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Cannabis as a Treatment for PTSD

Cannabis as a Treatment for PTSD

 

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a severe anxiety disorder that can develop after exposure to any event that results in psychological trauma. 

For some, PTSD develops right after a dangerous event or a frightening, shocking experience. Additionally, those with a family history of depression or anxiety may be more likely to suffer from PTSD. Abuse, car accidents, and combat are just a few examples of events that may lead to PTSD.  Researchers are finding new avenues to treat PTSD with the aid of further discoveries in our body’s endocannabinoid system, a biological system regulating mood, brain activity and immune response. Studies have shown that a deficiency in cannabinoids may be a contributing factor to PTSD to which cannabis is a fast-acting support that may help replenish these missing cannabinoids to relieve harsh symptoms. Affecting nearly eight million Americans, symptoms of PTSD include: irritability, trouble sleeping, poor concentration, phobia of people, places and experiences that trigger memories of the trauma. Currently, there are two categories of treatments; therapy and medication. Unfortunately, those that fall into the medication category are joined by a host of side effects. With roughly 1 in 5 veterans suffering from PTSD, Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) is sponsoring a medical research study with none other than Dr. Sue Sisley, an Iraqi War veteran who has exclusively used cannabis to treat her PTSD symptoms since 2010. Dr. Sisley’s PTSD research project represents what many have noted as the “first definitive U.S. research on whether marijuana can help manage veterans PTSD.” (Marijuana.com) The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has also shown interest in recent “helpful” studies that highlight medicinal cannabis as a treatment option. While not permitted to recommend or prescribe the use of CBD oil, VA doctors are encouraged to discuss cannabis as an option for treating PTSD, in states where it is legal. However, more clinical trials are needed in order to provide medicinal cannabis access for all veterans.

Seniors and the Benefits of CBD

As we continue to move forward in legalizing and demystifying cannabis, senior citizens are not only the fastest growing demographic for its use but more and more products are being tailored to the aging population. From 2013 to 2014, the number of cannabis users over the age of 55 increased by 53%, and is still on the rise today, according to CBS News (https://www.cbsnews.com/news/seniors-marijuana-use-fastest-growing-pot-users-prescriptions/). The identity of cannabis users is more widespread now than ever; as there is no longer a ‘stoner’ persona lingering over the therapeutic plant. 

But can premium CBD really improve the quality of life for senior citizens?

CBD, a compound found in the cannabis plant is non-psychoactive with anti-inflammatory properties that welcome the use of seniors without getting them high. From topical creams, ingestible tinctures, to oil vapors, CBD now offers more inviting deliverables while steering away from the traditional smoker or edible consumption. However, its not just about the variety of ways people can consume cannabis but also the variety of ailments that can be improved by, the responsible use of cannabis.

Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research examined a prospective study of nearly 3,000 patients over the age of 65 to research the therapeutic effects of cannabis. While poor sleep quality, pain management and cancer were the most notable reasons for cannabis use, they noted that after six months of treatment 93.7% reported improvement in their condition, in addition to reducing their use of prescription narcotics. Other results included a reduced pain level from a median of 8, on a scale 0-10, to a median of 4. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29398248) Many users mentioned that they actually prefer using cannabis over traditional prescription drugs and believe that it is just as effective, if not more, at managing pain. 

Reasons Why Seniors Should Use CBD :

Pain Management – Anti-inflammatory agents aid in joint therapy and reduce inflammation to relax muscles

Improved Cognitive Function – Promotes neurogenesis and fights against premature cell death caused by degenerative conditions

Reduce Prescription Medications – Cheaper, easier, and safer to use than many other prescription drugs

Bone Growth – Cannabinoids prevent age-related osteoporosis and promote bone health by regulating CB receptors within the bone marrow

Immune Support – Cannabis regulates the immune system to prevent tissue destruction

Digestive Health – CBD stimulates cells in the gastrointestinal lining 

Heart Health – Moderates cardiac dysfunction, oxidative stress that increases blood flow, scar tissue, and balances cell death signaling pathways in diabetic cardiomyopathy

*These medical statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

“In an age where a physician often prescribes a different medication for each symptom, cannabis, as a comprehensive treatment that affects several symptoms, becomes a desirable therapeutic option,” as stated by researchers. The whole-body homeostasis effects of CBD and its interaction with the endocannabinoid system provides an natural treatment option without the side effects of prescription medications. While CBD can’t reverse side effects of aging, it can encourage a more active lifestyle for seniors while leading to an overall improved quality of life.

