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Canntic Lumi 23% Strain Review (Chocolate Mint x GMO) (Photos)

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Canntic’s Lumi is an indica-dominant hybrid that blends the best of its Chocolate Mint and GMO lineages to provide a potent, tasty high. Lumi provides a powerful yet balanced experience, making it a great option for both relaxing and creative sessions. Lumi stands out in Canntic’s lineup for its earthy, sweet, and piney flavour profile, as well as its frosty, trichome-coated buds.

Product Overview

  • Type: Hybrid (Indica-dominant)
  • THC: 23%
  • Lineage: Chocolate Mint x GMO (Garlic Cookies)
  • Primary Terpenes: D-Limonene, Caryophyllene, Myrcene, Linalool
  • Flavour: Earthy, Citrus, Piney
  • Aroma: Pungent, earthy, with sweet pine undertones
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Appearance & Aroma

The buds of Lumi are medium to large, dense, and well-formed, showcasing a classic indica structure. The nugs have a slightly rugged yet solid look, with deep green hues accented by light brown pistils weaving through the surface. A generous coating of trichomes gives the flower a frosted appearance that sparkles subtly under natural light.

The aroma is a mix of earthy and pungent tones, complemented by sweet pine and subtle hints of citrus that become more noticeable when I broke the buds apart. A subtle gassy smell lingers in the background, hats off to its GMO (Garlic Cookies) lineage, resulting in a complex, layered fragrance character with a lingering impact.

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Flavour

Lumi’s flavour is robust and layered, delivering a consistent blend of earthy and sweet tones on the inhale, with a piney, citrus finish on the exhale, while the caryophyllene provides a spicy, herbal kick. I found the flavour remains consistent throughout, whether smoked or vaped, offering a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Experience

Lumi’s effects are well-balanced, beginning with a relaxing cerebral boost that clears the mind. As the high advances, indica dominance takes hold, resulting in a peaceful body relaxation that relieves stress. This mix makes Lumi a versatile choice – perfect for unwinding after a long day.

The onset is smooth, it takes about 10-15 minutes to fully settle in. I found it more ideal for the evenings, particularly when one is looking to decompress after a work day, it provides a calming yet functional experience, but it can also work during the day if consumed in moderation.

Brand Overview

The Black Label is Canntic’s premium flower collection, meticulously handpicked and obtained from elite Canadian producers. Their thorough process ensures a consistent and dependable experience with each strain, making the Black Label line an excellent choice for cannaseurs seeking high-quality products.

The range currently consists of two products – Lumi & Nina – both of which sport solid well know strains such as: Chocolate Mint x GMO (Lumi) and Grape Sherbert x Orange Sherbert (Nina).

Final Thoughts

Canntic Lumi strikes a perfect balance between potency, flavour, and versatility. Its earthy, sweet, and piney profile paired with balanced effects makes it an excellent choice for evening relaxation or calm and focused creative sessions. With its GMO and Chocolate Mint genetics, Lumi delivers a premium hybrid experience that I think any cannaseur will appreciate.

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟 (4/5)

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Canntic Bottlebrush 22% Cannabis Strain Review (Wedding Cake x Animal Cookies) (Photos)

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Bottlebrush by The Natural Flower Company is a collaboration between Canntic and Medicrop to supply Aussie grown Medicinal Cannabis, with both companies based in Queensland. Bottlebrush is the first flower in this range and is a Queensland-grown, indica-dominant hybrid that combines the sweet and sour aroma of Wedding Cake and Animal Cookies with a robust, dessert-like flavour profile. With 22% THC and a terpene blend featuring Caryophyllene, Limonene, and Myrcene, this strain is designed to help users relax, de-stress, and prepare for a restful night’s sleep.

Overview

  • Type: Indica-Dominant Hybrid
  • THC: 22%
  • Lineage: Wedding Cake x Animal Cookies
  • Primary Terpenes: D-Limonene, Caryophyllene, Myrcene, Linalool
  • Flavor: Sweet and tangy with notes of cake, cookies, and a slight sour twist
  • Aroma: Sweet and sour with hints of vanilla and herbal undertones
  • Consumption Method: Dry Herb Vaporizer
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Appearance & Aroma

The buds of Bottlebrush are medium-sized, densely packed, and slightly rugged in structure. Olive-green tones dominate the nugs, accented by bright orange pistils, and they are well cured.

