The Benefits of Nerolidol in Cannabis

Nerolidol is a naturally occurring terpene in Cannabis as well as ginger, jasmine, lavender and tea tree. The aroma smells like a woody bark and is used as an essential oil in many products. Nerolidol is useful in transdermal delivery of other cannabinoids in the cells.(Source) Nerolidol contributes to the complete medicine of the cannabis plant in the entourage effect.

Nerolidol is a sequiterpene which means it is a more stable chemical structure than other terepenes. It gives sedative properties that treats insomnia. Its absorption through the skin helps facilitate topical applications for skin conditions or pain.(Source) Nerolidol in studies has also shown to have anti-fungal properties and reduce infection of Malaria.(Source)

Source:

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

https://www.thcfarmer.com/community/threads/the-terpenes-of-cannabis-their-aromas-and-effects.68222/

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17202684

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC434199/

Explaining the “Entourage Effect” in Cannabis

The Whole Cannabis Plant works Synergisticly to Provide Medicine

In 1998 Shimon Ben-Shabatt and Raphael Mechoulam coined the term the “Entourage Effect”. This term explains how cannabis medicinally works with terpenes and cannabinoids. They show the importance of all active ingredients of cannabis for maximum effectivness.

The Entourage Effect is directing a new thinking in cannabis medicine. In 1985 Marinol singled out THC as the only active ingredient. Better results have been shown by adding CBD with THC in the medicine Sativex. GW Pharmeceuticals has incorporated the Entourage Effect in their further research to make new cannabis medicine.

The cannabinoids and terpenes in cannabis work together to maximize treatments. Raphael Mechoulam said while introducing the Entourage Effect, “Very seldom is the biological activity of the active constituent assayed together with inactive 'entourage' compounds.” The variety of terpene and cannabinoids profiles create the distinctive effects and strains of the cannabis plant.

Source:

http://www.beyondthc.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/EntourageEffect.pdf

http://www.leafscience.com/2014/09/11/medical-marijuana-entourage-effect/

http://www.hightimes.com/read/understanding-effects-indica-vs-sativa

The Terpene β-Caryophyllene in Cannabis

The Terpene β-Caryophyllene is the Only Approved Cannabinoid

The terpene caryophyllene gives a spicy peppery scent to some cannabis strains. It is also found in black pepper, cloves, cotton, hops, oregano and rosemary. β-Caryophyllene is a unique terpene categorized as a cannabinoid (BCP). This classification is from the way it effects the CB2 receptor. The relation with the receptor helps with anxiety, perception of pain and depression.(Source) Studies have also shown it to act as a neuroprotectant and reduce alcohol consumption.(Source)

Caryophyllene has been shown to help anxiety, arthritis, autoimmune disorders, inflammation, multiple sclerosis symptoms and gastrointestinal problems. Studies with β-Caryophyllene are promising for how it works as a cannabinoid without any psychotic effects. This is due to how it effects the CB2 receptors without effecting the CB1 receptors which give the marijuana high.(Source)

Strains that are high in caryophyllene include Super Silver Haze, Nevilles Haze and Hash Plant. Marijuana sniffing dogs are trained to look for the smell of Caryophyllene.(Source) Β-Caryophyllene is the first FDA approved cannabinoid.

Source:

http://www.leafscience.com/2014/07/08/b-caryophyllene-terpene-anxiety-depression/

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0031938414003400

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

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0091305714001956

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

What Cannabis Sprays Are Used For

Cannabis Sprays

Cannabis spray is an oral medication for pain. In 2014 the FDA designated a fast track to approve cannabis sprays at a federal level. Cannabis sprays are desired by cancer patients that have trouble responding to opiate medication for their pain.

