PROFILE The SilverStick Dugout



The SilverStick solves a dirty little problem for fans of one-hitters. 

The SilverStick has an all natural cotton filter that stops ashes, tar and burning embers without getting in the way of tasting the flavors of your favorite herbs. 

The SilverStick is honed from aircraft grade alloys ensuring near indestructibility. The Large version is large enough for 4 - 6 draws with an end-cap to keep everything in place. The Slim version is sized to fit most conventional dugouts with a deep bowl to accommodate 2 -3 draws before reloading. 

To accommodate the Large version there is the SilverStick DugOut. The leather dug-out holds a lighter, the SilverStick and has a convenient container for herbs. Going a step or two further, the leather dugout also has a convenient spot to hang the included poker and a hidden compartment to keep four fresh filters clean and unscathed.


The SilverStick is great for on-the-go enjoyment. On it’s own the SilverStick is discreet in size and effective in protecting from tongue burns and ash inhalation. With the dug-out kit, even a heavy user, would be good for a whole day and only need spare a half a pocket or a small corner of a purse or bag.

Check out the SilverStick "Pipe with a Filter"
at TheSilverStick.com
10% OFF with Code: CJ10


Stoner Gift Ideas Under $30 The SilverStick Slim


The SilverStick Slim

The SilverStick Slim is an oversized one-hitter due to its deep bowl, and it has a natural cotton filter to provide a smooth, more enjoyable draw while trapping tar and blocking hot embers from reaching your lungs. 

Included:
Slim Aircraft-grade Alloy Pipe
15 Slim Natural Cotton Fibers
Stainless Steel Poker
Slim Smell-resistant End Cap

Fits in most standard 4" dugouts.

Available at: TheSilverStick.com
10% OFF with Code: CJ10



5 Reasons Seniors Should Consider Medical Marijuana


Marijuana, after all the propaganda, is not physically addictive

Unlike the majority of today’s pharmaceutical medications, seniors can rest easy when they medicate with cannabis. Known for its benign nature and curative cannabinoids, elderly citizens can medicate without fear of developing an unwanted dependency. Alleviating debilitating pain, stress, and social anxiety – daily consumers of medical marijuana can easily stop “cold turkey”.

Marijuana or prescribed medications — which is safer?

Generally speaking – the elderly demographics slam fists full of pharmaceuticals daily. Toxic, harmful, and expensive, these drugs are addictive and kill thousands of seniors annually. Conversely, the “side effects” of medicinal cannabis are laughably inconsequential when compared to the many known side effects of today’s toxic pharmaceutical. Patented by the United States for its ability to correct oxidative damage, marijuana’s healing cannabinoids have been found to provide relief for several disorders including irritable bowel syndrome, lupus, and liver inflammation caused by hepatitis C. Side note: After thousands of years of some serious consumption … not a single person has ever died from a marijuana overdose.

Marijuana as substitution for prescription pharmaceuticals

Putting an end to the cyclical nature of Western medication, marijuana eliminates one of the major complaints most seniors express regarding their daily medication regime. No longer needing one pill to “fix” what the other pill caused, marijuana’s cannabinoids specifically target numerous conditions based on the strain’s specific cannabinoid profile; mitigating painful joints, alleviating high blood pressure, reducing chronic pain, improving digestive disorders, easing constipation, reducing insomnia and most importantly – when marijuana is used in conjunction with opioid-based painkillers, senior citizens notice a dramatic reduction in their consumption of addictive prescription medications.

Marijuana-infused balms for mitigating arthritis and neuropathic pain

Scientifically recognized for providing relief from neuropathic pain and the debilitating discomfort caused by arthritis, CBD based ointments, balms, and lotions have been shown to inhibit inflammatory production.

Marijuana sparks up appetite and quality of life


One of the scarier scenarios when caring for the elderly is running into senior citizens who have lost their appetite and refuse to eat. With a diminished capacity to smell or taste, many senior citizens find food undesirable. Again to the rescue, marijuana has been scientifically proven to help eliminate nausea and increase appetite.

More: Marijuana powered by WeedMaps

Borneol: A Cancer Killing Terpene


Borneol is one of the 200 aromatic terpenes that may appear in a particular example of the more than 6,000 strains of cannabis on the market. Like other terpenes, it is characterized by a strong medical efficacy. Borneol has been found to relieve pain, slow bacterial growth, reduce inflammation, and even inhibit fungal growth. In addition, it’s an anti-oxidant, and even functions as an anticoagulant, meaning it helps prevent strokes. But that’s not all.

