Author: Sasha Kalcheff-Korn

The aroma of roasting turkey, the warmth of family gathering, and yes – for many cannabis consumers – the traditional “cousin walk” around the block. Welcome to Danksgiving, where ancient plant medicine meets modern holiday traditions.

 

The History of Cannabis and Celebration

 

Long before the term “Danksgiving” entered our vocabulary, cannabis has been part of communal celebrations across cultures. From ancient Chinese harvest festivals to Jamaican reasoning sessions, cannabis has historically brought people together. Today, that tradition continues around many Thanksgiving tables – whether openly or on the down-low.

 

Mindful Consumption for Maximum Thanks

 

As a cannabis educator, I’m often asked about the best consumption methods for family gatherings. Here’s my carefully curated guide to keeping your holiday both elevated and elegant:

 

Terpene Profiles to Consider

 

• Limonene: Found in strains like Super Lemon Haze, this uplifting terpene can help maintain social energy while dealing with that uncle who won’t stop talking politics. But be careful, this terpene can also be too energizing for some and can induce anxiety.
• Myrcene: Present in strains like Granddaddy Purple, it can help with the post-feast food coma and relaxation.
• Beta-Caryophyllene: Found in Wedding Cake strain, this terpene may help ease digestive discomfort from overindulging in stuffing.

 

Strategic Timing Tips

 

1. Pre-Meal Socializing: Consider a micro-dose of a hybrid strain to stay present and engaged during family catch-ups. (maybe a well-balanced strain like a gelato? I don’t like label indica, hybrid or sativa as suggestions.)
2. The Famous “Cousin Walk”: An age-old tradition that’s really about more than just “getting some air.”
3. Post-Feast Relaxation: When it’s time to settle in for football or board games, a relaxing indica-leaning strain might be perfect.

 

Breaking the Green Ice

 

Thanksgiving 2024 might be the perfect time to have those candid cannabis conversations with family. Here’s why:

 

• Cannabis is now legal for medical use in 38 states
• Recent research continues to validate therapeutic benefits
• Stigma is decreasing as education increases
• Holiday gatherings provide natural opportunities for meaningful discussions

 

Starting the Conversation

 

Here are some natural ways to bring up the topic that I’ve found effective with my own family:

 

When someone mentions their health challenges: “You know, Aunt Sarah, I recently learned about how some people are managing their arthritis with cannabis-derived topicals. They’re nothing like what you might be thinking – they don’t get you high at all. Would you be interested in learning more about how they work?”

 

When discussing current events: “I saw an interesting report about how many veterans are finding relief through medical cannabis programs. It’s amazing how far the research has come in understanding this plant medicine. Did you know many doctors are now recommending it for PTSD and chronic pain?”

 

When someone expresses curiosity: “I actually just read about a study from [major medical institution] about cannabis and inflammation. The science behind it is fascinating – would you like me to share what I learned?”

 

When discussing career changes or industry growth: “The medical cannabis industry has created over 400,000 jobs in healthcare, research, and patient care. I’ve been learning so much about how it’s helping people improve their quality of life.”

 

Remember, the goal isn’t to convince anyone but to open a dialogue. Listen more than you speak, acknowledge concerns, and share information from reputable sources when asked.

 

Respectful Consumption Tips

 

Remember, being a responsible cannabis consumer helps normalize its use:

 

• Respect non-consuming family members
• Keep consumption discrete if needed
• Have factual information ready for curious relatives
• Know your limits – thanksgiving is a marathon, not a sprint

 

Moving Forward Together

 

As we gather this Thanksgiving, remember that cannabis consumers come from all walks of life – doctors, teachers, parents, and yes, maybe even Aunt Karen. By being informed, responsible, and open, we help bridge the gap between old stigmas and new understandings.

 

Whether you’re openly sharing your favorite strain with family or taking that subtle walk around the block, remember that you’re part of a growing community of individuals helping to normalize plant medicine.

 

Stay elevated and educated!

 

Tammy Pettigrew is a cannabis advocate, educator, and consultant. Follow her @thecannabiscutie for more cannabis education and insights.

Our collective knowledge of the benefits of the cannabis plant for epilepsy continues to increase year after year. In addition to seizure reduction, we have learned through the literature that cannabis use may be attributed to an increase in the overall quality of life for one living with an epilepsy diagnosis. These improvements can range from decreased side effects of pharmaceuticals to better sleep and lessened anxiety. 

 

It has been discovered that approximately one-third of individuals living with epilepsy do not respond well to conventional antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) and are therefore considered to have Treatment Resistant Epilepsy or Drug Resistant Epilepsy (TRE/DRE). This creates a demand for an antiepileptic solution that has reportedly better efficacy and less adverse effects.

 

In this blog you will find historical uses of cannabis for epilepsy, current research across various epilepsy diagnoses with cannabidiol (CBD), delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and cannabidvarin (CBDV), and additional resources for support. 

 

Historical Uses of Cannabis for Epilepsy

 

Historical uses of cannabis and hemp for medicinal reasons date back thousands of years. Ancient Sumerian and Akkadian tablets found in the Middle East from as early as 1800 BCE record the use of cannabis for nocturnal convulsions. Arabic literature from around 1100 CE from Ali ibn al-Abbas al-Mayusi has been translated to state “the juice of the leaves of cannabis instilled in the nostril serves to treat epilepsy”, also suggesting that the active ingredient was tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA). 

