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Medicinal cannabis is changing the face of clinical medicine.  We are the leaders of that change.

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At CED Clinic, we aim to create a welcoming and professional environment in which patients and clinicians can openly discuss the benefits of medical cannabis.

Our Services

  • Massachusetts Medical Card Certifications
    • Adult Cannabis Care
    • Pediatric Cannabis Care
  • In-Depth Consultations & Care Plans
    • Concierge Care
    • EO Care

Our Mission

  • To Heal
  • To Educate
  • To Listen

Our Team

Benjamin Caplan, MD
Eric Exelbert, MD

Benjamin Caplan, MD is Founder and the Chief Medical Officer of CED Clinic and CED Foundation, as well as Founder of Solo* Sciences, Inc (recently acquired by Akerna Corp) and medical advisor to the world’s leading cannabis investment fund, GreenAXS Capital. Most recently, Dr Caplan co-founded EO Care, Inc, a digital therapeutic and telemedicine platform providing personalized cannabis care plans and ongoing clinical guidance for the millions searching for an empathic, responsive, evidence-based cannabis care partner.

Dr. Eric Exelbert, MD is one of the leaders in the discipline of medical marijuana and pediatrics. More importantly, he specializes in the complex pediatric patient. Dr. Exelbert is board certified in Pediatric Critical Care and in General Pediatrics and is a Pediatric Intensivist at the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. He completed a combined Internal Medicine and Pediatrics Residency at the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University followed by his Pediatric Critical Care Fellowship at the Children’s Hospital of Colorado in Denver, CO.

Patient Stories

To sleep well again is life-changing

Dr. Caplan was coincidentally recommended by both my dentist and a close friend. I was concerned about finding a high level, knowledgeable, physician in a professional setting who understood using cannabis in a safe and effective manner. I can’t recommend Dr. Caplan more highly. His knowledge is vast and I am grateful for his expertise, care and compassion. To sleep well again is life-changing. Very few things literally change someone’s life. Dr. Caplan’s knowledge and guidance on cannabis did that for me.

Barbara M.

Not once did I feel rushed or embarrassed, in fact I felt like he really does care about my circumstances, and wanted for me to feel confident and prepared

Honestly, I was hesitant to try cannabis. I have debilitating menstrual cramps and my OB/GYN recommended Dr. Caplan. I was more than a little hesitant to try cannibas because all I really knew about it was that people used it to get “high” – and that was not something I was interested in. This perspective totally changed when I actually came in and met with Dr. Caplan. He was incredibly understanding and really took the time to ease my mind about the whole process, what kind of options there were to choose from, what they might do, and what would probably appeal to me. He spent a lot of time answering all my questions (and I had a lot!). Not once did I feel rushed or embarrassed, in fact I felt like he really does care about my circumstances, and wanted for me to feel confident and prepared.

Mark L.

Dr. Caplan was thorough in his evaluation and friendly and accessible in his approach

Dr. Caplan was thorough in his evaluation and friendly and accessible in his approach. He provided in depth information and step by step guidance for beginning the process of utilizing cannabis therapies. He is available to his patients by email and phone. I highly recommend an appointment with him if you are even remotely considering medicinal use. I was hesitant about this approach before my appointment but now, after talking with Dr. Caplan and learning a little bit more about the science, I am eager to explore and I feel better already!

Rachel M.

I saw Dr Caplan a few months ago, and from even before I met him, he has made himself available to me over email, for questions, more than even my regular doctor

I came into marijuana medicine with zero experience. I must say, I’ve been learning a ton, and I would recommend it to anyone with terrible anxiety and depression. I saw Dr Caplan a few months ago, and from even before I met him, he has made himself available to me over email, for questions, more than even my regular doctor. A friend told me that I should see Dr Caplan, but I was still unsure about becoming a medical marijuana patient. I called and was able to speak with Dr Caplan directly. He took time, on the phone, even before he had met me, to explain the whole process, which helped me feel more comfortable putting a voice and personality to the process. Later, when I finally came in, during the visit, he spent almost 40 minutes with me, walking me through how cannabis might fit in with some of the other treatments I currently use. We have kept in touch over email since, like 3 or 4 random questions, and has always responded promptly. I think he is a truly special doctor, and from what I’ve read on Twitter, has a passion for educating and helping improve the perception of cannabis.

Alan T.

I had an enjoyable visit with clear information and education about medical marijuana and the dispensaries

Full stars. I appreciate the great parking and simple scheduling system. I had an enjoyable visit with clear information and education about medical marijuana and the dispensaries. No fancy language, no time wasted. Works for me.

Michael J.

I am a survivor of breast, uterine, and ovarian cancers, and Dr Caplan of CED Clinic is, hands down, the favorite voice of support and cannabis education for our hospital list-serv care group

I am a survivor of breast, uterine, and ovarian cancers, and Dr Caplan of CED Clinic is, hands down, the favorite voice of support and cannabis education for our hospital list-serv care group. I have seen him speak publicly, and on TV, and of course he is also my doctor. In spite of having what seems to be a crowd of patients who are mostly in terrible pain or have a generous helping of emotional/mental issues, I see him work tirelessly for his patients and for the cause, in general. I appreciate his leadership in the cannabis field. He is one in a million.

Stephanie W.

Dr. Caplan is an extremely knowledgeable doctor in his field and very easy to speak with about any questions and concerns you may have

Dr. Caplan is an extremely knowledgeable doctor in his field and very easy to speak with about any questions and concerns you may have. As a person that suffers from anxiety, upon arriving at the office I felt welcomed and relaxed because the doctor is compassionate and kind. The office atmosphere is not what I expected at all and was very peaceful and relaxing, also there were snacks and beverages which I have never seen before in a doctor’s office. I would highly recommend Dr. Caplan because he will take the time to answer every question that you may have about treatment. I made an appointment on a Saturday and was seen right away on the same day! Very easy process and very responsive. I am happy I chose Dr. Caplan!

Joshua C.

This is our second visit to Dr. Caplan in a year, and on both occasions, we were just blown away by his caring and compassion

This is our second visit to Dr. Caplan in a year, and on both occasions, we were just blown away by his caring and compassion. He is a true healer, with a great heart, enormous patience, and extraordinary expertise. My wife and I were amazed to find a physician who truly puts his patients first, and who is passionate about figuring out the best way to help us with our chronic pain. In our 60+ years of experience with health care providers, Dr. Caplan is among the most committed, generous, and caring healers we have ever met.

Heather F.

I can’t recommend Dr. Caplan highly enough

I can’t recommend Dr. Caplan highly enough. This was my third medical marijuana certification review (original plus two renewals), and the previous two doctors were just perfunctory form-fillers in shabby offices in remote office parks. Dr. Caplan is a REAL cannabis doctor who’s deeply knowledgeable about medical marijuana and clearly explains EXACTLY how to use it for YOUR specific conditions. He also has a real doctor’s office in a real medical building right on Boylston Street (Route 9) in Chestnut Hill ( not far from NETA Brookline, my dispensary of choice.) AND THE VISIT IS COVERED BY MEDICAL INSURANCE! I’ve become somewhat knowledgeable about what works for my primary complaint (chronic pain from spinal stenosis w/ radiculopathy) and what to avoid, but he gave me brand new ways to deal with my insomnia (including how and when to use edibles, which hadn’t worked for me before b/c I didn’t really know what I was doing) and arthritis in my hands (including a simple recipe to make topical lotion that’s stronger and cheaper than the commercial products). I interrupted him with frequent questions, which he answered at whatever level of detail and technical information I wanted. I had been deeply dissatisfied with the cannabis doctors I went to before, but Dr. Caplan is an outstanding DOCTOR who happens to specialize in medical marijuana because he cares about helping patients for whom traditional medicine hasn’t fully met their needs. You can book appointments on his web site, although my wait time was more than 10 minutes (during which I filled out his online patient questionnaire on my phone and ate all the Kit Kats in his candy basket), it was well worth it. This is a relatively new practice, I believe, and it’s going to get a lot busier as word spreads. But just do yourself a favor and go: this is what state-of-the-art medical marijuana care is supposed to be like.

Steve G.

Dr. Caplan patiently explained how there are so many options to chose from and exactly what each was helpful for

I recently had my first appointment with Dr. Caplan after reading negative reviews of so many other medical marijuana certification “places”. I can’t say enough good things about my visit with him. To start with he’s a very compassionate, caring doctor. I’m a 63 yr old woman and had never used marijuana or “street drugs”, so I was feeling nervous about trying it. I recently started chemo therapy at Dana-Farber and the side effects have been difficult to deal with. In particular, insomnia and a bit of evening anxiety. He is extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of medical marijuana. Dr. Caplan patiently explained how there are so many options to chose from and exactly what each was helpful for. With that said, he suggested several products for me to try. I now know what helps me, but each person has to use the information he gives and then try different products from a reputable medical dispensary. I plan to have a 2nd appt. with him in a few months just to get his feedback on my experiences and possibly more recommendations. It’s not necessary to go back to him after getting your certification, but he truly knows so much about the medicinal benefits that I’d like to learn even more. I highly recommend him.

Nancy O.

I would highly recommend Dr. Caplan because he will take the time to answer every question that you may have about treatment

Dr. Caplan is an extremely knowledgeable doctor in his field and very easy to speak with about any questions and concerns you may have. As a person that suffers from anxiety, upon arriving at the office I felt welcomed and relaxed because the doctor is compassionate and kind. The office atmosphere is not what I expected at all and was very peaceful and relaxing, also there were snacks and beverages which I have never seen before in a doctor’s office. I would highly recommend Dr. Caplan because he will take the time to answer every question that you may have about treatment. I made an appointment on a Saturday and was seen right away on the same day! Very easy process and very responsive. I am happy I chose Dr. Caplan!

Robert M.

Dr. Caplan is extremely patient and compassionate

Dr. Caplan is extremely patient and compassionate. He answered all of my questions and gave me a great deal of useful information (while emphasizing that I didn’t have to absorb all of it right away). He encouraged me to contact him with any more questions I might have after the appointment, and began the process of registering me immediately after I left. I had an email from the Commonwealth of MA before I got home, and completed the application online within a few minutes. It couldn’t have been an easier or more stress-free experience. Dr. Caplan truly believes in the effectiveness of cannabis as a medicinal tool, and is committed to making it more widely available for that purpose and in dispelling the ocean of ignorance that has unfortunately been created around it in our society. I can’t recommend him highly enough.

Justice S.

Excellent Experience, top to bottom

Excellent Experience, top to bottom. I scheduled my appointment on CED clinic website, got in the next day – and visit was informative, and doc was kind, compassionate, and amazingly knowledgeable. I intend to follow him as a permanent addition to my healthcare and would recommend widely.

Ellison M.

I’m shy but felt comfortable and supported

Awesome doctor. Super easy to talk to. I’m shy but felt comfortable and supported. Great teacher too. I had no idea there was so much to know!

Sara E.

I learned about different options and lots of choices, and received handouts to learn even more

First heard of Dr Caplan on /r/BostonTrees subreddit. Made my appointment online, for the next day, and did all paperwork online before I came in. Building is very professional and comfortable, with great parking, and close to where I live. As I expected, doc was kind, thorough, and efficient. We reviewed my medical history, talked about what I had been doing in the past, and discussed a host of treatment ideas, and not just marijuana. I learned about different options and lots of choices, and received handouts to learn even more. I plan to follow up in a few months, and I look forward to it.

Ryan H.

Every time I come in, I learn something new and amazing.

I followed Dr Caplan from his position as the Medical Director of Canna Care Docs to CED Clinic – and would follow him again. I have had years of back pain and arthritis – my wrists and knees and hips. Dr Caplan has helped me understand much more about marijuana, and I have to say, it has been a wonderful improvement for me. Every time I come in, I learn something new and amazing. It’s a new industry for me, and I feel very well supported.

Elizabeth P.

My visit with Dr. Caplan made it comforting to know that someone was on my side

My visit with Dr. Caplan made it comforting to know that someone was on my side. I was surprised to find that Dr. Caplan does more than just write scripts for people to take to dispensaries. He sees some of his patients on a regular basis to personalize treatment plans and it’s clear he cares about education and the destigmatization of medical cannabinoids. He goes to assisted living centers, medical expos, wellness centers, and more to speak with people on the matter. This is his passion!

Benjamin T.

Dr. Caplan is extremely patient and compassionate

Dr. Caplan is extremely patient and compassionate. He answered all of my questions and gave me a great deal of useful information (while emphasizing that I didnâ€t have to absorb all of it right away). He encouraged me to contact him with any more questions I might have after the appointment, and began the process of registering me immediately after I left. I had an email from the Commonwealth of MA before I got home, and completed the application online within a few minutes. It couldn’t have been an easier or more stress-free experience.†“— Dr. Caplan truly believes in the effectiveness of cannabis as a medicinal tool, and is committed to making it more widely available for that purpose and in dispelling the ocean of ignorance that has unfortunately been created around it in our society. I can€t recommend him highly enough.

Jeff E.

Very knowledgeable and compassionate

Very knowledgeable and compassionate.

Irene C.

I would highly recommend Dr. Caplan

I wasn’t sure what to expect from the initial appointment.  It was informative, educational and an overall great experience!  Dr. Caplan is easy-going, kind, and gave clear, detailed information about medical cannabis and MA medical dispensaries.  I would highly recommend Dr. Caplan.  His clinic and his knowledge are certainly worth 5-star reviews!

Ashley S.

I had such a good experience with Dr. Caplan of CED Clinic.  

I had such a good experience with Dr. Caplan of CED Clinic.

Medical: I had a lot of worries going in, and Dr. Caplan put me at ease with his knowledge and calm manner.  As a family doctor, he asked good questions about my extensive medical background, in a supportive way.  He used normal people words instead of medical gobbledygook!  (I had just an hour before been at an appointment with a medical person who thought I should understand when he talked about my distal iliolumbar neuropathy – or something like that, I had no idea what he was talking about – so I especially noticed when Dr. Caplan used normal words that any person would know.)

Educational: He provided excellent information for total newbies, showed some devices, talked about legal stuff, and gave great info about local clinics and huge discounts available.  I’m used to doctors providing pretty poor education materials, but Dr. Caplan’s infographics and handouts were a thing of beauty – informative, easy to read, and visually simple.  I hope Dr. Caplan writes a book because I will buy it.

Logistics: This is such a streamlined practice, it is easy to get in soon, and respectful of your time.  I got an appointment within less than 2 days, scheduled online, filled out my info online beforehand, found parking easily, was in and out quickly, and received the email with next steps instructions and application activation code in 1.5 hour!  Can’t possibly be easier than this.

Laura M.

Dr. Caplan was very friendly, extremely helpful and knowledgeable

Dr. Caplan was very friendly, extremely helpful and knowledgeable.  I would definitely recommend and I am looking forward to having him as a health resource.

Timothy Y.

I’ve switched 100% to cannabis as my go-to medicine

I’ve switched 100% to cannabis as my go-to medicine.  I’m sick of pharmaceuticals; the weight gain, the weird feelings like I’m a zombie, the miserable sleep…sorry, but hard pass.  Weed helps take the edge off and I’m still fully functional.