Borneol has been used as a medicine for thousands of years. Chinese doctors have employed it for millennia in acupuncture. Experimentation with borneol in western medicine was first conducted by Dr. Ralph Stockman at Edinburgh University in 1888.

Like all terpenes, one of Borneol’s primary functions is the conveyance of aroma. This special terpene carries an herbal, woody scent that is often described as resembling camphor or balsam.

The odor produced by all terpenes is an evolutionary defense on the part of the cannabis plant to protect it from predators and pests, most of which find it to be toxic or offensive (which is excellent, because it means more sun grown organic cannabis for the humans).

Like other notable medicinal terpenes – including pinene, linalool, and limonene – borneol has been found to be an anti-cancer agent.

Technically speaking, borneol doesn’t necessarily directly kill cancer cells. Instead, it sometimes delivers efficacy by helping other molecules reach cancer cells and do their damage.

In the case of liver cancer, borneol has been shown to encourage the anti-cancer activity of the natural compounds bisdemethoxycurcumin and selenocysteine.

A study published in the journal Acta Pharmacologica Sinica revealed that bornyl, a molecular cousin of borneol, killed breast cancer cells. The study noted that “bornyl caffeate exerts non-selective cytotoxicity against cancer cells.”

A study conducted at the College of Light Industry and Food Sciences at South China University of Technology revealed that borneol “could be further developed…in treatment of human cancers.”

In this study, we demonstrated that NB could synergize with SeC to induce apoptosis in cancer cells.

Apoptosis, also called “programmed cell death,” is the mechanism in multicellular organisms, like humans, in which cells commit suicide after sensing severe environmental stress. However, a special variety of this process, called

However, a special variety of this process, called extrinsic apoptosis, involves one type of cells directing another type to kill itself. It is through this extrinsic influence that borneol (and many other terpenes and cannabinoids) is able to defeat cancer cells and basically instruct them to shut down.

A study published in the European Journal of Pharmacology found borneol to be an effective stroke preventative. This research revealed that borneol, in synergistic combination with edaravone, was effective in treating ischemic stroke.

Borneol is just one more example of the medical efficacy of the complex mix of cannabinoids and terpenes found in various strains of cannabis. It helps prove that, instead of killing their brain cells, cannabis consumers are actually feeding their cells, repairing their bodies, and improving their health.


More: HERB

MMJ Inhibits Arthritis Related Cartilage Breakdown


A team of Chinese scientists has discovered that cannabinoids help prevent the progression of osteoarthritis by inhibiting a protease enzyme associated with the degradation of joint cartilage. 

Cannabinoid treatments are effective for reducing osteoarthritis-related cartilage breakdown, according to a study published in Molecular Medicine Reports. Osteoarthritis is caused by “wear and tear” on the body’s joints. Over time, cartilage between joints breaks down, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. 

A research team at China’s The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University examined the effect of a synthetic cannabinoid on a group of metalloproteinases known to contribute to cartilage breakdown and the progression of osteoarthritis. The researchers, led by Ying Kong, found that the cannabinoid effectively inhibited the activity of the metalloproteinase group. The findings suggest that cannabinoids protect cartilage cells and delay the joint space narrowing associated with arthritis. 

“In conclusion, to the best of our knowledge, the present study provides the first in vitro evidence supporting that the synthetic cannabinoid… inhibits [metalloproteinase activity],” 

Kong wrote in the study’s conclusion. 

“This suggests a novel mechanism by which cannabinoids may prevent cartilage breakdown in [osteoarthritis].” 

The study’s results propose that cannabis could potentially play an active role in treating osteoarthritis, which affects 20 million people in the United States.

Kong’s findings echo the discoveries of earlier studies, in which cannabis was shown to possess anti-arthritic effects. In one study, the daily administration of cannabidiol (CBD), one of the major components of cannabis, significantly reduced joint damage in arthritic mice. Other studies have reiterated the anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects of cannabinoids that inhibit joint damage. In addition, cannabis has proven effective for reducing joint pain in arthritis patients.

CBD hemp oil, when derived from the mature stalks or seeds from hemp, is federally legal to consume in all 50 states in the United States.  Additionally, arthritis patients living within one of the 24 states that have established medical marijuana legislation may be able to get cannabis access through local dispensaries.


