medical marijuana
CBD in Marijuana found to Treat Schizophrenia with few Side Effects
Within a matter of weeks the United States Supreme Court will issue a ruling on the controversial “Obamacare” program. In particular, the mandate that requires Americans to carry health insurance has drawn the most scrutiny and is being challenged on its constitutionality. Combining that with Mitt Romney’s campaign going national after winning the GOP nomination, the healthcare reform battle should be front and center as both Romney and Obama (often considered very similar plans) have enacted sweeping health care changes.
Luckily in the meantime we have less partisan political healthcare updates to lift our spirits. This week researchers at The University of Cologne in Germany have found that CBD (a cannabinoid found in marijuana) looks to have excellent potential in treating schizophrenia symptoms. Of the 39 patients who participated in the study, 20 were treated with CBD while the others were treated with amisulpride, a drug not legal in the U.S. but similar to medications used in America. Daniel Piomelli, co-author of the study was pleased with the results and said “The results were amazing. Not only was CBD as effective as standard antipsychotics, but it was also essentially free of the typical side effects seen with antipsychotic drugs.”
This development builds on many of the recent studies that have linked health and quality of life to marijuana. Soldiers have often reported that marijuana use has helped with their PTSD symptoms. Recently, marijuana.net reported on a study that showed cannabis relieved patient’s painful MS symptoms. Additionally, marijuana has been linked to help patients suffering from cancer, AIDS, Glaucoma, chronic pain, muscular dystrophy, migraines, and of course so many other ailments. We encourage readers in our comment section to share stories about these or other medical issues marijuana aids.
Schizophrenia has baffled medical professionals for centuries and perhaps even thousands of years. Egyptians have described ancient ailments over two thousand years ago that sound very much like what we call schizophrenia today. Treatments in the middle ages included exorcisms and even drilling holes in the head in order to draw out the “evil spirits”. In the modern times scientists came up with a new method that was not much more sophisticated. The lobotomy may indeed treat schizophrenia, with a major side effect being that the patient is turned into a zombie. Let us not forget that shock therapy which is still used today even as scientists have not been able to fully determine why it produces results, or often does not. These extreme treatments only highlight just how incredible the German discovery is for patients suffering from this long misunderstood condition.
The hope is that research such as this will also be conducted in the United States. Healthcare is still a prevailing issue in the United States with our country seeming like they are reserved to second class care. The president’s plan has increased coverage but is not as far reaching as initially thought on the campaign trail. This may not be his fault entirely as the GOP and economy presented major roadblocks. Either way, this marijuana research is encouraging and could provide patients with relief immediately with far less economic cost than the typical big pharmaceutical treatments. As the complexity of the health care arguments plays itself out in the media, let us keep in mind that there is one simple source for so much healing.
Mitt Romney Secures Enough Votes with Win in Texas to become GOP Nominee
Although thought to be a foregone conclusion, former Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney has secured the GOP nomination for the 2012 presidential election. The race has been all but official for some time now as other GOP candidates such as Rick Perry, Michele Bachmann, Herman Cain, Jon Huntsman, Newt Gingrich, and Rick Perry had already exited the primaries. Long time marijuana supporter, Ron Paul has remained in the race. Romney will accept the party’s nomination at the Republican National Convention, which is to be held in Tampa Florida during late August.
Mitt Romney now will turn his focus squarely on his run against President Barack Obama. The road has been long for Romney who attempted a failed candidacy in 2008 only to lose to the popular senator from Arizona, John McCain. In a statement Romney said “Our party has come together with the goal of putting the failures of the last three and a half years behind us, I have no illusions about the difficulties of the task before us. But whatever challenges lie ahead, we will settle for nothing less than getting America back on the path to full employment and prosperity.” Mitt Romney has and will likely to continue his attacks on the president regarding the economy.
