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Cannabinoids and Cardiovascular Health

Post author By Sasha Kalcheff-Korn
Post date February 7, 2022

February is American Heart month, dedicated to bringing awareness and attention to our cardiovascular health. Accumulating evidence suggests that cannabinoids such as CBD may be beneficial to our cardiovascular system. However, research is complex and there is overlap when considering cannabinoids and cardiovascular health, as there are multiple effects that can come from various cannabinoids.

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is distributed throughout our cardiovascular system and endocannabinoids have shown to play a role in response to cardiovascular disorders through several studies. Two key endocannabinoids that have been identified in our ECS are Anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). They have been associated with mediating hypotension, reducing blood pressure, vasorelaxation, and decreasing cardiac work. In addition, endocannabinoids have been connected to decreasing the risk of developing cardiac arrhythmia. Through these studies we can recognize the role of endocannabinoids as largely protective of our cardiovascular system and bodies in general.

Understanding the roles of endocannabinoids in our cardiovascular health, has led researchers to look into exogenous cannabinoids and potential health benefits as well as potential health risks. Targeting the ECS offers fresh insights to how cannabinoid therapy may benefit specific conditions.

Cannabidiol (CBD) has been researched for the many ways it may benefit our heart health, some of the most notable therapeutic actions of the molecule are the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Some cardiovascular conditions and diseases that are associated with inflammation and oxidative stress are diabetes, cardiomyopathy, stroke, arrhythmia, atherosclerosis, and hypertension. The therapeutic potentials of CBD are why it is being considered in research for the prevention and treatment of these conditions and diseases. In addition, CBD has particularly gained momentum because it does not appear to have effects on resting blood pressure or heart rate, rather it has shown in vivo to reduce the cardiovascular response to various stress types.

While inflammation and oxidative stress are known to have direct effects on our cardiovascular system, studies have shown a correlation between long-term stress and the development of cardiovascular disease as well. Factors including social isolation, socioeconomic status, depression, stressful family/work life, and anxiety are all associated with a potential increased risk in developing and progressing cardiovascular diseases. There is evidence from animal studies that CBD modulates the cardiovascular response to stress. While data found in humans is very limited, at least one study has shown that acute administration of CBD reduced the blood pressure increase to stress in humans, associated with increased heart rate.

While research is promising when considering CBD and cardiovascular health, we are limited in terms of clinical data to speak to the full therapeutic potential of phytocannabinoids like CBD when it comes to heart conditions or preventing heart conditions. It is also important to note that various cannabinoids of the cannabis plant may have multiple effects on the cardiovascular system. Just as endocannabinoids may act to increase or decrease blood pressure and heart rate, different phytocannabinoids can replicate those same actions. For example, while THC may stimulate systolic blood pressure, CBD may reduce blood pressure. Risks and benefits do need to be further explored and, at this time, almost all studied risks of cannabis are based on users of inhaled combustible smoke.

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Join our research!

Realm of Caring and Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine have developed the Observational Research Registry (ORR) to better understand medicinal cannabis use and its impact on key health outcomes including healthcare utilization, chronic pain, anxiety and depression, caregiver burden, epilepsy, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Our registered clients provide critical information that leads to important insights into the therapeutic capabilities of medicinal cannabis. The ORR helps us develop client educational resources and may ultimately serve to legitimize the medicinal use of cannabis.

Disclaimer

The Realm of Caring Foundation specifically invokes the first amendment rights of freedom of speech and of the press without prejudice. These statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration. The products discussed are not intended to diagnose, cure, prevent or treat any disease. Realm of Caring always recommends when and wherever possible that licensed local healthcare professionals be consulted.

The Realm of Caring Foundation is an independent nonprofit with its own governing board. We do not produce or sell cannabinoid products, nor do we receive funds from the sale of other company’s products.