 

The first clinical application for cannabis and epilepsy, however, is known to have taken place in the early 19th century with Irish physician William O’Shaughnessy, an army surgeon who served in India. In what can be considered the first detailed modern study of the use of cannabis-based products for anti-seizure benefits, he published his findings in 1843 after testing the behavioral effects in several mammals, fish, and birds. Among these subjects was a 40-day old baby girl with recurrent convulsive episodes. She initially responded well and after a few weeks of trials with various cannabis tinctures, taken under the tongue (sublingually), her convulsions had stopped. Several months later, O’Shaughnessy had noted that “the child is now in the enjoyment of robust health, and has regained her natural plump and happy appearance.” 

 

From here, notice was taken across physicians in Europe and North America and by 1850 cannabis had made its way as “marijuana” into the United States Pharmacopeia, listing it as a treatment for numerous afflictions, including: neuralgia, tetanus, typhus, cholera, rabies, dysentery, alcoholism, opiate addiction, anthrax, leprosy, incontinence, gout, convulsive disorders, tonsillitis, insanity, excessive menstrual bleeding, and uterine bleeding, among others. In 1881 Neurologist Sir William Gowers wrote of the use of cannabis for seizure control in his monograph Epilepsy and Other Convulsive Disorders. 

 

By the early 20th century, references to cannabis extractions and tinctures began to fall out in favor of Western medicine (notably phenobarbital in 1912 and phenytoin in 1937). With this, and with the soon prohibition of cannabis, the therapeutic claims and those first clinical trials took a backseat. 

 

Despite this, chemists and pharmacologists began diving into the chemical characteristics of the active ingredients and effects on biological activity. Specifically the molecular structures of THC and CBD were investigated by Dr. Raphael Mechoulam in Israel, famously known as the “father of cannabis research”. 

 

Researchers began to look more at CBD as potential for anti-seizure therapeutic benefits, as promising results in animal models were reviewed. Anecdotal and pre-clinical evidence increased over the years, and with the discovery of cannabinoid receptors in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s, renewed interest in the understanding of therapeutic potential of cannabinoids in how they may modulate the endocannabinoid system came about. 

 

While smaller scale studies took place to consider the efficacy of CBD, larger scale studies began to emerge around 2015 when neurologist Orrin Devinksy and colleagues observed the antiepileptic effect of CBD among over 200 participants, ages 1-30. Their findings suggested that CBD may reduce seizure frequency and may also have an adequate safety profile in children and young adults with highly treatment-resistant epilepsy, warranting future trials. 

 

Realm of Caring Published Research 

 

It was around this time that Realm of Caring began enrolling participants for an Observational Research Registry in collaboration with Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Between April 2016 and July 2020, 1,783 individuals enrolled in this online, self-reported survey. Of the enrolled individuals, 418 participants were identified to understand benefits for epilepsy where 93% had listed epilepsy as their primary medical condition with the remaining noting epilepsy as a secondary medical condition. In this sample size, there were 71 adults and 209 adult caregivers of children or dependent adults who were utilizing CBD products for medicinal use. In addition, there was a control group of 29 adults and 109 adult caregivers who were considering CBD use but had not yet begun. In-depth information from 110 participants in the study helped to conclude that the calculated median dose of CBD was 50mg/day, which equated to 1.4mg/kg/day. 

 

The purpose of this analysis was to evaluate how CBD product use is associated with quality of life, mental health, healthcare utilization, and epilepsy-specific outcomes within a large, observational group of people with epilepsy. 

 

Compared with controls, CBD Users had a greater health satisfaction, higher ratings of quality of life, and better scores on psychological health. Taking a deeper look, CBD Users reported lower anxiety and depression and improved sleep scores. 

 

Other findings that were of significance relate to pharmaceutical use, healthcare visits, and caregiver burden. CBD Users had lower instances of reported prescription medication use, lower medication-related adverse effects, less ER visits, and less missing school and/or work days. In addition, caregivers of CBD Users that noted consistent use through the follow-up period reported significant decreases in the Caregiver Burden total score. 

 

The strides that have been made in recognizing cannabis compounds for their clinical benefit to epilepsy are evident in that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency have approved a CBD isolate pharmaceutical, Epidiolex, for TRE in patients with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS) and Dravet Syndrome. Since the 2018 debut of Epidiolex, it has been approved for additional uses and further research, including that of other cannabis compounds, has taken place.  

 

Additional Cannabinoid Research From the Last Two Years

 

Pediatric neurologist Ellen N. Hurley published findings in early 2022 looking at five female children with Rett Syndrome and, consequently, TRE. As animal studies have demonstrated an anti-seizure effect and favorable safety profile for CBDV, the compound was used in this study to determine the safety and tolerability of it for pediatric Rett Syndrome patients. An oral CBDV solution was provided and all five witnessed a reduction in mean monthly seizure frequency. 

 

A systematic review published in October 2022 sought to assess the effects of CBD in epilepsy patients. In conclusion, the study showed that CBD is highly efficacious both as a standalone and adjunct therapy with clobazam for controlling seizures while limiting side effects. 

 

A study published in November 2022 analyzed thirty-five patients who were respectively prescribed CBD isolate oils, CBD broad spectrum oils, and CBD:THC combination oils. Results showed that 65.7% of patients achieved a seizure frequency of greater than or equal to 50%, demonstrating a positive signal of improved seizure frequency in children treated with cannabis-based medicinal products for treatment-resistant epilepsies. 

 

Observational findings published in Pediatric Neurology in October 2023 support the effectiveness of purified CBD as an add-on therapy in everyday clinical practice, as researched among a mixed population of patients with DRE.

 

In April 2024, findings were published on the effect of cannabinol (CBN) and cannabichromene (CBC) on seizure activity. CBN’s shown potential to reduce seizures is hypothesized to involve modulations of transient receptor potential (TRP) cation channels. CBC, another non-psychoactive cannabinoid, has a selective enhancing effect on the GABA(A) receptor. In addition to potential epilepsy therapy, this cannabinoid may have potential uses for pain, anxiety, and sedative-hypnotic therapy.

