C&P#151: fibro, dementia, female sexual dysfunction & neurologically disabled children
Harsher penalties in Georgia & US states all over the place
🌟 This week 🌟
In women with sexual dysfunction, on the benefits of using cannabis before sex
Cannabinoids for fibro (2x) + CBD for dementia + cannabis for GI issues & neurologically disabled children
2 on young girls with Rett Syndrome & the help of cannabinoids
Cannabis for the eyes: not terrible!
The antidepressant effects of exercise may be completely dependent on CB1 receptors
Preclinical: CBD for multiple concussions, panic, severe orofacial pain & the neurotoxicity of meth + CBDA for ALS + cannabis for acute pain + CBG for fatty livers
Psychedelics for meaning in life & compassion + alcohol use disorder & depression in veterans & cancer patients
THC-rich cannabis linked to paranoia
Case reports of synthetic cannabinoid withdrawal
On the lesser-known alkaloids & phenolics of cannabis (stilbenes! spermidine! hydroxycinnamic acids! flavonoids!)
Digital farming tools for hemp planting
3 on hemp for cleaning & purifying water
On the reggae anthems “Legalise It” by Peter Tosh & “Legalisation” by Joseph Hill
Hello everyone,
Welcome to the 151st 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: ~8600 words, ~22 minutes reading time, 175 papers)
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🐋 For more from Lex… (my Linktree)
My canna-graphic novel series based on Moby Dick, ‘‘Anandamide; or, the Cannabinoid’ to explain endocannabinoid science, the darkness of the War on Drugs & the long human history with our favorite plant.
See the volumes ‘SUNset’ (Queer canna-history from the AIDS crisis) & ‘The CROWN’ (the story of the hunt for the chemical structure of CBN, the first fully-solved cannabinoid in the 1940s). To see more about this ongoing series, see lexpelger.comThe first 2 seasons of my podcast ‘The Lex Files’ on cannabinoids, psychedelics & spirituality
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🎥 My work this week 🎤
Canna-Edu Vids for CV Sciences:
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🍃 BEST OF CANNABINOID SCIENCE 🍃
(most of the phytocannabinoid data is here & the ECS data is in the ‘Canna-Science Archive’ at the bottom)
A bibliometric (research paper) analysis of the cannabinoid literature since 1972
Global Multidisciplinary Collaboration in Therapeutic Cannabis Research, Regulatory and Pharmaceutical Challenges
https://openurl.ebsco.com/EPDB%3Agcd%3A15%3A36264895/detailv2?sid=ebsco%3Aplink%3Ascholar&id=ebsco%3Agcd%3A185883625&crl=c&link_origin=scholar.google.com
“The collaborative spirit is strong, with an average of 5.13 co-authors per document and 19.14% of these partnerships spanning international borders. Notable contributions to the field include works by Vincenzo Di Marzo and Daniele Piomelli, as well as highly cited articles like "The endocannabinoid system as an emerging target of pharmacotherapy" by Pacher et al., which has garnered 1775 citations.”
⚕️ Clinical ⚕️
In women with sexual dysfunction, those who used cannabis before sex reported significantly higher lubrication scores & trends towards higher arousal & sexual function scores but no differences in sexual desire, satisfaction or pain
Cannabis Use in Women and Sexual Dysfunction
https://www.mdpi.com/2411-5118/6/3/31
For sleep, a 1:1 THC:CBD or 1:16 THC:CBD significantly increased subjective sleepiness but not sleep measures such as total sleep time, sleep latency or number of awakenings
Same-Day Sedative and Night-Time Sleep Effects Following Combined Cannabinoid Formulations: A Randomised-Controlled Trial
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40261-025-01455-6
For dementia, a conference abstract reported that both a 15-day & 6-month trial of CBD resulted in very positive effects
The role of Cannabinoids in Dementia
https://www.mdpi.com/2673-4087/6/3/57#:~:text=the%20role%20of%20cannabinoids%20in%20dementia
In people with gastrointestinal symptoms, a survey of 1 year of cannabis use reported a significant decrease in GI symptom severity
Relief in Gastrointestinal Symptoms With Medical Marijuana Over 1 Year
https://jdc.jefferson.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1093&context=fmfp
In a survey of women with fibromyalgia, this thesis found they described cannabis as transformative, helping with pain, sleep & quality of life but that they experienced stigma, lack of medical guidance, high cost & difficulties in determining dosage
EXPERIENCES OF CANADIAN WOMEN USING CANNABIS FOR FIBROMYALGIA SYMPTOM MANAGEMENT: A QUALITATIVE DESCRIPTION STUDY
https://macsphere.mcmaster.ca/bitstream/11375/31893/4/Holmes_Samantha_F_finalsubmission_2025June_MSc.pdf
In interviews of caregivers of neurologically disabled children, they reported that medical cannabis improved symptoms & quality of life in their children
Caregiver experiences of children living with a diagnosed neurological disability and using medical cannabis
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/13674935251350177
After a sexual assault, the cooccurrence of PTSD & cannabis use disorder is common & in this case series, they found benefits from written exposure therapy for decreasing PTSD symptoms & cannabis use
Written Exposure Therapy for PTSD Integrated with Cognitive Behavioral Coping Skills for Cannabis Use Disorder After Recent Sexual Assault: A Case Series
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-328X/15/7/877
For eye health , in a cohort study of 1,000+ people followed since birth, higher cannabis use was associated with a number of vision problems but these associations weren't significant once controlled for tobacco-smoking & socioeconomic status, except for having a thicker inferior hemifield of the ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (which is actually suggestive of neuroprotection & resistance to glaucoma)
Persistent cannabis use and ocular health in midlife
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0749379725004465
In children with Rett Syndrome & CDKL5 Deficiency Disorder (two severe neurodevelopmental disorders that often include drug-resistant epilepsy), an open-label study found CBD reduced the incidence of seizures (sometimes dramatically) & improved other symptoms such as sleep & attention
Is highly purified cannabidiol a treatment opportunity for drug‐resistant epilepsy in subjects with typical Rett syndrome and CDKL5 deficiency disorder?
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/epi4.70078
“Although not reaching a significant statistical effect, CBD reduced the incidence of seizures with respect to the baseline in 18/27 (66.6%) subjects, with 7 (25.9%) showing a seizure reduction >75%, and 11 (40.7%) >50%. The most relevant adverse events were somnolence seen in 3 subjects, irritability/agitation in 2 subjects, loss of appetite in 2 subjects, and insomnia in 1 individual. Caregivers reported an improvement in attention and reactivity in 12 subjects (44.4%), in sleep quality in 5 subjects (18.5%), and in motor aspects in 3 patients (11.1%).”
