THC
Marijuana Prohibition Causing Zombie Apocalypse?
Zombies have a special place in our hearts, even as they are without that key blood pumping organ. George A. Romero took our fear of the undead to new heights in the 1968 classic “Night of the Living Dead”. Since then countless zombie movies and now video games have tried to quench our blood thirst. However, sci-fi fans and others who refuse to lay on a silver platter and become zombie lunch have prepped for the “Zombie Apocalypse”, a real life scenario where the strong survive and the weak are turned, dragging their bones around seeking flesh. In a world with a heightened fear of pollution, radiation, and chemistry sets gone wrong, it seems more and more people are fearing a world where our infrastructure breaks down, and we are left to our own will to survive.
Preppers for the Zombie Apocalypse may not seem so ridiculous all of a sudden. Cannibalism was all the rave this week, as a man in Florida attacked a homeless man by eating away at his face. When told by a policeman to stop, Rudy Eugene was unresponsive and reports say he only growled back at the officer. He continued to tear away at the man’s face and unfortunately was shot. The victim was 65-year-old Ronald Poppo, who remains hospitalized with most of his face torn away.
Many are reporting that Rudy Eugene had used “bath salts” that are actually geared at achieving an LSD like high. The problem highlights the constant struggle to regulate and eliminate the synthetic drug market. Products such as K2 and Spice, which mimic THC’s effects have been outlawed on both state and federal levels. However, scientists fear that the battle is a losing one because the makers of these products will always find a way to create slightly different chemical compounds that circumvent the law. Government officials will now likely have the new LSD synthetics on their radar, but ultimately it may prove to be too late. Synthetic marijuana products have been linked to strokes, seizures, and other health complications especially in teens. Our first high profile case of synthetic LSD may have ushered in the undead revolution.
Although the case is isolated so far, it sheds light on the larger and more frustrating picture. Regulation is needed and the black market for quasi legal drugs has clearly taken a huge step. It started with our country’s failure to regulate marijuana and the idea that synthetics without any safety information available could be created. Zombie movies and popular video games such as Resident Evil (also a movie series), Left For Dead, House of the Dead, Dead Rising, Call of Duty Black Ops/World at War, may captivate our imagination, but our heads is where this phenomenon should stay.
New Study Confirms Benefits of Marijuana in Treating MS Symptoms
Thousands, if not millions have been able to confirm that cannabis has helped provide them relief in a world where top medical care is often reserved for those with the right job or bank account. Conveniently lawmakers now often say “there is not enough research” to support the idea that marijuana is an effective pain and psychological substance, though they rail against any research being performed in the area. Like any controversial issue, the opinion of the people is discarded or minimized in favor of men in white coats and links to the pharmaceutical industry. Many refuse to listen to our friends, family, and countless others who can only provide their honest and truthful experiences with marijuana. Of course our lawmakers condescend them and say their testimonies on their own bodies is insufficient and unqualified. Who is better suited to speak on matters of their body than the individual?
This is not to the ignore the science at all as it is crucial to understanding why patients are feeling better. Personal stories regarding multiple sclerosis relief have been around for some time but now there is official scientific data to back it up. Many news outlets including msnbc.com are reporting on study that was published in Canadian Medical Association Journal and performed at Multiple Sclerosis Center at the University of California, San Diego. The study showed marijuana reducing MS symptoms including pain and spasticity. Marijuana was shown to combat pain that was resistant to conventional MS treatments. The study involved 30 individuals with over half of the participants requiring walking aids. One drawback, according to researchers, was that cognitive ability was reduced after patients smoked marijuana and some patients complained of feeling “too high.”
THC is only one of many cannabinoids and is typically associated with the “high” feeling. Research into cannabinoids is showing so much promise and while opponents will jump all over the fact that some participants in the study were uncomfortable, the larger picture is so bright. Pain and spasticity was reduced and future marijuana strains have the potential to reduce pain without making patients feel overwhelmed or “stoned.” Another cannabinoid, CBD, has shown great promise in this area.
The marijuana reform movement has been seeking to highlight the science behind what advocates claim. The breakthrough on MS is significant and will require further examination and hopefully other conditions will receive the necessary funding to be properly evaluated. While the science of marijuana is fascinating it is not always accessible to everyone. With the help of labs such as The Werc Shop, a sophisticated but approachable label system could change this in the future. However, for now, we need to stop ignoring our peers. For the unrefined scientific mind, personal experience is what we are able to recognize and serves as the greatest evidence.