In terms of aroma, the Bottlebrush brings a peppery, musky scent with sweet and sour undertones. Break it apart, and you’ll discover more earthy layers, creating a complex profile that reflects its parent genetics.

Flavour

The flavour of Bottlebrush leans toward its dessert genetics, offering a tangy sweetness with earthy undertones. There’s a natural, clean quality to the taste, reminiscent of outdoor-grown buds, with a peppery aftertaste that lingered on my palate. This distinctive note is likely due to the dominant presence of Beta-Caryophyllene in its terpene profile.

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Experience

Bottlebrush delivers a gradual build-up of effects, taking about 5-15 minutes to fully set in. The high begins with a cerebral, and heady buzz that’s stoney yet soothing. I found it’s more ideal for evening sessions and helps to ease both my mind and body – though I noticed it had stronger effects on my mind than body.

Brand Overview

Canntic is an Australian cannabis company based on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland. Working closely with local and international growers, Canntic focuses on delivering accessible and quality flower. Their Community Label offers budget-friendly options, starting at $59 for 10g, while their Black Label caters to the “cannasseurs”, which is priced from $145 for 10g.

Final Thoughts

Canntic’s Bottlebrush (Wedding Cake x Animal Cookies) offers a stoney, calming high with a flavour profile that combines sweet, sour, and earthy notes. While it may not boast the flashy aesthetics of more premium strains, its affordability and effectiveness make it a solid choice for those seeking locally grown flower.

One of the things I love most about the cannabis industry and culture is its inclusivity—there’s an accessory, consumption method, or strain to suit everyone, no matter their preferences or budget.

Next up, I plan to explore Canntic’s Black Label to see how their craft offerings compare to their label, The Natural Flower Company.

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟 3.5/5

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Superbly Green Zingy Vape Cart (Sativa) (Photos)

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Overview

  • THC: 800mg/g
  • CBG: 40mg/g
  • Plant Species: Sativa
  • Cultivar: Mimosa
  • Aromas & Flavors: Sweet, Citrus
  • Spectrum: Full Spectrum
  • Schedule: 8

Appearance

The product development team at Superbly Green has clearly put a lot of effort into the design of the Zingy Cartridge. The unit itself stands out with the strain name etched onto the glass and bold “ZINGY” branding displayed. The oil is a beautiful golden color with a refined clarity that instantly suggests quality. While the hardware itself is standard and in line with other cartridges on the market, the design details give it a premium feel.

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Flavour

In terms of flavour into citrus, with hints of lime, lemon, and grapefruit coming through. It tastes fresh and natural, which is likely due to a combination of the LSO (Living Organic Soil) flower and meticulous extraction methods. So far, I’m halfway through the cartridge, I have found the flavor has remained consistent – Unlike some other distillate carts that can turn murky and develop a metallic taste over time, yum.

Potency

The onset of effects takes about 15-30 minutes, depending on how much you use, and the high is more on the energizing and balanced side rather than cerebral or heavy. It feels “light” and uplifting, making it a good option for daytime use or when you need to stay functional and focused. While the effects don’t pack an intense punch, they are steady and pleasant, which aligns well with the strain’s Sativa-leaning profile.

Experience

As with many distillate cartridges, the vapor can be a bit harsh if you’re not careful with the temperature settings. I found using a lower-temp 510 battery and taking shorter draws (3-5 seconds) made for a smoother experience. The vapor production is light and wispy—not the thick clouds you’d expect from nicotine vapes, but typical for distillate carts. I did experience some clogging, this is totally normal for cartridges to do so. If I had a pre-heat function on my battery it would be a completely different story. In regard to 510 batteries, I try to avoid the auto-inhale variants for this reason, most of them don’t have the pre-heat function.