Hemp and Green Energy


Everyone dreams of a green planet where energy is abundant and inexpensive. Hemp is a natural resource that has long been overlooked as one material that can put this plan into motion. While scientists struggle to find new ways to incorporate graphene into energy storage solutions, the waste from hemp plants is proving more justified as a sweeter alternative.

Currently, home energy storage relies on lithium-ion or lead-acid batteries for later distribution. However, the toxic impact of lead and the difficulty in recycling lithium counteract the environmental purpose of green energy. These high capacity batteries are also slow to recharge. Supercapacitors, on the other hand, are able to hold hundreds of times the amount of electrical charge as standard capacitors.

Graphene-Supercapacitors have recently been found to be an outstanding replacement for bulky and less efficient batteries. While the world is buzzing over this new discovery, little attention has been given to the price of the material and production. While graphene is considered to be one of the best materials for supercapacitor electrodes, the cost remains prohibitive. Costing as much as $2,000 per gram, graphene is a long way from being productive. On the other hand, hemp waste is compatible, readily available and cheap.

Professor David Mitlin of Clarkson University in New York, and researchers at the University of Alberta/National Institute for Nanotechnology (NINT), recently presented a compatible, low-cost, and environmentally safe alternative to move ahead, immediately, with the new supercapacitor technology at the American Chemical Society Meeting in San Francisco.

“Obviously, hemp can’t do all the things graphene can,” Mitlin acknowledged. “But for energy storage, it works just as well. And it costs  a fraction of the price at $500 to $1,000 a ton.”

Dr. Mitlin’s team took the fibers from hemp waste and recycled them into supercapacitors. The hemp fiber waste was pressure-cooked then treated with potassium hydroxide. The result was the formation of uniquely structured nanosheets that were nearly triple of what standard commercial electrodes supply.

Turning leftover hemp bast fiber into powerful energy-storing supercapacitors could be the answer to providing homes with sustainable natural energy while creating less waste in the environment.


Is Smoking Weed While Taking Prescription Drugs a Good Idea?


One of the most astounding facts about cannabis is its ability to complement the positive effects of existing prescription drugs. So far, evidence has shown that pot enhances the effects of epilepsy drugs, cancer treatments, HIV drugs and more. There is also evidence that using cannabis in conjunction with popular drugs can reduce instances of addiction and soothe withdrawal symptoms for patients in drug rehabilitation programs. However, given the multitude of prescription medications out there, combining them with medical cannabis may not always produce great results. In fact, due to the vast number of compounds found in marijuana, it is likely that interactions with prescribed drugs will range from positive to negative.

When it comes to fighting away pain, this one-two punch may seem like a no-brainer. Prior studies also seem to support this view. “There is a growing body of evidence to support the use of medical cannabis as an adjunct to or substitute for prescription opiates in the treatment of chronic pain. When used in conjunction with opioids, cannabinoids lead to a greater cumulative relief of pain, resulting in a reduction in the use of opiates (and associated side-effects) by patients in a clinical setting,” reported the National Institute of Health in 2012.

But be aware that combining cannabis with opiates can have an addictive effect that may be difficult to overcome, and too much depression within the central nervous system over time can be dangerous. Drugs that calm the nervous system like opioids and sedatives can interfere with heart rate and respiration, not to mention how much they may cause marked lethargy and drowsiness that can impact one’s ability to drive or carry out other important daily functions.

CBD and THC have been linked to lower blood pressure levels. However, individuals taking antihypertensive medications should be sure to avoid consuming Sativa strains, as this can lead to a temporary rise in blood pressure. In fact, studies are mixed on the effects of cannabis and stimulants in general. In some subjects, it has been shown that THC mixed with caffeine elevates heart rate and increases the likelihood of paranoia, while other studies show that the two complement each other. As a rule, if you have high blood pressure, be careful when mixing cannabis with stimulants as heart palpitations, hypertension and tachycardia can all manifest.

For the record, regular cannabis use has proven to be effective in managing blood sugar levels and weight. Too much cannabis could bring blood sugar levels down too low, causing hypoglycemia. Diabetic patients should find optimal dosing strategies that work for them, not against them.

