Cannabis lovers in Sacramento could soon have a new place to unwind and enjoy their favorite herb, as the city moves closer to allowing cannabis consumption lounges. Think of it as a café or bar—but instead of alcohol, it’s all about marijuana. Sounds pretty cool, right? These lounges could redefine how cannabis is experienced socially, offering a unique, communal space for cannabis enthusiasts.

What Exactly Is a Cannabis Lounge?

For those unfamiliar, a cannabis lounge is a designated public space where people can legally consume cannabis in a social setting. Picture a laid-back atmosphere where friends can gather, chat, and enjoy weed together—kind of like the vibes you’d get from a cozy coffee shop or a trendy cocktail lounge, but with the added twist of legal cannabis consumption.

The concept has already taken root in cities like San Francisco, West Hollywood, and Denver, where cannabis lounges have become a hit. Visitors get the chance to try different strains, infused beverages, or edibles in a comfortable environment, without having to worry about breaking any laws or disturbing neighbors. And Sacramento? Well, it seems to be gearing up to join that list.

Sacramento’s Move Towards Cannabis Lounges

As Sacramento eyes the legalization of cannabis lounges, officials are working on crafting the right regulations to bring these social consumption spaces to life. According to recent reports, city council members are discussing the potential zoning, safety measures, and overall structure for these lounges. One of the major factors driving this is the desire to expand the local cannabis market and attract tourists looking for a unique experience.

There’s definitely a sense of excitement, both from the cannabis community and local businesses that could benefit from the increased foot traffic. Think about it: cannabis tourists from all over could soon be flocking to Sacramento to experience a different side of cannabis culture. And it’s not just about the consumers—local dispensaries and businesses could also see a boost.

According to Sacramento’s Office of Cannabis Management, lounges could be a way to bridge the gap between cannabis consumers and the city’s economic growth. Not to mention, it gives residents who live in housing where smoking or vaping is prohibited a safe, legal space to enjoy their cannabis products.

Why Cannabis Lounges Matter

So why is this such a big deal? It’s not just about giving people a cool new hangout spot. Cannabis lounges represent a broader shift in how cannabis is viewed and integrated into daily life. For so long, cannabis consumption has been stigmatized, kept behind closed doors, and treated as something that had to be hidden. But with the rise of these lounges, cannabis is moving into the mainstream, being treated more like alcohol—a substance that can be enjoyed responsibly in a social setting.

One of the great things about cannabis lounges is that they create an environment where education and socializing meet. People can learn about different strains, how to consume cannabis responsibly, and even explore products they might not have considered before, all while having a chill time with friends. It’s also a chance for cannabis brands to interact directly with their audience in real-time, which is pretty rare in most retail settings.

Safety and Regulation: What’s the Plan?

Of course, like with any public consumption space, safety is a top priority. Sacramento officials are being very careful to ensure that these lounges don’t contribute to impaired driving or disrupt the surrounding community. Regulations around cannabis lounges are expected to be strict, likely involving designated consumption zones, limitations on operating hours, and clear rules about intoxicated customers leaving the premises.

To combat potential issues, some experts suggest that lounges should partner with ride-share services or offer in-house options for customers who may need help getting home safely. In addition, Sacramento’s officials are also looking at other cities’ models to learn what works (and what doesn’t) when it comes to balancing public safety with consumer enjoyment.

The Community’s Reaction

So far, the response from the community seems to be a mix of curiosity and optimism. Many people are excited about the idea of having a safe and welcoming place to enjoy cannabis socially. Local businesses, too, are paying attention—especially since lounges could boost tourism and bring more customers to nearby shops, restaurants, and attractions.

However, not everyone is sold on the idea. Some are concerned about potential nuisances like increased foot traffic, the smell of cannabis, or the possibility of lounges turning into hotspots for disruptive behavior. But as with any new development, much of the success will depend on how well Sacramento implements the rules and regulations to ensure these spaces remain enjoyable and respectful for everyone involved.

