Groundbreaking Bill to Allow Veterans Access to Medical Marijuana

On May 21, 2015, a historic vote passed, allowing veterans access to medical marijuana. The Veterans Equal Access Amendment, which succeeded with a vote of 18 to 12 by the Senate Appropriations Committee, is the first positive legislation regarding access to marijuana granted by the U.S. Senate.

States that have passed medical marijuana rights will be allowed to utilize this ruling. Veteran Administration (VA) doctors now will be able to recommend medical marijuana. The Veterans Equal Access Amendment was sponsored by Senator Steve Daines (Rep) and Senator Jeff Merkley (Dem).

Medical Marijuana has shown to treat multiple conditions faced by veterans. Depression, PTSD, anxiety, and chronic pain are a few diseases for which veterans have sought access to medical marijuana. It is estimated that every 22 minutes, a veteran takes their own life.(Source) A study published in 2014 concluded that PTSD patients who used marijuana showed a 75% reduction in symptoms.(Source) Veterans see this as a positive step in restoring first amendment rights.(Source)

Source:

http://www.drugpolicy.org/news/2015/05/historic-vote-senate-appropriations-committee-approves-veterans-medical-marijuana-amend

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24830188

Testimonial - Pill Popping Be Gone

Medical Marijuana Testimonial	After more than a decade on over 20 pills a day (that seemed to get me by) I have tried medical cannabis. This has changed my life. A feeling of happy, clear and calm with only a puff. Just get over the stigma of "doing drugs" and start to feel good!
Strains you Like	Harlequin, Super Lemon Haze, Blue Moon
Conditions	PTSD
Symptoms	Anxiety Depression Pain: Neuropathic

Testimonial - Anxiety

Medical Marijuana Testimonial	I dealt with anxiety for most of my adult life.  Most cannabis made that worse.  After trying  xanax, valium, alcohol, none of them were a palatable solution. Then I bought some ACDC at Outco and found nature's cure to anxiety disorders.  It is a high CBD strain (20:1) and they have others as well.  Also, now that my anxiety is dealt with, I also enjoy the other medicinal benefits of cannabis.  Thanks for making quality medicinal strains available to San Diego County all done within the confines of the law.
Strains you Like	ACDC, Mr. Nice, Skywalker OG, Donna OG, Cannatonic, Harlequin, Harle-Tsu, Jack Herer
Conditions
Symptoms	Anxiety Depression Insomnia

Testimonial - PMDD

Medical Marijuana Testimonial	Just having the ability to acquire medicinal marijuana is worth as much as the relief it brings. My main complaint is pain, and since pain equals weakness, I prefer going to a controlled environment where my meds have been tested. This way I know for a fact what it is that I'm buying, no guess work required. Better yet, there's no middle-man, no stranger on the street, and violence is virtually unheard of among regular users such as myself. Now, if we could just get them tested for pesticides, mold and fungi, AND have Medicare pay for it...
Strains you Like	Ringo's Gift, J-1, Candy Jack, ATF
Conditions	ADD ADHD Bipolar Disorder Migraine PMS
Symptoms	Anxiety Cramps Depression Loss of Appetite Pain: MuscleJoint Pain: Neuropathic
Other	PMDD is what I have, it just hasn't been able to be verified.

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

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

How Marijuana Helps with Depression

Daily and weekly recreational users of marijuana report in surveys they are less depressed. Cannabis users with medical conditions report having symptoms of depression that may be related to there condition.(Source) Studies have found no correlation to marijuana causing depression.(Source)

Medical marijuana and recreational marijuana are increasingly becoming legal state by state. Statistics of states that have legalized show sharp decreases in suicide rates. States that legalize marijuana have an eleven percent decrease in suicide rate for males 20-29 years old. Research has shown that there is a correlation of suicide and alcohol abuse. Studies have also concluded that the availability of marijuana reduces alcohol consumption. It is still unclear if this drop is from marijuana, or from decrease use of alcohol.(Source)

The Arizona Department of Health took surveys of their patients that dealt with debilitating medical conditions. The patients describe cannabis helping to diminish symptoms and alter there mood to reduce depression. George McMahon suffering from illness said “The elevated mood associated with cannabis definitely affected my health in a positive manner. I was more engaged with life. I took walks and rode my bike, things I never considered doing before in my depressed state, even if I had been physically capable. I ate regular meals and I slept better at night. All of these individual factors contributed to a better overall sense of well-being." (Source)

