Category: Lifestyle

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The Scientific Rationale for Rescheduling Cannabis

Cannabis has long been classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in the United States, categorized alongside substances like heroin and LSD. This classification implies a high potential for abuse and a lack of accepted medical use. However, as scientific research on the therapeutic benefits of cannabis advances, there is a growing consensus among experts that its current Schedule I status may not accurately reflect its true potential and safety profile.

The Schedule I Dilemma: Schedule I substances are deemed to have a high potential for abuse, no currently accepted medical use, and a lack of accepted safety for use under medical supervision. Cannabis, despite its medicinal properties being recognized by a growing body of evidence, remains in this restrictive category. This classification has hindered research opportunities, limited medical access, and created legal challenges in various states where cannabis has been legalized for medical or recreational use.

Scientific Basis for Rescheduling:

  1. Medicinal Properties: A Rich Tapestry of Therapeutic Potential Cannabis, a botanical treasure trove, unfolds a myriad of medicinal properties through its cannabinoids, notably THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). A wealth of studies illuminates their efficacy in addressing various health conditions. These cannabinoids exhibit promising results in managing chronic pain, alleviating epilepsy symptoms, mitigating the impact of multiple sclerosis, and providing relief from the debilitating nausea associated with chemotherapy. The intricate dance of these compounds within the human endocannabinoid system unveils a profound potential for cannabis to become a cornerstone in the therapeutic landscape.
  2. Safety Profile: Navigating Safe Horizons Compared to counterparts in Schedules II and III, cannabis stands as a beacon of safety. A notable distinction arises in its absence from associations with lethal overdoses, positioning it as a remarkably safe option for medical applications. This safety profile underlines its potential to offer therapeutic benefits without the grave risks often associated with other controlled substances. This characteristic further supports the call for its rescheduling to align with its favorable risk-benefit profile.
  3. Research Opportunities: Unlocking the Secrets of Cannabis The current classification has cast a shadow over the comprehensive exploration of cannabis’s potential applications and risks. Rescheduling cannabis would act as a catalyst, propelling scientific inquiry into uncharted territories. This shift would pave the way for increased research opportunities, enabling scientists to unravel the intricate mechanisms of action within the plant. The knowledge gained could lead to the development of targeted medications, offering nuanced solutions for various health conditions.
  4. Public Opinion: A Resonant Shift in Perception The evolving landscape of public opinion mirrors a seismic shift in the perception of cannabis. A majority of Americans now lend their support to its medicinal use, recognizing its potential to enhance the quality of life for those grappling with health challenges. Rescheduling cannabis would not only acknowledge this changing sentiment but also provide a legal foundation for its integration into mainstream healthcare, aligning policy with the collective will of the people.
  5. Economic Impact: Nurturing Growth in the Green Economy Beyond its therapeutic potential, cannabis holds the promise of fostering economic growth. A move to reschedule would catalyze the expansion of a burgeoning industry. Job creation, tax revenue generation, and innovative developments in cannabis-related products stand as potential economic dividends. This economic impact could play a vital role in revitalizing communities and contributing significantly to the broader national economy.

Challenges and Considerations: While the scientific rationale for rescheduling is compelling, there are challenges and considerations to address. These include defining appropriate regulations, ensuring standardized product quality, and establishing guidelines for responsible use. Rescheduling Cannabis from Schedule I to III represents a rational response to the evolving scientific landscape surrounding this complex plant. This shift would not only reflect its proven medicinal properties and safety but also open the door to further research and development, fostering a more nuanced and evidence-based approach to Cannabis policy. As society continues to reappraise its stance on cannabis, a thoughtful and informed conversation on rescheduling is essential to navigate the intersection of science, medicine, and public policy.

Dr. Brandie M. Cross, Ph.D.

Dr. Brandie Makeba Cross, Ph.D., is a highly accomplished professional with a diverse background in academia, research, and cannabis science. As an Adjunct Professor in Biological Sciences at California State University, Los Angeles, and in Biochemistry at California Polytechnic University, Pomona, they have demonstrated excellence in teaching and curriculum development. Throughout their career, Dr. Cross has actively engaged in grant-funded research, authored impactful publications, and presented at prestigious conferences. Their commitment to education is evident through their roles as a mentor and their involvement in teaching and curriculum design, including the development of an Integrative Science course with The Honor’s College. They have also made significant contributions to the cannabis industry, designing educational modules for The Cannabis Academy and teaching courses for California’s Cannabis Social Equity candidates.
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Positive Participation in Cannabis Research