A New Era for Cannabis Culture

The introduction of cannabis lounges in Sacramento marks an exciting time for the city’s cannabis community. These spaces aren’t just about consumption—they’re about building connections, fostering education, and helping to remove the stigma that still surrounds cannabis use. As Sacramento inches closer to making these lounges a reality, we could soon see a vibrant new layer of the city’s social scene, one where cannabis isn’t hidden away but celebrated openly and responsibly.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, it’s clear that cannabis lounges could bring a fresh energy to Sacramento’s culture. So the next time you’re thinking about meeting up with friends, maybe instead of a bar or café, you’ll be heading to the city’s newest cannabis lounge to unwind and enjoy the high.

In a groundbreaking move, New Mexico could soon be one of the first states to allow medical marijuana for female orgasm difficulty (FOD). The state’s Medical Cannabis Advisory Board recently voted to recommend adding FOD to the list of qualifying conditions for the state’s medical cannabis program, recognizing the potential benefits of cannabis for sexual health.

How Cannabis Can Help with Female Orgasm Difficulty

Cannabis and sexual wellness is becoming a hot topic in the medical community, with many studies showing its benefits for improving sexual function. For women who experience difficulty reaching orgasm, cannabis could be a game-changer. Research indicates that cannabis can help by:

• Increasing orgasm ease: Studies show that 71% of women reported easier orgasms after using cannabis .
• Improving satisfaction: 67% of women said they experienced greater satisfaction during sex when using cannabis .
• Enhancing sexual desire: Cannabis has been linked to increased sexual desire and pleasure, especially when used in lower doses .

Why Medical Marijuana for FOD?

The science behind cannabis and orgasm difficulty lies in how cannabis interacts with the brain’s default mode network (DMN). This network can keep people stuck in their heads, blocking relaxation and pleasure. Cannabis helps quiet this network, making it easier for women to be present and experience orgasm.

Dr. Jordan Tishler, a specialist in cannabis and sexual function, explains that by disrupting overthinking and stress, cannabis creates a more relaxed mental state, allowing for better sexual experiences .

States Moving Towards Cannabis for Sexual Health

New Mexico is not alone in considering medical marijuana for sexual health. Other states like Connecticut, Illinois, Oregon, and Arkansas are also looking at adding FOD to their medical cannabis programs. Advocates like Suzanne Mulvehill, a clinical sexologist, are leading the charge, highlighting that millions of women worldwide suffer from FOD, and conventional treatments are scarce.

According to Mulvehill’s research, cannabis not only helps with orgasm difficulty but can improve overall sexual satisfaction . These findings have helped drive momentum for states to recognize female sexual health as a legitimate reason for medical cannabis use.

The Growing Body of Research on Cannabis and Sexual Function

A growing number of studies are exploring the connection between marijuana and sexual health. For example, research published in the Journal of Cannabis Research found that more than 70% of adults who use cannabis before sex report increased desire and improved orgasms . Other studies have shown that women who use cannabis regularly report having better sex overall .

However, not all cannabis use is created equal. Studies show that THC dosage plays a role in sexual function. Lower doses of THC are often associated with heightened arousal and satisfaction, while higher doses may reduce desire or have no effect . This makes understanding the right strain and dosage crucial for maximizing the benefits of cannabis for sexual health.

Next Steps for New Mexico’s Medical Marijuana Program

The next step for New Mexico’s medical marijuana program is for the Secretary of Health to review the recommendation. If approved, women experiencing FOD could soon access cannabis as a treatment, offering them a new way to address sexual health issues that have historically been overlooked.

As more states consider adding FOD to their medical cannabis programs, the conversation about cannabis for sexual wellness continues to grow. Cannabis could be a powerful tool for closing the “orgasm gap” and helping women experience more satisfying sex lives.

Conclusion: Cannabis as a Tool for Better Sexual Health

With studies showing that medical marijuana can improve sexual function and satisfaction, it’s clear that cannabis holds potential in addressing female orgasm difficulty and other sexual health issues. As the conversation progresses in states like New Mexico, women may soon have access to a natural, plant-based treatment for improving their sexual well-being.