Patients with bipolar describe notable improvement to stabilizing their moods with medical cannabis. They report a slow down to the cycle of manic to depression states improving overall mood. The amount of time feeling depressed is reduced significantly. (Source)

Many have used cannabis to treat mood disorders such as anxiety, PMS, depression and bipolar disorder. Early writings in the 19^th century report using cannabis to improve depression and mood. Reducing pain and other uncomfortable conditions with cannabis can also improve mood.(Source)

Source:

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/expert-answers/marijuana-and-depression/faq-20058060

http://www.iza.org/en/webcontent/publications/papers/viewAbstract?dp_id=6280

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15964704

http://www.azdhs.gov/medicalmarijuana/documents/debilitating/DepressionComments.pdf

http://medicalmarijuana.procon.org/view.answers.php?questionID=000226

http://www.420magazine.com/forums/medical-marijuana-facts-information/67789-marijuana-psychological-conditions.html

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

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

Marijuana Treatment for Veterans

PTSD and the Military

   San Diego has one of the largest military veteran populations in the United States with a total of 265,000 veterans .(Source)    OUTCO  dispenses medical marijuana to the community of San Diego, and many of our patients are veterans suffering from a variety of medical conditions. Conditions experienced by military personnel include: traumatic brain injury,  chronic pain, insomnia, anxiety, depression and  PTSD.
 
      Medical marijuana has been shown through studies to support patients with all of these conditions.   Veterans with a medical marijuana prescription report that cannabis has fewer side effects to their treatment than other prescribed medicine.(Source) This is an excellent option for veterans. Unfortunately, the US military has a zero tolerance for marijuana use for active military, which has existed since the Reagan administration.(Source)

       Psychiatry.org has reported the need for better treatment than what is currently available to military veterans, stating :

• In 2012 there were more military suicides than death from combat
• Military suicides are at their highest rate in the last 10 years
• 8-20% of military doing tours in Iraq or Afghanistan suffer from a traumatic brain injury
• Traumatic brain injuries increase suicidal thoughts
• 20% of all suicides in the United States are from military veterans
• 300,000 veterans from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars have been diagnosed with PTSD
(Source)

Veterans and PTSD
       Increase in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has recently been in the forefront of news about veterans.   PTSD results in suicide making discussion for treatments a hot topic. Studies have shown that on average 11-20% of Operation Iraqi and Enduring Freedom veterans, 10% of Desert Storm veterans and 30% of Vietnam veterans suffer from PTSD.(Source)

Veterans and Suicide
     Statistics have shown a 20% increase in veteran suicide since 2007. Experts believe this is due to the increase in the use of the prescription drug Lorazepam.   This drug has been prescribed to treat depression, anxiety and insomnia with a dangerous side-effect of feelings of suicide.   Other veterans self-medicate with alcohol and prescribed medications that can lead to suicidal thoughts.(Source) Traumatic brain injury, which has been prevalent in the wars of Iraq and Afghanistan, often results in an increase of these thoughts of suicide.(Source)

Research that Show the Benefit of Cannabis for Veterans
     Research has concluded that cannabis can treat many of the conditions from which these veterans suffer.   Use of marijuana increases a cannabinoid named 2-AG.   This in turn helps to reduce swelling and toxic chemicals released during a brain injury.(Source) In 2010, a Canadian study found that smoking 3 puffs of marijuana a day relieves pain and insomnia.(Source) In 1986, it was found that cannabis affects the benzoiazepine receptors of the brain thus reducing anxiety.(Source) Research conducted at McGill University showed low doses of THC helped to relieve depression.(Source) These conditions are closely related to  PTSD  thus offering relief with marijuana in the way it effects the  CB1 and CB2 receptors of the brain.(Source)



Source:
http://www.ptsd.va.gov/public/PTSD-overview/basics/how-common-is-ptsd.asp
http://www.royalqueenseeds.com/blog-how-medical-marijuana-saves-the-lives-of-many-war-veterans--n67?utm_content=buffer68a3d&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer
http://www.vancnorthcounty.org/
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2950205/
http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2014/nov/6/marijuana-presents-dilemma-for-military-as-more-st/?page=all
http://psychiatry.org/mentalhealth
http://www.cbsnews.com/news/traumatic-brain-injury-may-increase-suicide-risk-for-military-personnel/
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/000632238690003X
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/10/071023183937.htm
http://abcnews.go.com/Health/story?id=117202