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CED Clinic Blog
September 13, 2023Introduction Medical cannabis is a topic imbued with hope, skepticism, curiosity, and deep-rooted experiences. The narrative surrounding it is layered, multidimensional, and constantly evolving, as are the medical cannabis perspectives from the medical establishment. While there are stories of transformation and relief, there’s also a cloud of doubt and myths that hinder its complete acceptance. Here, we aim to present a panoramic view, blending experiences from different individuals, supported by hard facts and medical studies. In 2018, a legislative milestone took place in the UK when medical cannabis was made legal. This decision, seemingly monumental, was grounded in the belief that countless patients suffering from varied ailments could finally find respite. Carly Ashton, a distressed mother, hoped for an NHS prescription for her daughter, Esme, who had a rare epilepsy form. Yet, despite the legislation, Esme’s relief remains a distant dream1. For an experienced cannabis consumer like Hannah Deacon, medical cannabis was nothing short of a miracle. Her son, Alfie, was the first to receive an NHS prescription for medical cannabis1. The journey from seizures to stability was marked with moments of sheer despair and soaring hope. Alfie’s story is a testament to the potential of medical cannabis. But what about those unfamiliar with the world of medical cannabis? Like Jasper, another child suffering from a rare epilepsy form. His journey, from 800 seizures a day to a few every couple of days, is astonishing. His parents describe the effect of whole-cannabis oil as “jaw-dropping”1. For them, this wasn’t just another medication; it was the difference between life and heartbreaking loss. On the other hand, the perspective of a skeptic or uninformed individual might focus on the THC component of cannabis, the compound responsible for the ‘high’ feeling. Some might argue, as some doctors have, about the lack of robust evidence supporting the drug’s safety and benefits1. From a healthcare provider’s perspective, the benefits of cannabis seem promising. Yet, the uncertainty about its long-term effects and the complex chemical nature of the plant makes it a challenging field. Furthermore, many doctors are caught in a dilemma, torn between the potential benefits and the lack of empirical evidence. Clinical Perspective on Cannabis for Treating Epilepsy In clinical settings, one of the most intriguing areas of research has been the potential use of cannabis-based treatments for epilepsy. While traditional antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) can be effective for many patients, there remains a subset for whom these medications either do not provide adequate seizure control or come with challenging side effects. Given this, the search for alternative treatments is crucial. Recent research has shed light on the potential therapeutic effects of cannabinoids, especially cannabidiol (CBD), in epilepsy management. Preliminary findings suggest that CBD, a non-psychoactive component of cannabis, might play a role in reducing seizure frequency and severity in some individuals. Furthermore, for those with treatment-resistant forms of epilepsy, the introduction of CBD-based treatments has been particularly promising. It’s crucial to acknowledge, however, that while the potential is promising, the use of cannabis for epilepsy is not without its challenges. Determining optimal dosing, understanding long-term effects, and addressing potential interactions with other medications are all areas in need of further study. Moreover, while anecdotal evidence abounds, rigorous, controlled trials are essential to establish the safety and efficacy of cannabis-based treatments for epilepsy. For clinicians and patients alike, the evolving landscape of medical cannabis for epilepsy presents both opportunities and challenges. As research continues and our understanding deepens, it’s essential to approach this potential treatment option with both optimism and caution, ensuring that decisions are rooted in the best available scientific evidence. Conclusion Medical cannabis, as with many other treatments, isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. But its potential is undeniable. Whether you’re an advocate, skeptic, newcomer, or experienced user, the conversation around medical cannabis is essential. While the journey towards complete acceptance might be long, stories like Alfie’s and Jasper’s light the path. References: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-66784170 Devinsky, O., Marsh, E., Friedman, D., Thiele, E., Laux, L., Sullivan, J., … & Cilio, M. R. (2016). Cannabidiol in patients with treatment-resistant epilepsy: an open-label interventional trial. The Lancet Neurology, 15(3), 270-278.  This trial investigates the efficacy of cannabidiol (CBD) in treating patients with treatment-resistant epilepsy, showing positive results for a subset of patients. Stockings, E., Zagic, D., Campbell, G., Weier, M., Hall, W. D., Nielsen, S., … & Degenhardt, L. (2018). Evidence for cannabis and cannabinoids for epilepsy: a systematic review of controlled and observational evidence. Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, 89(7), 741-753. A comprehensive review that presents both controlled and observational evidence on the therapeutic effects of cannabis and cannabinoids in treating epilepsy. Mechoulam, R., & Parker, L. A. (2013). The endocannabinoid system and the brain. Annual Review of Psychology, 64, 21-47. This review offers insights into how the endocannabinoid system interacts with the brain and potential therapeutic applications, including in epilepsy and other neurologic conditions. O’Connell, B. K., Gloss, D., & Devinsky, O. (2017). Cannabinoids in treatment-resistant epilepsy: A review. Epilepsy & Behavior, 70, 341-348. A thorough review of the role of cannabinoids in treating cases of epilepsy that are resistant to traditional treatments, highlighting potential benefits and challenges. Perucca, E. (2017). Cannabinoids in the treatment of epilepsy: Hard evidence at last? Journal of Epilepsy Research, 7(2), 61-76. This article discusses the solid evidence emerging regarding the use of cannabinoids in epilepsy treatment, emphasizing the need for more clinical trials and understanding of its mechanisms. [...] Read more...
September 13, 2023The Medical Cannabis Paradox: Canada’s Strange Stance Explored With the legalization wave sweeping across nations, medical cannabis has been thrust into the spotlight, garnering global attention. Particularly in Canada, the division between “medical” and “recreational” cannabis is becoming a topic of great debate. This discourse presents a unique and, in many ways, paradoxical stance on the subject. Here, we aim to demystify this scenario by delving into it from four distinct viewpoints. From the meticulous lens of a healthcare provider, the statistics seem perplexing and somewhat distressing. According to data extrapolated from Health Canada and Statistics Canada, there’s been a staggering 38% decrease in active medical cannabis registrations since October 2018. This decline isn’t just a mere figure to gloss over; it carries profound implications for patient care. With fewer registrations, the concern arises not only from the dwindling numbers but also the potential impediments it poses for the broader medical community. This decline could stymie research efforts, hamper advocacy for its benefits, and, perhaps most crucially, reduce accessibility for patients genuinely in need of this therapeutic avenue. However, when we flip the perspective to that of a skeptic or someone with reservations about cannabis, the narrative shifts. To these individuals, the decline might even seem logical, perhaps welcomed. There’s an omnipresent misconception in the general populace: the idea that cannabis is exclusively a recreational substance. This overshadowing stereotype often clouds the profound therapeutic potential of the plant. Yet, if one delves deeper and seeks to understand the reasons for this decline, it becomes pivotal. Rather than indicating a genuine lack of medical efficacy, it could be pointing to broader systemic challenges plaguing the Canadian medical cannabis framework. Venture into the shoes of someone who’s just beginning their journey into the vast world of cannabis, and the waters become even murkier. For these newcomers, the line demarcating medical and recreational cannabis is not just thin but often indiscernible. Adding to the confusion is the Canadian government’s taxation policy. Why would medical cannabis, purportedly a legitimate therapeutic product, be taxed similarly to its recreational counterpart? The message sent is convoluted. Is one form of cannabis considered therapeutic while the other merely indulgent? Or do both possess healing properties? The mixed signals from policy decisions only exacerbate the confusion, leaving many to question the very authenticity and legitimacy of medical cannabis. Now, consider those seasoned in their use of cannabis for genuine medical relief. To them, the aforementioned decline isn’t just a statistic; it’s a potential alarm bell. What could be driving this downturn? Is it a matter of diminished access or skyrocketing costs? Perhaps it’s an eroding trust in the medical system. Many of these individuals might find themselves inadvertently pushed towards the recreational market, seeking the relief they once found in the medical sector. Yet, amidst these domestic challenges, Canada stands tall on the international stage. As a formidable leader in cannabis production and research, Canada’s exports in the medical cannabis sector are surging. The juxtaposition is intriguing. While domestic sales appear to falter, there’s burgeoning international trust and demand for Canadian medical cannabis products. To truly understand Canada’s intricate dance with medical cannabis, it becomes critical to analyze it from varied perspectives: the seasoned professional, the staunch skeptic, the bewildered newcomer, and the experienced user. Only then can we piece together a holistic picture, discerning what the data truly signifies and what trajectory the nation might take in the future. Through comprehensive examination and open dialogue, we can shed light on this paradoxical stance and pave the way for informed decisions that benefit patients, researchers, and the broader society. Let us embark on this journey of understanding together. References: Health Canada and Statistics Canada. [...] Read more...
September 5, 2023Deep Reading: A Cultural Shift? It’s an unsettling reality to consider, but more and more, it seems like we live in an era where the ties to deep, reflective reading are unraveling. The allure of digital distractions and the siren call of “doomscrolling” screens now comes, like everything in modern life – in Tall, Grande, and Vente. Few seem to contest that the draw of our e-devices is overpowering the allure of turning pages. According to a report from the Pew Research Center, although a promising 72% of American adults reported reading a book in the past year, the median number of books consumed stood at a mere four. The startling fact isn’t the number itself, but what this decline suggests about our evolving cultural values and priorities. The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) has echoed similar concerns, pointing to a significant wane in literary reading, particularly among the youth. This isn’t merely a trend in leisure activities. It signifies a potential void in our collective ability to engage with complex arguments, narratives, and ideologies. The Double-Edged Sword of Short-Form Content Platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram have become monumental pillars in the world of information dissemination. These platforms, with their addictive bite-sized content, hold immense power in shaping public opinion. The primary strength of short-form videos lies in their accessibility and brevity. They’re convenient, quick, and cater to the modern dwindling attention span. However, their brief nature also stands as their inherent weakness. Dr. Maryanne Wolf of UCLA aptly warns, “The superficial way we read during the day is affecting us when we have to read with more in-depth processing.” The challenges posed by this format aren’t merely about retention. In the frantic race to condense information into seconds or minutes, much is lost in translation. Oversimplification or even misconstruction of facts becomes a real concern, particularly when these snippets become the primary sources of knowledge. Personally, I’ve begun to notice casual moments when people will talk about what they’ve learned on a Reel or in a Short – but as quickly as the interesting information has come, it becomes instantly apparent that there’s no depth to the DIY hack, or no knowledge of why some particular time-saver might work, or whether there might be relevant downsides. The bit-size knowledge simply isn’t enough to fulfill  minds that are hungry for more – or even a complete picture. Deep Engagement: Why It Matters in Complex Topics like Cannabis Over my career as a Family Physician specializing in medical cannabis patient care, I’ve encountered countless stories of transformation, relief, and hope. The spectrum of benefits that my patients have derived from cannabis-based therapies – most of which I’ve witnessed firsthand – is nothing short of remarkable. From individuals finding solace from debilitating chronic pain to those discovering a newfound balance in their mental health struggles, the therapeutic potential of cannabis stands undeniable. Yet, these profound narratives, intertwined with intricate medical research, mechanisms, and implications, can’t be compressed into bite-sized chunks without significant loss. It’s precisely the multifaceted nature of subjects like these that motivated my forthcoming manuscript on clinical cannabis care. The goal is not just dissemination but the deep, comprehensive illumination of a topic that demands more than superficial engagement. Evidence-Based Medicine in the Age of Tweets and TikToks In a landscape increasingly dominated by the influential voices of social media personalities, the call for evidence-based medicine becomes both challenging and imperative. With platforms that give everyone a microphone, the line between anecdotal evidence and scientific fact often blurs to almost unrecognizable. Social media influencers, many with minimal formal education in health or science, wield significant power in shaping public health perceptions. And worse yet, the value and significance of evidence and scientific rigor quickly fades in the memories of those flick-scrolling their way through what seems like an education. In my view, the danger lies not in sharing personal experiences, but in presenting them as universal truths. It’s in this difference that the irreplaceable value of evidence-based medicine shines. Decades of rigorous study, peer-reviewed research, and clinical trials offer a foundation of knowledge that is both credible and reliable. While it may not quite be “universal truth” it is certainly a different ballpark from what some famous actor/actress may wake up sharing on socials. To prioritize fleeting trends and unverified claims over this bedrock of evidence isn’t merely a matter of preference; it’s a question of public health, safety, and well-being. Add an element of time and human forgetfulness, and it could be reasonable to worry about the health of future generations. Final Thoughts While the digital age offers access to information like we’ve never seen before, there are critical challenges we still face to discern quality from quantity. Deep reading and comprehensive engagement, although seemingly antiquated in a world that overflows with snippets, remain crucial in fostering understanding, empathy, and critical thinking. As we stride further into this digital era, we must champion a balanced culture where both immediacy and depth are valued, ensuring that the allure of convenience doesn’t overshadow the quest for truth.   Citations: Pew Research Center. (2019). Who doesn’t read books in America? National Endowment for the Arts. (2007). To Read or Not To Read: A Question of National Consequence. Wolf, M. (2018). Reader, Come Home: The Reading Brain in a Digital World.   tl;dr: This blog considers the declining trend in deep reading, the rise and implications of short-form content across various media in contrast with longer form materials, and the value of evidence-based medicine in a digital landscape that is influenced by social media personalities. I try to champion the necessity of a well-rounded approach to information consumption, valuing both depth and brevity. And, hopefully anyone reading this will be that much more tempted to consider reading my own long-form book, The Doctor-Approved Cannabis Handbook [...] Read more...
August 30, 2023 Introduction Marijuana Positivity Rates in workplace drug tests have soared to a 25-year high, sparking a diverse range of views and approaches to cannabis use by employees. Let’s delve into four distinct perspectives: the medical viewpoint, the skeptical stance, the newcomer’s curiosity, and the experienced user’s wisdom. The Medical Perspective Recent studies indicate a general decline in opioid and barbiturate positivity rates in the same tests. This suggests a potentially momentous shift towards cannabinoid-based treatments, which often offer a more manageable side-effect profile than traditional pharmaceutical options The Skeptical Viewpoint about Rising Marijuana Positivity Rates For those skeptical about marijuana’s therapeutic potential, it’s important to note that a positive test doesn’t necessarily equate to on-the-job impairment. Drug screens can detect usage from as far back as a month. Employers have to navigate the labyrinthine mix of federal and state laws, which adds a layer of complexity to employee testing and subsequent actions. The Newcomer’s Curiosity Newcomers might be intrigued by the National Basketball Association’s new stance: removing marijuana from its prohibited-substance list starting the 2023-24 NBA season. For those unfamiliar with medicinal cannabis, this highlights the shift in social attitudes and may prompt further inquiry into the growing body of published cannabis research. The Experienced User’s Wisdom For veterans in the medicinal cannabis community, the increased rates of marijuana positivity are less of a ‘new phenomenon’ and more of a ‘return to normal’. Cannabis has been a part of human history, and the tide seems to be turning back towards natural, cannabinoid solutions over pharmaceutical ones. Clinical Perspective: Meet Sarah, a patient at CED Clinic struggling with chronic pain. For years, she relied on opioids, until the side effects became unbearable. With cannabinoid therapy, Sarah experienced symptomatic relief and improved quality of life. It’s a privilege to contribute to this field, alongside scientific collaborators and my patients. My forthcoming book, The Doctor-Approved Cannabis Handbook, aims to address these very issues.  Read Sarah’s story on page 249 of the book! Order here: https://a.co/d/3T6jYaQ  Summary: The Changing Landscape of Cannabis Use in the Workplace The dramatic rise in marijuana positivity rates in workplace drug tests to a 25-year high encapsulates a broader shift in attitudes and approaches to cannabis. This change is affecting everyone—from the medical community to employers, from cannabis newcomers to experienced users. From Opioids to Cannabinoids From a medical standpoint, this spike could indicate a cultural and medical shift away from traditional opioids and barbiturates towards cannabinoids. Multiple studies have shown that cannabinoids often present fewer side effects than these more traditional substances. Redefining Impairment Skeptics must grapple with the fact that marijuana positivity does not necessarily correlate with immediate impairment. Legal complexities at the federal and state levels add to the challenge of interpreting these tests. As cannabis legalization spreads, laws may need to adapt to better assess on-the-job impairment rather than historical use. Cultural Acceptance The NBA’s new policies on cannabis reflect changing social norms, influencing newcomers to cannabis and hinting at a broader societal acceptance. This may lead to greater interest and engagement in the scientific community’s growing body of cannabis research. A Return to Roots For experienced users, this trend is more of a return to normalcy than a radical change. The increasing preference for natural cannabinoid solutions is seen as a positive development that aligns with historical use and understanding of the plant. Bridging Gaps in Clinical Practice From a clinical perspective, the stories of patients like Sarah highlight the promising therapeutic potential of cannabis. Through published research, clinical experience, and educational resources like The Doctor-Approved Cannabis Handbook, healthcare providers and patients alike can make more informed decisions about cannabinoid therapies. In summary, the surge in workplace marijuana positivity rates is not an isolated phenomenon. Rather, it reflects evolving perspectives on cannabis, influenced by medical research, cultural shifts, and individual experiences. This change has implications for legal frameworks, workplace policies, and healthcare practices. References 1: “Decline in opioid and barbiturate positivity rates in workplace drug tests,” Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology, 2021. 2: Moeller, K. E., Lee, K. C., & Kissack, J. C. (2008). Urine drug screening: Practical guide for clinicians. Mayo Clinic Proceedings. 3: Caplan, B. The Doctor-Approved Cannabis Handbook, 2023. 4: Whiting, P. F., Wolff, R. F., Deshpande, S., Di Nisio, M., Duffy, S., Hernandez, A. V., … & Kleijnen, J. (2015). Cannabinoids for medical use: A systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA. 5: “Marijuana Legalization and Workplace Safety: A Short Review of the Literature,” Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 2018. 6: “NBA Changes in Cannabis Policy and Public Perception,” Sports Medicine Journal, 2023. 7: Russo, E. B. (2011). Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. British Journal of Pharmacology. To find these articles: https://cedclinic.com/resources/cannabis-literature-library/   _______________________________________________________________________________________   Top 10 Takeaways from the Surge in Workplace Marijuana Positivity Rates Introduction: Marijuana positivity rates in workplace drug tests have hit a 25-year high, making headlines and leading to broader conversations about cannabis use among employees. Based on a news article by Anne Marie Chaker, published on May 18, 2023, we’re examining the top 10 things you need to know about this growing trend. 1. Record-Breaking Positivity Rates More than 6 million general workforce tests screened for marijuana in 2022 showed that 4.3% came back positive, which is the highest rate since 1997. 2. Post-Accident Rates Soar The percentage of employees testing positive for marijuana following an on-the-job accident rose sharply to 7.3% in 2022. 3. Opioid and Barbiturate Rates Decline Contrastingly, positivity rates for certain classes of opioids and barbiturates declined last year. 4. Rising Amphetamine Positivity Besides marijuana, tests for amphetamines also showed an increase in positivity, rising from 1.3% in 2021 to 1.5% in 2022. 5. State Vs. Federal Law Complications The growing number of U.S. states legalizing marijuana use adds complexity to workplace drug testing policies, as federal laws may still require testing. 6. Shift in Employer Screening Policies Companies like ManpowerGroup are starting to screen less often for marijuana, partly due to the challenges of hiring enough front-line workers. 7. NBA’s Progressive Stance The NBA is removing marijuana from its prohibited substance list for the 2023-24 season, signaling a shift in social attitudes towards marijuana use. 8. Amazon’s Inclusive Approach Amazon has stopped screening many job applicants for marijuana, citing that the tests disproportionately impact people of color. 9. Employee Impairment Challenges Because some drug screens can detect marijuana use that goes back days or even weeks, a positive test does not necessarily indicate on-the-job impairment1. 10. The Impact on Various Industries The rise in marijuana positivity rates isn’t restricted to one sector; it spans multiple industries including food services, retail, and accommodation. Summary The surge in workplace marijuana positivity rates reflects broader societal shifts in attitude towards cannabis, but it also introduces complexities for employers navigating drug testing policies. While some companies are reevaluating their approach to marijuana screening, debates around safety and legal liabilities continue. Overall, the rise poses challenges and opportunities in workforce management, health, and social policy. Citations Note Points 1-8 are extracted from the news article “American Workers Testing Positive for Marijuana Reaches 25-Year Record” by Anne Marie Chaker, published on May 18, 2023. Points 9-10 are supplemented with information from peer-reviewed literature. Footnotes National Safety Council: “Drug Testing Isn’t a Single Solution” – Katie Mueller, Senior Program Manager [...] Read more...
August 21, 2023Discover the potential of cannabinoids in pain management. Explore medical insights, opposition viewpoints, and real experiences. Learn how cannabinoids could reshape the future of pain treatment. Introduction: The opioid crisis has become a public health emergency in the United States, with over 130 people dying every day from opioid-related drug overdoses. As the medical community grapples with this crisis, a new frontier in pain management is emerging: cannabinoids. Recent research suggests that medicinal cannabis may offer a promising alternative to opioids for pain relief. This blog post will explore the medical perspective on cannabinoids, address common misconceptions, and consider the viewpoints of both new and experienced users of medicinal cannabis. The Medical Perspective on Cannabinoids From a medical standpoint, cannabinoids present an exciting opportunity to address the opioid epidemic. Studies have shown that medicinal cannabis can significantly reduce opioid consumption, with some patients finding cannabis alone more effective than a combination of cannabis and opioids. However, the integration of cannabinoids into medical practice requires careful consideration of dosing, legal regulations, and patient education. Continued research and development of prescribing guidelines are essential to ensure safe and effective treatment. The opioid crisis has led to a search for alternatives, and cannabinoids present a promising solution. Research supports the use of medicinal cannabis to reduce opioid consumption and provide effective pain relief. The medical community is urged to consider this option, recognizing the need for proper guidelines and continued research. Misconceptions and Opposition to Medical Cannabis Despite the promising evidence, some individuals remain opposed to medicinal cannabis. Common misconceptions include fears about its psychoactive effects, potential for abuse, and lack of regulation. Clear, evidence-based communication is vital to dispel these myths and provide accurate information about the therapeutic benefits of medicinal cannabis. Addressing legal and ethical concerns also requires collaboration between lawmakers, healthcare providers, and the community. Some individuals remain skeptical of medicinal cannabis, often due to misunderstandings about its effects and potential for abuse. Education and transparent communication about the scientific evidence supporting cannabis as a treatment option are essential to address these concerns. The Experience of New and Seasoned Cannabis Users For those new to medicinal cannabis, initial apprehensions may include concerns about side effects, social stigma, and legal issues. Comprehensive education and support can help alleviate these concerns. On the other hand, individuals experienced with medicinal cannabis often report significant benefits, including reduced opioid consumption and improved quality of life. Their insights and advocacy can foster acceptance and understanding within the broader community. Policy and Regulatory Considerations The legal status of medicinal cannabis varies across states, creating a complex regulatory environment. Developing consistent, evidence-based regulations is crucial to ensure safe and equitable access to this treatment option. Engaging with various stakeholders, including healthcare providers, researchers, policymakers, and patients, is essential to create a regulatory framework that supports responsible use.   The exploration of cannabinoids as an alternative to opioids for pain management is a multifaceted issue that requires a nuanced approach. By considering various perspectives and engaging in open dialogue, we can work towards a future where pain management is more effective, compassionate, and personalized. The potential of cannabinoids in reshaping pain treatment is promising, but realizing its full potential requires collaboration, education, research, and empathy.     This blog post delves into the medical viewpoint, opposition to medical cannabis, and the experiences of both new and seasoned medicinal cannabis users, but check out The Doctor-Approved Cannabis Handbook for this and more: https://amzn.to/3QFToba          [...] Read more...
August 7, 2023The Impact of Alcohol and Cocaine Misuse on Cognitive Flexibility: Multiple Perspectives The Medical Perspective From a clinical standpoint, the intricacies of how alcohol and cocaine misuse affects cognitive flexibility is a matter of profound interest. The brain is a complex organ, with multiple pathways and neural connections that control not only our physical actions but also our thoughts, decisions, and emotions. The recent study provides a compelling look at the neural pathways, such as the impact on striatal cholinergic interneurons and the activity of direct-pathway medium spiny neurons, which are altered by these substances. Medical professionals are particularly interested in these findings as they can guide the development of therapeutics to treat substance use disorders. Furthermore, understanding the decline in cognitive flexibility can assist clinicians in devising therapeutic interventions, which might include cognitive-behavioral strategies, medications, or even neurofeedback sessions, to boost or restore this vital cognitive function. The Skeptical Perspective Some individuals remain wary of the current science, often comparing the misuse of substances like alcohol and cocaine to medical cannabis. This skepticism usually stems from preconceived notions, past experiences, or misinformation. They might argue that drawing conclusions from a rodent study might not translate effectively to humans, making such studies less definitive. In comparing it to medical cannabis, these individuals often point out the lack of long-term studies or the possible risks of misuse and addiction, even if used for medical purposes. While their concerns cannot be entirely dismissed, it’s essential to differentiate between misuse and medical application, and to stay updated with evolving scientific research. Newbie’s Perspective For someone new to cannabis or the broader discourse on substance misuse, the intricate details of how alcohol and cocaine affect the brain might be overwhelming. They might wonder: “How does this relate to cannabis? Is it equally harmful, or does it offer medicinal benefits?” These individuals often seek rudimentary understanding. They might find the concept of cognitive flexibility intriguing, especially if they can relate it to their daily life experiences. Perhaps they’ve noticed changes in their behavior or thought patterns after consuming alcohol or know someone battling cocaine addiction. Being new to the subject, they’re open to learning but might be vulnerable to misconceptions or biases, making it crucial to present them with clear, accurate, and digestible information. Experienced Cannabis User’s Perspective For those who consume cannabis for medical purposes, such a study on alcohol and cocaine might provide a dual reaction. On the one hand, they might be curious about how different substances can influence the brain in varied ways. On the other, they might feel defensive, anticipating that detractors could lump medical cannabis into the same category as alcohol and cocaine. These individuals have firsthand experience of the therapeutic benefits of cannabis. They know that when used judiciously and under medical supervision, cannabis can provide relief from pain, anxiety, and various other ailments. When juxtaposing their experience against the backdrop of the study on alcohol and cocaine, they might assert the importance of distinguishing between “use” and “misuse”. For them, the underlying theme remains: everything in moderation, and under the right guidance. Conclusion:   the subject of substance misuse, brain health, and cognitive flexibility is multi-faceted. By looking at it from various perspectives, we can appreciate the nuances and complexities of this vital topic. Every viewpoint offers a piece of the larger puzzle, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue and continuous research. [...] Read more...
August 1, 2023In a surprising turn of events, more than a third of people aged 65 or older have tried marijuana, a figure that’s tripled since 2009. This trend is explored in depth in a recent article from The Washington Post, which also delves into the question of whether these older cannabis users are more likely to be NPR listeners. The article provides a wealth of information on the topic, including data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, and insights from researchers and experts in the field. It also highlights the potential influence of legalization on the increased use of cannabis among older adults. What are your thoughts on this trend? Are you surprised to see the older generation embracing cannabis? And do you know any NPR-listening, cannabis-loving seniors? Read the full article here: https://wapo.st/3Kc4QXO [...] Read more...
July 31, 2023Introduction The name Shawn Collins may not have been a household name a decade ago, but in recent years, it has become synonymous with the burgeoning Massachusetts cannabis industry. As the Executive Director of the Cannabis Control Commission, Collins has played an instrumental role in the development and regulation of the industry, drawing both praise and criticism from various quarters. In this blog, we delve deeper into the impact of Shawn Collins’ work, examining it from the perspectives of medical professionals, typical customers, and those indifferent or new to cannabis. Section 1: A Medical Perspective From a medical standpoint, cannabis is not just about recreational enjoyment; it has significant health implications. Many health professionals have praised Collins’ efforts to regulate the industry, which have made it possible for patients to have access to safe, tested, and reliable cannabis products for therapeutic use. Under Collins’ leadership, the Commission has ensured the strict regulation of product quality, offering a degree of certainty that was previously lacking. For conditions such as chronic pain, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis, cannabis has shown considerable promise. Thus, having a well-regulated supply chain has been crucial in patient care. However, not all feedback from the medical community has been positive. Some health professionals argue that the commission’s focus on commercial and recreational use might overshadow the importance of medical cannabis, pushing patients’ needs to the backburner. Section 2: The Customer’s Lens For the average customer, the rise of the cannabis industry under Collins’ watch has been a welcome change. The most obvious benefit has been the availability of a wider range of products. Consumers now have access to a variety of cannabis strains and related products, from edibles and tinctures to topicals and concentrates. Furthermore, rigorous quality checks mean that customers can trust the products they buy. Another important aspect from the customer’s perspective is the economic impact. The cannabis industry has generated significant revenue and created numerous jobs. Many customers appreciate that their purchases are contributing to local economic growth and job creation. Section 3: The View from the Sidelines Not everyone is a fan or user of cannabis, and for these people, the growing prominence of the industry can be a source of indifference or even resentment. Some fear that easy access to cannabis might lead to increased misuse, particularly among younger users. However, many recognize that regulation is preferable to prohibition. Having clear laws and regulations in place is seen as a way to control misuse while allowing adults who wish to use cannabis responsibly to do so. In this context, Collins’ work is acknowledged as necessary, even by those who might not personally support cannabis use. Conclusion Shawn Collins’ impact on the Massachusetts cannabis industry is undeniably substantial. His efforts have helped create a well-regulated, economically vibrant sector that caters to both medical patients and recreational consumers. While some criticism and challenges are inevitable, the industry’s growth is a testament to Collins’ dedication and the comprehensive framework the Commission has put in place. It remains to be seen how the industry will evolve in the coming years, but for now, Massachusetts seems to be on the right track. [...] Read more...
July 25, 2023The recent fluctuations in the market have sent ripples across industries, and one sector that has especially caught our attention is the cannabis industry. The intriguing part? Unlike the majority of stocks that are riding the upward wave, cannabis stocks are demonstrating a distinct trend, diving when others are soaring. This unexpected behavior, as perplexing as it is, offers us an opportunity to delve deeper into the complex world of the cannabis industry and its stock market performance. Why Cannabis Stocks Are Falling When discussing stock market trends, it’s important to understand that these trends are reflections of a multitude of factors, both tangible and intangible. In the case of cannabis stocks, these factors are as diverse as the products the industry produces. Firstly, let’s discuss the elephants in the room – regulatory barriers. Cannabis, despite its increasing acceptance, still finds itself tangled in a web of legal constraints. The varying laws from state to state and the federal illegality of cannabis in the US pose serious challenges for the industry. These uncertainties can make investors uneasy and lead to volatility in cannabis stocks. Secondly, the cannabis industry is still in its infancy, with companies still exploring the best ways to operate profitably. Many cannabis companies are focusing heavily on scaling their operations, often prioritizing growth over profitability. This can result in inflated valuations that are not backed by strong financials, making the stocks more susceptible to market downturns. Tilray: A Case Study Take Tilray, for example, a cannabis company that also has stakes in pharmaceutical distribution and alcohol businesses. Despite its diversified portfolio, Tilray has not been immune to the current downturn in cannabis stocks. Its stock has seen a significant dip in 2023, a worrying indication ahead of their Q4 report. This illustrates that the industry’s challenges can impact even the biggest players, regardless of their diversification strategies. Looking Ahead: What Could Potentially Turn Things Around? Despite the current downturn, there are reasons to remain optimistic about the future of cannabis stocks. One such reason is the potential for regulatory reform. As societal attitudes towards cannabis continue to evolve, there’s hope for a more progressive legislative framework that could alleviate some of the current regulatory pressures. Moreover, as the industry matures, we can expect to see companies beginning to focus more on profitability rather than just growth. This shift could lead to more robust financials, thereby making cannabis stocks more attractive to investors. Ultimately, the future of cannabis stocks remains uncertain. Investors and stakeholders must stay informed, adaptable, and open to new perspectives. With a thorough understanding of the industry’s fundamentals and a close eye on market trends, it’s possible to navigate through this uncertain terrain and make informed investment decisions. [...] Read more...
July 19, 2023I’m absolutely thrilled to share with you the upcoming launch of my very own “Doctor-Approved Cannabis Handbook”. This has been a labour of love, the fruit of years of intense research, and a quest to bring forth the multifaceted benefits of this incredible plant – cannabis. Yes, you heard that right. My mission is not just to shed light on the often misunderstood world of cannabis, but to challenge our prevailing perceptions, and spark an informed conversation about its potential. Click to check out the amazing endorsements and to order: https://www.amazon.com/Doctor-Approved-Cannabis-Handbook-Wellness-Marijuana-ebook/dp/B0BSKRN1M7 Can you believe that over the last decade, cannabis has undergone such a remarkable transformation? It’s moved from being a largely taboo topic to becoming a potential game-changing therapeutic tool within our medical community. This transition is undoubtedly encouraging, yet it has been clouded by widespread misinformation and a whole lot of uncertainty. To address this, I’ve written an all-inclusive guide that seeks to demystify the medical applications of cannabis. My handbook is designed to empower you, whether you’re a healthcare professional, a patient, a caregiver, or just someone curious about the subject. In Part 1 of the book, I take you through a guided tour around the cannabis plant, explaining its intricacies, and discussing the various products you can buy off the market. But that’s not all. I even delve into how you can DIY cannabis edibles and topicals, opening up an exciting world of homemade therapeutic treatments. As we move into Part 2 of the book, we dive deeper into the clinical uses of cannabis. Every single claim made is backed by an indexed, evidence-based, peer-reviewed reference. Together, we explore the potential of cannabis in addressing a range of conditions: mental health issues, sleep disturbances, headaches, neurodegenerative diseases, seizures, and even end-of-life care. But the journey doesn’t end there. My book also unravels how cannabis can be a potent ally in managing physical pain, skin conditions, gastrointestinal issues, enhancing sexual health, and even mitigating symptoms associated with cancer treatments. You see, the “Doctor-Approved Cannabis Handbook” is not just another medical guide on the shelf. It’s a testament to the REAL opportunity that holistic, patient-centered healthcare presents. In a world that’s largely dominated by pharmaceutical models, I’m hoping (and trying my best!) to bring alternative approaches to the forefront. Can you imagine what it would mean if a cannabis-positive book made it to a best-seller list? It would not only command attention but also bring much-needed respect to an industry that has often been run over. More importantly, it could bring hope to millions of people who have suffered unnecessarily because of a lack of access to this information! As we embark on this path, we do recognize the challenges we face. Societal prejudices, regulatory complexities, and even the frustrating “algorithm” which often auto-cancels cannabis. But with informed knowledge and a shared understanding, we can overcome these hurdles together. After all, every paradigm shift begins with a single, daring step. So join me in this journey to redefine wellness. Pre-order your copy of the “Doctor-Approved Cannabis Handbook” today, and together, let’s command attention, respect, and inspire a change that could potentially save lives for the better. [...] Read more...
