A Connection between Fish Oil and Cannabis

Scientists have long since established that fish oil is very beneficial to your diet. Being rich in Omega-3, fish oil is similar to cannabis. (Source) Omega-3 comes in the form of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). (Source) New research shows that DHA effects the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2. (Source)

When DHA is ingested, it is converted into docosahexaenoyl ethanolamide (DHEA) using the same pathways as anandamide. (Source) Researchers believe that this conversion creates the DHA’s beneficial qualities. This relationship allows Omega 3 to affect the sCB2 receptors, which can help decrease inflammation in the body. This new research is groundbreaking; it shows that fish can affect the endocannabinoid system. (Source)

Omega 3 is used to repair both the body and the cardiovascular system. The conversion of Omega 3 to (DHEA) has been proven to help with strokes, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Platelet-leukocyte aggregate formations at higher levels are precursors to heart attacks, as well as other cardiovascular problems. Introducing DHEA into the body reduces the platelet-leukocyte count in the blood. (Source)

Source:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hemp_oil

http://www.researchgate.net/publication/51493529_Decoding_functional_metabolomics_with_docosahexaenoyl_ethanolamide_%28DHEA%29_identifies_novel_bioactive_signals

http://www.life-enhancement.com/magazine/article/2513-remarkable-new-findings-when-fish-oils-meet-cannabis-receptors-a-result-is-powerful-protection-of

Yang et al. Decoding functional metabolomics with docosahexaenoyl ethanolamide (DHEA) identifies novel bioactive signals. J Biol Chem 286(36):31532-41 (2011).

Cannabis Increases Melatonin

In 1986, an Italian study found that marijuana dramatically increases melatonin. Research has shown a link between cancer prevention and melatonin therapies. (Source) Recently melatonin was discovered in bone marrow. As such, it has an additional benefit of increasing immunity.(Source)

Melatonin is a hormone that regulates bodily functions for timed events. For example, feeling sleepy at night and naturally waking up in the morning is regulated by melatonin. A decreased amount of melatonin can disrupt sleep and lead to insomnia. Melatonin also regulates blood pressure and influences the reproduction cycle.(Source)

When cannabis increases the prostaglandin PGE2 levels, it also increases your melatonin. The production of PGE2 stimulates a rise in melatonin levels in the body. The aforementioned Italian study found that the cannabinoid THC increased melatonin levels 20 minutes after consumption. After two hours of smoking cannabis, the melatonin levels were 4,000% higher than the baseline. (Source)

Source:

http://members.iowatelecom.net/sharkhaus/marijuana_melatonin.html

http://www.canceractive.com/cancer-active-page-link.aspx?n=1242

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Melatonin

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3645767/

Why Marinol is Not the Same as Medical Marijuana

Marinol is a THC-derived medicine that has been available in America since 1985 for prescription use. The FDA-approved pill is taken orally and can treat nausea and increase appetite for cancer and AIDS patients. Users explain that Marinol and medical marijuana are nothing alike.

Marinol contains only one cannabinoid from the marijuana plant, THC. (Source) While many patients seek the pain relief qualities that THC provides, cannabis contains numerous other cannabinoids and terpenes that work synergisticly in medical marijuana. The combination of compounds found in cannabis is thought to offer an “Entourage Effect” which makes pure cannabis more beneficial.

Marinol, an oral medication, requires up to ninety minutes to generate an effect. Patients can easily mis-dose themselves due to the time lag. Many patients prefer smoking or vaping marijuana for the immediate relief and dosage control. Medical marijuana can be smoked, providing relief in less than a minute. This allows for patients to receive a dosage that fits the symptom immediately without overdosing. (Source)

People who suffer from nausea complain that keeping the Marinol pills down can be difficult. Once ingested, the metabolism reduces effectiveness, only allowing 5-10% of the THC into the bloodstream. The effects can take up to 4 hours to peak, resulting in delayed relief or improper dosage.

