This Mexican Canna-Punch Is The Best Cinco De Mayo Drink

Warren Bobrow

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May 5, 2025

This Mexican Canna-Punch Is The Best Cinco De Mayo Drink

Because the flavor of this craft cocktail has everything to do with the buzz, the person who enjoys this drink is filled with reverence for the holiday that they call Cinco de Mayo.

The holiday of Cinco de Mayo is more of a good excuse to get happy than the actual meaning of the day — as far as I know it’s the Mexican Independence Day — but for all intents and purposes, its Tequila & Weed Day for me.

And the way that I think involves infusions — not tinctures or oils, or dare I say those things they are putting in cocktails called CBD drops. Hemp is what that is. Not at all what I work with, so please don’t expect it. Here is a merge of deliciousness to celebrate the holiday, this Mexican Canna-Punch is hte best Cinco de Mayo drink.

It’s so important to draw attention to the decarb step when making infused spirits with cannabis. The decarb step is heating the cannabis in an oven or, in my case, I use the Ardent decarb machine. Never have I burned a batch! It’s foolproof, unlike my toaster-oven that fluctuates 20-30 degrees according to my commercial grade oven thermometer.

And because the flavor of my craft cocktails has everything to do with the buzz, I want to make sure that the person who enjoys this drink is filled with reverence for the holiday that they call Cinco de Mayo.

Tequila certainly is the weight that will take your palate to other places. I cannot recommend any one brand — no one in this space has given me permission to use their spirits with cannabis — so I won’t be saying any names. Others are more sensitive about this and I respect that.

I can recommend to use an Anejo or Reposado tequila for your infusion. They have darker colors overall from the bourbon oak casks that age the tequila until it is just so.

I like to do a very basic infusion: decarb and then using an ISI whipped cream dispenser, filled ¾ with the tequila of your choice. Add the amount of cannabis that you want to infuse. I would make sure that the cannabis has been tested for pesticides and herbicides — you wouldn’t want to drink them! I’d also want to know how much THC is in the mix. There are many ways to do this. I won’t belabor this. You know how strong you want your medicinals to be.

1. Decarb your cannabis then grind well

2. Add to an ISI whipped cream maker

3. Add the tequila of your choice

4. Charge with two whippets of N20 (Nitrous Oxide)

5. Shake lightly and let sit for 2 or so minutes between each blast, then vent into a towel

6. You probably won’t want to breathe it. Don’t.

7. Strain the cannabis infused tequila through a cheesecloth and squeeze out all the liquid wearing rubber gloves (otherwise you’ll get super stoned)

8. Bring volume in tequila bottle up to 750ml with fresh tequila

9. Mix funky craft cocktails with your THC infused tequila

Mexican Cinco-de-Mayo Canna-Punch

Ingredients

1 bottle of your cannabis infused Tequila of your choice
12 oz. Grapefruit Soda (I prefer Fruitations Ruby Red) and Cocktail Syrup
1 qt. freshly squeezed orange juice
½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
¼ cup freshly squeezed lime juice
1 bottle of sparkling rosé (Mexican rosé if you can get it!)
aromatic bitters

CREATE

Add all the ingredients including the sparkling rosé to a punch bowl. Stir well. Ice with a large chunk of ice. Service in Victorian-style tea cups, poured from a ladle. Garnish with fresh mint (slapped against your palm to release the oils) and aromatic bitters. Yum!

Music Legend Joins The Cannabis Movement

Anthony Washington

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May 2, 2025

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Another music legend rolls into the cannabis movement

Another music legend joins the cannabis movement. Over 88% of the country believes the green plant should be legal in some form and medical marijuana is becoming mainstream, more leaders are joining the movement. The latest is George Clinton has partnered with Wiz Khalifa and celebrating the launch of The Funk. Together they are premiering a new infused pre-roll. They will have an official launch at ‘Khalifa Kush’ store-in-store at Planet 13, the world’s largest dispensary in Vegas.

George Edward Clinton, is a pioneering American funk musician, singer, songwriter, producer, and bandleader. He founded the influential Parliament-Funkadelic collective, which shaped the sound of 1970s funk by blending psychedelic rock, soul, and Afrofuturism with surreal humor and theatrical performances. Clinton began his career in the 1950s with the doo-wop group The Parliaments, later evolving into Funkadelic and Parliament after legal issues. His work revolutionized funk, influencing hip-hop and G-funk, and earned him induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997 and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019.

