Are You Endocannabinoid Deficient? Here’s How To Tell

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June 1, 2021

Are You Endocannabinoid Deficient? Here’s How To Tell

Increased research into cannabis has made more people conscious of what happens inside their bodies, and this has further popularized the presence of the endocannabinoid system.

The body’s endocannabinoid system is a universal regulator for almost all other systems in the body. There are times when our bodies produce very low endocannabinoids, thus leading to a deficiency that births different health conditions. As crucial as this discourse is, you want to know what causes such defects and how you can resolve them.

It is sometimes shocking to cannabis novices to discover the connection between their body’s function and cannabis-like molecules. They are always stunned to learn that the cannabis-like molecules affect almost every part of their body.

The human body makes chemicals similar to what is in the cannabis plant and uses these chemicals to regulate essential body functions. Some of the parts include immunity, skin health, brain function, and even our appetite.

The molecules are not random; they are a part of a massive network of enzymes, receptors, and signaling molecules called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). To know the causes and solutions for endocannabinoid deficiency, you need to understand the endocannabinoid system and how to modulate it. You can modulate it through herbs, diet, and exercise.

The endocannabinoid system

This system is a universal regulator in the human body that keeps our biological systems in check. All parts of our physiology work within a particular spot, and the endocannabinoid system ensures that things are not too high or low from the expected baseline.

For instance, the endocannabinoid system helps your body sustain the recommended blood pressure level, appetite, immune cell action, and bone density. So it is safe that the endocannabinoid system keeps everything in check.

Therefore, without this regulatory function and network, your body will start to malfunction. So when you think about the endocannabinoid system, think about signals that inform cells on when they can become hyperactive or increase activity. This regulatory function and state of balance are referred to as “homeostasis.”

What is endocannabinoid deficiency?

The deficiency happens when a person cannot produce a good amount of endocannabinoids, enzymes, and receptors. The person becomes deficient in iron, and some neurotransmitters thus can no longer produce enough endocannabinoids.

Since endocannabinoids are crucial to the body, your body can experience disruptions that lead to illnesses and diseases if you don’t have enough of them. Some of the diseases caused by a deficiency include:

Migraines lead to depression and anxieties

Multiple sclerosis, which causes ADHD

Sleep disorders that degenerate into Parkinson’s

An anxiety disorder that causes post-traumatic stress disorder.

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

Causes of endocannabinoid deficiency

There are different causes of endocannabinoid deficiency that arise from poor lifestyle choices to genetics and diets. Some of these causes include:

Lack of cannabinoid receptors

Endocannabinoids are naturally supposed to bind cannabinoid receptors to effect changes in your cells. If you lack cannabinoid receptors, the molecules have nothing to secure, leading to deficiencies.

Lack of sleep

Sleep is crucial for perfect health, and without sleep, you will start feeling sluggish and fatigued. When you stay awake dealing with insomnia, it negatively impacts your endocannabinoid system.

Poor diet

Our body needs good food to create beneficial endocannabinoids. If you are deficient, then it is most likely because of poor dietary choices. The nutrients you get from food modulate your endocannabinoid system, while a lack of healthy fats will cause deficiency.

Lack of activity (exercise)

After exercise, our body releases more endocannabinoids, but we start becoming deficient when we don’t get enough exercise.

Stress

Stress can lead to dysfunction and burnout because it means your system is working overtime, which negatively impacts your endocannabinoid system—the more stress, the greater your risk of endocannabinoid deficiency.

Excessive intake of alcohol

Too much alcohol in your body doesn’t do you any good, primarily, and it affects your endocannabinoid system functions, putting you at risk of contracting several illnesses and diseases.

How to improve the endocannabinoid system

The negative sides of modern life and exposure to technology have led more people to live sedentary lifestyles, hence why we are more stressed, eat, and sleep poorly. These negative impact of the modern life affects our endocannabinoid system.

Here are ways to improve your endocannabinoid system:

Diet

You are what you eat, and eating the right food can boost your endocannabinoid system. The foods below are fantastic additions to your diet that will boost your endocannabinoid system:

Prebiotics

There are many valuable microbes in our guts, and the endocannabinoid system has close ties with them. To boost your microbes, you will need fiber-rich foods such as onions, leeks, and artichokes.

Flavonoids

These are rich antioxidants found in many foods and responsible for the pigments you see on some fruits and vegetables. You will need lots of blueberries and beetroots as these are flavonoid-rich foods that can increase your cannabinoid receptors. Other foods include grapes, apples, cherries, and raspberries.

Chocolate

Chocolate is not only a sweet treat, but it is also derived from the tropical cocoa plant, and this fruit is rich in human endocannabinoid: anandamide.

Omega fatty acids

You need a good amount of Omega fatty acids o build your endocannabinoid system. You will need about 50% of omega-6 and omega-3 for increased endocannabinoid.

