Neuropathic facial pain, back pain & vapes less toxic than pre-rolls

EU sez CBD a reproductive toxicant + France greatly limits CBD + Skoochies in Nigeria

Lex Pelger WhiteWhaleCreations

May 25, 2026

Cannabinoids & The People,
or; Drugs & Drug Wars

🌟 This Week 🌟

(#hashtags for jumping to articles by searching for them with your browser)

Cannabis for sleep + THC & CBD for neuropathic facial pain + PEA for back pain
For US teens, more cannabis use than tobacco for the first time ever (#teenuse)
Ingestion: vapes less toxic than pre-rolls (#ingestion)
Devil’s Advocate Corner: when the EU declared CBD a reproductive toxicant, they had the data to back it up (#EUCBD)
Prenatal Cannabis Week: 9 studies
For CHS, topical capsaicin
Medical cannabis dispensaries & adult-use cannabis laws associated with reduced non-fatal opioid poisonings
For TBIs, ibogaine microdosing caused complete recovery in 2 people (#ibogainebrain)
Harm reduction: a US retrospective analysis found overdose prevention centers could have saved so many lives

[numbers for C&P#188: ~11k words, ~28 minutes reading time, 255 papers]

📌 Editor’s notes 📌:

Donate $13 to Realm of Caring for their 13^th anniversary! For funding & running cannabis studies, for offering free medical cannabis education to doctors & patients & for advocacy for medical cannabis, Realm of Caring is making a real difference in the lives of people who use medical cannabis.
From filmmaker James Gallagher, here’s the trailer for his new film ‘Humans of Cannabis: Pakistan’ about the farmers whose genetics changed the world & who now are getting left behind.

Hello everyone,
Welcome to the 188^th 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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🎥 Lex’s new work 🎤

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The Funniest Cannabis Smuggling Story of All Time (20+ minutes, but I think it’s worth it)

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(nothing new. I’m on solo-papa duty this week & still catching up from travels)

And as always, at the bottom is the album of the week: the choral masters of South Africa

💖 Ways to support this work 💖

📣 A request to spread the word 📣

This newsletter only spreads by word of mouth, so please share to friends & colleagues.

🍃 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)

⚕️ Clinical ⚕️

For cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, topical capsaicin (an ingredient of hot peppers that activates the TRPV1 receptor) greatly reduced abdominal pain & stopped vomiting in half of patients
Topical capsaicin for treatment of cannabis hyperemesis syndrome: a prospective observational study
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/24734306.2026.2667681

Among people using cannabis for sleep, the majority reported that it helped improve sleep quality & duration, though they had an association with cannabis use disorder
1034 Racial/Ethnic Differences in Cannabis Use Disorder Among Sleep-Motivated Cannabis Consumers Across Two Age-Distinct Cohorts
https://academic.oup.com/sleep/article/49/Supplement_1/A460/8674325

In people with sciatica-related back pain, PEA caused significant reductions in pain & improvements to daily functioning
Water-Dispersible Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) Supplementation for Functional Improvement in Adults With Chronic Sciatica-Related Back Pain: A Pilot Clinical Trial
https://assets.cureus.com/uploads/original_article/pdf/485986/20260505-130741-hea997.pdf

For neuropathic facial pain, a case report of 2 females with a balanced THC:CBD formulation who experienced a marked painkilling response, improved functional performance & improved scores in physical domains & psychological well-being
Cannabinoid Therapy for Refractory Trigeminal Neuropathic Pain: Quantification of Somatosensory Alterations (QualST) by 3D Stereophotogrammetry—Two Case Reports
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13137124/

In people with arthritis, a survey found that they used cannabis to help with their pain & replace their painkilling medications
Perceptions regarding the use of cannabis in orthopaedics for treating musculoskeletal joint pain: A survey of arthritis patients
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/03000605261438343