Blog Education Uncategorized

Arthritis and Cannabinoid Therapy

Post author By Sasha Kalcheff-Korn
Post date September 7, 2021

Arthritis is one of the most widespread health conditions in the United States, affecting over 54 million men and women and 300,000 children. Arthritis appears in many forms, with the most common being osteoarthritis (OA), followed by rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and psoriatic arthritis.

As of today, there is no cure for arthritis (as well as rheumatic conditions), rather recommendations for combination therapies such as increasing physical activity, weight loss, OTC pain relievers, crutches or canes, surgery, and cannabinoid therapy due to recent research.

What is the Endocannabinoid System?

Our Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is the largest neurotransmitter system in the body, composed of endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, and metabolizing enzymes. Endocannabinoids are arguably one of the most widespread and versatile signaling molecules known to man. Two key endocannabinoids that have been identified are anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG). The endocannabinoids activate different receptors throughout the body and brain called CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are found in high levels in the brain and central nervous system; whereas CB2 receptors are found in numerous immune cells and the peripheral nervous system. Modulation and activation of the cannabinoid receptors by endocannabinoids can have various effects within the body.

How does ECS play a role in arthritis and rheumatoid conditions?

In a study with 32 osteoarthritis patients and 13 rheumatoid arthritis patients, it was found that cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptor protein and RNA, as well as the endocannabinoids AEA and 2-AG are present in the synovia of patients with end-stage OA and RA. This study helps to predict that the cannabinoid receptor system present in the connective tissue that lines the inside of a joint (synovium) may be an important therapeutic target for the treatment of pain and inflammation associated with both OA and RA. As was seen in this study, the endocannabinoids were present in the OA and RA patients where in healthy volunteers, those endocannabinoids were not present.

In additional studies, the presence of cannabinoid receptors on cells of the immune system and anecdotal and historical evidence suggests that cannabis use has potent immunomodulatory effects. This has led to research directed at understanding the function and role of these receptors within the context of immunomodulating effects of cannabis in humans, animals and in vitro studies of immune cells, such as t-cells that have also provided important evidence.

These findings have led researchers to discover the role endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids may have on inflammation and pain within the body, as well as our immune cells.

Researched pain and inflammation relieving benefits of cannabinoids

Cannabinoids are commonly investigated as pain-relieving agents, but in recent years more evidence has accumulated on their potential immunomodulatory effect, supported by results in animal models of certain rheumatic diseases. While results that demonstrate the same effect in humans are lacking, cannabinoids and cannabis remain potential options to alleviate the pain associated with rheumatic diseases, as they were shown as safe and causing little to no adverse effects.

It has also been suggested that cannabinoids have an inflammatory-modulating benefit that could offer therapeutic effects, as cannabinoids were shown to have overall anti-inflammatory effects on immune cells. These results were reinforced by studies in animal models of RA and systemic sclerosis.

Animal models also suggest a possible therapeutic quality for cannabinoids in RA, with three studies using a rodent model with collagen-induced arthritis showing a beneficial effect of the cannabinoid CBD and synthetic cannabinoids JWH-133 and HU-308. These substances were found to be associated with clinical improvement. CBD was associated with a decrease in cytokine release and production as well as a decrease in lymphocyte proliferation.

A study with 31 patients with RA suffering from chronic pain were given Sativex (a THC-CBD mouth spray legally prescribed in UK and mainland Europe) and 27 were given a placebo, the controlled trial showed a significant analgesic effect and disease activity suppression. Pain parameters and sleep both improved. In addition, the study found no serious adverse effects in the active treatment group.

CBD Benefits

We know through research that CBD has a wide spectrum of biological activity, including anti-inflammatory activity. This is why its activity in the prevention and treatment of diseases whose development is associated with inflammation has been tested. Based on current research results, the potential to utilize CBD for the treatment of diabetes, arthritis, as well as cardiovascular disease, cancer, anxiety, psychosis, epilepsy, neurodegenerative diseases, and skin disease is being considered. Clinical studies have confirmed that CBD reduces the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, inhibits t-cell proliferation, induces t cell apoptosis and reduces migration and adhesion of immune cells.

