Category: Blog

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.

 

In recent years, cannabis policy has become a hot-button issue in American politics. As the 2024 presidential election approaches, it’s crucial to understand where the candidates stand on marijuana legalization and reform. Let’s take a closer look at the evolving positions of two key figures: Kamala Harris and Donald Trump.

 

Kamala Harris: From Prosecutor to Proponent

 

A Shifting Stance on Cannabis

 

Kamala Harris’s position on cannabis has undergone a significant transformation over the years:

 

1. Early Career as San Francisco DA:
   • Defended medical marijuana use
   • Oversaw 1,900+ cannabis-related convictions
2. 2010 Attorney General Campaign:
   • Opposed recreational marijuana sales
   • Cited concerns about the medicinal marketplace
3. 2014 Attorney General Re-election:
   • Maintained opposition to recreational use
4. 2019 Presidential Campaign:
   • Reversed position, supporting marijuana legalization
   • Admitted to past cannabis use

 

Recent Advocacy for Cannabis Reform

 

In 2024, Harris has taken a strong stance on cannabis policy reform:

 

• Criticized federal classification of marijuana as more dangerous than fentanyl
• Called for ending prohibition altogether
• Urged DEA to expedite cannabis rescheduling

 

Donald Trump: A Mixed Bag on Marijuana Policy

 

Presidential Administration (2017-2021)

 

1. States’ Rights Approach:
   • Generally maintained respect for state cannabis laws
   • Criticized AG Jeff Sessions for rescinding Obama-era guidance
2. Farm Bill
   • Signed the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 into law
   • The bill legalized the cultivation and sale of hemp at the federal level, effective January 1, 2019
   • Hemp was removed from the list of federally banned drugs under the Controlled Substances Act
   • The legislation defined hemp as cannabis plants containing less than 0.3% THC
   • It allowed for the broad cultivation of hemp, not just pilot programs for research purposes
   • The bill permitted the transfer of hemp-derived products across state lines for commercial purposes
   • Hemp farmers gained protections under the Federal Crop Insurance Act
   • The legislation paved the way for the first federally-sanctioned commercial hemp grows since World War II
   • While it didn’t fully legalize CBD, it opened pathways for hemp-derived CBD products to be legally marketed under certain conditions
3. Bipartisan Support:
   • Tentatively endorsed bill to codify federal respect for state marijuana laws
4. Mixed Signals:
   • Released signing statements reserving right to ignore medical marijuana protections

 

2024 Campaign Rhetoric

 

• Claimed Harris jailed “thousands” of Black people for cannabis offenses.

 

The Bottom Line: Cannabis Policy in 2024

 

As voters consider their options, it’s clear that cannabis policy remains a complex and evolving issue:

 

• Harris has recently taken a clear pro-legalization stance
• Trump’s current position is less defined, focusing more on criticizing Harris’s record

 

For those interested in cannabis reform, it’s crucial to stay informed about the candidates’ positions and track any policy developments as the election approaches.

 

Stay tuned to Realm of Caring for more updates on cannabis policy and its impact on patients and families.

 

Brief History

 

Functional mushrooms have seen various therapeutic applications in ancient civilizations for millenia. Both Lion’s Mane and Reishi (also known as Ling Zhi) mushrooms were regularly used in ancient China for thousands of years to treat various ailments. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lion’s Mane was often used to treat gastrointestinal problems, improve cognitive function, and mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Reishi was used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat ailments related to the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, and mental health. It was especially common as a medicine for cough and asthma. Similar uses of these mushrooms have been documented across ancient civilizations. However, despite this long documented history of therapeutic application, empirical research on functional mushrooms remains more limited than one might expect. Here’s what we know.

 

Therapeutic Applications

 

Lion’s Mane

 

Neuroprotective/neuroregenerative effects: Lion’s Mane has repeatedly demonstrated strong potential in treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. The mushroom contains components that are neuroprotective and promote neuroregeneration.

 

Cognitive benefits: Lion’s Mane has been found to improve cognitive performance among multiple populations: older adults ages 50-80 with mild cognitive impairment, healthy older adults (55+), and healthy adults. Lion’s Mane has also been found to improve memory. These improvements are likely caused by the substance’s well-documented neuroprotective and neuroregenerative properties.