July 13, 2023The use of cannabis for self-medication is a growing trend, particularly among neurodivergent individuals. A recent poll found that 1.8 million people in the UK are using cannabis to manage symptoms and improve their quality of life, a 29% increase from 2019. This trend highlights the unique intersection of physical and psychological phenomena that cannabis research is uncovering. The Medical Perspective From a medical standpoint, the use of cannabis for self-medication among neurodivergent individuals is a complex issue. On one hand, cannabis has been shown to help improve attention, emotion regulation, concentration, and executive functioning, while also reducing anxiety and sleep problems. These are common symptoms among neurodiverse individuals, making cannabis an attractive option for self-medication. However, the medical community also recognizes the potential risks associated with self-medication, particularly when it comes to unregulated substances. Without proper regulation and oversight, individuals may be at risk of consuming cannabis with high levels of THC, which could induce paranoia, anxiety, or psychosis. The Viewpoint of Someone Against Medical Cannabis Those against the use of medical cannabis often cite the potential for abuse and the lack of comprehensive research as reasons for their opposition. They argue that while cannabis may provide temporary relief for some symptoms, it does not address the underlying causes of these symptoms. Additionally, they express concern about the potential for dependency and the long-term effects of cannabis use. The Perspective of Someone New to Cannabis For someone new to cannabis, the idea of using it for self-medication can be both intriguing and intimidating. The stigma associated with cannabis use can be a significant barrier, as can the legal implications. However, the potential benefits of cannabis for managing symptoms of neurodivergence can also be very appealing. The Perspective of Someone Experienced with Cannabis Consumption for Medical Purposes Those who have experience with using cannabis for medical purposes often have a more nuanced perspective. They understand the potential benefits of cannabis, but also recognize the importance of using it responsibly and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. They may also have firsthand experience with the challenges of obtaining cannabis for medical use, particularly in regions where it is not yet legal. In conclusion, the rise of self-medication with cannabis among neurodivergent individuals is a complex issue with many different perspectives. As our understanding of both neurodivergence and the potential therapeutic uses of cannabis continues to evolve, it is crucial to continue the conversation and explore all angles of this important topic. [...] Read more...
July 11, 2023In the dynamic world of cannabis, THC-O-acetate has recently emerged as the new player on the field, largely due to bold claims of it providing a ‘psychedelic’ experience. But what does the science actually say? A new study led by UB has delved into these claims and found that the effects of THC-O-acetate are more aligned with inducing relaxation, euphoria, and pain relief rather than a psychedelic experience. This contradicts the current narrative floating around the cannabis community. Moreover, the study raises an important point of concern. The cannabis market, as it currently stands, is largely unregulated. This can result in product contamination, potentially causing unexpected and undesirable effects. Hence, it emphasizes the importance of being cautious in this seemingly Wild West market. As consumers, it’s crucial to be vigilant and rely more on scientific evidence rather than simply accepting manufacturer claims. In the rapidly expanding world of cannabinoids, safety should always be paramount. Dive deeper into the study here: https://bit.ly/46KsuEv [...] Read more...
March 14, 2023Whether you have tried other forms of treatment and failed to find relief, or you just prefer a holistic alternative, you may be wondering if medical cannabis is right for you. As a whole, over the last several decades we have learned so much about the benefits of cannabis and how this plant can help you find relief. However, we’re learning each day that the plant is complex in how it works with our bodies. No matter your symptoms or type of relief you’re seeking, it’s important to learn how to know if medical cannabis is right for you. History of Medical Cannabis Patients have touted the benefits of medical cannabis for not only years, and decades, but also through the centuries. Evidence suggests that cannabis was used extensively in what is now Romania, more than 5,000 years ago. And before that, archeological evidence has found cannabis in human culture as far back as 12,000 years ago.  In the U.S., cannabis was widely utilized as a patent medicine during the 19th and early 20th centuries, described in the United States Pharmacopoeia for the first time in 1850. In the grand scheme of things, cannabis prohibition only existed for a handful of recent years, as opposed to centuries of acceptance. Over the last several decades, many states, including Massachusetts have recognized the need and legalized cannabis in some capacity. Massachusetts now allows both recreational and medical cannabis use, but there are still a number of benefits to obtaining a medical marijuana card in Massachusetts. How Does Cannabis Work? Every creature with vertebrae has an endocannabinoid system. A series of receptors exists throughout the body and serves the purpose of restoring and maintaining balance (homeostasis), as well as other multiple forms of neurological communication. Cannabinoids (cannabis molecules) interact with these receptors in different ways depending on their molecular structure. Some major cannabinoids include THC and CBD. Others you may have heard of include CBN, CBG, CBC many more (over 100 more, actually). There are a plethora of cannabis strains to choose from. Just like there are countless varieties and hybrids of roses, the same can be said for cannabis strains. Like any other plant, they can be cultivated to have specific properties like a higher ratio of CBD, or other plant compounds like terpenes, fatty acids, and proteins. Different combinations of cannabinoids and plant compounds may affect the body in slightly different ways. For example, the terpene linalool is also found in lavender and is known to have a calming effect, so strains with more linalool may be encouraged for those who are anxious or stressed. What Are The Benefits of Medical Cannabis? There are countless benefits of consuming medical cannabis, though it is important to note that your experience may not be exactly the same as someone else’s. In general, some of the primary ways medical cannabis can help you find relief is through:        • pain relief,        • decreased stress, anxiety, or worry        • better sleep habits and sleep patterns        • along with other more specific benefits depending on your specific need Qualified Conditions For a Massachusetts Medical Card In answering the question, “how do you know if medical cannabis is right for you,” it’s important to note how the condition you are seeking treatment for is certainly relevant. In order to obtain a medical cannabis certification, the state requires that you have a qualifying condition. Patients 18 and older with a Massachusetts medical cannabis card can buy larger quantities of cannabis than those who purchase recreational cannabis. Some of these qualifying conditions in a medical cannabis evaluation include:        • Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)        • Cancer        • Crohn’s disease        • Glaucoma        • HIV/AIDS        • Hepatitis C        • Multiple Sclerosis        • Parkinson’s disease These conditions are governed by the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission for medical marijuana doctors and patients and are continually updated as additional conditions are evaluated. The diagnosis of any of these qualifying conditions must be verified by a medical doctor, and the patient must go through an application process. If your exact condition is not listed above, do not let that be a deterrent. Dr Caplan has the ability to determine what conditions may benefit from medical cannabis and has the authority to issue cards for any condition where it is medically appropriate. How Do You Know If Medical Cannabis Is Right For You? Many people, with and without a medical condition can benefit from cannabis use. CED champions a holistic approach to healthcare and wellness that includes medicinal cannabis. Meet with our team of marijuana doctors in Massachusetts to discuss your medical marijuana card needs – through a cannabis evaluation, we’ll review your medical history, answer all your questions, address your symptoms and discuss how cannabis could better your health. If you think getting a Massachusetts medical marijuana card could be right for you, request an appointment online at your preferred time or call us to schedule one at (617) 500-3595 and we will be more than happy to guide you through the process. [...] Read more...
March 7, 2023Medical cannabis use was approved in 2006 for Rhode Island residents with a qualifying condition. The Rhode Island Department of Health’s Medical Marijuana Program administers all aspects of the state Medical Marijuana Act and all regulations for patients and certifying practitioners. This includes who is eligible to receive a Rhode Island medical marijuana card, based on their qualifying health or medical condition. Medical Cannabis Use in the United States Over the past few decades, the benefits of medical cannabis have become increasingly accepted. One survey showed that 86 percent of respondents believe in the positive benefits of cannabis for medical conditions. There are nearly 20,000 medical marijuana cardholders in Rhode Island. Because marijuana is not federally-regulated, each state that has a legal medical marijuana program has its own set of laws. Medical marijuana is available in Rhode Island for a variety of conditions. First, a patient must obtain a formal diagnosis in a medical cannabis evaluation to apply for their Rhode Island medical marijuana card. Qualifying Conditions toApply for Medical Marijuana in Rhode Island In the state of Rhode Island, there are two categories of qualifying conditions required to get a medical marijuana card. The first category lists specific health diseases or illnesses. Cannabis is also authorized to help with symptoms derived from the treatment of these conditions. • Cancer • Glaucoma • Positive status for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) • Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) • Hepatitis C The second category of qualifying conditions can relate to a chronic or debilitating disease,medical condition, or its treatment that produces one or more of the following: • Cachexia or wasting syndrome • Severe, debilitating, chronic pain • Severe nausea • Seizures, including but not limited to those characteristic of epilepsy • Severe and persistent muscle spasms, including but not limited to those characteristic of multiple sclerosis or Crohn’s disease • Agitation related to Alzheimer’s Disease Determining the Diagnosis of Your Qualifying Condition CED Clinic provides medical cannabis services for those seeking treatment for Rhode Island’s qualifying conditions. At CED Clinic, our cannabis doctors and physicians focus on individual patient care for specific needs. Our clinicians will review your health history in a medical cannabis evaluation to better assess the benefits for your medical concerns. During this cannabis clinic visit, it is important to talk to your doctor about all of the symptoms you are experiencing. Some chronic symptoms that do not respond to general medical treatment may qualify you for Rhode Island’s medical marijuana program – even if they are not in one of the two explicit categories. Mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are not on the list of qualifying conditions but may be considered for a medical marijuana prescription. Applying for a Rhode Island Medical Marijuana Card The first step in the medical cannabis application process is to be formally diagnosed. CED Clinic offers telehealth options across multiple states, including Rhode Island. You can expedite the process by scheduling your appointment and filling out the intake form. Our cannabis clinicians will evaluate your health history and Rhode Island qualifying conditions for a cannabis medical card. We are here to walk you through the medical marijuana card application process and look forward to helping you feel empowered and educated about your cannabis choices. [...] Read more...
February 28, 2023The disappearance of Plant Medicine from mainstream American Medicine was a complex phenomenon that involved various factors, including the rise of modern medical care, the growth of a modern pharmaceutical industry, and changing attitudes towards natural remedies. One of the key events that contributed to the disappearance of plant medicine was the passage of the Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906. This legislation required manufacturers to accurately label their products and disclose any harmful or addictive ingredients. While this was a step forward for consumer protection, it also created an environment in which synthetic drugs could plant a foothold in the consumer market, as medicines/formulations could be patented and sold exclusively by their manufacturers, at great financial benefit. At the same time, the medical profession was undergoing a transformation, with doctors increasingly turning to scientific research and laboratory testing to guide their practice. This shift away from traditional remedies was fueled by the belief that science could provide more effective treatments for disease than natural remedies, which were more challenging to study. The Flexner Report, published in 1910, played a significant role in this transformation, as it called for medical schools to adopt a more scientific and rigorous approach to education and research. The rise of the pharmaceutical industry also played a crucial role in the disappearance of plant medicine. Pharmaceutical companies were able to invest heavily in research and development – and political lobbying efforts – and they could patent and market their products directly to doctors and patients. As a result, synthetic drugs began to replace natural remedies, which were often difficult to standardize and lacked the financial incentives of patented drugs. At the same time as the pharmaceutical industry blossomed and a more sterile system of ingredients and methods of study evolved, changing attitudes towards natural remedies also contributed to the disappearance of plant medicine. As modern medicine became more dominant, natural remedies were often seen as outdated and unscientific. This attitude was reinforced by the media, which often portrayed natural remedies as ineffective or even dangerous, relative to the more machined alternatives. The disappearance of plant medicine from mainstream American medicine was a complex phenomenon that involved a wide variety of interconnected factors, including the rise of the modern medical approach, birth and growth of the pharmaceutical industry, and evolving attitudes towards natural remedies by experts and professionals. While plant medicine is still used today by some healthcare providers, its disappearance from mainstream medical care was largely due to the emergence of synthetic drugs and the transformation of the medical profession towards a more scientific approach to treatment. [...] Read more...
February 8, 2023Once you have your medical marijuana card, it’s easy to feel like you’re on your own. Unfortunately, there is a trend among cannabis clinics of providing exceptional service until clients have their medical marijuana certifications, and then rushing them out the door. That’s not the case at CED Clinic. Current cannabis cardholders — not just those hoping to become patients — are welcome to make telemedicine appointments at any time with their medical cannabis doctor. Our Massachusetts cannabis doctors are here to provide holistic, cannabis-centered care throughout the duration of your treatment. These are just some of the reasons you might schedule a follow-up. 1. Your medical needs have changed. Life is dynamic. Whether you obtained your medical cannabis card last week or two years ago, your overall wellness may have changed since. The following are some examples of updates you may want to communicate to your cannabis doctor: New diagnosis Upcoming medical procedures Changing or worsening symptoms Dramatically improved symptoms Your cannabis doctor can answer questions, provide professional insight, and recommend any necessary adjustments to your medical marijuana prescription. 2. Your cannabis prescription isn’t working out the way you’d hoped. Perhaps you’re not seeing the results you wanted from cannabis use. This could mean you’re not feeling relief from your symptoms or the effect is minimal. Perhaps cannabis use is helping, but with other undesired effects. It’s important to remember that these issues occur with prescription medications, and you can consider a follow-up at our cannabis clinic the same way you would with your primary care provider. The truth is, there are myriad reasons why cannabis might not be delivering the desired benefits: it could be related to your dosage, the products you’re using, the method of consumption, or even other aspects of your routine or treatment regimen. By raising your concerns, you allow your canna-doctor to identify potential causes and make informed recommendations. 3. Your treatment used to work, and is now no longer effective. Sometimes cannabis loses its effectiveness — even when you’ve been using the same strain from the same company for an extended period of time. Trust us, you’re not crazy. There are several potential causes: Lack of consistency in medical cannabis products (which is a well-known problem in the industry) You’re building up a tolerance Changes in your medications, routine, or diet During your appointment, your cannabis doctor can shed some light on the issue, and offer suggestions on how to combat it. 4. There are updates to share with your cannabis doctor about your journey. When you have a traditional check-up, it helps your PCP stay informed of your wellbeing, monitor your progress with various treatments, and learn of any changes in your health. Our goal is for you to think of your care at CED Clinic the same way. Consider this: you want a medical professional to keep tabs on your overall well being, your prescriptions and whether they’re helping your symptoms; why wouldn’t you want the same as a medical marijuana patient? 5. You need a medical liaison to represent your cannabis treatment. Whether you have a regular doctor’s appointment approaching, are seeing a new specialist or have an upcoming medical procedure, your cannabis use may be relevant information. These are all opportunities for your cannabis doctor to offer support. Dr. Caplan can communicate directly with the providers involved, acting as a go-between or liaison for your medical needs. Further, receiving updated medical details allows him to make recommendations for your cannabis care routine if necessary — for example, increasing your dosage after a procedure, or altering usage to prevent adverse reactions with new medications. 6. You’re curious about new developments in the medical cannabis industry. Maybe you’ve heard about new cannabis products or formulations, or while conducting your own research, stumbled across new potential use cases, studies or data. As a result, you wonder, “How does this affect me, and what does it mean for my cannabis treatment? Should I alter my approach?” Luckily, you’re in the right place for this conversation. Dr. Caplan is not only the founder of other cannabis businesses (such as EO Care, Inc, a new digital therapeutics company that is changing the future of cannabis care), but shares access to the CED Clinic Library, (which is the world’s largest digital library of free medical cannabis research). By sharing free research with his medical cannabis patients, there are no barriers to learning cannabis health for all. You’re welcome to make an appointment to gain his professional insight and to discuss this research or other cannabis-related developments. 7. You want to learn how cannabis interacts with your medications, diet and more. If you’ve been experiencing altered effects in your cannabis use, have you noticed they correlated with changes in your health and wellness routine? If so, you could be onto something. The way that cannabis affects your body — specifically, how cannabinoids interact with your endocannabinoid system — is directly connected with things like food, exercise habits, sleep patterns and much more. If you’re seeking information about the potential interactions of cannabis and related effects (especially if you’re starting a new medication), Dr. Caplan would be happy to address this with you. Remember: cannabis knowledge is power over your own health. Ready to schedule your appointment Just visit our website and request an appointment online for a medical cannabis evaluation. If you have questions, please feel free to contact us. We look forward to hearing from you! [...] Read more...
January 31, 2023The endocannabinoid system (ECS) has long been associated with how we process emotions, including stress and fear. Anandamide, the very first discovered, and likely most well-understood endogenous cannabinoid, functions as a neurotransmitter that actively combats the feelings of stress and fear. In the body, Anandamide is degraded by the Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (FAAH), so blocking FAAH activity can effectively increase anandamide in our bodies, much like how preventing a faucet from closing will set up for a flood of extra water. Fear extinction is one of the core known functions of the anandamide molecule. When a stimulus is un-coupled from a fear response in the body, this is a process governed by anandamide. For example, mice can be trained to associate a certain noise with a shock (fear training) and then dissociate the noise from the shock when they are presented with the noise by itself (fear extinction training). Research about the endocannabinoid system and fear In astudy published in Molecular Psychiatry, administration of an FAAH inhibitor in mice decreased fear when it was paired with a fear extinction training. Interestingly, however, the FAAH inhibitor did not impact fear if no extinction training occurred. Of particular interest, anandamide levels in the amygdala, another memory organ in the body, were increased, after fear extinction training, an effect that was increased further in the presence of a FAAH inhibitor. Considering these findings, the researchers speculate that variations in the FAAH gene, and therefore one’s expected level of anandamide breakdown, may be a relevant chemistry dynamic that underlies differences in one person’s ability to detect fear or cope with stress, from another’s. Consider, for example, a young boy who is afraid of a spider. When he notices the spider, consciously or not, his body immediately responds with a flight or fight response. This process happens in a synchronized way across multiple organs, including the amygdala, the adrenal glands, and traversing blood vessels throughout the body and brain. What does this mean for me? Toward a goal of minimizing the impact of fear, the natural response can be subdued in the presence of anandamide, perhaps aided and amplified by the actions or inactions of FAAH. Should someone have a gene which builds for them a very weak FAAH system, it is likely that they will have a much easier time recovering from fearful stimuli, because there will be less breakdown of anandamide. On the other hand, someone who has a very strong FAAH system would degrade their natural levels of anandamide and may have more persistent fear responses. In a world flush with fear, anxiety, and aggression, it is easy to imagine the relevance of a body system that helps to quell these negative emotions. Or, the contrary, it becomes simple to see the opportunity presented by a system of introducing molecular copy-cat molecules to some of the substances. To learn more about the endocannabinoid system and existing research about cannabinoids, explore the CED blog for our insights.   [...] Read more...
January 30, 2023Why is industrial hemp growth coming from the Cannabis Sativa L. strain of cannabis is restricted in many countries? Because it’s often confused with marijuana. But this lower THC strain has very little psychoactive properties, and is more often used for textile purposes. Also, essential oils from this low THC cannabis strain may have hidden benefits: antimicrobial activity. Can Hemp Oil Fight Bacteria? This essential oils of industrial hemp study looked at the antimicrobial properties of hemp oils against different types of bacteria. They looked at three different hemp oils (Carmagnola, Fibranova, and Futura) and found the oils might be most effective at fighting off gram positive bacteria (i.e. strep or staph infections). Futura Oil Fought Best Out of three different varieties of industrial hemp, oils from the Futura plant were the best at fighting a broader range of bacteria including food-born pathogens. Futura oils were virtually identical in composition to the other two essential oils, with the exception of a twofold increase in terpinolene compared to Carmagnola and Fibranova. The Key is Terpinolene Concentration Therefore, the higher terpinolene concentration is likely the cause of the increased antimicrobial activity. This effect is particularly applicable in the context of rising antibiotic resistance, where diseases such as MRSA become resistant to our current antibiotics. Topical hemp oils with antimicrobial effects could provide an alternative method of fighting off bacteria. Curious About Hemp and Cannabis as an Alternative to Antibiotics? To learn how the essential oils of hemp and cannabis could be used to help fight against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, book an appointment with our medical cannabis doctors through our virtual booking link or by giving us a call (617-500-3595). Dr. Caplan and his team at The CED Clinic in Chestnut Hill, MA are available to guide and support you! Social Media Post This study finds yet another use for industrial Hemp – antimicrobial activity. The researchers here tested essential oils from three different types of industrial hemp plant (Carmagnola, Fibranova, and Futura) against bacteria. They found that Futura oils had the broadest and most pronounced antimicrobial activities compared to the other two hemp varieties. Futura oils had a higher concentration of the compound terpinolene compared to Carmagnola and Fibranova oils, which likely explains their higher antimicrobial activity. Hemp oils might be a beneficial alternative to fight bacteria, particularly in the context of increasing antibiotic resistance. Tweet Hemp oils have antimicrobial properties and could be used to help fight against antibiotic resistant bacteria. Infographic/Question Would you trust hemp oils over other antibiotic treatments such as neosporin? [...] Read more...
January 24, 2023Cannabis aversion in mice increases at higher doses of THC How much is too much when it comes to marijuana use? While marijuana in small doses can be rewarding, high doses could lead to anxiety and paranoia. Although anecdotally documented in humans, mice studies have found inconsistencies in the rewarding versus aversive (unpleasant) properties of cannabis. This review untangles the dose-dependent effects of THC in mice studies that use a place conditioning paradigm to determine the rewarding and aversive potential of marijuana. Do Mice Find Marijuana Rewarding? Using conditioned place preference and aversion tests determine whether mice find a certain stimulus – in this case marijuana – rewarding or aversive. Unsurprisingly, this review finds that mice given higher doses of THC found the THC aversive as opposed to rewarding. Priming mice with a low dose of THC a day or two before testing on the conditioned place paradigm seemed to increase the likelihood that mice would find THC rewarding. Interestingly, at smaller doses, mice were just as likely to have no preference for cannabis as they were to find it rewarding. Given the reported rewarding properties of cannabis among humans, perhaps these mice studies should be taken with a grain of salt. Worried About Anxiety or Paranoia from Cannabis? To learn if cannabis is right for you or how to avoid high doses, book an appointment with our medical cannabis doctors through our virtual booking link or by giving us a call (617-500-3595). Dr. Caplan and his team at The CED Clinic in Chestnut Hill, MA are available to guide and support you! Social Media Post Aversion to THC in mice increases at higher doses. A comprehensive review of THC’s rewarding or aversive effects in mice shows that mice given higher doses of THC found the THC aversive as opposed to rewarding. Priming mice with a low dose of THC a day or two before testing their preference for THC increases the likelihood that mice will find THC rewarding. Interestingly, even at smaller doses of THC, mice were just as likely to have no preference for cannabis as they were to find it rewarding. Given reported rewarding properties of cannabis among humans, perhaps these mice studies should be taken with a grain of salt. Tweet A review shows that mice do not always find THC rewarding – even at small doses, but do find it aversive at high doses. [...] Read more...
January 17, 2023Peripheral nervous system cannabinoids may increase neuromuscular communication   Many studies focus on how cannabinoids function in our brains. Of course, most of us have heard about the cannabinoids which can make us feel joyful and light. Some are familiar with cannabinoids that can make you feel creative, giggly, sleepy, or hungry. As time marches on, people are starting to hear of cannabinoids that can help with improving focus or reducing appetite.   In addition to the many areas of exploration about cannabis and its action within the brain, there is a whole sector of the endogenous cannabinoid system that resides outside of the brain. Almost every immune cell, for example, has a cannabinoid receptor on it, ready to receive the signal to change its behavior.   Let’s explore the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids that are outside of the brain in our peripheral nervous systems.   Cannabinoids and the Neuromuscular Junction The neuromuscular junction is the name of the region which links the motor nerves in the body, which control movement, to our skeletal muscles.   In the brain, endogenous cannabinoids such as 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) have been shown to decrease neuromuscular junction transmission. They are also shown to promote reduced communication between motor neurons and skeletal muscles.   The opposite effect happens in the peripheral nervous system, where cannabinoids happen to actually increase neuromuscular transmission. The authors of this paper about neuromuscular transmission also found that cannabinoids may provide therapeutic potential for diseases such as myasthenia gravis. Here, there is a breakdown in communication between nerves and muscles, as well as many other models of disease where neuromuscular communication is vital to normal functioning.   In a mouse model of myasthenia gravis, administration of the cannabinoid WIN 55,212-2 increased neuromuscular communication, suggesting that peripheral nervous system cannabinoids are worth consideration for therapy for individuals with this, or related autoimmune diseases.   Enhancing Neuromuscular Communication with Cannabinoids If neuromuscular communication can be enhanced or suppressed by cannabinoids, it is logical that products will arise that can manipulate the neuromuscular junction toward desired aims, like:   Stronger grip More durable hold Muscle strength Endurance   These are interesting questions to consider as the medical cannabis industry matures.   Is the athletic community aware of these advances? Would this effect prohibit cannabis from the acceptable medicinal substances list? Is cannabis a performance enhancing drug?   The answers to these critical questions will present themselves in short time, as the industry matures and products become more specific. A clear understanding  of the relationship between products and illnesses needs to be honed.   Would You Like to Explore Cannabis for Performance? To learn how cannabis may be able to enhance or suppress your physical performance, book an appointment with our medical cannabis doctors through our virtual booking link or by giving us a call (617-500-3595).   Dr. Caplan and his team at CED Clinic in Chestnut Hill, MA are available to guide and support you!   Additional info provided- can probably be removed-   Social Media Post While most studies have looked at how cannabinoids act in the brain, this study finds a novel therapeutic potential of cannabinoids in the neuromuscular junctions of the peripheral nervous system. Here they find that cannabinoids can increase communication between the nerves and muscles in the peripheral nervous system. This had the ability to negate the neuromuscular communication breakdown in a mouse model of the autoimmune disease myasthenia gravis.   Tweet A preliminary mouse study suggests that cannabinoids in the peripheral nervous system may increase neuromuscular communication and are a therapeutic potential for autoimmune diseases such as myasthenia gravis.   Infographic/Question How much do you trust preliminary mouse studies in the context of therapeutic treatments for humans? [...] Read more...
January 10, 2023Whether you’re new to medical cannabis or new to CED Clinic, it’s normal to have questions about how the process works. You should feel at ease when you schedule your consultation. With our holistic approach and expert cannabis physicians, you can rest assured you’re in good hands. Still not sure about getting started? Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect at your first appointment. Overview of the medical cannabis program and industry One of the most important steps is making sure you have a good view and understanding of what you’re pursuing with medical cannabis. At our cannabis clinic, we’ll provide details about the application process, the Massachusetts medical program, and how we can help along the way. We’ll share our own research and discovery of local cannabis dispensaries and the range of solutions they offer for medical patients. Once we become familiar with your condition and medical needs, we can recommend approaches to cannabis that may be helpful for you. Review of your medical history There’s a reason why you’re considering becoming a medical cannabis patient. At your consultation, we’ll work to learn about your concerns and any relevant maladies or conditions you may be faced with. We want to better understand your symptoms so we can match you with appropriate suggestions for cannabis therapies. We’ll ask questions like: What do you hope to accomplish by incorporating medical cannabis into your treatment plan? How much do you suffer in your daily life? What are your long-term health goals and hopes? Do you have specific concerns about privacy? Do you want to limit your cannabis consumption to home life and avoid it during the daytime? Or, instead, do you want support all day long? Do you want guidance with how to steer consumption to be as fluid and simple as possible? Do you want to avoid anyone else knowing or bothering you about consuming cannabis? We’ll talk about your health goals, how medical marijuana might help you meet them, and provide recommendations tailored to your needs. These questions are critical to your well-being and an effective cannabis-based regimen. We want you to succeed with knowledge from the best! Open discussion about you and addressing your questions and concerns This consultation is about getting to know you and helping you make an informed decision about medical cannabis. Our #1 goal is to ensure that you’re relaxed, comfortable, and confident about this process. And equally so while the process continues. For this reason, your initial cannabis consultation is an opportunity for you to ask questions and raise any concerns you might have. We expect skepticism and tough questions, and we want you to feel complete ownership of your medical care. CED is designed to arm you with the tools to become the master of your own fate – not to heed medical advice like some magical force. We’ll have an open discussion about your health needs and any past experience with cannabinoid therapies. This will better enable us to guide you in the right direction throughout the duration of your cannabis care. An introduction to a long-term, collaborative relationship for your cannabis care Our medical cannabis clinic has a holistic approach to medicine that involves a longer view of what defines quality care. In other words, most medical concerns can’t be fully addressed within a single consultation. We’re not just seeking to get you “in the door” to medical cannabis. Rather, we’re eager to support a lasting relationship with you as a patient that doesn’t rely on longer-term subscription costs. CED physicians stand by the knowledge that lasting recovery not only takes time, but also requires a compassionate approach to healthcare. As a result, your first appointment should be patient, collaborative, and able to adapt to an ever-changing environment. Want to book an appointment with our cannabis clinic? If you’re  to take the next step, request an appointment online to get started. We look forward to meeting you and helping you plan personalized treatment options with medical cannabis. Bring your questions, bring your concerns, and let’s find a path to help you take command! [...] Read more...
January 3, 2023Managing uncomfortable symptoms can be as much of a a demanding routine as walking your dog or taking the long commute to work. But unlike those tasks, discomfort, pain, and stressful ailments can be a constant stressor that challenges your ability to live your fullest life. Among a long list of treatments you may have tried, have you considered medical cannabis? Many people are skeptical, doubtful, or misinformed about the medical cannabis program. Some believe that having medical care is only for people who want to be high, or only for people who don’t have control over their lives and must “resort” to such things. Or, maybe you assumed you wouldn’t qualify for a medical cannabis card. Well, Massachusetts has a little-known secret. Anyone in the state who may benefit from medical cannabis has a chance to access the treatment they need. Continue reading to see exactly what we mean and how a cannabis clinic like CED can help you take the next steps. Who is eligible for medical cannabis in MA? In Massachusetts, anyone who’s a state resident and has a qualifying condition is eligible for medical cannabis. Your condition must be diagnosed by a certifying cannabis physician, and Dr Caplan happens to have overseen the care of over 280,000 patients on the subject! Although medical cannabis is technically limited to those who are 18+, minors can be approved provided they have support from their legal guardians and they have recommendations from two physicians (both of which are available, by telemedicine, through CED Clinic). What are the qualifying conditions for medical cannabis? There’s an extensive list of qualifying conditions for medical cannabis in Massachusetts, which includes conditions such as cancer, glaucoma, HIV/AIDS and Parkinson’s disease. However, Massachusetts is one of the few states where healthcare providers are empowered to make a personalized medical decision based on the patient and their individual needs, even if the regulations have not explicitly indicated that a condition qualifies. For example, sleepless, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, dependence upon alcohol or tobacco, or over-dependence upon prescribed medications, can all be debilitating conditions. We at CED Clinic have seen patients from each of these categories, and many have found improvements with cannabis-based therapies. It’s important to note that the Massachusetts cannabis legislation stipulates that you, as a resident, can qualify based on any condition, as long as your certified physician recommends that the benefits of cannabis will outweigh the risks for you. This provides the opportunity for informed clinicians, like the ones at our cannabis clinic, to use their professional judgment to guide your treatment. Says our own Dr. Caplan, “If a patient is struggling with anxiety, sleeplessness, pain, or seeks to reduce alcohol consumption or the use of nicotine, we can actively support that, and so many people have found life-changing improvements.” Common conditions treated by CED The patients we’ve approved for medical cannabis are evidence of this legislation’s effectiveness. These individuals have a range of symptoms not listed under the qualifying conditions in Massachusetts. Some of the most common diagnoses we’ve treated include: Acne ADHD / ADD ALS Alzheimer’s Disease Anhedonia (Loss of quality of life) Arthritis Back Pain (Dorsalgia) Body Injury (not otherwise specified) Cachexia Cancer / Tumor / Malignancy Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Crohn’s Disease Dementia Depression Dizziness Eczema / Dry skin Eating Disorder Fibromyalgia General Anxiety / Severe Stress Glaucoma Headache Hepatitis C HIV / AIDS Infections (topical, bacterial, fungal) Insomnia (difficulty GETTING to, or STAYING asleep) Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Low Energy Lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus) Menopausal symptoms (Hot flashes, depression, low energy) Migraines Movement Disorder Multiple Sclerosis Muscle Pain / Soreness Nausea / Vomiting Neuropathy / Nerve Pain Parkinson’s Disease Post-trauma pain Psoriasis PTSD Restless Leg Syndrome Rosacea Scoliosis Seizures Sexual dysfunction / concern Shingles Skin burns Sleep Apnea Social Anxiety Substance Dependence, Withdrawal or Craving (alcohol, benzodiazepines, nicotine, opiates, excessive medications) Tourette’s Syndrome Ulcerative Colitis   Struggling with a medical issue that isn’t included in the state’s list of qualifying conditions? Don’t be discouraged. Contact us or schedule an appointment with CED’s clinicians to discuss your options and determine if medical cannabis is right for you. Booking a medical cannabis evaluation with CED Interested in medical cannabis? It’s easy to schedule an appointment. Simply select “Request Appointment” on our website to schedule a telemedicine evaluation (phone or video) at a time that works for you. Alternatively, you can give us a call at (617) 500-3595. How it works: During your appointment, you’ll be evaluated by the clinician, who will review your medical history and explain potential applications for medical cannabis. Have questions? We’ll be happy to answer them and address any concerns you have about treatment. One of the unique aspects of CED Clinic is our holistic approach to Medicine, with a longer view of what defines good care. We operate with a mission to care about each person individually, and by the principle that most medical concerns cannot be addressed at/with a single consultation. It is our belief that lasting recovery depends on time and, equally as important, a compassionate journey through healthcare challenges that is patient, collaborative, and adapts to an ever-changing environment What you’ll need: To prepare for your appointment, make sure you have the following: A valid Massachusetts ID A form of payment (cash, Venmo, credit or debit card or check) Proof of residency in Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, or other state, if interested in licensure for local access to dispensaries. Completed an online intake form prior to your evaluation [...] Read more...
