{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/anxiety/6","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2515-markdown","title":"Holistic Ways to Ease Depression & Anxiety","slug":"holistic-ways-to-ease-depression-and-anxiety","content":"With the colder weather, shorter days and the holiday season, depression and anxiety always spike around this time of year. Unfortunately, these two conditions are very common. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) affects around 6.8 million adults in the U.S. while major depressive disorder (MDD) affects more than 16 million. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/564935726915516/united-states/san-francisco-california/hellomd/)\n\nResearchers haven’t reached a consensus as to what causes depression and anxiety, but most agree genetics, biology, environment and psychology all play a role. People with depression and anxiety typically feel anxious, sad, hopeless and pessimistic. On a physical level, folks suffering from depression and/or anxiety may experience a loss of interest in their hobbies or activities, change in appetite, weight changes, as well as aches and pains.  \n\nRELATED: [Depression Sufferers Find Relief In Medical Marijuana](https://hellomd.com/articles/depression-sufferers-find-relief-in-medical-marijuana) \n\nThe most common treatment for these mood disorders, besides psychotherapy, is anti-depressant and anti-anxiety pharmaceuticals. Prozac, Cymbalta or Norpramin are typically prescribed for depression; Xanax, Valium and Ativan are used to combat anxiety. \n\nThese can be effective for some, but many patients experience unwanted side effects like insomnia, reduced sexual drive, weight gain and dry mouth. Luckily, there’s a body of research pointing to a number of holistic methods that can help battle depression and anxiety.  \n\n\n### Exercise to Chase Away Depression\n\nAccording to the Mayo Clinic, [exercise can successfully alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/depression-and-exercise/art-20046495). Exercising allows your brain to release feel-good endorphins, which the Mayo Clinic notes are cannabis-like brain chemicals that can “enhance your sense of well-being.” \n\nSticking to regular physical activity routines for 30 minutes per day can help improve your mood significantly. While higher-intensity cardiovascular activities are preferred, even sustained, low-intensity walking can be sufficient to help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Dr. Michael Craig Miller, assistant professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, says, “[for some people [exercise] works as well as antidepressants](https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/exercise-is-an-all-natural-treatment-to-fight-depression),” and that “exercise supports nerve cell growth in the hippocampus, improving nerve cell connections, which helps relieve depression.” \n\n### Marijuana Can be an Effective Mood Booster\n\nIt’s a common misconception that cannabis can increase depression. But a 2006 study published in _Addictive Behaviors_  looked at the survey responses from 4,400 adults who identify as occasional or chronic cannabis users. [Daily cannabis users reported “less depressed mood and more positive affect than non-users.”](http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306460305001577) The researchers concluded that cannabis doesn’t increase risk of depression. \n\nWhile this study doesn’t prove a causal link between cannabis consumption and a decreased risk of depression and anxiety, there are reasons why marijuana consumption would make sense as a treatment option. As mentioned with exercise, our body naturally makes feel-good cannabinoids. When we’re depressed, there’s a lower level of these specific endocannabinoids in our bodies. Cannabis—with its phytocannabinoids—can be a healthy and natural supplement to boost these specific endocannabinoids when levels are low. \n\nIf you want to try cannabis, there are several [marijuana strains that are recommended for treating depression](https://hellomd.com/articles/top-5-marijuana-strains-for-depression/). \n\n### Clean up Your Diet to Feel Less Depressed\n\nCertain types of foods could help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. A 2017 study published in _BMC Medicine_ concluded that [“dietary improvement may provide an efficacious and accessible treatment strategy” for major depressive disorder](https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12916-017-0791-y). This 12-week study tested a Mediterranean-based diet on individuals with moderate to severe depression. Meanwhile, a control group received social support but no change in their current diet.\n\nThe diet encouraged foods like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, unsweetened dairy, unsalted nuts, lean red meat, chicken, fish, eggs and olive oil. It discouraged sweets, processed meats, fast food, fried food and refined cereals. \n\nAfter 12 weeks, the participants were graded using multiple tests, including the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). On average, the participants on the Mediterranean diet demonstrated significantly greater improvement in MADRS—11 points on average—than did the control group. \n\n### Meditation & Mindfulness Can Help Banish Anxious Thoughts\n\nA 2015 study by the University of Exeter shows [mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) could be an effective treatment option for depression and anxiety](http://www.exeter.ac.uk/news/featurednews/title_446995_en.html). MBCT is focused on restructuring the problematic thought patterns that individuals with depression and anxiety often experience. It teaches the skills necessary to be mindful of the present moment, recognizing and responding constructively to problematic thoughts. \n\nStudy participants were all being treated for recurrent major depression and using antidepressant medication for treatment. Of the 424 adults chosen in the study, 212 were put into a group that underwent eight 2 1/4-hour MBCT group sessions and given daily home practices for mindfulness. The other group maintained their regular pharmaceutical regimen.\n\nAll participants were examined at regular intervals over two years. After two years, relapse rates for both groups were similar with the MBCT group showing 44% relapse and the medication group showing 47% relapse. \n\nThe researchers in this study concluded, “Whilst this study doesn’t show that mindfulness-based cognitive therapy works any better than antidepressant medication in reducing the rate of relapse in depression, we believe these results suggest a new choice for the millions of people with recurrent depression on repeat prescriptions.” \n\n### Creating Routines May Help if You’re Struggling With Depression\n\nDepression and anxiety don’t stick to routines; symptoms of these disorders can pop up any time, any place. While there haven’t been many clinical research studies to support this, many psychotherapists and doctors recommend creating routines to help reduce depression and anxiety. These routines can be as simple as going for a walk, writing in a journal, dancing around the house or cleaning the kitchen. The key is making sure that you do it at the same time, consistently throughout your week. \n\nIn an interview with CBS News, clinical psychologist Dr. Richard Raskin said, “[A routine—anything from jogging and shopping to doing the dishes—helps you avoid the stay-in-your-pajamas syndrome](https://www.cbsnews.com/pictures/10-no-cost-strategies-to-fight-depression/4/), which can make things worse. A routine demonstrates to you and to others that if you are capable of getting through the day, you are capable of recovery.” \n\nWe hope you’ll give these holistic treatment options for depression and anxiety a try. Let us know if you found any on this list to be particularly helpful.\n\nPhoto credit: [Emma Simpson]( https://unsplash.com/@esdesignisms) \n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana/) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/fe3f972232dd756e255778dde83b1dfe/14b42/e90182afa7763daef9e5c8e3fb9dbaa6.jpg","srcSet":"/static/fe3f972232dd756e255778dde83b1dfe/f836f/e90182afa7763daef9e5c8e3fb9dbaa6.jpg 200w,\n/static/fe3f972232dd756e255778dde83b1dfe/2244e/e90182afa7763daef9e5c8e3fb9dbaa6.jpg 400w,\n/static/fe3f972232dd756e255778dde83b1dfe/14b42/e90182afa7763daef9e5c8e3fb9dbaa6.jpg 800w,\n/static/fe3f972232dd756e255778dde83b1dfe/47498/e90182afa7763daef9e5c8e3fb9dbaa6.jpg 1200w,\n/static/fe3f972232dd756e255778dde83b1dfe/0e329/e90182afa7763daef9e5c8e3fb9dbaa6.jpg 1600w,\n/static/fe3f972232dd756e255778dde83b1dfe/0110e/e90182afa7763daef9e5c8e3fb9dbaa6.jpg 3596w","srcWebp":"/static/fe3f972232dd756e255778dde83b1dfe/58556/e90182afa7763daef9e5c8e3fb9dbaa6.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/fe3f972232dd756e255778dde83b1dfe/61e93/e90182afa7763daef9e5c8e3fb9dbaa6.webp 200w,\n/static/fe3f972232dd756e255778dde83b1dfe/1f5c5/e90182afa7763daef9e5c8e3fb9dbaa6.webp 400w,\n/static/fe3f972232dd756e255778dde83b1dfe/58556/e90182afa7763daef9e5c8e3fb9dbaa6.webp 800w,\n/static/fe3f972232dd756e255778dde83b1dfe/99238/e90182afa7763daef9e5c8e3fb9dbaa6.webp 1200w,\n/static/fe3f972232dd756e255778dde83b1dfe/7c22d/e90182afa7763daef9e5c8e3fb9dbaa6.webp 1600w,\n/static/fe3f972232dd756e255778dde83b1dfe/32c4b/e90182afa7763daef9e5c8e3fb9dbaa6.webp 3596w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2500-markdown","title":"SAD, Winter Solstice & Marijuana Products to Help You Deal","slug":"sad-winter-solstice-and-marijuana-products-to-help-you-deal","content":"The Winter Solstice marks the official start of winter, which takes place this year on Dec. 21. This is the day with the shortest period of daylight and the longest night of the year. During the winter when the sun starts setting earlier in the day, a lot of people can begin to feel a state of depression creeping up on them. While many might just attribute these feelings to a case of the winter blues, it’s actually a real condition called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).