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Marijuana And Gut Health

Gut health is in the news as it seems to be key to healthy living….but what about marijuana and gut health.

It is currently buzzing in the wellness community, but gut health isn’t just a trending topic but an important aspect of health. “It impacts everything from obesity to cancer rates, says Dr. Aditya Sreenivasan, a gastroenterologist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York.

Cannabis has been proven to have medical benefits for a variety of things including cancer treatment, nausea, inflammation and more, but what about marijuana and gut health?

RELATED: Treating Multiple Sclerosis With Marijuana

Gut health refers to the well-being of the digestive system, which is responsible for breaking down food, absorbing nutrients and eliminating waste from the body. It is home to trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses and fungi, collectively known as the gut microbiome.

Illustration by MEHAU KULYK/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY/Getty Images

The short answer is, there is not enough research to determine there are benefits regarding marijuana gut health.

A review of 20 studies published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenteroloy in. 2021 concluded that while the use of cannabinoids in people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) was not effective at inducing remission, it was associated with patient-reported symptom improvement, including decreased abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea.

It is key not to overdue any thing such as cannabis or alcohol for your gut health.  Key ways to be preventative include

  • Eat a high fibre diet
  • Eat a diverse range of food
  • Limit ultra-processed foods
  • Drink water.

These four things can go a long way on how your body (and stomach) function. The importance of our digestive system to overall health is a topic of increasing research in the medical community. Research is showing us gut microbiome affects must organs in our body.

RELATED: 8 Ways to Enjoy Marijuana Without Smoking It

There isn’t enough research around marijuana and gut with several hurdles exist on studying the effects of cannabis on the gut. An example, cannabis can come in so many different formulations and strains. When patients are using cannabis, one patient may be using a different strain from the patient next door.

What About Adding Beef To Your Cocktails

From burger to Beef Wellington, it is very popular – what about adding beef to your  cocktails?

The burger is an icon meal and is universally popular. The USDA reports Americans overall consumed a whopping 30 billion pounds of beef in 2021, which equals almost 60 pounds per person per year.  Beef sandwiches, tacos, and more are gobbled up every day and the flavor fills the mouth.  People are returning to pre-pandemic habits and cooking at home less, according to a Gallup-Cookpad global survey, Gen Z and  Millennials are enjoying retro dishes like Beef Wellington, casseroles and more but putting their spin on classics. What about beef to your cocktails?

RELATED: Science Says Medical Marijuana Improves Quality Of Life

Savory cocktails are becoming a thing in artisanal lounges…so why not add a favorite flavor? Earlier this year, the Parmesan espresso martini took TikTok by storm, transforming a seemingly abominable combination into a certified craze. Dirty martinis have even made the jump from drinks to food, inspiring everything from a briny salad dressing to an olive-studded pasta. It points to the wider embrace of savory cocktail flavors, particularly in combinations outside the norm.

Beefy Bloody Mary

Take a morning favorite and convert it from a “salad” to a “main”. The add depth of the beef broth will make it warm your heart and stomach on any day.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz V8 Tomato Juice or Bloody Mary mix
  • 2 oz Swanson Organic Beef Stock
  • ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • ¼ tsp Tabasco
  • 1½ oz vodka
  • Dash freshly ground black pepper
  • Thyme sprig, for garnish

Create

  • Mix all ingredients except for Thyme into a highball glass and stir to incorporate.
  • Add ice; stir some more for chill and slight dilution. G
  • arnish with a thyme sprig

RELATED: The Most Popular Marijuana Flavors

Bull Shot

Bring out the cowboy/cowgirl in you with this drink.  Rich, nuanced and delicious – this drink will live a big smile on your face.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/8 teaspoon celery salt (optional)
  • Ice cubes
  • 1/4 cup vodka
  • 3/4 cup chilled double-rich double-strength canned beef broth
  • Lime wedge

CREATE

  • Mix Worcestershire and salt in glass
  • Add ice cubes
  • Pour vodka, then broth over
  • Garnish with lime wedge

Marijuana Legalization Versus Decriminalization

With 40 states having some form of legal cannabis – some people are confused about legalization vs decriminalization

Over 40 states have some form of legal weed – either full recreational or a form of medical marijuana.  Plus, almost 90% of the country believes it should be legal in some form.  But it gets confused about decriminalization.  Marijuana legalization versus decriminalization, what is the difference and how does it affect consumers?

But if there is one confusion in this day and age concerning the methods of marijuana reform this country has been experimenting with, it’s precisely what the difference between legalization and decriminalization is. And which one is better in the grand scheme of longevity and public health and safety.