 

Recap: 5 Things to Consider When Starting Cannabinoid Therapy for Epilepsy

 

1. There is published research to support benefits, which you do not have to navigate on your own. Realm of Caring features a library of these findings and a care team on standby to offer free one-on-one guidance as you read through. 
2. AED interactions are possible. An assessment of data suggests that changes in serum levels of AEDs taken with cannabinoid administration have been generally minor for the majority tested and may be well-tolerated. However it should be taken into consideration that several cannabinoids are processed by the body’s cytochrome P-450 (CYP450) system. Therefore it is best to consult with your doctor when co-administering cannabinoids with drugs that are also metabolized by enzymes CYP3A4 or CYP2C19. 
3. Patience and the biphasic response are helpful when setting expectations. Administration may be made complicated by the non-linear response of cannabinoids and we should be cautioned to assume that higher amounts of cannabinoids will yield enhanced therapeutic effects. Realm of Caring care specialists abide by the “start low and go slow” method; a strategy with a goal to find a therapeutic dose at the lowest possible amount. 
4. There are a variety of administration and extraction methods available. The first and most commonly used administration method would be sublingual or buccal administration with an oil or tincture. Individuals also administer by capsule or tablet, through g or j tube, and rectally as a suppository. For extractions of CBD, we have isolate, broad spectrum, full spectrum as well as formulations that include additional, natural supplements. There are also a variety of processes to extract the plant compounds. When looking for what may be most effective for you, a Realm of Caring care specialist is here to help, starting you with a quality product. 
5. You are not alone. In addition to the Realm of Caring care team, there is a community to support you. Many resources are available for connecting to services or more information. Reach out to our team by calling 719-347-5400 or emailing info@realmofcaring.org. 

Palliative Care can be defined as an approach that improves the quality of life of patients (adults and children) and their families who are facing problems associated with life-threatening illness. It prevents and relieves suffering through the early identification, correct assessment and treatment of pain and other problems, whether physical, psychosocial or spiritual.

 

The majority of adults in need of palliative care have chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases (38.5%), cancer (34%), chronic respiratory diseases (10.3%), AIDS (5.7%) and diabetes (4.6%).

 

Pain and difficulty in breathing are two of the most frequent and serious symptoms experienced by patients in need of palliative care. The search for therapeutic strategies is ongoing as poor symptom control and/or intolerable adverse effects are attributed to opioids and other medications currently utilized among palliative care patients.

 

Current guidelines

 

It has been stated by Dr. Claude Cyr that “if we are going to integrate cannabis products into medicine, palliative care is the best port of entry”.

 

Integrating cannabinoid based therapies into palliative care has been delayed by limited clinical research data, little knowledge in dosing guidelines, conflicting regulation, and stigma. Surveys in recent years have shown that a decent majority of US oncologists view cannabinoid therapies as a helpful adjunct to standard pain management strategies. In 2019, the Dutch government agreed to fully reimburse medical cannabis for terminally ill patients. 

 

There is a disconnect between substantial research and interest by patients and families, making it difficult for healthcare professionals when it comes to recommendations and support. Because of this, there is a sense of urgency to understand the pharmacology, mechanisms of action, and available research to support cannabis use in these circumstances. 

 

Pain

 

Definition of clear, clinical objectives with patients and their families is incredibly important among palliative care. The focus is often pain. 

 

Cannabis use for pain can be traced back thousands of years. Observationally in research, the response to pain in individuals has been favorable when compared to baselines or controls. 

 

A review of literature published through June 2017 examined trials regarding cannabinoid use for pain in patients with neuropathy and malignant diseases. Out of 18 trials, 15 demonstrated a significant analgesic effect of cannabinoids as compared to placebo, the reduction in pain intensity was considered clinically significant. The most commonly reported adverse effects were well tolerated. 

 

To date, however, the widespread use of medical cannabis is still controversial even in palliative care settings mostly because the plant may produce both therapeutic and psychoactive effects. There is strong evidence suggesting that the non-intoxicating cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol (CBD), can also alleviate chronic inflammation and pain in animals. CBD has been characterized as an ideal therapeutic agent for inflammation and neuropathic pain as it may suppress both without causing significant intoxicating side effects or analgesic tolerance. 

 

Difficulty breathing

 

This is another topic of major concern among the palliative care population. Based on the neurophysiology of labored breathing and the distribution of cannabinoid receptors within the central nervous system, it has been hypothesized that the unpleasantness of breathlessness will be relieved in humans by cannabinoids. Observational studies have shown some promise among individuals with Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and CBD has been examined for its anti-inflammatory properties and effectiveness as a bronchodilator. However, there is still a need in clinical trials to observe significantly positive or negative effects on airway function and exertional breathlessness in adults. 

 

Symptoms of Cancer Patients

 

Many patients in palliative care may want to address other common symptoms at end of life, such as anxiety, depression, nausea, anorexia, or insomnia, which may all be relieved by cannabinoid therapy. Others may be looking to reduce or stop altogether certain medications, specifically opioids with serious adverse effects. 

 

An Israeli study published in 2018 on cannabis use in nearly 3,000 cancer patients showed significant improvement in the control of common symptoms other than pain, including sleep disorders (70.8%), fatigue (55.9%), anxiety and depression (74.1%) and nausea and vomiting (54.7%). 18.7% reported a good quality of life prior to treatment initiation while 69.5% reported good quality of life after 6 months. 

