Cannabis News
Cannabis Greatly Reduces the Chances of Alzheimer’s and Cognitive Decline According to a New Brain Research Study
Cannabis users have significant decrease in Cognitive Decline
Society has long placed a significant importance to what the world of “Science” uncovers. However, as someone who regularly write about cannabis and associated studies, science might not be as trustworthy as many people believe it to be.
For over two decades, the research landscape surrounding cannabis has been skewed towards a singular, ominous objective: uncovering harm. This predisposition towards identifying the detrimental effects of cannabis use has not only shaped public perception but has also influenced policy and regulation, often to the detriment of understanding the plant’s full spectrum of effects and potential benefits.
This fixation on the negative aspects of cannabis is emblematic of a broader issue within scientific research, where studies are frequently designed with a preconceived agenda, seeking confirmation rather than discovery.
This approach is fundamentally flawed, as it narrows the scope of investigation and potentially overlooks significant findings that could challenge existing narratives. The resulting “bad science” not only fails to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter but also perpetuates misinformation and stigma.
However, as the global perspective on cannabis begins to shift, spurred by legalization movements and the burgeoning cannabis industry, the scientific community is also experiencing a paradigm shift. Researchers are increasingly exploring the myriad ways cannabis interacts with the human body and mind, delving into its therapeutic potentials and seeking to understand its role in lifestyle and wellness.
This transition from a harm-focused to a benefit-oriented approach in cannabis research represents a significant step towards unbiased scientific inquiry, paving the way for discoveries that could revolutionize our understanding of the plant.
A recent study serves as a prime example of what happens when the objective of research is realigned towards exploring the potential positives of cannabis use rather than exclusively hunting for negatives.
As Marijuana Moment first covered, this study, published in the journal Current Alzheimer Research, reveals a significant reduction in cognitive decline among non-medical cannabis users, challenging the long-held belief that cannabis invariably impairs cognition. Instead, the findings suggest that cannabis may offer protective benefits against cognitive decline, a notion that runs counter to the stereotype of the “dazed and confused” stoner.
This groundbreaking research not only highlights the importance of shifting the focus of cannabis studies but also underscores the necessity of embracing a more holistic approach to understanding this complex plant.
By examining the reasons why non-medical cannabis users may experience maintained or even enhanced cognitive function, the study opens new avenues for exploration and further challenges the stigma associated with cannabis use.
As we delve deeper into this study and its implications, it becomes clear that the narrative around cannabis is ripe for reevaluation, offering hope for a future where the full potential of this ancient plant is finally recognized and embraced.
This research, published in the journal Current Alzheimer Research, indicates that individuals who use cannabis recreationally reported significantly lower instances of subjective cognitive decline (SCD) compared to those who don’t use cannabis at all. Astonishingly, non-medical cannabis users were found to have a 96% decreased odds of experiencing SCD, a precursor to dementia, suggesting that THC’s effect on cognitive function might be more nuanced and possibly beneficial than previously thought.
The study, conducted by SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, analyzed health survey data from the 2021 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), focusing on respondents aged 45 years and older across various U.S. states and Washington D.C. It examined the association between cannabis use and SCD across three main variables: frequency of use, reason for use (medical, non-medical, or both), and the method of cannabis consumption (smoking, eating, drinking, vaporizing, dabbing, or other).
While the study provides compelling evidence that challenges the stigmatization of cannabis, it’s not without its potential issues. Primarily, the reliance on self-reported data introduces a degree of subjectivity that could affect the accuracy of the findings. Moreover, individuals in states where non-medical cannabis use remains illegal might underreport their usage, introducing bias. Additionally, the study did not differentiate findings based on geographic locations, where legalization might influence usage patterns and cognitive outcomes.