In children & adults with epilepsy, a combination of CBD & a ketogenic diet had a 30-40% responder rate, with more improved outcomes associated with starting CBD before the ketogenic diet
Concurrent use of ketogenic diet therapy and cannabidiol in children and adults with epilepsy: A multicenter retrospective cohort study
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0920121126000859

For schizophrenia & cannabis use, a genetic analysis found that a certain immunogenetic background may increase vulnerability or reduce schizophrenia risk
HLA Class II Immunogenetic Profiles Shape Psychosis Outcomes in Cannabis Users: DRB5/DRB1*16 Vulnerability and DRB4/DRB3-Linked Protection, Particularly Against Schizophrenia
https://www.mdpi.com/2673-4087/7/3/56

In people taking CBD with & without low doses of THC, a study of how it moves through their body, with a few people in the CBD-only group testing positive for THC
The acute and chronic pharmacokinetic oral fluid profile of oral cannabidiol (CBD) with and without low doses of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) in healthy human volunteers
https://www.ovid.com/journals/joat/abstract/10.1093/jat/bkaf102~the-acute-and-chronic-pharmacokinetic-oral-fluid-profile-of

For people microdosing cannabis, psychedelics & MDMA, a survey on their reasons (for cannabis, it was pain)
Prevalence and Reasons for Microdosing Cannabis, Psilocybin, LSD, and MDMA Among US Adults
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0749379726001248

For intraocular pressure, a meta-analysis of 5 studies found THC reduced it via the oral or topical route
Intraocular pressure-lowering effects of tetrahydrocannabinol drugs: a systematic review and meta-analysis
https://www.canadianjournalofophthalmology.ca/article/S0008-4182(26)00150-X/fulltext

For non-fatal opioid poisonings, in public health data from US people with employer-sponsored insurance, medical cannabis dispensaries & adult-use cannabis laws were associated with reduced non-fatal opioid poisonings
The association between state cannabis legalization and non-fatal opioid poisonings among adults with employer-sponsored insurance in the United States
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2211335526001257

For feline gingivostomatitis (a mouth & gum infection of swelling & sores), a case report where broad-spectrum CBD oil caused reduced inflammation, fewer ulcers & a marked improvement in the oral cavity, with the main negatives being sleepiness, diarrhea & decreased food intake
Cannabidiol Oil for Feline Gingivostomatitis Complex: A Case Report
https://www.preprints.org/frontend/manuscript/1e59ddc499321e0d1e2e4935ddbcd18a/download_pub

Prenatal Cannabis Use + Fertility

The EU declared CBD to be a “reproductive toxicant” (#EUCBD)
https://businessofcannabis.com/cbd-is-a-reproductive-toxicant-say-the-eu-in-a-major-blow-to-industry/
I saw many outraged takes online, but while I think this is a conservative take, they certainly have the data to back it up. You can see a review here & preclinical studies here on behavioral alterations, increased offspring anxiety (in females only) as well as repetitive behaviors, suppressed uterine contractions & altered thermal pain sensitivity & behavior changes.

In pregnancy, a call for a reproductive justice approach to cannabis use in Canada
Legacies of prohibition in Canada: calling for a reproductive justice approach to cannabis use during pregnancy
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/23311886.2026.2667551

For prenatal cannabis use, greater levels of depression, anxiety & irritability were associated with greater odds of using cannabis & cannabis use was associated with reductions in those symptoms
Use of cannabis to regulate negative affect in pregnancy: Bidirectional findings from an ecological momentary assessment study
https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2027-64415-001

For prenatal cannabis exposure, public health data found no association with later delays in motor or language attainment, but there was a delay in saying their first word
Mediating the Impact of Prenatal Cannabis Exposure on Neurobehavioral Disinhibition: The Role of Delayed Developmental Milestone Attainment
https://www.scilit.com/publications/04073617d47672d70759e7eb76f62b16

For cannabis use during pregnancy, a review of 10 studies found an association with low birth weight, smaller head circumference, cognitive & behavioral challenges & possible long-term vulnerability to substance use
Cannabis use during pregnancy: effects on mother and child
https://roam.macewan.ca/items/824638fa-d014-4ba9-826d-6cbe8846627d