In young people with Rett syndrome (a rare neurodevelopmental disorder, much more common in girls), a low-dose THC extract improved clinical scores, communication skills, mental alertness, socialization/eye contact, attentiveness, anxiety, general mood , breathing problems, repetitive face movements, fear/anxiety, the ability to communicate choices, cognition & quality of life
Full-Spectrum Medicinal Cannabis Plant Extract 0.08% THC (NTI164) Improves Symptoms of Rett Syndrome: An Open-Label Study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40568811/
In people with chronic pain, an industry study of a 1:1 THC:CBD extract found decreased pain intensity & pain interference as well as improved physical & mental health
How to ESCAPE from Pain? An Observational Study on Improving Pain and Quality of Life with the Cannamedical® Hybrid Cannabis Extract
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12325-025-03262-z
For the blood levels of the eicosanoids (lipid mediators that regulate inflammation) such as lipoxygenase (LOX), cyclooxygenase (COX) & cytochrome P450 (CYP450), high-CBD cannabis led to an increase in their levels, especially lipoxins, while high-THC cannabis did not
Effect of Cannabidiol and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol on Anti-Inflammatory Lipid Mediator Synthesis in Humans
https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/can.2024.0175
In people vaping different combinations of THC & the terpene alpha-pinene, the presence of alpha-pinene did not cause any significant changes to the subjective, cognitive or physiological effects of THC
The individual and interactive effects of alpha-pinene and delta-9- tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) in healthy adults
https://karger.com/mca/article-pdf/doi/10.1159/000547014/4395763/000547014.pdf
In middle-aged long-term cannabis users, they had less methylation of nine genes (as in, those genes would have higher expression rates)
DNA methylation profiles of long-term cannabis users in midlife: a comprehensive evaluation of published cannabis-associated methylation markers in a representative cohort
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41380-025-03042-9
📑 Reviews 📑
For fibromyalgia, a review found CBD reduced pain, improved sleep quality, promoted self-care & performance of usual activities, reduced fatigue, increased memory, decreased anxiety & depression, increased libido & improved mood
Medicinal benefits of cannabidiol in patients with fibromyalgia integrative review
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/392978793_Medicinal_benefits_of_cannabidiol_in_patients_with_fibromyalgia_integrative_review
For autism, a review found that CBD reduced seizures, stereotypical behaviors, anxiety, irritability & sleep disorders [Portuguese]
Canabidiol no tratamento do transtorno do espectro autista: revisão integrativa e perspectivas farmacêuticas
https://ojs.studiespublicacoes.com.br/ojs/index.php/shs/article/view/17495
For chronic pain, a positive Italian report on using medical cannabis
Medical cannabis for chronic pain management: questions and answers between clinical and medico-legal issues
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40556619/
For PTSD in youth, limited evidence suggests help from cannabis-based medicinal products
Cannabis-Based Medicinal Products in the Treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Children and Young People: A Literature Review
https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/17415A9654085598575E16173F3C27C5/S2056472425101713a.pdf/cannabisbased_medicinal_products_in_the_treatment_of_posttraumatic_stress_disorder_in_children_and_young_people_a_literature_review.pdf
In colorectal cancer, a review found that CBD may exert its anti-tumor effects via the serotonin system (nice chart)
Cannabidiol (CBD) and Colorectal Tumorigenesis: Potential Dual Modulatory Roles via the Serotonergic Pathway
https://www.mdpi.com/1718-7729/32/7/375
And in pancreatic cancer, a review of cannabinoids for painkilling, nausea & anticancer effects
Cannabinoids as Potential Therapeutic Agents in the Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer
https://ar.iiarjournals.org/content/anticanres/45/7/2719.full.pdf
For the relationship between diet & THC, a review of how to work with them together, especially for cancer patients
The close reciprocal relationship between diet and THC-based therapy: a comprehensive narrative review of literature.
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Matteo-Piciucchi/publication/392844839_The_Close_Reciprocal_Relationship_Between_Diet_And_Thc-Based_Therapy_A_Comprehensive_Narrative_Review_Of_Literature/links/6856674307d6d53e82ed9679/The-Close-Reciprocal-Relationship-Between-Diet-And-THC-Based-Therapy-A-Comprehensive-Narrative-Review-Of-Literature.pdf
On the lesser-known alkaloids & phenolics of cannabis, a review of their therapeutic promise
Exploring the Lesser-Known Bioactive Natural Products of Plant Species of the Genus Cannabis L.: Alkaloids, Phenolic Compounds, and Their Therapeutic Potential
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40364401/
“Among these, nitrogen-containing compounds such as spermidine alkaloids exhibit neuroprotective and anti-aging properties, while hydroxycinnamic acids and hydroxycinnamic acid amides, including N-trans-caffeoyltyramine and N-trans-feruloyltyramine, have demonstrated notable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Additionally, Cannabis species are a valuable source of unique stilbenes, such as canniprene, and flavonoids, including cannflavin A and B, which demonstrated potent anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative effects.”
In human gametogenesis (formation of sperm & eggs), a review of the role of endocannabinoid signaling (nice charts)
The Role of the Endocannabinoid System in Human Gametogenesis
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40362235/
For the gut-brain axis, a review of using cannabis essential oil for gut motility, immune responses, neurotransmission & inflammation
Targeting the Gut-Brain Axis with Plant-Derived Essential Oils: Phytocannabinoids and Beyond
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40362887/
In retinal Müller-glia cells (main support cells for nerves of the eyes), a review of their endocannabinoid system finds parallels with astrocytes (the most predominant brain support cell)
The Endocannabinoid System in Retinal Müller Glia: Lessons From Astrocyte Research
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11064-025-04457-0
⚠️ Harms ⚠️
In French pharmacovigilance, they reported 125+ cases where CBD or THC were linked to seizures
Cannabinoids and Adverse Convulsive Effects: A Pharmacovigilance and Addictovigilance Analysis of Cases Reported in France
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40540313/
People don't often like to hear it, but you see the same data in Epidiolex for children: in a minor subset, CBD didn't decrease seizure frequency but increased it. Not only are there non-responders, there are anti-responders
In psychiatric inpatients, cannabis use was associated with a lower risk of suicidal ideation intensity in females but a greater association in males
The association between cannabis use and suicidal intensity in psychiatric inpatients
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40349103/
Following cannabis-induced psychosis, those who continued to use cannabis exhibited persistently higher depression & suicidality scores as well as lower recovery & higher relapse rates
Effects of persistent cannabis use on depression, psychosis, and suicidality following cannabis-induced psychosis: A longitudinal study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40365850/
In people with first-episode psychosis, compared to natural cannabis users, the synthetic cannabinoid users had significantly higher positive psychotic symptoms (hallucinations, delusions, repetitive movements), persistent aberrant salience (assigning motivations to irrelevant stimuli) & limited recovery from alexithymia (aka emotional blindness) with the cannabinoid users overall showing less improvement over time
Alexithymia and psychopathological dimensions in First-Episode Psychosis: Comparative patterns in natural cannabis versus synthetic cannabinoid users
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022395625004236
In the e-cigarettes seized in English schools, very few contained THC & three-quarters contained synthetic cannabinoids & these correlated to the social deprivation metric of free school meals
Synthetic cannabinoids in e-cigarettes seized from English schools
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40574414/
As the researcher Dr. Diego Quattrone told me at Cannabis Europa last week, for the people he sees at his psychosis clinic, almost nobody wants to be using synthetic cannabinoids. It’s just cheaper than regular cannabis.