We may not understand how to identify cannabinoids under a microscope (though we are extremely appreciative of those who do) but we do notice when a person feels better and when their quality of life improves. Lawmakers have created a scenario where we ignore these people and say no other evidence is available, however their mistake lies in the fact that WE ARE compassionate and see mounting evidence piling up one patient testimony at a time. With personal stories and science now supporting marijuana’s varied benefits, where will opponents turn to next?
Moving to Legalize Domestic Hemp
As the movement for the legalization of marijuana marches on people often forget about the Mary’s sister plant, industrial Hemp. Both plants are members of the cannabis genus and both are illegal to grow or possess under Federal law. They are two genetically distinct species with different properties. Marijuana contains as much as 27% THC in its buds, leaves and trichomes. Whereas hemp generally contains 0.3% or less THC (although some places do allow for it to contain 1% and remain classified as industrial hemp). Furthermore the two plants are unsuited to be used interchangeably. Marijuana is unsuited for industrial purposes such as paper, clothing and building goods due to the nature of growth of the plant fibers. Similarly, industrial hemp will not get have the effects of smoked marijuana. It is very similar to the way that poppy seeds can make a person test positive for opium, but would produce get them “doped up”.
Since 1937 it has been illegal to cultivate both marijuana and hemp plants, aside from a special dispensation in WW2 (see “Hemp for Victory“). Today many states have passed laws allowing for compassionate use of medical marijuana, but it is still illegal to domestically grow and distribute industrial hemp products. This continues despite growing demands for hempen clothing, building supplies, fossil fuel substitutes, and food products. However, it is legally allowed to import foreign hemp products. To meet this demand, American companies must purchase goods from Canada, China and a few European countries. This is a farce. America (from the time of the colonies) was built on money provided by Hemp cash crops. At this time we are relegated to sending hard-earned American dollars overseas (OK, Canada is not overseas) to buy raw seed and fiber and end-products that could easily be made here, at an economic benefit for Americans. This market has nowhere to go except upward, especially as more Americans become aware of the many benefits (nutritional, agricultural, industrial, economical) presented by Hemp.
Currently, eighteen states have recent laws (within the last 20 years), bills, or amendments on the books or pending legislation seeking to allow for domestic cultivation of Industrial Hemp. Many of those states have only first stage laws that require studies by state boards looking into economic and agricultural benefits. Many of these studies are underway, but none have been completed. Part of this is due to the political insecurity that arises from dabbling in marijuana laws. Although attitudes have shifted greatly in the last several years, many politicians are still wary of endorsing anything marijuana-related. Regardless of those studies, every bill has language reflecting the worries about Federal prosecution. The caveats in the bills all mention that Federal statutes must either be overturned, rewritten, or researchers and farmers will require permits or dispensations from the DEA, DOJ or even IRS in order to grow hemp crops and be in compliance of state and federal laws.
The most recent states to challenge this Federal ban include Kentucky, Vermont, North Dakota, Washington, Colorado, Oregon, and Montana. Members of Congress have also sought to change the laws. In 2007, 2009, and 2011 they have introduced “The Industrial Hemp Farming Act” so that low potency cannabis crops would be exempted from the Federal ban. The current measure, House Bill 1831 has numerous co-sponsors but has not received a Congressional hearing. If passed, states would have the power to approve and regulate hemp cultivation and trade. Last year, Hemp imports were valued at over four hundred million dollars. This number is expected to increase this year and more in the future. Hemp production could soon be valued at over $1 billion. Taxed revenues from this business would do well to help offset American debt and trade deficits, if it was a domestic product. Not only is this an incredibly useful plant, it is hardy and grows in poor soils that are unsuited for other crash crops. Additionally, rotating hemp through poor soils helps to lock nutrients back into the earth so that other crops can grow better. It also is a prime source for photosynthesis and carbon sequestration, helping to mitigate the problems posed by increased amounts of CO2 and other greenhouse chemicals present in the atmosphere.
As more information comes to light about hemp it seems that the cultivation of this plant is a win-win situation for the environment, the economy, and the people of our country. Unfortunately, the same special interests (tobacco lobby, Big Pharma, Alcohol, fossil fuels) who secured the ban over seventy years ago still have enormous political clout. Combined with the inordinate amount of false information and prejudice against the cannabis plant, those in favor of legalization face a stiff uphill battle. More than ever it is incumbent upon us, we the people, to take an active role in our nation’s future and declare that this plant should not be denied to us.
