CBD for severe autism, cannabis for missing less work & harms for lungs & testicles
Ukraine goes medical + US cannabis user gun rights upheld
Cannabinoids & The People,
or; Drugs & Drug Wars
🌟 This week 🌟
(#hashtags for jumping to articles by searching for them with your browser)
In kids with severe autism, the benefits of CBD sustained over a 2-year follow-up
Diary entries on cannabis anxiety
Medical cannabis laws linked to less workplace absenteeism
Harms: worse lung health in cannabis users (#lunghealth) & worse testicular dysfunction (#sperm)
Preclinical: CBD for fentanyl use disorder, Parkinson’s, neuropathic pain & Angelman syndrome
Ketamine for methamphetamine use disorder + MDMA for social anxiety + ayahuasca for advanced Alzheimer’s
For 5-MeO-DMT, the myth of traditional Indigenous use is a case of “fabricated ancestrality”
Harm reduction: Vancouver’s safer supply program for opioids caused many benefits (#safersupply)
War on Drugs: another (inhumane illegal) boat strike + DEA allowed huge shipments of fentanyl to cross the border
[numbers for C&P#192: 7.4k words, ~20 minutes reading time, 133 papers]
📌 Editor’s note 📌:
We’re back after a week off. And also, this is your official notice that this summer, this newsletter may not show up every Monday. I’ve got little kids & I live in Europe. We’ll be at the lake a lot, I’ll be minding them a lot & sometimes this newsletter will be the thing that has to give.
I also suspect that you all won’t mind that much. I doubt many of you are here for cutting-edge news updates. My place in the community seems to be diving deep through all the science & finding pearls for you that might otherwise get missed. So every week, the finishing off of this newsletter & the reformatting it for the various platforms takes about half a day. That’s time that I could be using for processing more science instead. So I’ll focus on making sure I stay on top of all the science & if a newsletter doesn’t show up once in a blue Monday, just picture me by the lake with a 5-year-old in my lap watching the boats go by …⛵...🏊…☀️.
Hello everyone,
Welcome to the 192nd edition of Cannabinoids & the People, Lex Pelger’s free weekly digest of all the new cannabinoid science, assorted canna-news + the War on Drugs, harm reduction & other psychoactives. Support this work with a paid subscription or by buying me a coffee. If you purchase one of my canna-graphic novels based on Moby Dick, proceeds go to Americans for Safe Access to support medical cannabis patients.
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(nothing new. Been playing with the kids at the pool instead…)
And as always, at the bottom is the album of the week: the scintillating soul jazz of Young-Holt Unlimited
💖 Ways to support this work 💖
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📣 A request to spread the word 📣
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🍃 BEST OF CANNABINOID SCIENCE 🍃
(most of the phytocannabinoid data is here & most of the ECS data is in the ‘Canna-Science Archive’ at the bottom)
On InMed Pharmaceuticals, a Canadian drug company with a pipeline that includes a topical CBN cream for epidermolysis bullosa (a painful disease of skin blistering), a drug that activates the CB1 & CB2 receptors for macular degeneration & an Alzheimer’s drug that activates the CB1 & CB2 receptors
https://cannabinoidpipelineinsights.substack.com/p/inmed-pharmaceuticals-a-cannabinoid
And IGC Pharma who has an Alzheimer’s drug that combines a low dose of THC with melatonin
https://cannabinoidpipelineinsights.substack.com/p/another-cannabinoid-r-and-d-product
I’ve been enjoying this new newsletter ‘Cannabinoid Pipeline Insights’ that shares breakdowns of what’s going on in pharmaceutical cannabinoids. I’d recommend giving them a follow.
⚕️ Clinical ⚕️
In children with autism & severe treatment-resistant behavioral symptoms, a long-term follow-up of CBD found that the initial improvements were maintained or further improved upon, particularly in irritability, social withdrawal & hyperactivity, with a 40% reduction in medication usage.
Long-term follow-up of children with autism spectrum disorder and severe treatment-resistant behavioral symptoms treated with purified cannabidiol
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42248366/
In a diary study of people starting to use cannabis for anxiety, this excellent collection of quotes found improvements in sleep, emotional regulation, relationships, motivation, daily functioning & overall well-being.
Beyond symptom change: a qualitative descriptive study of reported quality of life experiences among adults prescribed medicinal cannabis for anxiety disorders
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11096-026-02176-2
In people with PTSD, the use of medical cannabis was linked to a ~35% lower probability of urgent care or emergency department visits.
Impact of Medical Cannabis Treatment on Healthcare Utilization Among PTSD Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study
https://www.mdpi.com/2673-5318/7/3/128
For medical cannabis patients in states with different cannabis laws, those in restricted states described concealment & legal risks while those in medical-only states encountered bureaucratic barriers & mixed provider support while those in fully legal states expressed autonomy but faced social misrecognition, with all patients reporting stigma, inconsistent clinical guidance & a need to self-manage treatment.
Beyond access: A comparative phenomenological study of medical cannabis patients in three legal contexts
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S259029112600642X
For US cannabis laws & health-related workplace absenteeism, medical cannabis decriminalization reduced the likelihood of health-related work absences by ~7%, with no significant effect from adult-use laws.
Cannabis laws and health-related workplace absenteeism in the United States
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15555240.2026.2680016
In a gendered analysis of US cannabis consumption since 2002, females have been converging with males in terms of greater consumption & dependence.
Gender convergence of cannabis use, dependence, and risk in the U.S.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0049089X26000803
On screening for prenatal cannabis, a survey of nurses found one-third of states reported universal maternal toxicology testing even though this contradicts clinical guidelines.
An Exploratory Qualitative Study of Screening, Testing, and Reporting Prenatal Cannabis Use by Recreational Legalization Status
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/birt.70083
For cancer pain & opioid usage, a meta-analysis of 15 studies found no significant effects from cannabinoids in placebo-controlled studies, but modest reductions in observational studies.
Cannabinoids and opioid consumption in cancer pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00520-026-10856-y
For developing therapeutic reference ranges of the blood concentration levels of cannabinoids & their clinical effects, an analysis of 23 articles produced helpful therapeutic data.
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Cannabinoids: Therapeutic Reference Ranges for Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol in Medical Cannabis, Nabiximols, Dronabinol and Nabilone
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42269696/
“For vaporized/smoked medical cannabis, an orienting therapeutic reference range of 15-30 ng/mL delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol was identified for pain reduction in diabetic peripheral neuropathy, while concentrations of <20 ng/mL delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol were significantly correlated with intraocular pressure reduction and 7.5-10 ng/mL with improvement of tic symptoms. Half-maximum effective concentrations of 7-29 ng/mL delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol were reported for “high” effects. For nabiximols, a preliminary therapeutic reference range of 1-10 ng/mL delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol was determined for treating neuropathic pain and spasticity in adults with multiple sclerosis. For chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, a preliminary therapeutic reference range of 1-5 ng/mL for nabilone and 5-15 ng/mL delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol for dronabinol was assessed. In conclusion, relatively low concentrations may be sufficient to achieve therapeutic effects across all substances studied, with medical cannabis demonstrating these effects at lower concentrations than typically observed in recreational use.”
