MDMA On Cusp Of FDA Approval

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May 5, 2021

The anticipated 2023 FDA approval of MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD is closer to becoming a reality than ever before.

The Multidisciplinary Association of Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) has worked for the last 35 years to shift the perception around psychedelics as a treatment tool for mental health issues. Now, with the release of data from its Phase III trial with the FDA for the use of MDMA (ecstasy) to treat PTSD, MAPS’ work has coalesced into findings that could change the mental health treatment landscape as we know it.

MDMA is on the cusp of FDA approval to treat PTSD — not just for military veterans, but for an array of people who have suffered from abuse and other trauma-inducing events.

In 2017, the FDA granted MDMA “breakthrough therapy status” in anticipation of approving it as a medication for mental health, and the release of MAPS’ latest statistically significant findings constitutes a huge leap towards legalization.

Legal MDMA-Assisted Therapy Is Likely Within Next Couple Years — Photo by Pornpak Khunatorn/Getty Images

The conversation around the legalization of psychedelic drugs is not new to the mental health community. Trials testing the efficacy of psychedelics such as LSD for mental illness began as early as the 1950s. By the 1960s more than 1,000 papers had been published about LSD as a treatment for depression, alcoholism, schizophrenia, and as an adjunct to psychotherapy. These trials lacked the scientific rigor necessary for legitimacy in the eyes of the FDA, but due in no small part to the work of MAPS, legitimacy is no longer the stumbling block it once was.

MDMA showed efficacy for treating PTSD in six MAPS Phase II trials, providing a cost-saving and clinically beneficial treatment for those with severe or extreme chronic PTSD resulting from any cause. The Phase III trial is the first of any psychedelic-assisted therapy. It was a randomized, blinded study designed under an FDA-approved Special Protocol Assessment. 90 patients with severe, chronic PTSD were enrolled in the trial and randomized to receive either MDMA or a placebo. The results, according to the lead author of the paper, Jennifer Mitchell, Ph.D., were significant. “People with the most difficult-to-treat diagnosis, often considered intractable, respond just as well to this novel treatment as other participants. In fact, participants diagnosed with the dissociative type of PTSD experienced a greater reduction in symptoms than those without the dissociative subtype.”

The Phase III trial data revealed that 67% of the group who received MDMA no longer qualified for a PTSD diagnosis after three treatment sessions (compared to 32% of the placebo group). 88% of participants in the MDMA sessions experienced a clinically significant reduction in symptoms, as opposed to 60% of the placebo group who received therapy alone. Mitchell attributes MDMA’s effectiveness to its role as a catalyst in therapy, which often involves recalling, and frequently reactivating, previous trauma. “The unique ability of MDMA to raise compassion and understanding while tamping down fear is likely what enables it to be so effective.”

Researchers are currently enrolling participants in a second Phase III trial and MAPS is formulating plans for additional studies to evaluate MDMA’s efficacy for mental health conditions not yet explored, as well as other protocols beyond one-on-one sessions, including group therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy focused on couples. The fact that MDMA is currently classified as a Schedule I drug and defined as having “no medical benefit” means that the only way to receive MDMA-assisted therapy right now is through clinical trials.

However, the FDA has given its blessing to an expanded access program so that 50 patients can access MDMA-assisted therapy before it is approved and MAPS has committed to confronting accessibility and equity issues from its own side of the table. While not a sure thing, with MAPS’ latest data and continued efforts in alignment with FDA requirements, the hoped-for 2023 FDA approval of MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD is closer to becoming a reality than ever before.

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

Does Marijuana Increase Desire

Sarah Johns

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May 5, 2021

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All you need is love, love is all you need…but is it true?

Marijuana is used for many purposes from relaxing, to having fun, to some serious medical benefits. The plants releases the power to help feel good mentally and physically to pain relief. But, does marijuana increase desire?

Well, according to data, Over 70% of men and women reported that cannabis slightly or significantly increases desire. And here are some reasons why.

Dating website tenderfling collected information on the effects of cannabis on sexual arousal. The results might be surprising to you!

Marijuana is a natural aphrodisiac

An aphrodisiac is something that promotes sexual desire or improves the sexual experiences of the users. While marijuana is often examined for its impacts on the mind and body, not too many studies have been conducted about the ways that it impacts desire. However, one of the most important research studies showed that almost 70% of people have said that marijuana actually increases pleasure when having sex.

