of fiction you have ever created, filled with emotional nuances to convince you that “THIS IS YOUR BURDEN!”

However, it was when I quit smoking tobacco  — which according to some sources put it within the same addictive levels as heroin or cocaine — that I realized that addiction is mental malware.

I read the book “EASY WAY TO QUIT SMOKING” by Alan Carr, which essentially deprograms your brain by addressing the main “reasons” why you smoke.

R.I.P. Delta-8 THC: Why States And DEA Want It Banned
Photo by Jeff W via Unsplash

The book doesn’t try to force you to quit, it simple begins to put things into perspective and in my case, before the end of the book, I threw away my pack of smokes and never looked back.

This wasn’t the first time I managed to “reboot my system” – but after this second cigarette purge I believe I am completely done with the habit forever.

What are you trying to avoid?

Understanding that it isn’t really the substance that is addictive, but your relationship or the narrative that you have constructed around the substance that is addictive.

When I managed to unravel my mind and rewrite the underlying narrative around tobacco, I enjoyed the withdrawal pangs. It was a sense of victory every time I felt like shit.

I understood that the tobacco addiction and the gaming addiction were interlaced; one helped sustain the other. When I managed to quit gaming, I was ready to let go of smoking.

But before any of this, I had to make a decision within my inner-most being about my addictions. I had to face the music and take a cold hard look at my life.

It was only when I made these internal adjustments that the addiction fell off me like it was yesterday’s news.

It’s always you — it’s never the substance!

Similarly, to the people who say “cannabis ruined my life” or “it’s because of cannabis,” you’re still missing the point.

Cannabis is a plant. It has no will of its own. Cannabis doesn’t buy itself, load itself into your pipe, light itself on fire and forces you to get high all day. That is 100% you.

Smoking More Weed Gets You Higher — Until A Point
Photo by Alex Moiseev via Unsplash

But here’s the good news. If it’s you doing it, it’s you who can undo it too!

However, to achieve this you will first need to take stock of your life. Ask the tough questions;

  1. What in my life is so shitty that all I want to do is escape it?
  2. What needs to change for me to be happy? Realistically?
  3. What do I need to change in my life so I become the master of my decisions?

It’s about taking full ownership of all your problems. It’s not because of any of the excuses you can come up with. It’s not your circumstances, it’s not your trauma — it’s malware that needs to be interrupted.

The Sticky Bottom-line

If you want to blame the substance for your fuckups – you still haven’t learned the ultimate lesson of Addiction.

You’re the one in the driver seat and just as easy as you got on the ride – it’s just as easy to get off. The question is; do you really want to or does your current configuration of misery satisfy your needs enough that minimal to no effort is good enough.

But the moment you’re ready to let it all go, that change happens deep within the core of our beings. And once this choice is made, nothing can stop you — not even relapses.

This article was created in partnership with Cannabis.net

Cannabis Offers Immediate Nausea Relief, Study Shows

Study findings suggest that the vast majority of patients using cannabis as a treatment for nausea likely experience relief within a relatively short time span.

By Javier Hasse

Scientific evidence around the therapeutic benefits of cannabis continues to pile up, confirming what many had found out through years of experimentation and accumulation of anecdotal evidence.

Now, a new study conducted by team of researchers at the University of New Mexico found that cannabis flower and concentrates are effective in providing relief for the symptoms of nausea. The study reviewed data collected via the Releaf App and found that more than 96% of individuals in the study reported symptom relief. In fact, subjects disclosed a decrease in nausea severity by almost 4 points on visual analogue scale from 0-10 within an hour of consumption.

Managing Nausea With Cannabis: What You Need To Know
Photo by elenaleonova/Getty Images

Interestingly enough, symptom relief became statistically significant after only 5 minutes, and continued to increased over time.

“Our results show that cannabis is used to treat nausea with a high rate of effectiveness,” said Sarah See Stith, an economics assistant professor at UNM who co-led the study alongisde Jacob Vigil, psychology associate professor at UNM.