For synthetic cannabinoid withdrawal, a review of 11 case reports
Synthetic cannabinoid withdrawal: A systematic review of case reports
https://karger.com/ear/article-pdf/doi/10.1159/000546633/4395923/000546633.pdf
In national data on cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, the rates have remained steady over the last 9 years & the most commonly administered medications were ondansetron & metoclopramide
Presentations to United States emergency departments for gastroparesis, cyclic vomiting, and cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome from 2016 to 2024
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0735675725004486
For injury rates & cannabis legalization, a review of 14 studies found legalization linked to increased accidental trauma injuries, higher suicide rates & self-harm in young people & increased assault rates in middle-aged people
The impacts of recreational cannabis legalization and commercialization on injury rates in different demographic groups: a scoping review
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10389-025-02526-w
In Canada from 2007 to 2020, the rate of cannabis-attributable hospitalizations increased 120%, particularly due to psychotic disorders & the acute intoxication of young people
Trends in cannabis-attributable hospitalizations and emergency department visits: data from the Canadian Substance Use Costs and Harms Study (2007–2020)
https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/phac-aspc/documents/services/reports-publications/health-promotion-chronic-disease-prevention-canada-research-policy-practice/vol-45-no-6-2025/trends-cannabis-attributable-hospitalizations-emergency-department-visits-canadian-substance-use-costs-harms-study.pdf
For cannabis & paranoia, a meta-analysis of 13 studies found THC to be associated with more acute paranoia onset, with the effects weakened by co-administration with CBD
The Association Between Cannabis Use and Paranoia: Meta-Analysis of Experimental and Observational Studies
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0149763425002702
In mothers with cannabis use disorder during or after pregnancy, their offspring had an increased risk of anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety disorder & PTSD)
Maternal perinatal cannabis use disorder and the risk of anxiety disorders in offspring: Insights from a longitudinal data-linkage cohort study
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0165032725011851
A case report of a young girl with epilepsy who developed lipid pneumonia, potentially from chronic cannabis oil aspiration
Lipoid Pneumonia Following Chronic Aspiration of Cannabis Oil Used for the Treatment of Seizures
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40348517/
In rat models of fertility, low doses of cannabis did not impair male fertility but high doses reduced sperm count & quality by 30%, while in females, there were hormonal alterations but no changes in estrous cycles or implantation
Cannabis sativa extract and fertility: Preclinical evaluation in male and female Wistar rats
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0890623825001534
In the rodent hippocampus (memory center of the brain) after early exposure to cannabinoids, a review found impairments to synaptic plasticity, learning, memory & spatial memory tasks
Synaptic Signatures of Perinatal Cannabinoids: A Systematic Review of Rodent Hippocampal Synaptic Plasticity, Learning, and Memory
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772724625000368
In human brain stem cells, CBD, THC & their metabolites reduced cell viability & CB2 receptor levels
The effects of cannabidiol and its main metabolites on human neural stem cells
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12203246/
🐁 Preclinical 🐁
In a mouse model of ALS, CBDA proved the most effective (compared to CBD, CBDV, THC & THCV) at improving motor coordination, reducing neuronal cell death & reducing inflammation, outperforming the standard treatment of riluzole
Preclinical evaluation of cannabidiolic acid as a neuroprotective agent in TDP-43 transgenic mice, an experimental model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0753332225004822
In a rat model of multiple concussions, high doses of CBD protected the brain by inhibition of apoptosis (programmed cellular suicide) & lowered stress in the endoplasmic reticulum (protein processing center of the cell)
[Cannabidiol inhibits neuronal endoplasmic reticulum stress and apoptosis in rats with multiple concussions by regulating the PERK-eIF2α-ATF4-CHOP pathway]
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40579137/
In a rat model of neurotoxicity from methamphetamine, CBD inhibited the oxidative stress & neural cell death via TRPV1 (the vanilloid receptors that are activated by anandamide)
Cannabidiol attenuates methamphetamine-induced oxidative neurotoxicity via regulating transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0944711325006543
In a female mouse model of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH, formerly known as fatty liver disease), CBG improved liver health & decreased scarring, oxidative stress & inflammation
Cannabigerol Alleviates Liver Damage in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis Female Mice via Inhibition of Transforming Growth Factor Beta 1
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40362835/
In two different mouse models of acute pain, cannabis ethanol extracts caused antioxidant effects, lowered inflammation & reduced symptoms of pain
Oral Administration of Moroccan Cannabis sativa L. Extract and Cannabidiol: A Comparative Study in Acute Pain Models
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1934578X251351539
In a rat model of trigeminal neuralgia (severe orofacial pain), CBD showed strong efficacy for painkilling with gendered effects
Sex-related differences in cannabidiol's antinociceptive efficacy in a trigeminal neuralgia rodent model
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40359363/
In a rat model of anxiety & panic, a CBD nanoemulsion reduced anxiety & panic via serotonin neurons in the dorsal raphe (a regulator of sleep-wake cycles, mood & cognition)
A cannabidiol (CBD) lipid-based nanoemulsion induces anxiolytic- and panicolytic-like effects and increases FosB/deltaFosB immunoreactivity in serotonergic cells of the dorsal raphe
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S000689932500352X
For immune diseases like graft-versus-host disease, lichen planus (an inflammatory skin & mucous membrane condition) or head-and-neck cancer, CBD-rich cannabis extracts reduced inflammation as well or better than conventional treatments like dexamethasone & tacrolimus, plus having potent anti-tumor effects
From Immune Dysregulation to Cancer: The Therapeutic Potential of CBD-Rich Cannabis Extracts in Lichen Planus, GVHD, and HNSCC
https://www.ijoms.com/article/S0901-5027(25)00510-7/abstract
In a mouse model of graft-versus-host disease (such as a rejection of bone marrow transplantation), the endocannabinoid PEA reduced clinical disease severity, lowered the activation of immune cells & protected the intestines & liver from damage
Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) Induces an Increase in Spleen Regulatory T Cells, Reduces CD8+ Cells and TNF-α Levels in Target Organs, and Protects Mice From Graft-Versus-Host Disease-Related Mortality Through PPAR Activation Without Compromising the Graft-Versus-Tumour Response
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40563231/
In human cartilage, CBD reduced ferroptosis (iron-dependent regulated cell death), which could be the mechanism behind the slowing of orthopedic diseases like osteoarthritis
Cannabidiol Is a Potential Inhibitor of Ferroptosis in Human Articular Chondrocytes
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/jcmm.70592
In a tissue model of type 2 diabetes, the phytocannabinoids THC, CBD, THCV, CBC & CBG protected the β-cells from functional impairment & apoptosis (programmed cellular suicide)
The Impact of Major and Minor Phytocannabinoids on the Maintenance and Function of INS-1 β-Cells Under High-Glucose and High-Lipid Conditions
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363798/
In a mouse model of obesity, oleoylethanolamide (the endocannabinoid of satiety) lowered the inflammatory response in the fat tissue via several mechanisms
Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Oleoylethanolamide-Based Dietary Supplement in Adipose Tissue in Alimentary-Induced Obesity in Mice
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1134/S1990519X25600127
In a mouse model of diabetic neuropathy, a topical of the terpene beta-caryophyllene (which activates the CB2 receptor) reduced pain, inflammation & oxidative stress
Intraplantar β-Caryophyllene Alleviates Pain and Inflammation in STZ-Induced Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy via CB2 Receptor Activation
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40362667/
In a rat model of the antidepressant effects of exercise, the effects appeared to be mediated by increased CB1 receptor levels in the medial prefrontal cortex & the prevention of the loss of astrocytes (the most predominant brain support cell)
Medial Prefrontal Cortical CB1Rs and Astrocytes Are Involved in Depression and the Antidepressant Effects of Running Exercise
https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-6784542/v1
“Critically, running exercise failed to alleviate depression and astrocyte pathology in CB1R-knockdown rats, indicating CB1R dependence. “
In mouse retinas, their response to blue light via a network with the hypothalamus (body control center) resulted in higher levels of the endocannabinoid 2-AG & inhibition of the firing of orexin (a neuropeptide of the sleep-wake cycle & autonomic functions), which is relevant to sleep disorders
The Blue Light‐Responsive Lateral Pathway of the Retinohypothalamic Tract Promotes Endocannabinoid‐Driven Modulation of Orexin Neurons
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/jnc.70137
For CBN, an analysis of the effects of its metabolites on lowering pain, reducing inflammation & modulating the cytochrome P450 enzymes that regulate the breakdown of drugs
Distinct Interactions of Cannabinol and Its Cytochrome P450-Generated Metabolites with Receptors and Sensory Neurons
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acs.jmedchem.5c00938
🧬 Novel Studies 🧬
(my grab bag section for intriguing studies or stuff I haven’t quite seen before)
In NYC nightclub goers, 30% were found to have either CBN or THCA-A in their saliva
Saliva detection of the cannabinoids tetrahydrocannabinolic acid A (THCA-A) and cannabinol (CBN) among nightclub attendees in New York City, 2024
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00952990.2025.2515360
I'm not sure what anybody will do with this information, or who would be surprised by it, but my hope is that at least a few of my friend’s spit contributed to this data.