What Will Sex Look Like In The Post Pandemic World? — Photo by vadimguzhva/Getty Images

Strains can be key as some make you feel more active while others are going to leave you in a heap in a chair so you can relax. More importantly, you have to consider the dose of marijuana you consume before taking part in any fun bedroom activities. If you consume too much, then you’ll be less likely to act on your desires. Get to know the impact of marijuana on your body before you start trying to use it as an aphrodisiac.

Studies on the effects of cannabis on sexual desire

How exactly does marijuana affect sexual desire? Studies found marijuana can produce a feeling of euphoria in the people who consume the plant. Tying those euphoric feelings to sexual desire is not difficult. People who have a head high are more likely to report greater feelings of pleasure in many areas of life.

Currently, many studies done on the subject are anecdotal, so more evidence need to be gathered as it becomes increasing legal.

One of the only surveys that were completed on the topic showed that there was a positive association made between people who used marijuana at some point in the day and the frequency with which they had sex. Yet, it’s hard to ascertain whether or not that willingness and desire were tied solely to marijuana, so the association is pretty loose. However, many people have come forward on online forums to say that they have become more prone to desire after smoking. Thus, the studies are somewhat inconclusive, but the user data is telling: using marijuana is likely to spark some feeling in your body when you have a partner in mind.

Cannabinoids increase the activity of brain areas associated with sexual arousal

When talking strictly about the science of what happens when you’re aroused, it’s a little easier to examine the impact of cannabinoids on the brain. At least one such study has been completed to examine the impact of marijuana on the pleasure centers and arousal centers of the brain. Basically, one study suggests that cannabinoids can impact the human body’s endocannabinoid system. There, cannabinoids will make people feel more relaxed, feel decreased pain, and have heightened awareness of pleasure.

Legalizing Medical Marijuana Causes People To Have More Sex — Photo by Witthaya Prasongsin/Getty Images

Combined with a study from 2017 that asked very private questions about marijuana users’ sex lives, it’s clear that marijuana use can increase the sexual arousal that some people feel when they’re using. That includes an ability to achieve orgasms and have more intense sexual outcomes. It’s very interesting to note that these studies can become more common in places that have decriminalized the use of marijuana. So, future studies should be able to tell us all much more about the impact that marijuana has on sex.

After all, not every marijuana user feels the same way after smoking. Some people become more introverted and closed off from the rest of the world, while others are more likely to act with a higher level of openness. When the studies can consider people of all kinds, there will be a better chance for it to be more inclusive of all the experiences people have. That way, people that are not used to taking marijuana can learn about the benefits and potential drawbacks that happen to individuals and learn what outcomes can be considered “typical.”

All in all, it would seem that the data that is available right now suggests that marijuana does have an impact on sexual desire. People use it before getting involved with someone, and they feel stronger pleasure and desire than they would without it. However, there are a lot of things that can impact this outcome.

Everything from the strain that is smoked beforehand to the amount that a person smokes can change the level of sexual desire or willingness to have sex that someone feels. With that in mind, it’s a good idea to learn how it impacts you as an individual before you use it to increase your pleasure.

Does CBD Use Lead To Less Alcohol Consumption?

Maria Loreto

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May 5, 2021

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Does CBD Use Lead To Less Alcohol Consumption?

A new study finds that plant-based CBD may be associated with decreased alcohol consumption among regular cannabis users.

If you’re a consumer of CBD, there may be an extra benefit to reap from the compound. New research shows a connections between the consumption of CBD-dominant cannabis and reduced alcohol intake.

The study, conducted by researchers from the University of Colorado and published in the journal Psychology of Addictive Behaviors, examined cannabis use in 120 subjects, featuring CBD, THC or hybrid cannabis strains.

Researchers found that users who consumed CBD-heavy strains “drank fewer drinks per drinking day, had fewer alcohol use days, and fewer alcohol and cannabis co-use days compared with the other groups.” Users of THC or hybrid strains showed no difference in between their drinking patterns.

How To Incorporate CBD Oils Into Your Daily Routine — Photo by HighGradeRoots/Getty Images

Results of this recent study showing a connection between CBD and less alcohol consumption are consistent with findings in previous studies. Aside from alcohol, the use of CBD has been connected with a decrease in opioid, heroin, tobacco and other substance use.

