{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/thc/6","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_3105-markdown","title":"5 Ways to Cultivate Mindfulness and Gratitude in the New Year View","slug":"5-ways-to-cultivate-mindfulness-and-gratitude-in-the-new-year-view","content":"**Your Typical New Year's Resolutions**\n\nAs the year comes to a close, it’s only natural to feel reflective. You may be satisfied with your experiences, or perhaps you may think you could have done things a little bit better. For this reason, New Year’s resolutions are popular around the globe as they offer the chance for a fresh start. \n\nOur yearly resolutions help us put a stake in the ground. You may make a list that includes some of the following:\n\n- Lose a few extra pounds\n\n- Commit to being more active\n\n- Call Mom every Saturday\n\n- Remember to look at the glass as half full\n\n- Hand in assignments on time\n\n**Living in the Present**\n\nIt’s only human to want a future that’s brighter than the past, yet when we spend too much time ruminating about what has been or what might come to be, we lose sight of what’s in front of us: the present.\n\nBeing in the moment, is an act of mindfulness. When you are present to what is happening now, it leads to a more profound sense of fulfillment and also makes you happier. According to Dr. Elyssa Barbash Ph.D., practicing mindfulness allows you to tune into your thoughts, emotions, and body sensations. In so doing, it allows you to work with these human factors and communicate how you are thinking and feeling to both yourself and others.” As a writer for Psychology Today, she also says to her patients that, “[depression lives in the past while anxiety lives in the future](https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/trauma-and-hope/201801/mindfulness-and-being-present-in-the-moment).” \n\nYet, it’s often hard to live in the present and not have fear for the future or regrets about the past. For this reason, the act of mindfulness is an intentional practice that needs consistent work. One way to cultivate mindfulness is through the attitude of gratitude. With gratitude, we take time to contemplate and express thankfulness for the people, things, and experiences that make life more meaningful. Being mindful while practicing gratitude creates a more positive mental outlook and a sense of fulfillment within your life.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_us/?utm_medium=copy_link/)\n\nAccording to [Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence](http://ei.yale.edu/what-is-gratitude/), people who practice gratitude regularly, “experience more joy, love, and enthusiasm, and they enjoy protection from destructive emotions like envy, greed, and bitterness.” Mindfulness and practicing gratitude are a shortcut to health and wellness for the body, mind, and soul.\n\n**5 Ways to Cultivate Mindfulness and Gratitude:**\n\n1. **Meditate and repeat a mantra**.\n Take 5-10 minutes when you wake up to meditate. Meditation is known to reduce stress and anxiety but also helps to increase self-awareness and the ability to be more present. Repeating a mantra that reinforces positive thinking will help you stay focused and out of your head. Repeat the mantra “May all beings everywhere be happy and free” and breathe deeply in and out through your nose slowly.\n\n2. **Take a walk in nature.**\nSimilar to meditating, walking in nature helps to reduce depression and anxiety. It also improves overall immunity as well as memory. A [2013 British study](urlhttps://www.huffpost.com/entry/green-space-meditation-brain-walk-park_n_2964199) found that merely walking in green spaces may put the brain into a state of meditation.\n\n3. **Look on the bright side:** stop criticizing and complaining \nHaving a positive outlook and positive-talk dialogue with yourself is a useful stress management tool, but can also be transformative. For people that tend to be pessimistic, this requires retraining your internal communication. Creating a positive perception of the world around you allows you to reframe even the most negative situation and may allow you to see the positive aspects, such as learning a new life lesson. A 2010 study indicated that people who view life with a half-glass-full perspective also tend to have a better quality of life.\n\n4. **Consume cannabis that invites reflection.**\nSome people find consuming THC creates a sense of euphoria and deepens their ability for self-reflection. For others, it may create a container for deeper contemplation or an increased sense of focus. For many, cannabis can enhance self-introspection and may help lift feelings of depression or anxiety.\n\n5. **List all the people and things for which you are grateful.**\nCreating a list is a straightforward act. Writing down the people and things you are grateful for, your list will be a reminder of the beautiful facets of your life that add value and meaning. Over time, your list will grow and it's like putting money in the bank. As time passes, you'll notice and appreciate the benefits of this practice.\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. \n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/ef7163c0ce2d817af70012faca990290/14b42/b89dc633602ffeb7dc4e66eaec4ab3b1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ef7163c0ce2d817af70012faca990290/f836f/b89dc633602ffeb7dc4e66eaec4ab3b1.jpg 200w,\n/static/ef7163c0ce2d817af70012faca990290/2244e/b89dc633602ffeb7dc4e66eaec4ab3b1.jpg 400w,\n/static/ef7163c0ce2d817af70012faca990290/14b42/b89dc633602ffeb7dc4e66eaec4ab3b1.jpg 800w,\n/static/ef7163c0ce2d817af70012faca990290/47498/b89dc633602ffeb7dc4e66eaec4ab3b1.jpg 1200w,\n/static/ef7163c0ce2d817af70012faca990290/0e329/b89dc633602ffeb7dc4e66eaec4ab3b1.jpg 1600w,\n/static/ef7163c0ce2d817af70012faca990290/f3586/b89dc633602ffeb7dc4e66eaec4ab3b1.jpg 2044w","srcWebp":"/static/ef7163c0ce2d817af70012faca990290/58556/b89dc633602ffeb7dc4e66eaec4ab3b1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ef7163c0ce2d817af70012faca990290/61e93/b89dc633602ffeb7dc4e66eaec4ab3b1.webp 200w,\n/static/ef7163c0ce2d817af70012faca990290/1f5c5/b89dc633602ffeb7dc4e66eaec4ab3b1.webp 400w,\n/static/ef7163c0ce2d817af70012faca990290/58556/b89dc633602ffeb7dc4e66eaec4ab3b1.webp 800w,\n/static/ef7163c0ce2d817af70012faca990290/99238/b89dc633602ffeb7dc4e66eaec4ab3b1.webp 1200w,\n/static/ef7163c0ce2d817af70012faca990290/7c22d/b89dc633602ffeb7dc4e66eaec4ab3b1.webp 1600w,\n/static/ef7163c0ce2d817af70012faca990290/57869/b89dc633602ffeb7dc4e66eaec4ab3b1.webp 2044w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3025-markdown","title":"Is More THC Better When It Comes to Cannabis Strains? ","slug":"is-more-thc-better-when-it-comes-to-cannabis-strains","content":"Cannabis strains high in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are in demand these days. But whether you’re taking cannabis for recreational or for medical purposes, research suggests that [where THC is concerned, more isn’t necessarily better](https://americanmarywa.com/high-thc/).\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_us/?utm_medium=copy_link/)\n\nOver the past 30 years or so, the [average THC content of cannabis has skyrocketed](https://www.forbes.com/sites/alicegwalton/2015/03/23/pot-evolution-how-the-makeup-of-marijuana-has-changed-over-time/#2b3234ae59e5), rising from around 2% in the 1980s to more than 10% today. Some of today’s super-high THC strains may have as much as 20–30% of the cannabinoid, far beyond levels found naturally in the cannabis plant. \n \nBut does it matter when the THC level is so high? Are there any benefits to consuming high-THC cannabis, or is there really no point past a certain level? \n\n### History of High-THC Cannabis\n\nThe trend toward high-THC cannabis has its roots in the old days, when the “best” cannabis was the one that got people highest. Today, marijuana growers can use science-backed cultivation techniques to develop the very high THC cannabis strains that are considerably stronger than those from earlier eras.  \n\nThese “mutated” cannabis strains are specifically cultivated to have larger than normal amounts of THC. But this THC content can come at the expense of other important compounds and terpenes that affect a person’s experience with cannabis.\n\nThis jump in THC content is fuel for antidrug messages claiming that cannabis is more dangerous and addictive now than it used to be. These messages may be largely inaccurate, but cannabis that’s grown exclusively for a high THC percentage can have some unintended effects for both recreational and medicinal consumers.\n\nThis is thanks to the complex relationship between THC, other cannabis compounds and the body’s natural endocannabinoid system (ECS).\n\n### How Does THC Affect the Body?\n\nDelta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol is its official name, but marijuana consumers everywhere know it simply as THC. This compound typically causes a relaxing, euphoric feeling. This is because [THC directly affects a kind of receptor](https://www.livescience.com/64886-thc-cbd-marijuana-therapeutic-effects.html) that’s part of the body’s ECS—a large network of receptors on cells found throughout the body. \n\nThese receptors respond to cannabinoid-like substances produced by the body itself, called endocannabinoids, and also to compounds like THC found in the cannabis plant. \n\nThough scientists only discovered the ECS a few decades ago, they now know that it’s one of the most important regulatory systems in the body. Research has revealed that the ECS is responsible for keeping many other subsystems in balance thereby helping maintain good health.  \n\nAt this point, researchers have identified two main endocannabinoid receptors: CB1 and CB2. [THC binds directly with CB1 receptors in the brain](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-019-39462-1#ref-CR37), which affects neural activity related to:\n\n* Mood\n* Memory\n* The pleasure/reward circuit\n\nTHC’s effect on the brain depends not only on how much cannabis a person consumes, but also how it’s consumed. \n\nFor example, when you smoke or vape cannabis, it can enter the bloodstream and reach the brain relatively quickly. But when you consume marijuana via an edible, it must go through the liver, which slows the process and makes THC less bioavailable, or accessible to the body.  \n\nEach cannabis strain has a unique profile that comes from the relative amounts of cannabis compounds and terpenes it contains. This also [plays a role in the way THC interacts with the CB1 receptors in the brain](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3997295/).  \n\nThe ECS itself can also vary from person to person. Some folks have a high concentration of receptors in specific areas of the brain and body, while others may have fewer. In addition, other processes are taking place that affect how these receptors respond.\n\nAll of these factors play a role in how THC in general, and high-THC marijuana in particular, can affect people who consume cannabis for recreation and/or medicinal purposes.  \n\nToo much THC for one person may be just the right amount for another. But whether you get too much THC by taking a lot of cannabis for a long time, or by consuming cannabis with ultra-high THC levels, you may experience a number of side effects that can include:\n\n* Anxiety, paranoia and agitation\n* Dry mouth\n* Nausea and gastrointestinal upsets\n* Excessive hunger\n\nBut as Dr. Richard Kim of HelloMD points out, people who consume a lot of THC on a regular basis can develop a tolerance to high-THC cannabis, and their effects may not bother them.  \n\n“Excessive THC consumption leads to downregulation of the brain’s CB1 receptors, so that they don’t respond to THC as strongly as before,” he says. This is why many consumers seek out extremely high THC cannabis strains.\n\nBut when CB1 receptors are downregulated (i.e., the body expresses fewer CB1 receptors) from overuse, according to Dr. Kim, “it becomes impossible to get as high as before, no matter how much THC is taken.” \n\nTaking in more THC won’t provide the effect the consumer’s looking for, but a period of abstinence will. A recent study found that taking a break from cannabis for about a month can allow overwhelmed receptors to return to their normal state.\n\n### CBD & Other Cannabis Compounds Balance THC’s Effects\n\nTHC doesn’t exist in isolation. Even in high-THC strains, this compound exists alongside more than a hundred other compounds and terpenes—plant resins that add flavor and scent as well as documented health benefits of their own. \n\n\nThe most abundant and best known of these other compounds is cannabidiol (CBD), a substance that doesn’t make consumers feel high like THC can. CBD has a long list of well-researched therapeutic effects, like easing:\n\n* Nausea \n* Vomiting\n* Seizures\n* Anxiety\n* Depression\n* Psychosis\n* Inflammation\n\nCBD also plays an important role in controlling the effects of THC. Although it doesn’t bind directly to the CB1 receptor as THC does, CBD can damp down THC’s effects. This prevents consumers from getting too high and experiencing negative effects like anxiety and paranoid thoughts.\n\nAn allosteric modulator is a substance that can either enhance or inhibit the way a receptor like CB1 transmits its signal. These modulators can actually change the shape of the receptor itself. \n\nPositive allosteric modulators boost the receptor’s affinity for a particular neurotransmitter, while negative ones weaken it. CBD is a negative allosteric modulator for THC—it reduces the ability of the CB1 receptor to bind with THC, so that the effects aren’t as intense. \n\nIn the body, delta-9 THC can convert to an even more psychoactive form called 11-hydroxy-THC. CBD can block the metabolic processes that create 11-hydroxy-THC, and this also helps moderate the high from THC.