{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/study/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2887-markdown","title":"Studies Support Cannabis as an Effective Painkiller","slug":"studies-support-cannabis-as-an-effective-painkiller","content":"As cannabis science continues to surge forward, many folks are talking less about being buzzed and more about their anterior cingulate cortex and the sensorimotor cortex—in other words, the portions of the brain that process pain sensations.\n\nThis is because a hallmark study has confirmed what so many patients will already know: Cannabis appears to reduce pain sensations.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_us/?utm_medium=copy_link/)\n\nAn Israeli study published in _Neurology_, the journal of the American Academy of Neurology, described [a research project conducted on men who experienced nerve pain in the legs](https://www.newsweek.com/nerve-pain-legs-medical-marijuana-may-alter-brain-connections-bring-relief-1106048). After initially rating their pain from zero to 100, the study participants were divided into groups, with some taking cannabis oil containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and others taking a placebo. \n\nThe process was repeated a week later, with participants who received the cannabis oil now taking the placebo. What the study found is that patients taking the cannabis oil reported a significant lessening of their pain.\n\n\"Our study results link pain relief from THC with a reduction in the connections between areas of the brain otherwise heavily connected, suggesting that THC may alleviate pain by disrupting signals between these pain processing pathways,\" said Dr. Haggai Sharon, one of the study’s authors.\n\nAnother study, conducted in October 2018 by Canada’s McGill University Health Centre found that [low doses of cannabidiol (CBD) given to animals not only alleviate pain, but also reduce anxiety](https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/10/181024163625.htm). \n\nAnd a third report published by an ad hoc committee of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine found there was “[conclusive or substantial evidence that cannabis or cannabinoids are effective in the treatment of chronic pain in adults](http://nationalacademies.org/hmd/~/media/Files/Report%20Files/2017/Cannabis-Health-Effects/Cannabis-conclusions.pdf).” \n\nThe authors of the report compiled over 10,000 medical cannabis studies undertaken since 1999, and though not all of their findings pointed to cannabis as a global cure-all, its use for pain relief was found to be definitive.\n\n### Not Every Study Confirms Marijuana’s Pain Reduction Properties \n\nTo be fair, other studies haven’t shown conclusive evidence that cannabis eases pain. In some cases, the number of people in research groups was too small. In other studies, patients had differing rates of cannabis consumption prior to enrolling in a study or weren’t taking the same types of cannabis during the study period. \n\nYet anecdotal evidence continues to mount, with [more and more doctors and patients defying conventional pain management practices and turning to cannabis](https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/ct-met-medical-marijuana-for-pain-illinois-20180831-story.html) as an adjunct or replacement for other pain medications. \n\n### Why Try Cannabis for Pain Management? \n\nAsk any employee at your favorite dispensary or delivery service, and they’ll tell you that it’s almost impossible to track how many people are turning to cannabis to ease pain. \n\nMany are sick and tired of the side effects associated with traditional painkillers including:\n\n* Damage to the stomach and liver associated with long-term use of NSAID’s like ibuprofen\n* Excruciating constipation that those taking opiates may suffer with on a daily basis\n* Muscle relaxants that can render a person useless for anything but lying in bed \n* The downward spiral associated with opioid addiction, which has become a global public health emergency \n\nIs it any wonder that patients would look for healthier, more natural alternatives?\n\nRELATED: [HOLISTIC THERAPIES TO RELIEVE CHRONIC PAIN](https://hellomd.com/articles/holistic-therapies-to-relieve-chronic-pain/)\n\n### Cannabis Can Be a Safe, Gentle Complement to Opioid Pain Medications \n\nDespite the fact that research is still ongoing in terms of the efficacy of cannabis and pain relief, there’s one very important statistic to consider: States where medical marijuana has been legalized have a staggering 25% fewer deaths linked to opioid abuse. \n\nSome patients report [life-changing results when they add medical marijuana](https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/using-marijuana-to-treat-chronic-pain-might-help-cut-down-on-opioid-abuse/2017/02/24/518fbec2-f84e-11e6-bf01-d47f8cf9b643_story.html?utm_term=.a109d38c7dd0) to their pain-relief regimen. And with [no recorded death ever from a cannabis overdose](https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/marijuana-lethal-dose_us_58f4ec07e4b0b9e9848d6297), more and more states are voting to allow medical cannabis in their jurisdictions. \n\n### How Do I Begin Adding Cannabis to My Pain Program? \n\n* **Know the laws in your state:** You should always abide by state and local guidelines regarding the possession, purchase and use of cannabis products. Some states only allow medical marijuana for specific health conditions, so [make sure you know the laws where you live](https://www.safeaccessnow.org/state_and_federal_law). \n\n* **Talk to your doctor:** It’s always a good idea to [speak to your doctor about taking cannabis](https://www.huffingtonpost.com/catherine-hiller/post_10902_b_9140818.html), especially if you’re already taking other medications. Don’t stop taking your prescribed medications unless you’re doing so with the support and guidance of your doctor. If you feel like they’re not very educated or supportive when it comes to cannabis, you can always [schedule a face-to-face video consultation with a HelloMD doctor](www.hellomd.com). \n\n* **Educate yourself:** There are [so many ways to take cannabis for pain relief](https://www.safeaccessnow.org/using_medical_cannabis), so do your homework. Understand that medical cannabis therapy looks different for every individual. There’s no one- size-fits-all approach for medical marijuana, as everyone responds differently to the plant.\n\n* **Start slowly:** If you’re brand new to cannabis, consider using a topical cream or spray containing non-psychoactive CBD for starters. Some patients derive [immense pain relief from CBD products](https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/medical-marijuana-2018011513085), while others need the psychoactive components found in THC to alleviate pain. Whatever cannabis product you try, start with a very small amount and wait to see how it affects you before you take more. \n\n* **Eat cannabis edibles with caution:** If you want to medicate with marijuana edibles, [start with very small amounts, also known as microdosing](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5ab47f4ef24d1300077ccb98/3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-microdosing-answered). For most, around 2–5 milligrams of THC per dose is a good place to start until you know your unique response to the product. Wait a couple of hours before eating more, if you feel like you need it. \n\n* **Journal your cannabis experience:** Use your journal to adjust your doses and to help document what worked best for you. Things to write down are: \n\n>* The name and type of product you tried\n>* How much you used\n>* When you used it \n>* How you felt after taking it \n\n* **Combine & conquer:** Once you’ve familiarized yourself with the many types of cannabis pain-relief options available, you may want to try layering. This is a technique where you take medicinal cannabis by different consumption methods through the day to layer the different effects of the products.  \n\n>Some pain patients begin their day by smoking or vaping a cerebral, sativa-dominant cannabis strain. Then, as their pain spikes, they may turn to concentrates with a more sedative effect or a topical if they’re out and about. Finally, to help with sleep, some folks wind down with a cannabis-infused bath bomb, or a marijuana edible to promote relaxation and a good night’s rest.\n\n* **Be a patient patient:** Sometimes, enthusiastic cannabis consumers may give people the impression that marijuana is the answer to all of your medical woes. When we’re suffering, we all want relief, but as with any medication, cannabis may work miraculously for some and not at all for others. Learning to manage pain using cannabis takes time, and what works for one person may not work for another. Sometimes it takes a little experimentation to find what works for you.\n\nIf you find that medical marijuana isn’t easing your pain, seek out a reputable cannabis expert to discuss the specifics of your condition, your dosage schedule and the types of products you’re using. \n\nOften, with a little tenacity and some adjustments to your regime, you’ll discover how to create your cannabis sweet spot, which will hopefully result in reduced pain, an enhanced quality of life and a marked improvement in your ability to manage your aches and pains.\n\nPhoto credit: [Wei Ding](https://unsplash.com/@weiding22)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana/) index of articles. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/3d6b8afd1101ede84047814b6189cb4d/14b42/51170448bbd0a3598c3b0de25cc4953d.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3d6b8afd1101ede84047814b6189cb4d/f836f/51170448bbd0a3598c3b0de25cc4953d.jpg 200w,\n/static/3d6b8afd1101ede84047814b6189cb4d/2244e/51170448bbd0a3598c3b0de25cc4953d.jpg 400w,\n/static/3d6b8afd1101ede84047814b6189cb4d/14b42/51170448bbd0a3598c3b0de25cc4953d.jpg 800w,\n/static/3d6b8afd1101ede84047814b6189cb4d/47498/51170448bbd0a3598c3b0de25cc4953d.jpg 1200w,\n/static/3d6b8afd1101ede84047814b6189cb4d/0e329/51170448bbd0a3598c3b0de25cc4953d.jpg 1600w,\n/static/3d6b8afd1101ede84047814b6189cb4d/f4f90/51170448bbd0a3598c3b0de25cc4953d.jpg 3111w","srcWebp":"/static/3d6b8afd1101ede84047814b6189cb4d/58556/51170448bbd0a3598c3b0de25cc4953d.