However, she warned, “concerns exist that its effectiveness relative to conventional options may induce high-risk populations, such as pregnant women and children, to consume cannabis.”

Understanding Nausea

Nausea is a relatively common ailment. Nonetheless, it is often difficult to treat using conventional methods like herbal remedies and prescription pharmaceuticals.

Most conventional antiemetic products have fairly mild side effects, but also tend to offer limited relief for treating nausea and are not effective for all patients. Alternative therapies such as acupuncture and acupressure show little evidence of dangerous side effects, but offer limited effectiveness.

RELATED: Why Does Cannabis Work So Well To Combat Nausea?

Prior to this study, the National Academies of Sciences Engineering and Medicine (NASEM) had already included cannabinoids in its list of the strongest available agents for chemotherapy-induced nausea. The UNM study confirmed that cannabis is an effective and fast-acting treatment for feelings of nausea.

Study Finds Marijuana 25% Stronger Now Than Five Decades Ago
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The Study In Detail

The study, titled “The Effectiveness of Common Cannabis Products for Treatment of Nausea,” was published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology.

It observed 2,220 cannabis self-administration sessions reported anonymously by 866 people who tracked their cannabis use for managing nausea in the Releaf App.

RELATED: Here’s How Marijuana Can Kick Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea To The Curb

The findings suggest that the vast majority of patients using cannabis as a treatment for nausea likely experience relief within a relatively short time span.

It should be noted, however, that the level of effectiveness varies according to the characteristics of the products consumed.

  • The most effective products for immediate relief appear to be cannabis flower and concentrates, labeled as C. sativa or “hybrid.”
  • Joints were associated with greater symptom relief compared to pipes or vaporizers, although the gap narrowed over time.
  • High THC / low CBD ratios were generally associated with greater symptom relief in a short period of time, such as 5 minutes.
  • Those characteristics were less relevant closer to the hour mark.

“It’s great to provide data that helps validate anecdotal claims that have been around forever regarding the efficacy of cannabis to manage and control one’s nausea,” concluded Keenan Keeling, CEO of MoreBetter Ltd., the company behind Releaf App. “However, with the wide range of conditions that can cause nausea, it’s clear that more studies and data are needed and we look forward to contributing to these efforts.”

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

CBD Oil And Psoriasis Treatment

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Psoriasis is a chronic medical condition that has severe implications on an individual’s physical and mental health, which is why the treatment plan has to be holistic and practical.

Approximately 125 million people worldwide have psoriasis. The widespread prevalence of this skin condition makes it a global health concern, which is why experts have been working rigorously to find a solution for this disease.

There is no proven cure for psoriasis, but there are some ways to treat or manage the symptoms of this disease. One solution that has been discovered recently and has become increasingly popular is CBD oils on the skin affected by psoriasis to heal and consume the CBD oil orally to help with the immune system.

CBD Oil And Its Potential Aa A Psoriasis Treatment
Photo by Catherine Falls Commercial/Getty Images

If you have psoriasis and are looking into using CBD oil for your treatment, wondering what the possibilities of this treatment are, here is all the information you need to make up your mind and understand this new medical approach. Let’s talk about the symptoms of psoriasis and how CBD oils can target them before discussing the effectiveness of CBD oils in treating psoriasis.

Psoriasis: The Symptoms 

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that results from a disturbance in the autoimmune system and a rapid buildup of unnecessary skin cells. In this condition, the skin becomes inflamed, itchy, dry, and scaly — it is harrowing and disruptive as the skin can crack and bleed randomly. It also impacts the body as the joints become inflamed and stiff, and the immune system is compromised.

How CBD Oil Can Help Counter Symptoms Of Psoriasis 

Here are some ways in which the application and consumption of CBD oils can help treat the symptoms of psoriasis:

  • CBD OIL CAN HELP STOP THE RAPID GROWTH OF UNNECESSARY SKIN CELLS: 

Experts claim that the use of CBD oils on the skin impacted by psoriasis, or even the oral consumption of a CBD oil, can help prevent the rapid buildup of skin cells. That is because CBD oils can help restore the balance in the activity of the immune system that causes this to take place.

