Some good new from the government about veterans who are suffering from PTSD and are using marijuana.

While our military is generally honored, medical treatment for them can lag behind the praises given by politicians and bureaucrats. Almost 23% of veterans who use the Veterans Admstinatrion (VA) health care have had Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) at some point in their lives. In 2021, 10% of men and 19% of women veterans using VA care were diagnosed with PTSD. A study of veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan found the prevalence of PTSD varied by unit component. For example, deployed active duty veterans had an 18.5% prevalence of PTSD, while non-deployed active duty veterans had a 13.2% prevalence.  It is difficult to treat and has ruined thousands of lives. But cannabis has helped and now veterans with PTSD are given a little hope with additional medical research.

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Cannabis has shown promising potential in alleviating symptoms PTSD, offering hope to those struggling with this debilitating condition. Earlier studies have shed light on the biological mechanisms behind cannabis’s therapeutic effects on PTSD. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) this week authorized a long-delayed clinical trial to test whether marijuana can be used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in veterans. The agency had raised a variety of objections. The change is good news for veterans and their families. And another indicator the FDA is supportive of the rescheduling.

One key way cannabis helps PTSD sufferers is by reducing activity in the amygdala, a part of the brain associated with fear responses to threats. This dampening of the anxiety response can help individuals manage their symptoms more effectively.Additionally, cannabis may aid in extinguishing traumatic memories through a process called ‘extinction learning’.

The cannabinoids in cannabis, particularly THC and CBD, can enhance the rate at which challenging memories are processed and reduce overall anxiety responses. Research has shown that cannabis use is associated with a reduction in overall PTSD symptoms and improved quality of life. Low doses of THC or a combination of THC and CBD have been found to be particularly effective in enhancing extinction rates for traumatic memories and reducing anxiety.

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The endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in this process. CBD, a non-psychoactive component of cannabis, indirectly affects this system by inhibiting the uptake or enzymatic degradation of endogenous cannabinoids. This action allows for a greater effect on CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are found in brain regions important for anxiety and aversive learnin

.Cannabis may also help address specific PTSD symptoms such as sleep disturbances, recurrent fear memories, and panic episodes. While individual responses can vary, cannabis can be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan under medical supervision.

They seem to be total enemies – but can CBD help cats chill out around the Christmas Tree?

While is seems cats do things just to annoy their owners, there are reasons. And when it comes to the Christmas tree, there are manyfelines that causes the pull to be “involved” with the giant temporary addition to the festive season. They enjoy being high up to survey their surroundings and it makes them feel safe from predators. Yhe branches provide a fun climbing challenge. And they are  attracted to shiny objects with the ornaments and lights. Like humans, cats enjoy the smell of live evergreen trees which is another reason they stay close. But can CBD keep cats from the Christmas tree?

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Alone, CBD can not keep them from exploring, but can be used as another tool to relax them and help them lose interest in wrecking a tree. CBD for cats has gained popularity among pet owners seeking alternative treatments for various feline health issues. CBD is generally considered safe for cats when used appropriately. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in hemp plants that interacts with the endocannabinoid system in cats, potentially offering benefits for anxiety, pain, inflammation, and overall wellness.

Other ways to keep the cat from the tree is have a fake tree which is less dangerous than a real tree. A smaller tree is less likely to cause serious harm if it falls over. Use a heavy base or weights to prevent the tree from toppling over. You can also secure it to a wall with wire. Cats dislike citrus and foil scents, so you can wrap the tree trunk in foil and put orange or lemon peels around the base. Place cheaper, less sentimental decorations toward the bottom of the tree. Tie ornaments tightly to the branches to avoid loose, dangling temptations. Choose wooden or plastic ornaments instead of highly reflective ones. Tie plastic bags filled with orange or lemon peels around the base of the tree.

On the first holiday weekend, should you mix up online and in-store shopping? Well, there is definitely benefits for both – including Target’s new tie-in promotion.

Black Friday is   With average holiday spending expected to reach over $1,000, it is important to capture the customers.  Twenty years ago, malls were packed and the news reported Karen’s gone wild in an effort to snag shopping deals. Now things are easier with online shopping, but in-store experiences remain crucial. This year 26% of consumers plan to shop primarily in person for the holidays, while 51% plan to do both in-person and online.  As usual, retailers offered early discounts and unique shopping experiences to bring people into brick and mortar.

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In 2024, the Black Friday shopping landscape has evolved dramatically, presenting consumers with compelling reasons to choose both online and in-store shopping experiences. Each approach offers unique advantages that cater to different shopper preferences and priorities.  Online shopping continues to gain momentum, with 75% of shoppers planning to make purchases digitally in 2024.

Many consumers are adopting a hybrid approach. For instance, some shoppers visit physical stores to try products and then complete purchases online. Retailers are adapting by offering exclusive in-store experiences, like Target’s Taylor Swift album release and special giveaways. Many wine and liquor stores offer tasting and marijuiana dispensaries offer specials on products.

And the reason we call today Black Friday is thanks to the Philadelphia police department. Department stores in the city would hold huge sales to capitalize on the large crowds ahead of the Army/Navy football game. Vast crowds caused havoc for police and forced them to work harsh, extra-long shifts, resulting in them dubbing the day Black Friday, both to express their dislike of the day and to try and reduce visitors by making it sound less appealing.