C&P#138: vapes for MS + CBD for AUD + beautiful canna-chemistry
The DEA’s Anti-420 Day coming to your IG, probably
This week…
Vaped cannabis for MS
CBD for lowering the brain response to alcohol cues
For cannabis use disorder, why do females transition more quickly from heavy use to addiction?
For red itchy skin, CBD/CBG/hemp oil ointment
Dental issues from cannabis use
Seasonal shifts of gut microbiome endocannabinoid mediators
Hanuš’ beautiful history of canna-chemistry
Hemp fats for donkey sperm + 3 other entries with sexual innuendos 😉
Hello everyone,
Welcome to the 138th edition of Cannabinoids & the People, Lex Pelger’s free weekly digest of all the new cannabinoid science, canna-news, War on Drugs coverage, harm reduction & psychedelic updates. Upgrade to a paid subscription here to support my work sharing canna-science. As always, ask me anything.
(this week’s numbers: ~5700 words, ~14 minute reading time, 108 papers)
Sponsor: The Cannabis & Health Research Initiative
Want to help expand the knowledge of medical cannabis use in the real world & get paid 100 bucks to do so?
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Free resources
CVResearch.info: the extensive cannabinoid science archive I maintain for CV Sciences & our new canna-edu video series on YouTube @CVScienceInc & on TikTok @pluscbd
Read my free How-To Guides or watch my 3-Minute Cannabinoid Science videos on YouTube or read my canna-science journalism here
As always, here’s the Glossary of Cannabinoid Terms & at the bottom is the album of the week
For more from Lex… (my Linktree)
Work with my company White Whale Creations to produce content for cannabis & psychedelic companies: writing, science archives, social media content, newsletters & podcasts: my portfolio
My canna-graphic novels based on Moby Dick: On Amazon, check out ‘SUNset’, my Queer cannabis history graphic novel or ‘The CROWN’, the story of the hunt for the structure of CBN. To see more about this continuing series, see lexpelger.com
Listen to the first 2 seasons of my podcast ‘The Lex Files’ on cannabinoids, psychedelics & spirituality
A request to spread the word
This newsletter only spreads by word of mouth,
so please forward to colleagues & tell your friends & relatives.
My work this week:
Canna-Edu Vids for CV Sciences:
(on YT @CVSciencesInc & TT @pluscbd)
My Vids:
(on TT @lexpelgerandhisbooks or on YouTube)
I’m backing up the earliest videos from my first days on TikTok to my YouTube account (mostly because these are records for my kids in case I get hit by a bus & I trust YT to stick around more than TT). Here’s some of the recent ones:
The War of the End of the World by Vargas Llosa (one of my top 10 books of all time)
Discordianism: Principia Discordia + 'Cosmic Trigger' & 'Quantum Psychology' by Robert Anton Wilson + The Illuminatus Trilogy by Robert Shea & Robert Anton Wilson Hail Eris!
Ways to support this work:
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I’ll see you there!
On seniors using medical cannabis by the beloved Dr. Abraham Benavides
Cannabis Across Life: How Seniors Use Medical Marijuana
https://www.veriheal.com/blog/cannabis-across-life-seniors-and-medical-marijuana/
On the history of cannabinoid chemical research by my man Hanuš
A Brief but Concise History of the Discovery and Elucidation of the Structure of the Major Cannabinoids
https://www.preprints.org/manuscript/202502.2113
Basically, half the point of my canna-graphic novel series based on Moby Dick is to make an illustrated version of this paper using elephants & whales.
(The other half is a Captain Ahab look at the War on Drugs)
Clinical
For people with multiple sclerosis, vaporized cannabis improved all of their measurements including muscle spasticity, bladder function & disability progression rate
Evaluating Vaporized Cannabinoid Therapy in Multiple Sclerosis: Findings from a Prospective Single-Center Clinical Study
https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/14/6/2121
In people with treatment-resistant epilepsy, a meta-analysis of six studies found CBD reduced total seizures by 41% with a response rate of 127%
The efficacy of cannabidiol for seizures reduction in pharmacoresistant epilepsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s42494-024-00191-2
In people with atopic dermatitis (red itchy skin), an ointment of 30% CBD, 5% CBG & hemp seed oil improved redness, itchiness, skin hydration & sebum levels
Evaluation of Biophysical Parameters of the Skin of Patients With Atopic Dermatitis After Application of an Ointment Containing 30% Cannabidiol and 5% Cannabigerol
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.2147/CCID.S472746
In people with alcohol use disorder, CBD lowered their brain activation to alcohol cues
Cannabidiol attenuates precuneus activation during appetitive cue exposure in individuals with alcohol use disorder
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00406-025-01983-4
A survey of cancer patients found significant improvements in cancer-related symptoms but the high costs were burdensome
Association of Financial Wellness with Patterns of Medical Cannabis Use and Patient-Reported Outcomes in Adults with Cancer
https://publications.sciences.ucf.edu/cannabis/index.php/Cannabis/article/view/243
In older New Yorkers, they self-reported improved mental health as medical cannabis dispensary levels increased
Medical cannabis dispensary availability improved self-reported mental health among older adults in New York
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165176525001326
For women obtaining illicit medical cannabis, interviews about the issues they faced
Exploring hidden risks and empowerment in women’s acquisition of medicinal cannabis from illegal markets: a qualitative study
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/09687637.2025.2481297
“Illegal markets were described as intimidating, with reports of sexual harassment, assault, and robbery. A novel finding was women-only social media groups for safety and supplier monitoring. Participants felt responsible for their own safety, as reporting to police posed legal risks.”