RELATED: CBD Oil And Its Potential As A Psoriasis Treatment

CBD oil will penetrate the skin to prevent the buildup on-site when applied directly to the affected area, and CBD oil consumed orally would heal the compromised immune system.

  • CBD OILS CAN HELP WITH INFLAMMATION ON THE PSORIASIS AFFECTED AREA AND IN THE JOINTS

CBD is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help heal inflammatory skin conditions, of which psoriasis is one. CBD oils can treat inflammation in the joints and on the skin – psoriasis-affected skin – when applied directly. Consuming CBD oil can help fight inflammation from within and provide relief as well.

Here's What You Should Know About CBD Topicals
Photo by vadimguzhva/Getty Images
  • CBD OILS CAN HELP WITH PAIN MANAGEMENT 

According to Healthlineit has been proven through rigorous and thorough scientific research that CBD oils can help manage pain effectively. CBD oils react with the endocannabinoid system to block off pain receptors as much as possible and help with excessive pain. Moreover, CBD oils are known for containing relaxants, which can help you feel relaxed and calm.

  • CBD OILS CAN HELP HEAL AND STRENGTHEN THE IMMUNE SYSTEM

CBD oil interacts with the endocannabinoid system, responsible for maintaining balance in the body and ensuring that everything functions smoothly. CBD oils react with the plan to help restore balance and help strengthen the immune system, which will help reduce psoriasis the severity of psoriasis and make the body more capable of healing itself.

  • CBD OILS CAN HELP DEAL WITH THE MENTAL IMPLICATIONS OF PSORIASIS 

Psoriasis is a severe medical condition that is often accompanied by mental health concerns like stress and depression. The consumption of CBD oils can help you mentally cope with the stress of dealing with psoriasis and help you feel more relaxed. CBD is known for its effectiveness in alleviating the mood and making a person feel better, which can help you feel low and stressed.

RELATED: Could Cannabis Eliminate The High-Cost And High-Stakes Of Current Psoriasis Medicines?

The best part about using CBD oil for psoriasis? All these benefits come at no added cost as CBD oil is entirely safe, and there are no known side effects that might result from using it.

The only potential side effects you can face are drowsiness and dizziness, which are only temporary and will fade with regular use. Most people don’t even experience these side effects, and they only happen in rare circumstances! CBD oil might be the best solution on the market; let’s look at what makes it so effective in treating psoriasis.

person holding amber glass bottle
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Factors That Makes CBD Oil Effective In The Management Of Psoriasis 

CBD is an immune system modulator and has anti-inflammatory properties. As psoriasis is a condition in which the immune system becomes compromised and functions in a way that causes the skin and joint to become inflamed, it only makes sense that CBD oil would be an effective way of countering it.

CBD is also capable of restoring balance in the body as it interacts with the endocannabinoid system in the body, which is responsible for regulating homeostasis in the body and ensuring that everything functions smoothly.

According to an article published by Cutanea, a study conducted by researchers specializing in CBD effects on the body proves that CBD oils can suppress inflammation and excessive growth of skin cells. The effectiveness of CBD for seniors and oils in treating psoriasis is unmatched.

The Verdict On Using CBD Oils For Psoriasis 

Psoriasis is a chronic medical condition that has severe implications on an individual’s physical and mental health, which is why the treatment plan has to be holistic and practical.

Out of all the possible solutions for managing the symptoms of psoriasis, the most holistic and effective one seems to be CBD oil, as it can help heal the skin affected by psoriasis directly while healing the autoimmune system as much as possible internally. Not only that, but CBD oil will also help deal with the mental implications by alleviating mood and making a person feel more relaxed. CBD oils are undeniable, effective in the treatment of psoriasis.

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

Snoop Dogg Thinks Athletes Should Use Cannabis Over Opioids

Snoop Dogg said sports leagues should relax their marijuana measures and should use cannabis to the benefit of their athletes.