Exercise

Our bodies are meant to remain active and in motion: a sedentary life is not in tandem with this idea and negatively affects your endocannabinoid system. So get moving! Keep your hearts and lungs active by engaging in different forms of exercise, from weight lifting for lean muscle mass to running for increased mood.

Reduce your stress levels

Stress affects the endocannabinoid system, so to boost your endocannabinoid, you have to examine your stress level and reduce it. Try getting a massage or engaging in acupuncture that will help reduce stress, thus raising your endocannabinoid levels.

This Is The Best Time Of The Day For Exercise — Photo by Luke Chesser via Unsplash

Bottom line

Increased research into cannabis has made more people conscious of what happens inside their bodies, and this has further popularized the presence of the endocannabinoid system.

Endocannabinoid deficiency is a threat to health and puts the entire body at risk of contracting more illnesses and diseases.

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

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

Benzinga Staff Writer

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May 31, 2021

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

Should federal legalization pass in the U.S., sales could boom not only because of broader demand, but because American companies are prepared for this eventuality.

By Lauri Kibby of Kings Garden

Cannabis industry optimism in the United States is mounting alongside increasing expectations for national legalization.

Skeptics, however, point to the Canadian experience and suggest we temper our enthusiasm. To be sure, years removed from 2018 legalization, most marijuana producers in Canada are still reporting losses.

Cannabis has substantial potential in Canada, but it has been a bumpy ride so far. At first, producers were not prepared with enough supply to meet demand. There was a substantial backlog in orders, and producers were not sure what products or strains would be popular and where.

Somebody Should Let Federal Government Know Americans Want Legal Marijuana — Photo by Kindel Media from Pexels

Now there is too much supply. Rosy projections have been slow to materialize in a tightly regulated distribution system that largely bans advertising and marketing. This government intervention has hindered sales and made it difficult to balance supply with demand.

Additionally, coronavirus disruption slowed retail store growth, adding to higher inventory and causing price deflation.

The U.S. is much better prepared, however, and Canada’s tribulations are part of the reason why: We have learned from our northern neighbor’s experiences. We know not to repeat the same mistakes. Equally important, we have a long runway of experience established in California, the nation’s largest state and a major cannabis market on the global stage.

California cannabis growers have been developing legal marijuana products since 1996, longer than everywhere but Amsterdam.

Driven by California and other states in recent years, legal marijuana growers in the U.S. have earned the reputation of creating the best products in the world, scientifically grown and tightly regulated for quality and safety. They have also mastered the analysis necessary to predict trends in consumption, allowing cultivators to adjust production in anticipation of shifts.

How Cannabis Banking Bill Fares In Senate Will Dictate Future Of National Marijuana Reform — Photo by krisanapong detraphiphat/Getty Images

The genetics and sophistication underlying the U.S. cannabis industry led to better-quality flower, attracting higher prices and ensuring they are able to meet the taste requirements of a diverse consumer base. Much like wine, cannabis use is driven by a desire for a specific taste and experience directly relating back to a cultivar’s composition.

U.S. companies also have in place robust production and distribution systems to meet demand efficiently and profitably. They can be scaled up as demand rises.

Several cannabis companies, including Kings Garden, are consistently and increasingly profitable.

The U.S. marijuana industry is now valued at more than $18 billion, according to the Marijuana Business Factbook. The legal market in California reached $4.4 billion in sales in 2020, surging from $2.8 billion a year earlier.

Additionally, mounting momentum at the state level in the U.S. makes national legalization increasingly likely. New York, New Mexico, New Jersey and Virginia all approved recreational cannabis laws this year. According to the Marijuana Policy Project, 18 states have now legalized recreational cannabis and 36 allow cannabis for medical reasons.

Marijuana Is A 'Bipartisan' Issue, But That Doesn’t Mean Federal Legalization Is A Sure Thing — Photo by traffic_analyzer/Getty Images

A national legalization bill passed the U.S. House late in 2020, and support in the U.S. Senate is building this year. Should such legalization pass, sales could boom not only because of broader demand, but because American companies are prepared for this eventuality.

With federal legalization, international markets will open. BDS Analytics estimates that cannabis sales outside the U.S. and Canada could swell at a 38% compound annual growth rate to $8.3 billion by 2026.

International sales would further boost demand for U.S. crops.

U.S. cannabis companies are preparing now for the full potential of demand to avoid the pitfalls experienced by Canada. Savvy investors would be wise to take note of this.

Already, debt market terms are steadily improving as competition to lend to cannabis companies increases. This signals investor expectations for a bright future defined by expanding market opportunities, increased sales and consistent profitability.

I confidently share the same outlook.