December 27, 2022You may have thought about obtaining a medical marijuana card in the past, but perhaps you didn’t know what qualifies. Do you know who’s eligible for a card? Managing a condition? Medical cannabis could help Without knowing Massachusetts state regulations (and who reads them?!), you might mistakenly think you’re not eligible for a medical card. The truth is, if you’re managing a condition and you think medical cannabis could be beneficial, you should be able to access it. And CED Clinic is here to help you do exactly that. Our focus is not merely on having a card, but more importantly, how to use the access to improve health and wellness. Anyone can get a medical card from a licensed entity. What distinguishes CED Clinic from others in the market is the expertise we bring to each patient, our years of experience, and industry-leading knowledge. Knowledge translates quickly and easily to power that you can command over your health. The more you know, the more you can command control over your concerns, adapt to new circumstances, and adjust to new scenarios as real life happens. We encourage you to learn about the medical cannabis process. We’ll help you become the master of your own fate, so you can make informed decisions about your body and the treatment that’s best for you. Who qualifies for a medical marijuana card in MA? Medical cannabis in Massachusetts is restricted to residents who’ve been diagnosed with a qualifying condition by a certifying physician. You must be 18 and over, but CED Clinic also has a pediatric clinic. Parents and guardians are encouraged to seek information if they’re interested in exploring cannabis for a pediatric patient. For those under 18, certification by two qualified pediatric providers is required. Our cannabis clinic makes the process simple and accessible to all. You’re not required to have a letter of support from anyone else (including your PCP). Your decision to consume cannabis is your right, and doesn’t depend on anyone else’s approval but you and your doctors here at CED Clinic. How do you know if your condition qualifies for medical marijuana? Per state regulations, there’s a long list of qualifying conditions. Some include: Cancer Glaucoma HIV/AIDS Hepatitis C Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS) Crohn’s disease Parkinson’s disease Multiple sclerosis (MS) But that’s not all. In addition to the conditions listed, the law states you may qualify for any reason, provided your certifying physician believes the benefits of cannabis outweigh the risks. This comes in the form of a written recommendation for medical cannabis from one of our clinic’s certified healthcare providers. Common maladies supported by the medical card program in Massachusetts Chronic Pain Anxiety Depression Sleeplessness / Insomnia PTSD Restless Leg Syndrome Severe Stress Headache Muscle Pain Arthritis Colitis Nausea/Vomiting Recovery from injury Use of cannabis to eliminate other medicines Use of cannabis to stop smoking cigarettes Use of cannabis to stop using opiates or marijuana to stop use of opioids. Use of cannabis to stop using benzodiazepines like Valium, Klonopin, Ativan, Xanax, and others. Other conditions medical cannabis might help treat Many of the conditions our clinic has treated with medical cannabis aren’t on the list, but have qualified based on our doctors’ determinations. For instance, some of the most common conditions we have treated include: Anxiety Depression ADHD Insomnia Menstrual pain and menopause symptoms Arthritis Lyme disease If there’s a possibility that medical cannabis could help alleviate your symptoms, we’ll provide the medical guidance you need. We’ll also help you identify the products and methods of consumption that will help you achieve success.   Ready to book a medical cannabis evaluation? If you think getting a medical marijuana card could be right for you, request an appointment online at your preferred time or call us to schedule one at (617) 500-3595. When you meet with us, we’ll review your medical history, answer all your questions, and discuss how cannabis could reduce your symptoms. All you need is your Massachusetts state ID, a completed intake form, and a form of payment. We take care of the rest! [...] Read more...
December 20, 2022Link: A Preliminary Study of Functional Brain Activation Among Marijuana Users during  Performance of a Virtual Water Maze Task.  Blog Post Chronic marijuana users have less brain activation in areas regulating visuospatial memory.  Almost everyone these days has heard some version of the rumor that cannabis is harmful to the brain. For people living through the 1930s, it was a violent, caricatured image of cannabis as the Devil’s Lettuce, making innocent people perform heinous acts of terror and evil. As time passed and generations grew, the image of cannabis as harmful evolved into the equivalent of a fried egg, ruined directly and immediately. As cannabis doctors, we are reviewing and analyzing research done by a group of Massachusetts researchers to help provide context about whether or not cannabis may be harmful to the brain. Reviewing the Research A preliminary NCBI study of functional brain activation among cannabis users explores, more carefully, the ways in which cannabis affects learning and memory, at least in chronic marijuana users, by examining the hippocampus – a region of the brain which controls consolidation of information from short-term memory to long-term memory, and helps to govern spatial memory that enables navigation. Whether or not someone happens to consume cannabis, the human hippocampus contains a large number of cannabinoid type I (CB1) receptors, which are typically activated by the body’s natural endocannabinoid system. A number of studies have looked at the effects of cannabis plant products on the visuospatial memory in mice, but such studies in humans are lacking toward a goal of painting a clear understanding of the effects that activation of the natural cannabinoid receptors, either by the body’s innate cannabinoid system or plant-derived molecules, may have on memory. The researchers in this NCBI study examined hippocampal brain activation in chronic cannabis consumers, compared to non-users. They looked at testing circumstances during which test subjects were asked to perform a visuospatial memory task. Analyzing the Results Participants performed a virtual water maze task while an fMRI machine monitored the activation of the hippocampus in the subjects’ brains. This task included two stages, one which included learning the task, and another retrieval stage, during which participants use visual cues that they learned in the task to complete the water maze. Cannabis consumers performed similarly to non-cannabis subjects, when learning a visuospatial task. However, when tested on their ability to retrieve visuospatial memories, cannabis consumers were not as proficient. Furthermore, cannabis consumers had less brain activation in areas of the hippocampus that control visuospatial memory. These results suggest that cannabis consumers may be using brain neuron resources in a different way than those who are not using. Key Takeaways Essentially, if both cannabis and non-cannabis consumers are performing with equivalent skill at a given task, yet the areas where visuospatial memory are typically processed seem unchanged between the two different groups, the difference may be explained by considering that other brain regions are being activated in the cannabis consumers. This theory has been tested over time, in a variety of different modalities, from fMRI to cognitive testing, and the reports of many cannabis consumers harmonizes around the idea that cannabis somehow recruits unusual groups of neurons, at times bestowing the consumer with unusual creativity, a newfound perspective, or unusual clarity or fascination with a subject matter or task. If it is true, as it seems it may be, that the use of cannabis activates, rather than destroys, brain nerves in unexpected ways, are there reasons to be concerned about potential drawbacks? If other or new nerve systems are firing, are there implications for energy expenditure? Can this new recruitment of neurons be controlled? Is cannabis killing brain cells? Is cannabis bad for the brain? Is cannabis good for the brain? These are all important, fair questions ahead as we peel away the layers of misinformation and inadequate information in medical cannabis. To read more about the effects of cannabis, explore our CED Blog. [...] Read more...
December 13, 2022New research shows that cannabidiol (CBD) can treat therapy refractory epileptic encephalopathies. Epilepsy is a chronic neurologic disorder characterized by a predisposition to seizures, with a prevalence of 8.5 per 1,000 people in the United States. It is the fourth most common neurological condition after migraines, stroke, and Alzheimer’s disease. The Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome are two forms of severe epileptic syndromes. Seizures in affected individuals usually occur combined generalized and focal simultaneously. These specific epileptic conditions are typically refractory to therapy, and their pediatric-onset and high mortality constitute a substantial and devastating impact on the lives of patients and their families. CBD Could Be Safe for Managing Epileptic Syndromes A recent review of clinical trials concluded that cannabidiol could be a safe and effective treatment for managing these epileptic syndromes. Traditional therapy options include antiepileptic drugs or invasive medical interventions such as vagal nerve stimulation and surgery. Treatment failure is common and leaves patients, families, and clinicians desperate for alternatives. Pure, pharmaceutical-grade cannabidiol exhibits clinically significant antiseizure properties, with a hypothesized multimodal mechanism of action. In addition, cannabidiol lacks intoxicating properties while showing potent pharmacological properties, making it an attractive alternative for treatment. CBD Shown to Reduce Seizures One of the pivotal trials, the “GWPCARE 1,” was a prospective, multicenter, multinational, double-blind, placebo-controlled study assessing cannabidiol effects in a cohort of 61 patients. The primary outcome was the convulsive seizure frequency change. Data from the additional “GWPCARE” trials suggest that cannabidiol has good efficacy in reducing the frequencies of seizures in both the Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome by up to 23% compared to a control arm based on standard antiepileptic drugs therapy combined with a placebo. The most frequently observed adverse treatment effects are primarily gastrointestinal-related, including diarrhea, vomiting, decreased appetite, and drowsiness. This work shows a significant reduction of seizures with cannabidiol as an adjunct to standard antiepileptic therapies in patients with rare epileptic disorders. CBD as a Therapy Option The addition of cannabidiol to the armamentarium of therapy options is innovative. It allows for better control of epileptic seizures and comorbidities in a space where pharmacotherapy is frequently insufficient at managing multiple, refractory seizure types. While these results are optimistic, future work must be performed to confirm the postulated multimodal action for more than ten potential targeted sides. Considering CBD for Epilepsy? Visit our medical cannabis clinic and learn more about how cannabis might help you with epileptic syndromes. The CED Clinic was created for those who want to be seen as a person, not just a patient. Dr. Caplan and his team are dedicated to working with you to manage epilepsy and empower you about your medical cannabis choices. [...] Read more...
December 6, 2022Like many Massachusetts residents, you may choose self-medicate for various symptoms with marijuana that you buy recreationally. It’s possible you never realized this is what you were doing, or that you even thought of these symptoms as a health concern. Does consuming cannabis alleviate any kind of pain, discomfort, or mental illness for you? If so, you’re likely eligible to become a medical patient. Why get a medical marijuana card when you can buy products recreationally? There are many benefits to being a medical cardholder, and it’s important to be informed before you make your decision. 1. Savings and tax exemptions Let’s face it, cannabis is expensive. And the taxes on it add up quickly — especially in Taxachusetts! Fortunately, medical patients are exempt from taxes on cannabis products. Depending on where you live, this could mean up to 20% in savings each time you visit the dispensary. Then there’s the added benefit of sales and discounts. Dispensaries can offer special sales on medical products, but not on those sold for adult use. Often, this includes special deals for new patients of $100-200 off, which essentially covers the cost of obtaining a medical card. When holidays come around, from Valentine’s Day to Thanksgiving, the medical shops offer strong incentives to bring customers to the door – sometimes up to 30-40% off usual prices! How’s that for getting your money’s worth? 2. Access to more products In Massachusetts, dispensaries that offer both recreational and medical cannabis must reserve 35% of their inventory for medical patients. If a medical product is out of stock, it may be pulled from the adult use side to prioritize patient needs. In addition, as a cardholder, you can legally buy products with higher concentrations of THC when available. Another benefit: since some dispensaries are medical only, patients also have access to more dispensaries than adult-use consumers. 3. Better service at the dispensary Every dispensary caters to patients differently, but there are many perks on the medical side when it comes to service. As a cardholder, you may be able to skip the line at the dispensary. You may have access to a more efficient sales process, or even have products delivered to you. Further, medical cannabis patients typically receive special support that adult-use customers don’t. For instance, dispensaries often have areas for patients to privately address their medical concerns and treatment options with staff. Staff members may also dedicate more one-on-one time with you to answer questions and make product recommendations. 4. Evidence-based, long-term medical care When you choose CED Clinic, it’s not just about signing up for a medical cannabis card. With Dr. Benjamin Caplan, you’ll get a healthcare partner to guide you through your medical cannabis journey. In fact, Dr. Caplan dedicates time year-round for one-on-one consultations with medical cannabis patients. As a board-certified family physician, he’s also available to offer expert advice and second opinions for any traditional healthcare needs, and the critical points of overlap where your traditional medical questions may intersect with your cannabis care preferences.. Unlike many other medical cannabis clinics, CED will establish a long-term relationship with you beyond your first visit. Our goal is to gain an understanding of your condition(s) to provide you with the best possible care, year after year. 5. Access to other cannabis services through our clinic As a CED Clinic patient, you have another unique perk. You can take advantage of additional services through Dr. Caplan’s other canna-businesses. For example, you have early access to EO Care, Inc., a new digital therapeutics company not yet open to the public. Patients are also able to use the CED Clinic Library, which is the world’s largest digital library of free medical cannabis research. And by subscribing to the CED Clinic blog and following Dr. Caplan on social media, you can receive even more news and insights about cannabis. Thinking of becoming a medical cannabis patient? Book a telemedicine appointment at your convenience. We’ll review your medical history and qualifying conditions, and talk about the ways in which you can use cannabis. CED Clinic certifies patients for medical cannabis programs in the following states: Maine Massachusetts New Hampshire Rhode Island Vermont [...] Read more...
November 29, 2022For Scott Thompson, a San Diego artist and filmmaker, the simple act of opening a car door used to trigger an avalanche of overwhelming emotions. Thompson was involved in a car accident that caused a severe concussion and traumatic brain injury. Driving a car or even being a passenger set off crippling anxiety, panic attacks, and flashbacks. “Every time I drove in a car, I relived my accident and adrenaline would flood my body triggering a pretty intense flight or fight response,” said Thompson. “I would get pretty bad tunnel vision during these episodes, and would enter an intense panic state where I felt like I was going to die. Even in the passenger seat I’d freak out.” Thompson was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and prescribed Sertraline, an antidepressant that gave him headaches and nightmares. So he turned to cannabis. “I used cannabis earlier in high school but never really used it as an adult,” reflected Thompson. “After my accident, I started using a vape pen and smoking flower to help calm my nerves. Cannabis helped me relax and it definitely helped my PTSD symptoms.” Thompson used cannabis consistently for a year and is now largely free of PTSD symptoms. “Cannabis seemed to work really well with my body, helping my mind get back to health,” he said. What is it about weed that makes it well-suited for treating PTSD? What is PTSD?A majority of people (approximately 55%) experience trauma at some point in life. Trauma can include physical accidents or assault, involvement in combat or disasters, or witnessing the death or injury of others, and events such as sexual assault or abuse. It’s normal to experience short-term symptoms of stress and anxiety after a shock. However, with time, we can recover and heal from the effects of the trauma. For some, however, the effects of the event linger longer, leading to ongoing or chronic PTSD. About 6% of people experience PTSD at some point during their lifetime. PTSD can affect anyone, although certain risk factors mean that some people are more likely to develop PTSD than others, for example, women more than men. Other factors that lead to PTSD include having little to no social support after a traumatic event, or dealing with extra stress such as the loss of a loved one, job, or home in addition to the trauma. People diagnosed with PTSD can experience diverse symptoms. For doctors to make a diagnosis, however, specific symptoms must be present for at least a month and severe enough to interfere with relationships, work, or everyday life. Here are some common PTSD symptoms adults experience (young children experience different symptoms): Flashbacks—reliving the trauma, leading to physical symptoms like a racing heart or sweating Nightmares Frightening thoughts Avoiding places, events, or objects that are reminders of the traumatic experience Avoiding thoughts or feelings related to the traumatic event Being easily startled Feeling tense Having difficulty sleeping Having angry outbursts Difficulty remembering important aspects of the traumatic event Negative thoughts about oneself or the world Distorted feelings like guilt or blame for the event Loss of interest in enjoyable activitie​ How can cannabis help with PTSD? One well-known “side effect” that often accompanies cannabis use is memory loss. Ironically, this can actually be helpful for people with PTSD. “The months and years of enduring with, and fighting against, memories of traumatic experiences can be scarring,” said Dr. Benjamin Caplan MD, Chief Medical Officer at CED Clinic and EO Care. “Those who suffer from the unremitting memory of violent crimes, or those who can’t free themselves from memories of wartime experiences, are also fighting with their own memory many years later.” Caplan has found that cannabis, paired with a supporting set and setting, can be more effective and better tolerated than some traditional PTSD therapies, such as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). He believes that cannabis is uniquely suited to treating the intrusive thoughts, negative emotions, and the aversive memory aspect of PTSD. “For battles with never-ending nightmares, the impact of THC-derived cannabinoids on short-term memory offers a welcome mini-vacation,” he explained. “By combining a brief escape of short-term memory with the lightly euphoric effects of cannabinoids, even the most gripping PTSD has the potential to be subdued.” Such observations resonate with Jason Gann, creator and star of stoner comedy series Wilfred. Gann has lived with PTSD for more than 30 years after experiencing physical and psychological trauma as a child. He first turned to cannabis as a teen to escape intrusive thoughts stemming from feelings of shame, anger, and worthlessness. “Cannabis helps me to manage anxiety attacks, insomnia, and those intrusive thoughts,” reflected Gann when he spoke to Leafly. “My relationship with cannabis helps me reach an elevated state of consciousness. It’s like I’m still in my head, but I’m also looking at my life from the outside, allowing me to separate myself from intrusive thoughts that can be overwhelming.” In the past, Gann tried antidepressants to treat his PTSD symptoms but found them unhelpful. “I have tried a few different brands of antidepressants over the years, but they only complicated my life further,” said Gann. “They also fade in effectiveness over time, so you just have to take more and more to feel their effects. Antidepressants may have helped stop me from taking my own life in the short term, so I do believe there is a place for them in some extreme circumstances, but they created many more problems later.” Gann views cannabis as an exit drug that helped untether him from antidepressants, which were fostering addiction and destructive thoughts. What does the science say on cannabis and PTSD?Both Caplan and Gann’s observations are supported by data that cannabis can help suppress traumatic memories and reduce anxiety. Other research on veterans with PTSD also suggests that cannabis use can decrease the frequency of nightmares. Additionally, a 2022 study found that individuals with PTSD who used cannabis for a year were 2.5+ times more likely to no longer meet criteria for a PTSD diagnosis than those who did not use cannabis. Other recent research offers a helpful explanation of why cannabis is uniquely suited to treating PTSD. The study, which included 71 adult participants, found that THC reduced amygdala activity in individuals with PTSD, the part of the brain that helps generate and process fear so the body can respond to threats. Those with PTSD often experience hyperactivity of the amygdala, which leads to hypervigilance and hyperarousal—in other words, feeling on edge. In the study, not only did THC help diminish the amygdala’s activation, it also increased activity in other parts of the brain—the medial prefrontal cortex and rostral anterior cingulate cortex. These regions play a vital role in processing emotions, monitoring conflict and regulating attention control. Individuals with PTSD often experience attentional control abnormalities, such as an impaired ability to focus on tasks, or intrusive memories or flashbacks. In simple terms, THC appears to beneficially influence how individuals with PTSD respond to threats, emotional stress, and attention control. However, THC-rich cultivars of weed or high doses can also lead to dependence, cannabis use disorder, or unwanted cognitive effects such as further anxiety. For example, approximately 22.7% of veterans who use cannabis for PTSD may have cannabis use disorder. Most high-quality research on cannabis and PTSD also stresses that further clinical research is needed to draw definitive conclusions about the efficacy and safety of the plant. Are certain cannabinoids or delivery methods more beneficial for PTSD?Both Thompson and Gann favor whole-plant cannabis with a mix of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds for managing their PTSD symptoms. “I prefer to use flower, however, I have two kids and don’t like to smoke in front of them, so vaping is a nice discreet way to ingest,” reflected Thompson. Gann prefers to smoke, favoring joints or a pipe. Smoking and vaping are among the most rapid ways to enjoy the therapeutic effects of cannabis. However, there are a range of delivery methods that cater to different needs: Not everyone is seeking a quick fix. “Cannabis offers choices of timing that are similar to options among traditional pharmaceuticals for quick-acting and extended-release choices,” commented Caplan. While smoking can be a quick-acting choice, edibles, which typically take 30-60 minutes to kick in, are an extended-release option. When it comes to the effects of specific cannabinoids on PTSD, there is a smorgasbord of findings. CBD, for example, appears to be well-suited to managing anxiety, extinguishing fearful memories, and overcoming the desire to avoid certain tasks or activities. THC seems to play a role in softening aversive memories but also boasts other benefits such as easing nightmares and supporting sleep, as discussed earlier. Caplan, however, cautions against rushing to make over-simplistic conclusions about specific cannabinoids or delivery methods for PTSD. “The familiar model of having one medication singularly focused on addressing a certain nerve receptor pathway is not the paradigm to understand how cannabis works,” explained Caplan. For some, the experience of euphoria associated with THC may offer welcome temporary relief from ever-present tension and stress associated with reliving enduring trauma, while for others, the non-psychoactive effects of CBD may be preferable. Caplan encourages individuals with PTSD who are considering using cannabis as a form of treatment to speak with an experienced cannabis clinician. Rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach, he recommends a treatment plan that caters to the individual. “Anyone experiencing PTSD should speak with a knowledgeable cannabis clinician about specific choices that can address their unique symptoms and preferences,” said Caplan. “For millions of sufferers, the pain, anxiety, and recurring memories can be well-managed with the many safe choices available in the cannabis medicine cabinet.” [...] Read more...
November 22, 2022Strong work by Dan Adams in today’s Boston Globe, underscoring the FIERCE struggles (and matched heroics!) that all too many families face as they fight for their children against the anti-cannabis armchair highbrows who sling conspiracy and fear at these suffering families, without a lick of trench experience, and a half-hearted reading of the published literature. “This isn’t kids smoking doobies,” said. “Every parent I’ve ever worked with who even considered was at the end of their rope dealing with horrific suffering that the average family cannot imagine. They’d seen multiple specialists and tried multiple medications, and even then no one was encouraging them to pursue it besides other parents in the same situation.” “We don’t see healthy children coming in with their parents to get medical cards for fun,” said Dr. Benjamin Caplan, whose Massachusetts practice specializes in pediatric medical marijuana cases. “The kids we’re seeing are extremely challenged, whether it’s seizure disorders or extreme autism or severe emotional maladies. Cannabis is revolutionizing their lives and allowing them to function and participate normally in everyday life where they simply couldn’t before, including in schools.” “I’m not doing anything illegal or immoral by leaving no stone unturned in pursuit of better health for my son,” said Stern, one of the few parents willing to share their names. https://www.bostonglobe.com/2022/11/25/marijuana/medical-marijuana-kids-these-moms-sought-it-out-say-any-parent-would-have-done-same/ Learn more about the overlap of pediatrics and cannabis, and see if it might be right for you or your loved ones. Make an appointment to speak with Dr Caplan [...] Read more...
November 10, 2022The other day, I received a referral to our medical cannabis clinic from one of the Pediatric Gastroenterology doctors at the children’s hospital, where I work as a Pediatric ICU doctor. They follow a 16-year-old female with chronic gastrointestinal (GI) issues, including nausea, weight loss, multiple Helicobacter Pylori infections, and sucrase/isomaltase deficiency (an enzyme deficiency that causes abdominal symptoms and requires medication supplementation). Furthermore, she suffers from migraine-like headaches. The mother reached out to me asking about CBD for her daughter. She told me that she purchased CBD in the past and her daughter had taken the CBD, but it did not work. She also disclosed that her daughter has been smoking cannabis, and even though it is helping several of her symptoms and overall well-being, she wanted her daughter not to smoke. These comments, issues, and questions bring up several confusing and stigmatizing views people have against cannabis, smoking, and the field of medical cannabis. Cannabis is not all about smoking or inhaling or vaping, let alone “getting high.” Cannabis is also not all about just CBD or just THC. At our clinic, we look at the patient and ask, “how is your ECS working and what do we need to do to help it work more efficiently?” What is the ECS? The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a dynamic physiological system that all mammals have. It interacts with all our normal physiological systems and its goal is to keep homeostasis, balance. How does cannabis work as a medicine? We look at the individual medical marijuana patient and assess what may not be working well and what may be causing symptoms and disease. We look at individual cannabinoids like CBD, CBDA, THC, and CBG (to name a few) and we work with the patient (any age) to satisfy their goals. Each patient may need cannabinoids in different amounts, may benefit from taking the plant medicine via different routes or methods of administration, and may need cannabinoids from different sources (different strains/chemovars or plants). “I tried CBD and it didn’t work” / “What is the best form of cannabis to take?” When a cannabis patient or parent states that they “tried CBD” and it did not work, there are a lot of reasons why this may be. Simply, They may not be taking enough (enough quantity of the product) They may not be taking it every day (which may be required to sustain a therapeutic level in the body) And they may not be taking it via a route which is best for their unique system or goals. Smoking is merely one way of taking cannabinoids into the body, and despite the stigma with smoking or vaping, this may be best for some patients. In fact, several patients with GI issues cannot take oils or tinctures because they cannot absorb the active ingredients with an ailing absorption system, or perhaps they cannot tolerate the taste. Inhaling, suppositories, or topical creams may be better routes for them to pursue. The ECS has receptors all over the body. In fact, the GI tract has numerous receptors (mostly CB2), and cannabis can do wonders for these patients, many of whom have failed other medicines and therapies. In the end, it is our goal to work with each patient, to understand their personal and unique aims, and to teach them about the ECS so that they can recognize that it plays a vital role in human physiology, despite its inappropriate absence from the standard of care practice of modern medicine. This takes time, real expertise, and patience. Relief with Cannabis If you are suffering from a few symptoms or have a disease and you are not getting relief, your ECS may need additional support. Our cannabis clinic has years of experience working with all types of patients including babies, children, teens, adults, and the elderly. It’s not all about smoking, and there are many other methods of consuming that are worth consideration. We will take the time to listen and help. Cannabis is a wonderful plant and can be an addition to all modes of medical therapy, and the ECS is a wonderful system and exciting to learn and teach about. Come visit our medical cannabis clinic and learn more about how cannabis might help you in your unique circumstances. Thanks to Dr Eric Exelbert for this content. Learn more about dr. Excelbert here. [...] Read more...
November 1, 2022Did you know our bodies are naturally designed to work with cannabinoids found in marijuana? Our endocannabinoid system has receptors that bind with the compounds in cannabis to provide medical properties. By adding weed to your pre-workout routine, you’ll enjoy a different fitness experience. Cannabis and workouts? Who would have thought the two go hand in hand? Marijuana is beginning to stabilize its footprint in our daily lives with great benefits for fitness gurus. Everyone reacts differently to consuming cannabis before a workout. Your resistance to THC and CBD levels is vital in how energized or relaxed you’ll be. Since there are many strains with different effects, consuming the right strain for a specific workout is important. Buds cultivated from indica seeds offer a full-body calming experience, perfect for less intense workouts like yoga. For the burst of energy, consume buds grown from sativa seeds. Here’s how to take your fitness abilities to new heights by adding cannabis to your pre-workout routines. The benefits of cannabis for pre-workoutsOne of the greatest benefits of marijuana is its anti-inflammatory properties. Has muscle tension ever restrained you from exercising? Cannabis could help ease muscle pain. Sativa properties in marijuana are great for active physical workouts like running and cardio. In contrast, indica dominant strains are best for low-intensity exercises that don’t need much energy. THC or CBD levels in a specific strain plays a vital role in the effects you’ll experience throughout your workout. Any cannabis with profound amounts of THC provides psychoactive effects. Cannabis fans consume CBD strains for the healing abilities it offers them. The beauty of cannabis is there’s a strain to fit any workout mood. The difference between sativa or indica for working out is the distinctive effects of a high or low energy rush. Harlequin is a perfect sativa pre-workout strain. It provides clear-headed, physically energized effects. It encourages you to take on any strenuous exercising routine. Adding marijuana to your exercise regime stimulates the body and mind to perform better without feeling anxious. Your muscles become stronger since pain is the last thing you tend to feel. Take precautionary measures before indulging in marijuana pre-exercising. Underlying heart conditions are a cause for concern, and in this case, it’s best to refrain from consuming weed before working out. Double up on fluids while training. As with traditional methods of using cannabis, staying hydrated is vital. Here’s how to use cannabis before working out Topical creams We all know the feeling of stiff muscles after intense exercising sessions. The muscle tension often prevents us from following suit the next day. Cannabis is now available in a variety of cosmetic applications to the skin to relieve ailments. Effects are still experienced with high THC strains since the skin absorbs the compounds. Apply a CBD or THC topical cream to relieve inflammation and sore muscles before or after working out. You can expect to feel the effects within 10–20 minutes after rubbing in the oils, lotions, or balms. Tinctures A great smoke-free way of infusing weed into your pre-workout routine is to drop it under your tongue or add it to a beverage. Tinctures are alcohol- or glycerine-based cannabis extracts. For fast effects in about 15 minutes, consume your tincture sublingually. Adding it to food or beverages takes up to two hours to feel the impact. Making your tinctures is even better when growing your strain of choice from seed. This way, you can control the strength of the THC or CBD you need. Tinctures are low in calories and have a long shelf life if stored in a cool, dark place. One batch will last a while, allowing you to indulge in weed for a pre-workout more often. Edibles Who doesn’t like brownies? Edibles are popular because they’re easy to consume and they have long-lasting effects. Besides the THC or CBD gummies you can take before a workout, there are alternative ways to ingest marijuana. As the cannabis doors further open to the world, so too do the advancements of marijuana-infused cooking. Staying fit and healthy only works if you combine it with proper meal plans. While experimenting with weed before a workout is encouraged, note that doing so can induce or suppress hunger. The receptors in our endocannabinoid system are stimulated by these chemical compounds causing us to crave food or avoid it. THC-rich strains could have you eating for hours, while CBD strains can potentially curb your appetite. Whichever edible you choose, remember to enjoy a cookie, gummies, or a bowl of muesli two hours before exercising. ​ Vaping Consuming cannabis by vaping is a healthier way to pre-work out with THC or CBD. As a fitness enthusiast, you may not be keen on smoking it. Vaping cannabis heats the dry buds or oils in a battery-operated device, allowing you to inhale vapor instead of smoke. Smoking before a workout isn’t recommended due to its impact on your lungs. Vaping allows for consumption before exercising without the tight chest feeling. Super Lemon Haze is an ideal strain for vaping since they contain pinene. It’s a bronchodilator that opens the bronchioles in the lungs, allowing for more vigorous training. Try vaping cannabis before a workout for no smells, enhanced flavors, and better effects. Let cannabis be your coachFor an enjoyable fitness session, tap into the benefits of consuming weed in your pre-workout routine. The sky’s the limit when you’ve got cannabis as a coach pushing you to do your best. Pump up your performance whether you plan to run, speed walk, train for the next big game, or do yoga. Aid muscle tension with topical creams. Feel inspired and add tinctures to your pre-workout shakes. Add drops under the tongue or vape cannabis to avoid chesty feelings. Choose the strains that work in tandem with your workout routine to have the best experience. You don’t have to feel like staying fit is a tedious journey anymore. Be mindful of the preventive measures before consuming some inspiration for your next workout. Jennifer Gallagher Jennifer Gallagher, an experienced cannabis grower at SeedSupreme Seedbank. During a 7-year career in the marijuana growing business, Jennifer has gained a high competence in this field. As far as weed is concerned, she knows it all inside out. Jennifer is an expert in pot-growing, as well as cannabis types and their effects. She’s also familiar with all legislation nuances. LinkedIn [...] Read more...
Cannabis News