In addition, CBD creates a physiological response with several inflammatory mediator receptors within us. These are known as the PPARy, GPR, and Adenosine A2A Receptors.

THC Benefits

The anti-inflammatory contributions of THC are also extensively studied, showing PGE-2 synthesis, decreased platelet aggregation, and stimulation of lipoxygenase, all actions related to reducing inflammation. THC has 20 times the anti-inflammatory potency of aspirin and twice that of hydrocortisone.

Benefits of minor cannabinoids and terpenes

Other minor cannabinoids in the cannabis plant may also contribute to anti-inflammatory activity. cannabichromene (CBC) was studied with mice, showing that it helped to increase intestinal motility by lessening intestinal inflammation.

Animal studies have also shown Cannabigerol (CBG) to reduce the effects of inflammatory-related conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease. CBG has also been shown to have potent pain relieving abilities.

The terpenes in cannabis additionally show analgesic and anti-inflammatory attributes. Myrcene is analgesic and blocks inflammation. The sesquiterpene, B-caryophyllene, also shows promising anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.

If you are seeking data-driven answers to your questions about this cannabinoid therapy and arthritis, Realm of Caring (RoC) can help. RoC has 8 years of collected data and research based on individuals utilizing plant-based therapies. They can guide you through product selection, dosing and administration, how to talk with your doctor, and the results individuals are realizing.

The research that has been completed suggests the benefit of cannabinoid therapy for arthritis and rheumatic conditions. Clinical trials and anecdotal evidence helps to point towards starting amounts and methods of administration, particularly for CBD and THC. However, to fully understand the utility of minor cannabinoids mentioned, human data is still necessary.

The RoC Care Team is here to assist. They care a lot about helping you to find success. Reach them by calling (719) 347-5400, emailing info@realmofcaring.org, or by scheduling an appointment.

Disclaimer

The Realm of Caring Foundation specifically invokes the first amendment rights of freedom of speech and of the press without prejudice. These statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration. the products discussed are not intended to diagnose, cure, prevent or treat any disease. Realm of Caring always recommends when and wherever possible that licensed local healthcare professionals be consulted.

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How Cannabis Concentrates Are Made

Post author By Sasha Kalcheff-Korn
Post date August 3, 2021

At the turn of the century, cannabis enthusiasts began noticing a steep shift in the market. Regular users started smoking less and dabbing more- heating oily extracts to inhale high concentrations of cannabis. These extracts varied from shatter to wax to batter to dabs and honey. Not only were they more potent, but they were also a cleaner and a more convenient way to consume cannabis. This heralded the beginning of a new era.

At the start, cannabis extracts were made using highly flammable hydrocarbons right in their backyards and garages. This was a precarious affair with consequences of explosive proportions, quite literally.

In recent times, the technology of extracting cannabis has grown in leaps and bounds, and we will take you through each of them in great detail.

What Are The Popular Methods of Cannabis Extraction?

When it comes to cannabis extraction, two main methods exist.

Solvent-based extraction: In this method, solvents are added to the plant material to dissolve the resin, which is the concentrated part of the cannabis plant containing the cannabinoids and terpenes. The solvent is then removed, leaving behind extracts such as shatter, vape oil, or wax.

This method yields what is known as a cannabis extract.

Mechanical or solventless extraction: Mechanical or solventless extraction methods do not use solvents. Instead, the resin is pressed, beaten, or rubbed out of the plant, resulting in kief, rosin, or hash.

This method yields what is known as a cannabis concentrate.

Solvents Used to Make Cannabis Extracts

As discussed earlier, the solvent-based extraction method has been used for quite a long while now.

Let us look in detail at how these solvents work.

Hydrocarbons (Butane, Propane, Hexane, etc.)

Hydrocarbons are used to make butane hash oils (BHO) which includes budder, sauce, wax, shatter, and crumble among others.

Because hydrocarbons are highly flammable, a closed loop system of extraction should be used.