This new venture is generating buzz and when The Fresh Toast asked why he decided to collaborate with Whiz Khalifa , Clinton shared “I smoked some of his weed and he had some good stuff.”

Clinton shared a memory where his music and the green plant intersected. “Sugar Shack was a club in Boston that we played a lot … in the early days around ’69. During that time, there was some really good weed out. I think it was called Acapulco Gold. I don’t think I ever got that high again until the ’90’s with Chronic.

Like the medical community and millions of patients, Clinton is hopefully for the expansion of medical marijuana. Clinton shared “I see a future where cannabis will become a major part of a cure for a lot of social and mental disorders … in additional to just plain recreational use. It clearly has a positive effect on our well-being. I look around and see medical marijuana being successfully used by so many people … for chronic pain sufferers it can be a game changer … and it comes without the high risk of addiction associated with some other prescription treatments, you know, man.”

Today Clinton will be meeting with fans, signing autographs, and celebrating the launch of THE FUNK with his longtime friend Khalifa, who opened his first ‘Khalifa Kush’ store-in-store at Planet 13.

Any Hope From The Administration On Cannabis

Terry Hacienda

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April 30, 2025

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Any Hope From The Administration On Cannabis

Part of the cannabis industry went big for the current administration – and fingers are crossed it will pay off.

Mom and pop businesses employing hundreds of thousands of people are worried about what the administration is going to do about cannabis. While over 80% of the public say it should be legalized and even other part of the government are supporting medical marijuana. The future is unknown. The appointment of Terrance Cole as President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has brought both optimism and skepticism to the ongoing debate over federal cannabis rescheduling. But is there any hope from the administration on cannabis? A significant portion of the industry backed the winning ticket, certain it would mean success for marijuana. The recent movement to help veterans with medical marijuana seems positive and data based. All hope is turned to the DEA pick now.

Cole’s recent comments during his Senate confirmation hearing have sparked discussion about the Trump administration’s stance and the future of cannabis policy at the federal level. Cole stated reviewing the stalled marijuana rescheduling process would be “one of my first priorities” if confirmed, acknowledging “it’s time to move forward” after repeated delays in the administrative process. This has offered a glimmer of hope to advocates who have long awaited progress on the issue. However, Cole repeatedly declined to commit to supporting the specific proposal to move cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III, a recommendation initiated under the Biden administration and backed by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

But Cole has emphasized the need to review the science and consult with experts before making any decisions.

Cole’s long career in law enforcement and his previous public statements reveal a traditionally conservative stance on cannabis. He has linked marijuana use to health risks and youth suicide, and has used hashtags such as #justsayno and #notlegal4distribution in social media posts. This history has led some observers to question whether his stated willingness to prioritize the rescheduling review will translate into meaningful action or simply maintain the status quo.

The cannabis rescheduling process has been mired in delays. A scheduled hearing to assess the Biden-era rescheduling proposal was canceled pending an interlocutory appeal, leaving the matter in the hands of the incoming Trump administration. Former DEA and HHS officials have warned that, without proactive support from President Trump himself, the process could stall indefinitely or be suspended altogether if the administration reinterprets prior legal arguments.

“While Mr. Cole may have told Senate Judiciary Committee members with regard to rescheduling cannabis, that “it’ll be one of my first priorities” upon being confirmed, he failed to commit to Schedule III. While that may not seem like a big deal, but it is huge since a move to Schedule II would effectively have no positive impact whatsoever” shared Andrew Cooper, from Falcon Rappaport & Berkman LLP, a major cannabis law firm.

Thousands of mom and pop businesses, Industry stakeholders and advocates are cautious. While Cole’s remarks about moving the process forward are welcomed, his refusal to endorse the Schedule III proposal and his historical opposition to reform temper expectations. Many believe the Trump administration’s overall approach remains uncertain.

The Wackiest Cannabis Laws

Anthony Washington

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April 28, 2025

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Sometimes you just have to scratch your head at how lawmakers allow this to happen….

Marijuana has become mainstream with 88% of the US population supporting some form of legalization, Canada was the first major nation to go fully legal and other countries are the world are opening up. But while the average person waits, lawmakers have been downright odd in how they treat the green plant and how the public learns about it. They have passed some of the wackiest cannabis laws which leaves businesses and consumers alike scratching their heads. Cannabis laws are a patchwork of contradictions, quirks, and outright oddities. From draconian punishments to loophole economies, here are some of the wackiest cannabis regulations found across the globe.

