Cannabis has been shown to have sexually stimulating properties, hence enhancing sexual encounters. The cannabinoid profile of cannabis influences sexual functionality, with excessive THC levels potentially spoiling the pleasure. Cannabis’s muscle relaxant qualities can hinder men’s sexual functioning, although it may assist women. Cannabis indirectly improves sexual functioning by reducing anxiety and boosting relaxation, and daily and weekly users had higher sexual frequency than non-users.

Historically, cannabis has been seen as an aphrodisiac, enhancing sexual desire and arousal. Recent studies confirm these effects, with women reporting higher rates of increased desire than men. Users often use cannabis to boost sexual desire and reduce pain during sex.

Cannabis has an impact on several stages of the sexual response cycle. Cannabis’s vasodilator effects may impact female lubrication during the excitation phase and induce erectile dysfunction in males. It can make foreplay last longer and more enjoyable.

Cannabis usage is connected with extended intercourse during the plateau phase, which could be attributed to impaired time perception. Orgasm intensity and pleasure are frequently reported to increase with cannabis consumption. However, frequent male users may have difficulty achieving orgasm.

Cannabis also improves sensuality, specifically taste and touch, resulting in a more delicate and relaxed sexual experience.

Conclusion

Given the increased everyday usage of cannabis as a result of legalization, additional study is required to update and clarify the existing, sometimes contradictory, literature on its effects on sexual functioning and satisfaction.

Key Takeaways:

1. Enhancement of Sexual Encounters: Cannabis can enhance sexual experiences due to its sexually stimulating properties.
2. Cannabinoid Profile: The effects on sexual functionality depend on the cannabinoid profile, with excessive THC potentially diminishing pleasure.
3. Gender-Specific Effects: Cannabis’s muscle relaxant properties may hinder men’s sexual functioning but can benefit women.
4. Reduction of Anxiety: Cannabis indirectly improves sexual functioning by reducing anxiety and increasing relaxation, leading to higher sexual frequency among regular users.
5. Historical Aphrodisiac: Historically, cannabis has been known to enhance sexual desire and arousal, a finding confirmed by recent studies.
6. Enhanced Sensuality: Cannabis improves the senses, particularly taste and touch, leading to a more delicate and relaxed sexual experience.
7. Plateau Phase: Associated with prolonged intercourse due to altered time perception.
8. Orgasm: Increases orgasm intensity and pleasure but may cause difficulties in achieving orgasm for frequent male users.

Reference:

• Cohen 1982
• Palamar et al. 2018
• Small 2017
• Sun and Eisenberg 2017
• Klein et al. 2012
• Androvicova et al. 2017
• Lynn et al. 2019
• Green et al. 2003
• Masters and Johnson 1966
• Chopra and Jandu 1976
• Dawley et al. 1979
• Halikas et al. 1982
• Mayor’s Committee 1944
• Aversa et al. 2008
• Smith et al. 2010
• Koff 1974
• Traub 1977
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration 2018

Photo: Photo by Asad Photo Maldives

As global cannabis policies evolve, a recent study by Carnegie Mellon University’s Jonathan P. Caulkins reveals a significant rise in daily cannabis use in the U.S., surpassing daily alcohol use. The study, published in Addiction, analyzed data from 1979 to 2022 and found that:

• Daily or near-daily cannabis use now exceeds that of alcohol.
• Reported cannabis use hit a low in 1992, surged after 2008, and saw a 15-fold increase in daily use from 1992 to 2022.
• Cannabis users report higher frequency use compared to drinkers.

Caulkins emphasizes that these trends reflect policy changes but also underlying cultural shifts.