Lauri Kibby is co-founder and chief financial officer of Kings Garden, California’s preeminent cannabis cultivation, processing, distribution and manufacturing company.

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

What Are Cannabis Calyxes And Why Are They So Important?

Cannabis

Terry Hacienda

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May 31, 2021

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What Are Cannabis Calyxes And Why Are They So Important?

Some plants have a higher density of calyxes to leaf. Knowing which strains will produce more calyxes can significantly increase your yield.

How well do you know your cannabis? I mean, most people know the basics of what gets you high, but from there on out, it becomes a bit hazy.

Most people know what pistils are, they know what trichomes are, but what are calyxes?

In this article we’re going to be taking a closer look at the calyx in order to expand our knowledge on the cannabis plant, helping us better understand what it is we are smoking. Additionally, this will be a very informative article for cannabis growers.

The Many Ways Marijuana Prohibition Still Hurts American Farmers — Photo by Esteban Lopez via Unsplash

The skinny on cannabis calyxes

The calyx is the first part of a flowering bud. It consists of a small collection of leaves that spiral near the stem of the flower. These are made up by sepals, which are miniature leaves that protect the flower at its base.

The calyx can be considered to be the flower’s center and binds everything together. It provides the structure for the plants reproductive organs.

Now that we know that, we can begin to understand the importance of calyxes in the cannabis plant. But did you know that these pockets of goodness tend to have the highest ration of cannabinoids? Now you do.

Why the calyx is so important?

As mentioned, the calyx is the center of the flower, meaning this is where all buds originate from. If you look at a cola, it originated from the calyx itself.

Within the calyx, you can find many things such as “pistils” and “trichomes”. Within the calyx, the pistil density is supreme! The resin glands, where that sweet THC is being cooked up, are also found in there.

It’s very easy to spot a calyx form when the plant starts flowering. The tiny flower will begin to produce pistils (or the long white hairs) if it’s a female. On the other hand, if it’s a male, the calyxes will produce pollen sacks.

Of course, unless you’re breeding for seeds, murder the male and put it in a blender for juicing.

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

Choosing good genetics for more calyxes

Now that we have a firm understanding of calyxes, let’s take a look at genetics. Some plants have a higher density of calyxes to leaf. Knowing which strains will produce more calyxes can significantly increase your yield.

Strains like True OG, Northern Lights, Lemon Skunk and Master Kush all have amazing calyx to leaf ratio.

How do you find the calyxes in a cannabis plant?

If you’ve got an abundance of sugar leaf, odds are at the center you’ll find a calyx. This is because the calyx is the center of production of resin, and as it produces, it pushes itself outwards, covering the surrounding leaf.

In the vast majority of cases — especially if you’re buying in a dispensary — most of the leaf will have been trimmed off. This is because the leaf, while having some trichomes on it, is not the desired thing to smoke.

Rather, we want the flower — meaning we want the calyxes. Consumers have been conditioned to only want “top notch buds” so it would be very unlikely for you to get buds that aren’t trimmed these days.

However, for the home grower, you have options.

The Hemp Standard Is 0.3% THC — And That Should Be Changed — Photo by Bloomberg Creative Photos/Getty Images

For example, you could trim away the sugar leaf on a screen and collect the kief to press into hash. Or, you could leave some of the sugar leaf on the bud during the drying phase in order for the leaf to bend back in on itself, sprinkling more THC on the bud.

This really comes down to personal preference. In my case, I prefer to do a very loose wet trim in order to let the leaf curl in on itself. Then, before jarring, I give it another cut just to make sure that most “non-resin” leaf is removed.

Why it’s important to learn more about the cannabis plant?

While now you may only have a technical term for what a “bud” is made up of, it’s important to understand the anatomy of a cannabis plant — especially when growing weed.

For example, if you’re considering making your own seeds — as I have written about before — you will want to collect the pollen from a male plant and sprinkle it on the Calyxes of the female plant since this is where the sex-organs are.

Furthermore, a deeper understanding of the plant will increase the perceived sense of pleasure of growing the plant. It’s very different growing cannabis with a basic understanding of the plant anatomy than actually understanding the processes that are occurring.

Like to learn more?

I’m considering to take a deep dive on the cannabis plant anatomy. You know, really get into genetics, making seeds, cloning, etc – this is of course if there is some interest.

I’m on the verge to start an online cultivation group for people in Mexico where I’ll be teaching people how to grow from seed to smoke since it will soon be a constitutional right for Mexicans to cultivate. Yes, I do also speak Spanish. Not as good as I’d like, but you enough to teach people the ins and out of cultivating cannabis.