\n\n### Cannabis Compounds & Terpenes Work Together in Balance\n\nCBD isn’t the only cannabis compound that can affect the behavior of THC. Less familiar cannabinoids play a role too, including:\n\n* Cannabigerol (CBG)), which may boost the production of the bliss molecule anandamide \n* Cannabinol (CBN)\n\nTerpenes can also influence how THC behaves, for example: \n\n* Myrcene\n* Limonene\n\nThe synergy of all cannabis compounds working together in balance is called the entourage effect. This is why a marijuana strain that’s high in THC but also high in CBD can have a less potent effect than a high-THC cannabis strain with an insignificant amount of CBD.  \n\nBut when cannabis strains are cultivated exclusively for high levels of THC, this balance is lost. As HelloMD’s Dr. Kim observes, the less we focus on the many ancillary ingredients in natural cannabis, “the further we mutate hybridized cannabis into something more potent than Mother Nature ever intended.”\n\nBecause so many factors affect the body’s response to THC and other cannabis compounds, “too much THC” can be hard to define. But ultra-high THC strains and heavy long-term cannabis consumption can create some unwanted effects. This may lead to consumers having a high tolerance for THC, meaning they won’t feel much of or any effects at all. \n\nPlus, these “mutated” cannabis strains may not have the balancing and therapeutic effects of strains that have more harmonious ratios of other cannabinoids and terpenes. \n\nPhoto credit: Canna Obscura/Shutterstock.com\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our Cannabis 101 index of articles. And if you have questions about cannabis, [ask them](https://hellomd.com/questions-and-answers/) and our community will answer.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/5921c42ebce3dcfdbe335d58657c9f35/14b42/88ae02c4716ab656a53f5469cadec3b0.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5921c42ebce3dcfdbe335d58657c9f35/f836f/88ae02c4716ab656a53f5469cadec3b0.jpg 200w,\n/static/5921c42ebce3dcfdbe335d58657c9f35/2244e/88ae02c4716ab656a53f5469cadec3b0.jpg 400w,\n/static/5921c42ebce3dcfdbe335d58657c9f35/14b42/88ae02c4716ab656a53f5469cadec3b0.jpg 800w,\n/static/5921c42ebce3dcfdbe335d58657c9f35/47498/88ae02c4716ab656a53f5469cadec3b0.jpg 1200w,\n/static/5921c42ebce3dcfdbe335d58657c9f35/0e329/88ae02c4716ab656a53f5469cadec3b0.jpg 1600w,\n/static/5921c42ebce3dcfdbe335d58657c9f35/ffa36/88ae02c4716ab656a53f5469cadec3b0.jpg 1773w","srcWebp":"/static/5921c42ebce3dcfdbe335d58657c9f35/58556/88ae02c4716ab656a53f5469cadec3b0.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5921c42ebce3dcfdbe335d58657c9f35/61e93/88ae02c4716ab656a53f5469cadec3b0.webp 200w,\n/static/5921c42ebce3dcfdbe335d58657c9f35/1f5c5/88ae02c4716ab656a53f5469cadec3b0.webp 400w,\n/static/5921c42ebce3dcfdbe335d58657c9f35/58556/88ae02c4716ab656a53f5469cadec3b0.webp 800w,\n/static/5921c42ebce3dcfdbe335d58657c9f35/99238/88ae02c4716ab656a53f5469cadec3b0.webp 1200w,\n/static/5921c42ebce3dcfdbe335d58657c9f35/7c22d/88ae02c4716ab656a53f5469cadec3b0.webp 1600w,\n/static/5921c42ebce3dcfdbe335d58657c9f35/d1528/88ae02c4716ab656a53f5469cadec3b0.webp 1773w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3017-markdown","title":"Does a Cap on THC in Legal Marijuana Products Make Sense?","slug":"does-a-cap-on-thc-in-legal-marijuana-products-make-sense","content":"Recently, legislators in Florida considered a proposed law that would’ve capped tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in smokable medical marijuana at just 10%. \n\nWhile this proposal ultimately failed, it raises questions surrounding THC levels in both medical and adult-use marijuana. Given THC’s well-known psychoactive properties and its perhaps lesser-known therapeutic benefits, does enforcing a maximum level of THC in legal marijuana products make sense?\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_us/?utm_medium=copy_link/)\n\nThe short answer is: no. Let’s take a look at what the Florida proposal entailed, and what supporters and critics of the THC limit argued.\n\n### Florida Proposes Limiting the THC in Medical Cannabis\n\nThe Florida House was considering a bill that introduced regulations for the state’s medical marijuana program. Previously, lawmakers had proposed banning smokable forms of medical marijuana. But a court order found that such a ban violated a 2016 voter-approved constitutional amendment. \n\nSo, Gov. Ron DeSantis threatened that if the Florida House, which has generally been against liberalizing marijuana laws, didn’t repeal the smoking ban, he would drop the state’s appeal against the court order. \n\nWhile the House eventually repealed the ban on smokeable medical marijuana, some lawmakers pushed back by trying to add the very low limit of 10% THC in marijuana flower intended for medical use. \n\nThis level is about half of [the 20% THC that most cannabis growers in Florida](https://www.orlandoweekly.com/Blogs/archives/2019/04/03/florida-house-moves-forward-with-plan-to-cap-thc-levels-for-smokable-medical-marijuana) say their plants currently contain. \n\n\n\nOddly, however, despite the low THC limit on smokeable cannabis, the same bill would’ve placed a limit of 7,000 mg on a 35-day supply of edible cannabis. This works out to 200 mg per day, an amount that’s actually much higher than what most medical marijuana patients need.\n\nRELATED: [TOP 8 MOST POTENT HIGH-THC MARIJUANA STRAINS](https://hellomd.com/articles/top-8-most-potent-high-thc-marijuana-strains/)\n\nUltimately, [the THC limit failed to pass after the Florida Senate voted against the amendment](https://www.floridaphoenix.com/blog/the-legislature-wont-cap-the-thc-levels-in-medical-weed-after-all/). Since the legislative session was already coming to a close when the amendment was defeated, there wasn’t enough time for the House to try to revive it. As a result, there won’t be a limit on THC in smokeable medical marijuana in Florida— at least for the time being.\n\n### Debate Over the Potential Pros & Cons of High-THC Cannabis\n\nLawmakers who were in favor of the THC cap primarily based their support on the risks that high-THC cannabis could cause to children. They argued that evidence suggests that high-THC cannabis has been linked to psychosis and schizophrenia. They also pointed out that 14 other states have also imposed THC limits on medical marijuana.\n\nRELATED: [WHY THC MAY HELP WITH A TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY](https://hellomd.com/articles/why-thc-may-help-with-a-traumatic-brain-injury/)\n\nUnsurprisingly, there was plenty of pushback against the proposal, which ultimately helped lead to its defeat. As mentioned, most Florida-grown cannabis is already around 20% THC. \n\nAdditionally, opponents pointed out that despite the House’s general anti-marijuana stance, a THC cap would have required medical marijuana patients to smoke more, not less, cannabis in order to feel the same effects as they would with what’s currently available. Opponents called this a tax on medical marijuana patients, which would have also been ironic given that the Florida House is generally anti-taxation.\n\nDue to these issues, the limit would’ve forced people who rely on high-THC cannabis to turn to the illicit market for help. This could have ended up turning otherwise law-abiding citizens into criminals who could potentially face jail time.\n\nMany opponents also questioned why lawmakers were attempting to limit THC amounts for medical marijuana without doing the same for other, much more potent and addictive substances. Case in point, Tonya Bailey, a veteran who consumed medical marijuana to kick her opioid use, testified before the Health and Human Services Committee about why the limit would do more harm than good.\n\nRELATED: [HOW THC & CBD WORK TO FIGHT PAIN](https://hellomd.com/articles/how-thc-and-cbd-work-to-fight-pain/) \n\n[Tonya told the committee](https://floridapolitics.com/archives/292600-thc-cap-medical-marijuana), “You don’t put a 10-milligram limit for morphine. Would you tell a cancer patient they can only have 10 milligrams of that? It’s unacceptable and ineffective.” Indeed, research has shown that marijuana could play a crucial role in helping many people in pain overcome their opioid addictions.\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\nAs for marijuana being linked to psychosis: While it’s true that studies have found a correlation between marijuana consumers and cases of psychosis, there has been [no evidence that cannabis actually causes psychosis](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5ccd19c0c56378ab1c84a3bf/does-cannabis-really-cause-psychosis).\n\n### The Health Benefits of THC \n\nWhile the proposed cap failed, it highlights a lingering stigma against THC, even among some who otherwise recognize cannabis’s health benefits. Unlike cannabis’s other main cannabinoid, cannabidiol (CBD)—which doesn’t cause consumers to feel high like THC can—THC is sometimes incorrectly seen as having fewer, or no, health benefits.\n\nRELATED: [THE PROS AND CONS OF PSYCHOACTIVE THC](https://hellomd.com/articles/the-pros-and-cons-of-psychoactive-thc/)\n\nThat view is not only simplistic, it’s wrong. Folks with medical conditions already consume THC to help relieve symptoms like:\n\n* Nausea\n* Fatigue\n* Sleep disorders\n* Lack of appetite\n* Chronic pain\n\nCancer patients, especially, have long relied on highly potent cannabis in order to reduce the severity of their symptoms. The National Cancer Institute, for example, points out that [numerous studies suggest cannabis has many potential health benefits for cancer patients](https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/cam/hp/cannabis-pdq).\n\nGiven that frequent cannabis consumers, such as medical marijuana cancer patients, generally develop a high tolerance for THC, forcing a THC cap would deny them the cannabis they need to find relief.\n\nRELATED: [STUDY FINDS CANNABIS RELIEVES CANCER-RELATED SYMPTOMS](https://hellomd.com/articles/study-finds-cannabis-eases-cancer-related-symptoms/)\n\nWhile it’s true that high-THC marijuana isn’t appropriate for everybody, ultimately the decision is probably not one that lawmakers should resolve. Instead, as with any medical decision, it’s one that’s best left to doctors and patients.\n\nPhoto credit: Michael Nosek/Shutterstock.com\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. And if you have questions about cannabis, [ask them](https://hellomd.com/questions-and-answers/) and our community will answer.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/a2ea65badcc3fd723612886f74815a9c/14b42/afbfdedbd8a44b5c8b20e61865bbb9df.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a2ea65badcc3fd723612886f74815a9c/f836f/afbfdedbd8a44b5c8b20e61865bbb9df.jpg 200w,\n/static/a2ea65badcc3fd723612886f74815a9c/2244e/afbfdedbd8a44b5c8b20e61865bbb9df.jpg 400w,\n/static/a2ea65badcc3fd723612886f74815a9c/14b42/afbfdedbd8a44b5c8b20e61865bbb9df.jpg 800w,\n/static/a2ea65badcc3fd723612886f74815a9c/47498/afbfdedbd8a44b5c8b20e61865bbb9df.jpg 1200w,\n/static/a2ea65badcc3fd723612886f74815a9c/0e329/afbfdedbd8a44b5c8b20e61865bbb9df.jpg 1600w,\n/static/a2ea65badcc3fd723612886f74815a9c/ffa36/afbfdedbd8a44b5c8b20e61865bbb9df.jpg 1773w","srcWebp":"/static/a2ea65badcc3fd723612886f74815a9c/58556/afbfdedbd8a44b5c8b20e61865bbb9df.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a2ea65badcc3fd723612886f74815a9c/61e93/afbfdedbd8a44b5c8b20e61865bbb9df.webp 200w,\n/static/a2ea65badcc3fd723612886f74815a9c/1f5c5/afbfdedbd8a44b5c8b20e61865bbb9df.webp 400w,\n/static/a2ea65badcc3fd723612886f74815a9c/58556/afbfdedbd8a44b5c8b20e61865bbb9df.webp 800w,\n/static/a2ea65badcc3fd723612886f74815a9c/99238/afbfdedbd8a44b5c8b20e61865bbb9df.webp 1200w,\n/static/a2ea65badcc3fd723612886f74815a9c/7c22d/afbfdedbd8a44b5c8b20e61865bbb9df.webp 1600w,\n/static/a2ea65badcc3fd723612886f74815a9c/d1528/afbfdedbd8a44b5c8b20e61865bbb9df.webp 1773w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2817-markdown","title":"How 11-Hydroxy-THC Makes Edibles More Potent Than Smoking","slug":"how-11-hydroxy-thc-makes-edibles-more-potent-than-smoking","content":"When you popped that cannabis edible in your mouth, you thought you were signing up for a mild experience, one that would have you feeling happy, giggly and slightly altered. But instead, you’re dizzy, lethargic and way too high. \n\nThe room is spinning, and all you want to do is lay down on the couch and rest. Worst of all, the situation isn’t improving; it’s been hours and you still feel high.\n\nWhat went wrong? Well, you can pin it on a version of the infamous cannabis compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) called 11-hydroxy-THC. \n\nBad edible experiences are common, especially with folks who are new to taking cannabis in this form. These mishaps usually arise because of confusion about how different cannabis can affect us when eaten instead of inhaled. In fact, eating cannabis is so different because our bodies convert cannabis’s most potent and psychoactive chemical into a compound that’s even more powerful and mind-altering. \n\nLet’s delve into the science behind this version of THC, 11-hydroxy-THC, and how to harness its powerful effects for your medical needs. \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 11-Hydroxy-THC? \n\nThe cannabinoid that causes the powerful effects of cannabis edibles, 11-hydroxy-THC, isn’t actually found in the cannabis plant—and it’s not even part of your marijuana edible. This potent medicinal chemical is created by your body when it breaks down THC, which is technically known as delta-9-THC (but we’ll just refer to it as THC for simplicity).