Key Findings:

1. Significant Increase in Daily Use:
   • Daily cannabis use has risen dramatically, outpacing daily alcohol use for the first time.
   • By 2022, 17.7 million Americans reported daily cannabis use, compared to 14.7 million for alcohol.
2. Long-Term Trends:
   • Cannabis use fluctuated with policy changes, declining during restrictive periods and increasing during liberalization.
   • From 2008 to 2022, annual cannabis use days increased from 2.3 billion to 8.1 billion.
3. Higher Frequency of Use Among Cannabis Users:
   • In 2022, median monthly cannabis use was 15-16 days, compared to 4-5 days for alcohol.
   • 42% of monthly cannabis users reported daily or near-daily use versus 11% of drinkers.

Caulkins notes that while policy changes coincide with these trends, they may also reflect broader cultural shifts. The study used self-reported data from national surveys, highlighting significant changes in cannabis consumption patterns over the past decades.

Conclusion

This study underscores the profound shifts in cannabis use in the U.S. over the past four decades. As policies continue to evolve, understanding these trends is crucial for shaping future cannabis regulations and public health strategies.

For more details, read the full study here.

On May 23, Thailand’s Public Health Minister, Somsak Thepsutin, announced significant changes to the country’s cannabis laws. Only cannabis buds will be reclassified as a Category 5 narcotic, while other parts of the plant such as leaves, branches, roots, stems, and seeds will remain legal. This move follows the Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s commitment to recriminalize marijuana, raising concerns among businesses invested in the cannabis industry.

Key Changes in Cannabis Regulation

1. Reclassification of Cannabis Buds:
   
   Cannabis buds, known for their psychoactive properties, will be listed as a Category 5 narcotic. This targets recreational use, which involves the buds containing high levels of THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana.
   
2. Legal Status of Other Plant Parts:
   
   Other parts of the marijuana plant, including leaves, branches, roots, stems, and seeds, will not be reclassified as narcotics. This distinction allows for continued use in various non-psychoactive applications, such as industrial hemp production.
   
3. Regulations on Cultivation and Use:
   
   The ministry will issue new regulations governing the planting, possessing, importing, exporting, and using cannabis. Permissions will be required for these activities, focusing on medical, research, and similar beneficial uses. This ensures that marijuana is used in a controlled manner, prioritizing health and safety.

Historical Context and Implications

In 2022, the Public Health Ministry had removed marijuana and hemp from the national list of Category 5 narcotics, aligning with the Narcotics Control Board’s recommendations. This move spurred significant investments in the cannabis industry. However, with the new administration under Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin in 2023, there has been a shift in policy towards stricter control.

Businesses, both small and large, are now facing uncertainty due to these regulatory changes. The directive to recriminalize marijuana buds could impact the burgeoning cannabis market, affecting everything from local dispensaries to large-scale producers.

The decision to keep hemp legal is crucial as it differentiates between marijuana and hemp, the latter having low THC content and high industrial value. This decision aligns with global trends where hemp is utilized for various industrial purposes, including textiles, bioplastics, and construction materials.

Future Prospects and Compliance

Minister Somsak’s statement indicates a balanced approach, allowing the continued growth of the hemp industry while controlling recreational marijuana use. Businesses involved in the cannabis industry will need to navigate these new regulations carefully, ensuring compliance to avoid legal repercussions.

The requirement for permissions and clear guidelines for medical and research use could lead to a more structured and scientifically driven approach to cannabis in Thailand. This could foster advancements in medical research and therapeutic applications of cannabis, benefiting patients and healthcare providers.

Conclusion

Thailand’s updated cannabis regulations reflect a cautious yet progressive stance towards cannabis control. By outlawing cannabis buds while keeping other parts of the plant legal, the government aims to balance public health concerns with economic and industrial benefits. The new regulations provide a framework for controlled use, emphasizing medical and research benefits while curbing recreational abuse. As the directive comes into effect, businesses and stakeholders must adapt to the evolving legal landscape to harness the potential benefits of cannabis responsibly.

Photo by Sticker Strike

California has taken a significant step towards the normalization of cannabis with the recent approval of a bill that legalizes marijuana cafes. This legislative move marks a notable shift in the state’s approach to cannabis consumption, aiming to provide a regulated environment for users to consume cannabis in a social setting. This article delves into the details of the new bill, its implications, and the broader context of cannabis legalization in California.

