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Cannabis in Germany 2024: Why 60% Still Use Illegal Sources?

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As the legalization of medical cannabis advances, the 2024 Cannabis Barometer from Bloomwell reveals critical insights into the cannabis landscape in Germany. The survey, which involved over 1,000 participants, shows that although 94.4% of respondents use cannabis for health reasons, nearly 60% still resort to illegal sources. Additionally, social stigma and limited access to cannabis-trained doctors remain significant barriers. Despite regulatory improvements, patients continue to face challenges in obtaining safe and legal cannabis.

The State of Cannabis in Germany: Key Findings from the 2024 Survey:

Widespread Use for Medical Purposes
A staggering 94.4% of respondents reported using cannabis to address health concerns such as chronic pain, stress, and sleep disorders. This underscores the importance of cannabis as a therapeutic option, with many users seeking to reduce reliance on traditional pharmaceuticals. For instance, 20% of patients reported being able to reduce or eliminate other medications due to cannabis use.

Continued Reliance on Illegal Sources
Despite legal advances, the majority of cannabis users still purchase from illegal markets, citing cost barriers and difficulties in accessing medical cannabis. Only 10% of participants obtained cannabis solely through legal channels, and more than 26% had purchased contaminated or low-quality cannabis on the black market, raising serious health concerns.

Stigma and Misunderstanding
Many respondents feel socially stigmatized due to their cannabis use, with 77% reporting negative societal attitudes. This stigma contributes to the persistence of illegal cannabis use, as patients fear being judged by healthcare providers and society. Interestingly, the survey dispels the notion that cannabis is primarily used by men; women accounted for 41% of users.

Telemedicine as a Solution
Access to cannabis-friendly doctors remains a hurdle, with 92% of respondents supporting the use of telemedicine as a safer, more convenient way to receive treatment. The demand for digital health services has skyrocketed, with patients eager for a streamlined process of receiving prescriptions and delivery from pharmacies.

Regional and Demographic Trends
The survey highlighted regional variations in cannabis use, with North Rhine-Westphalia and Bavaria showing the highest rates of consumption. Additionally, the data revealed that cannabis use is not restricted to younger people; 28% of users were between the ages of 31-40, and another 28% were aged 22-30.

    Challenges in Accessing Legal Cannabis

    Germany’s medical cannabis system, despite legal improvements, has failed to keep pace with patient demand. A significant portion of patients are still without access to physicians knowledgeable in cannabis therapies, forcing many to turn to illegal sources. This gap in healthcare is further exacerbated by doctors’ reluctance to prescribe cannabis due to lingering stigmas and a lack of education about its medical uses.

    Patients who rely on medical cannabis also face economic barriers. The survey revealed that a large number of users simply cannot afford the high cost of legally prescribed cannabis, which is often not fully covered by insurance. This drives many to the black market, despite concerns over quality and safety.

    Cannabis in Germany 2024
    Cannabis in Germany 2024

    Addressing Stigma and Misinformation

    Stigma remains one of the largest hurdles for medical cannabis patients in Germany. According to the survey, 77% of patients feel judged by society for their cannabis use, even though the vast majority use it for legitimate medical reasons. This negative perception often prevents patients from discussing their cannabis use with doctors, which can lead to unsafe consumption practices or ineffective treatment plans.

    Addressing stigma will require a multi-faceted approach, including public education campaigns to inform the public about the legitimate medical uses of cannabis and its potential to improve quality of life. The medical community also needs to be more proactive in normalizing cannabis treatments, offering patients a stigma-free environment to discuss their needs.

    The Growing Role of Telemedicine

    Telemedicine presents a promising solution to many of the access issues facing medical cannabis patients in Germany. With 92% of respondents supporting telemedicine for cannabis prescriptions, there is a clear demand for more flexible, patient-friendly healthcare solutions. Telemedicine can bridge the gap for those living in areas where cannabis-friendly doctors are scarce, offering consultations and prescriptions through digital platforms.

    Moreover, telemedicine aligns with the modern patient’s preference for convenience and privacy, making it an attractive option for those seeking cannabis treatments without the fear of social judgment.