Marijuana causes an initial boost in serotonin that positively impacts mood but much like with other substances serotonin levels have a tendency to drop to alarmingly low levels (increasing the likelihood of continued use and eventual addiction). Fusing cannabis with antidepressants may lead to an initial overabundance of serotonin, which can heighten the body’s need for these substances worsening depression and anxiety in the long run.

Via: HERB

Cannabis Reduces Diabetes and Obesity


Ironically, cannabis use accompanies higher calorie consumption (an average of 600 calories more consumed per day than non-smokers). Yet somehow, this extra intake has no bearing on BMIs (body mass indexes), and in fact, pot smokers show a reduced likelihood of obesity than non-smokers.

Researchers from the University of Nebraska, the Harvard School of Public Health and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center tested 4,600 adults with regards to their blood sugar control, cholesterol levels and waist circumference.

With factors like as age, gender tobacco and alcohol use taken into account, they found that the 12 percent of whom were current marijuana users had much smaller waist circumferences than non-smokers, better-regulated insulin levels and higher levels of HDL (good cholesterol). 42 percent of the group reported having smoked weed in the past, and while their results weren’t as great as current smokers, they also showed similar outcomes.

Despite the fact that scientists don’t have all the answers as to why marijuana users have lower instances of obesity and diabetes, they do note cannabis’ anti-inflammatory properties, neuroprotective effects, better metabolization of carbohydrates and endocannabinoid benefits all contribute to these findings.This is elaborated on by NORML,

Endocannabinoids and their receptors are found throughout the body: in the brain, organs, connective tissues, glands, and immune cells. In each tissue, the cannabinoid system performs different tasks, but the goal is always the same: homeostasis, the maintenance of a stable internal environment despite fluctuations in the external environment…

Cannabinoids promote homeostasis at every level of biological life, from the sub-cellular, to the organism, and perhaps to the community and beyond.
These findings point to what could eventually become a strong case for medical marijuana advocacy. Obesity has become incredibly common, with more than one-third of U.S. adults falling under this category. Diabetes isn’t far behind, with almost 90 million people currently diagnosed with the condition.

While some studies suggest that marijuana use may be more effective as a preventative measure rather than a treatment, a low-dose cannabinoid regimen may be useful for a wide spectrum of people in conjunction with diet and lifestyle changes.

via: HERB

5 Top Benefits of Growing Marijuana Outdoors


Traditionally, people grow marijuana outside where it thrived and produced potent buds. But ever since the prohibition, its location for growing shifted indoors to avoid running into legal problems. Presently, many growers prefer this method. However, it still does not match the efficiency found in growing outdoors. To expand our knowledge, here are the top advantages we need to know about planting weed in the wild.

Environment-Friendly

With the popularity of indoor growing comes the excessive consumption of energy. Grow rooms require lights, ventilation systems and other equipment that eat up a lot of the electricity.
In California, estimates show that a single household uses up as much as 8% of energy growing marijuana. That’s roughly using 200 pounds of coal to produce a pound of weed.
In contrast, outdoor growing needs only the sun, air, and water to thrive. It does not produce any carbon footprint and it even contributes to the dynamics of the ecosystem. So, if we want to save the planet, the outdoor option is the better choice.

High-Quality Buds

Blessed by the sun, natural soil, and fresh air, outdoor cannabis develops a distinct flavor. It is often not like the ones grown indoors. As such, some weed enthusiasts even swear that they can taste the earthy essence in strains grown outdoors.
Aside from its pleasant aroma, we know that we are producing top-notch buds simply because we are the ones tending it. There is no need to buy from shady dealers who sell us brown weed. This type of product is harsh to smoke and may give a bad headache instead of a good high. Therefore, it’s way better to plant our own and get that vibrant green buds that are safer and give more satisfaction.

Incredibly Cheap and Effortless

One of the obvious benefits of growing weed outdoors is the free sun. The plants get unlimited sunshine that is many times better than the grow lights. Also free are the infinite supply of fresh air, carbon dioxide, and rainwater. As we know, these are all the elements that the hardy marijuana plant needs to flourish.
Aside from having all the crucial elements already handed to us, tending outdoors also does not need much expertise. All we need to do is buy the best seeds we can get then give them proper care to germinate. Once they sprout, we can leave them to grow by themselves.
Of course, we will need to check on the crop every now and then and feed it fertilizer and water. Extreme weather and pests also need to be dealt with but these are easily manageable. As such, weed thrives with the least amount of expenses and effort.