\r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder\r\n\r\nThough specific causes of SAD are unknown, it’s believed that changes in the body’s serotonin and melatonin levels play a major role. Due to the reduction in sunlight in the winter, the body’s internal clock can be thrown off, which disturbs natural sleep rhythms and can lead to feelings of depression. For some adults, this can begin late in the fall, but usually subsides by the time summer rolls around.\r\n\r\n### What Are the Symptoms of SAD?\r\n\r\nSome people experience mild or intense symptoms—even if there’s nothing in their lives that would naturally trigger feelings of sadness. Many people report feeling:\r\n\r\n* sad without cause\r\n* fatigued \r\n* physically heavy  \r\n* demotivated \r\n* irritable\r\n* sensitive\r\n\r\nPeople also say they experience:\r\n\r\n* changes in appetite \r\n* weight gain or weight loss\r\n* social withdrawal \r\n* social anxiety\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nRELATED: [TOP MARIJUANA STRAINS FOR DEPRESSION](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/57fbd5a9321b570007790312/top-marijuana-strains-for-depression)\r\n\r\n### What You Can Do to Combat SAD \r\n\r\n**Sip a warm, marijuana-infused drink.**\r\nWarm up and medicate at the same time with this simple [recipe for a soothing, cannabis-infused hot apple cider](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59ea3edfd8935e10253b0bda/diy-recipe-easy-cbd-infused-hot-apple-cider) that you can make at home using a cannabidiol (CBD) tincture. CBD can help ease anxiety, tension and improve your mood. \r\n\r\n**Find the humor.**\r\nFitting a little humor into your day will pay off by helping reduce stress, uplift your mood and give you a distraction from feeling glum. There are so many [benefits that come with laughing](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59d3d11c11eb3213ee682590/top-ten-health-benefits-of-laughter), from releasing endorphins that can make you feel good, not to mention stop pain, boost your immune system and lower your blood pressure. \r\n\r\n**Opt for energizing cannabis sativa strains.**\r\nSativas are known for being uplifting, mood boosters that can combat stress, anxiety and depression. Popular strains like Blue Dream and Lemon Haze can be used in the morning to help motivate you as well as act as a pick-me-up at the end of a long day. \r\n\r\n**Get your body moving.**\r\nWhether you’re into extreme workouts like CrossFit or more relaxing movement like yoga, [exercise can help boost your mood and reduce anxiety](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/depression-and-exercise/art-20046495). You can actually change your biochemical state and increase the endorphins in your body with regular, physical activity.\r\n\r\nIt’s also been shown that [cannabis can have beneficial effects when incorporated with an exercise regimen](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/560d86493565610006170000/the-exercise-high), but it’s not for everyone. Exercise alone can often be enough to lift your spirits.\r\n\r\n**Try meditation.**\r\nAccording to a 2014 study in _JAMA Internal Medicine_, meditation can help relieve anxiety, pain and depression. In fact, meditation—the technique of clearing your mind and focusing on your breathing to bring about a state of deep relaxation—was found to be almost as effective as an antidepressant.\r\n\r\nIf you’re so inclined, you can also medicate while meditating with strains like Lamb’s Bread or Laughing Buddha, both of which can enhance your practice as well as your mood. Check out our more comprehensive list of other [cannabis strains that would work well with meditation](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5999ff58503739404aa2212c/top-5-strains-to-enhance-your-meditation-practice).\r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Polina Kirilenko](https://unsplash.com/@plnkrlnk)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/20a11794b74ab047abceb6a4c98aaf92/14b42/ced0041ac677f635ee2352d73179daee.jpg","srcSet":"/static/20a11794b74ab047abceb6a4c98aaf92/f836f/ced0041ac677f635ee2352d73179daee.jpg 200w,\n/static/20a11794b74ab047abceb6a4c98aaf92/2244e/ced0041ac677f635ee2352d73179daee.jpg 400w,\n/static/20a11794b74ab047abceb6a4c98aaf92/14b42/ced0041ac677f635ee2352d73179daee.jpg 800w,\n/static/20a11794b74ab047abceb6a4c98aaf92/47498/ced0041ac677f635ee2352d73179daee.jpg 1200w,\n/static/20a11794b74ab047abceb6a4c98aaf92/0e329/ced0041ac677f635ee2352d73179daee.jpg 1600w,\n/static/20a11794b74ab047abceb6a4c98aaf92/c511e/ced0041ac677f635ee2352d73179daee.jpg 3452w","srcWebp":"/static/20a11794b74ab047abceb6a4c98aaf92/58556/ced0041ac677f635ee2352d73179daee.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/20a11794b74ab047abceb6a4c98aaf92/61e93/ced0041ac677f635ee2352d73179daee.webp 200w,\n/static/20a11794b74ab047abceb6a4c98aaf92/1f5c5/ced0041ac677f635ee2352d73179daee.webp 400w,\n/static/20a11794b74ab047abceb6a4c98aaf92/58556/ced0041ac677f635ee2352d73179daee.webp 800w,\n/static/20a11794b74ab047abceb6a4c98aaf92/99238/ced0041ac677f635ee2352d73179daee.webp 1200w,\n/static/20a11794b74ab047abceb6a4c98aaf92/7c22d/ced0041ac677f635ee2352d73179daee.webp 1600w,\n/static/20a11794b74ab047abceb6a4c98aaf92/55244/ced0041ac677f635ee2352d73179daee.webp 3452w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2450-markdown","title":"3 Popular Questions About Marijuana & PTSD Answered","slug":"3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-ptsd-answered","content":"This past Veteran’s Day, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo allowed people in his state suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) access to legal medical marijuana. Anecdotally, people with PTSD say that medicinal cannabis helps ease insomnia, anxiety and other issues associated with the disorder—without the unwanted side effects that many pharmaceutical medications have.\n\nWe’ve gathered three of our top questions from our [Answers](https://www.hellomdcom/) platform about how marijuana can help with symptoms of PTSD. Answers were submitted by knowledgeable members of our community including doctors and cannabis-business owners. We hope this discussion clarifies how medical marijuana could help you or someone you know who suffers from PTSD. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Q: Does marijuana ever make PTSD worse?\n**_What has been your experience with vets in general? If it helps someone with PTSD, why?_**\n\nAnswer: @andrewvanmd Veterans and others dealing with PTSD often experience panic attacks, nightmares, pain, insomnia, anxiety and other debilitating issues. Most of the medications that are prescribed for these conditions can have serious side effects. Cannabis is very safe and there is no harm in giving it a trial. It should be used with care, and patients should start with small doses and observe closely for effects. CBD is a good option if anxiety is a concern.\n\n### Q: My husband just returned from serving overseas and is very anxious. The doctors are treating him for PTSD.\n**_He doesn't like the drugs they’re prescribing; the side effects are horrible! Some of his friends are using marijuana and having great results. Do you recommend this? Should he smoke it? What strains are best for PTSD? I'll do whatever I need to do to help him feel better and to get my \"old\" husband back._**\n\nAnswer: @dredmunds I’ve treated several patients suffering from PTSD that found cannabis to be helpful for their condition. As you state that he is very anxious due to his condition, I would recommend indica strains. Indicas tends to be sedating and relaxing and is also helpful for sleep. If your husband has depression as a component of his PTSD, an indica-dominant hybrid containing some sativa may be helpful.\n\nI discourage smoking cannabis, as the products of combustion (carbon monoxide, tar, carcinogens) contain compounds that may be harmful to one's health. Vaporizing is a great shorter-acting alternative to smoking as are oral tinctures. Edibles are much longer acting and are therefore helpful for patients also suffering from insomnia.\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZUJ13-kqsRU`\n\n### Q: As a Women with PTSD; I have been having an awful time. \n**_I started with a high CBD product that worked great but for only three weeks, now I have severe depression. Then I tried to increase THC, but nothing happened. I tried tapering off my meds (the usual stuff for PTSD and depression) but I had such bad time, I ended up back on meds. Because I am on supplemental security income and state insurance, I am unable to find therapy to work on this horrific bout of PTSD and depression._** \n\n**_In making this long story even longer—do you have any suggestions? I am so novice on the whole concept. I like the CBD for getting out of my head, but need something that’s energizing too. I haven't been out to socialize in months, so I’d like to find something that will help with that and also help keep my thoughts quite at night._**\n\nAnswer: @jessicapeters, President of Moxie Meds I'm so sorry to hear about your experiences with PTSD—and of course the lack of appropriate resources to address it. As a fellow non-veteran woman with PTSD, I've also found I had easier access to pharmaceuticals than to therapy and I understand your frustrations. It's also difficult to find a medication only temporarily successful. While it's unclear to me what ratio of high CBD medication you tried first, and what the small increase of THC equated to in terms of ratio, I suggest trying something in the range of 4:1 to 1:1. Unless of course you have a very low tolerance to THC, in which case you might want to stick to 4:1 or above and stay at a low dose initially. We find that it's very worthwhile to try a couple different CBD-rich medications with a bit of range on the ratios so that you can assess what may work best for you. This can be costly so it's worthwhile to take advantage of sampling events, sales, free gifts and donations where you can.