Should he secure the presidency, Americans will hope to see Romney keep his word to fix the the economy. Although job reports and GDP numbers seem to be improving, the economy is fluctuating and with the impending doom of the Greek economy, and continued reports on the European Debt Crisis, Romney may still have his political opening.
Supporters of marijuana legal reform have their own ideas as to how Mitt Romney can accomplish this. Marijuana and even economic advocates would hope that he would pursues decriminalization and taxation measures that could tremendously boost the economy. This year’s presidential election is already proving to be monumental and cannabis reform does not appear to be going away. Judging by the Oregon race for Attorney General, candidates may no longer be able to turn their backs on the issue. Although the candidates will talk about the important standard issues such as tax rates, immigration reform, maintaining or overturning Roe V. Wade, one issue is emerging as the American consensus issue. At about 75% approval, medical marijuana is more popular than any living or recently deceased president. At this point both Mitt Romney and Barack Obama would be happy enough to enjoy the same popularity as legalization of recreational cannabis, which hovers above either candidates approval rating at 56%.
Legal Updates On Medical Marijuana
Marijuana.net is hopeful that everyone had a wonderful holiday weekend. Getting together with friends and family is always important, as is remembering those who have fought hard for our freedom, and those who are less fortunate. We would like to take this time to mention some of the legal updates that came to light toward the end of last week, over the weekend and yesterday.
While North Dakota is often more recognized for the Coen Brother’s classic film “Fargo”, marijuana activists are trying to have the state join a very high profile group. Activists are attempting to run a ballot initiative, which would see North Dakota become the 18th state to permit marijuana use for patients. State Rep. Steve Zaiser (D-Fargo), is chairman of the campaign and recently stated “Marijuana has proven that it has helped people, and doctors will testify to that effect, I don’t want any more North Dakotans to suffer unnecessarily.” The initiative was submitted to Secretary of State Al Jaeger last week. There will have to be 13,452 signatures collected from eligible voters in North Dakota in order for the issue to come to a vote in November.
We also learned about some good news coming out of Arizona. Unfortunately, Arizona often provides negative or legally baffling news, however we are pleased to see that after a tumultuous start the medical marijuana program there is looking to help even more patients. The law passed in 2010 actually requires that the Department of Health Services officially considers requests to expand the programs coverage. The law may soon allow medical cannabis to be used for migraines and PTSD. Other states, such as Colorado have declined to expand their programs for PTSD. However, as more studies and testimonials are revealed that show PTSD symptoms being aided by cannabis, the momentum seems to be mounting.
Arizona and Governor Jan Brewer has taken a great deal of political heat over the past few years. Thankfully, their medical marijuana laws are more progressive than other states in certain areas. Our duty to provide compassion to one another is taking a deeper hold on us than our blue and red politics. Relief is unaware of what side of the political aisle it sits on. Only a few years ago many would have laughed at the prospect of medical marijuana in North Dakota. It is not clear if the law will pass there (voters in South Dakota have previously voted down the issue previously) but it seems no longer possible to assume that any state will just downright dismiss marijuana reform.
Marijuana.net Observes Memorial Day
Most of us enjoy our barbecues and three day holiday weekends. However, it often seems we can lose track of exactly why we have fired up the grill and cracked those cans of beer open. The first (and often most fun) of the summer national holidays is here and Marijuana.net would like to take this time to do what was initially intended.
Memorial Day was created in order to remember the Union troops during the American Civil War and was originally known as Decoration Day. While Confederates also had their own day for their soldiers, eventually it would all be combined for a federally recognized national holiday honoring all of America’s fallen troops. With the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan still ongoing, as well as other military operations, we feel it is important that we take the time to think about all of those men and women away from home.