The cost for the drug Marinol is also more expensive than medical marijuana. Marinol can cost $200-800 depending on dosage. The increased cost can dissuade patients from using this medication. A survey found that 33% of patients did not use Marinol due to its high cost. (Source)

Overall, studies show that patients prefer medical marijuana over Marinol. A study done by the Tennessee Board of Pharmacy showed a 23% higher success rate for treating symptoms with medical marijuana than with THC capsules. Research conducted in New Mexico found that 90% of patients improved by smoking marijuana while only 60% of oral THC medication showed improvement. In a New York State study, 29% of patients who did not see improvements with oral THC medication saw measured improvements from smoking marijuana. (Source)

Source:

http://www.cbsnews.com/news/does-the-pot-pill-work/

http://www.coloradonorml.org/information/marijuana/medical/marinol-vs-natural-plant

The Terpene Limonene in Cannabis

The Terpene Limonene is Found in Citrus

Citrus Smells & Tastes in Cannabis are from the Terpene Limonene

The terpene limonene is found in citrus, rosemary, peppermint as well as cannabis. Clinical studies have found it to dissolve gallstones, helps with reflux, heartburn and destroys cancer cells in the breast. It is also widely used as an essential oil to improve mood, weight management and sleep.(Source)

Limonene has anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It has shown to work as a cleanser and de-toxifyer throughout the body. It has shown to reduce gall stones. It is also breaks down fat cells to reduce cholesterol. The liver benefits from limonene with detoxification enzymes. It's ability to improve metabolism aids in weight management.(Source) One of the most important aids in detoxification for cannabis users is it's anti-carcinogenic properties. This aids in reducing the harmful effects of smoking cannabis.(Source)

Strains High in the Limonene Terpene

Cannabis strains that are high in limonene are Electric Lemonade, Jack the Ripper, OG Kush and Super Lemon Haze. Limonene gives sativa effects and therefore generally found in sativa strains of cannabis. Studies have shown that limonene is quickly absorbed by cell membranes allowing for other terpenes to be absorbed faster and more effectively.(Source)

Source:

http://www.hightimes.com/read/talking-terpenes

http://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/terpenes-the-flavors-of-cannabis-aromatherapy

http://www.wellnessresources.com/health/articles/d-limonene_help_for_digestion_metabolism_detoxification_anxiety_breast_canc/

http://www.medicaljane.com/2013/04/13/terpenes-terpenoids-what-are-they-what-do-they-do/

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3123086

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The Cannabis Terpene Alpha Pinene

Alpha Pinene is the most common terpene in the plant world and also found in cannabis. Other plants such as basil, dill, parsley, pine needles, and rosemary are rich in α-pinene . Some of the cannabis strains that offer the most alpha pinene terpene are Bubba Kush, Chemdawg, Jack Herer, Super Silver Haze and Trainwreck.

Terepenes offer medicinal effects when consumed or used topically. Terepenes have shown to help in the biosynthesis for CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system.(Source) Alpha pinene works synergistically with THC to help regulate the psychosis effects when consuming cannabis.(Source) Alpha pinene is an organic compound offering medicinal value for many applications.

Alpha pinene has shown to give anti-inflammatory properties(Source). This allows for uses in arthritis, celiac disease, crohn's disease, joint pain and multiple sclerosis where a reduction in inflammation can aid in pain relief. Memory retention is increased with alpha pinene for it's ability to inhibit acetylcholinesterase activity in the brain.(Source)

Currently research is being conducted to show the benefits of alpha pinene slowing cancer tumor growth. A 2013 study showed how cancer cells were reduced with pinene on neurblastoma cells.(Source) A 2014 study using an anti-tumor drug concluded that pinene mitigated hepatoma carcinoma.(Source)

Many patients seek cannabis strains high in alpha pinene for it's benefits in asthma treatment and infections. Pinene has shown to be a bronchodilator. It helps to open the airways of the upper respiratory system.(Source) Pinene also has been found to be anti-microbial with the ability to treat bacteria as well as virus infections. Certain bacteria infections have shown positive results with pinene. Pinene has also been found to treat the infectious bronchitis virus. This virus is much harder to treat than bacterial infections.(Source)

Source:

http://theleafonline.com/c/science/2014/10/terpene-profile-pinene/

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01238.x/abstract

http://www.revistas.usp.br/rbcf/article/viewFile/44190/47811

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15740071

http://link.springer.com/article/10.2478%2Fs11756-013-0230-2#page-1

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3165946/

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24815485

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12122569

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21350392

How Cannabis Improves Memory

Cannabis and Memory

Cannabis affecting the endocannabinoid system plays a role in memory and cognitive functioning. This is due to CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system contributing to retrograde signaling in the brain. Researchers are studying how this relation can aid in treatment to depression and PTSD.

