Does Using Cannabis For Sleep Cause Crazy Dreams?

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April 10, 2021

Does Using Cannabis For Sleep Cause Crazy Dreams?

When you spend more time in a state of deep sleep after taking THC, you may not wake up with as much clarity about your dreams, but you will have a more refreshing sleep experience.

Have you woken up from sleep and thought, “What kind of dream did I have last night?” Or maybe you’ve dreamt the same dream over and over again and you’re curious. It’s also possible that you woke up without any recollection of the dreams you had the previous night. Read on, as I analyze the fundamentals of dreams and clear the air about the role cannabis plays in influencing dreams.

Yes, it can be a very emotional experience waking up from the same dream, especially if you don’t remember the details. Regardless of the state of your dreamy experience, I believe we all want to be able to analyze our dreams.

Before going further, it should be noted that there is a connection between your dreams and cannabis from an analytic perspective. As you go down that dream rabbit hole, you wouldn’t want to wake up feeling distraught, and CBD can help with that. However, before we talk about the connection between cannabis and dreams, we must understand the meaning of dreams.

What are dreams?

Dreams happen in our subconscious, created by our minds as we sleep. Your dreams happen during your Rapid Eye Movement (REM) as you sleep, and this is when your brain is most active.

Since your brain is highly active, it explains why you sometimes do not remember your dream’s details when you wake up. A lack of remembrance makes you feel confused, dizzy, and emotional because you cannot recollect your subconscious information.

Some people believe that dreams take us into our subconscious space to connect with our emotions, sort out deep-rooted issues, and better understand our emotions. Now, what are the different stages of sleep? We need to understand this before knowing the connection between sleep, dreams, and cannabis.

Different stages of sleep

When we sleep, our brain goes through five sleep stages, and the REM we mentioned earlier is the longest stage:

Stage one is light sleep which happens when you drift in and out of consciousness. At this stage, anything can cause you to wake up.

At stage two, your brain’s electrical impulses will start to slow down, ushering in stage three.

At stage three, you will start to feel the “delta waves” at a greater frequency. These delta waves are high brain waves from the cortex, which is associated with deep sleep.

Stage four happens when there is no eye movement or muscle activity.

At stage five, you will be in REM, and this is when your breathing gets irregular. Your heart rate increases, your eyes will move rapidly, and your muscles will be temporarily paralyzed. The REM stage can happen a couple of times as you sleep, depending on how long you sleep.

New Study Says Sleeping To Much Can Kill You — Photo via rawpixel.com

A complete sleep cycle lasts for 100 minutes, and the first REM period will start between 70-90 minutes after you fall asleep. REM also lasts for 10-20 minutes, which means your dreams occur within this timeline.

You wouldn’t know at what point you enter into REM because that is deep sleep, however, now you know that your dreams don’t happen at stage one. Therefore, whatever you dream about is from a place in your subconscious inspired by the emotions, the information you feed your mind, and experiences (past or present).

So what is the connection between dreams and cannabis?

Cannabis and your dreams

For years cannabis has been known for having the capacity to suppress dreams due to the impact of THC on the brain. People who use cannabis frequently talk about how they see a decrease in REM when they sleep.

But then they also experience deep sleep, which means the person slips deeper into the subconscious level. This is not a bad thing because deep sleep is the most restful kind of sleep you will ever experience.

As you experience a decrease in active brain activity while sleeping, the THC in cannabis will help you stay in the subconscious world long enough to have a restful sleep. People who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorders or insomnia will need cannabis to calm the mind’s activity, which translates into calmer dreams.

When you spend more time in a state of deep sleep after taking THC, you may not wake up with as much clarity about your dreams, but you will have a more refreshing sleep experience.

cbd for sleep — Photo by Ivan Obolensky via Pexels

For a deeper experience in the rabbit hole and to gain more clarity for your dreams, you may have to decrease THC intake before bedtime. If you take a higher dose, your mind will become very active, making it possible for you to have more detailed dreams that you remember when you wake up.

However, it is essential to note that suddenly quitting cannabis can lead to what is described as a “REM Rebound,” which changes your dream patterns altogether. If you must stop taking cannabis, please start by reducing your doses gradually instead of stopping abruptly.

Bottom line

Cannabis has evolved so much over the years. Unlike before, we now have it popping up in almost every conversation. The rabbit hole is your subconscious where all the dream action happens, and going down that rabbit hole is something that happens whenever you sleep. When you consume cannabis, the THC it contains works as a suppressant such that you have calmer dream experiences.

If you want to remember your dreams’ details, you can increase your CBD intake before going to bed. But if you don’t want to remember the details, then it’s okay to reduce your dosage.

With cannabis, you can take control of your dream life by determining what you want to remember and what you don’t want to remember. You also decide whether you’re going to have a deep sleep or just enough sleep to hold on to your dreams when you wake up.

If you have never paid attention to your dreams and your weed intake, now is a good time to start. You might notice a new pattern that entails you either gaining clarity with your dreams or enjoying a deeper restful sleep!

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

Reefer Madness Crowd Discovers CBD With Predictable Results

CBD
Opinion

Richard Cowan

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April 10, 2021

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Reefer Madness Crowd Discovers CBD With Predictable Results

The National Consumers League is America’s original consumer advocacy organization. Here are their 4 suggested solutions to their perceived problems with CBD.

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

Let me begin by acknowledging that I have “conflicts of interest” on this topic (explained below). But did you know that cannabis is a “substance in marijuana”?? Yep. There it is on the first line of a new report How Safe Is CBD? from the National Center for Health Research.