Despite these limitations, the research adds an important layer to the ongoing discussion about cannabis and cognitive health. If we are to give credence to other studies that use similar methodologies to link cannabis use with various health risks, it’s only fair that this study receives equal consideration. It prompts a reevaluation of the narrative surrounding cannabis and cognitive decline, suggesting that, under certain conditions, cannabis might play a protective role against cognitive impairments. This finding is particularly significant in light of past research that heavily focused on the negative cognitive impacts of heavy or long-term cannabis use, marking a pivotal moment in cannabis research that underscores the need for a more nuanced understanding of cannabis’s effects on the brain.
Recent revelations regarding cannabis and cognitive functionality introduce a compelling conversation about the underlying factors contributing to these unexpected outcomes.
The integration of THC and CBD’s neuroprotective properties signals a promising avenue for brain health, facilitating neural protection and encouraging the genesis of new neural pathways. This intrinsic capacity for neurogenesis hints at a complex interplay between cannabis components and brain health, suggesting a layer of protection against cognitive decline.
Moreover, the phenomenon of neuroplasticity, catalyzed by the influx of cannabinoids upon cannabis consumption, illuminates the dynamic adaptability of the brain.
This flood of cannabinoids ignites neural pathways, carving out novel modes of interaction and perception. Anecdotal experiences of enhanced sensory processing, such as the deepened appreciation of music, underscore the significant alterations in brain wiring and sensory engagement attributable to cannabis use.
Contrary to the stereotypical portrayal of cannabis users, empirical data unveils a demographic that is notably more active than their non-using counterparts. This demographic showcases lower body mass indices (BMIs) and a decreased propensity for illness.
This could be attributed to the supplementary role of phytocannabinoids in the endocannabinoid system. With a stark reduction in endogenous cannabinoid production post the age of 25, the phytocannabinoids derived from cannabis mirror the effects of endocannabinoids almost identically.
The assimilation of these phytocannabinoids can be likened to the intake of essential vitamins, sustaining the endocannabinoid system at its optimal functionality. The endocannabinoid system’s primary objective is to maintain homeostasis within the body, suggesting that a well-regulated system contributes significantly to overall physical and cognitive well-being.
These insights not only challenge prevailing narratives surrounding cannabis use but also illuminate the multifaceted benefits that cannabis may offer beyond mere recreational or medicinal use. They underscore the necessity for a nuanced understanding of cannabis’s interaction with cognitive health and physical activity, opening the door to further research and exploration into the protective and enhancing effects of cannabis on the human brain.
As we navigate through the evolving landscape of cannabis research and public perception, the imperative shift from a harm-centric view to one that embraces the potential benefits of cannabis becomes increasingly apparent.
For nearly half a century, the narrative surrounding cannabis has been disproportionately focused on identifying its harms, a quest that, while necessary for understanding, has overshadowed the myriad ways in which cannabis may actually contribute positively to our lives. Given the comparative analysis, cannabis emerges not only as benign but arguably as the safest drug on the planet, especially when juxtaposed against legal substances like alcohol and tobacco, which carry significant health risks and societal costs.
This realization beckons a broader, more inclusive approach to cannabis research, one that does not shy away from the plant’s complexities but instead seeks to uncover all facets of its interaction with human health and cognition.
The recent findings suggesting cannabis’s role in maintaining cognitive function among non-medical users represent just a glimpse of the untapped potential residing within this ancient plant. These insights challenge long-standing stereotypes and invite a reevaluation of cannabis not as a societal ill but as a potential ally in enhancing human health and well-being.
The time has come to liberate science from the constraints of prohibitionist policies that have stifled comprehensive research into cannabis.
By allowing science to proceed unencumbered, we can uncover evidence-based truths about cannabis, shedding light on both its benefits and its limitations. This balanced understanding is crucial for making informed decisions about cannabis use in our lives and for crafting policies that reflect the realities of cannabis rather than the shadows of stigma and fear.
MEDICAL STUDIES ON ALZEIMER’S AND WEED, READ ON..
MARIJUANA USE IS SLOWING THE ONSET OF ALZEIMER’S IN SOME GROUPS!