📑 Reviews 📑
For muscle health & CBD, a review of the mechanisms of benefits for various pathologies.
Endocannabinoid system and skeletal muscle health: insights from cannabidiol
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molmet.2026.102396
In dogs with epilepsy, a review of CBD found that it reduced the frequency & intensity of their seizures, especially in cases resistant to conventional anticonvulsants.
O USO DE CANABIDIOL NO TRATAMENTO DA EPILEPSIA IDIOPÁTICA CANINA: REVISÃO DE LITERATURA
https://openurl.ebsco.com/EPDB%3Agcd%3A1%3A39979697/detailv2?sid=ebsco%3Aplink%3Acrawler-gcd&id=ebsco%3Agcd%3A194352632&crl=c&jrnl=1981223X&link_origin=openurl.ebsco.com/openurl
For cannabis nursing, a new book on many aspects.
Comprehensive Nursing Approaches to Cannabis Nursing
https://www.igi-global.com/book/comprehensive-approaches-cannabis-nursing/389718
For the therapeutic use of cannabis, a new book on medical uses, metabolites, toxicity & regulations.
Cannabis: Therapeutic Potential, Secondary Metabolites, Toxicity, and Regulations
https://www.routledge.com/Cannabis-Therapeutic-Potential-Secondary-Metabolites-Toxicity-and-Regulations/Rai-Feitosa/p/book/9781003668190
A book on cannabis nursing.
Clinical Integration and Specialty Practice in Cannabis Nursing
https://www.igi-global.com/book/clinical-integration-specialty-practice-cannabis/410565
⚠️ Harms ⚠️
For testicular dysfunction & cannabis use, a meta-analysis of 18 studies found cannabis users had lower normal sperm morphology & higher levels of SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin) but no differences in sperm concentration, ejaculation volume, total sperm count, progressive motility or levels of testosterone or luteinizing hormone (#sperm).
Exploring the Association Between Cannabis Use and Testicular Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
https://academic.oup.com/jsm/article/23/Supplement_4/qdag118.697/8702403
In the lung health of cannabis users, with or without the use of tobacco, one-third had at least 2 chronic respiratory symptoms & two-thirds had an abnormality in at least one lung-function test (#lunghealth).
Respiratory health and quality of life in chronic cannabis users: An exploratory study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42247890/
In US people with chronic medical conditions, they had lower rates of cannabis use disorder, except in those with respiratory diseases, with the greatest risk factors being past-year depression & the use of other substances.
Cannabis use and cannabis use disorder in adults with chronic medical conditions in the United States
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S030646032600170X
For managing health emergencies related to cannabis & synthetic cannabinoids, a review of treatment options [Portuguese].
Manejo de emergências relacionadas à cannabis, seus derivados e canabinóides sintéticos: uma atualização
https://revistardp.org.br/revista/article/view/1611
For cannabis & mental health, public health data since 2016 found increased levels of cannabis users with self-reported poor mental health, with rates higher in women, young adults & Hispanics.
Trends and disparities in self-reported past-month poor mental health among individuals using cannabis in the U.S., 2016-2023
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00127-026-03145-w
For suicidal ideation & cannabis use disorder (CUD), this thesis project found that adults with CUD had 57% higher odds of past-year suicidal ideation.
Trends in the association between cannabis use disorder and suicidal ideation in the United States, 2014–2023
https://escholarship.org/content/qt7880q6g4/qt7880q6g4.pdf
As always, the question is whether the use of cannabis was worsening people’s mental health or if that the people with the worst mental health were turning to cannabis the most.
In Canadian college students, a survey found that those both gambling & using cannabis had higher levels of depression, anxiety & stress than either the cannabis-only or gambling-only groups.
Examining the Co-occurrence of Cannabis-Gambling Behaviors and Mental Health Outcomes in Canadian College Students
https://oasis.library.unlv.edu/gaming_institute/2026/May27/51/
For the effects of CBD on female fertility & offspring, this thesis project found that the highest dose increased unfertilized eggs, reduced fetal weights in males only & changed gene transcription in the placentas of both genders.
Impact of preconception cannabidiol use in young female mice on fertility and placental development
https://umontreal.scholaris.ca/items/f55d6f27-d6ae-478e-88f9-cc1be1daf12e
In a mouse model of prenatal CBD or THC exposure, a machine-learning pipeline found that pups from both groups had reduced body weight & that the “CBD-exposed dams showed a heightened, weight-dependent probability of retrieving their lightest pups”.
A deep learning pipeline (MAS-PRT) reveals that prenatal CBD, but not THC, uniquely drives weight-dependent hyper-reactivity in maternal pup retrieval
https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-9514277/v1/7317aa06-0549-4a7c-9dbc-dbfaf3c2a394.pdf?c=1781090460
🐁 Preclinical 🐁
In a mouse model of Angelman syndrome (a rare genetic disorder of the nervous system with severe intellectual disability, insomnia & seizures), injections of CBD increased REM sleep, improved sleep homeostasis & reduced spontaneous seizures.
Cannabidiol corrects sleep deficits and reduces spontaneous seizures in Angelman syndrome model mice
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41386-026-02462-7
In a mouse model of fentanyl use disorder, the inhalation of CBD lessened addiction & regulated cellular stress & senescence.
Cannabidiol (CBD) and Fentanyl
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772559626002518
In a tissue model of Parkinson’s disease, a CBD-rich oil caused neuroprotective effects by lessening accumulation of alpha-synuclein, preserving homeostasis of dopamine & modulating inflammasome signaling.
Cannabidiol Protects Against 1-Methyl-4-Phenylpyridinium and Manganese-Induced Neurotoxicity via Nod-Like Receptor Protein 3 Inflammasome Suppression
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13249025/
In a rat model of neuropathic pain, CBD-rich extract reduced cold sensitivity but did not improve heat sensitivity.
Oromucosal Administration of a Cannabidiol-Enriched Cannabis sp. Extract for 2 Weeks Moderately Reduces Cold Hyperalgesia in Rats With Neuropathic Pain
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42248695/
In a mouse model of liver injury from paracetamol, both cannabis extract & the terpene beta-caryophyllene reduced liver toxicity & improved liver architecture, with the terpene being more effective. Liver/preclinical.