The sun rises high on the horizon, gleaming a silvery, slender streak of light into cold windows. Everyday another legalization effort is won and another project has begun. Another researcher arises, born anew into a world that finally accepts their fate. Legalizing Cannabis has opened the doors to our basement labs, our community programs and more. One-by-one Americans are enrolling and participating in Cannabis science research and that is good for everyone. Participating in cannabis research programs can offer several benefits:

  1. Advancing scientific knowledge: By participating in cannabis research, you contribute to expanding our understanding of the plant, its various compounds, and their effects on the human body. This knowledge can help researchers develop evidence-based treatments, interventions, and policies related to cannabis use.
  2. Shaping public health and policy: Research findings from cannabis studies play a crucial role in shaping public health guidelines and policies surrounding cannabis use. By participating, you can contribute to the evidence base that informs decision-making processes related to cannabis legalization, regulation, medical use, and public health initiatives.
  3. Potential therapeutic benefits: Cannabis and its cannabinoids have shown promise in various therapeutic areas, such as pain management, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and nausea reduction in chemotherapy patients, among others. By participating in research programs, you may gain access to potential treatments, innovative therapies, or interventions that could benefit your health condition or that of others.
  4. Personal involvement in cutting-edge research: Engaging in cannabis research allows you to actively participate in advancing scientific knowledge and innovation. You have the opportunity to collaborate with researchers, learn about the latest findings, and potentially contribute to improving healthcare outcomes and quality of life for individuals who benefit from cannabis-based treatments.
  5. Safe and regulated environment: Participating in research programs ensures that your involvement with cannabis-related substances is conducted in a controlled and monitored environment. This can provide reassurance regarding the quality, safety, and legality of the cannabis products used in the study.
  6. Access to expert guidance: When you participate in cannabis research, you typically have access to a team of healthcare professionals, researchers, and specialists who can provide guidance, support, and monitoring throughout the study. This can contribute to a better understanding of your health and well-being.

It’s important to consider that participating in research programs may also involve certain risks, and eligibility criteria and protocols may vary depending on the specific study. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with healthcare professionals, research institutions, or study coordinators to gather all the necessary information and make an informed decision based on your individual circumstances and preferences.

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THCA : Deep Herbal Healing Without the “High”

shallow focus photography of cannabis plant

About THCA :

THCA occurs when cannabigerol (CBG) is converted to THCA, before being decarboxylated to THC in the trichome of the Cannabis flower. THCA is a non-psychoactive, acidic precursor of THC  which alleviates: anxiety, depression, anorexia, pain, IBS/Crohn’s, spasticity, seizure (neuromuscular), nausea, and much more without the psychoactivity of THC. Studies have even shown tumor suppression of some cancers with THCA administration. In fact, recent studies have shown that THCA is far superior to CBD and THC for nausea and the cessation of vomiting. Although THC and THCA with CBD are always recommended for any serious cancer cannabinoid therapy, some cancers may be responsive to concentrated THCA medicines as well.

Scientific studies show..

THCA does not have any known psychoactive effects on humans  but  it has anti inflammatory, neuroprotective, antiemetic (anti-vomiting) and anti-prostate cancer effects. It inhibits COX  enzymes that are involved in inflammation in human colon cell cultures. THC-A has also been shown to decrease oxidative stress, caused by impaired mitochondria, a major mechanism in neural degeneration in mouse brain cell cultures. At our collective, we have tested our products vigorously and have seen a lot of promise for THCA. In prostate and lymphatic cancer patients, we have seen real progress with THCA-enriched therapies. We believe this is through complicated interactions with, not only cannabinoid receptors (such as CB1, CB2, GPR55, etc.) but the TRP family of calcium channels, due to the targeted effects we see and the types of clinical ailments we are able to alleviate.

The Experience

Taking THCA makes you feel energized, motivated and calm at the same time while relieving pain, and anxiety and increasing appetite. THCA is a great molecule for nausea as stated and pain, especially chronic pain. You really feel like a new person, thus many people take it in the morning. Personally, I take it in the morning for insomnia, because it helps me sleep much later in the evening and is very subtle and soothing- rather than taking a sleeping pill at night. Instead, I have energy, zest, and focus all day long and just as easily calm by night time and get into slumber. That is the other great thing – focus! THCA is terrific for people with ADH/D because it helps to focus the mind on the tasks at hand. THCA has been a miracle for so many patients including myself, it’s truly amazing. If you are one of those people who do not like the high of THC, THCA actually mitigates that anxiety, in case you need high THC therapy, and were unable to tolerate the “high”, THCA can alleviate that issue. Side note: I have also received word from some more adventurous souls, that THCA (at least our Purified Trichome Extract (THCA) is really good at relaxing people, physically when having a “bad trip” when using psychedelic substances.