September 21, 2023Cannabis News​ Marijuana stocks shot up Wednesday after news broke that the SAFE Banking Act had been rewritten as the SAFER Banking Act, breathing new life into federal cannabis reform just weeks after the monumental news that the Biden administration recommended the rescheduling of marijuana. The bill was formally introduced with bipartisan support on Wednesday afternoon in the U.S. Senate, according to a statement jointly released by several senators. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer also pledged to bring the bill to the Senate floor for a full vote. The bill is currently slated for a hearing in the Senate Banking Committee next week on Sept. 27. The new bill is intended to guarantee that federal bank regulators won’t interfere with banks or other financial institutions for providing services to state-legal marijuana businesses, a move that many major banks have steered clear of due to the federal illegality of cannabis. SAFER’s prime sponsors include Sens. Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Steve Daines (R-MT), Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ), and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), as well as Schumer (D-NY). “This legislation will help make our communities and small businesses safer by giving legal cannabis businesses access to traditional financial institutions, including bank accounts and small business loans. It also prevents federal bank regulators from ordering a bank or credit union to close an account based on reputational risk,” the senators said in a joint statement. The list of co-sponsors for the bill features more lawmakers from both sides of the aisle, including Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), and Bob Menendez (D-NJ). The new SAFER Banking Act, according to a summary from the Senate Democrats, differs slightly from the original version with four new provisions in the 10th section of the bill, which deals with deposit requirements, Politico reported. That portion: Asserts that “personal beliefs or political motivations” about cannabis should be cast aside by financial institutions, and “banks and credit unions should provide banking services in the communities in which they serve to the fullest extent possible.” Prohibits federal banking regulators from terminating any marijuana-related accounts without “valid reason,” and if such reason exists, that it be provided in writing to both the bank and the account holder. Requires federal bank regulators to report to Congress annually the “number of deposit accounts requested or required to be terminated, and the legal basis for the account terminations.” Mandates that, within two years of SAFER becoming law, federal bank regulators must “promulgate tailored rules or guidance to increase access to deposit accounts for businesses.” Orders the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to “conduct a biennial survey and report to identify barriers to accessing deposit accounts.” Still, the legislation isn’t perfect, said Sundie Seefried, CEO of cannabis banking company Safe Harbor Financial. The SAFER Banking Act, Seefried said in a statement, “will not flood the cannabis industry with banking options as the primary roadblock remains Bank Secrecy regulations, requiring substantial resources to ensure compliance.” “Unless Bank Secrecy regulations are substantially changed, the fact remains that the cannabis industry is both cash intensive and, at the same time, continuing to fight an active, illicit market operating in plain sight,” Seefried said. “Bank Secrecy is the elephant in the room. … It’s been a priority regulation for decades and while revisions may lighten compliance obligations, I don’t see substantial changes in the near future.” Despite that, public cannabis company stocks increased marginally on the news. According to Seeking Alpha: Ayr Wellness Inc. (OTC: AYRWF) was up 6.18%. Curaleaf Holdings (OTC: CURLF) was up 2.36%. Columbia Care Inc. (OTC: CCHWF) was up 2.38%. Green Thumb Industries (OTC: GTBIF) was up 0.65%. MedMen Enterprises (OTC: MMNFF) was up 1.05%. Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (OTC: TCNNF) was up 3.54%. Verano Holdings Corp. (OTC: VRNOF) was up 1.76%. Not every public cannabis stock was a winner on Wednesday, though: Ascend Wellness Holdings (OTC: AAWH), an outlier, was down 0.85%. Cresco Labs (OTC: CRLBF), an outlier, was down 0.92%. TerrAscend Corp. (OTC: TSNDF) was down 0.5%.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 21, 2023Cannabis News​ This content is password protected. To view it please enter your password below: Password: The post Protected: 2023 Notables in Cannabis: Mark Ainsworth appeared first on Green Market Report.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 21, 2023Cannabis News​ The Daily Hit is a recap of the top financial news stories for Sept. 20, 2023. On The Site Cannabis Stocks Pop on News of SAFER Banking Act Marijuana stocks shot up Wednesday after news broke that the SAFE Banking Act had been rewritten as the SAFER Banking Act, breathing new life into federal cannabis reform just weeks after the monumental news that the Biden administration recommended the rescheduling of marijuana. Read more here. Mississippi Releases Revised Medical Cannabis Industry Rules Mississippi cannabis regulators announced new revisions to industry regulations, with 202 pages of red-lined changes to the former rules released by the state Department of Health on Thursday.Read more here. Kentucky Hemp Company Purchases Manufacturing Partner Kentucky-based CBD maker Cornbread Hemp closed on the acquisition of an unnamed manufacturing partner, marking a transition to full vertical integration for the business. Read more here. Leef Brands Closes Acquisition of Santa Barbara Cultivation Facility California-based Leef Brands (CSE: LEEF) (OTC: LEEEF), formerly known as Icanic Brands, completed the acquisition of a 1,900-acre ranch in Santa Barbara County for $5.48 million, which the company intends to transform into “one of the largest biomass cultivation sites in California.” Read more here. Enveric Receives Patent for Psilocybin Molecules Enveric Biosciences (NASDAQ: ENVB) announced that the United States Patent and Trademark Office issued U.S. Patent No. 11,752,130, titled “Carboxylated Psilocybin Derivatives and Methods of Using,” pertaining to the Company’s EVM301 Series of molecules being developed as potential treatments for mental health disorders. Read more here. Seelos Reports Mixed Results From Phase II Ketamine Study Seelos Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: SEEL) announced top-line data demonstrating clinically meaningful treatment effects across multiple endpoints and a well-tolerated safety profile from the double-blind, placebo-controlled cohort (Part 2) of its Phase II study of SLS-002 (intranasal racemic ketamine) for Acute Suicidal Ideation and Behavior (ASIB) in adults with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Read more here. In Other News Congress Members of the U.S. House of Representatives, Oversight and Accountability Committee voted 30-14 today in favor of bipartisan legislation, H.R. 5040: The Cannabis Users’ Restoration of Eligibility (CURE) Act, which expands federal employment and advancement opportunities for those with a history of past cannabis use. Read more here. Oklahoma The Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority seized around 14,000 marijuana plants and 4,850 pounds of marijuana earlier this week. Not only did they seize thousands of pounds of illicit marijuana, but five businesses were also shut down as a result of the investigation. Read more here. Nevada On Tuesday, the Nevada Cannabis Compliance Board (CCB) approved a conditional license for a cannabis consumption lounge on the AREA15 campus, which houses popular attractions such as Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart, Illuminarium, and a recently announced Universal Halloween-themed park. Read more here.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 21, 2023Cannabis News​ Housing Works was the first adult-use cannabis retailer to open its doors in New York. At the Green Market Report New York Cannabis Business Summit in New York City on Sept. 13, we recognized some of the stellar industry players with the GMR New York Cannabis Awards. The winner of Best Dispensary was Housing Works Cannabis Co., which made history last December as the first legal recreational marijuana store to open in the Empire State. Dispensary Manager Sasha Nutgent accepted the award on behalf of the nonprofit, which has a lengthy history of helping the underprivileged in New York. Nutgent manages a staff of more than 50 and oversees all retail operations for Housing Works, including its delivery services. Nutgent previously sat down with Green Market Report to discuss how the Manhattan shop reached $12 million in sales within its first six months of operations, which she said exceeded internal business expectations. By July, the shop was carrying more than 500 cannabis products from more than 30 brands, Nutgent said, and the dispensary is solidly in the black. “We’ve been profitable since Day One, because we … took the risk of not having some grandiose buildout. And that risk was beneficial to us,” Nutgent told Green Market Report in July. Nutgent said at the time that she’s heard of other new conditional adult use retail dispensaries that have opened have had a rougher time, but she chalked that up to Housing Works’ lengthy expertise in retail, which Nutgent said probably gave the nonprofit a bit of an edge. The nonprofit also has a vocational training program in the works, set to launch this fall, to help ex-convicts successfully rejoin society through paid internships and retail experience. Nutgent, a Black woman, “represents not just cannabis retail, but also people of color carving out their place in legal cannabis,” according to the award nomination for Housing Works.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 21, 2023Cannabis News​ Method Man’s cannabis brand TICAL (Taking Into Consideration All Lives) announced on Sept. 15 its entrance into New York’s adult-use cannabis market in partnership with Central Processors NY—one of the largest processors in New York—and Adirondack Hemp Company. Central Processors’s prerolls and edibles will launch first, with more products rolling out in the coming months. Love Jones prerolls and edibles, under the TICAL Official cannabis catalog, will be available at select retailers including Housing Works, Strain Stars, Stage One, Greenery Spot, Flynnstoned, and William Jane Herbal IQ, on a first-come, first-served basis starting last week. “New York State’s adult-use market is very significant for TICAL—our New York roots run deep,” TICAL co-founder and COO Joshua “Raz” Rassin tells High Times. “Everyone on the TICAL team is either from, or based in New York. Method Man’s career started in the streets of New York and he has been consuming and advocating for cannabis his entire life and career. There has been data that suggests New York is the number one consumer of cannabis in the world and it always felt that way growing up. It has been through cannabis, culture and hip hop that the TICAL founders were brought together and all of us being from New York is a huge part of that. At the end of the day we are humbled to bring adult-use product to our home state.”  While Method Man has sold clothing and merchandise under the brand TICAL, often cannabis-themed, it’s also the name in front of his cannabis ventures. “Tical” is the name of Method Man’s debut studio album released November 15, 1994, by Def Jam Recordings. “Tical” is also slang for a tightly rolled blunt soaked in syrup or honey. Small-batch, high-quality herb is the name of the game, which is why TICAL links up with the best producers available in each state market. “There are so many great producers in the state but we are delighted to partner with Central Processors and Adirondack Hemp Company,” Rassin continues. “Central Processors are a large-scale and very well-equipped cultivator and processor. They have some of the best facilities, equipment and capabilities in the state. Their team is very strong and everyone from their CEO to their sales team and production team is emotionally invested in their products, and it shows. They have the ability to produce just about any cannabis products we can think of and we have plans to roll out cutting edge and industry leading extracted products in the coming months.”  “Adirondack Hemp Company is a family-owned, small-batch craft cannabis facility that prides themselves on the highest quality flower,” Rassin adds. “They have a very unique, controlled environment, mixed light facility that produces some of the best flower in New York. They have had to live through the trials and tribulations of the NY adult use rollout, went all in, and were able to make it to market. We feel like we have two of the best cannabis producers in the state and the TICAL brand is positioned to dominate the New York adult-use market.” Method Man’s roots in Staten Island and Long Island make New York City a personally special place to drop his cannabis brand. Through Wu-Tang Clan and as a solo artist, Method Man has a heavy role in the New York hip-hop sound. As a multi-state operator, TICAL products can be found in Arkansas, California, Colorado, Michigan, Nevada, Oregon, and Rhode Island as well.  On March 31, 2021, former Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed legislation legalizing adult-use cannabis for adults 21 and older in the state, the culmination of several years of false starts and failed efforts. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced in late December 2022 that regulated sales of adult-use cannabis will begin in the state next week with the opening of a licensed retail shop in Manhattan. Housing Works, the first dispensary, is also the nation’s largest minority-controlled HIV/AIDS service organization and largest community-based HIV/AIDS service organization, began serving customers in New York City on Dec. 29, 2022. Central Processors NY is “the largest processor in central New York,” the company says, providing extraction and manufacturing of THC-infused products including gummies, chocolates, vape pens, vape carts, tinctures, and so on. Central Processors NY gets its genetics that they cultivate through their brands, High Peaks and Paradigm.  “As a lifelong New Yorker and a big fan of the Wu-Tang Clan, being able to be part of bringing Method Man’s TICAL Official cannabis brand to New York’s adult-use cannabis market is a huge deal for us,” said John Vavalo, CEO at Central Processors NY, a licensed Adult-Use Conditional Processor and Cultivator (AUCP and AUCC) for New York State. “Working with the team at TICAL Official has been effortless and we look forward to helping them scale across the state.” Adirondack Hemp Company, on the other hand, currently offers strains like Sherb Cake or Superboof. “It’s surreal and such an honor to be working with a real legend who helped shape modern cannabis culture in New York, and who continues to provide for his community to this day,” said Mike Brown, Adirondack Hemp Company CEO. “Our small batch, high-quality flower is a perfect fit for TICAL Official and we’re excited to help bring the brand back home.” Photo credit Karina Isabel In the August 1996 issue of High Times, Method Man discussed blunt rolling tips, while still a member of Wu-Tang Clan. He appeared in the magazine several more times as well. 2001’s How High with Method Man and Redman is now considered a stoner classic. Chris Simunek and Danny Danko again interviewed him as a solo artist in the January 2007 issue of High Times. Most recently, he participated in the High Times Cannabis Cup New Mexico: People’s Choice Edition 2023 with Redman. Use TICAL’s store locator to find a location near you.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 21, 2023Cannabis News​ A newly published survey from researchers at Kent State University sought to find out whether “cannabidiol (CBD) use and/or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) use … shows promise to enhance exercise recovery.” The researchers said that the study “aimed to determine if individuals are using CBD and/or THC as a means of recovery from aerobic and/or resistance exercise, as well as additional modalities that might be used to aid in recovery.” The anonymous survey involved 111 participants who “were regularly using cannabis (CBD and/or THC) as well as were currently exercising,” and the questions “pertained to level of cannabis use, methods used for consumption of cannabis, exercise habits, exercise recovery strategies, and demographics.” “Eighty-five percent of participants reported participating in aerobic training. In addition, 85% of participants also reported regular participation in resistance exercise. Seventy-two percent of participants participated in both aerobic and resistance exercise. Ninety-three percent of participants felt that CBD use assisted them with recovery from exercise, while 87% of participants felt the same regarding THC use,” the researchers said. “Individuals who habitually use cannabis, CBD or THC, and regularly engage in exercise do feel that cannabis assists them with exercise recovery. More data are necessary to understand the role of cannabis in exercise recovery as well as perceived ergogenic benefits of cannabis by individuals who both regularly participate in exercise and habitually use cannabis,” they wrote in their conclusion.  Even world class athletes have long dabbled in cannabis, often preferring it to booze because it doesn’t result in a hangover. And as laws surrounding recreational pot use have changed throughout the United States, professional sports leagues have also adjusted their own drug policies.  NBA legend Kevin Durant said this summer that he personally lobbied league commissioner Adam Silver to do away with the ban on marijuana. “I actually called him and advocated for him to take marijuana off the banned substance list,” Durant, a star for the Phoenix Suns, said at a conference hosted by CNBC. “I just felt like it was becoming a thing around the country, around the world … the stigma behind it wasn’t as negative as it was before. It doesn’t affect you in any negative way.” The NBA and its players’ union brokered a new collective bargaining agreement earlier this year that eliminates drug testing for cannabis. “Marijuana will be removed from the Prohibited Substances List (‘PSL’),” the contract reads. “A team that has reason to believe one of its players is under the influence of marijuana or alcohol while engaged in NBA or team-related activities, or has a dependency issue involving marijuana or alcohol, may refer the player to a required evaluation treatment program.” One of the greatest scorers to ever play the game, Durant has been open about his own marijuana use. At the CNBC conference, Durant said that Silver likely had an inkling that he had toked up before their meeting. “Well, he smelled it when I walked in, so I ain’t really have to say much,” Durant said. “He kind of understood where this was going. And I mean, it’s the NBA, man. Everybody does it, to be honest. It’s like wine at this point.” The researchers at Kent State University said the changing policies and mores surrounding marijuana in the United States prompted them to conduct their survey. “Over the past decade, cannabis use has become more widespread in the United States, both medically and recreationally. As of 2021, 52.5 million individuals in the US reported use of cannabis in the past year, accounting for 18.7% of the country’s population (Key substance use and mental health indicators in the United States: Results from the 2021 national survey on drug use and health 2021),” they wrote. “Cannabis plants are composed of a variety of cannabinoid compounds, most notably cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabidiol (THC), both of which bind endocannabinoid receptors, cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid type 2 (CB2) (Pagotto et al. 2006). While CBD has a low-binding affinity for CB1 and CB2 receptors, both receptors bind THC. Contrary to THC, CBD does not induce psychotropic effects. It has, however, been demonstrated to acutely stimulate parasympathetic nervous system activation resulting in reduced heart rate, reduced systolic blood pressure, and increased vasodilation . Conversely, THC has been demonstrated to impair cognitive function and up-regulate sympathetic nervous system activity, leading to acute increases in heart rate, systolic blood pressure, and vasoconstriction.” The researchers noted that both “CBD and THC have the potential to enhance recovery from aerobic and resistance exercise due to analgesic, anti-inflammatory effects as well as the ability to enhance sleep quality.” “Both compounds have also assisted in acutely reducing subjective feelings of pain intensity in chronic-pain patients, while acute CBD intake has been demonstrated to attenuate muscle damage following resistance exercise in resistance-trained men and women. Survey data in both recreationally active and athletic populations has demonstrated that individuals use cannabis to assist with exercise recovery, pain relief resulting from muscle-soreness, to reduce inflammation, and enhance sleep,” they said.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 21, 2023Cannabis News​ A national provider of workplace insurance for psychedelic therapy recently partnered with two new companies to expand their network and offer ketamine-assisted therapy as a health benefit nationwide. “Nationwide availability represents a pivotal moment in accomplishing Enthea’s mission of helping employers with workplace mental health challenges,” said Sherry Rais, chief executive officer and co-founder of Enthea.  Enthea is a company that focuses on providing psychedelic assisted therapies for employee health plans and ketamine is the first and only such drug with known psychedelic and/or hallucinatory effects to be approved in any fashion by the FDA for use in mental health treatments. Enthea recently announced a partnership with two companies: Skylight Psychedelics and Innerwell. Both companies help facilitate remote and in-person psychedelic-assisted experiences. “Skylight Psychedelics is thrilled to join forces with Enthea,” said Scott Bienenfeld, MD, Co-Founder. “Through our collaboration, we will help people overcome a variety of mental health conditions by expanding access to cutting-edge, often life-saving treatments, such as ketamine-assisted therapy and other emerging psychedelic medicine modalities.” This partnership allows certain eligible employees to potentially take advantage of ketamine therapy without paying exorbitant fees often associated with the blossoming field of psychedelic assisted therapy, with session prices for a single psilocybin experience exceeding $2,000 in places like Oregon. Estimates for an average price of a ketamine session are all over the place depending on where you look but the most common estimate of an uninsured patient’s cost is $400-$800 per session. Very few people are currently eligible to take advantage of these benefits, 1,500 nationwide by the estimate Enthea gave to Vice but they hope to get those numbers up to 200,000 by the end of next year. “Investing in the mental health of employees is critical. Innerwell is proud to partner with Enthea to help future-thinking employers offer ketamine and other medication-assisted treatments that have lasting, transformative outcomes,” said Lisa Kennedy, CEO of Innerwell. “Our team of specifically trained clinicians delivers compassionate care while our data-driven approach will help accelerate the adoption of these new treatments by proving the efficacy of these innovative modalities.” The FDA first approved ketamine-assisted therapy in 2019 via a nasal spray under the brand name Spravato in conjunction with an oral antidepressant. Since then, a large number of clinics and physicians have begun offering the somewhat controversial practice. Some estimates put the number of clinics between 500 and 750 nationwide but there’s not a national registry so it’s hard to say. In 2022 the market for ketamine clinics was estimated to be around $3.1 billion. Enthea has been offering coverage for ketamine therapy since last year and touted data from a year of offering ketamine-assisted therapy to the employees of Dr. Bronner’s soap company, saying that employees who took advantage of the service experienced drastic reductions in symptoms related to mental health disorders. Depression symptoms were reduced by 67% and PTSD by 86%, according to data in an Enthea press release.  “The health and wellbeing of our employees is the primary driver in how we think about benefits and compensation. Offering coverage for ketamine-assisted therapy is in the interest of providing tools to our workforce to have the best quality of life and best options for mental health care,” said Michael Bronner, President of Dr. Bronner’s in a prepared statement about the program’s launch in 2022. “Our family and company are no strangers to depression and anxiety. We are deeply concerned about the mental health crisis society is facing, especially in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic. Considering all our advocacy on this issue, this employee benefit is the next logical step.” Due to the positive data from Dr. Bronner’s case study and the new partnerships with Innerwell and Starlight, Enthea’s provider network has increased significantly enough for them to now offer these services to employers nationwide. Enthea’s benefits packages can be added onto existing health, dental and vision plans according to the press release.  “The providers in Enthea’s Network are critical to our mission of ensuring access to high quality and affordable ketamine-assisted therapy,” stated Andrew Ninnimann, Enthea’s Director of Networks and Strategic Initiatives. “We remain committed to working with companies at the forefront of innovation as it pertains to developments that are changing the mental health industry.” Any employers who wish to offer Enthea’s services need only contact them at this handy-dandy little hyperlink to find out more.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 21, 2023Cannabis News​ As of the California State Legislature ended on Sept. 14, more than 17 cannabis or psychedelic bills were sent to California Gov. Gavin Newsom to potentially be signed. The bills include a wide variety of proposals, which Newsom must either sign, veto, or refuse to sign and allow them to be approved without his signature. In the past, Newsom has expressed support for cannabis and psychedelics, but it is currently unclear which of these 17 bills he will support. However, he has under one month, or until Oct. 14, to address the following bills. SB-51: Cannabis provisional licenses: local equity applicants Social equity applicants would be permitted to apply for or renew their provisional licenses between now and January 1, 2031. Currently, provisional licenses are not being accepted in California. SB-58: Controlled substances: decriminalization of certain hallucinogenic substances. This bill was passed on to the Gov. on Sept. 13, and would legalize possession, cultivation, and transportation of substances such as psilocybin, psilocyn, DMT, and mescaline. The bill is led by Sen. Scott Weiner, who believes that it will help many patients, especially military veterans, within the state. “California’s veterans, first responders, and others struggling with PTSD, depression, and addiction deserve access to these promising plant medicines,” said Wiener when the bill passed in the Assembly. “SB-58 has prudent safeguards in place after we incorporated feedback from three years of deep engagement with a broad array of stakeholders. We know these substances are not addictive, and they show tremendous promise in treating many of the most intractable conditions driving our nation’s mental health crisis. It’s time to stop criminalizing people who use psychedelics for healing or personal well-being.” SB-302 Compassionate Access to Medical Cannabis Act While only terminally ill patients are currently allowed to use medical cannabis at healthcare facilities, this bill would allow anyone over 65 to treat chronic illness with medical cannabis if they choose. The bill is an expansion of the currently existing Compassionate Access to Medical Cannabis Act, or Ryan’s Law. SB-540: Cannabis and cannabis products: health warnings If passed, SB-540 would instruct the Department of Cannabis Control to make an education brochure that would be given to consumers when they purchase products from a dispensary for the first time (both at a retail store or upon delivery). The info would be updated on January 1, 2030, and every five years after that date. SB-622: Cannabis regulation: plant identification program: unique identifier A proposal from Sen. Ben Allen and Juan Alanis would change how cannabis products are identified with “a unique identifier to be recorded in a manner as determined by the department by regulation.” The bill doesn’t directly mention removing the plastic tags that are currently used to track cannabis plants, but it could allow digital tags to be utilized in the future for a more sustainable, ecofriendly approach. SB-700: Employment discrimination: cannabis use This bill would ban employers from inquiring about an applicant’s personal cannabis use, which is added to current applicant protections from the already existing California Fair Employment and Housing Act. According to Sen. Steven Bradford,  SB-753: Cannabis: water resources With the preservation of groundwater and environmental harm, this bill would make it a felony to grow and harvest more than six cannabis plants, especially if it is grown “Intentionally or with gross negligence causing substantial environmental harm to surface or groundwater, public lands, or other public resources.” SB-833: Cannabis licensing: cultivation licenses: changing license type: inactive status Currently, cannabis cultivators who wish to change their license status to a smaller grow to inactive (whether permanently or just temporarily), must redo the complete process through the Department of Cannabis Control (DCC). This bill would allow them to make this change through the DCC without resubmitting their application in its entirety. AB-374: Cannabis: retail preparation, sale, and consumption of non cannabis food and beverage products Presented to the governor on Sept. 15, AB-374 would make “Amsterdam-style” cannabis cafes legal. With approval, dispensaries will be able to offer non-cannabis food and drinks, as well as “live musical or other performances on the premises of a licensed retailer or microbusiness in the area where the consumption of cannabis is allowed.” According to the bill sponsor, Assemblymember Matt Haney believes the bill would benefit consumers and also cities. “Lots of people want to enjoy legal cannabis in the company of others,” Haney said. “And many people want to do that while sipping coffee, eating a scone, or listening to music. There’s absolutely no good reason from an economic, health or safety standpoint that the state should make that illegal. If an authorized cannabis retail store wants to also sell a cup of coffee and a sandwich, we should allow cities to make that possible and stop holding back these small businesses.” AB-623: Cannabis: citation and fine According to current California law, cannabis laboratory testing is conducted by testing a batch of products to ensure that “the chemical profile of the sample conforms to the labeled content of compounds.” In order for licensed labs to test edibles and issue a certificate of analysis, the report must show “that the milligrams of THC per serving does not exceed 10 milligrams per serving, plus or minus 10%.” In other words, the certificate excludes products with less than 10 mg THC (such as low-dose edibles with only 5 mg THC). If passed, AB-623 would require new DCC regulations that keep low-dose edibles in mind. AB-993: Cannabis Task Force This bill would add representatives from the Civil Rights Department and the Department of Industrial Relations, the existing cannabis task force in California. AB-1021: Controlled substances: rescheduling This bill would allow California health care professionals to prescribe cannabis if it reschedules any Schedule I substance. Current Schedule I substances include cannabis, as well as LSD, heroin, peyote, ecstasy, and more. AB-1126: Cannabis: citation and fine This proposal would ban the use of the universal cannabis symbol on cannabis packaging for products that are not authorized to use it. Any companies using the symbol without approval will be seized by the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration. AB-1171: Cannabis: private right of action Legal action would be permissible for cannabis business license owners against illegal cannabis businesses in the California Supreme Court. AB-1207: Cannabis: labeling and advertising This bill would potentially alter the definition for cannabis product packaging, by “prohibiting the sale, distribution, or manufacture of cannabis, cannabis products, packaging, or labeling that are attractive to children, as defined.” It further prohibits imagery including cartoons, toys, robots, real or fictional humans, fictional animals or creatures, as well as fruits or vegetables (unless it’s used to describe the flavor of the product). AB-1448: Cannabis: enforcement by local jurisdictions A person currently engaging in illegal cannabis without a license is subject to civil penalty funds ($10,000 per day per violation but not to exceed $30,000 per day). This bill would take some of those civil penalty money and move them to treasurers of local jurisdictions. AB-1684: Local ordinances: fines and penalties: cannabis In this bill, fines attributed to illegal cannabis cultivators would also apply to other illegal businesses such as processors and distributors. In the past, Newsom has expressed support for cannabis and psychedelics, but it is currently unclear which of these 17 bills he will sign. However, he has under one month, or until Oct. 14, to address these bills. Newsom has signed three bills since July that are cannabis-related. In July, he signed SB-250 which provides immunity to people who test positive for a controlled substance, such as fentanyl, specifically in regards to working with law enforcement and sharing where they received the drug. Also in July, Newsom signed AB-128, which added cannabis event organizers to the list of license classifications, and updated requirements for background checks for cannabis-related businesses. He also signed SB-756 on Sept. 1, which allows the California State Water Board to investigate and take action against illegal cannabis cultivation.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 21, 2023Cannabis News​ House panel approves marijuana job/security clearance bill; Congressional psilocybin measure; Square enters cannabis market; Ketamine insurance Subscribe to receive Marijuana Moment’s newsletter in your inbox every weekday morning. It’s the best way to make sure you know which cannabis stories are shaping the day. Email address: Your support makes Marijuana Moment possible… Before you dig into today’s cannabis news, I wanted you to know you can keep this resource free and published daily by subscribing to Marijuana Moment on Patreon. We’re a small independent publication diving deep into the cannabis world and rely on readers like you to keep going.  Logan Feldstein: “I’ve been reading Marijuana Moment for quite some time, since 2018, and figured it was time to dig into your tracker. I figured this tool could help better assist my team and I in tracking various bills that will change the landscape of the cannabis Industry. As the person who manages the compliance and licensing for Sunderstorm (KANHA), this tool will be extremely helpful in being prepared for the consistent change in regulations that we tackle day in and day out; preparation is the key to victory and this tool is what will provide us the means to achieve that.” Join us at https://www.patreon.com/marijuanamoment / TOP THINGS TO KNOW The House Oversight and Accountability Committee approved a bill to prevent the denial of federal employment or security clearances based on a candidate’s past marijuana use. A bipartisan group of senators officially filed a renamed and revised marijuana banking bill that’s set to receive a committee vote next week—but a top House lawmaker is not committing to bringing the measure up in his chamber if it is passed by the Senate. Notably, Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ)—who previously pledged to “lay myself down” to block cannabis banking legislation from advancing ahead of justice-focused marijuana legalization—is an original cosponsor of the newly filed SAFER Banking Act. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) is committing to bring a marijuana banking bill to the floor along with amendments on expungements and gun rights for cannabis consumers. He shared his announcement in advance exclusively with Marijuana Moment. Senate Banking Committee Chairman Sherrod Brown (D-OH) said he expects a “strong majority” of his panel to support the legislation next week. Reps. Robert Garcia (D-CA) and Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) filed a bill to prevent the federal government from interfering with the implementation of state and local psilocybin laws. It’s called the Validating Independence for State Initiatives on Organic Natural Substances (VISIONS) Act. Payment processor Square is entering the cannabis market in Canada through a partnership with Jane Technologies. Enthea is announcing the “nationwide availability” of ketamine-assisted therapy as an available employee health insurance benefit. The company says MDMA and psilocybin therapies will also be offered following federal approval. The Oklahoma Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee held a hearing on opportunities to expand hemp production. Rhode Island marijuana activists are pressing regulators to close industry loopholes, protect workers and prioritize equity—with one lawmaker saying current policy has created a “pay-to-play system.” The Seattle, Washington City Council passed a measure to locally criminalize public drug possession and use. / FEDERAL The House bill to repeal restrictions on people with felony drug convictions from working in the hemp industry got one new cosponsor for a total of nine. / STATES Oklahoma’s attorney general formed a task force to combat illegal marijuana growing operations. Separately, regulators took action against violations by cannabis businesses. Alaska regulators are proposing changes to rules on marijuana business ownership changes. New York regulators issued a warning about synthetic cannabinoids found to contain opioids. Separately, a regulatory spokesperson defended the state’s marijuana testing requirements from criticism that they are not protecting consumers. Oregon regulators published a bulletin about the release of cannabis products that tested positive for aspergillus. Missouri regulators issued guidance on the marijuana track and trace system and testing rules. Maine regulators discussed contaminants in medical cannabis. —Marijuana Moment is tracking more than 1,000 cannabis, psychedelics and drug policy bills in state legislatures and Congress this year. Patreon supporters pledging at least $25/month get access to our interactive maps, charts and hearing calendar so they don’t miss any developments.Learn more about our marijuana bill tracker and become a supporter on Patreon to get access.— / LOCAL An El Paso County, Colorado commissioner authored an op-ed criticizing Gov. Jared Polis (D) for supporting federal marijuana rescheduling. / INTERNATIONAL Thai lawmakers plan to consider legislation to regulate medical cannabis. Ministers from Hamburg, Thuringia and Lower Saxony, Germany are pushing to slow down the government’s plan to enact marijuana legalization legislation. Alberta, Canada regulators said they will begin relisting and accepting CBN and THCV products. New Zealand’s Aotearoa Legalise Cannabis Party authored an op-ed about the need for marijuana reform. / SCIENCE & HEALTH A review concluded that “cannabinoids may have efficacy in managing symptoms of certain inflammatory dermatologic conditions.” A study concluded that hemp seed oil “could improve depression-like behavior” in rats. / ADVOCACY, OPINION & ANALYSIS The Credit Union National Association sent a letter supporting newly refiled marijuana banking legislation. Axiom Strategies and Vanguard Field Strategies are simultaneously working on a Florida marijuana legalization campaign and aiding the presidential election bid of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R), who opposes legalization. The Albany Times Union editorial board criticized New York officials over the implementation of the state’s marijuana legalization law. / BUSINESS GrowerIQ secured C$1 million in funding from the Canadian government to enhance its cannabis tracking system. Cornbread Hemp acquired its manufacturing partner to achieve full vertical integration, which it says will allow it to reduce prices. Rapid Therapeutic Science Laboratories, Inc. and its CEO are being charged by the Securities and Exchange Commission with allegedly engaging in fraudulent unregistered securities offerings. Weedmaps and Abstrax are partnering on a cannabis educational content series. Make sure to subscribe to get Marijuana Moment’s daily dispatch in your inbox. Email address: Marijuana Moment is made possible with support from readers. If you rely on our cannabis advocacy journalism to stay informed, please consider a monthly Patreon pledge.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 20, 2023Cannabis News​ The company intends to transform the property into “one of the largest biomass cultivation sites in California.” California-based Leef Brands (CSE: LEEF) (OTC: LEEEF), formerly known as Icanic Brands, completed the acquisition of a 1,900-acre ranch in Santa Barbara County for $5.48 million, which the company intends to transform into “one of the largest biomass cultivation sites in California.” The deal, which has been in the works for months, includes an already-sold 60% interest in the ranch for a $7 million interest-free loan, Leef said. But the company stated it will retain all control over operations at the facility, named Salisbury Canyon Ranch LLC, and will also still own 100% of all cannabis permits associated with the ranch. The $7 million will be used to build out the cannabis grow site, the company said in a statement. “This is a monumental milestone for LEEF as the acquisition and buildout of the Ranch will enable us to fully execute our vision of building one of the largest biomass cultivation sites in California. The buildout marks a tremendous opportunity for LEEF and lays the foundation for future expansion,” Leef CEO Micah Anderson said. The long-term goal, CFO Kevin Wilson said, is “to slowly build out a secure supply chain that will be strategically planted to support our specific manufacturing capabilities.” Under the terms of the acquisition, $1.1 million of the $5.48 million purchase price was due at closing, but Leef will only have to make interest payments for the next 24 months on a $4.2 million loan it took out at an interest rate of 4% to finance the acquisition. Although the company posted a gross profit in the second quarter this year of $2.9 million, its net loss for the quarter ended June 30 was $20.3 million, with losses topping $21.7 million so far for the year. Anderson this week expressed optimism that the potential federal rescheduling of marijuana to Schedule 3 could improve market conditions across the industry. “The elimination of the 280E tax on our business and on our customer’s business would have dramatic and immediate positive implications for an industry that has been plagued by high taxes, high cost of capital, lack of investment capital and lack of access to traditional financial services,” Anderson said.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 20, 2023Cannabis News​ A new congressional bill has been filed to prohibit federal intervention in jurisdictions that legalize psilocybin mushrooms. Reps. Robert Garcia (D-CA) and Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) are sponsoring the Validating Independence for State Initiatives on Organic Natural Substances (VISIONS) Act. The two-page legislation simply says that no federal funds can be used to “prevent any State or unit of local government from implementing such State’s or unit of local government’s own laws that authorize the use, distribution, sale, possession, research, or cultivation of psilocybin.” That’s similar to existing protections in place for state medical cannabis programs that have been enacted annually through appropriations riders. “Current federal law lags behind the growing body of evidence that suggests that the psychedelic treatment that psilocybin offers can provide relief for those suffering from anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders,” Garcia said in a press release on Wednesday. “Here in the U.S. we have countless military and law enforcement veterans who have seen their lives improve thanks to these groundbreaking treatments,” he said. “The potential benefits of psilocybin have been overlooked for years and my aim is to protect the areas and states that want to delve into the real progress this treatment can offer for people in their communities.” Blumenauer, whose state became the first to legalize regulated access to psilocybin through a vote-approved ballot initiative in 2020, said that, for too long, “the federal government has perpetuated a broken system that has denied patients access to the therapeutic potential of psilocybin.” “It is time for the federal government to get out of the way of states like Oregon who are making progress,” the congressman said. The bill could also be timely for Garcia’s state of California, where lawmakers have delivered a bill to the governor that would legalize possession and cultivation of certain psychedelics, including psilocybin, by adults 21 and older. —Marijuana Moment is tracking more than 1,000 cannabis, psychedelics and drug policy bills in state legislatures and Congress this year. Patreon supporters pledging at least $25/month get access to our interactive maps, charts and hearing calendar so they don’t miss any developments.Learn more about our marijuana bill tracker and become a supporter on Patreon to get access.— Psychedelics reform policy has become a recurring theme in Congress this session. This month, the GOP-controlled House Rules Committee cleared two psychedelics research amendments for floor consideration as part of a large-scale spending bill covering the Department of Defense (DOD)—though it also blocked separate marijuana-related proposals from advancing. In March, Blumenauer and Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) filed a bill to clarify that federal “Right to Try” (RTT) laws give seriously ill patients access to Schedule I drugs, including marijuana and psychedelics like psilocybin and MDMA. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), for its part, is taking steps to facilitate research into psychedelic therapies. Not only has it designated psilocybin and MDMA as “breakthrough therapies,” but the agency has released first-ever draft guidance to scientists on best practices to study the entheogenic substances in the interest of drug development. Earlier this month, the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) also called for research into the impact of evolving laws around psychedelics, including the effects of allowing regulated access to substances like psilocybin. NIDA separately announced in May that it is soliciting proposals for a series of research initiatives meant to explore how psychedelics could be used to treat drug addiction, with plans to provide $1.5 million in funding to support relevant studies. At a Senate committee hearing in May, Volkow told members that there’s emerging evidence that psychedelics carry “significant potential” as therapeutic treatments for certain mental health conditions, and it’s a topic of “great interest” for researchers. Last year, Sens. Brian Schatz (D-HI) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) pushed top federal officials to provide an update on research into the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, arguing that ongoing federal prohibition has stymied studies. NIDA responded to the inquiry by saying that federal prohibition makes it more difficult to study the benefits of psychedelics, requiring researchers to jump through additional regulatory hoops. Volkow previously said that she personally hesitates to study Schedule I drugs because of those complications. The director told Marijuana Moment in 2021 that researchers need to prioritize psychedelics research, as more people are likely to use them as they’re exposed to studies showing the therapeutic potential of the substances. Read the text of the VISONS Act below: Here’s The New Marijuana Banking Bill Text That Senators Negotiated As Committee Prepares To Vote Next Week Marijuana Moment is made possible with support from readers. If you rely on our cannabis advocacy journalism to stay informed, please consider a monthly Patreon pledge.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 20, 2023Cannabis News​ A revised bipartisan marijuana banking bill has officially been filed in the Senate, one week before a key committee is scheduled to vote on the legislation. But its prospects in the GOP-controlled House remain uncertain, with a key committee chairman declining to say whether he’d take up the legislation if it crosses over to his chamber. The renamed Secure and Fair Enforcement Regulation (SAFER) Banking Act, sponsored by Sens. Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Steve Daines (R-MT), was introduced on Wednesday—one day after Marijuana Moment first reported on the finalized language. The amended bill is the product of months of negotiations as senators worked to build bipartisan buy-in and get it in passable form. It’s set to receive a markup in the Senate Banking Committee on September 27. After that point, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) said on Tuesday he intends to “bring it to the floor with all due speed.” In a joint statement shared with Marijuana Moment on Wednesday, Schumer, Merkley, Daines  and Sens. Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ) and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) applauded the bill introduction. “This legislation will help make our communities and small businesses safer by giving legal cannabis businesses access to traditional financial institutions, including bank accounts and small business loans,” the senators said. “It also prevents federal bank regulators from ordering a bank or credit union to close an account based on reputational risk.” “We look forward to the markup of this bill in the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs on September 27th,” they said. The majority leader also said in a separate statement on Wednesday that he is committing to attaching legislation on incentivizing state-level cannabis expungements and restoring gun rights for medical marijuana patients. Specifically, he said he would move to add the Harnessing Opportunities by Pursuing Expungement (HOPE) Act and Gun Rights and Marijuana (GRAM) Act to the final legislation. “I’ve long advocated for expungement of records for cannabis offenses, and with SAFER Banking moving through the committee in such a strong, bipartisan way, I believe now is the time to get it done,” Schumer said. “I look forward to seeing the bill pass out of committee, so we can vote on it on the Senate floor.” Other initial cosponsors on the bill include Sens. Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Dan Sullivan (R-AK) and Bob Menendez (D-NJ). Booker’s cosponsorship is especially notable given that the senator has previously resisted taking the incremental financial-focused reform step before advancing comprehensive legalization that helps right the wrongs of the war on drugs. When an earlier version was being considered in 2021, he vowed to “lay myself down” to block the cannabis banking legislation until Congress acted on ending prohibition. The senator said in a statement on Wednesday that he’s cosponsoring the bill with the “assurance of Majority Leader Schumer that the HOPE Act, which will support states with grants so they can seek to expunge cannabis records, will be incorporated into this legislation on the Senate floor.” The newly released bill reveals the types of compromises senators made over recent weeks. Most of the new provisions are described under Section 10—a component of the reform that Republicans have strongly favored and certain Democrats opposed over concerns it could undermine broader banking regulations. Here are some of the key changes from the previous Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act:  In Section 7, the SAFER Banking Act omits earlier language preventing federal regulators from taking action that “discourages” financial institutions from working with state-legal marijuana businesses. However, Section 10 of the bill now spells out how regulators must broadly have a “valid” reason for requesting or requiring the termination of bank accounts for any business. It was revised to give the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) one year, rather than 180 days, to develop guidance for financial institutions serving state-licensed marijuana businesses. The original bill said that income derived from state-legal cannabis business activity couldn’t be used to deny “federally backed mortgages.” That’s been revised to say that standard applies to a “covered” mortgage. A new example of such a covered mortgage is one that’s “acquired or purchased by a Federal Home Loan Bank or pledged as collateral for an advance from a Federal Home Loan Bank.” Section 10 has been expanded, for example to include a “sense of Congress” language stipulating that the personal and political beliefs of financial regulators should not influence their decisionmaking. The legislation would newly require federal banking regulators to work with state banking supervisors and the secretaries of commerce and treasury and, within two years of enactment, form rules or guidance to increase access to deposit accounts for businesses and customers and to enable banks and credit unions to more effectively maintain customer relationships—especially for those in rural, low-and moderate-income areas, Tribal communities and unbanked businesses and consumers. There’s a new requirement for the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to conduct a biennial survey and report to identify barriers to accessing deposit accounts for small-and medium-sized businesses. Further, the bill has been revised to include explicit mention of tribal communities in Section 11, which requires federal regulators to submit a report to Congress on access to banking for historically underbanked communities. Tribes are now listed beside minorities, veterans, women and small state-sanctioned cannabis businesses as subjects of that report—which is not the case in the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act as introduced. While required reports on data concerning small and minority-, veteran- and women-owned businesses are still in the bill, the phrase “diversity and inclusion” has been removed from the relevant section titles. —Marijuana Moment is tracking more than 1,000 cannabis, psychedelics and drug policy bills in state legislatures and Congress this year. Patreon supporters pledging at least $25/month get access to our interactive maps, charts and hearing calendar so they don’t miss any developments.Learn more about our marijuana bill tracker and become a supporter on Patreon to get access.— All told, it appears that the proposed revisions could satisfy both sides of the aisle, with Section 10 kept “intact,” as Banking Committee member Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-ND) said this week, but also with new provisions to promote equity in the financial system. Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI), who also serves on the Banking Committee and previously raised concerns about Section 10, has also said that senators “talked extensively” about the language, “and we’ve made some progress.” “I think we’ve resolved most of the issues we had—and I hope we have so we can get it out of the committee with a strong vote,” he said. But, again, the House under Republican control is another matter. Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-NC), who chairs the House Financial Services Committee where the cannabis banking bill would likely be referred, isn’t supportive of the reform—and he gave a noncommittal response to Punchbowl News about how he’d approach the bill if it ends up in his panel’s jurisdiction. He said simply that he “look forward to seeing their markup,” adding that he’s “happy to talk” with Senate leaders about the legislation, but he also has “policy I’ve originated too.” “They should be interested in talking to me about that as well,” he said. “After the end of this week, we’ll have five major packages out of committee. Happy to talk about all of them.” Meanwhile, Schumer and others have also discussed plans to amend the legislation on the floor to adopt “critical” criminal justice provisions such as expungements for prior marijuana convictions, calling broader effort to repair the harms of the drug war a “moral responsibility” for Congress. A spokesperson Daines told Marijuana Moment in July that he is “open” to including the additional reform provision, even as he’s cautioned Democrats against significantly expanding the bill’s scope in a way that could jeopardize GOP support. As a standalone in its current form, insiders say the measure has enough Republican buy-in to reach the 60-vote threshold needed for passage in the Senate. On Tuesday, a coalition of 35 cannabis trade associations, drug policy reform groups and a top national labor union called on Congress to help address the “humanitarian toll” of robberies targeting cash-intensive marijuana businesses by passing the SAFE Banking Act “this year.” The American Trade Association for Cannabis and Hemp (ATACH)—along with trade groups representing marijuana businesses in 16 states plus Washington, D.C.—also sent a letter to Brown and Banking Committee Ranking Member Tim Scott (R-SC) in July, imploring them to pass the cannabis banking bill “without further delay.” Also, the American Bankers Association (ABA) also renewed its call for the passage of the legislation. And all 50 of its state chapters did the same, as did insurance and union organizations, in recent letters to congressional leadership. July also marked the 10-year anniversary since the introduction of the first version of what is now known as the SAFE Banking Act. Colorado Gov. Jared Polis (D) separately said in a recent letter to President Joe Biden that he should throw his support behind the congressional push for marijuana banking reform as the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) begins its review of cannabis scheduling after receiving a rescheduling recommendation from the top federal health agency. Congressional Lawmakers File New Bill To Protect States That Legalize Psilocybin From Federal Intervention Photo courtesy of Mike Latimer. Marijuana Moment is made possible with support from readers. If you rely on our cannabis advocacy journalism to stay informed, please consider a monthly Patreon pledge.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 20, 2023Cannabis News​ The soap company Dr. Bronner’s made headlines last year when it offered psychedelic-assisted therapy to workers through its employee health plan. Now the healthcare nonprofit that covered the treatment is expanding the offering to patients across the country. Enthea, which bills itself as the “first and only licensed provider of health benefit plans that cover psychedelic-assisted therapies,” announced Wednesday the “nationwide availability” of ketamine-assisted therapy as an available employee benefit. Employers interested in offering the ketamine therapy as a covered treatment, the company said, “can simply add it as an ancillary benefit, similar to dental and vision offerings.” “Nationwide availability represents a pivotal moment in accomplishing Enthea’s mission of helping employers with workplace mental health challenges,” said Enthea CEO and co-founder Sherry Rais. “Our services at Enthea make it easy on businesses to embrace this safe and effective treatment offering for their employees and we’re proud to have the potential to impact the millions of people in the US living with mental health conditions.” The company said in a press release that the expansion is possible because of new partnerships that expand Enthea’s provider network, including with Skylight Psychedelics and Innerwell. The 2022 partnership with Dr. Bronner’s, in which the soap company offered “free ketamine-assisted therapy to all benefit-eligible employees” through Enthea, led to about 7 percent of the company’s workforce signing up for the employer-provided benefit. Generally the results were positive, with employees who received ketamine treatment reporting “dramatic improvements in mental health,” according to findings released last month. Workers who completed the treatment sessions—which were facilitated by the San Diego-based Flow Integrative—said that the dissociative drug improved symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder by 86 percent, major depressive disorder by 67 percent and anxiety by 65 percent. “Partnering with Enthea to offer ketamine-assisted therapy to our workforce is something that I’m especially proud of,” CEO David Bronner, a frequent supporter of drug reform, said at the time. “While not everyone experiences such deep healing, many of our team members have reported dramatic improvements in their lives as a result of ketamine-assisted therapy. We hope to inspire other companies and organizations to also partner with Enthea and offer this benefit to their staff.” Many experts already view the drug as an effective treatment option for conditions such as treatment-resistant depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. At the federal level, ketamine has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use as an anesthetic and is not currently specifically approved for any psychiatric disorders, though doctors are able to administer it for off-label purposes like they can with other pharmaceuticals. “Ketamine is a very valuable tool for therapists trying to help with these disorders,” Dan Rome, Enthea’s chief medical officer. “When programmed mental defenses are lowered, more patients are able to get to the root of their problems. This can result in long-term relief There is also an FDA-approved nasal spray called esketamine that produces similar effects and is authorized for the treatment of treatment-resistant depression. Both esketamine and ketamine itself are classified under Schedule III of the Controlled Substances Act. The regulatory situation means that coverage through mainstream insurers can be difficult or impossible, despite clinics that administer the substance operating in states from Alabama to Washington. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) Director Nora Volkow said in 2021 that existing research on the benefits of ketamine for treatment-resistant depression has been an “eye opener” and that more studies are on the way. “We have been funding research that is ongoing—on ketamine for opiate treatment and also ketamine for pain.” “We need to learn from what what the evidence is showing us,” Volkow said. “If we can use ketamine for the treatment of severe depression in a way that is safe, this is an example of really that we can use drugs that we thought were dangerous and use them in ways that are therapeutic.” Enthea says that its services will expand further to include MDMA- and psilocybin-assisted therapies “as they are approved.” MDMA, for its part, is on track for consideration by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) next year following successful Phase 3 clinical trials published earlier this month. FDA designated MDMA as a “breakthrough therapy” in 2017. The new Phase 3 findings, published earlier this month in the journal Nature, found that MDMA-facilitated talk therapy reduced symptoms in patients with moderate to severe PTSD. The randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial involved 104 people with PTSD. Not only was treatment “generally well tolerated,” the study said, but therapy also showed robust results across participants. FDA released its first-ever draft guidance for psychedelics research in June. Bronner, the soap company CEO, has been active in psychedelics and marijuana policy in recent years, including by providing financing for the New Approach PAC, which played a key role in getting successful psychedelics legalization measures on the ballots of Oregon and Colorado. The soap magnate also disclosed at a conference in July that he’s backing similar reform endeavors in Massachusetts as well as in Arizona. Enthea said last month that the results from its ketamine partnership with Dr. Bronner’s have motivated it to expand its treatment plan to cover telemedicine and at-home ketamine care in partnership with the wellness provider Nue Life. California Governor Will Decide On 17 Marijuana And Psychedelics Bills By October 14 Photo courtesy of Wikimedia/Psychonaught. Marijuana Moment is made possible with support from readers. If you rely on our cannabis advocacy journalism to stay informed, please consider a monthly Patreon pledge.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 20, 2023Cannabis News​ Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) reaffirmed his commitment to expeditiously advancing a revised marijuana banking bill—and he says he will also push to attach legislation on cannabis expungements and gun rights for medical marijuana patients. Meanwhile, the chair of the Senate Banking Committee says that he’s expecting a “strong majority” of his panel to vote in favor of the amended Secure and Fair Enforcement Regulation (SAFER) Banking Act at a markup scheduled for next week. Shortly after the SAFER Banking Act was formally filed on Wednesday, Schumer released a statement shared exclusively in advance with Marijuana Moment that touted the bipartisan agreement and previewed plans to further expand the bill. “For too long, the federal government has continued to punish marijuana users and business owners—even when doing so is actively harmful to our country,” he said. “This ‘war on drugs’ has turned into a war on people and communities—specifically people and communities of color—and a war on business.” “This agreement allows cannabis businesses that have traditionally operated in cash to finally have the opportunity to accept credit and debit cards, allowing them to grow their businesses, pay their employees, protect their customers and ensure public safety,” he said. The majority leader added that he intends to bring the SAFER Banking Act to the floor “with all due speed,” and he said he’s “committed to including” the Harnessing Opportunities by Pursuing Expungement (HOPE) Act and Gun Rights and Marijuana (GRAM) Act in the final legislation. The HOPE Act is designed to incentivize states and local governments to expunge cannabis records in their jurisdictions. Schumer has previously pledged to amend the banking bill with the criminal justice reform, calling it a “critical” addition. The GOP sponsor of the SAFER Banking Act, Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT), said he’s amenable to the addition, even as he’s cautioned against significantly expanded the underlying bill. The GRAM Act, meanwhile, would allow medical cannabis patients to purchase and possess firearms that they’re currently prohibited from under a statute that’s been challenged in a number of federal courts over the past year. “I’ve long advocated for expungement of records for cannabis offenses, and with SAFER Banking moving through the committee in such a strong, bipartisan way, I believe now is the time to get it done,” Schumer said. “I look forward to seeing the bill pass out of committee, so we can vote on it on the Senate floor.” Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ), meanwhile, also released a statement on Wednesday about the SAFER Banking Act and his interest in attaching the bipartisan expungements legislation. He’s listed as a cosponsor of the revised banking bill—which is notable given that he previously vowed to “lay myself down” to block the incremental reform in 2021 unless Congress first moved to comprehensively legalize marijuana and address the harms of cannabis criminalization. “With the assurance of Majority Leader Schumer that the HOPE Act, which will support states with grants so they can seek to expunge cannabis records, will be incorporated into this legislation on the Senate floor, I’m cosponsoring the SAFER Banking Act to begin the process of reforming our broken federal cannabis laws,” Booker said. “This bill will take cannabis banking out of the shadows and give access to the banking system to thousands of small businesses. With the addition of HOPE, it will take a needed step toward restorative justice,” the senator added. “For too long, our laws involving marijuana have undermined the ability for small businesses and entrepreneurs from all backgrounds to succeed on a more level playing field with the wealthy and highly capitalized corporations. And for too long, the prohibition on marijuana has disproportionately targeted low-income, minority, and disadvantaged communities. Finally, we have a bill that is moving us in the right direction and making meaningful strides toward justice.” Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR), the lead Democratic sponsor of the bill, released his own statement on Wednesday touting “momentum on our side to finally get a bill signed into law that ends the cannabis cash economy and ensures all legal cannabis businesses have access to the financial services they need to operate with certainty.” “I am grateful to Majority Leader Schumer for reiterating his personal commitment to ensuring that these two provisions are added on the floor,” the senator said. “As we adjust cannabis policy to reflect the reality that the majority of the country lives in, it is imperative that we also undo the harms perpetuated by the War of Drugs and criminalization of cannabis on communities of color.” “We can’t move quickly enough to get the bipartisan SAFER Banking Act signed into law, with these important provisions,” Merkley said. Senate Banking Committee Chairman Sherrod Brown (D-OH) told Politico on Wednesday that he anticipates “most members” of his panel will vote to advance the cannabis banking bill next week now that it’s been revised following a “long, arduous process” of bipartisan negotiations. Sen. Bob Menendez (D-NJ), a Banking Committee member who is cosponsoring the SAFER Banking Act, said in a statement on Wednesday that he’s “glad we finally reached a compromise to solve the public safety threat faced by cannabis businesses operating exclusively in cash and the communities in which they operate.” “For far too long, the status quo has made these businesses easy targets for criminals—threatening public safety and making it harder for states to regulate,” he said. “This deal will empower small business owners by granting them the ability to access the banking system, and will strengthen communities in New Jersey and across the nation.” Not everyone is on board, though. Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC), a member of the committee, told Politico the revisions made to the bill “failed to address my concerns,” so he will be proactively “opposing it.” The newly released bill reveals the types of compromises senators made over recent weeks. Most of the new provisions are described under Section 10—a component of the reform that Republicans have strongly favored and certain Democrats opposed over concerns it could undermine broader banking regulations. Here are some of the key changes from the previous Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act:  In Section 7, the SAFER Banking Act omits earlier language preventing federal regulators from taking action that “discourages” financial institutions from working with state-legal marijuana businesses. However, Section 10 of the bill now spells out how regulators must broadly have a “valid” reason for requesting or requiring the termination of bank accounts for any business. It was revised to give the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) one year, rather than 180 days, to develop guidance for financial institutions serving state-licensed marijuana businesses. The original bill said that income derived from state-legal cannabis business activity couldn’t be used to deny “federally backed mortgages.” That’s been revised to say that standard applies to a “covered” mortgage. A new example of such a covered mortgage is one that’s “acquired or purchased by a Federal Home Loan Bank or pledged as collateral for an advance from a Federal Home Loan Bank.” Section 10 has been expanded, for example to include a “sense of Congress” language stipulating that the personal and political beliefs of financial regulators should not influence their decisionmaking. The legislation would newly require federal banking regulators to work with state banking supervisors and the secretaries of commerce and treasury and, within two years of enactment, form rules or guidance to increase access to deposit accounts for businesses and customers and to enable banks and credit unions to more effectively maintain customer relationships—especially for those in rural, low-and moderate-income areas, Tribal communities and unbanked businesses and consumers. There’s a new requirement for the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to conduct a biennial survey and report to identify barriers to accessing deposit accounts for small-and medium-sized businesses. Further, the bill has been revised to include explicit mention of tribal communities in Section 11, which requires federal regulators to submit a report to Congress on access to banking for historically underbanked communities. Tribes are now listed beside minorities, veterans, women and small state-sanctioned cannabis businesses as subjects of that report—which is not the case in the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act as introduced. While required reports on data concerning small and minority-, veteran- and women-owned businesses are still in the bill, the phrase “diversity and inclusion” has been removed from the relevant section titles. —Marijuana Moment is tracking more than 1,000 cannabis, psychedelics and drug policy bills in state legislatures and Congress this year. Patreon supporters pledging at least $25/month get access to our interactive maps, charts and hearing calendar so they don’t miss any developments.Learn more about our marijuana bill tracker and become a supporter on Patreon to get access.— All told, it appears that the proposed revisions could satisfy both sides of the aisle, with Section 10 kept “intact,” as Banking Committee member Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-ND) said this week, but also with new provisions to promote equity in the financial system. Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI), who also serves on the Banking Committee and previously raised concerns about Section 10, has also said that senators “talked extensively” about the language, “and we’ve made some progress.” “I think we’ve resolved most of the issues we had—and I hope we have so we can get it out of the committee with a strong vote,” he said. Meanwhile, Schumer and others have also discussed plans to amend the legislation on the floor to adopt “critical” criminal justice provisions such as expungements for prior marijuana convictions, calling broader effort to repair the harms of the drug war a “moral responsibility” for Congress. A spokesperson Daines told Marijuana Moment in July that he is “open” to including the additional reform provision, even as he’s cautioned Democrats against significantly expanding the bill’s scope in a way that could jeopardize GOP support. As a standalone in its current form, insiders say the measure has enough Republican buy-in to reach the 60-vote threshold needed for passage in the Senate. On Tuesday, a coalition of 35 cannabis trade associations, drug policy reform groups and a top national labor union called on Congress to help address the “humanitarian toll” of robberies targeting cash-intensive marijuana businesses by passing the SAFE Banking Act “this year.” The American Trade Association for Cannabis and Hemp (ATACH)—along with trade groups representing marijuana businesses in 16 states plus Washington, D.C.—also sent a letter to Brown and Banking Committee Ranking Member Tim Scott (R-SC) in July, imploring them to pass the cannabis banking bill “without further delay.” Also, the American Bankers Association (ABA) also renewed its call for the passage of the legislation. And all 50 of its state chapters did the same, as did insurance and union organizations, in recent letters to congressional leadership. July also marked the 10-year anniversary since the introduction of the first version of what is now known as the SAFE Banking Act. Colorado Gov. Jared Polis (D) separately said in a recent letter to President Joe Biden that he should throw his support behind the congressional push for marijuana banking reform as the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) begins its review of cannabis scheduling after receiving a rescheduling recommendation from the top federal health agency. Rhode Island Marijuana Activists Want Regulators To Close Loopholes, Protect Workers And Prioritize Social Equity Marijuana Moment is made possible with support from readers. If you rely on our cannabis advocacy journalism to stay informed, please consider a monthly Patreon pledge.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 20, 2023Cannabis News​ The company says the move will allow it to lower prices on its CBD products. Kentucky-based CBD maker Cornbread Hemp closed on the acquisition of an unnamed manufacturing partner, marking a transition to full vertical integration for the business. That means the four-year-old hemp business will be able to lower its prices and compete more effectively in the national marketplace, CEO Eric Zipperle said in a press release. “We are thrilled to offer full-spectrum CBD gummies at a better price, while continuing to uphold the integrity and quality that Cornbread Hemp is known for,” Zipperle said, and further called the acquisition a “momentous achievement” for the business. Vertical integration also will allow the company to better oversee its own product quality control, the company asserted in the announcement. Cornbread Hemp produces CBD gummies, whole flower CBD oil, distilled CBD oil, and a line of CBD-infused topicals, and uses only certified organic materials in its manufacturing process, according to the release. The company already has products on store shelves in 30 states, ships online orders to customers nationally, and has a footprint in all Fresh Thyme Markets.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 20, 2023Cannabis News​ “Unfortunately our numbers have gone way down… In 2018, everybody wanted to grow hemp.” By Merrilee Gasser, The Center Square Oklahoma legislators are studying whether industrial hemp production would benefit rural development in the state. Growing hemp became legal in Oklahoma after Congress passed the 2018 Farm Bill, which removed industrial hemp from the Controlled Substances Act’s classification of marijuana and declassified hemp as a Schedule I narcotic. While there was a lot of initial interest in 2018, Oklahoma has seen a decline in interest from potential growers since then, according to Kenny Naylor, the director of Consumer Affairs for the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture. “Unfortunately our numbers have gone way down,” Naylor told the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee Monday. “In 2018, everybody wanted to grow hemp.” As of this year, Oklahoma has 21 licensed hemp growers and 22 licensed hemp processors. Aside from a saturation of the CBD market and limited processing ability, which have both cooled the interest in growing hemp, according to Naylor, other factors were a matter of bad timing. “I think COVID-19 hit right at the wrong time and shut everything down, and that definitely caused problems,” said Naylor. “And then for Oklahoma specifically, people switched to marijuana.” It was initially cheaper to get licensed to grow medical marijuana, though Naylor said he doesn’t believe that is the case anymore. Someone who wants to grow hemp in Oklahoma must pay a $500 fee when filling out their application, along with $5 an acre for outside growth and 33 cents a square foot for indoor growth. Applicants also pay a fee of $1,000 to $5,000 to process the license. The amount an applicant pays is based on their estimated annual sales, according to Naylor. “We use this to basically maintain our program and run it here in the state,” Naylor said of the funds. Sen. Roland Pederson (R-Oklahoma City), one of the senators who requested the study, said hemp looked like a potential alternative crop that could be easily grown in Oklahoma due to the state’s climate. “At one time in Oklahoma there was a lot of hemp produced. Even across the nation there was a lot of hemp produced,” said Pederson. “And somehow with its conflicting characteristics with marijuana it was outlawed and it was done away with until the Farm Bill of 2018 came about, and that allowed the growth again of hemp. I think it’s got a great future.” The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture has also been projecting the pendulum to swing back toward hemp. “We anticipate or at least are beginning to see some things that may look like a switch from medical marijuana back to hemp growing, one of those being cost,” said Naylor. Sen. Jerry Alvord (R-Oklahoma City) asked where the demand for hemp would come from. “I’m struggling to understand what void hemp is filling in today’s, especially agricultural product,” said Alvord. “What are we missing that hemp is going to replace?” Naylor said hemp can serve as a renewable source for plastic, which could help produce more renewable products. “It’s very durable fiber as well. That’s one of the reasons why I think they liked using it during World War II,” Naylor said. This story was first published by The Center Square Bipartisan Lawmakers Find ‘Sweet Spot’ For Marijuana Banking Bill, With Section Favored By GOP Kept ‘Intact’ For Committee Vote Next Week Photo courtesy of Brendan Cleak. Marijuana Moment is made possible with support from readers. If you rely on our cannabis advocacy journalism to stay informed, please consider a monthly Patreon pledge.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 20, 2023Cannabis News​ It will be up to police officers to determine when someone using drugs in public poses a threat of harm to others and the course of action to take. By Josh Cohen, Crosscut The Seattle City Council voted 6–3 Tuesday to align the city’s municipal code with a 2023 state law making public drug use and possession a gross misdemeanor and give the City Attorney’s Office authority to prosecute those crimes. Councilmembers Lisa Herbold, Andrew Lewis, Debora Juarez, Sara Nelson, Alex Pedersen and Dan Strauss voted in support. Councilmembers Tammy Morales, Teresa Mosqueda and Kshama Sawant voted against. Supporters argue the legislation is a critical tool for addressing a worsening drug crisis and that language in the bill is meant to push people with substance use disorders to treatment. Opponents say it’s a return to a failed drug war tactic that will incarcerate drug users and disproportionately impact Black and brown residents rather than provide people the help they need. Tuesday was the Council’s second attempt to align city municipal code with state drug possession laws. In June, a bill co-sponsored by Councilmembers Sara Nelson and Alex Pedersen at the behest of City Attorney Ann Davison was voted down 5–4. In a last-minute turn that killed the June bill, Councilmember Andrew Lewis said that while he supported aligning state and city law, he could not support a bill without a stronger plan for treatment. In the intervening months, Councilmembers Lisa Herbold and Lewis co-sponsored a new version of the bill that places greater emphasis on diversion and treatment and attempts to outline the “last resort” conditions under which officers should arrest drug users. In its simplest terms, the passage of the Council bill puts the state drug possession law into Seattle’s Municipal Code. The law states that public drug possession or use is a gross misdemeanor punishable by up to 180 days in prison and a maximum fine of $1,000. For someone with two prior convictions for drug possession, the maximum penalty can increase to 364 days. By adopting the language of the state law into city code, the council granted the Seattle City Attorney’s Office authority to prosecute drug possession charges. When drug possession was a felony in Washington, that authority resided with the King County Prosecutor. In 2021 the Washington State Supreme Court ruled, in what is known as the Blake decision, that the felony drug possession law was unconstitutional because it criminalized “unknowing possession.” In May 2023 the Legislature passed a new law that made possession and public use gross misdemeanors. The state law encourages, but does not require, prosecutors and police to divert people arrested into treatment programs and other pretrial diversion options. The law has applied to Seattle since it took effect statewide on July 1, but King County Prosecutor Leesa Manion stated her office does not have capacity to prosecute misdemeanor drug crimes. Seattle’s new law attempts to more explicitly define that police should almost always divert people with substance use disorders into treatment and save arrest and referral to the City Attorney’s Office in situations when someone poses a threat of harm to others. “Without passage of this law limiting arrests, I believe more harm would be done, not less,” said Herbold at Tuesday’s council meeting. “The threat of harm analysis is meant to rein in discretion otherwise allowed by the Blake fix.” Councilmembers butted heads over how explicit the bill should be about diversion versus arrest. In its original form, the bill stated that “officers will determine whether the individual, through their actions and conduct, presents a threat of harm to others.” A successful amendment from Nelson at the September 12 committee meeting softened the directive to “officers may determine” whether someone presents a threat of harm to others and may “attempt to contact and coordinate efforts for diversion, outreach, and other alternatives to arrest.” Ultimately, guidance for when and how Seattle police officers should divert public drug users to treatment and services or arrest them will come from an executive order issued by Mayor Bruce Harrell. The council bill illustrated the legislative branch’s intent for the new law, but the executive branch holds the legal authority to dictate Seattle Police Department policy. Once the new law is in place, it will be up to police officers to determine when someone using drugs in public poses a threat of harm to others and the course of action to take. Harrell has stated repeatedly that he sees the drug crisis as a public health issue and wants to help people with substance use disorders get treatment, not throw them in jail, and instead focus on arresting drug dealers. How many people get the help they need will depend in part on the strength of Harrell’s executive order and how much Seattle can expand its landscape of diversion and treatment options, which are currently insufficiently small to address the number of people in need. Seattle’s primary tool for diverting someone into services is a model called LEAD, which once stood for Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion and now stands for Let Everyone Advance with Dignity. LEAD, managed by the nonprofit Purpose Action Dignity, lets police officers and community members refer people engaged in low-level criminal activity to the nonprofit for case management and referral to services. The city’s 2023 budget provides $9.9 million to Purpose Action Dignity to do LEAD work. But an analysis by city staff found that the city would have to spend around $30 million annually on LEAD in order to serve all the high-priority referrals that qualify for case management. Seattle also used to divert people to services and treatment through Seattle Municipal Court’s Drug Court program, which allowed people to access treatment and services without pleading guilty to a crime. But this spring, City Attorney Davison announced her office would no longer participate in the program, effectively ending it. Although there have been discussions among city leaders about reestablishing some form of municipal drug court, it has not happened yet. As with LEAD, drug treatment providers, researchers and advocates in King County say the current array of treatment options are insufficient to serve everyone who wants and needs help with their substance use disorder. Brandie Flood, director of community justice at REACH, a homeless outreach nonprofit that works with LEAD, spoke in support of the bill at the September 12 committee hearing, but said, “In order for it to work, there needs to be sufficient resources to divert people to. … We don’t have adequate services to connect people to. I urge the Council, if they’re going to push this forward, that they provide adequate resources to connect people to treatment, housing, shelter, mental health, better crisis services.” Limited capacity at inpatient treatment facilities force people to wait days if not weeks to get admitted. Treatment providers are short-staffed, thanks in part to high turnover in the face of challenging work and low wages. Both housed and unhoused people suffer from substance use disorders, but for those experiencing homelessness there is insufficient shelter space and affordable housing, which exacerbates the problem. Harrell has directed $20 million from Seattle’s share of settlement money from a state lawsuit against opioid producers and distributors to be used for expanding opioid use disorder treatment options. The mayor has also announced he plans to direct another $7 million in unspent federal funds toward treatment options, including establishing an overdose recovery center and another $1 million in one-time funds to expand Evergreen Treatment Services’ mobile medication-assisted treatment. In her vote against the bill Tuesday, Mosqueda expressed concern that there would not be any significant new funding for diversion and treatment in the 2024 budget, due to a looming budget deficit, and as such that arresting drug users will become the default for police officers. Morales echoed Mosqueda’s sentiment, calling the bill performative and reiterated that “jailing people will not address their drug addictions.” With the passage of the bill, the new law takes effect in 30 days. A mayor’s office spokesperson said Harrell plans to sign the bill immediately. He could not provide an exact timeline for the mayor’s executive order directing SPD policy, but said they are aiming to release it within the next week. This story was first published by Crosscut. Visit crosscut.com/donate to support nonprofit, freely distributed, local journalism. New Oregon Ballot Proposal Would Roll Back Voter-Approved Drug Decriminalization Law Marijuana Moment is made possible with support from readers. If you rely on our cannabis advocacy journalism to stay informed, please consider a monthly Patreon pledge.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 20, 2023Cannabis News​ The most significant changes are more precise definitions for various marijuana industry terms Mississippi cannabis regulators announced new revisions to industry regulations, with 202 pages of red-lined changes to the former rules released by the state Department of Health on Thursday. The agency will accept industry comments and public feedback until Oct. 2, The National Law Review reported. Tweaks to the South’s newest medical marijuana program – which just launched sales in January – have been in the works for months, as both regulators and state lawmakers have been busy proposing updates. Many of the most significant changes from the Department of Health are more precise definitions for various marijuana industry terms, The National Law Review reported. Among the highlights: A wealth of new technical term definitions, from “cannabis facility” to “total THC.” A clear distinction of “industrial hemp” from “cannabis,” which excludes “cannabis products” and “cannabis flower” from any hemp categories. Classifications of kief, hashish, bubble hash, oil, and wax all as “concentrates.” A more precise definition of “indoor cannabis cultivation.” Refining “medical cannabis establishment representative” to include anyone with a 10% or greater ownership stake in any MMJ business and also independent contractors that are relied upon to run day-to-day operations. The new rules also greatly expand on rules that must be followed by medical marijuana patients, caregivers, and medical practitioners that offer recommendations for patients, including on how nonresidents can obtain medical cannabis cards to make purchases from dispensaries. The rules for medical practitioners also include a new restriction on advertising services, which prohibits the use of slang such as “pot, weed, dope, or grass” or any images of marijuana or smoking paraphernalia, The National Law Review reported. They’re also prohibited from advertising on radio stations, television stations, in newspapers, with internet pop-up ads, on social media, with mass texts or mass emails, or with adopt-a-highway signs or electronic interstate signs. The new rules also cover lengthy requirements for business licensing, background checks, work permits, business record keeping, product testing and safety, cannabis product packaging, transportation, and more. There are currently 370 licensed medical cannabis businesses in Mississippi, according to the state medical cannabis program’s website, including: 194 dispensaries. 121 cultivators. 24 transporters. 20 processors. Six disposal entities. Five testing labs.