More Weed

Growing outdoors will most definitely lead to huge buds and overall higher yield. With the help of the sun and carbon dioxide, the plants will grow extra-large leaves. This, in turn, will help accumulate more energy to produce huge buds.
Assuming that we have a secure location, the weed can grow larger than 180 cm. With this size, it can potentially produce around 500 g of dried buds. If we have just around 5 to 7 plants of this size, we can have a year’s worth supply of high-quality weed. For patients who medicate with it, this type of yield is especially useful.
Obviously, growing plants that are this enormous would be impossible indoors. Even with the perfect cultivation techniques, indoor plants can never grow as big as this.

Safer for the Grower

As we know, security is the main issue when growing cannabis outdoors. Again, this is the primary reason why cannabis cultivation shifted indoors. However, if we find a suitable location outside, this can be even more secure than keeping the plants inside our homes.
To elaborate, ownership of outdoor weed gardens is tougher to trace than indoor ones. We always have the power of deniability when we are questioned, making us safer from any charges of crime. On the other hand, an indoor garden of weed in our own home leaves us with no way out.
To be successful in growing cannabis, we must make ourselves safe from any suspicion. Aside from not telling anyone, planting the crop in a covered area far from nosy passersby is ideal.

Eating Raw Cannabis Protects Against Brain Diseases


When hearing of the numerous therapeutic and healing properties of cannabis, the focus has primarily been on certain cannabinoids like THC and more recently, CBD. But there’s another cannabinoid floating around out there that is definitely deserving of more attention: THCA or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid. THCA is actually the non-psychoactive cannabinoid that later converts to THC when decarbed via smoking, vaporization or when cooked, and as it turns out, it’s pretty powerful in its own right. Recent studies suggest that THCA in raw weed might possess particularly potent neuroprotective abilities.

According to Environmental Health Perspectives’ published report in the National Institute of health, “approximately 50 million Americans are affected each year” by neurodegenerative diseases. The diseases “result from the gradual and progressive loss of neural cells, leading to nervous system dysfunction.”

Diseases that fall into this category are Alzheimer's Multiple Sclerosis, ALS, Parkinson’s disease, multiple system atrophy and more than 600 other complications. Such conditions can be debilitating, painful and ultimately fatal.

Published in the British Journal of Pharmacology, a Spanish study conducted in Cordoba, Spain on mice found that,

THCA shows potent neuroprotective activity, work consideration for the treatment of Huntington’s Disease and possibly other neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory diseases.

In fact, the positive impact that THCA had on such activity was greater than its decarboxylated counterparts. Protecting the brain from degenerative diseases by using THCA, could become a major medical advancement.

THCA has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, anti-emetic properties (for appetite-inducing benefits) and antiproliferative properties which protect against cancer. Also, the human metabolism is able to process large amounts of THCA without side effects.

While cannabis lovers collectively cringe when they see someone consuming raw weed (what a waste!), pre-decarbed THCA containing buds could be an incredible saving grace for those suffering from neurodegenerative diseases.

Cannabis itself has tons of health benefits when consumed raw and there’s a growing movement of consumers juicing it, and sprinkling it inside meals (move over, oregano). Aside from THCA, the terpene, protein, amino acid, antioxidant and omega3 content of raw cannabis might be enough to gobble it down in its natural state.

Via: HERB

Study Proves CBD Reduces Blood Pressure


Research was conducted by scientists at England’s University of Nottingham where a research team compared the effects of CBD versus a placebo control on a variety of different cardiovascular functions. A high dose of CBD was used – 600 milligrams, to be exact.

The CBD was administered in just one single dose.

The team looked at CBD’s effect on blood pressure, heart rate, forearm skin blood flow, and stroke volume. Stroke volume is a measurement of blood pumped from the left ventricle of the heart. The left ventricle is the portion of the heart responsible for getting oxygen-rich blood out of the heart and into other organs.

Participants underwent different stress tests and researchers measured their cardiac responses. One stress test was an exercise test and another was a test using cold temperatures.

As a positive, CBD successfully reduced systolic blood pressure while both resting and under stress. This confirmed what the scientists had expected – CBD blunted the cardiac responses to stress.

Blood pressure typically increases in stressful situations. This puts you at greater risk for a heart attack and can have negative effects on heart health over time. The finding that CBD can reduce blood pressure after a single dose is exciting, but not surprising.

