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The Cannabis Creativity Connection – Did the Great Artists Use Ganja for Inspiration?
Cannabis and Creativity: How to Enhance Your Artistic Process with Cannabis
Cannabis has been used for centuries as a tool for inspiration and creativity. From the ancient shamans to modern-day artists, many have found that cannabis can help to unlock their inner creative genius. It’s not just a matter of getting “high”, but rather it’s about the way that cannabis interacts with the brain to stimulate the creative process.
But don’t just take my word for it, the science supports it too. At least the studies I specifically decided to focus on to support my premise. There are other studies that say the exact opposite and then there are the countless examples of artists who got high and make some amazing art.
Studies have shown that cannabis can increase divergent thinking, which is the ability to come up with multiple ideas for a given problem or task. And who doesn’t want to be more productive and come up with more ideas? What cannabis strains work for creative juices?
So whether you’re a painter, writer, musician or any other type of artist, cannabis can be the secret ingredient that takes your art to the next level. And in this guide, I will show you how to use cannabis to enhance your artistic process, from selecting the right strain to setting the perfect environment. So, roll one up and let’s get creative!
Personally, I have used cannabis numerous times to tap into some alternate frequency to create. Perhaps it helped facilitate the “flow state”. I can recall one time when I wrote two completely different songs simultaneously.
Both songs had their own chord progressions, both of them had wildly different lyrics, tone, etc. Yet there I was, stoned as I could be – creating like there’s no tomorrow. Now, I’ve always been a creative guy, however, during those conditions, I certainly would agree with thousands of artists throughout history – weed can help with creativity!
The relationship between cannabis and creativity is complex and multifaceted, and it has already had a significant impact on the zeitgeist of our time.
For centuries, artists, writers, and musicians have been using cannabis as a tool for inspiration and creativity. From the ancient shamans to modern-day artists, many have found that cannabis can help to unlock their inner creative genius – or at least so they think depending on who you ask.
Some believe that it’s the psychoactive compounds in cannabis, such as THC, interacting with the brain in ways we still don’t fully understand, that can stimulate the creative process and allow for new ideas to flow. Perhaps something to do with neuroplasticity.
Cannabis has also had a profound influence on the cultural zeitgeist of our time. It has played a key role in shaping the counterculture of the 1960s and 70s, and it continues to be a powerful force in shaping contemporary culture. From music and fashion, to art and literature, cannabis has been a driving force behind many of the most important cultural movements of the last century.
Moreover, the legalization and decriminalization of cannabis has changed the way society views cannabis and its use, it has helped to reduce the stigma around cannabis and has made it more accessible for research and experimentation, this has led to a greater understanding of the benefits and the potential therapeutic uses of cannabis. But that’s for another article… in this one we’re tackling creativity and cannabis!
Let’s take a look at the historical connection between cannabis and creativity. For centuries, cannabis has been used as a tool for spiritual and creative pursuits. From shamans in Central Asia to the ancient Egyptians, cannabis was considered a sacred herb that could open the mind and allow for spiritual and artistic inspiration. Even in modern times, many artists, such as Bob Marley, Louis Armstrong and Salvador Dali, have been known to use cannabis to enhance their creativity.
But it’s not just anecdotal evidence, there is science to back it up as well. Studies have shown that cannabis can increase divergent thinking, which is the ability to come up with multiple ideas for a given problem or task.
However, “divergent thinking” is only one aspect of creativity. This is because there is still so much about the creative process we don’t know. However, divergent thinking is one way that scientists attempt to measure creativity. Allegedly, by increasing divergent thinking, you can “think outside of the box”.
As Dr. Julie Holland, a psychiatrist and author of “The Pot Book: A Complete Guide to Cannabis” explains, “Cannabis is a tool that can be used to open up the mind, to make connections that aren’t otherwise apparent, to see things in a new way.”
Cannabis can also help you zone in on a particular activity – especially those that require creativity. For example, it’s not uncommon for someone who gets high to sit and paint all day, or play on their guitar – or engage in any other kind of “creative endeavor”. This kind of myopic focus is essential to the creative process and cannabis can help artists tap into this mode of engagement.
Historically, we have a trove of examples to support our major argument in favor of cannabis and it’s positive impacts on creativity. Artists and creators, such as the poet Allen Ginsberg, the musician Jimi Hendrix and the comedian Richard Pryor, have all been known to use cannabis to enhance their artistic process. Even the renowned scientist and inventor, Thomas Edison, reportedly used cannabis to help him focus on his work.
Allen Ginsberg himself said “I smoke marijuana to go into a state of pleasing thought and read poetry.”
Or in more modern times this would translate to, “When I get baked I go with the Flow”.
Cannabis has also played an important role in shaping contemporary culture and the counterculture of the 1960s and 1970s. From music and fashion, to art and literature, cannabis has been a driving force behind many of the most important cultural movements of the last century.
Throughout history, we can witness an ever changing landscape when it comes to the relationship of cannabis and creativity.
In ancient China, for example, it was believed that cannabis had the ability to “stimulate the imagination” and was used by artists and poets for inspiration.
In ancient India, the Vedas, ancient holy texts dating back to 1500 BCE, mention the use of cannabis for religious and artistic rituals.
In more recent history, the illegality of cannabis fueled the creation of the counterculture, which in turn led to the legalization movement we are seeing today.
In contrast, in Jamaica, Rastafarianism, a religion that emerged in the 1930s, has traditionally used cannabis as a sacrament. Rastafarians believe that “ganja”, helps to open the mind and stimulate creativity, as well as bring them closer to the divine.
The point of all of these aforementioned examples is to show that cannabis is intrinsically connected with the individual and their artistic expression. From music, fashion, culture itself – we share a deep connection with the plant.
Many famous people have claimed that cannabis was instrumental to their process. Below you’ll find a few of them:
“I find that when I smoke, ideas are just kind of floating around in the air and you just reach up and grab them,” said the late musician and artist Jimi Hendrix.
“Marijuana enhances my perception of the many planes of existence,” said the late artist Salvador Dali.
“The thing about marijuana is that it makes everything that bored you suddenly interesting,” said comedian and actor Seth Rogen.
Musician, rapper and record producer Snoop Dogg stated, “It’s a good thing. It helps me focus. It helps me create. It helps me motivate. It helps me to spark my flame.”
Of course, this is just the tip of the iceberg. There’s plenty more where that came from. However, it’s not my objective to flood your mind with quotes from famous stoners, but rather to highlight the idea that creative people tend to use cannabis more than non-creative people.
Irrespective if studies show that it doesn’t increase divergent thinking, or has no impact within their perception of creativity – isn’t it interesting that people who are actually living off their creativity use it at greater frequency than those who don’t?
THE STICKY BOTTOM LINE:
Cannabis and creativity have a complicated relationship. It is indisputable that many creative people throughout history have used cannabis as a tool to boost their artistic process, even though scientific study on the matter may be inconclusive.
But what is it about cannabis that appeals to painters and other creatives so much? Some claim that marijuana’s euphoric ingredients, such THC and CBD, may free the mind and stimulate the flow of fresh thoughts. Others emphasize how cannabis can make people feel less anxious and have more focus, which enables creatives to work more deeply without the interruptions of daily life.
For me personally, it’s a fantastic tool that helps me find unique solutions to common problems. When it comes to writing, when it comes to thinking, or just letting go of my preconceived notions…cannabis is a fantastic ally!
CANNABIS FOR CREATIVITY, READ ON…
“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..
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.
WHAT IS KRATOM ANYWAY? READ ON…
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