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Cannabis and the Opioid Epidemic

Cannabis and the Opioid Epidemic

What if you could replace synthetic prescription pills with a natural alternative?
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of many compounds called cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Due to its non-psychoactive properties CBD has been explored for potential in treating neuropathic pain and inflammation. There’s also promising evidence that CBD may be useful in treating substance use disorders including addiction to opioids, cocaine, nicotine, and amphetamines.

More than 115 Americans die every day from an opioid overdose, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. This epidemic is the number one cause of accidental death and is devastating American lives, families, and communities. Not to mention the increasing economic burden incurred from overdose deaths related to prescription drugs.

However, rather than reaching for the nearest pill bottle, more and more people are choosing cannabis as a natural alternative for pain management. Premium CBD has been shown to provide the same relief of prescription pills only without the major long-term side effects.

A study published in July 2016 in Health Affairs showed that the use of prescription drugs for which marijuana could serve as a clinical alternative “fell significantly” saving hundreds of millions of dollars among users of Medicare Part D. These findings reinforce the possible therapeutic benefits of non-psychoactive cannabinoids. This also suggests that the main use for CBD is for pain management, which if regulated properly, could be a more effective and safe alternative to treating pain.  

 

 

[/column][column grid=”2″ span=”1″] Because of this, many athletes are pushing for the right to use cannabis products as part of their recovery process from sports related injuries. Former NFL player, Jim McMahon has passed his injury-prone days on the field but now thanks medical cannabis for helping him get off narcotic pain pills. He highlights that sports medicine would greatly benefit from a natural pain reliever such as CBD, due to the increasing number of athletes coming out of their careers addicted to opioids. Additionally, there have been signs of reduced opioid-related abuse, treatment admissions, and deaths in areas with access to medicinal cannabis access, according to the Journal of Health Economics.

As cannabinoids continue to show promising evidence of reducing the likelihood of a drug relapse, our focus should remain on educating others of alternative medical options to treatment of pain.

 

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Medicinal Cannabis Helps Provide Relief for Parkinson’s Disease Patients

April marks Parkinson’s awareness month. How does this relate to medicinal cannabis? 

Recent studies have shown the positive effects of cannabinoidsand various blends of terpenes that inproper ratios can have positive effects on Parkinson’s patients by providing significant relief from the disease’s most debilitating symptoms.  

Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects the dopamine producing neurons in the brain, progressively, causing dopamine levels to drop and seizing overall production of dopamine. Common symptoms include tremors as well as shaking of limbs and hands, rigid muscles, sleep issues, muscle spasms, balance loss, cognitive function problems, and dementia or memory loss. A patient suffering from these symptoms must cope with impairment of motor control.

The endocannabinoid system is essentially a large cell receptor system in the body, and the use of cannabinoids engages this system. As we know, the endocannabinoid system is responsible for the regulation of almost everything including mobility, the immune system, sleep, memory, and appetite. The cannabinoids have neuro-protectant, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for managing Parkinson’s disease. When activated, the endocannabinoid system has a neuroprotective effect that attempts to mitigate neural damage that Parkinson’s disease brings on.

Let’s get specific.

There are exactregions of the brain the cannabinoids are connected to that aid in the relief of symptoms. The primary region of the brain affected by Parkinson’s, the basal ganglia, has a high concentration of CB1 receptors that can be activated by and binds with THC, most abundantly found in cannabis. If used on its own, THC can actually worsen motor symptoms, which is where the entourage effect comes into play.

Both THC and CBD are needed in a ratio in order for CBD creams to work effectively. The interactive relationship between the two cannabis compounds is often referred to as “the entourage effect,” which describes the effect chemicals can have on the human body only through combination.

While THC and CBD alone can help relieve specific symptoms of stress or nausea, when combined and blended with other cannabinoids, Premium CBD can reduce the hallucinatory effects of THC and can strengthen each other’s effects. Therefore, when multiple components of cannabis interact together, it’s able to generate a much stronger influence on health and become more medically beneficial.

The benefits medicinal cannabis provide for Parkinson’s patients include:
  • Arthritis relief
  • Anti-inflammatory agents
  • Anti-psychotic effects
  • Relief from neuropathic pain symptoms – pain caused by damaged nerves
  • Sleep aid

CBD has also been shown to have neuroprotective and anti-psychotic impacts on Parkinson’s disease patients, enabling them to experience improvements in movement impairments and sleep disturbances. Overall, it appears the entourage effect of CBD and THC have a promising future in aiding those suffering from Parkinson’s disease.

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.

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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!