In public health data on prenatal cannabis use, not only was there no associations with negative developmental indicators, but the girls with prenatal cannabis exposure were found to have greater language development
Longitudinal Associations Between Cannabis Use during Pregnancy and Child Cognitive, Motor, and Language Development at 2 Years Old
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10995-025-04077-8
In people's gut microbiome, the seasonal effects showed lower levels of N‑acyl‑ethanolamines (NAEs, such as anandamide & PEA) & alterations to relative bacteria abundance at the end of summer
Seasonal variations in circulating endocannabinoidome mediators and gut microbiota composition in hu
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/19490976.2025.2476563
Harms
An editorial on higher death rates among those with cannabis use disorder
Time to Act on a Growing Public Health Threat-Evidence of Elevated Mortality in Cannabis Use Disorder
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39913143/
For cannabis use disorder, a brain scan analysis of why females transition more quickly from heavy use to addiction & experience more severe withdrawal
The role of sex in the association between cannabis use disorder and resting-state functional connectivity
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41386-025-02078-3
For anxiety & cannabis use, a systematic review found anxiety sensitivity to be a risk factor for problematic cannabis use
Anxiety Sensitivity and Cannabis Use: A Systematic Review and Conceptualization of Research Findings
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0005796725000555
I mean yeah, I figured that out in college big time. Nothing more anxiety-inducing in an anxious person than going to a party stoned.
For dentists, a review of the clinical issues from cannabis use
The clinical implications of cannabis use in dentistry
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41407-025-2927-9
“Cannabis use has been linked to several adverse oral health outcomes. Studies suggest that cannabis can reduce salivary flow, leading to xerostomia (dry mouth), and reduced saliva buffering capacity, which in turn increases the risk of dental caries and periodontal disease.5,6,7 Furthermore, chronic cannabis use has been associated with an increased prevalence of gingival inflammation and plaque accumulation.7 Additionally, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the main psychotropic agent in cannabis, is an appetite stimulant, causing users to frequently consume cariogenic foods. Other oral conditions associated with cannabis include chronic inflammation of the oral cavity, leukoplakia and the immunosuppressive effects of cannabis may contribute to the higher prevalence of oral candidiasis.8 There is emerging evidence of links to several malignancies including oral cancer.9”
An editorial on the impact of cannabis use on oral & maxillofacial surgical outcomes
Does Cannabis Affect Your Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Practice?
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39900429/
On cannabis & depressive episodes, an analysis of public health found a link with both mild use & severe consumption
Post-reform cannabis use and major depressive episode: A naturalistic investigation
https://www.jconseph.com/download/post-reform-cannabis-use-and-major-depressive-episode-a-naturalistic-investigation-16127.pdf
A special supplement feature on cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome & cyclic vomiting syndrome (with which CHS is often confused)
Advancements in Our Understanding and Management of Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome and Cannabinoid Hyperemesis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39901659/
A case report of synthetic cannabinoids causing rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown leading to life-threatening proteins released into the blood)
Cannabinoids-Induced Rhabdomyolysis in a Patient: A Report of a Case and a Review of Literature
https://assets.cureus.com/uploads/case_report/pdf/348370/20250319-161309-4yixb5.pdf
In New Jersey, a case series of reactions to tianeptine products (an unapproved antidepressant often sold at gas stations) adulterated with synthetic cannabinoids
An Outbreak of Synthetic Cannabinoid-Adulterated Tianeptine Products in New Jersey – Case Series
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13181-025-01068-7
In a rat model of prenatal THC exposure, the offspring had altered goal-directed behavior & dopamine functioning
Perinatal Exposure to Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) Alters Goal-Directed Behavior and Dopamine Functioning in Wistar Rats
https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-6207382/v1
In a mouse model of prenatal cannabinoid exposure, optical coherence angiography found vasoconstriction of the blood vessels
Assessing the effects of prenatal cannabinoid consumption on fetal brain vasculature utilizing optical coherence angiography
https://www.spiedigitallibrary.org/conference-proceedings-of-spie/13318/1331807/Assessing-the-effects-of-prenatal-cannabinoid-consumption-on-fetal-brain/10.1117/12.3043142.short
Reviews
For autism, a review of seven studies found CBD-rich formulations to help with sleep, social interactions & anxiety symptoms
Efficacy and Safety of Cannabinoids for Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Updated Systematic Review
https://assets.cureus.com/uploads/review_article/pdf/347254/20250317-615134-6mmrw4.pdf
On cannabis for opioid use disorder, a review of its opioid-sparing effects to reduce opioid use in pain management
Medicine vs. Myth: Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Cannabis for Opioid Use Disorder and Pain
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40429-025-00641-y
On neurodegenerative diseases, a review of cannabinoids & neuroprotection (one good chart)
Multilayered neuroprotection by cannabinoids in neurodegenerative diseases
https://www.explorationpub.com/uploads/Article/A100498/100498.pdf
In pediatric epilepsy, a review of using the cannabinoids
