Cannabis News
Cannabis Terpenes as Effective as Morphine without the Addiction Potential Says New Medical Study
Cannabis Terpenes as Effective as Morphine
As a passionate advocate for the therapeutic potential of cannabis, I know firsthand the tremendous relief it can provide for a wide range of medical conditions. In fact, chronic pain is consistently cited as the number one reason people turn to medical cannabis for help. This is incredibly good news, especially considering the devastating toll that opioids take on our society, claiming over 80,000 lives each year in the U.S. alone. Having a safer, non-addictive alternative like cannabis could potentially save countless lives.
Fortunately, a groundbreaking new study has revealed that cannabis terpenes, the aromatic compounds that give different strains their distinctive smells and flavors, are as effective as morphine when it comes to treating pain in animal models. Even more promising, the terpenes appeared to enhance morphine’s analgesic effects when used in combination, while avoiding the euphoria and addiction potential of opioids on their own.
In this article, we’re going to take a deep dive into the details of this fascinating study to better understand the remarkable potential of cannabis terpenes for treating chronic pain. We’ll explore the specific terpenes evaluated, their mechanisms of action, optimal routes of administration, and what implications the findings may have for the future of pain management. By unpacking the wealth of information contained in this research, we can gain valuable insights into how terpenes and other minor constituents of cannabis may help unlock the plant’s full therapeutic potential.
Every year, tens of thousands of lives are tragically lost to drug overdoses in the United States. While illegal drugs certainly play a role, a closer look at the data reveals a disturbing truth: prescription opioids are actually the leading cause of these overdose deaths. In 2022 alone, a staggering 81,806 overdose deaths involved opioids, with synthetic opioids like fentanyl being the primary driver behind this crisis.
The overprescription of powerful painkillers like oxycodone (OxyContin) and hydrocodone (Vicodin) by pharmaceutical companies and doctors is directly fueling this epidemic. Since being granted a virtual monopoly on drug manufacturing, distribution, and research under the Controlled Substances Act of 1971 signed by President Nixon, Big Pharma has engaged in unethical and aggressive marketing tactics to boost profits at the expense of public health. By downplaying the risks of addiction and overstating the benefits of long-term opioid use for chronic pain, they’ve helped create a nation of accidental addicts.
The statistics paint a grim picture. In 2022, prescription opioids were involved in 14,716 overdose deaths. For many, the path to addiction began with a legitimate prescription for acute pain or surgery recovery. But as their bodies developed a dependence and doctors became more reluctant to continue prescribing high doses, these patients were left to seek out illicit alternatives like heroin and fentanyl on the streets. In fact, nearly 80% of overdose deaths involving heroin in 2022 also involved synthetic opioids like fentanyl, illustrating how prescription opioid addiction often progresses to more dangerous substances.
Pharmaceutical giants like Purdue Pharma, owned by the notorious Sackler family, have faced numerous lawsuits over their role in the opioid crisis. They’ve been accused of using misleading marketing, downplaying addiction risks, and incentivizing doctors to prescribe more opioids. Other companies like Pfizer have a long history of putting profits over patient safety. From 1991-2017, Pfizer was fined $4.7 billion for wrongdoing, settling criminal and civil allegations that included illegal marketing of drugs and defrauding the state Medicaid programs.
Meanwhile, the federal government continues to classify cannabis as a Schedule I drug with “no accepted medical use,” despite its proven potential to treat chronic pain and reduce opioid use. This stance conveniently protects the profits of pharmaceutical companies who view cannabis as a threat to their bottom line. By denying patients access to a safer, non-addictive alternative, they ensure a steady stream of customers for their deadly opioids.
The opioid epidemic is a tragic example of what happens when we prioritize corporate greed over public health. It’s time to hold Big Pharma accountable for the devastation they’ve caused and demand a new approach to pain management that includes cannabis and other non-opioid alternatives. Only then can we begin to reverse this deadly trend and save countless lives from being needlessly lost to prescription drug abuse.
As the opioid epidemic continues to claim lives at an alarming rate, researchers are desperately searching for safer alternatives to manage chronic pain. A groundbreaking new study has revealed that cannabis terpenes, the aromatic compounds that give the plant its distinctive smell, may hold the key to unlocking a powerful, non-addictive pain reliever.
The study, published in the journal PAIN, found that certain cannabis terpenes were as effective as morphine in reducing markers of pain in mice. When injected, terpenes like beta-caryophyllene and geraniol produced pain relief comparable to a moderate dose of morphine, without any signs of reward or addiction potential. Even more promising, combining low doses of terpenes with morphine enhanced its pain-relieving effects, suggesting a potential for combination therapy that could reduce the risk of opioid dependence.
Interestingly, the route of administration played a crucial role in the terpenes’ effectiveness. While injection produced significant pain relief, oral administration and inhalation had little to no effect on pain markers. This could be due to differences in bioavailability or metabolism when terpenes are ingested or inhaled compared to direct injection.