Essential Fatty Acids in Cannabis

Cannabis in the form of hemp seeds holds forty-four percent of it's weight in edible oils.  These oils comprise eighty percent of essential fatty acids (EFAs) which include Linoleic Acid (55%), Alpha-Linolenic Acid - Omega-3 (22%), Gamma-Linolenic Acid - Omega-6 (1-4%) and Stearidonic Acid - Omega -3 (0-2%)(Source). Cannabis derived from flowers has been found to include many fatty acids including palmitic, myristic, oleic and stearic acids. (Source)

Omega 3 Fatty Acids in plant form have been found to help with arthritis, depression, infant development, asthma, ADHD, Alzheimer's and Dementia. These acids have been shown to act primarily as an anti-inflammatory agent.(Source) Studies have also shown that an increased diet including Omega 3 fatty acids helps to reduce ADHD symptoms.

Omega 6 fatty acids, also known as polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), have been shown to help with brain function, growth and development, skin and hair growth, metabolism regulation, bone health and the functions of the reproductive system. (Source) A diet with higher levels of Omega 3's vs. Omega 6 has been shown to be healthiest overall. However Omega 6 acids have been found to help with specific health  problems which may not be addressed solely through a diet including use of Omega 6 acids. Linolenic Acid (GLA) has been shown to help with nerve pain in people with diabetic neuropathy or arthritis. Studies have shown more allergies in woman with low GLA in breast milk or blood. GLA has been shown to help with a breast cancer drug tamoxifen and help inhibit tumor activity. (Source)

Cannabis is a nutritious food source that offers essential fatty acids, all 9 essential amino acids and 65% of globulin edistin.

Source:

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

http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/omega-3-fatty-acids-fact-sheet

http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/supplement/omega6-fatty-acids

http://forendex.southernforensic.org/uploads/references/MicrogramJournal/5.1-4.20.25.pdf

How Marijuana Effects GABA in the Nervous System

In short, GABA is a neurotransmitter in the mammal central nervous system that can repress excitability in the neurons in the nervous system and regulation in muscle tone. GABA is an abbreviation for gamma-Aminobutyric Acid which is an amino acid, which are secondary to water to being the biggest component in cells, tissue and muscle that are critical to biosynthesis and being a neurotransmitter. Cannabis plays a crucial role with the endocannabinoid system in suppressing the GABA, aiding in increasing dopamine levels which can help in treatments with medical marijuana.

GABA acts differently in stages of life, playing a roll in the developing brain as an excitatory component in the brain, while in adulthood acting as an inhibition in the brain. GABA regulates embryonic and neural stem cell growth. GABA has been found in the intestine, stomach, pancreas, fallopian tubes, uterus, ovaries, testis, kidney, bladder, lung, liver, lungs, melatonin and eye lens.(Source)

GABA makes up 40% of nerve cells, where glutamate makes up 30%. Glutamate offers excitability to the nervous system and also the brain synthesizes glutamate into GABA, which regulates the excitability, causing a check and balance, or ying and yang effect of controlling the functions. GABA inhibits nerve cells from growing, aggressive behavior, and regulates hyperactivity. (Source)

How Marijuana Inhibits GABA

Marijuana use effects the neurotransmitter GABA by blocking it. The result is increasing dopamine levels which normally GABA inhibits or regulates. Dopamine offers a mood shift of reward for the brain that is released with sex, exercise, appetite, learning, sleep, movement and mood.(Source)

Cannabis effects the cannabinoid receptors, namely Cb1 and Cb2 that mimic a naturally created endogenous molecule, anadamide. Anadamide is an Omega 6 fatty acid that regulates appetite, cognition, emotion, memory, mood and pain. Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and other Cannabinoids found in marijuana can effect anadamide and therefore effect the endocannabinoid central nervous system.

THC, for instance, binds to the CB1 receptors, which reduces the enzyme cAMP which results in less protein kinase A. This results in potassium and calcium channels that ends up reducing the amount of neurotransmitters being released. This chemical reaction is the result of reducing GABA. A reduction in GABA results in an increase in dopamine. Dopamine do not effect the CB1 receptors. (Source)

Treatments From Inhibiting GABA

Research is still needed for more conclusive results, but promising studies and theories show that cannabis can be an effective treatment for it's ability to effect GABA including:

• Tinnitus – A brain induced ringing in the ear.

• Fibromyalgia – Tenderness in joints, muscles and other soft tissues.

• Anxiety – Stress inducing fear, unease and worry.