Which State Will Legalize Marijuana First In 2020- Kentucky, Ohio Or Indiana?
Photo by RobinOlimb/Getty Images

When a state legalizes marijuana, what it’s really doing is eliminating the laws it has associated with the possession and personal use of cannabis. It means people (typically adults 21 and older) can no longer be punished by the county, city or state for most marijuana-related offenses. 

These laws often come with possession limits, allowing adult individuals to hold up to an defined weight without getting into trouble. In many cases, these laws also allow adults to engage in home cultivation. Depending on the state, the rules essentially give adults the freedom to grow a certain number of plants in their home (or outside garden) for personal use.

RELATED: The Most Popular Marijuana Flavors

Legalization also gives the state government the power to establish a taxed and regulated market, allowing pot consumers to purchase cannabis products from a retail environment. Usually, the state gives local municipalities the freedom to decide whether they want to cater to pot shops or not. Just think of marijuana legalization in terms of how the alcohol trade works. Booze is fully legal, and adults 21 and older can buy it from liquor stores and other licensed retailers. But there are still some “dry” counties in parts of the country. Marijuana isn’t any different.  

State and local jurisdictions benefit from the legalization model, too, as they all collect tax revenue allotted for road construction, schools and combatting drug addiction. It turns out cannabis revenue is more valuable than alcohol or tobacco.

Which State Will Legalize Marijuana First In 2020- Kentucky, Ohio Or Indiana?
Photo by RobinOlimb/Getty Images

Decriminalization, however, is a different beast. These laws basically allow low-level marijuana offenders to escape jail and criminal charges. The rules are just a little less restrictive than in a full-blown prohibition regime and there is no retail market. Anyone caught for pot in a place where decriminalization is in effect can expect to receive a small fine (typically, between $50 and $200), and they may have to make an appearance in court. It just depends on the state or local authorities. But as long as small-time possession is involved, there is never a situation where an offender has to worry about spending time in jail, losing their vehicle or dealing with a criminal record.

RELATED: Does Legalizing Marijuana Help Or Harm Americans? Weighing The Statistical Evidence

Go over the possession limit, though, and it’s a different story altogether. Think of decriminalization as similar to a seat belt violation. It’s still against the law to drive around without a seat belt, but the cops aren’t going to cuff you for it. They’re going to hand you a citation, tell you to be careful and move on. But don’t expect to keep your weed. Police will usually seize it even though it is decriminalized. After all, it’s not legal to be in possession of marijuana, it’s just not a criminal offense. Several states and cities have gone this way rather than entertain a fully legal system.

With HHD, FDA and the DEA looking at rescheduling, it will add another wrinkle in how marijuana is classified in the nation and states.

Focus On This If You Want The Best Marijuana

Like wine, it can be tough figuring out the best marijuana to purchase – here is a key thing to know

When it comes to things we consume, if we haven’t tried it before it can be complicated. “Having tried a wine before is a strong predictor of choice,” Dr. Armando Corsi, Associate Professor with the University of Adelaide in Australia involved in a recent survey on wine purchases. “However, if you didn’t try it yourself, Australian and U.S. consumers tend to rely on price, whilst Italians seem to be guided more by the food they are going to match with that wine.”

RELATED: Which State Has The Cheapest Marijuana

The survey included a total sample size of 2,014 wine consumers from the three countries (Italy, Australia and the U.S.). In the cannabis world, strength and price are the key decides. Price is usually a key decided, but you should focus on this if you want the best marijuana to smoke.

cannabis smell terpenes
Photo by Sharon Mccutcheon / EyeEm/Getty Images

RELATED: Why You Should Smell Your Weed Before Buying

Aroma is the key point if you smoke. Terpenes are the compounds responsible for producing the distinct aromas. Notable scientists worldwide have taken time to investigate these compounds and shed more light on their existence. Terpenes are available in most plants and trees, like lavender, oranges, roses, mint, and our favorite plant, cannabis. While there needs to be more research, it is clear these compounds. occupy a crucial position.

In the cannabis ecosystem, terpenes play a direct role in cannabis’s acceptance within the human body. The first sense a consumer comes into contact with when holding cannabis is its aroma. All forms of cannabis, whether indica, sativa or hybrids, contain terpene compounds. These compounds determine how the entourage effect plays out. They are a key determinant of psychoactive and therapeutic cannabis effects. However, they’ve not been considered as much as they should be. To understand the interaction of cannabis compounds with receptors in the body, there has to be an in-depth understanding of the vital role terpenes play.