\n\nWhile there hasn’t been a lot of research into the medicinal effects of 11-hydroxy-THC, the research that has been done shows that [it has powerful psychoactive effects, and similar physiological effects to THC](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/4558903). Medical marijuana patients also report that edibles, which cause high levels of 11-hydroxy-THC, provide long-lasting pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects.  \n\nRELATED: [CONSUMING CANNABIS EDIBLES TO IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a567e8fc7e0180007a7826c/consuming-cannabis-edibles-to-improve-your-health)\n\n### The Science of 11-Hydroxy-THC & Edibles \n\nIf 11-hydroxy-THC isn’t present in cannabis, how is it made? \n\nWell, it starts when you eat THC. This powerful and plentiful cannabinoid travels through your digestive system and eventually makes it to your liver where it’s broken down into other molecules called metabolites. While metabolites are usually more powerful than the compound being broken down, in some cases, they’re actually much more potent and powerful. This is the case with 11-hydroxy-THC.\n\nWhen you smoke THC, your body does create some 11-hydroxy-THC, but it’s around 10 times less than what’s created when you eat THC.\n\nSome believe this means 11-hydroxy-THC is as much as 10 times stronger than THC, but it isn’t quite as simple as that. While it’s much more potent, scientists say this estimate is too high based on their research. \n\nFor example, in one study two groups of patients were [intravenously given the same amount of either THC or 11-hydroxy-THC](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/4729039). Patients then reported on how high they felt afterwards. Subjects given THC reported on average a three out of 10 when asked how high they felt. Those who had 11-hydroxy-THC in their system reported an average of eight out of 10. \n\nThis suggests that 11-hydroxy-THC is more potent and powerful than THC is, but only two to three times more, not 10 times. The effects of both are present in edibles, but 11-hydroxy-THC is much more plentiful, so it should account for the majority of the edible’s effects. \n\n### The Benefits of 11-Hydroxy-THC\n\nWhile there hasn’t been nearly enough research on the specific medical effects of 11-hydroxy-THC, medical marijuana patients have been consuming edibles for their medical needs for thousands of years. There are benefits to taking edibles that keep patients coming back to them and to 11-hydroxy-THC. So, what makes this method different from the rest?\n\n* **Cannabis edibles last longer:** For one thing, edibles have longer-lasting effects. While they take longer to start working—typically 60–120 minutes as opposed to 10–15 minutes with smoking—they can last much longer. A cannabis edible high usually lasts six to eight hours, while the high from smoking only lasts around two or three hours. For patients with medical conditions like chronic pain, anxiety or depression, it can be especially helpful to have a long- lasting medicine that doesn’t require medicating over and over again throughout the day. \n\n* **Marijuana-infused foods are more sedative and psychoactive:** Folks have noted that the effects of edibles are slightly more sedative than when they smoke cannabis. This can make edibles a great choice for conditions like insomnia. A dose taken a few hours before bedtime can lead to a strong sense of sleepiness when it’s time for bed. Since it’s also long-lasting, the sedation can continue all the way through the night, fading just in time for morning. \n\n### How to Take 11-Hydroxy-THC\n\nIf you want to use 11-hydroxy-THC for your medical needs, there are two important things you should know to make sure you have a positive experience:\n\n>**1.** Not all edibles produce 11-hydroxy-THC to the same extent. This is because not all edibles contain high levels of THC. As it turns out, THC actually starts out as tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), which is the acidic form of THC. THCA has medical benefits but isn’t psychoactive, and it doesn’t metabolize into 11-hydroxy-THC. To create the THC needed to turn into 11-hydroxy-THC, [THCA needs to go through a process called decarboxylation](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56de6bd6c60fd50008000081/decarboxylating-marijuana-why-its-important) where it converts into delta-9-THC. This happens when it’s heated in a specific temperature range. \n\n>If you’re making your own edibles directly from cannabis, you’ll need to start with decarboxylation if you want to get the effects from 11-hydroxy-THC. If you’re [buying your cannabis edible](https://www.hellomd.com/products?category=Edibles) elsewhere, you want to look for an edible that’s made from THC rather than THCA or cannabidiol (CBD). Most edibles are THC-based and have already been decarboxylated, but it’s important to double check. \n\n>**2.** The other key factor for using 11-hydroxy-THC effectively is controlling your dose. It can be easy to eat too much of the edible for your needs. And because it takes one to two hours to start working, many times people think the edible isn’t working and too quickly they eat more after they’ve had their first dose. This is the worst thing you can do—and is a one-way ticket to a bad edible trip. \n\n>Instead, start with a very low dose, nothing above 2.5–5 mg. Then wait two hours before taking any more. You may not feel anything or you may feel very high, it depends on the person.  But this dose is low enough that you shouldn’t have a bad trip. Once you know how the edible affects you, if you feel the dose was too low, try more next time, but only a little bit more. Increase your dose slowly in 2.5–5 mg increments each time. Once you’ve reached a dose that’s effective for dealing with your symptoms, stop and stay at that dose. \n\nWith these simple guidelines, you can begin to enjoy the benefits of 11-hydroxy-THC without having to deal with negative side effects.\n\nPhoto credit: [Foodie Factor](https://www.pexels.com/@foodie-factor-162291)\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/5b8882d88dd0720008373fcf/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-to-about-marijuana) index of articles. [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":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/5bd7e9c8bcb239586c84f01b462dc6ad/14b42/a70d7b948596bc0c8184b5808f83f126.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5bd7e9c8bcb239586c84f01b462dc6ad/f836f/a70d7b948596bc0c8184b5808f83f126.jpg 200w,\n/static/5bd7e9c8bcb239586c84f01b462dc6ad/2244e/a70d7b948596bc0c8184b5808f83f126.jpg 400w,\n/static/5bd7e9c8bcb239586c84f01b462dc6ad/14b42/a70d7b948596bc0c8184b5808f83f126.jpg 800w,\n/static/5bd7e9c8bcb239586c84f01b462dc6ad/47498/a70d7b948596bc0c8184b5808f83f126.jpg 1200w,\n/static/5bd7e9c8bcb239586c84f01b462dc6ad/0e329/a70d7b948596bc0c8184b5808f83f126.jpg 1600w,\n/static/5bd7e9c8bcb239586c84f01b462dc6ad/02768/a70d7b948596bc0c8184b5808f83f126.jpg 3662w","srcWebp":"/static/5bd7e9c8bcb239586c84f01b462dc6ad/58556/a70d7b948596bc0c8184b5808f83f126.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5bd7e9c8bcb239586c84f01b462dc6ad/61e93/a70d7b948596bc0c8184b5808f83f126.webp 200w,\n/static/5bd7e9c8bcb239586c84f01b462dc6ad/1f5c5/a70d7b948596bc0c8184b5808f83f126.webp 400w,\n/static/5bd7e9c8bcb239586c84f01b462dc6ad/58556/a70d7b948596bc0c8184b5808f83f126.webp 800w,\n/static/5bd7e9c8bcb239586c84f01b462dc6ad/99238/a70d7b948596bc0c8184b5808f83f126.webp 1200w,\n/static/5bd7e9c8bcb239586c84f01b462dc6ad/7c22d/a70d7b948596bc0c8184b5808f83f126.webp 1600w,\n/static/5bd7e9c8bcb239586c84f01b462dc6ad/83969/a70d7b948596bc0c8184b5808f83f126.webp 3662w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2800-markdown","title":"Top 8 Most Potent, High-THC Marijuana Strains","slug":"top-8-most-potent-high-thc-marijuana-strains","content":"When you think of heavy-hitting cannabis strains, it may conjure up thoughts of “Stoner Steve.” You know, that stereotypical marijuana smoker whose only objective is to get as high as possible. \n\nBut the most potent cannabis strains also have a place in the medical marijuana landscape. High quantities of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are good for relieving severe pain that often accompany cancer and chemotherapy treatments, intense migraines and chronic back issues. The cannabinoid imparts an intense full body relaxation that melts away pain. \n\nSometimes the psychoactive effects are a good thing, too. Many folks treating anxiety, depression and other mood disorders report that THC helps them feel calm and happy. \n\nHere are eight cannabis strains you can try if you think a potent, high-THC strain may be what you need to quell pain and feel good. But of course, these are intense cannabis strains, so start low and go slow until you know how they affect you. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### 1. OG Kush Will Relax Body & Mind\n\nWith a THC content typically hovering around 20%, [OG Kush]( https://hellomd.com/strains/og-kush) will impart a relaxing body high—just what you need if you’re looking for pain relief. Some consumers mention that it also results in couch lock, so it’s best to take OG Kush when you don’t have too much to do and can just relax at home.\n\nOG Kush also imparts a nice cerebral high that uplifts mood. So, if you’re in the market for something that will relax your body and mellow out your mind, OG Kush could be a good place to start. Alzheimer’s patients, folks with gastrointestinal disorders and people suffering from nausea say OG Kush is their go-to cannabis strain.  \n\n### 2. Granddaddy Purple Imparts Strong Sedative Effects\n\nThis strain has widely reported sedative effects, so [Granddaddy Purple](https://hellomd.com/strains/granddaddy-purple) would be a good choice for the evening or for a time when you don’t have any critical tasks to accomplish. Granddaddy Purple is hard-hitting all around, with cerebral but mostly body-altering effects. \n\nFor anyone who needs pain relief, this could be your strain; though start low and go slow on account of its nearly 20% THC content. Consumers report that Granddady Purple also stimulates appetite, quells pain and muscle spasms, and helps folks fall asleep. \n\n### 3. Chemdawg Magnifies Your Senses\n\nIf you’re looking for a heavy-hitting all-arounder, give [Chemdawg](https://hellomd.com/strains/chemdawg) a try. Known for inducing an intense body and head high, Chemdawg can feel overwhelming for some consumers. With a THC level around 20%, you’ll definitely feel all of your senses heightened; some report that the high amount of THC helps lift their mood. \n\nAs far as pain relief, this strain will probably get the job done. Though it’s strong, users describe its effects as uplifting and energizing, so Chemdawg is some people’s choice for a daytime cannabis strain. Medical marijuana patients suffering from chronic pain, PTSD and depression may want to give Chemdawg a shot.\n\n### 4. Sour Diesel Is a Fan Favorite for a Cerebral High\n\nEven if you’re new to cannabis, you may already know the name [Sour Diesel](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/sour-diesel). Many cannabis consumers have chosen this strain for decades because of its stimulating effects. Some liken a dose of Sour Diesel to drinking an espresso, so be aware that too much could leave you feeling jittery with an elevated heartbeat. But, if you take the right amount for you, you could end up feeling energized, ready to hit the town or accomplish all that you need to on a busy day.\n\nThough Sour Diesel features a THC level typically between 19–25%, the effects are generally cerebral instead of a body high. So, it may not be the best strain for someone seeking pain relief. Instead, if you’re looking to help ease conditions like stress and depression, Sour Diesel may be a good option.\n\n### 5. Get the Classic Marijuana High From GSC\n\nIf you’re in the market for a cannabis strain that will give you a fun, cerebral buzz combined with a body high to ease pain, [GSC](https://hellomd.com/strains/gsc) could be a good choice. Formerly known as Girl Scout Cookies, GSC was named as such because of its minty and spicy flavor profile.\n\nThough GSC is an indica-dominant hybrid, consumers mention that they can feel the strain’s sativa characteristics, too. On the body buzz side, it’s used to treat pain, nausea and insomnia because of its relaxing properties. On the mental side, its uplifting features are good for folks suffering from PTSD, anxiety and depression. The THC levels can reach up to 28%, so if you’re new to GSC, start with a very small dose and see how it affects you. \n\n### 6. Bruce Banner Is a Rare, Balanced Strain That Packs a Punch\n\nWell, a marijuana strain named after the Incredible Hulk’s alter ego says all that you need to know. [Bruce Banner](https://hellomd.com/strains/bruce-banner) buds are bright green and pack a punch with between 24–29% THC. If you can find this rare strain, it may be just what you’re looking for if you want a strong but balanced high. \n\nBruce Banner’s cerebral effects are said to be very euphoric, energetic and great for spurring creativity, while also providing pain relief. So, that makes Bruce Banner the cannabis strain of choice for patients looking to treat stress, chronic pain, ADD/ADHD and depression. Some negatives you could encounter if you take too big a dose range from dry mouth to paranoia. \n\nRELATED: [THE PROS & CONS OF PSYCHOACTIVE THC](https://hellomd.com/articles/the-pros-and-cons-of-psychoactive-thc)\n\n### 7. Ghost Train Haze is Energizing—If You Get the Dosage Right\n\nThis award-winning strain, with a THC level ranging between 23–28%, was named one of the most potent marijuana strains on earth by _High Times_ magazine. So first and foremost: Start with a tiny dose and wait a while to see how [Ghost Train Haze](https://hellomd.com/strains/ghost-train-haze) hits you before consuming more. In smaller amounts, this strain can be a useful tool for uplifting mood and feeling energized. A microdose of Ghost Train haze could be a great way to get ready for a party or other social outing.