Cannabis News
Baby Boomers Rushing to Cannabis as a Way to Improve Memory Function and Mood as CNN Reports
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1 year agoon
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The demographic experiencing the most rapid surge in cannabis usage within the United States is the baby boomer generation. This group, which holds an impressive $140 trillion of the nation’s wealth, has captured the interest of analysts and researchers. These experts are delving into the reasons behind and extent of marijuana consumption among the 73 million individuals in this cohort.
In addressing one aspect of this inquiry, it becomes apparent that seniors born between 1946 and 1964, who collectively possess $78.3 trillion in assets, have taken a keen interest in cannabis, particularly over the past eight years, where their consumption has tripled.
No Negative Impact?
Focused on this particular segment of marijuana enthusiasts, scientists have directed their attention and discovered that consuming whole-plant cannabis, adhering to the traditional approach surprisingly, does not detrimentally affect cognitive function. In reality, it has the opposite effect.
A study at the University of Colorado Boulder delved into the repercussions of cannabis usage among adults aged 60 to 88, all with no history of alcohol or other substance abuse.
The researchers observed that while elevated levels of THC can yield adverse impacts on the developing adolescent brain, a contrary outcome emerges in the context of older brains.
Notably, senior individuals who engage with cannabis exhibited notably enhanced neural communication between the cerebellum and hippocampus in comparison to their non-using counterparts.
The progressive alterations in the endocannabinoid system (ECS), an intricate cellular communication system in the brain and body responsible for maintaining equilibrium, encompass a decline in cannabinoid receptors dispersed throughout the brain. This decline is concomitant with heightened levels of inflammation within the brain, a circumstance linked to potential neuronal attrition in the hippocampus—a vital region dedicated to learning and memory preservation, wherein neuronal losses are decidedly undesirable.
An unaffiliated researcher, Gary Wenk, Ph.D., said, “Utilizing low-dose, daily cannabis consumption beyond 55 may effectively counteract the deteriorative consequences stemming from persistent brain inflammation.”
Throughout the past decade of coverage about medicinal cannabis, a recurring revelation that has consistently astounded me is the sense of optimism, the potentiality, and the constructive influence that prudently regulated cannabis employment can exert, even among elderly individuals, thereby enhancing their overall quality of life,” articulated Dr. Gupta.
In the latest episode of “The Whole Story with Anderson Cooper,” Dr. Gupta is set to unveil his acclaimed cannabis documentary series titled “Weed 7: A Senior Moment.” This installment will examine the advantages and potential drawbacks of cannabis usage in addressing persistent challenges like pain, anxiety, and Alzheimer’s disease among individuals aged 50 and above.
A 2018 Study On Cannabis Use by Baby Boomers
Joseph Palamar, a New York University Langone Medical Center professor, examined information from 17,608 adults aged 50 or older. These adults took a survey about using drugs and feeling different emotions. The government has done this survey every year since 1971 in all the states and the capital city.
The survey participants had to answer questions about smoking, drinking, and using drugs. They also said things about themselves, like their age and health.
The scientists looked at information from 2015-16 and 2006-07. They compared the people who used marijuana with the ones who didn’t, and they did this for different ages and times. They found that about 9% of grown-ups in the middle-aged group used marijuana in the past year, and about 2.9% of older adults did. About 5.7% of middle-aged grown-ups used it for the past month, and about 1.7% of older adults did.
Dr. Benjamin Han, who led the study and worked at the New York University School of Medicine, shared that their research found higher rates of lousy substance use among adults who also use marijuana. These substances include alcohol, tobacco, and misuse of prescription drugs. The researchers focused on the middle-aged and older demographic.
The study showed that around 5% of middle-aged people who use marijuana had issues drinking too much alcohol. About 9% of them had problems with nicotine use. Also, about 3.5% of these demographic misused their prescription pain pill. Among older adults, the numbers were a bit lower. About 1.5% had trouble with drinking, 3.5% needed nicotine, and 1.2% misusing opioids.