Background and Legislative Journey

The road to legalize marijuana cafes in California has been marked by both progress and setbacks. Earlier, a similar proposal faced a veto from Governor Gavin Newsom, primarily due to concerns about workplace safety and the integration of cannabis consumption with food services. However, Assemblymember Matt Haney reintroduced the bill with modifications to address these concerns, leading to its eventual approval.

The Assembly passed the revised legislation with a resounding 58-6 vote, signaling strong support for the initiative. This bill allows licensed cannabis cafes to offer non-cannabis food, non-alcoholic beverages, and host live events, provided they receive approval from local governments. The legislation aims to create a safe and regulated space for cannabis consumption, separating it from food preparation areas to mitigate safety risks.

Key Provisions of the Bill

The approved bill outlines several key provisions designed to ensure a balanced approach to cannabis consumption in social settings:

1. Licensed Cafes: Establishments can obtain licenses to operate as cannabis cafes, where customers can consume marijuana on-site.
2. Food and Beverage Services: These cafes are permitted to serve non-cannabis food and non-alcoholic drinks, enhancing the social experience without introducing alcohol into the mix.
3. Live Events: The legislation allows cafes to host live events, providing entertainment options and promoting a vibrant social atmosphere.
4. Local Government Approval: Individual local governments retain the authority to approve or deny the establishment of cannabis cafes within their jurisdictions, ensuring community input and control.
5. Workplace Safety: To address previous concerns, the bill mandates a clear separation between areas designated for cannabis consumption and those used for food preparation and service.

Implications for the Cannabis Industry

The legalization of marijuana cafes is poised to have several significant implications for the cannabis industry in California:

1. Economic Boost: The introduction of cannabis cafes is expected to boost the local economy by attracting tourists and providing new business opportunities. These establishments can become popular social hubs, driving revenue through food and beverage sales, event hosting, and cannabis consumption.
2. Regulated Environment: By providing a regulated space for cannabis consumption, the state aims to reduce illegal and unsafe consumption practices. These cafes can offer a controlled environment where consumers can enjoy cannabis responsibly.
3. Social Acceptance: The approval of marijuana cafes represents a step towards greater social acceptance of cannabis use. It normalizes consumption in a social setting, similar to how alcohol is consumed in bars and restaurants.
4. Public Safety: The separation of cannabis consumption areas from food preparation spaces addresses safety concerns, ensuring that the new establishments operate within strict safety guidelines.

Broader Context of Cannabis Legalization

California has been at the forefront of cannabis legalization in the United States. The state legalized medical marijuana in 1996 and recreational use in 2016. Since then, the cannabis industry has grown significantly, contributing to the state’s economy through taxes and job creation.

However, the path to full legalization has not been without challenges. Regulatory hurdles, safety concerns, and opposition from certain community groups have posed obstacles. The approval of marijuana cafes represents a significant milestone, reflecting the state’s commitment to evolving its cannabis policies in response to public demand and industry needs.

Future Prospects

The future of marijuana cafes in California looks promising, with the potential to reshape the landscape of cannabis consumption. As these establishments begin to operate, they will likely set precedents for other states considering similar measures. The success of cannabis cafes in California could pave the way for more widespread acceptance and regulation of social cannabis consumption across the country.

In conclusion, the approval of the bill to legalize marijuana cafes in California marks a transformative moment in the state’s cannabis policy. By creating regulated environments for social cannabis use, the state is addressing safety concerns, boosting the economy, and promoting greater social acceptance of cannabis. This legislative move is a significant step forward in the ongoing journey of cannabis legalization in California.