The company GW Pharmaceuticals has become well known for cannabis based drugs for the mainstream market. Their CEO Justin Gover says “Sativex is the only non-opioid treatment currently in Phase 3 development for patients who do not respond to, or experience negative side effects with opioid medications.” He goes on to say “We are fully committed to delivering the first FDA-approved cannabinoid medicine for these patients who currently have nowhere else to turn.”(Source)

Many patients prefer the spray over other cannabis applications. The benefits of administering an oral spray are the fast acting effects. Cannabis spray is discreet and has a pleasant smell. The sprays are offered in unflavored or other flavors like mint. Patients can regulate their dosage in an effective way with the spray.

OUTCO currently offers CBD oil spray in unflavored or peppermint flavor. Outliers Collective is located in El Cajon. It is the only legally licensed Dispensary in San Diego.

Source:

http://www.hightimes.com/read/fda-yes-marijuana-spray-will-not-reclassify

Cannabis Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints. The symptoms are pain, inflammation and stiffness. Doctors treat RA by reducing pain, inflammation and slowing down joint damage.(Source)

A study in 1998-2002 found that illicit cannabis in the U.K. greatly reduced rheumatoid arthritis pain. The survey found that 100% of the RA sufferers found cannabis reduced symptoms “much better” (72%) or “a little better” (28%).(Source) A study in 2006 with the Cannabis Medicine Savitex showed significant improvement in pain and reduced disease activity.(Source) A 2005 survey of medical cannabis patients in Australia showed that 25% used it to treat rheumatoid arthritis.(Source)

Cannabis helps treat rheumatoid arthritis because of it's ability to reduce joint pain, inflammation and increase immunity. The endocannabinoid system affects receptors in the nervous that target joint tissue and immune cells.(Source) Cannabinoids affect the activity of the COX-2 enzymes which contribute to inflammation from arthritis.(Source) Cannabinoids also have immunosupressive properties which curtail inflammatory molecules called cytokines.(Source)

Souce:

http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Rheumatic_Disease/rheumatoid_arthritis_ff.asp

http://rheumatology.oxfordjournals.org/content/45/6/781.1.full

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16282192

http://www.harmreductionjournal.com/content/2/1/18

http://www.arthritistoday.org/arthritis-treatment/natural-and-alternative-treatments/remedies-and-therapies/medical-marijuana.php

http://www.researchgate.net/publication/51088411_Evaluation_of_the_cyclooxygenase_inhibiting_effects_of_six_major_cannabinoids_isolated_from_Cannabis_sativa

http://www.cannabis-med.org/data/pdf/2001-03-04-5.pdf

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/

The Differences Cannabis Raw, Heated or Aged

The Differences Cannabis Raw, Heated or Aged

Different cannabinoids are created when the flower is exposed to UV light, aging, oxidation and heat. Each cannabinoid has unique medicinal effects.

Cannabis is unique in that it is the only plant able to produce cannabigerolicacid (CBGa). The first cannabinoid the cannabis plant produces in raw form is CBGa. Cannabis synthesizes through natural enzymes to change CBGa into three main cannabinoid branches. CBGa is in an unstable form and typically is converted to other cannabinoids quickly. These three cannabinoids types are tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCa), Cannabidiolic acid (CBDa) and Cannabichromenic acid (CBCa).

Heat changes cannabinoids into THC, CBD, CBG and CBN. This conversion process is created by losing a carbon dioxide molecule (CO2). In this state they are thought to be in a neutral form. When a strain has a high CBGa content smoking it will add heat and change it to CBG.

Raw or heated cannabis can turn into different cannabinoids when it has oxidation and age. THCa with oxidation will change to CBNa. Aged THC will change into CBN or Tetra8 THC. When aged CBC will turn into CBL. Raw CBCa turns into CBLa over time.

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

CBD Tinctures

CBD Tinctures at OUTCO

OUTCO offers CBD Tinctures at the El Cajon Dispensary or Free Delivery for your convenience. Patients describe Cannabidiol (CBD) as treatment for pain, depression, anxiety, muscle spasms, and inflammation. Clinical research has shown CBD to be anti-bacterial, reduce cancer cells, a bone stimulant and a neuroprotectant. CBD is the cannabinoid in marijuana that has the most known benefits without a psychotic effect.

