Cannabis News
The NIDA Just Proposed a Subtle Name Change
NIDA’s Namechange and what it means for the Future of Drugs?
It’s no surprise that I’m not the biggest fan of the Biden Administration, given their political pandering and “bread and circus” tactics over the past four years. They had the opportunity to legalize cannabis yet stalled on every front—instead, they engaged in political theater by “pardoning” certain federal cannabis possession cases, which led to zero people being freed from prison.
However, there is a subtle move by the administration that might have profound impacts on drug research in the years to come. What am I referring to? The subtle name change of NIDA, the National Institute on Drug Abuse, to the National Institute on Drugs and Addiction.
NIDA, a part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), has long been at the forefront of the nation’s “War on Drugs,” primarily focusing on the study of substance abuse and addiction from a criminal justice perspective. Its name, which has remained unchanged since its inception in 1973, reflects the stigmatized view of drugs as inherently abusive and detrimental to society.
However, the proposed name change signals a potential shift in perspective, acknowledging that not all drugs are inherently abusive, and that addiction is a complex issue that warrants a more nuanced and scientific approach. This subtle rebranding could pave the way for more comprehensive and unbiased research into the potential therapeutic benefits of various substances, including psychedelics, cannabis, and harm reduction strategies.
In this article, we’ll explore the history and role of NIDA, the implications of its name change, and the potential impact it could have on shaping the future of drug policy and research in the United States.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) was established in 1973, during the height of the “War on Drugs” era. Its mission was clear: to lead the nation’s research efforts in studying the causes, consequences, and prevention of drug abuse and addiction. However, from its inception, NIDA’s approach has been heavily skewed toward criminalizing drug use and perpetuating the narrative of drugs as inherently harmful and dangerous.
Throughout its history, NIDA has played a crucial role in shaping the nation’s drug policies and maintaining the prohibition of various substances. By primarily focusing its research efforts on the negative aspects of drug use, NIDA has contributed to the stigmatization and criminalization of drugs, rather than exploring their potential therapeutic benefits.
Between 2000 and 2020, a staggering 95% of all research conducted by NIDA on cannabis and other drugs was centered around their perceived “harms,” while virtually no studies were dedicated to investigating their potential medical applications. This imbalanced approach to research has created a distorted perception of drugs, one that often ignores or downplays their potential therapeutic value.
By consistently portraying drugs as inherently harmful and addictive, NIDA’s research has been used to justify the ongoing prohibition of various substances, even those with well-documented medical benefits. This skewed narrative has kept potentially life-saving substances out of reach for millions of people suffering from various medical conditions.
Furthermore, NIDA’s emphasis on the criminal justice aspect of drug use has contributed to the disproportionate criminalization and mass incarceration of marginalized communities, particularly people of color. This approach has perpetuated the cycle of stigma, discrimination, and societal harm associated with drug use, rather than treating it as a public health issue. Of course, not all scientists who work at NIDA believed in this, however, they had a mandate and did the science that favored prohibition as opposed to favoring all of humankind.
While NIDA’s historical role in maintaining the prohibitionist stance on drugs is undeniable, the proposed name change to the National Institute on Drugs and Addiction could signal a shift toward a more balanced and scientific approach to drug research and policy.
The subtle name change from the National Institute on Drug Abuse to the National Institute on Drugs and Addiction may seem insignificant, but it could signify a profound shift in how we approach the study and understanding of drugs and addiction.
The previous name, “Drug Abuse,” carried an inherent supposition that drugs are inherently bad and that their use is always abusive. This narrow perspective failed to acknowledge the complex interplay between individual vulnerabilities, environmental factors, and the pharmacological properties of substances. By removing the loaded term “abuse,” the new name recognizes that addiction is a unique experience for each individual and not necessarily a direct consequence of the drug itself.
If NIDA truly embraces this paradigm shift and treats drugs without inherent bias, it could open doors to exploring the therapeutic potential of substances previously dismissed or demonized, such as LSD, psilocybin, DMT, and others. Emerging research has already indicated that these compounds may hold promise in treating various psychological disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and chronic depression.