 

These findings align with published results from Realm of Caring’s observational research registry, where cannabis users self-reported significantly better quality of life, greater health satisfaction, improved sleep, lower average pain severity, lower anxiety, and lower depression compared with controls. Therefore, cannabinoid therapies may be beneficial across a broad range of symptoms realized in palliative care settings, beyond pain management. The argument may then be made that the role of cannabinoid therapy should not only be under consideration for a palliative care setting, but earlier in the course of palliative care strategy. 

 

Preclinical evidence and case studies have shown the potential for cannabinoids to have disease-modifying effects. Several studies have demonstrated their anti-tumoral, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties, for example. However, more clinical research is necessary to provide evidence necessary to fully support disease-modifying effects.

 

Opioid-sparing effects

 

When it comes to pain management, opioids in particular have considerable side effects, including constipation, impaired sleep, and respiratory depression. In recent decades, we have witnessed an increase in the prescription of opioids – therefore an increase in opioid use disorders and opioid-related mortality. Therefore, the need has increased to discover combinations of medications that complement each other’s actions for maximizing pain-alleviating responses to allow lower doses of each. The endocannabinoid system represents an ideal target because it is a key endogenous system in modulating pain-processing pathways. 

 

It has been observed that CB2 receptors indirectly stimulate opioid receptors located in the central nervous system. Therefore, in addition to having direct pain-relieving effects on their own, cannabinoids may work synergistically to enhance opioid effects. 

 

A published review looked at 28 studies providing data relating to the potential opioid-sparing effects of cannabinoids in the context of pain management. Most of the pre-clinical studies examined reported reduced opioid requirements when co-administered with cannabinoids. Two controlled clinical studies found no effect of cannabinoids on opioid dose requirements. One case provided low quality evidence and few controlled clinical studies measured opioid sparing as a goal, so findings relating to pain management were mixed. Controlled clinical studies demonstrated some beneficial effects of co-administration on outcomes of pain, sleep, and functioning in chronic pain patients. 

 

Despite the potential for cannabinoids to reduce opioid dose requirements and extend pain relieving effects, it is recommended that increased studies be carried out and observed as there is inconsistent data thus far. Future study considerations should carefully document adverse effects from co-administration to better understand potential harms and examine dose range and tolerability.

 

Spiritual and Existential Suffering

 

Cannabinoid therapy approaches may offer unique potential benefits known more through traditional medicinal and cultural uses and shown through anecdotal reports from patients and caregivers. Mild euphoria, sensory enhancement, and overall sense of well-being could play an important therapeutic role for patients faced with the despair of terminal conditions and the loss of function that tends to accompany it. 

 

Patient’s right to access

 

In cases where individuals expect medical cannabis to be presented as a strategy for their advanced health condition, this leads into a topic of palliative care that deserves to be mentioned: personal autonomy in medical decisions for alleviation of pain and suffering. The facilitation of a patient’s right to access experimental treatments and therapies in line with their wishes and beliefs, is something to be considered as research continues to evolve in this specific area of care.

 

Questions that remain

 

Finding support with cannabinoid therapy and palliative care can be difficult, but that is where Realm of Caring may step in to help. Our care specialists are trained to help with product and practical administration suggestions – whether you be an experienced user or novice. In general, cannabis is safe but responsible use and guidance, as well as oversight by a healthcare professional, are always recommended. We are here to help start and facilitate those conversations along the way through these extremely difficult times. 

 

If you want to reach out to our care team to discuss anything cannabinoid therapy related one on one – we are here for you! You can call our free hotline at 719-347-5400, email info@realmofcaring.org, or schedule an appointment. 

 

New York Times reporters Megan Twohey, Danielle Ivory, and Carson Kessler recently published findings from their month-long reporting journey into the risks of cannabis use. The article is titled As America’s Marijuana Use Grows, So Do the Harms. They interviewed and surveyed hundreds of doctors and consumers to better understand the “emerging ill-effects of cannabis” which are “severe and widespread”. 

 

Cannabis science evolves every day. For the last twelve years Realm of Caring has been at the forefront of this conversation in several ways by both leading research projects and being directly tapped into the everyday cannabis consumer at a global scale. We have accumulated millions of data points and conducted hundreds of thousands of one on one interactions. More about Realm of Caring later, but first I feel we must address the wrongly directed harms in this article before the conversation propagates a prohibition rhetoric any further. 

 

Allow me to begin by bringing to your attention to the real issue:

 

Individuals have been self-medicating with cannabis for a host of health conditions for decades without proper guidance from a medical professional or regulatory oversight that ensures patient safety over profit. As a society, we are to blame. 

 

Medical patients who have found success through their cannabinoid therapy often have the same story: they researched, studied, observed, and tried various products until finding something that allowed them to live an improved quality of life. These patients filled in a gap that a medical system could not and would not provide to them. 

 

Unfortunately, without directly saying it, this article highlights problem after problem that can be attributed to: lack of education, lack of knowledge before purchasing, lack of medical support, and lack of products for a medically fragile community. And yet, the only solution they provide is “educate the consumer”. A resounding “yes” – educate the consumer! However, the burden cannot stay with them, as they have to constantly dig into the latest available research and bring that research to the retail worker behind the dispensary counter or their doctor. The burden must lie with those profiting off of their health.

 

“Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS), once rare but is now common.”

 

Negative consequences can happen. Anything can become addictive. However, these things generally do not happen when professionals support individuals in treating their medical conditions. 

 

From Realm of Caring’s decade of recorded interactions, individuals reaching out to our free support line to ask questions about CHS makes up 0.0047% of inquiries. The problem exists and should be solved but not by instilling fear. Fear-based decision making is what has kept cannabis as a Schedule 1 substance for nearly 55 years and prevents further research into the endless beneficial health claims. This scheduling has also prevented those suffering from debilitating, life-threatening conditions from having honest and constructive conversations with their doctor about incorporating the plant into their health regimen. 