Legality in the United States

THCA is not scheduled by the United Nations’ Convention on Psychotropic Substances. THCA is not scheduled at the federal level in the United States and is therefore legal to possess, buy, and sell. It is possible that THC-A could legally be considered an analog (of THC) although that is somewhat unlikely since it does not provide a high and THC does. If it were legally considered an analog, sales or possession with intent for human consumption could be prosecuted under the Federal Analogue Act. We actually inquired with FDA officials about the proposed legality of our product and were surprised and relieved that THCA seems to outright be OK nationally, so long as it doesn’t get anyone “high”.

THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) Chemical Structure

References & Resources

  1. Baker PB, Taylor BJ, Gough TA. (Jun 1981), “The tetrahydrocannabinol and tetrahydrocannabinolic acid content of cannabis products”, Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology 33 (6): 369–72, doi:10.1111/j.2042-7158.1981.tb13806.x, PMID 6115009
  2. Sirikantaramas S, Morimoto S, Shoyama Y, Ishikawa Y, Wada Y, Shoyama Y, Taura F. (2004-09-17), “The gene controlling marijuana psychoactivity: molecular cloning and heterologous expression of Delta1-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid synthase from Cannabis sativa L.”, Journal of Biological Chemistry 279 (38): 39767–74, doi:10.1074/jbc.M403693200, PMID 15190053
  3. Moore C, Rana S, Coulter C. (2007-06-01), “Simultaneous identification of 2-carboxy-tetrahydrocannabinol, tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabinol and cannabidiol in oral fluid”, J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci. 852 (1-2): 459–64, doi:10.1016/j.jchromb.2007.02.016, PMID 17321807
  4. Taura F. (Jun 2009), “Studies on tetrahydrocannabinolic acid synthase that produces the acidic precursor of tetrahydrocannabinol, the pharmacologically active cannabinoid in marijuana”, Drug Discoveries and Therapeutics 3 (3): 83–7, PMID 22495534
  5. Dussy FE, Hamberg C, Luginbühl M, Schwerzmann T, Briellmann TA. (2005-04-20), “Isolation of Delta9-THCA-A from hemp and analytical aspects concerning the determination of Delta9-THC in cannabis products”, Forensic Science International 149 (1): 3–10, doi:10.1016/j.forsciint.2004.05.015, PMID 15734104
  6. Starks, Michael (1990). Marijuana Chemistry: Genetics, Processing, Potency. Ronin Publishing. ISBN 978-0-9141-7139-3.
  7. Ruhaak LR, Felth J, Karlsson PC, Rafter JJ, Verpoorte R, Bohlin L. (2011), “Evaluation of the cyclooxygenase inhibiting effects of six major cannabinoids isolated from Cannabis sativa”, Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin 34 (5): 774–8, doi:10.1248/bpb.34.774, PMID 21532172
  8. Moldzio R, Pacher T, Krewenka C, Kranner B, Novak J, Duvigneau JC, Rausch WD. (2012-05-07), “Effects of cannabinoids Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol, Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid and cannabidiol in MPP(+) affected murine mesencephalic cultures”, Phytomedicine 19 (8-9): 819–24, doi:10.1016/j.phymed.2012.04.002, PMID 22571976
  9.  De Petrocellis L, Ligresti A., Moriello A.S., Iappelli M., Verde R., Stott C.G., Cristino L., Orlando P., and Di Marzo V. (2013-01-01), “Non-THC cannabinoids inhibit prostate carcinoma growth in vitro and in vivo: pro-apoptotic effects and underlying mechanisms”, British Journal of Pharmacology 168 (1): 79–102, doi:10.1111/j.1476-5381.2012.02027.x, PMC 357000
  10. Jung J, Meyer MR, Maurer HH, Neusüss C, Weinmann W, Auwärter V. (Oct 2009), “Studies on the metabolism of the Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol precursor delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid A (Delta9-THCA-A) in rat using LC-MS/MS, LC-QTOF MS and GC-MS techniques”, Journal of Mass Spectrometry 44 (10): 1423–33, doi:10.1002/jms.1624, PMID 19728318
  11. Hazekamp A, Bastola K, Rashidi H, Bender J, Verpoorte R. (2007-07-15), “Cannabis tea revisited: a systematic evaluation of the cannabinoid composition of cannabis tea”, Journal of Ethnopharmacology 113 (1): 85–90, doi:10.1016/j.jep.2007.05.019, PMID 17604926
  12. Radünz L, Westphal F, Maser E, Rochholz G. (2012-02-10), “THCVA-A – a new additional marker for illegal cannabis consumption”, Forensic Science International 215 (1-3): 171–4, doi:10.1016/j.forsciint.2011.03.001, PMID 21454026
  13.  §1308.11 Schedule I.