“The present study lends preliminary support to the notion that plant-based CBD may be associated with decreased alcohol consumption among regular cannabis users and suggests that it may be feasible for regular cannabis users to switch to a higher CBD, lower THC content cannabis strain for the purposes of reducing their alcohol intake,” concludes the study.

CBD has long been related with reduced alcohol intake. Previous studies have found the compound useful for treating heavy and chronic drinkers, finding that those who consumed cannabis had less alcohol on the same day. While this relationship is not understood, the amount of studies available show that there’s room to explore in this field, and that, with enough research, solutions and treatment options can appear for people who are heavy consumers of drugs and alcohol.

What To Do If You Missed Your Second COVID-19 Shot

Maria Loreto

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May 5, 2021

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What To Do If You Missed Your Second COVID-19 Shot

A large percentage of people have been avoiding their second round of COVID-19 vaccinations. Here’s what experts are saying.

Whether accidentally or intentionally, a lot of people are missing out on their second COVID-19 shot.

Per the New York Times, about 5 million people have missed their second round of Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 inoculations. Experts theorize this is due to people not being able to take the time off work, not being sufficiently internet-savvy, or believing there’s enough protection in that first shot. There’s also the belief that the second round of shots creates stronger reactions, causing people to be scared of getting their second round.

Can You Get COVID-19 In Between Vaccine Dosages? — Photo by Spencer Davis via Unsplash

While 5 million people sounds like a lot, vaccines that require a booster shot have a larger degree of people missing out on their last round. “I thought that [CDC data] was pretty encouraging. While 8% is still millions of people, that still means that the vast majority of people are going back for their second shot, which is really good compared to a lot of other vaccines,” virologist Dr. Angela Rasmussen told DW.

While it’s believed that the first round of shots creates virus protection by up to 80%, the consequences of not getting the second booster shot are unknown. Protection from the first shot could fade without the influence of the second.

Still, if you had your first round and haven’t received your booster after a month, you should try your best to get your second dose. (Technically, you have up to six week to get your follow-up shot.)

“It’s likely that getting a second shot, even at a later point in time, is still very beneficial,” Dr. Dan Barouch told ABC News. Despite not knowing the side effects of waiting longer to get your second shot, the majority of experts think that the second round will provide a decent response no matter how late the booster comes in.

One thing’s clear: The more people who wait for their second round of the COVID-19 vaccine, the more they’re exposing themselves and others to the virus.

Will Marijuana Destroy My Lean Muscle Mass

Mike Adams

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May 5, 2021

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Will Marijuana Destroy My Lean Muscle Mass

Enjoying weights but concerned about you muscle mass and marijuana, we got you

Around middle age, a lot of men make an effort to start going to the gym in an attempt to shrink that bulging gut and get back into shape. It happens to a lot of us. The years have a way of creeping up while we’re busy out there trying to earn a living and helping to raise families.

All of a sudden, we’re fat and 40-something, our chests are sunken in, and everyone calls us chicken legs when we walk around in a pair of shorts. Forget what the Internet tells you; Dad Bod is not in. The only people who find a squishy physique attractive are those who are out of shape.

The good news is, all a man has to do is fix his diet and dedicate some time to cardio and strength training, and he can get himself back into fighting shape. You can’t turn back the clock, but you can wind it up again. In fact, many fitness conscious men claim to be in the best condition of their lives around middle age. Just take a look at 48-year-old Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson for further proof. It takes a lot of work to get to that point, though. After all, the body of an older male just doesn’t respond and recover like it did when he was 20. That’s the reason men, especially older ones, have to be careful not to do anything that can destroy their gains.

want to get fit in 2018 cannabis can help — Photo by Brodie Vissers via Burst

Now that marijuana is becoming so prevalent across the United States, it stands to reason that more fitness-minded people will give it a try. Some athletes swear that it makes workouts more productive, some use it as part of their recovery process (to combat inflammation), and others just do it because it is fun, relaxing and doesn’t come with the mega-calorie count of alcoholic beverages. That’s another thing that older men must watch out for when trying to get themselves back in shape. Alcohol can make it challenging for a man to carve out his optimal body.