Psychedelics, in particular, have shown remarkable ability to disrupt deeply entrenched patterns of thought and behavior, offering a potential avenue for healing and personal growth. By studying these substances without prejudice, NIDA could unlock new, potentially less toxic modalities for addressing mental health challenges that have proven resistant to conventional treatments.
However, until there is an actual shift in the focus and priorities of NIDA’s research efforts, the name change alone holds little substance. If the institute continues to allocate the vast majority of its resources to studying the “harms” of drugs, while neglecting their potential benefits, the rebranding will be little more than a cosmetic change.
True progress will require a concerted effort to reorient NIDA’s mission toward a more balanced and scientifically rigorous approach, one that acknowledges the complexities of human experiences with drugs. Only then can we fully harness the potential of these substances to alleviate suffering and advance our understanding of the human mind and consciousness.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse, has played a pivotal role in perpetuating the “War on Drugs” narrative and maintaining the prohibition of various substances, including those with potential therapeutic benefits. For decades, NIDA’s research efforts have been heavily skewed toward portraying drugs as inherently harmful, addictive, and devoid of any medical value, thereby justifying their criminalization.
While the Biden Administration has been a colossal disappointment on numerous fronts, the proposed name change of NIDA to the National Institute on Drugs and Addiction could be one of their few redeeming qualities. By removing the loaded term “abuse” from the institute’s name, it signals a potential shift toward a more balanced and scientific approach to studying drugs and addiction.
However, it’s crucial to note that government institutions move at a glacial pace, often taking years, if not decades, for substantive changes to manifest. The name change alone is unlikely to have an immediate impact on NIDA’s research priorities or the nation’s drug policies. It will take sustained effort and pressure from the scientific community, advocacy groups, and the public to ensure that this rebranding translates into tangible actions and a genuine reorientation of NIDA’s mission.
Nonetheless, acknowledging and scrutinizing these subtle shifts in public policy is essential, as they can serve as catalysts for broader societal change. By bringing attention to the potential implications of NIDA’s name change, we can begin to challenge the deeply ingrained stigma surrounding drugs and addiction, and pave the way for a more compassionate and evidence-based approach to these complex issues.
Ultimately, while the government may move at the speed of a sluggish bowel movement, it is imperative that we, as individuals and communities, embrace these shifts internally, cultivating a more nuanced understanding of drugs and their potential benefits. Only then can we create an environment conducive to genuine progress, where policies and practices are rooted in science, empathy, and a commitment to human well-being, rather than misguided ideologies or political agendas.
WHO IS THE NIDA, READ ON…
People in the UK increasingly realize that CBD vaping is quite safe. Even NHS recommends CBD vaping as one of the relatively safer ways to quit smoking. Vaping is not without any harm, but it is much safer than tobacco smoking. Even more, CBD vaping is associated with some good health effects. However, now people are realizing that THC vape pens could be an even more potent way of enjoying CBD’s health benefits.
What is THC Vape?
If readers noticed that in the introduction of this text, we talked about CBD, there is a reason for that. THC vaping is different from CBD vaping, but not entirely. It has much in common with it.
The hemp plant is rich in many cannabinoids. Two major cannabinoids are THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (Cannabidiol). It also has many minor cannabinoids in smaller amounts, like CBG, CBC, CBN, THCV and CBDV. CBD vape pens generally have all these compounds except THC.
However, THC vape differ in the way that they also contain small amounts of THC along with CBD, minor cannabinoids, and other beneficial organic compounds like terpenes for added flavour and enhanced vaping experience.
So, why do some of the vape pens have added THC in small amounts? After all, THC is known to be addictive and has mind-altering properties. Well, the explanation is simple: the secret is in the dosage. In smaller and legally permitted dosages, THC does not cause a high; it is safe and can have many health benefits.