The process of extracting cannabis can be either open-looped or closed-looped. Open-loop systems have exposure to the external environment. When flammable compounds are present, open loop systems can easily cause a fire accident.

Closed-loop systems, on the other hand, are safer but more expensive to implement. Securing the equipment could cost upwards of $30,000 for an average-sized model.

It is also a requirement for manufactures using hydrocarbons to blast-proof the premises. The cost of blast proofing a room could be around $100,000.

CO2 (Supercritical CO2 Extraction)

Supercritical CO2 extraction uses CO2 to separate the different compounds from the cannabis plant material.

The carbon dioxide is subjected to supercritical conditions that causes it to fluctuate between a gas, liquid, and solid-state. It is then passed through the cannabis plant material in a closed loop system to extract the compounds and then the CO2 is evaporated. Because CO2 is a green gas, the extract produced through this method is relatively safe.

Alcohol

Ethanol is a popular solvent used to make super-concentrated Rick Simpson Oil. It follows the same principle used in creating BHO. With ethanol, the solvent is dripped over the flowers and buds of the cannabis plant, which dissolves these compounds. The next step is to eliminate the solvent and remain with the cannabis extract.

However, ethanol has a higher polarity than butane. This means that it extracts impurities such as chlorophyll, which may affect the quality of the final extract.

Non-Solvent-Based Methods for Making Cannabis Concentrates

Solventless extraction is often used when creating concentrates for medicinal use. This is because the concentrates produced through this method are relatively safer.

Shaking, Sifting, and Dry Sifting-Used to Make Kief

Kief, a type of cannabis concentrate, can be made using different mechanical techniques.

One technique that has stood the test of time and is exceptionally safe is the use of a mesh. The cannabis plant material is passed through a mesh and the kief collects at the bottom. The kief is then graded based on the level of purity.

Ice Water Extraction

Bubble hash is a popular cannabis extract that is made using kief that has been Ice Water Extracted. It is the brainchild of Neville Schoenmakers, founder of the first Cannabis Seed Bank.

In this method, the cannabis is placed in a simple jar or bubbleator with water and ice and agitated. The resin is separated by the mechanical force and it is collected. Because it uses water, this method is considered to be one of the safest and cleanest ways of making a pure, high-quality hash that has no impurities. It is also a pretty wholesome method of extraction that leaves you with most of the cannabinoids intact.

Heat and Pressure (Rosin Press)

Rosin is a viscous sap whose appearance can range from clear to very dark, and it can be used in its extracted form or as a base for cannabis edibles. Both a rosin press and a rosin bag use pressure and heat to force the trichomes out of the cannabis leaves and buds.

Types of Cannabis Extracts & Concentrates

Wax/Budder

A runny consistency characterizes wax or budder. These oils are opaque and gooey rather than being hard. It is also easy to roll them onto “a pin and dab,” but they tend to stick to the sides of the packaging container.

Pie Crust/Honeycomb

This is a form of wax/budder which is generally crumbly and brittle. It is, however, softer than shatter. Pie Crust is easier to get out of a jar but is very prone to crumbling.

Shatter

Shatter is an impressively pure cannabis concentrate that is very brittle and translucent, much like glass candy. It is mainly extracted using hydrocarbon solvents such as butane and or propane, making it a particularly potent substance.

Caviar/Jelly Hash

Caviar, also known as moonrocks, are a recent fad in the cannabis scene. Making them involves coating cannabis buds with very high-quality resin, which are then rolled in kief.

Caviar doesn’t always have to be rolled in kief, a resin coat may just suffice.

Conclusion

Cannabis extraction is just in its formative stages. With time, we expect to witness the creation of more efficient and purer methods geared towards the production of medicinal cannabis extracts. We hope that through this article, we have helped you understand how cannabis concentrates are made. Feel free to let us know if we left out anything.