But aside from causing the munchies — a side effect that makes ravenous, taco-crushing animals out of average men (and women) — marijuana doesn’t come with any well-documented detriments that make it difficult to keep fitness goals on track. Just be sure to stock the refrigerator with plenty of fruits and healthier snacks for when the munchies kick in. Otherwise, marijuana can pack on the calories just as much as booze. Pro tip: don’t keep junk food in the house.

workouts — Photo by Flickr user ThoroughlyReviewed

Still, men in their 40s are up against their own mortality, and that can mean lower testosterone — a male sex hormone produced in the testes and adrenal glands. As men get older, testosterone levels can drop, making it difficult for them to build lean muscle mass, maintain bone density and create a chiseled physique. Avoiding things like alcohol and fatty foods can help keep testosterone in check. So can lifting heavy weights. There is some research out there, however, that suggests smoking marijuana might be harmful to testosterone levels.

But can the herb, something that has therapeutic properties, really sabotage a man’s overall muscle mass?

One study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology says that it could: “Cannabinoid administration acutely alters multiple hormonal systems, including the suppression of the gonadal steroids, growth hormone, prolactin, and thyroid hormone and the activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis,” researchers wrote. This means marijuana users might have a tougher time keeping the testosterone levels needed to get ripped. But researchers admit that “the effects in humans have been inconsistent,” and they believe “tolerance” may even play a role.

Other studies have found heavy marijuana use can lead to dramatic reductions in testosterone, while some have shown that it doesn’t. One study even shows that testosterone levels decrease after smoking weed, but those levels seem to return to normal after 24 hours. All in all the ill-effects of marijuana on testosterone remain a mystery. Still, it is more likely that a man will harm his testosterone production with a junk food diet (sugar) and a lack of exercise rather than smoking a little weed.

With that said, regardless of whether cannabis consumption is a factor, any man in his forties trying to get back into shape should consult with their doctor and have their testosterone levels checked. There are many replacement therapies available for men with Low-T. It is important, though, to be forthright with your healthcare provider about any marijuana use, as their treatment may need to be altered to account for this variable. There’s a chance it won’t matter to them at all.

If you are worried about marijuana destroying your gains, don’t. With the proper focus on eating right and a consistent workout regimen, your body should respond positively, with or without pot.

Do Cannabis Legalization Efforts Suggest Joe Biden Is A Pawn For Big Pharma?

Terry Hacienda

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May 5, 2021

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Do Cannabis Legalization Efforts Suggest Joe Biden Is A Pawn For Big Pharma?

It’s obvious between this administration and the previous one that the system is fundamentally broken.

For those who are avid reefers, I mean readers of my work, you’ll know that my position on politicians aren’t of the “favorable kind”. The previous administration under Trump may have been chaotic, but at least people knew what they were getting.

The Biden Administration positioned itself as the answer, but alas, they are but wolves in sheep’s clothing.

Biden is not going to save you, and he’s not going to want to legalize weed, even though the Super Majority of the United states population is in favor of legalizing cannabis federally. But not old Joe! Joe Hates the DEVIL WEED!

Joe Biden Isn’t Senile — He’s Just Hard Of Learning When It Comes To Weed — Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images

But unlike old man Jeff Sessions, who was simply an ideologue and a lackey of the prison-industrial complex, Biden is a different beast entirely. Biden is in favor of “decriminalization,” but don’t let these words fool you!

I’m going to cut through the political bull***t and tell you what these two guys are really saying.

“I support cannabis – but ONLY if it’s medical!”

One would think, “This isn’t so bad. I, too, believe that patients deserve safe access to cannabis”. Then Joe hits you with this one:

“The president supports leaving decisions regarding legalization for recreational use up to the states, rescheduling cannabis as a Schedule II drug so researchers can study its positive and negative impacts and, at the federal level, he supports decriminalizing marijuana use and automatically expunging any prior criminal records,” she said. “He also supports legalizing medicinal marijuana so that’s his point of view on the issue.” (Emphasis Added)

Here’s the thing about a Schedule-II classification. Only Pharma would be able to grow and sell it due to the exuberant costs of dealing with Schedule-II substances.

These substances include things like cocaine and meth, which pharmaceutical companies use to fabricate their drugs that magically become “legal” to use.

How Could Joe Biden’s Administration Legalize Marijuana? — Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images

I have written before about how “Schedule-II” is a Pharma Coup on the Marijuana Industry to remove the crop from the masses and to once more make it a “controlled substance”. It’s one of the many reasons why we should #NullifyTheCSA!

Biden doesn’t support the same type of medical marijuana you have in mind. He wants it to be entirely in the hands of his benefactors — Big Pharma!