\n\nYou bring up a very good point about how many patients have to troubleshoot before they find what ratio, dose, and delivery system works best for them. It's also important to consider that your dosing needs can potentially change over time as you develop a tolerance or as your body and wellness experiences change. I encourage patients not to give up and to work with advocacy organizations to request medications providers, dispensaries, and delivery services to offer more free samples so this process doesn't become financially taxing for those who are on a fixed income.\n\nWe also find a lot of benefit to taking notes of your experiences with various cannabis medications so that you can better suss out which options may be most effective for you in the long run. This \"note taking\" may also include your experiences with pharmaceutical medications as well as diet, exercise and other natural medicine modalities—it's all about allowing you, and any caregivers or health practitioners you engage with, a full picture of your experience with wellness and health.\n\nPhoto credit: [Vin Stratton](https://unsplash.com/@vinstratton)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/208f8464dab90cb2524f98ea4aa5f72a/14b42/b871da9d48273bb30352a8a4c83272fc.jpg","srcSet":"/static/208f8464dab90cb2524f98ea4aa5f72a/f836f/b871da9d48273bb30352a8a4c83272fc.jpg 200w,\n/static/208f8464dab90cb2524f98ea4aa5f72a/2244e/b871da9d48273bb30352a8a4c83272fc.jpg 400w,\n/static/208f8464dab90cb2524f98ea4aa5f72a/14b42/b871da9d48273bb30352a8a4c83272fc.jpg 800w,\n/static/208f8464dab90cb2524f98ea4aa5f72a/47498/b871da9d48273bb30352a8a4c83272fc.jpg 1200w,\n/static/208f8464dab90cb2524f98ea4aa5f72a/0e329/b871da9d48273bb30352a8a4c83272fc.jpg 1600w,\n/static/208f8464dab90cb2524f98ea4aa5f72a/3340d/b871da9d48273bb30352a8a4c83272fc.jpg 3200w","srcWebp":"/static/208f8464dab90cb2524f98ea4aa5f72a/58556/b871da9d48273bb30352a8a4c83272fc.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/208f8464dab90cb2524f98ea4aa5f72a/61e93/b871da9d48273bb30352a8a4c83272fc.webp 200w,\n/static/208f8464dab90cb2524f98ea4aa5f72a/1f5c5/b871da9d48273bb30352a8a4c83272fc.webp 400w,\n/static/208f8464dab90cb2524f98ea4aa5f72a/58556/b871da9d48273bb30352a8a4c83272fc.webp 800w,\n/static/208f8464dab90cb2524f98ea4aa5f72a/99238/b871da9d48273bb30352a8a4c83272fc.webp 1200w,\n/static/208f8464dab90cb2524f98ea4aa5f72a/7c22d/b871da9d48273bb30352a8a4c83272fc.webp 1600w,\n/static/208f8464dab90cb2524f98ea4aa5f72a/f9eef/b871da9d48273bb30352a8a4c83272fc.webp 3200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2457-markdown","title":"3 Popular Questions About Marijuana & Stress Answered","slug":"3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-stress-answered","content":"We’ve all experienced stress at one time or another. And everyone has their way of dealing with it—maybe you go for a bike ride, take your dog for a walk, kick back with a good book or wind down with your favorite TV show. But did you know that cannabis may be one of the best stress relievers out there?\n\nThat’s because marijuana contains cannabinoids that interact with our endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is made up of receptors responsible for releasing hormones like endorphins that create a sense of euphoria and relaxation. The ECS also helps keep our bodies balanced and if we’re in balance and good health, we’re less likely to experience the negative effects of stress. \n\nHere are the top three questions about cannabis and stress from our [Answers](https://www.hellomdcom/answers) platform. Members of our community including doctors and experienced cannabis consumers supplied the answers—answers that we hope you find valuable. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Q: What is the best product for stress?\n\nAnswer: @veronicab Hi there! Cannabis is an excellent stress-buster. Many marijuana products will be able to assist you with stress-relief, but check out our articles that discuss eliminating stress with cannabis.\n\n### Q: I have a lot of stress and anxiety and wonder if OG Kush may be a good strain to try for this?\n\nAnswer: drolson If you’ve never tried OG Kush, I would caution you starting with that strain. To start, I think it's wise to take CBD cannabis to calm the stress and anxiety and to keep the CBD levels steady, then you can add OG Kush. Since OG Kush is high in THC and low in CBD, your stress may improve but you could be vulnerable to anxiety. You don’t want to do a high dose of CBD close to the time you take your OG Kush or you will end up with high CBD and high THC, potentially making you go to sleep.\n\nOG Kush does not have a lot of negative effects, mostly it is uplifting, relaxing and can even make you happy. But consider having some drops of CBD cannabis on hand so if you experience anxiety you can put one or two drops CBD tincture under your tongue for a calming effect. If your body is cannabis friendly, you could just try the OG Kush as long as you have drops of CBD available for buffering. \n\nGood luck in your experiment and remember any bad experience will wear off in a couple hours. Once you know how your body responds to CBD as well as THC, you will be in control.\n\n### Q: Best strain for daytime use?\n**_I use cannabis for stress and anxiety relief, but do not like feeling \"sleepy\" during the day. What strain would be best for mid-day use?_**\n\nAnswer: @mark Look for any strain in the sativa category, as these are better for daytime use. There are many to choose from and so your choice is more likely to depend what is available to you at your local dispensary.\n\nThere are a good selection of strains and their effects listed in the HelloMD Products section. Use the filters at the top to help narrow your choices.\n\nPhoto credit: [Jad Limcaco](https://unsplash.com/@jadlimcaco)\n\nIf you're new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/000badd93fdcdadf2da7653e11a4e049/14b42/67d04b167353d92abae5f08553a489f7.jpg","srcSet":"/static/000badd93fdcdadf2da7653e11a4e049/f836f/67d04b167353d92abae5f08553a489f7.jpg 200w,\n/static/000badd93fdcdadf2da7653e11a4e049/2244e/67d04b167353d92abae5f08553a489f7.jpg 400w,\n/static/000badd93fdcdadf2da7653e11a4e049/14b42/67d04b167353d92abae5f08553a489f7.jpg 800w,\n/static/000badd93fdcdadf2da7653e11a4e049/47498/67d04b167353d92abae5f08553a489f7.jpg 1200w,\n/static/000badd93fdcdadf2da7653e11a4e049/0e329/67d04b167353d92abae5f08553a489f7.jpg 1600w,\n/static/000badd93fdcdadf2da7653e11a4e049/657c0/67d04b167353d92abae5f08553a489f7.jpg 3492w","srcWebp":"/static/000badd93fdcdadf2da7653e11a4e049/58556/67d04b167353d92abae5f08553a489f7.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/000badd93fdcdadf2da7653e11a4e049/61e93/67d04b167353d92abae5f08553a489f7.webp 200w,\n/static/000badd93fdcdadf2da7653e11a4e049/1f5c5/67d04b167353d92abae5f08553a489f7.webp 400w,\n/static/000badd93fdcdadf2da7653e11a4e049/58556/67d04b167353d92abae5f08553a489f7.webp 800w,\n/static/000badd93fdcdadf2da7653e11a4e049/99238/67d04b167353d92abae5f08553a489f7.webp 1200w,\n/static/000badd93fdcdadf2da7653e11a4e049/7c22d/67d04b167353d92abae5f08553a489f7.webp 1600w,\n/static/000badd93fdcdadf2da7653e11a4e049/ec3c3/67d04b167353d92abae5f08553a489f7.webp 3492w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2463-markdown","title":"Fibromyalgia, Neuropathy & Cannabis: Adrion’s Success Story","slug":"fibromyalgia-neuropathy-and-cannabis-adrions-success-story","content":"**Patient:** Anne Walters, age 53\n\n**Health conditions: **Fibromyalgia, reflex sympathetic dystrophy, severe chronic pain, anxiety\n\n**Solution:** CBD via tincture and a vaporizer in combination with 50mg of Topamax and an occasional Motrin\n\n\nNew York’s medical cannabis program currently serves 34,000 registered patients, and Anne Walters has been a certified patient since June 2017. This is her story on how cannabis has helped treat her multiple conditions and neuropathies.\n\n### A Long, Hard Journey Before Cannabis\n\nWith all that 53-year-old Anne has been through, it’s hard to believe that her journey can be traced back to carpal tunnel syndrome. “In 2003, I was working at a job doing repetitive work,” she says. “When I went to the doctor, I found out I had fibromyalgia, and that I had not only carpal tunnel, but De Quervain's and tendonitis.”\n\nAnne was a single mother raising three children at the time, balancing the need to work with the reality that the job was doing harm. “I just kept working, and I had no idea that what I was doing to my hands was so bad until I was in a lot of pain.”\n\nA doctor recommended reconstructive surgery on her thumb. “We’re going to pull the tendons from your forearm to rebuild the muscle in your thumb,” she recalls hearing from her doctor, “so I go into the hospital and have three procedures done on this one hand.”\n\nBut the surgery made things worse. “I came out with a condition called reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD).” \n\nNow on disability, Anne began to suffer from depression and was diagnosed with generalized anxiety by her counselor. Meanwhile, the Elavil she was prescribed to help with the pain caused by fibromyalgia “made me sleep 20 hours, and I put on weight, which caused back problems. I went from 175, fit for a person with my build, to 240 pounds.”\n\nAnne was eventually able to go back to school, but things took a turn for the worse right before she graduated from her master’s program. “I got hit by an ambulance bus and suffered damage to the left side of my body, where I had the RSD and surgery on my hand,” she says. “I sustained injuries to my back, my hip, my neck.” \n\nRELATED: [CANNABIS & CHRONIC PAIN: MARGARET'S SUCCESS STORY](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59de618e5fea3938e500c3cd/cannabis-and-chronic-pain-margarets-success-story)\n\n### A Better Life with Access to Medical Marijuana\n\nThroughout the years, Anne supplemented the advice from doctors with homeopathic remedies. “The only way I was able to improve was doing alternative medicine: herbs, meditation, coming off all that medication and learning how to deal with the pain.”