During an interview on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Snoop Dogg said that sports leagues should stop testing players for marijuana use. The rapper, actor and cannabis activist said they should instead allow athletes to use cannabis for therapeutic purposes, as an alternative to opioids and other drugs. 

The issue of cannabis use among athletes has been heavily discussed over the past few months, stemming from Sha’Carri Richardson’s suspension from the Tokyo Olympics due to testing positive for cannabis use. Richardson, who had qualified for the events and was an exciting prospect for Team USA, had to drop out of the competition.

RELATED: Soccer Superstar Megan Rapinoe Talks Cannabis, Feminism: ‘Everyone Needs A Seat At The Table’

Sha'Carri Richardson
Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images

Snoop was being interviewed by sports commentator and fill-in host Stephen A. Smith on Monday. Smith asked Snoop if he thought athletes should avoid cannabis use in order to earn penalizations and lose money. Snoop provided a thoughtful response, agreeing with Smith in some aspects but differing in others. 

Well, I agree with your position when it comes to the athletes who have commissioners and rules and regulations and tests and things that they have to deal with in their profession that could stifle them from getting their money,” he said. “Now when I’m speaking to entertainers and people like myself, we don’t have a commissioner, we don’t have none of that. Athletes can hang out with the rappers, but you can’t do what the rappers do because the rapper don’t have ramifications for what they do.”

Snoop then suggested that sports leagues should relax their marijuana policies, especially since athletes often have opioid problems. “ These athletes take these pills and they get addicted to these pills, and it still doesn’t give them the relief that they need as far as with the pain or whatever they’re going through,” he said. 

“Through the CBD, through the THC, through the marijuana, through the cannabis, they’re able to find a relaxation and getting the medical treatment that they deserve—without having those later side effects—so I push for that in sports.”

RELATED: Olympics Begin, Blame Game Continues At Fed Commission Hearing Over Sha’Carri Richardson Suspension

Seth Rogen's Covid-19 Advice- Smoke Weed And Watch Movies
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Cannabis use in sports has long been a controversial topic, especially in recent years as the drug has been legalized across the country. Richardson’s case has resulted in sympathy from entertainers like Snoop Dogg and Seth Rogen, to more conservative establishments, like the US Anti-Doping Agency

Richarson said that she’s hopeful that her suspension can trigger some change, perhaps changing international policies for athletes and cannabis use.

Amazon’s Big Cannabis Move: Why Company Drug-Test Policies Matter More Than Ever

We have miles to go until there’s equity across the economic and jobs spectrum in regards to cannabis consumption screening standards. But every step counts.

By Steven Hawkins, CEO of the United States Cannabis Council

When a drug-testing policy that affects over a million Americans gets changed, it’s a signal.

In early June, Amazon announced it would no longer screen its employees for cannabis consumption in most situations. Times are changing, they said. The move by one of America’s largest employers is a meaningful one.

Buying Weed Through Amazon? Don’t Hold Your Breath
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Major corporations are figuring out that the time has come to adjust not only attitudes, but also their own policies related to cannabis. Beyond that, they’re also exerting influence on the highest levels of government to end federal prohibition.

Amazon isn’t alone in its removal of cannabis screening. From the corporate world to professional athletics, major organizations are significantly retooling—or removing altogether—testing or sanctions for cannabis. And for a lot of companies, especially in the face of a massive labor shortage, the move makes sense; denying a worker employment or terminating their employment because of recreational, off-the-job cannabis consumption is ludicrous (at least if you ask me—not to mention a potential legal headache for employers).

RELATED: Is This The Real Reason Amazon Is Supporting Marijuana Legalization?

Companies of all shapes and sizes can lead by example and end unfair, outdated drug-screening practices on their own terms. With the power that Big Business holds in this country, I’d say it’s an incredibly smart move—one that could benefit not just the workforce but the country at large.