What about his presidential pledge to release federal cannabis prisoners?

Okay, well, maybe Old Pharma Joe will at the very least show us the humanitarian side of his presidential campaign promises, setting the unfortunate victims of the War on Drugs free from their inhumane incarceration.

When a reporter asked the Press Secretary about this particular issue:

Psaki said that would be addressed if cannabis was rescheduled to Schedule II…

Oh, so the freedom of people who have been incarcerated for a plant needs to wait until it’s been decriminalized and placed in the sole care of Pharma?

Am I getting this right, Joe?

“He’ll look at the research once that’s concluded,” Psaki said. “Of course we understand the movement that’s happening toward it. I’m speaking for what his position is and what long, consistently has been his position. He wants to decriminalize, but again, he’ll look at the research of the positive and negative impacts.”

Biden is hiding behind the old smokescreen, “We need more research.” While this may have worked a decade ago, we have the research nowadays, and there is no need to keep it illegal on a federal level.

Hell, the COVD-19 vaccines were rushed and administered to the entire world within the matter of a year but decades of actual hard data “needs more research?”

I don’t think so!

Well, Biden, what do you have to say for yourself?

“Well, I would just take it as an opportunity to reiterate that the president supports legalizing medicinal marijuana,” Psaki said. “It sounds like this would have been applicable in this case, and of course decriminalizing marijuana use and automatically expunging any prior criminal records. In terms of individual cases, I can’t get ahead of those obviously.”

Oh…in that case, I’d like to just take the opportunity to reiterate that what you say and do have never been “consistent.”

Will Biden Approve A Federal Cannabis Legalization Bill If It Reaches His Desk? — Photo by Andrew Harnik-Pool/Getty Images

Biden built his career by being “tough on drugs” and in doing so had to make deals with those who benefitted from prohibition.

Did you honestly believe that Biden is a “man of the people”? Middle Class Joe is actually Millionaire Joe!

Shocked? Don’t be – it’s the same old same old

Americans are waking up to the reality that the rest of the world has known for, well, ever: government is not your friend.

Whenever there are people “championing” for the rights of the “lesser person”, it’s a subtle but devious claim that they are the “better person” or the “higher person.”

The truth of the matter folks is that these politicians couldn’t care less about you and me. If we can’t get them more votes and power, we are nothing but cogs for them to discard.

They will send your children to war and use their dead bodies to pave the roads of their industries.

Is this meant to make you feel better? Not really. This is more about pointing out that there is something fundamentally wrong with our views on society and authority. We live under an antiquated system that punishes individuals for consuming things that aren’t “sanctioned by the government.”

This is not the land of the free anymore; it’s been hijacked by corporations that buy puppets to pretend to be presidents.

Almost half of the United States smokes weed, and the vast majority wants it legalized. Perhaps it’s time we stop choosing left or right, and choose liberty instead. It’s obvious between this administration and the previous one that the system is fundamentally broken.

It’s time for a reboot — the dinosaurs must go!

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

COVID-19 Vaccine Expected To Get FDA Emergency Approval For Ages 12-15 Next Week

News

Benzinga Staff Writer

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May 4, 2021

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COVID-19 Vaccine Expected To Get FDA Emergency Approval For Ages 12-15 Next Week

The FDA authorization will ease the worry of middle and high school administrators planning for the fall should all students be vaccinated by that time.

By Shivdeep Dhaliwal

The Food and Drug Administration has plans to authorize the emergency use of Pfizer Inc PFE 0.01% and BioNTech SE’s BNTX 17.88% jointly-developed COVID-19 vaccine in adolescents aged between 12 to 15 years, the New York Times reported Monday.

What Happened: The move means that the campaign to vaccinate against COVID-19 will potentially expand to millions more, as per the Times.

Here's What It Feels Like To Get A COVID-19 Vaccine — Photo by Gustavo Fring via Pexels

The FDA could reportedly give its go-ahead early next week. Subject to clearance, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s vaccine advisory panel is likely to meet the following day to take stock of both the clinical trial data and make recommendations of use in the adolescent age group.

“We can assure the public that we are working to review this request as quickly and transparently as possible,” a spokeswoman for the FDA told the Times. She declined to comment on the timing of the agency to the Times.