Value

At $129, the Zingy cartridge is priced fairly for what it offers. Considering the effort Superbly Green puts into cultivating high-quality LSO (Living Soil Organic) flower before turning it into distillate, I can appreciate the process. While there are cheaper options on the market, they often sacrifice longevity and flavour, becoming murky and unpleasant over time. That said, the hardware issues are a downside, and I’d love to see Superbly experiment with a live resin option in the future.

Brand Reputation

Superbly Green is an Australian cannabis brand based in Northern Rivers, NSW, known for their small-batch, organically grown flower. They emphasize sustainable and clean growing practices, making them a standout in the local market. Their attention to detail and commitment to quality is evident in their products, including the Zingy cartridge.

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Final Thoughts

Bunny approved ✅

The Zingy cartridge by Superbly Green delivers a well-rounded experience with vibrant citrus flavors and balanced effects, making it an excellent choice for daytime use. The distillate stands out for its quality and consistency.

At $129, it offers solid value for an Australian-made product that emphasizes craftsmanship and quality. I think with a few tweaks to the hardware and the addition of a live resin variant, this product could easily staple.

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟 (4/5)

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Johns Hopkins University Is Seeking Volunteers for a Psilocybin Clinical Trial

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Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research is recruiting volunteers for a pioneering study on psilocybin microdosing. This research aims to assess whether microdoses of psilocybin can be safely administered at home, setting the stage for broader therapeutic applications of this psychedelic compound.

Key Takeaways:

Study Purpose: Johns Hopkins is researching the safety of psilocybin microdosing for at-home use, aiming to expand its potential for mental health treatments.

Dosing Protocol: Participants will receive ascending doses (1.2–4.2 mg) and one placebo over five single-blind sessions to assess safety and tolerability.

Potential Impact: The research could establish evidence-based guidelines for psilocybin microdosing, paving the way for accessible and safe therapeutic applications.

Volunteer Opportunity: Healthy adults aged 21–60 can contribute to groundbreaking psychedelic research by participating in the study.

About the Study

The study aims to determine safe microdosing levels of psilocybin trihydrate for at-home use in healthy participants. Psilocybin, the active ingredient in certain psychedelic mushrooms, has garnered attention for its potential to improve mood, cognition, and mental health outcomes. This trial focuses on ensuring that low doses are both safe and practical for non-clinical settings.

Participants will receive ascending doses of psilocybin trihydrate (1.2 mg, 2.0 mg, 3.0 mg, and 4.2 mg) alongside a randomized placebo dose. These will be administered on separate days in a single-blind format. During each session, participants will complete questionnaires and undergo safety evaluations to assess the tolerability of each dose.

Study Procedures and Goals

This study seeks to enroll 20 healthy participants who will complete all required procedures. After a comprehensive screening process, including medical and psychological evaluations, participants will begin the study with baseline assessments before their first dosing session.

Key elements of the study include:

  • Five single-blind laboratory dosing sessions, where ascending doses of psilocybin and one placebo dose will be administered.
  • Safety criteria assessments for each dose to determine whether it meets standards for at-home use.
  • Identification of the highest safe dose for future studies if all participants tolerate a specific dose without adverse effects.

The ultimate goal is to identify a psilocybin microdose that can be safely administered outside a clinical setting, advancing the development of innovative treatment options.

Significance of the Research

Johns Hopkins University has been a leader in psychedelic research, exploring the therapeutic potential of psilocybin for conditions such as depression, PTSD, and anxiety. While many studies focus on high-dose applications, this research highlights the growing interest in microdosing—a practice popularized for its perceived ability to enhance mood and cognitive performance.

The findings from this study could pave the way for safer, evidence-based guidelines for psilocybin microdosing, making it more accessible as a mental health treatment option.

How to Participate

Eligible participants must be between 21 and 60 years old, in good medical and psychiatric health, and willing to travel to the Johns Hopkins Bayview campus for the study. Participation involves multiple visits and a commitment to completing all study procedures.

For more information or to volunteer, contact the research team at 410-999-8066 or via email at [email protected]. By participating, volunteers will contribute to a growing body of research that could redefine mental health treatment options worldwide.