I am desperately trying to find out if cannabis is also present in ganja, weed, or grass. Pardon the sarcasm, but here we go again.

person holding amber glass bottle — Photo by Christin Hume via Unsplash

There is a new group, Consumers for Safe CBD, which is “a program of the National Consumers League. The National Consumers League (NCL) is America’s original consumer advocacy organization.”

That means they have been around long enough to know better.

Here are their 4 Suggested Solutions to their perceived problems with CBD:

ONE

WARN THE PUBLIC OF THE DANGERS OF THE CBD MARKET

Untested, unapproved CBD products may pose a growing public health threat. This is a rapidly growing consumer market composed of CBD products that – unlike prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, cosmetics, or food products – has been operating outside the scope of federal law and regulation. Nearly all of these products:

Have not been scientifically tested for safety and efficacy. (True, but see 10 dangerous drugs recalled by the FDA Also, note that FDA has not cooperated with testing cannabis under marijuana prohibition.)
Have labels that may or may not be accurate in terms of lists of ingredients and potency. (Fraud is fraud.)
May include ingredients that have not been verified by reliable third parties for purity and potency. May? Yep.
Are illegal under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act. (Yep. Like medical marijuana?)

SOLUTION:

The FDA should warn the public about the dangers of unapproved, untested, illegal CBD products. Like this from December of last year: FDA Warns Companies Illegally Selling CBD Products

TWO

ENFORCE EXISTING REGULATIONS REGARDING LABELING AND INGREDIENTS

Mislabeling is common with CBD products. In a 2020 report to Congress, FDA found more than half of the tested products were mislabeled. And consumers utilizing unapproved CBD products run the risk of encountering harmful contaminants. Independent testing of the 240 top-selling CBD products found that 70 percent were contaminated with substances including lead, arsenic, herbicides, pesticides, and toxic mold.

SOLUTION:

The FDA should curtail the proliferation of potentially dangerous, unapproved CBD products by using its existing legal authority.

(Do they mean the FDA should ban CBD until the FDA can get its act together???)

Are High-CBD Hemp Flowers The Next Big Thing In Cannabis? — Photo by BATCH by Wisconsin Hemp Scientific via Unsplash

THREE

DETERMINE SAFE CONCENTRATION LEVELS FOR CBD PRODUCTS

The idea that unapproved CBD products contain only the “safe” parts of the hemp plant is not always correct.  The FDA’s report to Congress found that nearly 20 CBD products tested contained THC.

(Obviously, all products should be accurately labeled, and that is already the law.)

The Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) and the Consumer Federation of America (CFA) recently highlighted a study showing that 18 of 84 CBD product samples tested contained THC levels sufficient to cause impairment. This heightens the risk, particularly for young children and pets. When the THC level is enough to produce intoxication or a positive result on a drug test, which has already led to some consumers unwittingly losing their jobs, it’s clear that we need greater testing and oversight.

(I have not been able to find any corroboration of this claim, but it would require consuming large quantities of CBD with high levels of THC to trigger a positive on a urine test. Dubious.)

SEE: Best CBD Brands To Try: Blue Ribbon Hemp – A Real Tested CBD Feature

Additionally, clinical testing of the sole FDA-approved CBD medication provided scientific data showing that higher levels of CBD can potentially cause liver damage or liver toxicity from cumulative use over time. (I think this is dishonest. See: “Worried About CBD Hurting Your Liver? Here’s What the Experts Have to Say” )

SEE: Almost 200,000 patients at risk from NSAID prescribing, NHS data show

According to Healthline: “While experts point out patients need to be informed about what they’re getting and what the risks can be, the amount of CBD the animals were exposed to is far higher than what most humans would take.”

In that same Healthline article, Dr. Diana Martins-Welch, attending physician in palliative medicine at Northwell Health in New Hyde Park, New York, explains that, “Many people know that taking too much ibuprofen or Tylenol can have detrimental consequences. CBD is no different. Generally speaking, therapeutic CBD doses range from 0.5 mg/kg/day to 20 mg/kg per day,”

FOUR

ENCOURAGE ROBUST CLINICAL RESEARCH INTO CBD’S POTENTIAL TO IMPROVE HEALTH AND LIVES

It is important to encourage robust clinical research into the potential of CBD so that patients will have more treatment options. The potential health benefits of CBD need to be better understood and optimized, which can only be done through clinical testing with scientifically validated methodologies. The rush of untested products to the marketplace isn’t good for public health and has discouraged legitimate companies from dedicating the time, effort, and resources needed to develop products that could be FDA-approved.

Wait, What Does Organic CBD Actually Mean? — Photo by CRYSTALWEED cannabis via Unsplash

Frankly, that is utter nonsense. First, keeping CBD off the market until it has been approved by the FDA would harm the millions of people who find it helpful. So in the land of the free, home of the brave, just shut up and suffer and die until your betters have decided they have the time to determine if you can use a plant that was used as medicine for thousands of years. 

Moreover, the knowledge that cannabinoids could be helpful was not discovered by the FDA or the pharmaceutical industry. It was discovered in the unregulated, banned, criminalized black market. The booming unregulated market has not discouraged investment in cannabinoids. On the contrary. The pharmaceutical industries are pouring billions into cannabinoid research.