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/3d6b8afd1101ede84047814b6189cb4d/61e93/51170448bbd0a3598c3b0de25cc4953d.webp 200w,\n/static/3d6b8afd1101ede84047814b6189cb4d/1f5c5/51170448bbd0a3598c3b0de25cc4953d.webp 400w,\n/static/3d6b8afd1101ede84047814b6189cb4d/58556/51170448bbd0a3598c3b0de25cc4953d.webp 800w,\n/static/3d6b8afd1101ede84047814b6189cb4d/99238/51170448bbd0a3598c3b0de25cc4953d.webp 1200w,\n/static/3d6b8afd1101ede84047814b6189cb4d/7c22d/51170448bbd0a3598c3b0de25cc4953d.webp 1600w,\n/static/3d6b8afd1101ede84047814b6189cb4d/a83fd/51170448bbd0a3598c3b0de25cc4953d.webp 3111w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2766-markdown","title":"Study Finds 96% of Cancer Patients Improved With Cannabis","slug":"study-finds-96-of-cancer-patients-improved-with-cannabis","content":"In a recently released Israeli study, an incredible [96% of cancer patients who took cannabis reported an improvement in symptoms](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29482741). The study was published in the _European Journal of Internal Medicine_ earlier this year and looked at 2,970 cancer patients with an average age of around 60. \n\nThis is yet another piece of evidence strongly suggesting that marijuana is an effective and relatively safe way to treat the painful side effects that affect cancer sufferers.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Who Conducted This Study Looking at Cannabis’s Effect on Cancer Symptoms?\n\nThe study was run by Tikun Olam, an Israeli-based medical marijuana producer and research company. Tikun Olam started in 2005 as a nonprofit organization to advocate for safe and clean cannabis for medical marijuana patients. It then moved into developing cannabis strains. In addition, it now makes cannabis-based products including tinctures, concentrates and topicals. \n\nAll of its products are derived from cannabis strains that Tikun Olam has developed itself. You may have heard of its proprietary cannabis strain called Avidekel, a strain rich in cannabidiol (CBD) that contains practically no tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). People who want CBD’s anti-inflammatory and other healing properties without a head high give the strain rave reviews. \n\nThrough international subsidiaries and partners, Tikun Olam’s products are available in Canada, Australia and even here in the U.S. \n\n### What This Study Tells Us About Cannabis in Addressing Cancer Symptoms\n\nTikun Olam’s purpose was to see how cannabis could help in palliative care for cancer patients. (The Israeli ministry of health began to allow cancer patients to legally consume medicinal cannabis in 2007.) It didn’t set out to prove the plant could cure cancer, but rather to see how cannabis could help those dealing with the painful side effects of the disease and primary cancer treatments like chemotherapy. \n\nThose symptoms that affect nearly all cancer patients and were mentioned by participants in this study include:\n\n* Insomnia\n* Pain\n* Nausea\n* Weakness\n\nThe study found the participants had to deal with some side effects from cannabis consumption, but they were relatively minor and treatable. These included:\n\n* Sleepiness\n* Increased appetite \n* Psychoactive effects\n* Dry mouth\n\n### This Study & Many Others Find Cannabis Allows for a Reduction In the Use of Opioids\n\nBesides the 96% who reported an improvement in their symptoms, Tikun Olam also disclosed that within just six months of starting a marijuana protocol, 36% of subjects were able to stop taking the opioids they were prescribed. A further 10% of the study’s subjects were able to reduce the dose of opioids they needed. \n\nMany other studies and anecdotal evidence point to cannabis as an effective pain reliever for people, so much so that they’re able to reduce or stop their opioid intake altogether. In fact, HelloMD conducted a study on cannabis as a substitute for opioid and non-opioid-based pain medications and found that:\n\n* 97% of those surveyed “strongly agreed/agreed” that they could decrease their opioid use when using cannabis.\n* 92% of participants “strongly agreed/agreed” that they prefer cannabis to treat their medical condition.\n* 81% of subjects “strongly agreed/agreed” that cannabis by itself was more effective than taking cannabis with opioids. The results were similar when using cannabis with non-opiate based pain medications.\n\nWe’ve all heard of the damage that potentially addictive and deadly opioids can cause. And marijuana as a natural, non-addictive pain reliever is an exciting prospect as an alternative to opioids—or even as an [exit drug out of opioid addiction](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-an-exit-drug-for-the-opioid-epidemic).  \n\n### How to Begin Taking Medical Marijuana for Cancer Symptoms\n\nIf you want to try treating cancer symptoms with marijuana, it may take some time to figure out what works for you. With all things cannabis, some experimentation will probably be in order to find the right strain, consumption method and dose that gives you the effects you’re looking for. \n\nIt may be helpful to start with the symptom(s) you want to treat and work backwards from there to find the right cannabis regimen. So, for example, if you’re having trouble sleeping, you’ll probably want to start with an indica or hybrid marijuana strain with a cannabinoid/terpene profile that’s known for promoting sleep and relaxation. If possible, you’ll also want to choose a marijuana edible, since this form of cannabis is processed through the liver and though it takes longer to kick in, its effects last longer—hopefully through the night for those with sleep issues.\n\nIf you have questions about using cannabis to help with cancer symptoms, you can head over to our [Answers](https://hellomd.com/questions-and-answers) page to post your question and a knowledgeable member of the HelloMD community will give you some expert guidance. You can also choose to [consult with one of our doctors](www.hellomd.com) or health professionals to learn more about how medical marijuana could help ease your cancer symptoms. \n\nPhoto credit: [Foto Sushi](https://unsplash.com/@fotosushi)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/1d906fe6c984cc2266e45fb50ec8a161/14b42/95e3e9e7aca4d44a4a3fc8bad2ca574e.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1d906fe6c984cc2266e45fb50ec8a161/f836f/95e3e9e7aca4d44a4a3fc8bad2ca574e.jpg 200w,\n/static/1d906fe6c984cc2266e45fb50ec8a161/2244e/95e3e9e7aca4d44a4a3fc8bad2ca574e.jpg 400w,\n/static/1d906fe6c984cc2266e45fb50ec8a161/14b42/95e3e9e7aca4d44a4a3fc8bad2ca574e.jpg 800w,\n/static/1d906fe6c984cc2266e45fb50ec8a161/47498/95e3e9e7aca4d44a4a3fc8bad2ca574e.jpg 1200w,\n/static/1d906fe6c984cc2266e45fb50ec8a161/0e329/95e3e9e7aca4d44a4a3fc8bad2ca574e.jpg 1600w,\n/static/1d906fe6c984cc2266e45fb50ec8a161/11837/95e3e9e7aca4d44a4a3fc8bad2ca574e.jpg 3621w","srcWebp":"/static/1d906fe6c984cc2266e45fb50ec8a161/58556/95e3e9e7aca4d44a4a3fc8bad2ca574e.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/1d906fe6c984cc2266e45fb50ec8a161/61e93/95e3e9e7aca4d44a4a3fc8bad2ca574e.webp 200w,\n/static/1d906fe6c984cc2266e45fb50ec8a161/1f5c5/95e3e9e7aca4d44a4a3fc8bad2ca574e.webp 400w,\n/static/1d906fe6c984cc2266e45fb50ec8a161/58556/95e3e9e7aca4d44a4a3fc8bad2ca574e.webp 800w,\n/static/1d906fe6c984cc2266e45fb50ec8a161/99238/95e3e9e7aca4d44a4a3fc8bad2ca574e.webp 1200w,\n/static/1d906fe6c984cc2266e45fb50ec8a161/7c22d/95e3e9e7aca4d44a4a3fc8bad2ca574e.webp 1600w,\n/static/1d906fe6c984cc2266e45fb50ec8a161/cbac0/95e3e9e7aca4d44a4a3fc8bad2ca574e.webp 3621w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2743-markdown","title":"Is Getting a Contact High From Cannabis Smoke a Myth?","slug":"is-getting-a-contact-high-from-cannabis-smoke-a-myth","content":"Twenty years ago, Canadian snowboarder Ross Rebagliati made headlines at the Winter Olympics when he won the first gold medal in his sport. But he [lost his medal the same day for testing positive for tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in a post-competition drug test](https://www.skiinghistory.org/news/2018-winter-olympics-ross-rebagliati-20-years-later). Ross insisted he hadn’t consumed marijuana, and that he’d just spent time with friends who had. He said that his positive test was the result of a contact high—being too close to his friends when they smoked marijuana.\n\nSince cannabis wasn’t actually on the list of banned substances, the Olympic committee reinstated Ross’ gold medal the following day. But the question still lingers: Is it possible to experience a contact high from being around cannabis smoke, even if you never took a puff yourself?   \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nThe possibility of the contact high is one of the most enduring beliefs about marijuana. For years, people have reported feeling high after a night spent with smoking friends, or like Ross, blaming a failed drug test on the effects of secondhand smoke. Antidrug campaigns have also cited it as another way marijuana can be harmful.  \n\nOn the other hand, the contact high has been called a complete myth. Many say that no one can get high or experience any other effects from secondhand cannabis smoke. The reality is somewhere in between—and it also depends on the definition of what a contact high actually is. \n\nSome people, under certain circumstances, can have traces of THC in their system after spending time around smokers, but those traces disappear very quickly. And even if contact high isn’t a myth, it also isn’t much of a high either.\n\n### Can Secondhand Cannabis Smoke Get You High?\n\nThe dangers of secondhand cigarette smoke have been well documented in study after study. But until relatively recently, not much research has been devoted to studying the effects of secondhand marijuana smoke. But as cannabis moves ever further into the mainstream, a number of studies are taking a closer look at the many myths and beliefs—such as the contact high—from the counterculture days that surround this legendary plant. \n\nTo see what happens when a nonsmoker spends time around cannabis smokers, researchers in various institutions around the world have examined samples of blood, urine and saliva from volunteers who inhaled secondhand cannabis smoke under various circumstances, such as simply [sitting in a coffee shop where several people were smoking marijuana](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20465865). Other experiments were conducted in the open air, and still others looked at volunteers [spending time in an environment where smoke was highly concentrated, also known as “hotboxing.”](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16419389)\n\nIn the hotboxing studies, researchers put volunteers in a closed car or a sealed room with smokers consuming a lot of marijuana. Even in these close quarters without ventilation, only traces of THC were detected in the systems of some of the nonsmokers; none reported feeling high.\n\n### Study Results & How Both Sides of the Marijuana Debate Use Them\n\nIn blood, saliva and urine testing, [some of the participants in these studies showed trace amounts of THC and its derivatives THC-OH and THC-COOH](https://www.medicaldaily.com/scientists-test-secondhand-smoke-effects-marijuana-find-contact-high-real-333620) in their systems immediately after being exposed to secondhand smoke.