BioNTech shares closed 10.95% higher in Monday’s regular session to $208.90 and rose another 3.35% to $215.89 in after-hours trading. On the same day, Pfizer shares also gained 3.05% in the regular session to $39.83. The shares rose 0.38% in after-hours trading.

Why It Matters: Pfizer announced positive results related to the Phase 3 trial evaluating its BNT162b2 vaccines in 2,260 adolescents aged 12 to 15 years on Mar. 31.

The results indicated 100% efficacy and substantial antibody responses and showed that the vaccine was well tolerated.

At the time, Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla said that the drugmaker plans to submit data to the FDA as a “proposed amendment” to the company’s existing Emergency User Authorization for the vaccine.

Pfizer, Moderna Inc MRNA 6.64%, and Johnson & Johnson JNJ 0.52% COVID-19 vaccines are also approved for emergency use in adults in the U.S.

Cantor Fitzgerald analyst Louise Chen said Pfizer’s stock is underappreciated, after the adolescent data was released.

The FDA authorization will ease the worry of middle and high school administrators planning for the fall should all students be vaccinated by that time, as per the Times.

As per the CDC, 312.5 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been delivered in the U.S. and 246.8 million have been administered.

Both Pfizer and Moderna’s vaccines require administration of two doses, while Johnson & Johnson’s requires a single shot.

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

6 Cannabis Gifts For Mother’s Day

Amy Hansen

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May 4, 2021

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Thoughtful ideas to help you choose the perfect marijuana-inspired gift for those women who are lovingly doing life’s most challenging job.

Let’s be honest: only mothers really know what it means to be a mother and raise children. Not even pregnant moms-to-be have a clue what they’re in for, much less those of the male persuasion. Yup, that’s right. Being a mother is simultaneously the most fulfilling and most challenging job in the world. The things that matter the most never come easy.

Whether a stay-at-home mom or a working mom, one thing is certain: it’s nearly

impossible to find time for oneself. Mothers often seem to be on an endless and essential search for stress relief, relaxation, getting some exercise, meditating or whatever it is that helps them take care of their own wellbeing, health and happiness. To help, here are 6 cannabis gifts for Mother’s Day.

That’s why for this Mother’s Day, you might want to say thank you to your mom with an original cannabis-inspired gift.

Acknowledge everything she has done, and continues to do for you, by introducing her to CBD-infused relaxation and exquisite skin care products. Or, if she is already a fan of Mary Jane — many moms are — then get her just the right gift to ease and open her mind even further.

I am sure there is a cannabis-infused gift that every mom would appreciate, from bath salts, soaks and scrubs to oils, lotions, creams and on to edibles and pre-rolls.

Clearly cannabis is a healthier choice than alcohol or a box of chocolates. As we know from a wide body of research, cannabis provides a healthy sense of relaxation without the annoying and unhealthy side effects of alcohol.

If mom is unfamiliar with the world of cannabis, perhaps now is the time to explain the benefits of and difference between THC and CBD products. Whether she is feels like getting high or simply relaxing in a hot tub, or both, there are many products to be had. And remember, CBD-infused products are for everyone!

Mothers Unite

Mothers all know what it’s like to face daily challenges. Let’s honor each other and pick out some gifts to share. For that reason, I’ve crafted several ideas to help you choose the perfect marijuana-inspired gift for those women who are lovingly doing life’s most challenging job.

Let’s start with the Santa Barbara County-licensed cannabis cultivator Autumn Brands and its Nourishing Muscle + Joint Salve. This cannabis-infused topical contains 400mg of full-spectrum, pesticide-free cannabis (ratio 1:7). It is rich in terpenes, cannabinoids, and magnesium. It should bring muscle and joint relief, provide general body relaxation and better sleep quality for somewhere between $45 and $60, depending on the dispensary.

CBD brand Green Eagle is not only for professional athletes, with the NFL Hall of Famer Brett Favre as its spokesman; it is for all outdoor adventurers, sports enthusiasts and moms on the go. Back and muscle daily aches and pains are often part of a “mom’s job,” and Green Eagle’s Max Relief Freeze Spray may help you deal with it. It is THC-free, made with hemp-derived CBD, arnica, camphor and menthol, using nanotechnology that enables better absorption. It is priced at $39.99.

A women-owned CBD brand should know what women want, right? That’s why our list of Mother’s Day cannabis gifts includes TONIC CBD’s Outer Space CBD + CBG Body Butter rich in plant-derived butter, oils, and essential fatty acids to moisturize and nourish your skin. CBD and CBG compounds in the product will provide much-needed antioxidant effects. Outer Space CBD + CBG comes in two sizes, 1 oz and 4 oz, with prices from $15 to $65.