SEE: The Curious Case Of GW Pharmaceuticals And The Acquisition Of GW Pharmaceuticals Raises Many Interesting Questions

SOLUTION:

The FDA should incentivize CBD research, clinical trials, and the creation of new CBD treatments that are backed by science and approved by the FDA. Many people agree CBD has the potential to improve lives, but research and clinical data are needed to move the industry forward in the right direction.

Now for my conflict of interest. Yes, I am in the CBD business. But I am also in the CBD testing business. Over a year ago we set up a company www.RealTestedCBD.com to meet the very real need for greater confidence in CBD products. We managed to do this, motivated by the nasty old profit motive, without being approved or funded by the federal government. See: 5 Important Things To Consider Before Buying CBD.

Richard Cowan is a former NORML National Director and author of Comparison Between CBD Isolate And Full-Spectrum CBD Oil.

This Vaccine Side Effect Can Affect Your Whole Body

Maria Loreto

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April 9, 2021

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This Vaccine Side Effect Can Affect Your Whole Body

A rare side effect of the COVID-19 vaccine includes one that affects your entire body. Here’s what you should know.

Now that most Americans are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, the majority of us are aware of the possible side effects we may experience once we’ve been inoculated — the majority of which are pretty standard when compared to flu and other shots, specifically headaches, low grade fever, and pain at injection site. But there’s a less common side effect that can affect your whole body.

A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology analyzed results of over 400 people who experienced skin reactions after one or two shots of the mRNA COVID-19 vaccine between December 2020 and February 2021. The most common reactions included large localized symptoms, like hives and rashes (such as measles) known as morbilliform eruptions.

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

Dr. Esther Freeman spoke with USA Today about these side effects, claiming that they aren’t dangerous. “People can get full-body rashes, and that can be surprising and a little scary, but these patients did extremely well, recovered and were able to go back and get their second dose,” she said. “For people whose rashes started four or more hours after getting the vaccine, zero percent of them went on to get anaphylaxis or any other serious reaction.”

These mild skin reactions are different than more severe allergic reactions, which are a cause for concern, and occur within the first four hours of getting the vaccine. “Even if you have a pretty impressive rash after the vaccine, as long as it didn’t start within four hours of vaccination you should feel comfortable getting the second dose,” said Freeman.

Freeman said that mild skin reactions like urticaria, angioedema, and/or morbilliform eruptions, may not be an allergic reaction, instead, this response could be your immune system’s response to anti-inflammatory agents taken after vaccination.

Severe allergic reactions should be tended to right away by a medical professional, with these symptoms usually treated with epinephrine or an EpiPen. The CDC explains that symptoms could include hives, swelling and wheezing. If a severe allergic reaction occurs during your first round of mRNA vaccine, it might be the right choice to talk to your doctor and ask if you can take a different type of vaccine.

What Is Bioengineering Marijuana And Why Are People Doing It?

Terry Hacienda

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April 9, 2021

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What Is Bioengineering Marijuana And Why Are People Doing It?

Cannabis cultivation has skyrocketed since legalization began and the introduction of bioengineering modifications will surely be a plus in every aspect.

The growth of cannabis over the years has completely changed the scope of how cannabis cultivation is viewed by many. The different set of activities involved in the production of cannabis are also rapidly improving due to the immense impact of specialization and the input of technology.

Cannabis cultivation has hugely developed from the conventional method of cultivation to a more advanced means of production. Different companies are now adopting different methods aimed at improving the cultivation process to give yields of larger quantities and better quality. This led to the development of the biotechnology arm of the cannabis industry which is now making giant strides in the area of cannabis bioengineering.

What is cannabis bioengineering?

Cannabis bioengineering generally involves the use of genetic modifications to scale up the production process of cannabis and its extracts. Cannabinoids such as THC, CBD, and several others present in the cannabis plant matrix only exist in small quantities. This makes it unfit for use on an industrial scale especially in terms of the pharmaceutical use of the product. Cannabinoids are majorly concentrated in trichomes which are short outgrowth on the cannabis bud. This makes the stem, stalk, leaves unusable in terms of getting the necessary cannabinoids. This apparent need led to the introduction of genetic modifications to cannabis cultivation.

Application of bioengineering in cannabis

The first application of genetic modifications in cannabis is in the use of microorganisms for the production of cannabinoids. Some biotech companies and researchers are working towards how microorganisms, yeast, and some other organisms can be used to modify the production process of cannabinoids in cannabis plants. This encompasses the use of such organisms to produce scarce cannabinoids and the use of such organisms to increase the cannabinoid pull of the producer. With this, the cannabis producer and companies that require the cultivators for cannabis products get to experience more yield of the beneficial product.

The next application of bioengineering in cannabis cultivation is towards the modification of chemical synthesis within the plant. The plant matrix of the cannabis plant primarily consists of cannabinoids, flavonoids, terpenes, and other phytochemical molecules. The application of bioengineering in cannabis chemical synthesis operates by altering the cells of the cannabis plant. This alteration will result in the production of the necessary cannabinoids from the top of the cannabis plant to the bottom. This is contrary to the general experience of only trichomes hosting most of the cannabinoids in the cannabis plants as the chemical synthesis improves overall production.

The general goal of all modifications and genetic bioengineering practices done in cannabis is to produce sufficient cannabinoids easily and more efficiently. The high level of effectiveness associated with bioengineering makes it a more reliable method for the production of cannabis products compared to the conventional cultivation processes. The use of these different genetic modifications also increases the production of rare cannabinoids. These molecules naturally occur in trace amounts in cannabis plants and the use of appropriate methods makes them abundant and available.