A main study to discover this relation is from mice that were engineered to not have the CB1 receptor. The mice were impaired in short-term and long-term extinction of memories. Their cognition of new hidden mazes also showed their disability in learning.(Source)

Extinction of memories may seem at first as a bad thing. However, our brain does this continually to allow us to see new avenues of thinking. In the mice example the CB1 deficient mice continued to look for the old way out of their cage. They weren't able to allow themselves to discover a new door. Depression and PTSD may improve the ability to forget long term memories.(Source)

The ability to improve cognitive thinking has given cannabis a reputation to flourish creative thinking. CB1 receptors play a role with use of marijuana to increase dopamine levels. This change allows for white noise of the environment to be reduced to give rise to focus and concentration.(Source)

Source:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabis_and_memory

http://veteransformedicalmarijuana.org/content/general-use-cannabis-ptsd-symptoms

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2571074/

How Cannabis Effects the Endocannabinoid System

Cannabis has a profound effect on our body due to it's influence on our endocannabinoid system. The origin of its name comes from the cannabis plant. It is a system of lipids and receptors that maintain health creating a homeostasis environment in the body. The endocannabinoid system is found throughout our body in the brain, organs, connective tissues, glands and immune cells. The prevalence of the endocannabinoid system in the body is the reason cannabis can treat many diverse diseases and symptoms.

Environmental factors can cause disruption in the bodies health. Stability is brought back with the endocannabinoid system. The goal for the lipids and receptors are to stabilize numerous body functions including appetite, pain, inflammation, mood, memory, muscle spasms, protect nerves, immunity, and bone density. Cannabis would be the closest cure-all for its ability to affect so many functions in the body.

The endocannabis system is made up of ligands like anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). The cannabinoid CB1, CB2, TRPV1 and G protein-coupled receptors are part of the endocannabinoid system. Together these ligands and receptors control the stabilization of the body.

Cannabis can encourage more endocannabinoids and receptors to be made by the body. First-time users of cannabis may not feel an effect from cannabis. As the body increases cannabinoids it responds more effectively to a cannabis treatment. Smaller doses have larger effects for the receptors to respond to marijuana.(Source)

Source:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endocannabinoid_system

http://norml.org/library/item/introduction-to-the-endocannabinoid-system

Cardiovascular Effects from Cannabis

Cardiovascular Effects from Cannabis

Studies have shown that marijuana in humans can increase heart rate and blood pressure moderately with first initial use. With regular use of cannabis these initial cardiovascular effects rapidly go away. Regular exposure to cannabis shows results of reduced blood pressure, reduced heart rate and increased vasodilation.(Source) Lowered heart rate and blood pressure is also seen in animals studies with cannabis.(Source)

Cannabinoids affect a group of lipids and receptors that control the endocannabinoid system. Anandamide is an endocannabinoid messenger molecule that helps control the heart rate and blood pressure. One way it effects the cardiovascular system is by vasodilation, or enlarging the blood vessels. Vasodilation occurs from a relaxation of artery walls to allow a larger volume of blood flow.(Source)

Dr. Phillip Leveque leads a medical marijuana doctor group with over 100,000 patients. They have found the increase in heart rate and blood pressure to be low and tolerable. In their group they have no reports of dangerous clinical hypertension. For his personal patients they average an age of 48 and have a lower percentile of hypertension than most people of that age not using marijuana.(Source) The first use of cannabis has shown to be safe for patients but still advised to be recommended by a doctor.(Source)

Source:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11106789

http://norml.org/library/item/hypertension

http://circ.ahajournals.org/content/110/14/1996.full

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/j.1552-4604.2002.tb06004.x/abstract

http://www.salem-news.com/articles/march142010/hypension-mmj.php

How Cannabis Helps with Creativity

One common trait of famous people in society is their ability to be creative. Marijuana has been known for enhancing creativity. There is scientific basis evidence to support the correlation to cannabis and thinking outside the box. Many famous artists have admitted to the use of marijuana.

Alice Flaherty from the Department of Neurology at Harvard Medical School researched how creativity worked in the brain. Different parts of the brain work on creativity in different ways to give balance. The Frontal Lobe judges ideas and decides the values of the idea and divergent thinking. The Temporal Lobe gives idea generation with no concern about quality.(Source)

Research has shown that the frontal lobe activity increases with a rise in cerebral blood flow (CBF).(Source) Smoking cannabis increases Cerebral blood flow. Studies have shown that the CBF peaks thirty minutes after smoking.(Source)

An increase in dopamine allows for the mind to have more inhibited and novel thoughts.(Source) Cannabis has been shown to increase dopamine levels.(Source) Dopamine allows the brain to disregard outside “white noise” stimulus. This allows the brain to focus on a certain thought and enhance all of the possibilities giving to creativity.(Source)