The article originally published at ThePotLab.com in 2014

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Explore THC FREE Alternatives

Our comprehensive oil tincture guide is here! Learn why you should use different cannabinoids in combination or in enriched full spectrum formulations. While many cannabinoids have an overlapping effect on some issues, such as epilepsy, ADH/D, depression and anxiety, while others target new pathways that seem to be specific for issues arising from conditions outlined in the chart.

By knowing the differences between our formulations- our members are able to better select the formula that is right for them. Additionally, no natural/alternative/Cannabis-based treatment is “One Size-Fits All”, thus, it offers alternatives for treating common cannabis-responsive conditions.

Our new tincture guide is compiled and critically analyzed data over almost ten years of data from our lab -to help in suggesting specific alternatives for personal wellness.

BONUS GUIDE | Our Spa Products Guide

Our organic vegan spa products are more popular than ever! Offering real renewal and relief from everyday stress and overexertion.
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The Winning Formula: Golden Earth

Black in Biophysics Week yields honors and interest in raw hemp.

This year we celebrated #BlackInBiophysicsWeek with The Biophysical Society and were participants in the #BIBPS #ScienceShare campaign, where Black biophysicists share their work in 3 minutes or less, via social media! We shared our poster on Golden Earth which incorporates the structure-function relationships with the clinical responses to the use of Golden Earth. We won the first-place prize for our contribution!

Golden Earth is a unique terpenoid phenol and Omega-rich, oil blend which relieves multiple ailments.

This year we shared our Golden Earth Patient-Centered Data Poster, you can find here!

We would like to thank the Biophysical Society, our cooperative of patients, our cooperative organizers, and of course the wonderful graduate students and post docs who organized the online event. We hope that this will push for more normalization of research which is marginalised, done by marginalized people. For more info, check out the Biophysical Society website!

Biophysical Society Student Chapter at University of Toronto - Home | Facebook
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5 Ways to Heal In Chaotic Times

The entire planet is in disarray, from a global pandemic to repeated climate change catastrophes; No, this is not a film, it is our current reality.

Dr. Brandie M Cross

We are the lucky ones in so far- as we are alive in this time, which is something to think about in the face of so much upheaval. We are adjusting our partnerships, parenting, and practices to a new reality, in a world where everything is in complete chaos. Here is our quick guide to making the best of this time:

  1. Space – Create spaces in your home and outdoor spaces that are safe and healing. Be mindful of others in your home who may need more or less space through this time. Ask for space and give it liberally.
  2. Care – Taking care of yourself and household is essential, so be sure you are being supportive and receiving support. As we move through this time, caring for ourselves and others is essential for survival.
  3. Activity – Take the time to prepare foods from scratch, create plans for emergencies, and other tasks that you (and your family) have up toff, is a great use of time when you feel the urge. Be careful to be mindful of individual expectations, and set realistic goals. It is OK to have some fun- be sure your activities move your mind in a positive way.
  4. Goals – Be mindful that the entire world is unsure at the moment and be realistic abo your goals! We all know that our endless work and tasks go nowhere, so be kind to yourself, when you fall behind.
  5. Spirituality – Spirituality, and religion are personal supportive rituals that can satisfy our need for answers to the unknown and unclear. Healthy rituals that make you feel better are great for this time. As death becomes our world, we can all offer our thoughts to those who pass.

Essentially, this winter will be cold and hard on all of us. What we need more than ever is to slow our minds, focus on the survival of, not only ourselves but our families, friends, and neighbors, as well. We hope these five mindful words will help you, survive and thrive through this, hardest of times.
For healing products that really help, visit our shop! & stock up today!

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Revolutionary Rehab

10 Steps to Relaxing & Reenergizing Through Crisis

“In the current times, we are faced with several striking crises in American, and global society. The rules and “the way things were” are of the past and a new, revolutionary spirit is in the air while we face down a global viral pandemic. In these times it takes very little to feel drained, overwhelmed, and frankly, tired.”

Through years of protests & demonstrations- I learned exactly what I needed during long bouts of stressful activities; I needed more than rest, I needed rehabilitation. So here are 10 ways I get that energy back and relieve the lingering existential anxieties of the world at the moment.