The compound, along with other cannabis components, are vasodilators. That means that they can release tension in the arteries and allow more blood to flow into organs. In theory, this could allow more oxygen to flow into tissues and possibly help those with conditions like hypertension.

However, the researchers did come across some results that warrant further research. While the molecule did lower blood pressure, it also caused an increase in heart rate. This was coupled with a decreased stroke volume. A decreased stroke means that the heart has to pump faster to put out oxygen-rich blood.

With exercise, the researchers found that CBD increased heart rate by 10 beats per minute. Yet, the team found no difference between the total output of nutritious blood in CBD consumers or those given the placebo. The authors write,

We have shown for the first time that to our knowledge that, in humans, acute administration of CBD reduces resting blood pressure, with a lower stroke volume and a higher heart rate.

According to the study authors, earlier studies have used the same dosage of CBD and the compound did not increase heart rate. In this study, men who had never tried cannabis were given a very high dose of CBD for the first time. In earlier studies, consumers given high-dose CBD were familiar with cannabis and its effects.

The researchers suggest that consumers may become tolerant to the effects of CBD on heart rate over time. Still, this research confirms that the compound successfully reduces blood pressure and holds potential as a future heart medicine. CBD’s effects on heart rate and what that ultimately means for consumers will need to be investigated.

via: HERB

LeafWize Naturals CBD, CBG, CBN and Delta8

10% Off Everything at leafwize.com w/ Code: CJ10




Medicinal Marijuana vs Rheumatism and Rheumatic Disease


Rheumatic disease or rheumatism describes dozens of conditions that are characterized by chronic inflammation, pain, swelling and stiffness in joints, connective tissues and muscle fibers. There is no cure for rheumatism, and the causes can range from simple aging, to wear and tear (in the case of a professional athlete for example), or it can result from immune system deficiencies. Currently, more than 50 million adults suffer from some form of the condition in the form of arthritis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and Lupus.

Rheumatism can significantly diminish one’s quality of life since it can impact daily activities that non-sufferers take for granted. Simple tasks such as driving, preparing meals, and putting on clothes can be difficult for a person with the condition.

Researchers are wary of committing to the idea that cannabis can help rheumatism. Cannabinoids have been useful in remedying symptoms of so many other conditions, yet studies on cannabis and rheumatism haven’t been as positive.

In a review of cannabis treatment studies conducted in 2014, Mary Ann Fitzcharles, MD concluded that cannabis was “inferior to all other analgesic classes other than opioids.”

Also adding that little scientific evidence exists showing that cannabis reduces pain in rheumatic individuals (which is common when scientist don’t conduct enough studies).

Fitzcharles did acknowledge that cannabinoids are very useful in treating other chronic pain conditions, however; her findings show that other pain types have “a different underlying mechanism” that rheumatism.

Yet, a study found in the Journal of Opioid Management conducted prior to Fitcharles’ study revealed that as of 2009, 80 percent of medical marijuana patients were using pot to treat myofascial pain.

Myofascial pain is a chronic pain disorder that affects the muscles and joints. So, while rheumatologists have generally erred on the side of caution, rheumatic patients seem to have contradicting beliefs about the pain-reducing abilities of cannabis.

More: HERB

Hemp Oil vs Arthritis



Sugar, saturated fats, trans fats, white flour, MSG and alcohol are the major food ingredients that promote inflammation. The North American diet is nutritionally unbalanced with an excess of linoleic over alpha-linolenic acid. Hempseed oil has an optical ratio for providing healthy human adipose tissue. Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) is another component of hemp oil that helps to control inflammation. the Journal of Clinical Immunology, it is believed that dihomogamma-linolenic acid (DGLA) likely reduces the output of interleukin-1 from certain white blood cells, limiting inflammation.

There are over 865 different medications that are used in the treatment of arthritis today. While some work to reduce the swelling, others only mask the symptoms with pain relief. Everything from aspirin and prednisone to opiate-laced drugs like hydrocodone and fentanyl are prescribed to alleviate pain in arthritis sufferers. These drugs come with their own list of side effects and can be potentially dangerous over long periods of time. They have also been known to damage vital organs, such as kidneys and liver when taken consistently as a treatment method.