An intriguing editorial on CBD, heart failure treatment, the mitochondria & nuclear receptors leads off with a Pink Floyd quote…
Cannabidiol, Mitochondria, and PPAR-γ in Heart Failure: Walking on the Bright Side of the Moon?
https://www.jacc.org/doi/full/10.1016/j.jacbts.2025.02.007
📰 US Headlines & Fav Articles 📰
With a quarter of the US Congressional session over, the Congressional Cannabis Caucus has yet to have a single meeting
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/the-congressional-cannabis-caucus-still-hasnt-held-a-meeting-six-months-into-this-session-co-chair-says/
And Trulieve is apparently offering $2M to politician & sex pest Matt Gaetz if he gets Trump to reschedule cannabis
https://www.yahoo.com/news/matt-gaetz-accidentally-reveals-lucrative-181855365.html
And convicted rapist Mike Tyson is pushing Trump to legalize
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/mike-tyson-tells-trump-to-reschedule-marijuana-and-free-prisoners-in-fox-news-appearance/
An excellent essay on the reality of cannabis addiction
https://www.sfgate.com/cannabis/article/reddit-group-helping-people-quit-smoking-pot-20154659.php
In Illinois, nearly half the licenses issued through the social equity program remain unused
https://www.chicagobusiness.com/cannabis/illinois-marijuana-business-licenses-unused-social-equity
In Hawaii, a new medical cannabis law allows healthcare practitioners to certify for any condition where they deem cannabis helpful for their patient
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/hawaii-governor-signs-medical-marijuana-expansion-bill-after-calling-one-of-its-provisions-a-grave-violation-of-privacy/
To me, this is fundamental. Having a state restrict medical access to a handful of approved conditions smacks of bureaucratic overreach. There are dozens of quite rare conditions where there is no funding to study cannabis, but members of that community share with each other that they find it helpful.
In Florida, a new law strips a person’s medical cannabis registration when they are even just charged with a drug crime
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/desantis-signs-bill-to-strip-florida-medical-marijuana-cards-from-people-with-drug-convictions/
In Idaho, a new mandatory minimum fine for cannabis possession
https://idahocapitalsun.com/2025/07/01/new-budget-some-new-laws-take-effect-today-in-idaho/
In California, the new excise tax rate goes into effect, increasing from 15% to 19%
https://www.greenstate.com/news/california-cannabis-tax-increase/
And on the fight of the strong unpleasant smell of cannabis near the big farms
https://www.sfgate.com/cannabis/article/california-expensive-reckoning-smell-legal-20202305.php
For the first time in Massachusetts, a cannabis lab is ordered to suspend operations after multiple violations
https://www.masslive.com/cannabis/2025/07/mass-cannabis-lab-ordered-to-suspend-operations.html
https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/07/03/business/cannabis-assured-testing-yeast-mold-thc-mcr-labs/
This hints at the ongoing problem of lab shopping. If you are a cannabis company looking for a lab, you have every reason to choose the one with a rubber stamp that gives you high THC scores & doesn't fail you for problems like mold or contaminants.
Tucker Carlson’s new documentary is on the Chinese mob grows in the rural US (hattip to my journo buddy Alexander Zaitchik)
https://tuckercarlson.com/high-crimes
To be clear, I do think Tucker Carlson is a POS, but he’s right that this story has gotten less national news coverage than I would’ve expected considering it’s been floating around for a year or two now.
On regaae, an excellent analysis of the importance for cannabis legalization advocacy of the reggae anthems “Legalise It” by Peter Tosh & “Legalisation” by Joseph Hill
The Enduring Power of Reggae Lyrics: Utilizing Peter Tosh’s “Legalise It” and Joseph Hill’s “Legalisation” for Marijuana Legalization Advocacy
https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation?paperid=143510
History Corner 1: In 1980, the Neal Hearing was the first US congressional hearing on medical cannabis & our canna-hero Alice O'Leary Randall recounts the story
https://aliceolearyrandall.substack.com/p/neal-ing-to-synthetics
History Corner II: In the Middle Copper Age (6,000 years ago), hemp cultivation was practiced by Eastern nomadic pastoral groups & by 2500 years ago, they were using a lake for hemp retting
Holocene land cover change in the Pannonian (East-Central Europe) forest steppe: The role of prehistoric land exploitation phases
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2950236525000210
🌐 International News 🌐
In Germany, cannabis horticulture classes have begun at Erfurt University
https://cannabislaw.report/cannabis-education-in-germany-education-in-cannabis-horticulture-has-begun-erfurt-university-of-applied-sciences-has-an-elective-module-in-the-bachelors-program-in-horticultural/
In Scotland, “'Largest ever' cannabis farm found in former college campus”
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cr799d98vk3o
In Georgia, the government adopted even stricter penalties for cannabis offenses with 5 grams perhaps getting you 6 years in prison
https://parliament.ge/en/media/news/sakanonmdeblo-organom-siskhlis-samartlis-kodeksshi-tsvlilebebi-pirveli-mosmenit-miigho
In Taiwan, a social media influencer was detained for 4 days after testing positive for cannabis because of an infused beverage during her trip to Thailand
https://cannabislaw.report/taiwanese-woman-detained-in-shanghai-for-4-days-over-cannabis-test-after-thailand-trip/
In Malaysia, an analysis of how Thailand's legalization increased their social acceptance of cannabis despite the country’s harsh penalties
Marijuana: the influence of Thailand's marijuana legalisation on social acceptance in Malaysia
https://ir.uitm.edu.my/id/eprint/118205/
⚖️ Business, Laws & Education
An essay arguing against routine cannabis testing for healthcare employees, especially during the rise of interstate telemedicine
Ethical Shortcomings of Healthcare Worker Cannabis Testing Highlighted by the Rise of Interstate Telemedicine.
https://openurl.ebsco.com/EPDB%3Agcd%3A2%3A36301490/detailv2?sid=ebsco%3Aplink%3Ascholar&id=ebsco%3Agcd%3A186023298&crl=c&link_origin=scholar.google.com
On innovative financial strategies in the cannabis sector
Financial Management in the Cannabis Industry: Innovative financial practices in the cannabis sector
https://openurl.ebsco.com/EPDB%3Agcd%3A13%3A36245469/detailv2?sid=ebsco%3Aplink%3Ascholar&id=ebsco%3Agcd%3A185791114&crl=c&link_origin=scholar.google.com
A market analysis of cannabis edibles products
A content analysis of cannabis edible product characteristics, packaging features, and online promotions
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0091743525001197
In cannabis edibles, an analysis of brand names & marketing strategies
A Thematic Text Analysis of Cannabis Edibles Brand Names
https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/can.2025.0033
A commentary on the benefits of hemp for the US economy
Hemp is Good for America's Economy--and Its Future.
https://openurl.ebsco.com/EPDB%3Agcd%3A14%3A36221134/detailv2?sid=ebsco%3Aplink%3Ascholar&id=ebsco%3Agcd%3A185751977&crl=c&link_origin=scholar.google.com
On this topic, I don my professional devil's advocate hat & opine that I think the majority of the industrial uses of hemp are overrated. There's many academic studies about use cases but they rarely translate into use in real-world industries.
🚓 The War on Drugs 🚓
The UN releases their World Drug Report 2025 with a focus on the big uptick in cocaine, the rise of synthetic amphetamines & the environmental impacts of drug cultivation & trafficking
https://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/press/releases/2025/June/unodc-world-drug-report-2025_-global-instability-compounding-social--economic-and-security-costs-of-the-world-drug-problem.html
In China, 2.4 tons of drugs seized & 262 arrested so far this year
https://cannabislaw.report/media-report-2-4-tons-of-drugs-seized-in-chinese-ports-this-year/
In Yemen, 500 kg of hashish seized off the coast
https://cannabislaw.report/yemen-govt-forces-foil-attempt-to-smuggle-half-a-ton-of-hashish-near-bab-al-mandab/
Under Reagan, a historical analysis of his media strategy to win public backing for the Latin-American drug war
The Telegenics of Force: How Reagan Used The News to Win Support for the Latin American Drug War
https://muse.jhu.edu/pub/12/article/962910/pdf
Let me be clear: Reagan was a piece of shit. Not just for the Drug War & the rise of the police state, but for how he allowed Queer people to burn in hell during the AIDS crisis.