Hepatoprotective Effects of β-Caryophyllene and Full-Spectrum Cannabis Extract Against Paracetamol-Induced Liver Injury in Mice
https://ljmas.com/index.php/journal/article/view/303
In a mouse model of PTSD, THC & CBD promoted avoidant coping responses & atrophy of the astrocytes (the brain’s most common support cell) in the nucleus accumbens (a reward center & regulator of feeding, stress & motivation), but only in males.
Cannabinoid use generalizes stress responses: involvement of astrocyte plasticity and activation of matrix metalloproteinases in the nucleus accumbens core
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41380-026-03687-0
In a mouse model of a high-fat westernized diet, the combination of CBD & omega-3 fatty acids lessened anxiety & improved memory performance.
Omega-3 And Cannabidiol Attenuate Anxiety And Memory Impairment In High Fat Diet Fed Mice Via Astrocytosis And Upregulation Of Brain Enzymes
https://besps.journals.ekb.eg/article_507794_2d8ade5817a7d6bb1213f573b115536e.pdf
In a mouse model of atherosclerosis (hardened arteries), the endocannabinoid oleoylethanolamide (the endocannabinoid of satiation) accelerated plaque removal via the regulatory T cells & genetic transcription via the PPARα receptors.
Oleoylethanolamide Enhances Regulatory T Cell Function to Accelerate Plaque Regression in Atherosclerosis via PPARα Activation
https://www.jbc.org/article/S0021-9258(26)02108-3/fulltext
In a mouse model of liver disease due to type II diabetes, the terpene beta caryophyllene (which activates the CB2 receptor) reduced oxidative stress & liver inflammation, scarring & injury markers.
Cannabinoid 2 Receptor Activation Mitigates High-Fat Diet/Streptozotocin-Induced Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Diabetic Mice by Modulation of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Fibrosis
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acsptsci.5c00610
🆕 Novel Studies 🆕
(my grab bag section for stuff I haven’t quite seen before)
The drug AB-MDMSBA was identified as a synthetic cannabinoid & banned, but this analysis found it did not actually bind to the CB1 receptor.
AB-MDMSBA—Not a Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonist
https://bpspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdfdirect/10.1002/prp2.70278
In a mouse model of depression being treated by transcranial magnetic stimulation, the benefits are mediated by CB1 receptors in the brain’s prefrontal inhibitory circuits.
Cell-type-specific CB1R signaling modulates prefrontal synaptic responses to HF-rTMS in chronically stressed mice
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0166432826003098
📰 US Headlines & Fav Articles 📰
In the US, the White House sent a letter to urge Congress to keep hemp-derived products legal
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/white-house-pushes-congress-to-ensure-fair-treatment-of-hemp-products-by-calling-off-broad-recriminalization-law-set-for-november/
And a major restaurant lobby told Congress to keep hemp THC drinks legal
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/major-restaurant-lobby-group-pushes-congress-to-keep-hemp-thc-drinks-legal-as-an-alternative-to-alcohol/
And a Republican Congresswoman is circulating draft legislation to keep them legal under federal law
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/gop-lawmaker-circulates-bill-to-keep-hemp-thc-drinks-federally-legal/
And a look at the Minnesota breweries & drink distributors that will be hurt
https://www.mprnews.org/story/2026/06/16/minnesota-breweries-could-be-wiped-out-by-upcoming-hemp-thc-ban
The US Census Bureau said that legal cannabis has generated almost $15B in taxes in the last 5 years
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/new-federal-report-tracks-nearly-15-billion-in-marijuana-revenue-collected-by-states-over-the-last-five-years/
The DEA began their on-site inspections at cannabis businesses that registered for the new cannabis rescheduling process
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/dea-begins-on-site-inspections-at-marijuana-businesses-that-applied-for-federal-protections-under-trumps-rescheduling-move/
The US Supreme Court upheld the gun rights of cannabis users when they unanimously sided with a man that was prosecuted for possessing a gun while also being a cannabis consumer
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/supreme-court-says-prosecution-of-marijuana-user-for-possessing-gun-violates-second-amendment/
The US National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) added dozens of cannabis components to its library of reference data for identification
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/federal-science-agency-adds-new-cannabis-compounds-to-its-library-of-chemical-fingerprints/
The US expands wastewater testing for psychoactives
https://www.nytimes.com/2026/06/21/health/drug-testing-wastwater-sewage.html
While I’ve always been leery of the utility of wastewater testing for drugs, this article makes a pretty decent public health case for allowing local communities to expand their harm reduction measures around drugs that are showing up in the wastewater, such as xylazine (a tranquilizer frequently used to cut drugs) & nitazenes (a potent class of opioids).
History Corner: the famous quote about Nixon & the War on Drugs as well as his surprising turn towards harm reduction & treatment options (a 4-part series by Isaac Campos in conversation with Emily Dufton, author of ‘Addiction, Inc.’)
https://isaaccampos.substack.com/p/guest-post-dan-baum-should-have-known
🌐 International News 🌐
In Ukraine, the first legal medical cannabis products have been dispensed
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/ukraines-first-legal-medical-cannabis-products-have-been-dispensed-to-military-veterans-and-a-woman-with-ms/
In Ireland (sometimes known as the sanest country), the Joint Committee on Drugs Use recommended decriminalizing all drugs for personal use
https://www.rte.ie/news/politics/2026/0624/1580028-drugs-committee/
In Canada, the main national cannabis lobbying group suspended its operations, citing the financial challenges of the industry & its ability to sustain a national association due to the illicit market
https://www.cp24.com/news/canada/2026/06/22/national-cannabis-organization-suspends-operations-citing-active-illegal-market/
CanAdelaar, the largest licensed cannabis grower of the Netherlands, plans to be taken over by Cronos, a Canadian cannabis company which is owned 41% by Altria (a US tobacco giant)
https://cannabislaw.report/dutch-news-a-us-tobacco-giant-is-behind-the-planned-take-over-of-the-netherlands-biggest-licensed-cannabis-grower/
In Ontario, the government ordered the cannabis producer SNDL to sell its network of dozens of cannabis stores because they greatly exceeded the limit of being allowed to have one “farmgate” retail location
https://www.theglobeandmail.com/business/article-sndl-cannabis-producer-ontario-store-network/
In Himachal Pradesh, India, their Cabinet allowed for hemp & medical cannabis cultivation
https://www.aninews.in/news/national/general-news/himachal-cabinet-approves-regulated-cannabis-farming-farmers-to-benefit-from-high-value-crop-jagat-singh-negi20260620225532/
In Luxembourg after partial legalization, an interdisciplinary analysis found a limited overall impact in the first year, with the main effect being an increase in cannabis-related DUI cases.
Impact of partial cannabis legalisation in Luxembourg: An interdisciplinary perspective
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772724626000491
⚖️ Business, Laws & Education ⚖️
A new US economic report found the first declines for legal cannabis revenue last year amidst price compression & oversupply as well as a 2.7% drop in cannabis-sector jobs
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/legal-marijuana-revenue-declined-for-the-first-time-in-2025-but-rescheduling-could-reverse-the-trend-industry-analysis-finds/
In New York’s social equity cannabis fund, a law thesis analysis found the failures to stem not from poor intentions but a structural failure to shift power.