At some point I’ll open up an English group as well, but for now I’m only catering to the Spanish marketplace, specifically in Mexico, but anyone who speaks Spanish can join.

heres what canopy growth investors — Photo by LPETTET/Getty Images

As for my writings here on Cannabis.net, I aim to provide a bit more scientific knowledge about cultivation for my fellow growers out there. I believe that if enough people can come together and start growing their own medicine or recreational smoke, we’ll be conducting a major shift back to self-sufficiency.

The cannabis plant is an amazing plant — almost alien when comparing it with other plants on earth. Humans have a genetic link with this marvelous plant due to our compatibility through the endocannabinoid system.

I think it warrants a deeper understanding and I think it can only enrich the experience of cultivating and consuming cannabis.

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

5 Life Hacks To Make You Happier

Maria Loreto

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May 30, 2021

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These life hacks won’t make you instantly happy, but they’ll make your days a little brighter and easier. And couldn’t we all use that?

There isn’t a life hack to happiness, but there are ways of finding small moments of joy in your everyday life.

Activities like working out and meditating are all efficient in making your life fuller, but, in order to reap benefits, they must be included into your habits and routines; they’re not quick hacks. Fortunately, there are some things you can do that can make you feel a little bit better and create room for self care while taking only taking up a few minutes of your day.

Here are 5 life hacks to make you happier:

Listen to a happy song

study claims that there are dance moves that are scientifically sexy — Photo by Brooke Cagle via Unsplash

It sounds like a silly thing, but music has a big effect on the way we feel; just think about the difference that a good soundtrack makes when going for a workout. A happy song that you love or that simply makes you feel like dancing is an easy way to lift your mood when you need it most, lowering your stress and increasing your energy levels.

Think about someone you love

4 ways weed works in the bedroom — Photo by svetikd/Getty Images

Thinking about people you love or trust creates oxytocin in the brain. This hormone, also known as the love hormone, is a chemical that creates happy feelings. By thinking of that person, sending them a text or calling them on the phone, you’ll release that hormone and feel like — no matter how stressed out you are — there’s someone out there who’s got your back.

Tackle your hardest task first

5 Things You Shouldn't Do While On Your Work Computer — Photo by Christin Hume via Unsplash

Getting your most difficult task out of the way is the simplest way to feel lighter, opening yourself up to free time and getting some nagging stress off your back. Knocking that important task out of the way will make you feel accomplished. It will also make all of your remaining tasks as less challenging and difficult.

Be kind to someone

Your Genes Are Responsible For Your Craving Of Hugs Right Now — Photo by Ketut Subiyanto via Pexels

Being kind to someone, whether that means a smile on the street or a nice comment to a stranger or a waiter will boost your happiness. It doesn’t matter what the act is as long as you do it intentionally.

Go outside

5 Meditations For Your Different Kinds Of Quarantine Moods — Photo by Oluremi Adebayo via Pexels

Spending some time outdoors is an easy way of making yourself feel happy and more creative. A study from the U.K. found that people who moved to greener areas had improvements in their mental health. The benefits lasted for long periods of time, having effects up to three years after the subject’s initial move to their new green neighborhoods.

California’s Absurd Stance On CBD Cosmetics

Griffen Thorne

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May 30, 2021

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California’s Absurd Stance On CBD Cosmetics

This is obviously not good for CBD companies, though there may be light at the end of the tunnel.

If you’ve been reading our blog for the last few years, you know that California has taken a pretty absurd position on hemp-derived CBD for the last few years. Though the state led the charge to legalize cannabis (in California, “cannabis” is legally defined as only marijuana and not hemp), the state just can’t get its act together with anything that’s made from hemp.

In 2018, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) published an FAQ that said that hemp CBD could not be added to any kind of orally consumable product like foods, beverages, dietary supplements, or animal products, which has been the rule ever since.

You can read an older analysis of mine on the CDPH’s position here. In my opinion, the CDPH’s position was highly suspect – there is no law in the state that actually forbids adding CBD to anything; the CDPH just followed the federal Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) position. While the FAQ did not expressly say so, it appears that the CDPH actually took the position that CBD was an adulterant under the state’s Sherman Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Law (which is similar to the federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act laws that the FDA enforces).

pink and black makeup brush set — Photo by pmv chamara via Unsplash

Local agencies like the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health issued statements that did state that CDPH was an adulterant, ostensibly because CDPH took that position. And so without undergoing any kind of rulemaking process, CDPH effectively outlawed CBD consumables, and CDPH and local agencies actually enforced this position.

While CDPH made its stance relatively clear with respect to oral consumables, it was not totally clear with respect to cosmetics. The FAQ does not mention cosmetics once and its full title is “FAQ – Industrial Hemp and Cannabidiol (CBD) in Food Products” (that’s not my emphasis, but CDPH’s). In the wake of this FAQ, it was unclear what exactly CDPH’s position was on cosmetics. Under the Sherman Law, the state technically has authority over cosmetics, so it’s not clear what the agency’s position was and many people assumed that the agency’s silence on CBD in cosmetics meant it was okay with them.