The US announced sanctions against several leaders of the Jalisco Cartel for femicide (the murder of the TikTok influencer Valeria Márquez during a livestream)
https://insightcrime.org/news/rare-case-us-sanctions-jalisco-cartel-leader-femicide-mexico/
In Ecuador, a symbolic capture of Fito (Adolfo Macías Villamar), leader of the Choneros
https://insightcrime.org/news/ecuador-captures-choneros-leader-fito-war-gangs-continues/
And a profile of the Choneros, one of Ecuador’s top drug trafficking groups
https://insightcrime.org/ecuador-organized-crime-news/los-choneros/
In Latin American, an intriguing analysis showing that high levels of violence can be most attributed to the drug trade
https://vodoueconomics.substack.com/p/why-is-latin-america-so-violent
In Afghanistan, an analysis of why opium cultivation persists
Why Opium Cultivation Has Not Ended in Afghanistan and What Is the Solution?
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/29769442251350944
In Colombia, a report on the environmental effects of the cocaine, gold & cattle economies
Environmental Impacts and Transitions across Illicit, Informal and Licit Economies in Colombia: Coca-Cocaine, Gold, and Cattle
https://repositorio.uniandes.edu.co/entities/publication/a9e03a90-ae61-466f-98dd-80959140e71e
A review of US drug policy from Nixon onwards found it to be consistently weak
Stable, But Weak: Fifty Years of U.S. Illicit Drug Policy from Nixon to Trump and Beyond
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40538325/
On US aid to Latin America, a thesis project on poverty & drug wars
Poverty and Drug Wars: On U.S. Aid to Latin America
https://mail.tku.edu.tw/113922/data/Poverty%20and%20Drug%20Wars_Lin0514.pdf
A thesis project examining the drug policies of Portugal & Greece
Examining Drug Policy in Portugal and Greece
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2312&context=cc_etds_theses
🛡️ Harm Reduction News 🛡️
In the UK, the solicitor general said that the government has no plans for opening safe drug consumption facilities
https://hansard.parliament.uk/Commons/2025-06-19/debates/86D50E52-49C7-497A-9B61-F92F48100AC8/Non-ViolentDrug-RelatedOffencesProsecution
‘Experts Credit Harm Reduction, Not Border Cops, for 27% Drop in Overdose Deaths’
https://truthout.org/articles/experts-credit-harm-reduction-not-border-cops-for-27-drop-in-overdose-deaths/
A debate on closing an overdose prevention site in Red Deer, Canada
https://www.reddeeradvocate.com/local-news/permanent-closure-of-red-deers-overdose-prevention-site-debated-in-court-of-kings-bench-8096697
Harm Reduction Research
On a photovoice project (participatory photography) for mobilizing harm-reduction knowledge with 2S/LGBTQ+ youth who use drugs
Harm reduction in photovoice knowledge mobilization with 2S/LGBTQ+ youth who use(d) drugs: A community showcase
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40551150/
In people attending a mobile harm reduction service, offering them a free naloxone education session was found to increase their confidence in administering naloxone & their likelihood of intervening when witnessing an overdose
Utilizing Naloxone Education to Reduce the Mortality and Morbidity Rate of Overdose Deaths Within Opioid-Exposed Populations
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40557007/
Trust in local government is increased when they have comprehensive drug policies for drug treatment & harm reduction.
Comprehensive drug policies increase trust in local government: an analysis of authorities’ and residents’ perspectives in rural US Appalachian and Midwestern counties
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12954-024-01148-x?utm_source=rct_congratemailt&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=oa_20250317&utm_content=10.1186%2Fs12954-024-01148-x
This commentary urges leveraging the FDA Narcan approval to embed overdose prevention in US public health
Transforming Opioid Overdose Prevention in the United States: Leveraging FDA's Narcan Approval to Foster a Culture of Health
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40535536/
Among US pharmacists, a review of their knowledge & attitudes towards harm reduction & treating substance use disorders
Knowledge and attitudes regarding substance use disorder treatment and harm reduction practices among US pharmacists: a scoping review
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40543562/
An analysis reviewing the different metrics for evaluating substance-use treatment outcomes
Substance Use Disorder Treatment Outcomes: Methodological Overview of Metrics and Criteria
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40540529/
🍄 Psychedelics, Plant Medicines & Other Psychoactives 🍄
On the ultra-wealthy & the psychedelic jet-set: “DMT on Mega-Yachts”
https://www.ecstaticintegration.org/p/dmt-on-mega-yachts-inside-the-psychedelic
The Psychoactive Research
For alcohol use disorder, MDMA reduced the levels of drinking risk & improved quality of life
MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for AUD: Bayesian analysis of WHO drinking risk level and exploratory analysis of drinking behavior and psychosocial functioning at 3 months follow-up
https://academic.oup.com/alcalc/article/60/4/agaf031/8159130?login=false
In people with cancer, one dose of psilocybin caused robust antidepressive effects
Long‐term benefits of single‐dose psilocybin in depressed patients with cancer
https://acsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/cncr.35889
In US veterans with severe treatment-resistant depression, a single dose of psilocybin elicited sustained reductions in depression for up to a year
Long-term outcomes of single-dose psilocybin for U.S. military Veterans with severe treatment-resistant depression – 12-month data from an open-label pilot study
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165032725010973
In a naturalistic study, psychedelics were linked to a heightened sense of meaning in life
Enhanced meaning in life following psychedelic use: converging evidence from controlled and naturalistic studies
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40547590/
In a double-blind trial, a single dose of an ayahuasca-type formulation (DMT + harmine) caused a significant increase in mindfulness, self-compassion & compassion with others
Enhancing mindfulness and compassion through an ayahuasca-inspired formulation containing N,N-DMT and harmine: A randomized controlled trial in healthy subjects
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/02698811251344689
Subjective effects of vaporized DMT
Safety, tolerability and subjective effects of vaporized N,N-Dimethyltryptamine: A randomized double-blind clinical trial
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0924977X25001129?via%3Dihub
For psilocybin, brain scans on the neural changes
Psilocybin’s acute and persistent brain effects: a precision imaging drug trial
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41597-025-05189-0
The functional effects of LSD in the brain
Molecular, haemodynamic, and functional effects of LSD in the human brain
https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2025.06.17.25329677v1
🍃 The Plant & its Products 🍃
🌱 Growing & Extracting 🌱
On using the new hemp model in the digital farming tool CROPGRO to simulate seed & fiber production with different cultivars & planting dates
Adaptation of the process‐based CSM‐CROPGRO model to simulate the growth and development of industrial hemp for seed and fiber production
https://acsess.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdfdirect/10.1002/agg2.70145
On creating a precision seeder machine with a pneumatic sowing system
ANALYSIS OF QUALITY OF POINT SOWING FINOLA VARIETY HEMP SEEDS WITH PRECISION SEEDER
https://www.iitf.lbtu.lv/conference/proceedings2025/Papers/TF205.pdf
For flattening hemp stalks, an analysis of the best mechanical parameters
JUSTIFICATION OF PARAMETERS OF HEMP STEM ROLLERS
https://www.iitf.lbtu.lv/conference/proceedings2025/Papers/TF195.pdf
In alkaline soil, an analysis of the genes activated & the changes to photosynthetic activity
Transcriptomic sequencing and expression verification of identified genes modulating the alkali stress tolerance and endogenous photosynthetic activities of industrial hemp plant
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0326434
In five organic hemp varieties, an analysis of 25 polyphenols across their growing cycle
Quantitative Distribution of Polyphenolic Compounds during Plant Development in Five Varieties of Organic Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.)