The implications of this research are profound. If cannabis terpenes can be harnessed as an effective pain treatment, it could provide a much-needed alternative to opioids and help curb the addiction epidemic. However, the pharmaceutical industry and government regulators seem intent on maintaining control over cannabis rather than making it widely accessible.
The DEA’s recent proposal to move cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III may seem like a step in the right direction, but it actually allows Big Pharma to monopolize the medicinal cannabis market. By keeping it a controlled substance, they ensure that only FDA-approved, patented medications derived from cannabis will be legally available. This shuts out whole-plant medicine and denies patients access to the full spectrum of beneficial compounds in cannabis, including terpenes.
To truly unleash the potential of cannabis as a pain treatment, we need to push for full legalization and reject attempts by the pharmaceutical industry to co-opt this versatile plant. Only then can patients and doctors freely explore the most effective ways to harness its therapeutic properties, whether through isolated terpenes, whole-plant extracts, or personalized combinations tailored to individual needs.
Every day, the opioid epidemic claims more lives, tearing families apart and devastating communities across the country. At the heart of this crisis are synthetic opioids like fentanyl, which have flooded the illicit drug market and dramatically increased the risk of overdose deaths. But why are these deadly substances so readily available? The answer lies in the failed policy of drug prohibition.
As cannabis legalization has gained momentum in recent years, drug cartels have shifted their focus to more potent and profitable substances like fentanyl. It’s easier to smuggle, harder to detect, and creates a powerful addiction that keeps customers coming back. Prohibition has not only failed to curb drug use, but it has actually made the problem worse by driving the market underground and into the hands of dangerous criminal organizations.
Meanwhile, a safer alternative has been staring us in the face all along: cannabis. This versatile plant has proven to be an effective pain reliever with a much lower risk of addiction and virtually no risk of overdose. The recent discovery that cannabis terpenes can rival the pain-relieving effects of morphine without the same addiction potential is a game-changer. It offers hope for a future where patients can manage chronic pain without the fear of becoming dependent on dangerous opioids.
But instead of embracing this natural solution, the government seems intent on maintaining tight control over cannabis. The DEA’s proposal to reschedule cannabis to Schedule III is nothing more than a cynical attempt to appease the pharmaceutical industry. It would allow them to monopolize the medicinal cannabis market with patented, FDA-approved medications while shutting out whole-plant medicine and denying patients access to the full spectrum of beneficial compounds in the plant.
This move is a slap in the face to the countless individuals and families who have suffered under the opioid epidemic and the failed war on drugs. It’s a reminder that our current drug policies are not based on science, compassion, or public health, but rather on profits and political expediency.
As voters and citizens, we must demand a new approach. We need to question whether prohibition is truly the answer, or if it’s time to rethink our entire strategy for dealing with drugs in society. How many breakthroughs like the discovery of terpenes’ pain-relieving properties have we missed out on because of the strict barriers to cannabis research? How many lives could have been saved if we had prioritized harm reduction and evidence-based policies over punishment and stigma?
The Sticky Bottom Line
The sticky bottom line is that our current approach to drugs is broken, and it’s costing us far too many lives. We need bold, compassionate leadership that is willing to challenge the status quo and put people’s health and well-being first. The next time you head to the ballot box, think about the lives lost to the opioid epidemic, the potential of cannabis as a safer alternative, and the urgent need for change. Together, we can build a future where substance use is treated as a public health issue, not a criminal one, and where everyone has access to the care and support they need to thrive.
CANNABIS AND OPIOIDS WORKING TOGETHER? READ ON…
Cannabis News
Latest Trump Weed Rumor – Trump Will Federally Deschedule and Decriminalize Cannabis, but Not Legalize It
In a recent interview, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie made headlines by asserting that President-elect Donald Trump will pursue significant reforms in federal policies regarding marijuana and cryptocurrency. As the nation grapples with evolving attitudes toward cannabis and the burgeoning digital currency market, Christie’s predictions have ignited discussions about the potential implications of such changes on both industries. This article delves into Christie’s insights, the current state of marijuana and cryptocurrency regulations, and the broader implications of these anticipated reforms.
The Current Landscape of Marijuana Legislation
Federal vs. State Laws
Marijuana remains classified as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), which places it in the same category as heroin and LSD. This classification has created a complex legal landscape where states have moved to legalize cannabis for medical and recreational use, while federal law continues to impose strict prohibitions. As of now, over 30 states have legalized marijuana in some form, leading to a burgeoning industry that generates billions in revenue.
Challenges Faced by the Cannabis Industry
Despite its legality in many states, the cannabis industry faces significant hurdles due to federal restrictions. These challenges include:
-
Banking Access: Many banks are hesitant to work with cannabis businesses due to fear of federal repercussions, forcing these businesses to operate largely in cash.
-
Taxation Issues: The IRS enforces Section 280E of the tax code, which prohibits businesses engaged in illegal activities from deducting normal business expenses, leading to disproportionately high tax burdens for cannabis companies.