Sources:

1. Study on THC Dosage and Sexual Arousal
2. Effects of Cannabis on Orgasm Frequency
3. Cannabis and Default Mode Network
4. Research on Women, Cannabis, and Better Sex
5. Review on THC and Libido

Introduction

Ohio’s journey towards recreational cannabis legalization is progressing rapidly. With recent approvals for cultivation and processing licenses, the state is preparing for the anticipated launch of adult-use cannabis sales.

Key Developments

1. License Approvals: Ohio has issued 34 adult-use cannabis licenses, encompassing cultivators, processors, and testing laboratories. Notably, dispensaries are still awaiting their final approvals.
2. Cultivators and Processors: Among the recent approvals, prominent companies like Verano and Cresco Labs have received dual-use certificates for cultivation and processing.
3. Dispensary Status: Despite the issuance of numerous cultivation and processing licenses, no dispensaries have been green-lit yet, delaying the retail sales of adult-use cannabis.

Market Implications

The dual-use licenses will enable businesses to serve both medical and adult-use markets, fostering a robust cannabis supply chain. However, the market’s full functionality depends on the final approval of dispensary licenses.

Conclusion

Ohio’s cannabis market is on the brink of a significant transformation. As the state moves closer to legalizing adult-use cannabis, the emphasis on thorough licensing and regulatory processes ensures a well-structured and inclusive market.

Introduction

In a groundbreaking move, Missouri has awarded 57 cannabis microbusiness licenses as part of its initiative to diversify the cannabis industry and support small-scale businesses. This decision, announced by the Missouri Division of Cannabis Regulation, marks a significant step towards fostering local economic growth and inclusivity in the state’s cannabis market.

Key Highlights

1. Promoting Diversity: These licenses are designed to ensure a more diverse representation within Missouri’s cannabis industry by providing opportunities for small businesses and underrepresented entrepreneurs.
2. Economic Impact: The microbusiness licenses are expected to stimulate local economies, allowing smaller businesses to thrive in the burgeoning cannabis market.
3. Supporting Entrepreneurs: This initiative opens doors for new entrepreneurs, encouraging innovation and growth within the cannabis sector.

The Selection Process

The winners were selected through a lottery system, ensuring a fair and transparent process. This second round of licenses adds to the momentum of the first round, further solidifying Missouri’s commitment to a diverse and inclusive cannabis industry.

Conclusion

Missouri’s approach to awarding cannabis microbusiness licenses is a forward-thinking move that promotes diversity, economic growth, and entrepreneurial opportunities. By supporting small-scale businesses, the state is paving the way for a more inclusive and dynamic cannabis market.

Introduction

In an unexpected yet thrilling twist, Snoop Dogg has become a central figure at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The renowned rapper has taken on a new role as a special correspondent for NBC, blending his signature style with the global event’s grandeur. This article explores Snoop Dogg’s involvement in the Olympics, from carrying the iconic torch to engaging with athletes and fans alike.

Snoop Dogg and the Olympic Torch

Snoop Dogg’s Olympic journey began with him carrying the torch during its 67th leg in Paris. This momentous occasion saw the rapper contributing to the legacy of the Games in a uniquely memorable way. His participation was not just ceremonial; it symbolized a bridge between pop culture and the traditional spirit of the Olympics.

Bringing Flair to Olympic Coverage

NBC’s decision to include Snoop Dogg as a correspondent has added an exciting dynamic to their coverage. Snoop has been actively involved, interviewing key figures such as Simone Biles’ family and engaging with the U.S. Olympic fencing team. His relaxed, charismatic interviewing style provides viewers with a refreshing perspective on the Games.

Highlights from the Opening Ceremony

During the opening ceremony, Snoop Dogg’s presence was felt everywhere. He was seen grooving to Lady Gaga’s performance, highlighting his ability to blend seamlessly into diverse settings. His social media presence has also been a hit, sharing moments with fans and bringing them closer to the Olympic experience.