Oncology Massage and CBD

Is the combination of premium infused CBD topicals and oncology massage the ultimate match?

For years it was thought to be taboo to perform massage on clients with cancer. Why? There were concerns that massage might spread cancer, yet others thought massage was appropriate only with a physician’s consent. With so many options, therapists opted not to provide this much needed service.

Today, that’s no longer the case. Incorporating certified oncology massage programs into your practice is one of the hottest new trends in the industry. Established in 2007, new Oncology Massage practices have dawned and now the Society for Oncology Massage and several continuing education providers offer certification programs for therapists to provide this much needed massage therapy safely and with confidence.

This practice is a specialization of traditional massage and is awarded after a therapist has had extensive training for anyone undergoing cancer treatments, in recovery, survivorship, and post treatment. Many of the body’s responses to cancer and its treatment require modifications to traditional massage therapy. While enrolled in an oncology massage program, therapists learn the tools and techniques to work on clients with cancer in any setting.

Therapists certified in oncology massage know how cancer treatments impact the body, as well as the best approach for each client. They know patients are dealing with stress, loss of sleep, nausea, as well as physical side effects of treatments and surgery. And while massage can’t treat cancer it can help reduce the side effects of treatment and improve a person’s quality of life and well-being.

Plant-based CBD brings its own natural pain relief and anti-inflammatory healing properties. When paired with massage, it can make a massage healing session even more powerful. Today, more Oncology Massage Therapists are incorporating CBD massage oils into their treatment sessions.

Can a CBD Oncology Massage help you or someone you know? Search for a trained therapist in your area. If you want to know if your massage therapist in properly trained in oncology massage, ask them these qualifying questions.

CBD Heart Health for Women

Women – this one’s for you.

Did you know the No. 1 leading cause of death in women is cardiovascular disease? The American Heart Association reported that heart disease causes 1 in 3 deaths each year for women, surpassing the number of deaths caused by breast cancer.

To modify risk factors and improve heart health, doctors often recommend an improvement in diet, increase exercise and avoid smoking.

So what role may CBD play in the cardiovascular system? Well, among many other benefits, its been known to reduce inflammation, relive anxiety, and help lower blood pressure, which are all associated with heart disease.

Here are just a few ways CBD may work to help your heart:
  • Suppresses irregular heartbeat often induced by exercise, stress, or anxiety, thus reducing heart damage caused by irregular blood flow.
  • Moderates cardiac dysfunction, oxidative stress that increases blood flow, scar tissue, and balances cell death signaling pathways in diabetic cardiomyopathy (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3579247/), which is a blood sugar disorder that directly affects heart health.
  • Protests the heart against drug-induced diseases of the heart muscle by aiding mitochondrial functions and biogenesis, which boosts energy and tissue repair and growth, respectively.

These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

In a study conducted in 2013, the British Journal of Pharmacology reported that CBD, in rodents, had successfully reduced vascular tension, a condition that causes unnecessary strain in blood vessels.

What about the Endocannabinoid System? 

Our good friend, the Endocannabinoid System (ECS), contributes significantly to the overall condition of the heart. A recent study found that deficiencies in the ECS possibly contribute to chronic heart failure, and CBD is very useful in treating endocannabinoid deficiency. Further, the CB1 receptors regulate cardiovascular function in hypertension — high blood pressure.

Ladies, warning signs for heart troubles are difference from those in men. They can include:

  • Nausea
  • Unexplained Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Heavy Chest Pain
  • Radiating Pain
  • Breathlessness

It is important to be aware of all health risks and solutions.

Follow us on our social media to learn more about the health and wellness benefits of CBD. 

What is CBD?

“CBD (Cannabidiol) is a compound found in the cannabis plant that is devoid of psychoactive activity, with analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antineoplastic and chemopreventive activities” (National Cancer Institute).