 

Legal scholar Cass Sunstein has used the term “probability neglect” to describe this process of fear-based decision making as creating an inflated perception of probability by focusing on the potential harm of a worst-case scenario, rather than considering how likely it is to actually occur. We should be cautioned to incite such feelings based on one month of investigative journalism.  

 

“We as scientists have done a really bad job educating the general public about the risks of cannabis.”

 

Wrong. We have not done a bad job of educating the general public about risks. We have done a lousy job at educating our doctors and medical health professionals. We have done a terrible job at not translating scientific knowledge into policy so cannabis can be regulated at the federal level. We have done a poor job at giving consumers a safe space in their doctor’s office to ask questions about cannabis to determine if it is even for them or not. 

 

Cannabis is not for everyone. For example, if you are predisposed to a major psychiatric condition, there is a correlation between that and self-medicating with cannabis; this article highlights that exact sentiment. Cannabis may not be the cause of a psychotic disorder, but it may exacerbate symptoms. Suppose this is the case, and we know that those who may be genetically at a greater risk for psychological conditions are consuming cannabis; then why is there not more emphasis put on how to support these patients on that journey rather than waiting until a catastrophic event happens? If veterans, for example, were able to speak with their VA doctor about utilizing cannabis as a therapy for their PTSD, might we have more conversations about cannabis being a catalyst for success rather than a catalyst for disaster? 

 

“States have rolled out inconsistent standards.”

 

This one is very true. A medical cannabis patient in one state may not cross state lines with their medicine or purchase medical cannabis in another state. States are favoring the interests of multi-state operators over patients. A large number of cannabis companies are seemingly more concerned with profits over patients. Very few are listening to the patient. 

 

While cannabis companies are crafting products to yield higher percentages of THC, patients are shopping elsewhere, growing it themselves, or, low and behold, suffering from CHS and turning away from cannabis altogether. The article may allude to the fact that the “public health experiment” has failed when, in actuality, the state experiment has failed. Inconsistency and ambiguity create loopholes that allow products to be on the market that shouldn’t be and make access to quality cannabis products a privilege. A solution is needed at the federal level. 

 

Enter: Realm of Caring Foundation

 

Realm of Caring was born out of necessity. Parents whose children were suffering from intractable diseases scoured every research article ever written for their child’s diagnosis and discovered cannabis could be an option. When they bravely approached their doctor with the information. They were told that they could try it but would not or could not receive support. Believe it or not, 12 years after Realm of Caring was founded, this is the same message that is given to patients today – no matter the age of the patient. 

 

Realm of Caring was born so suffering individuals would not have to do this alone. They, at long last, had a safe space to ask questions, understand research, learn how to find a quality product that could help them, be provided with affordable options, and become active, healthy members of society. There may not be a solution at the federal level yet that ensures cannabis is safe, accessible, accepted, and de-stigmatized. Still, in the meantime, Realm of Caring is filling the void through compassionate care and groundbreaking research. 

 

“None are monitoring – or even equipped – to access the full scope of health outcomes.”

 

As Realm of Caring is dedicated to cannabis research and education, we will advance our work into medicinal cannabis by collaborating on a National Cannabis Study supported by a National Institutes of Health (NIH) grant awarded to Johns Hopkins Behavioral Pharmacology Research Unit through the NIH Registry of Medical Cannabis Use and Health Outcomes funding opportunity. This project will develop and maintain a medicinal cannabis use registry to assess the medical conditions reported as reasons for consumption, how and what products are being used, and the associated medical outcomes. Through this publicly accessible registry, Realm of Caring and others may utilize the data to inform both policy and clinical recommendation practices on medicinal cannabis, CBD products, and associated conditions and outcomes for patients.

 

The grant will support research to understand the potential benefits, harms, and outcomes of medicinal cannabis use in the United States, to enroll 10,000 individuals over the next 5 years. The hope is that this research project will have an instrumental ripple effect in helping millions of patients, providers, and caregivers make informed decisions about incorporating cannabis into their healthcare. Additionally, the project aims to provide data-driven information that can be used to inform drug policies across the country.

 

In addition, Realm of Caring funds and conducts several independent research projects to close the gap between scientific knowledge and policy. Realm of Caring has the capacity to collect data on every diagnosis that one may or may not be using cannabis to self-treat through our Observational Research Registry. We are also collecting data on the long-term effects of cannabidiol (CBD) and the potential benefits of cannabis for female veterans. 

 

Since our inception, we have welcomed an array of individuals – from those who are curious to those desperate to find a solution to keep their loved ones alive – and we helped them. We have created space for one-on-one discussions to provide research-backed answers to questions that detail both the potential benefits and potential risks of cannabinoid therapy. No one wants to forge alone into the unknown, which is why Realm of Caring exists. Here, we will remain until the questions splattered throughout the Times article are highlighted as the problem and resolved instead of pointing the finger at a plant. 

Have you ever wondered how THC can enhance female arousal and orgasm? The connection between cannabis and sexual pleasure has piqued interest in the realm of sexual medicine. As more research emerges, it’s becoming clear that THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, has an influence on female sexual health in ways you might not expect. 

 

THC may interact with the female body to boost sexual arousal, allow for the ability to orgasm and heighten orgasm intensity. Here we’ll explore the science behind THC’s impact on the female sexual response – from its effects on the prefrontal cortex and amygdala to its role in oxytocin release. Whether you’re curious about using cannabis before sex or wondering if it may make sex more pleasurable, this article will shed light on the potential benefits of THC for female sexual satisfaction.

 

Understanding THC and the Female Sexual Response

 

THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces the euphoric ‘high’ sensation. It interacts with your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates various functions, including sexual response. When you consume THC, it connects to specific sites called cannabinoid receptors on nerve cells in your brain, influencing their activity.