When small amounts of THC are added to CBD, minor cannabinoids, and terpenes, it results in much more powerful health benefits. That is why some of the CBD-based clinically approved drugs also contain THC.
THC vape pens may also have some distinct benefits not experienced with CBD vape pens. This is due to “the entourage effect.” The entourage effect is a bit different from synergy. Synergy is like two-plus-two equal to five, meaning that using some compounds together results in a more potent effect, yet safety is not compromised. However, the entourage effect means combining two compounds may result in some unique health benefits not seen when those compounds are used in isolation. So, the entourage effect is more powerful and unique than synergy.
Therefore, using THC vape pens means some unique health benefits, although these vape pens contain THC in small amounts.
THC Vape: The Dangers
It is no secret that THC is the main compound responsible for all side effects of the cannabis plant. This substance is addictive and, at higher dosages, causes euphoria, has potent mind-altering properties, and may cause hallucinations.
However, there is one important thing to understand. All these effects of THC are seen at much higher dosages than those in legally produced THC vape pens.
Legally produced/sold vape pens in the UK, like those by CBDoilking, do not contain THC more than 0.2%. This is significantly lower than cannabis indica or marijuana, which may contain 25% or even more THC. So, there is no comparison between legal THC vape pens and marijuana. At these small dosages, THC does not cause euphoria or other side effects and has no addictive properties. It only has mild stress-relief properties at these dosages.
Secondly, THC vape pens sold by CBDoilking follow other important UK guidelines and legal requirements, which means that THC vape pens cannot contain more than 1 mg of THC. Hence, it is not just about low concentration but also about low amounts, thus ensuring its safety.
Safe and Potent THC vape pens
THC vape pens are for health-conscious individuals who would like to vape on a regular basis. It is safe and may have beneficial effects like reduced anxiety, improved mood, and enhanced sleep, and it may also help reduce pain sensation.
THC vape pen is even better than your regular CBD vape pen for quitting smoking. This is because it is better at reducing tobacco cravings.
CBDoilking sells one of the strongest THC vape pens in the market (75-80% CBD plus CBG along with THC in permitted amounts), and yet all pens sold on the platform follow strict legal guidelines. All the products undergo third-party testing and are proven to contain THC, CBD, and other minor cannabinoids within legally permitted and safe limits.
Another good thing about CBDoilking is that these excellent THC vape pens come in many flavours. These flavours are not due to some artificial substances but rather due to their content of terpenes. Terpenes are plant-based aromatic compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
CBDoilking offers vapes that are based on science, combining different natural compounds in the right ratio. This is both about safety and potency. So, these products are really good for those looking for something better, potent, and yet safe.
The Bottom Line
CBD vape pens have been around for some time, and their safety is well-established. They are an excellent way to quit smoking and also enjoy CBD’s health effects. However, some people are looking for something more potent. THC vape pens are good for such individuals. These contain all beneficial compounds present in the cannabis plant but in the right proportions.
THC vape pen is a new way to enjoy vaping. It is unlikely to cause any side effects as these products are made for regular use. Of course, one should not overdose on THC or CBD. It is important not to have more than a few puffs a day. Rare side effects like nausea or stomach issues might occur but are transient and short-lived. Such issues are rarely the cause of concern, except in a very small number of cases.
Thus, if you are looking for something better to reduce stress and overcome pain and anxiety, then a THC vape pen may be the right choice. Choosing something strong like the one offered by CBDoilking may be a good idea. Despite being strong, these vape pens contain THC only in legally permitted amounts and in concentrations proven to be safe and not cause euphoria.
To sum up, if you are already an experienced CBD vaper, it may be a good idea to give THC vaping a try.
CBD VAPE OIL SAFETY, READ ON…
Thailand To Change Weed Laws Soon?
It’s Still Weed Paradise Right Now, So Go If You Can
Sure, weed is already legal in most of the United States.