Sign up here: Apply

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Orange Cake Deltra Tetra Strain Review (California Orange x Mimosa) (Photo)

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Orange Cake by Delta Tetra is a hybrid strain that’s as bright and refreshing as its name suggests. With its vibrant citrus flavors and balanced effects, it’s become a favorite for those looking for something uplifting yet soothing. Whether you’re gearing up for a creative project or winding down after a busy day, this strain delivers a smooth experience with plenty of versatility.

Strain Overview

  • Type: Hybrid (balanced)
  • THC: 25%
  • CBD: 0.1%
  • Lineage: California Orange x Mimosa
  • Primary Terpenes: Limonene, Beta-Caryophyllene, Myrcene
  • Flavor: Sweet orange zest, creamy cake, with a hint of spice
  • Aroma: Fresh citrus, cake batter, and earthy undertones
  • Price Range: $130 | 10g Jar

Appearance & Aroma

The buds of Orange Cake are chunky and well-cured, with a dense, tightly packed structure. Each nug is coated in a generous layer of frosty trichomes, giving it a sparkling, almost sugary look. The colors range from vibrant lime green to lighter golden tones, with clusters of fiery orange pistils woven throughout—definitely the kind of flower that screams top-shelf quality.

The aroma hits you right out of the jar, combining the brightness of fresh orange zest with a creamy, sweet undertone that’s reminiscent of cake batter. Breaking open the buds intensifies the scent, adding a subtle earthiness that perfectly rounds out the profile.

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Flavor

The flavor of Orange Cake lives up to its name. On the inhale, you’re hit with a sweet and tangy burst of orange zest, almost like biting into a ripe orange. The exhale brings out a creamy sweetness, with a hint of spice lingering in the background. The balance of citrus and dessert-like flavors is smooth and consistent, and there’s no artificial or harsh aftertaste. It’s a genuinely enjoyable smoke or vape from start to finish.

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Experience

Orange Cake delivers a smooth, well-balanced experience that’s versatile enough for any time of day. The effects come on quickly, usually within 5 to 10 minutes, starting with a light mental uplift that clears your mind and helps you focus. You’ll feel a noticeable improvement in mood, accompanied by a touch of euphoria that doesn’t overwhelm. As the high progresses, it transitions into a gentle physical relaxation, easing stress and tension without leaving you feeling couch-locked or overly sedated. It’s ideal for everything from daytime productivity to relaxed evening sessions, making it a true hybrid that adapts to your needs.

Brand Overview

Delta Tetra by Treehouse Brands have quickly become a respected name in the Australian medicinal cannabis scene. With premium small-batch flower and a focus on terpene preservation, Delta Tetra represents a commitment to innovation and quality. Their strains, like Orange Cake, are crafted with care to meet the needs of both connoisseurs and patients.

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Final Thoughts

Orange Cake by Delta Tetra is a standout hybrid with vibrant citrus flavors and smooth, balanced effects. Its top-shelf quality is evident in both its appearance and flavor, and the versatility of its high makes it a great choice for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re looking to spark creativity during the day or unwind in the evening, this strain delivers.

Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟 (4/5)

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FDA Approves Study of Cannabis for PTSD Treatment

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Key Takeaways

  • The FDA has approved a study to investigate cannabis as a treatment for PTSD.
  • The study aims to determine how cannabis can manage symptoms like anxiety, flashbacks, and hyperarousal.
  • Cannabis compounds such as THC and CBD interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to regulate mood and stress.
  • If successful, this research could lead to improved PTSD treatments and influence cannabis policy reform.
  • The study highlights the importance of reducing the stigma around medical cannabis use.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a landmark study to explore cannabis as a treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This decision is a significant step in advancing medical cannabis research, offering hope to those who struggle with managing PTSD symptoms through traditional treatments.

PTSD impacts millions worldwide, particularly veterans, trauma survivors, and individuals exposed to extreme stress. While therapy and prescription medications are common treatments, they don’t always provide adequate relief. Cannabis, which contains compounds like THC and CBD, is being explored for its potential to regulate mood, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep. The FDA’s approval signals growing interest in cannabis as a legitimate treatment option for mental health conditions.