It's not a surprise that popular figures in society benefit from the use of cannabis. On the TV show 60 Minutes Lady Gaga told the reporter “I smoke a lot of pot when I write music.” Marijuana residue was found in pipe fragments of William Shakespeare's garden. Carl Sagan was a big advocate to marijuana and the decriminalizing of it in society. Bill Gates was known to smoke weed in college and a strong advocate for legalizing marijuana in his state of Washington.(Source)

Source:

https://www.ocf.berkeley.edu/~issues/articles/18.2_Talise_J_Marijuana_1.html

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2571074/

http://www.biblioteca.juriquilla.unam.mx/WONDERLAND/collect/inb_Lucene/index/assoc/HASH01cc.dir/doc.pdf

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1324250

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18754005

http://europepmc.org/abstract/MED/10673775

http://www.alternet.org/drugs/7-successful-famous-cannabis-smoking-geniuses

Cannabis Begins it's Medicinal Benefits with Cannabigerolic acid (CBGa)

CBGa is Cannabis in the Raw

All cannabinoids start out as cannabigerolic acid (CBGa). Eating raw fresh cannabis that contains CBGa has medicinal benefits with different effects than other cannabinoids. As a result of it's non-psychoactive nature CBGa can be consumed in larger quantities than THC.

Fresh and raw cannabis typically breaks down CBGa into other cannabinoids quickly after harvest. Some industrial hemp strains have shown to have CBGa that doesn't convert to other cannabinoids. It has been speculated that these strains hold a recessive gene which doesn't allow this conversion. If a strain has a high CBGa content then smoking it will add heat and change it to CBG.(Source)

CBGa has been found to interact with a different cannabinoid receptor than THC. Ruth Ross from the University of Aberdeen found that CBGa was an antagonist for the cannabinoid receptor GPR55. She found that CBGa and CBDa were 2-4 times stronger in affecting GPR55 than CBD and CBG.(Source) GPR55 has shown to target inflammatory pain, neuropathic pain and aid in bone development.(Source)

Dr. William Courtney ,a leading physician advocating the use of raw cannabis, says:

“If you heat the plant, you get decarboxylated THCa – THC, and you will have psychoactive effects with only 10mg of THC. If it is not heated, you can take from 500 to 600 mg of THCa, use it as essential nutrient and enjoy the antioxidant and neuroprotective properties that these high doses offer you.”

In the raw form cannabis gives a powerful dietary component of essential fatty acids, essential aminoacids, fibers, enzymes, vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, carotenoids, terpenes and of course phytocannabinoid acids. (Source)

Source:

http://www.medicaljane.com/2013/08/03/cannabigerol-cbg-is-a-minor-cannabinoid-with-major-impact/

http://www.jbc.org/content/287/1/91.full.pdf

http://grantome.com/grant/NIH/R01-DA023204-08

http://www.alchimiaweb.com/blogen/dr-courtneys-raw-cannabis-juice/

CBD Helps with Intervertebral Disc Degeneration

  

Intervetebral Disc Degeneration

On December 17^th, 2014 a study was published on how cannabis can benefit Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. This study was a small sample done on mice. The results coincide with other findings that cannabis helps with inflammation in cartilage such as rheumatoid arthritis.(Source)

 Intervertebral discs are in between the vertebrae of the spine. The discs are a cartilage joint that allows movement in the spine. They serve a crucial purpose to absorb shock and act as a ligament to hold the vertebrae together.(Source)

  Disc degeneration is caused from inflammation, metabolism of cells and neo-innervation. Cannabidiol CBD has shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, reducing metabolism of bone cells and a nerve protect-ant. This new study is the first to explore the use of CBD in helping disc degeneration. The results concluded that the higher dosage of CBD showed improvement in the Invertebral Discs.(Source)

Source:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4269422/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intervertebral_disc

http://norml.org/library/item/rheumatoid-arthritis

Cannabis with AIDS | HIV-Positive Patients

Marijuana and AIDS | HIV Positive

Studies have shown great benefits for AIDS | HIV-Positive patients. Clinical studies have shown that cannabis helps with pain , anxiety, immunity, mood, sleep, appetite, fatigue, nausea and bone weight loss.