In the U.S. capital, adults can legally possess and grow cannabis, but selling it recreationally is technically prohibited. This has led to a bizarre workaround: shops sell overpriced items like art, t-shirts, or stickers, and “gift” cannabis as a free add-on. These so-called “gifting dispensaries” operate openly, advertising cannabis gifts while skirting direct sales laws. Efforts to crack down have failed, as lawmakers worry bans would simply push the trade underground or into delivery services, making regulation even harder.

North Carolina maintains strict prohibition on traditional marijuana, even for medical use. Yet, stores legally sell THC-A flower-a non-psychoactive precursor to THC that becomes intoxicating when smoked. This means you can buy and smoke THC-A products for a legal high, while possession of regular marijuana remains a criminal offense. The result is a confusing legal landscape where enforcement is inconsistent and often disproportionately targets minorities.

Nevada is home the largest dispensary in the world Planet 13 and soon, Cannabition, an immersive experience…but it doesn’t keep the state from being wacky. English teaches must have craft the cannabis regulations which include the fonts used on dispensary signs. Only two fonts are allowed-neither can be decorative or appealing to minors, and script or “fun” fonts are banned. The state prefers sans-serif fonts like Times New Roman or Arial, and signage must not give a humorous impression. This is a rare example of typography being codified into drug policy.

Michigan clings to the pre-text, less fluid spelling era. The states adheres to the archaic spelling “marihuana” in its laws, a holdover from the 1937 tax act. Even modern legislation, such as the Michigan Medical Marihuana Act of 2008, uses this spelling, making it a unique linguistic relic in American cannabis law.

When you like outside the US, it continues to be wacky. India criminalizes most cannabis products but makes a unique exception for bhang, an edible made from cannabis leaves. Bhang is legally sold and consumed, especially during religious festivals, while cannabis flowers and resin remain strictly prohibited. This creates a patchwork of state-by-state rules and a thriving, semi-legal market for bhang. You could say they are doing a bhang up job.

Jamaica decriminalized small amounts of cannabis in 2014, granting Rastafarians the unique right to use and cultivate marijuana for religious purposes. While the general population faces limits, Rastafarians can legally grow and use cannabis as part of their spiritual practice, a hard-won victory after decades of persecution.

Singapore’s cannabis laws are among the harshest in the world. Any involvement with marijuana-regardless of amount-can result in years of imprisonment, heavy fines, and even public flogging. Police conduct random drug checks, and tourists can be detained for up to 30 days without bail or legal representation. The law does not distinguish between personal use and trafficking, leaving sentencing up to police discretion. While a bit less restrictive, there are strict rules on when and where you can consume alcohol in public areas, including a ban on drinking in public places between 10:30 PM and 7:00 AM.You can drink alcohol in licensed premises during their permitted hours, or in private places like your home.

Feds More Open To Medical Marijuiana For Veterans

Terry Hacienda

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April 28, 2025

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Feds More Open To Medical Marijuiana For Veterans

Despite Congress dragging their feet, the medical community and the VA are more open to cannabis

Military veterans across the United States are seeing growing support from both the federal government and the medical community in their pursuit of medical marijuana as a treatment option for various service-related conditions. While challenges remain, significant progress has been made in policy, advocacy, and research, offering hope and new options for those who have served. In fact, a federally funded study indicates areas with higher veteran populations tend to have more medical marijuana doctors. This suggests a potential correlation between the prevalence of qualifying conditions for medical cannabis among veterans and the presence of clinicians to be able add it to their treatment.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has taken meaningful steps to ensure veterans are not penalized for participating in state-sanctioned medical marijuana programs. Veterans will not be denied VA benefits due to marijuana use, and VA providers are encouraged to discuss cannabis use openly with their patients as part of comprehensive care planning. This approach helps ensure that veterans receive holistic and individualized treatment, integrating all aspects of their health and wellness.

medical marijuana — Photo by CapturedNuance/Getty Images

The medical community has increasingly recognized the unique needs of veterans, especially regarding chronic pain, PTSD, and other conditions where traditional medications may fall short. Healthcare professionals are encouraged to work collaboratively with veterans, discussing the risks and benefits of medical marijuana and tailoring treatment plans to individual needs. This patient-centered approach ensures that veterans receive safe, effective, and appropriate care, with medical professionals offering guidance on dosage, potential interactions, and monitoring outcomes.