Cannabinoid Use in Pediatric Epilepsy
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13312-025-00015-7
For omega polyunsaturated fatty acids, a review on how they work with the endocannabinoid system to help with brain function
The Effects and Mechanisms of n-3 and n-6 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in the Central Nervous System
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10571-025-01543-3
Fish oil & CBD. A relationship as old as 2015…
Preclinical
(basically, the phytocannabinoid research goes here & the ECS research goes below)
In a mouse model of neuropathic pain, CBD restored memory deficits & caused potent antiallodynic effects (hypersensitivity to innocuous touch) via spinal cord receptors for serotonin & PPAR (regulator of genetic transcription)
Cannabidiol reduces neuropathic pain and cognitive impairments through activation of spinal PPARγ
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1526590025006054
And in a mouse model of neuropathic pain, terpene blends from cannabis mimicked the pain-killing effects of cannabis via adenosine receptors
Terpene blends from Cannabis sativa are cannabimimetic and antinociceptive in a mouse chronic neuropathic pain model via activation of adenosine A2a receptors
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S030439402500093X
In a mouse model of epilepsy, CBD reduced neuronal loss, lessened seizures, enhanced memory capabilities, & suppressed the formation of neurotoxic reactive astrocytes (the most predominant brain support cell)
Cannabidiol Protects Against Neurotoxic Reactive Astrocytes‐Induced Neuronal Death in Mouse Model of Epilepsy
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jnc.70038
In mice with neuroinflammation from sleep deprivation, CBD, CBG & CBC all lowered the behavioral & neuroinflammatory changes, but the most effective was CBD + CBC
Long-term Cannabinoid Therapy can ameliorate Sleep Deprivation-Induced Behavioral and Neuroinflammatory Changes in Mice
https://www.authorea.com/doi/full/10.22541/au.174178836.60427337
In rats on a high-calorie diet, CBD lessened the changes to the pancreatic islets & modified body weight & food intake without changes to blood glucose or insulin
Cannabidiol oil delays pancreatic islet dysfunction in Wistar rats under hypercaloric diet
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0753332225001878
In rats, high-intensity exercise reduced brain CB1 receptor levels
High-intensity interval training exercise decreases brain CB1 receptor levels in male and female adult rats
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0306452225002404
Novel Studies
(my new grab bag section for stuff I haven’t quite seen before)
On creating a Marinol-like preparation using THC-rich cannabis
Policy and review of the preparation and production of herbal Marinol using cannabis rich in tetrahydrocannabinol
https://jlhs.smums.ac.ir/article_30.html
This makes sense to me because Marinol is often likened to being kicked in the face by a horse. It is straight synthetic THC isolate. It seems much more helpful to have the other phytocannabinoids & terpenes in there to modulate & soften its effects.
In retail cannabis settings, surveys of budtenders on cannabis & mental health
Budtender Perceptions and Knowledge of Cannabis and Mental Health: A Preliminary Study
https://publications.sciences.ucf.edu/cannabis/index.php/Cannabis/article/view/292
“Notably, 54.6% of Budtenders rated cannabis as having a beneficial effect across the outcomes assessed, with sleep and depression most frequently perceived as beneficial.”
In Germany, an analysis of their synthetic cannabinoid seizures
Characterising a New Cannabis Trend: Extensive Analysis of Semi‐Synthetic Cannabinoid‐Containing Seizures From Germany
https://analyticalsciencejournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/dta.3886
In Canada, cannabis legalization was not associated with reduced alcohol sales
Changes in population-level alcohol sales after non-medical cannabis legalisation in Canada
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39901321/
the Headlines & Fav Articles
The social media mavens at the DEA are promoting an ‘Anti-420 Day’ for young people to flood Instagram with warnings about cannabis
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/dea-promotes-anti-420-day-contest-for-young-people-to-flood-instagram-with-marijuana-warnings/
“Students would be eligible for a $25 Amazon gift card for a personal video, $35 for a group video and $50 for a “professionally produced educational video or skit with adult sponsor supervision.””
For 50 bucks, I’m tempted. I’ve collected more on the negatives of cannabis than almost anyone. The benefits are easy. They’re low-hanging fruit. But the weird little negative case reports & obscure public health data, that’s where I could shine.
Hell, this video went viral on TikTok & hundreds of thousands of people saw my take on the top 6 harms from cannabis. That should be worth at least a $100 gift card.
#YourMoveDEA
According to court filings, the US Department of Homeland Security & the Customs & Border Protection argue that they can seize state-legal cannabis, but that would change with rescheduling
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/feds-say-marijuana-can-be-summarily-seized-from-state-legal-businesses-but-not-if-its-rescheduled/
“Notably, the memorandum suggested that the forfeiture process would be different if cannabis was classified as a Schedule III drug or lower. “In contrast with Schedule I and Schedule II controlled substances, forfeiting most types of seized property requires compliance with additional procedures to ensure that property owners are afforded due process,” DHS and CBP said.
“To effectuate an administrative forfeiture of other property—i.e. property that is not a Schedule I or Schedule II controlled substance—the Government must comply with the procedures established by [the Civil Asset Forfeiture Reform Act, or CAFRA], which…generally entail giving interested parties notice that their property has been seized and an opportunity to contest its forfeiture,” they said.”