\n\nThese amounts of THC were well under the limits established by the government (50 nanograms per milliliter) and disappeared within one to three hours after exposure. The THC derivatives   THC-OH and THC-COOH are metabolized more slowly and can linger in the body longer than THC itself can, so traces of these chemicals could be present for up to 14 hours. But even these weren’t enough to cause psychoactive effects.\n\nBoth sides in the cannabis debate—advocates and anti-drug campaigners—have seized on this research to support their own positions on cannabis safety and benefits. Cannabis advocates use it to point out that contact high is really a myth, because the amounts of THC that enter the system from secondhand smoke are too small to make someone high.\n\nOn the other side, antidrug campaigns use the data to show that even being around a cannabis smoker can affect nonsmokers. But researchers point out that just as it’s not likely that someone would get high from secondhand smoke, it’s unlikely that they might fail a drug test with such minimal amounts of THC in their system.\n\nWhat about all of the people who report feeling high—relaxed, happy, prone to hunger—when they’re around cannabis smokers? It’s likely a psychological effect, say scientists. When you’re around people behaving in a certain way, you take on some of their behaviors yourself. For example, in the company of relaxed, high-spirited smokers, you may feel that way too, even if you weren’t smoking.\n\n### Secondhand Marijuana Smoke Has Other Effects\n\nEven if the contact high doesn’t really make someone feel high, [cannabis smoke can affect nearby nonsmokers in other potentially harmful ways](https://no-smoke.org/secondhand-marijuana-smoke-fact-sheet/). It’s been shown that cannabis smoke doesn’t affect the body in the same way that tobacco smoke does, because it lacks the tar and nicotine contained in cigarettes. Another reason for the difference is that cannabinoids in cannabis provide a number of beneficial effects.  \n\nRELATED: [CANNABINOIDS: CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS WITH HUGE THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55da2ff26430380006690000/cannabinoids-chemical-compounds-with-huge-therapeutic-potential)\n\nBut no matter what you smoke, [combustion—the process that burns tobacco, cannabis and any other material—generates harmful byproducts and toxins](https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2018/03/19/592873218/are-there-risks-from-secondhand-marijuana-smoke-early-science-says-yes). These byproducts can damage the lungs, circulatory system and tissues.\n\nFor years, health experts have warned about the dangers of secondhand tobacco smoke. A large body of research has linked cigarette smoking to lung cancer and other illnesses.\n\nAnd although there’s not much comparable research on cannabis, some recent studies indicate that cannabis smoke could have harmful effects on bystanders for the same reason: the byproducts of combustion. Cannabis can also contain mold and bacteria not found in cigarettes, which could expose both smokers and nonsmokers nearby to still more toxins. \n\n### What About Secondhand Smoke From Vaping & Dabbing Cannabis?\n\nVaping cannabis has become popular as an alternative to smoking that can eliminate the toxins from combustion altogether. This also means cannabis vapor may pose less of a danger when inhaled secondhand. And although research on secondhand cannabis smoke hasn’t really examined vaping, this method of delivery may be even less likely than smoking to create a contact high in nonsmokers. [Vaping has its own hazards](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5b0326f6bf4c4d000a0e7389/how-to-vape-marijuana-safely) though, such as heavy metal toxins leaking from a vape pen battery or questionable ingredients in cannabis oils. \n\nDabbing is another alternative to smoking that delivers a concentrated form of cannabis when heated to high temperatures. Though research specifically on dabbing hasn’t explored the question of a contact high, some studies have shown that dabbing at very high temperatures can create toxins and carcinogens that can enter the lungs and respiratory system.\n\nAs medical cannabis moves into the mainstream, a growing number of studies are working to separate the myths surrounding it from the realities that can help people make informed decisions about it. The contact high is one of those longstanding myths. And now, recent research suggests that for most people in most normal circumstances, getting high from secondhand cannabis really is just that: a myth.\n\nPhoto credit: [Brian Beckwith](https://unsplash.com/@brianbeckwith)\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/56201c206430320006bb0000/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.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAOABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwAAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQFAf/EABUBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAB/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAFvZVJGBMX/xAAZEAACAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAgADEhH/2gAIAQEAAQUCDVyltrusQsuU5jiGf//EABURAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAh/9oACAEDAQE/AYf/xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQ/9oACAECAQE/AT//xAAbEAACAgMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIRISIyMf/aAAgBAQAGPwLpFypHaNY5Ejw//8QAHBABAAICAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARQVEhMWGR/9oACAEBAAE/IaSiVi4qEOI8Z+sXSrZiNew3O6q/Gf/aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQ58//xAAWEQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQETH/2gAIAQMBAT8QUD//xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIf/aAAgBAgEBPxCq/8QAGxABAAMBAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITGBYeH/2gAIAQEAAT8QczgtNZLCcLDVnsQpGGVqQ758lregw8P2Fk/hwPCf/9k=","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/ca8c8bc7963410a177664eb46e94532c/14b42/1992b88ec5859b451d5b0e6d430bb825.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ca8c8bc7963410a177664eb46e94532c/f836f/1992b88ec5859b451d5b0e6d430bb825.jpg 200w,\n/static/ca8c8bc7963410a177664eb46e94532c/2244e/1992b88ec5859b451d5b0e6d430bb825.jpg 400w,\n/static/ca8c8bc7963410a177664eb46e94532c/14b42/1992b88ec5859b451d5b0e6d430bb825.jpg 800w,\n/static/ca8c8bc7963410a177664eb46e94532c/47498/1992b88ec5859b451d5b0e6d430bb825.jpg 1200w,\n/static/ca8c8bc7963410a177664eb46e94532c/0e329/1992b88ec5859b451d5b0e6d430bb825.jpg 1600w,\n/static/ca8c8bc7963410a177664eb46e94532c/43576/1992b88ec5859b451d5b0e6d430bb825.jpg 3653w","srcWebp":"/static/ca8c8bc7963410a177664eb46e94532c/58556/1992b88ec5859b451d5b0e6d430bb825.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ca8c8bc7963410a177664eb46e94532c/61e93/1992b88ec5859b451d5b0e6d430bb825.webp 200w,\n/static/ca8c8bc7963410a177664eb46e94532c/1f5c5/1992b88ec5859b451d5b0e6d430bb825.webp 400w,\n/static/ca8c8bc7963410a177664eb46e94532c/58556/1992b88ec5859b451d5b0e6d430bb825.webp 800w,\n/static/ca8c8bc7963410a177664eb46e94532c/99238/1992b88ec5859b451d5b0e6d430bb825.webp 1200w,\n/static/ca8c8bc7963410a177664eb46e94532c/7c22d/1992b88ec5859b451d5b0e6d430bb825.webp 1600w,\n/static/ca8c8bc7963410a177664eb46e94532c/35449/1992b88ec5859b451d5b0e6d430bb825.webp 3653w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2731-markdown","title":"Studies Find Cannabis Can Protect Drinkers’ Livers","slug":"studies-find-cannabis-can-protect-drinkers-livers","content":"Cannabis and alcohol are the two most popular recreational substances around, so it’s not unusual to see the two consumed together. Still, news about [the way that cannabis and alcohol interact with each other](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58e7bbf32fdeaf51a1a08384/mixing-marijuana-and-alcohol) has led many to advise against combining them. In fact, in California it’s now explicitly illegal to sell products that contain cannabis and alcohol together. \n\nBut new research is making experts think twice about banning this common combination. Scientists now believe that cannabis could have one very important effect when used with alcohol: preventing alcoholic liver disease (ALD).  If enjoying a beer or cocktail is already part of your regular relaxation routine, adding cannabis just might help save you from the effects of ALD. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### What Is Alcoholic Liver Disease?\n\n[ALD is a condition caused by excessive drinking for long periods of time](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/215638.php). When alcohol is consumed it can have a damaging effect on the liver including increasing liver inflammation, building up fats in the organ and even scarring the liver. Over time, this can lead to increasingly serious damage and eventually death. \n\nThis tragic and preventable condition takes almost 20,000 lives a year in the U.S. alone and is the third-most common cause of liver transplants. \n\nALD is classified by four stages: \n\n1. Alcoholic fatty liver disease (steatosis): This is when fat deposits start to build up in the liver. It can happen in as little as a week and is usually reversible with alcohol abstinence.  \n2. Alcoholic hepatitis (steatohepatitis): After many years of heavy drinking, the liver becomes chronically inflamed. This is also often reversible by abstaining from alcohol. \n3. Fibrosis: This stage is characterized by a buildup of certain proteins in the liver. It may be reversible if mild to moderate. \n4. Cirrhosis: When the liver is inflamed for long periods of time, loss of function and scarring occur. This damage is irreversible and life-threatening. \n\nAdditionally, these stages of ALD put drinkers at high risk for liver cancer.