WITH ALL THE STRINGS ATTACHED: ANALYZING PARTICIPATION OF DISEMPOWERED GROUPS IN STRUCTURING NEW YORK’S SOCIAL EQUITY CANNABIS INVESTMENT FUND
https://brooklynworks.brooklaw.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1694&context=jlp
For Ohio’s successful 2023 adult-use cannabis legalization, there was a positive relationship between a county’s medical dispensaries & its support for legalization, while a county’s overdose rate increases also led to increased support but this fell after a certain threshold.
Evaluating Ballot Initiative Results for Adult-Use Marijuana in Ohio: Understanding County-Level Support
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/polp.70144
For cannabis packaging & teen perceptions, a survey found that they identified colorful fonts, cartoonish imagery & product photos resembling candy or snack food packaging as appealing to people under 21.
Not just a label: Teens’ perceptions of what elements of cannabis product packaging appeal to underage individuals
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0955395926002070
For US cannabis warnings, a content analysis found that 93% of state cannabis programs required warnings, only half of warnings mention specific health risks, few programs required front-of-package warnings & warnings tended to be lengthy.
Characteristics of cannabis warnings in the United States: A content analysis
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2211335526001610
For product labeling in New York, a survey found participants had low recognition of the required symbols & mixed results on the impact of COAs.
Cannabis Consumers’ Understanding of New York State’s Required Cannabis Product Labeling
https://www.mdpi.com/2813-1851/5/2/17
For Canadian cannabis retail stores, an analysis of their violations of cannabis laws such as inducements to purchase, endorsements & testimonials, lifestyle promotion, youth-appealing content & health or cosmetic benefit claims.
Online promotional practices and apparent violations from licensed cannabis retail stores in Canada
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0955395926002021
For cannabis, a review from India with a focus on patents.
Cannabis sativa: A Review on Recent Patents and Advancements for Human Health
https://www.benthamdirect.com/content/journals/cbc/10.2174/0115734072335013250212101757
🚗 Driving 🚗
For cannabis-impaired driving, on developing a framework for integrating data from across US states.
A multi-state methodological framework for behavioral surveillance of cannabis-impaired driving
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/15389588.2026.2678490
🚓 The War on Drugs 🚓
Another Trump boat strike in the eastern Pacific killed 3
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/6/19/us-kills-3-in-strike-on-alleged-drug-smuggling-boat-in-eastern-pacific
Along the US border, 9000 troops have been deployed for a year at the cost of tens of millions of dollars per week, with the patrols simply pushing the cartels into the more remote regions
https://www.nytimes.com/2026/06/20/us/politics/troops-border-mexico.html
In New Mexico, the DEA allowed shipments of hundreds of thousands of fentanyl pills to reach the streets so that they could bring bigger criminal cases against the traffickers
https://apnews.com/article/dea-fentanyl-unseized-drugs-new-mexico-8f5b546e668e5007c64078da74b90903
In Venezuela, the Tren de Aragua leader “Niño Guerrero” killed in a joint US/Venezuelan operation
https://insightcrime.org/news/tren-de-aragua-leader-nino-guerrero-killed-in-venezuela-says-trump/
In Vietnam, over 400 arrested in the largest-ever drug trafficking crackdown
https://e.vnexpress.net/news/news/crime/over-400-arrested-in-vietnam-s-largest-ever-drug-trafficking-crackdown-5084171.html
In the Philippines, an ex-narcotics policeman arrested in the drug-war killing of a South Korean businessman
https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/philippine-ex-policeman-arrested-in-notorious-drug-war-killing
In Bangkok, an alleged Nigerian drug kingpin arrested after trying to ram his way through a police blockade
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3268863/allegednigerian-drug-kingpin-arrested-in-bangkok-after-dramatic-standoff
For general cargo vessels, they have been increasingly drawn into the drug trade
https://cannabislaw.report/general-cargo-vessels-increasingly-drawn-into-drug-trade/
On the cannabis smuggling network between Nepal & the northern Indian state of Bihar
https://english.nepalnews.com/s/crime-news/the-cannabis-corridor-inside-the-nepal-bihar-marijuana-smuggling-network/
In Brazil, an influencer/criminal lawyer known as “Advogata” is on the run after charges of masterminding a criminal drug trafficking organization
https://cannabislaw.report/brazil-glam-influencer-lawyer-on-the-run-after-drug-trafficking-kingpin-accusations/
In Baltimore, 5+ tons of cannabis bound for Europe seized
https://cannabislaw.report/over-10000-pounds-of-cannabis-bound-for-europe-seized-in-baltimore/
In the Strait of Gibraltar, 4.8 tons of hashish seized in a Moroccan/Spanish joint operation
https://cannabislaw.report/morocco-spain-seize-nearly-4-8-tons-of-hashish-in-joint-strait-of-gibraltar-operation/
In Australia, the largest ever cocaine bust with 2.7 tons seized from an underground bunker system
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c14ygjzr8j7o
On the Peace Bridge between Canada & the US, the border patrol seized $4M worth of cannabis disguised as chocolate
https://cannabislaw.report/cbp-seizes-4-million-shipment-of-marijuana-on-peace-bridge/
In Bulgaria, 6 men arrested for a smuggling operation of 400 kg of cannabis
https://cannabislaw.report/six-men-and-400-kg-of-marijuana-were-detained-during-a-special-operation-at-the-bulgarian-border-checkpoint/
In Pakistan, a police constable & a veterinarian were arrested with 300+ kilograms of opium & hashish
https://cannabislaw.report/pakistan-police-constable-and-a-veterinarian-arrested-near-kasur-in-anti-narcotics-operation-314-7kg-of-opium-and-hashish-seized/
In Portugal, 3 arrested in a boat smuggling operation with 56 bales of hashish
https://cannabislaw.report/portugal-three-arrested-after-56-bales-of-hashish-seized-in-aljezur/
In Malaysia, a man got 7 years & 10 strokes for possessing 300+ kg of cannabis
https://cannabislaw.report/malaysia-man-jailed-7-years-10-strokes-for-cannabis-possession/
In Wisconsin, a truck with cheese powder was busted for smuggling 60 kg of cocaine
https://cannabislaw.report/truck-hauling-cheese-powder-from-wisconsin-busted-for-cocaine-at-blue-water-bridge/
In Kuwait, the bust of an air shipment from Britain yielded 86 kg of drugs
https://cannabislaw.report/kuwait-foils-86kg-drug-smuggling-attempt-in-air-shipment-from-britain/
At a Sri Lankan airport, someone was arrested with hashish worth Rs. 377 million (~$1.1M)
https://cannabislaw.report/a-foreign-national-has-been-arrested-by-sri-lanka-customs-officers-at-bandaranaike-international-airport-bia-katunayake-after-being-found-in-possession-of-a-large-stock-of-hashish/
In Bali, 7.8 kg of hashish seized after a high-speed car chase
https://cannabislaw.report/russian-nationals-carrying-7-8kg-hashish-arrested-in-bali-after-high-speed-car-chase/
https://cannabislaw.report/bali-shots-fired-as-indonesian-authorities-arrest-three-russian-hash-smugglers/
In Ukraine, an organizer of drug parties had 2.5 kg of psychoactives “for every taste”
https://cannabislaw.report/life-during-wartime-kyiv-organizer-of-drug-parties-detained-2-5-kg-of-drugs-and-psychotropics-for-every-taste-found-at-his-home/
WoD Research
For youth cannabis offenses in Massachusetts, a racialized analysis on the effects of decriminalization & legalization.