Hashish
The cannabis plant is consumable in many forms. One of the most storied and controversial preparations of marijuana is hashish. Hashish is a compressed and purified form of the resin that grows in the trichomes of the cannabis plant. Historically, bud harvests were pressed between palms or other plant leaves until all excess plant matter, save the resin, was rubbed away. This left a much finer substance, varying in consistency from fine powder to a paste of oily substance. The final product has a much higher cannabinoid content than regular bud clippings. Today, there are numerous ways of preparing hash, from mechanical tumblers, to ice baths, chemical separation treatments, and even vacuum distillation. This can result in powdered hash, hard blocks, nuggets of goo (for lack of a better description), or even a resiny oil, often called “honey oil”. These preparations can range from 30-90% in THC content, as opposed to untreated buds (up 27% THC). Although, as marijuana research and development has progressed, growers are now using high CBD strains to produce hashish that offers medical benefits to a greater diversity of patients.
Though hashish has been found frequently in historic sites throughout the Near East, Middle East and Indian subcontinent, many historical sources tie the name “hashish” to the word assassin and the story of al-Hassan bin al-Sabbah, a warlord from the mountainous region south of the Caspian Sea. In a nutshell, Hassan used hashish preparations in training and maintaining the loyalty of his warriors, often sent out to kill (assassinate) his enemies. This story came to the West, compliments of Marco Polo’s travels in the late 13th Century. This is the most accepted tale, but many scholars refute this story’s accuracy. From the 13th through 18th centuries, the use and spread of hashish stayed mostly in the East. But in the late 1700’s it began to spread West as Napoleon’s conquests into Egypt exposed his troops to it. Despite his prohibition, use of hashish continued and expanded, finding its way to the New World.
By the start of the 20th century hashish production and trade was widespread, with centers in the Middle East, Chinese Turkestan, and on the Greek/Turkish borders. However, as time marched on, many laws prohibiting hashish production and trade were passed across the world. As quickly as it had risen to prominence, it was quickly blacklisted. Today it can be found, in many places but is still castigated in others. In Amsterdam (home of the Ice-olater production method), many kinds of hash can be found, or in India and Nepal as “charas.” In California, Colorado, and other compassionate use states, it can be found at dispensaries. And these cultivators are some of the pioneers pushing the strains in new directions to help benefit patients whose afflictions leave them with few treatments.
On the other end of the spectrum, Oklahoma recently passed a bill including sentencing for anywhere from two years to life for production, sales or distribution of hashish. House Bill 1798 names a mandatory 2-year minimum sentence, as a felony, for first time convictions. Subsequent offenders face sentences without leniency or parole to a lifetime sentence. This is a newly-minted law for a cannabis-based product, not heroin, crack or cocaine (although those laws are just as strict). By the way, Oklahoma and Colorado share approximately 100 miles of border. At the same time, Colorado is looking into DUI laws for cannabis. This may not be welcome news to most patients, but it is a key part of regulation and acceptance. Most people rail against sobriety check points (for alcohol), but they deter drunk driving and therefore save lives. Hopefully Colorado’s legislators will spend time to review the science behind the detection of cannabis in the body. It is not as simple as a test as for alcohol inebriation.
Colorado Lawmakers Appear set to Enact Marijuana DUI Law
As the discussion of medical and legalized cannabis continues, our focus is often on why the federal government has stubbornly not made any changes to marijuana law. Surely, if they could just move marijuana from a schedule I to a schedule II substance, then the debate would be over. While many of us wish that were the situation, it may not be quite that simple. Many legal analysts feel that authorities are unsure of how to enforce “smoking and driving” limits.
So far there has not been any uniform way to determine if drivers are fit to drive after marijuana use. One key point is that because of tolerance and other issues, cannabis does not impact everyone in the same manor. Colorado lawmakers have passed a bill that will set parameters for how much THC a driver can have in their system. This bill would set the legal limit at 5 nanograms of THC in order to legally be able to operate a moving vehicle. The vote was close and only passed by a slim 18-17 margin. The bill will now face the state senate but is expected to pass there as well by a wider margin. Those who passed the bill are not necessarily advocates of marijuana. The deciding vote was cast by state Republican Sen. Nancy Spence who said “I’m just sick of the abuse that the state of Colorado has taken from the medical marijuana industry.” However, we must question if the tides have turned when staunch opponents have accepted that medical marijuana is here to stay and would rather regulate the industry instead of eradicating it.
