Medical Marijuana

The Rise of Marijuana Creams and Salves

Published

1 year ago

January 25, 2024

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Marijuana is a plant that has been cultivated for more than 4000 years. The first consumers and growers were mostly indigenous tribes, and its use is associated with medicinal, cultural and spiritual aspects. This ancestral and cultural wisdom has been passed down through generations, and knowledge has been shared in diverse communities for many years. However, prohibition and legal challenges have limited the dissemination of this knowledge and, in some cases, made it an illegal activity.

In the 1960s, the United Nations Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs classified marijuana at the same level of danger as heroin. However, in 2019, following the recommendations of the World Health Organization, the UN recognized the medical and therapeutic benefits of marijuana derivatives, and 27 countries voted to remove it from the list, where it had been alongside highly addictive and deadly opioids. This has important implications for the Colombian government, as it could lose the opportunity to participate in a lucrative legal market estimated at $146 billion by 2025, in addition to reducing smuggling and micro-trafficking caused by its illegality.

In recent years, sales of ancestral coca- and marijuana-based products in local markets and galleries have increased significantly due to their efficacy. However, these sales remain relatively discrete compared to other markets.

In Colombia’s marketplaces, it is common to find stalls openly selling these products, such as marijuana creams and ointments with mint, drops for wounds, or even toothpastes made with marijuana. There are also pills and liquids based on this plant for medicinal and spiritual purposes, since bad energies are also considered to be the cause of illness.

Nancy Fernández, a street vendor in the sector, explains that the sale of these products is common in marketplaces: “In any respectable Colombian market, you will find a stall selling the typical hot ointment, which is in great demand to quickly relieve cramps and pain. Many people buy it without fear, even though these products are not legal”.

Nancy points out that consumers trust the effectiveness and quality of these products. Despite their illegality, she has not had any problems with the authorities and the products are openly displayed in her stall. Customers often have preferences by brand and type, as some products are made with menthol and marijuana, others with coca, mint and marijuana, and others with marijuana, spearmint and mint, all for medicinal purposes.

Many of the products sold in these plazas are imported, as Victor Rentería, a merchant who supplies products to small stores, points out: “Most of the creams and ointments I sell wholesale come from abroad, mostly from Peru, Bolivia or Ecuador, where these marijuana-based products are freely marketed. We, who could produce them locally, do not have the necessary permits,” he says.

Efficacy in various green products

The efficacy of several products made with this plant is remarkable. Although marijuana ointment is better known commercially, there are other products that are equally effective. Nancy explains: “Besides the hot salve, there are other products made with marijuana, such as drops used to treat wounds and skin infections. There are also coca and marijuana-based creams for skin allergies, all with significant benefits and immediate action”.

The growing use of these products has strengthened the cannabis culture in the country. Its efficacy has allowed the creation of medicines to combat diseases caused by spiritual evils, as many indigenous cultures believe that diseases can also be the result of bad energies. Victor Rentería affirms that these ailments can be cured with spiritual remedies made with marijuana-based ingredients. “In addition to marketing marijuana creams and ointments, I also sell water made with herbs and marijuana. These are used to eliminate dark energy that is affecting a person, causing pain, bad luck, or bondage. These waters are requested with a prescription from the healer or monk who will expel the energy,” the merchant concludes.

In Latin America, several countries have legalized marijuana for medicinal use, including Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Mexico and Peru. Despite this, Colombia faces challenges in its industry, as there is no significant local production and no medicines based on Colombian cannabis have been developed. However, there is a growing political debate to allow the production and commercialization of Colombian cannabis in a free manner, allowing for its full recreational and medicinal legalization.

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Cannabis Can Help A Sore Throat

Published

1 day ago

April 2, 2025

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There is a buzz about sore throats today. While they are most common in colder months, spring allergies bring the pain also. This is often due to postnasal drip, which is when mucus from the nose and sinuses drains down the back of the throat, causing irritation and a scratchy feeling. Overuse of the voice, like talking loudly or singing for long periods, can tire out and strain the muscles in your throat, causing them to feel sore. The good news is cannabis can help a sore throat.

RELATED: How Hemp Helps You Sleep

For those seeking natural alternatives to manage cold symptoms, cannabis is emerging as a promising option for throat irritation. Increasing research at medical center specifically targeting sore throats shows early insights. The data suggests cannabinoids and terpenes could offer symptom relief through their unique properties.

medical marijuana — Photo by Esther Kelleter / EyeEm/Getty Images

Cannabis contains compounds like THC and CBD, which studies indicate possess anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce throat swelling and irritation. Terpenes such as eucalyptol—found in some strains—are traditionally associated with decongestant effects, potentially easing respiratory discomfort. These components work synergistically to calm inflamed tissues, though their direct impact on sore throats requires further clinical validation.

Smoking cannabis while ill remains controversial due to potential throat irritation from heat and smoke. Instead, experts recommend gentler options:

Edibles/lozenges: THC or CBD-infused products bypass inhalation, delivering localized relief without aggravating the throat.
Cannabis tea: Warm beverages with cannabis extracts may soothe scratchy throats while providing hydration.
Tinctures: Sublingual CBD oils allow precise dosing and avoid respiratory irritation.

Beyond direct throat relief, cannabis may improve overall wellness during illness. THC’s appetite-stimulating properties can combat reduced hunger, while its relaxing effects might promote restorative sleep. CBD’s muscle-relaxing qualities could help alleviate the body aches often accompanying colds.