However, in January 2021, CDPH quietly issued a revised FAQ, which is now called “CDPH Information on Industrial Hemp (IH) Derivatives Including Cannabidiol (CBD)”. The single-page revised FAQ starts out by expressly adopting the FDA’s position banning CBD as a food additive, dietary supplement, or pet food, and then goes on to expressly state that CBD is an adulterant in food and cosmetics. Here’s the relevant language:

California’s Sherman Food and Drug Law provides that any food (which includes beverages and pet food) is adulterated if it is, bears, or contains any food additive that is unapproved, and that a cosmetic (which includes lotion and salves) is adulterated if it bears or contains any poisonous or deleterious substance that may render it injurious to users under the conditions of use prescribed in the labeling or advertisement of the cosmetic, or under conditions of use as are customary or usual.

Hulled hemp seed, hemp seed protein, and hemp seed oil are the only components of hemp that are GRAS and allowed in food. CBD derived from hemp or any other source is currently not allowed in any of the items regulated by the Food and Drug Branch of the California Department of Public Health, including foods, drugs, and cosmetics.

And, there you go. CDPH has now taken the incredible position that CBD cannot be added even to cosmetics such as lotions or salves in the State of California. This position is even more restrictive than FDA’s stance on the same topic. In all, it seems that the agency is intent on doing everything in its power to make life difficult for the industry. There are numerous states that are doing their best to regulate CBD products and ensure they are safe in spite of the FDA’s position, but California – the largest economy in the U.S. – has decided to just ban the products. As of now though, we aren’t aware of any publicized enforcement efforts.

This is obviously not good for CBD companies, though there may be light at the end of the tunnel (a big maybe) given that there are efforts to pass actual laws that will force CDPH and other agencies to regulate CBD products. We will see if that pans out, so stay tuned to Canna Law Blog for more updates.

Griffen Thorne is an attorney at Harris Bricken, a law firm with lawyers in Seattle, Portland, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Barcelona, and Beijing. This story was originally published on the Canna Law Blog and has been reposted with permission.

Try This Viral TikTok Hack For Cannabis Anxiety

Maria Loreto

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May 29, 2021

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Try This Viral TikTok Hack For Cannabis Anxiety

The younger generation has just figured out this old standby of a trick to reduce cannabis anxiety.

Cannabis anxiety is a common affliction for many marijuana smokers. This phenomenon — which tends to plague first-timers, people who smoke a different strain of weed, or who overindulge in THC — can quickly disturb an evening meant for relaxing. TikTok discovered a well-known hack for it: peppercorns.

TikTok user @transstender’s viral hack suggests chewing or sniffing on whole peppercorns or something acidic like lemons to help reduce the paranoia and anxiety that can occur when consuming THC. While this hack isn’t new for seasoned weed users, the TikTok video allows it to reach a new and wider audience.

@transstrenderyou deserve to feel safe in your brain and body #fyp #smoke #420 #ouidtiktok?? #anxiety #harmreduction ##queer #lgbt #mentalhealth ♬ Just Water – Bryansanon

The chemicals present in peppercorns and lemons help you relax by creating an effect that’s similar to the one produced by CBD. There’s some science to support this.

As we’ve reported before, peppercorns contain terpenes (aromatic compounds present in many plants) that are capable of interacting with the terpenes present in cannabis. The terpenes in peppercorn, called pinene and caryophyllene, are known to tone down THC’s psychoactive tendencies, preventing reactions like anxiety and paranoia.

Experiment with Marijuana and Mangoes Under Quarantine — Photo by Fedor via Unsplash

Other foods high in terpenes include mangoes, which a lot of people use when consuming cannabis since they claim it produces a stronger high.

Cannabis is a pretty mysterious compound. While it’s been around for centuries, we’re only now beginning to understand all of the plant’s complexities, such as the way it works with our endocannabinoid systems and whether it interacts with other elements we ingest. Next time you start to feel some weed-induced anxiety, keep some peppercorns nearby. It doesn’t hurt to try.

Cannabis Rumors On Capitol Hill

Rich Trotter

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May 29, 2021

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Sources have confirmed that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is committed to trying to push through a more global legalization bill before pivoting to a smaller bill like the SAFE Banking Act.

The saga of cannabis legalization at the federal level is ongoing, as the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives continues to pass sweeping legalization bills that (to date) have gotten little traction in the divided U.S. Senate. (Link). The result has heightened speculation throughout the cannabis community, as activists, entrepreneurs and those with cannabis convictions wait for the federal government to act.

And while it’s impossible to say precisely what a final cannabis-reform bill will look like, those in the know (like the publishers of an unidentified cannabis-newsletter, for example) have gleaned some interesting things from the smoke signals coming from Capitol Hill.