One major problem, as it always has been when conceiving of the “one size fits all” marijuana test, is that marijuana is fat soluble and will remain in the blood long after the effects of THC are felt. As Colorado state Democrat Pat Steadman put it, “Some of these people wake up in the morning and roll out of bed at 5 nanograms.” If any common sense goes into these laws (our hopes should not get too high for that considering the decades long war on drugs and information suppression on marijuana) then officers will use a series of tests to determine a drivers competency. In DWI stops an officer typically analyzes the condition of a driver by other methods such as walking a straight line and hand/eye coordination tests before making them submit to a breathalyzer.
This law may not be ideal but the issue of “drugged driving” will always stand in the way of marijuana reform unless it is properly dealt with. Marijuana DUI laws will hopefully evolve and perhaps even more reliable tests will be utilized in determining and individuals capacity to operate a motor vehicle. In fact they will likely HAVE to evolve, because as the law stands (5 nanograms is considered a very low amount) anyone who uses marijuana may be prevented from driving legally. Perhaps insurance and automaker lobbyists will be on the marijuana activist’s side. In any case, we have accepted that politicians are not equipped with the foresight to legislate in the modern world so, for now the hope may have to be a law that can be tailored in the future. Additionally, there are studies that show that legal medical marijuana states have experienced a decrease in fatal car accidents, likely due to less alcohol related incidents. Of course other studies show marijuana increasing the risk for fatal car crashes even if overall accidents are down. Because of this, a continuing conversation on marijuana and the dangers associated with driving needs to unfold. However, without this first important step, marijuana reform will likely remain in the legal stalemate it currently suffers from.
As with many social issues that are on the political fringe, change occurs behind smoke and mirrors. The White House has made it a point to urge states to enact drugged driving programs. Additionally, President Barack Obama said he could only enforce the laws on the books and placed some blame on Congress in his recent Rolling Stone interview. While none of this guarantees legalized federal marijuana laws, he may be setting the groundwork for a massive system addressing one of the biggest concerns of those in opposition to marijuana reform.
History of the Cups
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It is finally time for the Denver Medical Cannabis cup. If you are in Denver this weekend, please come and visit us as we will be one of the sponsors of the event! We are sure patients will gather for another safe event as they have in the past. But first, a quick look on how we got here…
The first Cannabis cup was organized by Steven Hager, of High Times Magazine. In 1987 Amsterdam was the most famous of cities for legalized consumption of marijuana. So it was held there, in a great smoke-off to find the finest marijuana that a person could smoke. In 25 years the contest has matured; there are multiple categories, seeking the best strains, hybrids, consumables, seeds and so forth. It has also developed into a massive trade show, where builders of bongs can showcase their latest pipes, vaporizers, and novelty papers. Vendors also bring in t-shirts and other apparel and all other kinds of accessories. As the Cup has grown, it has incorporated other elements that have accompanied marijuana use. It has embraced spirituality and the counterculture ideas of the late 60’s and 70’s. Also, as politics have shifted across the world, so have the ideas espoused by the Cup’s sponsors and attendees.
Today, the United States is host to four of High Times’s Medical Marijuana Cups. In Detroit, Denver, Los Angeles and San Francisco. The First one was the San Francisco Cup in 2010. Last year saw the inaugural events for Denver and Los Angeles also. These are not just pothead toke-fests as conservative demagogues would paint them; they’re not dens of sin, iniquity and crime, or doorways to destruction. These are modern affairs, full of people with honorable agendas seeking to help people who are suffering from various ailments. For many of these patients, cannabis holds the best treatments they can hope to receive. New categories include judging for high CBD (cannabidiol) strains, which the medical community now agrees hold the key to treating many neuromuscular disorders. One of the largest growing segments of the Cup community is for political activism. Most major events now have devoted sections to increasing political awareness. On a national stage most politicians won’t touch the topic of marijuana; there are few candidates, like Ron Paul and Gary Johnson, who are willing to discuss it. But on state and local levels, many politicians are eagerly discussing with their constituents. Also, there are many active groups like NORML, LEAP and ASA who attend these gatherings and try to increase awareness and activism. For years the pro-marijuana lobby was small and quietly ignored. Now attitudes are turning from universal recreational use (like alcohol and tobacco) to a focus more on compassionate care and medical use, at least in enough cases now to be taken more seriously. Also, by highlighting the many failures of the 40 year-old “War on Drugs” people have realized that change, on a federal level, is necessary for the health of the Union and its people. All of this has helped the Cups to grow from crowds of hundreds to tens of thousands of supporters.