The Truth About CBD And The Coronavirus Pandemic — Photo by chriss_ns/Getty Images

Another genetic modification that is also gaining traction from cannabis companies is the use of transgenic plants. Such plants are well-tuned to survive under harsh conditions and periods of environmental stress. This makes such super-plants durable and dependable for the production of the needed cannabis products.

Cannabis companies taking the right step

The train of bioengineering in cannabis has left the station and different big cannabis companies are already waking up to this reality. Canopy Growth Corporation, Canada in 2018 purchased Ebbu which is a small company dealing with bioengineering in Canada. The purchase is valued at over $300 million making it one of the topmost cannabis transactions between cannabis companies and biotech companies. Ebbu holds the privilege of being regarded as one of the early players in cannabis bioengineering as the company has begun manipulating the cannabis genome with the gene-editing system CRISPR-Cas9.

Trait Biosciences in Toronto are also at the forefront of cannabis bioengineering though with a different approach. The company has successfully developed ways to genetically engineer the cannabis plant to produce cannabinoids generally around the cannabis plant. This helps to improve overall yield. Further work being done on the cannabis plant is also aimed at making some oil-soluble extracts from the cannabis plant more water-soluble. This will aid the easy incorporation into Cannabis beverages and other water-based cannabis products.

Other companies are also towing this line and a good example is Zenabis from Vancouver, Canada. They already purchased 36 tonnes of bacteria-made CBD from a medical marijuana company called Farmako from Frankfurt, Germany. This transaction is bound to be the first of many as other companies are expected to follow suit soon enough.

Advantages of bioengineering over conventional cultivation practices

Consistency of product

Unlike cultivation processes, the use of bioengineering makes the process of producing cannabinoids easy as the process is easily reproducible along with the products. Cultivation processes are bound to be affected by external factors such as weather, pests, and other environmental factors. Bioengineering, however, mostly depends on the work within and is less prone to such environmental factors.

More environmental friendly

Surprisingly, the use of bioengineering modifications is friendlier to the environment compared to cultivation processes. This is because less energy is applied to run a bioreactor compared to the effect of cultivation which requires power to run lights and ventilation fans. Cultivation processes also have a risk of water and land pollution attached to them.

Photo by Ryland Zweifel/EyeEm/Getty Images

Lesser known cannabinoids are grown more

The use of bioengineering has the added advantage of making available other cannabinoids that are less-known compared to THC and CBD. Examples of such cannabinoids are cannabigerol CBD and tetrahydrocannabivarin THCV. This method also has the possibility of producing compounds not found in nature making it more lucrative along with it being more effective.

Bottom line

Cannabis cultivation has skyrocketed since legalization began and the introduction of bioengineering modifications will surely be a plus in every aspect. There is, however, need for more work to be done by researchers and biotech companies to fully understand and utilize this innovative new technology.

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

Federal Marijuana Legalization Could Mimic End Of Alcohol Prohibition

Mike Adams

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April 9, 2021

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Federal Marijuana Legalization Could Mimic End Of Alcohol Prohibition

Congressional Democrats are working this year to get something on the books. It might not be as far-reaching as many hope, but legal weed will get there eventually.

Federal marijuana legalization is inevitable in the United States, but it’s likely to involve small steps to get there. Right now, Senate Democrats are gearing up to push a comprehensive marijuana reform bill in the coming weeks designed to end almost 90 years of federal cannabis prohibition.

However, President Joe Biden isn’t yet on board with the concept of taking cannabis reform this far. Instead, he would prefer to decriminalize the herb nationwide and expunge criminal records. But he’s far too busy to do any of that right now, according to Vice President Kamala Harris. So it’s anyone’s guess how long it’s going to take for the nation to see significant change.

Joe Biden Keeps Stating Conflicting Opinions About Marijuana — Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Stringer/Getty Images

When the time finally comes, however, rest assured the moves will be incremental at best. Looking back on the demise of alcohol prohibition decades ago, we can see that it, too, started slow before becoming the mega industry it is today. In fact, before the total repeal of national alcohol prohibition, federal lawmakers fought to legalize only specific alcoholic beverages. The same toe-in-the-water politics that we often see on Capitol Hill concerning cannabis is nothing new.

Alcohol Prohibition brought about more socioeconomic trouble for the U.S. than what prohibitionists had promised. They said life would get better without booze. Instead, the nation experienced higher crime, more poverty, and the average American’s quality of life suffered greatly. Then came the Great Depression, and the country sank into a downward spiral that many thought would never end.

Enough was enough; governmental leaders began searching for ways to stimulate the economy and end some of the gnarliest unemployment rates in history. It made sense that legalizing alcohol was the right move. But they didn’t go all-in at first.

In April 1933, President Roosevelt, who ran his campaign on the promise of ending alcohol prohibition, took the first step toward remedying the situation. He asked Congress to legalize alcoholic beverages with a low alcohol content.

“I recommend to the Congress the passage of legislation for the immediate modification of the Volstead Act, in order to legalize the manufacture and sale of beer and other beverages of such alcoholic content as is permissible under the Constitution; and to provide through such manufacture and sale, by substantial taxes, a proper and much-needed revenue for the Government. I deem action at this time to be of the highest importance.”