The study will focus on understanding how cannabis can help manage PTSD symptoms such as chronic anxiety, flashbacks, nightmares, and hyperarousal. By evaluating different cannabis formulations and dosages, researchers aim to determine which combinations work best to alleviate these symptoms. This research could serve as a foundation for more personalized, effective PTSD treatment plans.

Cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates mood, stress, and fear responses. Preliminary findings suggest cannabis may offer benefits for PTSD patients, including reduced anxiety, improved sleep, and lowered stress responses. However, more comprehensive studies like this FDA-approved trial are essential to confirm these effects and establish safety guidelines.

The implications of this study could extend beyond PTSD. If cannabis is shown to be effective, it may lead to policy changes at the federal and state levels, broadening access to medical cannabis. The FDA’s support also helps reduce the stigma associated with cannabis use, encouraging patients and healthcare providers to discuss it as part of a treatment strategy.

The approval of this study represents a significant milestone in medical cannabis research, potentially paving the way for better treatment options for PTSD patients and advancing the broader conversation about cannabis in healthcare.

By supporting this research, the FDA is advancing the potential of cannabis to become a key part of modern mental health treatment. For individuals struggling with PTSD, this study may provide new hope and a pathway to better care.

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Illinois: Cannabis Science Gets a Boost with Major Research Initiative

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The University of Illinois System has taken a huge step forward in the cannabis industry with the launch of a state-funded Cannabis Research Institute. This multi-million-dollar initiative marks a significant leap toward advancing cannabis research, focusing on areas like medical innovation, economic growth, and public health.

Why This Initiative Matters

The cannabis industry is booming, but there’s still much to learn about its potential and challenges. Illinois’ Cannabis Research Institute aims to bridge the gaps in knowledge, addressing key issues such as safety, sustainability, and policy development.

The initiative is set to have a major impact in several areas:

  • Advancing medical research to explore cannabis’ therapeutic potential.
  • Driving economic growth by fostering industry innovation and job creation.
  • Informing public policy with evidence-based insights.

Key Focus Areas of the Cannabis Research Institute

Medical Advancements

One of the institute’s priorities is to understand how cannabis can be used to treat a wide range of medical conditions. Research will explore its effectiveness for chronic pain, anxiety, epilepsy, and other health challenges, with an emphasis on developing evidence-based applications.

Sustainability

Large-scale cannabis cultivation presents environmental challenges. The institute will study sustainable farming practices, energy-efficient cultivation methods, and strategies to reduce water usage. These efforts aim to ensure that the industry grows responsibly.

Safety and Accessibility

Ensuring consumer safety is critical. The institute will focus on product quality, safe dosages, and potential side effects. It will also explore ways to make cannabis more accessible to those who need it most, including patients and marginalized communities.

Social Equity

Acknowledging the disproportionate impact of past cannabis regulations on certain communities, the initiative includes a strong focus on social equity. It seeks to ensure that the benefits of research and industry growth are distributed fairly.

Illinois as a Leader in Cannabis Innovation

Illinois has already made waves in the cannabis industry, with over $1 billion in sales and reinvestment in community programs since legalizing recreational use. The Cannabis Research Institute solidifies the state’s reputation as a pioneer by combining economic progress with a commitment to public health and sustainability.

What This Means for the Future

The launch of the Cannabis Research Institute is more than a state milestone—it’s a model for global cannabis research. By fostering collaboration between scientists, industry leaders, and policymakers, Illinois is paving the way for innovation that could shape the industry worldwide.

From developing new medical treatments to advancing sustainability, the work conducted here has the potential to redefine the cannabis landscape, benefitting both consumers and businesses alike.

Conclusion

Illinois’ bold investment in cannabis research is a visionary step forward. By addressing critical knowledge gaps and fostering meaningful innovation, the Cannabis Research Institute is poised to unlock new opportunities and set a global standard for how research can drive industry progress.

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Chicago’s J.P. Graziano Introduces THC-Infused Giardiniera in Collaboration with nuEra

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Key Takeaways:

  • J.P. Graziano, a renowned Chicago-based Italian grocery, has partnered with cannabis company nuEra to create GiardinuEra, a THC-infused version of their classic giardiniera.
  • Each 4-ounce jar contains 25mg of THC and is priced at $14, available at nuEra locations and select dispensaries in Illinois.
  • This collaboration reflects a growing trend of integrating cannabis into traditional culinary products, offering consumers unique and localized edible experiences.