The Seattle HempFest is another event that has grown from very humble roots. The first one was held in Seattle in 1991, with only 500 people in attendance; last year’s event estimated close to 300,000 attendees! At each of these events people have gathered peacefully for several days. Recently, Cannabis use, in public, has been tolerated with no ill effects. Alcohol sales are banned at Hemp Fest, too. And in that wake, there have been no riots, no fights, no dangerous crimes committed. This is a far cry from the mighty fears that Henry J Anslinger stirred up when he pushed to have marijuana made illegal in the 1930’s. In 1991, there were no laws anywhere for compassionate use. Then, in 1998 Washington State passed their medical marijuana legislation. In 2003, Seattle made marijuana its lowest police priority and in 2008 the city stated it “would no longer prosecute simple possession cases.” This year, the state legislation approved patient cannabis gardens and an ordinance for cannabis collectives. With perseverance and patience, even the smallest of groups can hope to accomplish great deeds.
Tinctures, another way to medicate
There are many ways of medicating with cannabis. Today, the most common method is smoking, either from a rolled cigarette, pipe, or bong. We’ve also discussed vaporizing, as its popularity has soared, as well as edibles such as brownies and chocolates. There is yet another way, the use of tinctures. A tincture is an alcoholic extract or solution of a nonvolatile substance. Tinctures are one of the oldest and simplest ways to medicate. In fact, prior to 1937 (when Marijuana was made illegal) every pharmacy sold cannabis tinctures, and physicians had them on hand at all times. Queen Victoria of England, was even known to use them to treat her menstrual cramps; nobody wanted a crabby monarch on the throne.
Cannabis tinctures are relatively easy to make and simple to administer. They are often stored in vials with medicine droppers and dosed out in drops. Depending on the strength of a particular batch, 2-3 drops are all that are needed for relief from disorders. The most effective way is to apply it sublingually (under the tongue). It is absorbed directly through the membranes and blood vessels below the tongue and usually takes effect between 5-30 minutes after application. Some patients complain of a burning sensation when applied also. This is usually caused by the ethanol base of the tincture. Depending on the proof of the alcohol, higher proof equals a bit more burning. In that case, the medicine can be taken orally, swallowed and digested. When used as such, the time lapse before effect will increase because it needs to be absorbed in the stomach and then processed through the liver.
There are several ways of producing cannabis tinctures, but all agree that the higher proof content of alcohol will result in a higher quality medication. Everclear is the highest proof (190) ethanol that exists on the market, though it is not available in all states. Barring Everclear, Bacardi’s 151 rum (75% ethanol) is usually easy to find, but rums will impart some of their flavor and coloring to final product. Below that, there are some very high quality vodkas available at 100-120 proof that also work quite well. The next step is to procure some quality herbs and grind them down. Some recipes call for extra fine, and others say a good chopping is all that’s required. The object here is to increase surface area for the alcohol work on to leech the cannabinoids from the plant into liquid. Flowers, leaves and stems can all be used in the mix. The next step is where most recipes diverge. There are hot or cold preparations and then different “brewers” say it should steep for as little as 4 hours to as long as 12 weeks. The longer it steeps, the more time the alcohol has to work. When the proper time has elapsed, the mix should be strained and stored in glass jars in a cool area and out of sunlight. All recipes agree on this, light will have a detriment on the strength of the product.
Patients should also consider what they are seeking to treat when deciding on the strain they select for their tincture. Indica dominant strains work best for cramping and muscle spasticity while Sativas are better for pain relief. These days, as selection is so varied, marijuana.net recommends using our strain library to help find what is best for you. Also, in states where dispensaries are legal, speak with knowledgeable employees to help find the right type of herb. There are many choices available, with varying percentages of THC and CBD content and those will determine the kind of relief a patient can expect. Also, many dispensaries carry their own processed tinctures. This might be the simplest option for patients because the product should be tested and labelled according to its cannabinoid content.