There are hundreds of natural compounds found in the cannabis plant, most commonly known is the infamous “high” inducing compound THC. Since Dr. Mechoulam’s discovery of CBD and THC over 50 years ago, CBD has gained the spotlight as evidence of its medical benefits continue to grow. Not only can CBD actually counteract the psychoactive effects of THC, but it is a key player in resolving issues related to chronic pain, skin care, cognitive function, and anxiety when dosed responsibly.

Curious about how CBD works? It all relates to our endocannabinoid system (ECS). This natural-occuring biological network regulates numerous physiological processes including our stress response, intestinal functions, and glucose metabolism.

Still curious about the science behind CBD, check out our endocannabinoid blog for more information.

Here are some noteworthy benefits* of CBD….

Promotes Healthy Cognitive Function: CBD assists with memory, headaches, brain fog, focus, and learning. 

Promotes Healthy Joint Function: CBD helps decrease chronic joint pain and suppress muscle spasms, allowing for easier mobility. 

Promotes Overall Well-being: CBD is non-psychoactive, yet users experience an overall sense of well-being, calm and relaxation.

Helps Reduce Nausea and Vomiting: CBD activates a neurotransmitter that decreases the sensation of nausea.

Combats Anxiety and Depression: CBD binds to serotonin receptors to elicit an anti-anxiety effect. 

Improves Skin Complexion: CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system to protect against free radicals and prevent the build up of dead skin cells. 

*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

CBD oil and the entourage effect of THC is paving its way through history as more health benefits are discovered with each new study; whether you’re looking to clear up a skin disease or are suffering from chronic pain, CBD can help. However in order to allow CBD to mold into the major health benefactor its capable of becoming, we must end the stigma against cannabis.

We believe Everyone Deserves the Medicine They Need” therefore, our mission is to educate others about the responsible use and medicinal benefits of cannabis.

4 Reasons Why CBD Needs to be a Part of Your Resolutions

By Jennifer Simons, Certified Massage Therapist, Reiki Master, and Holistic Health Coach

What if I told you incorporating CBD into your athletic recovery plan for the New Year needs to be at the top of your Resolutions List?
CBD, the non-addictive, non-psychoactive gift from the cannabis plant doesn’t impair your mental cognition or get you high. In fact, it can improve your ability to focus and increase muscle recovery from over exertion or injury.

January 1st is the start of plans to be a new you. We all know getting in shape tops the list of resolutions. Meeting your goals requires a cocktail of adequate sleep (6-8 hours of sound shuteye), hydration, nutrition, consistency and recovery. After an intense workout, your muscles go through a recovery period and need nutrients to help them repair themselves. Recovery is the secret when it comes to reaching your goal.You can recover from a workout with the usual suspects like supports, foam rolling, stretching and rest … and yes, CBD!

Incorporate CBD into your recovery plan and fitness goals …
I. CBD Reduces Inflammation
Strenuous physical activity causes stress responses in the body, one of which is inflammation. Marc Feldman at Imperial College, London discovered in a lab setting that in the right doses CBD was found to reduce inflam­mation by a whopping 50 percent.

2. CBD Reduces Pain
CBD has made its name as an analgesic (pain reducer) powerhouse. It helps alleviate one of the most common byproducts of intense training and injuries – pain. Taken internally and/or topically pre and post-workout can deliver drastic reduction in pain. More and more athletes suffering from traumatic injuries or chronic pain are using cannabis-infused lotions and oils for treating muscle and joint pain. For athletes who turn to massage therapists for help, good news! CBD-infused massages are therapeutic for your therapist too.

 

3. CBD Improves Sleep
Sleep quality has a direct effect on your heart rate and energy level. According to Michael J. Breus, PhD (aka The Sleep Doctor), CBD has the ability to reduce stress and anxiety, which help improve sleep quality. Larger doses of CBD, Breus also suggests it can help improve insomnia. In smaller doses, CBD stimulates alertness and reduces daytime drowsiness, which puts more pep in your step.