Cannabis delivery company Ganja Goddess was thinking of moms and those who will celebrate them when it decided to offer a special 15% discount on a variety of cannabis and CBD products from May 1-9. Just use the discount code CANNAMOM.

Now a little something for those moms who are known for supporting good causes. Is there a better gift for mom than one that shows you understand what she’s passionate about? Justice Joints Pre-Rolls, a brand that donates 100% of its profits, has teamed up with the Last Prisoner Project, which supports criminal record expungement and release and reentry programs with its profits. One full gram of high-grade cannabis is $10. You can get her a few!

Nugg Club, a cannabis subscription box, is all in for Mother’s Day this year. The Club is offering $30 off the first box with the code CLUBMOM. Furthermore, it has also designed something special — a full Mother’s Day curated set of products that include drinks, edibles, flower, pre-rolls, topicals and vapes. Though Nugg Club gift boxes are usually priced at $99, they contain products valued up to $225.

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

We Need To Recognize That The War In Afghanistan Is Not Our ‘Longest War’

Opinion

Richard Cowan

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May 4, 2021

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We Need To Recognize That The War In Afghanistan Is Not Our ‘Longest War’

The comparison between the war in Afghanistan and the Drug War is particularly appropriate. They even overlap.

***Disclaimer:* *The views expressed in this article solely belong to the author and do not necessarily represent those of The Fresh Toast.***

President Biden has announced that the U.S. and our allies will be out of Afghanistan no later than September 11, the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. Finally, we are seeing the end of what is being called our “longest war.” 

But it is no such thing. Of course, the “Prime Directive” of U.S. public policy, journalism, and politics, religion, and pet care, is “Don’t Mention The Drug War” (see: America’s Longest Ongoing War: The War on Drugs).

Our drug war actually began over 100 years ago with the International Opium Convention.

Does A Football Star Have To Get Killed For Americans To See How Dangerous The Drug War Is — Photo by Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images

Ironically, it was signed at The Hague, the Netherlands. on January 23, 1912, during the First International Opium Conference. “It was the first international drug control treaty. The United States was unsuccessful in its attempts to have cannabis included in the 1912 Convention.”

In 1937, the notorious Harry Anslinger got Congress to pass the Marihuana Tax Act (see: Harry Anslinger: The Godfather Of Cannabis Prohibition). It was signed into law by Franklin Roosevelt, and almost every President since has contributed to an escalation in the violence.

The comparison between the war in Afghanistan and the Drug War is particularly appropriate. They even overlap. Afghanistan is still a major source of heroin, but the once famous Afghani hash is impossible to find. Surprise, surprise!

The most important point is that the War on Drugs was never just a figure of speech, like the War on Cancer or the War on Poverty. It was and is real violence by the users and sellers of some drugs against the users and sellers of other drugs.

First, the United States was never officially at war with Afghanistan. In fact, after easily overthrowing the Taliban terrorists who had seized control, the war was very much like the Drug War in the U.S. and Latin America. 

Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Colombia, Peru, and other countries that are barely functioning have been destabilized by both the violence and corruption of the Drug War. It has also spread to Africa to supply Europe with cocaine.

How An Endless Drug War Will End Our Freedom — Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images

Meanwhile, in the U.S., we had the National Guard rappel from helicopters into feral hemp fields, aptly called Ditch Weed. We have militarized our police with “war surplus” equipment, even armored cars. We kick down doors and violently storm into American homes under no-knock warrants. Just like Afghanistan. 

SEE: Louisville Settles With Breonna Taylor’s Family Ending No-Knock Warrants But Only In Louisville

It is still a war, even if the violence is all from one side. In fact, most of the violence in the domestic Drug War is simply threatened by the police against peaceful marijuana users. There have been over 22 million Americans arrested for marijuana possession since the late 1960s. Even now, there are still over half a million marijuana arrests every year, more than for all violent crimes combined. 

The Drug War was also like other wars because truth really was the first casualty, and the lying about cannabis is still the foundation of most state violence in western democracies. 

As Patrick Henry once said, “Gentlemen may cry, ‘Peace! Peace!’ — but there is no peace.” 