Decriminalization, Legalization, and Racial Gaps in Police Response to Youth Marijuana Offenses
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/15564886.2026.2680563
For darknet drug platforms, a thesis project on the push & pull between prohibition & platform capitalism.
The Other(Ed) World:Discourses Negotiating Probation, Identity, Trust and Motivation in a Darknet Drug Market Platform Community
https://lup.lub.lu.se/luur/download?func=downloadFile&recordOId=9227462&fileOId=9233995
In the Balkans, a dissertation on the smuggling of heroin, cocaine & migrants.
Cross-Border Smuggling in the Balkans: A Structure-Opportunity Theory Perspective, 2026
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.3233/NHSDP260027
🛡️ Harm Reduction News 🛡️
‘Ottawa’s last supervised consumption sites close amid fears of overdose risks’
https://capitalcurrent.ca/ottawas-last-supervised-consumption-sites-close-amid-fears-of-overdose-risks/
At New York’s overdose prevention center OnPoint, since their launch, they intervened in 2000+ overdoses with no fatalities
https://mailchi.mp/onpointnyc.org/june-2026-newsletter
The FDA approved the 3rd over-the-counter naloxone product: Rextovy, a 4 mg naloxone nasal spray
https://filtermag.org/fda-rextovy-over-the-counter-naloxone/
Harm Reduction Research
In Vancouver’s safer opioid supply program, participants reported reduced drug use, craving/withdrawal & overdose risk as well as safer drug use behavior & improved physical health, mental health, financial stability & social connections.
Participant perspectives on a safe supply program in Vancouver, Canada: impacts, satisfaction and improvement priorities
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12954-026-01481-3
For funding administrators of harm reduction programs, a survey found that social stigma against people who use drugs allowed for political entrepreneurialism including politicians scapegoating harm reduction services.
Funding Community Health Services for People Who Use Drugs in San Francisco: Determinants, challenges, and opportunities to improve implementation
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666560326000836
In Vancouver, sex workers who use drugs, the majority owned take-home naloxone, though a barrier was recent homelessness.
Take-home naloxone (THN) ownership among a community-based cohort of sex workers who use drugs in metro vancouver: longitudinal trends and structural determinants (2017-2024)
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12954-026-01483-1
For mobile addiction services, an analysis in Boston of their Community Care in Reach® model.
Multisite Mobile Addiction Services: Four-Year Outcomes
https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/23/6/756
In Australian community pharmacies, a survey found high engagement with harm reduction services.
Provision of harm reduction services in community pharmacies: Findings from an Australian national sample
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42248708/
For fentanyl-related harm reduction, a review of 7 reviews found naloxone most consistently associated with reduced overdose mortality & improved bystander response as well as fentanyl test strips linked to behavior modifications.
Fentanyl-related harm reduction and structural determinants of overdose in the United States: An umbrella review with AMSTAR-2 Appraisal
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/405725999
For people who use crack, a review of safer smoking equipment programs found reduced pipe sharing, decreased injecting & improved engagement with health & social services.
Provision of safer smoking equipment to reduce health harms and enhance service engagement among people who use crack: a realist informed review
https://researchonline.ljmu.ac.uk/id/eprint/28750/1/Provision%20of%20safer%20smoking%20equipment%20to%20reduce%20health%20harms%20and%20enhance%20service%20engagement%20among%20people%20who%20use%20crack-%20a%20realist%20informed%20review.pdf
In India, a review of their harm reduction programs for people who inject drugs.
The harm reduction shift: A review of India’s NACP strategies for PWID
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13252326/
🍄 Psychoactives, Psychedelics & Plant Medicines 🍄
In Northern California, a spate of amanitas mushroom poisonings led to 4 deaths & 3 liver transplantations
https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/75/wr/mm7520a2.htm
In Japan, on psychedelics in books & media.
From Exotic to Indigenous: Psychedelic Plants and Fungi in Countercultural Japanese Media
https://academic.oup.com/isle/advance-article/doi/10.1093/isle/isag028/8702686
Psychedelics & MDMA
For 5-MeO-DMT, its reputation as an ancient indigenous tradition as an example of “fabricated ancestrality”
Fabricated ancestrality: The Sonoran Desert toad, psychedelic globalization, and the ecological politics of 5-MeO-DMT
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2950484826000056
For MDMA in people with social anxiety disorder, a randomized trial found great improvement in anxiety scores.
MDMA-Assisted Therapy for Social Anxiety Disorder: A Randomized, Open-label, Wait-list Controlled Trial
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/406181781
For psychedelics & PTSD, a meta-analysis of 11 randomized controlled trials found moderate-to-large reductions in symptom severity, with ketamine effects being small & MDMA being more promising.
Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy for the Treatment of PTSD: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
https://www.mdpi.com/2813-1851/5/2/16
In a person with advanced Alzheimer’s disease, a case report of high-dose psilocybin leading to spontaneous autobiographical speech as well as improved ambulation, autonomous dressing, increased emotional responsiveness, sustained social interaction, potential memory retrieval, spontaneous conversation in engagement & the restoration of urinary incontinence
Transient multidomain functional improvement in advanced Alzheimer’s disease following high-dose psilocybin-containing mushroom administration: a case report
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnins.2026.1813281/full?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email
On trans people & psychedelics, a Reddit analysis of the themes of their experiences.
Altered states, authentic selves: Trans individual’s experiences with psychedelics and their implications for Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/26895269.2026.2681667
“Four themes were identified. The first acknowledged how psychedelic-induced altered states can lead to self-acceptance, gender euphoria, and gender realization. The second explored how psychological release during psychedelic trips can also facilitate a journey of self-acceptance. The third explored how these experiences can function as a catalyst for change. The last theme explored how psychedelic-induced altered states can simultaneously support and exasperate gender dysphoria.”