The study also said that, besides opioids, people who used marijuana in the past year were more likely not to use prescription sedatives and calming medicines the right way compared to those who didn’t use marijuana.
Han explained that when older adults with chronic illnesses use multiple substances, especially in an unhealthy way, it becomes quite risky. Marijuana might worsen their health problems and even interact with their prescribed medications.
Palamar pointed out the impact can be much more powerful depending on the drug combination. “If you mix marijuana with alcohol, the effects can hit you hard, especially if you didn’t anticipate such a strong reaction,” he mentioned.
Legal and Health Risks
According to the study authors, baby boomers possess a greater level of familiarity with marijuana compared to preceding generations. The research conducted by Han and Palamar reveals that just under 55% of middle-aged adults have engaged with marijuana at some point in their lives. In comparison, approximately 22% of older adults have also done so.
As an increasing number of states legalize both medical and recreational marijuana, healthcare professionals are encountering a dilemma, as noted by Han. He mentioned, “I am increasingly faced with inquiries from older patients about the potential benefits of trying marijuana, often for sleep or pain relief.” Han, specializing in geriatric medicine, emphasized, “While marijuana might hold therapeutic potential for addressing various symptoms and medical conditions, the available research in this realm remains extremely limited.”
Further investigation is essential to understand the potential risks and advantages associated with marijuana usage among these specific age cohorts. This includes the need for additional insights regarding safety, optimal dosing, preferred administration methods (such as inhalation or ingestion), and the array of symptoms it may address, as highlighted by Han.
However, healthcare providers present challenges in confidently endorsing marijuana use, particularly outside of distinct clinical scenarios when compared to thoroughly researched alternative options. Han emphasized, “This is particularly true considering our incomplete grasp of the potential hazards it may pose to older adults or those managing multiple chronic medical conditions.”
Another factor of concern is the potential legal ramifications that baby boomers might encounter if they reside in a jurisdiction where marijuana remains prohibited, as pointed out by Palamar.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the evolving landscape of marijuana use among middle-aged and older adults demands further exploration into its risks and benefits. While the potential therapeutic applications of marijuana are recognized, the current shortage of comprehensive research limits healthcare providers’ ability to recommend its use, particularly in comparison to more extensively studied alternatives.
Addressing safety, dosing, administration methods, and potential legal considerations will be crucial in making informed decisions about marijuana’s role in addressing the needs of these age groups. As the medical and legal landscapes continue to evolve, a more thorough understanding of the implications of marijuana use for older adults remains an essential area of investigation.
BABY BOOMERS AND WEED, READ ON…
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Is Kratom Addictive? Understanding Dependence, Risks, and Safe Usage
Published
9 hours agoon
November 12, 2024By
admin
Is kratom addictive? Discover the potential for dependence on Kratom, the risks involved with its use, and how to approach its consumption responsibly.
From 2011 to 2017, over 1,800 calls to poison centers involved kratom in the U.S. This significant number highlights the concern regarding kratom addiction.
However, without Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversight, and due to various consumption methods like teas and capsules, there are significant health risks. Safe use of kratom is now in question due to these issues.
Research debates how dependence develops, outlining signs like loss of control and withdrawal symptoms. These signs are seen in regular kratom users. Ironically, some people switch from drugs like heroin to kratom, looking for a legal alternative.
Understanding Kratom: Origins and Prevalence
Kratom comes from the Mitragyna speciosa tree in Southeast Asia. It can act like a stimulant or like opioids, based on how much you take. People use it in different ways, for a small energy boost or stronger effects at higher doses.
The legal status of kratom in the U.S. is complicated and changing. It’s a hot topic because some worry about its misuse. It’s still legal in several states. This shows how different places handle drug rules. The National Institute on Drug Abuse is looking into its medical benefits. But, the FDA hasn’t approved it for medical use yet. The DEA calls it a “drug of concern,” which means policies might change.
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From 2011 to 2017, poison control centers in the U.S. got over 1,800 reports about kratom. This shows it’s widely used and might pose health risks.