How Prohibitionist Ideology Has Wrecked The Republican Party And Undermined Democracy — Photo by
alexsl/Getty Images

Legalizing booze with a low ABV, Roosevelt believed, would reduce unemployment and provide the nation with much-needed tax revenue. It wasn’t long (the next day, in fact) before lawmakers introduced the Cullen-Harrison Act, which called for the legalization of beverages containing 3.2% alcohol. It was swiftly moved through both chambers of Congress without issue. In less than 10 days, the bill had passed the House and Senate, and Roosevelt signed it into law. It wasn’t the end of prohibition like many had hoped, but it was a start.

Although only 21 states and the District of Columbia passed similar laws, tens of thousands of jobs were created. Business sectors from across the board — farmers, glassmakers, etc. — began to experience a boost. It was a big win for the nation. The anniversary of this reform is now known as National Beer Day.

Will Prohibitionists Tie The New Conservative Movement To Trump? — Photo by
AlexLMX/Getty Images

By December 1933, legal alcohol was starting to resurrect a dead land formerly known as the United States, so lawmakers voted to repeal prohibition altogether. Still, many states remained dry for decades. It wasn’t until the 1960s when the last of the prohibition states finally ended this madness.

Fast forward to present times, and the nation has already made similar moves with respect to cannabis. Congress legalized industrial hemp production a few years ago, allowing the production of hemp with no more than .0.3% THC. It certainly didn’t provide the economic boon that many expected, but it was a start.

Last year, the nation got slammed by a pandemic, which drove the economy into the ground. Since then, state lawmakers have been scrambling to create new revenue streams. Marijuana legalization is always a hot topic of discussion. In fact, New York’s economic troubles are a large part of why it just legalized for adult use. As it stands, 16 states have pot laws on the books that allow the production and sale of marijuana for adults 21 and older. It’s just taking the federal government longer to catch up.

The good news is that Congressional Democrats are working this year to get something on the books. It might not be as far-reaching as many hope, but legal weed will get there eventually. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer says he wants to present his case to President Biden, who is focused on an infrastructure plan to boost the economy. Let’s hope Biden can see, like Roosevelt did, the benefits of a taxed and regulated market.

Cannabis And Adderall Combined???

Terry Hacienda

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April 9, 2021

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If you are already suffering from ADHD, ask your physician about medicating with CBD or cannabis instead of Adderall. But don’t mix the two. Here’s why.

Adderall is a widely prescribed medicine for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD. It can also be used to treat narcolepsy. But what happens when you have cannabis and adder all combined???

Because it’s become so popular, many people have even started using it recreationally, or have been able to source it in order to stay up late at night to study. This FDA-approved drug, which is made up of dextroamphetamine and amphetamine, works to stimulate the nervous system, improve one’s focus and concentration, while reducing impulsivity by increasing norepinephrine and dopamine levels within the brain.

However, taking Adderall is a bad idea whether or not you’re on prescription for it. It’s not uncommon for many people to get so hooked on it the way one would fiend for cocaine. That’s because dopamine is released when you take the pill, and when dopamine runs out, people will eventually feel the need to replenish it. Constantly wanting to replenish that dopamine can lead to a deadly addiction.

how cbd helped control this teenagers adhd and tourettes syndrome — Photo by Larry Washburn/Getty Images

The misuse of prescription drugs is dangerous, and that includes Adderall. Its side effects include:

Restlessness

Nervousness

Migraines

Dizziness

Insomnia

Sleeping issues

Slowed speech

Hoarseness

Tics

Seizures

Uncontrollable shaking

Paranoia

Hallucinations

Problems with cognition

Worsening of mental health problems such as anxiety and depression

It can even get worse when you combine it with cannabis.

Marijuana Users With ADHD Use Less Prescription Drugs — Photo by rawpixel.com

Cannabis has long been a popular recreational drug, so it’s not surprising to see people experimenting by combining Adderall and pot. But why would people mix the two in the first place? The combo is so widely used that there’s already a term for it: Madderall.

In some people, Adderall causes irritability, distress, and other uncomfortable emotions. That’s why they turn to cannabis; alternatively, they find that cannabis also negates some unwanted side effects of Adderall such as lethargy and fatigue. Other reasons why people combine the two is because it can make you feel more socially aware; this medical cocktail has been reported to give people a heightened mental state. Meanwhile, others report that they experience increased brain function and enables them to process information quicker and more efficiently.

The Risks Involved

While cannabis alone has proven to be a safe medication when used alone, there are serious risks involved when you mix it with other medications. When it comes to Adderall, a combination of both when taken at the same time can make one extremely drowsy or lead to fatal conditions such as a stroke or heart attack because Adderall has been known to increase the heart rate, while cannabis can do the same in people who already have underlying heart conditions. Prolonged use over time can weaken the immune system.

Additionally, some users report that Adderall enhances the cannabis high, causing them to increase their dose over time. When your body eventually adjusts to the medications, we develop a higher tolerance and will need higher doses to feel anything later on. This can lead to a deadly overdose when the two are mixed in the body.

While there’s a lack of studies documenting the harmful effects of combining both drugs, one only needs to look at the properties of each on the human body to know that it’s an extremely dangerous thing to do. If you are already taking Adderall on prescription, don’t mix it with cannabis or other substances to begin with. And if you’re taking Adderall recreationally, it’s best you stop.

Can CBD Be Used To Treat ADHD Symptoms? — Photo by Katja Kircher/Getty Images

Continued usage of both can affect how your brain produces serotonin and dopamine, because it will be dependent on the presence of a chemical stimulus, causing you to feel depression or even anhedonia.

What About Mixing CBD And Adderall?

CBD on its own, just like cannabis, has also been a proven safe therapeutic medication.