Will Chuck Schumer’s Latest Plan To Go Over GOP Heads Help Cannabis Reform? — Photo by Jonathan Ernst/Pool/Getty Images

Chuck Will Have a Lot to Say

As Politico recently wrote, “Chuck Schumer really likes to talk about weed.” (Link). Indeed, cannabis reform has become the cause celebre of the senior Senator from New York, as he continues to advocate for a sweeping legalization bill that could include everything from criminal justice reforms to provisions allowing plant-touching companies to access the U.S. capital markets.

Leaflet sources have confirmed that Schumer will be the gatekeeper of what ultimately goes to the floor (at least for now) and that he’s committed to trying to push through a more global legalization bill before he will pivot to a smaller bill like the SAFE Banking Act (more on that below). Schumer sees budget reconciliation — the bureaucratic process by which congress often passes budget-related legislation — as a potential vehicle for his preferred cannabis legalization bill and plans to bring his bill to the floor within the next few weeks.

The draft bill itself may be released in the coming days and is likely to begin its legislative journey with the Senate Finance Committee chaired by Washington Senator, Ron Wyden. If the bill fails (as many within Schumer’s own camp expect that it will), Schumer will likely pivot to Plan B — the SAFE Banking Act.

The Votes (May) Be There for SAFE Banking

The SAFE Banking Act passed the House in May 2020 and would prohibit federal regulators from penalizing financial institutions for doing business with state-legal cannabis businesses. It could also solve the cannabis industry’s Section 280E problem (check out our piece on that above if you missed it). (Link).

How Long Before The Senate Approves The SAFE Banking Act? — Photo by Kindel Media from Pexels

Several senators within the Democratic caucus have made it clear that eliminating Section 280E is of particular importance, and the version of the SAFE Banking Act passed by the House provides that revenues of a state-legal cannabis business are not the proceeds of an unlawful activity — allowing cannabis companies to take all the same ordinary business deductions their counterparts in other industries can take. However, some Capitol Hill insiders are skeptical that this particular provision of the House version has the necessary votes in the Senate.

That said, Leaflet sources have indicated that there may already be enough votes in the Senate to pass SAFE Banking in some form. And while this might leave some in the industry disappointed, it would nevertheless be a substantial step forward in the fight for increased (if not outright) cannabis legalization. It could also set the table for a more comprehensive cannabis bill in the months and years to come.

Rich Trotter is a litigation counsel at the New York-based law firm of Feuerstein Kulick, one of the nation’s leading cannabis law firms.

This article originally appeared in Feuerstein Kulick’s monthly cannabis newsletter, The Leaflet, which you can subscribe to here. For more information you can contact Rich at rich@dfmklaw.com or at (201) 410-4737, or email The Leaflet at theleaflet@dfmklaw.com.

USPS Suggests PACT Act Compliance Exception For Mailing Hemp And CBD Products

Emily Burns

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May 28, 2021

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USPS Suggests PACT Act Compliance Exception For Mailing Hemp And CBD Products

USPS has acknowledged that hemp and CBD products will not necessarily fall under the definition of Electronic Nicotine Delivery System (ENDS), which are banned under the PACT Act.

Last month, I discussed my optimism regarding the mailability of vape products that are used for the consumption of hemp and CBD, based on principles of statutory interpretation. This month, I am happy to report that the USPS published a guidance document in the Federal Register that indicates a likely exception for hemp-derived CBD and other products that are produced lawfully pursuant to the 2014 and 2018 Farm Bill legislation.

The April 19, 2021 notice indicated that the forthcoming ban on vaporizer products would likely contain an exception process whereby individuals could continue to ship products that are otherwise exempt from PACT (Preventing All Cigarette Trafficking) Act compliance. The notice highlighted several issues related to the PACT Act exception process, and first on the list is “CBD Products.”

It Just Got A Lot Harder To Ship Hemp And CBD Vapor Products — Photo by Maarten van den Heuvel via Unsplash

The notice indicates that “mailers must retain, and prepare to make available upon request, records establishing compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws pertaining to hemp production, processing, distribution, and sales, including the [2014 Farm Bill] and [2018 Farm Bill]”. The notice says such records may include “laboratory test results, licenses, and compliance reports.”

The USPS guidance document indicates that ENDS (Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems) products used in connection with marijuana, or cannabis plants containing greater than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis, would be non-mailable if they are deemed to be drug paraphernalia for purposes of the Controlled Substances Act (“CSA”). This is not a surprise, given that such a ban exists notwithstanding the PACT Act, but the CSA prohibition on drug paraphernalia does not apply to “any person authorized by local, State, or Federal law to manufacture, possess, or distribute such items.”