Because hemp has been lumped together with its cousin marijuana, lawmakers and physicians have been hesitant to publicize the benefits of hemp oil. However, as time goes on, education on hemp has been improving. One component of the hemp plant is called cannabidiol (CBD). It does not get you high and is totally legal. It is recommended by Dr. Sanjay Gupta to consume 5 to 10 milligrams of hemp oil daily as an alternative treatment measure for inflammation. There are veterinarians that are now using a form of hemp oil in dietary supplements for animals in the treatment of joints in aging dogs and cats.

According to Arleigh J Reynolds, DMV, PhD, DACVN, Assistant Professor of Clinical Nutrition, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, “ “Due to their influence on inflammatory processes such as arthritis, dietary supplementation with omega fatty acids such as found in hemp seed oil, has generated considerable interest in the medical and scientific communities regarding veterinary health.

Inflammation is the root of most diseases. By replacing hundreds of drugs with one simple natural ingredient, like hemp oil, plus an improved diet, arthritis could become a disease of the past and save consumers millions of dollars in medical bills.


Stoner Gift Ideas Under $30 The Original T-H-SEE


The Original T-H-SEE

This 3 L.E.D. illuminated 40x magnifier will help you determine the quality of your marijuana product. 

If you are a dispensary shopper, grower, breeder, extractor or photo enthusiast this is the ideal tool.

Determine gland head size, color and density. Spot contaminants such as bugs, hair as well as various forms of mold and mildew.

2 bright white L.E.D.s provide excellent close lighting while the Ultraviolet L.E.D. provides help in finding powdery mold and determining the ripeness of trichomes. 

With an all metal construction, this is a tool for every marijuana connoisseur's collection.

Available at T-H-SEE.com


Medical Cannabis Can be an Effective Opioid Substitute


Opioids and THC have analgesic effects because they block pain signals in our nervous system. THC is a plant cannabinoid, most commonly known for its psychoactive effects and causing the “high” associated with cannabis consumption. The THC cannabinoid binds to the CB1 and CB2 receptors of the endocannabinoid system, while opioids bind to opioid receptors.

CBD is another cannabinoid that is known for its therapeutic effects. It binds to many different receptors in the brain and can lessen the effects of THC. Evidence suggests CBD can reduce drug cravings and opioid withdrawal symptoms, which suggests CBD could be an effective treatment for opioid addiction.

Opioids and THC in combination offer comparable pain-relieving effects compared to opioids alone. This interaction can be used to reduce opioid doses for pain management and slowly wean patients off opioid medications altogether as they switch to cannabis-based treatments.

Several studies indicate that cannabis interacts with opioids and alters the associated pain-relieving effects. When co-administered, patients can use a lower dose of opioids and achieve the same level of pain relief, thereby reducing the risk of side effects and addiction.

Cannabinoid and opioid pain-relieving effects both work by binding to receptors at the surface of cells and setting off a sequence of events in the cell that result in no pain signal release. The parallel mechanisms of action for opioids and cannabis allow for effective pain relief with co-administration.

For these reasons, cannabis is believed to supplement the effectiveness of opioids in pain management. When THC and morphine are used together, for example, the same level of pain relief is observed at lower doses compared to morphine treatments alone.

If implemented, this treatment method could be effective in reducing opioid use and the associated negative side effects. Patients could start taking smaller doses of opioids to avoid addiction and relapse, since the addition of THC would provide comparable pain relief. This has the potential to effectively wean patients off their opioid regimen. Further research is needed to determine the exact mechanisms of interaction between opioids and cannabinoids, and to investigate new treatment plans for patients seeking improved chronic pain management.

Much more at Leafly

CBD Use Trending Among Athletes


Recently, cannabis products like CBD oil have become increasingly popular among athletes looking for a natural, non-toxic alternative to powerful medications and over-the-counter drugs. Many sports push the human body to the brink of its endurance and capabilities; CBD can assist in the prevention of and recovery from injuries during training and competition. 

CBD for athletes has become a popular topic in locker rooms and gyms as a safe alternative to pain medications, not only because it is non-psychoactive and not addictive, but also due to CBD’s effectiveness in supporting health and wellness among athletes. 

When our bodies are taken to their limits time and again, it is important to take steps to promote overall health and to properly recover from intense physical exertion. CBD has been demonstrated to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that are now effectively being applied to sports medicine.