While we need to acknowledge our soldiers who gave their lives, some have returned from war still having paid too high a price. We have spoken to so many returning soldiers who gladly gave everything they had only to return home to a social landscape that prevents them from seeking relief. Cannabis has demonstrated a wonderful potential to alleviate returning soldier’s PTSD symptoms. Reintegrating back into the society they sought to protect is not always easy and everything should be done to make their transition as easy as possible. We also want to bring patient awareness as many can only enjoy the holiday fun because of marijuana’s ability to reduce pain and improve their quality of life. Some can enjoy today’s barbecue because their nausea has dissipated while others may throw the baseball around because their joint pain has subsided.
Unfortunately, in this country patients are often engulfed in their own war. As government refuses to respect state laws, patients often have to fight social stigmas, and closing dispensaries in their war for safe access. Memorial Day was set up to remember soldiers, but we would like to expand that to anyone who is sick or struggling, as not all wars are fought with firearms. Memorial Day has always been about solemn reflection and while it is absolutely appropriate to have some fun this weekend we feel that the true spirit may have gotten lost in a sea of hopps, barley, and chicken wings. We just ask that everyone take a second and raise the beer they are already holding up high, and make a toast to think of our returning soldiers, our elderly, our patients, and each other.
Gourmet Medibles
Hungry, craving good food to enrich your day and help you stay medicated? Well, for patients living in Oregon there are a few choices available to them. The first cannabis serving eatery in the United States opened in Portland, Oregon over two years ago. The Cannabis Cafe was a smashing success when it debuted. Following most recently on its heels is the new Earth Dragon Edibles, in Ashland, Oregon. Now the state has coverage in both the North and South sides. Although the two restaurants are very different in look and feel, they both cater to the growing medical marijuana community.
The Cannabis Cafe is on its second iteration. Originally it opened at 4:20PM on November 13, 2009 in the Woodlawn section of North Portland. Madeline Martinez of Oregon NORML fame opened the establishment in concert with the building’s lessor Eric Solomon. The cafe itself was similar to those found in Amsterdam, a coffeeshop with accommodations for medicating. They offered baked goods, coffee, drinks and snacks. They had a few pool tables, HDTV, and Wifi access for patients to enjoy as they dosed. It was a nice, relaxing setting in a laid-back area of town. However, due to differences between NORML and the lease-holder, the Cafe shut down after six months. Luckily, Ms Martinez sorted things out and the Cannabis Cafe was reopened, albeit in a new location. Now it resides at 322 SE 82nd Ave, in the Montavilla section of Portland and business continues to do well, despite having an exclusive clientele. Visitors of the Cannabis Cafe must be card-carrying members of Oregon’s NORML chapter and must also have Oregon medical marijuana program (OMMP) cards. The cafe also has its own membership dues, $5 per visit in addition to the NORML dues. Also, no medical is sold on the premises. Patients may bring their own to the cafe. Cannabis Cafe keeps marijuana on hand for patients, and thanks local growers and dispensers for the donations.
Earth Dragon Edibles Restaurant and Lounge is an establishment of a different flavor. It is a full-fledged restaurant that has marijuana-infused items available on the menu. Located at 1662 Siskiyou Blvd in Ashland, Earth Dragon is a Mongolian barbecue joint that decided to spice things up a little differently than their competitors. They offer both regular and medicated items on their menu, with three levels of intensity to their hashish-infused grapeseed oil. They also have a desert menu for after dinner medicating. Patients must show proof of OMMP membership, though NORML membership is not necessary. Furthermore, they skirt marijuana sales laws by requesting donations for their dishes. The restaurant also contains a hash bar where patients may medicate while they wait, choosing from hash or herbs, vaporizers, pipes or bongs. However, in accordance with Oregon state laws, there is no smoking in the restaurant section. And, the medication at the bar is also free, though “donations suggested.” Earth Dragon has been doing well despite a legal challenge. They operate without a city-required business license, because they are in violation of Federal statutes. Local police chief Terry Holderness said that Earth Dragon is not a priority they are pursuing, “Nobody’s life is at risk here…We will prioritize this appropriately. But ultimately, if they are in violation of the law, they will be shut down.” Ashland authorities appear to be lenient for now, perhaps waiting for further marijuana law resolution from higher levels of government.