Richard Cowan is a former NORML National Director and author of The Differences Between Hemp CBD And Terpenes.

You’re More Likely To Struggle With These Eye Conditions Due To Pandemic

Maria Loreto

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May 3, 2021

0

You’re More Likely To Struggle With These Eye Conditions Due To Pandemic

We’ve been overexerting our eyes for years. The pandemic has made this much worse.

If there’s one thing the pandemic has indisputably done is increase the amount of time we look at screens. Whether we’re working, relaxing, or watching TV, we’re glued to our screens for the majority of our days. We weren’t doing all that great with our screen time before the pandemic, so new eye conditions have been popping up, all influenced by lockdown measures.

The Huffington Post spoke to different health experts and determined that there were a few conditions we might all be more prone to now that we spend more time looking at screens. Here are a few you should keep an “eye” on:

Nearsightedness

porn lovers seem to be less sexist than regular men — Photo by kmatija/Getty Images

Myopia, or nearsightedness, has an important genetic element to it, with some people developing it due to their genes. But several studies suggest that lack of time spent outdoors and a lot of eye stress might contribute to this condition. “All of this screen time can contribute to myopia [i.e., nearsightedness], since people aren’t getting enough time to relax their vision or look into the distance,” said behavioral optometrist Juanita Collier. “And because we’re spending much more time inside, our bodies aren’t getting that important daily dose of vitamin D, which has been shown to decrease the progression of nearsightedness.”

Dry eye

Why Does Smoking Weed Make Your Eyes Red? — Photo by Elizabeth Fernandez/Getty Images

Dry eye occurs when we don’t blink enough, which can happen when staring at screens or when wearing masks for long periods of time. Dry eye can result in watery eyes, blurred vision and light sensitivity. To prevent it, make sure you stay hydrated, wearing a mask with a pliable nose wire and blinking often and purposefully, that way you provide breaks for your eyes.

Computer vision syndrome

5 Polite Ways To Tell People You Need Alone Time — Photo by Ketut Subiyanto via Pexels

While “computer vision syndrome” sounds like a cool modification for the future, it actually refers to the several symptoms that are associated with spending so much time looking at computer screens. These screens force our eyes to work harder due to the fact that there’s low contrast and difficulty in differentiating letters from the backgrounds. They include computer screens, tablets, phones, etc. and facilitate the development of headaches, eye strain, blurred vision and dry eyes. In order to prevent this, health experts recommend attaching screen filters to your devices, turning off blue light, blinking more, and taking frequent breaks.

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You’re More Likely To Struggle With These Eye Conditions Due To Pandemic

We’ve been overexerting our eyes for years. The pandemic has made this much worse.

Nearsightedness

Dry eye

Computer vision syndrome

Don't Miss Your Weekly Dose of The Fresh Toast.

The Fresh ToastThe most trusted name in cannabis

The anticipated 2023 FDA approval of MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD is closer to becoming a reality than ever before.

All you need is love, love is all you need…but is it true?

Marijuana is a natural aphrodisiac

Studies on the effects of cannabis on sexual desire

Cannabinoids increase the activity of brain areas associated with sexual arousal

A new study finds that plant-based CBD may be associated with decreased alcohol consumption among regular cannabis users.

A large percentage of people have been avoiding their second round of COVID-19 vaccinations. Here’s what experts are saying.

Enjoying weights but concerned about you muscle mass and marijuana, we got you

It’s obvious between this administration and the previous one that the system is fundamentally broken.

“I support cannabis – but ONLY if it’s medical!”

What about his presidential pledge to release federal cannabis prisoners?

Well, Biden, what do you have to say for yourself?

Shocked? Don’t be – it’s the same old same old

The FDA authorization will ease the worry of middle and high school administrators planning for the fall should all students be vaccinated by that time.

Thoughtful ideas to help you choose the perfect marijuana-inspired gift for those women who are lovingly doing life’s most challenging job.

Mothers Unite

The comparison between the war in Afghanistan and the Drug War is particularly appropriate. They even overlap.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article solely belong to the author and do not necessarily represent those of The Fresh Toast.

We’ve been overexerting our eyes for years. The pandemic has made this much worse.

Nearsightedness

Dry eye

Computer vision syndrome

Don't Miss Your Weekly Dose of The Fresh Toast.

***Disclaimer:* *The views expressed in this article solely belong to the author and do not necessarily represent those of The Fresh Toast.***