Cannabis News
How Did We Get in This Delta-8, Delta-9, Legal, Illegal, Legal, Illegal Mess to Begin With?
The significant impact of legalizing hemp on our perception of cannabis lies in how it established the definition of hemp. While hemp and cannabis share the exact botanical origin, the 2018 Farm Bill introduced a stringent criterion to differentiate between the two. It set a threshold of 0.3% THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) content, designating plants with less than 0.3% THC as legal hemp and those surpassing this limit as federally illegal cannabis plants.
Cannabis.net called this shot before the homerun in an article called, “Under 0.3% THC by Net Weight Just Created the Biggest Loophole in Drug Law History” back in August of 2022. The devil was in the details as they say with the 2018 Farm Bill facts.
THC is just one of the numerous chemical components in the cannabis plant. The Farm Bill’s focus on THC content sparked interest in another cannabinoid, CBD (cannabidiol). This CBD craze reached remarkable heights, with CBD products appearing in various forms, from CBD-infused blue jeans to radio advertisements sounding like enthusiastic Monster Truck rallies.
Although the CBD frenzy may have peaked, it is unlikely to disappear completely. Obtaining some medicinal benefits associated with cannabis without experiencing the “high” linked to THC remains appealing to many individuals.
CBD certainly holds significant medical promise, as recognized by experts like Raphael Mechoulam, the Israeli chemist who initially identified THC. Mechoulam’s investigation into the potential impact of CBD on bone density, particularly for conditions like osteoarthritis, is a notable illustration of the increasing enthusiasm surrounding the medical utility of this cannabinoid.
His groundbreaking contributions to cannabis research emphasize the significance of comprehending the active components in cannabis and their connection to our endocannabinoid system. This insight hints at the transformative potential of such knowledge within modern medicine.
However, the issue arises when CBD is indiscriminately added to various products, even those like fried tater-tots, which may not necessarily be the “healthy” choices they’re portrayed to be. Mechoulam also advocated for the entourage effect, a concept explained by cannabis scientist Ethan Russo, which highlights that the full therapeutic potential of cannabis is best harnessed when its various chemical components work synergistically rather than in isolation.
An essential subtlety in the discourse surrounding the medical advantages of CBD revolves around the absence of proper regulation within the CBD industry. This situation implies that a product that contains a specific CBD quantity, like 10 mg, might, in reality, contain no CBD whatsoever.
A study carried out in 2022 demonstrated that almost half of the examined CBD products had inaccurate labeling, emphasizing the imperative for enhanced regulatory measures and improved quality control within the CBD market.
The Emergence of CBD and Then Delta-8.
Although we often refer to it simply as THC, the cannabinoid accountable for its psychoactive properties is delta-9 THC. In 2018, the Farm Bill introduced a plant classification as hemp if it possessed less than 0.03% delta-9 THC. This legislative framework paved the way for the emergence of alternative cannabinoids, including delta-8 THC, which is a chemical counterpart to delta-9 THC.
Delta-8 THC products are now widely accessible across the country. They are referred to as products because delta-8 occurs naturally in the cannabis plant but only in small quantities. A chemical conversion process from CBD is employed to produce products with significant delta-8 THC content.
According to a report in The New York Times, there was an astonishing 850% increase in Google searches for delta-8 in the United States between 2020 and 2021. However, research on delta-8 THC remains limited. An earlier study in 1973 suggests that delta-8 THC is approximately two-thirds as potent as delta-9 THC and shares similar effects.
Synthetic Cannabinoids
Synthetic cannabinoids, including THC-O, have also seen a surge in popularity, mainly attributable to the definition of hemp outlined in the 2018 Farm Bill. These cannabinoids are not naturally occurring in the cannabis plant and raise significant concerns regarding potential adverse health effects. In 2022, the California Cannabis Industry Association released a white paper that explored “the risks associated with a nationwide, unregulated market for intoxicating cannabinoids derived from hemp.”
Tiffany Devitt, one of the report’s authors, explains, “You have cannabinoids that the plant naturally produces, and they may be concentrated during extraction, as seen with THCV, for example. Then, some cannabinoids undergo some processing, like delta-8, which typically involves the concentration of CBD, followed by a process employing solvents and catalysts for alteration.
Finally, there are what I consider fully synthetic cannabinoids, which either do not occur naturally in the plant, like THC-O or exist in such minuscule quantities in the plant that there is insufficient toxicological evidence to deem them safe, as they have not been consumed in significant quantities.”
Cannabinoids interact with receptors known as CB1 and CB2 within our bodies. Delta-9 THC, classified as a partial agonist, can only partially stimulate or block these receptors. Devitt expresses concern about the potential adverse health consequences associated with synthetic cannabinoids because they function as agonists. Devitt elaborates on this distinction: “You can envision these cannabinoids as functioning like a dimmer switch. When it’s a partial agonist, its impact on stimulating or blocking the receptor is limited, regardless of the dose administered.
To clarify, the disparity between a partial and full agonist can be likened to adjusting a dimmer switch to achieve a slight increase or decrease in light intensity, rather than toggling it to full brightness or complete darkness.”
While THCP is a cannabinoid naturally occurring in minute quantities in the plant and, therefore, not technically synthetic, it functions as an agonist. Researchers have reported that THCP is 33 times more potent than delta-9 THC.
Now that Seeds are Legal, What about Flowers?
A recent development in navigating the “it’s legal hemp” landscape is the emergence of THCA. THCA stands as the precursor to THC in its acidic form. To activate THC, it necessitates exposure to heat, typically achieved through smoking or baking in the context of cannabis. Legalizing hemp created an opportunity in the cannabis seed market, as seeds are devoid of delta-9 THC.
Similarly, cannabis flowers contain THCA rather than delta-9 THC. THCA only transforms into THC when subjected to the decarboxylation process through heat. Consuming a raw cannabis bud, for instance, will not induce a psychoactive effect. If one were to juice cannabis buds and leaves, the resulting substance would be THCA, which has demonstrated health benefits in its anti-inflammatory properties but does not possess psychoactive qualities.
The regulatory maneuvering within the hemp industry has extended to include marketing flowers labeled as THCA, and indeed, these flowers primarily consist of the cannabinoid THCA. Before you ignited your joint or bowl, the cannabis you consumed was predominantly THCA.
There hasn’t been a significant crackdown on the availability of THCA flowers in states lacking a legal cannabis framework, although the possibility of such enforcement measures looms on the horizon. Discussions are underway to refine the definition of hemp in the United States. If these efforts fall short, it effectively means that the legalization of hemp has, in effect, legalized all forms of cannabis. This potential outcome holds substantial significance.
READ MORE ON THE DELTA-8 LOOPHOLE, READ ON…
HOW THE FARM ACT CREATED A HUGE DRUG LAW LOOPHOLE!
“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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