“How Long Does One Puff of Weed Stay in Your System?”… This topic can be difficult to answer since it is dependent on elements such as the size of the hit and what constitutes a “one hit.” If you take a large bong pull then cough, it might linger in your system for 5-7 days. A moderate dose from a joint can last 3-5 days, whereas a few hits from a vaporizer may last 1-3 days.
The length of time that marijuana stays in the body varies based on a number of factors, including metabolism, THC levels, frequency of use, and hydration.
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis. THC and its metabolites, which remain in your body long after the effects have subsided, are detected by drug tests.
Since these metabolites are fat-soluble, they cling to bodily fat molecules. They could thus take a while to fully pass through your system, particularly if your body fat percentage is higher.
THC is absorbed by tissues and organs (including the brain, heart, and fat) and converted by the liver into chemicals such as 11-hydroxy-THC and carboxy-THC. Cannabis is eliminated in feces at a rate of around 65%, while urine accounts for 20%. The leftover amount might be kept within the body.
THC deposited in bodily tissues ultimately re-enters the circulation and is processed by the liver. For frequent users, THC accumulates in fatty tissues quicker than it can be removed, thus it may be detectable in drug tests for days or weeks following consumption.
The detection time varies according to the amount and frequency of cannabis usage. Higher dosages and regular usage result in longer detection times.
The type of drug test also affects detection windows. Blood and saliva tests typically detect cannabis metabolites for shorter periods, while urine and hair samples can reveal use for weeks or even months. In some cases, hair tests have detected cannabis use over 90 days after consumption.
Detection Windows for Various Cannabis Drug Tests
Urine Tests
Among all drug tests, urine testing is the most commonly used method for screening for drug use in an individual.
Detection times vary, but a 2017 review suggests the following windows for cannabis in urine after last use:
– Single-use (e.g., one joint): up to 3 days
– Moderate use (around 4 times a week): 5–7 days
– Chronic use (daily): 10–15 days
– Chronic heavy use (multiple times daily): over 30 days
Blood Tests
Blood tests generally detect recent cannabis use, typically within 2–12 hours after consumption. However, in cases of heavy use, cannabis has been detected up to 30 days later. Chronic heavy use can extend the detection period in the bloodstream.
Saliva Tests
THC can enter saliva through secondhand cannabis smoke, but THC metabolites are only present if you’ve personally smoked or ingested cannabis.
Saliva testing has a short detection window and can sometimes identify cannabis use on the same day. A 2020 review found that THC was detectable in the saliva of frequent users for up to 72 hours after use, and it may remain in saliva longer than in blood following recent use.
In areas where cannabis is illegal, saliva testing is often used for roadside screenings.
Hair Tests
Hair follicle tests can detect cannabis use for up to 90 days. After use, cannabinoids reach the hair follicles through small blood vessels and from sebum and sweat surrounding the hair.
Hair grows at approximately 0.5 inches per month, so a 1.5-inch segment of hair close to the scalp can reveal cannabis use over the past three months.
Factors Affecting THC and Metabolite Retention
The length of time THC and its metabolites stay in your system depends on various factors. Some, like body mass index (BMI) and metabolic rate, relate to individual body processing, not the drug itself.
Other factors are specific to cannabis use, including:
– Dosage: How much you consume
– Frequency: How often you use cannabis
– Method of consumption: Smoking, dabbing, edibles, or sublingual
– THC potency: Higher potency can extend detection time
Higher doses and more frequent use generally extend THC retention. Cannabis consumed orally may remain in the system slightly longer than smoked cannabis, and stronger cannabis strains, higher in THC, may also stay detectable for a longer period.
How Quickly Do the Effects of Cannabis Set In?
When smoking cannabis, effects appear almost immediately, while ingested cannabis may take 1–3 hours to peak.