-
Interstate Commerce: The lack of federal legalization prevents cannabis businesses from operating across state lines, limiting their growth potential.
Chris Christie’s Perspective on Marijuana Reform
Christie, a former presidential candidate known for his tough stance on drugs during his tenure as governor, has evolved his views on marijuana over the years. In his recent statements, he emphasized that Trump is likely to pursue descheduling cannabis, which would remove it from the Schedule I classification. This move would not only provide clarity for businesses operating in legal markets but also open avenues for banking and investment.
Christie highlighted that descheduling would allow for a more regulated market where safety standards could be established, thus protecting consumers. He believes that this approach aligns with a growing consensus among Americans who support legalization and recognize the potential benefits of cannabis use for both medical and recreational purposes.
The Future of Cryptocurrency Regulation = The Rise of Cryptocurrencies
Cryptocurrencies have surged in popularity over the past decade, with Bitcoin leading the charge as the first decentralized digital currency. The market has expanded to include thousands of alternative coins (altcoins), each with unique features and use cases. As cryptocurrencies gain traction among investors and consumers alike, regulatory scrutiny has intensified.
Current Regulatory Challenges
The cryptocurrency market faces several regulatory challenges that hinder its growth and adoption:
-
Lack of Clarity: Regulatory frameworks vary significantly across states and countries, creating confusion for investors and businesses.
-
Fraud and Scams: The rapid growth of cryptocurrencies has led to an increase in fraudulent schemes targeting unsuspecting investors.
-
Consumer Protection: Without clear regulations, consumers are often left vulnerable to risks associated with volatile markets.
Christie’s Vision for Crypto Regulation
Christie believes that under Trump’s leadership, there will be an effort to find a “sweet spot” for cryptocurrency regulation balancing innovation with consumer protection. He argues that overly stringent regulations could stifle growth in this emerging sector while too little oversight could expose consumers to significant risks.
In his view, a balanced regulatory framework would include:
1. Clear Definitions: Establishing clear definitions for different types of cryptocurrencies and tokens to differentiate between securities and utility tokens.
2. Consumer Protections: Implementing measures to protect investors from fraud while promoting transparency within the market.
3. Encouraging Innovation: Creating an environment conducive to innovation by allowing startups to thrive without excessive regulatory burdens.
Christie’s insights reflect a growing recognition among policymakers that cryptocurrencies are here to stay and that appropriate regulations are necessary to foster growth while safeguarding consumers.
Implications of Proposed Reforms
Economic Impact
The potential reforms proposed by Christie could have far-reaching economic implications:
-
Job Creation: Legalizing marijuana at the federal level could lead to significant job creation within the cannabis industry—from cultivation and production to retail sales.
-
Investment Opportunities: Descheduling cannabis would open up investment opportunities for institutional investors who have been hesitant due to federal restrictions.
-
Boosting Local Economies: Legal cannabis markets have proven beneficial for local economies through increased tax revenues and job creation.
Similarly, clear regulations around cryptocurrencies could stimulate investment in blockchain technology and related industries, fostering innovation and economic growth.
Social Justice Considerations
Both marijuana legalization and sensible cryptocurrency regulations have social justice implications:
-
Addressing Past Injustices: Legalizing marijuana could help rectify past injustices related to drug enforcement policies that disproportionately affected marginalized communities.
-
Financial Inclusion: Cryptocurrencies offer opportunities for financial inclusion for those underserved by traditional banking systems, particularly in low-income communities.
Political Landscape
The political landscape surrounding these issues is complex. While there is bipartisan support for marijuana reform among certain lawmakers, challenges remain in overcoming entrenched opposition. Similarly, cryptocurrency regulation has garnered attention from both sides of the aisle but requires collaboration to establish effective frameworks.
Conclusion
Chris Christie’s predictions about President-elect Donald Trump’s approach to federal marijuana descheduling and cryptocurrency regulation suggest a potential shift in U.S. policy that could significantly reshape both industries. As public opinion evolves on these issues, lawmakers have an opportunity to enact meaningful reforms that promote economic growth while ensuring consumer protection. The anticipated changes could foster a more robust cannabis industry that contributes positively to the economy and addresses social justice concerns, while clear regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrencies could encourage innovation and protect consumers in the digital economy. Stakeholders in both sectors are closely watching these developments, eager to see how potential reforms might impact their futures. While the realization of Christie’s predictions remains uncertain, it’s clear that the conversation around marijuana and cryptocurrency regulation is ongoing and far from settled.
TRUMP 2.0 ON CANNABIS REFORM, READ ON…
TRUMP 2.0 ON FEDERAL CANNABIS REFORM – WHAT DO WE KNOW?
“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..
Latest Trump Weed Rumor – Trump Will Federally Deschedule and Decriminalize Cannabis, but Not Legalize It
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”
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
UArizona launches online cannabis compliance online course
-
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