    Policy Recommendations and the Path Forward

    The Cannabis Barometer data highlights several key areas where policy improvements are needed:

    1. Increase Education for Healthcare Providers: More doctors need comprehensive training on cannabis therapies to better meet the growing demand. This will reduce the number of patients turning to illegal sources.
    2. Tackle Stigma through Public Campaigns: Education campaigns targeting both the public and the medical community can help reduce the stigma surrounding cannabis use, encouraging safer and more transparent patient-doctor communication.
    3. Improve Access through Telemedicine: Telemedicine should be further integrated into the healthcare system, especially in rural areas where access to cannabis-friendly physicians is limited.
    4. Ensure Affordability of Legal Cannabis: Financial barriers to accessing medical cannabis need to be addressed, possibly through better insurance coverage or government subsidies to prevent patients from resorting to the black market.

    Conclusion

    The 2024 Cannabis Barometer survey sheds light on the complex landscape of medical cannabis use in Germany. While legalization has paved the way for improved access, significant barriers remain in the form of stigma, high costs, and limited healthcare access. Addressing these issues through policy reform, public education, and expanding telemedicine will be crucial in ensuring that cannabis can be safely and effectively used by the people who need it most.



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Can CBD Provide Some Foot Pain Relief

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It hobbles millions – but CBD could be step in the right direction for foot pain.

Roughly 75% of people suffer some type of foot pain at some point. But can CBD provide some foot pain relief? Foot pain can be debilitating, affecting daily activities and overall quality of life. Conditions like gout, plantar fasciitis, neuroma, neuropathy, and metatarsalgia are common causes of foot discomfort. While traditional treatments often come with side effects, CBD oil has emerged as a promising alternative for managing foot pain. Here’s why CBD is gaining attention for its potential benefits in alleviating foot-related issues.

RELAETD: Is GERD Helped By Cannabis

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce intoxicating effects, making it a safe option for those seeking pain relief without altering their mental state. CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a crucial role in regulating pain, inflammation, and mood.
Photo by 2H Media via Unsplash

CBD has been shown to reduce inflammation, a key factor in many foot pain conditions. By minimizing swelling and redness, CBD can help alleviate discomfort associated with conditions like gout and plantar fasciitis.

CBD’s ability to modulate pain perception makes it effective for managing chronic pain. It can increase levels of anandamide, a compound associated with pain regulation, potentially reducing pain perception.

For conditions like neuropathy, where nerve damage leads to pain, CBD’s neuroprotective qualities can help mitigate symptoms. It may reduce neuropathic pain by interacting with receptors in the nervous system.

CBD products come in various forms, including topical creams, gels, and oils, which can be applied directly to the affected area. This localized application avoids systemic side effects and ensures targeted relief.

While more research is needed to fully understand CBD’s effects on chronic pain, existing studies suggest it is generally safe and well-tolerated. Common side effects are mild and include fatigue, decreased appetite, and dry mouth. The FDA has not approved CBD for pain management, but it is approved for certain epilepsy conditions, indicating its potential therapeutic benefits. As research continues to uncover the full potential of CBD, it may become a valuable tool in the arsenal against foot pain, providing comfort and improving quality of life for many.



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5 Ideas To Have A Fun Single’s Valentine’s Day

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Valentine’s Day is considered a big night for couples – but if you are single, it can be tough…here are some ways to make it fun

It is day of love, candy, silliness and more….but for some, it is a tough day emotionally. It is one of the busiest restaurant days and flowers and candy abound everywhere you look. But what if you are single or taking a break for the big night.  Just because you are single, doesn’t mean you have to hide, rather it gives the chance to do something special for yourself.  Here are 5 ideas on having a fun single’s Valentine’s Day.

RELATED: Science Says Medical Marijuana Improves Quality Of Life

Gather your closest and/or your most fun friends and celebrate with a Guy/Galentine’s Day party. This can be a fun way to spend time with people you love and appreciate. You can play games, share snacks, and enjoy each other’s company without the pressure of romantic expectations. It’s a great way to remind yourself that you’re never truly alone on Valentine’s Day.