In a fusion of culinary tradition and modern cannabis culture, Chicago’s esteemed Italian grocery, J.P. Graziano, has teamed up with local cannabis company nuEra to launch GiardinuEra—a THC-infused rendition of their iconic giardiniera. This innovative product combines the classic spicy pickled condiment with cannabis, offering a novel experience for consumers.

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Source: Chicago Eater

A Culinary Tradition Meets Cannabis Innovation

Giardiniera, a staple in Chicago’s culinary scene, is traditionally used to enhance dishes like Italian beef sandwiches, pizzas, and burgers. J.P. Graziano, a family-owned business operating since 1937, is renowned for its authentic Italian offerings, with giardiniera being a flagship product. The collaboration with nuEra emerged when a long-time customer, now working with the cannabis company, proposed the idea, aligning with J.P. Graziano’s interest in exploring the cannabis market.

Product Details and Availability

GiardinuEra is crafted using J.P. Graziano’s hot giardiniera recipe, infused with 25mg of THC per 4-ounce jar. Priced at $14, this limited-edition product is available exclusively at nuEra dispensaries and select other locations across Illinois. Given the THC content, it is intended for consumers aged 21 and over.

The Growing Trend of Cannabis-Infused Culinary Products

This collaboration reflects a broader trend of incorporating cannabis into traditional food items, catering to consumers seeking unique edible experiences. By blending a beloved local condiment with cannabis, J.P. Graziano and nuEra offer a product that resonates with Chicago’s rich culinary heritage while embracing contemporary cannabis culture.

Conclusion

The introduction of GiardinuEra marks a significant milestone in the evolving landscape of cannabis-infused foods. For Chicagoans and visitors alike, it presents an opportunity to experience a cherished local delicacy with a modern twist, reflecting the dynamic interplay between tradition and innovation in the city’s food scene.

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Cannabis in Dementia Care: Exploring Potential Benefits and Challenges

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Key Takeaways:

  • Cannabis is increasingly being explored as a treatment to alleviate symptoms associated with dementia, such as anxiety, agitation, and sleep disturbances.
  • Preliminary studies and anecdotal evidence suggest potential benefits, but comprehensive clinical research is still needed to confirm efficacy and safety.
  • Caregivers and healthcare providers are considering cannabis as an alternative when traditional medications prove ineffective or cause adverse side effects.
  • The legal status of cannabis varies by region, impacting accessibility for patients and families seeking this form of treatment.

Dementia, encompassing conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, presents significant challenges for patients and caregivers due to symptoms such as agitation, anxiety, and disrupted sleep patterns. Traditional treatments often involve anti-psychotic medications, which may have limited effectiveness and undesirable side effects. In this context, cannabis has emerged as a potential alternative therapy, garnering attention for its possible role in managing dementia-related symptoms.

Potential Benefits of Cannabis for Dementia Symptoms

Some healthcare professionals have observed that cannabis may help alleviate certain behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia. Dr. Jeffrey Hergenrather, a general practitioner specializing in cannabis consultations, notes that approximately 20% of his patients seek cannabis treatment for dementia-related issues. Patients and caregivers report improvements in anxiety levels, agitation, and sleep quality, contributing to an enhanced quality of life. (wsj.com)

Current Research and Evidence

While anecdotal reports are promising, scientific research on cannabis use in dementia care remains in its early stages. A recent study involving 75 Alzheimer’s patients indicated that administering 5 mg of synthetic THC twice daily significantly reduced agitation compared to a placebo. However, the study also reported increased drowsiness among some participants, highlighting the need for further investigation into optimal dosing and potential side effects. (hopkinsmedicine.org)

The Alzheimer’s Association emphasizes the necessity for more comprehensive research to understand the benefits and risks of cannabis use in dementia treatment. Currently, there is no conclusive evidence supporting cannabis as a treatment or prevention method for Alzheimer’s disease. (alz.org)

Considerations for Caregivers and Patients

For caregivers contemplating cannabis as a treatment option, several factors should be considered:

  • Consult Healthcare Providers: Engage with medical professionals to discuss potential benefits and risks, considering the patient’s overall health and existing medications.
  • Legal Status: Be aware of the legal status of cannabis in your region, as it varies and may affect accessibility.
  • Monitor Effects: Carefully observe the patient’s response to cannabis, noting any improvements or adverse reactions, and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.