\n\nAnne had been exposed to cannabis’s medicinal qualities thanks to her upbringing. “I come from a culture where marijuana was a cure for so many things,” she explains, “but in the ’80s and ’90s, we shied away from marijuana because it was illegal, and then you don’t know what you’re smoking, you don’t know what’s being put into it.” \n\nThough she knew cannabis might help, Anne couldn’t risk arrest and potentially endangering her health. “You can’t find it pure, and it’s illegal to even grow in your home, so I had to take the medication that doctors gave me,” she says. “I’ve always had that knowledge [about cannabis], but as time goes by you’re forced to conform.”\n\nOnce New York approved medical marijuana, she started researching. Through the [Department of Health website](https://www.health.ny.gov/regulations/medical_marijuana/), she discovered that she qualified for a fee waiver. “I did the certification process in June 2017 and that’s how my life started changing for the better,” she says.\n\nRELATED: [WHAT TO EXPECT OUT OF NEW YORK'S MEDICAL MARIJUANA PROGRAM](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59ef6c66e6bbba2a588008d1/what-to-expect-out-of-new-yorks-medical-marijuana-program)\n\nAnne knew things were different the first time she visited PharmaCannis’ Hunts Point dispensary. “They walked me through it when I first went to them and got the medication,” she recalls. “No matter how many times I called them, they took their time and told me how to take [cannabis] and which was the best way to use it. They made me feel really confident and that I was in full control of what I was doing.”\n\nAnne especially appreciated the dispensary’s one-on-one approach with patients. “There’s so much privacy, it’s absolutely clean—that’s big for me because some facilities, it’s just about the money,” Anne explains, referring to other dispensaries that felt more like cattle calls.\n\n“There’s no crowding [at PharmaCannis]. They’re very polite; they answer all my questions, take their time. I can talk to them about anything and call them any time. They’re just constantly professional, and you want to go back. I’m going to apply for a job with them,” she chuckles.\n\n### Cannabis for Pain & Multiple Neuropathies\n\n![Anne success story](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5a0dd40ee2ac1a000b2d3faa-5df03bd7-2374-4d01-96fb-80b746cf8f3b/original.png)\n\nAnne is taking CBD via tincture and a vaporizer. “It lessens the spasms and cramps that I get which take over my hands and they’re stuck for a minute,” she says, comparing the experience to a mini stroke. “I’m not getting that anymore. Cannabis doesn’t take [the spasms] away permanently, but it controls them. It’s wonderful.”\n\nCannabis has also greatly improved Anne’s mobility. “It helps me get up out of the bed,” she says. “Cannabis allows you not to focus so much on the pain. I’m supposed to take it every eight hours, so if I’m consistent with the tincture, it levels the pain. I can be active and not have to focus on my back, neck or ankle; I don’t have to dread the pain.”\n\nAnne also no longer experiences side effects like nausea or headaches with cannabis. “My body feels normal,” she says, adding that even her anxiety has lessened. “The cannabis calms that nervousness down and helps you regain some kind of control of yourself. It’s a great mood stabilizer.”\n\nAfter just three months of use, Anne no longer needs a home attendant and has scaled back her use of other medications. “Every now and then I take Motrin 400 and then the Topamax, I have 50 mg of that. I still have the stiffness and some of the other problems, but not at the magnitude that I had prior to taking the cannabis,” she says. “It’s just been such a huge improvement. I don’t walk with a cane anymore. I don’t wear my neck brace anymore. My neck doesn’t hurt anymore.”\n\nAnne reflected on the path her life has taken since having carpal tunnel syndrome—something so common that triggered a series of events that changed her life forever. She is now in academia teaching abnormal psychology and is steadfast in her advocacy for medical cannabis. “This has improved the quality of my life,” Anne says. “I just want to give back.”\n\nShe hopes people will reconsider longstanding biases about marijuana. “I think people have this preconception of what cannabis is—you just associate it with drug dealers and have this idea in your head, and it’s all wrong; it’s all negative,” Anne explains. \n\nAnne’s clearly empowered by the experience she’s had with medical cannabis: ”I had all of these things happen to me, and I didn’t crumble. So if I’m here and I have a purpose, and this is helping me fulfill my dream and my purpose here on earth, then I’m going to go for it.”\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/b1b2d6b8f255d066cb74078125222a36/14b42/bffab165ef4b5ce566879d32adba9b4e.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b1b2d6b8f255d066cb74078125222a36/f836f/bffab165ef4b5ce566879d32adba9b4e.jpg 200w,\n/static/b1b2d6b8f255d066cb74078125222a36/2244e/bffab165ef4b5ce566879d32adba9b4e.jpg 400w,\n/static/b1b2d6b8f255d066cb74078125222a36/14b42/bffab165ef4b5ce566879d32adba9b4e.jpg 800w,\n/static/b1b2d6b8f255d066cb74078125222a36/47498/bffab165ef4b5ce566879d32adba9b4e.jpg 1200w,\n/static/b1b2d6b8f255d066cb74078125222a36/8980c/bffab165ef4b5ce566879d32adba9b4e.jpg 1232w","srcWebp":"/static/b1b2d6b8f255d066cb74078125222a36/58556/bffab165ef4b5ce566879d32adba9b4e.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b1b2d6b8f255d066cb74078125222a36/61e93/bffab165ef4b5ce566879d32adba9b4e.webp 200w,\n/static/b1b2d6b8f255d066cb74078125222a36/1f5c5/bffab165ef4b5ce566879d32adba9b4e.webp 400w,\n/static/b1b2d6b8f255d066cb74078125222a36/58556/bffab165ef4b5ce566879d32adba9b4e.webp 800w,\n/static/b1b2d6b8f255d066cb74078125222a36/99238/bffab165ef4b5ce566879d32adba9b4e.webp 1200w,\n/static/b1b2d6b8f255d066cb74078125222a36/6fd64/bffab165ef4b5ce566879d32adba9b4e.webp 1232w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2268-markdown","title":"4 Helpful CBD Products to Add to Your Daily Routine","slug":"4-helpful-cbd-products-to-add-to-your-daily-routine","content":"Chances are you’ve heard of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis. But another piece of the cannabis puzzle is having a moment—cannabidiol (CBD). CBD is the therapeutic, non-psychoactive compound that has neuroprotective properties. It’s not only been shown to help ease pain, reduce anxiety and depression, but [CBD also appears to manage a number of chronic conditions](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56c52e887c6109000800009a/cbd-cannabidiol-the-medicine-of-the-future) including cancer, diabetes and arthritis. It works to balance the endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating a number of important bodily functions like memory, immune function, appetite, sleep, mood and motor control. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nCBD-dominant products are great for people who don’t want to feel high—many people microdose with a CBD-dominant medicine during the day to manage their condition while still being able to take care of their daily responsibilities. \n\nFolks used to consuming THC-dominant cannabis might not think they have much use for products high in CBD, but you don’t have to have a pressing medical condition in order to benefit from all of the healing effects of the compound. \n\nWhatever your situation, check out these products and see how they might be able to fit into your normal routine. \n\nRELATED: [DIY RECIPE: CBD-INFUSED LEMONADE SPRITZERS WITH BASIL](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5994e65504d088060b25e2b9/diy-recipe-cbd-infused-lemonade-spritzers-with-basill)\n\n**Lord Jones Pain & Wellness Pure CBD Lotion**\nAn infused topical may be just what you need if you suffer from chronic pain. It can be used to:\n\n* help soothe achy feet at the end of a long day.\n* reduce painful inflammation in swollen joints.\n* ease tight, sore muscles.\n\nEach bottle of this soothing lotion comes packed with 100 mg of CBD and no THC. Each pump measures out 2 mg of CBD so you can easily keep track of your exact dosage.
\n\n**Emerald Alchemy 20:1 CBD Tincture**\nA tincture is cannabis-infused alcohol that can be taken alone sublingually (under the tongue); eaten by adding to foods such as sauces, soups and dressings; or imbibed when added to juices or teas.\n\nEmerald Alchemy’s high CBD tincture can:\n\n* take the edge off a stressful day.\n* help with the frustrating restlessness of insomnia.\n* work to relieve anxiety.\n\nEach dropper full contains 20 mg of CBD and 1 mg of THC, so there will be almost no psychoactive effects, but you’ll still benefit from the powerful combination of both healing compounds working together.  \n\n**[Bloom Farms](https://www.hellomd.com/biz/57730c61e878f80007000026/bloom-farms) ACDC Cartridge**\nVaping is a quick and discreet way to medicate whether you’re at home or out and about. [Bloom Farms ACDC vape pen](http://getbloomfarms.com/willits-acdc-3-1/) uses ACDC, a highly therapeutic strain that’s an effective mood booster without any psychoactive effects. This balancing strain is good for daily use and won’t leave you feeling drained or low on energy after a few puffs. It’s also good for:\n\n* pain\n* anxiety\n* depression\n* chronic stress\n* tension\n\n**The Venice Cookie Company Sugar-Free CBD Zinger**\nIf you’re trying to cut down on sugar, clean up your eating habits or just being more conscious about the ingredients in your cannabis-infused treats, this vegan cookie is a sensible choice that won’t make you miss dairy at all. It’s soft, chewy and full of flavor from lemon, ginger and turmeric, a spice that’s also known for its anti-inflammatory benefits.