 

Improvement in hearing: Lion’s Mane improved hearing among geriatric adults with hearing degeneration. It especially improved the ability to hear high frequencies and speech recognition.

 

Neurotrophic effects: Lion’s Mane has therapeutic potential to treat mood and sleep disorders. Studies have shown that Lion’s Mane can reduce depression, relieve anxiety, and improve sleep.

 

Anticancer: Lion’s Mane has been found to have antitumor properties. Constituents of the mushroom inhibit tumor and cancer cell growth.

 

Other effects: Lion’s Mane has therapeutic potential to treat gastrointestinal disorders by regulating gut microbiota and reducing inflammation. It has also been found to improve cholesterol by reducing the amount of lipids in the blood. Additionally, anti-aging properties have been observed. 

 

Reishi

 

Anticancer: Reishi has been found to have strong synergistic effects when used in tandem with chemotherapy or radiotherapy. A review found that patients including Reishi in the treatment were 1.27 times more likely to respond to chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

 

Anticonvulsant effects: There’s some evidence that Reishi has antiepileptic properties. Studies have shown that Reishi spore powder reduces seizure frequency by reducing accumulation of calcium, a primary characteristic of epilepsy.

 

Immunomodulatory effects: A clinical trial found that Reishi increases the number of immune cells present in peripheral blood among healthy children, and this finding was later corroborated in healthy adults. Reishi’s immunomodulatory activity contributes to its effectiveness in assisting with cancer treatment.

 

Cardiovascular effects: Reishi is commonly used to treat cardiovascular disease because it targets common risk factors. Reishi’s antioxidant, hypotensive, anti-inflammatory, metabolic effects work synergistically to treat and prevent cardiovascular diseases.

 

Metabolic effects: Reishi has been found to be effective in treating Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) by promoting the metabolic process in a way that allows the body and brain to utilize energy more effectively. Reishi has also been reported to have anti-diabetic effects.

 

Other effects: A variety of effects have been attributed to Reishi including: antiviral, antibacterial, prebiotic properties. Reishi has also been shown to improve high-fat diet induced obesity; by altering the gut biome, mouse models have shown reduced obesity and weight gain characteristics.

 

Functional Mushrooms for Epilepsy Study

 

For the past year, Realm of Caring, Unlimited Sciences, and Lily’s Lighthouse have been working in collaboration on an exciting mixed methods case study with multiple cases to highlight the therapeutic potential of Lion’s Mane and Reishi mushrooms for treating epilepsy. Data collection for the study has recently closed, and our research team has been excited to see reported improvements across various epilepsy and seizure types. In fact, 90% of participants reported a mild to strong belief that functional mushrooms have had a positive impact on the way seizures affect their life. Stay tuned for our publication detailing improvements in epilepsy symptoms and quality of life among those with epilepsy using functional mushrooms!

 

Flavonoids are compounds found in several parts of plants including the root, stem, and leaves. They play a variety of biological activity and are abundantly found in products of plant origin such as fruits, vegetables, tea, flowers, grains, and cannabis. Just as terpenes provide plants their smell, flavonoids provide plant their color while functioning as UV filters, signaling molecules, detoxifying agents, plant heat acclimatization and as a freezing tolerance. Currently around 6,000 flavonoids have been discovered. Through research, flavonoids have been considered an absolutely necessary component in a variety of nutraceuticals, pharmaceutical, medicinal, and cosmetic applications due to their broad range of health-promoting properties. 

 

Flavonoids in Cannabis

 

More than 20 flavonoids have been identified in cannabis Sativa. Cannabis is not a singular compound, rather it encompasses a vast and complicated molecular profile. The interaction of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids make up the “entourage effect” phenomenon, producing enhanced therapeutic effects. 

 

Full-Spectrum CBD Products

 

Hemp (industrial hemp) is a class of cannabis sativa, which is grown for industrial use and consumable use. Cannabidiol (CBD) products are derived from hemp and are considered full spectrum if all extracts from the plant are utilized including CBD, <0.3% delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), other minor cannabinoids, terpenes, essential oils, and flavonoids. Broad spectrum is similar with the exception that there is not a detectable amount of THC found. Isolate products only contain the CBD molecule from the plant. 

 

When utilizing full-spectrum CBD products, the included flavonoids offer potential health benefits, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. They work with cannabinoids and terpenes, contributing to CBD’s complex impact on the body.