A Celebration of Passion and Dedication

Snoop Dogg’s involvement in the Olympics extends beyond his on-screen appearances. His passion for the event and his dedication to bringing a unique perspective to the coverage exemplify the spirit of the Games. As he stated, “It’s a celebration of skill, dedication, and the pursuit of greatness,” words that resonate deeply with both athletes and fans.

Conclusion

Snoop Dogg’s role at the 2024 Paris Olympics is a testament to his versatility and the evolving nature of the Games. His ability to connect with people, combined with his genuine enthusiasm, has made his participation a highlight of the Olympics. As the Games continue, fans can look forward to more memorable moments and insights from Snoop Dogg, ensuring a unique and engaging Olympic experience.

Introduction

The Thai government is poised to reverse its decision to re-criminalize cannabis, opting instead to legislate marijuana for medical use. This shift marks another significant change in the country’s approach to cannabis regulation and has broad implications for the burgeoning industry and public policy.

Background

In 2022, Thailand became one of the first countries in Asia to decriminalize marijuana. However, this move occurred without a comprehensive legal framework, leading to an unexpected surge in recreational use, cannabis cafes, and retail shops. The rapid expansion raised public concerns about potential abuse and prompted political debate.

Government’s Stance

Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, a key figure behind the initial decriminalization, confirmed that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin agreed on the need for legislation. Anutin’s Bhumjaithai Party, the second-largest in the ruling coalition, has consistently supported cannabis for health and economic benefits but opposes recreational use.

Policy Details

The new legislation aims to regulate the cannabis industry and prevent recreational use, addressing both public health concerns and the economic potential of the sector. This approach counters previous proposals by Prime Minister Srettha’s Pheu Thai Party to re-criminalize cannabis entirely, which would have made growing, possessing, and consuming it illegal starting January 2025.

Industry Impact

Thailand’s cannabis industry has flourished since decriminalization, with an estimated market value of up to $1.2 billion by 2025. The potential reversal to a regulated framework is seen as a relief to growers, dispensaries, and users who feared a return to stricter controls.

Political Dynamics

The cannabis policy has created tension within the ruling coalition. Srettha’s party has advocated a hard-line stance against drugs, citing concerns over the proliferation of weed dispensaries and recreational use among youths. However, Anutin’s influence and recent political developments, including a new Senate election favoring his party, have shifted the government’s direction towards regulation rather than re-criminalization.

Advocacy and Public Reaction

Advocacy groups like Writing Thailand’s Cannabis Future have played a crucial role in opposing re-criminalization. The group has actively protested, including a hunger strike, to ensure the continuation of cannabis decriminalization. Their efforts highlight the significant public support for maintaining legal access to cannabis, at least for medical purposes.

Conclusion

Thailand’s decision to legislate marijuana for medical use and regulate the industry represents a significant policy shift. This move seeks to balance public health concerns with the economic benefits of a thriving cannabis sector. As the government works on the draft bill, stakeholders from various political and public spheres will continue to influence the final outcome, shaping the future of cannabis regulation in Thailand.

Prostate cancer (PC) is a major health concern, being the second most common cancer and the fifth leading cause of cancer-associated death among men worldwide. With approximately 1.4 million new cases and 375,000 deaths annually, understanding risk factors and potential protective measures is crucial. Known risk factors for PC include age, African-American ethnicity, and certain genetic markers. However, potential protective factors are less well understood. Recent preclinical studies suggest that cannabinoids, compounds found in cannabis (marijuana), may have anti-tumor properties in PC. This cross-sectional study investigates the association between marijuana use and PC prevalence using data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) spanning 2002 to 2020.

Materials and Methods

Data Source

This study utilized NSDUH data from 2002 to 2020, a comprehensive survey administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The NSDUH includes noninstitutionalized persons aged twelve and older across all 50 states and the District of Columbia. The survey employs multistage sampling to select household addresses, and interviews are conducted online or in-person. Participants receive $30 for completing the interview.

Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria

The analysis focused on males aged fifty years or older who self-reported ever having testicular or prostate cancer. Participants below fifty were excluded due to the low incidence of PC in this age group. This age cutoff also minimized misclassification of testicular cancer cases, which are more common in younger men.

Dependent Variable

The primary dependent variable was self-reported PC, determined by asking participants if a medical professional had ever diagnosed them with testicular or prostate cancer.

Independent Variable

Marijuana use was categorized into three groups: current users (used marijuana in the last 30 days), former users (used marijuana but not in the last 30 days), and never users (never used marijuana).

Confounders and Covariates

Potential confounders included tobacco and alcohol use, race/ethnicity, age, education, marital status, military service, urbanicity, income, and insurance status. These factors were considered due to their potential influence on both cancer risk and marijuana use.

Statistical Analyses

Chi-Square tests were used to compare frequencies of independent variables and covariates by PC status. For continuous variables, t-tests were conducted. A stratified Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test assessed the association between marijuana use and PC, controlling for age and race/ethnicity. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to adjust for confounders and estimate odds ratios for having PC.

Results

Sample Description

The study included 2503 males aged fifty or older. Most participants were over sixty-five (69%), married (60.9%), had some college education (73%), reported an income over $50,000 (64%), and lived in metropolitan areas (77.8%). Nearly all had some form of medical insurance, and 40% had served in the armed forces. The majority were non-Hispanic white (89.8%), with smaller percentages of non-Hispanic black (4.8%), Hispanic (3.2%), and non-Hispanic others (2.3%).

Prostate Cancer Prevalence

Prostate cancer was reported by 36% of participants. PC prevalence was higher among those aged sixty-five or older (77.2%) compared to those aged fifty to sixty-four (22.8%). Non-Hispanic blacks had the highest PC prevalence (68%), followed by Hispanics (48%), and non-Hispanic whites (33.9%).

Marijuana Use and Prostate Cancer Prevalence

Current and former marijuana users had lower PC prevalence compared to never users (31.7% and 31.6% vs. 39.9%, respectively). In the older age group (≥65), marijuana users had a significantly lower PC prevalence (36.4%) compared to non-users (42.4%). Similar trends were observed in non-Hispanic whites, with lower PC prevalence among users (28.9%) compared to non-users (38.3%).

Multivariable Analyses

Former marijuana users had a significantly lower prevalence of PC compared to never users (OR = 0.74, 95% CI 0.62–0.90, p = 0.001). Current use suggested a reduced prevalence but was not statistically significant (OR = 0.77, 95% CI 0.52–1.14, p = 0.198), likely due to a smaller sample size. As expected, older age and non-Hispanic black ethnicity were associated with higher PC prevalence.

Discussion

The study looked at data from a big national survey and found that people who used marijuana in the past had a lower chance of developing prostate cancer. However, for those currently using marijuana, the results were less clear, possibly because there weren’t enough participants in this group to draw strong conclusions.

The study’s findings align with earlier lab research, which showed that cannabis can help fight prostate cancer. It does this by disrupting the cancer cells’ life cycle, causing them to die, and preventing them from spreading and forming new blood vessels.

In essence, past marijuana use seems to be linked to a lower risk of prostate cancer, and this supports previous studies suggesting that cannabis has properties that can combat cancer.

Higher PC rates in non-Hispanic blacks can be attributed to genetic, healthcare, and socioeconomic factors. Genetic variations and distinct genomic alterations in prostate tumors contribute to more aggressive disease in black individuals. Healthcare disparities, mistrust in the system, and limited access to treatment exacerbate these issues.

The study has limitations, including potential selection bias, the cross-sectional design preventing causal inferences, and the inability to assess dose-dependent effects of marijuana. Despite these limitations, the study strengthens the evidence for a potential protective role of cannabinoids against PC.

Conclusion

This study is the first to investigate the association between marijuana use and PC in a large, national cohort of older males. The findings suggest that former marijuana use is associated with a lower prevalence of PC, providing a basis for future prospective studies to explore the potential anticancer properties of cannabinoids in medical marijuana.

Source: NCBI

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.

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