However, for people who are in need of a holiday and want nothing to do but relax on a tropical Asian beach while enjoying a joint, the best place is still Thailand. Or at least, for now. Last June 2022, Thailand became the first nation in Asia to legalize marijuana for recreational purposes, albeit due to some governmental loopholes that allowed adult-use dispensaries to pop up like weed around the country.
Just a few days after weed was legalized, budding (pun intended!) entrepreneurs put up all kinds of weed shops and dispensaries. The smell of marijuana was soon prevalent all over, whether you were walking down a street in Bangkok or sunbathing in Phuket. These days, weed shops are as common as ATM machines or bubble tea kiosks.
We aren’t sure how long this is going to last. Over the last 1.5 years, throngs of tourists have come from all over the world to enjoy the globe’s newest weed haven. And while many cannabis businesses and farmers are thriving economically from the weed boom, some government officials are against it. As of the time of writing, the Thai government is working on regulating the cannabis industry much more tightly, so much so that smoking weed may not be such a liberal act to enjoy anymore.
Could Thailand’s weed heydays be this short-lived?
According to the news, Thailand’s health minister is set to ban recreational marijuana use completely by year end. A new bill is forecast to be discussed to parliament before session ends in October. Anutin Charnivakul, the public health minister responsible for initially proposing cannabis legalization, didn’t intend for weed to be as widely sold and consumed as it was. Instead, he explained that he merely intended for it to be used medicinally, helping farmers and other industries earn from the economic benefits of cannabis legalization.
“We have always emphasized using cannabis extractions and raw materials for medicinal purposes and for health,” he disclosed to CNN back in July 2022. “There has never once been a moment that we would think about advocating people to use cannabis in terms of recreation – or use it in a way that it could irritate others,” he added.
They likely did not anticipate or foresee that the tourism sector would experience a massive boom due to the said loopholes in cannabis law. Nobody knew that thousands of tourists would be coming from all over to enjoy partaking, and, helping to boost the tourist economy which was much-needed after the pandemic.
In a Reuters interview with Public Health Minister Dr. Cholnan Srikaew, he says that marijuana will only be permitted for medical use. Recreational users and cannabis growers who do not have a permit can expect to be charged with heavy fines, if the new bill is passed. “Under the new law, cannabis will be a controlled plant, so growing it would require permission. We will support cannabis cultivation for the medical and health industry,” he told Reuters.
The fines they are discussing are certainly steep: in the draft bill, it states that penalties of up to $1,690 can be charged to recreational users. Meanwhile, individuals who are caught selling weed or advertising its use can face a file of as much as $2,770, jail time, or even both.
The news to change Thailand’s once-ideal regulations regarding cannabis use was announced a few months ago, leaving businesses and other industries that are reliant on it, afraid and unable to make any plans for the future.
Can Tourists Still Smoke Weed In Thailand?
Until the government announces final changes to the weed law, tourists are still welcome to smoke weed and partake of recreational marijuana in various forms throughout the country. I just came from spending a few days in Bangkok, the nation’s capital, where hundreds of weed shops are still flourishing throughout the massive city.
Dispensaries are designed in fun, colorful interiors using bright colors and world-class marketing to attract smokers and consumers. We’ve walked into several different kinds of dispensaries and had no problems buying flower, edibles, vapes, and a variety of paraphernalia to consume either in the dispensary or in our hotel room. However, you do have to keep in mind that there are still rules in place.
For one, vaping or smoking weed in public places is still prohibited. Don’t be tempted to light up on the streets even if you can smell weed, because getting caught by the cops can lead to a $700 fine. That said, there are certain areas in Thailand where the law is a bit more – uh, relaxed. For example, in the backpacker central of Khao San Road, it’s not uncommon to see tourists lighting up at night. In the tourist beach areas of Krabi and Samui, there have been reports of tourists being able to easily light up a joint on the street with no problem.
Again, there’s no timeline of how long this is going to last. So if you can go to Thailand before the year end, when the new laws are expected to be set in place, go!
THAILAND AND LEGAL CANNABIS, READ ON..
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