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People don’t need to be warned as much as they need to be helped

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. 

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How Cannabis May Enhance Female Arousal and Orgasm

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.

 

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Beyond Pink Ribbons: Cannabis as a Supportive Therapy for Breast Cancer

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.

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Boost Your Focus Naturally: How CBD May Improve Your Cognition

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.

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Exploring Natural Relief through Cannabis and Hemp While Navigating Legal Concerns

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.

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Simplifying Your Health: Navigating the Overwhelming World of Treatment Options with Safe, Natural Alternatives

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.

 

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Cannabis Policy: Where Do the Presidential Candidates Stand?

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

 

 

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.

 

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The Therapeutic Potential of Mushrooms: Lion’s Mane and Reishi

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!

 

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Cannabis & Athletic Recovery: NCAA Dropping Cannabis from the Banned Substance List

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Blog Education Featured

Flavonoids in CBD: What You Need to Know

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.