We’ve had plenty of exciting news from Oregon. Hopefully marijuana patients can see more growth like this in other states. Colorado is jumping on the bandwagon too. Maybe California and Washington will follow soon. Perhaps this phenomenon will find its way to the East Coast. New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island and Washington DC patients should keep their eyes open for opportunities. For those in Oregon, with the proper credentials, Bon Appetit!
Medical Marijuana Industry News May 25, 2012
Andy Caffrey Plans to Smoke Marijuana in front of U.S. Capitol if he wins election…
A marijuana patient and activist is seeking to win the congressional seat for California’s 2nd district which includes much of the northern region of the state. Andy Caffrey has been known to light up a joint during his campaign stops. If elected he has vowed to continue the tradition on the steps of the United States Capitol building. The district has been occupied by long time law maker Wally Herger (R-CA) since 1987. Earlier this year, Mr. Herger announced that he would not be seeking re-election in November. Caffrey is hoping that he can win the soon to be vacant seat by advocating for major changes in marijuana law and voiced his frustration with both Republicans and Democrats. The race will be interesting as many hats have been thrown into the race with almost all of them supporting legalized or medical marijuana. Caffrey has spent previous time working with the environmental group Earth First.
For more on this story click here
Appeals Court Rejects Medical Marijuana Suit by Disabled Plaintiffs…
Struggling patients were not granted the compassion they were seeking by federal courts. A lawsuit was filed against California (Marla James vs. the City of Costa Mesa) cities for cracking down on marijuana dispensaries. The plaintiffs claimed the actions of city municipalities were in direct violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The plaintiffs who are legal marijuana card holders say that other treatments have failed to reduce pain. The Americans with Disabilities Act prohibits discrimination in providing public services. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals seemed to sympathize with the plaintiffs but felt they could not offer protection because the Americans with Disabilities Act recognizes federal law instead of state legislation.
For more on this story and the court’s decision click here
US Judge says GPS Use in Marijuana Bust Illegal…
The Drug Enforcement Agency followed Robert Dale Lee by installing a GPS device on his truck. In September of last year, Kentucky State Troopers pulled over Lee already having vital info provided by the GPS. Lee arrived in Kentucky with over 150 pounds of marijuana in his truck from Chicago. A US judge is throwing out the case because the DEA failed to get a warrant before installing the GPS. In January, the United States Supreme court ruled against the DEA having permission to use GPS locators without a warrant.
United States Senate Officially Outlaws Synthetic Cannabis…
While the outlawing of synthetic cannabis pretty much was handled several months ago by the US Senate, it is now official. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) previously objected to the legislation but now the Senate is finally able to move forward. A bill was also passed by the house toward the end of 2011. Both bills will likely be combined and then be presented to the president for his signature. Senator Charles Schumer (D-NY) has led the federal charge against synthetic cannabis. Synthetic marijuana products such as “K2” and “Spice” have come under fire as they have been linked with serious side effects and emergency room visits, especially by teenagers.
Poll: Marijuana Legalization is now Supported by Majority of Americans
While the past decade has seen a tremendous shift in the American attitude toward medical marijuana, overall legalization was something many analysts did not expect the country to embrace just yet. In regards to marijuana, many have always felt change would come slowly. For the activists in the 1940s through the mid 1990s, progress moved at a glacial pace. Even after California changed the course of history in 1996, many analysts dismissed the newly legalized medical marijuana program as a fad that would quickly fade. The previous decade proved just how far removed from the truth such sentiments were, but still, even some of the most passionate advocates held little faith in how quick Americans would change their view on legalizing recreational cannabis use.