4. CBD Speeds Up Weight Loss
Unlike THC and the “munchies;’ CBD doesn’t stimulate the appetite. In fact, it’s a natural appetite suppressor and may help those who want to lose weight. Even better – it stimulates fat metabolism, regulates blood sugar increases and calorie bum rate. I’d definitely suggest people who are prone to, or have Diabetes to consult a CBD expert about their recovery regimen.

Are You Ready?
The best part about using CBD, other than how it helps with your training recovery, is that it helps reduce stress, decrease inflammation, pain and anxiety all of which help your overall health and well-being. Are you ready to give your body what it naturally produces? Get your secret sauce here!

CBD Infused Massage Therapy: Should You Try It?

The hottest buzz in the spa world is the benefits of CBD infused products and massages. CBD is Non-Psychoactive and  Anti-inflammatory. Massage creams and oils infused with CBD, are inherently therapeutic for the mind and the body. Massage therapist and patients alike can reap these soul soothing benefits of an infused massage.  

What role does CBD play in the massage?

The anti-inflammatory and pain relieving agents of CBD reduces inflammation within muscles and joints, allowing the massage therapist to work more effectively. People seek massages as a way to relax and escape stress. For athletes, CBD also has the reputation for accelerating the recovery and healing process of injured connective tissue.

How CBD works?

The CBD receptors (known as CB2) are part of the endocannabinoid system, which is the physiological system that helps the homeostatic functions within the central nervous system. This includes maintenance of bodily functions, pain, inflammation, and the immune system.

CB2 receptors are found in nerve and immune cells in just about every organ. CBD binds to CB2 receptors as well as TRPV1 receptors. Damaged tissues sensitize TRPV1 to its chemical and physical stimuli. Adding massage further benefits the stimulation of TRPV1 activity and has a positive influence on the CB2 receptors, which helps alleviate inflammation and pain.

Will my massage therapist or I get high from this treatment?

No! CBD is the non-psychoactive compound of the cannabis plant. Even with low levels of THC, there is no high and subjects being drug tested after a CBD infused massage have tested negative for THC which is why professional athletes use these products.

Yes, try a CBD infused massage and experience the benefits!

It’s important to discuss these common questions and misconceptions to further the development of medicinal cannabis and its positive benefits. Relationships such as massage therapy and cannabis are just the beginning of cannabis’s role in our everyday health.

Endocannabinoid System – Part 1

As a pioneer in the cannabis industry, Cannaisseur Brands goal is to educate other about cannabis and its medicinal benefits. The most significant ingredient in our products, of course, is premium cannabidiol (CBD), a natural compound that has the ability to improve your physical health from the inside and out.

But why does CBD have such a positive reaction with our bodies? And how can it benefit us in so many ways? Well, the simple answer is: The endogenous cannabinoid system, otherwise referred to as the Endocannabinoid System (ECS).

 

How was the ECS discovered?

In the mid-1990s, an Israeli researcher Dr. Raphael Mechoulam discovered two main receptors that connect to both the endocannabinoids that our bodies naturally produce and plant-based cannabinoids like THC and CBD. These two receptors are known as cannabinoid 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid 2 (CB2) receptors.

The breakthrough of these receptors required working backwards, tracing the metabolic pathways of THC that led scientists to discover the unknown molecular signaling system that exists inside thousands of biological lifeforms.

 

What is the role of the ECS?

Rightfully named after the plant that aided in its discovery, the endocannabinoid system is a physiological system that controls and cares for your health. Endocannabinoids and its receptors can be found throughout the body, in the brain, organs, glands, and connective tissues. This system is actually responsible for helping maintain many of our bodily functions. It plays a crucial role from our immune system to our nervous system and because endocannabinoids are often found at intersections of our bodies’ various systems, it ultimately acts as a bridge between the body and the mind.

 

How does CBD benefit you?

The medicinal benefits that come from the proper use of CBD are seemingly limitless given the current science! CB2 receptors are mainly found in the immune system that binds with CBD and work as an anti-inflammatory agent for our body. There are immune boosting functions of CB2 that are activated by the proper use of CBD, which includes moderating the intoxicating effects of THC (aka psychoactive or high).

We hope we’ve answered a few of your questions on just why our products have such a positive impact on different aspects of your physical health. Stay tuned for more about the science behind our CBD products and how it can help with your specific needs!

