{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/science-and-research/3","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2649-markdown","title":"Do Breathalyzers for Marijuana Work?","slug":"do-breathalyzers-for-marijuana-work","content":"Breathalyzer testing is a common—and legal—way to find out whether someone’s driving under the influence of alcohol. But can the same concept work for cannabis, too? [Hound Labs](https://houndlabs.com/product-testing/) thinks that it can. \r\n\r\nThe Oakland-based laboratory has developed [the first-ever breathalyzer](http://theweek.com/speedreads/744290/california-company-making-breathalyzer-marijuana) to test for the presence of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. But because of the way THC and other compounds in cannabis are metabolized by the body, [breath testing may not be a reliable way](https://www.livescience.com/61530-marijuana-breathalyzer.html) to find out whether a driver who has consumed cannabis is actually impaired.\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### Hound Labs Attempts to Define Cannabis Impairment \r\n\r\nAcceptance of legal marijuana in some form is growing across the U.S.—and so too are concerns that vehicle accident rates will go up as more drivers hit the road after consuming cannabis. So, the search is on for a fast and reliable way to test for the presence of cannabis in a person suspected of driving while impaired—and to establish a baseline level for defining impairment. \r\n\r\nTo do that, researchers at Hound Labs and elsewhere have looked to the model of the breathalyzer, a tool used in thousands if not millions of traffic stops to check whether a person’s blood-alcohol level is over a clearly specified amount. Using that same principle, the Hound Labs Breathalyzer aims to detect the presence of THC in terms of nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL) in the breath.  \r\n\r\nRELATED: [KEEPING CANNABIS IN YOUR CAR: FIND OUT WHAT’S LEGAL](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a0336658f636c000fdf9e36/keeping-cannabis-in-your-car-find-out-whats-legal)\r\n\r\nAfter field-testing the breathalyzer prototype on large numbers of volunteer motorists, the Hound Labs researchers hope to establish a legal national standard for defining cannabis impairment, which in some states is already set at 5 ng/mL. But it’s possible for someone to be impaired by THC at much lower levels than that—or not impaired at all at much higher levels.\r\n\r\n### How Do Breathalyzers Measure Alcohol? \r\n\r\nAlcohol is carried into the bloodstream after reaching the stomach and small intestine, then it goes on to the liver where it’s broken down. And it’s pretty standard how quickly a person’s liver can break down alcohol—generally one ounce of alcohol an hour. Of course, everybody’s different, but because this process is relatively straightforward, this baseline is a pretty reliable standard. \r\n\r\nAlcohol in the blood that goes through the lungs evaporates into the lung’s air sacs and then into the air, showing up when someone who’s been drinking breathes into a breathalyzer. It’s not as accurate as a blood test, but it’s enough to determine if someone is impaired. \r\n\r\n### Cannabis & Alcohol Work Very Differently in the Body\r\n\r\nUnlike alcohol, where its presence at a certain level nearly always equates to impairment, the presence of cannabis at a given level doesn’t necessarily correlate to impairment. And that creates a conundrum for proponents of breathalyzer testing—how can the test tell police that the person being tested is impaired by marijuana, as opposed to simply having consumed cannabis? Because that’s all the marijuana breathalyzer can tell us: whether there’s cannabis present in the body. It can’t determine if a person is impaired enough to be dangerous on the road. \r\n\r\nApplying the same standards for alcohol to that of cannabis impairment is highly problematic, given that cannabis behaves very differently in the body than alcohol or other substances that typically cause obvious impairment at certain levels. The mechanisms for the uptake and expression of cannabis are complex and highly variable, depending on factors such as:\r\n\r\n* Gender\r\n* Weight\r\n* The makeup of an individual’s endocannabinoid system (ECS)\r\n* Consumption method\r\n\r\nThe different ways of consuming cannabis—smoking, vaping, eating edibles—can produce very different effects. This also contributes to the [range of responses to a given amount of cannabis](http://www.cell.com/trends/molecular-medicine/fulltext/S1471-49141730229-0).\r\n\r\n### THC’s Many Forms Make Detection Standards Difficult\r\n\r\nCannabis contains many compounds, and research continues to discover more. But it’s the famous delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, that people focus on and that makes some worry about the dangers of drug addiction. Those reactions arise from the fact that THC is responsible for the high people feel after consuming marijuana, as well as other responses in a number of areas of the brain related to memory, coordination and mood. But how long people feel altered and what effects it can have aren’t so easy to define given [what happens to THC once it’s consumed](https://sapiensoup.com/human-metabolism-thc).\r\n\r\nWhen most people refer to THC, they’re almost always referring to delta-9 THC. This chemical [converts to other forms, or metabolites, once it enters the body](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3196989/). When cannabis is inhaled, THC quickly enters the lungs. From there it enters the bloodstream, travelling directly to the heart, where it’s pumped throughout the body. On the way through the liver, it converts into a secondary metabolite called 11-hydroxy-delta-9-THC, or hydroxy THC. In turn, hydroxy THC creates a third form, 11-Nor-9-carboxy-THC, often called THC-COOH, or carboxy THC.  \r\n\r\nAll of these forms of THC operate differently in the body, so that their effects aren’t felt simultaneously. Delta-9 THC peaks in the bloodstream within about 10 minutes of smoking or vaping. About 15 minutes after inhaling, hydroxy THC crosses the blood-brain barrier, triggering ECS receptors there to cause the well-known marijuana high. Because both hydroxy and carboxy THC are produced by secondary processes, they linger in the system—and this plays a major role in figuring out when, and how, a person is affected by cannabis.\r\n\r\nAlthough hydroxy THC peaks within minutes after consumption, it can be detected in the body for at least 12 hours after that. But carboxy THC, the last of the THC metabolites to be produced, typically peaks more than an hour after it’s consumed—and it can be detected for up to seven days after use.\r\n\r\nFurther complicating this picture is the fact that THC in all its forms has an affinity for lipid, or fatty tissue, where it can remain for relatively long periods of time before being slowly released back into the bloodstream and eventually excreted. Frequent marijuana consumers and people with higher amounts of adipose tissue retain THC longer and in higher amounts. That explains why it’s possible to test positive for THC on a urine drug test days or weeks after having consumed cannabis. \r\n\r\n### Different Cannabis Consumption Methods Affect Bodies Differently\r\n\r\nHow much someone is affected by cannabis and for how long depends on how they consumed the marijuana in the first place. Ingesting cannabis in the form of edibles considerably slows down the journey of THC through the body, since it has to enter the bloodstream via the stomach and intestines. That explains why most people don’t feel the effects of cannabis edibles until an hour or more after consuming them.\r\n\r\nThe THC eventually winds up in the liver, where it’s broken down into its various metabolites and released back into the bloodstream. In this first pass through the liver, relatively large amounts of THC are typically metabolized or eliminated completely before reaching the ECS receptors at all. But the remaining delta-9 and hydroxy THC reach the brain almost simultaneously, binding to the CB1 receptor there. \r\n\r\nAll of these processes are affected by factors including sex (men and women may metabolize cannabis differently because of variations in adipose tissue levels, among other factors), weight and the distribution of ECS receptors throughout the body. These receptors can range from high to low density and vary in their responsiveness to cannabis. \r\n\r\nWhile Hound Labs claims its test can differentiate between cannabis consumed long ago and marijuana ingested just shortly before the test, it’s still problematic. What if someone ingested a cannabis edible but the effects haven’t been felt yet, and they’re not impaired? A Hound Labs breathalyzer would still register a positive test.\r\n\r\n### So, Is Breath Testing for Marijuana Really a Good Option?\r\n\r\nAll of these factors combine to explain why cannabis behaves so differently from alcohol in the body, and why the same breathalyzer technology may not work for detecting both of these substances. For now, Hounds Lab and some of its competitors continue to fine-tune their products and work on the challenge of defining impairment from cannabis. \r\n\r\nDriving while under the influence of substances of any kind is illegal nationwide—and that includes cannabis. But the disconnect between consuming marijuana and being impaired by cannabis makes it difficult to create meaningful tools and metrics for defining a cannabis DUI. Plus, statistics reveal that [vehicle accidents due to cannabis consumption haven’t risen as people feared](http://norml.org/library/item/marijuana-and-driving-a-review-of-the-scientific-evidence). Some research suggests that the opposite might actually be true: Cannabis-consuming drivers may be more cautious than their peers who drive under the influence of alcohol—the latter of which are responsible for a significant number of car crashes.\r\n\r\nFor now, Hound Labs is working to solve the problem of not having a way to test drivers for marijuana impairment. But until then, if you consume cannabis, you’re better off having a designated driver get behind the wheel.\r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [KOMUnews](https://www.flickr.com/people/komunews/)\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,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAOABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwAAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIEA//EABYBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECA//aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABj3hpoccc/wD/xAAbEAEAAgIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACAQMAEQQSM//aAAgBAQABBQKdpD1tUw+2HdrnjVnP/8QAFxEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIRAf/aAAgBAwEBPwFkmFU//8QAGREAAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBAiES/9oACAECAQE/Aelo7Tp//8QAHhAAAgEDBQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEhAhAREyIxcYH/2gAIAQEABj8C3FXRDVtNRHJh5fp//8QAGxABAAMAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFBUYH/2gAIAQEAAT8hW8gVlyoi0I5ZWiFRevXkB0D9KiNC+4n/2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEHQv/8QAFxEBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARIf/aAAgBAwEBPxAsmB5l/8QAGhEAAgIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERITFRcf/aAAgBAgEBPxCbaioMPh//xAAfEAACAQQCAwAAAAAAAAAAAAABEQAhMXGBQVFh0fD/2gAIAQEAAT8QCktQIReAaD0eTiLlAN1r8ozuekMZDlWF6GzCu+nMGAJ//9k=","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/01b519ca813f78abab347af89ca8036a/14b42/4c8334e6e833ded22fda0a5c69041fe9.jpg","srcSet":"/static/01b519ca813f78abab347af89ca8036a/f836f/4c8334e6e833ded22fda0a5c69041fe9.jpg 200w,\n/static/01b519ca813f78abab347af89ca8036a/2244e/4c8334e6e833ded22fda0a5c69041fe9.jpg 400w,\n/static/01b519ca813f78abab347af89ca8036a/14b42/4c8334e6e833ded22fda0a5c69041fe9.jpg 800w,\n/static/01b519ca813f78abab347af89ca8036a/47498/4c8334e6e833ded22fda0a5c69041fe9.jpg 1200w,\n/static/01b519ca813f78abab347af89ca8036a/0e329/4c8334e6e833ded22fda0a5c69041fe9.jpg 1600w,\n/static/01b519ca813f78abab347af89ca8036a/4c691/4c8334e6e833ded22fda0a5c69041fe9.jpg 3107w","srcWebp":"/static/01b519ca813f78abab347af89ca8036a/58556/4c8334e6e833ded22fda0a5c69041fe9.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/01b519ca813f78abab347af89ca8036a/61e93/4c8334e6e833ded22fda0a5c69041fe9.webp 200w,\n/static/01b519ca813f78abab347af89ca8036a/1f5c5/4c8334e6e833ded22fda0a5c69041fe9.webp 400w,\n/static/01b519ca813f78abab347af89ca8036a/58556/4c8334e6e833ded22fda0a5c69041fe9.webp 800w,\n/static/01b519ca813f78abab347af89ca8036a/99238/4c8334e6e833ded22fda0a5c69041fe9.webp 1200w,\n/static/01b519ca813f78abab347af89ca8036a/7c22d/4c8334e6e833ded22fda0a5c69041fe9.webp 1600w,\n/static/01b519ca813f78abab347af89ca8036a/9b9d2/4c8334e6e833ded22fda0a5c69041fe9.webp 3107w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2644-markdown","title":"Can Cannabis Help You Lose Weight? ","slug":"can-cannabis-help-you-lose-weight","content":"If you’ve seen the movies “Pineapple Express,” “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” or “Dazed and Confused,” you know popular culture doesn’t exactly portray cannabis consumers fairly. Each stoner character is lazy and scatterbrained with a penchant for pigging out on junk food.