In Virginia, the regressive Gov. Youngkin vetoed legalization of adult-use cannabis as well as laws around cannabis resentencing relief & parental rights
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/virginia-gop-governor-vetoes-recreational-marijuana-sales-legalization-plan/
History Corner: the infamous Amoeba Music of SF came about from smoking a joint & listening to Louis Armstrong (a King of the Reefers)
https://www.sfgate.com/sf-culture/article/history-san-franciscos-most-recognizable-bag-20228921.php
International
In Canada, they released their most sweeping set of regulatory changes
https://businessofcannabis.com/canada-makes-sweeping-amendments-to-cannabis-regulation-in-largest-changes-since-legalization/
This includes:
increased limits for micro-cultivation, micro-processing & nursery license holders
relaxed rules around the designated Quality Assurance Person
less security-cleared personnel required to supervise certain activities & no more continuous visual monitoring for areas where cannabis isn’t present
in production, ethyl alcohol now allowed
simplified packing & labelling requirements
not necessary to report on fertilizers & pest control substances applied
In the EU, Brussels delays its decision on Italy’s hemp laws & leaves the CBD industry in limbo
https://cannabislaw.report/brussels-delays-secision-on-italys-hemp-laws-leaving-cbd-industry-in-limbo/
South Africa withdrawing its recently proposed cannabis edibles ban
https://www.presidency.gov.za/government-consult-over-regulations-cannibis-and-hemp-foodstuffs
In Germany, the Federal Office for Agriculture & Food began processing applications for cannabis pilot projects
https://krautinvest.de/ble-bearbeitet-26-antraege-fuer-cannabis-modellprojekte/
Inside the UK cannabis industry with Sarah Sinclair
https://www.forbes.com/sites/sarahsinclair/2025/03/21/high-yields-and-higher-returns-inside-the-uk-cannabis-industry/
The War on Drugs
The DEA & the Cartels
US federal cannabis trafficking cases on the decline according to the US Sentencing Commission
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/federal-marijuana-trafficking-cases-continue-to-decline-as-state-level-legalization-expands-new-government-report-shows/
Mexico Sent Cartel Bosses to U.S. Knowing They Could Face Execution
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/20/nyregion/mexico-cartel-bosses-death-penalty.html
Coca cultivation has increased dramatically in South America
https://cannabislaw.report/border-report-article-coca-plant-cultivation-has-shot-up-in-south-america-farmers-particularly-in-colombia-have-become-so-efficient-at-growing-it-that-they-have-doubled-their-yield-per-acre/
Cartels allegedly smuggling cocaine inside cattle
https://cannabislaw.report/cocaine-cash-cows-mexican-gangs-allegedly-now-smuggling-cocaine-across-border-inside-cattle/
Worldwide
In Lebanon, an interview on how the captagon trade has impacted state institutions
https://cannabislaw.report/lebanons-new-breed-of-drug-barons-in-an-interview-mohanad-hage-ali-talks-about-the-captagon-trades-impact-on-state-institutions/
The Afghani increased production of methamphetamine poses challenges for its neighbors
https://www.dawn.com/news/1896975/afghan-meth-poses-challenge-for-neighbours
In Indonesia, civil groups criticized the involvement of the military in drug enforcement
https://asianews.network/indonesias-civil-groups-criticise-military-involvement-in-drug-enforcement/
Prisons in South Korea overcrowded due to a surge in drug crimes
https://www.chosun.com/english/national-en/2025/03/11/WVYLPSQ5KNBYBOSPZ4IJ35SU6M/
A former Thai police chief who was jailed for torturing a drug suspect to death has been found dead in his cell
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx20py1lvz8o
In Bangladesh, a woman from Botswana executed for drug trafficking
https://cannabislaw.report/botswana-woman-was-executed-friday-in-bangladesh-for-drug-trafficking/
And in Vietnam, a Kenyan set to be executed for smuggling cocaine
https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/2025-03-17-explainer-what-are-the-narcotics-law-in-vietnam
And in Indonesia, three Indians face the death penalty for drug smuggling
https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/world/3-indians-face-death-penalty-for-smuggling-drugs-into-indonesia/
And in Thailand, 7 young Malaysian women detained for drug offenses, including for being drug mules
https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/03/26/almost-all-are-still-young-seven-malaysian-women-face-drug-charges-in-thailands-narathiwat-prison/170983
In Australia, nitazines detected in the wastewater for the first time
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/mar/19/nitazenes-detected-australian-wastewater-synthetic-opioid-ntwnfb
#Cannabis
In Berlin, the local justice system annulled penalties in 178 cases of cannabis violations
https://cannabislaw.report/media-report-germany-berlins-local-justice-system-annuls-penalties-in-178-cases-related-to-marijuana-and-hashish-violations
In the UK, a Liverpool bus driver kicked off a medical cannabis patient for smelling like cannabis
https://cannabislaw.report/uk-liverpool-bus-driver-kicks-off-cannabis-prescription-patient-for-smelling-of-cannabis/
In Fiji, 3 tons of cannabis seized from ‘drug kingpins’
https://cannabislaw.report/fiji-police-identify-drug-kingpins-3-tonnes-of-marijuana-seized
And during the Holi festivities in Hyderabad, India, a vendor charged with selling illegal cannabinoid candy & ice cream
https://cannabislaw.report/hydrabad-india-telangana-excise-confiscates-ice-cream-and-candies-containing-cannabis-during-holi-festival/
And in Kerala, India, three students caught growing cannabis at home
https://cannabislaw.report/those-pesky-kids-kerala-school-students-caught-growing-ganja-at-home-hash-oil-seized
Harm Reduction
Utah quietly bans funds for syringe service programs