\n\nBut in larger doses, Ghost Train Haze has been known to impart psychedelic effects and some sedative characteristics. It could also induce paranoia if the dose is too large, and you’re especially prone to feeling anxious with heavy-hitting cannabis strains. But apart from the mental aspects of the strain, Ghost Train Haze also provides a nice body high. So, if you’re suffering from pain or need to relax your muscles, it could be a good strain to try. \n\n### 8. GG4 Can Help Ease Pain, but May Leave You Couch Locked\n\n[GG4](https://hellomd.com/strains/gg4), formerly known as Gorilla Glue #4, will provide a full-body buzz that’s effective for easing depression as well as physical pain, like migraines. While the cerebral effects have been reported to be energizing and stimulating, the body high is described as more sedative. So, GG4 would be a good choice for an evening in—when you can relax and don’t have much to do, as opposed to before a night out or when you have lots to get done.\n\nComing in at typically 18–25% THC, GG4 is a fan favorite for a reason: After consuming, anything bothering you mentally or physically tends to melt away. But be aware that the strain was originally named after the glue not only because the buds can be sticky, but because it can also result in you sticking to your sofa for hours. \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/9b66c7e9082007f3404d22166e1a65c2/14b42/e191fc2d74f24f47b9349fa550618e64.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9b66c7e9082007f3404d22166e1a65c2/f836f/e191fc2d74f24f47b9349fa550618e64.jpg 200w,\n/static/9b66c7e9082007f3404d22166e1a65c2/2244e/e191fc2d74f24f47b9349fa550618e64.jpg 400w,\n/static/9b66c7e9082007f3404d22166e1a65c2/14b42/e191fc2d74f24f47b9349fa550618e64.jpg 800w,\n/static/9b66c7e9082007f3404d22166e1a65c2/57a47/e191fc2d74f24f47b9349fa550618e64.jpg 929w","srcWebp":"/static/9b66c7e9082007f3404d22166e1a65c2/58556/e191fc2d74f24f47b9349fa550618e64.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/9b66c7e9082007f3404d22166e1a65c2/61e93/e191fc2d74f24f47b9349fa550618e64.webp 200w,\n/static/9b66c7e9082007f3404d22166e1a65c2/1f5c5/e191fc2d74f24f47b9349fa550618e64.webp 400w,\n/static/9b66c7e9082007f3404d22166e1a65c2/58556/e191fc2d74f24f47b9349fa550618e64.webp 800w,\n/static/9b66c7e9082007f3404d22166e1a65c2/d3f8e/e191fc2d74f24f47b9349fa550618e64.webp 929w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2723-markdown","title":"What Is Delta-8 THC & What’s It Good for?","slug":"what-is-delta-8-thc-and-whats-it-good-for","content":"When people talk about the effects of cannabis, they sometimes discuss the plant as if it were only made up of one chemical. In reality, each marijuana plant has hundreds of different chemicals, which include cannabinoids and terpenes. These all work together to create the effects we experience. While it’s a team effort, when it comes to both marijuana research and marketing, it seems like the only cannabinoids you hear about are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). While these two cannabinoid superstars are both highly potent and effective medicines, there are many more compounds to explore in the cannabis universe. \n\nToday, we turn our attention to a cannabinoid that’s starting to grow in popularity: delta-8 THC. What is this cannabinoid that we’ve heard so little about? And how can we use it to improve our own medicinal marijuana experience? \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### What’s the Difference Between Delta-8 THC & Delta-9 THC? \n\nDelta-8 THC isn’t the THC that’s so often referenced in the cannabis world. When people talk about THC they usually mean delta-9 THC, the highly potent and psychoactive compound that’s found in high quantities in cannabis (once it’s been activated with heat). When you smoke or vape cannabis, delta-9 THC provides the majority of the psychoactive effects, and many of the medicinal ones, too. \n\n[Delta-8 THC is an analogue of delta-9 THC—a chemical with a similar structure—but it has differences as well](https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-drug/def/delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol). Like delta-9 THC, this cannabinoid binds easily to the CB1 receptor in the central nervous system. It provides an array of medicinal effects like relief from nausea, pain and anxiety, as well as neuroprotection for the aging brain. It has also been found to [effectively bind to the CB2 receptor](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10658595). \n\nLike delta-9, delta-8 THC is also psychoactive. Still, researchers say that it has less psychoactive potency than its analogue delta-9. It appears to offer a more clear-minded experience with less anxiety. In general, research suggests that [delta-8 has about two-thirds of the potency of delta-9](https://ascpt.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/cpt1973143353). \n\nUnlike delta-9 THC, which in some strains can be found in percentages as high as 25%, delta-8 THC is found in very low amounts in cannabis. Usually this only makes up about 0.01% of the plant. Still, when isolated in a pure delta-8 THC extract, the cannabinoid has some important medicinal effects. \n\n### Delta-8 THC for Nausea & Appetite \n\nOne of the most well-established uses of delta-8 THC is as an anti-emetic (nausea reducer) and appetite stimulant. In fact, there are already U.S. patents on its use as an anti-emetic. This solution is particularly helpful for patients undergoing treatment for cancer who often experience nausea. It has also been indicated as especially well suited for children. \n\nIn one study, researchers gave delta-8 THC to children ages 3–13 who were going through cancer treatments. [Those taking delta-8 THC were able to stop vomiting](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7776837) and had improvements in their nausea levels. Interestingly, researchers also found that these children didn’t experience any psychoactive effects as a result of taking delta-8 THC. While adults usually experience mild psychoactive effects with delta-8 THC, the children in this study seem to be immune from that particular effect.\n\nIn a similar vein, delta-8 THC has also been shown to improve appetite. One study using animal models found that [delta-8 THC improved appetite in mice](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15099912). While this works in a way similar to how delta-9 THC increases appetite, the study found that between the two, delta-8 THC was actually more effective as an appetite stimulant.  \n\n### Delta-8 THC for Cancer \n\nDelta-8 THC has also been researched for potential uses against cancer itself. One study looked at mice infected with lung cancer. Those who had been [treated with delta-8 THC for a period of 20 days actually had reduced tumor sizes](https://academic.oup.com/jnci/article-abstract/55/3/597/912322?redirectedFrom=fulltext) by the end of their treatment. Researchers also found that survival time went up when mice with cancer were treated with delta-8 THC. \n\nUnfortunately, little follow-up research has taken place after this important study was published in 1975. We need to do more research to know exactly how we might effectively use delta-8 THC during cancer treatment. While there’s much research left to do before we can confidently treat cancer with delta-8 THC, these results offer hope that this cannabinoid could be helpful in the ongoing fight against this disease. \n\n### Delta-8 THC for Memory\n\nIn addition to treating appetite, nausea and potentially cancer, delta-8 THC may also be a helpful neuroprotectant. This is an exciting advancement for those suffering from dementia and  Alzheimer’s disease. One study found that [mice treated with delta-8 THC actually increased their levels of acetylcholine in the brain](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3620017). This important neurotransmitter plays a key role in learning and memory. Because [lower levels of acetylcholine are associated with Alzheimer’s disease](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16273023), some believe that delta-8 THC has the potential to prevent, or maybe even reverse, this condition.\n\nAs with cancer, more research is needed to confirm these findings and develop treatment protocols. But there’s hope that delta-8 THC may become an effective treatment for dementia.\n\n### How to Use Delta-8 THC\n\nFinding delta-8 THC products is easier said than done. You can’t simply get a high delta-8 THC strain since the cannabinoid occurs in such low quantities in natural cannabis. There simply aren’t any strains that will give you noticeable effects from the delta-8 THC. \n\nStill, in California, and other western states that have well-developed cannabis industries, products with delta-8 THC extracts are becoming more readily available. The best delta-8 THC products are extracts that you can use with a vaporizer, or sublingual options which can be absorbed under the tongue. California brand Level has come up with a delta-8 THC tablingual\n\nEdibles designed to be eaten (rather than held under the tongue) should be avoided since delta-8 THC actually converts into delta-11 THC when processed through the digestive tract. Since delta-9 THC also converts into delta-11 THC when eaten, there’s no special benefit to eating delta-8 THC. \n\nIf you’re interested in consuming delta-8 THC for your medical needs, the best first step is to talk to a nurse or 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. Need to find a cannabis health professional? You can video-chat with HelloMD’s knowledgeable doctors from the comfort and privacy of your own home. \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://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/2bd8979e9ae3dc6c3260520a1d9d3559/14b42/a3b62264f3139b79d2ced4564bea2c39.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2bd8979e9ae3dc6c3260520a1d9d3559/f836f/a3b62264f3139b79d2ced4564bea2c39.jpg 200w,\n/static/2bd8979e9ae3dc6c3260520a1d9d3559/2244e/a3b62264f3139b79d2ced4564bea2c39.jpg 400w,\n/static/2bd8979e9ae3dc6c3260520a1d9d3559/14b42/a3b62264f3139b79d2ced4564bea2c39.jpg 800w,\n/static/2bd8979e9ae3dc6c3260520a1d9d3559/47498/a3b62264f3139b79d2ced4564bea2c39.jpg 1200w,\n/static/2bd8979e9ae3dc6c3260520a1d9d3559/0e329/a3b62264f3139b79d2ced4564bea2c39.jpg 1600w,\n/static/2bd8979e9ae3dc6c3260520a1d9d3559/23f4e/a3b62264f3139b79d2ced4564bea2c39.jpg 1860w","srcWebp":"/static/2bd8979e9ae3dc6c3260520a1d9d3559/58556/a3b62264f3139b79d2ced4564bea2c39.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/2bd8979e9ae3dc6c3260520a1d9d3559/61e93/a3b62264f3139b79d2ced4564bea2c39.webp 200w,\n/static/2bd8979e9ae3dc6c3260520a1d9d3559/1f5c5/a3b62264f3139b79d2ced4564bea2c39.webp 400w,\n/static/2bd8979e9ae3dc6c3260520a1d9d3559/58556/a3b62264f3139b79d2ced4564bea2c39.webp 800w,\n/static/2bd8979e9ae3dc6c3260520a1d9d3559/99238/a3b62264f3139b79d2ced4564bea2c39.webp 1200w,\n/static/2bd8979e9ae3dc6c3260520a1d9d3559/7c22d/a3b62264f3139b79d2ced4564bea2c39.webp 1600w,\n/static/2bd8979e9ae3dc6c3260520a1d9d3559/9f54b/a3b62264f3139b79d2ced4564bea2c39.webp 1860w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2640-markdown","title":"HelloMD’s Dr. Perry Solomon Goes Deep on Cannabis for Almost 30","slug":"hellomds-dr-perry-solomon-goes-deep-on-cannabis-for-almost-30","content":"HelloMD’s Chief Medical Officer [Dr. Perry Solomon](https://www.hellomd.com/people/54cc02df6465320003000000/Perry%20Solomon,%20MD) was recently featured on “[Almost 30](https://www.almost30podcast.com/),” an iTunes top 10 health podcast. Hosted by Krista Williams and Lindsey Simcik, the podcast’s mission is to “propel personal growth and navigate any transition.” Naturally, gaining a better understanding of cannabis’s healing properties—and how the plant fits into a person’s health and wellness goals—jibes with that mission.\n\nIn episodes 104 and 105 of “Almost 30,” Dr. Solomon touches on a lot of different cannabis-related topics including why people were tricked into believing that cannabis is harmful to their health; cannabis as a health and wellness supplement as well as a remedy for pain; and how cannabidiol (CBD) oil is used in suppository form to help relieve menstrual cramps.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nCheck out a few excerpts taken from parts 1 and 2 of the “Almost 30” podcast featuring Dr. Solomon. You can also listen to [episode 104](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/almost-30-podcast/e/53772306) and [episode 105](https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/almost-30-podcast/e/53805695) in their entirety online.\n\n### Almost 30: Can you talk to us about the science behind how [cannabis] works, and how it subdues pain, and it's relaxing people, helping people sleep, reducing anxiety. I don't know the science behind it. I just know it works.\n\n** Dr Perry Solomon:** Basically … the endocannabinoid system is a system of homeostasis in our bodies that keeps everything in check. It's something that was discovered around the 1970s, early 1970s by Raphael Mechoulam in Israel. And it's something that genetically has been there for thousands and thousands of years [in terms of having a check and balance system in the body].\n\nIn other words, what happens is you have synapses in your body, and chemicals become released from one side, or from one synapse to the other, … to transfer information and sensations, and what happens is there’s a retrograde feedback mechanism. Picture two ends of a wire, and from one end the electricity or the information goes to the other end, and if something gets overstimulated because it's out of balance, the endocannabinoid system is the system that takes the second signal, goes back to the first signal and says, ‘OK, slow down that rate of firing for pain or sensation or anxiety.’