CBD regulates immune cells to minimize pain and has the capability of reducing inflammation, helping in the recovery of intense physical activity and even injury. An overwhelming number of pain patients prefer using cannabinoids like CBD for pain over prescription opioids and many are able to reduce or even remove prescription medications from their routines, reducing the risk of overdose or addiction. Even minor pain relief can be more safely managed with CBD rather than NSAIDs like ibuprofen, which when taken frequently can cause an increased risk of heart failure and internal bleeding. 

According to the U.S. government patent 6,630,507, CBD is also an effective antioxidant and neuroprotectant. This suggests CBD may protect brain cells.

CBD can be used to simply supplement the body’s natural endocannabinoid system, which assists the body in achieving homeostasis (balance). 

However, as more and more athletes are coming out in favor of CBD, they are running into prohibitive testing regulations, causing them to either eschew safe CBD oil use for prescription medications or risk sanctions from their sport’s governing bodies.

CBD can be an effective alternative or supplement to the painkillers and anti-inflammatory medication that athletes receive throughout their career. A 2011 study by researchers at Washington University in St. Louis found that 52% of retired National Football League players used opiates during their career, while 71% of them reported some sort of painkillers abuse. 

NFL players and other athletes may also benefit from CBD's ability to protect the brain. The NFL is suffering from an epidemic of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative neurological disease caused by concussions and repeated blows to the head. Former NFL All-Pro Nick Lowery, a spokesperson for Kannalife™ Sciences, recently went on a two-day media blitz in order to promote the role CBD can play in preventing CTE. Kannalife™ Sciences is currently working with a license on patent 6,630,507 to develop a CBD-based drug to combat CTE. 

Stoner Gift Ideas Under $75 The Vape Pen Pouch by Cedar and Finch


The Vape Pen Pouch
by Cedar and Finch

The Vape Pen Pouch is designed with a long pocket to hold most pen-style vapes and a short pocket next to it for a spare cartridge. 

A classier, more sanitary alternative to letting your pen roll around in your pocket, purse or drawer. 

Made from imported leather. Available in Rose and Honey

Available at: Cedar and Finch



MMJ vs Chronic Stress


Chronic stress is inevitable in today’s time. Work, family, and finances, just to name a few, apply a tremendous amount of pressure on our everyday lives. This constant pressure leads to constant stress, something that can manifest itself emotionally, as well as physically. Rather than turn to prescription medications for help, one new study suggests cannabis might hold the key to alleviating one of chronic stress’ most unfortunate side effects.

Stress affects every single person on a daily basis. Eventually, chronic stress becomes overwhelming, to the point it can cause noticeable changes to mentality or physical appearance.

With prolonged exposure to the constant pressure and stress, depression can easily set in. While many suffer from depression due to a chemical imbalance in the brain, it can also be caused by the rigorous demands of everyday life.
The endocannabinoid system, the part of our brain that is responsible for how we behave, feel, think and respond, is greatly affected by chronic stress. Over an extended period of time, chronic stress will interrupt the production of these important cannabinoids, leading to mood swings, breakdowns, and depression. Scientists at the University at Buffalo’s Research Institute were researching chronic stress and the endocannabinoid system when they noticed something unexpected.

Scientists at the University at Buffalo’s Research Institute were researching chronic stress and the endocannabinoid system when they noticed something unexpected.

We know that certain compounds in cannabis – THC and CBD – have the ability to mirror our own chemical responses found in the endocannabinoid system. However, scientists found that cannabis has the ability to combat depression specifically caused by chronic stress.

THC and CBD can essentially replace the chemicals missing from an individual’s endocannabinoid system and act as a mood stabilizer, effectively erasing the depression.

A 2007 study from McGill University suggested THC could be an effective anti-depressant in low doses. Researchers found that THC can raise serotonin levels in “depressed” mice in the same way as prescription SSRI’s, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

However, when the cannabis levels increased past a certain point, the effects were nullified. Despite being performed on mice, the research delivered astonishing information for the treatment of depression.

Rather than consuming harsh prescription drugs like Prozac or Zoloft, which greatly alter brain functions with artificial compounds, those suffering from depression could simply consume cannabis. In states with medical cannabis laws, there are even specially formulated strains meant to specifically treat the symptoms of depression.

Over time, we’re likely to see an increase in the research surrounding cannabis and mental health. It has already proven to relieve even the most debilitating cases of PTSD and anxiety, as well as reduce the risk for potentially serious side effects often found with routine treatment options.

Combating depression is just one more benefit offered by the purest medication on the planet.


via: HERB

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