Typically patients use the tincture by putting 1-3 drops under their tongue. More drops can be used as needed. OUTCO has a proprietary method of extracting the CBD to a high concentrated form. Tinctures come in a choice of glycerin or alcohol. Glycerin patients describe as tasting better, while alcohol seems to provide more immediate relief.

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

How Cannabis Treatment Reduces Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms

Cannabis and Multiple Sclerosis

Inflammation in multiple-sclerosis (MS) show positive results with cannabis. Symptoms benefiting from cannabis treatments are muscle spasms, pain, sleep, interocular pressure and incontinence.(Source) MS is a long-term disease that effects the brain, central nervous system and optic nerves. This disease makes the immune system attack a fatty material called myelin. This fatty tissue wraps around the nerve fibers to protect them. The scar tissue of myelin called sclerosis causing inflammation.(Source)

Cannabis has shown to prevent inflammation in the central nervous system. Dr. Ewa Kozela of Tel Aviv University, Israel says "Inflammation is part of the body's natural immune response, but in cases like MS, it gets out of hand". In the Journal of Neuroimmune Pharmacology he shows how cannabis can regulate inflammation.

In Dr. Kozela's study the cannabinoids tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) found in marijuana reduced inflammation associated in MS. The cannabinoids when administered reduced the inflammatory molecules, notably interleukin 17 (IL-17). The researchers say the inflammatory molecule "is strongly associated with MS and very harmful to nerve cells and their insulating covers,". They concluded:

"The presence of CBD or THC restrains the immune cells from triggering the production of inflammatory molecules, and limits the molecules' ability to reach and damage the brain and spinal cord." (Source)

Source:

http://www.webmd.com/multiple-sclerosis/guide/what-is-multiple-sclerosis

http://www.neurology.org/content/65/6/812.abstract

http://medicalmarijuana.procon.org/view.resource.php?resourceID=000884

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/267161.php

The Medicinal Properties of Cannabinoids

  

Cannabinoid Treatment

  Medicinal properties in the cannabis plant come from cannabinoids. At least 85 different cannabinoids have been isolated in the plant. The most researched cannabinoids are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabinol (CBN).(Source)

     Marijuana users get excited to see a sticky white resin on the flower buds because they contain most of the cannabinoids. They are produced from glandular hairs (trichomes) on the flower. Cannabinoids imitate naturally produced endocannabinoids in our body that maintain health.(Source)

    Cannibinoids interact with one another to provide different medicinal effects. Based on the understanding of cannibinoids, dispensaries like OUTCO administer a variety of cannabis medications. Listed below is the different cannabinoids and their specialized treatments.

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) – The psycho-active cannabinoid that treats pain, nausea, muscle spasms, anxiety and increases appetite.

Cannabidiol (CBD) – The most beneficial cannabinoid aiding in pain, slowing bacerteria growth, reducing sugar levels, nausea, reducing seizures, inflammation, insomnia, artery blockage, cancer cells\tumors, psoriasis, muscle spasms, anxiety, osteoporosis, increases immunity, spasms in intestine and protecting the nervous system.

Cannabigerolic (CBG) – Reduces bacteria growth, inflammation, cancer cells\tumors, and osteoporosis.

Cannabinol (CBN) – Mildly psycho-active that treats pain, insomnia, and muscle spasms.

Cannabichromene (CBC) – Has been shown to reduce pain including migraines, inflammation, cancer cells\tumors and osteoporosis.

Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCv) – Mildly psycho-active that gives a euphoria and intensifies THC. Known to help with weightloss, reducing seizures, and osteoporosis.

THCa – Known to reduce inflammation, cancer cells\tumors, and muscle spasms.

Cannabigerolic acid (CBGa) – Aquired when consumed raw to reduce pain, inflammation, slow bacteria growth and reduce cancer cells\tumors.(Source)

CGCa – A cannabinoid known to reduce inflammation.

CBCa – Slows bacterial and fungal infection.

CBDa – Reduces cancer cells\tumors and inflammation.