\n\nAnd usually when the body's in homeostasis, the endocannabinoid system (“endo” meaning it's from your body), or the feedback mechanism, is [in a state where] everything stays nice and cool. Everything's calm, cool, collected. The pain isn't there and everything's fine.\n\nRELATED: [MARIJUANA, CANNABINOIDS & HOMEOSTASIS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56b27573fe98a100080001f1/marijuana-cannabinoids-and-homeostasis-a-balancing-act)\n\nBut when things start firing abnormally, the endocannabinoid system gets kind of out of whack. And if you have a decrease in some of the endocannabinoids such as anandamide and 2AG—these are natural chemicals that are found in your body that act as that retrograde feedback blocker to slow things down or speed things up—if those are lacking or not in balance, things happen that you don't want to have to happen, whether it be an immunologic problem, whether it be from pain or anything else.\n\nPhytocannabinoids, the things that are in cannabis (“phyto” meaning plant), … match up to the two types of cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, that are found in the body. These are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD. Each of these phytocannabinoids takes the place of the endocannabinoids that may be deficient, and so the chemicals that you use from the plant eventually take over for the ones that are supposed to be in good balance in your body (but aren’t or are lacking).\n\nCBD, for example, is more of an anti-inflammatory compound that helps with the CB2 receptors, which are concentrated in the inflammatory tissues in the body. And THC concentrates on the CB1 receptor that's mostly found in the brain, which is why you get those psychoactive effects from THC, and you don't get it from CBD—because there aren’t many CBD receptors, or CB2 receptors, in the brain. \n\n![Perry Solomon on \"Almost 30\"](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5ac807aaf24d1300077ccbc1-795dbfd4-1095-4db4-8655-4fb7b7b45186/original.jpg)\n\n### A30: So, THC is the psychoactive compound?\n\n**PS:** Correct. And it’s psychoactive because of the fact that the CB1 receptor is primarily in the brain. It's thought that the runner's high and the other things that occur are because anandamide goes up into the brain, causing that rush of feeling. … People call this the endorphin rush, and it's probably not that. It's probably the anandamide that’s getting into the brain, because endorphins don't cross the blood-brain barrier to get into the head. So, the rush that they're feeling is probably from the endocannabinoid system in the brain more than anything else. \n\nRELATED: [WHY DOES CANNABIS MAKE YOU FEEL GOOD?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/582b86cce686fc000c657034/why-does-cannabis-make-you-feel-good)\n\n### A30: What are some of the symptoms that people are saying that CBD helps them with?\n\n**PS:** Well, for example, menstrual cramps in women. There are some suppositories that are coming out that are just CBD as an anti-inflammatory that appear to be working without any THC in it. … Again, it's an individualized type of thing. People use it also for migraines. This is another way that people are using CBD only to be able to treat that.\n\nAgain, the entourage effect seems to show that the cannabis may work a little bit better with both CBD and THC, but there are people who get a fantastic response with just a CBD-only product … for their migraines. Sports recovery is another one where people just use a CBD-only ointment or salve on their skin to help muscles relax a little bit. And also, again, because muscle injuries are an inflammatory type of byproduct of exercise. \n\n### A30: I love using the CBD creams and things. So, what is it actually doing? So, it's being absorbed into the skin and into the bloodstream? And it's connecting the CB1 receptor to the CBD? \n\n**PS:** For CBD, it would be the CB2 receptor. That's what’s theorized as what it does. With the skin, there are people in the medical community and the cannabis community who feel that it doesn't get absorbed at all. Some people think that it does. Again, it may get absorbed better with a plastic covering on it, like a patch. What happens with the cream is that some of it can get evaporated up in the air. Some people put it on, and it comes with a plastic cover on it that essentially eliminates any type of evaporative loss, and it all gets put into the skin.\n\nSome people also use the THC/CBD ointment, and they ask us, ‘Well, can I test THC-positive if my work is screening for THC?’ And that's a questionable thing. It may be that enough can get absorbed to test positive for THC in your urine if your job of tests for that. So, people say, ‘Well, what should I use if they do test me, and I don't want to take any chances?’ And we say, ‘Well then a CBD-only [product],’ because that's not something that’s psychoactive or that people are testing for. \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-trying-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/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/14b42/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/f836f/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.jpg 200w,\n/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/2244e/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.jpg 400w,\n/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/14b42/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.jpg 800w,\n/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/47498/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.jpg 1200w,\n/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/0e329/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.jpg 1600w,\n/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/e85c0/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.jpg 3100w","srcWebp":"/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/58556/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/61e93/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.webp 200w,\n/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/1f5c5/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.webp 400w,\n/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/58556/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.webp 800w,\n/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/99238/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.webp 1200w,\n/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/7c22d/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.webp 1600w,\n/static/4b66eb7ae14ca97de7e0e6de08b06cae/48e8b/af2285da7e7aec199053950a20a232f4.webp 3100w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2618-markdown","title":"HelloMD’s Dr. Perry Solomon Talks Cannabis on the Radio","slug":"hellomds-dr-perry-solomon-talks-cannabis-on-the-radio","content":"Dr. Perry Solomon, HelloMD’s chief medical officer, sat down with Miriam Knight, host of _New Consciousness Review_ Radio, to talk about all things cannabis. In the hour-long session, Dr. Solomon covered a wide range of topics, including marijuana’s pain-relieving properties; why cannabis consumers should watch out for pesticides and other contaminants; potential drug interactions with the plant; and the studies Dr. Solomon is involved in to assess cannabis’s efficacy in improving various conditions.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nFollowing are excerpts from the interview. You can also [listen to the full discussion](http://ncreview.com/perry-solomon-and-the-cannabis-friendly-docs-at-hellomd/) on New Consciousness Review’s website.\n\n### Miriam Knight: I'm very curious. As an anesthesiologist, what got you interested in cannabis? \n\n**Dr. Perry Solomon:** I practiced anesthesia for quite a long time, and a mutual friend had [introduced me to] the two founders of HelloMD. And we … gave our first lecture, myself and [Co-founder] Pamela Hadfield, at a senior living facility in northern California called Rossmoor where they had already had a cannabis club, which I was surprised about. … [This] was over three years ago.\n\nWe showed up, and there was about a hundred members of the club already there and 80 of them had already had their recommendations for cannabis. And I quite frankly, as one of my first exposures in that medical orientation for cannabis and medical conditions, I was really quite surprised. And all of them had it for pain. They all used cannabis to help alleviate their pain, whether for chronic back pain or arthritic pain in the elbows, knees, joints or whatever. \n\nAnd I was just stunned that these people had such great efficacy or relief from their pain from using medical cannabis. And were able, as they all stated, to decrease or completely eliminate any opioid use. [Opioids] that they had been prescribed by their physicians. And they absolutely preferred [cannabis]. And said, “We are never going back to opioids” because it just worked so terrifically. I was amazed.\n\nYou mentioned I went to Columbia, had a traditional medical school anesthesia training background, and I was just amazed that it had that much proof from just these people that it worked. And then I did due diligence, reviewed studies. Of course, most were from out of the country because it's unfortunately difficult to do those types of studies here in the United States, but [they’re] still valid studies. And I said, “Well, this really works, and there's more to it than just people using it to get high,” which has been and still remains the stigma about cannabis to a great many people. \n\n### MK: What would you say to a patient who is in pain, but they're afraid of the stigma of using cannabis and worried about getting high? \n\n**PS:** Well, there's essentially two main components of cannabis. There's THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which essentially is the psychoactive effect of cannabis, or CBD, cannabidiol, that is essentially the non-psychoactive effect of cannabis. And so what we tell people if they say, “Listen. Psychoactive effects are something I don't want to do at all or as minimized as possible,” is that there are different ratios of cannabis with the THC and CBD. And so what we would recommend is for someone to take a higher ratio of CBD than THC, and to be able to titrate or to adjust the dose that they take depending on the results that they get.\n\nThat's quite frankly, one of the more frustrating things that physicians as well as patients come across in that there's such an individualistic reaction to cannabis itself that one size does not fit all. Doctors have the same issue in that they’ll say, “Take this one antibiotic and take it every six hours,” and they’ll know that if [the patient] gets it from CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, whatever, that this antibiotic is going to have exactly this amount of component; it will be reliable no matter where you get it. \n\nAnd unfortunately, cannabis still isn't like that; everyone's reaction to cannabis is different. So what works for you versus someone else who has the same medical condition may not work the same way. And so there is some experimentation individually that people have to do and be willing to do to be able to get the efficacy or the results that they're looking for.\n\nLike you said for pain or for insomnia, for example. Someone says, I have trouble sleeping. Well, there's two different parts. Do you have trouble going to sleep, or do you have trouble staying asleep, because there'd be two different types of cannabis that you use in each of those situations.\n\n### MK: What conditions is CBD best for? What should you look for when you're selecting a CBD product? \n\n**PS:** The DEA says that because CBD is part of the cannabis plant, [it] is still a Schedule 1 product. So strictly legally speaking, the shipping of CBD is classified the same as cannabis, anything with THC. That being said, there are companies that do ship all over the country CBD products, and you might find them on the internet, you might find them in a magazine or whatever.\n\nAnd the issue with CBD is that it depends where the CBD comes from. In other words, it could be plant-derived from cannabis itself and then extracted, or it can be extracted from hemp. So, hemp CBD and cannabis CBD are two different things. In other words, the CBD that's sold in the mass market, a lot of this hemp comes from overseas, and you need a large volume of hemp to be able to extract CBD. \n\nAnd so what has been shown to happen is in some countries, there are many pesticides being used. There's poison, there are fertilizers that are being put into the ground to make the plants grow. So, you have the plants absorbing all of that, the toxins and pesticides, etc., and then that's being shipped to, for example, the United States or wherever. And this being the CBD that's extracted essentially gets concentrated from these hemp plants where you don't really know how they're produced or what's given to them to help them grow.