Cannabis News
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A noteworthy milestone has been reached by First Citizens Bank, the largest bank known to interact with the cannabis sector. First Citizens firm is one of the top 20 largest banks in the United States, with assets over $200 billion. The firm recently announced its foray into the cannabis market.
This action is considered to be a major advancement for the cannabis sector, illustrating its ongoing trend of receiving finance and support from the general population.
In a statement published on the company website on January 12, 2024, First Citizens firm revealed the news. The bank said it planned to expand into the broader cannabis sector using its robust hemp/CBD platform in the remark. With the cannabis sector emerging from the shadows and into the sunlight in reputable business endeavors, the bank’s grasp of the industry’s bright economic future is demonstrated by this smart decision.
Per the First Citizens Bank website on cannabis and hemp services”
As one of the few hemp- and cannabis-friendly banks of its size in the US, First Citizens has invested heavily in compliance. To reduce the risk of interrupted banking services for its cannabis and hemp industry clients, the bank conducts a thorough vetting process before a client is onboarded. It also conducts periodic reviews to ensure each client is compliant with any new industry regulations.
“Most financial institutions haven’t invested in a properly trained cannabis compliance team that’s capable of keeping up with the constantly evolving regulatory environment,” Palmquest explains.
In addition to improving account stability, the bank’s compliance-focused approach enables them to fundamental services like business credit cards, lines of credit, merchant services and equipment financing—essential products that most hemp and cannabis companies struggle to access.
First Citizens Bank’s foray into the cannabis market not only validates the financial viability of the industry but also serves as a guiding light for other financial institutions. It is expected that this move will encourage more banks, both large and small, to explore providing services to cannabis enterprises. This forecast aligns with earlier indications from industry pundits, who have suggested that the financial sector would gravitate towards the cannabis market as it continues to expand and integrate further into mainstream commerce.
First Citizens Bank’s decision is significant in ways that go well beyond simply giving cannabis companies more access to financial services. It contributes to the further legalization and de-stigmatization of the cannabis business by reflecting a larger cultural and economic shift in attitudes about it. This change is critical to the industry’s ongoing efforts to achieve more favorable public perception and regulatory circumstances.
Furthermore, First Citizens Bank’s proactive stance is poised to inspire other financial institutions that have hesitated to venture into the cannabis market. The bank’s involvement in the Institutional Cannabis Lenders Community (ICLC), a non-profit trade association catering to institutional participants in the cannabis credit markets, underscores its dedication to shaping the landscape of cannabis financing. Through the ICLC, members gain access to shared resources, opportunities, and programming concerning critical issues and emerging best practices in cannabis financing.
This is a very obvious sign of how the cannabis industry is developing and how the banking sector is beginning to welcome more and more cannabis-related businesses. More banks will follow First Citizens Bank’s example, and this will lead to more industry access to financial services—a necessity for the sector’s continued expansion and advancement.
Breaking Barriers and Setting Precedents
A significant turning point in the development of the financial and cannabis industries has been reached by First Citizens Bank’s audacious entry into the market. It establishes a standard for other banks to follow as it is the biggest bank to enter this market. This choice indicates the industry’s potential for economic growth as well as the way that views regarding cannabis are changing in society.
The presence of a large financial institution like this indicates a significant shift in the way mainstream commerce regards cannabis-related businesses. It paves the way for broader inclusion into the formal sector while also providing these companies respectability.
Furthermore, First Citizens Bank’s strategic foray into the cannabis business highlights the significance of agility in a rapidly changing financial world. By grasping the potential given by the booming cannabis business, the bank places itself at the forefront of innovation, poised to profit from emerging markets and customer preferences.
As other financial institutions observe this milestone, they may feel compelled to reassess their own stance on engaging with the cannabis industry. This could spark a domino effect, leading to broader acceptance and support from the banking sector, ultimately driving further growth and normalization within the cannabis industry.
Challenges and Opportunities for Financial Institutions
Entering the cannabis business confronts financial institutions with a distinct mix of regulatory obstacles and opportunities. While the market has enormous potential, banks must traverse complicated regulatory frameworks and compliance requirements to ensure their involvement is ethical and sustainable.
One of the most significant challenges for financial institutions is balancing federal and state cannabis legislation. Despite rising state-level legalization, cannabis remains illegal on a federal level in the United States. This creates a legal gray area in which banks must carefully navigate to avoid potential consequences such as violating anti-money laundering legislation or violating federal banking rules.
Reliability in the financial infrastructure of the cannabis sector has also been hindered by the lack of clarity regarding banking services for cannabis enterprises. Due to traditional financial institutions’ unwillingness to work with them, many cannabis entrepreneurs find it difficult to get basic banking services like company accounts and loans.
Nonetheless, financial institutions who are prepared to enter the cannabis sector will find plenty of opportunities despite these difficulties. Banks may become dependable partners in the sector by taking early steps to resolve regulatory issues and putting strong compliance systems in place.
Moreover, the increasing societal and political acceptance of cannabis suggests that future regulatory frameworks may need to adjust to better accommodate the needs of financial institutions as well as cannabis businesses. Early entrants into the cannabis market have the power to alter the regulatory landscape and position themselves as leaders in the sector.
Ultimately, financial institutions, regulators, and industry stakeholders must work together with consideration, diligence, and cooperation to successfully navigate the regulatory seas surrounding the cannabis sector. Banks can fully utilize the promise of the cannabis sector while preserving the integrity and stability of the financial system by addressing these challenges head-on.
Bottom Line
First Citizens Bank’s bold leap into the cannabis industry not only signifies a monumental shift in the financial landscape but also underscores the growing acceptance and economic potential of the cannabis sector. As the largest bank to enter this market, its decision sets a precedent for others to follow, signaling a broader societal shift towards destigmatization and normalization. However, this move also presents formidable regulatory challenges for financial institutions, necessitating careful navigation of complex legal frameworks. Despite these hurdles, the burgeoning cannabis market offers unprecedented opportunities for growth and innovation, with early adopters poised to shape the future of cannabis finance while driving positive change in both industry and society.
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“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.
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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.
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