https://filtermag.org/utah-salt-lake-county-ssp-jails/
When Harm Reduction Is Easy and Enjoyable, It’s More Effective
https://filtermag.org/harm-reduction-easy-enjoyable-effective/
Interviews of people who use drugs on how drug seizures by law enforcement increase harm & risk of overdose
Journey mapping drug seizures among police, public health and local nonprofit professionals, and community members who use drugs
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0955395925000738
In Oregon, nearly half of the community pharmacies are unreliable access points for sterile syringes, impeding harm reduction
Pharmacy-related syringe access barriers: an audit of Oregon community pharmacies
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/390026419_Pharmacy-related_syringe_access_barriers_an_audit_of_Oregon_community_pharmacies
In San Francisco, the mayor orders the scaling back of harm reduction programs despite climbing overdose rates
https://www.kqed.org/news/12032239/overdoses-climb-lurie-orders-scaling-back-harm-reduction-programs
The Toronto supervised drug consumption site keepSIX closed for good after a shooting two years ago prompted a government review
https://www.cp24.com/politics/queens-park/2025/03/21/our-work-is-never-done-east-toronto-supervised-consumption-site-closes-its-doors-amid-shift-in-ontario-drug-policy/
In Providence, RI, their safe injection site served hundreds in its first two months
https://www.wpri.com/target-12/providences-safe-injection-site-sees-hundreds-in-first-two-months/
In Italy, a history of their addiction clinics
The History of Addiction Clinics and Treatment in Italy: An Overview and Future Directions
https://www.mdpi.com/2409-9252/5/1/15
For indiscriminate pregnancy urine tests for cannabis, a commentary calling for guidelines
Reducing the Harm of Urine Drug Screening in Pregnancy
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2831655
Business, Laws & Education
In South Africa, a review of the health benefits of cannabis & its economic possibilities
SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF MEDICINAL BENEFITS OF CANNABIS SATIVA L. AND ITS IMPACT ON SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT.
https://sjhresearchafrica.org/index.php/public-html/article/view/1564
In Australia, on the pros & cons of the vertical model for medical cannabis
Medicinal cannabis, e-health and vertical models for the prescribing and dispensing of prescription medications
https://search.informit.org/doi/abs/10.3316/informit.T2025031400001690964818685
In Nepal, a review of the potential of hemp production
Industrial hemp in Nepal: Production and valorization perspectives
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1364032125002953
Psychedelics, Plant Medicines & Other Psychoactives
DOD commits $9.8 million to study psychedelics for active-duty troops
https://www.militarytimes.com/news/your-military/2025/03/17/dod-commits-98-million-to-study-psychedelics-for-active-duty-troops/
Johns Hopkins admits to ethical breaches in its psychedelic clergy study
https://www.psychedeliccandor.org/p/breaking-johns-hopkins-psychedelic
On microdosing to make you a better parent
https://worldcrunch.com/culture-society/psychedelics-microdosing-parenting
On investigating stereotypes about drug users, the most accurate were found to be for cocaine
The Content, Consistency and Accuracy of Stereotypes About Recreational Users of Various Psychoactive Substances
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ejsp.3162
I kind of wish this one wasn't behind a paywall because I am fascinated by what the stereotypes for these seven drugs might be.
On the potential of psychedelics in the Eleusinian Mysteries of ancient Greece & a takedown of Muraresku’s ‘The Immortality Key: The Secret History of the Religion with No Name’
Psychedelic Futures and Altered States in the Religions of the Ancient Mediterranean
https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/harvard-theological-review/article/psychedelic-futures-and-altered-states-in-the-religions-of-the-ancient-mediterranean/CFC771D700D6D7BEA8AD6D961BAC4F27
The Psychoactive Research
A survey of US psychedelic users on their perceived spiritual gains
Perceptions of psychedelic use by adults in the United States: Perceived psychospiritual benefits and risks, including spiritual struggles
https://psycnet.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2Frel0000529
“Participants saw psychedelics carrying more psychological and practical risks (e.g., bad “trips,” accidents, impaired judgment, legal problems) than psychospiritual benefits, which were endorsed more than spiritual struggles or risks. Highly endorsed psychospiritual benefits included awe, a deep sense of connection, and increased belief in a nonmaterial world. Other benefits included a greater sense of life meaning, profound spiritual experiences, new insights about ultimate reality, and deepened religious or spiritual beliefs.”
In adolescents with depression at imminent risk of suicide, esketamine with comprehensive standard-of-care rapidly improved depressive symptoms
Effect of Esketamine on Depressive Symptoms in Adolescents with Major Depressive Disorder at Imminent Suicide Risk: A Randomized Psychoactive-Controlled Study
https://www.jaacap.org/article/S0890-8567(25)00122-4/fulltext
Brain scans of how psychedelics altered brain activity
Psychedelics Align Brain Activity with Context
https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.03.09.642197v1
A systematic review of the side effects of microdosing
Side effects of microdosing lysergic acid diethylamide and psilocybin: A systematic review of potential physiological and psychiatric outcomes
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S002839082500108X
“Side effects were typically dose-dependent, mild, and short-lived. Common adverse effects included increased blood pressure, anxiety, and cognitive impairment.”