It’s a different story when you combine CBD with prescription drugs, Adderall included. CBD, when taken together with stimulants can have unwanted side effects. It can wreak havoc on your liver because the drugs are processed in the liver, leading to altered concentration of these drugs within the body. Altered concentration of drugs cause them to no longer work or make the side effects even more pronounced.

Some people enjoy combining CBD with Adderall because of CBD’s calming effects. It also helps some people find relief when they are coming off Adderall.

The studies say that since Adderall is metabolized by an enzyme called the CYP2D6, and CBD inhibits this enzyme strongly, a combination of both within the body means that much more medicine will enter the blood stream. They also note that Adderall already does enter the bloodstream at a high percentage (75%), which is why when people combine the two you can still suffer from a loss of concentration and focus. But because we all have a different constitution and biological makeup, the effects can be vastly different from person to person. For this reason, other people will say that CBD can actually strengthen the effect of Adderall in the body.

Conclusion

It is never safe to mix cannabis with other medications even if you have a prescription for both. You must at least consult your physician, who is ideally knowledgeable about both types of medications. Regardless, medical interactions can pose a serious health risk.

If you are already suffering from ADHD, ask your physician about medicating with CBD or cannabis instead of Adderall. These alternative medications have showed promise for treating difficulty concentrating and focus without the harmful and addictive side effects of Adderall.

FDA Warns Using Too Much Of This Can Damage Your Heart

Maria Loreto

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April 8, 2021

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FDA Warns Using Too Much Of This Can Damage Your Heart

The FDA warns against the recurring use of this common over the counter medication.

The FDA has issued a warning in regards to a popular nasal decongestant, one that could cause heart damage if misused.

Over the counter medications are consumed when experiencing a wide variety of symptoms, whether that’s a common cold, headaches, stomach aches or any type of physical pain. These medications tend to have a fixed spot in our medicine cabinets, with the majority of us believing that they’re safe since they don’t require a doctor’s prescription. But all medicines come with their fair share of risks, especially when used too often.

How To Stop Coughing So Hard From Marijuana Smoke — Photo by cottonbro via Pexels

Benzedrex, a nasal decongestant, can cause major heart and mental health problems when abused. The FDA released a statement on March 25th, claiming that symptoms can include fast or abnormal heart rhythm, high blood pressure and paranoia, which could result in hospitalization and even death in serious situations.

In recent years, cases of misuse of nasal decongesants have increased considerably, with the most common side effects reported being “rapid heart rate, agitation, high blood pressure, chest pain, tremor, hallucinations, delusions, confusion, nausea, and vomiting.”

The nasal spray has a warning on its label that indicates the risks which stem from a chemical called propylhexedrin, which is absorbed when used and can result in dangerous levels of blood pressure. Nasal decongestant sprays are traditionally used to relieve nasal congestion, which can occur when experiencing a cold, allergies, fevers and more.

Benzedrex, should be used according to its guidelines, which are indicated on its label. Two sprays should be administered in each nostril every two hours and limited to a three day usage.

Virginia Becomes First State In South To Legalize Adult Use Cannabis

Debra Borchardt

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April 8, 2021

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Virginia Becomes First State In South To Legalize Adult Use Cannabis

Virginia’s marijuana industry could eventually be responsible for creating approximately 11,000 to more than 18,000 jobs.

Virginia is now the 16th state to legalize cannabis for adult use and the fourth state to do so by passing a bill through its state legislature versus going to the voters. On Wednesday, Virginia lawmakers approved a bill that will legalize, regulate, and tax cannabis sales for adults 21 and over. It will probably be another two years before the state sees any retail sales.

“Virginia legislators are proving that it is possible to work swiftly to pass legislation that will not only legalize cannabis but also address the disproportionate harm caused by decades of prohibition,” said Steve Hawkins, MPP’s executive director. “Virginia is just the latest state to end cannabis prohibition and replace it with sensible legalization and regulation for adults 21 and over. MPP is proud to have played an important role in three of the four states where legislatures have voted to legalize cannabis — Vermont, Illinois, and now, Virginia.” Newly released statewide polling data finds that 68% of registered voters in Virginia, including majorities of Democrats and Republicans, support legalizing marijuana for adults.

MPP said that in addition to legalizing cannabis for adults 21 and over, the law will establish a Cannabis Equity Reinvestment Fund that will be used to support persons, families, and communities that have been disproportionately affected by enforcement of cannabis laws. Legal possession and personal cultivation will begin on July 1, 2021.

You can find a summary of the bill here.

“It’s encouraging to see that legislators in so many states are embracing regulation as an alternative to failed prohibition policies,” said Matt Simon, MPP’s senior legislative analyst. “Virginia is the first state in the South to legalize cannabis, and we can be certain that others will follow as public support continues to grow.”

NORML Development Director Jenn Michelle Pedini, who also serves as the Executive Director of Virginia NORML, said: “This is an incredible victory for Virginia. Legalization will bring an end to the thousands of low-level marijuana infractions occurring annually in the Commonwealth — ending a discriminatory practice that far too often targets Virginians who are young, poor, and people of color.”

Size of Market

A state-commissioned report suggested that, “Depending on demand and the tax rate selected, commercial marijuana could produce $31–$62 million during the first full year of sales, depending on the state’s chosen tax rate (figure). By the fifth year of sales, commercial marijuana could produce $154–$308 million in tax revenue. If the state set the marijuana sales tax at 25%, there would eventually be an estimated $177–$300 million in net tax revenue after operational costs ($147–$250 million if the marijuana sales tax rate was set at 20%).” The report also said that Virginia’s marijuana industry could eventually be responsible for creating approximately 11,000 to more than 18,000 jobs (0.3 to 0.5% of the state’s workforce).