  Wasting syndrome is a main result of AIDS patients in where body mass is reduced. This is from symptoms of nausea, appetite loss, pain and anxiety. AIDS drugs on the market currently are used to treat these problems. Patients have demonstrated that these medications are not equally effective in all patients. Many AIDS sufferers describe marijuana as being a better choice than prescribed medication. The main reasons for choosing marijuana is the rapid-onset when smoked which helps in relief with less side effects.(Source)

  Pain management contributes to fatigue and mood for HIV patients. A study done published in the 2007 journal Neurology studied cannabis and pain of HIV-associated sensory neuropathy. Donald I. Abrams, MD, Professor of Clinical Medicine at the University of California at San Francisco concluded that cannabis was as effective as other oral drugs used for chronic neuropathic pain.(Source)

Ways of Administering Cannabis

  Some HIV patients are given Dronabinol which is a synthetic THC over the counter drug. Margaret Haney's research in “Dronabinol and Marijuana in HIV-Positive Marijuana Smokers: Caloric Intake, Mood, and Sleep” studied the effect of Dronabinol. Her findings concluded that both Dronabinol and Marijuana smoking increased appetite and body weight. She also found that only marijuana improved sleep and Dronabinol was effective only at 8 times the current recommendation.(Source)

Major Supporters of Cannabis Treatment for AIDS

  Cannabis being a benefit for treatment to HIV is backed by large supporters. The American Academy of HIV Medicine is the largest independent organization giving active treatment to 340,000 HIV patients. They Provide care for more than two-thirds of HIV patients of America. They were asked, “Should marijuana be a medical option?” by Reason Magazine in 2007. Their response was “ When appropriately prescribed and monitored, marijuana/cannabis can provide immeasurable benefits for the health and well-being of our patients.”(Source)

 Other supporters have weighed in on the support of marijuana for AIDS patients. Consumer Reports in May 1997 stated, “Consumer Reports believes that, for patients with advanced AIDS and terminal cancer, the apparent benefits some derive from smoking marijuana outweigh any substantiated or even suspected risks." Kate Scannell, MD and Co-Director of Kaiser-Permanente Northern California Ethics Department stated in the San Fransisco Chronicle in 2003, "From working with AIDS and cancer patients, I repeatedly saw how marijuana could ameliorate a patient's debilitating fatigue, restore appetite, diminish pain, remedy nausea, cure vomiting and curtail down-to-the-bone weight loss."

Source:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10839332

http://medicalmarijuana.procon.org/view.source.php?sourceID=003433

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17589370

http://www.neurology.org/content/68/7/515.abstract

http://www.neurology.org/content/68/7/515.abstract

5 Benefits for Marijuana over Opiates to Treat Pain

  More than 1.5 billion people suffer from chronic pain and approximately 4% suffer from neuropathic pain worldwide.(Source) Opiates are the most common prescribed medication for pain in the United States. Research has shown that the success rate of opiates for treating pain is 30-40% with horrible side effects.(Source) In 2007 prescription pain killers contributed to 42% of all drug deaths in America.(Source) Research has shown that Cannabis is a favorable alternative to opiate pain medication.

Benefit #1 Cannabis Treats your Emotional Response to Pain

  In 2010 Oxford University conducted a study on how pain is perceived. In the study volunteers were told if electric charges would be dangerous or not before they received them. The perception of danger made the charges more painful. The brain felt pain before the charge was administered.(Source)

Cannabis relaxes the emotional response by affecting the brain receptors that deal with emotion.

Benefit #2 Cannabis Reduces Cancer Growth

  Many studies have shown that marijuana lowers cancer cell growth.(Source) In 2012 the University of Chicago put out a report to showing that opiates may increase cancer growth. Jonathan Moss, MD, PhD, professor of anesthesiology and critical care at the University of Chicago Medicine said "Epidemiologic findings suggest that the type of anesthesia we do for cancer surgery influences recurrence rate, and laboratory studies demonstrate that opioids influence tumor progression and metastasis,". In another study, cancer cells in the lungs show 5-10 times as many opiod receptors than non-cancer cells.(Source)

Benefit #3 Cannabis is Less Addictive than Opiates

  A study by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) found that 9% of cannabis users have an addiction problem.(Source) To put this in perspective, 8% of Americans are addicted to Facebook, checking their account 11 or more times a day.(Source) Heroin is an opiate that has a 23% abuse rate.(Source) In 2010 two million people reported using prescription painkillers for non-medical reasons in a one year period (5,500 a day).(Source)

Benefit #4 Cannabis Reduces Side Effects that Opiates Have

  Opiates are Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants. If the CNS is overly-depressed too far this can result in difficulty with the heart beating or the ability to breathe.(Source) Other side effects include hormonal imbalance, constipation, nausea, and drowsiness.(Source) Studies have found that using cannabis along with opiates reduces side effects and decreases addiction.(Source)

Benefit #5 Cannabis Overdose Deaths = 0

  There have been no reported overdose deaths for marijuana. (Source) In 2010 the number of opiate overdose deaths were 16,651. Six percent of people who use prescribed opiates use it as a gateway drug for heroin use. (Source) In 2012 the opioid heroin use resulted in 5,925 deaths as a result of overdose.

