Growing Number Of Studies Back Up Efficacy Of Weed For Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition notorious for being so difficult to treat.

Patients with fibromyalgia struggle with pain throughout the body, particularly affecting the musculoskeletal system. It’s also characterized by other symptoms including sleep and memory issues, fatigue, and mood swings.

Fibromyalgia, being chronic in nature, takes an extremely long time to manage. There is no cure for this disease, but patients are often prescribed a cocktail of medications and are recommended to undergo serious lifestyle changes and therapy sessions to help.

Aside from numerous painkillers, anti-seizure drugs, and antidepressants, fibromyalgia patients greatly benefit from physical therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, exercise, and various stress management techniques. While it can be months, or even years, for patients to experience relief, scientists haven’t stopped working to discover better treatment modalities for this condition.

And thankfully, cannabis has shown to be one of them.

Legal marijuana is now giving fibromyalgia patients hope to regain control and quality of their life again. There is a growing number of studies supporting the benefits of weed for fibromyalgia. In one of the latest studies out of London, researchers analyzed the efficacy of cannabis-based medicinal products (CBMPs) which were either oil extracts or flower, on 148 fibromyalgia patients from the UK Medical Cannabis Registry. As is the standard for patients in the United Kingdom who are enrolled in the UK Medical Cannabis Registry, these patients have been unresponsive to traditional medications.

Yet, after being treated with cannabis, the patients reported improvements at various intervals, namely 1, 3, and 6 months after. “Improvements in the generalized anxiety disorder-7 questionnaire, single-item sleep quality scale, fibromyalgia symptom severity score and EQ-5D-5L Index values were observed at each follow up period compared to baseline,” said the researchers. They added that the participants reported significant reductions in their dependence of prescription opioids during the time of the study. However, they did experience dry mouth, headache, and some fatigue.

“Positive associations between initiation of CBMP therapy and decreased fibromyalgia severity were observed at all time points…” concluded the authors. “These findings are complemented by wider literature,” they wrote.

Meanwhile, another recent study from Colombia analyzed how various cannabis preparations impacted the symptoms of patients with fibromyalgia syndrome, also known as FMS. To achieve this, an international team of researchers pored through data taken from 14 clinical studies as well as 5 review papers. According to their findings, cannabis products were effective in reducing pain and other symptoms, while keeping side effects to a minimum.

They concluded that cannabis products “can improve musculoskeletal, somatic, and psychiatric symptoms in patients with FMS, mainly pain, fatigue, and depression; also, these products could be considered as safe,” they wrote.

Another study from 2022 found that cannabis was effective, especially in helping women who were suffering from treatment-resistant fibromyalgia. For this study, researchers utilized the World Health Organization Quality of Life Bref questionnaire to gauge the quality of life of 30 female fibromyalgia patients, whose ages ranged from 18 to 70 years.

Given they were all treatment-resistant cases, they already exhausted all conventional pharmacological fibromyalgia treatment. The questionnaire focused on four aspects: psychological health, social relationships, environment, and physical health. The women were asked to fill up the questionnaire before medicating with cannabis, then again a month after. They were asked to choose their preferred way to medicate: whether they ingest, smoke, or vaporize, it was up to them.

During follow-up sessions, the researchers found that the treatment contributed to an improvement in general quality of life, activities of daily living, general health, psychological health, physical health, pain and discomfort. Th patients also reported seeing positive changes that affected aspects of fatigue, pain, self-esteem, memory, and positive feelings as a whole.

Conclusion

It’s no surprise there’s a growing interest in using cannabis for fibromyalgia. Cannabis works so well for this condition because of the way it interacts with the endocannabinoid system. After all, the human endocannabinoid system is responsible for regulating pain as well as so many other important functions in the body.

Since pain is a hallmark symptom of fibromyalgia, patients who medicate with marijuana find tremendous relief. Even better, many cannabis medications such as edibles provide long-lasting pain relief without the addictive and harmful effects of opioids and other conventional medications. In addition, the pain caused by fibromyalgia can make it difficult to sleep and rest well. Cannabis also has a multitude of other benefits for fibromyalgia patients, including its ability to fight inflammation, regulate moods, and improve sleep.

There’s a great variety of weed products in the market that can help alleviate pain and reduce symptoms. From edibles to oils and tinctures, there’s a medication out there for everyone. Edibles are preferred for pain patients in general, because it provides longer-lasting relief from many different types of pain. However, capsules and tinctures allow patients to enjoy more control over dosing. When it comes to choosing whether to take CBD or THC, many patients find relief when consuming a product with a combination of both cannabinoids. Excessively high THC may not be suitable for older patients or those that need to focus, so getting one with a good balance of both or is CBD dominant may be ideal.