\r\n\r\nOne of the most dramatized aspects of cannabis is its ability to induce the munchies—the kind that adds inches to your waistline. While it’s true that marijuana can stimulate appetite, which is a major benefit for those dealing with appetite loss from chemotherapy or [wasting syndrome (cachexia)](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55aecd3266626600060d0000/has-cachexia-met-its-match-in-medical-marijuana), the idea that every puff of marijuana can send you into an hours-long eating binge is simply not accurate. \r\n\r\nIn fact, some of the more recent scientific explorations on cannabis and weight gain show the exact opposite relationship than many may expect. These studies show that:\r\n\r\n* Some cannabinoids are thought to suppress appetite, thereby promoting weight loss\r\n* Cannabis can positively affect obesity in mice\r\n* The plant can help folks at risk of metabolic syndrome \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\nIf you’ve done even the most basic research on cannabis, you’ve probably heard of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the cannabinoid responsible for making people feel high. But THC’s psychoactive effects aren’t the only notable feature of this chemical compound. In one study, researchers concluded that orally ingested THC reduced weight gain in mice eating a high-fat diet. But THC isn’t the only cannabinoid that can help with weight-loss goals. \r\n\r\n### THCV, the Cannabinoid That Suppresses Appetite\r\n\r\nThe cannabinoid that can help manage your weight is called [tetrahydrocannabivarin, also known as THCV](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5aa8a1f1f24d1300077ccb8a/the-10-cannabinoids-in-cannabis-you-should-know). This cannabinoid is very similar in structure to THC and produces some mild psychoactive effects as well, but it has one very interesting side effect: the ability to act as an appetite suppressant. \r\n\r\nTHCV is mostly found in marijuana sativa strains. [Durban Poison](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7cb16cd520d60009f4f4a3/durban-poison) contains relatively low quantities of the cannabinoid, while harder-to-find strains like Pineapple Purps and Doug’s Varin contain higher quantities of THCV. If you’re interested in THCV for its ability to regulate blood sugar and manage appetite, ask the cannabis consultant at your local dispensary for lab test results on sativa strains to find the one that has the highest THCV content. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [PSYCHOACTIVE THCV: THE CANNABINOID THAT KILLS YOUR APPETITE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a8db389f24d1300077ccb5a/psychoactive-thcv-the-cannabinoid-that-kills-your-appetite)\r\n\r\n### Study Finds THC Can Reduce Weight & Fat Gain\r\n\r\nSo, can we really count weight loss as part of marijuana’s long list of positive medical applications? Studies have shown that [cannabis consumers tend to have a lower body mass index (BMI)](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27572145) than non-consumers do, but researchers stopped short of claiming any causal relationship between cannabis and BMI. Luckily, a few recent studies explore whether cannabis consumption leads to weight loss.  \r\n\r\nA 2015 study funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research [investigated the effects of chronic cannabis use on the body weight of mice](http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0144270). Lean and overweight mice were treated daily with THC for four weeks and fed a high-fat diet. At the end of the month, the researchers observed the mice’s weight change, locomotor activity and whole gut transit.  \r\n\r\nThe researchers concluded that “THC reduced weight gain, fat mass gain and energy uptake” in obese mice. Interestingly, this finding didn’t hold for the lean mice—meaning, cannabis had no effect on their locomotor activity and whole gut transit. \r\n\r\nResearchers also discovered that daily cannabis use actually altered the gut microbiota, or the microbial population that lives in the intestine. Gut microbiota helps break down food, promotes healthy digestion, and can ultimately determine weight gain and loss. The researchers believe that orally ingested THC induced the change in gut microbiota, which likely contributed to the weight loss in obese mice.  \r\n\r\nRELATED: [THE MUNCHIES WILL MAKE YOU FAT, RIGHT? THINK AGAIN](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56cb9d8ececb1b000b000073/the-munchies-will-make-you-fat-right-think-again)\r\n\r\n### Marijuana Use Is Associated With Lower Metabolic Syndrome\r\n\r\nIn another study conducted in 2016 and published in the _American Journal of Medicine_ , [researchers looked into cannabis consumption and metabolic syndrome](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26548604/). Metabolic syndrome can be a nebulous term, but in this study it was defined as:\r\n\r\n* Elevated fasting glucose\r\n* High triglycerides\r\n* Low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol\r\n* Elevated systolic/diastolic blood pressure\r\n* Increased waist circumference \r\n\r\nBasically, metabolic syndrome is when someone experiences all of these conditions together, which makes them more susceptible to diabetes, stroke and heart disease. \r\n\r\nAdults between the ages of 20–59 were surveyed with respondents totaling 8,500. Some had never consumed cannabis, others had previously consumed marijuana, and another group comprised current cannabis consumers. The researchers found that less than 14% of current marijuana consumers were affected by metabolic syndrome, compared to 22% which is the national average for adults in the United States.\r\n\r\nResearchers concluded, “Current marijuana use is associated with lower odds of metabolic syndrome across emerging and middle-aged U.S. adults.” \r\n\r\nThese findings are promising for people with health issues that increase the risk of obesity such as:\r\n\r\n* Postpartum depression\r\n* Insulin resistance\r\n* Hypothyroidism\r\n* Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)\r\n* Cushing’s syndrome \r\n* Heightened stress \r\n\r\nIf you’re dealing with one of these issues and are worried about possible weight gain, cannabis could be a natural way to counteract that side effect. \r\n\r\nThere’s way more to the story when it comes to cannabis and your weight. Not only does marijuana appear to help you shed the pounds, but [it can also be used to make exercising more enjoyable](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a550d2ec7e0180007a78265/how-to-add-cannabis-to-your-fitness-routine). Some people actually find cannabis motivates them before and during a workout—yet another way marijuana can promote weight loss. Let us know in the comments if cannabis has helped you lose weight and how you incorporate marijuana into a healthy lifestyle. \r\n\r\nPhoto Credit: [Patricia Serna](https://unsplash.com/@sernarial)\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":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/14b42/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/f836f/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.jpg 200w,\n/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/2244e/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.jpg 400w,\n/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/14b42/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.jpg 800w,\n/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/47498/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.jpg 1200w,\n/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/0e329/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.jpg 1600w,\n/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/1e649/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.jpg 1981w","srcWebp":"/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/58556/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/61e93/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.webp 200w,\n/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/1f5c5/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.webp 400w,\n/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/58556/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.webp 800w,\n/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/99238/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.webp 1200w,\n/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/7c22d/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.webp 1600w,\n/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/8aa02/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.webp 1981w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2628-markdown","title":"How Cannabis Works to Protect & Repair the Brain","slug":"how-cannabis-works-to-protect-and-repair-the-brain","content":"For decades, anti-drug campaigns have portrayed cannabis as a risky substance that not only opens the door to abusing harder drugs, but also causes a long list of harmful effects—including permanent damage to memory and cognition. More recently, though, numerous studies from around the world are revealing that far from destroying brain cells, compounds in cannabis are both uniquely able to protect them and support the growth of new ones.\n\nNow, this new research shows that the [potent neuroprotective properties of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and other cannabis compounds](http://norml.org/component/zoo/category/cannabis-and-the-brain-a-user-s-guide) may offer new hope for treating not only brain injury and neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis, but also Alzheimer’s and aggressive cancers in the brain and body.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Marijuana Compounds Protect the Brain & Nerves in Many Ways\n\nNeuroprotectants are agents that help to reduce damage to the brain and nervous system caused by injury, exposure to toxins, or inflammatory processes or disease states in the body. These agents also encourage the growth and development of new neurons. Neuroprotectants take many forms, ranging from vitamins and synthetic drugs to herbs and natural substances such as marine algae.\n\nNow, a variety of studies indicate that cannabis may be among the most powerful of these, thanks to its action on the body’s cannabinoid receptors and [its own anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties](https://echoconnection.org/cbd-has-antioxidant-and-neuroprotective-properties-what-does-that-mean).\n\nNeurological damage can come from direct injury, such as in head trauma or a stroke. It can be caused by exposure to toxic substances, including alcohol and nicotine, or by various processes that damage the protective sheaths surrounding nerves or the nerve cells themselves.\n\nBut the cannabis compounds cannabidiol (CBD) and THC can protect against many causes of nerve damage and help repair damage once it happens by preventing inflammation; stimulating the growth of new, healthy cells; and encouraging the death of malignant ones.  \n\nThe endocannabinoid system (ECS) is an extensive network of receptors primed to respond both to cannabinoid substances naturally produced by the body and to cannabinoids from outside sources, most notably cannabis itself. The ECS is directly or indirectly responsible for supporting a variety of systems and processes in the brain and many organs and tissues; this helps explain why [cannabis can have such a wide range of neuroprotective effects](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10863546). \n\n### Cannabis Supports Healing From Brain Trauma & Injury\n\nThe brain can be injured in a variety of ways. Stroke is caused either by a burst blood vessel or a blockage in a blood vessel, so that neurons controlling various functions such as memory or coordination are damaged and die. Traumatic brain injury is caused by an impact to the head, which can lead to brain swelling and bleeding—and the subsequent damage and death of cells in the area.\n\nIn a variety of studies, cannabis has been shown to reduce the damage to brain cells caused by these kinds of events. But [cannabis is also capable of encouraging the growth of new brain cells](https://www.jci.org/articles/view/25509)—a process called neurogenesis that until recently seemed impossible under any circumstances. \n\n### Cannabis Fights the Effects of Neurotoxins on Brain Cells\n\nNeurotoxins—substances capable of causing neurological damage—come in a variety of forms, such as industrial solvents, pesticides, certain kinds of drugs as well as the more familiar alcohol and nicotine. These substances can damage or kill brain cells that govern memory, movement and other processes. [Cannabis, particularly the compound CBD, appears to be able to protect nerve cells](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15837565C) against inflammation caused by toxic substances, particularly the brain damage that can accompany chronic alcohol abuse.  \n\n### Cannabis Eases Symptoms of Neurological Disorders\n\n[Cannabis shows promise in treating the symptoms of serious neurological disorders](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022510X05000778) such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis and amyotropic lateral sclerosis, or ALS (also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease). These and other neurological problems typically involve inflammatory processes that disrupt the regulation of neurotransmitters in the brain and cause problems with movement and coordination.  \n\nCannabis compounds, especially CBD, have both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help regulate the production of dopamine and other neurotransmitters, and reduce the severity of symptoms related to these kinds of disorders.