Source:

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

http://www.leafly.com/knowledge-center/cannabis-101/cannabinoids-101-what-makes-cannabis-medicine

http://www.420magazine.com/forums/cannabis-facts-information/76763-marijuana-cannabinoids-thc-cbd-cbn.html

http://theleafonline.com/c/science/2014/08/cannabinoid-profiles-crash-course-cbga/

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

The Benefits of Cannabis for Autism

Reports have shown that cannabis can help treat symptoms of autism. Autism is a disorder in brain development that affects social interaction, verbal and non-verbal communication and signs of repetitive behaviors. Autism has a broad spectrum of symptoms and sources in the body for the resulting behavior.(Source) Five percent of autism cases have also an occurrence of Fragile X Syndrome.

Fragile X Syndrome occurs when the X chromosome has a failure to express the fragile X mental retardation protein or FMRP. There are varying degrees of severity to how bad the mutation is. Symptoms include attention deficit, hyperactivity, anxiety and aggression.(Source)

Studies show that the Fragile X Syndrome affects the part of the body known as the endocannabinoid system. Cannabis affects the endocannabinoid system in the body which is made up of lipids and receptors.  The function of these receptors is to process appetite, feelings of pain, mood as well as memory functions. One of these lipids is 2-AG or 2-arachidonoylglycerol, which is crucial for cell function and communication. People with fragile X syndrome have a non-functioning 2-AG lipid. This lipid is found as a non psycho-active cannabinoid found in cannabis. Studies showing this correlation help explain why these symptoms are reduced when marijuana use replace this non functioning 2-AG in the body. (Source)

Researchers at Stanford University studied mice in which two synapse-adhesion proteins led to a block or slowing of signaling in their brains. This study reflects another form of the spectrum of autism in which there are mutations in neurologin-3 (NL-3) and R451. This study showed that the CB1 receptors  which are affected by these mutations can be helped through targeting of this receptor through use of marijuana treatment.(Source)

The researchers studied mutations in neurologin-3 (NL-3) and R451. . The mutation of neurologin-3 (NL-3), a gene encoding a protein that builds and maintains synapses, demonstrated a deletion of the entire gene.  In contrast the mutation of R451, demonstrated a single amino acid substitution. Both of these mutations have shown to be associated with autism in humans. (Source)

Success Stories

A family in San Diego wrote about their adopted son Sam that who showed signs of autism at 18 months old. The family gave doses of marijuana to their son at age 8 and documented changes in his behavior through a daily journal  read here). Their observations showed behaviors of agitation and aggression diminished leaving their son with a calm focused attention which was previously unobserved in his daily behavior.

Alex Echols, a resident of Oregon, suffers from a form of autism called tuberous sclerosis.  This form of autism has been shown to cause non-malignant tumors in organs. These tumors have affected his brain functions  to the point where he experiences powerful seizures and engages in self- inflicted harm. After trying many different drugs with Alex to no avail his parents decided to give him cannabis.   This resulted in a major reduction in self inflicted harm and a an increased relaxation in use of his hands for exploration. (Source)

Source:

http://www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism

https://decryptedmatrix.com/live/marijuana-cannabinoids-found-to-help-combat-autism/

http://www.nature.com/ncomms/journal/v3/n9/full/ncomms2045.html?WT.ec_id=NCOMMS-20120925

http://www.letfreedomgrow.com/cmu/SamsStory.htm

http://www.autismdailynewscast.com/studies-finds-link-between-autism-and-cannabinoids/921/laurel-joss/

Cannabis Strains that are High in CBD

Most cannabis strains on the market are bred for their cannabinoid potency in THC, which is the active part that give a psycho effect. There are 85 active cannabinoids that are known in cannabis and cannabidiol or CBD is growing in popularity for it's high effectiveness for medicinal use without the psycho-active properties.