Overseas patients are better-provided for by GW pharmaceuticals. A UK based company, their product differs from all other cannabinoid-based pharmaceuticals because it is naturally derived. They have several state-of-the-art (and top secret) facilities for growing and harvesting marijuana plants. GW is the creator of Sativex, an oromucosal mouth spray being marketed for people suffering from multiple sclerosis. The pros for this medication stand out because it is highly regulated and patients can expect that each dose will be as safe and effective as the last one, as opposed to homemade tinctures which can vary based on strain selection and imperfections in the manufacturing process. On the other hand, it does not contain all the cannabinoids and terpenes found in the cannabis plant, so it won’t have the same overall effect. Furthermore, it is only available in select countries; these include England, Spain, Canada, Germany and New Zealand. Further availability in Asia and Africa is pending. Though US acceptance and trials are pending, it is not yet available in our country.
Long ago, before tinctures were widespread, marijuana had also been used for medical and religious purposes too. In the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern areas, the cannabis plant was considered to have mystical and holy properties (aside from its hemp-utility too). This oil is described in Exodus and is believed to be made of Myrrh, Sweet Cinnamon, Cannabis, Cassia and the base was olive oil. The Hebrews used it for their holy anointing oil used for the raising of kings and in many other ceremonies. The Hebrews called such men their kings, in Hebrew it is “Messiah” (anointed one) and the Greek word is “Christos.” And that is part of the reason how Yeshua of Nazareth came to be called called Jesus Christ. Also, for those who didn’t know, the Last Supper was actually a Seder, one of the Passover dinners. Just a little tidbit of history for our readers in time for the holidays. For those of you out there celebrating, Happy Easter. And for our Jewish readers, Zissen Pesach, Happy Passover!
The Sandman and the Greenman
“Mr. Sandman bring me a dream…” Sometimes it’s not that easy. According to the NIH 10-15% of adults complain of chronic insomnia, with as many as 40% suffering in the short term throughout the year. This is no laughing matter. Sleep is a very important bodily function. It allows the body to relax and recuperate from the stresses that make up daily life. It is necessary also to keep the mind healthy. Insomnia can lead to many neurological disorders including hallucinations, memory failure, psychotic episodes and many more. “I’ll sleep when I’m dead.” Stay awake long enough and that will happen sooner rather than later.
For those who suffer from sleep disorders, there are many treatments available. Some problems can be solved with a change of diet or behavior. Other people benefit from meditation and relaxation techniques. For many others, the only solace lies in a doctor’s prescription. Many narcotics, such as Valium, are derived from opiates. They are effective, but do have their drawbacks. Most sleeping medications, like Lunesta, Ambien, Rozerem, and Halcion can be habit forming and need to be carefully regulated. And a common problem with any drug, taken over extended periods is tolerance. As the body grows used to it, more and more of the drug is necessary to achieve the desired effect. On a long enough time scale, or at high enough doses, all of these drugs can be lethal or can cause dire withdrawal symptoms.
There is a natural alternative to these pharmaceuticals, and that alternative is Marijuana. Actually, there are many other naturally-found sleep aids available, such as Melatonin, but today let us discuss the wonder plant cannabis. Many patients prefer cannabis because it not only has sedative properties and causes drowsiness, but because it helps stimulate a sense of personal well-being. Many people’s insomnia is partially due to anxiety, and this reduces that feeling while also bringing on sleep. But how does it work? Luckily, this is a time where science is bringing all its tools together and our understanding of the plant is growing in leaps and bounds. The chemicals in marijuana, amongst them cannabinoids and terpenes, are numerous but many studies are underway to gain further knowledge of them. Terpenes are lipophilic (from latin “fat” + “love” so they work well with fats, just like cannabinoids) compounds found in almost every plant. They are the essential oils that are responsible for the odors we smell, such as pine, citrus and marijuana’s unique fragrance.
THC, the most famous of marijuana’s active compounds, has been shown to cause anxiety in some patients, but when it works in synergy with the many other compounds has sedative effects. When combined with the terpene Myrcene, THC can be sedating and acts as a muscle relaxant; Also, studies show it to “potentiate sleep time,” helping people to stay asleep. Some users refer to this as “couch-lock,” the feeling that they are melting into the couch, which is generally enjoyed by the cannabis crowd, and decried by its many detractors. Two other terpenes enjoy the “entourage effect” (synergy) of THC; they are Nerolidol and Linalool (also found in lavender). These are not the only interactions scientists have found. Limonene (found highly in lemons) works with CBD (cannabidiol) as an anti-anxiety compound to counter THC’s anxiety causing effects. And Nerolidol (also found in oranges) combine with THC and CBN (cannabinol) to augment the sedative qualities. CBD also works to counter the accelerated heartbeat that many users feel when smoking, an effect of the THC.