\n\n### THC Fights Cancers of the Brain\n\nMuch of the research on the neuroprotective properties of cannabis has focused on CBD, which is non-psychoactive and strongly associated with supporting immune system functions and fighting inflammation. But psychoactive THC from the natural cannabis plant also has a role to play in protecting vulnerable cells—and, perhaps, in fighting some of the most aggressive and often untreatable cancers of the brain and other parts of the body.\n\nGlioma is a fast-growing, aggressive and mostly fatal kind of cancer that forms in the glial cells of the brain and, sometimes, the spinal cord. Because glioma is frequently inoperable, treatment options can be limited.\n\nBut [recent studies on the effects of cannabis on glioblastoma cell lines](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16078104?dopt=Citation) reveals that THC not only decreased the proliferation of malignant glial cells, it also triggered a process called apoptosis, or programmed cell death. In this process, THC was able to selectively target only the malignant cells, while ignoring the healthy ones. These preliminary findings support other research showing that cannabis may be able to target tumor development in the lungs, breast and other areas of the body.\n\n### A New Approach for Treating Alzheimer’s Disease\n\nOne of the [most promising areas for research on the neuroprotective properties of cannabis](https://www.alzheimers.net/6-15-15-effects-of-medical-marijuana-on-alzheimers/) comes in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease—a progressive form of dementia believed to be caused by the buildup of proteins called beta amyloid plaque in the brain. A recent study sponsored by the Salk Institute reveals that a different process may be at work—and cannabis is uniquely positioned to affect it.\n\nThe Salk study found that inflammation caused by plaque occurs in cells themselves, and cannabinoid-like compounds manufactured by those cells may prevent them from damage and death. Because these THC-like compounds can exert a protective effect, [cannabis, especially with a significant THC content, may be able to protect brain cells](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25024327) from inflammation and damage related to plaque. And because cannabis appears to help promote the growth of new neurons, it could be helpful in slowing the development of Alzheimer’s disease once it develops.\n\n### Cannabis’s Effect on Memory Appears to Be Temporary\n\nAnd the effect of cannabis on memory? In sharp contrast to the rhetoric of the old (and not so old) anti-drug campaigns, this effect appear to be minimal and transitory—if they’re felt at all. A number of studies reveal no lasting impact on memory and cognition from consuming cannabis, especially for therapeutic purposes. Research continues to reveal new ways that cannabis in all its forms can be a potent neuroprotectant with the power to support, not harm, nerves and cells throughout the body and brain.\n\nPhoto credit: [Daniel Hjalmarsson](https://unsplash.com/@artic_studios)\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 easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/a996b2bc9c7f8b478297487d7ed4d35c/14b42/c3aa5f36c0ee1fb972bd38651cd64683.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a996b2bc9c7f8b478297487d7ed4d35c/f836f/c3aa5f36c0ee1fb972bd38651cd64683.jpg 200w,\n/static/a996b2bc9c7f8b478297487d7ed4d35c/2244e/c3aa5f36c0ee1fb972bd38651cd64683.jpg 400w,\n/static/a996b2bc9c7f8b478297487d7ed4d35c/14b42/c3aa5f36c0ee1fb972bd38651cd64683.jpg 800w,\n/static/a996b2bc9c7f8b478297487d7ed4d35c/47498/c3aa5f36c0ee1fb972bd38651cd64683.jpg 1200w,\n/static/a996b2bc9c7f8b478297487d7ed4d35c/0e329/c3aa5f36c0ee1fb972bd38651cd64683.jpg 1600w,\n/static/a996b2bc9c7f8b478297487d7ed4d35c/28567/c3aa5f36c0ee1fb972bd38651cd64683.jpg 4005w","srcWebp":"/static/a996b2bc9c7f8b478297487d7ed4d35c/58556/c3aa5f36c0ee1fb972bd38651cd64683.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a996b2bc9c7f8b478297487d7ed4d35c/61e93/c3aa5f36c0ee1fb972bd38651cd64683.webp 200w,\n/static/a996b2bc9c7f8b478297487d7ed4d35c/1f5c5/c3aa5f36c0ee1fb972bd38651cd64683.webp 400w,\n/static/a996b2bc9c7f8b478297487d7ed4d35c/58556/c3aa5f36c0ee1fb972bd38651cd64683.webp 800w,\n/static/a996b2bc9c7f8b478297487d7ed4d35c/99238/c3aa5f36c0ee1fb972bd38651cd64683.webp 1200w,\n/static/a996b2bc9c7f8b478297487d7ed4d35c/7c22d/c3aa5f36c0ee1fb972bd38651cd64683.webp 1600w,\n/static/a996b2bc9c7f8b478297487d7ed4d35c/b3373/c3aa5f36c0ee1fb972bd38651cd64683.webp 4005w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2592-markdown","title":"Are Marijuana-Infused Alcoholic Drinks a Good Idea? ","slug":"are-marijuana-infused-alcoholic-drinks-a-good-idea","content":"As the medical and recreational cannabis industries continue to grow, new trends and products seem to pop up all the time. One that has been gaining steam is cannabis-infused alcohol. Companies are making [vodka with hemp](https://www.liquor.com/articles/hemp-vodka/#gs.wjF5jng), brewing beer with cannabis and infusing [marijuana into wine](http://www.fresnobee.com/living/food-drink/article174077661.html). But is mixing cannabis and alcohol safe? How do the two substances interact together in the body? Is there any way to dose marijuana accurately when it’s mixed with alcohol? \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### How Do Cannabis & Alcohol Interact in the Body?\r\n\r\nBefore you start experimenting with alcohol and cannabis, consider how these two substances interact in your body when consumed simultaneously—the possible side effects may not be worth it. \r\n\r\nThe truth is there simply isn’t a lot of scientific data on this yet. Most research related to mixing marijuana and alcohol explores what happens when you smoke marijuana after already imbibing alcohol, not what happens when you infuse alcohol with cannabis. While not exactly the same scenario, these studies do give us some clues about how cannabis and alcohol interact in the body together.\r\n\r\nA 2015 study by the American Association for Clinical Chemistry [looked at the effects cannabis and alcohol could have on each other when consumed one after the other](https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/05/150527112728.htm). Researchers observed 19 adults, giving some low doses of alcohol and others a placebo. After 10 minutes, some were given a high dose of vaporized cannabis, while others received a low dose of vaporized cannabis; the control group received a placebo. \r\n\r\nResearchers found that those who consumed alcohol before consuming cannabis experienced a much higher level of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in their bloodstream than those who hadn’t consumed alcohol first, regardless of the amount of alcohol or cannabis. The researchers concluded, “Any dose of alcohol combined with cannabis significantly increases levels of THC in blood.” \r\n\r\nSo what side effects could come from cannabis-infused alcohol? Both cannabis and alcohol are central nervous system depressants; when consumed, they can both separately cause sedation. Ingesting too much of both at the same time could result in serious grogginess, memory lapses, paranoia and nausea. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [MIXING MARIJUANA & ALCOHOL](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58e7bbf32fdeaf51a1a08384/mixing-marijuana-and-alcohol)  \r\n\r\n### Tips for Drinking Marijuana-Infused Alcohol\r\n\r\nWhat we do know for sure is that when it comes to dosing, it’s difficult to get it right with cannabis-infused alcohol. That’s because alcohol works as an extremely effective solvent, used to extract terpenes and cannabinoids from the cannabis plant. So while throwing some cannabis flower into a bottle of vodka may seem relatively harmless, it can end up being highly concentrated and more potent than you may expect.\r\n\r\nIf you’re going to experiment with cannabis-infused alcohol or alcoholic beverages, it’s wise to do so in the comfort of your own home. As always, start slow and keep in mind that dosing marijuana accurately when alcohol is in the mix can be quite difficult.\r\n\r\nIf you’re infusing the alcohol yourself, add less cannabis than you think, as the final product can end up stronger than expected. Also, allow your body time to process your cocktail for at least 30 minutes before thinking about going back for a second round. \r\n\r\nHave you experimented with cannabis-infused alcohol or cocktails? If so, let us know about your experience in the comments. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Jez Timms](https://unsplash.com/@jeztimms)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our Cannabis 101 post. HelloMD 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":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/14b42/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.jpg","srcSet":"/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/f836f/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.jpg 200w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/2244e/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.jpg 400w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/14b42/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.jpg 800w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/47498/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.jpg 1200w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/0e329/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.jpg 1600w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/ef470/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.jpg 3656w","srcWebp":"/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/58556/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/61e93/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.webp 200w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/1f5c5/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.webp 400w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/58556/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.webp 800w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/99238/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.webp 1200w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/7c22d/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.webp 1600w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/e45da/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.webp 3656w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2600-markdown","title":"The Science Behind How Cannabis Can Boost Your Appetite","slug":"the-science-behind-how-cannabis-can-boost-your-appetite","content":"Getting “the munchies” is a famous side effect of marijuana—and for many consumers, that just means grabbing an extra bag of potato chips or making a pizza run. But the boost in appetite that comes from consuming cannabis is the product of a complex interplay of cannabinoids, neurotransmitters and hormones in the brain. Now, [recent discoveries about those relationships reveal how cannabis can stimulate the appetite](https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/scientific-explanation-how-marijuana-causes-munchies-180949660/)—and that has profound benefits for people with health conditions like cancer, HIV/AIDS and dementia for which low appetite and nausea are part of the illness. \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### Our Hunger Hormones: Ghrelin & Leptin \r\n\r\nThe brain’s central hunger switch is the hypothalamus, a small area in the forebrain that’s responsible for managing the activity of the autonomic nervous system, the pituitary gland and a variety of other homeostatic functions such as body temperature, thirst and appetite.  \r\n\r\nThe hypothalamus is ultimately responsible for regulating feelings of hunger and satiation. But in order to do that, it responds to signaling from ghrelin and leptin, two hormones that are produced elsewhere in the body.\r\n\r\n[Ghrelin is a hormone secreted primarily from cells in the stomach](http://www.yourhormones.info/hormones/ghrelin/), but also in smaller amounts from the pancreas, intestines and brain. Ghrelin levels in the blood are determined by food intake.\r\n\r\nLevels of ghrelin secreted by the stomach typically rise just before eating or during fasting. This accounts largely for the hunger pangs that tell us it’s time to eat something. Eating lowers the levels of ghrelin in the bloodstream—and certain foods, such as those containing carbohydrates and proteins, are more effective at lowering those levels than fats are. Ghrelin also plays a role in regulating insulin, an important factor in managing diabetes.   \r\n\r\nGhrelin in the bloodstream circulates to the hypothalamus, which responds with signals to stop eating—or to eat more. This essential hormone also acts on the amygdala, an area of the brain related to the pleasure-reward-learning circuit, which helps to explain some eating disorders and the love of comfort foods during times of stress.\r\n\r\nBalancing the activity of ghrelin is leptin—a hormone secreted by the fat cells throughout the body that’s responsible for [balancing fuel and energy expenditure](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4204468/). Leptin signals the hypothalamus to [alter food intake](http://www.yourhormones.info/hormones/leptin/) by encouraging the release of neurotransmitters that reduce appetite and suppressing those that stimulate it.