RELATED: The Definitive Guide To Terpenes And Cannabis Aromatherapy

Aromas help solidify vital memories and also help remember these memories. For instance, whenever I catch a whiff of strawberries, I remember my late grandparents’ farm and the beautiful memories I made there with my siblings and cousins. No matter how faint the aroma is, it can instantly transport you to another location or period.

Can CBD Save Your Skin From Cold Weather 

Freezing weather can damage your skin – can CBD help?

We are in the depths of winter and even Mississippi is having snow and ice.  It is flat out cold outside.  For those who have to venture out and deal with it, their skin might be effected by the temperatures. Skin can have a difficult time retaining moisture, leading to itchy, dry skin and cracked lips. In truly low temperatures, there may be a warning not to have exposed skin, a true sign of danger for the body and your beauty system.

Can CBD save your skin from cold weather?  Yes, the right products have the ability to help fight the damages.  CBD can hydrate and calm the skin which can make a difference – especially on the lips.

Cannabis Topicals
Photo by rawpixel.com

Studies have found ttopical CBD products are effective for hydration.  The infusion of oils and Vitamins A, C, and E that can help deeply moisturize and protect skin along with CBD’s antioxidant-rich properties.   Antioxidants are important for dehydrated skin because they can help protect against free-radical damage which can lead to skin looking more dehydrated and with more fine lines and wrinkles.  

RELATED: 3 Things To Know About Fall Allergies And Marijuana

Make sure you look for products containing pure CBD oil plus along with other oils like grapeseed, coconut, jojoba, marula, or oregano oil for best results.   

If you suffer from chapped lipped, look for a CBD-infused lip balm which can help your lips stay hydrated. 

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

Have you ever found yourself with more red spots or breakouts as soon as the weather starts to turn? CBD skincare products can help soothe your skin throughout the fall and winter. Studies show that CBD can help regulate and stabilize skin function. It’s also anti-inflammatory. That means it may help reduce acne and redness so you could have clearer, calmer skin this season. Plus, it may inhibit oil production so you breakout less over time.

RELATED: 8 Things To Know Before Using Cannabis Topicals

If you suffer from a skin condition like eczema or atopic dermatitis that only gets worse or itchier as the season’s change, you aren’t alone. CBD is also effective to help with common skin conditions because of it’s anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.  

But if you also take medications for a skin condition like eczema, always confirm with your dermatologist that it’s safe for you to add CBD skincare to your daily routine before starting.  

Iowa And Marijuana

The current governor, Kim Reyonlds is not a fan and has been a roadblock.  Reynolds has stated “I believe marijuana is a gateway drug that leads to other illegal drug use and has a negative effect on our society.”

Cannabis in Iowa is illegal for recreational use but hemp products including CBD products are legal for consumers to possess and registered retailers to sell. Possession of even small amounts of marijuana is still a crime. The state’s medical marijuana program for patients with qualifying debilitating health conditions allows for the legal sale and possession of no more than 4.5g of THC per patient every 90-day period.

RELATED: Science Says Medical Marijuana Improves Quality Of Life

According to a 2021 Des Moines Register/Mediacom Iowa Poll, 54% of Iowans support legalizing recreational marijuana. But with firm resistance from the Governor, it will be hard ot have progress.  Despite public acceptance, the Governor believe she knows what is better for the population.

In the meantime, Missouri and Illinois will benefit from consumers and taxes.

 

Can Firewhiskey And Klingon Bloodwine Keep You Warm

Can these two classic fiction cocktail keep you warm this winter?

With this weather, you might be stuck inside looking for something fun and different.  For all the Harry Potter and Star Trek fans, here are two recipes which may bring a warm to your heart and soul. So, can Firewhiskey and Klingon Bloodwine keep you warm?

To be honest, drinking alcohol to warm up is an old myth. The truth is, if you’re outside in the cold for a long period of time and you’re not careful, a few draughts of alcohol isn’t too wise.The feeling of warmth is an illusion. Alcohol, on its own, doesn’t warm you up. What it does is cause your blood vessels to dilate, sending more blood than normal to your skin, giving you the feeling of warmth while actually making you lose heat much faster.  So if you indulge, don’t do it out in the freezing temperatures.

RELATED: Science Says Medical Marijuana Improves Quality Of Life

Firewhisky is an alcoholic drink consumed by wizards and witches in the Harry Potter universe. While the underage were not allowed to purchase it, it was occasionally consumed.. It was known to cause a burning sensation when drunk, and for filling one’s body with courage.  The lore is it was crafted after Fireball liquor.