A commentary on psychedelic ethics in palliative care
Psychedelic Ethics in Palliative Care
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15265161.2024.2433457
On death anxiety among psychedelic users
Death Anxiety Among Users and Non-Users of Psychedelics
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/02791072.2025.2451035
For substance use disorders, a systematic review of psychedelic treatment
Psychedelic-assisted treatment for substance use disorder: A narrative systematic review
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39887551/
The Plant & the History
For the sexual strategies of cannabis, a review of the genetic & environmental factors influencing sexual expression 😉
A review of sexual strategies in Cannabis sativa L. under genomic and environmental controls
https://acsess.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/agg2.70050
Personally, I think it’s all about how you raise them.
Growing & Processing
On sustainable growing techniques & extraction methods for cannabis yield & potency
Integrating Sustainable Cultivation Practices and Advanced Extraction Methods for Improved Cannabis Yield and Cannabinoid Production
https://www.mdpi.com/2037-0164/16/2/38
Analyzing hemp seed vigor using hyperspectral imaging & AI (I like my seeds vigorous! 😉)
Non-destructive assessment of hemp seed vigor using machine learning and deep learning models with hyperspectral imaging
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666154325002078
On the effects of blue & far-red light on cannabis production
The Effects of Blue Light and Supplemental Far-Red on an In Vitro Multiple Harvest System for the Production of Cannabis sativa
https://www.mdpi.com/2223-7747/14/6/966
The effects of different fertilizers on growth & yield
Physiology, yield and nutritional contribution of hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) grown under different fertiliser types and environments
https://jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-025-00273-z
Effects of herbicides on yield in semi-arid conditions
Effect of early and late post emergence herbicides on weed suppression, crop injury, and biomass yield of industrial hemp in semiarid conditions
https://acsess.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/agg2.70078
On the optimal timing for harvesting indoor high-CBD cannabis
Optimal Harvest Timing: Quantifying Temporal Changes in Dry Mass and Tissue Cannabinoids for High-CBD Cannabis sativa Grown in Controlled Environments
https://journals.ashs.org/hortsci/view/journals/hortsci/60/4/article-p624.xml
On using brassinosteroids for improved drought tolerance
Does the exogenous application of brassinosteroids affect the photosynthetic, morphological characteristics, and THC concentrations of Cannabis sativa L. under drought stress?
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2214786125000154
On the hemp blight Fusarium graminearum
Comparative analysis of hemp and wheat Fusarium graminearum populations
https://apsjournals.apsnet.org/doi/abs/10.1094/PDIS-11-24-2452-RE
And on the level of mycotoxins from Fusarium in seized cannabis from Arizona & California
Evaluation of Fusarium Mycotoxins and Fungal Metabolites in Seized Cannabis in Arizona and California, 2023-2024
https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/doi/pdf/10.1289/EHP16028
On using microwave infrared for enhanced cannabis drying speed & quality
Multi-objective optimization and modeling of microwave-infrared pretreatment on drying and quality characteristics of cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.)
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/07373937.2025.2478396
The characteristics of three Argentine cannabis varieties
Morphoanatomical, histochemical, and molecular characterization of female Cannabis plants from three Argentine strains
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00709-025-02054-0
Basically, they’re very into Borges.
Formulating & Analyzing
On analyzing cannabinoid levels with a HPLC-DAD & finding the best decarboxylation parameters for producing CBD (142°C & 59 min)
Quantitative analysis of cannabinoids in cannabis sub-species and plant parts using validated HPLC and optimization of decarboxylation for enhanced CBD yield
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0026265X25008094
On extracting cannabinoids from hemp leaves with a high-pressure ultrasonic extraction method & measuring their antioxidant activity
High-pressure ultrasonic-assisted extraction of cannabinoids from industrial hemp leaves: Structure analysis and antioxidant activity
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40109059/
Food & Nutrition & Hemp Seeds
On creating hemp flakes with twin-screw extrusion 😉
Twin-screw extrusion retains industrial hemp byproduct (hemp flakes) functionality
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39902970/
On improving corn product nutrition & antioxidant capacity with the addition of hemp seeds
Fatty Acid Enrichment of Corn Extrudates with Hemp Seeds
https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/30/6/1390
On extracting antioxidant compounds from hemp seeds with ultrasonic-assisted extraction
Ultrasonic-Assisted extraction of bioactive compounds from hemp seeds: Process optimization, energy efficiency, and antioxidant activity evaluation
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1383586625011992
Industrial Uses & Fiber
In the weaving of North India, on the use of hemp
Reed Weaving Traditions in North India: An Ethnoarchaeological Discussion into Material Culture and Social Identity
http://www.heritageuniversityofkerala.com/JournalPDF/Volume10/49.pdf
On creating tear & puncture-resistant hemp fabrics
Eco-friendly hemp woven (two-dimensional and three-dimensional) fabrics for tear and puncture protection; an approach for comfort and ergonomics
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10803548.2025.2473791
The influence of alkaline treatment on hemp fibers