Key Takeaways:

• California lawmakers approved a bill to legalize cannabis cafes.
• The bill allows on-site marijuana consumption at licensed businesses.
• These businesses can also offer non-cannabis food, non-alcoholic drinks, and host live events.
• Local governments have the authority to permit or deny cannabis cafes.
• The bill aims to help legal cannabis businesses compete with the illegal market.
• Amendments address health and safety concerns for workers.
• Hemp-based food and drinks are not considered “non-cannabis” products.
• Non-cannabis items must be stored separately from cannabis products.
• Live musical or other performances are allowed in areas permitting on-site consumption.

In recent years, there has been a significant shift in how the world perceives cannabis. It’s no longer solely viewed through the lens of recreational use but increasingly recognized for its therapeutic potential and economic opportunities. Shaheen Ali, the Permanent Secretary for Trade, highlighted this transformation during his keynote address at the Medicinal Cannabis Training Course in Suva’s Suvavou House. Let’s delve deeper into this groundbreaking shift and its implications.

Embracing the Economic Potential

Unveiling Lucrative Opportunities: The medicinal cannabis market is on the brink of remarkable growth globally. With projections indicating a staggering revenue of $19,101 million (USD 8,362.7 million) by 2024 in Australia and the Oceania region, the economic prospects are undeniable. Fiji, positioned strategically within Oceania, stands to harness this potential and bolster the region’s economic landscape.

Government’s Forward-Thinking Approach: Shaheen Ali commended the Fijian government for its foresight in proposing the establishment of a medicinal cannabis industry. This bold initiative not only signals a progressive stance but also underscores the government’s commitment to exploring innovative avenues for economic growth.

Nurturing Industry Development

International Collaboration for Progress: Recognizing the complexity of establishing a new industry, Fiji has actively engaged with international and technical partners. This collaborative effort is aimed at providing necessary support and expertise to propel the development of the medicinal cannabis industry forward. Moreover, it paves the way for synergistic opportunities, including advancements in the nutraceutical sector.

Cultivating Economic Diversification: The advent of the medicinal cannabis industry aligns seamlessly with the government’s economic diversification goals. By diversifying revenue streams and fostering the emergence of new sectors, Fiji is poised to strengthen its economic resilience. Additionally, the industry holds promise in generating employment opportunities and expanding export markets, thus bolstering national prosperity.

Paving the Path to Sustainability

Blueprint for Long-Term Viability: While the potential of the medicinal cannabis industry is undeniable, ensuring its long-term viability necessitates the formulation of robust policies, strategies, and legal frameworks. The government’s proactive stance in this regard underscores its commitment to fostering an environment conducive to sustainable growth.

Promoting Responsible Regulation: Balancing economic aspirations with regulatory imperatives is paramount in the nascent stages of industry development. By instituting prudent regulations, Fiji endeavors to strike a delicate equilibrium that safeguards public health and fosters industry innovation.

Conclusion

The discourse surrounding medicinal cannabis transcends mere economic considerations; it embodies a paradigm shift in societal perceptions and aspirations. As Fiji steers towards embracing this transformative industry, the journey towards realizing its full potential begins, promising a future defined by innovation, prosperity, and holistic well-being.

Image by Andreas from Pixabay

In a groundbreaking move, the New York State Cannabis Control Board (CCB) has taken a significant step forward by voting to waive cannabis cultivator licensing fees for the next two years. This decision marks a crucial turning point in supporting struggling cultivators and bolstering the state’s burgeoning cannabis industry.

Celebrating Progress

Governor Kathy Hochul hailed the decision as a testament to the state’s commitment to supporting its farmers and fostering a thriving cannabis industry. With this move, the state aims to provide cultivators with the necessary resources to succeed in this evolving market.

Expanding Business Opportunities

Alongside waiving cultivator licensing fees, the CCB has approved 114 new cannabis business licenses, including retail dispensaries and micro-businesses. This influx of licenses opens doors for entrepreneurs to grow, process, and sell cannabis, further diversifying the industry landscape.

Relief for Cultivators

The waiver of licensing fees until 2026 alleviates financial burdens on cultivators transitioning to non-conditional licenses. Previously, these fees ranged from $4,500 to $40,000, posing significant barriers to entry for many growers. This move ensures that cultivators can invest in their businesses without the added strain of licensing costs.