Speak to your doctor if you’d like to include cannabis therapies to target fibromyalgia symptoms. Healthcare providers with experience in marijuana medication can also provide valuable advice.

WHAT THC CAN DO FOR FIBROMYAGIA, READ ON…

WHAT DOES THC DO FOR FIBRYOMYAGLIA PATIENTS? READ THIS!

Sir Elton John, a music legend and cultural icon recently honored as TIME Magazine’s “Icon of the Year,” has once again made headlines—not for his music, but for his polarizing stance on cannabis legalization. While many public figures and celebrities have championed the move toward legalizing cannabis, Elton John has called it “the greatest mistake of all time.” His bold statement has ignited fierce debate across social media and within both cannabis advocacy and public health circles.

So, what’s behind Elton’s strong disapproval of cannabis legalization? And what does it mean for the ongoing conversation about the future of cannabis laws worldwide?

Elton John’s Journey and the Role of Addiction

Elton John’s opinion on cannabis legalization is deeply rooted in his personal journey with addiction. The singer has been candid about his struggles with substance abuse in the past, often describing his recovery as a life-saving transformation. Having celebrated over 30 years of sobriety, Elton frequently uses his platform to promote awareness about the dangers of substance dependency.

“I’ve seen firsthand what addiction can do—not just to individuals but to their families and communities,” he shared during a recent interview. For Elton, cannabis represents not just a plant, but a potential gateway to dependency—a perspective often echoed by critics of legalization. While it’s true that cannabis is less addictive than substances like opioids or alcohol, Elton’s concerns resonate with those who argue that legalization could normalize use, particularly among younger populations.

The Celebrity Divide: Advocates vs. Skeptics

Elton John’s stance is especially striking because it contrasts sharply with the views of many of his peers in the entertainment industry. Celebrities like Snoop Dogg, Seth Rogen, and Miley Cyrus have been vocal proponents of cannabis legalization, often highlighting its potential to generate tax revenue, reduce incarceration rates, and provide medical benefits.

But Elton isn’t alone in his skepticism. Figures like Dr. Drew Pinsky and even some policymakers have raised concerns about the unintended consequences of legalization, from increases in impaired driving to the potential health risks of high-potency cannabis products.

The celebrity divide on cannabis reflects a broader societal debate: while many celebrate the economic and medicinal opportunities presented by legalization, others remain wary of its long-term implications.

The Economic Boom vs. Public Health Concerns

Legalizing cannabis has undeniably created a booming industry. In the United States alone, the legal cannabis market is projected to reach $43 billion by 2025. States like Colorado and California have reported substantial tax revenues, which have been reinvested into education, infrastructure, and public health programs.

But critics, including Elton John, caution against focusing solely on the economic benefits. “Money doesn’t justify the damage this could cause,” he argued. Public health experts have raised concerns about the potential for increased cannabis use among adolescents, as well as the risks associated with long-term consumption, such as memory impairment and dependency. Elton’s criticism taps into these anxieties. He worries that the widespread availability of cannabis could lead to a cultural shift where drug use becomes overly normalized, overshadowing the substance’s potential risks.

Cannabis in the Spotlight: Public Perception and Policy

Elton John’s comments also come at a time when cannabis legalization is at the forefront of global policy discussions. Countries like Canada and Uruguay have fully legalized the drug, while others, including Germany and Mexico, are considering similar measures. In the U.S., over 20 states have embraced recreational cannabis, with many more allowing it for medicinal purposes.

Supporters of legalization argue that these policies reduce the burden on the criminal justice system and help dismantle the illicit drug trade. However, opponents like Elton worry that such measures send the wrong message, particularly to younger generations.

Studies suggest that public perception of cannabis has shifted significantly over the past few decades. According to a recent Gallup poll, 68% of Americans now support legalization—a stark contrast to the early 2000s, when support hovered around 30%. This growing acceptance reflects changing societal attitudes but also underscores the challenges of addressing potential downsides.

Is Elton John Out of Touch or Raising a Valid Concern?

Unsurprisingly, Elton John’s comments have sparked a firestorm on social media. Some users praised his courage for speaking out against a popular trend, while others accused him of being out of touch with modern science and policy.

Advocates for legalization argue that regulated markets are far safer than prohibition, which often fuels black-market activity and associated violence. They also point to the plant’s proven medicinal benefits, from alleviating chronic pain to reducing seizures in epilepsy patients. However, Elton’s defenders argue that his perspective is a reminder to proceed with caution. “It’s not about banning cannabis altogether,” one user wrote. “It’s about acknowledging the risks and ensuring we don’t glamorize it.”