\n\n### Research Shows Cannabis Can Help Prevent ALD\n\nIn a surprising twist, it turns out that the disease caused by one popular recreational substance may be prevented by another. \n\nResearchers were curious about cannabis and alcohol’s combined effect on the liver since it hadn’t been studied in depth. With increasing numbers turning to this combination, it was important to make sure cannabis wasn’t compounding alcohol’s negative effects. After all, many recreational substances seem to put stress on the liver. \n \nBut what researchers found was just the opposite. Users with the highest levels of cannabis use had much lower rates of ALD. \n\nIn one study, [researchers looked at the four stages of ALD and liver cancer among 320,000 individuals with alcohol use disorder](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/liv.13696). They analyzed the data to see whether cannabis use had any effect on the different stages of ALD. And they found that cannabis consumers had significantly lower rates of ALD at all stages of the disease. \n\nSpecifically, alcohol drinkers who also consumed cannabis had the following reductions in ALD stages:\n\n* 45% reduction in steatosis, or alcoholic fatty liver disease \n* 40% reduction in steatohepatitis, or alcoholic hepatitis \n* 55% reduction in alcoholic cirrhosis and fibrosis\n* 75% reduction in hepatocellular carcinoma, or liver cancer\n\nWhile any cannabis use seemed to play a protective role for the liver, those categorized as dependent cannabis users (those who consumed it the most) had the lowest rates of ALD. This suggests that more cannabis is better when it comes to protecting the liver from the deadly long-term effects of alcohol. \n\nThese results add to conclusions from a previous study, which found that [the cannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) use was tied to lower levels of ALD](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24398069). This new research seems to suggest that cannabis in general, as well as CBD alone, is effective at reducing ALD. \n\nAnother important study shows that [cannabis consumption is tied to lower levels of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5648282/) as well. So, cannabis may protect our livers in general, not just when drinking alcohol. \n\nStill, since drinkers are at high risk for liver disease, they’re an especially vulnerable population that could benefit from adding cannabis into their routine. Switching out alcohol use for cannabis consumption is healthier for the liver, given what we know from the research. But if drinking is unavoidable, adding in cannabis could really help, too. \n\n### How Cannabis Helps Reduce ALD\n\nThere are many reasons why cannabis has such an incredible effect on the liver. But one of the main ways is through [cannabis’s anti-inflammatory properties](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55a3f31338323000062f0000/medical-marijuana-as-an-aid-against-inflammation). Much of the damage sustained by the liver during the progress of ALD is a result of the long- term inflammation and swelling caused by alcohol consumption. \n\nRELATED: [CAN CANNABIS BE A HEALTHIER SUBSTITUTE FOR ALCOHOL?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a6630a88425e40008273a34/can-cannabis-be-a-healthier-substitute-for-alcohol)\n\nCannabis is known to calm inflammation, reduce swelling and lessen the damage inflammation causes. Those consuming both alcohol and cannabis are, in a way, canceling out one with the other. Alcohol increases inflammation, but then cannabis brings it back down. While this isn’t a foolproof method (remember that many alcoholics who consume cannabis will still get ALD), it definitely lowers the risks. \n\nOther researchers say that [cannabis helps by preventing the oxidative stress caused by alcohol](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24398069). Alcohol can also weaken the body’s natural ability for autophagy—the process by which damaged or redundant cellular components are destroyed. Cannabis seems to increase autophagy, which may help the liver repair itself. \n\nIf you’re interested in consuming cannabis to help prevent or treat ALD, the best first step is to talk to a doctor with cannabis expertise. Your doctor can help go over your current conditions, and let you know what cannabis options are best suited to you.\n\nNeed to find a cannabis doctor? You can [video-chat with HelloMD’s knowledgeable doctors](https://www.hellomd.com/talk-to-doctor) today, from the comfort and privacy of your own home.  \n\nPhoto credit: [Toa Heftiba](https://unsplash.com/@heftiba)\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/56201c206430320006bb0000/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. \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/14b42/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/f836f/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.jpg 200w,\n/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/2244e/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.jpg 400w,\n/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/14b42/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.jpg 800w,\n/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/47498/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.jpg 1200w,\n/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/0e329/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.jpg 1600w,\n/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/b85df/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.jpg 3500w","srcWebp":"/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/58556/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/61e93/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.webp 200w,\n/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/1f5c5/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.webp 400w,\n/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/58556/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.webp 800w,\n/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/99238/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.webp 1200w,\n/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/7c22d/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.webp 1600w,\n/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/b6f33/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.webp 3500w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2715-markdown","title":"Study Shows Medical Marijuana Improves Brain Function","slug":"study-shows-medical-marijuana-improves-brain-function","content":"We’ve all heard the saying that consuming marijuana will kill brain cells and make you stupid. But what does the science actually say? What happens to the brain when we consume cannabis? \n\nDespite the fact that more and more people are consuming marijuana to treat medical conditions, a group of researchers noticed that most of the studies on cannabis and brain function have been performed on recreational cannabis consumers and/or teens. But what about adults using a carefully considered regimen of cannabis to treat specific medical conditions? Researchers decided to make medical marijuana patients the focus of their study. And the results may surprise you.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### How Researchers Tracked Brain Function in Medical Marijuana Patients\n\nThe results of the study, which was performed in Massachusetts, were released in early 2018. Researchers looked at [brain activation and cognitive function in medical marijuana patients](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2017.00983/full). Participants completed cognitive tests while undergoing functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) before starting a medical marijuana regimen. They were then reassessed with those same tests three months later. \n\nScientists wanted to look at task-related brain activity specifically. So, they had the subjects complete various multi-source interference tests (MSIT). Examples of MSITs are:\n* Presenting subjects with three numbers, two of which are the same. Participants are directed to identify the one different number by pressing a button. The test administrators switch up the different number by sometimes making it greater or smaller than the other two. Or sometimes they place the numbers in a different order. They then record the subject’s reaction time when identifying the odd number out. \n\n* Showing participants a color name that’s written in the ink of another color. Researchers ask the subjects to name the ink color, but not the color name. Researchers record how often subjects correctly complete the task.  \n\nBy also using fMRI, the researchers could view what parts of the brain were engaged and when they were completing these kinds of cognitive tests.\n\nIt’s important to note that the study had a relatively small sample size of 22 patients—11 men and 11 women between the ages of 28–74. The participants were using whole-plant medical marijuana products to treat:\n\n* Pain\n* Anxiety\n* PTSD\n* Sleep\n* Mood\n* Gastrointestinal issues\n* Attention difficulty\n\nThe subjects consumed medical marijuana an average of nearly 5.5 days a week, almost twice a day for a total average of just over 10 times a week. They consumed the plant in almost every way possible including smoking and vaporizing flower, ingesting tinctures and edibles, and applying topicals. \n\n### Medicinal Cannabis Consumers Showed Improved Cognitive Function After 3 Months\n\nAfter three months, researchers not only saw that the participants’ performance in MSITs improved, but that their brain activation patterns were different. Researchers specifically cited the patterns in the cingulate cortex and frontal regions. These parts of the brain control things like:\n\n* Emotional responses\n* Memory recall\n* Problem solving\n* Language\n* Awareness and attention\n* Cognitive skills\n\nThe study also noted that the brain activation patterns after three months of medical marijuana use closely resembled those of healthy control subjects from other studies—even more so than the subjects’ own pre-medical marijuana treatment patterns. What this means is that medical marijuana has the potential to normalize brain function.\n\n### Patients Report Additional Benefits With Medical Marijuana Consumption \n\nBesides the improvement in executive function measures (things like planning and organizing, multitasking and managing time), the subjects reported improvements in the following areas:\n\n* Sleep\n* Depression\n* Quality of life\n* Impulsivity\n* Energy\n\nThese improvements were noted when subjects compared their current state against how they were before they started consuming medical marijuana\n\nRELATED: [HOW CANNABIS WORKS TO PROTECT & REPAIR THE BRAIN](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5ab9cf3cf24d1300077ccb9f/how-cannabis-works-to-protect-and-repair-the-brain)\n\n### Was Cannabis the Only Reason for Improved Brain Function?