• Addiction – The difficulty to stop using substances.

• Schizophrenia – Difficulty knowing what is real and not, thinking clearly to have normal responses.

Source:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gamma-Aminobutyric_acid

http://www.leafscience.com/2014/05/10/marijuana-dopamine-science/

http://countyourculture.com/tag/gaba/

http://thebrain.mcgill.ca/flash/i/i_03/i_03_m/i_03_m_par/i_03_m_par_cannabis.html

Cannabis and Pain Management

One hundred million Americans suffer from chronic pain.(Source) Three to four percent of the global population suffer from neuropathic pain. (Source) Pain contributes to feeling depressed, concentration, energy level, ability to sleep well and enjoyment of life. (Source) Cannabis has been found to be an effective treatment in neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis and pain from cancer. Cannabis has been found to be safer with less side effects than opiate medication.(Source)

Cannabis has been found to effectively relieve neuropathic pain. Both Cannabis and Opiates target the G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). These receptors effect the Central Nervous System CNS using the CB1 and CB2 Receptors, which effect pain-sensation, and mood notably. (Source)

Fibromyalgia is a muscleskeletal pain resulting in fatigue and pain in the neck, spine, shoulder and hips. Three to six million Americans suffer from fibromyalgia. In 2006, a study in Germany giving THC to patients showed a significant relief in symptoms. A study in 2008 with 40 patients gave a synthetic cannabinoid and showed significant improvements in pain. And in 2011 a study in Barcelona and the patients reported significant relief in pain, stiffness, relaxation, somnolence and feeling of well-being.(Source)

Cannabis has been found in studies in Australia and Britain showed that 20% of patients suffering from Rheumatoid Arthrites (RA) used medical marijuana to help treat their symptoms.(Source) Cannabis is an anti-inflammatory and helps to turn off pain-sensations in the nerves from the interactions it has with CB1 and CB2 Receptors. Results in a study in Britain showed that their were significant improvements in pain, sleep and inflammation.(Source) Cannabidiol CBD found in marijuana has shown to stop the progression of Rheumatoid Arthritis and protected joints. (Source)

A research study showed that advanced cancer patients were able to reduce their pain by 30% using a THC:CBD extract. In the study, with 177 patients, opiate medications did not provide the necessary relief. The placebo and THC alone had similar results to the opiate medication where the THC:CBD cannabis extract showed a noticeable relief in pain.(Source)

Cannabis has been found to have less side effects than opiate medication. A study has found that states that have legal medical marijuana has less mortality rates due to overdose in pain medication. (Source) Cannabis has been found to help patients addicted to opiate drugs withdraw from addiction by replacing with medical marijuana, and perceived to help pain more.(Source) Pain sufferers that have achieved a tolerance with opiate medication can feel a better relief by replacing treatment with cannabis.(Source) Cannabis can be used with opioid therapies to help lower the dose of opiates, thereby reducing their side effects. (Source)

Source:

http://books.nap.edu/openbook.php?record_id=13172&page=1

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

2006 Voices of Chronic Pain Survey. (American Pain Foundation)

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

http://ajh.sagepub.com/content/28/5/297

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=25154332

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=19896326

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

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=22048225

http://www.humboldt.edu/hjsr/docs/fwhjsrparagraph/Issue%2035%20Second%20Article%20Peters.pdf

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=19857996

http://rheumatology.oxfordjournals.org/content/45/1/50.abstract

http://norml.org/library/item/rheumatoid-arthritis#3

Cannabis and PTSD

OUTCO offers medical cannabis to PTSD sufferers in San Diego.  Research studies has shown that it is an effective treatment because of the way marijuana relates to the brain activity.

What Is PTSD

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD can develop after a trauma that can cause flashbacks, memory loss of the event, anxiety or hyper-arousal for over a month. Common traumatic events could be war, injury, sexual assault, threats or witness to a traumatic event. Women are more likely to get PTSD and children under the age of 10 rarely experience it. (Source)

Correlation of PTSD and Marijuana Use

An increased tendency to use in marijuana occurs with PTSD sufferers than the general public. A study showed that with teen and young adults, PTSD contributed to the use of cannabis more than peer pressure or other factors.(Source) Another study with 5,672 adults showed that the relation to PTSD symptoms and the use of cannabis were directly correlated. (Source)