\n\nA whole cookie has 100 mg of CBD and 15 mg of THC. The suggested dosage is about 1/10 of a wedge of the cookie which has 10 mg of CBD and 1 to 2 g of THC. As with all edibles, it’s best to start with the lowest dosage, wait at least two hours to see how you feel and then have another small piece. Repeat this process until you achieve your desired experience and then save the rest for next time. \n\nPhoto credit: [kate fisher](https://www.flickr.com/photos/fisherkate/)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.36986301369863,"src":"/static/015c6487abcfb748b3a9e449a1286db6/14b42/db4654b6ca4a56ecf26ee22ccd60d1fa.jpg","srcSet":"/static/015c6487abcfb748b3a9e449a1286db6/f836f/db4654b6ca4a56ecf26ee22ccd60d1fa.jpg 200w,\n/static/015c6487abcfb748b3a9e449a1286db6/2244e/db4654b6ca4a56ecf26ee22ccd60d1fa.jpg 400w,\n/static/015c6487abcfb748b3a9e449a1286db6/14b42/db4654b6ca4a56ecf26ee22ccd60d1fa.jpg 800w,\n/static/015c6487abcfb748b3a9e449a1286db6/9842e/db4654b6ca4a56ecf26ee22ccd60d1fa.jpg 900w","srcWebp":"/static/015c6487abcfb748b3a9e449a1286db6/58556/db4654b6ca4a56ecf26ee22ccd60d1fa.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/015c6487abcfb748b3a9e449a1286db6/61e93/db4654b6ca4a56ecf26ee22ccd60d1fa.webp 200w,\n/static/015c6487abcfb748b3a9e449a1286db6/1f5c5/db4654b6ca4a56ecf26ee22ccd60d1fa.webp 400w,\n/static/015c6487abcfb748b3a9e449a1286db6/58556/db4654b6ca4a56ecf26ee22ccd60d1fa.webp 800w,\n/static/015c6487abcfb748b3a9e449a1286db6/210c1/db4654b6ca4a56ecf26ee22ccd60d1fa.webp 900w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2408-markdown","title":"Marijuana, Gut Health and the Brain ","slug":"marijuana-gut-health-and-the-brain","content":"Feeling queasy about making a big decision; butterflies in the stomach before a big date; wondering whether to trust a “gut” feeling—though they may seem to be completely separate organs, the brain and the gastrointestinal system are in constant communication. Stressed-out folks have long understood this relationship, and now recent studies reveal that the \n[“gut-brain axis”](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4367209/)\n plays a role in a long list of health conditions. As it turns out, cannabis may have an important role to play in keeping those lines of communication working smoothly. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Understanding the Mind-Gut Connection \n\nUntil relatively recently, people who suffer from anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions might have been told that their problem was “all in their head.” But recent research reveals that the [opposite is more likely true](https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/the-gut-brain-connection). A complex and comprehensive network of neurotransmitters and hormones shared by both the brain and the digestive tract link these two systems. \n\nHelped along by organisms in the gut biome, this axis of communication is anchored by the [vagus nerve](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24997031). The vagus nerve is the longest cranial nerve, running from the brain all the way to the abdomen. Although it actually consists of two branches, it’s usually referred to as one system. \n\nCommunication between the brain and the gut, which includes all parts of the digestive system from mouth to anus, is possible because many of the same neurotransmitters and receptors occur in both places—that’s why emotions generated in the brain can also be felt in the belly. A good example of this is irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, a condition that often has no clear physical cause.\n\nIf the brain speaks to the gut, the opposite is also true. Dysfunction in the digestive system can be communicated to the brain, contributing to conditions such as anxiety and depression. More evidence for this connection comes from recent studies on treating anxiety disorders and depression by targeting the gut with dietary changes, probiotics and other remedies for gastric problems.  \n\nThe gut-brain network also involves the central nervous system, the autonomic nervous system and a little known channel called the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis, or HPA. Because so many systems are engaged in this network, its function (or dysfunction) can affect just about every part of the body. But these systems aren’t the only ones to participate in the “crosstalk” along the gut-brain axis—the endocannabinoid system also plays a key role.\n\n### Marijuana and the Endocannabinoid System\n\nThe bodies of humans and other mammals contain a far-flung network of cannabinoid receptors that occur in many organs, nerves, cells and tissues. The endocannabinoid system, or ECS, has two receptors, CB1 and CB2, which are activated by the body’s own cannabinoids: 2-AG and anandamide. These molecules behave similarly to compounds found in marijuana.\n\nTetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the best known and most abundant of the compounds found in cannabis. It’s the psychoactive ingredient that’s responsible for the euphoric and relaxing “high,” but cannabis also contains over a hundred other substances. The second most prevalent of these is cannabidiol, or CBD, a compound that has no psychoactive qualities, but is able to work both with THC and on its own to affect the body’s immune system and many other functions.\n\nAlthough the endocannabinoid system wasn’t discovered until the early 1990s, numerous studies since then have revealed just how deeply connected it is to the body’s other systems. Moreover, the studies have also discussed the important role cannabis can play in activating the ECS to fight disease and maintain good health. Some research suggests that the [endocannabinoid system may actually be the body’s main regulatory system](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24997031), acting as a sort of “controller” for other systems, including the gut-brain network.\n\nThe endocannabinoid receptor CB1 is found throughout the body, but particularly in the brain and central nervous system. CB2 receptors occur most often in white blood cells, the peripheral nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract. These associations mean that the ECS likely plays a role in regulating many essential functions including pain control, pleasure and reward, immune responses, memory and cognition, and mood.  \n\nSome studies suggest that low levels of natural cannabinoids contribute to diseases like fibromyalgia, migraines and IBS. They also speculate that consuming cannabis can help resolve that deficiency and eliminate symptoms of those disorders.\n\nThe systems that contribute to the gut-brain axis also contain endocannabinoid receptors, and the activity of these receptors can regulate dysfunctions in those other systems. For example, cannabis may ease the symptoms of IBS and reduce the nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy; it can also aid anxiety and depression. Because endocannabinoids regulate activity in the HPA pathways, cannabis may also help regulate body temperature and support homeostasis, the balance of the body’s physiological processes. \n\n### Cannabis Supports Crosstalk between Systems\n\nThe discovery of the gut-brain axis also revealed a network of connections to many other essential systems, all engaged in constant “crosstalk.” But the endocannabinoid system has receptors in all those networks and more, and recent research suggests that the [ECS may stand behind them all, regulating the crosstalk that keeps the body’s systems working in sync](https://www.leafly.com/news/science-tech/cannabinoids-and-the-gut-how-the-endocannabinoid-system-impacts-m).  \n\nThis relationship between the endocannabinoid system and the gut-brain axis can explain why conditions like anxiety and IBS seem to be connected. It also helps us understand why cannabis seems to have a powerful effect on health conditions of many kinds.\n\nIf you're new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.  \n\nPhoto credit: [Flickr](https://www.flickr.com/photos/29637120@N08/2828064870/in/photolist-5iUza9-PnAqU-5qhoFx-HE48H-CsQBK-dHeGuM-5QzaFz-85QCWD-pKj69o-8b3y8p-9cBK64-5ZwXTV-7iE8me-5cTyMb-dvVddx-QK6C7G-9LCVja-dL2K3b-7iE8w2-hcdfZ4-dtWLsJ-beNrkr-bNyXdP-rZiuiq-55jDpH-o7doQM-9Bnyq-bC8vXu-dvw7qp-A4vLs-7iE93v-tpDJm-tpDJn-d9YzRk-yMTom-tpDJz-bVMtAx-49ZGkG-6JC2Zx-yMToq-2VZkck-7iE8Jv-a171Nn-tpDJh-oavbQM-3cEGtq-Vj4fYf-tpDJt-86AeND-deyfib)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/03d86d9b7cd9211e98ddb689f10782da/14b42/0cc0770eadb5746d3153e48e6eac493c.jpg","srcSet":"/static/03d86d9b7cd9211e98ddb689f10782da/f836f/0cc0770eadb5746d3153e48e6eac493c.jpg 200w,\n/static/03d86d9b7cd9211e98ddb689f10782da/2244e/0cc0770eadb5746d3153e48e6eac493c.jpg 400w,\n/static/03d86d9b7cd9211e98ddb689f10782da/14b42/0cc0770eadb5746d3153e48e6eac493c.jpg 800w,\n/static/03d86d9b7cd9211e98ddb689f10782da/47498/0cc0770eadb5746d3153e48e6eac493c.jpg 1200w,\n/static/03d86d9b7cd9211e98ddb689f10782da/54ac5/0cc0770eadb5746d3153e48e6eac493c.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/03d86d9b7cd9211e98ddb689f10782da/58556/0cc0770eadb5746d3153e48e6eac493c.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/03d86d9b7cd9211e98ddb689f10782da/61e93/0cc0770eadb5746d3153e48e6eac493c.webp 200w,\n/static/03d86d9b7cd9211e98ddb689f10782da/1f5c5/0cc0770eadb5746d3153e48e6eac493c.webp 400w,\n/static/03d86d9b7cd9211e98ddb689f10782da/58556/0cc0770eadb5746d3153e48e6eac493c.webp 800w,\n/static/03d86d9b7cd9211e98ddb689f10782da/99238/0cc0770eadb5746d3153e48e6eac493c.webp 1200w,\n/static/03d86d9b7cd9211e98ddb689f10782da/5e0b8/0cc0770eadb5746d3153e48e6eac493c.