In the case of medical and recreational cannabis states that have removed criminal statutes penalizing drug paraphernalia used to consume cannabis, anyone who is shipping from one legalized state to another would technically fall under the paraphernalia definition exception, thus providing a legal basis for exception from the PACT Act requirements.

The USPS is still in the process of finalizing the ENDS-related exception application requirements with a focus on efficiency given that the USPS expects a tremendous volume of exception requests. However, the good news is that USPS has acknowledged that hemp and CBD products will not necessarily fall under the ENDS definition, even though some have speculated that “other substances” was intended to cover non-tobacco, non-nicotine-containing substances.

BOTTOM LINE

While we must wait for the issuance of the final rule to know what the PACT Act exception process will look like, it is a good idea to reach out to a regulatory attorney about the compliance process ahead of time in preparation of the forthcoming regulatory changes.

Emily Burns is a recognized expert on cannabis-related legal, regulatory, and policy issues, having worked with a wide range of individuals and entities in both the public and private sector. You can contact Emily at info@gl-lg.com or (503) 488-5424.

This article originally appeared on Green Light Law Group and has been reposted with permission.

Is There A Best Way To Get High? Here’s What You Should Know

Maria Loreto

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May 28, 2021

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Is There A Best Way To Get High? Here’s What You Should Know

The best way to get high depends on your preference. Here are some options based on health, potency, and speed.

The more that cannabis is embraced, the more variety of products are introduced to the market. This is great for consumers, but can also be overwhelming for newbies who haven’t had experiences with weed and don’t know where to start. Is there a best way to get high? The answer depends on what you define as best.

Marijuana consumption should always be fun and relaxing, whether you’re getting high with friends or using cannabis for medical purposes. Depending on the method of consumption, you can consume it in a way that’s healthy, discreet, or simply very potent. Still, you want to eliminate as much harm as possible.

Here are some of the best ways to get high:

When you don’t want to smoke a joint

What Is Vasodilation And Why Does It Happen When You Smoke Weed? — Photo by Alessandro Zambon via Unsplash

A lot of seasoned cannabis users love to smoke their joints. The feel of smoking is relaxing and fast-acting, an itch that can’t be scratched by eating an edible. A pot brownie might be delicious, but it’s just not the same experience.

Sadly, we now know that inhaling any type of smoke is terrible for you and while an occasional joint won’t do much harm, regular smoking could harm your lungs and impair your lifestyle. Still, if you’re looking for that sensation of smoking, options like water pipes and bongs are great solutions. While not perfect, these methods are less harmful to your lungs.

When you want something strong

What To Do If Your Marijuana Edibles Aren't Getting You How — Photo by Margo Amala via Unsplash

If you have potency in mind, edibles should be your first choice. While not as fast-acting as joints, bongs, and vapes, what you lose in speed you definitely make up for in strength.

Edibles are powerfully effective. In fact, you should be a little wary when using them for the first time. Be patient and understand that your stomach lining is the one doing the absorption process and it’s much slower than your lungs. Still, by the time your edible affects you, you’ll be well aware of it and you’ll feel the effects for a good couple of hours.

When you want something strong and fast

Marijuana 101: Dabbing Wax Vs. Vaping Wax — Photo by Jason W Lacey/Getty Images

If you want something strong and fast, consider dabbing. This highly concentrated wax requires some pretty specific tools — a dab rig, a nail, a torch, some cannabis extract, and more items if you want — and provides a fast-acting experience that hits with a lot of potency.

Per the American Addiction Centers, wax is twice as strong as cannabis flower. It’s common for new dabbers to pass out after a hit because the strength of the THC makes their blood pressure drop. So, you know, take it easy. Dab in a place you’re comfortable in, with friends you trust.

Readers Provide Hilarious Legal Weed ‘Surgeon General Warning’ Labels

Mike Adams

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May 28, 2021

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Readers Provide Hilarious Legal Weed ‘Surgeon General Warning’ Labels

WARNING: Cannabis may cause arrest in states that haven’t legalized it. So, find a good place to hide your weed when traveling.

Although the cannabis industry doesn’t seem to agree on when or if federal marijuana legalization will happen soon, the Democratic-controlled Congress plans to push a liberal pot policy later this year.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer says he wants to pass a comprehensive cannabis reform bill that allows small businesses to flourish nationwide while also preventing the deep-pocket scourge of Big Tobacco and Big Alcohol from swooping in and taking over.

What's More Harmful, Cigarettes Or Blunts? — Photo by Donny Jiang via Unsplash

One way or another, though, the legalization of marijuana at the federal level will change things for an industry that presently operates only under the rules and regulations set out by their respective states. It means we could see a time in coming years when cannabis is under the thumb of our good ol’ Uncle Sam, forced to obey stricter guidelines, the same as other legal substances.