In some states, such as Illinois, veterans receiving care at VA facilities can apply for medical cannabis programs without a separate physician certification, streamlining access and reducing bureaucratic hurdles. Additionally, advocacy groups and researchers are partnering to collect data and drive further improvements in access and education, ensuring that veterans’ voices are heard and their experiences inform policy and practice.

Veterans’ organizations and advocates have played a crucial role in advancing medical marijuana access. Groups like the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) have called for more research into the efficacy of cannabis for treating service-related conditions and supported legislation to expand access and knowledge. Personal stories from veterans who have found relief through medical cannabis are helping to reduce stigma and encourage others to explore this option as part of their recovery journey.

While federal law still classifies marijuana as a Schedule I substance, the combined efforts of lawmakers, medical professionals, and veteran advocates are paving the way for meaningful reform. Ongoing research, bipartisan legislation, and a commitment to individualized care are helping veterans access the treatments they need and deserve, fostering hope and healing for those who have sacrificed so much.

Forget Ozempic Cannabis Can Help You Get a Summer Body

Amy Hansen

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April 27, 2025

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Forget Ozempic Cannabis Can Help You Get a Summer Body

This magical weight loss pills are a hot right now – but a green plant can get your body right without side effects.

Summer is peaking through and people are starting to think about swimsuit weather. Achieving a summer body is about more than quick fixes-it’s about embracing a holistic, sustainable approach supporting both your physical and mental well-being. March and April follows December as busy times at gyms as people begin to feel summer. But some people want a silver bullet with all the benefit without much effort. Roughly 1 in 8 US adults have used pills for weight loss or diabetes treatment. But forget Ozempic cannabis can help you get a summer body.

RELATED: How Hemp Helps You Sleep

While medications like Ozempic have gained popularity for weight loss, combining cannabis, CBD, and movement offers a natural and effective path to a healthier, more vibrant you. Some type of exercise is required with m to get your body in the hard body shape, but doing it with marijuana and movement is much healthier than weight loss drugs. While some weight loss drugs can be effective, they are not always stomach-safe and cause series gastrointestinal problems – at home and in public.

Cannabis and its non-intoxicating component, CBD, are gaining attention for their potential health benefits. CBD in particular is celebrated for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and potential anti-obesity properties. While research is ongoing, CBD has been shown to help reduce stress, anxiety, and pain-common barriers to maintaining a regular exercise routine and healthy lifestyle. By supporting better sleep and easing post-workout soreness, CBD can help you recover faster and stay consistent with your fitness goals.

Some studies suggest that CBD may help convert white fat into brown fat, which is more metabolically active and helps burn calories-though more human research is needed to confirm this effect. Additionally, CBD’s ability to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress may support better exercise performance and recovery, helping you push harder and see results faster.

Unlike medications which may come with side effects or require ongoing prescriptions, integrating cannabis, CBD, and movement into your lifestyle empowers you to take control of your health naturally. Regular movement paired with the supportive properties of CBD can improve your mood, enhance recovery, and help you maintain a healthy weight without drastic interventions

Regular physical activity remains one of the most reliable methods for shedding fat, building lean muscle, and boosting your mood. Whether it’s hiking, swimming, cycling, or high-intensity interval training (HIIT), moving your body consistently helps burn calories and sculpt your physique. Outdoor activities in the summer not only make workouts more enjoyable but also connect you with nature, increasing motivation and overall well-being. Studies show that exercise alone, especially when performed for longer durations, can lead to significant weight loss and improvements in aerobic fitness and muscle tone.

Building your summer body isn’t about shortcuts-it’s about creating habits that last. By staying active, exploring the wellness benefits of cannabis and CBD, and embracing the joy of movement, you can achieve a summer body that’s not only fit, but also balanced and resilient-no prescription required.

CBD And Cannabis To The Allergy Rescue

Amy Hansen

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April 24, 2025

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Roughly 25% of people suffer spring allergies – but there is something which can help.

Spring brings blooming flowers and warmer days—but for many, it also means the return of sneezing, itchy eyes, and relentless nasal congestion. While over-the-counter allergy medications can help, they often come with side effects like drowsiness and dry mouth. Increasingly, people are turning to natural alternatives like CBD and cannabis to find relief from seasonal allergies. But luckily, there is CBD and cannabis to the allergy rescue.