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acs.jafc.5c01299
In Western Europe, field trials of the best hemp varieties for long fiber production
Selecting Optimal Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) Varieties for Long Fibre Production in Western Europe
https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4395/15/7/1521
For cannabis leaves, optimizing microwave-assisted extraction
Optimization of microwave-assisted extraction conditions for bioactive compounds from Cannabis sativa L. leaves using response surface methodology
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772275925000243
On efficient THC isolation with centrifugal partition chromatography
Tetrahydrocannabinol separation from cannabis extracts using centrifugal partition chromatography
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0021967325005199
From hemp press cakes, on optimizing ultrasound-assisted extraction
Evaluation of Applied Statistical Models to Optimize Ultrasound‐Assisted Extraction of Proteins From Hemp Press Cakes
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jfpe.70166
On improving the yield of CBD crystals
Refining Cannabidiol Crystallization: Exploring Influential Factors and Quality Control for High-Purity Crystal Production
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acs.iecr.5c01551
⚙️ Formulating & Analyzing ⚙️
On encapsulating Limosilactobacillus reuteri probiotics with hemp protein & kudzu starch
Conception of novel protein-polysaccharide complex coacervation based on hemp proteins and kudzu starch for the microencapsulation of Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 probiotic strain
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0963996925012797
On a validated LC-MS method for measuring cannabinoids in a supercritical CO2 vs ultrasound extraction
Development of a Validated LC-MS Method for the Determination of Cannabinoids and Evaluation of Supercritical CO2 vs. Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction in Cannabis sativa L. (Kompolti cv.)
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3921/14/7/777
🍞 Food, Nutrition & Hemp Seeds 🍞
In the aerial parts of cannabis, an analysis of their lipid composition & nutritional value, especially the leaves
Fatty Acid Composition and Bioactive Profiles in the Aerial Parts of Cannabis sativa
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363754/
On creating hybrid cheeses of plant & dairy proteins, hemp protein formed smaller aggregates & resulted in a softer cheese structure with higher meltability than with mung bean
Physical properties and microstructure of hybrid processed cheeses formulated with plant protein and milk protein ingredients
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0268005X25006484
In sausages, fermentation increased some endocannabinoids levels while heat treatment decreased them
Formation of endocannabinoids and endocannabinoid-like compounds in sausages: Effect of fermentation, heat treatment and storage
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0963996925012645
In laying hens, hemp seed feed improved egg fatty acid composition & the sensory evaluation of boiled eggs
Whole hempseed as a feeding enrichment for laying hens: effects on egg quality, nutritional profile and sensory attributes
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0032579125007278
For hemp seed cakes, the dehulled had superior nutrition & shelf stability over the hulled
Comparative Characterization of Hemp Seed Cakes from Dehulled and Hulled Cannabis sativa L. var. oleifera cv. 'Henola': Nutritional, Functional, and Storage Stability Insights
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40361687/
To improve hemp seed antioxidant & anti-inflammatory metabolite levels, on using a biostimulant complex of molasses, aloe vera & fish hydrolysate
Modulation of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory metabolites in hemp (Cannabis sativa) seed via a biostimulant complex of molasses, Aloe vera extract, and fish hydrolysate
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/01140671.2025.2519571
🏗️ Industrial Uses & Fiber 🏗️
For advanced wastewater treatment, an analysis of hemp & clay composites
Potential of Hemp and Clay Composites in Advanced Wastewater Treatment Applications: Bibliometric Analysis
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/392927973_Potential_of_Hemp_and_Clay_Composites_in_Advanced_Wastewater_Treatment_Applications_Bibliometric_Analysis
For water desalination, on using a nanofiber membrane doped with hemp
Production of industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa) plant added PA66 nanofiber membranes by the electrospinning method: Investigation of water desalting performances
https://avesis.bozok.edu.tr/yayin/4fc57d51-5557-4e15-ad69-3d1eab4d11b8/production-of-industrial-hemp-cannabis-sativa-plant-added-pa66-nanofiber-membranes-by-the-electrospinning-method-investigation-of-water-desalting-performances
On removing the toxic crystal violet dye from water with cannabis leaf powder
Cannabis Sativa L. Leaves Powder as an Effective Biosorbent for the Elimination of Precarious Crystal Violet Dye from Aqueous Solution
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11270-025-08274-7
For hemp remediation of the soil, a review of the best strategies
Harnessing Cannabis sativa L. for integrated environmental remediation and circular biomass use
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S004896972501616X
For food packaging, a starch film with CBD oil & chitosan for improved hydrophobic & antibacterial properties
Starch films cross-linked with boronated chitosan enriched with cannabis oil as food packaging material
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0142941825002247
For the extraction of cellulose from hemp waste, alkaline & acidic treatment improved fiber size
Cellulose Extraction from Soybean Hulls and Hemp Waste by Alkaline and Acidic Treatments: An In-Depth Investigation on the Effects of the Chemical Treatments on Biomass
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363006/
Hemp residues found to still contain key bioactive compounds with antioxidant activity
Exploring the Proximate, Phytochemical, and Antioxidant Potential of Hemp and Parthenium Residues
https://ojs.bioresources.com/index.php/BRJ/article/view/24442
On epoxy/hemp composites with nano-SiO₂ & Al(OH)₃ for more strength & flame resistance
Thermo-Mechanical and Flame-Retardant Performance of Epoxy/Hemp Composites Reinforced with Nano-SiO2 and Al(OH)3
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12221-025-01043-7
On a walnut-filled hemp fiber epoxy composites
Dynamic performance and sustainability of hemp fiber-reinforced polymer epoxy resin matrix composites with walnut shell filler
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0032386125007062
On using additive manufacturing to create a PLA-basalt/hemp biocomposite
Additive manufacturing of low environmental impact PLA-basalt/hemp biocomposites: life cycle assessment and mechanical properties
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00170-025-15961-6
On the best flax/hemp fiber orientation for yarn strength & resistance
Utilizing woven flax/hemp yarn on SS304 wiremesh reinforced flax fiber composites for tribological applications
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2590123025019802
In hemp fiber, the tensile strength effects of alkali treatment & bitumen coating
Investigation of the Effect of Alkali Treatment and Bitumen Coating on the Tensile Strength of Hemp Fibers
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/392925322_Investigation_of_the_Effect_of_Alkali_Treatment_and_Bitumen_Coating_on_the_Tensile_Strength_of_Hemp_Fibers
On decreasing the water absorption capacity of hemp fibers with fly-ash geopolymers
Mechanical Properties of Treated Hemp Fiber-Reinforced Fly Ash-Based Geopolymers After Wet/Dry Cycles
https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-92874-1_35
For hemp concrete, on improving its durability & fire resistance with mineral additives
Hemp Concrete with Mineral Additives as a Durable and Fire-Resistant Material in Green Construction
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363409/
For hemp-lime mixes, on the best carbonation levels for mechanical strength
Mechanical Properties and Carbonation Measurement of Various Hemp-Lime Formulations
https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-92874-1_29
🌿 THE CANNA-SCIENCE ARCHIVE 🌿
A sociological take of cannabis going from prohibition to regulation
Drugs, societies and the question of health: From prohibition to regulation of cannabis for therapeutic purposes
https://www.scielosp.org/article/sausoc/2025.v34n1/e240902pt/en/
In the jazz-era tea pads of the 1920s, an essay on the cannabis intoxication & tropes (paywalled, but I'm tempted to email the author)
“My Whole Body’s Sent, I Feel Like a Millionaire”: Ecstasies (and Agonies) of Cannabis Intoxication in Jazz-era Tea Pads, 1926–1940
https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-84051-7_3
In Franco’s Spain, a book chapter on the state repression of cannabis (ditto. Paywalled, but I want to befriend the author)
From Stimulant to Psychedelic: The Changing Use and Repression of Cannabis in Franco’s Spain
https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-84051-7_11
🏥 Public Health & Effects of Legalization
In older Canadians, a survey of their cannabis use & perceptions of risk
Cannabis Use and Perceptions of Cannabis Safety, Effectiveness, and Stigma amongst older Canadians: A Cross-Sectional Survey
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/392576668_Cannabis_Use_and_Perceptions_of_Cannabis_Safety_Effectiveness_and_Stigma_amongst_older_Canadians_A_Cross-Sectional_Survey
In Peruvian youth & adults, a survey found a positive perception of the benefits of medical cannabis
Therapeutic Use of Cannabis: Perceptions of Youth and Adults in Trujillo, Peru
https://f1000research.com/articles/14-622
In US adults of diverse sexual identities, a national survey found rising cannabis use from 2015 to 2019
Trends in cannabis use among adults across sexual identities in the United States, 2015-2019
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/29933021.2025.2517223
A thesis project on cannabis use by sexual identity with bisexual women being the biggest users
Joint Realities: Prevalence, Frequency, And Modality Of Cannabis Use By Sexual Identity In A Multi-State Brfss Sample (2022–2023)
https://elischolar.library.yale.edu/ysphtdl/2521/
🧒 Adolescents & Young Adults 🧒
For adolescents, a review on their health issues from cannabis use