For psychedelics & ADHD, a review of 6 studies found insufficient evidence of efficacy.
The effects of psychedelics on attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder - a systematic review
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42265057/
For psychedelics, a review of their structure-activity relationships.
Short- and Long-Acting Psychedelics: Structure–Activity Relationships, Pharmacology, and Implications for Neuropsychiatric Therapeutics
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acschemneuro.6c00202
Ketamine
For methamphetamine use disorder, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy facilitated a temporary psychological space for engagement with psychotherapy.
Navigating ‘K-Land’: A Qualitative Exploration of Participants’ Experiences of Study of Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy for Methamphetamine Use Disorder
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychiatry/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2026.1873497/abstract
In Norwegian ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, interviews on the ethics of its use found the main themes to be access to care, informed consent & therapeutic integrity.
Psychedelic ethics in practice: The case of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy in Norway
https://www.akjournals.com/view/journals/2054/aop/article-10.1556-2054.2026.00486/article-10.1556-2054.2026.00486.xml
In ketamine for depression, a survey of providers on their therapeutic practices, modalities & treatment goals.
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy for Depression: A Survey of Current Practices, Rationales, and Future
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/02791072.2026.2685515
In people with bipolar depression, compared to electroshock therapy, ketamine infusions caused similar benefits in only half of the patients.
Electroconvulsive Therapy and Ketamine Infusion in Patients with Bipolar I or II Depression: A Case Series
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42267236/
In adolescents with acute behavioral disturbances, a review on the use of intramuscular ketamine.
PP39 Intramuscular ketamine for management of paediatric acute behavioural disturbance: a scoping review
https://emj.bmj.com/content/43/Suppl_2/A18
For acute pain in the emergency department, a review of intramuscular ketamine found it comparable to IV morphine.
Intranasal ketamine versus intravenous opioids for acute pain in the emergency department: A scoping review
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0735675726002755
For combining nano-ketamine & sertraline (Zoloft) in a rat model of depression, together they caused rapid onset & sustained drug action with benefits for oxidative stress & inflammation.
Intranasal nanoformulations of ketamine and sertraline: Comparative insights into combined protective antidepressant effect
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1773224726006076
Kratom
For a trauma patient, his use of the kratom alkaloid 7-OH may have contributed to a hypersensitivity to pain.
7-Hydroxymitragynine Induced Perioperative Hyperalgesia in 27-year-old Trauma Patient
https://scholarlycommons.hcahealthcare.com/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1050&context=southatlantic2026
For kratom withdrawal in Malaysia, a survey of medical practitioners found opioid agonists commonly used for treatment.
The assessment and treatment of kratom dependence: findings from a physician survey in Malaysia
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/00952990.2026.2677090
For the metabolites of kratom, an analysis of how they move through humans.
Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragyine plasma pharmacokinetics in humans after single and 15 multiple oral kratom extract doses
https://academic.oup.com/jat/advance-article/doi/10.1093/jat/bkag042/8704792
Kava
On kava for anxiety disorders, a review of the clinical evidence & mechanisms of action.
Kava Kava in Anxiety Disorders: Current Evidence and Clinical Implications
https://apcz.umk.pl/JEHS/article/view/72694
Khat
In Madagascar, the cultivation of khat boosted local economic development & was more profitable than vegetable selling.
An assessment of the khat and vegetable trade in the local economic ecosystem: The case of northern Madagascar
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0331722
🍃 The Plant & its Products 🍃
🌱 Growing 🌱
For hemp & flax production, a review of the impacts of global warming & their possibility for carbon sequestration & bio-based composites.
Projected impacts of global warming on the production and qualities of hemp and flax plants and fibres: Toward adaptation strategies
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0926669026009003
For growing hemp, an analysis of mulch management & chemical systems on yield.
Cover Crop Based Reduced Tillage Management of Floral Hemp
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/405803068
For hemp with drought stress, an analysis of seed priming with selenite & selenate on germination & early sprout growth.
Influence of selenite and selenate seed priming duration on the mitigation of drought stress in industrial hemp
https://www.croris.hr/crosbi/publikacija/prilog-skup/947082
For hemp exposed to forever chemicals, on using spectroscopy for detection & to analyze performance.
Short-wave infrared hyperspectral imaging coupled with ECOC-SVM classification enables discrimination of hemp plants treated with PFOA and PFOS
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2213343726023651
In cannabis research, a book chapter on the molecular markers.
Scope of Molecular Markers in Cannabis Research
https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.1201/9781003542681-13/scope-molecular-markers-cannabis-research-anna-zilov-arpan-modi
For cannabis flowering, a genetic analysis of the MADS-box transcription factors.
Genome-wide characterization of MADS-box genes reveals CsaSOC1 as a key regulator of flowering in Cannabis sativa L.
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00299-026-03871-0
⚙️ Analyzing & Formulating ⚙️
For delivering CBD, a review of the different systems.
Enhancing therapeutic efficacy of cannabidiol through the development of advanced delivery systems
https://eprints.ugd.edu.mk/38492/
For masking the taste of cannabinoids (CBD & CBG), on using oil-in-water emulsions.
Oil-in-water Emulsion as a Strategy for Taste Masking of Cannabinoid Extract
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1208/s12249-026-03472-w
For hemp protein extractions, comparing the alkaline & cold plasma methods.
Comparison of the physicochemical properties of hemp protein extracted using alkaline and cold plasma methods
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772502226005421
For analyzing cannabinoid levels, on the effects of polysaccharides on retention.
Impact of chemical structure and substituents of polysaccharide-based chiral stationary phases on cannabinoids retention under normal phase conditions
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42262577/
🏗️ Industrial Uses & Fiber 🏗️
For solar panels, on reinforcement & optimization with hemp-sisal/poly(lactic acid) (PLA) hybrid biocomposites.
Development of Biosilica-Reinforced Hemp-Sisal/PLA Hybrid Biocomposites for Lightweight Photovoltaic Panel Structures with Fossa Optimization-Based MPPT Performance Evaluation
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/405661505
On a compression ignition engine fueled with pine oil & hemp oil methyl ester.
Optimization of Combustion, Performance, and Emission Characteristics of a Reactivity Controlled Compression Ignition Engine Fueled with Hemp Oil Methyl Ester and Pine Oil Blends using Response Surface Methodology
https://www.jafmonline.net/article_2952_1b79b52d1bf6f71b2b1eb7ca08ed0776.pdf
On obtaining graphene oxide by the burning of waste hemp biomass.
Microwave-assisted pyrolysis of waste hemp biomass for the synthesis of graphene oxide–like material: A feedstock-process-structure-property relationship study
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0961953426007397
For automotive panels, on the impact resistance of a composite of carbon, kenaf & hemp.