Cannabis Stereotypes Vs. True Public Health Risks 

From the Reefer Madness era to the Reagans’ “Just Say No” campaign, for decades cannabis consumers have been portrayed as lazy, couch-locked stoners. But recent research indicates that not only is that narrative patently false, the findings suggest that cannabis consumption and federal legalization may actually have a net-positive effect on public health.

How? As one example, researchers found that light to moderate cannabis consumption enhances exercise and activity levels. The old notion that recreational, off-the-clock cannabis consumption would make a worker “lazier” just doesn’t hold up.

RELATED: Going To Space Isn’t The Only Way Jeff Bezos Wants To Get High

Alcohol, tobacco and other legal drugs, on the other hand, have long been linked to increased rates of cancer, negative impact on work performance and increased rates of preventable death. Off-the-clock consumption of these arguably significantly more dangerous substances isn’t policed by organizations in most situations.

And in fact, the most significant job-related issue stemming from cannabis use is related to criminal arrests or convictions—not its effect on the mind or body. Additionally, pre-clinical studies have demonstrated cannabis’s potential efficacy at reducing levels of anxiety, increasing focus, reducing pain and more. To me, these certainly seem like positive benefits for workers.

The Economic Benefits of Policy Reform 

While the quintessential image of an “Amazon employee” may be one of the company’s thousands of warehouse workers, the reality is that Amazon employs individuals across a wide range of positions, from coders to engineers to marketers. It’s a true cross-section of humanity.

The company’s decision to remove cannabis screening standards for positions not regulated by the federal Department of Transportation impacts a large swath of its workers, and brings light to the many, many faces of cannabis consumption—an essential element as legalization gains steam.

Photo by 400tmax/Getty Images

We may have to wait a while for prohibition to end at the federal level, although the Senate’s Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act (CAOA), which aims to legalize cannabis and enact social reforms, represents the most significant opportunity for major reform since cannabis was placed on the prohibitive Schedule I list of controlled substances in 1970.

As the legislative wheels turn slowly on cannabis, the rebound of the U.S. economy is sputtering.

Despite the healthiest month for jobs in the U.S. this year so far—with a higher-than-expected 943,000 new jobs added in July—the unprecedented labor shortage is making it difficult for employers to find workers to fill those jobs. Workers have the upper hand for the first time in a long time—and employers that meet the moment with smart, modern hiring policies stand to gain the most.

And considering that the majority of individuals adversely affected by outdated cannabis screening or possession laws are people of color, removing this baseless employee screening standard also serves to improve equity and opportunity.

Public Opinion Guides the Way

Americans are more accepting of cannabis consumption and federal legalization than ever, and workplaces and organizations that don’t keep up with these shifts in attitudes will be left behind.

Public opinion and private-sector pressure influence change at the legislative level. Consider the massive social shift surrounding marriage equality leading up to the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2015 decision to strike down all state bans on same-sex gay marriage.

In response to shifting attitudes around cannabis, pro sports leagues have made significant changes. The NBA and NFL have suspended or removed testing for cannabis consumption. The MLB has removed cannabinoids from its list of “Drugs of Abuse” and ended testing requirements for minor-league players. The NHL still tests for cannabis but has no penalties for positive results.

Your Move, Major Employers

Momentum for ending federal cannabis prohibition is building, but slowly. So it’s up to major employers and companies to step up now and remove outdated screening standards for their own benefit as well as those they employ.

Many tech giants, like Microsoft and Apple, have also nixed screening for cannabis consumption in most situations. But those moves primarily benefit white-collar knowledge workers—not hourly or blue-collar workers, who still tend to have different sets of rules even while working for the same company.

We have miles to go until there’s equity across the economic and jobs spectrum in regards to cannabis consumption screening standards. But every step counts.

Steven Hawkins is CEO of the United States Cannabis Council, a 501(c)4 nonprofit organization advancing social equity, ending the federal prohibition of cannabis, modernizing federal and state regulations and promoting high ethical standards within the industry. Hawkins has spent 30 years as a nonprofit leader, foundation program officer and civil / human rights attorney.