A Boost for Legalization Efforts

With the issuance of additional dispensary licenses and the promise of waived fees, Governor Hochul reaffirms her commitment to advancing cannabis legalization efforts in New York State. By creating a more favorable environment for cultivators, the state aims to stimulate economic growth and foster innovation within the industry.

Addressing Illegal Market Challenges

Despite progress in licensing, New York still grapples with an estimated 2,000 illegal cannabis businesses, outnumbering legal establishments significantly. This underscores the urgency of providing support and incentives for legal operators to thrive and compete with illicit markets effectively.

Financial Support from the State

In response to the challenges faced by legal cannabis businesses, the New York Senate has proposed a budget allocation of $128 million to support the industry. This funding includes provisions for farmers’ loans, relief grants, and compensation for losses incurred due to regulatory delays.

Reflecting on Past Challenges

Governor Hochul acknowledges the shortcomings of the initial cannabis legalization framework and its impact on businesses. The delay in implementing effective regulations has hindered the industry’s growth and profitability, underscoring the need for proactive measures to address existing challenges.

Proposed Solutions and Criticisms

While the proposed budget allocation signifies a step in the right direction, critics argue that it merely addresses the symptoms of a flawed regulatory framework. Calls for comprehensive reforms and more efficient regulatory processes echo across the political spectrum, highlighting the need for systemic changes.

Supporting Cannabis Farmers

Senators advocate for measures to support cannabis farmers who have borne the brunt of regulatory delays and market uncertainties. By providing financial assistance and streamlining licensing procedures, policymakers aim to safeguard the interests of small-scale growers and promote equitable participation in the industry.

Conclusion: Paving the Way Forward

The decision to waive cultivator licensing fees and the proposed financial support represent pivotal developments in New York’s cannabis landscape. As the industry continues to evolve, stakeholders must collaborate to overcome challenges and create a sustainable, equitable framework for growth and innovation.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Why did New York State decide to waive cannabis cultivator licensing fees? New York State waived cultivator licensing fees to support struggling farmers and stimulate growth in the cannabis industry.

2. How long will cultivators be exempt from paying licensing fees? Cultivators will be exempt from licensing fees until 2026, providing them with a two-year reprieve from financial burdens.

3. What other measures has the state proposed to support the cannabis industry? The state has proposed a budget allocation of $128 million to provide financial assistance and relief grants to cannabis businesses.

4. How does the legalization of cannabis in New York compare to the illegal market? Despite legalization efforts, New York still grapples with approximately 2,000 illegal cannabis businesses, highlighting the challenges of regulatory enforcement.

5. What criticisms have been raised regarding New York’s cannabis regulations? Critics argue that New York’s regulatory framework has been slow and ineffective, hindering the industry’s growth and competitiveness.

In a pivotal move, Malawi’s parliament is currently in talks around legislation to authorize the cultivation of cannabis, also known locally as “chamba.” The proposed aim is to bolster the nation’s foreign exchange earnings, although opposition from anti-drug advocates looms large.

During a session on Thursday, Malawian lawmaker Peter Dimba presented compelling arguments in favor of the initiative. Dimba highlighted the significant international demand for locally grown cannabis, emphasizing its potential to generate substantial revenue for the country.

Dimba stated, “Studies have indicated that the cultivation of chamba could potentially yield up to $200 million annually in its initial stages. As the industry matures, this figure could soar to an impressive $700 million, more than double the current earnings from tobacco sales.”

Historically, Malawi has heavily relied on tobacco, which contributes approximately 13% to its gross domestic product and constitutes 60% of its foreign exchange earnings. However, diminishing tobacco prices, largely due to anti-smoking campaigns and the established link between tobacco use and cancer, have spurred the exploration of alternative agricultural avenues.