\n\nAll of those toxins and pesticides get concentrated into the CBD that you would purchase in a routine type of environment. So, anyone who gets CBD, who wants to purchase a CBD product, I would caution them to know the etiology of where they got the CBD from. … You want to know if the company says, “Yes, we grow our own hemp. It's in Colorado … and we do our own extraction. We do our own analysis,” thereby controlling what it is you're taking when you purchase a CBD product. You may be using it for inflammation, for anxiety, things that you want to be able to be able to use in a safe manner. But you know, I'd caution everyone to know where … the hemp comes from before they use any type of CBD product. \n\n### MK: Can you overdose on cannabis? \n\n**PS:** Nope. ... [Researchers have] tried overdosing animals, mice with cannabis, and they’ve been completely unsuccessful. I mean it would take pounds and pounds, and no one would be able to do that. So people have tried; it's called the LD 50, the lethal dose 50, and there just is no number. It's infinite because you would go to sleep or that's pretty much about it—meaning, you’d go to sleep and then wake up. But you know, there is no overdosing with cannabis. \n\n### MK: [Cannabis] does have a stimulating effect on the immune system, doesn't it? \n\n**PS:** It does. And there have been in vitro, which means in the lab, studies that [show] various types of cannabis can kill some cancer cells. Again, that is far different than saying it cures cancer in a person. It has been shown in the laboratory to have that effect and in some small animal models, but to extrapolate that to, and apply it to humans … for the person to say, “Well, I have breast cancer, and I’m on chemo, I don't want that. I'm just going to put this cannabis ointment on my breasts, and it's going to cure the cancer” and to stop [all other treatment]. I would say, “Please don't do that. And continue to see your physician about it.”\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/d69692e81a7385c406e386eda5f1c4ed/14b42/9d157e96146b78d34874aae662ac47a3.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d69692e81a7385c406e386eda5f1c4ed/f836f/9d157e96146b78d34874aae662ac47a3.jpg 200w,\n/static/d69692e81a7385c406e386eda5f1c4ed/2244e/9d157e96146b78d34874aae662ac47a3.jpg 400w,\n/static/d69692e81a7385c406e386eda5f1c4ed/14b42/9d157e96146b78d34874aae662ac47a3.jpg 800w,\n/static/d69692e81a7385c406e386eda5f1c4ed/47498/9d157e96146b78d34874aae662ac47a3.jpg 1200w,\n/static/d69692e81a7385c406e386eda5f1c4ed/7f945/9d157e96146b78d34874aae662ac47a3.jpg 1440w","srcWebp":"/static/d69692e81a7385c406e386eda5f1c4ed/58556/9d157e96146b78d34874aae662ac47a3.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d69692e81a7385c406e386eda5f1c4ed/61e93/9d157e96146b78d34874aae662ac47a3.webp 200w,\n/static/d69692e81a7385c406e386eda5f1c4ed/1f5c5/9d157e96146b78d34874aae662ac47a3.webp 400w,\n/static/d69692e81a7385c406e386eda5f1c4ed/58556/9d157e96146b78d34874aae662ac47a3.webp 800w,\n/static/d69692e81a7385c406e386eda5f1c4ed/99238/9d157e96146b78d34874aae662ac47a3.webp 1200w,\n/static/d69692e81a7385c406e386eda5f1c4ed/ba24a/9d157e96146b78d34874aae662ac47a3.webp 1440w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2585-markdown","title":"The 10 Cannabinoids in Cannabis You Should Know","slug":"the-10-cannabinoids-in-cannabis-you-should-know","content":"The cannabis plant has been a part of human life for centuries, from holy anointing oil mentioned in the Bible to depression treatments in 17th century England. But we still know very little about the plant. Despite marijuana’s recent resurgence as a medicine, the scientific research on its intricacies and therapeutic potential is still in its infancy—and hampered here in the U.S. because of its federal prohibition.\r\n\r\nThe more we learn about cannabis, the more apparent the plant’s complexities and effects on our bodies. One thing we do know for sure is that cannabis contains dozens of chemical compounds called cannabinoids, all tasked with special jobs. The exact number of cannabinoids is yet to be confirmed, but common consensus among researchers is that there are at least 100. These cannabinoids interact with and activate cannabinoid receptors throughout the body, resulting in different effects. \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\nYou probably know two cannabinoids already: tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and  cannabidiol (CBD). These are easily the most well-known and recognizable cannabinoids to date. But there are dozens of others that show promise for treating all sorts of medical conditions. \r\n\r\n### 10 Cannabinoids You Should Know\r\n\r\n#### #1: CBC (Cannabichromene)\r\n\r\nThis cannabinoid shares a chemical structure very similar to THC, CBD and cannabinol (CBN). CBC is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the brain and could very well contribute greatly to the analgesic effects of cannabis overall. Not only does it help relieve pain and inflammation, one study suggests [CBC, when used in conjunction with CBD, can also act as an antidepressant](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2866040/).  \r\n\r\nCBC: \r\n\r\n* Is non-psychoactive\r\n* Can be an effective pain reliever because it binds with TRPV1 and TRPA1 receptors, both linked to pain perception\r\n* Encourages the release of natural endocannabinoids like anandamide, also known as the bliss molecule, for its euphoric effects\r\n* Is effective in treating inflammation and skin conditions\r\n\r\nRELATED: [CANNABINOIDS: CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS WITH HUGE THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55da2ff26430380006690000/cannabinoids-chemical-compounds-with-huge-therapeutic-potential) \r\n\r\n#### #2: THCA (Tetrahydrocannabinol Acid)\r\n\r\nTHCA is a precursor to the more popular THC. When cannabis flowers are still growing on the plant stalk, THCA is pretty abundant (10–20%). But as the cannabis is cut and cured, and when heat is applied for consumption, the THCA turns into THC. Cannabis concentrates like resin or hash oil made from high-THC plants typically have a higher rate of THCA as well. While research on THCA is still slim, the little we do have shows a great deal of therapeutic potential. \r\n\r\nTHCA:\r\n\r\n* Is non-psychoactive\r\n* Can help treat [nausea and stimulate appetite](http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.2042-7158.1981.tb13806.x/abstract)\r\n* Shows potential as a [neuroprotectant against neurodegenerative diseases like multiple sclerosis](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22571976)\r\n* Is great for treating [inflammation from arthritis and lupus](https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/bpb/34/5/34_5_774/_article)\r\n\r\n#### #3: CBN (Cannabinol) \r\n\r\nIf there’s one cannabinoid on this list that’s most misunderstood, it’s CBN. Just like THCA turns into THC, THC turns into CBN when exposed to oxygen or UV light. Improper storage or packaging without UV protection can lead to a higher amount of CBN. This cannabinoid often gets a bad reputation because higher CBN levels means less THC and less of a high. Plus, CBN can often make people feel sleepy. But don’t make any hasty judgments—CBN is one of the most promising cannabinoids out there. \r\n\r\nCBN: \r\n\r\n* Is non-psychoactive\r\n* Can help with sleep issues like narcolepsy, insomnia, sleep apnea and more \r\n* May [ease the overgrowth of skin cells](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18681481), which can reduce psoriasis flare-ups and help with MRSA when applied as a topical\r\n* Contains strong anti-inflammatory properties, aiding in pain relief\r\n* Interacts with [TRPV2 receptors, which are high-threshold heat sensors](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3165957/), making it a potential treatment for burn victims\r\n\r\n#### #4: THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)\r\n\r\nTHCV is very similar in structure to THC, and it comes with its own psychoactive effects as well. Where THCV differs most drastically from its more famous relative is that THCV is an appetite suppressant—so don’t expect the munchies if you consume cannabis rich in THCV. To find cannabis with higher THCV levels, look for [landrace strains](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a8a2e88f24d1300077ccb51/are-indica-and-sativa-a-thing-of-the-past) from Africa like Durban Poison and ask your budtender for lab test results. If you vaporize your cannabis, be sure to turn up the heat settings because THCV has a higher boiling point at 428 degrees F than most cannabinoids do. Just be aware that this higher temperature could make your vaping experience feel more like smoking and make your psychoactive effects feel more powerful.\r\n\r\nTHCV:\r\n\r\n * Is psychoactive \r\n * Can help fight weight gain due to its appetite suppressant qualities\r\n * Has the ability to regulate blood sugar and promote glycemic control in type 2 diabetics, [according to a 2016 study](http://care.diabetesjournals.org/content/39/10/1777)\r\n * When used in conjunction with other cannabinoids, can [fight against seizures, tremors and other motor control issues](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28087250)\r\n * Is known for its euphoric highs and fast onset \r\n\r\n#### #5: CBG (Cannabigerol)\r\n\r\nThis non-acidic parent of THC and CBD is only found at very small levels (1%), and it doesn’t cause psychoactive effects. Since CBG comes in such low levels, it has long been considered a minor cannabinoid. But it shows promise as a medicine due to its relationship with some very specific systems in our body. \r\n\r\nCBG:\r\n\r\n* Is non-psychoactive \r\n* Shows potential for [treating  pain](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3165946/) \r\n* Can help [ease inflammatory bowel disease](https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0006295213000543)\r\n* Reduces intraocular pressure, great news for those suffering from glaucoma\r\n* Can act as an [antimicrobial, making it a potential treatment for MRSA](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4887452/)  \r\n* Has been shown to have [neuroprotective qualities in mice](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13311-014-0304-z) and could be a potential treatment for those with neurodegenerative diseases like Huntington’s disease and multiple sclerosis\r\n\r\n#### #6 CBDA (Cannabidiolic Acid) \r\n\r\nCBDA is the raw, acidic form of the popular cannabinoid CBD. CBDA can be found in raw hemp plants. But when heat is introduced, CBDA changes into CBD through a process called decarboxylation. For a long time, CBDA was considered an inactive cannabinoid, only of consequence when it turns into CBD. But that perception is changing as more research is completed. Much like its better-known relative, CBDA is effective in fighting inflammation and body pain, and as a mood stabilizer. \r\n\r\nCBDA:\r\n\r\n* Is non-psychoactive\r\n* Can be found in raw high-CBD cannabis plants\r\n* Contains [anti-inflammatory properties](http://dmd.aspetjournals.org/content/36/9/1917.long#sec-4) \r\n* Is an effective [anti-nausea treatment in mice](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3596650/) \r\n* Acts as a [neuroprotectant](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10863546)\r\n* Has shown to [inhibit MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell migration](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4009504/) in cell cultures examined outside of the body\r\n\r\n#### #7 CBDV (Cannabivarin) \r\n\r\nThis is yet another cannabinoid that doesn’t get the credit it’s due. CBDV is the pre-cursor to THCV, but that isn’t CBDV’s only important quality. So far, research on CBDV has shown potential as a treatment in two main areas: epilepsy and bone growth. \r\n\r\nCBDV:\r\n\r\n* Is non-psychoactive\r\n* [Reduces seizure activity in brain slices examined ex vivo](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25029033) and [in mice and rats](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22970845)\r\n* [Fights signs of nausea in rodents](http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.12322/full) \r\n* Is found at higher levels in wild-grown cannabis \r\n\r\n#### #8 CBGA (Cannabigerolic Acid)\r\n\r\nCBGA is the mother of all cannabinoids, giving life to THC, CBD, CBC, CBG and more through different forms of biosynthesis. Because it’s considered a precursor to cannabinoids, it gets significantly less scientific attention than the cannabinoids it produces. But we’re starting to learn that CBGA has similar analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties to its cannabinoid offspring. \r\n\r\nCBGA:\r\n\r\n* Is non-psychoactive \r\n* Can work as an [analgesic to help relieve pain](https://www.steephill.com/img/uploads/testings/LeadingTheScience.pdf), much like THC and CBD can\r\n* Helps [fight inflammation](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0968089615000838) like THC and CBD do\r\n\r\n#### #9 CBCA (Cannabichromenate) \r\n\r\nCBCA is a raw cannabinoid, found in the highest quantities before the plant is cut and processed. As it’s heated or aged, CBCA goes on to produce CBC and other cannabinoids that are relatively unknown and unstudied, such as CBL and CBLA. Like so many other parent cannabinoids, CBCA was thought to be an inactive chemical compound for quite some time, but that’s beginning to change.\r\n\r\nCBCA: \r\n\r\n* Is non-psychoactive\r\n* May be [responsible for antimicrobial properties](http://www.davoil.ro/documente/the-composition-of-seed-oil-and-its-potential-as-an-important-source-nutrition.pdf) found in some cannabis strains, but the reasons for this are still being studied\r\n* May be useful as a [non-psychoactive alternative to THC for treating  nausea](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3596650/)\r\n* Could help treat cancer. According to a [U.S. government-funded study](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22963825): “The data presented in this report suggest for the first time that [a] component in the cannabis plant, CBDA, offers potential therapeutic modality in the reversal of cancer cell migration, including aggressive breast cancers.”