\n\nStudy participants improved in other health-related measurements, and they were also able to take fewer prescription medications. The study specifically names opioids, antidepressants, mood stabilizers and benzodiazepines as drug classes that subjects were able to decrease during the three month-long study. \n\nResearchers did note that the improved brain function might not solely be due to cannabis, but also to the decreased consumption in prescription medications—especially since drugs like [mood stabilizers can interfere with cognitive processing](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?Db=pubmed&Cmd=ShowDetailView&TermToSearch=16106488). That said, researchers say more studies are needed. \n\n### The Difference Between Medical & Recreational Marijuana Consumption\n\nIt’s worth noting again that this study looked at medical marijuana patients, not recreational cannabis users. When studied, recreational consumers—adults and adolescents—have shown a decrease in MSIT scores in various areas such as:\n\n* Attention\n* Processing speed\n* Executive function \n\nOf course, there are differences in the types and amounts of cannabis that medical patients consume versus those that recreational users ingest. Recreational consumers usually go for cannabis high in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) to feel its psychoactive effects. Medical marijuana patients may choose high-THC products as well, but they also typically consume marijuana rich in CBD for its anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic, or anxiety-reducing, properties. \n\nThat’s not to say that consuming THC will make you unable to think clearly. In fact, one study found that [a large amount of CBD administered before ingesting THC improved cognitive function](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?Db=pubmed&Cmd=ShowDetailView&TermToSearch=19924114 ). That same study concluded that THC and CBD affect cognitive brain function in opposite ways. Meanwhile, another study found that consuming cannabis containing high levels of CBD along with THC [prevented any problems with memory](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?Db=pubmed&Cmd=ShowDetailView&TermToSearch=20884951).\n\n### Federal Marijuana Laws Impose Restrictions on the Study\n\nResearchers in the 2018 Massachusetts study also noted that it was up to the subjects to choose and administer their own cannabis products and regimen. Unfortunately, because marijuana is illegal federally, limiting the plant’s accessibility for research purposes, the team had little control over this aspect of the study. Marijuana researchers can only get supplies from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, and their cannabis offering doesn’t have the variety of products, strains and cannabinoid percentages that patients need—and that researchers are interested in studying.\n\nHopefully, this study inspires other researchers to look into how we’re affected when consuming marijuana for medical purposes. Studies like this go a long way towards busting the myth that all people who consume cannabis are dazed and confused as a result of ingesting marijuana. It’s also powerful proof that marijuana can be medicine, and that the plant can be a useful tool in fighting the opioid crisis. \n\nPhoto credit: [Alvaro Reyes](https://unsplash.com/@alvaroreyes)\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/56201c206430320006bb0000/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.  \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/94d9649e3142ea62ee9c69216967dfcf/14b42/8a422501de60ed87e022289d29a8ef7e.jpg","srcSet":"/static/94d9649e3142ea62ee9c69216967dfcf/f836f/8a422501de60ed87e022289d29a8ef7e.jpg 200w,\n/static/94d9649e3142ea62ee9c69216967dfcf/2244e/8a422501de60ed87e022289d29a8ef7e.jpg 400w,\n/static/94d9649e3142ea62ee9c69216967dfcf/14b42/8a422501de60ed87e022289d29a8ef7e.jpg 800w,\n/static/94d9649e3142ea62ee9c69216967dfcf/47498/8a422501de60ed87e022289d29a8ef7e.jpg 1200w,\n/static/94d9649e3142ea62ee9c69216967dfcf/0e329/8a422501de60ed87e022289d29a8ef7e.jpg 1600w,\n/static/94d9649e3142ea62ee9c69216967dfcf/3e38a/8a422501de60ed87e022289d29a8ef7e.jpg 3622w","srcWebp":"/static/94d9649e3142ea62ee9c69216967dfcf/58556/8a422501de60ed87e022289d29a8ef7e.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/94d9649e3142ea62ee9c69216967dfcf/61e93/8a422501de60ed87e022289d29a8ef7e.webp 200w,\n/static/94d9649e3142ea62ee9c69216967dfcf/1f5c5/8a422501de60ed87e022289d29a8ef7e.webp 400w,\n/static/94d9649e3142ea62ee9c69216967dfcf/58556/8a422501de60ed87e022289d29a8ef7e.webp 800w,\n/static/94d9649e3142ea62ee9c69216967dfcf/99238/8a422501de60ed87e022289d29a8ef7e.webp 1200w,\n/static/94d9649e3142ea62ee9c69216967dfcf/7c22d/8a422501de60ed87e022289d29a8ef7e.webp 1600w,\n/static/94d9649e3142ea62ee9c69216967dfcf/7280a/8a422501de60ed87e022289d29a8ef7e.webp 3622w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2631-markdown","title":"Studies Back Cannabis as a Way Out of the Opioid Crisis","slug":"studies-back-cannabis-as-a-way-out-of-the-opioid-crisis","content":"As has been addressed numerous times on HelloMD, cannabis can be a viable replacement or supplement to opioids, and there are studies to support this: HelloMD and UC Berkeley released a study in 2017 that found [97% of respondents were able to decrease their opioid use with cannabis](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/hellomd-and-uc-berkeley-release-study-on-cannabis-use-as-a-substitute-for-opioid-and-non-opioid-based-pain-medication), and 81% believed that cannabis was more effective on its own for chronic pain.\n\nThese findings, while striking, already confirm what many folks involved in the medical marijuana community intuitively know: that cannabis’s pain-fighting properties may be able to curb the opioid epidemic by helping folks reduce or stop their opioid intake. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en) \n\n### Opioid Use Declines With the Introduction of Cannabis\n\nThis phenomenon isn’t new: [A 2016 survey of patients at a medical marijuana dispensary in Michigan found similar results](https://www.focusstandards.org/wp-content/uploads/The-Journal-of-Pain-study.pdf). Researchers used an online questionnaire to survey 244 medical marijuana patients with chronic pain from November 2013 to February 2015.\n\nAlmost two-thirds (64%) of study participants were able to decrease their opioid use; they also saw a decrease in the number of medications taken and side effects associated with medications. Meanwhile, 45% said that cannabis had improved their quality of life. \n\nResearchers also noted a decrease in nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and antidepressant use, possibly due to the pain-sparing effects of cannabis. “One theory as to why this occurs is that cannabis has a synergistic effect with opioids, so patients need to take fewer opioids to get the same amount of pain relief,” says HelloMD’s Chief Medical Officer Perry Solomon, M.D. \n\nRELATED: [HOW CANNABIS CAN BREAK THE CYCLE OF OPIOID ABUSE](https://hellomd.com/articles/how-cannabis-can-break-the-cycle-of-opioid-abuse)\n\n### Chronic Pain Sufferers Find Relief With Cannabis\n\nThe Michigan study draws similar conclusions to that of the HelloMD-UC Berkeley study: Chronic pain patients are finding that by substituting or supplementing their intake of opioids with cannabis, they’re able to achieve similar or better benefits with fewer side effects.\n\n“The obvious conclusion with these types of studies is that with a decreased amount of opioid intake, the chance of an overdose is minimized,” says Dr. Solomon.\n\nStudies are already starting to corroborate this connection: A 2015 study found that the [legalization of cannabis in Colorado was associated with a short-term decrease in opioid-related deaths](http://ajph.aphapublications.org/doi/abs/10.2105/AJPH.2017.304059?journalCode=ajph&). As the opioid epidemic rages on, it’s vital that more research be conducted to validate these findings. \n\nPhoto credit: [e-Magine Art](https://www.flickr.com/people/emagineart/)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101]https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://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/678ca70e2bb7b50264ca9a32ab88b818/14b42/4709b2ca4762bf11f6f30433d529c6e7.jpg","srcSet":"/static/678ca70e2bb7b50264ca9a32ab88b818/f836f/4709b2ca4762bf11f6f30433d529c6e7.jpg 200w,\n/static/678ca70e2bb7b50264ca9a32ab88b818/2244e/4709b2ca4762bf11f6f30433d529c6e7.jpg 400w,\n/static/678ca70e2bb7b50264ca9a32ab88b818/14b42/4709b2ca4762bf11f6f30433d529c6e7.jpg 800w,\n/static/678ca70e2bb7b50264ca9a32ab88b818/47498/4709b2ca4762bf11f6f30433d529c6e7.jpg 1200w,\n/static/678ca70e2bb7b50264ca9a32ab88b818/0e329/4709b2ca4762bf11f6f30433d529c6e7.jpg 1600w,\n/static/678ca70e2bb7b50264ca9a32ab88b818/eecc5/4709b2ca4762bf11f6f30433d529c6e7.jpg 3652w","srcWebp":"/static/678ca70e2bb7b50264ca9a32ab88b818/58556/4709b2ca4762bf11f6f30433d529c6e7.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/678ca70e2bb7b50264ca9a32ab88b818/61e93/4709b2ca4762bf11f6f30433d529c6e7.webp 200w,\n/static/678ca70e2bb7b50264ca9a32ab88b818/1f5c5/4709b2ca4762bf11f6f30433d529c6e7.webp 400w,\n/static/678ca70e2bb7b50264ca9a32ab88b818/58556/4709b2ca4762bf11f6f30433d529c6e7.webp 800w,\n/static/678ca70e2bb7b50264ca9a32ab88b818/99238/4709b2ca4762bf11f6f30433d529c6e7.webp 1200w,\n/static/678ca70e2bb7b50264ca9a32ab88b818/7c22d/4709b2ca4762bf11f6f30433d529c6e7.webp 1600w,\n/static/678ca70e2bb7b50264ca9a32ab88b818/0dca4/4709b2ca4762bf11f6f30433d529c6e7.webp 3652w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2520-markdown","title":"Studies Bust the Stereotype of the Lazy, Out-of-Shape Stoner","slug":"studies-bust-the-stereotype-of-the-lazy-out-of-shape-stoner","content":"The negative stereotype that cannabis consumers are lazy with a bad case of the munchies still holds a firm place in many people’s minds—despite [64% of Americans favoring marijuana legalization](http://news.gallup.com/poll/221018/record-high-support-legalizing-marijuana.aspx). \n\nIt’s no secret that appetite can increase after consuming cannabis. In fact, a [surge in appetite](https://academic.oup.com/annonc/article/22/9/2086/211788) is considered a positive marijuana side effect for cancer patients who experience nausea from chemotherapy. This tendency to increase appetite has led to the idea that cannabis consumers constantly binge eat and, as a result, are prone to weight gain and inactivity. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Study Examines Relationship Between Cannabis & BMI\n\nBut a 2016 study conducted by Oregon Health & Science University and published by the _Journal of Mental Health Policy & Economics_ [turns the sluggish stoner stereotype on its head](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27572145). \n\nThe researchers decided to examine the correlation between cannabis use and body mass index (BMI). Historically, scientific research on this topic produced mixed results, with some studies showing weight gain after continued cannabis consumption and others showing a reduction in BMI with cannabis use. In most of these previous studies, though, researchers failed to control for important lifestyle factors that could affect body weight like alcohol consumption and exercise routine.