RELATED: How Hemp Helps You Sleep

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 25.7% of adults in the United States experience seasonal allergies. The prevalence of spring allergies varies by factors such as age, sex, and race.It is estimated that:

- 29.9% of women experience seasonal allergies.
- 21.1% of men experience seasonal allergies.
- 28.4% of non-Hispanic white adults experience seasonal allergies.
- 24.0% of non-Hispanic black adults experience seasonal allergies
- 18.8% of Hispanic adults experience seasonal allergies.

CBD (cannabidiol), a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant, is gaining attention for its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. Inflammation is a key driver of allergy symptoms—when you encounter pollen or other allergens, your immune system releases histamines and other chemicals that cause swelling and irritation. CBD may help by:

Reducing Inflammation: Studies suggest that CBD can lower the pro-inflammatory compounds that block your sinuses and tighten your airways, potentially easing nasal congestion and sinus pressure.
Acting as a Natural Antihistamine: CBD’s ability to modulate immune responses may help decrease histamine production, which is responsible for sneezing, itching, and watery eyes.
Supporting the Immune System: CBD interacts with your endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of receptors that helps regulate immune function. By influencing the ECS, CBD may help balance your immune response to allergens, reducing the severity of allergy symptoms.

Cannabis contains a variety of cannabinoids, including CBD and CBG (cannabigerol), both of which show promise for allergy relief. These compounds work together to:

Modulate Immune Function: By interacting with the ECS, cannabinoids can help regulate the immune system’s reaction to harmless allergens, preventing the overreaction that leads to allergy symptoms.
Alleviate Skin Reactions: Topical cannabis products may reduce allergic skin reactions like rashes, hives, and swelling by calming local inflammation.
Improve Sleep Quality: Allergies can disrupt sleep due to congestion and discomfort. Low-dose cannabis edibles may promote relaxation and better sleep, helping your body recover and cope with allergy symptoms

Practical Ways to Use CBD and Cannabis for Allergies

CBD Oils and Edibles: These are popular choices for allergy sufferers, as they avoid irritating the respiratory system and offer consistent dosing.
CBD Nasal Sprays: Specially formulated sprays can target nasal congestion directly, providing localized relief without the drowsiness associated with traditional antihistamines.
Microdosing Edibles: Starting with low doses of cannabis edibles can help manage symptoms without unwanted side effects like grogginess or brain fog.

Why choose CBBD and cannabis over traditional allergy medications? Unlike many over-the-counter allergy meds, CBD does not typically cause drowsiness or dry mouth, allowing you to stay alert and active throughout the day. CBD is derived from hemp or cannabis plants and is generally well-tolerated, making it an appealing option for those seeking natural remedies. And beyond allergy relief, CBD and cannabis may also promote relaxation, improve sleep, and support overall well-being during allergy season.

Another Federal Agency Helps Cannabis

Terry Hacienda

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April 23, 2025

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The Voice Of America has helped mainstream cannabis by sharing the health benefits

Another federal agency helps cannabis. Voice of America (VOA), the U.S. government’s international broadcaster, has played a significant role in informing the world about the evolving landscape of cannabis policy and culture in the United States. Through its balanced and accessible reporting, VOA has highlighted the remarkable shift in American attitudes toward cannabis, as well as the broader implications for health, politics, and society.

The Voice of America (VOA), a US government-funded international multimedia broadcaster, was established in 1942 during World War II to counter Nazi propaganda and provide the German people with accurate of news and information. Its initial focus was on broadcasting to Europe and North Africa, expanding to include various languages and formats. Over time, VOA became a key tool in American foreign policy, particularly during the Cold War, aiming to promote American values and understanding abroad.

marijuana leaf — Photo by Olena Ruban/Getty Images

One of VOA’s strengths is its focus on clear, factual storytelling resonates with both domestic and international audiences. For example, VOA has reported daily marijuana use in the U.S. has surpassed daily alcohol use for the first time, reflecting a profound change in social norms and acceptance of cannabis. This milestone underscores how cannabis is no longer a fringe issue but a mainstream topic affecting millions of Americans.

VOA’s coverage also emphasizes the rare bipartisan consensus forming around cannabis reform. Recent polls show that 88% of Americans support at least partial legalization, making cannabis one of the few issues that bridges political divides in a polarized nation. By interviewing advocates, policymakers, and everyday citizens, VOA provides a platform for diverse voices and encourages informed public debate.