Source:

http://www.prweb.com/pdfdownload/8052240.pdf

http://cannabisnowmagazine.com/cannabis/medical/marijuana-works-better-than-opiates-to-control-pain-heres-how

http://www.cdc.gov/HomeandRecreationalSafety/pdf/poison-issue-brief.pdf

http://www.iom.edu/Reports/2011/Relieving-Pain-in-America-A-Blueprint-for-Transforming-Prevention-Care-Education-Research.aspx

http://www.uchospitals.edu/news/2012/20120321-opioid.html

http://justiniskandar.empowernetwork.com/blog/internet-and-facebook-addiction

http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/heroin

http://archive.samhsa.gov/data/NSDUH/2k11Results/NSDUHresults2011.htm

http://cannabisnowmagazine.com/cannabis/medical/marijuana-works-better-than-opiates-to-control-pain-heres-how

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22880540

http://www.drugwarfacts.org/cms/causes_of_death#sthash.q4PDb6Tl.dpbs

The Benefits of Cannabichromene (CBC)

     

Cannabichromene CBC Creates Brain Stem Cells

  Cannabichromene (CBC) is a cannabinoid in marijuana that is in low concentration but high in healing properties. Research has shown that CBC helps in pain, depression, inflammation, bone growth, increase brain cells and reducing cancerous tumors. More research is needed but many scientists believe that CBC in conjunction with the other cannabinoids work together as a whole to provide the best medicinal effects.

   Cannabigerolic Acid (CBCA) is the initial cannabinoid form that the raw cannabis plant starts with. With age and oxidation this quickly breaks down with enzymes into CBDa, THCa and CBCa. The CBCa form when heated will lose a CO2 molecule allowing it to convert to Cannabichromene (CBC).

   CBC effects with the brain are exciting and promising for modern medicine to help with Alzheimer's and dementia. An Italian study found that CBC promotes brain cell growth with adult neural stem cells. Studies have shown that adults brain cell growth slows and the decline can lead to memory loss. Though the studies are with mice so far, the study done by GW Pharmaceuticals gives hope for a treatment for degenerative brain diseases.(Source) 
 

   CBC has also shown to reduce cancer cells and shrink tumors along with the cannabinoids CBD and CBG. They allow anandamide to inhibit cancer cell growth. Cannabidiol (CBD) shows the highest potency with CBC and CBG being next in potency. Allowing all cannabinoids to work synergistic-ally allows them to target different receptors to inhibit cancer growth. (Source)

Other great benefits include:

• Bacteria like Staph and E.Coli showed inhibited by CBC. (Source)
• CBC has been found in studies to be an anti-inflammatory in mice. (Source)
• CBC targeting the nervous system to control pain at a chronic level.(Source)
• Euphoric uplifting properties are given with CBC that works differently than THC. (Source)
• CBC acts as a bone-stimulant (Source)

Source:

http://www.medicaljane.com/2013/08/14/cannabichromene-cbc-is-the-most-disregarded-cannabinoid/
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3417459/
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0197018613002106
http://montanabiotech.com/2011/09/20/breast-cancer-antitumor-effects-inhibition-of-cancer-cell-proliferation-and-treatment-using-medical-cannabis-marijuana-derived-cannabinoids-tetrahydrocannabinol-cannabidiol-cannabigerol-cannabichromen/
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20942863

http://www.delta9.ca/resources/Cannabinoids%20-%20General/Cannabinoids%20Primer%20New.pdf

The Benefits of Cannabigerol (CBG)

  Cannabigerol CBG is a cannabinoid in marijuana that has medicinal properties. Found in low concentrations in many strains of cannabis it is often overlooked. CBG works in conjunction with THC to tone down the paranoia feeling.(Source) Alone it aids in treatment to depression, tumors, inflammatory bowel disease, glaucoma, bacteria infections, high blood pressure, reduce blood clotting, anxiety and muscle tension.