\r\n\r\nBecause leptin is released from fat cells, the amount of leptin in the body depends on the amount of body fat a person has—more fat means higher levels of leptin. As a person loses weight, levels of leptin fall, triggering the hypothalamus to send signals that stimulate the appetite so that the body doesn’t starve.  \r\n\r\nMany things can affect the cycle of ghrelin/leptin release and hypothalamic signaling. But new research reveals that the most potent influences on this appetite regulating cycle may come from cannabinoids, both the natural versions produced by the body’s own endocannabinoid system (ECS) and the compounds in cannabis, specifically its psychoactive ingredient tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).\r\n\r\nRELATED: [LOSS OF APPETITE FROM CANCER](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55b14a863330370006050000/loss-of-appetite-from-cancer)\r\n\r\n### Cannabinoids Affect Appetite & Olfactory Regulators\r\n\r\nThe ECS is one of the largest signaling systems in the body. Receptors for the naturally produced cannabinoids anandamide and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG) are found in many organs and tissues, and they’re especially plentiful in many areas of the brain, including the hypothalamus.  \r\n\r\nCannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) and THC are so similar to those natural cannabinoids that they can bind to the same receptors and affect the outcome of neurological signaling through the ECS in the brain and other parts of the body. That explains why [cannabis compounds can affect the expression of appetite-related signals from the \r\nhypothalamus](https://www.nature.com/news/marijuana-flips-appetite-switch-in-brain-1.16957).\r\n\r\nSo far, research has discovered two cannabinoid receptors, called CB1 and CB2. The hypothalamus contains numerous CB1 receptors that can bind both with the natural 2AG and anandamide as well as with cannabinoids from cannabis. Recent studies show that when THC binds to these receptors, it can stimulate the release of ghrelin to cause feelings of hunger. \r\n\r\nCannabinoids can also affect the production of leptin thanks to their [effects on an enzyme called AMP-activated Kinase, or AMPK](http://www.jbc.org/content/280/26/25196.full). In the hypothalamus, AMPK helps [link the appetite-stimulating effects of cannabinoids and ghrelin](https://www.nature.com/articles/35071088), and that combination appears to affect the production of leptin in adipose, or fatty, tissue. \r\n\r\nWhat’s more, THC and other cannabinoids may also stimulate the olfactory bulb, so that food tastes and smells better. Along with those effects, cannabinoids also encourage the release of dopamine, the feel-good chemical at the center of the pleasure-reward circuit, so that eating is a pleasant experience.\r\n\r\n### Treating Appetite Loss With Cannabis\r\n\r\nThe effects of cannabis on appetite and hunger can help people who experience a loss of appetite due to circumstances such as chemotherapy for cancer, or those with illnesses such as HIV/AIDS. Cannabis in all its forms can help stimulate feelings of hunger and make food taste better, so that patients eat more, improve nutrition and gain back lost weight. Gaining weight also means a higher percentage of fat cells, which encourages the production of leptin.\r\n\r\nResearch on the effects of cannabis on appetite has also explored the uses of cannabis for weight loss. That led to the production in the early 2000s of a few drugs such as rimonabant and taranabent that target the brain’s CB1 receptors to reduce appetite rather than increase it. \r\n\r\nBut these drugs had a number of undesirable side effects such as depression and anxiety, so they were taken off the market for retooling. Still, this line of research points to the fact that cannabinoids can play a major role in appetite and hunger responses.\r\n\r\nCannabis can affect people very differently—and some may get the munchies more than others do, or not at all. But because THC and other cannabinoids can boost hunger messages to the brain, cannabis products can stimulate the appetite—and help people with low appetite and weight loss from a variety of conditions to eat more, gain weight and feel better.\r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Gardie Design & Social media Marketing](https://unsplash.com/@gardiept)\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":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/14b42/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/f836f/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.jpg 200w,\n/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/2244e/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.jpg 400w,\n/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/14b42/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.jpg 800w,\n/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/47498/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.jpg 1200w,\n/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/0e329/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.jpg 1600w,\n/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/ea7dd/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.jpg 2500w","srcWebp":"/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/58556/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/61e93/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.webp 200w,\n/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/1f5c5/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.webp 400w,\n/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/58556/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.webp 800w,\n/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/99238/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.webp 1200w,\n/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/7c22d/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.webp 1600w,\n/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/dc072/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.webp 2500w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2625-markdown","title":"Cannabis & Your Hormones: A Complex Connection","slug":"cannabis-and-your-hormones-a-complex-connection","content":"Hormone therapies are used to treat a variety of conditions ranging from \nmenopause to health-threatening hormone imbalances to gender transition \ntherapies and even cancer. Now, recent discoveries about the endocannabinoid \nsystem (ECS) and the production of hormones reveal new ways in which \ncannabis compounds can affect hormone-related conditions and the therapies \nthat treat them.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Hormones 101\n\nHormones are produced and expressed in the same way for both men and \nwomen, although different hormones predominate for each sex—and those \ndifferences also play a role in how cannabis affects hormone-related conditions \nand therapies. \n\nThe hormone system is really part of a larger network of transmitters called the \nendocrine system, which also includes the thyroid, parathyroid and adrenal \nglands. Hormone production itself is controlled by activity in the pituitary gland \nand hypothalamus. The pituitary gland along with the hypothalamus is also \ncalled the hypothyroid-pituitary-gonadotropin axis (HPG axis) and is \nresponsible for triggering the release of gonadotropin releasing hormone \n(GnRH).  \n\nThe HPG axis also stimulates the production of both follicle stimulating \nhormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) and when FSH and LH act on the \ngonads, they lead to the production of a number of hormones including \nestrogen estradiol, progesterone, androgen and testosterone. \n\nAlthough hormones are most directly involved in expressing sex differences \nand supporting reproduction, they also play a role in regulating many other \nprocesses in the body. Hormones affect the development of bones and muscle, \nsupport brain health and more. Imbalances in the endocrine system can lead to \na variety of diseases, including diabetes and thyroid problems. \n\nAs far back as the 1980s, studies have shown a [connection between cannabis \nand hormones](http://www.ukcia.org/research/EndocrineEffects.pdf). With the \ndiscovery of the ECS in the early 1990s, the reasons behind that connection are \nbecoming increasingly clear—and posing new questions at the same time.  \n\n### Cannabinoids Affect Hormones in Complex Ways\n\nThe ECS is closely entwined with all other major neurotransmitter signaling \nsystems in the body, including the endocrine system. That’s why cannabinoids, \neither the body’s own anandamide and 2-AG, or compounds from cannabis \n[can affect the production and behavior of hormones](https://www.drnorthrup.com/tag/cbd-oil/) both in the reproductive system and \nin other circumstances, such as the development of cancer. \n\nThe ECS is a large, dense network of receptors located in the organs, tissues \nand brain. Those receptors respond both to cannabinoid chemicals produced \nby the body and the many compounds found in the cannabis plant, particularly \ntetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Because the compounds in \ncannabis are so similar to those produced naturally in the body, cannabis \nproducts of all kinds can have profound effects on many different processes, \nincluding the workings of the endocrine system and the production and \nexpression of hormones.\n\nSome research suggests that [the ECS might in fact play a major role in the \nproduction of hormones in the HPG axis](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40429-016-0114-y). The \nhypothalamus is rich in the cannabinoid receptor CB1, as is [parts of the pituitary gland](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/12838973_Identification_of_endocan\nnabinoids_and_cannabinoid_CB1_receptor_mRNA_in_the_pituitary_gland) as \nwell as other components of the endocrine system. Plus, both the ovaries and \ntestes contain large numbers of cannabinoid receptors, too.\n\n### Menopause & Hormone Replacement Therapy\n\nFor a number of women, menopause—that midlife change when fertility \ndeclines and eventually ends as menstrual periods come to a stop—brings a \nrange of symptoms including hot flashes, mood swings, insomnia and \nproblems concentrating, as hormone levels begin to decline and become \nimbalanced. In perimenopause—the years leading up to full menopause—some \nwomen can experience all those symptoms, plus painful and irregular periods, \neven if they never had period problems before. \n\nRELATED: [MARIJUANA RELIEVES SYMPTOMS OF MENOPAUSE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-\nwellness/5817c7fad07155000b1f2f9f/marijuana-relieves-symptoms-of-\nmenopause)\n\nTo relieve these symptoms and allow sufferers to conduct normal lives, doctors \nfrequently prescribe hormone replacement therapy (HRT), a protocol that’s \nintended to replace declining levels of reproductive hormones. But this kind of \ntherapy brings with it a heightened risk of cancer, especially breast cancer.\n\nWomen at a higher risk for certain kinds of cancers are usually advised not to \ntake HRT, or to keep the treatments short—and some doctors are advising \npatients not to do it at all. Many women on their own are deciding in favor of \nmore natural alternatives for the ills of menopause, even if they aren’t sure what \nthose remedies might be.  \n\nAn increasing number of women are finding that [cannabis products can help \nrelieve menopause symptoms](https://www.impactcannabis.org/medical-\nmarijuana-menopause) without the risk of HRT’s harmful effects. Marijuana can \neven be used to replace hormone therapy altogether for some people—or allow \nusers to reduce their dose.  \n\nCannabis, especially its non-psychoactive component CBD, can affect \ncannabis receptors in the brain and reproductive system to block pain, regulate \nthe body’s temperature to avoid hot flashes, and generally do the things HRT \ncan do—but without the potentially deadly side effects. And because doctors \nfrequently prescribe other drugs such as sleep aids and antidepressants along \nwith HRT, marijuana can reduce or eliminate the need for those additional \ndrugs, too.  \n\nCannabis has a wide range of benefits for women’s reproductive health in \ngeneral, from easing the discomfort of breast tenderness and painful menstrual \ncramps during a woman’s cycle to  reducing symptoms after menopause such \nas vaginal dryness. Some research suggests that an endocannabinoid \ndeficiency might be the cause of early menopause and some of the severe \nsymptoms associated with menstruation and menopause in general, so \ncannabis products might eliminate the deficiency—and with it, the need for \nHRT and other medications for treating menstrual and menopause symptoms.  \n\n### Supplemental Hormone Therapies\n\nThe potential use of cannabis for menopause-related hormone therapy \nsymptoms has been relatively well studied, but less research has been done on \nits benefits and risks for other situations where hormone therapy is used. Still, \nrecent discoveries about the relationship between cannabis and hormones can \nreveal more about the contribution cannabis can make in those situations.  \n\nHormone therapy is used to supplement hormone production when it’s out of \nbalance, or the body simply doesn’t make enough essential hormones on its \nown. That kind of deficit can lead to growth abnormalities, bone deformities \nand problems with muscle tone—and it can affect both males and females. \nBecause the ECS can affect the endocrine system, cannabis products, \nespecially those high in CBD, may be able to help restore the endocrine \nsystem’s balance.\n\n### Transgender Hormone Therapies\n\nTransgender individuals typically take a number of cross-sex hormones as part \nof their transition, and most people take them for life. For transgender men, that \ncan include injections, timed release implants or oral doses of testosterone and \nandrogen, along with other medications to suppress female hormones. For \ntransgender women, medication protocols include high doses of estrogen and \nanti-androgens to suppress masculine features. \n\nHormone therapies can play an important role in a transgendered person’s \nmental health and overall well-being, but [these treatments come at a cost](http://www.eje-online.org/content/159/3/197.short). High doses of \nhormones and related medications to suppress some of them can cause a \nrange of health problems including reduced bone density, heart problems and \ndeep vein thrombosis. Because hormone therapy for transgendered people can \nlast for years, or a lifetime, it can also contribute to the development of certain \nhormone-sensitive tumors.  \n\nAmerican research on the use of cannabis for health conditions of all kinds has \nbeen stymied by legal restrictions and public perceptions about the dangers of \nmarijuana—and those perceptions, along with others about gender dysphoria \nand transitioning, also limit studies on the uses of cannabis in transgender \nhormone therapies. \n\nBut because cross-sex hormone therapies act on the HPG axis to [affect the \nexpression or suppression of one or more of those hormones](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5182227/), the effects of \ncannabis on the ECS may also help support heart and bone health during \ntreatment, and also help reduce the depression and anxiety many \ntransgendered people frequently experience. \n\n### Hormone Therapy for Cancer\n\nHormone therapy can be used to treat various cancers, too—but it’s used with \ncaution. Some kinds of tumors, especially in the breast and prostate, can be \nhormone-responsive, meaning that high levels of some hormones, particularly \nestrogen, can actually encourage tumors to grow. Some research indicates that \nbecause cannabis doesn’t contain hormones, it could be used to support \nhormone therapy for certain cancers.\n\nThe effects of cannabis on hormones aren’t always clear or easily predictable. \nFor example, it’s now known that [high levels of estrogen seem to make people \nmore responsive to the effects of cannabis](https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2014-09/wsu-eic082814.php). Some \nstudies suggest that using large amounts of cannabis, especially when it has \nhigh concentrations of THC, might suppress the body’s production of \ntestosterone and androgen, two hormones essential for the expression of male \nsexual characteristics and for fertility. \n\nStill, the deep connections between cannabinoids and the body’s own hormone \nsystem indicate that cannabis products can play a powerful role in hormone \ntherapy for a long list of conditions.\n\nPhoto credit: [Jaime](https://www.flickr.com/people/jamiesrabbits/)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis \n101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can \nhelp you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and \n100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/14b42/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/f836f/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.jpg 200w,\n/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/2244e/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.jpg 400w,\n/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/14b42/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.jpg 800w,\n/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/47498/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.jpg 1200w,\n/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/0e329/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.jpg 1600w,\n/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/73db0/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.jpg 2275w","srcWebp":"/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/58556/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/61e93/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.webp 200w,\n/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/1f5c5/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.webp 400w,\n/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/58556/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.webp 800w,\n/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/99238/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.webp 1200w,\n/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/7c22d/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.webp 1600w,\n/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/5f38a/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.webp 2275w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2590-markdown","title":"Eating Anandamide: The Bliss Molecule ","slug":"eating-anandamide-the-bliss-molecule","content":"The word anandamide may sound like chemistry book jargon, but its name was actually derived from the Sanskrit word for “bliss” or “joy.” Anandamide is often dubbed the “bliss molecule,” because it helps drive feelings of pleasure. As a neurotransmitter, it’s also involved in modulating memory, motivation and appetite, among other functions.\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 Connection Between Anandamide & Cannabis\r\n\r\nAnandamide was [one of the first endocannabinoids](https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1361971-overview#showall) discovered by scientists. What makes anandamide especially unique is that it interacts with the same endocannabinoid receptors that the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in cannabis does. This is why some folks are able to experience feelings of euphoria and contentment when consuming THC.\r\n\r\nRELATED: [WHEN MARIJUANA MAKES YOU FEEL ANXIOUS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59a6d4c3d651df274bd05e93/when-marijuana-makes-you-feel-anxious)\r\n\r\nEven though THC and anandamide bind to the same receptors, [anandamide is a much more fragile molecule](http://antoine.frostburg.edu/chem/senese/101/features/anandamide.shtml). After it’s produced in the brain, anandamide is quickly broken down into other compounds by an enzyme called fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). The slower FAAH works, the longer anandamide stays in the body—and the longer it promotes the blissful feeling it’s named for. This chemical pathway is of major interest to scientists, who think that it may lead to treatments for disorders that involve the nervous system, like anxiety.\r\n\r\nWhat’s more, anandamide has been discovered in two foods: chocolate and black truffles.\r\n\r\n### Anandamide May Be One Reason Chocolate Is so Craveable\r\n\r\nChocolate contains more than 300 compounds, including anandamide. While sugar is mostly responsible for making chocolate delicious, scientists think these other compounds, such as caffeine and the stimulant theobromine, also enhance the satisfaction we get when we eat it.\r\n\r\nAn often-cited study found that [chocolate not only contains small amounts of anandamide](https://escholarship.org/uc/item/2kk1604c), but two other compounds that slow down its breakdown, which in theory would allow anandamide to circulate longer in the system.\r\n\r\nResearchers found anandamide in cocoa solids, which give dark chocolate its intense flavor. This suggests that the darker the chocolate, the higher the likelihood that it contains anandamide. Milk chocolate, on the other hand, is usually made with a much lower percentage of cocoa solids.\r\n\r\nIf you’ve ever wondered how to choose dark chocolate with the right percentage of cacao, check out this [handy buying guide](https://greatist.com/eat/cacao-percentages-in-chocolate). And consider applying what you’ve learned the next time you shop for a chocolate-covered cannabis edible.\r\n\r\n### Black Truffles Also Contain Anandamide\r\n\r\nThe winter [black truffle also contains anandamide](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0031942214004956). Initially, this discovery puzzled researchers. Truffles don’t contain endocannabinoid receptors, so why would they need to produce anandamide?\r\n\r\nThey theorized that it might be because of [evolution](https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/food-matters/black-truffles-the-other-magic-mushroom/). Certain animals, like pigs and dogs, have endocannabinoid receptors. The anandamide could provide a positive reward to the animals that eat the truffles, encouraging them to seek out more and spread the spores.\r\n\r\nIt’s no secret that truffles carry a hefty price tag. (An ounce of black truffles will set you back at least $100.) So unless you have access to a truffle discount, there may be more cost-efficient ways to feel a little bliss.\r\n\r\n### Heads Up: Too Much Anandamide May Have a Downside\r\n\r\nWhile anandamide is best known for promoting bliss, research done on mice suggests that it’s also involved in [stimulating the appetite](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11704633). In fact, some researchers think that the entire endocannabinoid system, including anandamide, may play an important role in the [development of obesity](https://www.nature.com/articles/0802250).\r\n\r\nAs more research is done on endocannabinoids, it’ll be interesting to find out how people can harness the power of anandamide, and if you can really feel its blissful effects from eating certain foods. In the meantime, you can always count on a little chocolate to boost your mood.\r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Charisse Kenion](https://unsplash.com/@charissek)\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":1.36986301369863,"src":"/static/7fa84992a405be5f53b54f38a3b42856/14b42/2dbbc6d208290091f526a6785a235853.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7fa84992a405be5f53b54f38a3b42856/f836f/2dbbc6d208290091f526a6785a235853.jpg 200w,\n/static/7fa84992a405be5f53b54f38a3b42856/2244e/2dbbc6d208290091f526a6785a235853.jpg 400w,\n/static/7fa84992a405be5f53b54f38a3b42856/14b42/2dbbc6d208290091f526a6785a235853.jpg 800w,\n/static/7fa84992a405be5f53b54f38a3b42856/47498/2dbbc6d208290091f526a6785a235853.jpg 1200w,\n/static/7fa84992a405be5f53b54f38a3b42856/0e329/2dbbc6d208290091f526a6785a235853.jpg 1600w,\n/static/7fa84992a405be5f53b54f38a3b42856/b2131/2dbbc6d208290091f526a6785a235853.jpg 3000w","srcWebp":"/static/7fa84992a405be5f53b54f38a3b42856/58556/2dbbc6d208290091f526a6785a235853.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7fa84992a405be5f53b54f38a3b42856/61e93/2dbbc6d208290091f526a6785a235853.webp 200w,\n/static/7fa84992a405be5f53b54f38a3b42856/1f5c5/2dbbc6d208290091f526a6785a235853.webp 400w,\n/static/7fa84992a405be5f53b54f38a3b42856/58556/2dbbc6d208290091f526a6785a235853.webp 800w,\n/static/7fa84992a405be5f53b54f38a3b42856/99238/2dbbc6d208290091f526a6785a235853.webp 1200w,\n/static/7fa84992a405be5f53b54f38a3b42856/7c22d/2dbbc6d208290091f526a6785a235853.webp 1600w,\n/static/7fa84992a405be5f53b54f38a3b42856/ab9f8/2dbbc6d208290091f526a6785a235853.webp 3000w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2623-markdown","title":"Holistic Therapies to Relieve Chronic Pain","slug":"holistic-therapies-to-relieve-chronic-pain","content":"More than 100 million Americans are living with chronic pain—an “[epidemic of pain](https://theforum.sph.harvard.edu/events/the-chronic-pain-epidemic/)” that costs billions every year in treatment and lost productivity. Treatment for that pain relies heavily on opioids, a class of potent prescription painkillers, and other medications aimed at treating pain-related symptoms like insomnia or depression. But opioids come with a long list of potentially dangerous side effects as well as a high risk of addiction and death from overdose—and studies have shown that for chronic, rather than acute pain, they aren’t really all that effective anyway.\r\n\r\nBecause of the risks and side effects associated with opioids and other pain medications, a growing number of pain sufferers are seeking out [medication-free, holistic treatments](https://www.onlineholistichealth.com/natural-cure-chronic-pain-syndromes-silenced-medical-doctors/) that work with the body’s own mechanisms for modulating pain. Among the most effective [non-prescription alternatives](https://journals.lww.com/ajnonline/Citation/2001/04001/Incorporating_Alternative_Therapies_into_Pain.9.aspx), according to research, are:\r\n\r\n* Exercise\r\n* Pressure point therapies \r\n* Cannabis\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### What Causes Chronic Pain?\r\n\r\nJust about everyone experiences pain. While a very small group of people are almost completely lacking in pain receptors, most of us are equipped with [a wide-ranging and sensitive network of neurons that fire in response to painful stimuli](https://www.everydayhealth.com/pain-management/how-pain-works.aspx), sending signals to the brain that tell us to do something about it. \r\n\r\nAcute pain, the kind that comes from a sudden event like an injury or surgery, stimulates regions in the brain that are associated with tissue damage, and those signals trigger a number of responses in the body to deal with the problem. Pain medications like opioids block those pain signals in the brainstem, so that they don’t register as strongly. That’s why opioid medications can be very effective in the short term, such as in the days immediately after major surgery, or when healing from an injury.