About Realm of Caring

Realm of Caring Foundation (RoC), is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that was established by parents in 2013 to support families who were out of medical options. By creating educational resources, conducting research, and assisting families with data-rich answers to their questions, RoC continues to be a leader in the cannabinoid (cannabis/hemp) field. RoC’s no-cost Care Team has served more than 65,000 clients worldwide and supports a network of over 2,000 medical professionals. To learn more about participating or to donate to this cause, visit www.realmofcaring.org or call 1-888-210-3772.

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Cannabidiol (CBD) Product Use and Health Among People with Epilepsy

Post author By Sasha Kalcheff-Korn
Post date July 27, 2021

Understanding RoC’s latest published research on cannabinoid therapy and epilepsy

Between April 2016 and July 2020 individuals who are registered with the Realm of Caring Foundation participated in an observational research study with Realm of Caring and Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. Of the 1,783 individuals enrolled in this online, self-reported survey researchers identified a sample size of 418 participants. Of the 418 participants, 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.

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.

The average age of the participants were 21 years old, with 51% being under 18 years of age. Of the 418 participants, 280 identified using a CBD product while the remaining 138 served as controls as they were not using cannabis-based products. The majority (90%) had no history of recreational cannabis use and of the CBD products that were listed as used, most could be verified as a CBD-dominant, cannabis-based product. 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.

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.

Out of the 280 CBD Users, 79% did not report any adverse effects. Among the remaining CBD Users 11% reported drowsiness, 4% reported a worsening of epilepsy symptoms, 4% reported high or prohibitive cost of CBD products, 3% reported barriers related to legality, and 3% reported concerns of drug to drug interactions.

The findings from this study emphasize the need for additional research to determine optimal methods for CBD product use for epilepsy treatment. Determining best CBD product types, doses, and administration alongside pharmaceuticals would provide us with a better understanding of how to maximize benefits while minimizing potential risks. While observational approaches, such as this study, allow for evaluation of CBD product use in an individual’s natural environment, future work is needed in more controlled settings to extend the findings of this research.

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Cross-sectional and Longitudinal Evaluation of Cannabidiol (CBD) Product Use and Health Among People with Epilepsy is authored by: Justin C. Strickland, Heather Jackson, Nicolas J. Schlienz, Jay A. Salpekar, Erin L. Martin, Joel Munson, Marcel O. Bonn-Miller, and Ryan Vandrey.

For general inquiries, please contact info@realmofcaring.org or call (719) 347-5400

For media inquiries, please contact rocteam@mygrasslands.com

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About Realm of Caring

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Surprising Facts You Likely Didn’t Know About Cannabis

Post author By Sasha Kalcheff-Korn
Post date June 17, 2021

The question of whether or not cannabis or its components should be used in the mainstream has sparked tremendous interest in recent years. Hemp/cannabis is one of the first crops to be domesticated and one of the fastest-growing ever.

The plant has a rich history, which includes some fascinating details. If you’re a cannabis enthusiast, you might be interested in finding out these surprising facts.

1. Cannabis itself is unlikely to cause you harm

Medical experts believe that it is near impossible to overdose on cannabis as there is no realistic lethal dose of cannabis following consumption. There have been zero recorded cases of people dying from consuming cannabis alone. In contrast, around 85,032 of deaths per year can be traced back to alcohol. This is because cannabis has more effects on memory and coordination rather than brain functions.

Just as with consuming too much caffeine, it may be unpleasant and uncomfortable if you feel you have taken too much, but with time it will pass. You may experience symptoms such as lethargy, anxiety, paranoia, and/or low blood pressure that may lead to nausea.

The issue with huge doses, particularly with edibles, is that one can ingest so much THC that leads to poor risk management and decision making.

It is important to start with a low amount and work your way up as you learn best how your body responds. Our Care Team Specialists are ready and willing to support you, simply sign-up here.

2. Who Loves Cannabis the Most?

This may seem surprising to a lot of people but the answer is actually: the people of Iceland. Data from UNODC reveals that 18.3% of Icelanders that are between the ages of 15 and 64 use cannabis.