While preliminary findings are encouraging, users should consult healthcare providers before combining cannabis with conventional cold medications due to potential interactions. Starting with low-dose CBD products may offer benefits without psychoactive effects. As legalization expands, more targeted research is expected to clarify cannabis’s role in respiratory health.

Innovative cannabis formulations—from throat-calming lozenges to anti-inflammatory teas—are redefining how we approach minor ailments. For those navigating cold season, these plant-based solutions present a compelling fusion of traditional herbal wisdom and modern cannabinoid science

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Cannabis

Mixed Messages From The Feds About Cannabis

Published

6 days ago

March 28, 2025

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The federal administration is all over the board around fed cannabis policy…and millions of patients are worried.

The industry employees over 440,000 workers at all lives and is driven in a large part by mom and pop businesses. Millions use medical marijuana for health issues ranging from chronic pain to sleep. But there are mixed messages from the feds about cannabis, and people are very worried. The federal government’s stance on marijuana has become increasingly complex, as recent developments show conflicting approaches to the drug’s potential benefits and risks. On one hand, there’s a push for research into medical marijuana for veterans, while on the other, a campaign against cannabis use is being launched.

The juxtaposition of initiatives highlights the federal government’s inconsistent approach to marijuana policy. While some departments are exploring the potential benefits of cannabis, others are actively working to discourage its use. This dichotomy is further exemplified by ongoing legislative efforts. For instance, Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL) has reintroduced the Veterans Equal Access Act, which would allow VA doctors to recommend medical marijuana to patients in states where it’s legal. Meanwhile, documents from an ongoing lawsuit suggest that the DEA may have weighted the marijuana rescheduling process to ensure rejection of moving the drug from Schedule 1 to Schedule 3.

The Department of Defense (DOD) has allocated nearly $10 million in funding for research into the therapeutic potential of MDMA for active-duty military members. This initiative, driven by congressional efforts, aims to explore MDMA’s effectiveness in treating conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Rep. Morgan Luttrell (R-TX) expressed pride in this development, stating that it could be a “game-changer” for service members battling these combat-related injuries.

Additionally, a bipartisan effort in Congress has been pushing for VA research on medical marijuana for PTSD and other conditions affecting veterans. The VA Medicinal Cannabis Research Act, introduced in both the Senate and House, would mandate studies on how cannabis affects the use of addictive medications and impacts various health outcomes for veterans.

In stark contrast to these research initiatives, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has partnered with an anti-cannabis nonprofit to launch a social media campaign targeting young people. The campaign, set to run ahead of April 20 (4/20), aims to “flood” Instagram with anti-cannabis content. The DEA is offering monetary incentives to students for creating and posting anti-THC videos, with payments ranging from $25 to $50 depending on the type of content produced.

This approach has raised eyebrows, as it seems to contradict the growing acceptance and legalization of marijuana across the United States. Critics argue that such campaigns may be out of touch with current societal trends and scientific understanding of cannabis.

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Cannabis

Could Medical Marijuana Help Pope Francis

Published

1 week ago

March 24, 2025

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The administration has spent very mixed signals…will consumers turn to hemp if marijuana is outlawed again?

He is one of the most globally well known figures and now he has health issue. The Pope resides in Vatican City, the world’s smallest country, and given its unique status , there is no healthcare system, medical centers, or hospitals. All patients must access clinics and hospitals in Rome for care. One of the most ancient cities in the world, Rome has a robust healthcare system. It includes the renowned Policlinico Universitario Gemelli, which is considered one of the largest private university hospitals in Europe and the best in Italy. But it isn’t global known like the Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, or Toronto General. Thinking outside the box, could medical marijuana help Pope Francis?

As the Pope continues his recovery from pneumonia and mild kidney issues, medical experts are exploring innovative treatments that could potentially aid in his healing process. One such treatment gaining attention is medical marijuana, which has shown promise in addressing various health conditions.

Medical marijuana might offer relief for Pope Francis’s respiratory challenges. Certain cannabinoids, particularly CBD, have demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties that could help reduce lung inflammation associated with pneumonia. While smoking cannabis is not recommended for respiratory conditions, alternative delivery methods such as vaporization or edibles could potentially provide therapeutic benefits without irritating the lungs

gold and multicolored cathedral interior

As the Pope recovers, pain management is likely a key concern. Medical marijuana has shown potential as a pain adjuvant, potentially reducing the need for opioids in patients with chronic conditions. This could be particularly beneficial for elderly patients like Pope Francis, who may be more susceptible to the side effects of traditional pain medications.

Recent studies have explored the relationship between cannabis and kidney function. While more research is needed, some evidence suggests that cannabis does not negatively affect kidney function in healthy individuals. For patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), careful monitoring and dosage adjustment may be necessary to ensure safe use.

Medical marijuana has been associated with improvements in various symptoms that could enhance the Pope’s quality of life during recovery. These include better sleep, reduced anxiety, and increased appetite. Such benefits could contribute to a more comfortable and efficient healing process.

While the potential benefits of medical marijuana are intriguing, it’s important to approach any treatment the same caution as any elderly patient. A personalized treatment plan, developed in consultation with medical professionals, would be essential to ensure safety and efficacy. As the world watches the Pope’s recovery, the consideration of medical marijuana as a complementary treatment option offers a ray of hope. While more research is needed to fully understand its effects on specific conditions, the potential benefits for pain management, inflammation reduction, and overall well-being make it an intriguing possibility.

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