Influence of Alkaline Treatment and Fiber Morphology on the Mechanical, Physical, and Thermal Properties of Polypropylene and Polylactic Acid Biocomposites Reinforced with Kenaf, Bagasse, Hemp Fibers and Softwood
https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4360/17/7/844
CANNABINOID SCIENCE
Public Health & Driving
A survey on how adults co-use alcohol, tobacco & cannabis
Rates and correlates of simultaneous use and mixing of alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis among adults who currently use alcohol and tobacco
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306460325000930
In Wales, analysis of cannabis product adulteration data
Prevalence and Patterns of Cannabis Product Adulteration: An Analysis of WEDINOS Data
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/02791072.2025.2478087
According to Weedmaps data, places with more Black residents had a higher odds of a cannabis dispensary
Neighborhood Sociodemographic Correlates of Cannabis Dispensary Availability in States with Legalized Adult Recreational Use, United States, 2021
https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/can.2024.0065
Among injured UK military personnel, a survey of their drug use
Illegal drug use amongst male UK military personnel who sustained physical combat injuries: The ADVANCE cohort study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39914127/
In veterans undergoing elective surgery, public health data on their urine tests for THC
Urine tests for THC in patients undergoing elective inpatient surgery: a nationwide longitudinal electronic health record study in US veterans
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39893066/
In Poland, a slight uptick in people hospitalized for cannabis poisonings since the 2018 legalization of medical cannabis
Assessment of patients hospitalized in the Clinical Toxicology and Cardiology Department in Lublin due to poisoning with Cannabis derivatives as a voice in the discussion on the legalization of marijuana
https://apcz.umk.pl/JEHS/article/view/59076
In Canada, interviews about gender norms & cannabis usage after legalization
Exploring perceived gender norms about cannabis among treatment-seeking adults in the era of cannabis legalization in Canada: A qualitative analysis
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2949875925000633
In the doctors of Ghana on why they prescribe medicinal hemp
Utilization of medicinal hemp: a qualitative analysis of clinicians’ perspectives in Ghana
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s42238-025-00271-1
Adolescents & Young Adults
For adolescents across 47 countries, on the prevalence of cannabis & stimulant use
Global prevalence of cannabis and amphetamine/methamphetamine use among adolescents in 47 countries: a population-based study from WHO database
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12519-025-00883-w
In young adults, wearable data showed that substance use was associated with delays in sleep start & end times, reduced sleep duration & efficiency as well as increased wake after sleep onset
Exploring the relationship between sleep patterns, alcohol and other substances consumption in young adults: Insights from wearables and Mobile surveys in the National Consortium on alcohol and NeuroDevelopment in adolescence (NCANDA) cohort
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39914500/
For the effects of cannabis legalization on students, a thesis project found that high school girls used more cannabis after legalization & had higher absenteeism & dropout rates while boys showed worse behavioral outcomes
Does Recreational Marijuana Legalization Hurt Students? Evidence from Washington and Oregon
https://rcjarrol.github.io/racheljarroldgrapes.com/Does%20MJ%20Legalization%20Hurt%20Students%20Feb%202025%20Version.pdf
For adolescents in Oregon, discrimination was linked to a doubled likelihood of using cannabis as well as increased odds of use from living in a place with greater retail availability
Discriminatory Harassment and Marijuana Use Among Adolescents in Oregon Counties that Vary in Retail Availability of Marijuana
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10826084.2025.2478608
In the early pandemic, college students involved in sports used less cannabis
Sport and Physical Activity as Correlates of Cannabis Misuse in College Students: A Cross-Sectional Study over the Early Postpandemic Period
https://www.croris.hr/crosbi/publikacija/prilog-casopis/874093
In young adults who co-use cannabis & tobacco, on their daily expectations & feelings
Daily Assessment of Positive and Negative Cannabis Use Expectancies in Young Adult Cannabis and Tobacco Co-Users
https://publications.sciences.ucf.edu/cannabis/index.php/Cannabis/article/view/277
The Brain & Neurological Disorders
In a mouse model of neuroinflammation, activating the CB2 receptor alleviated cognitive impairment via Nogo-B protein & the microglia (guardian immune cells of the brain)
Cannabinoid Receptor-2 Alleviates Sepsis-Induced Neuroinflammation by Modulating Microglia M1/M2 Subset Polarization Through Inhibiting Nogo-B Expression
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12035-025-04836-2
In mice, a CB1 receptor antagonist enhanced memory, executive function & synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus (memory center of the brain)
Sub-chronic administration of AM6545 enhances cognitive performance and induces hippocampal synaptic plasticity changes in naïve mice
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40102206/
Mental Health, Addiction & Cannabis Use Disorder
In trauma survivors, rumination, brooding & impulsivity were linked to greater cannabis-related problems
The role of impulsivity in the association between rumination and cannabis-related problems among trauma-exposed cannabis users
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39907162/
When using benzodiazepines for anxiety, medical cannabis can reduce the use
Does medical marijuana reduce the use of benzodiazepines for the management of anxiety?