\r\n\r\nBut brain imaging studies show that [chronic pain generally behaves very differently](https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-athletes-way/201403/is-impaired-neuroplasticity-linked-chronic-pain). Even after an injury or other tissue trauma has healed, the perception of pain can linger. This kind of pain manifests in areas of the brain such as the limbic system and prefrontal cortex, areas of the brain associated with memory, emotion and learning. The brain is an eternally plastic organ, capable of building new neural pathways in response to constant input and stimulation—and of retiring others that don’t receive new input.  \r\n\r\nIn patients with chronic pain, the connections between memory, emotion and pain can become rewired, laying down new and stronger pathways that persist even after the initial injury or trauma is long over. Some research suggests that chronic pain sufferers may be more susceptible to experiencing this kind of pain, because their brains are more sensitive to pain signals that then become stored in memory. \r\n\r\n### Medications Don’t Always Help Ease Chronic Pain\r\n\r\nBecause opioids block pain signaling, they can provide short-term relief for pain that comes from signaling in the central nervous system that reaches the cerebral cortex. But when they’re used for chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, back pain or fibromyalgia, or even lingering pain from a past injury, their effectiveness drops to around 50–60%.  \r\n\r\nEven so, a majority of doctors continue to prescribe them for 90 days or longer—or indefinitely—in spite of recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control that they be used for seven to 10 days, or no more than a month. Opioids can become addictive very quickly, leading to long-term abuse and the risk of overdose death.  \r\n\r\nAlong with opioids, a number of other medications are often prescribed to relieve symptoms associated with chronic pain, such as insomnia, anxiety or depression. These drugs bring their own side effects and risks, and typically don’t directly address the causes of chronic pain itself. \r\n\r\nBut non-pharmaceutical approaches to managing chronic pain focus on supporting natural pain-relieving processes in the body and brain. This can help relieve both pain and other symptoms that go along with it. \r\n\r\n### Exercise Promotes Pain Relief\r\n\r\nIf you’re in pain, you may not feel like working out, but movement can boost the flow of blood and oxygen, and engage the body’s own pain modulating systems. “Runner’s high” isn’t limited only to endurance athletes—exercise, especially the aerobic variety, stimulates the production of endorphins and other naturally occurring chemicals that block pain signals and promote feelings of well-being.  \r\n\r\nCertain kinds of exercise can also do more. Meditative movement practices such as yoga or tai chi encourage flexibility and stretching, which can help muscles that tighten in response to pain. These kinds of practices can also encourage the brain to build new pathways that counteract the changes caused by chronic pain. Some studies suggest that [yoga and similar practices can be as effective as prescription pain medications](https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-athletes-way/201505/how-does-yoga-relieve-chronic-pain).\r\n\r\n### Massage & Acupuncture Ease Pain\r\n\r\nSome [alternative therapies focus on easing pain by targeting specific points](https://www.onlineholistichealth.com/natural-cure-chronic-pain-syndromes-silenced-medical-doctors/\\) on the body. Many types of massage therapy involve working on certain areas of the body to relax muscles and release areas that might be experiencing pain. Studies suggest that massage can also encourage the release of chemicals like oxytocin that cause feelings of relaxation and well-being.  \r\n\r\n[Acupuncture has proven to be so beneficial for certain kinds of chronic pain](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a6267098425e40008273a32/how-acupuncture-interacts-with-the-endocannabinoid-system) that this ancient Asian treatment has made its way into mainstream recommendations for pain relief, even though it still isn’t clear how it works.  Some research suggests that acupuncture needles trigger the release of aminase, an amino acid in the skin that helps reduce pain signals.  \r\n\r\n### Cannabis Relieves Pain—& More\r\n\r\nA long list of natural remedies can also help relieve chronic pain, such as omega 3 fatty acids to ease inflammation, and vitamin and mineral supplements to support nerve and tissue health. But a growing number of chronic pain sufferers are turning to cannabis products of all kinds for pain relief that also helps related symptoms such as insomnia and anxiety. \r\n\r\nCompounds in marijuana, especially cannabidiol (CBD), bind with the body’s natural endocannabinoid receptor system, a wide-ranging network that supports many essential processes, including immune responses, mood and pain signaling. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [CHRONIC PAIN HAS MET ITS MATCH](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55b6676d3238370006150000/chronic-pain-has-met-its-match)\r\n\r\nCBD and other compounds are so similar to cannabinoids naturally produced by the body that they can trigger the same responses, without the risk of addiction and overdose associated with opioid pain medications. For that reason, marijuana can also help with the sleep problems and anxiety that often accompany chronic pain—and it allows many people to [reduce their use of opioids and other medications](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a1ef66aeea891000897e274/how-opioids-and-cannabinoids-interact-to-boost-pain-relief), or to stop taking them altogether.\r\n\r\nFor the millions of Americans and others around the globe who are suffering from chronic pain conditions, holistic approaches can provide relief that’s as effective as prescription medications, without their risks and side effects. By supporting the body’s own healing responses, alternatives like exercise, massage and cannabis can offer a way out of the twin epidemics of chronic pain and opioids.\r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Xavier Sotomayor](https://unsplash.com/@goodboyshady)\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":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/a79af5580db0c49409dc88d499f3083d/14b42/ea19d981aa56837374d2504f53c8da9a.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a79af5580db0c49409dc88d499f3083d/f836f/ea19d981aa56837374d2504f53c8da9a.jpg 200w,\n/static/a79af5580db0c49409dc88d499f3083d/2244e/ea19d981aa56837374d2504f53c8da9a.jpg 400w,\n/static/a79af5580db0c49409dc88d499f3083d/14b42/ea19d981aa56837374d2504f53c8da9a.jpg 800w,\n/static/a79af5580db0c49409dc88d499f3083d/47498/ea19d981aa56837374d2504f53c8da9a.jpg 1200w,\n/static/a79af5580db0c49409dc88d499f3083d/0e329/ea19d981aa56837374d2504f53c8da9a.jpg 1600w,\n/static/a79af5580db0c49409dc88d499f3083d/ea7dd/ea19d981aa56837374d2504f53c8da9a.jpg 2500w","srcWebp":"/static/a79af5580db0c49409dc88d499f3083d/58556/ea19d981aa56837374d2504f53c8da9a.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a79af5580db0c49409dc88d499f3083d/61e93/ea19d981aa56837374d2504f53c8da9a.webp 200w,\n/static/a79af5580db0c49409dc88d499f3083d/1f5c5/ea19d981aa56837374d2504f53c8da9a.webp 400w,\n/static/a79af5580db0c49409dc88d499f3083d/58556/ea19d981aa56837374d2504f53c8da9a.webp 800w,\n/static/a79af5580db0c49409dc88d499f3083d/99238/ea19d981aa56837374d2504f53c8da9a.webp 1200w,\n/static/a79af5580db0c49409dc88d499f3083d/7c22d/ea19d981aa56837374d2504f53c8da9a.webp 1600w,\n/static/a79af5580db0c49409dc88d499f3083d/dc072/ea19d981aa56837374d2504f53c8da9a.webp 2500w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2557-markdown","title":"How to Guard Against Consuming Moldy Cannabis","slug":"how-to-guard-against-consuming-moldy-cannabis","content":"If you live in a state with a [legal cannabis industry](http://www.businessinsider.com/legal-marijuana-states-2018-1), the product testing that comes along with legalization has granted you higher standards of health protection when shopping for edibles, tinctures, vaporizers and more. Just as it is with shopping for body care or groceries, the safety and quality of your purchase is critical. \r\n\r\nAn agricultural product with a long history of deregulation, cannabis can carry health risks that often aren’t on the collective consumer’s radar. Even worse, medical cannabis patients often have compromised immune systems, making the unintentional consumption of mold, bacteria and chemicals a greater health risk for them. \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\nFertilizers in soil, pesticides sprayed on plants, fungal diseases common to wet climates and the spread of mold spores are all common occurrences throughout the cultivation cycle. Worst among these culprits is mold, which spreads easily and can crop up after the customer has brought home their product. Proper storage is the best prevention, but knowing how to avoid purchasing moldy marijuana is equally important. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [HOW TO STORE YOUR MARIJUANA THE RIGHT WAY](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59f9fc3be238d7000f440f5a/easy-tips-on-how-to-store-your-marijuana-the-right-way)\r\n\r\n### Be on the Lookout for “Bud Rot”\r\n\r\nAt [Leaf Detective](http://leafdetective.com/home.php), a licensed cannabis testing facility in Humboldt County, CA, Michele Malaret is an expert on the various types of mold and bacteria that can degrade cannabis flower and our health. \r\n\r\nMichele says that most molds and bacteria aren’t visible to the naked eye, but that it’s possible to detect things like grey mold, often called “bud rot,” or powdery mildew, which leaves [buds appearing as though they were rolled in sugar](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59f389cf4ceee40028b86c03/how-to-watch-out-for-cannabis-thats-contaminated). Sometimes moldy cannabis also gives off a musty smell that can tip you off that the plant isn’t quite right.\r\n\r\n### Use a Magnifying Glass to Spot Moldy Cannabis\r\n\r\nMany cannabis farmers walk their crop rows with an important tool in their pocket called a jeweler’s loupe. A powerful magnifying glass, cultivators use the tool to zoom in on spider mites (bad) and trichomes (good) in various stages of growth. Bringing your own jeweler’s loupe while shopping at the dispensary is a great idea for any medical cannabis patient, those with sensitive immune systems or anyone wanting to reduce exposure to toxic mold and bacteria. \r\n\r\nDon’t worry about offending your cannabis consultant by inspecting the wares under glass—a reputable outfit should want to earn their customer’s confidence. And many dispensaries will have magnifying glasses next to various strain samples—don’t be shy about using them. Michele recommends looking for discoloration as the primary indicator of mold and talking to your dispensary about any concerns. \r\n\r\n### What if I Consumed Moldy Marijuana?\r\n\r\nIf moldy cannabis has been smoked, vaped or consumed, mold spores can thrive in the warm cavities of the body, leading to a build-up of mycotoxins, the harmful compounds that trigger inflammation in the body. There’s no way to measure the exact health risk involved—it differs for each individual. Some people have a specifically adverse reaction to moldy cannabis, such as chest pain or nose bleeds. If symptoms are severe, seek medical attention immediately. \r\n\r\nIn California, the Department of Food and Agriculture now requires licensed labs, like Leaf Detective, to test for salmonella, E. coli and four kinds of a fungus called Aspergillus. \r\n\r\nA large genus of mold, Aspergillus is common to indoor and outdoor environments and is naturally found in soil. Most of us breathe in hundreds of mold spores per day without any consequences, but those with compromised immune systems (folks with cancer, asthma, cystic fibrosis, low white blood cell count) are at risk of developing [aspergillosis, an opportunistic fungal infection of the lungs](https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/infections/fungal-infections/aspergillosis). Symptoms include difficulty breathing, fever, chest pain and coughing up blood. Without medical attention and anti-fungal drugs, the infection could spread to vital organs.\r\n\r\nAnyone experiencing symptoms related to aspergillosis should seek immediate medical attention. While there’s no record of a single incidence of moldy cannabis consumption resulting in a life-threatening infection, those with sensitive immune systems should avoid exposure whenever possible. \r\n\r\n### Be Vigilant About Exposure to Mold\r\n\r\nIf you’re a cannabis consumer in a state with a legal cannabis market, you’re in a much better position to buy clean, uncontaminated cannabis due to required quality control testing regulated by state law. But always keep your eye out and don’t be afraid to inspect flower with a magnifying glass or jeweler’s loupe. Be aware that smoking cannabis does nothing to kill mold spores, and unfortunately, there’s no antidote for consuming contaminated cannabis—just be sure it’s an isolated incident. Ask your dispensary if anything looks or smells off. \r\n\r\nAs legalization slowly sweeps the nation, there’s no reason to expect anything less than safe, clean cannabis from a permitted cultivation site. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Thought Catalogue](https://unsplash.com/@thoughtcatalog)\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":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/518fdcf848f7af43c45f7fe491e0c504/14b42/afa42477369cd013da95f5d3c6e34225.jpg","srcSet":"/static/518fdcf848f7af43c45f7fe491e0c504/f836f/afa42477369cd013da95f5d3c6e34225.jpg 200w,\n/static/518fdcf848f7af43c45f7fe491e0c504/2244e/afa42477369cd013da95f5d3c6e34225.jpg 400w,\n/static/518fdcf848f7af43c45f7fe491e0c504/14b42/afa42477369cd013da95f5d3c6e34225.jpg 800w,\n/static/518fdcf848f7af43c45f7fe491e0c504/47498/afa42477369cd013da95f5d3c6e34225.jpg 1200w,\n/static/518fdcf848f7af43c45f7fe491e0c504/0e329/afa42477369cd013da95f5d3c6e34225.jpg 1600w,\n/static/518fdcf848f7af43c45f7fe491e0c504/77d93/afa42477369cd013da95f5d3c6e34225.jpg 3600w","srcWebp":"/static/518fdcf848f7af43c45f7fe491e0c504/58556/afa42477369cd013da95f5d3c6e34225.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/518fdcf848f7af43c45f7fe491e0c504/61e93/afa42477369cd013da95f5d3c6e34225.webp 200w,\n/static/518fdcf848f7af43c45f7fe491e0c504/1f5c5/afa42477369cd013da95f5d3c6e34225.webp 400w,\n/static/518fdcf848f7af43c45f7fe491e0c504/58556/afa42477369cd013da95f5d3c6e34225.webp 800w,\n/static/518fdcf848f7af43c45f7fe491e0c504/99238/afa42477369cd013da95f5d3c6e34225.webp 1200w,\n/static/518fdcf848f7af43c45f7fe491e0c504/7c22d/afa42477369cd013da95f5d3c6e34225.webp 1600w,\n/static/518fdcf848f7af43c45f7fe491e0c504/d4378/afa42477369cd013da95f5d3c6e34225.webp 3600w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2584-markdown","title":"Are Indica & Sativa a Thing of the Past? ","slug":"are-indica-and-sativa-a-thing-of-the-past","content":"Indica, sativa, hybrid—when it comes to describing cannabis, are these terms outdated? It seems so, according to geneticist Mowgli Holmes, who gave a talk called The Genetics of Cannabis Breeds at the University of California Berkeley Botanical Garden. His company [Phylos Bioscience](http://www.phylosbioscience.com/) is pursuing the lofty goal of mapping cannabis’s genetic history by sequencing the DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) of every marijuana strain they can get their hands on. \n\n“If you go into a dispensary today, people will tell you, you can buy an indica or sativa or a hybrid, but that's actually not a real thing. If there were ever discrete varieties like that, they're gone now—they've just been bred out of existence,” he says. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Cannabis Landrace Strains 101 \n\nIf referring to cannabis strains as indica, sativa and hybrid is incorrect, how did we get to where we are now, using them in our daily cannabis lexicon? To answer this question, we have to look back at cannabis’s evolutionary history. \n\nScientists like Mowgli believe cannabis was domesticated in Central Asia around 8,000 BC. From there, humans brought the plants with them in their migrations across the globe. \n\nIn each area where humans settled down and cultivated cannabis, they selectively bred plants for their specific needs such as oil, fiber and yes—even psychoactivity. According to Mowgli, the selective breeding of plants can be thought of as arranged marriages. “People pick things they like and put them together,” he says. \n\nOver time, as humans married desirable plant to desirable plant in their respective region, their cannabis crops developed distinct physical characteristics, and today are known as landrace varieties. \n\nThese varieties are the ancestors to all modern strains on dispensary shelves today. You may have even heard of some of them. For example, Thai landraces have characteristics that we normally associate with sativas—the plants grow tall and lean with narrow leaves and are considered energizing in effect. Landraces from Afghanistan have traits that we tend to think of as indica—they’re small, bushy, broad-leafed and sedating. \n\nIn the mid-1700s, naturalists Carl Linnaeus and Jean-Baptiste Lamark incorrectly dubbed these landrace varieties as two separate species: _Cannabis sativa_ and _Cannabis indica_, respectively, based off of their morphological characteristics. Though we now know that all cannabis is one species, _Cannabis sativa_, this way of thinking about cannabis has been around for decades. \n\nIf you’re referring to landrace varieties as indica and sativa in the context of their physical traits, you’d be somewhat correct. But to use these terms when purchasing modern strains—especially when you’re looking for a particular effect—doesn’t make a lot of sense, says Mowgli.\n\nThe problem, he says, is that some dispensaries and breeders will base their indica-sativa-hybrid product labels off of looks alone. And from what his work in cannabis DNA analysis has shown him, that logic has no basis. \n\n“You can have a tall plant with broad leaves that's sedating, or you can have a short plant that's energetic and has broad leaves. You can have all these different combinations, but there's no reason why any of these traits would go together,” says Mowgli. \n\nHe adds that if growers and shop owners were to base their labels on observed effects based on a large sample of people, or via a thorough chemical analysis, then the indica-sativa labeling would be a “good shorthand for what's going to put you to sleep or make you want to clean the house.” However, he noted that it’s not clear and consistent how people are classifying their products. \n\n### Deciphering the Cannabis Family Tree\n\nEvery plant is made up of cells, and in these cells is DNA, genetic material that acts as a code for how a plant is going to mature. “[DNA] is kind of a barcode—an identity measure. Every organism has a unique sequence of DNA,” says Mowgli. \n\nMowgli’s work at Phylos centers around looking at the DNA of thousands of cannabis samples to tell a story about the plant’s evolutionary history—and in the long run, help people figure out what exactly it is they’re consuming. \n\nTo undertake this goal, Mowgli and his team are looking at the DNA from cannabis samples sent to him from people across the world. When he initially started this project, he and his team assumed that as they sequenced this DNA, they’d find clear-cut relationships that could be traced back to landrace varieties. However, this was not the case. \n\n“We had hoped … that we would get a sort of elegant, tree-like structure that would really make it clear what everything was in some ways,” he says. “But because of all of this hybridization, it's this messy, intertwined hairball.” \n\nInstead of having a distinct family tree, Mowgli and his team ended up with the [Phylos Galaxy](http://galaxy.phylosbioscience.com/), which can be accessed by anyone online. Expressing his data as a galaxy was the only way Mowgli could conceivably portray the diversity and relationships between all of the cannabis samples he’s sequenced. \n\nEven though the Phylos Galaxy is a tangled mess, it has valuable information that lets us see what’s happening. Each star in the galaxy represents a single sample, and each sample’s distance from another sample denotes how closely related the two are.\n\nInstead of clear-cut landrace lineages, what Mowgli and his team have are clusters that correspond to modern categories: There’s a cluster of samples centered around Skunk, a famous variety of cannabis that was initially bred in Holland in the 1970s. There are also clusters corresponding to high CBD, berry and OG Kush—another famous variety of cannabis that’s sold as a strain in dispensaries.  \n\n### Modern Cannabis Is the Product of Historical, Environmental & Genetic Factors\n\nWhy is this galaxy such a mess? As with most things involving cannabis, it’s complicated with multiple factors like history, environment and genetics at play. \n\nOne of the reasons for this outcome is what Mowgli dubs the “California convergence.” In the 1960s, people started crossing different varieties with each other, creating the strains we know today. Because of this intermingling, most of the original landrace varieties that may have existed in the 1960s and 1970s are gone.\n\nAnd those indica and sativa characteristics? They’re all mushed together and carry little meaning in today’s cannabis world.  \n\nThe environment that a plant is grown in can affect the amount of chemically active constituents—like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD) and terpenes—that the plant can produce. So even if you had two genetically similar plants, the amount of sunlight, water and nutrients that each plant is exposed to will make them different. This can cause growers to think that they have two different types of cannabis, when in fact their plants are genetically identical. \n\nRELATED: [HARNESSING THE POWER OF CANNABIS’S CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a81efe4f24d1300077ccb43/harnessing-the-power-of-cannabis-s-chemical-compounds)\n\nIf this wasn’t complicated enough, most cannabis seeds are genetically distinct. If you were to buy a pack of seeds, of say, Super Silver Haze and plant each seed, each plant that grows would be genetically different—regardless of what name you give it: “They’re all unique children of two different parents, just like humans are all unique,” Mowgli says.\n\nIn other plants—like corn—that humans have been developing for years, we’ve made all seeds of certain varieties identical through decades and decades of inbreeding. Such isn’t the case with cannabis. If you want cannabis plants that are genetically similar, you have to buy a clone, a cutting from a plant that will automatically be genetically identical. \n\nTogether all of these factors contribute to the chaos that’s reflected in the Phylos Galaxy. According to Mowgli, there’s pattern in the chaos—there are big clusters in the galaxy that respond to clonal varieties being passed around among farmers. These clusters have anywhere from 20–30 samples of the same plant.\n\n“That’s a strain—if you want to call it that,” he says. “But there's really no such thing as a strain—there are only clonal varieties. There are no real seed lines in cannabis, even though people kind of act like there are.”  \n\n### How Will We Talk About Cannabis in the Future? \n\nIt’s clear that cannabis is a complex plant—and to make products that are reliable in the face of this complexity will be difficult. Compound this with the diverse ways humans respond to cannabis, and you could say that by bringing cannabis to the mainstream we’ve “bit off this huge problem that we're going to be solving for a long time,” says Mowgli. \n\nMowgli uses DNA to figure out how different cannabis samples are related to each other, but this same DNA also codes for other things, like the ratio of THC to CBD plants will produce. So in order to decipher cannabis’s complexities, he wants to take these DNA sequences and map them against different chemical compositions and plants traits. This way, we’ll be able to intelligently breed plants that have the right combinations of phytocannabinoids and terpenes to suit folks’ various needs. \n\nIn the meantime, what will the cannabis industry do in terms of this indica-sativa business? Some have already caught on and no longer refer to their products in terms of strains. For example, the brand [Dosist](https://www.hellomd.com/biz/57d844ad2174ba10009ff73f/dosist) has pens that are marketed based on effects like Bliss, Relief and Arouse. As education about this issue spreads, many brands and dispensaries will hopefully rethink how they label their products.  \n\nIn the long run, there’s talk of referring to cannabis in terms of terpene content, since it seems that terpenes determine the character of the high and impart some of the therapeutic benefits we experience when consuming cannabis. Mowgli agrees—he thinks that in the future terpene profiles will be how many in the industry categorize things.