PTSD, Cannabis and the CB1 Brain Receptor

Defective CB1 receptor signaling in the brain appear to be the cause of memories to not diminish in impact over time. Studies with animals have shown that this malfunction in the receptor due to trauma can cause anxiety, fear and depression symptoms leading to insomnia, isolation and other effects.(Source) Research has shown that enhancing cannabinoids receptors in the brain reduce the anxiety and fear symptoms in animals.(Source)

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) in cannabis show a relation in allowing the CB1 and CB2 receptors to work by inhibiting the enzyme fatty acid amide hydroxylase (“FAAH”) from destroying the endogenous cannabinoid neurotransmitter, Anandamide. Anandamide is based off of a sanskrit word meaning joy, bliss and delight and has been known at low levels to decrease pleasure and motivation. (Source)

OUTCO is the only licensed marijuana dispensary in San Diego to aid PTSD sufferers with Cannabis treatment. Cannabidiol CBD offers treatment without the psychoactive effects of THC. We offer free delivery and medicine at affordable prices for patients. Look for our future blog on how the Veteran community is helped by OUTCO in San Diego.

Source

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

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306460309002366

http://psycnet.apa.org/journals/adb/25/3/554/

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/da.22031/abstract

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15637635

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

The Benefits of Cannabidiol (CBD)

Cannabidiol CBD

Cannabis strains offer different amounts of Cannabidiol (CBD) doesn't affect the mind or psycho activity which is caused by the Tetrahydrocannabinol ( THC ) in cannabis. Cannabidiol has the widest use for medical applications than any other form of cannabis. As a strong antioxidant being the major reason for it's benefits, Cannabidiol CBD has been used in studies to research treatment and cures.


Some of the medical applications are a US drug known as Epidiolex to treat the Dravet Syndrome, a type of Epilepsy starting at about 6 months of age that triggers seizures from fever or hot temperatures. It also helps with blood flow to extremeties, or anti- ischemic problems, which effect many people notably diabetics. Great results have been found with schizophrenia and seizures in it's ability to disrupt or stabilize the NMDA receptors in the brain which can over excite and kill nerve cells.


An 8 month old baby showed to have an inoperable brain tumor and the parents were desperate for a cure, open to any method. Under Dr. William Courtney's care the father gave a pacifier to the baby with Cannabinoid Oil CBD on the pacifier twice daily, increasing the dosage. The first two months showed the greatest improvement, with the tumor gone by 8 months.


Tumors have shown through studies to be reduced with Cannabidiol CBD. Studies have shown that Cannabidiol disrupt and halt the genes that lead to blood vessel growth in tumors by producing a chemical called Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, or VEGF. What happens is that Cannabidiol produce ceramides, and ceramides manage the cell death.


Cannabidiol CBD applied topically has been shown to stop the MRSA Virus that is hard to stop through normal anti-biotics.


Cannabidiol CBD is also an anti-depressant. It can aid in controlling anxiety, which helps with social situations and isolation problems. It helps reduce the activity of the limbic system, a part of the brain that deals with emotion.


Animal studies show favorable results with help for Parkinson Disease, however human studies are inconclusive. Problems found with Cannabidiol is that if taken orally it triggers the sebum, the gland that makes oil in the skin to overproduce leading to acne.

OUTCO is San Diego's only legally licensed medical marijuana dispensary offering FREE Delivery and Accepting Debit Cards.


Sources:
http://preventdisease.com/news/13/050313_There-Is-No-Mistaking-The-Evidence-Cannabis-Cures-Cancer.shtml
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannabidiol
http://www.lifeadvancer.com/cannabis-oil-cures-8-month-old-infant-of-cancer-dissolving-large-inoperable-tumor-in-8-months

OUTCO now sells Blue Dream Sativa

Blue Dream is a popular sativa dominant that came from California from a Blueberry Indica and a Sativa Haze. Patients describe the treatment as a gradual and gentle feeling of euphoria that a sativa gives with an overall body relaxation like a indica, without heavy sedation. Patients describe blue dream to treat pain, depression, nausea, stomach and back pain.

The smell is a berry aroma with a look of long tan hairs. Blue Dream is quick acting leaving you functional for a long lasting cerebral effect, but unlike indica varieties, not leaving you incapacitated.

OUTCO is San Diego's only legally licensed medical marijuana dispensary offering FREE Delivery and Accepting Debit Cards.

http://www.leafly.com/hybrid/blue-dream

http://www.hightimes.com/read/strain-solution-chronic-stomachback-pain

http://www.medicaljane.com/review/top-shelf-blue-dream-strain-review/