Gallop has been asking participants since 1969 year on whether or not they feel that marijuana should be legal. When the poll was first conducted only 12% of respondents agreed with legalizing cannabis. In 1978 Gallop found that 21% of respondents said they welcomed the acceptance of marijuana. This would drop again in the 1980s to 13% and as low as 11% in 1991. History will show that the efforts of Dennis Peron only 5 years after such a low point for marijuana acceptance was nothing short of a modern political miracle. The public did not have all of the facts and many snickered at the idea of marijuana being used to improve quality of life for struggling patients. Since 2002, support for marijuana legalization has steadily been climbing, and now for the first since polling began, a majority of Americans now support legalizing recreational marijuana use and wish to see it regulated in a similar way to alcohol and tobacco. Click here for more information on the most recent poll on marijuana legalization, which now stands at a record high of 56%.
Much of the time marijuana activists focus has been on the 40 year old war on drugs launched by President Richard Nixon. Interestingly enough marijuana acceptance’s lowest point was only about 20 years ago, not 40 or 50 years ago, making the change in sentiment that much more pronounced. Shifts on many social issues show a new generation’s impact on the electorate and more awareness for previously eligible voters. It seems government officials may have overreached as people seem to be embracing a more libertarian attitude and are seeking for the government to stay out of personal decisions. They are no longer looking up to the men in suits for approval on how they conduct their daily lives. Additionally we are in the age of communication where stories can be shared around the world instantaneously.
Between the 1960s and 1990s individuals who tried marijuana still responded negatively in polls and viewed it as a significant problem. Perhaps they were made to feel guilty by society or assumed serious behavior/health problems would follow if they had continued to use cannabis. Now with an abundance of scientific information, patients testimonials, and a reminder that over 40 years later, the Woodstock generation still cannot recall anyone who died from cannabis use, the facts are taking control of the argument. With multigenerational support for marijuana reform the conversation has shifted from “if” to “when”.
Bruce Margolin’s Congressional Run Brings Hope for Marijuana Patients and Activists
To the dismay of some of our elected officials, marijuana reform is moving higher on the list of voter priorities. President Obama has has been dogged by questions regarding what appears to be a shift in his marijuana enforcement position. More recently, voters showed that they are no longer willing to tolerate the failed 40 year war on drugs and elected retired judge Ellen Rosenblum, a huge supporter of marijuana rights.
High profile attorney and longtime ally of the marijuana movement, Bruce Margolin, provides even more hope for those seeking a common sense approach to cannabis law. Margolin announced last month that he would be running for California’s 33rd Congressional district. This district covers the Los Angeles’ coastal area and many feel the district could benefit tremendously from Mr. Margolin’s leadership. He is running on a platform that seeks changes in many key areas such as immigration reform, economic fairness, and defending civil liberties.
Bruce Margolin also has a long track record for defending patients and activists. He has lent his assistance to individuals involved with marijuana cases for over 40 years. On his legal website 1800420laws.com, Mr. Margolin directly states his view on marijuana by saying “NO ONE belongs in jail for marijuana.” He also has served as a director of Los Angeles chapter of NORML for 29 years, contributing to so much of the progress in the marijuana reform movement. His long track record in marijuana law has made him the premiere legal expert on cannabis law in the United States.
With the injection of Super Pacs on an already polarized nation, the 2012 election already had the makings of a historic and nasty election. Additionally, there will be at least two states (Washington, and Colorado) and possibly others where residents will have the opportunity to vote on legalizing recreational marijuana use. Bruce Margolin is entering the congressional race at the perfect time. Patients, marijuana activists, immigrants, same sex couples and so many others desperately need representation in this political climate where federal authorities are still intent on violating our freedoms.
New Jersey Lawmakers Consider Decriminalization Efforts
Yesterday, marijuana.net reported the developing story in New York pertaining to medical marijuana. It appeared that New York may in fact be following the lead of its neighboring states New Jersey and Connecticut. Now it appears, that New Jersey may be playing copycat with New York when it comes to marijuana decriminalization efforts.