\n\nThe 2016 study looked at data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Adolescent Health comprising more than 13,000 responses from adults between the ages of 18 and 26. Each participant had his or her BMI calculated and was then tested for marijuana consumption. The participants were then re-tested six years later.\n\n### Data Show Marijuana Users Have Lower BMIs\n\nThe results of the study were surprising. Researchers discovered that the BMI of females who consumed marijuana daily during the study was, on average, 3.1% lower than that of non-consumers. Males who consumed cannabis daily during the study had a 2.7% lower BMI on average than non-consumers’ BMI. \n\nResearchers concluded that their study indicates a “negative association between marijuana use and BMI,” a divergence from the stereotypes and multiple previous studies on the subject. \n\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)\n\nTwo important things should be noted about this study. First, the [accuracy of BMI as a measure of health and obesity has come under scrutiny](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2877506/) in recent years. A high BMI doesn’t necessarily mean a person is unhealthy or sedentary. \n\nSecond, the results don’t prove any sort of causal relationship between daily marijuana consumption and weight loss or maintenance. More research must be done to determine if there’s any sort of metabolic reason for why daily cannabis consumers tend to have a lower BMI than that of non-consumers.\n\n### How Do Blood Sugar & Marijuana Consumption Correlate?\n\nA 2013 study published in the _American Journal of Medicine_ [looked into the relationship between blood sugar and cannabis consumption](http://www.amjmed.com/article/S0002-93431300200-3/fulltext), and resulted in a possible explanation for lower BMI in daily consumers. \n\nResearchers examined results from more than 4,500 male and female participants in the National Health & Nutrition Examination Survey from 2005–2010. \n\nDuring the examinations, participants’ fasting insulin and glucose levels were measured after a nine-hour fast. Their cannabis consumption was then self-reported to researchers in a private room. The study concluded that current cannabis consumers had:\n\n* 16% lower fasting insulin levels\n* Lower levels of insulin resistance\n* Higher levels of HDL cholesterol, which is associated with a lowered risk of cardiovascular disease\n* Smaller waist circumference\n\nThe results of these studies should not be taken as a surefire sign that daily marijuana use will result in dramatic or even moderate weight loss. But the two studies do help dismantle the stereotype of the lazy, out-of-shape stoner. These studies also provide a good foundation for future research on the correlation between cannabis consumption and fitness.\n\nPhoto credit: [Marion Michele](https://unsplash.com/@marion_michele)\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/528c9ad5575c4f0b796ccbca6249fbc8/14b42/e89b54408608887ca62127f080ac9edf.jpg","srcSet":"/static/528c9ad5575c4f0b796ccbca6249fbc8/f836f/e89b54408608887ca62127f080ac9edf.jpg 200w,\n/static/528c9ad5575c4f0b796ccbca6249fbc8/2244e/e89b54408608887ca62127f080ac9edf.jpg 400w,\n/static/528c9ad5575c4f0b796ccbca6249fbc8/14b42/e89b54408608887ca62127f080ac9edf.jpg 800w,\n/static/528c9ad5575c4f0b796ccbca6249fbc8/47498/e89b54408608887ca62127f080ac9edf.jpg 1200w,\n/static/528c9ad5575c4f0b796ccbca6249fbc8/0e329/e89b54408608887ca62127f080ac9edf.jpg 1600w,\n/static/528c9ad5575c4f0b796ccbca6249fbc8/fdaec/e89b54408608887ca62127f080ac9edf.jpg 3011w","srcWebp":"/static/528c9ad5575c4f0b796ccbca6249fbc8/58556/e89b54408608887ca62127f080ac9edf.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/528c9ad5575c4f0b796ccbca6249fbc8/61e93/e89b54408608887ca62127f080ac9edf.webp 200w,\n/static/528c9ad5575c4f0b796ccbca6249fbc8/1f5c5/e89b54408608887ca62127f080ac9edf.webp 400w,\n/static/528c9ad5575c4f0b796ccbca6249fbc8/58556/e89b54408608887ca62127f080ac9edf.webp 800w,\n/static/528c9ad5575c4f0b796ccbca6249fbc8/99238/e89b54408608887ca62127f080ac9edf.webp 1200w,\n/static/528c9ad5575c4f0b796ccbca6249fbc8/7c22d/e89b54408608887ca62127f080ac9edf.webp 1600w,\n/static/528c9ad5575c4f0b796ccbca6249fbc8/21ba5/e89b54408608887ca62127f080ac9edf.webp 3011w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2474-markdown","title":"Cannabis Users Have More Sex","slug":"cannabis-users-have-more-sex","content":"Maybe you’ve noticed that you’re more in the mood since you started consuming cannabis. Maybe your partner says sex is more enjoyable after they’ve taken marijuana. Maybe your best friend told you that cannabis is the only thing that gets their sex drive to even show up in the first place. \n\nYou’re not imagining these benefits when consuming cannabis. Now there’s a growing body of scientific research exploring marijuana’s effect on sex—and confirming what many already report anecdotally. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Stanford University Study: Cannabis Users Have 20% More Sex\n\nAn October 2017 [study conducted by Stanford University](https://med.stanford.edu/news/all-news/2017/10/regular-marijuana-use-linked-to-more-sex.html) was published in the _Journal of Sexual Medicine_ and billed as the first “to examine the relationship between marijuana use and frequency of sexual intercourse.” \n\n\nThe study reveals a compelling association: Regular cannabis users have 20% more sex than non-cannabis users. The study is based on data collected in the annual National Survey of Family Growth, sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The survey was particularly useful not only due to its large sample size, but because it included explicit questions about family structures, sexual practices and cannabis use. \n\nThe responses of more than 28,000 females and 22,000 males between the ages of 24–45 were evaluated. Women who reported daily cannabis use had sex with a male partner 7.1 times per month on average, compared to six times a month for non-cannabis users. Men who reported using cannabis daily also reported having sex with women 6.9 times on average per month, compared to 5.6 times for non-users. These results crossed over a wide range of demographics, including sex, race, age, education level, income, religion, overall health, marriage and parental status. \n\nResearchers also found what they call a “dose-dependent” relationship in which the more cannabis that was consumed, the more sex was reported. This finding supports “a possible active role for marijuana fostering sexual activity,” but falls short of proving a definitive causal relationship between cannabis use and more sex. \n\n### The Science Behind Cannabis as a Libido Booster\n\nWhy would cannabis consumers possibly have more sex than non-users? Is sex more enjoyable under the influence of cannabis? Does cannabis increase libido? \n\nThe findings from a 2012 study support the hypothesis that [“the endocannabinoid system is involved in female sexual function” and can heighten female’s sexual arousal](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/m/pubmed/22462722/). \n\nIn a more casual and far from definitive look into cannabis and sex, [_Psychology Today_](https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/all-about-sex/201105/marijuana-and-sex-surprising-results-blogger-s-informal-survey) asked their readers how cannabis affects their sex life. Sixty-seven percent of respondents said cannabis use enhances their sexual experience. \n\nBeyond cannabis, an even wider body of research supports the hypothesis that regular sex has overall health benefits. These include:\n\n* [stress relief](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs10508-006-9071-1), \n* [reduction in depression](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2996660/) \n* an [increase in brain power](http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0011597)—as studied in rats \n\n### Cannabis Products for a Boost in the Bedroom\n\nThe growing evidence regarding the relationship between cannabis and sex has inspired quite a few cannabis products. If you’re interested in experimenting with cannabis to increase your sex drive, performance or arousal, here are some products that may help. \n\n* Foria Pleasure – This oil aims to enhance female pleasure by increasing sensitivity, leading to stronger orgasms. When using Foria Pleasure, it’s advised to apply 25–30 minutes before sexual activity. \n\n* Bliss Sensual Cannabis Elixir by Herbabuena – Organic cannabis, kava, damiana, yarrow, guarana, ginger, orange, vanilla and vegetable glycerin all come together to create this arousing tincture. Take five to 10 drops of Herbabuena’s elixir to give your libido a boost. \n\n* Apothecanna Sexy Time Personal Intimacy Oil – From Apothecanna, one of the most popular cannabis topical brands, comes this personal lubricant. Similar to Foria’s Pleasure, this product should be applied to the neck, chest and erogenous zones 15 minutes before sexual pleasure. \n\nIf you’d prefer to smoke or vaporize cannabis before sex, check out our recommendations to bring cannabis into the bedroom for more passion. \n\nPhoto Credit: [Haley Powers](https://unsplash.com/@haleypowers)\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/01ab40a7b23bf9bf398630806c0158f7/14b42/670765e0175d58122649112937656fba.jpg","srcSet":"/static/01ab40a7b23bf9bf398630806c0158f7/f836f/670765e0175d58122649112937656fba.jpg 200w,\n/static/01ab40a7b23bf9bf398630806c0158f7/2244e/670765e0175d58122649112937656fba.jpg 400w,\n/static/01ab40a7b23bf9bf398630806c0158f7/14b42/670765e0175d58122649112937656fba.jpg 800w,\n/static/01ab40a7b23bf9bf398630806c0158f7/47498/670765e0175d58122649112937656fba.jpg 1200w,\n/static/01ab40a7b23bf9bf398630806c0158f7/0e329/670765e0175d58122649112937656fba.jpg 1600w,\n/static/01ab40a7b23bf9bf398630806c0158f7/f2f75/670765e0175d58122649112937656fba.jpg 3095w","srcWebp":"/static/01ab40a7b23bf9bf398630806c0158f7/58556/670765e0175d58122649112937656fba.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/01ab40a7b23bf9bf398630806c0158f7/61e93/670765e0175d58122649112937656fba.webp 200w,\n/static/01ab40a7b23bf9bf398630806c0158f7/1f5c5/670765e0175d58122649112937656fba.webp 400w,\n/static/01ab40a7b23bf9bf398630806c0158f7/58556/670765e0175d58122649112937656fba.webp 800w,\n/static/01ab40a7b23bf9bf398630806c0158f7/99238/670765e0175d58122649112937656fba.webp 1200w,\n/static/01ab40a7b23bf9bf398630806c0158f7/7c22d/670765e0175d58122649112937656fba.webp 1600w,\n/static/01ab40a7b23bf9bf398630806c0158f7/09b28/670765e0175d58122649112937656fba.webp 3095w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2309-markdown","title":"Can Cannabis Cause or Prevent Seizures?","slug":"can-cannabis-cause-or-prevent-seizures","content":"Recent studies published within six months of each other make two diametrically opposed claims: One points to cannabis as the likely cause of seizures while the other states that cannabis may prevent them. But the connection between marijuana and seizures is a complex one. And while these studies are grabbing headlines for their contradictory statements, it’s important to remember that they arise from highly limited studies that don’t involve the kinds of “natural” cannabis products typically used for medicinal purposes.