1. Eat Well

“Food is thine medicine.”, said Hippocrates, and this is why you should eat regular balanced meals through this time. THose finding themselves at Marches and protests may find that they are needing more food than usual due to burning tons of calories int he streets- that’s ok, you need that food. Eating restorative foods such as green vegetables, root veggies, fruits and legumes with delicious herbal seasonings will help combat fatigue and soreness.

2. Sanctuary Sleep

Sleep is the most important ritual to your daily health. While we sleep, we heal, cleanse, and even create metabolic water in our bodies. SLeep can stave off contagions and heal emotional wounds. Sleep is necessary, but also a little extra sleep after a stressful week is even better. At least one night per week you should go to bed with the intention of not using an alarm or getting up too fast in the morning. Prepare the area with dimmed light and soft pillows with a bedside table for books, literature or games you may want to have in bed and a glass or bottle of water. When you wake up – be sure to fight the urge to rise immediately and relax for an hour in bed before rising. This prepares ou for the day, allows reflection, and allows for an extra nap if need be.

3. Hydrate

Water is the best thing you can drink to rehydrate but I will also say- naturally flaVORED WATERS, TEAS, JUICES, AND OTHER YUMMY DRINKS CAN ALSO AID IN HYDRATION. iCE CAN BE ADDED IN THE SUMMER TO KEEP YOU COOL AND ADD MORE WATER TO THE DRINK. rEHYDRATION IS KEY WHEN TO KEEPING YOUR BLOOD THE CORRECT CONSISTENCY, REGULATING YOUR BODY TEMPERATURE AND FIGHTING INFECTION SO BE SURE TO ENJOY SOME HYDRATING BEVERAGES.

4. Self Health Check-In

Be sure to take any medications regularly and see your therapists – even if its by online clinic. Of course, exercise regularly to keep the tension low. It is easy to say to “stay positive”- but more so you will want to check in with your self, your breathing and your body- stretching, breathing exercises (see below) and meditating can help with feelings of anxiety and depression. Check your temperature, blood pressure, do a simple body check-in, making sure you are not having symptoms of COVID or other illness or injury. If you do have some concerns, online clinics are ready and willing to help you without the risk of going to the hospital.

5. Self Reflection

Replaying and reanalyzing the events of the day can over whelm a person, however working through the memories with a notion of overcoming the issues you saw and reflecting on what could have been made better- is both restorative and motivating for activists and those in isolation at the moment.

6. Self Celebration

Music, balloons, pizza, …dance! Throw yourself a little party with your favorite foods, music, and activities. Like fashion? Dressup! Like movies? Watch your favorites! Like cooking? Make all your favorites! Its all about you and making yourself feel better after donating your time/energy to the cause. It is OK- to have happiness in a personal and meaningful way. Engage your energy in your favorite hobbies and embrace the life energy within you. Remember, through all this death- you are still here.

7. Breathing Time

It is important always to breathe correctly, in fact most of us do not breathe properly at all times. Before bed or your meditation session take time in a quiet place to practice slow breathing. You should take slow inward breaths which last 10-20 seconds each with the release being the same. The practice of disciplined breathing goes along with most relaxation and meditation practices.

8. Rehabilitating Bath

After marches and rallies its a great time to rehab those legs by soaking them in warm water with Epsom salts. Add a touch of relaxing and/or natural anti-inflammatory essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint, or holy basil for a next-level spa experience. Soak for 10-20 minute, neck-deep in the bath. My favorite bath recipe is below:

Simple Restorative Bath

2 cups Epsom salts
7 Sprays of Magic Mist
OR
2 cups Epsom Salts
4 drops lavender oil
3 drops sweet orange oil
5 drops peppermint OR eucalyptus oil

*BONUS: Add some bubbles!

9. Super Stretching

You do not have to be a yoga master to get all the benefits of a good super-stretch routine. Stretching is instinctive because our muscles get sore from overuse and extended use. The difference between regular stretching and rehabilitative (Super) stretching is kneading, hold length, and intensity. Super stretching is a rehabilitative stretch that includes self-massage and longer hold time, much like yoga. As you stretch muscles, you will knead the muscle until it becomes more limber and less tense. This increases blood flow, relieving lactic acid build-up, and helps along with the repair of mild injuries. For a VIP experience, add some Sympath TIncture or Balm at the end for natural herbal pain relief and muscle relaxation.

10. Practice Makes Perfect

Most anxieties we suffer from that create depressive minds- are things we either cannot control or are inevitable. Take the time to practice these items once a week and you will see results. It may take time, but like all talents, relieving the kind of overarching anxiety of the current moment is not hopeless. You are a human reacting to a variable and violent reality- be patient with yourself, learn humility and broaden your visions of the future.