Structure–Property Relationship of Carbon–Kenaf–Hemp-Reinforced Sandwich Composites for Impact-Resistant Automotive Panels
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11665-026-14188-0
On polymeric composites for automotive applications using hemp & coconut fiber epoxy reinforced with carbon black.
Mechanical and thermal performance of hemp and coconut fibers epoxy composites reinforced with carbon black for automotive applications
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2949822826008154
For epoxy composites in automotive interior applications, evaluating different ratios of hemp fiber & Indian mallow fiber.
Investigation of thermal, acoustical and wear properties for effective hybridization of Abutilon Indicum and hemp fiber in the epoxy-based composites
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13726-026-01688-y
For hemp/epoxy composite, on comparisons to flax-epoxy composites.
Comparative Mechanical Performance of Alkali-Treated Unidirectional Flax/Epoxy and Hemp/Epoxy Composite Manufactured via VARIM
https://www.mdpi.com/2413-4155/8/6/133
For hemp fiber-reinforced concrete, on using AI to predict its mechanical & durability properties.
Artificial Intelligence-Driven Prediction of Mechanical and Durability Properties of Hemp-Fiber-Reinforced Concrete
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/406425172_Artificial_Intelligence-Driven_Prediction_of_Mechanical_and_Durability_Properties_of_Hemp-Fiber-Reinforced_Concrete
For recycled concrete, hemp rope enhanced strength & strain with little loss due to temperature.
Temperature-resilient performance of hemp rope–Confined recycled aggregate concrete in axial compression
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666682026000605
🌿 THE CANNA-SCIENCE ARCHIVE 🌿
🏥 Public Health & Bioassays 🏥
In California after legalization, a public health survey found that doctor-recommended cannabis use fell by half but cannabis use held steady.
Doctor-Recommended Cannabis Use in the Era of Legalization: Trends from California (2019-2024)
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/25785125261452930
In a survey of Canadians before & after legalization, they had only modest differences in the knowledge of cannabis health effects, with the highest agreement on the risk of impaired driving & lowest agreement for schizophrenia risk, as well as significantly decreased awareness of harms related to pregnancy, breast-feeding, driving, schizophrenia & diabetes.
Knowledge about the health effects of cannabis before and after legalization of ‘recreational’ cannabis in Canada: findings from the International Cannabis Policy Study, 2018–2024
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s42238-026-00428-6
For Canadians who use cannabis with other drugs, they had 3 classes of use.
Simultaneous use of cannabis with other drugs: Identifying latent classes in a sample of Canadians
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42247742/
“We identified three latent classes: 1) low overall simultaneous use with occasional simultaneous use of cannabis with alcohol, 2) simultaneous use of cannabis with alcohol and hallucinogens, and 3) high overall simultaneous use (i.e., simultaneous use of cannabis with alcohol, hallucinogens, illicit stimulants, and prescription drugs).”
A Reddit analysis of cannabis use & cessation.
Understanding Cannabis Use and Cessation Through LLM-Based Analysis of Reddit Narratives
https://aisel.aisnet.org/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1011&context=treos_ecis2026
For cannabis harm reduction in Queer youth, community engagement for identifying research priorities.
Community-informed priorities for cannabis harm reduction research among LGBTQIA+ youth: Insights from a World Café
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42247745/
In human urine after taking Δ8-THCV, an analysis of the metabolites found.
Metabolite patterns in human urine after oral administration of highly purified Δ8-THCV
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11419-026-00772-5
In human blood & urine, a simplified method for quantifying CBD, THC & their metabolites.
An improved method for quantification of cannabidiol, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, and their metabolites in human plasma and urine
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0731708526002670
For monitoring semi-synthetic cannabinoids in UK consumer products, on an LC-MS/MS method.
Development and validation of an LC–MS/MS method for monitoring semi-synthetic cannabinoids in UK consumer products: an evidence-based analytical, regulatory, and pharmacovigilance framework
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0026265X26017935
🧒 Adolescents & Young Adults 🧒
In US young adults, cannabis use has increased rapidly in the last 25 years, with the rate of increase highest in females.
Secular Trends and Predictors of Frequent Cannabis Use From 2002-2019 in the United States
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0025619626173492
For drugs at US universities, state cannabis legalization substantially reduced arrests & disciplinary incidents for drug law violations.
Impact of legalization of recreational marijuana on drug law violations: Evidence from US colleges and universities
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0165176526002752
In undergraduates with anxiety, they had a heightened risk for experiencing cannabis-related consequences.
Does social anxiety influence reporting of cannabis consequences? A differential item functioning analysis of the Brief Marijuana Consequences Questionnaire (B-MACQ)
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0306460326001747
For young adults using cannabis, an app with interventions was associated with less cannabis use.
Mobile intervention for emerging adults with regular cannabis use: a micro-randomized trial
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanam/article/PIIS2667-193X(26)00154-7/fulltext
🧠 The Brain & Neurological Disorders 🧠
In the mouse hippocampus (a memory center of the brain), CBD altered gene expression related to energy levels & modulated endocrine stress markers.
Selective hippocampal transcriptional adaptation to long-term cannabidiol exposure in mice
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12864-026-13028-8
In tissue & mouse models of ALS, inhibiting FAAH (the enzyme that degrades the endocannabinoid anandamide) lessened motor neuron degeneration “through the regulation of microglial environment, synapse plasticity, and neuronal development” as well as higher levels of endocannabinoids & N-acyl taurines.
Fatty acid amide hydrolase inhibition for treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
https://df6sxcketz7bb.cloudfront.net/manuscripts/198000/198842/jci.insight.198842.v1.pdf
💭 Mental Health, Addiction & Cannabis Use Disorder 💭
In German problematic cannabis users, an analysis of their demographics.
Who is at risk? Core mental health symptoms and problematic cannabis use in Germany
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s42238-026-00430-y
For protective behavioral strategies around cannabis use, the use of more protective strategies predicted subsequent reduction in use frequency but not quantity or consequences, while conversely, experiencing higher-than-usual negative consequences predicted subsequent increases in protective behavioral strategies use.
Bidirectional associations between protective behavioral strategies for cannabis use and cannabis outcomes: A cross-lagged longitudinal approach
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306460326001668
For people who use cannabis, this cannabis-cue priming study (where they expose people to the look, smell & feel of cannabis) found that this caused them to experience cravings & also in the people who use it to enhance their attention, exposure caused faster task performance.
Cannabis cues, motives, and attention enhancement: A cannabis priming pilot study.
https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2027-79800-001
In a rat model of depression, the combination of CBD & temozolomide (an anticancer drug) caused antidepressant effects in males but not females.
Antidepressant-like effects of cannabidiol when combined with temozolomide in adult rats
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2026.1873308/abstract
In a female rat model of adolescent social instability stress, blocking the CB1 receptor increased social interaction & social reward motivation.