Treatment with Cannabidiol CBD

Cannabidiol in marijuana is the second most prevalent cannabinoid behind THC. At first it was thought the only benefit of CBD was to counteract the stoned effect that THC gives. However, CBD has been shown in research to give anti-inflammatory, analgesic and lower anxiety without the psycho-active effects that THC gives. These benefits have shown promising results for treatment in crohn's disease, PTSD, multiple sclerosis and a form of epilepsy called Dravet's Syndrome. Strains high in THC are usually at levels of 20% above, where CBD over 4% are known to be in high concentration. The FDA is approving a study this year to look at the effectiveness of CBD in children to hopefully make this a more accessible treatment.(Source)

Many patients are vocal about the importance of THC with CBD for complete effectiveness as a treatment. The government has acquired a patent for the benefits in THC, and research has showed it to help with appetite loss, nausea, multiple sclerosis and pain. Allowing to manage the percentage amount of THC and CBD gives the most effectiveness as well as also having control of how it is consumed. (Source)

Strains that are High in CBD

   The strains listed give different concentrations of CBD to THC ratios and also differentiate with their terpene properties to give different medicinal effects.

AC/DC - Sativa dominant 1:20 ratio of THC:CBD, a phenotype of Cannatonic

Cannatonic – Hybrid with 1:1 ratio. Origins are MK Ultra X and G-13 Haze.

Canna Sue – 13.8%CBD to 10.4%THC from Southern Humbolt Seed Company cross of Canna Tonic and Sour Tsunami

Charlotte's Web – Sativa dominant created by the Stanley brothers

Harlequin – Sativa Hybrid, registered 11.6%CBD to 8.4%THC (Source)

Harle Sue – Sativa Hybrid, registered 9.4%CBD to 6.7%THC, cross of Harlequin and Sour Tsunami

Jamaican Lion – Sativa with 1:1 ratio or better, cross between Mountain Lion and Yarders.(Source)

Omrita Rx – Indica dominant, 9.5% CBD to 11% THC, lots of leaves to juice, High in Beta Caryophylline.

Oracle* found to be identicle to AC/DC

Sour Tsunami – Sativa hybrid with 7.24%CBD to 4.32%THC ratio from Humboldt Seed Company

Women's Collective Stinky Purple

Swiss Gold – Sativa hybrid 7.2%CBD and 3.6%THC

Valentine X – Hybrid known to be highest CBD ratio 25:1, a phenotype of AC/DC

(Source)(Source)

Source:

http://www.projectcbd.org/medicine/strain-library/

http://www.leafly.com/news/lifestyle/whats-the-deal-with-these-high-cbd-strains

http://www.mpp.org/assets/documents/low-or-no-thc-high-cbd.html

http://synergycbd.com/cdb-rich-strains/

http://www.hydrocanna.com/showthread.php?t=9683

Cannabis and the Type 1 Vanilloid Receptor

TRPV1 also known as Type 1 Vanilloid Receptor, Capsaicin Receptor and transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member1 is a protein that the TRPV1 gene encodes. This receptor regulates body temperature and the sensation of heat and pain. Found in the nervous system it is a communicator of pain to the brain, and desensitizing gives a analgesic pain free feeling.

Cannabinoids found in marijuana have been found to be an antagonist to the TRPV1 receptor, which can help with neurpathic pain, multiple sclerosis, chemotherapy, amputation as well as osteoarthritis, anxiety and long term depression.(Source) Cannabidiol CBD has shown to have an activation of the TRPV1 receptors. (Source) Endocannabinoid anandamide that is affected by the use of cannabis has been shown to act on the TRPV1 receptors as well. (Source) Dopamine which is increased with cannabis use also effects the TRPV1 receptor.(Source)

Along with treatment in symptoms, cannabis can reduce cancer to it's role in the TRPV1 receptor. Neuroblastoma is a cancer started in the nervous system in the human fetus or embryo that resides in the nervous system. This form of cancer is usually seen in young children before the age of 10. Research has shown that cannabis can delay or stop the cancer cell growth of neuroblastoma by activating the TRPV1 receptors. (Source)

Source:

http://jpet.aspetjournals.org/content/318/3/1375

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/TRPV1

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC123079/

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1574087/

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17442052