These are just a few of the 300+ chemicals and compounds found in marijuana. They work in conjunction to create the many effects that people feel when they medicate with cannabis. This is why many patients did not warm up to Marinol (Big Pharma’s pill) when it was released in the 1980’s. THC is not the only thing going on in that plant which helps so many people. One patient’s testimony, “I used to take Ambien for sleep, but I’d wind up sleepwalking. And in the morning, I’d be so groggy I could barely function. When I vape a little before bed, I feel peaceful and sleep well. Sometimes I am a bit foggy when I wake, but as soon as I get moving, the fog lifts and the day awaits. Before that, I slept poorly for years. I wish I could get a prescription for it where I lived.” With proper, regular sleep many of the little aches and pains that bother people from day to day vanish. When the Greenman meets the Sandman, people sleep at night and prosper in the day.
Side Effects May Include…
For thousands of years the cannabis plant was used medicinally throughout the world. It is even mentioned in the Pen-ts’ao Ching, the world’s oldest pharmacopeia. This dates back to 2000BC and is listed as a treatment for malaria, beriberi, constipation, rheumatic pains and female disorders. It was a standard item in any physician’s black bag until the Marijuana Tax Act of 1937 outlawed it. Also around this time, the chemical-based pharmaceutical industry began its reign over medicine. Men had relied on herbs and tonics, with mixed results, for a long time. The scientific method combined with modern industrial practices led to codifying medicines. In 1928, Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin and soon after, other doctors were able to reproduce it in quantity. The treatment of infections with antibiotics was a breakthrough that changed the face of medicine and disease. The pharmaceutical industry was growing in leaps and bounds; recommended dosages were effective, and people were relying less on home remedies. As is the case with any company providing a needed product, the pharmaceutical industry has grown into a multi-billion dollar global industry that supplies everything from baby aspirin to cancer treatments and antidepressants.
Despite the successes of the industry, there are a few shortcomings to modern medicines. Most medications take a targeted approach. For a bladder infection, doctors recommend one drug; for chest pains they offer another. It seems as though they shy away from holistic approaches to health, preferring to stick band-aids on all the little problems instead of treating the underlying causes of disease. For depression a physician may prescribe Prozac or Zoloft. It helps a person get through the day, maybe. But when the drug wears off, the patient is still depressed. And then of course, comes the fine print. At the end of every tv commercial for a pharmaceutical comes those four words, “Side effects may include…” And most of the time those side effects sound worse than the ailment itself. Lunesta (eszopiclone) is a sleep aid medication. Some possible side effects aren’t so bad, like dizziness, lightheadedness and loss of coordination. That is to be expected from something that will put you to sleep. How do these sound, heartburn, decreased sexual desire, painful menstrual periods, or breast enlargement in males? Is sleep really that important (yes it is) but who wants to risk hives, rashes, swelling of extremities, difficulty breathing or swallowing? A good thump on the head will put you out for the night too.
Prozac (Fluoxetine) is one of the most commonly prescribed antidepressants by physicians and psychiatrists. It is used for treating depression, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and eating disorders and others. It also has some very serious side effects, especially in younger patients up to 24 years of age. In younger people it can occasionally cause worse depression, aggressive behavior, self-harming, panic attacks, frenzied excitement and thoughts of suicide. How is that helpful to someone who is depressed? Other “regular” side effects can include nausea, dry mouth, weakness, uncontrollable shaking, hives, fever, joint pain, swelling of extremities including head and neck. Those symptoms don’t help alleviate depression.
NSAIDs (NonSteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs) are a class of drugs that have many uses and can be quite effective. Advil (ibuprofen) is probably the most common one utilized by Americans. NSAIDs are used to treat inflammation, mild to moderate pain, and fever. It’s great for headaches, arthritis, sports injuries and even menstrual cramps. Another commonly prescribed NSAID is Mobic (meloxicam) and in low doses is also good for long-term use on aggravating injuries from sports such as mild rotator cuffs or ligament sprains. But these drugs also have their drawbacks. It’s interesting that they can cause diarrhea, or constipation hitting both sides of that spectrum. Other effects may include fast heartbeat, nausea, pale or yellowing skin, tiredness, ulcers, cloudy or bloody urine. They can also cause random death due to heart attack or stroke, because of how it effects blood and clotting.