In 2020, Malawi took a progressive step by enacting legislation permitting the cultivation of industrial hemp as a tobacco farming alternative. However, farmers report that industrial hemp hasn’t met expectations, citing difficulties in finding buyers. Mathews Osman, leading a cooperative of industrial hemp farmers, noted the heightened market interest in cannabis due to its psychoactive component, THC.

Osman further emphasized the practical challenges faced with industrial hemp, such as expensive imported seeds, contrasting with the anticipation of cheaper seeds for local cannabis varieties.

Patrick Galawanda, spokesperson for Malawi’s Rastafarian community, voiced hope that legalizing cannabis would prevent unjust arrests of Rastafarians using the substance for spiritual and medicinal purposes.

Conversely, Nelson Zakeyu, representing Drug Fight Malawi, expressed concerns over the legalization of cannabis, citing its addictive and harmful nature, particularly among teenagers. Zakeyu referenced research indicating a surge in teenage cannabis use following the legalization of industrial hemp.

In response to these divergent perspectives, Richard Chimwendo Banda, leader of government lawmakers, underscored the government’s cautious approach. Banda stressed the dual responsibility of safeguarding the youth while maximizing economic opportunities.

As the debate unfolds, lawmakers continue to refine the proposed legislation on cannabis cultivation, with the timeline for a vote yet to be determined.

Lawmakers in Hawaii’s House of Representatives met together with senators to talk about a bill about cannabis. The bill, SB 3335, would make it okay for adults 21 and older to have some cannabis. They could have an ounce of cannabis and five grams of cannabis concentrates. The bill also sets rules for selling cannabis legally.

The Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs Committee liked the idea and said yes with a 7-3 vote. Another committee, Agriculture and Food Systems, also said yes, with five for and one against. Rep. David Tarnas, who supports the bill, says they’re trying to make sure it’s fair and safe for everyone. He says they’re taking advice from the attorney general. The bill is really long, more than 300 pages! They first talked about it in January.

The Senate already said yes, with 19 for and 6 against. At the meeting, they made some changes to the bill. They made some rules less strict. For example, selling cannabis to a minor would be a smaller crime. They also said caregivers could give medical cannabis to kids in some places.

Some colleges might let people have cannabis if they’re 21 or older. And if you have a medical card, you can use cannabis at school. They also want someone who knows about farming to help make decisions. They also fixed some words that were confusing.

Many people wrote letters about the bill. Some liked it, and some didn’t. Some people had ideas to make it better. Some police officers don’t like the bill. They think it could make driving more dangerous and make more crime. But some groups support the bill. They say it’s better than having cannabis sold illegally. Some people say the bill is too harsh.

They think it could put more people in jail for small things. Some groups also worry about kids using cannabis. But some people say it’s not as bad as people think. The bill also says how much tax people would pay for cannabis. It would go to two places: one for police and one for other things.

People with past crimes for cannabis could still work with cannabis after 10 years. The bill also has rules for driving and for people under 21. The bill could start in 2026. But some people want it to start later. They want to make sure the bill is fair for everyone. They also want to listen to everyone’s ideas. Some people hope the bill becomes a law soon. They say it could help Hawaii’s economy. Many people in Hawaii say they want cannabis to be legal.

A survey found 58% of people support it. The governor also supports the bill. He says it could be good for Hawaii. Last year, the legislature also asked the governor to help people with old cannabis crimes. They’re also talking about other drugs. They want to help people who need medical care with psilocybin, a kind of mushroom.

Key Points

• Lawmakers in Hawaii’s House of Representatives and senators discussed a cannabis bill.
• The bill, SB 3335, allows adults 21 and older to possess limited amounts of cannabis and cannabis concentrates.
• Some colleges may permit cannabis use for adults 21 and older and for medical cardholders.

Past cannabis offenders could work with cannabis after a 10-year waiting period.

Tax allocation for cannabis sales was outlined, with proceeds directed towards law enforcement and other areas.

Discussions extend to other drugs like psilocybin, aiming to provide medical assistance.