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 20, 2023Cannabis News​ As Ohioans prepare to vote on a marijuana legalization initiative at the ballot in November, state lawmakers are already thinking about ways they might seek to revise the law if approved. But while top officials like the governor and Senate president oppose the reform, some bipartisan legislators are dismissing the idea that there would be enough opposition to enact a full-on repeal. The reform initiative, which was certified for the ballot last month after activists turned in enough valid signatures to qualify, has exposed some intra-party divides on cannabis policy. Gov. Mike DeWine (R) opposes the reform, as does Senate President Matt Huffman (R). But recent polling shows most Republican voters support legalization. A GOP congressman representing Ohio’s 14th district also plans to personally vote for the initiative. The governor told The Columbus Dispatch that there’s “a lot of discussion that has to take place” around legalization. States that have enacted adult-use legalization “have seen some things happen, and I don’t think these are things we want to see in Ohio,” he said, without giving specific examples. Huffman, meanwhile, said that legalization is “really going to be devastating,” arguing that it will lead to increase cannabis consumption by people who were deterred by prohibition. “There are a lot of people who don’t do something because it’s illegal, believe it or not, and if it’s more accessible to whoever’s going to buy it, it’s going to be more accessible to people who shouldn’t be smoking it,” he said. Despite Huffman’s position on the measure, so far he has not signaled plans to push for a repeal if voters opt to legalize. The Dispatch reported that he said the margin by which legalization is potentially approved on the ballot will inform his approach to the issue after Election Day. Meanwhile, other lawmakers say the possibility of a successful repeal effort is unlikely considering that legalization enjoys strong Democratic support and even some GOP support in the legislature. “There are not a majority of legislators in both chambers that would be pro-repeal,” Rep. Ron Ferguson (R) told The Dispatch. “That’s definitely not the case. You would have no Democrats, and there are not enough Republicans to put them in the top.” As the Senate’s president, Huffman had an opportunity to advance reform legislation fitted to the lawmakers’ preference after the Coalition to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol (CTRMLA) turned in an initial round of signatures for their initiative that triggered a legislative review period. Legalization supporters—including Rep. Casey Weinstein (D), who has sponsored bipartisan cannabis bills—implored leadership to take that opportunity, contending that inaction would likely mean that activists would have their vision of reform enshrined into state law. In fact, Weinstein said that there are more GOP lawmakers who privately support legalization who he predicts will feel emboldened to make their views public after voters approve Issue 2 at the ballot. “That’s my sense. My hope is that the voters passing this—which I think the voters will—will give those reticent, quietly supportive lawmakers that permission they’re waiting for,” he said. Rather than push to repeal a voter-approved legalization measure, there’s an expectation that the legislature will be positioned to move additional legislation to revise and refine the law next session. For Weinstein, he hopes that means passing legislation to make the industry more “economically accessible.” Sen. Bill Blessing (R) said that he “would think that the General Assembly would try to work with it if it passes because of the threat of a Constitutional amendment.” House Speaker Jason Stephens (R) didn’t comment on the specifics of Issue 2, but offered that “they call it the revised code for a reason.” Unlike the top state Republican lawmakers, U.S. Rep Dave Joyce (R-OH), co-chair of the Congressional Cannabis Caucus, said last month that he’ll be voting in favor of the initiative in November. And he encouraged “all Ohio voters to participate and make their voices heard on this important issue.” The Ohio Ballot Board approved summary language for the legalization measure late last month. It says the measure would legalize and regulate “the cultivation, processing, sale, purchase, possession, home grow, and use of cannabis by adults at least twenty-one years of age.” And it gives an overview of the regulatory structure of the program, social equity provisions, state-level protections for financial institutions that work with the industry and more. Here are the key provisions of the legalization ballot measure that may appear on the November ballot: The initiative would legalize possession of up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis for adults 21 and older, and they could also have up to 15 grams of marijuana concentrates. Individuals could grow up to six plants for personal use, with a maximum 12 plants per household. A 10 percent sales tax would be imposed on cannabis sales, with revenue being divided up to support social equity and jobs programs (36 percent), localities that allow adult-use marijuana enterprises to operate in their area (36 percent), education and substance misuse programs (25 percent) and administrative costs of implementing the system (three percent). A Division of Cannabis Control would be established under the state Department of Commerce. It would have authority to “license, regulate, investigate, and penalize adult use cannabis operators, adult use testing laboratories, and individuals required to be licensed.” The measure gives current medical cannabis businesses a head start in the recreational market. Regulators would need to begin issuing adult-use licenses to qualified applicants who operate existing medical operations within nine months of enactment. The division would also be required to issue 40 recreational cultivator licenses and 50 adult-use retailer licenses “with a preference to applications who are participants under the cannabis social equity and jobs program.” And it would authorize regulators to issue additional licenses for the recreational market two years after the first operator is approved. Individual municipalities would be able to opt out of allowing new recreational cannabis companies from opening in their area, but they could not block existing medical marijuana firms even if they want to add co-located adult-use operations. Employers could also maintain policies prohibiting workers from consuming cannabis for adult use. Further, regulators would be required to “enter into an agreement with the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services” to provide “cannabis addiction services,” which would involve “education and treatment for individuals with addiction issues related to cannabis or other controlled substances including opioids.” With respect to social equity, some advocates are concerned about the lack of specific language on automatic expungements to clear the records of people with convictions for offenses that would be made legal under the legislation. That said, the measure does include a provision requiring regulators to “study and fund” criminal justice reform initiatives including expungements. —Marijuana Moment is tracking more than 1,000 cannabis, psychedelics and drug policy bills in state legislatures and Congress this year. Patreon supporters pledging at least $25/month get access to our interactive maps, charts and hearing calendar so they don’t miss any developments.Learn more about our marijuana bill tracker and become a supporter on Patreon to get access.— Meanwhile, the Ohio Association of Health Commissioners, which represents Ohio’s 112 local health departments, became one of the latest groups to come out against the initiative last month. The Ohio Children’s Hospital Association and Adolescent Health Association, as well as law enforcement and some business groups, are also urging voters to reject the reform. A recent economic analysis from researchers at Ohio State University estimated that the reform would bring in up to $403.6 million in annual tax dollars from adult-use marijuana sales if voters approve it. If the measure is ultimately enacted, that would bring the total number of states with adult-use legalization on the books to 24. Ohioans have made clear that they’re ready for a policy change during elections in multiple recent cycles. To date, more than three dozen Ohio localities have enacted decriminalization through the local ballot. Last November, for example, voters five more cities approved local marijuana decriminalization ballot initiatives. And during a primary election in May, voters in Helena similarly enacted the reform. Separately, while the governor opposes legalization, he signed a major criminal justice reform bill in January that will let cities facilitate mass expungements for people with certain drug-related convictions, including marijuana possession of up to 200 grams. After the law took effect, the mayor of Cleveland said in April that the city will be moving forward with plans to seal thousands of cannabis records. However, a study published last month found that just about one in 10 Ohio prosecutors plan to follow suit by independently facilitating relief under the law. Bipartisan Lawmakers Find ‘Sweet Spot’ For Marijuana Banking Bill, With Section Favored By GOP Kept ‘Intact’ For Committee Vote Next Week Photo courtesy of Philip Steffan. Marijuana Moment is made possible with support from readers. If you rely on our cannabis advocacy journalism to stay informed, please consider a monthly Patreon pledge.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 20, 2023Cannabis News​ A marijuana banking bill that’s set for a Senate committee markup next week has an updated title and several new provisions related to federal financial regulations, guidance and reporting requirements, according to a summary that is circulating. And Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) said on Tuesday he intends to “bring this legislation to the floor with all due speed.” The title of the measure is being extended by one word. The bill that’s being circulated ahead of the Senate Banking Committee vote is now being called the Secure and Fair Enforcement Regulation (SAFER) Banking Act. Importantly, the summary, first reported by Politico, offers a first look at the types of compromises senators appear to have made in order to bolster bipartisan buy-in. Several new provisions are described under Section 10—a component of the reform that Republicans have strongly favored and certain Democrats opposed over concerns it could undermine broader banking regulations. “We have worked hard to get a common-sense agreement that allows legal cannabis businesses across America access to financial services while protecting the capacity of federal regulators to stop bad actors,” Schumer said in a statement shared with Marijuana Moment on Tuesday. “This legislation will improve public safety, protect small businesses, and finally achieve action on cannabis reform. I intend to bring this legislation to the floor with all due speed.” Representatives of the offices of Senate Banking Committee Chairman Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and the lead sponsors of the bill, Sens. Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Steve Daines (R-MT), did not respond to requests for comment by the time of publication. What are the proposed changes? It should be noted that while the section-by-section summary largely aligns with the original Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act, the provisions are only briefly described and the full text of the revised legislation has not been released. Accordingly, it’s difficult to assess the substance and scope of the changes. The summary of the first new subsection of Section 10 says that it “provides that while Federal banking agencies have a duty to ensure that banks and credit unions are operating in a safe and sound manner, personal beliefs or political motivations used to restrict access to financial services for lawful businesses have no place at a Federal banking regulator.” On the one hand, this seems to reinforce a policy position supported by GOP members who have sought to use the cannabis bill as a vehicle to prevent financial regulators from discriminating against certain industries, such as the gun trade and lending institutions. But Cat Packer, vice chair of the Cannabis Regulators of Color Coalition (CRCC) and director of drug markets and legal regulation at the Drug Policy Alliance (DPA), told Marijuana Moment on Tuesday that there’s another interpretation of the summary that could also support social equity objectives, such as those she proposed as part of a recent report on opportunities to improve the marijuana banking legislation. While the provision “may have been” designed to appeal to GOP members, “the language can work towards both ends,” Packer said. “I do think that that’s generally in line with what CRCC and DPA have been advocating—just recognizing, in part, that banking is extremely discretionary,” she said. “And banks have had the opportunity—and will have the opportunity—to make a discretionary decision about who they bank. Historically, it’s been minority, Black and brown communities who have been underbanked.” The last three subsections of Section 10 also appear to be new, and two of them similarly appear to be at least partly responsive to policy recommendations promoted by equity advocates. Subsection (f) would require federal banking regulators to work with state banking supervisors and the secretaries of commerce and treasury and, within two years of enactment, “promulgate tailored rules or guidance to increase access to deposit accounts for businesses and customers and to enable banks and credit unions to more effectively maintain customer relationships—especially for those in rural, low-and moderate-income areas, Tribal communities, and unbanked businesses and consumers.” The description of increased access and the focus on underserved communities is welcomed by advocates—though, again, the actual text is not yet available. Subsection (g) would require the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to “conduct a biennial survey and report to identify barriers to accessing deposit accounts for small-and medium-sized businesses.” The changes “run along the same vein” as what equity advocates have encouraged, Packer said. “I’m interested now to see the specific text of these provisions, in part because I think that they are well-aligned with some of the points that we’ve been raising.” Another potential change to the bill is the mention of tribal communities in Section 10 and Section 11, which requires federal regulators to submit a report to Congress on access to banking for historically underbanked communities. Tribes are now listed beside minorities, veterans, women and state-sanctioned cannabis businesses as subjects of that report—which is not the case in the SAFE Banking Act as introduced. There’s also another summary of a new subsection of Section 10 that says it “establishes a rule of construction that does not limit the ability of a Federal banking regulator from identifying or discussing issues with a depository institution’s financial condition, governance, consumer protection, internal controls, unsafe or unsound conditions, the Bank Secrecy Act, anti-money laundering or countering the financing of terrorism.” All told, if the summary does represent the latest bipartisan agreement, it appears that the proposed additions could satisfy both sides of the aisle, with Section 10 kept “intact,” as Banking Committee member Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-ND) said this week, but also with new provisions to promote equity in the financial system. —Marijuana Moment is tracking more than 1,000 cannabis, psychedelics and drug policy bills in state legislatures and Congress this year. Patreon supporters pledging at least $25/month get access to our interactive maps, charts and hearing calendar so they don’t miss any developments.Learn more about our marijuana bill tracker and become a supporter on Patreon to get access.— Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI), who also serves on the Banking Committee and previously raised concerns about Section 10, has also said that senators “talked extensively” about the language, “and we’ve made some progress.” “I think we’ve resolved most of the issues we had—and I hope we have so we can get it out of the committee with a strong vote,” he said. Meanwhile, Schumer and others have also discussed plans to amend the legislation on the floor to adopt “critical” criminal justice provisions such as expungements for prior marijuana convictions, calling broader effort to repair the harms of the drug war a “moral responsibility” for Congress. A spokesperson Daines told Marijuana Moment in July that he is “open” to including the additional reform provision, even as he’s cautioned Democrats against significantly expanding the bill’s scope in a way that could jeopardize GOP support. As a standalone in its current form, insiders say the measure has enough Republican buy-in to reach the 60-vote threshold needed for passage in the Senate. On Tuesday, a coalition of 35 cannabis trade associations, drug policy reform groups and a top national labor union called on Congress to help address the “humanitarian toll” of robberies targeting cash-intensive marijuana businesses by passing the SAFE Banking Act “this year.” The American Trade Association for Cannabis and Hemp (ATACH)—along with trade groups representing marijuana businesses in 16 states plus Washington, D.C.—also sent a letter to Brown and Banking Committee Ranking Member Tim Scott (R-SC) in July, imploring them to pass the cannabis banking bill “without further delay.” Also, the American Bankers Association (ABA) also renewed its call for the passage of the legislation. And all 50 of its state chapters did the same, as did insurance and union organizations, in recent letters to congressional leadership. July also marked the 10-year anniversary since the introduction of the first version of what is now known as the SAFE Banking Act. Colorado Gov. Jared Polis (D) separately said in a recent letter to President Joe Biden that he should throw his support behind the congressional push for marijuana banking reform as the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) begins its review of cannabis scheduling after receiving a rescheduling recommendation from the top federal health agency. Read the summary of the SAFER Banking Act below:  New Oregon Ballot Proposal Would Roll Back Voter-Approved Drug Decriminalization Law Photo courtesy of Max Pixel. Marijuana Moment is made possible with support from readers. If you rely on our cannabis advocacy journalism to stay informed, please consider a monthly Patreon pledge.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 20, 2023Cannabis News​ The company said it has realized $28 million savings through layoffs and facility sales. Canada-based BZAM Ltd. (CSE: BZAM) (OTC: BZAMF) announced another round of layoffs despite the completion of its merger with The Green Organic Dutchman. The company let go more than 90 employees at two of its facilities in British Columbia and Ontario as part of its long-term plan to turn around the fortunes of both businesses. The layoffs were a final piece of the new company’s restructuring plan following the merger, BZAM said in a statement, which called for a serious reduction in operating expenses. Prior to the merger last year, the two companies employed a total of 670 workers; that’s been pared down to 395, according to a release. “It is no secret that the Canadian cannabis industry needs to work through a period of consolidation,” CEO Matt Millich said in the statement. “While not an easy road, we are proud to be one of the companies leading the charge – and demonstrating what is possible when two consumer favorites combine, focus on sales and our customers, while shedding costs and streamlining operations. The changes we have implemented following the merger position the company to thrive in both the Canadian and international markets going forward.” The layoffs, along with the sale of four of the company’s facilities across Canada, have delivered savings of $28 million, the company estimated, which will help it pay down its $29 million in debts. BZAM already sold one facility in Puslinch, Ontario, and another in Midway, British Columbia, and is under contract to sell a third in Maple Ridge, British Columbia, for $3.8 million. A fourth facility is listed for sale in Edmonton, Alberta, for $10.8 million. BZAM has also, since last year’s merger completed, effectively cut quarterly SG&A expenses by $7 million, it reported, which it estimates to be an annual savings of $20 million to its budget this year. In addition, BZAM will be expanding its product line even further, with the launch of 11 new products in the fourth quarter this year and another 20 in the first quarter of 2024.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 20, 2023Cannabis News​ 10% – Percentage of U.S. cannabis consumers using tinctures in 2023 In 2020, 17% of consumers said they used tinctures. But as gummies have increased in popularity among consumers in both the cannabis and CBD categories, the popularity of tinctures has waned, falling to just 10% this year. Source: Brightfield Group, U.S. Cannabis Consumer Insights, Q2 2023  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 20, 2023Cannabis News​ New York’s 278 licensed adult use cannabis cultivators have not had an easy time the past year, and at least three have already exited the market, said Tess Interlicchia, the owner of Grateful Valley Farm. “They’re really suffering pretty badly,” Interlicchia said of the New York marijuana farmers overall. “Two folks that I know of already lost their farms, and one relocated out of state. A lot of people are taking on investors … but then they’re not calling the shots anymore.” Interlicchia said that the vast majority of cannabis farmers are still sitting on their harvests from last year, unable to sell crops or get paid for biomass that flower was converted into, primarily because of a lack of legal retail options – there are just 23 licensed dispensaries now operational, with a backup of 22 farmers markets, that are attempting to sell more than half a million pounds of cannabis from last year’s harvest. That’s led her – and many others – to return to the grind of day jobs in order to pay bills and feed their families until the cannabis market actually takes off. For her part, Interlicchia accepted a job in the student services department at Cornell University, she said, which is an hour-and-15-minute commute from her farm, yet another burden she’s shouldering for now with the hopes that the marijuana market will turn around. “The top 15-20% are doing ok,” Interlicchia said of the 278 farmers. “Everyone else has at least another job.” Interlicchia was one of several dozen industry stakeholders who spoke forcefully at the latest Cannabis Control Board meeting on Sept. 12 about flaws in the market rollout that have left her and many other entrepreneurs reportedly facing financial ruin. She said she’s been too broke to take advantage of any of the farmers markets – which she estimated would cost her another $20,000 for lab testing and product packaging in order to participate. That’s money that Interlicchia simply doesn’t have. That financial barrier to the farmers markets is why, she said, only about 70 of the 278 have been able to participate, according to numbers shared by the Office of Cannabis Management last week. Interlicchia isn’t even sure at this point she’ll have the money to comply with the state’s new track-and-trace system, with which all farmers have to be compliant by Nov. 1, she said. She estimated the up-front costs to be at least $2,500, with another $500-$1,000 a month in ongoing expenses. All of which has Interlicchia wondering whether she truly wants to stick it out in cannabis, a musing she knows is shared by other struggling New York farmers. “I’m hanging in there. It’s really day to day,” Interlicchia said. “It’s tempting. Trust me. There are definitely some fantasies about, ‘Who wants to buy this place?’ … I’m not ready to exit yet. I definitely have to put my energies toward being a provider and bringing (in money).”  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 20, 2023Cannabis News​ A bipartisan marijuana banking bill that’s scheduled for a Senate committee markup next week has been revised in several key ways—primarily related to federal financial regulations, guidance and reporting requirements—according to full text of the the most recent version of the legislation that was obtained by Marijuana Moment on Tuesday. The newly amended Secure and Fair Enforcement Regulation (SAFER) Banking Act hasn’t been formally filed yet. But following weeks of negotiations, senators have finally reached a deal. This is the latest version of the legislation, differing from an iteration reported by Politico earlier on Tuesday. The bill, which is set to receive a vote in the Senate Banking Committee on September 27, has been a central focus for advocates and stakeholders this session. It’s being sponsored by Sens. Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Steve Daines (R-MT), along with seven other listed original cosponsors. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) applauded the revised measure on Tuesday, saying he intends to “bring this legislation to the floor with all due speed.” Marijuana Moment received the full bill text shortly after a section-by-section summary of the measure was first published by Politico earlier on Tuesday. The full bill text reveals the types of compromises senators appear to have made in order to bolster bipartisan buy-in. Most of the new provisions are described under Section 10—a component of the reform that Republicans have strongly favored and certain Democrats opposed over concerns it could undermine broader banking regulations. Here are some of the key changes:  In Section 7, the SAFER Banking Act omits earlier language preventing federal regulators from taking action that “discourages” financial institutions from working with state-legal marijuana businesses. However, Section 10 of the bill now spells out how regulators must broadly have a “valid” reason for requesting or requiring the termination of bank accounts for any business. It was revised to give the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) one year, rather than 180 days, to develop guidance for financial institutions serving state-licensed marijuana businesses. The original bill said that income derived from state-legal cannabis business activity couldn’t be used to deny “federally backed mortgages.” That’s been revised to say that standard applies to a “covered” mortgage. A new example of such a covered mortgage is one that’s “acquired or purchased by a Federal Home Loan Bank or pledged as collateral for an advance from a Federal Home Loan Bank.” Section 10 has been expanded, for example to include a “sense of Congress” language stipulating that the personal and political beliefs of financial regulators should not influence their decisionmaking. The legislation would newly require federal banking regulators to work with state banking supervisors and the secretaries of commerce and treasury and, within two years of enactment, form rules or guidance to increase access to deposit accounts for businesses and customers and to enable banks and credit unions to more effectively maintain customer relationships—especially for those in rural, low-and moderate-income areas, Tribal communities and unbanked businesses and consumers. There’s a new requirement for the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to conduct a biennial survey and report to identify barriers to accessing deposit accounts for small-and medium-sized businesses. Further, the bill has been revised to include explicit mention of tribal communities in Section 11, which requires federal regulators to submit a report to Congress on access to banking for historically underbanked communities. Tribes are now listed beside minorities, veterans, women and small state-sanctioned cannabis businesses as subjects of that report—which is not the case in the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act as introduced. While required reports on data concerning small and minority-, veteran- and women-owned businesses are still in the bill, the phrase “diversity and inclusion” has been removed from the relevant section titles. The version of the legislation that Politico reported on is in the format of an amendment in the nature of a substitute to the originally introduced SAFE Banking Act, whereas the document Marijuana Moment obtained is a new standalone piece of legislation titled the SAFER Banking Act. It is not clear how next week’s markup will unfold procedurally, in terms of whether members will vote on the new bill that will presumably be formally filed in the coming days or if they will instead move to amend the previously introduced measure with the substitute text. — Marijuana Moment is tracking more than 1,000 cannabis, psychedelics and drug policy bills in state legislatures and Congress this year. Patreon supporters pledging at least $25/month get access to our interactive maps, charts and hearing calendar so they don’t miss any developments.Learn more about our marijuana bill tracker and become a supporter on Patreon to get access.— All told, it appears that the proposed revisions could satisfy both sides of the aisle, with Section 10 kept “intact,” as Banking Committee member Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-ND) said this week, but also with new provisions to promote equity in the financial system. Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI), who also serves on the Banking Committee and previously raised concerns about Section 10, has also said that senators “talked extensively” about the language, “and we’ve made some progress.” “I think we’ve resolved most of the issues we had—and I hope we have so we can get it out of the committee with a strong vote,” he said. Meanwhile, Schumer and others have also discussed plans to amend the legislation on the floor to adopt “critical” criminal justice provisions such as expungements for prior marijuana convictions, calling broader effort to repair the harms of the drug war a “moral responsibility” for Congress. A spokesperson Daines told Marijuana Moment in July that he is “open” to including the additional reform provision, even as he’s cautioned Democrats against significantly expanding the bill’s scope in a way that could jeopardize GOP support. As a standalone in its current form, insiders say the measure has enough Republican buy-in to reach the 60-vote threshold needed for passage in the Senate. On Tuesday, a coalition of 35 cannabis trade associations, drug policy reform groups and a top national labor union called on Congress to help address the “humanitarian toll” of robberies targeting cash-intensive marijuana businesses by passing the SAFE Banking Act “this year.” The American Trade Association for Cannabis and Hemp (ATACH)—along with trade groups representing marijuana businesses in 16 states plus Washington, D.C.—also sent a letter to Brown and Banking Committee Ranking Member Tim Scott (R-SC) in July, imploring them to pass the cannabis banking bill “without further delay.” Also, the American Bankers Association (ABA) also renewed its call for the passage of the legislation. And all 50 of its state chapters did the same, as did insurance and union organizations, in recent letters to congressional leadership. July also marked the 10-year anniversary since the introduction of the first version of what is now known as the SAFE Banking Act. Colorado Gov. Jared Polis (D) separately said in a recent letter to President Joe Biden that he should throw his support behind the congressional push for marijuana banking reform as the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) begins its review of cannabis scheduling after receiving a rescheduling recommendation from the top federal health agency. Read the full text of the newly revised SAFER Banking Act below: California Governor Will Decide On 17 Marijuana And Psychedelics Bills By October 14 Photo courtesy of Philip Steffan. Marijuana Moment is made possible with support from readers. If you rely on our cannabis advocacy journalism to stay informed, please consider a monthly Patreon pledge.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 20, 2023Cannabis News​ The Daily Hit is a recap of the top financial news stories for Sept. 19, 2023. On the Site Columbia Care Changes Name to The Cannabist Company Columbia Care Inc. (NEO: CCHW) (OTCQX: CCHWF) is changing its legal name to The Cannabist Company Holdings Inc. as it aligns more closely with its retail store name. The company is rebranding to The Cannabist Company and is also changing its trading symbols on the CBOE Canada to CBST and CBST.WT, respectively, for the common shares and warrants. Read more here. BZAM Lays Off Over 90 as TGOD Merger, Restructuring Finalized Canada-based BZAM Ltd. (CSE: BZAM) (OTC: BZAMF) announced another round of layoffs despite the completion of its merger with The Green Organic Dutchman. The company let go more than 90 employees at two of its facilities in British Columbia and Ontario as part of its long-term plan to turn around the fortunes of both businesses. Read more here. SEC Sues Texas Maker of Hemp CBD Inhalers In the suit, filed on Sept. 18 in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas, the SEC charges that both Rapid Therapeutic Science Laboratories Inc. and its founder and CEO, Donal Schmidt Jr., were guilty of various securities violations and fraud. Read more here. Subversive Capital Advisor Launches New Cannabis ETF Subversive Capital Advisor is launching its sixth exchange-traded fund (ETF) – Subversive Cannabis ETF (Ticker: LGLZ) on Cboe BZX Exchange. LGLZ will be an actively managed ETF that is expected to begin trading on Sept. 19. Christian H. Cooper will act as the ETF’s portfolio manager. Read more here. Oregon Pauses Pathogenic Mold Testing Requirement Oregon cannabis authorities changed course on a mold testing requirement for commercial marijuana after a court last month put a 180-day pause on rules established by regulators earlier this year that led to several cannabis product recalls due to testing failures. Read more here. In Other News Planet 13 Holdings Planet 13 Holdings Inc. (CSE: PLTH)(OTC: PLNHF) completed its previously announced plan of arrangement pursuant to which the company was continued from the jurisdiction of the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia) and domesticated under the Nevada Revised Statutes to the State of Nevada. The company’s common stock ticker symbol on the OTCQX U.S. market changed to PLNH. Read more here. New York State Department of Health The New York State Department of Health issued a warning on Sept. 19 that synthetic marijuana sold in the Mohawk Valley has been found to contain opioids. The office of Drug User Health’s lab toxicology tests confirmed that two samples of synthetic marijuana, often known as K2 and Spice, were contaminated with five Novel Psychoactive Substances, including two potent synthetic opioids. Read more here. Vermont Vermont’s cannabis marketplace is about to mark its first year in operation. Retail sales for the current fiscal year are projected to top $100 million, generating more than $20 million in new state revenue. Read more here.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 19, 2023Cannabis News​ A coalition of 35 cannabis trade associations, drug policy reform groups and a top national labor union are calling on Congress to help address the “humanitarian toll” of robberies targeting cash-intensive marijuana businesses by passing a bipartisan cannabis banking bill “this year.” As the Senate Banking Committee prepares to vote on the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act next week, the coalition sent a letter to congressional lawmakers on Tuesday that described passage of the legislation as a “moral imperative.” The letter, led by StoptheDrugWar.org and the Cannabis Alliance, offers a worker safety perspective on the issue, explaining how the current lack of access to financial services for marijuana businesses has created an untenable environment that puts cannabis workers and customers at unique risk of being victimized by crime. “Between the directly targeted personnel, their friends and loved ones, and their at-risk colleagues, the impacted population numbers in the thousands,” the organizations wrote. “Customers of these stores, who had sought a safer environment by taking their business to the state-legal system instead of the underground market, can also be considered an impacted population.” “The number of people affected in these ways will continue to grow with the passage of time, and as medical or adult use legal cannabis systems get established in more places, absent measures taken by Congress and others to protect them,” they wrote. The letter also points to a report published by StoptheDrugWar.org late last year, highlighting a spate of more than 100 robberies that took place at over 80 cannabis dispensaries in Washington State from November 2021 to April 2022. Gov. Jay Inslee (D) also called on Congress to act on the SAFE Banking Act amid the targeted crime surge. “As cash usage in our society has declined, people who steal for a living have become desperate for income,” StoptheDrugWar.org Executive Director David Borden said in a press release on Tuesday. “Those stores which have valuable merchandise to target, or which still have lots of cash around—or which like cannabis stores have both—are proportionally more at risk being targeted than was likely in the past. This means the problem isn’t going to just go away on its own.” “Worker safety is a matter of basic justice, and while we continue to work for broad drug policy reform, we feel an obligation to also help cannabis workers right now,” he said. Studies have found that cash is a primary motivator for the robberies, rather than the cannabis itself, the new letter from the groups says. And these crimes “were associated with higher average aggression levels than other robberies.” The United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW), whose director of legislative and political action Ademola Oyefeso testified at an initial Senate Banking Committee hearing on the cannabis bill, is among the signatories on the letter. Other groups that signed on include: the Alliance for Sensible Markets, Better Organizing to Win Legalization (BOWL) PAC, Drug Policy Forum of Hawai’i, Housing Works, Law Enforcement Action Partnership (LEAP), Minority Cannabis Business Association (MCBA), National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA), National Cannabis Roundtable (NCR) and NORML, which also had several state chapter signatories. “The facts on the ground as noted above, as well as other facts and long-held criminological understandings about property crime, show that the abnormal banking situation faced by the state-legal cannabis industry is a factor jeopardizing workers’ lives and health,” the letter says. “SAFE Banking is not the first effort to address the cannabis sector’s dangerous overreliance on cash, and it may not be the last that is needed. But the safety issues faced by the cannabis sector won’t be solved without it.” “In light of the demonstrated humanitarian toll that is possible if an event as occurred in Washington were to recur, it is a moral imperative for Congress to enact some version of the SAFE Banking Act this year, in order to progress our country toward a safe environment for the workers, owners, customers and other visitors of state-legal cannabis retail stores,” it concludes. In July, the American Trade Association for Cannabis and Hemp (ATACH)—along with trade groups representing marijuana businesses in 16 states plus Washington, D.C.—also sent a letter to Senate Banking Committee Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Ranking Member Tim Scott (R-SC), imploring them to pass the cannabis banking bill “without further delay.” The American Bankers Association (ABA) also renewed its call for the passage of the legislation in May. And all 50 of its state chapters did the same, as did insurance and union organizations, in letters to congressional leadership. At this point, the SAFE Banking Act has 42 cosponsors—nearly half of the Senate—and that includes eight Republicans and three independents. As a standalone in its current form, insiders say the measure has enough Republican buy-in to reach the 60-vote threshold needed for passage in the Senate. —Marijuana Moment is tracking more than 1,000 cannabis, psychedelics and drug policy bills in state legislatures and Congress this year. Patreon supporters pledging at least $25/month get access to our interactive maps, charts and hearing calendar so they don’t miss any developments.Learn more about our marijuana bill tracker and become a supporter on Patreon to get access.— As its currently drafted, the measure would protect banks and credit unions, as well as depository institutions, from being penalized by federal regulators for working with state-licensed cannabis businesses. Others have also floated other changes that they’d like to see incorporated into the cannabis bill such as expanding protections to free up marijuana industry access to all forms of financial services, including representation on major U.S. stock exchanges. That request has faced some criticism from other advocates who say that would be an inappropriate move to help businesses while efforts to legalize marijuana stall in Congress. Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-NV) has also said that she wanted the SAFE Banking Act to pass with an amendment allowing cannabis businesses to access federal Small Business Administration (SBA) services. Meanwhile, recent data from the federal Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) shows that a record number of banks and credit unions are reporting that they work with state-licensed cannabis businesses as of the second quarter of 2023. Read the full marijuana banking letter below: New Jersey Marijuana Regulators Propose Permits That Would Let Dispensaries Partner With Research Institutions Photo courtesy of Brian Shamblen. Marijuana Moment is made possible with support from readers. If you rely on our cannabis advocacy journalism to stay informed, please consider a monthly Patreon pledge.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 19, 2023Cannabis News​As calls are increasing to codify CAURD, New York Attorney General Letitia James filed a motion late last week with the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of New York… The post New York State Seeks Stay in CAURD Lawsuit appeared first on Cannabis Business Executive – Cannabis and Marijuana industry news. Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 19, 2023Cannabis News​ Senators have “probably found a sweet spot” in negotiations over a bipartisan marijuana banking bill, with an agreement to to leave a section favored by Republicans “intact, as it is,” according to one GOP member of the Senate Banking Committee. As that panel prepares to hold a markup of the Secure and Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act next week, details about the revised bill are slowly surfacing. Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-ND) told Politico that one of the remaining sticking points appears to have been resolved, with a deal to keep a section dealing with broad banking regulations, as Republicans have insisted. He said that the lack of substantive changes to the bill as introduced “demonstrates that we’ve been at this a little while and probably have found the sweet spot in passing a piece of legislation.” Sen. Jack Reed (D-RI), who also serves on the Banking Committee and previously raised concerns about the provision, said that senators have “talked extensively about Section 10, and we’ve made some progress.” However, he didn’t specify what that progress looks like. “I think we’ve resolved most of the issues we had—and I hope we have so we can get it out of the committee with a strong vote,” he said. With the committee scheduled to vote on the SAFE Banking Act on September 27, time is running thin for any additional changes to the base bill. Senators spent the August recess negotiating it, and members came back generally optimistic about its prospects. That includes Senate Banking Committee Chairman Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT), the lead GOP sponsor of the legislation. Marijuana Moment reached out to each of their offices for clarification about a Section 10 deal, but representatives were not immediately available. Some senators and stakeholders have also discussed different changes they’d like to see concerning Small Business Administration (SBA) access and stock uplisting for the cannabis industry. —Marijuana Moment is tracking more than 1,000 cannabis, psychedelics and drug policy bills in state legislatures and Congress this year. Patreon supporters pledging at least $25/month get access to our interactive maps, charts and hearing calendar so they don’t miss any developments.Learn more about our marijuana bill tracker and become a supporter on Patreon to get access.