   Research has proven many treatments from Cannabigerol. Here is a list of the numerous benefits of CBG:

Depression: GW Pharma has a patent for the use of Cannabigerol CBG to treat clinical depression.(Source)

Cancer \Tumors: New research this year has shown that CBG reduces cancer cells and tumors in the colon.(Source)

Inflammatory Bowel Disease: CBG reduced inflammation and over-production of nitric oxide which can lead to sustained IBD.(Source)

Glaucoma: CBG shows promising treatment for glaucoma by relieving ocular pressure. More importantly CBG showed 2-3 times the benefit of eye drainage than other medicines.(Source)

Bacterial Infections: Bacterial infections have been treated including MRSA.(Source)

Reduce Heart Rate and Blood Clotting: Has shown as a proven treatment for the way it reduces platelet aggregation.(Source)

Anxiety and Muscle Tension: CBG is able to treate with it's ability to inhibit GABA production.(Source)

Cannabis initially starts with creating cannabinoid cannabigerolic acid (CBGa). This is typically broken down with exposure to air and UV light into THCa, CBDa or CBCa. If it remains as CBGa, then it will convert to CBG when heated. Some industrial strains retain the CBGa with as much as a 94% concentration. It is thought this strain has a recessive gene that doesn't allow the conversion to the THCa, CBDa or CBCa. Currently some growers are using this knowledge to create strains rich in CBG like the Mickey Kush Strain.

Source:

http://www.medicaljane.com/2013/08/03/cannabigerol-cbg-is-a-minor-cannabinoid-with-major-impact/

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25269802

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006295213000543

http://www.google.com/patents/CA2655094C?cl=en

http://www.amazon.com/Cannabis-Therapeutics-HIV-AIDS-Journal/dp/0789016990/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1418758497&sr=1-1&keywords=9780789016997

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.2042-7158.1989.tb06345.x/abstract

The Benefits of Cannabinol – CBN

Cannabinol - CBN

Cannabinol is a cannabinoid in marijuana that aids in sleep, anti-bacterial and skin problems. Cannabinol target receptors in the body to administer the medicinal characteristics. The way cannabis is grown and stored affects the concentration of Cannabinol.

One of the main benefits for Cannabinol is treatment for insomnia. Many of the studies are from research with a drug containing cannabis named Nabilone. Nabilone is a cannabinol derivative of cannabis.(Source) Nabilone was found effective in helping with sleep for patients with fibromyalgia (Source).

CBN is superior to THC for absorbing through the skin making a great topical application. The anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can help skin and protect against bacterial infections. Studies have shown that CBN can protect against MRSA(Source) and aid in skin burns and psoriasis.(Source)

Cannabinol CBN is mildly psycho-active. CBN effects the CB1 receptors very slightly and targets the CB2 receptors more. The effects of cannabinol are very low compared to THC however it can give different treatment results. (Source)

Trace amounts of Cannabinol is found in cannabis. It is created through metabolized THC or aged through oxidation. There are a couple ways to achieve a higher concentration of Cannabinol. You should harvest the cannabis plant late to allow the oxidation to occur and increase the CBN. Cannabis purchased at a dispensary should be left out in air and light to age. A higher concentration of THC will result in more CBN.(Source)

Source:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabinol

http://www.medicaljane.com/2013/08/19/cannabinol-cbn-will-put-you-to-bed/

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18681481

http://drsircus.com/medicine/transdermal-medical-marijuana-skin-cancer-treatment

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1204278

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20007734

What is 2-AG and Does it Relate to Cannabis?

   2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) is the most abundant endocannaboinoid messenger molecule that effects the TRPV1, CB1 and CB2 receptor. 2-AG is 170 times the concentration of anandamide which also effects the same receptors. 2-AG is naturally created in humans and also found in human and cattle milk. (Source)

   So why does this matter? Because 2-AG and anandamide is created on-demand naturally by the body, and an imbalance to the body to produce too much or little is thought to lead to disorders. Drug therapies that target the CB1, CB2 receptors bring the body back to a balance where 2-AG is lacking.(Source) It is theorized that diseases such as bipolar(Source) and alzheimer's(Source) could occur from an imbalance of 2-AG being created in the body.