 

These receptors are found in parts of your brain that affect pleasure, memory, thought, and sensory perception. THC’s impact on these areas can lead to heightened sensations and increased appreciation of touch, potentially enhancing sexual experiences. THC has an influence on your brain’s prefrontal cortex and amygdala, areas involved in anxiety and trauma responses. By reducing activity in these regions, THC may help lower inhibitions and reduce feelings of anxiety during sexual encounters.

 

THC’s Impact on Female Arousal

 

THC has a significant influence on female arousal, potentially enhancing sexual experiences. Research suggests that cannabis use before partnered sex may improve orgasm frequency and satisfaction. One way it may help is through relaxation, which may lead to increased sensitivity and a deeper connection with a partner.

 

Studies have shown that more frequent cannabis use may be associated with heightened arousal and stronger orgasms. In fact, for each additional step of cannabis use intensity, the odds of reporting female sexual dysfunction declined by 21%. THC-infused products, such as lubricants, have also been reported to increase sensitivity and arousal.

 

How THC May Improve Female Orgasm

 

THC has shown promising effects on female orgasm, potentially enhancing sexual experiences. Research indicates that cannabis use before partnered sex may increase orgasm frequency, improve satisfaction, and make orgasm easier to achieve. 

 

A study published in April of 2024 surveyed women with difficulty reaching orgasm. Among participants who witnessed challenges, 72.8% reported that cannabis prior to sex increased orgasm frequency, 67% noted improved satisfaction, and 71% found orgasm easier with cannabis use. The frequency of cannabis use before sex correlated with increased orgasm frequency for women experiencing difficulties. THC’s ability to reduce anxiety may contribute to improved orgasm and satisfaction during sexual encounters. 

 

Conclusion

 

It is important to note that THC’s effects on female sexual function are dose-dependent. Low doses may facilitate or have no effect, while high doses can inhibit sexual desire and receptivity. Cannabis is not a one-size-fits-all approach and dialing into your therapeutic dose is important to help you find success. But don’t worry, a free hotline is available to assist you with all of your questions.

 

The exploration of THC’s effects on female arousal and orgasm sheds light on the potential benefits of medical cannabis in enhancing sexual experiences as well as a potential treatment option for Female Orgasmic Disorder (FOD). Research suggests that THC may have a positive influence on female sexual response, potentially leading to increased arousal, heightened sensitivity, and orgasms or more intense orgasms. 

 

As we continue to uncover the relationship between THC and female sexuality, it’s important to stay informed about the evolving landscape of medical cannabis legislation. Understanding the potential benefits of THC for female sexual health can help shape more informed discussions about the role of medical cannabis in improving overall well-being and quality of life.

 

As October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we at Realm of Caring want to shed light on the potential role of cannabis in supporting cancer patients. Our Executive Director, Sasha Kalcheff-Korn, recently shared valuable insights on the Believe Big podcast about cannabis use in oncology.

 

Understanding Cannabis and Its Benefits for Cancer Patients

 

Cannabis, with its various strains and compounds, offers a range of potential benefits for cancer patients. Sasha explains:

 

“Cannabis has over 400 different compounds and over a hundred different cannabinoids. So we have these different cannabinoids that are extracted that have an abundance of health benefits.”

 

These benefits include anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, sleep improvement, pain relief, and anti-anxiety effects. For cancer patients specifically, research has shown promising results:

 

“The anti-cancer potential of the cannabis plant is anti-tumor, anti-proliferative, so helping to stop the spread of cancer cells from getting into tissue or from multiplying within the body, helping to decrease tumor size or inhibit tumor growth.”

 

Quality Matters: Choosing the Right Cannabis Products

 

When it comes to using cannabis, especially for cancer patients, the quality of the product is crucial. Sasha emphasizes:

 

“Especially for our immune sensitive and medically sensitive populations, it’s really, we can’t stress enough how much the quality of your product matters.”

 

She advises looking for products with up-to-date certificates of analysis that show testing for heavy metals, pesticides, and residual solvents, as well as accurate cannabinoid content.

 

Cannabis as Part of a Holistic Approach

 

While cannabis shows promise, it’s important to view it as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. As Sasha notes:

 

“There’s also been a lot of research to support using cannabis as an adjunct therapy to conventional treatments and actually helping to potentially improve the treatment’s efficacy while decreasing the side effects that the treatments might cause.”

 

Join Our Research Efforts

 

At Realm of Caring, we’re committed to advancing cannabis research. We’re currently collaborating with Johns Hopkins on observational studies to better understand how people use cannabis in their everyday lives.

 

Help us further this important research by joining our observational research registry. Your experiences can contribute to advancing our understanding of cannabis use in cancer care and beyond.

 

To learn more about cannabis and its potential role in cancer treatment, listen to the full Believe Big podcast episode here.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating natural compound found in the Cannabis sativa plant that has gained a lot of attention for its therapeutic effects across multiple conditions. For first time users of CBD, questions about use usually pertain to how the product containing the compound might make them feel. 

 

CBD products are often mistakenly compared to high-THC cannabis products and therefore wrongly associated with mild intoxication that may affect memory and cognition. It is worth noting that despite cannabis use producing acute memory impairment during intoxication, regular users may not show these acute declines in overall performance. 

 

What has been witnessed through research is the ability of CBD to counteract the intoxicating actions of THC and improve the effects of THC impairment. Previous studies suggest that CBD may acutely reduce THC-related learning and memory impairments in well-controlled human and animal studies. 