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Kratom’s main ingredients bind to opioid receptors very strongly, stronger than morphine even. This fact is key to understanding its effects.
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As more people use kratom, more are reporting serious health problems. These include liver and heart issues, and tough withdrawal symptoms, particularly in those already sick.
The statistics show mounting worries about kratom in the U.S. As its use grows, it’s becoming more important to health policies and laws. What happens next will depend on further research and legal decisions.
Is Kratom Addictive: Investigating the Substance’s Nature
The question of kratom’s addictiveness focuses on how it affects brain receptors and its long-term health implications. The ongoing debate highlights concerns about dependence and the risk of addiction. Scientists are closely looking at these issues.
How Kratom Works in the Brain
Kratom’s main alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, bind to the brain’s opioid receptors, similar to painkillers and narcotics. This connection suggests a potential risk of dependence. These alkaloids are key to kratom’s pain relief but also point to possible addiction concerns, especially with frequent, high-dose usage.
Patterns and Consequences of Long-term Use
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Using kratom often, especially in large doses, can increase the risk of dependence and intense withdrawal symptoms, similar to opioid withdrawal.
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Although some use it for pain or to improve mood, long-term kratom users might see serious health problems, like liver damage and mental health issues.
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Withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, nausea, and sleep problems, show kratom’s impact on one’s physical and mental health.
Assessment of Addiction Risks
Studies indicate a significant risk of addiction to kratom, especially with high doses or frequent use. Dependence develops as the body gets used to kratom, leading to tolerance and a need for more to feel its effects. Withdrawal symptoms emphasize this risk, as highlighted by health experts.
Physiological Effects: Kratom’s Impact on the Body
There is a lot of debate about the safety and use of kratom. This herbal extract comes from the Mitragyna speciosa plant. It has drawn attention for its possible harmful effects on the body. The FDA has issued many warnings about kratom, raising safety concerns.
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Kratom Adverse Effects: Kratom users have reported side effects like nausea, vomiting, and confusion. More serious issues include high blood pressure and liver damage. These problems highlight the risks of using kratom.
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Herbal Extract Safety: Some kratom products contain heavy metals and pathogens. These can cause severe health issues, including death. This shows the importance of safety in herbal products.
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FDA Warnings and Regulations: The FDA has linked kratom to over 35 deaths and warns against using it. They point out the lack of medical uses and the risk of addiction.
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Physiological Impact: Kratom’s effects depend on the dose and the user’s body. Yet, it can lead to dangerous outcomes like liver damage and seizures.
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Safety Concerns from Authorities: Federal agencies like the DEA are worried about kratom’s safety. Although not a controlled substance, monitoring suggests users should be careful.
Kratom might offer temporary relief for some ailments, but it comes with significant risks. The FDA’s warnings should make people think twice. If considering kratom, it’s crucial to talk to a doctor first. Experts stress the need for safety and caution with herbal extracts.
Conclusion
Kratom’s role in health and regulation is complex, with views and research findings widely varied. Some people use kratom for its claimed health benefits, but it’s a hot topic. Experts advise caution and suggest consulting a doctor before using kratom due to the unclear effects.
Clinical studies using scores like SOWS and COWS haven’t confirmed withdrawal symptoms from kratom. This adds to the debate, especially when some users report withdrawal. This makes kratom a controversial subject among different findings and user experiences.
When it comes to treating opioid addiction, kratom can be both helpful and harmful. Some have used it successfully to fight addiction. Yet, some states have banned it. This highlights the need for regulations and consistent product quality. It also raises questions about kratom’s legal status due to mixed actions by authorities.
The situation shows how complex kratom is in the realm of substance use and law. Without clear evidence supporting either its benefits or risks, it poses a challenge. More research is needed to guide regulations and health advice. For now, anyone thinking of using kratom should be careful, seek medical advice, and keep up with laws and health guidelines.