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2267-markdown","title":"3 Popular Questions About Marijuana & Anxiety Answered ","slug":"3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-anxiety-answered","content":"There is so much to know when it comes to staying informed on how cannabis can help you treat a condition and its accompanying symptoms. That’s why it’s important to have likeminded community that also includes doctors and nurses that you can turn to when you need help sorting things out. With the [Answers](https://www.hellomd.com/answers) platform on HelloMD, you can reach out to ask questions about anything and everything cannabis related and our community of patients, doctors and nurses will answer. \n\n### Using Cannabis to Keep Your Cool\n\nStress and anxiety are among some of the top reasons people consume cannabis. It helps them relax, release tension and find a little bit of peace in the midst of the whirlwind that is life. Both THC and CBD are powerful endocannabinoids that work individually and especially well in unison. They have also been shown to play a role in [stabilizing your mood](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-can-relieve-stress) and calming you down when you feel overwhelmed. \n\nIf you’re looking for some more information about cannabis and anxiety, we’ve highlighted 3 popular anxiety questions below to give you some insight into how you can utilize cannabis to manage your state of mind. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Q: Does using marijuana increase or decrease levels of anxiety?\n***I am interested in trying marijuana for my low grade anxiety. My concern is that it may increase my anxiety.***\n\nAnswer: @DrFrye \nCannabidiol (CBD) is the major non psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis. It is a potent anxiolytic and is very effective in reducing anxiety and the frequency of panic attacks. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) can reduce anxiety at low doses. At high doses, however, it can exacerbate anxiety and cause paranoia and panic attacks. People respond differently to cannabis and what is a high dose to one person, may not be to another. In my opinion, because CBD is so effective in reducing anxiety, it might be best to forego the THC. CBD varieties like ACDC, Charlotte's Web, and Jackson's Courage have very small amounts of THC (CBD:THC ratios are usually around 20:1) and are used to treat conditions such as anxiety, depression, mood instability, and psychosis. However, never go by the names alone. Insist on seeing independent, 3rd party testing results of your product because the cannabinoid profiles can be wildly unpredictable.\n\n[Read 1 more answer to this question.](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/571e7aa671431a000800004a/does-using-marijuana-increase-or-decrease-levels-of-anxiety)\n\n`embed: https://www.instagram.com/p/BYT0GxugAEX/`\n\n### Q: For anxiety, is a CBD-only formula preferable to one that contains some THC?\n***My doctor recommended a high CBD strain cannabis product; CBD:THC (30:1 to 5:1). I'm wondering why I would want any THC at all. Is it better to have no THC, or does a small amount of THC enhance the ability of the cannabis to decrease my anxiety in some way?***\n\nAnswer: [@drolson](https://www.hellomd.com/people/drolson) \nThe THC is ok to use but your doctor may be protecting you since hopefully, your doctor knows you well. Typically you do not experience the psychoactive effect with cannabis as long as you keep the ratio at 8:1, CBD:THC, or higher CBD but if you lower the CBD from 8:1, or increase the THC, you likely will experience the psychoactive affect. Please, consider asking your doctor why he/she does not want you to have any THC. \nFor your question, \"I'm wondering why I would want any THC at all.\", You may want to review the information on our website about the entourage effect of cannabis, the CBD's work better if there is some THC included, it is considered whole plant medicine.\n\n[Read 2 more answers to this question](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/594d48fd7bf8ba3eea8f71cd/for-anxiety-is-a-cbd-only-formula-preferable-to-one-that-contains-some-thc)\n\nRELATED: [TOP 10 HIGH-CBD MARIJUANA STRAINS FOR ANXIETY](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/top-10-high-cbd-marijuana-strains-for-anxiety)\n\n### Q: What are the best specific edibles for anxiety and insomnia?\n\nAnswer: [@drb](https://www.hellomd.com/people/drb) \nEdibles can be tricky as they can take 1-3 hours to begin working. A product that some boast has a quicker result time such as 20 minutes is a product called Kiva Blueberry Terra Bites. The product treats insomnia via a chocolate covered blueberry in small increments of 5 mg each bite. Recommended dosing is 1-3 bites, 1-3 hours before bed. \nAs always with edibles, I would recommend taking a 1/4 of the recommended dose with each new edible batch and waiting 3 hours before increasing as to avoid toxic effects such as profuse unwanted vomiting. \n\nFor anxiety, I would recommend a sublingual tincture or spray of CBD:THC ratio of >14:1. Care by design makes a CBD:THC ratio of 18:1 spray.\n\n[Read 3 more answers to this question.](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/581d147a23537600074d712c/what-are-the-best-specific-edibles-for-anxiety-and-insomnia)\n\nIf you're new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.  \n\n[Photo credit](https://www.flickr.com/photos/white_ribbons/6906663416/in/photolist-bwjspJ-oVs126-9sK4NM-9DPP1F-b6PZ2a-8DCSun-8pe9A6-9eViX9-9kbA7-5Me3NT-7XMBuV-5MGXLc-5zhXKN-auQjsf-okdAU3-fweZLw-eivmGR-25Lu5-doqXi-4WWuvt-9RN3k-ehh3kN-PYHj1-s4NtDh-5XQmZz-6kwT-LyGsH6-KhRqrb-WEWoMh-ov9gE4-4o6YfR-7d2iEk-M3XuY-5dopRY-VuK46m-Vo1XrD-5aXES-oKr1Lb-9EKZEo-49KH4b-dhaMev-gbru2L-RNHY2-nUFdxm-biYKPg-tGUXmf-5pBFqr-rTP1ks-coraXU-ciQVeo) Lauren Rushing","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/4733f009779c80b5ccbb7da74e3d7330/14b42/e7c73c245759f34b950e8f1c5b6a6de5.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4733f009779c80b5ccbb7da74e3d7330/f836f/e7c73c245759f34b950e8f1c5b6a6de5.jpg 200w,\n/static/4733f009779c80b5ccbb7da74e3d7330/2244e/e7c73c245759f34b950e8f1c5b6a6de5.jpg 400w,\n/static/4733f009779c80b5ccbb7da74e3d7330/14b42/e7c73c245759f34b950e8f1c5b6a6de5.jpg 800w,\n/static/4733f009779c80b5ccbb7da74e3d7330/47498/e7c73c245759f34b950e8f1c5b6a6de5.jpg 1200w,\n/static/4733f009779c80b5ccbb7da74e3d7330/54ac5/e7c73c245759f34b950e8f1c5b6a6de5.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/4733f009779c80b5ccbb7da74e3d7330/58556/e7c73c245759f34b950e8f1c5b6a6de5.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4733f009779c80b5ccbb7da74e3d7330/61e93/e7c73c245759f34b950e8f1c5b6a6de5.webp 200w,\n/static/4733f009779c80b5ccbb7da74e3d7330/1f5c5/e7c73c245759f34b950e8f1c5b6a6de5.webp 400w,\n/static/4733f009779c80b5ccbb7da74e3d7330/58556/e7c73c245759f34b950e8f1c5b6a6de5.webp 800w,\n/static/4733f009779c80b5ccbb7da74e3d7330/99238/e7c73c245759f34b950e8f1c5b6a6de5.webp 1200w,\n/static/4733f009779c80b5ccbb7da74e3d7330/5e0b8/e7c73c245759f34b950e8f1c5b6a6de5.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2492-markdown","title":"Top 5 Conditions Cannabis Treats Effectively","slug":"top-5-conditions-cannabis-treats-effectively","content":"As cannabis is legalized in more states and countries, people are turning to this powerful plant to address chronic medical conditions as well as day-to-day health concerns. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), the main chemical compounds found in marijuana, appear to successfully help reduce seizures, manage nausea, combat insomnia, relieve stress and weather the emotional turbulence of depression. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### The Most Common Uses for Marijuana\n\nMigraines, anxiety, chronic pain, arthritis and insomnia are five of the most common reasons people use cannabis. According to a [HelloMD patient survey](https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/hellomd-news/HelloMD_Medical_Marijuana_Patient_Survey.pdf) of 17,000 patients, 64% used cannabis for relief from their symptoms on a daily basis with 66% using it as their primary treatment for their conditions. Almost all users (96%) even said they would likely recommend cannabis to family and friends who were looking for ways to treat their own symptoms. \n\n### Marijuana & Chronic Pain\n\nA recent study provides evidence that [cannabis can significantly improve chronic pain](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/new-research-proves-marijuana-effectively-controls-chronic-pain) and help manage the symptoms associated with it thanks to the analgesic effects of the compounds found in the plant. Both THC and CBD are effective in treating the aching, throbbing, burning, soreness and stiffness associated with a number of conditions that result in consistent physical discomfort. In addition, a new study by HelloMD and UC Berkeley shows that an overwhelming [majority of cannabis patients (92%) prefer using cannabis to opioids](https://hellomd.com/articles/hellomd-and-uc-berkeley-release-study-on-cannabis-use-as-a-substitute-for-opioid-and-non-opioid-based-pain-medication) when managing their chronic pain. \n\nRELATED:[CANNABIS STRAINS FOR DIFFERENT KIND OF PAIN](https://hellomd.com/articles/top-14-marijuana-strains-for-different-kinds-of-pain)\n\n###  Marijuana & Anxiety\n\nCBD has been shown to assist the brain in regulating symptoms caused by anxiety from feelings of panic and uneasiness to physical tension and trouble sleeping. When CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, its [calming properties](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/does-marijuana-ease-anxiety) have been shown to help regulate the type 1 cannabinoid (CB1) receptors in the central amygdala of the brain that manage stress signals.