 

Bloodwine is a popular alcoholic drink among Klingons, best served warm. As with many Klingon foods and beverages, it was not for the faint of heart. Bloodwine is a very known to be highly intoxicating, making it a bit of a hit to non-Klingons. Klingon captains and generals were fond of carrying several barrels of their favorite vintages to celebrate victories. Bloodwine is traditionally consumed by warriors being inducted into the Order of the Bat’leth. Bloodwine was used in a symbolic gesture following the Invasion of Cardassia in 2375.

FIREWHISKEY

Liquor and an open flame – what more can you ask for on a cold day stuck inside????  Make magic with this delightful cocktail.

Ingredients

  • 1 oz whiskey
  • 1/2 oz cinnamon schnapps
  • Splash of 151 rum

Create

1.) Add 1 ounce of whiskey, 1/2 an ounce of Cinnamon Schnapps and some ice to a beverage shaker

2.) Shake to chill

3.) Pour into a highball glass

4.) Splash some 151 on the top

5.) With your wand or a lighter, light your Firewhiskey

6.) Drink, preferably after putting out the flames

RELATED: The Most Popular Marijuana Flavors

Klingon Bloodwine

This concoction will light a fire in your soul and help you envision going to a bold new place.   Live long and prosper!

Ingredients

  • 1 oz gold tequila
  • 1 oz spiced rum
  • dash of grenadine
  • 2 dashes of tabasco
  • Cranberry juice to top it off

CREATE

  • In a shaker, add dashes of tabasco and grenadine.
  • Add the rum and tequila, then top off the drink with cranberry juice until full.
  • Add ice, shake twice, serve in a red wine glass or martini glass

Can Firewhiskey and Klingon Bloodwine keep you warm, it will definitely make you feel on fire!

These Bourbons Will Keep You Warm On A Cold Day

It is cold outside for the majority of the country, so here are so treats to keep warm

The first severe cold front is sweeping the country and it is flat out freezing. When out in below 32 temperatures, the body begins to lose heat faster than produced. Prolonged exposure will eventually use up your body’s stored energy. The result is hypothermia, or abnormally low body temperature. So why risk it?  Why not find your favorite brown water and huddle inside with friends, loved ones or your favorite flick.

These bourbons will keep you warm on a cold day.

Bib & Tucker Double Char Bourbon

Bib & Tucker Double Char

This bourbon is great to sit by the fireplace or fire pit and let the warm slowly move through your body. Inspired by the turn of the century, when food was cooked on the open flame, this new bourbon is aged twice to create savory smoky notes and an exceptionally smooth finish. A touch of smoke with immediate notes of toasted oak and delicious dulce de leche, is has a background notes of cinnamon and clove. This is a great combination on a wintery day.

Barrell Dovetail Bourbon

Barrell Dovetail Bourbon

Feeling trapped inside by the ice, snow and temperatures, this bourbon will take you on an adventure. Dovetail is blended to highlight some of flavor. Woody bourbon; terroir driven Dunn Cabernet; toasted French oak; Late Bottled Vintage Port pipes; black strap molasses casks; all working in tandem to create a buttery and deep whiskey as unique as it is delicious.  This is like wrapping yourself in a blanket while dozing up inside.

RELATED: The Most Popular Marijuana Flavors

Still Austin Bourbon

Still Austin Bourbon

This is a double gold winner can chase the chill away as you bing your favorite shows. The Godfather, The Expanse, or The Fast and Furious.  The lights a fire in your gut and keeps you warm all day and into the night. The sweetness of chef-grade white corn—the same kind used in Austin’s famous tortillas—complements the spiciness of our high-rye mash bill. Notes of apple, toasted coconut and other flavors will treat you taste buds and your mind savors a good film.

 RELATED: The Most Popular Marijuana Flavors

Bourbon’s popularity began rising in 2010 and, according to the Kentucky Distiller’s Association, bourbon production has increased by 495% since 1999. We talked to Charles at the Total Wine in Seattle and he had some great suggestions, Feel free to open a bottle, plop on the couch and enjoy a leisurely day staying warm with your favorite beverage.

What Is Moon Rock Marijuana And How Do I Make It

If you think you are ready to lift off – Moon Rock marijuana may be the thing for you

Out of all the different cannabis-based products that have hit center stage in the past few years, moon rock (or more specifically, moon rock marijuana) has entered a realm of popularity we haven’t seen since the explosion of concentrates.