WHAT IS KRATOM ANYWAY? READ ON…
Cannabis News
New Rule, December 5: Oregon Cannabis Retailers, Processors and Labor Peace Agreements
Published
10 hours agoon
November 12, 2024By
admin
Oregon’s Measure 119 passed last week, as expected. This means that as of December 5th, every OLCC licensed retailer, processor, researcher and testing lab must secure a labor peace agreement before OLCC will approve a new or renewal license application. The labor peace agreement must be with a “bona fide labor organization.”
I previewed M119 back in September, explaining:
Compulsory peace agreements aren’t anything new in cannabis, although it would be something different here in Oregon. California, for example, requires labor peace agreements for many of its cannabis licensees, and has for many years. We had clients struggle with the concept initially, and we saw some fumbled rollouts, but people eventually adjusted.
Measure 119 further provides that retailers and processors would be required to remain neutral, under the peace agreements, when labor organizations communicate with employees about collective bargaining rights “with any licensure or renewal application.”
M119 may be legally problematic
I’m not a First Amendment lawyer, but it’s not clear to me that an Oregon business can be constrained from speaking with employees– regardless of what M119 provides. Oregon’s speech protections are extremely broad, which is why we have a naked bike ride, tons of strip clubs and no campaign finance restrictions.
I’m also not a labor lawyer, but I’m told M119 could hit a snag on the National Labor Relations Act.
I’ve run these concepts by an Oregon First Amendment lawyer and a couple of labor lawyers, and all confirmed to me that M119 has real exposure. I found that feedback interesting, because M119 sponsors would have understood this when they set out signature gathering. Back in September, I wrote:
The United Food and Commercial Workers Local 555 spent a good deal of money to get Measure 119 on the ballot, rounding up some 163,000 signatures when only 117,173 were required. This follows on a stymied effort to get House Bill 3183 passed last year, which would have accomplished the same thing legislatively.
HB 3183 failed after a couple of advisory letters from the State of Oregon, Legislative Counsel Committee (see here and here). Those letters discussed preemption exposure for what is now M119 under the National Labor Relations Act, The Taft Hartley Act, and other federal laws. Oregon Business and Industry, the largest business group in the state, also submitted opposing testimony, highlighting legal exposure.
As to the First Amendment issues, anyone watching this is advised to follow litigation recently brought by Ctrl Alt Destroy, Inc., on a similar requirement in California.
So let’s see how that goes, and let’s see if anyone in the Oregon cannabis space wants to make a run at litigating M119. For now, credit to UFCW Local 555, I guess, for not giving up and for getting this thing on the ballot. And for having some fun by slipping a Rickroll into the voter pamphlet. I’m sure that won a few people over.
The OLCC process
I don’t have any information yet on what OLCC is going to do ahead of the December 5th deadline. It’s worth noting that, in addition to California, other recreational cannabis states including New York, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Connecticut and Delaware all have similar requirements. Most likely, OLCC will put out an FAQ page very soon that looks something like this and licensees will need to upload something or other to CAMP with respect to any post-December 5th application or renewal.
As far as OLCC licensees negotiating these agreements, the best approach would be to speak with experienced labor counsel. Labor law is highly specialized, and negotiating a labor peace agreement with any outfit claiming to be a “bona fide labor organization” is not a typical exercise.
For now, this is just one more thing for licensed cannabis businesses to comply with. Please reach out to us if you have any questions or need a referral.
As the popularity of CBD (cannabidiol) continues to rise, many pet owners are exploring its potential benefits for their furry companions. CBD is derived from the hemp plant and is known for its therapeutic properties, which may help alleviate anxiety, pain, inflammation, and other health issues in dogs. However, when considering CBD treats for your dog, it’s crucial to understand the ingredients that go into these products. This article will delve into the essential ingredients to look for in CBD treats, their benefits, potential risks, and how to choose the right product for your canine friend.
Understanding CBD and Its Benefits for Dogs
Before we dive into the ingredients, it’s important to understand what CBD is and how it can benefit dogs. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which can produce a “high,” CBD does not have intoxicating effects. Instead, it interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in both humans and animals, which plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes.