What is even more surprising is that cannabis use, possession, or cultivation are illegal in Iceland and are punishable by harsh penalties. Even CBD, with all of its proven health benefits, is prohibited due to its possible association with THC.

The sole kind of medicinal cannabis permitted in the country is Sativex. This is a spray that is frequently recommended to Muscular Dystrophy patients.

3. Remedy for Ancient Emperors

In 2737 B.C. cannabis was recorded as being used medicinally for the first time in the far lands of China. Emperor Shen Nung discovered the healing powers of cannabis, along with two of the most prominent cornerstones of Chinese herbal medicine, ginseng and ephedra. The emperor reportedly used cannabis for pain relief from rheumatism and gout discomfort.

The oldest known references of cannabis were found by historians in ancient Indian and Chinese texts as part of their folk medicine. While use of cannabis was generally done through tea or edible extracts in ancient times, smoking it is a modern phenomenon.

Back then, it was used to heal and ease over 100 illnesses, including malaria, vomiting, parasitic infections, and hemorrhaging.

4. Do Men and Women Respond Differently to Cannabis?

A study reveals the fascinating relationship of cannabis with both genders. Turns out that a man and a woman of similar circumstances can start smoking the same weed but end up having quite different short and long-term effects.

At the end of this 10-day study, female rats showed a significant tolerance to THC when compared to men. Even when they were administered 30% less than the male rats.

What was also found, is that women may be more sensitive to cannabis than men. It was actually found that women are more susceptible to THC in cannabis while they are ovulating.

Despite findings in this study, the fact remains that individual reactions to cannabis vary among women, according to each one’s current hormone levels and menstrual cycles.

5. Is Cannabis the Answer to Cancer?

Cancer research has revealed promising outcomes with the use of cannabis. Not only does it have the capacity to destroy cancer cells and ease cancer symptoms, it can also alleviate the side effects of chemotherapy such as nausea and loss of appetite. So cancer patients may greatly benefit from the therapeutic powers of cannabis.

Current strategies to combat cancer utilize combined therapies, to target cancer cells and tumor growth. The research that supports cannabis use gives us the idea that cannabinoids with other anticancer agents work together to slow down or cease the progression of cancer-types. Anecdotally, many cancers respond well to a CBD:THC ratio, although the exact milligram needed to be an antiangiogenic or cause apoptosis is unknown and can vary depending on the cancer type and stage.

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

Disclaimer

The Realm of Caring Foundation specifically invokes the first amendment rights of freedom of speech and of the press without prejudice. These statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration. the products discussed are not intended to diagnose, cure, prevent or treat any disease. Realm of Caring always recommends when and wherever possible that licensed local healthcare professionals be consulted.

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April 7th remembered as Charlotte Figi Day in Colorado House and Senate

Post author By Sasha Kalcheff-Korn
Post date April 8, 2021

Colorado Governor Jared Polis and the Colorado General Assembly declared April 7th to be forever known as Charlotte Figi Day in 2020. This April 7th, 2021, Coloradans remembered Charlotte, who passed just a year ago at the young age of 13.

Colorado Legislators took pause on Legislative Day 054 in both the House and the Senate to pay tribute to Charlotte and her family and what she accomplished in her short life for millions across the globe.

Representative Hooton and Representative Ransom celebrated the perseverance it took to get legislation passed to allow cannabis use for chronic and debilitating conditions.

Senator Gonzalez and Senate Minority Leader Holbert recognized Charlotte in that she “impacted millions of lives in Colorado and across the globe as a cannabis pioneer patient”, noting that “Charlotte was the inspiration for Realm of Caring, a nonprofit established to guide families through their healing journey with cannabis-based medicine.”