 

Identified Potential Health Applications

 

Flavonoids have shown promise in various health applications that may contribute to overall well-being.

 

Inflammation and Pain Management

 

Flavonoids show anti-inflammatory properties, potentially managing pain. Cannflavin A may enhance the pain-relieve effects of CBD and THC through synergistic interaction.

 

Neuroprotective Properties

 

Several flavonoids exhibit neuroprotective qualities that may benefit brain health. Cannabis flavonoids luteolin and apigenin show promise for cognitive health. Luteolin may protect the brain, enhance memory, and combat brain fog. Apigenin potentially treats Alzheimer’s and offers sedative and muscle-relaxing benefits for mental well-being.

 

Cardiovascular Health

 

CBD flavonoids may benefit heart health. Anthocyanidins potentially prevent heart disease and manage blood pressure. Quercetin protects against oxidative stress. Kaempferol’s antioxidant properties may reduce cardiovascular risks. These compounds support overall heart function.

 

Key Flavonoids Found in CBD

 

Full and broad spectrum CBD products may contain various flavonoids that contribute to their unique properties and potential health benefits. Here are some of the key flavonoids you may find in your CBD:

 

Quercetin

 

Quercetin is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may have positive effects on heart health, cancer prevention, and allergy relief. 

 

Kaempferol

 

This natural substance has potent antioxidant properties, even surpassing vitamins C and E in effectiveness  in combating oxidative stress and inflammation, making it a potential candidate for treating disorders associated with chronic immune activation .

 

Luteolin

 

It has been found to have potential benefits in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in various conditions may help alleviate allergy symptoms, reduce inflammation in multiple sclerosis, and even have anti-cancer properties.

 

Apigenin

 

Apigenin, an antioxidant bioflavonoid, has anti-anxiety effects and potential cancer-fighting properties.

 

Cannflavins

 

Cannflavins (A, B, C) are flavonoids partially unique to cannabis sativa. We say partially unique because Cannflavin A has also been identified in Mimulus bigelovii, a plant in the Phrymaceae family. Cannflavin A may offer neuroprotection, potentially benefiting Alzheimer’s disease.

 

Flavonoids synergize with other cannabis compounds, enhancing CBD benefits via the entourage effect. Cannflavin A and B show promise as an anti-inflammatory as they were about 30 times more effective than aspirin when studied in human rheumatoid cells.

 

Conclusion

 

Flavonoids offer diverse health benefits, complementing cannabinoids and terpenes. They influence inflammation, neuroprotection, and heart health. Compounds like quercetin, kaempferol, luteolin, apigenin, and cannflavins contribute to CBD’s complex effects. Ongoing research may lead to more targeted CBD formulations, exploring specific mechanisms and optimal compound combinations.

Medicinal use of cannabis for chronic pain has been reported across a number of conditions. Although not researched as often, cannabis is widely used for abdominal pain and mounting evidence suggests that compounds of the plant may play a therapeutic role. 

 

Abdominal pain

 

Stomach pain may refer to pain experienced in any one of the organs or muscles within the digestive system, abdominal wall, or abdominal shell. There is a broad range of diagnoses for abdominal cramping and pain and most everyone has experienced one form of it at some point in their lives. As some over the counter pain medications are not recommended for abdominal pain, due to the potential to worsen symptoms, alternative therapy options with lessened side effects are needed. 

 

The ECS and the digestive system

 

Increasing our understanding of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) helps to define new treatment options for various conditions. Evidence suggests that dysregulation of the ECS may have a role in intestinal disorders including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). One of the many physiological roles the ECS fulfills is regulation of gastrointestinal function, therefore it is a logical target for the treatment of these conditions. Additionally, endocannabinoids are known to modulate pain through regulation of pain sensation and anti-inflammatory actions, which may further provide symptomatic relief. 

 

Cannabis use and pain

 

Cannabis use is commonly seen in patients looking for symptomatic relief from conditions associated with abdominal pain; such as IBD, endometriosis, IBS, ulcerative colitis, and gastroparesis. Patients have noted reduced pain coming from bloating, cramping, and inflammation. The most often used cannabinoids from the cannabis plant are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). 