\n\nHe adds that “good curated user data” that’s tied to chemical and genetic identity should also play a role. “It won’t be simple,” he says. \n\nBut if it means helping folks more easily find cannabis products that work for them, it’ll be worth it. \n\nPhoto credit: [Mark](https://www.flickr.com/people/eggrole/)\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/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/14b42/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.jpg","srcSet":"/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/f836f/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.jpg 200w,\n/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/2244e/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.jpg 400w,\n/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/14b42/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.jpg 800w,\n/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/47498/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.jpg 1200w,\n/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/0e329/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.jpg 1600w,\n/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/2e9ce/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.jpg 3094w","srcWebp":"/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/58556/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/61e93/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.webp 200w,\n/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/1f5c5/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.webp 400w,\n/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/58556/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.webp 800w,\n/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/99238/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.webp 1200w,\n/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/7c22d/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.webp 1600w,\n/static/625d6364392382b087897953d4fec6d2/1f0e0/258fb92c0a90c93ef89d0ad8d436ff18.webp 3094w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2574-markdown","title":"Does Cannabis Reduce REM Sleep & Your Ability to Dream?","slug":"does-cannabis-reduce-rem-sleep-and-your-ability-to-dream","content":"Sleep is unbelievably important for humans. As far as biological needs go, sleep is right up there with water and oxygen. It plays an important role in boosting our immune system, regulating metabolism, controlling appetite and so much more.\r\n\r\nUnfortunately, good sleep is elusive to many Americans. According to the [National Sleep Foundation](https://sleepfoundation.org/media-center/press-release/lack-sleep-affecting-americans-finds-the-national-sleep-foundation), 45% of Americans report that “poor or insufficient sleep” affected their daily activities at least once in the last week. And according to a Consumer Reports survey of over 4,000 U.S. adults, [68% reported having trouble sleeping at least once a week](https://www.consumerreports.org/sleep/why-americans-cant-sleep/). \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\nMany people credit insomnia as the reason they turned to medical marijuana. [Cannabis has been shown to effectively decrease sleep latency](http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1521-0391.2013.12003.x/abstract), or the time it takes for a person to fall asleep, in male chronic cannabis consumers. \r\n\r\nAnd while cannabis can help you say hello to quality sleep, it could cause you to say goodbye to something else: dreams.  \r\n\r\nRELATED: [MEDICAL MARIJUANA COULD HELP INSOMNIACS SLEEP BETTER](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55e5c6573236300006350000/medical-marijuana-could-help-insomniacs-sleep-better)\r\n\r\n### The 5 Stages of Sleep\r\n\r\nIn one eight-hour night of sleep, we go through the sleep cycle about three times on average. There are five stages total: Stages 1, 2, 3, 4 and REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep; each stage has specific brainwaves associated with it. \r\n\r\n* Stages 1, 2 and 3 are transition stages that help you travel from the world of wakefulness to the world of sleep. \r\n* The fourth stage is known as “deep sleep,” which is the most restorative for our bodies. \r\n* REM sleep, the final stage in the cycle, is when almost all dreaming occurs. Dreams can occur in non-REM sleep. However, it’s very uncommon, and the dreams are much less likely to be remembered upon awakening. \r\n\r\n### Does Cannabis Decrease Your REM Sleep?\r\n\r\nA study from 1972 used young adult male volunteers and dosed one group with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and another with a synthetic compound similar to THC, called synhexl. Each subject then had their brainwaves measured with an electroencephalogram (EEG) while they slept. Researchers found that [varying levels of THC as well as synhexl increased Stage 4 sleep (deep sleep), but decreased REM sleep](http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/wol1/doi/10.1002/cpt1972133426/abstract).  \r\n\r\nWe know that dreaming happens during REM sleep. If THC decreases the amount of REM sleep a person gets, then it also decreases the amount of time a person has to dream. \r\n\r\nOf course, these findings should be looked at with a critical eye. The study is from 1972, and there hasn’t been, so far as we can find, a study done like it since. Only a small handful of subjects—all of whom were young and male—were studied, so the sample isn’t representative of the entire population. \r\n\r\n### Are Dreamless Nights Bad for You?\r\n\r\nLet’s imagine that the results from the study above and the anecdotal evidence is correct, and cannabis consumers do experience a decrease in dreams. Is that a bad thing? How important is dreaming on a biological and emotional level?\r\n\r\nThe jury is still out on just how important dreams really are to humans. Researchers haven’t quite nailed down the exact function of dreams or determined their exact biological value. But there’s some interesting scientific literature on the topic. \r\n\r\nHistorically, most researchers have agreed that dreaming plays a role in processing emotional memories, balancing mood and learning. But David Maurice, Ph.D. and professor of ocular physiology at Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center, believes REM sleep plays a different role: [providing much needed oxygen straight to the cornea of the eye](http://www.columbia.edu/cu/21stC/issue-3.4/breecher.html). \r\n\r\nIf dreams really do help process emotional memories, especially traumatic ones, dreaming could be an essential part of grief therapy and conquering post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). On the other hand, those experiencing PTSD with intense night terrors could be grateful for a break from the dreams. \r\n\r\nOne clear way that decreased REM sleep and increased Stage 4 sleep can adversely affect humans has nothing to do with dreams at all. Stage 4 sleep, while the deepest and most restorative stage in the sleep cycle, is very hard to wake up from. Forget waking up on the wrong side of the bed: If you wake up during the wrong stage of the sleep cycle, you’ll end up irritable and mentally foggy. If marijuana increases Stage 4 sleep like the 1972 study suggests, then that could explain why many cannabis consumers feel groggy when they wake up. \r\n\r\n### What Happens to REM Sleep & Dreaming When You Take a Cannabis Cleanse? \r\n\r\nBut don’t worry too much. Just because you consume cannabis now doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to dreaming and REM sleep forever. If you abstain from marijuana, it’s likely you’ll eventually begin to dream normally again. In fact, you’ll probably experience a period of intense dreaming right after you quit consuming. This is known as [REM rebound](https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/strange-but-true-less-sleep-means-more-dreams/), which is known to occur after a person has been deprived of REM sleep. \r\n\r\nSo, if you’ve been using cannabis as a sleep aid and don’t think you’ve been dreaming as usual, there’s scientific research that says this can happen. If you miss your dreams, abstain from cannabis for a while and slide back into REM sleep. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Alexandra Gorn](https://unsplash.com/@alexagorn)\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":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/4a83a1e4987202dce6c4f941b94a49a5/14b42/87708b4e65262e53b2d82ca9a3a1c007.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4a83a1e4987202dce6c4f941b94a49a5/f836f/87708b4e65262e53b2d82ca9a3a1c007.jpg 200w,\n/static/4a83a1e4987202dce6c4f941b94a49a5/2244e/87708b4e65262e53b2d82ca9a3a1c007.jpg 400w,\n/static/4a83a1e4987202dce6c4f941b94a49a5/14b42/87708b4e65262e53b2d82ca9a3a1c007.jpg 800w,\n/static/4a83a1e4987202dce6c4f941b94a49a5/47498/87708b4e65262e53b2d82ca9a3a1c007.jpg 1200w,\n/static/4a83a1e4987202dce6c4f941b94a49a5/0e329/87708b4e65262e53b2d82ca9a3a1c007.jpg 1600w,\n/static/4a83a1e4987202dce6c4f941b94a49a5/48615/87708b4e65262e53b2d82ca9a3a1c007.jpg 3911w","srcWebp":"/static/4a83a1e4987202dce6c4f941b94a49a5/58556/87708b4e65262e53b2d82ca9a3a1c007.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4a83a1e4987202dce6c4f941b94a49a5/61e93/87708b4e65262e53b2d82ca9a3a1c007.webp 200w,\n/static/4a83a1e4987202dce6c4f941b94a49a5/1f5c5/87708b4e65262e53b2d82ca9a3a1c007.webp 400w,\n/static/4a83a1e4987202dce6c4f941b94a49a5/58556/87708b4e65262e53b2d82ca9a3a1c007.webp 800w,\n/static/4a83a1e4987202dce6c4f941b94a49a5/99238/87708b4e65262e53b2d82ca9a3a1c007.webp 1200w,\n/static/4a83a1e4987202dce6c4f941b94a49a5/7c22d/87708b4e65262e53b2d82ca9a3a1c007.webp 1600w,\n/static/4a83a1e4987202dce6c4f941b94a49a5/186a0/87708b4e65262e53b2d82ca9a3a1c007.webp 3911w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2545-markdown","title":"What Studies Say About Cannabis & Sports Performance","slug":"what-studies-say-about-cannabis-and-sports-performance","content":"In athletic competition, as well as when working out, athletes of all skill levels are always looking for an edge—whether it’s the best replacement for lost fluids from sweating, gels for an energy boost or a post-workout recovery mixture. \r\n\r\nA rising trend that’s quite interesting is athletes incorporating cannabis into their pre- and post-workout routines. Those who use it claim that it helps them get into the “zone” so that they’re able to concentrate on repetitive activities and muscle movements.\r\n\r\nSome athletes also feel they’re less sore and recover more quickly, perhaps due to the anti-inflammatory properties of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) & cannabidiol (CBD). \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\nA variety of factors come into play when considering cannabis and exercise, such as: \r\n\r\n* mood \r\n* eating habits\r\n* time of day \r\n* workout partners \r\n* competition level \r\n* type of cannabis used\r\n* consumption methods\r\n* quality of cannabis \r\n\r\nThus, coming up with controlled studies to test the effectiveness of cannabis in boosting athletic performance is somewhat challenging. Athletic performance without the addition of performance-enhancing substances already varies on a day-to-day basis. How do you test the benefits of cannabis in lieu of these other confounding factors?\r\n\r\nBecause of these difficulties (and other issues, like cannabis’s contraband status in most parts of the world), few studies have attempted to look into this topic. A 2013 review article in _Sports Medicine_ acknowledges that [cannabis has the potential to enhance performance](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3717337/), based on anecdotal reports. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [3 POPULAR QUESTIONS ABOUT MARIJUANA & SPORTS ANSWERED](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a287acc100a820006562eba/3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-sports-answered)\r\n\r\nAnd according to a study that surveyed French student-athletes, [cannabis is interestingly more frequent in athletes who practiced a “sliding sport” such as bobsled or luge, than in other sports](http://www.ukcia.org/research/CannabisUseToEnhanceSportive.pdf). Researchers theorize this could be due to the danger of those sports, and that thrill-seeking may be involved. These findings align with anecdotal evidence from athletes who say cannabis helps reduce anxieties and inhibitions they often have during competition. \r\n\r\nThe study on French athletes doesn’t really address if cannabis affects performance—and so far, no research has attempted to take on this subject. It simply showed that chronic recreational users of cannabis tend to also use cannabis for sporting activities. \r\n\r\nGiven the growing popularity of cannabis use for sports performance, it’d be beneficial for organizations—both federal and athletic-oriented—to fund research that further delves into the pros and cons of this topic. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Josh Nuttall](https://unsplash.com/@jjnuttall)\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":1.36986301369863,"src":"/static/b803fff33bead9e9b7bdd7b12a409245/14b42/7a21764e58050e341d30e8970de4b887.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b803fff33bead9e9b7bdd7b12a409245/f836f/7a21764e58050e341d30e8970de4b887.jpg 200w,\n/static/b803fff33bead9e9b7bdd7b12a409245/2244e/7a21764e58050e341d30e8970de4b887.jpg 400w,\n/static/b803fff33bead9e9b7bdd7b12a409245/14b42/7a21764e58050e341d30e8970de4b887.jpg 800w,\n/static/b803fff33bead9e9b7bdd7b12a409245/47498/7a21764e58050e341d30e8970de4b887.jpg 1200w,\n/static/b803fff33bead9e9b7bdd7b12a409245/0e329/7a21764e58050e341d30e8970de4b887.jpg 1600w,\n/static/b803fff33bead9e9b7bdd7b12a409245/a4d80/7a21764e58050e341d30e8970de4b887.jpg 3825w","srcWebp":"/static/b803fff33bead9e9b7bdd7b12a409245/58556/7a21764e58050e341d30e8970de4b887.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b803fff33bead9e9b7bdd7b12a409245/61e93/7a21764e58050e341d30e8970de4b887.webp 200w,\n/static/b803fff33bead9e9b7bdd7b12a409245/1f5c5/7a21764e58050e341d30e8970de4b887.webp 400w,\n/static/b803fff33bead9e9b7bdd7b12a409245/58556/7a21764e58050e341d30e8970de4b887.webp 800w,\n/static/b803fff33bead9e9b7bdd7b12a409245/99238/7a21764e58050e341d30e8970de4b887.webp 1200w,\n/static/b803fff33bead9e9b7bdd7b12a409245/7c22d/7a21764e58050e341d30e8970de4b887.webp 1600w,\n/static/b803fff33bead9e9b7bdd7b12a409245/d4f48/7a21764e58050e341d30e8970de4b887.webp 3825w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":24,"numPages":9,"currentPage":3,"id":5724,"name":"Science & Research","slug":"science-and-research","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}