“Virginia Alcohol Board Control Authority could need $7–$9 million annually to hire approximately 85 to 105 staff. Creating a new agency could cost $9–$12 million annually to hire approximately 110 to 140 staff. VABC would also be able to implement its new responsibilities faster than a new agency.”

Activists Celebrate A Win

“It is a huge day for equity in the Commonwealth,” Majority Leader Charniele Herring added. “Virginia is now the first state in the South to legalize recreational marijuana use, and I am so proud to have been able to carry this monumental legislation. I am ever grateful for the commitment and advocacy from NORML on this topic. Getting Virginia to this day would not have been possible without their hard work and dedication to the cause.”

“The passage of SB1406 caps off years of struggle to reform our broken and outdated marijuana laws and begins the deliberate steps to repeal the harms of the failed prohibition,” said Senator Adam Ebbin. “I am thankful to NORML, the Governor, and my colleagues for moving this 283 bill from inception to passage over the last four months, and look forward to continuing to partner with them to establish a regulated, equity focused, adult-use marketplace in the coming years.”

Pedini added, “Virginians were very clear that they are ready for legalization this year, sending over 8,800 emails in support of these measures.”

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

Some Massachusetts Landlords Are Trying To Ban Edibles, But Can They?

Terry Hacienda

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April 8, 2021

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Some Massachusetts Landlords Are Trying To Ban Edibles, But Can They?

To ban residents from consuming any form of cannabis is playing into the stereotype that cannabis users are “less than” their non-smoking counterparts.

Can your landlords evict you for smoking cannabis on their property? In Massachusetts, landlords do have the right to evict you if you “smoke” but they do not have permission to evict you for possessing or consuming it. But that doesn’t mean that some landlords aren’t trying.

Some landlords in MA are trying to ban all forms of cannabis consumption, whether eating it or simply possessing it on the property. Some of these clauses include, “immediate eviction” which have left some tenants on edge about where they can and cannot smoke.

With legalization comes different problems and while previously, these laws may have been overlooked due to the illegality of cannabis. However, when a substance is legally permitted within a state it may clash with the property rights of landlords.

This puts tenant and landlord at odds which is not the ideal situation when talking about the place where someone needs to feel safe and secure — their home.

But it also creates an interesting debate: Who has more power in this situation? After all, tenants are living on the property of landlords and within the context of “property rights” – the landlord does have a right to ask a tenant to refrain from certain activities.

This doesn’t mean that it’s right and, more importantly, unless you are spying on your tenants, it would be very difficult to enforce. Yet some landlords believe it’s their duty to deter people from smoking weed on their property.

Misconceptions about cannabis

One of the primary reasons why landlords do not want cannabis in their homes is because the “smoke” might damage the property, meaning there is a devaluation of the asset. This, however, hardly happens. People don’t smoke nearly as much weed as they do tobacco in terms of frequency. Whereas a cigarette is far more compulsory than a joint, cannabis smoke does not impregnate as much as tobacco.

This isn’t to say that it doesn’t smell at all. On the contrary, it can be dank indeed.

Another reason landlords are ware of cannabis consumers are because of the “fear of cultivation”. Under US law, if a “crime has been committed on a property, the property can stand trial”. In other words, the landlord may have their house stand trial if you get busted for pot.

San Francisco Won’t Include Marijuana In Apartment Smoking Ban — Photo by Viktor Talashuk via Unsplash

They may also fear damages from inexperienced growers trying to crop out indoors without knowing how to properly regulate humidity levels.

All of these are valid reasons, yet at no point puts the liberty of the tenant in the picture. After all, why do you pay a security deposit if you can’t do anything on the property.

Sure, cannabis is still federally illegal, but we’re at a point in time where more people are in support of cannabis and the law-enforcement route is dwindling.

Finally, landlords are projecting their fears on their tenants, assuming they are druggies and will simply mess everything up. This is frankly quite offensive. It’s a hasty generalization that plays into old stereotypes promoted by “das government.”

Are cannabis users bad tenants?

Let me ask this a different way: Are those who drink an occasional glass of wine bad tenants? How about those who eat doughnuts? Not sure how to answer that one? That’s because you can’t define someone’s moral compass based on what they eat, drink or smoke.

Of course, you can infer that “tobacco smoke” may cause some smells to impregnate into the structure of your house, and because of that reason Massachusetts landlords do have the right to evict someone if they violate the “smoking ban” which is upheld by state law.

Beyond that, to ban residents from consuming any form of cannabis is playing into the stereotype that cannabis users are “less than” their non-smoking counterparts. This is interesting because one would think that these landlords would also have a qualm with alcohol, which is responsible for up to 40% of all violent crimes and is a heavy influencer in spousal abuse, child abuse, etc. One would think that landlords would prefer to avoid “child beatings” on their property, but there has been no move or interest from these same landlords to ban alcohol consumption on their properties.

Sure, this is an exaggerated point of view, but increasingly, being against cannabis consumption is becoming as ridiculous as banning alcohol and it’s time that we embrace cannabis on all fronts. This includes allowing tenants to consume cannabis or at the very least create a place for them to consume.

smoke marijuana apartment without getting evicted — Photo by Karla Alexander via Unsplash

This is a human rights issue that clashes with private property rights. It’s difficult for sure because the libertarian in me says, “The landlords have the right to do whatever they want on their property” and I wouldn’t want the government to take away that right and force them to do anything.