CBD and Your Beauty Regimen

CBD is a natural and therapeutic compound found in the cannabis plants and is non-psychoactive. A patent by the U.S. National Institutes of Health shows CBD to possess significant antioxidant and neuroprotective properties.

In our previous posts, we’ve reported on the benefits of CBD for skin conditions of psoriasis and acne, but have you ever considered using cannabidiol (CBD) in your weekly beauty regimen?
A recent clinical trial reported in medicalmarijuanainc.com reported on the effects of a cannabidiol (CBD) facial serum and the feedback was astounding:

  • 100% found an overall improvement in skin appearance following two weeks of treatment
  • 85% of the women reported an improvement after the first seven days of treatment
  • 100% of the women said they noticed an improvement at the end of the 14 days of treatment
  • 80% of the participants specifically noticed an improvement in skin texture
  • 80% of the women reportedly noticed an improvement in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth

Closer to home, we found remarkable results with some of our customers. One customer in particular, Carla, used our CBD products and reported a marked improvement in her skin texture. Here is Carla’s account of using our product:

“I received a sample of CBD Essentials Whipped Cream and I decided to try something different. I have chronically oily skin and I used the Whipped Cream as face mask 2-3 times a week. After about a week, my skin texture and complexion improved dramatically. My skin is no longer visibly oily, and I don’t have to blot my face every few hours to avoid this embarrassing condition. Years ago, I used Accutane for severe acne. One of the side effects from this resulted in chronically dry lips. I have tried just about every lip product out there and nothing has seemed to heal my dry lips, and in fact left them drier than before. A few months ago, I began using Aryn’s Essentials CBD lip balm. I started off using it everyday and my lips dramatically improved. I’m a lifelong believer and advocate of CBD and will be using Aryn’s Essentials for years to come”.
– Carla, 22 years old

Made from premium ingredients, our CBD products are a perfect option to use for your beauty regimen. With its multiple benefits, it can be used as a daily moisturizer, sunscreen or a weekly face mask! Yes, that’s right, you can pamper yourself! Just lather it on so it’s thick enough for a mask and leave it on for 10 minutes and wipe off with a warm washcloth. You will see and feel the difference immediately!

For more information on our therapeutic CBD products, please visit our website at www.cannastagin.wpengine.com

Treating Acne with CBD

Acne vulgaris is the most common human skin disease, affecting the quality of life of millions worldwide. In fact, in the United States, acne affects up to 50 million Americans annually according to the American Academy of Dermatology.  The costs associated to treat acne exceed $3 billion.

Acne is characterized by the outbreak of pimples, as well as blackheads, whiteheads, that generally appear on the face, neck and back. These symptoms, whether of genetic, hormonal, or infectious origins, are mainly caused by an excessive secretion of sebum also known as sebocytes.  Typical treatments consist of oral antibiotics which can be taxing on your body, or expensive creams, which can be taxing on your wallet.

Cannabis, specifically, CBD may be the answer to treating acne. While THC is known to increase oil production, CBD has the exact opposite effect. With acne, the body over-produces oil. This oil is known as sebum, and it’s excreted by the sebaceous glands in the skin.

Dr. Tamas Biro, a Hungarian scientist, decided to put CBD to the test. He wanted to see how the CBD interacted with the natural endocannabinoids our own bodies produce. Endocannabinoids help regulate hair growth, oil production, and immune response in the skin and play a major role in determining how much sebum is produced in the skin. When Biro applied non-psychoactive CBD to these skin cells, he noticed that oil production stopped.

Another study focused on the impact of cutaneous cannabinoid system and CBD on acne.  The results concluded that when cannabidiol was used on sebaceous glands (which secrete an oily sebum, which can result oily skin and/or obstructed pores), the proliferation of sebocytes decreased significantly. The study further concluded that CBD has potential as a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of acne vulgaris and exerts universal anti-inflammatory action.

CBD based topicals are the easiest and most cost-effective way to administer CBD for the treatment of acne.  In an era where many mainstream topicals are filled with harmful ingredients such as parabens and sulfites, CBD is plant based with zero side effects.  Cannaisseur Brands offers premium, organic CBD in multiple applications including creams, oils and tinctures.