\r\n\r\n#### #10 Delta-8 THC\r\n\r\nWhen we think about THC, most people think about delta-9 THC because that’s the kind of THC that makes you feel high. But, there’s a whole other kind of THC you may be totally unaware of: Delta-8 THC. While still psychoactive, its psychoactive effects are not as potent as its more well-known counterpart, but its medical benefits could be just as impressive. \r\n\r\nDelta-8 THC:\r\n\r\n* Is psychoactive\r\n* Has shown the ability to [inhibit tumor growth in mice](https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/cam/hp/cannabis-pdq#section/_1)  \r\n* Completely [prevented vomiting in eight child cancer patients](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7776837) in Israel \r\n* [Stimulates appetite](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15099912) in mice\r\n* Is the subject of two U.S. government-awarded patents, on [how to produce it](https://docs.google.com/viewer?url=patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/pdfs/US20040143126.pdf) and the other regarding its [anti-emetic uses](http://appft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-adv.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&d=PG01&s1=20070099988.PN.&OS=PN/20070099988&RS=PN/20070099988) \r\n\r\nYou learn something new every day. Next time you purchase cannabis, ask for lab test results and see if any of these cannabinoids are on the list. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Shane Rounce](https://unsplash.com/@shanerounce) \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/15f82be5692a83328c752fb00f17d49f/14b42/e81c113fc2f79740ac45caf5363b9a19.jpg","srcSet":"/static/15f82be5692a83328c752fb00f17d49f/f836f/e81c113fc2f79740ac45caf5363b9a19.jpg 200w,\n/static/15f82be5692a83328c752fb00f17d49f/2244e/e81c113fc2f79740ac45caf5363b9a19.jpg 400w,\n/static/15f82be5692a83328c752fb00f17d49f/14b42/e81c113fc2f79740ac45caf5363b9a19.jpg 800w,\n/static/15f82be5692a83328c752fb00f17d49f/47498/e81c113fc2f79740ac45caf5363b9a19.jpg 1200w,\n/static/15f82be5692a83328c752fb00f17d49f/0e329/e81c113fc2f79740ac45caf5363b9a19.jpg 1600w,\n/static/15f82be5692a83328c752fb00f17d49f/5453a/e81c113fc2f79740ac45caf5363b9a19.jpg 3441w","srcWebp":"/static/15f82be5692a83328c752fb00f17d49f/58556/e81c113fc2f79740ac45caf5363b9a19.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/15f82be5692a83328c752fb00f17d49f/61e93/e81c113fc2f79740ac45caf5363b9a19.webp 200w,\n/static/15f82be5692a83328c752fb00f17d49f/1f5c5/e81c113fc2f79740ac45caf5363b9a19.webp 400w,\n/static/15f82be5692a83328c752fb00f17d49f/58556/e81c113fc2f79740ac45caf5363b9a19.webp 800w,\n/static/15f82be5692a83328c752fb00f17d49f/99238/e81c113fc2f79740ac45caf5363b9a19.webp 1200w,\n/static/15f82be5692a83328c752fb00f17d49f/7c22d/e81c113fc2f79740ac45caf5363b9a19.webp 1600w,\n/static/15f82be5692a83328c752fb00f17d49f/7ddf3/e81c113fc2f79740ac45caf5363b9a19.webp 3441w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2554-markdown","title":"The Pros & Cons of Psychoactive THC","slug":"the-pros-and-cons-of-psychoactive-thc","content":"In our series for folks new to cannabis, we take a closer look at marijuana’s most common—and most controversial—compound: tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This powerful cannabinoid, which was first identified in 1964 by Raphael Mechoulam, is best known for its psychoactive qualities. While THC is denounced by some for its disorienting and high-flying side effects, it also lays claim to having many medicinal benefits.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Why Patients Use THC\n\nWhile the medical cannabis world is beginning to broaden its focus to address the wide variety of cannabinoids and terpenes available in the marijuana plant, no chemical has received as much attention as THC has. In fact, THC rates in cannabis have increased over the last few decades since its discovery, as growers focus on breeding ever higher percentages of THC into their plants.\n\nOne of the biggest reasons for THC’s popularity is, of course, its psychoactive effects. While this is a big factor for recreational users who want to use cannabis to shift into a more relaxed and blissful state of mind, it can also be a huge benefit for certain patients. For example, [studies show that THC can act like an antidepressant, uplifting a patient’s mood, easing depression and calming anxiety](http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0091305710000730). These mood-altering effects can be life-saving for patients struggling with deep depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or severe anxiety.\n\nAnother main reason patients use high-THC cannabis is for its pain-relieving abilities. While other cannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) are also known to help with pain relief, research shows that [THC offers the highest degree of pain relief that marijuana has to offer](http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0091305710000730). For those suffering from daily chronic pain, or even occasional pain like a muscle sprain, THC is the substance that’s most likely to help.\n\nTHC is also known to be highly effective at easing nausea and vomiting, as well as stimulating appetite and reducing muscle spasms, It’s a powerful anti-inflammatory, neuroprotectant and antioxidant. [THC can even shift your metabolism to curb weight gain](http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0144270). With so many powerful qualities, it’s no wonder people continue to gravitate towards cannabis strains containing high levels of THC. \n\n### The Potential Downside of Consuming THC\n\nOf course, THC doesn’t come without its share of negative side effects. As with most powerful substances, what creates a positive effect in some can bring about a negative effect in others. For some patients, THC causes symptoms that can be uncomfortable, disorienting or downright scary. \n\n[The psychoactive element of THC, while helpful for many, can also be extremely disorienting](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56267b443861380006e90000/marinol-versus-cannabis-which-is-more-effective). Patients using THC may find themselves feeling confused or unable to think clearly. Conversations may become difficult, or you may find yourself “spacing out” and getting lost in your thoughts. Memory may also become less clear while using THC, and balance and coordination can suffer. It’s difficult to function in this state, so folks may steer clear of high-THC products to avoid these effects. \n\nTHC can also cause issues like an elevated heart rate. Though this doesn’t pose a big health risk for most, in patients who already have dangerously high heart rates, THC could be contraindicated. For healthy individuals, experiencing a jump in heart rate isn’t usually a problem, though it can be unnerving or uncomfortable.\n\nAnother negative that can come with consuming THC-dominant marijuana is the anxiety it can induce. In some cases, THC is able to reduce anxiety—usually when used in combination with certain terpenes or with other cannabinoids like non-psychoactive CBD, but it can also cause intense anxiety and paranoia in certain folks.\n\n### Enjoy the Benefits of THC Without the Negative Side Effects\n\nWhile THC is an incredibly beneficial cannabinoid, its side effects can leave some feeling too overwhelmed to function comfortably. Fortunately, there are many ways to cope. One way is to moderate the effects of THC with another cannabinoid: CBD.\n\nWhile CBD on its own doesn’t have the same effects as THC has (although it has its own beneficial effects), it has been shown to reduce the side effects of THC. Patients using a combination of the two often get the [benefits of THC without having to deal with memory impairment, mental confusion, psychoactivity, increased heart rate or anxiety](http://www.mdpi.com/1424-8247/5/5/529/htm). \n\nCertain terpenes can also help modify THC’s effects, although it’s often the case that a given terpene’s counteracting effects will vary from person to person. I do well when my THC is mixed in with beta-caryophyllene and myrcene. These two terpenes ground the THC, making it more sedative and relaxing for me.\n\n\nThat said, I know others who prefer a more energizing profile and get better effects with terpenes like limonene and pinene. The only way to know which terpenes will work for you is to try some out and see what happens. If there’s a strain you’ve tried that works well for you, try to get the test results to see what kind of terpenes and cannabinoids are found in that strain. This will help you hone in on what’s working for you. \n\nIn our next few installments of our Cannabis for Newbies series, we’ll continue on the topic of cannabinoids, looking at other popular cannabinoids’ uses and side effects. Our next piece will look at a cannabinoid that’s getting increasingly popular: CBD.\n\nPhoto credit: [Precision Medical Caregivers](https://www.flickr.com/photos/precisionmedicalcaregivers/)\n\nNeed a medical marijuana recommendation? [Consult with one of HelloMD’s knowledgeable doctors](https://www.hellomd.com/); it's easy, private and 100% online. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAPABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAAAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEDBAX/xAAWAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAAL/2gAMAwEAAhADEAAAAY0nksGWN//EABoQAAMBAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAhEDEhP/2gAIAQEAAQUCjGKDqyXk1yaelH//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQ/9oACAEDAQE/AT//xAAUEQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQ/9oACAECAQE/AT//xAAaEAACAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIQEQETGh/9oACAEBAAY/AnNLhgRuT//EABwQAAICAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERACExcVGhsf/aAAgBAQABPyERsy6jwMJ1c3NKEOsqiyGvJwin/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABD3/wD/xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEP/aAAgBAwEBPxBEn//EABURAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEQ/9oACAECAQE/EFn/xAAcEAEAAwACAwAAAAAAAAAAAAABABEhMYFBUWH/2gAIAQEAAT8QteHDKTFYUWytPkQy48nQb1MejnejvqBcHgU004SJKCmUM//Z","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/f97f2c379d148c8370b9c3f63b0b6189/14b42/877e35ab021cab70b0ae7c60d6c3a22d.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f97f2c379d148c8370b9c3f63b0b6189/f836f/877e35ab021cab70b0ae7c60d6c3a22d.jpg 200w,\n/static/f97f2c379d148c8370b9c3f63b0b6189/2244e/877e35ab021cab70b0ae7c60d6c3a22d.jpg 400w,\n/static/f97f2c379d148c8370b9c3f63b0b6189/14b42/877e35ab021cab70b0ae7c60d6c3a22d.jpg 800w,\n/static/f97f2c379d148c8370b9c3f63b0b6189/719d0/877e35ab021cab70b0ae7c60d6c3a22d.jpg 1025w","srcWebp":"/static/f97f2c379d148c8370b9c3f63b0b6189/58556/877e35ab021cab70b0ae7c60d6c3a22d.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f97f2c379d148c8370b9c3f63b0b6189/61e93/877e35ab021cab70b0ae7c60d6c3a22d.webp 200w,\n/static/f97f2c379d148c8370b9c3f63b0b6189/1f5c5/877e35ab021cab70b0ae7c60d6c3a22d.webp 400w,\n/static/f97f2c379d148c8370b9c3f63b0b6189/58556/877e35ab021cab70b0ae7c60d6c3a22d.webp 800w,\n/static/f97f2c379d148c8370b9c3f63b0b6189/d34e0/877e35ab021cab70b0ae7c60d6c3a22d.webp 1025w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2469-markdown","title":"CBD and THC: A Perfect Balance for Healing","slug":"cbd-and-thc-a-perfect-balance-for-healing","content":"Herbalists say that for every poisonous plant, there’s another with an antidote not far away. That kind of balance between opposites is everywhere in nature—and that may help to explain the interplay between THC and CBD, the two most plentiful compounds in the marijuana plant. Although these two substances appear to have opposing effects, in combination each [affects the action of the other](https://www.zamnesia.com/blog-cannabinoid-syngergy-how-cbd-and-thc-work-together-n719) to keep the marijuana high from spinning out of control—and create some potent healing benefits.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### THC: Marijuana’s Most Famous Compound\n\nTHC (officially known as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) is the most prevalent of more than one hundred compounds found in the marijuana plant. It’s followed closely by cannabidiol, or CBD. Separately and together, these two compounds are the cannabis ingredients to be most closely studied for their applications in treating a wide range of health conditions ranging from cancer to PTSD.  \n\nTHC is probably the best known of marijuana’s many compounds. Its psychoactive properties are responsible for the cannabis “high” enjoyed by recreational users—and for keeping marijuana on the DEA’s list of what they consider to be highly addictive and dangerous drugs. \n\n For most users, that high delivers a feeling of relaxation and euphoria. But for others, THC can cause less pleasant reactions—nervousness, anxiety and paranoia. The likelihood of those kinds of negative effects rises when a user consumes cannabis grown from strains that are very high in THC. Some studies also suggest that long term or extensive use of THC can permanently affect brain functions such as memory or cognition.\n\nBut THC isn’t just good for a good time as it also has potent healing properties. The endocannabinoid system is a vast network of natural cannabinoid receptors that occur throughout the body. These receptors can be filled by cannabinoids manufactured by the body itself, or by introducing cannabis from outside sources like smoking or consuming it. \n\nThe body’s CB1 and CB2 receptors are abundant in the brain, organs and tissues, and THC binds with them in ways that are nearly identical to natural endocannabinoids such as anandamide and 2-AG. That means THC can be beneficial in treating a wide range of health conditions affecting both body and mind—especially when it’s [accompanied by CBD](http://pureanalytics.net/blog/2012/02/19/how-thc-and-cbd-work-together/).