Conclusion

The exploration of cannabis in dementia care reflects a growing interest in alternative therapies to manage challenging symptoms. While preliminary findings and personal accounts suggest potential benefits, the current lack of extensive clinical research necessitates caution. Caregivers and patients should collaborate closely with healthcare providers to make informed decisions, balancing the promise of symptom relief with the need for safety and efficacy.

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New Study: Cannabis Use Linked to Reduced Alcohol and Other Drugs Consumption

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  • Cannabis as a Substitute: Many people find cannabis helpful in reducing the use of more harmful substances, particularly alcohol, opioids, and methamphetamine.
  • Demographic Differences: Young adults and the Māori population in New Zealand show significant substitution patterns, while adolescents exhibit mixed effects.
  • Harm Reduction: Increased cannabis access might offer safer alternatives for individuals at risk of substance misuse, potentially decreasing alcohol and methamphetamine abuse.
  • Cultural Shifts: Attitudes toward cannabis are changing, with more adults in the U.S. viewing it as less harmful and more beneficial than alcohol and opioids.

A new study from New Zealand has found that cannabis might serve as a substitute for more harmful substances, such as alcohol, opioids, and methamphetamine, reducing the consumption of these drugs for many users. Surveying 23,500 people, researchers revealed that cannabis use could play a significant role in harm reduction, especially among younger adults.

Key Findings

The study showed a considerable reduction in the use of certain drugs among cannabis users:

  • Alcohol: 60% of respondents reported drinking less.
  • Synthetic Cannabinoids: 60% reduced their use.
  • Morphine: 44% used less.
  • Methamphetamine: 40% lowered their intake.

For some, cannabis did not impact the usage of other drugs, such as LSD, MDMA, and cocaine. However, one-third of respondents who used both cannabis and tobacco reported smoking less.

Age and Demographic Impact

Younger adults (ages 21-35) were more likely to report that cannabis reduced their alcohol and methamphetamine use. Adolescents (ages 16-20) had mixed outcomes, with some reporting increased use of other substances. The Māori population in New Zealand, along with young men, noted significant reductions in alcohol and other drug use after starting cannabis, despite high baseline rates of hazardous drinking.

Variability Across Jurisdictions

The findings align with mixed results seen in other regions. For example:

  • U.S. College Students: In areas where cannabis is legalized, some studies observed a decrease in binge drinking among students over 21, though the same effect wasn’t seen in younger students.
  • Alcohol Sales Post-Legalization: In Canada, legalization correlated with decreased beer sales. In the U.S., monthly alcohol purchases dropped in some legalized states.

Potential Reasons for Substitution

Researchers suggest that similar neurological effects, social acceptability, and price comparisons between alcohol and cannabis may drive this substitution. Studies also indicate that some people use cannabis specifically to reduce alcohol consumption and avoid related negative outcomes.

Implications for Harm Reduction

The study highlights potential benefits of increased cannabis access:

  1. Reducing Excessive Drinking: Among young adults with high rates of risky drinking, cannabis could offer a safer alternative.
  2. Mitigating Methamphetamine Use: Cannabis might help individuals decrease methamphetamine consumption or support treatment for meth-related issues.

Some programs advocate for community-led harm reduction models that provide cannabis at low cost to people with substance use issues.

Observations in the U.S. and Canada

Public perception aligns with the study’s findings, as recent surveys show Americans increasingly view cannabis as less harmful and addictive than alcohol or opioids. Polls reveal that more Americans now smoke cannabis daily than consume alcohol daily.

This research contributes to a growing understanding of how cannabis legalization may affect other drug use, indicating potential benefits for harm reduction and public health.

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