Adolescent cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1R) blockade mitigates the effects of adolescent social instability stress (SS) on socially directed behaviour in female rats
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306453026001976
🧬 Reproduction & Hormones 🧬
In people using cannabis during pregnancy, a survey of their demographics.
Cannabis Use Transitions During Early Pregnancy
https://publications.sciences.ucf.edu/cannabis/index.php/Cannabis/article/view/353
In pregnant ferrets in their 3rd trimester, a thesis project on the effects of THC (as well as alcohol) in the offspring.
Effects of Developmental Alcohol and Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in Ferrets
https://www.proquest.com/openview/e18ac1fe7480ff51c4bd431e2f081d33/1
🦠 The Immune System & Microbial 🦠
In treatment-resistant autoimmune diseases, this case series of 70 patients found a regimen of melatonin, CBD & angiotensin 1-7 (a vasodilator) caused improvements to blood antibody levels & clinical symptoms.
Melatonin, angiotensin 1-7, and cannabidiol in refractory autoimmune disease: clinical case series
https://www.academia.edu/3071-4087/2/2/10.20935/AcadNeurosci8343
🦴 Pain, Musculoskeletal & Surgeries 🦴
In a mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, their gut microbiome had less of the bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids & commendamide (a rather unknown endocannabinoid-like molecule) which demonstrated significant protective effects including for promoting antioxidant genes via the PPAR nuclear receptor.
Bacteroides-derived endocannabinoid-like commendamide attenuates skeletal muscle ferroptosis in vitro: implications for Duchenne muscular dystrophy
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12967-026-08407-4
In a mouse model of inflammatory pain, inhibiting the FAAH enzyme (which breaks down the endocannabinoid anandamide) reduced pain levels via opioid receptors & heme oxygenase-1 in the amygdala (an emotional processing center).
Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitor reduces persistent inflammatory pain in mice depending on mu- and delta-opioid receptors activity: Involvement of heme oxygenase-1
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0166432826003050
🍽️ The Guts, Nutrition & the Microbiome 🍽️
In people with pancreatitis leading to hyperuricemia (high levels of uric acid) & in a mouse model, the high uric acid levels exacerbated the pancreatitis via the retrograde endocannabinoid signaling of the CB1 receptor enhancing inflammatory cytokines from the macrophages.
Hyperuricemia aggravates acute pancreatitis through CNR1-mediated inflammatory signaling and gut-pancreas axis dysregulation: a multi-omics and clinical study
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-026-54458-4_reference.pdf
On 3D-printing plant protein composites using protein powders from hemp & Australian sweet lupin.
An investigation into the textural profile of cooked 3D-printed plant protein composite formulations using Australian sweet lupin (Lupinus angustifolius) and hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) protein powders
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772502226005895
For THC as a probe into type 1 diabetes, a hypothesis paper on a shift of endocannabinoid tone toward CB2-associated regulatory signaling with changes to intestinal barrier dynamics, immune polarization & the blood-pancreas barrier.
Δ⁹-Tetrahydrocannabinol, a Cannabis sativa–Derived Natural Product, as a Probe of Endocannabinoid System Plasticity in Type 1 Diabetes: A Receptor-Level, Testable Hypothesis
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/natural-products/articles/10.3389/fntpr.2026.1812441/abstract
👀 The Eyes 👀
In a mouse model of retinal damage from early diabetes, activating their CB2 receptors decreased inflammatory cytokines & improved survival of photoreceptors.
1242-OR: Cannabinoid Receptor 2 Agonism Decreases Retinal Inflammation and Is Neuroprotective in Diabetic Retinopathy Models
https://diabetesjournals.org/diabetes/article/75/Supplement_1/1242-OR/167133
🖐️ The Skin & Topicals 🖐️
For hemp leaf extracts & skincare, an analysis of ethanol versus propylene glycol extraction for composition & bioactivity found propylene glycol to be better for cosmetic stability & formulation.
Comparative Study of Ethanolic and Propylene Glycol Extraction of Hemp Leaf Extracts: Phytochemical Analysis and Skincare Formulation Development
https://ejournals.swu.ac.th/index.php/sej/article/view/17324
🎗️ Cancer & Chemotherapy 🎗️
In a computer analysis of cancer cells, mutations were found in both their CB1 & CB2 receptors.
CNR1 and CNR2 Cannabinoid Receptor Mutations in Cancer Cells
https://www.mdpi.com/1467-3045/48/6/610
“In silico 3D structure of proteins reveals that these mutations cluster on the intracellular regions of CNR1 and CNR2, and certain residues may be able to destabilize the interaction with the G-alpha protein due to their close proximity. mRNA expression showed that CNR1 and CNR2 are within normal expression levels in most cancer types except kidney, where there is a tendency towards over-expression. Neither CNR1 nor CNR2 is a driver gene, and our analysis shows that mutations in cancer cells are deactivating (e.g., loss of function).”
🔬 Biochemical Discoveries & Research Tools 🔬
For the enzyme that produces CBC acid, an analysis of its binding & activity.
Improvement of cannabichromenic acid synthase activity and construction of recombinant yeast strain
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00203-026-04976-6
An analysis of the conversion of CBN into the phenanthrene CNP via light.
From Cannabinol (CBN) to Cannabiphenanthrene (CNP): A photochemical cascade reaction. A steady-state and time-resolved spectroscopic investigation
https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=6908683
On creating phenyl-carbamates for inhibiting the FAAH enzyme as well as blocking the TRPV1 channel.
Structure-guided discovery of phenyl-carbamates as novel dual TRPV1 antagonists/FAAH inhibitors
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42242015/
For cannabinoid bromination (adding a bromine, a common technique for improved potency or breakdown resistance), a comparison of 3 different methods.
Bromination of Cannabinoids from Cannabis sativa L.: A Comparative Study Using an Enzymatic Catalysis Approach
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acs.orglett.6c01788
Thanks.
- lex
PS: For today’s scintillating soul jazz, ‘The Definitive Young-Holt Unlimited’. It all comes back to the drummer Isaac “Redd” Holt & the bassist Eldee Young meeting at the American Conservatory of Music in Chicago. They initially began in 1956 by forming a jazz trio named after their drummer Ramsey Lewis. But after a decade with him, they broke out to form their group the Young-Holt Trio with the pianist Hysear Don Walker, with their first Top 20 R&B hit being ‘Wack Wack’ (track #2 above). In 1968, Walker was replaced by Ken Chaney & the group changed their name to Young-Holt Unlimited, adding more funky rhythms to their repertoire. Their first smash hit was the instrumental “Soulful Strut” (track #3) & they recorded for the next 5 years before breaking up. Their influence continued into the hip-hop era with the band being sampled over 200 times. And I don’t know what it is that makes this album so delightful but between their covers of songs from the Doors & their delightful scat & patter, it’s been a delightful week having them play in the background this whole time.
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