What Comes Next?

As cannabis continues to gain legal and cultural acceptance, the debate surrounding its impact will only intensify. Elton John’s comments serve as a reminder that even as we celebrate progress, we must remain vigilant about the potential downsides.

For cannabis advocates, the challenge lies in addressing concerns like those raised by Elton without derailing the broader momentum for reform. This could mean implementing stricter regulations around marketing and sales, funding more public health research, and investing in education campaigns to ensure informed consumption.

For critics, Elton’s remarks underscore the importance of considering the long-term societal impacts of legalization. As he put it, “We can’t afford to make mistakes when it comes to something that affects so many lives.”

A Call for Balanced Dialogue

Elton John’s critique of cannabis legalization might not win him fans in the cannabis community, but it has succeeded in reigniting an important conversation

WHAT DO PEOPLE WANT, LEGALIZION OR NOT, READ ON…

OVER 68% OF AMERICANS WANT CANNABIS LEGALIZATION NOW!

How to Deal with a Bad Trip According to Science

After more than two decades of psychedelic exploration, I’ve learned that the term “bad trip” is something of a misnomer. Sure, I’ve had my share of experiences where reality seemed to fold in on itself like a cosmic origami gone wrong, where my thoughts spiraled into places that would make Edgar Allan Poe uncomfortable. But here’s the thing – these supposedly “bad” trips often turned out to be the most transformative.

Think of it like psychological weight training. Just as you can’t build muscle without resistance, sometimes you need those challenging psychedelic experiences to strengthen your mental fortitude. The problem isn’t necessarily the intensity of the experience, but rather our interpretation and response to it.

I’ve watched countless people “lose their shit” during overwhelming psychedelic experiences. Their minds become like runaway trains, picking up speed as they careen toward what feels like certain doom. But here’s what two decades of psychonautic adventures have taught me: there’s no such thing as a bad trip, only challenging experiences that we’re not yet equipped to handle.

Recently, researchers decided to take a scientific look at how people navigate these turbulent psychedelic waters. They gathered data from hundreds of psychedelic experiences, analyzing the various coping mechanisms people employ when things get weird. And boy, do things get weird.

Today, we’re going to dive into their findings, examining four main strategies that people use to stay afloat when the psychedelic seas get rough. I’ll also share some personal insights – tricks and techniques I’ve learned from countless hours of surfing the waves of altered consciousness.

So whether you’re an experienced psychonaut or simply curious about how to handle intense psychological experiences, buckle up. We’re about to explore the art and science of turning psychological chaos into catalysts for growth. Let’s dive in.

Here’s a 500-word segment on “A Closer Look at the Study”:

A Closer Look at the Study

The research, published in Scientific Reports, combined two fascinating studies. The first examined 16 participants who attended psychedelic retreats in the Netherlands and Mexico, while the second analyzed survey data from 869 people, with roughly two-thirds reporting challenging experiences during their psychedelic journeys.

What they discovered was both illuminating and validating for many psychonauts. The researchers identified four main themes in how people cope with challenging experiences. First, there’s what they called “Inner Responses” – think meditation, self-talk, and making meaning from the chaos. Then there’s “Embodied Practice and Environment Engagement” – basically, using breathing techniques, movement, and connecting with your surroundings to ground yourself. The third theme involved “Interpersonal Responses,” where some folks sought social support while others preferred solitude. Finally, “Facilitator Responses” highlighted the crucial role of guides and therapists in providing support during difficult moments.

The researchers emphasized that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to managing challenging psychedelic experiences. As they noted, “Therapists should be well-versed in a broad spectrum of response strategies and recognize that different strategies may be more or less effective for different individuals.” This nuanced understanding is crucial for the emerging field of psychedelic-assisted therapy.

Here’s where things get interesting – and frankly, a bit infuriating. We’re at a point where prestigious research institutions are publishing detailed studies about implementing psychedelic therapy, yet these substances remain Schedule I under the Controlled Substances Act. According to this antiquated classification, these compounds have “no accepted medical use” and a “high potential for abuse.”

Let that sink in for a moment. We have researchers from University College London meticulously documenting how to optimize therapeutic outcomes with these substances, while simultaneously, our government maintains they have no medical value. The cognitive dissonance is staggering.

And it’s not just this study. There’s a growing mountain of evidence supporting the therapeutic potential of psychedelics for conditions ranging from PTSD to depression to end-of-life anxiety. Yet the CSA continues to block access to these potentially life-changing treatments.

You know what really grinds my gears? This isn’t just about maintaining outdated laws – it’s about actively denying people access to healing. The War on Drugs isn’t just a war on substances; it’s a war on alternative approaches to mental health and personal growth. Every day that these substances remain Schedule I is another day that countless individuals are denied potentially transformative treatments.