https://journals.lww.com/ebp/citation/9900/does_medical_marijuana_reduce_the_use_of.797.aspx
A review of the effects of cannabis abuse on cognition
“The Impact of Cannabis Abuse on cognition: a comprehensive Review”
https://jchr.org/index.php/JCHR/article/view/4478
For heavy cannabis use, a thesis project on the efficacy of the app CANreduce
CANreduce: Findings from a Randomized Controlled Trial Testing a Novel Online Evidence Based Intervention for Individuals with Heavy Cannabis Use
https://mspace.lib.umanitoba.ca/server/api/core/bitstreams/8d937a39-9eba-47a3-aefb-9c6e8c3852a9/content
In a rat model of stress, changes to neuronal plasticity in the nucleus accumbens core & the insular cortex were moderated via the CB1 receptor
Sex-dependent effects of stress on aIC-NAc circuit neuroplasticity: Role of the endocannabinoid system
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0278584625000892
Reproduction & Hormones
In pregnant Black people, on the strong link between racial stress & discrimination with depression & prenatal cannabis/tobacco use
Perceived Racial Discrimination and Tobacco and Cannabis Use in Black American Pregnant People: The Mediating Role of Depressive Symptoms
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0376871625001139
In donkey sperm, polyunsaturated fats from hemp altered membrane lipid profiles, improved oxidative stability & boosted reproductive performance (not like they needed it…😉)
Effects of hemp-based polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation on membrane lipid profiles and reproductive performance in Martina Franca jacks
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.3389/fvets.2025.1553218/abstract
In mouse ovarian granulosa cells (producers of estrogen, progesterone & other key hormones), an analysis of the expression patterns & functions of endocannabinoid machinery found that the CB1 receptor was an important player in ovulation
Characterizing the Role of Endocannabinoid Receptor Cnr1 in Mouse Ovarian Granulosa Cells
https://analyticalsciencejournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/cbf.70070
Pain, Musculoskeletal & Surgeries
For doctors who use cannabis, on how that alters their practice of using medical cannabis for chronic pain
The Role of Personal Cannabis Use in Physicians’ Perceptions and Practices Regarding Medical Cannabis for Chronic Pain Management
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11606-025-09471-0
For the pain of rheumatic diseases, on the possibility of cannabis as an opioid alternative
Cannabis: an opioid alternative for pain management in rheumatic diseases?
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/08998280.2025.2478762
In a rat model of neuropathic pain, activation of the GPR55 receptor (which may one day be known as CB3) caused pain relief via the JAK2/STAT3 pathway
Activation of GPR55 alleviates neuropathic pain and chronic inflammation
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39219239/
The Guts, Metabolism & Oral Health
For diabetes causing periodontitis (gum disease), a review of natural products like CBD to target epigenetic plasticity
Targeting Epigenetic Plasticity to Reduce Periodontitis-Related Inflammation in Diabetes: CBD, Metformin, and Other Natural Products as Potential Synergistic Candidates for Regulation?
https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/26/7/2853
The Immune System & Microbial
In macrophages (a type of white blood cell), hemp seed proteins increased energy production in the mitochondria (powerhouse of the cell) & enhanced rates of glycolysis (anaerobic energy production)
Modulation of energy metabolism in RAW264.7 macrophages by Hemp seed-derived bioactive peptides.
https://openurl.ebsco.com/EPDB%3Agcd%3A9%3A34899337/detailv2?sid=ebsco%3Aplink%3Ascholar&id=ebsco%3Agcd%3A183603295&crl=c&link_origin=scholar.google.com
The Skin
For wound care, on hemp extracts with dialdehyde kefiran in chitosan/kefiran-based materials
The role of dialdehyde kefiran as a crosslinking agent in chitosan/kefiran-based materials with “Henola” extracts: a biocompatible strategy in wound care
https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlepdf/2025/ma/d5ma00029g
Cancer & Chemotherapy
In cancer survivors, a survey of their cannabis usage & their desire for more information
Cannabis Use and Disclosure in the Oncology Setting: A Cross-Sectional Survey Exploring Information Needs Among Cancer Survivors
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40096564/
An editorial on the utility of medical cannabis in oncology & for palliative care
Has medicinal cannabis found a role in oncology/palliative care?
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39910955/
Synthetic Cannabinoids & Hemp-Derived Cannabinoids
How liver cells metabolize the synthetic cannabinoids Benzyl-4CN-BUTINACA & MDMB-4CN-BUTINACA
In vitro metabolism of Benzyl-4CN-BUTINACA and MDMB-4CN-BUTINACA using human hepatocytes and LC-QToF-MS analysis
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00204-025-04018-y
On detecting 15 synthetic cannabinoids in urine using real-time mass spectrometry
Rapid quantitative screening of 15 synthetic cannabinoids in urine using direct analysis in real time tandem mass spectrometry
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772577425000503
Biochemical Discoveries & Tools
For a sodium ion channel, a model of CBD's binding orientation
Prediction and assessment of energetically-favored binding orientation of cannabidiol at hNav1.1 channel using all-atom molecular dynamics simulations
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/07391102.2025.2477778
For binding to the TRP channels, on how adding a quinone group in addition to a dimethylheptyl chain alters docking
The Impact of a Quinone Scaffold on Thermo-TRPs Modulation by Dimethylheptyl Phytocannabinoids
https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/26/6/2682
On engineering the enzyme aromatic prenyltransferase to create unique CBGA derivatives
Biosynthesis of Novel Cannabigerolic Acid Derivatives by Engineering the Substrate Specificity of Aromatic Prenyltransferase
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/bioengineering-and-biotechnology/articles/10.3389/fbioe.2025.1563708/abstract
On analyzing THC isomers in blood & urine
Comprehensive LC-MS/MS analysis of THC isomers, analogs, homologs and metabolites in blood and urine
https://academic.oup.com/jat/advance-article-abstract/doi/10.1093/jat/bkaf023/8082942
Both THC & HHC break down in the body into the metabolite HHC-COOH & can be detected with a GC-MS method
Detection of 11-nor-9-carboxy-hexahydrocannabinol (HHC-COOH) as metabolite of both hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) and Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) in routine forensic samples
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0731708525001748
Thanks.
- lex
PS: For this week’s atmospheres, Tommy Guerrero’s ‘Perpetual’. Known as a professional skateboarder, Guerrero has been making music since the ‘90s. I really don’t how to describe this album – but I’ve had it on this entire week, so I wanted to share it with you.
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