On the other hand, cannabis consumption does not indicate bad tenants; there is no inherent risk of damage to your property.

So I guess if you are a landlord and want to be an ass, it’s your right to be so. But I hope the market simply avoids your property since you’re still living in the 1980s.

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

Delta-8 Vs Delta-9: What’s The Difference

Green Market Report

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April 8, 2021

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Delta-8 Vs Delta-9: What’s The Difference

The critical difference is the pace at which these compounds build up effects. Here are some others.

Hemp and marijuana plants contain many active ingredients. However, a lot of focus is on two specific natural compounds found in these plants: tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).

Most consumers have recently found out that there are two types of THC molecules in hemp and marijuana — Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC. How do you choose your edibles now? While the list of top Delta-8 gummies can make things easy, some of you might want to find out more about Delta-8 and Delta-9.

Here is everything you need to know about these two compounds, including the key differences between Delta-8 and Delta-9.

THC: Short Recap

If you were wondering what ingredient is responsible for the “high” effect, it’s THC. It is a psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants. Marijuana contains it in higher concentration than industrial hemp.

It works pretty straightforward. We have the endocannabinoid system with CB1 and CB2 receptors, and THC binds to these receptors and exhibits its effects. When it binds to CB1 receptors, it induces the “high” effect, while CB2 bind induces relaxation.

What is Delta-8

Delta-8 THC is naturally occurring in cannabis plants, both hemp and marijuana. Although it occurs in very small concentrations, it can still be derived thanks to distillation. It has a unique molecular structure and exhibits unique effects when consumed.

Delta-8 can exhibit very high neuroprotective potential and help relieve chronic pain. There are various Delta-8-based products on the market ranging from oils to edibles. With this in mind, let’s quickly see what Delta-9 is.

What is Delta-9

Delta-9 is also naturally occurring in cannabis plants. The more popularly used term for it is simply THC. Whenever you see an article referring to THC or outlining its effects and benefits, it’s, in fact, Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. This is the molecule that can induce elation and a classic “high” feeling.

RELATED: Demand Is Booming For Delta-8

Due to its profound effects, it caught the eye of researchers in the field of medicine. Delta-9 THC exhibits many properties; it can act as an appetite stimulant and prevent nausea, among other things.

Do you remember the Farm Bill from 2018? If one wants to grow hemp or make cannabis-based products legally, the THC levels have to be at 0.3% or less. The bill refers to Delta 9 THC.

Will Congress Boost Hemp Total THC Limit To 1%? — Photo by anankkml/Getty Images

Delta-8 and Delta-9 – Key Differences

From what you’ve seen so far, it is easy to assume that Delta-8 and Delta-9 are two compounds with really similar properties and effects. In terms of molecular structure, Delta-8 and -9 are almost identical apart from a couple of electrons.

However, there are some key differences that you should know about.

Anxious and Paranoid Effects

There is a reason the Farm Bill dictates keeping the levels of Delta-9 THC levels below 0.3%. In some people, Delta-9 THC can induce feelings of anxiety. It can also make them feel paranoid for no apparent reason. It can also impact the performance of mental work. The “too much high” effect is only tied to Delta-9 THC.

Delta-8 THC is less psychoactive than Delta-9. People who experience these unpleasant feelings should instead try Delta-8. It is far less potent than Delta-9 and can enable people to enjoy cannabis or cannabis-based products carefree.

Photo by Darrin Harris Frisby/Drug Policy Alliance

Relaxation Effects

Due to its potency, Delta-9 THC is more likely to induce elation rather than relaxation. After taking Delta-9 THC, people report the “high” feeling that can even build up to euphoria. It can elevate your mood. If this is how you imagine the relaxed state, Delta-9 THC may have some answers for you.

On the other hand, if you genuinely want to get rid of the tension without experiencing the “high” effect, Delta-8 THC might be a better option. It has a significantly milder effect when compared to Delta-9.

The Effects Build Up

There is one more thing that makes Delta-8 and -9 different. They don’t only induce different effects, but they also do it at a different pace. Delta-9 THC is absorbed quickly, and it can induce the feelings mentioned above quite fast after consumption. This is an important thing to note as it can alter your plans for the afternoon or evening.

Unlike Delta-9, Delta-8 THC is a slow kicker. It delivers a significantly smoother experience than Delta-9. After the consumption, the feelings of relaxation gradually come on, and there is considerably less risk that it can induce anxiety.

To sum up, both Delta-8 and 9 THC are naturally occurring in cannabis plants. Delta-9 THC is the famous THC everyone talks about, while Delta-8 is its less potent counterpart. The critical difference is the pace at which these compounds build up effects. Delta-9 delivers more powerful effects than Delta-8, and it does it faster.

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

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Virginia’s marijuana industry could eventually be responsible for creating approximately 11,000 to more than 18,000 jobs.

Size of Market

Activists Celebrate A Win

To ban residents from consuming any form of cannabis is playing into the stereotype that cannabis users are “less than” their non-smoking counterparts.

Misconceptions about cannabis

Are cannabis users bad tenants?

The critical difference is the pace at which these compounds build up effects. Here are some others.

THC: Short Recap

What is Delta-8

What is Delta-9

Delta-8 and Delta-9 – Key Differences

Anxious and Paranoid Effects

Relaxation Effects

The Effects Build Up

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

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