\n\n### Marijuana & Arthritis\n\nThough there are various types of rheumatic diseases that fall under the umbrella term arthritis, cannabis has been proven to be a powerful alternative treatment that can help reduce the tenderness, inflexibility and swelling that accompanies many of the condition’s forms. The plant’s interactions with the type 2 cannabinoid (CB2) receptors activates pathways that can produce an [anti-inflammatory effect](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-soothes-arthritis-pain) within the body and cut down on joint pain. In addition to consuming marijuana orally, patients can also use infused topical creams and salves for relief. \n\nRELATED: [DO TOPICALS WORK FOR ARTHRITIS?](https://hellomd.com/questions-and-answers/do-topicals-work-for-arthritis-if-so-which-do-you-recommend)\n\n### Marijuana & Migraines \n\nRandomized clinical studies have shown that low doses of THC combined with CBD can lessen neurogenic pain and raise serotonin levels to ease the symptoms of [migraines](https://hellomd.com/articles/treating-migraines-with-marijuana-dr-patricia-frye). Inhalation has been shown to be the fastest and most effective method for migraines, followed by a tincture or spray taken sublingually to prolong the effects. For some people, consistent dosing of CBD has reduced or even eliminated recurring migraines.\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m21czeJ8pJk`\n\n### Marijuana & Insomnia\n\nTHC and CBD have both been shown to play a role in regulating the endocannabinoid system, which can help people [establish more consistent sleep patterns](https://hellomd.com/articles/medical-marijuana-could-help-insomniacs-sleep-better). Studies have also shown that cannabis can help people fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer throughout the night and might even improve the quality of sleep. Indica strains are usually suggested to help induce sleepiness, because they're known for their deeply relaxing qualities. \n\nRELATED: [CAN MARIJUANA HELP ME WITH INSOMNIA?](https://hellomd.com/questions-and-answers/can-marijuana-help-me-with-insomnia)\n\n### How to Consume Cannabis\n\nCannabis can be consumed in many different ways including:\n\n* smoking or vaping\n* eating edibles\n* taking tinctures\n* rubbing it on your skin as a topical\n* putting on a dermal patch\n* soaking in the tub with cannabis-infused bath salts\n\nIt’s best to assess your needs according to your condition, consider how you want to consume cannabis and figure out what type of experience you’d like to have after consumption—like whether you want to feel high.\n\nIf you're new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.  \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3245033112582782,"src":"/static/0f906e903339441a0363e7a377f9821b/ee604/8782460ff284616cf33c2836173a0381.png","srcSet":"/static/0f906e903339441a0363e7a377f9821b/69585/8782460ff284616cf33c2836173a0381.png 200w,\n/static/0f906e903339441a0363e7a377f9821b/497c6/8782460ff284616cf33c2836173a0381.png 400w,\n/static/0f906e903339441a0363e7a377f9821b/ee604/8782460ff284616cf33c2836173a0381.png 800w,\n/static/0f906e903339441a0363e7a377f9821b/f3583/8782460ff284616cf33c2836173a0381.png 1200w,\n/static/0f906e903339441a0363e7a377f9821b/ab613/8782460ff284616cf33c2836173a0381.png 1357w","srcWebp":"/static/0f906e903339441a0363e7a377f9821b/58556/8782460ff284616cf33c2836173a0381.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0f906e903339441a0363e7a377f9821b/61e93/8782460ff284616cf33c2836173a0381.webp 200w,\n/static/0f906e903339441a0363e7a377f9821b/1f5c5/8782460ff284616cf33c2836173a0381.webp 400w,\n/static/0f906e903339441a0363e7a377f9821b/58556/8782460ff284616cf33c2836173a0381.webp 800w,\n/static/0f906e903339441a0363e7a377f9821b/99238/8782460ff284616cf33c2836173a0381.webp 1200w,\n/static/0f906e903339441a0363e7a377f9821b/1da85/8782460ff284616cf33c2836173a0381.webp 1357w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2271-markdown","title":"When Marijuana Makes You Feel Anxious ","slug":"when-marijuana-makes-you-feel-anxious","content":"The main reason many people use marijuana is to experience that relaxing euphoric “high” that drives away stress and anxiety. But for some, cannabis has the opposite effect, triggering the very feelings of anxiety, nervousness and irritability that it’s supposed to relieve. Although these reactions are entirely contradictory, both are also entirely natural—and they can be explained by the complex responses of the body’s own vast network of cannabis receptors, the endocannabinoid system.  \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### The Endocannabinoid System\r\n\r\nHumanity’s relationship with marijuana is a long one, with records documenting its medicinal uses some 4,700 years ago. And the connection is far more ancient than that.  The human body is home to an [extensive network of cannabinoid receptor](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3997295/)\r\n that are primed to respond to chemicals bearing a close resemblance to THC, one of the many active compounds in cannabis.  \r\n\r\nRELATED: [WHY DOES CANNABIS MAKE YOU FEEL GOOD?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/582b86cce686fc000c657034/why-does-cannabis-make-you-feel-good)\r\n\r\nThis system, called [the endocannabinoid receptor system, wasn’t discovered\r\nuntil the early 1990s](http://www.beyondthc.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/eCBSystemLee.pdf)—but research since then has shown that the EC system plays a role in just about every function of the human body. \r\n\r\nEndocannabinoid receptors occur in the central nervous system, the peripheral nervous system and areas of the brain responsible for higher order functions, such as the neocortex, hippocampus, cerebellum and hypothalamus. These receptors are also present in just about every organ, as well as the connective tissues and blood vessels.  \r\n\r\nAlthough research continues to reveal new discoveries about the functions of the endocannabinoid system, it’s clear that this system is involved with immune responses, pain modulation, mood and controlling inflammation. Activation of some parts of the EC system can also stimulate the growth of neural cells and slow the growth of cancer cells.  \r\n\r\nLike other receptor networks in the body, the EC system functions when a cannabinoid receptor is activated by a matching molecule, like a key fitting into a lock. So far, two cannabinoid receptors have been identified, and they respond in different ways. CB1, found mainly in the central nervous system, is responsible for psychoactive responses such as memory, mood and cognition, and CB2, which occurs primarily in the tissues, organs and peripheral nervous system, tends to regulate immune responses.\r\n\r\nThese receptors can be activated by the body’s own cannabinoid-like chemicals—or from consuming cannabis in any of its many forms. But not everyone’s endocannabinoid system is the same. Certain genes control the expression of neurotransmitters in the EC system, and variations in those genes can cause differences in how (and how much) those neurotransmitters are expressed.\r\n\r\n### Anandamide: The “Bliss Molecule”\r\n\r\nAnandamide is one of those neurotransmitters—an endocannabinoid that binds to the same C1 cannabinoid receptors as THC, the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. Anandamide, which gets its name from ananda, the Sanskrit word for bliss, has been called the “bliss molecule” for its key feature of [promoting a state of happiness and contentment](https://www.cannabis.info/en/what-is-anandamide-how-does-it-help-marijuana-users). \r\n\r\nBut anandamide does much more. It also plays an important role in supporting memory, thought and coordination, as well as in suppressing pain and slowing the proliferation of cancer cells. It’s also responsible for that exercise-induced euphoria known as “runner’s high.”\r\n\r\nAnandamide levels are not fixed, and it’s possible to increase them with activities like exercise and intense creative work, which stimulate the release of endorphins, serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters that are related to pleasure and reward. Eating chocolate boosts anandamide levels, too, which can explain why so many people turn to chocolate to soothe disappointment and broken hearts. And the highly expensive black truffle contains anandamide all on its own. But because anandamide is so similar to THC, using cannabis is also a way to trigger its calming, mood-boosting properties. For some people, though, other factors interfere with that pleasurable effect.\r\n\r\n### FAAH – Is It the “Feel-Good Gene”?\r\n\r\nAnandamide is a fragile neurotransmitter with a relatively short life. It’s regulated by a gene that produces an enzyme called [fatty acid amide hydrolase, or FAAH](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/gene/2166), which is responsible for breaking it down. In the presence of higher levels of FAAH, more anandamide is broken down, leaving the system vulnerable to feelings of anxiety and depression. When that happens, the brain is more inclined to respond to the calming effects of cannabis.\r\n\r\nBut when less FAAH is available, more anandamide can continue to circulate in the brain. Those levels can fluctuate for a variety of reasons, but some people have a variant of the FAAH gene that allows higher levels of anandamide to circulate in the brain, causing more overall feelings of happiness and less inclination to recall frightening or disturbing events.  \r\n\r\nIn a recent New York Times article, physician Richard Friedman called [FAAH the “feel-good gene.”](https://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/08/opinion/sunday/the-feel-good-gene.html?mcubz=0) According to Friedman, people with this genetic variation tend to feel naturally more upbeat and calm, so that they don’t typically respond to the relaxing effects of THC in cannabis. On the other hand, people with the “normal” FAAH gene—about 80 percent of U.S. adults of European descent—have lower levels of anandamide, so for these people cannabis is more likely to have a pleasurable effect.\r\n\r\nThe existence of a [\"feel-good gene” that keeps anandamide levels high in some people remains controversial](https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/cross-check/n-y-times-hype-of-8220-feel-good-gene-8221-makes-me-feel-bad/). But it may help to explain how the relationship between FAAH levels and anandamide can affect the way a user responds to cannabis.  \r\n\r\nAnandamide levels aren’t the only factor contributing to feelings of anxiety and nervousness when using cannabis. Strains with higher levels of THC can overwhelm the system, too—and some people may feel those anxious symptoms at one time but not at others. But the complex play of cannabis and the body’s own endocannabinoid system can have unexpected results—and the path to feeling good can leave some cannabis users feeling bad instead.\r\n\r\nIf you're new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/034c60c1a04e2e20a868933701449f01/14b42/e25347d5b444ce1de77673d48a480e13.jpg","srcSet":"/static/034c60c1a04e2e20a868933701449f01/f836f/e25347d5b444ce1de77673d48a480e13.jpg 200w,\n/static/034c60c1a04e2e20a868933701449f01/2244e/e25347d5b444ce1de77673d48a480e13.jpg 400w,\n/static/034c60c1a04e2e20a868933701449f01/14b42/e25347d5b444ce1de77673d48a480e13.jpg 800w,\n/static/034c60c1a04e2e20a868933701449f01/47498/e25347d5b444ce1de77673d48a480e13.jpg 1200w,\n/static/034c60c1a04e2e20a868933701449f01/54ac5/e25347d5b444ce1de77673d48a480e13.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/034c60c1a04e2e20a868933701449f01/58556/e25347d5b444ce1de77673d48a480e13.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/034c60c1a04e2e20a868933701449f01/61e93/e25347d5b444ce1de77673d48a480e13.webp 200w,\n/static/034c60c1a04e2e20a868933701449f01/1f5c5/e25347d5b444ce1de77673d48a480e13.webp 400w,\n/static/034c60c1a04e2e20a868933701449f01/58556/e25347d5b444ce1de77673d48a480e13.webp 800w,\n/static/034c60c1a04e2e20a868933701449f01/99238/e25347d5b444ce1de77673d48a480e13.webp 1200w,\n/static/034c60c1a04e2e20a868933701449f01/5e0b8/e25347d5b444ce1de77673d48a480e13.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2409-markdown","title":"Finding Peace in Turbulent Times","slug":"finding-peace-in-turbulent-times","content":"The eclipse this past week was an amazing once-in-a-lifetime experience. While peering through my glasses watching the sun slowly take away the light, I heard someone comment that it seemed to be a metaphor of the turbulent times surrounding us. Given recent current events, even looking at your Facebook feed can even be an anxiety-invoking experience.\r\n\r\nBut as with the eclipse, and every experience in life, this too is temporary. It’s how we choose to move through it that makes the difference. Not everything is within our control, but what we're in control of is our own thoughts, words and actions. Staying positive, focusing on peaceful thoughts, supporting our friends and loved ones, and being the change we wish to see in the world are some things we can do to shift from darkness to light.\r\n\r\nThese may be trying times, but within the turbulence, there's an opportunity to become something greater. For instance, we can choose to grow and be grateful for what's good and true and emit our own bit of peace into the world.\r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\nWith that, here are 5 TED talks we find inspiring and thought provoking:\r\n\r\n### The Power of Mindfulness\r\n\r\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IeblJdB2-Vo`\r\nDr. Shauna Shapiro talks about being present in the moment through meditation and demonstrates how mindfulness can help us make positive changes in our brains and our lives. What you practice grows stronger.\r\n\r\n### How Laughing at Yourself Can Change the World\r\n\r\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E3S__-5-FHQ`\r\nBrad Jenkins is half Korean and half African American. Here he discusses his personal experience and the power of comedy to transform challenging situations. \r\n\r\n### My Philosophy for a Happy Life\r\n\r\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=36m1o-tM05g`\r\nSam Berns has Progeria, a rare, rapid aging disease, at the age of 2. He talks about how he has had a very happy life despite his disease.\r\n\r\n### Why We Do What We Do\r\n\r\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cpc-t-Uwv1I&t=136s`\r\n\r\nAcclaimed self help guru, Tony Robbins, discusses the \"invisible forces\" that make us do what we do and how we have the power to change any situation.\r\n\r\n### Why I Changed My Mind About Medicinal Cannabis\r\n\r\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3N8QMeIsX2c`\r\n\r\nHugh Hempel is a technology veteran, healthcare entrepreneur and a cannabis industry pioneer. Here he discusses how medicinal cannabis has enriched the lives of his ailing 11 year-old daughters. who suffer with a rare and fatal neurodegenerative disease called Niemann Pick Type C.\r\n\r\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.  \r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/2dab3095e46d9c96e450aad6fd3d34f2/14b42/d81b6f3ee3f4053c91b6a164e21a99af.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2dab3095e46d9c96e450aad6fd3d34f2/f836f/d81b6f3ee3f4053c91b6a164e21a99af.jpg 200w,\n/static/2dab3095e46d9c96e450aad6fd3d34f2/2244e/d81b6f3ee3f4053c91b6a164e21a99af.jpg 400w,\n/static/2dab3095e46d9c96e450aad6fd3d34f2/14b42/d81b6f3ee3f4053c91b6a164e21a99af.jpg 800w,\n/static/2dab3095e46d9c96e450aad6fd3d34f2/47498/d81b6f3ee3f4053c91b6a164e21a99af.jpg 1200w,\n/static/2dab3095e46d9c96e450aad6fd3d34f2/54ac5/d81b6f3ee3f4053c91b6a164e21a99af.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/2dab3095e46d9c96e450aad6fd3d34f2/58556/d81b6f3ee3f4053c91b6a164e21a99af.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/2dab3095e46d9c96e450aad6fd3d34f2/61e93/d81b6f3ee3f4053c91b6a164e21a99af.webp 200w,\n/static/2dab3095e46d9c96e450aad6fd3d34f2/1f5c5/d81b6f3ee3f4053c91b6a164e21a99af.webp 400w,\n/static/2dab3095e46d9c96e450aad6fd3d34f2/58556/d81b6f3ee3f4053c91b6a164e21a99af.webp 800w,\n/static/2dab3095e46d9c96e450aad6fd3d34f2/99238/d81b6f3ee3f4053c91b6a164e21a99af.webp 1200w,\n/static/2dab3095e46d9c96e450aad6fd3d34f2/5e0b8/d81b6f3ee3f4053c91b6a164e21a99af.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2426-markdown","title":"Medical Marijuana for Herpes","slug":"medical-marijuana-for-herpes","content":"### What is Herpes?\n\nHerpes comes in two forms, Type 1, which is oral herpes, and Type 2, which is genital herpes. Herpes in both forms cycles between dormant and active periods. The active phases of the condition are commonly brought by periods of stress, illness, lack of sleep, or some other event that exacerbates the condition which leads to a breakout of sores. Herpes sores can be painful and can also cause other pain associated with urination or itching. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nThere is no cure for herpes and it can be transmitted through contact with someone else’s sores who has the condition. Most commonly, it is transmitted during active outbreaks. It is often thought that herpes can only be transmitted sexually, but, in its oral form, it can be also transmitted through kissing or even from sharing drinks. \n\n### How Can Cannabis Help?\n\nCannabis can help herpes sufferers in a variety of ways. Medical marijuana can help decrease anxiety surrounding everyday life or big events, which often can trigger outbreaks. Different cannabinoids have different effects on anxiety, with CBD appearing to be the most effective at reducing anxiety. A [2011 study](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21307846) published in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology showed that CBD greatly decreased the symptoms experienced by people with social anxiety disorder. CBD also has anti-inflammatory effects that could help to decrease the severity and pain caused by a herpes outbreak.\n\n[![](https://hellomd-production.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/58dad358b0a11461e6b875d3/embedded_images/58daf7fa3bb6a6687a14cc80/truefarma.jpg)](http://truefarma.com/hello-md/)\n[TRUE FARMA DEAL: 25% off your first purchase for first time customers within California.](http://truefarma.com/hello-md/)  \n\nPhysiological measures, like blood pressure and heart rate, as well as personal evaluations showed greatly decreased levels of anxiety in patients who were administered CBD during a public speaking test compared to those who had taken a placebo. The anxiety reducing effects could help decrease the frequency or severity outbreaks, especially leading up to important events that often cause increased stresses. \n\nRELATED: [MARIJUANA AND SHINGLES](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5899531976773d000ad77ae2/marijuana-and-shingles)\n\nTHC can help reduce pain caused by an outbreak. Pain experienced by people with herpes is often neuropathic in nature, a kind of pain that cannabis is particularly effective at targeting. A [study by the University of California at Davis]](https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/results/NCT01037088?term=cannabis&rank=14&sect=X601) found that THC could greatly reduce neuropathic pain experienced by patients, even in the very small concentrations of 3.53% and 1.29% THC. 61% and 57% of people in the study groups who received cannabis for treatment experienced a reduction in their pain, leading the study to conclude that THC has great analgesic effects on neuropathic pain. \n\n### Research Finding Cannabis is Effective\n\nSome [preliminary studies](http://www.medicalmarijuanainc.com/herpes-virus-medical-marijuana-research-overview/) have also found that THC could even change how the body responds to the herpes virus. THC appears to be able to modulate the body’s immune response to help counter the spread of herpes. THC may help inhibit the synthesis of glycoproteins, which helps with the maturation and spread of the virus. \n\nThis means that cannabis could actually help decrease the viruses viability and reduce its spread by up to 80%. Though more research is needed to confirm these findings, the current research does indicate that THC could interfere with viral replication. CBD could also potentially add to cannabis’ potential to block the spread of the virus because of its own anti-microbial properties. \n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient. 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