 

CBD: A potential treatment for cognitive impairment

 

The endocannabinoid system contains cannabinoid receptors, notably cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2) that are located throughout the body and brain; with CB1 more widely expressed across the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and basal ganglia. These receptors have been described, among others, to be specific modulators of hippocampal function. When CBD interacts with these receptors, it may serve as a neuroprotectant and ameliorate brain harms. 

 

CBD’s influence on brain function has gained the attention of the research community. Recent research suggests that CBD use for those with pathological conditions may see improved cognitive processes. This includes improved attention, executive function, working memory, and episodic memory. Research thus far has led CBD to be proposed as a novel therapeutic option across several diagnoses to include psychosis, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, and autism spectrum disorders. Most conventional pharmaceuticals to manage symptoms of psychosis and mood disorders are linked to low efficacy, tolerance, and adverse events; therefore there is a need for treatment options that could provide a better outcome with limited side effects. 

 

In 2021 a systematic review was published, observing CBD for the treatment of psychotic and anxiety disorders. The studies that met inclusion criteria investigated the acute effects of CBD on brain function while in a state or rest or during cognitive tasks. For healthy volunteers, CBD showed to modulate brain activity when it came to emotional processing, verbal memory, response inhibition, and auditory/visual processing. For volunteers with a clinical high risk for psychosis or with diagnosed psychosis, acute CBD use showed intermediate brain activity during cognitive tasks. These findings led researchers in the review to establish a recommendation for future studies to investigate longer-term CBD treatment for psychiatric patients. 

 

For neurodegenerative diseases, CBD has shown to be a promising therapeutic agent. Several studies point to the ability of CBD to inhibit progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Although the mechanisms of the neuroprotective effects have not fully been discovered, research points to CBD’s role in reducing neuroinflammation, reducing oxidative stress, and improving cognitive performance by preventing the development of social recognition deficit. 

 

CBD: Improving and preserving cognitive function

 

Preclinical evidence indicates that acute and prolonged use of CBD has no negative effects on spatial learning and may actually improve features of motor learning or attention. Preclinical studies also show the potential of CBD to restore memory impairments across animals with induced neurological dysfunction. By diminishing inflammation and the risk of oxidative stress, CBD has the potential to safeguard brain cells, therefore preserving memory function. 

 

Higher resting hippocampal blood flow is associated with better memory performance. Results were published in 2020 from a randomized, crossover, double-blind study where 15 healthy participants were administered oral CBD to assess how CBD influences cerebral brain flow in regions involved with memory processing. Their findings suggest that CBD does increase cerebral brain flow to the key regions involved in memory processing, particularly in the hippocampus (Bloomfield et al., 2020). 

 

Getting started with CBD

 

CBD therapy is not a one-size fits all approach, and more CBD does not always correlate to increased benefit. One-on-one support, taking it slow, and being consistent with your therapy are all key components to finding success. The conditions mentioned here are incredibly complex and more than one therapy may be necessary to alleviate symptoms. If you seek resources for how to talk to your doctor or data-driven answers to your questions about cannabinoid therapy and symptoms of specific conditions, the Realm of Caring Care Team is here to assist with free support. Reach out to us for dosing guidance, quality product selection, and how to get involved in research to increase our collective knowledge on the benefits of CBD use.

For many suffering from debilitating conditions such as chronic pain, conventional treatments often fall short, leaving them in search of alternatives. While cannabis has emerged as a promising natural remedy, fear of legal repercussions can be a significant barrier. In this blog, we’ll explore how to safely and effectively integrate cannabis into your pain management routine while addressing the legal landscape.

 

The appeal of natural relief for chronic pain

 

Research has pointed to cannabis being “superior to” and having “fewer side effects” than some prescription medications. Participants in observational studies have claimed that when compared to traditional medications, cannabis improves their quality of life by helping with multiple conditions. 

 

Relief from chronic pain is among the most common conditions reported by patients for the medical use of cannabis. It is considered one of the most debilitating conditions, yet there is a lack of consensus from the medical community on the best diagnostic and treatment method. Currently, opioids are the most commonly prescribed drugs for pain, which in 2016 accounted for 259 million prescriptions. Recent reports suggest that a number of pain patients are replacing the use of opioids with cannabis. A 2014 study found that states with medical cannabis programs reported significant reductions in opioid overdose mortality and a 2018 study found these same states saw significant decreases in opioid prescriptions among Medicare-enrolled individuals. A 2011 study found that combining cannabis with opioids decreased pain significantly without affecting opioid plasma levels; which led researchers to suggest the potential for opioids to be prescribed at much lower doses when cannabis is also consumed, resulting in fewer side effects. 

 

Cannabis as an alternative to other “treatment-resistant conditions”

 

A treatment-resistant condition/disease may be identified as a diagnosed condition/disease that was not improved after attempting use of two different pharmaceuticals, in separate occasions, at the proper dose. Several qualitative study results show that medical cannabis patients believe cannabis to be a promising substitute for traditional pharmacotherapies. In 2022, responses from 808 individuals were reviewed in one qualitative study, which highlighted that 51% of participants were motivated to use medicinal cannabis based on beliefs that traditional treatments were ineffective and/or had intolerable side effects and 21% showed a preference for “natural” treatments over pharmaceuticals. Among these participants were parents of an 11-year old with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), who responded to their reason for making the switch as:

 

“He tried two different SSRI [selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor] medications. One made him have severe suicidal ideations. The other one increased his OCD compulsions and the distress became unbearable. When the psychiatrist gave us another prescription for a 3rd SSRI, we, the parents, decided that we could not put him (and us) through that again.” (Garcia-Romeu et at., 2022). 