Adolescents and cannabis in the 21st century: Current Problems in Pediatric and Adolescent Health Care
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1538544225000288
In adolescents with recent suicidal thoughts or behavior, the recent declines in overall teen cannabis use have not been as strong in those with a history of suicidality
Alcohol and Cannabis Use Trends Among Adolescents With and Without a History of Recent Suicidal Thoughts and Behavior: 1991-2023
https://www.jahonline.org/article/S1054-139X(25)00169-7/pdf
During COVID, a survey found that adolescents with increased suicidality tended to use more e-cigarettes & cannabis
Exploring E-Cigarette and Marijuana Use and Their Relationship to Suicidality Among U.S. Adolescents During COVID-19 by Using 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey Data
https://www.proquest.com/openview/8589a6784f318141d7d57d0da7b1a163/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y
For adolescents, a survey found that cannabis legalization laws were associated with higher odds of initiating cannabis vaping as well as for those reporting e-cigarette use
Youth Initiation of Cannabis Vaping is Associated With State Cannabis Policy and E-Cigarette Use
https://www.jahonline.org/article/S1054-139X(25)00139-9/pdf
For the effects of laws on adolescent cannabis use, medical cannabis policies were associated with more past-year use while perception of serious criminal justice penalties were associated with less past-year cannabis use
The Role of Cannabis Policies and Perceptions of Penalties on the Association Between Adolescent Social Bonds and Cannabis Use
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10826084.2025.2522153
For adolescent cannabis use motives in Europe, a review of 17 studies found their motives to include coping, enhancement, expansion, social, health & relaxation motives & to a smaller extent, conformity & sexual motives
Motives and associated factors for cannabis use among adolescents in Europe: A scoping review
https://helda.helsinki.fi/items/82eb66ee-8a60-46e2-81e0-ca95db899664
In California adolescents, exposure to social media posts about cannabis or e-cigarettes was associated with cannabis, e-cigarette & dual use
E-Cigarette and Cannabis Social Media Posts and Adolescent Substance Use
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40553470/
🧠 The Brain & Neurological Disorders 🧠
In people in Australia with epilepsy, a survey found widespread use of cannabis & CBD
Use of Medicinal Cannabis for Epilepsy in the Australian Community 2023-2024: A Cross-Sectional Survey
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40568058/
In the horse amygdala (processing center of emotional responses, especially fear & aggression), they contained CB1, CB2, TRPV1 & (nuclear) PPARγ receptors
Cannabinoid Receptors in the Horse Lateral Nucleus of the Amygdala: A Potential Target for Ameliorating Pain Perception, Stress and Anxiety in Horses
https://www.preprints.org/frontend/manuscript/bb8037ba924ef53445039d9f4a455530/download_pub
In wild-type mice but not Alzheimer's mice, CBD improved their brain levels of copper (a metal whose levels are often dysregulated by Alzheimer's)
Cannabidiol modulates brain copper homeostasis in wild-type-like but not Alzheimer’s disease transgenic female mice: Implications for neuroprotective therapy
https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-6727849/v1
In an adolescent rat model of the birth of new brain cells in the hippocampus (memory center of the brain), the process was regulated by both the endocannabinoid & kisspeptin pathways
Adult Neurogenesis Is Regulated by the Endocannabinoid and Kisspeptin Systems
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40362219/
💭 Mental Health, Addiction & Cannabis Use Disorder 💭
In brain scans of people with psychosis, recent cannabis users showed no differences in the EEG measurements of brain wave cycles
Influence of recent cannabis use on altered spectral entropy modulation and connectivity strength in patients with psychosis
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00406-025-02004-0
In brain scans of people undergoing a major depressive episode, there were no significant correlation in the brain levels of their FAAH enzyme (which breaks down anandamide)
Fatty acid amide hydrolase in major depressive episodes: A [11C]CURB positron emission tomography study
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41386-025-02150-y
In youth, more severe anxiety symptoms were associated with higher levels of anandamide & lower levels of 2-AG while their response to treatment with the SSRI escitalopram was linked to greater increases in 2-AG
Circulating endocannabinoids in children and adolescents: associations with anxiety and the impact of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41386-025-02155-7
In people with insomnia before they experienced a trauma, they were more likely to be heavily using alcohol & cannabis 2 months after the trauma
Pre-trauma insomnia and posttraumatic alcohol and cannabis use in the AURORA observational cohort study of trauma survivors
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S002239562500425X
In bisexual people, they had higher rates of cannabis use & more anxiety/depression
Cannabis use, risk of cannabis use disorder, and anxiety and depression among bisexual patients: A comparative study of sex and sexual identity differences in a large health system
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0376871625002157
In people using electronic nicotine delivery systems, those who were also using cannabis reported higher dependence on their nicotine products
Co-Use of Nicotine Products and Cannabis and Its Association with ENDS Dependence Among U.S. adults Frequently Using ENDS
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10826084.2025.2519412
Usability testing of the “Joint Effort” mobile app for self-managing cannabis use
A Mobile App (Joint Effort) to Support Cannabis Use Self-Management and Reinforce the Use of Protective Behavioral Strategies: Development Process and Usability Testing
https://formative.jmir.org/2025/1/e71924/
In rats with prenatal alcohol exposure, a thesis project found their later addictive behaviors were mediated by fatty acid-binding protein 5 (FABP5 - a transporter of endocannabinoids) but not PPARγ (a nuclear receptor that regulates genetic transcription)
Effects of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma (PPARγ) and Fatty Acid-Binding Protein 5 (FABP5) on Addictive Behaviors in Prenatal Ethanol Exposed Rats
https://www.proquest.com/openview/20d825c4f965f7082a1db02d86b98606/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y
On nanofibers with CBD & levosulpiride (a dopamine antagonist) with better bioavailability for treating depression & anxiety
Development of novel electrospun nanofibers loaded with Levosulpiride and Cannabidiol encapsulated in cyclodextrin-phospholipid inclusion complex for ameliorated treatment of anxiety and depression
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S037851732500746X
🧬 Reproduction & Hormones 🧬
For the impact of cannabis use on maternal health & neonatal outcomes, a review of effects
The changing landscape of cannabis use: impact on maternal health and neonatal outcomes
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41390-025-04209-4
For maternal cannabis use during pregnancy, there was an association with decreased infant birth weight & length, more neonatal special care admissions & lower educational achievement scores at the age of 16, but most of these associations went away when controlling for socioeconomic position (Hank’s Razor)
Maternal cannabis use in pregnancy, perinatal outcomes, and cognitive development in offspring: a longitudinal analysis of the ALSPAC cohort using paternal cannabis use as a negative control exposure
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40353977/
In human granulosa cells (which produce eggs), chronic cannabinoid exposure did not disrupt their synthesis of estradiol (oestrogen)
Cannabinoid exposure does not alter estradiol biosynthesis in human KGN granulosa cells
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0890623825001492
In the rat periaqueductal gray (a control center for modulating pain & defensive & aversive behaviors), the hormone corticosterone enhanced the synthesis of the endocannabinoid 2-AG (via inhibition of its breakdown enzyme DAGL) & prolonged CB1 receptor activation to inhibit the release of GABA (the brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter)
Corticosterone stimulates synthesis of 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) via putative membrane-bound glucocorticoid receptors and inhibits GABA release via CB1 cannabinoid receptors in the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0026895X25153182
🦴 Pain, Musculoskeletal, Inflammation & Surgeries 🦴
In rural adults with unmet chronic pain needs, they may benefit from additional access to cannabis & harm reduction strategies
The Intersection of Rurality, Unmet Treatment Need, and Cannabis Use for Adults with Chronic Pain
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40342546/
In a genomic analysis of people with chronic pain using cannabis, one of the polymorphisms (genetic variants) of the CB1 receptor was linked with psychotic adverse events, though the significance of this disappeared after multiple SNP testings
Pharmacogenetic association study of cannabis use in chronic pain
https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-6957614/v1
For the impact of cannabis on acute pain following oral surgery, we are stymied by a paywall…
The Impact of Cannabis on Acute Pain Following Oral Surgery
https://www.ijoms.com/article/S0901-5027(25)00412-6/abstract
❤️ The Heart & Blood ❤️
In people getting hematopoietic stem cell transplants (for blood disorders or cancer treatment), a survey found that they decreased their cannabis use after the transplant
Cannabis in Hematology Survey Study (CHESS): A Longitudinal Investigation on Uses, Attitudes, and Outcomes of Cannabis Among Hematology Patients Undergoing Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant
https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/22/7/990
🩸 The Liver, Drug Interactions & Cannabinoid Metabolism 🩸
Something about cannabis & liver transplants (probably that we should stop blocking people from liver transplants because of cannabis use, which is true according to the data)
Cannabis and Liver Transplant: We Need to Chill, Man
https://journals.lww.com/lt/citation/9900/cannabis_and_liver_transplant__we_need_to_chill,.638.aspx
💨 The Lungs 💨
In public health data, something about cannabis legalization & asthma hospitalizations...