The psychoactive component THC produces a “high” with common effects such as:
– Altered senses, including perception of time
– Mood changes
– Difficulty with thinking and problem-solving
– Impaired memory
Other short-term effects can include:
– Anxiety and confusion
– Decreased coordination
– Dry mouth and eyes
– Nausea or lightheadedness
– Trouble focusing
– Increased appetite
– Rapid heart rate
– Restlessness and sleepiness
In rare cases, high doses may lead to hallucinations, delusions, or acute psychosis.
Regular cannabis use may have additional mental and physical effects. While research is ongoing, cannabis use may increase the risk of:
– Cognitive issues like memory loss
– Cardiovascular problems including heart disease and stroke
– Respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis or lung infections
– Mood disorders like depression and anxiety
Cannabis use during pregnancy can negatively impact fetal growth and development.
Duration of Effects
Short-term effects generally taper off within 1–3 hours, but for chronic users, some long-term effects may last days, weeks, or even months. Certain effects may even be permanent.
Bottom Line
The amount of time that cannabis remains in your system following a single use varies greatly depending on individual characteristics such as body fat, metabolism, frequency of use, and mode of intake. Frequent users may maintain traces of THC for weeks, whereas infrequent users may test positive for as little as a few days. Hair tests can disclose usage for up to 90 days, while blood and saliva tests identify more recent use. Urine tests are the most popular and have varying detection durations. The duration that THC and its metabolites are detectable will ultimately depend on a number of factors, including dose, strength, and individual body chemistry.
PEE IN A CUP COMING UP, READ ON..
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.
-
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.
-
Kratom’s main ingredients bind to opioid receptors very strongly, stronger than morphine even. This fact is key to understanding its effects.
-
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
-
Using kratom often, especially in large doses, can increase the risk of dependence and intense withdrawal symptoms, similar to opioid withdrawal.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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…
Webinar Replay: Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em
I Had Just One Puff
Marijuana firms Eaze, Green Dragon find new life after $10 million capital infusion
Get some rest on Modified Grapes—November’s Leafly HighLight
Is Kratom Addictive? Understanding Dependence, Risks, and Safe Usage
New Rule, December 5: Oregon Cannabis Retailers, Processors and Labor Peace Agreements
The CBD Dog Treat Guide
Trippin’ Golf Balls – Can Magic Mushrooms Help Your Golf Game?
Australian Broadcasting Corp Alleges Military Veterans Have Been Targeted By Medicinal Cannabis Companies Via Social Media & Offered Free “Product”
Medical Marijuana Passed in 106 out of 106 Counties and Cities in What State? A. Florida B. Kentucky C. Ohio D. North Dakota
Distressed Cannabis Business Takeaways – Canna Law Blog™
United States: Alex Malyshev And Melinda Fellner Discuss The Intersection Of Tax And Cannabis In New Video Series – Part VI: Licensing (Video)
What you Need to Know
Drug Testing for Marijuana – The Joint Blog
NCIA Write About Their Equity Scholarship Program
It has been a wild news week – here’s how CBD and weed can help you relax
Cannabis, alcohol firm SNDL loses CA$372.4 million in 2022
A new April 20 cannabis contest includes a $40,000 purse
Your Go-To Source for Cannabis Logos and Designs
City Of Oakland Issues RFP For Employee Training Programs
-
Cannabis News2 years agoDistressed Cannabis Business Takeaways – Canna Law Blog™
-
One-Hit Wonders2 years agoUnited States: Alex Malyshev And Melinda Fellner Discuss The Intersection Of Tax And Cannabis In New Video Series – Part VI: Licensing (Video)
-
Cannabis 1012 years agoWhat you Need to Know
-
drug testing11 months agoDrug Testing for Marijuana – The Joint Blog
-
Education2 years agoNCIA Write About Their Equity Scholarship Program
-
Cannabis2 years agoIt has been a wild news week – here’s how CBD and weed can help you relax
-
Marijuana Business Daily2 years agoCannabis, alcohol firm SNDL loses CA$372.4 million in 2022
-
California2 years agoA new April 20 cannabis contest includes a $40,000 purse