— Schumer and others have discussed plans to amend the legislation on the floor to adopt “critical” criminal justice provisions such as expungements for prior marijuana convictions, calling broader effort to repair the harms of the drug war a “moral responsibility” for Congress. A spokesperson Daines told Marijuana Moment in July that he is “open” to including the additional reform provision, even as he’s cautioned Democrats against significantly expanding the bill’s scope in a way that could jeopardize GOP support. As a standalone in its current form, insiders say the measure has enough Republican buy-in to reach the 60-vote threshold needed for passage in the Senate. On Tuesday, a coalition of 35 cannabis trade associations, drug policy reform groups and a top national labor union called on Congress to help address the “humanitarian toll” of robberies targeting cash-intensive marijuana businesses by passing the SAFE Banking Act “this year.” The American Trade Association for Cannabis and Hemp (ATACH)—along with trade groups representing marijuana businesses in 16 states plus Washington, D.C.—also sent a letter to Brown and Banking Committee Ranking Member Tim Scott (R-SC) in July, imploring them to pass the cannabis banking bill “without further delay.” Also, the American Bankers Association (ABA) also renewed its call for the passage of the legislation. And all 50 of its state chapters did the same, as did insurance and union organizations, in recent letters to congressional leadership. July also marked the 10-year anniversary since the introduction of the first version of what is now known as the SAFE Banking Act. Colorado Gov. Jared Polis (D) separately said in a recent letter to President Joe Biden that he should throw his support behind the congressional push for marijuana banking reform as the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) begins its review of cannabis scheduling after receiving a rescheduling recommendation from the top federal health agency. Trade Associations, Advocacy Groups And Labor Union Push Congress To Pass Marijuana Banking Bill ‘This Year’ For Worker Safety Photo courtesy of Chris Wallis // Side Pocket Images. Marijuana Moment is made possible with support from readers. If you rely on our cannabis advocacy journalism to stay informed, please consider a monthly Patreon pledge.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 19, 2023Cannabis News​ “I am sharing job opportunities constantly with the students, and the students are reporting back getting hired within the industry before even graduating the program.” By Rebecca Rivas, Missouri Independent Karina Hernandez’s ideal work environment is surrounded by plants, with her hands in the dirt. Although she already has a biology degree, she recently decided to go back to school to take classes in horticulture at St. Louis Community College at Meramec, the state’s largest horticulture program. And she was surprised to see courses on hemp and cannabis cultivation on the list. On the first day of her introduction to cannabis course this semester, she and her fellow classmates shared why they wanted to take the class. “It’s a growing industry, so it’s cool to be at the forefront,” Hernandez said. “As long as I’m not sitting at a desk—and I feel like that’s a lot of people here.” Many of her classmates agreed the cannabis market just might be their ticket to a career working in plant science. Student interest is likely why the number of cannabis certificate programs at colleges has rapidly expanded in Missouri. A majority of the programs are online courses, but some—including the one at Meramec—are providing hands-on instruction using hemp plants. Now for the first time, beginning this semester, Missouri students can get a bachelor’s degree in cannabis and natural medicinals at Truman State University in Kirksville. “Everybody that we’ve talked to who’s currently in the industry are all really excited about the potential of having students who are coming out with an undergraduate degree,” said Tim Walston, Truman’s dean of science and mathematics, “and that they could take into their workforce right away.” Marijuana sales in Missouri have been averaging about $120 million a month since March. That means the Missouri industry will easily surpass $1 billion in its first year of recreational marijuana sales. A booming industry means more jobs. Since November when Missourians voted to pass a constitutional amendment legalizing recreational marijuana, the number of licensed marijuana employees has increased by nearly 8,000—bringing the total up to 17,615 employees statewide, according to the state’s August report. “I have companies contacting me constantly saying, ‘We are looking for X, Y, Z employee,’” said Stacy Godlewski, manager of the St. Louis University’s cannabis science and operations online certificate program. “I am sharing job opportunities constantly with the students, and the students are reporting back getting hired within the industry before even graduating the program.” Preparing students for ‘green jobs’ St. Louis University was among the first two Missouri colleges to launch online cannabis certificate programs in 2020, along with Northwest Missouri State University. Godlewski said SLU was nudged to do so by Mitch Myers with St. Louis-based BeLeaf Medical, the first medical marijuana company to begin operations in the state. “It was Mitch Myers of BeLeaf who actually came to St. Louis University and said, ‘You know, we’re about to go medically legal. We need to educate the employees of the industry. And, you know, why not SLU,’” Godlewski said. And it’s now SLU’s most popular professional studies program. What makes their program unique, Godlewski said, is the number of experts in the field who teach the courses—including Kayla Brown, director of human resources, compliance and legal at Vibe Cannabis in St. Louis. “The majority of the questions that I get asked are, ‘How did you get into the industry? And how should I do it?” Brown said. “The program does a great job of giving them such a full spectrum of options.” This semester, Metropolitan Community College in Kansas City launched an online program, partnering with California-based company Green Flower. Students can get three certificates including for cannabis cultivation specialist, cannabis retail specialist, and for cannabis extraction & product development specialist. Both Truman and St. Louis Community College say what sets their programs apart is the fact that students can work directly with hemp plants. Because the institutions receive federal funding, they can’t use marijuana plants in instruction. However, the 2018 farm bill took hemp off the federal controlled substance list, and that makes hemp plants a good substitute. “We actually work with live hemp plants in this program, which is unique,” said Patrick Vogan, assistant professor of horticulture. “We really do think that will help to prepare students.” The college first offered its intro to cannabis in the fall of 2021, and last spring the college added a cannabis and hemp cultivation class. Vogan co-taught the cultivation course with the manager of a cultivation facility, which they’ll do again this year. Now this fall, the college has added an extractions class. St. Louis Community College is hoping to soon gain approval of its program from the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development, Vogan said. So far, the department has approved two cannabis programs statewide—Truman’s and Southeast Missouri State University’s in Cape Girardeau. At Southwest, horticulture and cannabis is an option within the agribusiness bachelor program, and it was added in June 2022. It’s not a full program like Truman’s, a department spokesman said. Southwest’s program focuses on preparing students for “green jobs that include sustainable food horticulture to greenhouse management.” Truman aims to distinguish itself by focusing on natural medicine and holistic healing in its program, as well. “We do want to focus on cannabis,” Walston said, “but there’s also a growing industry of other natural medicinals—things like essential oils and plant based medicine.” The degree program would provide a foundation for students to explore the scientific, cultural and legal backgrounds of natural medicines, he said. “A lot of it has been around for centuries or millennia,” he said, “but people are just now starting to go back to.” This story was first published by the Missouri Independent. New Hampshire Officials Consider State-Led ‘Franchise Model’ For Marijuana Legalization That Would Allow Privately Owned Stores Photo courtesy of Mike Latimer. Marijuana Moment is made possible with support from readers. If you rely on our cannabis advocacy journalism to stay informed, please consider a monthly Patreon pledge.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
September 19, 2023Cannabis News​ A group in Oregon wants to make drug possession a crime again, having unveiled two versions of a would-be ballot initiative that would undo key provisions of Measure 110, the 2020 voter-approved measure that decriminalized simple possession of all drugs. The proposal—which backers say they’ll pursue both through the state legislature and at the ballot box, if necessary—would make it a misdemeanor crime to possess certain “hard” drugs, including fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine and others. It would also create a new misdemeanor criminal offense for using unlawful drugs in public. A second version of the measure would go further, increasing penalties for manufacture or delivery of substances in cases where a person is a repeat offender or where drug use causes death. The expanded version would also make possession of tableting or encapsulating machines a felony and broaden the definition of drug “delivery” to include possession with the intent to transfer. Notably, the broader version would also transfer control over Measure 110 funding, which comes from state cannabis tax revenue, to the state Alcohol and Drug Policy Commission. The “Coalition to Fix and Improve Ballot Measure 110” includes political and business figures from both sides of the aisle, including former Republican lawmaker Max Williams, political consultant Dan Lavey, progressive strategist Paige Richardson and Washington County District Attorney Kevin Barton. Financial supporters include some of the state’s wealthiest residents, such as Columbia Sportswear President and CEO Tim Boyle ($300,000), Nike co-founder Phil Knight ($200,000), real-estate mogul Jordan Schnitzer ($50,000), former Columbia Distributing Company chair Ed Maletis ($50,000) and the Goodman family, a major property owner in Downtown Portland ($100,000). “Even casual observers of Portland can recognize we are well off track here,” Boyle, who lives in the city, told The Oregonian newspaper. As for recriminalizing possession, he said that “the incentive of being incarcerated is powerful. It means people take it seriously. They have an incentive for getting clean.” Williams, the former legislator, said Measure 110 isn’t responsible for Oregon’s problems, but it has exacerbated them. “We know that Ballot Measure 110 didn’t create the homeless crisis or the behavioral-health crisis or is the sole reason we are seeing spikes in crime,” he told The Oregonian. “But we are convinced that Measure 110 is making things a whole lot worse.” More than 58 percent of voters cast ballots in favor of Measure 110, with many at the time expressing feelings that the war on drugs had failed. But polling recently released by opponents found that 61 percent of respondents now feel the measure has been a failure. A majority also said they believed the law had added to the state’s unhoused population, and nearly 80 percent said they thought heroin, methamphetamine and fentanyl use has gotten worse in recent years. Drug decriminalization supporters, who oppose the new prospective ballot measures, warn that the proposals represent a return to the criminal drug war. The Drug Policy Alliance (DPA) called the pair of initiatives “not a solution but, instead, a false promise of change.” More people would die of drug overdoses if the plan becomes law, DPA argued, citing statistics showing that drug consumers are 27 more times likely to die of an overdose after leaving jail or prison. The measure would also increase jail crowding, overburden the courts, divert funding away from treatment programs and increase racial disparities in policing. Black people are policed at a rate 4.3 times higher than white people in Portland, DPA said. Research published earlier this year also found that overdose deaths may spike after police drug busts. Fatal overdoses nearly doubled in one Indianapolis neighborhood after a major opioid bust. Other groups, such as the Health Justice Recovery Alliance (HJRA), said they understand why the public might be frustrated by the state’s failure to address the housing crisis as well as problematic drug use. But the organization stressed that recriminalization is not the answer. In a press release, HJRA said the new proposals would “fail to reduce addiction, fail to reduce homelessness, fail to make out streets safer.” “It is disappointing that the people behind these petitions didn’t talk to Measure 110 providers. We could have told them what is needed to make the measure more effective,” said Shannon Jones, CEO of the Oregon Change Clinic, which provides counseling, housing and outpatient services using funds from Measure 110. “We need more outreach, and the entire system needs increased funding and people need a roof over their head for recovery to be successful. Arresting and jailing people with addiction means they will end up right back on the street with increased overdose risk and a criminal record that will make the road to recovery that much harder.” With people literally lining up outside Portland detox centers, Katie Nicosia, co-owner of Recovery Works NW, said the state needs more of the facilities, not fewer. “We just opened a new detox center in Portland with Measure 110 dollars and are opening clinics in SW Portland and in Newberg,” Nicosia said. “This proposal puts massive uncertainty into the system just as we finally have full funding and are able to open our doors.” Larry Turner, a co-founder of Fresh Out in Portland and a leader in the statewide Oregon Black, Brown and Indigenous Advocacy Coalition, tried to put the issue in perspective. “Drug use has been a problem in many neighborhoods for decades and overdose rates were skyrocketing before passage of Measure 110,” Turner said. “Before passing new laws that will take us back to the days when Black and brown people were disproportionately harmed by criminalization, we need to make Measure 110 more effective without overturning the law and going backwards.” Legislators already made some adjustments to the decriminalization law during this year, passing a package of reforms in June to provide an oversight council with more staff and administrative aid from the Oregon Health Authority (OHA). A January audit of the decriminalization measure by the secretary of state found that OHA needed to provide more support and better coordination. It concluded at the time that it was too soon to tell whether Measure 110 programs could curb the state’s drug problems. The reform bill adopted by lawmakers this year includes an accountability measure, calling for the next secretary of state audit on the law’s implementation to be finished by the end of 2025. Republican lawmakers, meanwhile, filed several proposals during this year’s legislative session to effectively undo Measure 110. Read the two versions of the new Oregon proposal to recriminalize drug possession below: Marijuana Moment is made possible with support from readers. If you rely on our cannabis advocacy journalism to stay informed, please consider a monthly Patreon pledge.  Read More Feedzy  [...] Read more...
Cannabis Recipes
August 3, 2023Servings: 12 Ingredients 1 cup soybean oil ½ ounce ganja shake 2 large egg yolks 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice Pinch of salt 1 teaspoon white vinegar ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard ​Directions In a double boiler, combine the oil and ganja. Heat over low until the ganja smell is pronounced but not nutty or burnt. (The oil should have an earthy green tint to it.) Let cool. Remove and strain the herb, squeezing the weed in a metal strainer against the mesh with the back of a spoon to wring out every drop of oil. Make sure that all your ingredients have been brought to room temperature — this is crucial! ​In a small metal bowl, use an immersion blender or whisk to thoroughly blend the egg yolks, lemon juice, salt, vinegar, and mustard. This can also be done in a food processor or blender. ​Using a ½ teaspoon measure, very slowly add the infused oil to the small metal bowl, a few drops at a time, while constantly blending on low or whisking until the mayo is thick and starting to form ribbons. (If it’s too thick, you can add room-temperature water in tiny increments.) If your mixture “breaks,” it can be repaired by whisking some more room-temperature egg yolks in a separate bowl, then slowly whisking those yolks into the “broken” mayo mixture. If that doesn’t do it, add a few drops of hot water. ​Cover and chill; it’ll keep in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days. Original recipe from: Boudreaux, Ashley. The Official High Times Cannabis Cookbook. Red Eyed Deviled Eggs. https://saltonverde.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/10-High_Times_Cannabis_Cookbook.pdf [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023Ingredients 4 Pork chops Salt and pepper 1 Tbsp minced rosemary 2 Cloves minced garlic 1/2 Cup canna-butter 1 Tbps canna-oil Instructions 1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Season pork chops with salt and pepper 2. In a small bowl, combine canna-butter with rosemary and garlic. Set aside 3. In an oven-safe skillet over medium heat, heat canna-oil and add pork chops. Sear until golden, about 4 minutes, flip and cook for another 4 minutes. 4. Brush pork-chops generously with the garlic canna-butter mixture and place skillet in the oven to bake for 10–12 minutes. Serve with more garlic butter. ​If you do not have an oven-safe skillet, you may use a regular one and transfer to a baking dish. Be sure to collect all the oil from the pan when transferring. This recipe is available for download HERE Original recipe from Eat Your Cannabis.com [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023Ingredients 4 quarts popped popcorn 1 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup corn syrup light 1/2 cup cannabis butter 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp pepper 1 tsp vanilla extract 1/2 tsp baking soda Instructions Preheat your oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a large shallow roasting pan with cooking spray and add popcorn. In a separate bowl mix brown sugar, corn syrup, cannabis butter, and salt in a heavy saucepan. Stirring constantly, bring to a boil over medium heat. Boil 5 minutes without stirring. Remove from heat. Stir in baking soda and vanilla; mix well. Pour syrup over warm popcorn, stirring to coat evenly. Bake for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. ​ Enjoy! Keep refrigerated for extended shelf life. This recipe is available for download HERE Original recipe from thecannaschool.com [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023Ingredients 2/3 cup Cannabis oil (coconut or olive oil will work) 4 large potatoes peeled 3 tbsp salt Instructions Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut your peeled potatoes into strips (cut them into fries!) and spread them evenly on the baking sheet. Drizzle the cannabis-infused oil over them and season with salt. Try to coat each fry relatively evenly with the oil so that there is a consistent potency. Cook the fries until they are golden brown. Around 15–20 minutes. Allow the fires to cool down, around 5 minutes. Divide the fries into equal proportions and serve. This recipe is available for download HERE Original recipe from thecannaschool.com [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023Materials -Medium Sauce-Pan -​Thermometer -Mesh-sieve or cheesecloth Ingredients -​6 grams cannabis flower -2 cups oil (olive, coconut, canola or vegetable oil) Directions ​ ​1. Decarboxylate the cannabis Heat the oven to 225°F. Spread cannabis buds out into an even layer on a baking sheet and place in the oven. ​Take care not to let the temperature go over 225°F and burn (if this happens, you can lose potency). Bake for about 35–40 minutes, then remove from the oven and cool before grinding into a coarse powder. ​ The decarboxylated cannabis will keep in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 2 months 2. Heat the oil in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the decarboxylated cannabis and cook, taking care not to let the temperature go over 200°F for about 45 minutes. 3. Remove from heat and let sit, undisturbed, for 10 minutes 4. Strain through a fine mesh-sieve set over a bowl. Press carefully with a spoon to extract as much oil as possible ​The oil will keep for up to 6 weeks if covered and refrigerated. This recipe is available for download HERE Original recipe from Vice.com [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023Ingredients 2 lbs of potatoes 4 tablespoons cannabutter 4 tablespoons sour cream or plain cream cheese Salt and pepper ¼ to ½ cup of milk or cannamilk for increased potency 2 cloves of garlic minced or 1 tsp of garlic powder Instructions Cut the potatoes in half or quarters to make medium-sized pieces. Place the potatoes in a saucepan filled with water and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, between 20–30 minutes. Drain the potatoes and remove their skins. Add the cannabutter, garlic and sour cream to the bowl along with a splash of milk (don’t add it all at once.) Mash the contents, adding just a splash of milk each time until you’ve reached the desired consistency. ​ Stir in salt and pepper to taste. This recipe is available for download HERE original recipe from satorimj.com [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023Ingredients 2 cups shredded green cabbage 1 Tbsp lime juice 1/2 Tsp salt 3 Tbsp cilantro 1/4 cup canna-oil 1 tomato, diced 1/2 cup salsa 1/2 onion, diced 1 jalapeno, diced 1 avocado, sliced Meat of choice (fish or a ground meat like beef or turkey) 4 corn tortillas Directions 1. Cook choice of meat with fajita seasoning in frying pan, set aside 2. In a large bowl, mix shredded cabbage, line juice, salt and cilantro 3. In a separate bowl, mix canna-oil with tomato, onion, jalapeno and salsa 4. Wrap the tortillas in paper towels and heat in the microwave for 30 seconds, or until warm 5. Fill each tortilla with meat, cabbage mixture, cannabis salsa mixture and diced avocado ​Serve with lime wedge The recipe is available for download HERE Original recipe from Eat Your Cannabis [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023Ingredients blender ¼ cup tahini ¼ cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed w/o seeds 15 ounce can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed 2 garlic cloves ¼ cup CannaOil ½ cup ground cumin 2 tablespoons water salt and pepper to taste Instructions Combine lemon juice and tahini in a blender. Blend for 30 seconds. Add chickpeas, garlic, Canna Oil, cumin and water. Blend for 1 minute until smooth. Add more water if needed to reach desired consistency. Pour hummus in a serving bowl, or store in the refrigerator for later. This recipe is available for download HERE Original recipe from eatyourcannabis.com [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023Ingredients 1 can whole peeled tomatoes 28 oz. 1 jar roasted red peppers 12 oz. 4 large eggs ½ cup plain Greek yogurt ¼ cup CannaOil plus more for drizzling 1 teaspoon coriander seeds 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 6 garlic cloves divided 2 medium shallots divided Kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper Mint leaves and crusty bread for serving Crush coriander and cumin seeds, pressing down firmly with even pressure. Transfer seeds to a small heatproof bowl. Slice 2 garlic cloves as thinly and evenly as you can; add to bowl with seeds. Finely chop the remaining 4 garlic cloves. Cut half of 1 shallot into thin rounds and then add to the same bowl with seeds and garlic. Chop remaining shallots. Open a jar of red peppers and pour off any liquid. Remove peppers and coarsely chop. Combine ¼ cup oil and seed/garlic/shallot mix in the skillet you used for crushing seeds. Heat over medium and cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until seeds are sizzling and fragrant and garlic and shallots are crisp and golden, about 3 minutes. Place a strainer over the same heatproof bowl and pour in the contents of the skillet, making sure to scrape in seeds and other solids. Do this quickly before garlic or shallots start to burn. Reserve oil. Spread out seed mixture across paper towels to cool. Season with salt and pepper. Return strained CannaOil to skillet and heat over medium. Add remaining chopped garlic and shallot and cook, stirring often, until shallot is translucent and starting to turn brown around the edges, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and lots of pepper. Add chopped peppers to the skillet and stir to incorporate. Using your hands, lift whole peeled tomatoes out of the can, leaving behind tomato liquid, and crush up with your hands as you add to the skillet. Discard leftover liquid. Season with more salt and pepper. Cook shakshuka, stirring often, until thickened and no longer runs together when a spoon is dragged through, 10–12 minutes. Reduce heat to low. Using the back of a wooden spoon, create four 2″-wide nests in tomato sauce. Working one at a time, carefully crack an egg into each nest. Cover skillet and cook, simmering very gently and reducing heat if necessary, until whites of eggs are set while yolks are still jammy, 7–10 minutes. Uncover skillet and remove from heat. Season tops of eggs with salt and pepper. Top shakshuka with dollops of yogurt, sprinkle with seed mixture, then drizzle with more olive oil. Finish by scattering mint leaves over top. ​ Serve pita or crusty bread alongside. This recipe is available for download HERE Original recipe from eat your cannabis.com [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023Ingredients 6 cups fresh or frozen blueberries (you may substitute some pitted cherries too!) 1 Tbsp lemon juice 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup white sugar (you may add canna-sugar for increased potency) 1/4 tsp cinnamon 2 Tbsp canna-butter, cut into small pieces (you may substitute canna-coconut oil) 2x pie crust recipe or store bought Directions Preheat oven to 350°F/175°C. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Cream the regular butter, cannabutter, brown sugar & white sugar together until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time. Beat in the vanilla. In a small bowl, mix together the flour, cinnamon, baking soda & salt. Add to the creamed mixture. Mix well. Add the mini chocolate chips & mini marshmallows. Mix until evenly distributed. Evenly space the graham crackers on the prepared liner. Use a 2 oz scoop to portion the cookies & place in the center of the graham cracker. Bake for 12–15 minutes. Allow the cookies to cool. Push all of the baked cookies together & drizzle with coating chocolate. Allow the chocolate to set & enjoy! This recipe is available for download HERE Original recipe from myedibleschef.com [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023This soup can be enhanced with any of your favorite vegetables. Materials Soup Pot Frying Pan Hand-Blender or Regular blender (optional) Ingredients ​3 cups vegetable stock 1 cup chopped broccoli 1/2 red onion, chopped 2 stalks of celery, chopped 1 and 1/2 cup heavy cream (canna-cream may be substituted or blended with regular cream for increased potency) 2 TBSP olive oil Fresh cilantro (optional) Salt and Pepper to taste ​Canna-Oil (dose-dependent) Directions 1. Heat vegetable stock and broccoli in a large pot Boil for around 6 minutes 2. On another burner, saute garlic, onion and celery in olive oil until soft — about 4 minutes ​​ 3. Take the pan off the heat and add desired dose of canna-oil to vegetables Stir thoroughly and then pour mixture in to the big soup pot Be sure to scrape all material to get the maximum amount of canna-oil 4. Heat for another 6–8 minutes then reduce heat to low and add heavy cream, add salt and pepper to taste ​ 5. Let simmer for 5 minutes, serve hot  ​Garnish with cilantro if desired This recipe is available for download HERE The original recipe is from Royal Queen Seeds [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023This recipe can be used with your favorite vegetables and breakfast meats Ingredients Base: 1 ½ cups of mozzarella cheese, shredded 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded 6 eggs 1 cup of milk (canna-milk may be used for a more potent dish) 1 pie-crust, unbaked Filling: 1/2 cup of canna-butter 1 onion, diced 1 cup broccoli, chopped 1 head of garlic ​ Instructions 1. Melt canna-butter in a pan over medium heat ​ 2. Add vegetables to butter and cook on medium heat for about 5–8 minutes (or until veggies are cooked) Do not let the butter or vegetables burn, to maintain potency of the butter 3. Scoop cooked vegetables into empty pie crust and cover with shredded cheeses 4. Beat eggs and milk together and pour into the pie crust 5. Bake for 35–40 minutes at 360°F Allow quiche to cool 10 minutes before serving This recipe is available for download HERE Original recipe from cannabis.wiki [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023This recipe may be used with heavy cream or whole milk. Materials -Medium Sauce-Pan -​Thermometer -Mesh-sieve or cheesecloth Ingredients ​6 grams cannabis flower 2 cups whole milk or heavy cream ​ Directions ​ ​1. Decarboxylate the cannabis Heat the oven to 225°F. Spread cannabis buds out into an even layer on a baking sheet and place in the oven. ​Take care not to let the temperature go over 225°F and burn (if this happens, you can lose potency). Bake for about 35–40 minutes, then remove from the oven and cool before grinding into a coarse powder. ​ The decarboxylated cannabis will keep in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 2 months 2. Heat the milk or heavy cream, in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the decarboxylated cannabis and cook, taking care not to let the temperature go over 200°F for about 45 minutes. 3. Remove from heat and let sit, undisturbed, for 10 minutes 4. Strain through a fine mesh-sieve set over a bowl. Press carefully with a spoon to extract as much oil as possible ​The milk will keep for up to 6 weeks if covered and refrigerated. This recipe is available for download HERE Original recipe from Vice.com [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023Ingredients 2 slices of bread Cheese Canna-Butter Optional fillings: tomato, green onion, chicken, tuna Directions 1. Use a knife to coat both pieces of bread with canna-butter Be sure to coat both sides of the bread 2. Bring skillet to medium heat and add a small scoop of canna-butter ​ 3. One the butter has melted, place one slice of bread on the skillet 4. Add as much cheese and fillings as you like, then place the second slice of bread on top 5. Flip the sandwich when the bottom is golden brown, add more butter if needed for the new side 6. When the sandwich looks adequately fried and the cheese is melted to your liking, take it off of the skillet, slice in half, and enjoy! Original recipe from Satori MJ [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023Materials -Medium Sauce-Pan -​Thermometer -Mesh-sieve or cheesecloth Ingredients -​6 grams cannabis flower -1 pound unsalted butter Directions ​ ​1. Decarboxylate the cannabis Heat the oven to 225°F. Spread cannabis buds out into an even layer on a baking sheet and place in the oven. ​Take care not to let the temperature go over 225°F and burn (if this happens, you can lose potency). Bake for about 35–40 minutes, then remove from the oven and cool before grinding into a coarse powder. ​ The decarboxylated cannabis will keep in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 2 months 2. Heat the butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the decarboxylated cannabis and cook, taking care not to let the temperature go over 200°F for about 45 minutes. 3. Remove from heat and let sit, undisturbed, for 10 minutes 4. Strain through a fine mesh-sieve set over a bowl. Press carefully with a spoon to extract as much oil as possible ​The milk will keep for up to 6 weeks if covered and refrigerated. This recipe is available for download HERE Original recipe from Vice.com [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023Cannabis infused sugar offers a simple way to enhance your baked goods or beverages. Materials Mason Jar ​Cheesecloth Baking Sheet 9in x 13in Baking Pan Ingredients -3 grams of cannabis flower -1/2 cup of high-proof alcohol, such as Everclear -1/2 cup granulated sugar Directions 1. Decarboxylate the cannabis Heat the oven to 225°F. Spread cannabis buds out into an even layer on a baking sheet and place in the oven. ​Take care not to let the temperature go over 225°F and burn (if this happens, you can lose potency). Bake for about 35–40 minutes, then remove from the oven and cool before grinding into a coarse powder. ​ The decarboxylated cannabis will keep in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 2 months 2. Transfer the cannabis to a jar and cover with the alcohol. Screw the lid on tight and shake every 5 minutes for 20 minutes. 3. Strain through a cheesecloth set over a bowl, discarding solids. Mix the strained alcohol with the sugar and spread into an even layer in a glass 9-by-13-inch baking dish. ​ 4. Bake at 200°F, stirring occasionally, until the alcohol has evaporated and the sugar is lightly golden. This recipe is available for download HERE The original recipe is from Vice.com [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023Ingredients 1 cup breadcrumbs 1/2 cup canna-milk 1 lb ground beef 1/2 lb ground pork 1/2 lb Italian sausage, casing removed 1 small onion, finely diced 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 cup grated parmesean cheese 1/4 cup chopped parsley 2 large eggs, beaten 2 Tbsp canna-oil 1 (32oz) jar marinara sauce Instructions 1. In a small bowl, stir bread crumbs with canna-milk until evenly combined. Let sit 15 minutes, or while you prep other ingredients. 2. In a large bowl, use your hands to combine beef, pork, sausage, onion, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper, then gently stir in breadcrumb mixture, eggs, Parmesan, and parsley until just combined. Form mixture into 1” balls. 3. In a large high-sided skillet over medium heat, heat oil. Working in batches, sear meatballs on all sides to develop a crust. Set meatballs aside, reduce heat to medium-low, and add sauce to skillet. Bring sauce to a simmer then immediately add meatballs back to skillet. Cover and simmer until cooked through, about 8 minutes more original recipe from eatyourcannabis.com [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023Ingredients 3 Tbsp mayonnaise 2 Tsp Dijon mustard 1/2 Tsp salt 1/2 Tsp pepper 2 Eggs, lightly beaten 1lb Lump crab meat 2 Tbps finely chopped parsley 3 Tbsp canna-butter Instructions 1. Whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, salt, pepper and eggs. Then gently stir in crab meat, panko and parsley. 2. Shape mixture in to 12 (3-inch) patties, pressing gently to flatten. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1hr. 3. Melt half the canna-butter in large, nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add 6 patties to the pan and cook for 2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining half of canna-butter and remaining 6 patties. The recipe is available for download HERE original recipe from eat your cannabis.com [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023Ingredients Cupcakes: 2 cups flour 1 cup sugar 1 Tbsp baking powder 1/4 Tsp salt 1 cup milk 2 eggs 1/4 cup canna-oil (vegetable is best) 1/4 vegetable oil 2 Tsp vanilla extract 1/3 cup rainbow sprinkles Frosting: 1 cup sugar 1 cup egg whites 1lb butter, salted, room temperature 1 Tsp vanilla extract ​ Directions ​Cupcakes: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners. Mix all of the dry ingredients together in a medium bowl. Whisk all of the liquid ingredients together until blended. Add the liquid ingredients to the dry ingredients & mix until there are no large lumps. Do not overmix. Gently stir in the rainbow sprinkles until just blended. ​ Use a 2-ounce portion scoop & fill each cupcake liner with one scoop. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Remove from the oven & allow to cool a bit before removing them from the pan. Frosting: Put 2 inches of water into a medium-size pot, & bring to a boil. Place the sugar & egg whites into a small stainless bowl that will sit on top of the pot of boiling water, or use a double boiler system. DO NOT allow the bowl with the egg white mixture to directly touch the boiling water or the egg whites will cook very quickly. Whisk constantly until temperature reaches 140°F/60°C or until the sugar has completely dissolved & the egg whites are hot to the touch. DO NOT leave unattended or you will have a sweet egg white scramble! Use a hand mixer or pour the egg white mixture into a bowl that is fitted for a stand mixer. Using the whisk attachment, begin to whip until the meringue is thick & glossy, about 10 minutes on medium-high. Place the mixer on low speed, add the cubes of butter, a couple at a time, until incorporated. Continue beating until it has reached a silky smooth texture. If the buttercream curdles simply keep mixing & it will become smooth. If the buttercream is too runny, refrigerate for about 15 minutes before continuing mixing. Add the vanilla & continue to beat on low speed until well combined. Once the cupcakes have completely cooled, place a large star tip into a piping bag & fill with the buttercream. Pipe a rosette onto each cupcake & add the sprinkles on top. Serve immediately, the same day or keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. This recipe is available for download HERE Original recipe from myedibleschef.com [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023Ingredients ¼ cup cannabuter, room temperature ½ cup regular butter, room temperature 1 cup brown sugar ½ cup white sugar 2 eggs, room temperature 1 tsp vanilla extract 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp cinnamon ½ tsp baking soda ½ tsp sea salt 1 cup mini chocolate chips 1 cup mini marshmallows 18 graham crackers Coating chocolate, melted Directions Preheat oven to 350°F/175°C. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper. Cream the regular butter, cannabutter, brown sugar & white sugar together until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time. Beat in the vanilla. In a small bowl, mix together the flour, cinnamon, baking soda & salt. Add to the creamed mixture. Mix well. Add the mini chocolate chips & mini marshmallows. Mix until evenly distributed. Evenly space the graham crackers on the prepared liner. Use a 2 oz scoop to portion the cookies & place in the center of the graham cracker. Bake for 12–15 minutes. Allow the cookies to cool. Push all of the baked cookies together & drizzle with coating chocolate. Allow the chocolate to set & enjoy! This recipe is available for download HERE Original recipe from myedibleschef.com [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023This recipe can be used with your favorite vegetables and breakfast meats Ingredients Base: 4 large eggs salt and pepper (to tasste) 1 tbsp butter (canna-butter may be used to increase potency) 1/2 cup canna-milk Filling: 2 tbsp diced green pepper 2 tbsp diced green onion 2 tbsp ham or meat of your choice 1/4 cup shredded cheese ​ Instructions 1. Beat eggs in a bowl with a whisk. 2. Add canna-milk and season with salt and pepper 3. Add any vegetables and/or meat fillings to the eggs and whisk for a few minutes until egg mixture if foamy — beating in air makes the omelette fluffy​ 4. Melt butter in a small, nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Pour in egg mixture and twirl skillet so the bottom is evenly covered in egg. 5. Cook until egg starts to set. Lift the edges with a spatula and tilt the skillet so uncooked egg mixture can run towards the bottom of the skillet to set Repeat until no visible liquid egg remains 6. Carefully flip omelette and cook another 30 seconds to 1 minute 7. Sprinkle cheese in one line in the middle of the omelette and fold it in half, cook another 20 seconds them slide the omelette on to the plate This recipe is available for download HERE Original recipe from the Canna School [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023Ingredients -1.5 cups all-purpose flour -1 Tbsp sugar (canna-sugar may be substituted to increase potency) -1 Tbsp baking powder -1 Tsp salt -1 large egg -1.25 cups whole milk (canna-milk may be substituted to increase potency) -3 Tbsp of melted canna-butter or oil -​1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional) Instructions 1. In a bowl, combine dry ingredients 2. In another bowl, combine wet ingredients 3. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined ​Do not over-mix, batter will be thick and slightly lumpy 4. Heat a large frying pan with with a small amount of butter or oil 5. Pour 1 cup of batter in the center of the pan. Fry 2–3 minutes before flipping 6. Fry an additional 3–5 minutes or until pancake reaches your preferred doneness and remove from pan 7. Garnish with your favorite toppings; powdered sugar, syrup, butter, chocolate chips or whatever you might enjoy! Original recipe from cannabis wiki [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023Ingredients 1 package of Instant Ramen Vegetable or Beef broth (use the amount listed on the package for water) Frozen vegetable medley One egg or tofu Dried seaweed (to garnish) Sesame Seeds (to garnish) Cannabis Tincture Directions 1. Follow the instructions on the ramen package, but swap the water out for broth 2. Add the frozen veggies when broth gets hot 3. Crack an egg in the hot broth and stir for a few minutes You can also use a hard-boiled egg or chopped tofu ​ 4. Add as much cannabis tincture that you want. If you are unsure, start with 1–2 drops 5. Top soup with dried seaweed and sesame seeds Original recipe from Satori MJ [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023Ingredients 2 cups all-purpose flour 4 Tbsp sugar (canna-sugar may be substituted to increase potency) 1 Tbsp baking powder ½ Tsp salt 2 large eggs 1 ½ cups whole milk (canna-milk may be substituted to increase potency) ¾ cup canna-butter, melted ​1 teaspoon vanilla extract Instructions 1. In a bowl, combine dry ingredients: flour, sugar, salt, baking powder 2. In another bowl, combine wet ingredients: beat the eggs with the milk, then add the vanilla extract 3. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined ​Do not over-mix, batter will be thick and slightly lumpy 4. Bake in a preheated waffle-iron according to manufacturer’s directions until golden brown This recipe is available for download HERE! Original recipe from allrecipes.com [...] Read more...
August 3, 2023Ingredients 4 eggs 1 cup white sugar ½ cup brown sugar, packed 1 ¼ cups grapeseed oil ¼ cup canna-oil 2 tsp vanilla extract 1 ¾ cups pure pumpkin puree 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 tbsp ground cinnamon 1 tbsp pumpkin spice 2 tsp baking powder 2 tsp baking soda 1 tbsp orange zest, optional Directions Preheat the oven to 350°F/175°C. Line a jumbo muffin tin with liners. Place the eggs, white sugar, brown sugar, grapeseed oil & canna-oil into a bowl fitted for a stand mixer or use a whisk to thoroughly beat ingredients together. Blend in the pumpkin & vanilla extract. In a small bowl mix the dry ingredients together. Add to the wet ingredients & mix until just blended. Stir in the orange zest (optional). Divide the batter evenly between 12 muffin cups using a muffin scoop, about 3 ounces each. Sprinkle with pumpkin seeds. Bake for 22–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean. ​ Allow to cool, remove from the tins & sprinkle with cinnamon. This recipe is available for download HERE Original recipe from myedibleschef.com [...] Read more...