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Marijuana & Seizures: A Complicated Relationship\n\nThe question of whether—and how—cannabis can affect seizure activity in the brain has been raised numerous times. Anecdotal evidence from a number of medical cannabis consumers says that it can in both ways. \n\nPeople with seizure disorders, and parents of children who have them, claim that cannabis, particularly cannabidiol (CBD), reduces the frequency and severity of seizures. Now, a study carried out in the spring of 2017 by researchers at the New York University Langone Medical Center appears to [confirm CBD’s beneficial effects](https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/marijuana-treatment-reduces-severe-epileptic-seizures/), to an extent.\n\nOn the other hand, some people say that their seizures resulted from smoking or eating cannabis, and some mainstream medical publications list seizures as a risk of cannabis use. In September 2017, another study conducted at Japan’s University of Tsukuba appeared to confirm that as well, with research that showed high doses of [tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and “spice,” a synthetic form of marijuana, could actually trigger seizures](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319528.php). \n\nWho’s right? The answer is skewed by the limitations of these studies, both of which are based on artificial conditions and highly specific forms of cannabis that most medical consumers don’t typically encounter.  \n\n### CBD Oil May Help Treatment-Resistant Seizures\n\nThe New York University study, and a few other studies, were prompted by comments from parents of children with severe forms of epilepsy such as Dravet Syndrome, which causes almost constant seizure activity and is often resistant to standard medications. These parents said that [cannabis was able to reduce a child’s seizure activity](https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/treating-seizures-and-epilepsy/other-treatment-approaches/medical-marijuana-and-epilepsy) when no other medications could.  \n\nRELATED: [NEW STUDY PROVES EFFICACY OF CBD FOR CHILDREN’S EPILEPSY](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/594a9ddf3a69ee00319c5136/new-study-proves-efficacy-of-cbd-for-childrens-epilepsy)\n\nTo test these claims, researchers compared an FDA-approved cannabis-based medication called Epidiolex—a 99% pure CBD oil concentrate—to both a placebo and a standard epilepsy medication called Onfi. Compared to the placebo, 54% of patients taking Epidiolex had fewer seizures—and in 2%, seizures stopped altogether. Compared to Onfi though, the study found minimal differences in effectiveness. Based on these results, epilepsy specialists have cautiously allowed that Epidiolex could be used for “compassionate care” when other medications fail to work.\n\nBut that study looked only at a single, FDA-approved medication based on CBD—and the study was funded by its manufacturer, GW Pharmaceuticals. Still, this study does suggest that CBD plays a role in suppressing seizures and adds more evidence to the growing list of health benefits provided by this non-psychoactive cannabis compound. \n\n### Could THC & “Spice” Trigger Seizures?\n\nIn stark contrast, researchers in the Tsukuba study claim that cannabis can cause seizures—but only certain strains, in high doses and in mice. The study worked only with very high concentrations of natural THC, the psychoactive ingredient responsible for marijuana’s “high,” and found that in these controlled circumstances THC could in fact trigger seizures. \n\nThe same study examined the [seizure-causing effects of one form of synthetic marijuana, known as “spice”](https://www.livescience.com/57747-synthetic-marijuana-risks.html). Spice was developed in the early 2000s as a way to get the marijuana high without the traces of THC that could show on a drug test. Since then, more than 150 different variants of spice have been lab-created, all of them far more potent than natural cannabis. \n\nLike the natural cannabis compounds CBD and THC, spice in all its forms binds to the body’s natural endocannabinoid receptors. But although spice stimulates those receptors in ways similar to THC, it doesn’t behave in the body the same way that natural cannabis does, and that can cause very different effects.   \n\nWhat’s more, spice usually contains other substances that also break down and create byproducts that most likely cause actions of their own on the endocannabinoid receptors. The Japanese study focused on just one variant of spice, called JWH-018, administering it in very high doses, and found that this drug can also trigger seizures.\n\nSpice can’t replicate the health benefits of natural cannabis and is sought after mostly by recreational users for its potency and ability to cheat a drug test. And although they sound a warning about the danger of seizures caused by cannabis, the Tsukuba research team acknowledge that those results come from administering concentrated forms of THC and JWH-018 at doses far higher than the typical consumer of recreational or medicinal cannabis would ever seek out. CBD was not included in this study at all.\n\n### The Cannabis-Seizure Connection Needs More Study\n\nIt’s clear there’s a connection between cannabis and seizures, but it isn’t entirely clear what that connection is. \n\nFor now, though, research indicates—and personal experiences validate—that CBD can calm seizure activity. And mainstream healthcare professionals point out that the [risk of having a seizure from using cannabis](http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/marijuana/safety/hrb-20059701) is largely confined to a few specific groups: people who already have a seizure disorder, or who take anti-seizure medications or antipsychotic drugs that have their own risk of causing seizures. \n\nMore comprehensive research could unravel the complicated relationship between cannabis and seizures, but federal regulations on marijuana keep it on the DEA’s Schedule 1 of highly addictive and dangerous drugs. That makes it difficult to conduct the rigorous research that clears the air and helps cannabis consumers find the answers they’re looking for.\n\nPhoto credit: [Brian Shamblen](https://www.flickr.com/photos/23972840@N04/)\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.  \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/8a1458b1d19d701b7ef2c46df25b6626/14b42/d615f5a3a08b5c65d071caa359296ec0.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8a1458b1d19d701b7ef2c46df25b6626/f836f/d615f5a3a08b5c65d071caa359296ec0.jpg 200w,\n/static/8a1458b1d19d701b7ef2c46df25b6626/2244e/d615f5a3a08b5c65d071caa359296ec0.jpg 400w,\n/static/8a1458b1d19d701b7ef2c46df25b6626/14b42/d615f5a3a08b5c65d071caa359296ec0.jpg 800w,\n/static/8a1458b1d19d701b7ef2c46df25b6626/47498/d615f5a3a08b5c65d071caa359296ec0.jpg 1200w,\n/static/8a1458b1d19d701b7ef2c46df25b6626/a6974/d615f5a3a08b5c65d071caa359296ec0.jpg 1536w","srcWebp":"/static/8a1458b1d19d701b7ef2c46df25b6626/58556/d615f5a3a08b5c65d071caa359296ec0.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/8a1458b1d19d701b7ef2c46df25b6626/61e93/d615f5a3a08b5c65d071caa359296ec0.webp 200w,\n/static/8a1458b1d19d701b7ef2c46df25b6626/1f5c5/d615f5a3a08b5c65d071caa359296ec0.webp 400w,\n/static/8a1458b1d19d701b7ef2c46df25b6626/58556/d615f5a3a08b5c65d071caa359296ec0.webp 800w,\n/static/8a1458b1d19d701b7ef2c46df25b6626/99238/d615f5a3a08b5c65d071caa359296ec0.webp 1200w,\n/static/8a1458b1d19d701b7ef2c46df25b6626/d5052/d615f5a3a08b5c65d071caa359296ec0.webp 1536w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2348-markdown","title":"Sign Dr. Oz's Petition to Increase Funding for Medical Marijuana","slug":"sign-dr-ozs-petition-to-increase-funding-for-medical-marijuana","content":"The opioid crisis rages on and yet critics of cannabis continue to call it a ‘gateway drug’. Dr. Mehmet Oz, in contrast to this, recently stated on Fox News that he believes cannabis may be [the ‘exit drug’](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/dr-oz-marijuana-can-help-the-opioid-epidemic) for opioid addiction. Dr. Oz has released a petition on [Change.org](https://www.change.org/p/national-institutes-of-health-fund-more-research-for-medical-marijuana-as-a-solution-to-the-opioid-crisis) asking the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the White House to quadruple its funding for cannabis research. NIH currently allots $111 million dollars for studies involving cannabis—only 0.3% of their entire spending total on research.\r\n\r\n[SIGN THE PETITION: Fund More Research for Medical Marijuana as a Solution to the Opioid Crisis](https://www.change.org/p/national-institutes-of-health-fund-more-research-for-medical-marijuana-as-a-solution-to-the-opioid-crisis)\r\n\r\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4qbSRy-Xog` \r\n\r\n### Outdated Marijuana Beliefs\r\n\r\nAccording to Dr. Oz, “Outdated beliefs and policies have prevented our country from funding medical cannabis research but the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine has reviewed other scientific research and found evidence that patients treated with cannabis or cannabinoids were more likely to experience a significant reduction in pain symptoms. Yet the government still says cannabis has no proven medical value.“\r\n\r\nThis statement mimics the results from the recent HelloMD [study](http://online.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/can.2017.0012) published in conjunction with the University of California, Berkeley. Results of this study which focused on chronic pain, opioids and cannabis showed that 97% of patients were able to decrease their opioid consumption when using cannabis.\r\n\r\n### Cannabis as a Viable Alternative to Opioids\r\n\r\nOpioids have their place for use in short-term acute pain, but their effectiveness in the management of chronic pain been falsely perpetuated by Big Pharma companies and physicians to patients since the late 1990s. With 91 deaths per day attributed to these addictive narcotics, more must be done to help raise the awareness that cannabis is a viable alternative to opioids. With this petition, we hope that NIH will start to take this issue more seriously and increase funding for these studies, which are desperately needed. Please join me in [signing this petition](https://www.change.org/p/national-institutes-of-health-fund-more-research-for-medical-marijuana-as-a-solution-to-the-opioid-crisis) NOW.