Potential Benefits of CBD for Dogs
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Anxiety Relief: Many dogs experience anxiety due to various factors such as loud noises, separation from their owners, or changes in their environment. CBD may help reduce anxiety levels by promoting a sense of calm.
Choosing the Right CBD Treats
When selecting CBD treats for your dog, it’s essential to look beyond just the CBD content. The overall quality of the treat is equally important. Here are some key ingredients you should be aware of:
1. High-Quality CBD Oil
The foundation of any good CBD treat is the quality of the CBD oil used. Look for treats that contain:
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Full-Spectrum or Broad-Spectrum CBD: Full-spectrum products contain all cannabinoids found in the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC (below 0.3% as per legal standards). Broad-spectrum products contain multiple cannabinoids but no THC. Both types can provide an “entourage effect,” enhancing the therapeutic benefits.
2. Natural Ingredients
Just like human food, the ingredients in your dog’s treats matter significantly. Look for treats made with natural ingredients rather than artificial additives or preservatives. Here are some beneficial components:
Whole grains like oat flour or brown rice flour provide essential nutrients and fiber that support digestive health. They are also a good source of energy for active dogs.
Healthy fats are vital for maintaining your dog’s coat and skin health. Ingredients like coconut oil or peanut butter not only enhance flavor but also provide beneficial fatty acids that support overall well-being.
Incorporating fruits and vegetables into your dog’s treats can boost their nutritional value:
To make treats more appealing without resorting to artificial flavors, look for natural flavorings like chicken broth or carob (a chocolate substitute safe for dogs). These ingredients can enhance taste while keeping the treat healthy.
3. Functional Ingredients
Some treats may include additional functional ingredients designed to address specific health concerns:
These compounds are often included in joint support treats to help maintain joint health and mobility, especially in older dogs or those with arthritis.
Probiotics can promote gut health by supporting a healthy balance of bacteria in your dog’s digestive system.
Certain herbs like chamomile or ginger may offer calming effects or aid digestion. Always ensure these herbs are safe for canine consumption before choosing treats containing them.
Ingredients to Avoid
While there are many beneficial ingredients to seek out, it’s equally important to know which ones to avoid:
1. Artificial Additives
Many commercial pet treats contain artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives that can be harmful to your dog’s health. These additives may lead to allergic reactions or other health issues over time.
2. High Sugar Content
Just like humans, dogs do not need excessive sugar in their diets. Treats high in sugar can lead to obesity and dental problems.
3. Low-Quality Fillers
Avoid treats with low-quality fillers such as corn syrup or by-products that do not provide any nutritional value.
Always ensure that any CBD product you choose contains less than 0.3% THC to avoid any psychoactive effects on your dog.
How to Introduce CBD Treats Safely
When introducing any new treat into your dog’s diet—especially one containing CBD—it’s essential to do so gradually:
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Start Small: Begin with a small amount of the treat to see how your dog reacts.
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Monitor Your Dog: Observe your dog for any adverse reactions such as changes in behavior or gastrointestinal upset.
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Adjust Dosage as Needed: Depending on your dog’s size and needs, you may need to adjust the dosage over time.
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Consult Your Veterinarian: Before starting any new supplement regimen, including CBD treats, consult with your veterinarian—especially if your dog has existing health conditions or is taking other medications.
Conclusion
CBD treats can be a beneficial addition to your dog’s diet when chosen carefully with attention to ingredient quality and safety. By understanding what goes into these treats—such as high-quality CBD oil, natural ingredients, functional additives—and knowing what to avoid, you can make informed decisions that support your dog’s health and well-being.
Always prioritize transparency from manufacturers regarding ingredient sourcing and product testing; this will ensure you’re providing your furry friend with safe and effective options tailored to their needs. With proper research and guidance from a veterinarian, you can confidently explore the potential benefits of CBD treats for your beloved pet while ensuring they enjoy a tasty snack that’s good for them too!
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