There is little doubt this will bring the advent of federal warning labels on cannabis products. You know the ones:

SURGEON GENERAL WARNING: Smoking Causes Lung Cancer, Heart Disease, Emphysema, and May Complicate Pregnancy.

GOVERNMENT WARNING: According to the Surgeon General, consumption of alcoholic beverages impairs your ability to drive a car or operate machinery, and may cause health problems.

These warning labels are the federal government’s feeble attempt to caution consumers on the potential hazards of using these products. Some studies show that warning labels do dissuade use to some degree, yet hundreds of thousands of people across the nation still fall ill or dead from alcohol and tobacco every year. Although advocates swear that weed is safer than those products, cannabis won’t be an exception. Federal health agencies are destined to get serious about printing warning labels on cannabis smokes and edibles once weed is as legal as booze and cigarettes.

Presumably, a nation of pot smokers can expect weed warnings to sound something like this:

WARNING: Smoking Cannabis May Cause Lung Cancer, Heart Disease, And Complicate Pregnancy. Cannabis products of any kind impair your ability to drive a car or operate machinery.

But what if the average stoner was hired to write these labels? What would they look like then? Fresh Toast readers chimed in to provide us with the Surgeon General warnings the nation would undoubtedly see if cannabis consumers were responsible for their creation. We were quite amused.

These are some of our favorites.

5 Things About CBD Cigarettes You Should Know — Photo by Graham Hughes/EyeEm/Getty Images

WARNING: Cannabis may cause the munchies. Don’t be surprised to find yourself in the kitchen at one in the morning mixing up all sorts of bizarre concoctions (Ramen Wrapped Hot Dogs, SpaghettiOs Pizza, Peanut Butter and Pickle Sandwich) with whatever leftovers you have in the refrigerator.

WARNING: Cannabis may cause expanding waistlines. The Surgeon General cautions that while studies show stoners may opt for healthier food choices to tame the munchies, most will still order pizza and tacos later when they realize that turkey sandwich, an apple, three oranges and a pound of grapes didn’t cut it.

WARNING: Cannabis may lead to pregnancy. Le RAWR!

WARNING: Cannabis may cause… Ah, just forget it, man. Look at the pretty lights.

WARNING: Cannabis may cause forgetfulness. Wait, what was I supposed to be writing?

WARNING: Cannabis may cause paranoia. Don’t look out the window. Seriously, just don’t!

WARNING: Cannabis may cause you to misplace stuff. Things like your keys, wallet, phone, children and home may be invisible one second and reappear the next. Don’t ask us how this happens.

WARNING: Cannabis may cause arrest in states that haven’t legalized it. So, find a good place to hide your weed when traveling. No, not there, you dummy. That’s the first place they’ll look. Not there either!

WARNING: Cannabis may cause you to hear voices. Like the nagging one inside your head right now as you read this warning label high. What are you really doing with your life? Is this the best you can do? Why did you even get up this morning? Get it together, man, or else. – Uncle Sam.

No doubt, life in these strange times would be so much better with y’all running the show.

The Fresh ToastThe most trusted name in cannabis

Increased research into cannabis has made more people conscious of what happens inside their bodies, and this has further popularized the presence of the endocannabinoid system.

Causes of endocannabinoid deficiency

How to improve the endocannabinoid system

Bottom line

Should federal legalization pass in the U.S., sales could boom not only because of broader demand, but because American companies are prepared for this eventuality.

Some plants have a higher density of calyxes to leaf. Knowing which strains will produce more calyxes can significantly increase your yield.

The skinny on cannabis calyxes

Why the calyx is so important?

Choosing good genetics for more calyxes

How do you find the calyxes in a cannabis plant?

Why it’s important to learn more about the cannabis plant?

Like to learn more?

These life hacks won’t make you instantly happy, but they’ll make your days a little brighter and easier. And couldn’t we all use that?

Listen to a happy song

Think about someone you love

Tackle your hardest task first

Be kind to someone

Go outside

This is obviously not good for CBD companies, though there may be light at the end of the tunnel.

The younger generation has just figured out this old standby of a trick to reduce cannabis anxiety.

Sources have confirmed that Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is committed to trying to push through a more global legalization bill before pivoting to a smaller bill like the SAFE Banking Act.

Chuck Will Have a Lot to Say

The Votes (May) Be There for SAFE Banking

USPS has acknowledged that hemp and CBD products will not necessarily fall under the definition of Electronic Nicotine Delivery System (ENDS), which are banned under the PACT Act.

BOTTOM LINE

The best way to get high depends on your preference. Here are some options based on health, potency, and speed.

When you don’t want to smoke a joint

When you want something strong

When you want something strong and fast

WARNING: Cannabis may cause arrest in states that haven’t legalized it. So, find a good place to hide your weed when traveling.

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