Category: Lifestyle

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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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The Cannabis Academy … Returns

Our 100% Online Cannabis science education program is designed to provide in-depth knowledge and understanding of the scientific aspects of cannabis, including its biology, chemistry, pharmacology, and therapeutic applications. These programs aim to equip individuals with the skills and expertise needed to contribute to the advancement of the cannabis industry through research, product development, quality control, and related fields.

The Cannabis Academy educational program typically covers a wide range of topics, our modular program includes:

  1. Cannabis Biology: This involves studying the anatomy, physiology, and life cycle of the Cannabis plant. Students learn about the different cannabis species and strains, plant genetics, cultivation techniques, and environmental factors that influence plant growth and development.
  2. Cannabis Chemistry: This focuses on the chemical compounds present in cannabis, including cannabinoids (such as THC and CBD), terpenes, and flavonoids. Students learn about the chemical structures, properties, and interactions of these compounds, as well as methods of extraction, purification, and analysis.
  3. Pharmacology and Therapeutic Applications: This area explores the effects of Cannabis on the human body and its potential therapeutic applications. Students learn about the endocannabinoid system, cannabinoid receptors, and the mechanisms of action of cannabinoids. They also study the use of cannabis for various medical conditions and the potential benefits and risks associated with its use.
  4. Quality Control and Testing: This covers the processes and techniques used to ensure the safety, quality, and consistency of cannabis products. Students learn about laboratory testing methods, quality assurance protocols, and regulatory compliance related to cannabis testing.
  5. Cannabis Research and Innovation: This aspect focuses on scientific research methodologies applied to Cannabis . Students learn about experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation of results. They may also explore emerging areas of research, such as cannabis genetics, formulation development, and novel delivery systems.

Join Us this this summer!
August 12-13 3pm-6pm PDT SESSION I: Medical Cannabis Science (Modules 1-3 ) 
August 19- 20 3pm-6pm PDT SESSION II: The Business of Cannabis Science (Modules 3-5 )

APPLY below for more information!

Secure Application Form

Sessions(required)

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THCA: Healing Without the “High”

shallow focus photography of cannabis plant

About THC-A:

THC-A occurs when cannabigerol (CBG) is converted to THC-A, before being decarboxylated to THC in the trichome of the Cannabis flower. THC-A 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 THC-A administration. In fact, recent studies have shown that THC-A is far superior to CBD and THC for nausea and the cessation of vomiting. Although THC and THC-A with CBD are always recommended for any serious cancer cannabinoid therapy, some cancers may be responsive to concentrated THC-A medicines as well.

Scientific studies show..

THC-A 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 THC-A. In prostate and lymphatic cancer patients, we have seen real progress with THC-A-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 THC-A makes you feel energized, motivated and calm at the same time while relieving pain, and anxiety and increasing appetite. THC-A 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 int he 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! THC-A is terrific for people with ADH/D because it helps to focus the mind on the tasks at hand. THC-A 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, THC-A actually mitigates that anxiety, in case you need high THC therapy, and were unable to tolerate the “high”, THC-A can alleviate that issue. Side note: I have also received word from some more adventurous souls, that THC-A (at least our Purified Trichome Extract (THC-A) is really good at relaxing people, physically when having a “bad trip” when using psychedelic substances.

Legality in the United States

THC-A is not scheduled by the United Nations’ Convention on Psychotropic Substances. THC-A 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 THC-A seems to outright be OK nationally, so long as it doesn’t get anyone “high”.

Resources and References

  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.