Actiq (Fentanyl Transmucosal) is a pain medication often given to cancer patients, or others suffering from long-term pain. It is used as a “breakthrough pain” reliever; that means a patient will be on some other pain medication but if the suffering spikes this is administered in conjunction to “rescue” the patient and bring the pain down to tolerable levels. A drug such as this one must be carefully administered because patients are usually on many other medications and doctors must be wary of interactions and synergy effects. Its side effects are also numerous, including (but not limited to) nausea, constipation, trouble walking, vomiting, fever, exhaustion, muscle aches, loss of appetite, hallucinations, and death from overdose.
So, those are just a few of the many thousands of drugs that modern science has given to the world. As a species are we much better off having them? It seems that we are unfortunate that so many that seem meant to give life back, on the one hand, so easily can take it away as well.
Marijuana also has its side effects. They include the munchies, which are uncontrollable appetite urges, particularly towards sweets. This can be laughable, but can have serious effects on some users. More sedentary users may find themselves with significant weight gain and at higher risk for diabetes. There is no chance for death by overdose; people have tried but they fall asleep long before they hit the L.D. 50. But it does increase the chance of accidents and injury because it effects motor control, balance, and perception of external stimuli. Anytime a person is “under the influence” of marijuana or other drug with neurological effects, they should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery. The side effects of marijuana pale in comparison to the prescription drugs on the market. The range of treatments marijuana can be used for seems to be growing everyday, without the surprise unknown side effects which can be hidden in fine print until an unfavorable statistic makes it news. But that time the damage is usually done.
When it comes to any kind of medication, know what you are taking. Be aware of possible side effects and interactions with other medications or chemicals in your body. And if a doctor gives a warning about something, you should generally listen them.
A Touch of the Vapors
For the majority of cannabis patients, smoking is the most common and easiest way to medicate. Herb, pipe and fire are all that is needed. Some people however, are unable to handle the smoke delivery method. There are those with weakened pulmonary systems, or are prone to infection. There are many other ways of bringing cannabinoids into the body. Today a patient can get edibles, tinctures, or use a vaporizer. These marvels of modern technology are capable of delivering all of the good chemicals from cannabis, without any of the junk that comes with smoking.
Vaporizers, as the name says, brings the chemicals to their just below their flashpoint (when a chemical ignites) without combustion. That means that tar, CO, CO2 and other toxic compounds are neither produced, nor inhaled. Only the desired chemicals, THC, CBD, CBN and other cannabinoids, are delivered to the lungs and absorbed into the body. So, it’s a purer delivery and safer for the user. While on the topic of safety, no combustion means no fire. And no fire means no accidentally burning down the house. Most vaporizers operate best between 170°C and 190°C. THC vaporizes at 150°C and other cannabinoids at slightly higher temperatures. Cannabis and its component chemicals have flashpoints just above 200°C, so try to avoid any machines that operate at that temperature, or else it will be just like smoking.
There are numerous machines are the market, from little portable devices, such as the iolite, to the king of them all, the Volcano. Some are activate and inhale, while others have a variety of settings allowing the user to customize to their preference. The more complex devices allow users the choice of setting the temperature so they can use it for other herbs such as sage and clove (which have their own therapeutic benefits). Iolite‘s portable devices are very easy to operate; they require only herbs and butane as a fuel. Volcano Vaporizers have require a little bit more work. They have adjustable temperature settings and numerous attachments. Theirs is an interesting setup. The machine works by vaporizing the herbs and expelling the vapor into a big plastic bag (similar in size to bags on the Sunday newspaper), which stores the gas and can be inhaled through a valve. That’s very convenient because the bag is portable, and can be passed around. However, the longer the vapor sits, the lower the quality is. As it cools, the cannabinoids condense onto the lining of the bag so potency will decrease over time.
There are a few rules that people should know about vaporizers. First of all, herbs must be broken up finely, preferably ground up, to maximize surface area for a clean burn (well, not really burning but don’t drop a whole nug into the chamber) Second, herbs should be properly dried. If it is still moist than water will vaporize to steam and that can damage sinus, esophageal and lung tissue. Nobody wants to medicate only to find themselves the victim of a steam burn. Also, higher moisture contents lead to stickier remains and more difficulty while cleaning the equipment.
Most of these devices are not cheap. Some users prefer to spend the same amount of money on a large pipe or a classy bong, but they won’t deliver the medication as kindly to the body. Third, remember to clean the device after use.
There are lots of vaporizers on the market so take time to look into your own requirements, whether for ease of use or level build quality. Some can be costly but well worth it so make sure it fits your needs. You can also check out vapornation for an excellent selection and prices on quality products.