We have frequently mentioned all of the momentum in the northeast for marijuana reform. Fortunately, there have been constant and positive updates for advocates of reform. Yesterday several news outlets reported that some New Jersey lawmakers are proposing legislation that would decriminalize low level marijuana possession. Currently, 50 grams or less can carry a sentence of 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. The proposed measure would penalize marijuana possession similar to how New York does, with a civil citation ticket. This helps to ensure that a small level marijuana possession charge would not have an impact on the rest of a person’s life.
The newly proposed law comes at a time where New Jersey, like every state, could benefit substantially from the savings decriminalization efforts provide. Jails are filled with those incarcerated for possessing a harmless plant as tax revenues can certainly be better used elsewhere. As the popular HBO show depicts, New Jersey knows firsthand the long term damage that prohibition can have. Alcohol prohibition launched a crime syndicate on the Atlantic City boardwalk. Now the potential for crime and large scale distribution of another banned substance is hurting New Jersey again. However, it is the youth, specifically in the minority community where the ultimate price will be paid. So many futures are ripped away by a frivolous charge for possessing a small amount of marijuana.
Although the entire west coast has legalized medical marijuana, new developments in the northeast seem to be making the region emerge as a safe haven for patients. Northeast states also seem to be considering a change of heart when it comes to jailing its youth. Even New York City’s controversial “stop and frisk” program has come under fire. With medical marijuana on the horizon and the possibility for decriminalization efforts, New Jersey is poised to become one of the most progressives areas for marijuana reform. However, no one is certain as to how Governor Christie will react to a decriminalization bill as he has demonstrated his opposition to the states medical marijuana program previously. However, as residents of the garden state grow weary from watching their loved ones suffer, their children going to prison, and their hard earned tax dollars being wasted, the Governor’s hand may be forced. It may be time for New Jersey to utilize a new approach as they can ill afford another Boardwalk Empire.
New Yorkers Reaffirm Support For Medical Marijuana
Residents of the Empire State may not have legal medical marijuana in their state, but there certainly seems to be momentum to change that. New Yorkers are known for speaking their mind and they certainly are not afraid to share their opinion in polls, especially when it comes to medical marijuana.
Northeast patients overall have received a great deal of good news recently. With New Jersey finally making progress on opening dispensaries, Connecticut passing laws to permit medical marijuana, and Rhode Island also set to open marijuana dispensaries, the quality of life in the northeast should be improving for many. While New York is the typically the trendsetter in fashion and night life, they may actually be copycats when it comes to compassionate relief. The momentum from other states in the northeast seems to be spilling over into New York. Recently, 74% of New Yorkers told Mason-Dixon Polling & Research pollsters that they want to see an end to federal raids on marijuana collectives and respect state laws.
This matches previous polls which show an overwhelming amount of New York residents are in favor of medical marijuana. The message seems to have been received by lawmakers as Governor Andrew Cuomo seems to be shifting his position on the issue. On the campaign trail for the 2010 race for governor he took a very rigid stance against medical cannabis. He had very harsh words for proponents of medical marijuana and said “The dangers of medical marijuana outweigh the benefits.” When asked about its potential to raise revenue candidate Cuomo said “A lot of things could raise revenues. Legalizing prostitution could raise revenues. I’m against that, too.” Much seems to have changed since 2010 as comparing medical cannabis to prostitution may be a thing of the past. Only months later the governor said “We’re looking at both sides of the issue if you will and we’re reviewing it, but we don’t have a final position.” Last month his position evolved even more as Governor Cuomo stated I understand there’s more research and there’s more evidence, and it can always be re-evaluated. I don’t believe there’s going to be time this legislative session to look at that issue.
Andrew Cuomo is a seasoned second generation politician. Perhaps he is looking ahead and unwilling to pick a fight on an issue that has the support of an overwhelming amount of some of the most outspoken voters in the country.