Increasing trend in asthma hospitalization among cannabis-dependent abusers and recreational cannabis legalizations (1998-2021)
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40360037/
On creating an inhalable CBD powder for treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Preparation and in vitro characterization of inhalable cannabidiol dry powder for treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S037851732500729X
Creation of an in vitro model for studying the effects of cannabis vapor at the air-liquid interface
In vitro Cannabis Exposures of Lung Epithelial Cells at the Air-Liquid Interface
https://app.jove.com/t/68102/in-vitro-cannabis-exposures-lung-epithelial-cells-at-air-liquid
🍽️ The Guts & the Microbiome 🍽️
In a survey of college students, a thesis project found cannabis use linked with unhealthy eating habits
Associations Between Cannabis Consumption, Eating Habits, and Illicit Drug Use Among College Students
https://orb.binghamton.edu/research_days_posters_2025/51/
Listen, I've got two little kids & a constant waterfall of cannabinoid science to process. If I want to end my night with a small smoke & a large bag of chips, it may not only be my right but my duty.
In a mouse model of obesity, enriching their diet with manganese altered their gut microbiome & increased their levels of anandamide
Dietary Manganese Modulates Microbiota and Intestinal N‐Acylethanolamines in a Sex‐Specific Manner in Mice With Diet‐Induced Obesity
https://faseb.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1096/fj.202500934R
🎗️ Cancer & Chemotherapy 🎗️
For cancer screenings, public health data found cannabis users to have a lower adherence for breast cancer or prostate cancer screenings but not cervical or colorectal cancer screenings
Association of Cannabis Use With Guideline-Recommended Cancer Screenings: Results From a National Health Behaviors Survey
https://ascopubs.org/doi/abs/10.1200/OP-24-01093
In triple-negative breast cancer, a nanoencapsulation of the terpene beta-caryophyllene caused cytotoxicity
pH-Sensitive Niosomal Nanoencapsulation of Beta-Caryophyllene and its Novel Pathway in Triple Negative Breast Cancer
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Arif-Setiawansyah/publication/392923714_pH-Sensitive_Niosomal_Nanoencapsulation_of_Beta-_Caryophyllene_and_its_Novel_Pathway_in_Triple_Negative_Breast_Cancer
💊 Synthetic Cannabinoids & Hemp-Derived Cannabinoids 💊
For wastewater sampling, on the microextraction of synthetic cannabinoids using a monolithic in-tube SPME to rapidly clean them before an UPLC-QTRAP MS/MS
Hybrid monolithic column in-tube solid-phase microextraction for pretreatment of synthetic cannabinoids prior to determination by UPLC-QTRAP MS/MS
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0026265X25017503
On micro-sampling to detect the metabolites of the synthetic cannabinoid 5F-PB-22
Volumetric absorptive microsampling for in vitro metabolism of new psychoactive substances: investigation on the synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist 5F-PB-22
https://cris.unibo.it/handle/11585/1018377
On the breakdown of synthetic cannabinoid ADB-FUBIATA into its metabolites
Elucidation of human metabolism of ADB-FUBIATA for population exposure assessment
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11356-025-36571-5
🔬 Biochemical Discoveries & Detection Tools 🔬
On creating CBG derivatives that activate both the CB2 receptor & block the TRPM8 receptor for pain killing & anti-inflammatory effects
Identification of Cannabigerol-Derived Dual CB2 Receptor Agonists and TRPM8 Antagonists with Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Activities
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c03220
On putting CBGA biosynthesis machinery into the bacteria Corynebacterium glutamicum
Engineering Synthetic Expression Module Combinations for Sub-Pathway Design in Cannabigerolic Acid Biosynthesis in Corynebacterium glutamicum
https://www.dbpia.co.kr/journal/articleDetail?nodeId=NODE12233641
In the GPR119 receptor (which may one day be known as CB4), an analysis of its binding sites via GSK1292263
Structural insights into the activation of G protein-coupled receptor 119 by the agonist GSK1292263 and ligands selectivity among novel cannabinoid receptors
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0141813025060313
On potent reversible inhibitors of MAGL enzyme (which breaks down 2-AG) based on hydroxyanilide derivatives
Discovery of reversible monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) inhibitors based on ortho-hydroxyanilide scaffold
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0045206825005784
On new endocannabinoid probes based on a tetraolefinic chain
Novel Tetraolefinic Chain Phenyl Substituted Endocannabinoid Probes
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acs.jmedchem.5c00047
For rapid urine detection of THC metabolites, a disposable, graphene-based electrochemical sensor
Novel approach to urinary 11-nor-9-carboxy-delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol analysis in forensic applications using disposable, graphene-based electrochemical sensor coupled with monolithic micro-solid-phase extraction
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0003267025007536
Thanks.
- lex
PS: For a pinnacle of New Orleans boogie-woogie piano, ‘The Complete Imperial Singles’ by the rock & roll pioneer Fats Domino. The first track on this album, ‘The Fat Man’, is consistently singled out as a candidate for the first rock & roll record. It also began his partnership with the legendary producer & arranger Dave Bartholomew of Imperial Records. Together, just in the span of 1955 to 1963, they wrote more than 35 Top 40 singles including the legendary ‘Ain’t That A Shame?’ & the perfect ‘Blueberry Hill’. Described by Elvis as a “huge influence” & the “real king of rock & roll”, Fats was actually shy & modest by nature. One of the first Black stars to break out into national popularity during the breakdown of racial segregation, in 1957 he said of the musical styles, “What they call rock 'n' roll now is rhythm and blues. I've been playing it for 15 years in New Orleans”. But he was the first “rock and roll” musician to sell over a million copies & he had five gold records (1M+ sales) in just his first few years of recording. When the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame had their first group of inductees in 1986, he was among them. As the critic Robert Christgau commented, “In short, this shy, deferential, uncharismatic man invented New Orleans rock and roll.”
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