 

Researched findings are revealing that these cannabinoids have a protective effect on the gut, which decreases inflammation and bloating, and further inherently suppress pain receptors serving as a “natural painkiller.” 

 

A 2021 published review looking at completed research on cannabis compounds for IBD found that there is a “great therapeutic potential” in this setting, particularly as potential treatments for abdominal pain and pain-modifying issues like diarrhea and nausea.  

 

Neuropathic pain is often difficult to treat and a symptom of gastroparesis. Due to limited treatment options and the neuromodulating ability of cannabinoids, researchers looked at the effect of prescribed cannabinoids on gastroparesis symptoms in a 2018 published study. Patients were prescribed either cannabis, the cannabis synthetic, Dronabinol, or a combination of both. When analyzed, all methods showed statistically significant improvement in abdominal pain scores.

 

When observing gut inflammation in biopsies from patients with ulcerative colitis and in rodent models with intestinal inflammation, researchers in 2011 concluded that CBD is a potent compound, able to modulate gut inflammation via the neuro-immune axis. 

 

Terpenes for gut health

 

In addition to cannabinoids, specific terpenes have shown to have intestinal anti-inflammatory activity as well as block oxidative stress, combat dysbiosis, and restore intestinal permeability. 

 

Among those researched terpenes that are also found in cannabis varieties are:

 

Alpha-Phellandrene/Phellandrene

 

This common monoterpene is found in several essential oils for a good reason. It shows extensive biological activity to include anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, antidepressant, and analgesic properties. Historically used in Chinese medicine for digestive issues, this monoterpene is also found in turmeric and eucalyptus.

 

Strains of cannabis with phellandrene: Jack Herer and Trainwreck 

 

Borneol 

 

Used in traditional Chinese medicine, Borneol has shown pharmacological activity as an anti-inflammatory, vasorelaxant, and neuroprotectant. 

 

Borneol is considered a secondary terpene in cannabis due to minor amounts, however is found in Sour Diesel, OG Kush, and Amnesia Haze.

 

Carvacrol

 

This monoterpene has several pharmacological activities such as antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, antinociceptive, and gastroprotective. Findings from one study indicated that administration of carvacrol reduced inflammation and oxidative damage in the model studied. 

 

Strains of cannabis with Carvacrol: Gorilla Glue and Chemdawg/Chemdog.

 

Geraniol

 

Found in essential oils of aromatic plants, including Cinnamomum tenuipilum and Valeriana officinalis, Geraniol holds antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, gastroprotective activity, and gastric healing. Results from a study showed that when administered daily, Geraniol was a powerful antimicrobial agent, able to prevent dysbiosis associated with colitis and reduce the inflammatory profile of colictic animals. 

 

Strains of cannabis with Geraniol: Harlequin, Lemon G, Strawberry Diesel, Tahoe OG, Dutch Hawaiian, Kimbo Kush

 

Limonene

 

Limonene is one of nature’s most common terpenes, found in orange, lemon, mandarin, lime, and grapefruit, it can decrease oxidative stress and inflammation, has potential benefits for colon cancer, antibacterial activity, and anti-nausea properties. 

 

Strains of cannabis with Limonene: Dosidos, Gush Mintz, Jet Fuel, Kush Mints, LA Kush Cake, Pink Runtz, Sour Diesel, Strawberry Banana, Wedding Cake

 

Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome

 

Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) is a condition that leads to repeated and severe bouts of vomiting. It seems “paradoxical” that a medicine used as an antiemetic for several conditions could be responsible for vomiting episodes, however the hypothesis stands that an overstimulation of endocannabinoid receptors may be responsible for development of CHS. Over time, the market has seen an increase in the content of THC compared to other cannabinoids and terpenes. This is believed to be a factor in the genesis of CHS because the body builds a tolerance to THC. So, as tolerance increases, the amount of THC consumed increases, and therefore overstimulation of receptors may take place. 

 

If you feel you have taken too much THC, there are options available to you to help remedy the situation. At times a tolerance break may also be beneficial if you feel your current dosage is more than you would like to be consuming. 

 

Finding Support 

 

There is a lot to consider when starting cannabinoid therapy, but, as always, a Realm of Caring care specialist is here to help with free one-on-one support to answer your questions. Contact us today by calling (719) 347-5400 or emailing info@realmofcaring.org.