\r\n\r\n[SIGN THE PETITION: Fund More Research for Medical Marijuana as a Solution to the Opioid Crisis](https://www.change.org/p/national-institutes-of-health-fund-more-research-for-medical-marijuana-as-a-solution-to-the-opioid-crisis)\r\n\r\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.  \r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/14b42/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.jpg","srcSet":"/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/f836f/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.jpg 200w,\n/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/2244e/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.jpg 400w,\n/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/14b42/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.jpg 800w,\n/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/47498/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.jpg 1200w,\n/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/54ac5/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/58556/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/61e93/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.webp 200w,\n/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/1f5c5/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.webp 400w,\n/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/58556/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.webp 800w,\n/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/99238/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.webp 1200w,\n/static/25fd4459915bad1dc64434317e16eabd/5e0b8/9230e46855adc93761dd4430453ec3a3.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2473-markdown","title":"Largest CBD Usage Study Published by HelloMD with Brightfield Group","slug":"largest-cbd-usage-study-published-by-hellomd-with-brightfield-group","content":"HelloMD with Brightfield Group today announced the results of a comprehensive study on CBD usage. The study surveyed 2,400 of HelloMD’s 150,000 community members on their usage, knowledge, perceptions, and misconceptions of CBD, making it the largest study of its kind. Overall, the study found that consumers of CBD are very satisfied with its effectiveness for treating a variety of medical conditions including insomnia, depression, anxiety, and joint pain.\n\n[ACCESS THE FULL CBD REPORT](https://www.brightfieldgroup.com/cbd-study-summary)\n\n### CBD Study Key Findings  \n\n>* CBD is most commonly used to treat insomnia, depression, anxiety, and joint pain.\n>* 42 percent of CBD users stopped using traditional medications and now use cannabis instead.\n>* 80 percent of CBD users found CBD be very or extremely effective for treatment.\n>* 90 percent of those surveyed said they would buy CBD-only products derived from marijuana. \n\n[Dr. Perry Solomon](https://www.hellomd.com/people/54cc02df6465320003000000), Chief Medical Officer of HelloMD, has written a [brief primer on CBD and how it may help you](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/597fbfd2f15fe1002d7557dc/what-is-cbd-and-how-can-it-help-me).\n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/e1a8f0d6d0d1c5026e17d1ddd6aa9159/14b42/b7cfb7562fe6bf8feed17ba290134ba2.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e1a8f0d6d0d1c5026e17d1ddd6aa9159/f836f/b7cfb7562fe6bf8feed17ba290134ba2.jpg 200w,\n/static/e1a8f0d6d0d1c5026e17d1ddd6aa9159/2244e/b7cfb7562fe6bf8feed17ba290134ba2.jpg 400w,\n/static/e1a8f0d6d0d1c5026e17d1ddd6aa9159/14b42/b7cfb7562fe6bf8feed17ba290134ba2.jpg 800w,\n/static/e1a8f0d6d0d1c5026e17d1ddd6aa9159/47498/b7cfb7562fe6bf8feed17ba290134ba2.jpg 1200w,\n/static/e1a8f0d6d0d1c5026e17d1ddd6aa9159/54ac5/b7cfb7562fe6bf8feed17ba290134ba2.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/e1a8f0d6d0d1c5026e17d1ddd6aa9159/58556/b7cfb7562fe6bf8feed17ba290134ba2.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e1a8f0d6d0d1c5026e17d1ddd6aa9159/61e93/b7cfb7562fe6bf8feed17ba290134ba2.webp 200w,\n/static/e1a8f0d6d0d1c5026e17d1ddd6aa9159/1f5c5/b7cfb7562fe6bf8feed17ba290134ba2.webp 400w,\n/static/e1a8f0d6d0d1c5026e17d1ddd6aa9159/58556/b7cfb7562fe6bf8feed17ba290134ba2.webp 800w,\n/static/e1a8f0d6d0d1c5026e17d1ddd6aa9159/99238/b7cfb7562fe6bf8feed17ba290134ba2.webp 1200w,\n/static/e1a8f0d6d0d1c5026e17d1ddd6aa9159/5e0b8/b7cfb7562fe6bf8feed17ba290134ba2.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2283-markdown","title":"What Is CBD and How Can It Help Me?","slug":"what-is-cbd-and-how-can-it-help-me","content":"CBD, or cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring active cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. Meanwhile, THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is another. These cannabinoids are just two of at least 113 identified in cannabis and, at this point in time, are the two we know most about. Both have extraordinary medical properties and have been found to have repeatable and lasting positive effects across a wide variety of medical conditions. \n\nTHC has been studied for decades and is known to be a very effective analgesic (pain reliever) although it’s perhaps better known for its psychoactive side effect, which can give the user a sense of euphoria or “high.” \n\n### CBD's Medicinal Properties\n\nMore recently, as cannabis has become more accepted for health and wellness, CBD has become the subject of attention too. While rigorous studies are still needed, preliminary clinical reports indicate CBD to also have analgesic properties (though perhaps not as effective as THC), as well as having anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, anti-psychoactive, and anti-convulsant properties—perhaps more when combined with THC. CBD achieves this by directly (or indirectly) affecting neurological receptors responsible for pain modulation, inflammation regulation, and mood and stress management. \n\nAll this from a single plant species: cannabis. Impressive.\n\nAnd, unlike THC, CBD isn’t known to have any intoxication or psychoactive side effect. Word of this is getting out. Many, if not most, of the HelloMD patient community regularly seek and use CBD or CBD-dominant cannabis products as part of their therapeutic regimen. Moreover, many use it in place of more traditional pharmaceutical solutions. \n\n### First Ever Large-Scale Report on CBD\n\nTo better understand this phenomenon, HelloMD and the Brightfield Group recently performed the first ever large-scale study of patients’ experiences, perceptions and understanding of CBD. The results include a fascinating look into how patients interpret the efficacy of CBD products in treating various medical conditions. \n\nFor purposes of this report, “CBD users” are defined as patients using hemp-derived CBD, marijuana-derived CBD-only products or CBD-dominant products (with CBD:THC ratios of 1:1 or higher).\n\n### The CBD Reports Key Findings\n\nA remarkable 80% of CBD users found CBD “very effective” to “extremely effective” in treating their respective conditions. An equally impressive 42% of CBD users actually stopped using their traditional prescribed pharmaceutical medications altogether, replacing them with CBD-based cannabis products. Sit with that for a moment. This behavior has far-reaching consequences across multiple domains spanning the profit centers of Big Pharma, to how we educate medical professionals, to how we might tackle the current national opioid crisis.\n\nEqually intriguing is how CBD-only products are favored by women. The study found 58% of CBD-only users to be women. This is interesting because it shows a considerable ramp when compared to our findings in the January 2016 HelloMD Medical Marijuana Study, where that number was a much lower 36%. In the joint study, HelloMD performed with UC Berkeley earlier this year on cannabis efficacy for pain, we found that number to be 44%. It would appear that women are learning about CBD fast and, perhaps, are more actively seeking cannabis products that will not leave them impaired or “high” (by the psychoactive effects that THC-dominant products have).\n\nWhile CBD can be a powerful medicine on its own, the compound’s effect may be enhanced, or more effective, when combined with other cannabinoids, specifically THC. This cooperating synergy between marijuana compounds is often called the “entourage effect” or “whole plant effect.” The push towards whole plant medicine is certainly appropriate in certain cases as it provides another path towards healing, as some patients may respond well to CBD and others to a combination of CBD and THC.\n\nWhile there’s still plenty more to learn about CBD and its applications, this much is clear: The demand for CBD, be it combined with THC or used as an extract on its own, is growing exponentially. Three quarters of those surveyed use CBD in some capacity, and more than half use it in CBD-only formulas. The latter data point is perhaps made more significant given the wider availability (across the nation) of CBD-only products.\n\nThe HelloMD and Brightfield Group report is based on responses from over 2,400 HelloMD members. \n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.  \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/a2c634a160b33105ace42b4e65144d60/14b42/fbfc422e4dea7a83062516129713fc26.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a2c634a160b33105ace42b4e65144d60/f836f/fbfc422e4dea7a83062516129713fc26.jpg 200w,\n/static/a2c634a160b33105ace42b4e65144d60/2244e/fbfc422e4dea7a83062516129713fc26.jpg 400w,\n/static/a2c634a160b33105ace42b4e65144d60/14b42/fbfc422e4dea7a83062516129713fc26.jpg 800w,\n/static/a2c634a160b33105ace42b4e65144d60/47498/fbfc422e4dea7a83062516129713fc26.jpg 1200w,\n/static/a2c634a160b33105ace42b4e65144d60/54ac5/fbfc422e4dea7a83062516129713fc26.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/a2c634a160b33105ace42b4e65144d60/58556/fbfc422e4dea7a83062516129713fc26.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a2c634a160b33105ace42b4e65144d60/61e93/fbfc422e4dea7a83062516129713fc26.webp 200w,\n/static/a2c634a160b33105ace42b4e65144d60/1f5c5/fbfc422e4dea7a83062516129713fc26.webp 400w,\n/static/a2c634a160b33105ace42b4e65144d60/58556/fbfc422e4dea7a83062516129713fc26.webp 800w,\n/static/a2c634a160b33105ace42b4e65144d60/99238/fbfc422e4dea7a83062516129713fc26.webp 1200w,\n/static/a2c634a160b33105ace42b4e65144d60/5e0b8/fbfc422e4dea7a83062516129713fc26.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":2,"currentPage":1,"id":5789,"name":"Study","slug":"study","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}