Treat yourself to a day of pampering. Book a spa appointment or create your own DIY spa day at home with face masks, bubble baths, and your favorite music. Self-care is essential for mental and physical well-being, and Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to prioritize it. Whether it’s a relaxing bath or a rejuvenating facial, make sure you feel loved and cared for by yourself.

Chill out with cannabis and let your body relax.  Watch a movie or lose yourself in music. marijuana taps into our minds in all sorts of ways, many of which seem to positively influence how we perceive things, including music. It also accesses a special neurotransmitter system, the endocannabinoid system, which regulates appetite, pain, mood and memory. The way the plant activates this system explains a lot of the unique effects. The THC in marijuana can increase dopamine release in the brain’s reward centers, leading to feelings of pleasure and euphoria.

Indulge in hobbies or interests. It can a be a chance to spend time iwth a new or existing activity you love, but might night share with others. Whether it’s gaming, cooking, or learning a new language, stepping out of your comfort zone can be incredibly rewarding. You might discover a new passion or talent, and it’s a great way to keep your day exciting and productive

Sometimes, the best way to celebrate Valentine’s Day is by taking a solo trip or exploring new places in your city. Whether it’s hiking a scenic trail, visiting a local museum, or trying a new restaurant, getting out and experiencing new things can be incredibly liberating. It’s a chance to focus on yourself and enjoy and discover new things.



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The Best Marijuana Strains For Valentine’s Day

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It is the day for lovers and/or friends…make it a little extra special with these love strains.

Friday is Valentine’s Day, one of the most fraught emotional days of the year. It is one of hte business days of hte year for restaurants, second only to Mother’s Day.  It is also given rise for singles to celebrate including the new trends of Galentine’s Day.

Candy, chocolate, and sweets are a top choice for Valentine’s Day gifts. In 2018, 63% of consumers bought candy for Valentine’s Day, but this year think outside the heart shaped box.  Here are the best marijuana strains for Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re looking to enhance intimacy, boost creativity, or simply relax with your partner, there are numerous marijuana strains which can help set the mood. 

RELATED: Couples Using Cannabis Can Increase Intimacy

When selecting a strain for Valentine’s Day, consider the desired effects and your partner’s preferences. Sativa-dominant strains like Lemonatti and Rainbow can enhance energy and creativity, while indica-leaning strains like Pineapple God and Sugar Black Rose offer relaxation. Balanced hybrids like Cereal Milk and Red Velvet provide a mix of both, making them versatile choices for any romantic evening.

Love Potion

This Sativa-dominant strain is known for its arousing effects. Love Potion enhances focus and energizes the mind, making it perfect for foreplay and deep conversations.

Lemonatti

This sativa-dominant hybrid offers a sophisticated blend of uplifting and relaxing effects, with THC levels ranging from 21-28%. Its energizing properties make it ideal for a lively (wink wink) Valentine’s evening.

Alien Cookies

This hybrid strikes a balance between relaxation and euphoria, creating a cozy atmosphere while setting the mood for connection.

Rainbow

This Uplifting strain has bright and is full of flavor, Rainbow is great for couples seeking a lighthearted, adventurous Valentine’s Day experience.

Pineapple God

This Indica-leaning is perfect for a relaxing evening, offering a stunning visual display of sticky green, pink, and purple buds. If you are spending the evening alone, this can put you in a great mood.

RELATED: The Best Tips To Up Your Intimacy Game While High

Donny Burger

This Indica is ideal for winding down after a romantic evening, providing full-body relaxation effects perfect for cuddling.

Sugar Black Rose

This Indica offers a deeply relaxing experience with a sweet, fruity aroma, making it a beautiful gift for Valentine’s Day.

GG4 Sherbet FF

This energizing strain boosts energy and creativity, perfect for romantic moments and enhancing intimacy.

Cereal Milk

This balanced hybrid promotes creativity and sensory exploration, with a sweet, dessert-like flavor that pairs well with romantic treats….could be a big winner.

Create a cozy atmosphere with dim lighting and soft music and enjoy the cannabis alongside romantic treats like chocolates or desserts.  Avoid alcohol since combining marijuana and booze my not provide the right atmosphere.

 



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