See the full clips below:

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Eight Years in the Making: Realm of Caring’s Impact Over Time

Post author By Sasha Kalcheff-Korn
Post date April 7, 2021

Founded in 2013, Realm of Caring (RoC) is an independent 501c3 non-profit organization who serves anyone in need of more information about cannabinoid therapies. Through revolutionary research, innovative education, and life-changing grants, RoC seeks to facilitate and encourage the mainstream acceptance of transformative, plant powered therapies to benefit individuals and families and serve healthcare providers as well as the hemp and cannabis industries. Since becoming a formal non-profit in 2013, RoC has cherished a vision that has remained unchanged: the belief that the quality of life matters.

The impact of RoC knows no bounds. Individuals have been helped globally, in these last 8 years, to find that quality of life through research, education, increasing access to, and one on one support with cannabinoid therapy.

The Observational Research Registry (ORR) with Johns Hopkins University (JHU) has included 4,000 participants over time, providing 5 million data points. These significant findings have paved the way for clinical trials, helped companies to determine how their products are helping people, and informed millions on the benefits of cannabinoid therapy. The first paper based on this research was published in 2020 finding that 77% of users attributed positive effects to the medicinal use of cannabinoids.

The data accumulated over the past eight years has informed quality education. This education has been delivered through many mediums by Realm of Caring to help medical professionals assist their patients, dispensaries responsibly serve their customers, legislation pass at state and federal levels, and consumers make informed decisions about their health.

Realm of Caring has played an important role in helping to increase access of cannabinoid products to customers. One way they are able to do this is through providing grants and products to those who cannot afford the high cost of cannabinoid therapy. Realm of Caring has given away almost $3 million to clients in need since the Realm Cares program’s inception in April, 2015; a number that will hopefully continue to grow over time.

Along with providing financial support, Realm of Caring offers the best resource to those who are looking for success with their cannabinoid therapy – time. Over 350,000 inquiries have poured into the call center and we now have more than 67,000 clients. Over 2 million minutes have been spent on the phones with individuals worldwide, looking for support and resources. This is a service that has been and will hopefully remain available for free. The support services offered to clients include administration suggestions based on published data, pulling information based on peer-reviewed research, and taking the time so each individual may find success. Oh, and let’s not forget that RoC has aided 22 states in passing cannabis legislation!

What Realm of Caring has accomplished so far, could not have been possible without the loyalty and dedication of their donor base. The generosity over the years has contributed more than $10.1 million in contributions and in-kind gifts. Overhead costs are able to remain low with a small but mighty team. An average 82% of the funds contributed go directly to programs and services since inception. This ensures that the majority of the money collected goes straight to collecting and improving research, furthering education, and giving back to the community in financial need.

WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS

RoC has a handful of initiatives that they know will have a monumental impact on their clients and the cannabis and hemp industries.

Huge data initiative to make sense of and make available the 5 million+ data points and share findings with the community and industry. RoC’s demographics have changed significantly and they believe they are sitting on predictive data that can help determine future trends. The only way to find out is to dig deep. RoC has hired a team of data scientists and engineers to help, and are happy to report that they are 6 months into the most ambitious effort they have ever undertaken. They are interacting with the data on dashboards and have gotten a glimpse at the powerful insights, but this endeavor needs significant investment.

Increasing participation and retention in the second version of the JHU registry that is a better user experience and a shorter, more impactful survey is a goal of RoC in the future. They also need more cannabis and hemp brands participating in this research allowing for more health outcomes and insights on their products. RoC recently brought on a new Research Director to lead this charge.

Roc wants to reactivate and remove the waitlist for the Realm Cares grant program. People are in need more now than ever before. RoC also needs to recruit more brand giveaways like the campaigns they have run with Aspen Green, Charlotte’s Web, and Stratos. Stratos is the perfect case study; they increased their market share of the registry data over 39% after initiating this program that also gives them a tax break* and a place to give aging inventory. Win, Win, Win.

The industry needs a meaningful and data driven education platform that encompasses the wealth of practical knowledge and data that RoC has collected over the past 8 years. RoC aims to expand services in this area. The goal is to make a learning program so informative, engaging and user friendly that individuals will seek their services above all others.