\n\nRELATED: [CANNABIS 101: THC vs CBD](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/57a17dc121a3ad00076694fc/cannabis-101-thc-vs-cbd)\n\n### CBD Works In Many Ways\n\nCBD is the second most common compound found in cannabis, and although it lacks the psychoactive properties of THC, many studies have found that it has numerous whole body health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and boosting immune system functions. Available in forms such as oil concentrates, edibles and even skin creams and ointments, CBD can help reduce chronic pain, ease the symptoms of autoimmune disorders and migraines, and reduce the nausea associated with cancer treatment.\n\nBut while THC binds directly with the body’s own endocannabinoid receptors in the brain, central nervous system and other organs and tissues, CBD [works in more mysterious ways](https://www.projectcbd.org/science/cannabis-pharmacology/how-cbd-works). Whether it’s the raw plant form known as CBDA or the extracted version CBD, this compound doesn’t directly bind with either of the body’s cannabinoid receptors. Rather, it either enhances or inhibits the activity of a long list of other receptors and channels that affect processes ranging from the proliferation of cells (particularly cancer cells) to the uptake of the calming neurotransmitter GABA.\n\n### CBD Reins In THC’s Psychoactivity\n\nCBD also has the ability to act allosterically on some kinds of receptors. That is, it can change the receptor’s shape to affect its behavior, either positively or negatively. And in that capacity, CBD can affect the endocannabinoid receptor CB1, even though it doesn’t bind directly to it. As a negative allosteric modulator, CBD weakens the ability of CB1 receptors to bind to THC, and that limits the psychoactive effects of THC while preserving its therapeutic qualities.\n\n### The Entourage Effect: Better Together\n\nThe “entourage effect” is what happens when multiple elements work together to enhance the positive effects of them all. When THC and CBD are used in combination, they produce [much greater \nbenefits](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20053780) than when used alone. And studies reveal that those benefits in turn are amplified when the whole marijuana plant is used, rather than isolated extracts of THC and CBD. The combination of THC’s direct effects on the endocannabinoid system and CBD’s activity on other kinds of receptors accounts for the most potent healing properties of cannabis.\n\nCBD helps to prolong the effects of THC therapies for cancer and other conditions. Because CBD is able to weaken CB1’s ability to bind with THC, it slows the breakdown of THC in the liver, so that the effects of the treatment last longer. Studies also reveal that the combination of THC and CBD is more able to [enhance the effectiveness of radiation \ntherapy](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25398831) to treat high-grade glioma—an aggressive and usually inoperative cancer of the brain—than either of these compounds alone.\n\nResearch also suggests that THC may be helpful in reducing the anxiety and hyperarousal common in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), precisely because that psychoactive high produces feelings of relaxation and can also help eliminate negative memories. But THC is more effective when combined with CBD, which keeps THC’s psychoactivity under control, so that its negative psychoactive effects don’t undermine treatment.\n\nTHC and CBD alone both have their own medicinal benefits. But in combination, the whole seems to be greater than the sum of its parts. The exact proportions of THC relative to CBD in a particular treatment can vary widely, depending on the individual and the goals of the treatment, but finding a balance between these two compounds may be the key to unlocking the many healing benefits of cannabis.\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 easy, private and 100% online.  \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/14b42/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/f836f/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.jpg 200w,\n/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/2244e/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.jpg 400w,\n/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/14b42/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.jpg 800w,\n/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/47498/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.jpg 1200w,\n/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/54ac5/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/58556/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/61e93/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.webp 200w,\n/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/1f5c5/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.webp 400w,\n/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/58556/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.webp 800w,\n/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/99238/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.webp 1200w,\n/static/5c69f35086e35aacf0c326feb36e54dd/5e0b8/de3a5ac376c67184f789ec602cb3378f.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2316-markdown","title":"3 Popular Marijuana Questions Answered on HelloMD","slug":"3-popular-marijuana-questions-answered-on-hellomd","content":"At HelloMD we talk to a lot of patients and what we’ve learned over time is that people have a lot of questions in regards to cannabis. In response to this, we launched [Answers](https://www.hellomd.com/answers). Answers allows people to ask any cannabis related question on our platform and get answers from the community as well as our doctors and nurses. \n\nThis week, we highlight 3 popular questions and answers we have received:\n\n### Q: How many milligrams of THC are in a typical joint?\n\n***I usually smoke joints and I am fine with that. But if I were to start taking edibles instead, what would be a similar dose?***\n\nAnswer @DrEdmunds: If you roll your own, you can calculate the quantity of THC based on the amount of cannabis you are putting in the joint and the concentration of THC known to be in the strain you are using. \n\nIf you are referring to the average dispensary pre-roll, you are talking about 750mg - 1g of cannabis per joint. The average THC concentration in today's strains is around 12%, which is about 3-4 times as potent as strains a couple decades ago. Using these numbers, this means that your typical pre-roll will have approximately 100mg of THC. Some strains have a THC concentration upwards of 25%. \n\nThe bottom line is, a lot! Caution is advised, and many patients will use one joint over several days for this reason. \n\nIn general, I discourage smoking, because marijuana smoke contains carbon monoxide, tar, carcinogens and other chemicals which may be toxic and damaging to body tissues. Vaporizing shredded flower or CO2-extracted oil concentrates are considered safe alternatives, as we are not aware of any damaging substances in marijuana itself. Vaporizers control the temperature of your medicine such that it only turns into vapor, akin to water turning into steam; and they do not burn the cannabis. Therefore, no smoke with its potentially harmful products of combustion is created.\n\n[Read 6 more answers to this question.](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/574b8ccb1e795d0008000086/how-many-milligrams-of-thc-are-in-a-typical-joint)\n\n### Q: What is the best edible for insomnia?\n\n***I use the Kiva bars at a very low dose right now (approx 7 mg THC) but I still wake up in the middle of the night and can't get back to sleep. I'm new to this and have a low tolerance. I am looking for an edible that will help me sleep but won't make me high?***\n\n`embed: https://www.instagram.com/p/BW0ryc3AkXb/`\n\nAnswer @DrOlson:\nThere are many opinions about insomnia because everyone is different and the cannabis affects everyone differently so be aware that what I suggest usually works but it typically will not work for everyone. We do offer a great chat room with lots of opinions. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nI recommend that you get your CBD and THC at a high 1:1 level and you will sleep. Too many people do high THC and I think that keeps a party in your head all night and when that happens it is an indication you need more CBDs to shut the party down. If in addition you have aches and pains be sure you treat those problem areas with the CBD dominant topical salve and you will sleep well. You may rest better if you keep a vape pen of 1:1, CBD:THC next to your bed in case you wake in the night, 1-2 puffs will likely put you to sleep.\n\n[Read 9 more answers to this question.](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/57ede27f6212ac000be691a6/what-is-the-best-edible-for-insomnia)\n\n### Q: Can I use cannabis as a replacement for Vicodin?\n\n***I suffer from chronic back pain and have been using vicodin. However, my doctor has stated that I need to end my reliance on this drug, and I am looking for a replacement. Advill and others don't provide the relief I am looking for. What cannabis products might be a good choice for me?***\n\n`embed: https://www.instagram.com/p/BXghGg7AClJ/`\n\n\nAnswer @sankMD - Dr Sank:\nLimiting your exposure to opiate medications is a great way to improve your overall health and limit the risks that come with this class of medications. Many patients experience side effects such as nausea, constipation, drowsiness, and poor appetite not to mention the long-term risks of abuse and addiction.\n\nThere are several options for pain control depending on the specific underlying cause of your pain. You may consider non-steroidal pain medications like ibuprofen, naproxen, and meloxicam. Local pain treatment with a lidocaine patch or voltaren gel is also an option with lower risk of side effects. Of course, there are non-pharmaceutical options, which is likely the reason for your question on this site.\n\nThe same principles that apply to traditional medications apply to cannabis. A topical cannabis-infused product is recommended as the first approach to pain control. This could include a cannabis-infused patch, lotion, balm, or ointment applied directly to the skin or massaged into the skin. Higher CBD content products tend to work well for this since there is an anti-inflammatory property associated with CBD.\n\nPain can also be treated with as needed vaporized cannabis products. Vaporizers work well for immediate relief since they take 5 minutes or less to feel the effect. Again, a higher CBD product is preferred due to its anti-inflammatory properties. THC can be effective but tends to be more of a way to distract from pain as opposed to treating the inflammation associated with pain. You own trial and error is important when treating pain. Just remember to use as little as needed for relief without overdoing it.\n\nFinally, don't forget about conservative pain management using physical therapy, massage therapy, heat and cold packs, and acupuncture which can be very effective for certain individuals depending on the underlying cause of the pain.\n\n[Read 7 more answers to this question.](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/571e4eac90a4f9000c000012/can-i-use-cannabis-as-a-replacement-for-vicodin)\n\nIf you're new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.  \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAPABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAAAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQBAgP/xAAVAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAACBP/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABum6g3JgTn//EABkQAAMBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAhEDIf/aAAgBAQABBQLo6mFbctlelLDD/8QAFxEAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIREP/aAAgBAwEBPwEmLM//xAAYEQACAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEgIDEP/aAAgBAgEBPwGNoVc//8QAFxAAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAhIv/aAAgBAQAGPwLJXF//xAAbEAEBAAIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAABABFBITFRYf/aAAgBAQABPyFy9s2DP7IKbtUTeeTbC9v/2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEMQf/8QAFhEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAER/9oACAEDAQE/EIiIh//EABYRAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAUf/aAAgBAgEBPxBLRKbf/8QAHRABAAICAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARIUFRcTFhof/aAAgBAQABPxA/eROI3XZs5KiMWjT3CZLK4YLNsFm/N9GvedQZj6n/2Q==","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/ec93bb3ddf4be4687bfb81237c7131d5/14b42/9dfeb80c6f7147812658fff182b0b3ca.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ec93bb3ddf4be4687bfb81237c7131d5/f836f/9dfeb80c6f7147812658fff182b0b3ca.jpg 200w,\n/static/ec93bb3ddf4be4687bfb81237c7131d5/2244e/9dfeb80c6f7147812658fff182b0b3ca.jpg 400w,\n/static/ec93bb3ddf4be4687bfb81237c7131d5/14b42/9dfeb80c6f7147812658fff182b0b3ca.jpg 800w,\n/static/ec93bb3ddf4be4687bfb81237c7131d5/47498/9dfeb80c6f7147812658fff182b0b3ca.jpg 1200w,\n/static/ec93bb3ddf4be4687bfb81237c7131d5/54ac5/9dfeb80c6f7147812658fff182b0b3ca.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/ec93bb3ddf4be4687bfb81237c7131d5/58556/9dfeb80c6f7147812658fff182b0b3ca.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ec93bb3ddf4be4687bfb81237c7131d5/61e93/9dfeb80c6f7147812658fff182b0b3ca.webp 200w,\n/static/ec93bb3ddf4be4687bfb81237c7131d5/1f5c5/9dfeb80c6f7147812658fff182b0b3ca.webp 400w,\n/static/ec93bb3ddf4be4687bfb81237c7131d5/58556/9dfeb80c6f7147812658fff182b0b3ca.webp 800w,\n/static/ec93bb3ddf4be4687bfb81237c7131d5/99238/9dfeb80c6f7147812658fff182b0b3ca.webp 1200w,\n/static/ec93bb3ddf4be4687bfb81237c7131d5/5e0b8/9dfeb80c6f7147812658fff182b0b3ca.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":60,"numPages":7,"currentPage":6,"id":5834,"name":"Thc","slug":"thc","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}