Furthermore, VOA has shed light on the positive impacts of cannabis legalization and regulation. States that have legalized cannabis have replaced criminal markets with regulated businesses, ensuring product safety, accurate labeling, and restricted access for minors. This regulated approach not only protects consumers but also generates tax revenue and creates jobs, contributing to local economies.

Lion’s Mane And Cannabis

Amy Hansen

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April 22, 2025

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As people look for better options in chronic pain, sleep aides and more – Lion’s mane and cannabis keeps popping up.

In the US, around 38% of adults use some form of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), including approaches like acupuncture, chiropractic care, and herbal supplements. This number has been on the rise, with a notable increase in the use of complementary health approaches like yoga, meditation, and massage, as well as a rise in their use for pain management. Lion’s mane and cannabis are two natural substances gaining attention for their unique health benefits and diverse uses. While both have roots in traditional medicine, modern research is uncovering how each can support wellness—often in complementary ways.

RELATED: How Hemp Helps You Sleep

Some users combine cannabis and lion’s mane mushrooms to harness their synergistic effects. Lion’s mane’s neuroprotective and cognitive-boosting properties may complement cannabis’s mood-enhancing and pain-relieving effects, offering a holistic approach to mental wellness, neurological recovery, and stress management. This combination is particularly attractive to those seeking natural alternatives for brain health, anxiety, and chronic pain.

Cannabis, derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, is used both recreationally and medicinally. Its primary active compounds, THC and CBD, offer a wide range of effects:

Pain Management: Cannabis is widely used to treat chronic pain. Studies show it can be effective and may be a safer alternative to opioids and benzodiazepines, which carry a higher risk of overdose.
Sleep Aid: Many users report improved sleep quality and reduced sleep disturbances, with cannabis helping people fall asleep faster and potentially benefiting those with sleep disorders like restless leg syndrome.
Anxiety and Mood: CBD, a non-intoxicating component of cannabis, has shown promise in reducing symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety, OCD, and PTSD.
Other Medical Uses: Cannabis and its derivatives are used to reduce nausea and vomiting during chemotherapy, stimulate appetite in HIV/AIDS patients, and manage symptoms of multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, and more.

Lion’s mane mushrooms (Hericium erinaceus) are prized in traditional Chinese medicine and are now being studied for their potential health benefits:

- Cognitive Enhancement: Lion’s mane contains compounds (hericenones and erinacines) that stimulate the growth of brain cells and support nerve regeneration, which may help improve memory, focus, and overall cognitive function.
- Neuroprotection: Animal studies suggest lion’s mane may protect against dementia, reduce mild symptoms of anxiety and depression, and help repair nerve damage, making it a candidate for supporting brain health and potentially staving off neurodegenerative diseases.
- Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects: Lion’s mane is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which may help combat chronic inflammation and oxidative stress—factors linked to heart disease, arthritis, and cancer.
- Metabolic and Digestive Health: Research indicates lion’s mane may help regulate blood sugar, manage diabetes, and protect against stomach ulcers by inhibiting harmful bacteria and strengthening the stomach lining

Feature/Benefit	Cannabis	Lion’s Mane Mushrooms
Main Uses	Pain relief, anxiety, sleep, appetite, recreation	Cognitive support, neuroprotection, mood
Psychoactive Effects	Yes (THC); No (CBD)	No
Key Compounds	THC, CBD	Hericenones, erinacines, beta-glucans
Pain Management	Strong evidence	Potential via nerve repair
Cognitive Benefits	Some (CBD, THC for mood)	Strong (memory, focus, nerve growth)
Anti-Inflammatory	Yes	Yes
Legal Status	Varies by region	Widely available as supplement

Cannabis and lion’s mane mushrooms each offer distinct and potentially complementary benefits. Cannabis excels in pain management, sleep, and mood regulation, while lion’s mane shines in cognitive enhancement and neuroprotection. As research continues, both substances are poised to play significant roles in natural health strategies for mind and body

Pope Francis Expanded Thinking On Medical Marijuana

JJ McKay

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April 21, 2025

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Pope Francis Expanded Thinking On Medical Marijuana

While the Catholic Church is not a fan of cannabis, his compassion allowed the Pope to consider medical marijuana to relief suffering.