When I see studies like this – serious, methodical research into maximizing the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics – I can’t help but think about all the people suffering needlessly because of prohibition. The CSA isn’t protecting public health; it’s protecting the status quo at the expense of human wellbeing. In my view, that’s not just misguided – it’s morally indefensible.

You know what’s funny? In over two decades of psychedelic exploration, I’ve never really had what you’d call a “bad trip.” The closest I’ve come to death-defying psychological horror was actually from alcohol, but that’s a whole different demon we won’t summon today.

The truth is, avoiding nightmarish psychedelic experiences isn’t rocket science. It’s more like gardening – prepare the soil (your mind), choose the right environment (your setting), and respect the natural process. Let me break down my tried-and-true principles for maintaining sanity when reality decides to do backflips.

First up: Set and Setting. This isn’t just some hippie mantra – it’s the foundation of any meaningful psychedelic experience. Your mindset going in is like packing for a trip. If you’re carrying emotional baggage – relationship drama, work stress, existential crisis – expect those bags to get thoroughly unpacked during your journey. That’s not necessarily bad, but you better be ready to sort through that emotional luggage.

And setting? That’s your launch pad. You need a space where you feel safe enough to completely lose your shit if necessary. Trusted friends, comfortable environment, no unexpected visitors or responsibilities. I could write a whole book about setting alone, but let’s just say: if you wouldn’t feel comfortable having an emotional breakdown there, it’s not the right place for a psychedelic journey.

Here’s another golden rule: Accept that you’re not in control. The sooner you surrender to this truth, the smoother your journey will be. Psychedelics are going to do what they do, and your ego’s attempts to steer the ship will only lead to mutiny. I’ve seen too many self-proclaimed “psychedelic masters” get humbled when they try to control the uncontrollable. Stay humble, accept whatever comes, and remember – you signed up for this ride.

When things get intense (and they will), remember the power of breath. Find a quiet, preferably dark space, put on some gentle tunes, and breathe. Eight counts in, eight counts out. Simple as that. It’s remarkable how controlling your breath can ground you when reality seems to be melting. I call this the psychedelic panic button – it works every time.

Finally, remember this fundamental truth: what goes up must come down. Whether your trip lasts 16 hours or three days (yes, I’ve been there), eventually you’ll return to baseline. If you’re feeling stuck in the trip after the substance should have worn off, that’s all mental. Understanding this can be incredibly reassuring when you’re convinced you’ll be seeing fractals forever.

These principles have kept me grounded through countless psychedelic adventures. They’re like having a cosmic safety net – they won’t prevent intense experiences, but they’ll help you navigate them with grace. Remember, psychedelics aren’t about avoiding challenges; they’re about facing them with wisdom and courage.

After decades of exploring the psychedelic realms, I’ve come to understand these substances as powerful tools for healing collective trauma and expanding human consciousness. While they’re certainly not for everyone – and I’d never suggest they are – their potential for facilitating profound personal transformation is undeniable.

The current push to medicalize psychedelics is a step in the right direction, but it shouldn’t be the only path forward. Restricting these substances to clinical settings would be like limiting music to therapy sessions – sure, music has therapeutic value, but its power extends far beyond the therapist’s office.

Some of my most transformative experiences happened far from any clinical setting. I remember one particularly profound journey in the mountains of Oaxaca, 3,000 meters above sea level. After two hours in a traditional Mayan Temascal (sweat lodge), purging in pitch darkness, I spent six hours witnessing impossible fractals dancing across ancient rocks. In that space, I experienced a truth that no amount of talk therapy could have revealed: that separation is merely an illusion, and we’re all part of one cosmic soup, atoms dancing to the universe’s eternal rhythm.

You can’t schedule that kind of revelation for a 50-minute session.

This is why I advocate for broader access to these sacred tools. Yes, they have immense therapeutic potential, but they’re also catalysts for spiritual growth, philosophical insight, and cultural evolution. When used responsibly and with proper respect, psychedelics can help us understand ourselves and our place in the universe in ways that conventional methods simply can’t match.

The emerging science around managing challenging psychedelic experiences is valuable, but it’s just one piece of a much larger puzzle. These substances have been teaching and healing humans for millennia, long before we had clinical trials or peer-reviewed papers. As we move forward with psychedelic research and therapy, let’s not forget that sometimes the most profound healing happens not in a sterile clinic, but on a mountain top, face-to-face with the infinite.

HOW TO DEAL WITH A BAD TRIP, READ ON..

THE GUIDE TO FIXING A BAD TRIP ON PSYCHEDELICS!