If you are feeling inspired and wish to contribute to RoC’s initiatives, fill out this form and a RoC team member will get back to you!

Realm of Caring has been featured on:

*check with your tax accountant on in-kind donation of hemp products.

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Rock the RoC

Post author By Sasha Kalcheff-Korn
Post date March 8, 2021

Rock the RoC is a virtual, memorial and benefit concert to pay tribute to Charlotte Figi. Here is what you should know about the April 7th event, the impactful story behind it and how YOU can get involved.

Rock the RoC: 04/07 at 6pm MT – Livestreaming at www.rocktheroc.org

Get your free tickets NOW to the largest event Realm of Caring (RoC) has ever hosted; an event that we know you will love: Rock the RoC. We have curated the perfect playlist, to come together to heal, inspire, and groove. We are excited to share this epic event of award-winning artists with our global community.

You will see performances and appearances by: The Avett Brothers, Jason Mraz, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Ruthie Foster, Michael Franti, Molly Tuttle, Glen Phillips, Graham Nash, Wesley Schultz of the Lumineers, Sarah Jarosz, Jeffrey Gaines, MC Flow, The War and Treaty, Nora Brown, Johnnyswim, Chris Trapper, and Johnny Helm.

Online streaming is free for everyone. But in order to really get this going, we are speaking out to YOU, our global community.

Why is that?

Well, if you want to see this production come to life, we need your help.

But first…

A few words about Remarkable Charlotte:

Charlotte Figi shifted the paradigm of wellness and access for all, as the world watched through the expert eyes of Dr. Sanjay Gupta and his truth-seeking docuseries, Weed. Her story of reclaiming a quality of life from pediatric epilepsy with cannabinoid therapy sparked a global effort to showcase the power of cannabis as a natural solution. Her story changed the course of compassionate care for the world. Charlotte’s sudden and tragic passing at the age of thirteen on April 07, 2020, is an urgent reminder that life is precious, that dignity of choice is critical, and that the courage of innocence is a guidepost for human wellness.

Who is RoC?

RoC is a high-impact nonprofit that is creating a worldwide community where access to plant-based therapies is the cornerstone of helping others. Charlotte’s impact remains the footprint of our path forward, toward care for all through the healing power of the Earth. Her fight paved the foundation for research, education, and impact; our mission carries on her light and legacy through funding research, education, and community services that change lives and open minds.

How can you help?

In a VARIETY of ways. Not only will your contribution go towards funding this massive production that is gearing up to air, but it also helps RoC to continue our mission of helping millions globally every day.

Sponsor

Share your brand with millions in the most meaningful and impactful way, celebrating the life of Charlotte. Her life propelled progress for botanical solutions and advocacy for access to them. Your support helps to elevate our mission that began with Charlotte. We have three sponsorship levels available, each incentivized to put your business in the spotlight.

Crowdfunding

Consider making a donation and sharing our Kickstarter Campaign. Rewards for backing this campaign include merchandise with our concert logo, designed by Shepard Fairey’s Studio Number One. Kickstarter funds raised (are required) to go to the production costs of the event.

Donate

Not interested in the incentives but love the RoC and want to keep it going? Donate directly to realmofcaring.org just once or monthly in the amount that you are able to provide. Our one on one support services to clients worldwide are completely free, donations help us to keep it that way.

Share your smile!

Be a beacon of light just like Charlotte and share your name or your loved one’s name in a quick video saying “Hi my name is ____ from _____ and I rock the RoC for _______!”. Send us your video to rock@realmofcaring.org and post it to your social media with the hashtag #iROCKtheRoC.

Leave a message

What are your memories of Charlotte? How has your life been impacted by her light? If you wish to share your feelings and thoughts, head to CharlotteFigi.com and leave your personal message there.

April 7th, 2021 at 6pm MT is a date and time you do not want to miss. Celebrate our light, Charlotte Figi and the millions around the globe just like her.

REGISTER WITH RoC TODAY!