 

Of the participants, 77% attributed positive effects to the medicinal use of cannabis, including reduced pain (28%), improved sleep (18%), seizure reduction (18%), reduced anxiety (22%), and improved mood (11%). Problems associated with medical cannabis use were cited by 41% of respondents, which included lack of information or medical support (16%) and legal concerns (10%). 

 

Legal Considerations

 

In the same 2020 qualitative study, 10% of respondents cited legal concerns as a problem for their medical cannabis use. One participant explained that “the stigma and continued illegality of cannabis products in our state causes undue stress and unnecessary effort to help our family.” (Garcia-Romeu et at., 2022). A parent reported “I am so grateful for what this oil has done for my son. I am however nervous of the uncertainty of the legality of it. It needs to be fixed at the federal level, not just the state.” (Garcia-Romeu et at., 2022). 

 

Stigma and legal concerns may prevent travel, those with federal benefits to join state medical cannabis programs, discussions with doctors about cannabis or hemp use, and trying plant-based therapies that have the potential to increase one’s quality of life. A caregiver for their 74-year-old spouse with metastatic prostate cancer explained it “took quite a bit of time, over a year, to decide to try this modality. Reluctant due to social stigma and legality concerns.” (Garcia-Romeu et at., 2022). With how often laws change around cannabis and hemp products each legislative session, current patients are also faced with the uncertainty of whether or not the products they are currently using will be available in subsequent years. 

 

A large population of patients suffer as a result of ambiguity in cannabis and hemp law. It likewise causes confusion for dispensaries, law enforcement, medical providers, and caregivers. Unclear laws also create loopholes and allowance for synthetically derived cannabinoids to be sold, which may be unsafe for consumers. With the lack of federal oversight for cannabis and hemp products, it is up to the consumer to check on the accuracy and safety of the product being sold. 

 

How to get started safely

 

Cannabis and hemp are not one-size-fits-all approaches. Including both or either into your medical journey can depend on the zip code you live in, the condition you are suffering with, what medications you are taking, and more. It is overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you have questions on legality, are seeking resources for how to talk to your doctor, or want data-driven answers to your questions about cannabinoid therapy and symptoms of various health conditions, the Realm of Caring Care Team is here to assist with free, one-on-one support.

In today’s world, the abundance of treatment options can be both a blessing and a curse. With so many choices, from pharmaceuticals to supplements, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of the right path. But what if there was a way to simplify your approach to health and wellness? In this blog post, we’ll explore how safe, non-addictive, plant-based alternatives like cannabis can help you cut through the noise and find a solution that works for you.

 

The Problem of Overwhelm

 

Decision fatigue is “the idea that after making many decisions, your ability to make more and more decisions over the course of a day becomes worse. The more decisions you have to make, the more fatigue you develop and the more difficult it can become,” explains Dr. Lisa MacLean. Characteristics of decision fatigue include mental and physical exhaustion, which may lead to stress and anxiety. 

 

This overwhelming feeling for patients may arise as they seek solutions for their health. Information may come from various online forums, through recommendations from family and friends, as well as advice from a medical professional. Weighing the pros and cons of cost, side effects, and simply knowing where to start based on all of the information available may lead to avoidance, procrastination, or impulsivity, which can all have consequences for our overall health and well-being. 

 

The Desire for Simplicity with Plant Extracts

 

Published research in 2013 reported the tremendous increase in herbal medicinal products and supplements with no less than 80% of individuals worldwide relying on them for a portion of primary health care. Now, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, a global aging population has developed an even more heightened awareness around personal health and is a driving force of consumer interests towards herbal and natural health products. 

 

The factors responsible for increased self-medication with herbal medicines include:

 

• Various claims on the efficacy or effectiveness of plant medicines;
• Preference of consumers for natural therapies and a greater interest in alternative medicines; Belief that herbal products are superior to manufactured products;
• Dissatisfaction with the results from pharmaceuticals and the belief that herbal medicines might be effective in the treatment of certain diseases where conventional therapies and medicines have proven to be ineffective or inadequate;
• High cost and side effects of most modern drugs;
• Improvements in the quality, efficacy, and safety of herbal medicines with the development of science and technology;
• Patients’ belief that their physicians have not properly identified the problem; hence the feeling that herbal remedies are another option; and
• A movement toward self-medication.

 

The Risk of Unregulated Products 

 

When faced with the decision to use a plant-based medicine, a common fear is not knowing whether or not to trust a product that is being marketed to you. The more you take a deep dive into plant-based medicines, the more you may learn how they are often widely unregulated and some may be not just of low quality, but unsafe. 

 

Strict quality control is extremely important in the hemp and cannabis industry. However, a variety of methods of consumption and rise in popularity leaves many opportunities for unsafe products to exist on the market. At Realm of Caring, many of our staff and families struggled with the same question. Over time, we learned to ask specific questions to discern quality products and placed those questions in a guide for you. 

 

Why Plant-Based Alternatives? 

 

Cannabis and hemp have been valued for centuries for pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and calming properties. Research has shown that medicinal cannabis users report significantly less utilization of healthcare than non-cannabis using controls to include prescription medications, emergency department visits, and hospitalizations. Additional published data indicates that patients with a wide array of health conditions have reported significant physical and mental health benefits associated with medicinal cannabis, which are not evident in patients who do not use medicinal cannabis. For many, finding a product that is efficacious without side effects can vastly improve health and quality of life. 

 

How to Incorporate Plant-Based Therapies into your Routine

 

First, this is not a decision you have to make all on your own. Realm of Caring is here to offer free support. From how to talk with your doctor about incorporating hemp or cannabis into your routine, to product selection, dosing guidance, and understanding what the research says, our knowledgeable and dedicated care team are here for you. By focusing on safe and natural products you can take control of your health journey and potentially move towards a more simplified, effective, and fulfilling approach to wellness.