   The nerve cells affected by 2-AG control body temperature, appetite, memory, mood, inflammation, immunity and the sensation of heat and pain. Studies show that it may inhibit cancer cell formation. 2-AG is created from 20-carbon essential fatty acids (EFA). Cannabis is a good source of EFA's that mimics 2-AG functions.(Source)

   Cannabis drug therapies have been developed to treat symptoms of many problems by mimicking the 2-AG messenger molecule. Some examples of treatment are for memory, pain, nausea, wasting syndrome, cancer, spasticity from multiple sclerosis and tremors from Parkinson's disease.

   2-AG plays an important role in traumatic brain injuries. When a brain injury occurs 2-AG has been found to be elevated. A study with mice was done where they gave a drug to boost the levels of 2-AG after a brain injury. The results were a quicker recovery, reduced inflammation, swelling and brain cell death.(Source)

Source:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2-Arachidonoylglycerol

http://sensiseeds.com/en/blog/cannabinoid-science-101-what-is-2-ag/

https://www.caymanchem.com/app/template/Article.vm/article/2110

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21175579

http://bipolarnews.org/?tag=cannabidiol

http://www.jneurosci.org/content/34/45/14919.short

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11586361

How THC Mimics a Messenger Molecule

   Behaviors such as the  munchies, fertility and where you left your car keys all relate to a messenger molecule named anandamide. This molecule contributes to messages in the brain regarding to pain, depression, appetite, memory and fertility. The molecular structure of THC is very similar to anandamide. The similarity allows it mimic functions that this messenger molecule does. Anandamide breaks down very quickly not allowing humans to get to a “natural high”. THC takes more time to break down giving a psycho-active high.

   Messenger cells like anandamide are like a “key” that can attach to a nerve cell receptor acting like a “lock”. Once the messenger cell find a good connection with a receptor it can attach and open the nerve membrane to allow chloride ions to enter the cell. This equalizes the charges inside and outside the cell and prevents the cell from firing a charge. The “key” must be removed to allow the nerve cell to work again. Enzymes work to break down the “key” messenger molecules after a certain amount of time. The nerve cells will cease to work if the messenger molecule remains.(Source) In 1992 an Israeli scientist Raphael Mechoulam was able isolate anandamide as the “bliss” messenger cell that THC emulates. He was the same scientist that isolated THC in 1964.(Source)

How THC mimic's Anandamide

Anandamide and Memory
   Anandamide has been shown to create or destroy short term memory nerve connections. In animal studies an increase in anandamide results in forgetfulness.(Source) Anandamide helps to retain information like where you parked your car. It allows you to forget things like what the women was wearing at the checkout stand.(Source)

   A famous experiment known as the Morris Water Maze shows what happens to short term memory when anandamide is inhibited. Mice are placed in a water test area with a platform so they can climb out of the water. The platform is removed once the mice remember where it was placed. The mice will naturally look for the platform and realize it isn't there. They will then focus on surviving by swimming. Mice with a drug to block the anandamide will perpetually continue to look for the platform. They will forget that the platform isn't there.(Source)

Anandamide and Fertility
   Anandamide acts as a signaling when an embryo attaches to the female uterus. In fact anandamide is at a higher concentration in the uterus than the brain. Sperm contain receptors that accept the anandamide molecule. It is theorized that disrupting the function of anandamide therefore could interfere with fertility. More research is need to further investigate the relation between fertility and drugs that act like anadamide.(Source)

Similar Sources to Anandamide
   Chocolate has a similar structure to anandamide much like THC. Daniele Piomelli studied this as a scientist at the Neuroscience Instititute in San Diego. He found that chocolate has three compounds that mimic anandamide. Chocolate and THC behave differently as a messenger.  Piomelli states, “The response to THC and to the chocolate anandamides are not at all the same, even if the concentrations could be made comparable.” Chocolate may create a blissful feeling while not giving a high.(Source)

   Recently Piomelli found a naturally occurring molecule in the body that mimics anandamide. Sn-2 arachidonylglycerol (2-AG) can lock into the same bliss receptors. It is unique in that it works at 170 times the concentration of anandamide. The 2-AG molecules are found in different parts of the brain. Piomelli theorizes that the functions of anandamide and 2-AG are complementary.(Source)


Source:
http://antoine.frostburg.edu/chem/senese/101/features/anandamide.shtml
http://thesilvertour.org/cannabis-professor-raphael-mechoulam-discovery-thc-1964-anandamide-1992
http://www.marijuanalibrary.org/981217.html#nfo
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21684528
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0091305799001069
http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v388/n6644/full/388773a0.html
https://www.exploratorium.edu/exploring/exploring_chocolate/choc_8.html