Pope Francis emerge as one of the most influential global leaders advocating for compassion, mercy, and justice. Since his election in 2013, his papacy has been marked by a profound commitment to the poor, social justice, and pastoral renewal, reshaping the Catholic Church’s engagement with the world and inspiring millions across faiths and cultures. He rarely lost sight of individual suffering as he steered the Catholic Church in changing times. While not a fan of cannabis, Pope Francis expanded thinking on medical marijuana. The world lost a leader who approached change with heart….and always wished better for his fellow man.

Pope Francis’s leadership is deeply rooted in the principle of mercy. He famously declared an Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy in 2015, urging the faithful to rediscover God’s compassion and to embody it in their daily lives. His encyclicals, such as Evangelii Gaudium and Fratelli Tutti, call for an “outgoing Church” that reaches the existential peripheries, offering refuge to the marginalized and suffering. Francis’s focus is not only on spiritual renewal but also on practical action—he consistently champions the cause of the poor, migrants, and those on society’s fringes, insisting that the Church must be a beacon of hope and a force for justice.

Pope Francis’s compassion extends beyond the boundaries of the Church. He has been a tireless advocate for peace, interreligious dialogue, and environmental stewardship. His efforts to foster understanding among different faiths—evident in historic meetings with leaders of other religions and his signing of the “Document for Human Fraternity”—have set a new standard for religious cooperation and mutual respect. His encyclical Laudato Si’ links care for the environment with social justice, underscoring the interconnectedness of all humanity and the planet.

While Pope Francis is celebrated for his compassionate leadership, his stance on drugs, including marijuana, is nuanced and firmly rooted in Catholic teaching. Francis has consistently opposed the legalization of recreational drugs, including marijuana, arguing drug addiction causes profound harm to individuals and communities. He has stated unequivocally: “Drug addiction is an evil, and with evil there can be no yielding or compromise”. His concern is especially acute regarding the impact on young people and the poor, who are often most vulnerable to the destructive consequences of drug abuse.

Regarding medical marijuana, the Catholic Church acknowledges the use of medical marijuana may be morally permissible on strictly therapeutic grounds, provided it is carefully supervised and genuinely serves the good of the patient. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states, “The use of drugs inflicts very grave damage on human health and life. Their use, except on strictly therapeutic grounds, is a grave offense”. Thus, while Pope Francis opposes recreational use and broad legalization, the Church does not categorically reject the medical use of cannabis if it is proven effective and administered responsibly for legitimate medical reasons. Considering the reach and power of the papal voice, offering an option to look at marijuana for its health benefits can sway many governments.

Pope Francis’s leadership is a testament to the power of compassion in action. He has reminded the world that true greatness lies in service, humility, and solidarity with the suffering. While he remains cautious about solutions like medical marijuana, his overriding message is clear: say “yes” to life, love, and the dignity of every person. In a divided world, his witness continues to inspire hope and a renewed commitment to building a more just and compassionate global community.

The Fresh ToastThe most trusted name in cannabis

This Mexican Canna-Punch Is The Best Cinco De Mayo Drink

Because the flavor of this craft cocktail has everything to do with the buzz, the person who enjoys this drink is filled with reverence for the holiday that they call Cinco de Mayo.

Mexican Cinco-de-Mayo Canna-Punch

Music Legend Joins The Cannabis Movement

Another music legend rolls into the cannabis movement

Any Hope From The Administration On Cannabis

Part of the cannabis industry went big for the current administration – and fingers are crossed it will pay off.

The Wackiest Cannabis Laws

Sometimes you just have to scratch your head at how lawmakers allow this to happen….

Feds More Open To Medical Marijuiana For Veterans

Despite Congress dragging their feet, the medical community and the VA are more open to cannabis

Forget Ozempic Cannabis Can Help You Get a Summer Body

This magical weight loss pills are a hot right now – but a green plant can get your body right without side effects.

CBD And Cannabis To The Allergy Rescue

Roughly 25% of people suffer spring allergies – but there is something which can help.

Another Federal Agency Helps Cannabis

The Voice Of America has helped mainstream cannabis by sharing the health benefits

Lion’s Mane And Cannabis

As people look for better options in chronic pain, sleep aides and more – Lion’s mane and cannabis keeps popping up.

Pope Francis Expanded Thinking On Medical Marijuana

While the Catholic Church is not a fan of cannabis, his compassion allowed the Pope to consider medical marijuana to relief suffering.

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