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

Best Types Of CBD Products For Dogs

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Although CBD has many benefits for our pets, it is very important to administer the right dose so your dog can reap maximum benefits from the treatment.

Whenever your pet gets sick, you try your best to help him/her get the best medicine so they can regain their health, right? We’re the same way. We have some of the best CBD pet products for your furry friends. CBD is a therapeutic compound that is derived from hemp plants. It is non-psychoactive. Thus, your pet will not get high from using these organic products.

CBD can affect the activity of the brain in pets, thus reducing stress and anxiety. Studies by veterinarians show that CBD is safe for cats and dogs. However, more thorough research is underway to determine more benefits of CBD on our furry friends. There is a wide range of CBD pet products on the market and it is up to you to find the best product that will specifically help with your pet’s condition.

RELATED: How CBD Can Help Dogs With Osteoarthritis

Dogs Of Instagram Basenji
Photo courtesy of pxhere

Are CBD products safe for dogs?

Although CBD has many benefits for our pets, it is very important to administer the right dose so your dog can reap maximum benefits from the treatment. The amount of CBD given to dogs depends on the weight, the CBD milligrams present in the product, and the reasons why your dog needs CBD treatment in the first place. To safely use CBD for dogs, we recommend you start with a small dose and slowly increase using the product’s dosing guidelines. Alternatively, you can check the package for instructions on usage. CBD pet products are safe for dogs and will not intoxicate them.

RELATED: CBD Oil For Dogs: As Popularity Grows, So Do The Scams

As you are already aware of, CBD products come in many different forms. This makes it easy to administer to pets depending on their characteristics, preferences and lifestyle.

CBD pet product types include:

  • CBD oil

CBD oil is usually an easy way of administering CBD to your dog because it has a dropper that helps give accurate doses. Moreover, CBD can be easily absorbed into your dog’s body if administered under your furry friend’s tongue, mouth or cheeks. Additionally, you can put the CBD oil in their treat or food.

  • CBD pet treats

Many pets enjoy getting tasty treats, which makes this one of the best ways of administering CBD. These treats contain CBD oil which will help your dog get the therapeutic benefits it needs to get better quickly.

  • Capsules

With this method, the CBD oil is suspended in a capsule. This is a popular option of administering CBD oil on pets that hate the taste of CBD oil. Moreover, this method is great when traveling as the CBD capsules are easy to carry and administer. They are not messy either. However, the capsule will not have quick effects compared to other methods. You can administer the capsule by placing it in a tasty treat or inside your pet’s mouth.

  • CBD topical pet products

Pet owners can directly apply the CBD oil onto their pets’ skin. Topical application of CBD can reduce or prevent aches and skin problems. It is more effective if placed in a non-hairy part of your pet’s body. Moreover, you must prevent your pet from licking the area for about 50 minutes.

Uber Pet Allows Pets To Travel For A Fee
Photo by Andrew Pons via Unsplash

What are the benefits of CBD on pets?

  • CBD reduces vomiting

CBD can stimulate appetite in our furry friends while reducing nausea and vomiting. Moreover, it can reduce nausea and vomiting. There is strong research that backs up the fact that CBD is antiemetic.

  • Anti-inflammatory benefits

Studies indicate that CBD reduces pain because it has neuro-protective qualities which plays a huge role in relieving pain. This is one of the main reasons why it has gained popularity worldwide and can be used to treat or manage many conditions.

  • Anti-anxiety benefits

Your pet can also suffer from stress, anxiety or phobias. CBD can make people relax and calm down. CBD reduces anxiety and depression, allowing your pet to enjoy their lives without stress.

  • CBD reduces seizures

CBD is known to reduce seizures, spasms, tremors and tics. CBD can help to manage seizures in epileptic dogs and cats. Veterinarians have begun exploring the uses of CBD on pets. CBD treats pain and anxiety in pets. It can also reduce stress and digestive problems in animals. Moreover, it comes in many different forms, making it easy to administer to our furry friends.

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

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