This product is a mad science blend of a few simple ingredients, when combined, can pack a potent punch. But there is a lot of confusion circulating the cannabis scene on what Moon Rock really is.

Some people associated the name with harder drugs, while others think it is a unique strain. Neither is true. So, to help sort out the ambiguity behind moon rock, here is a crash course on the subject.

Moon rock marijuana is simply a mixture a raw flower, hash oil and kief. It is a triple threat concoction that is made by covering buds in oil and topping them with a kief dusting.

If done correctly, the finished product closely resembles a moldy piece of mystery meat. But moon rock is far from trash. It is one of the most potent forces on the cannabis market today — all of which depends on the initial strength and quality of the three key ingredients.

RELATED: Everything You Need To Know About Moon Rocks

But just how potent is moon rock? Let’s just say it’s not for beginners. It typically comes with around 50% THC. But it is not unheard of for the THC content to rise into the triple digits. It is the Everclear of the weed world. So clear your schedule.

Photo by Jonathan Kantor/Getty Images

Although the potency of moon rock is a large part of why it has become so popular, it is actually the synergy that takes place between the three ingredients that produces its magical effects. The easiest way to explain this is the bud, oil and keif all work in concert to create a special buzz. Because of this, each moon rock creation is an opportunity to experience different effects.

Although moon rocks can be made at home, the process from start to finish can be quite extensive. If you’re one of those people who cannot make a grilled cheese sandwich without burning the bread, home production is probably not the best route.

RELATED: CBD Kief: Why You Need It In Your Life Immediately

Fortunately, most dispensaries carry moon rock. Yet not all are made with quality ingredients. So, before coughing up your hard earned cash on this product at your local dispensary, be sure to ask the budtender questions about how it was manufactured.

On appearance alone, it can be relatively easy to spot a quality product over one that is subpar. High grade moon rock will have a thicker dusting of keif. It also has an extremely pungent odor. If you have to try really hard to catch a whiff, it’s probably not the best quality.

Have a nice trip, space cadets!

Medical Marijuana May Help With Brain Cancer

Brain cancer has been in the news – it is a devastating diagnosis, but there is hope cannabis could help.

Michael Strahan has gone public with one of his daughters has brain cancer. Since then, she is having a slow recovery she is sharing to bring awareness brain cancer is an all age disease. Over 100,000 people are diagnosed with a primary brain tumor annually. Brain and other CNS tumors are the fifth most common cancer. Over 30,000 children are currently diagnosed with a brain tumor. Over 1 million people are living with a diagnosis of a primary brain tumor and it can be a rough road. Early research suggest medical marijuana may help with brain cancer.

RELATED: Science Says Medical Marijuana Improves Quality Of Life

It is proven cannabis has medical benefits, but more research needs to be done to better define how it can have an impact and help patients. Currently, the evidence that cannabis-based products can treat brain tumours or brain cancer is limited. Preliminary studies from the lab suggest that cannabinoid chemicals THC and CBD can stop glioblastoma (GBM) cells from growing, causing them to die and disrupting the blood supply to the tumour cells.

Photo by pilli/Getty Images

There has been some data and research around glioma which looks promising. Glioma is a growth of cells that starts in the brain or spinal cord. The cells in a glioma look similar to healthy brain cells called glial cells. Glial cells surround nerve cells and help them function. As a glioma grows it forms a tumor.

Preliminary studies from the lab suggest that cannabinoid chemicals THC and CBD can stop glioblastoma (GBM) cells from growing, causing them to die and disrupting the blood supply to the tumour cells.

In 2021, an early-stage trial led by Professor Susan Short suggested that adding a specific blend of these chemicals – in the form of a drug called Sativex – to chemotherapy could potentially help treat recurrent GBMs more effectively.

RELATED: The Most Popular Marijuana Flavors

CXannabis-based drug Sativex approved as a prescription medicine. The drug, used in treating multiple sclerosis, was also found to be tolerable in combination with chemotherapy, with the potential to extend survival, in a phase I trial in glioblastomas.

A phase II trial, led by the University of Leeds, is assessing whether adding Sativex – an oral spray containing cannabinoids THC and CBD – to chemotherapy, could extend life for thousands diagnosed with a recurrent glioblastoma. Currently, it has an average survival of less than 10 months.

Scientific research indicates medical cannabis and cannabinoids could become key therapy in modern neuro-oncology; however, further studies are needed to establish outcomes and  dosage.

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