For prenatal cannabis usage, self-reports can underestimate usage, especially among disadvantaged populations
Validity of Self-Reported Cannabis Use Based on Urine Toxicology Measures in a Population-Based Pregnancy Cohort in Michigan
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/10826084.2026.2670606
And I would never report my usage either. With the number of horror stories of people not able to leave the hospital with their newborn because of a positive cannabis test, this abominable practice means that no pregnant person should ever be honest about their cannabis use. Thanks to the heroes at Pregnancy Justice for keeping this issue at the forefront & fighting for change.

For cannabis use in pregnant people, there is a gap between those who wanted counseling about cannabis use & those who received counseling
Receipt of reproductive safety data among pregnant marijuana users and nonusers
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00737-026-01712-3

For perinatal cannabis use (before & after birth), an analysis of proposed clinical health messaging
Clinical Health Messaging for Perinatal Cannabis Use: Perspectives From Postpartum Individuals With Use During Early Pregnancy
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/29767342261449036

In a mouse model of prenatal cannabis ingestion, the male offspring had decreased risk-taking behavior (which was enhanced by a high-fat diet) & locomotion, while female offspring were protected from alterations to emotional behavior & synaptic depression
Effects of maternal voluntary cannabis consumption on high fat diet-induced emotional alterations and gut microbiota in adult offspring
https://www.authorea.com/doi/pdf/10.22541/au.177374787.70081276/v1

In a tissue model of embryo implantation & placenta formation, CBG altered metabolism, extracellular matrix remodeling & the inflammatory response, suggesting a potential risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes
The impact of cannabigerol exposure on human endometrial stromal cells decidualization
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0300483X26000995

⚠️ Harms ⚠️

For the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration, an analysis of the adverse event reports related to medical cannabis, with the top categories being psychiatric disorders, nervous system disorders & GI disorders, with 14 cases involving suicidal ideation or behavior
A retrospective analysis of voluntary adverse event reports to the TGA with higher THC medicinal cannabis products
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/00048674261445267

For treating lung cancer with immune checkpoint inhibitors, cannabis users had increased mortality & healthcare utilization
PP01.09: Cannabis Use in the Era of Immunotherapy: Real-World Outcomes in Advanced NSCLC Patients
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1556086426002054

In someone with lesions from lupus, a case report on smoked cannabis being a trigger, but transitioning to edible & vaporized cannabis caused sustained remission of skin lesions
Refractory Subacute Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus Resolved by Identifying an Unconventional Trigger: A Case of Cannabis-Induced Exacerbation
https://www.ovid.com/jnls/jdnaonline/fulltext/10.1097/jdn.0000000000000871~refractory-subacute-cutaneous-lupus-erythematosus-resolved

For pediatric cannabis ingestion & emergency department visits in British Columbia, Canada, the number of visits increased 55+ % from pre-legalization to post-legalization (though 90% of these were intentional use, assumedly with adolescents)
The impact of recreational cannabis legalization on pediatric emergency department visits in British Columbia, Canada
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13151408/

In people who regularly use cannabis, they had reduced heart reflex sensitivity & heart rate variability
Regular Cannabis Use Impairs Autonomic Cardiovascular Control in Humans
https://journals.physiology.org/doi/abs/10.1152/physiol.2026.41.S1.2300303

In frequent cannabis users, they had inconsistent perceptions of self & worse diet quality
Associations Between Cannabis Consumption, Stability of Self-Perception, and Diet Quality
https://journals.physiology.org/doi/abs/10.1152/physiol.2026.41.S1.2300496

In young people who use cannabis, a review of 21 studies found evidence of decreased IQ, lower executive function & decreased memory
How does cognition change over time in young people who use cannabis recreationally? A narrative review of the longitudinal literature to date
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00213-026-07072-1

In breast reduction surgery, cannabis use was associated with increased risk of bruising & delayed wound healing
The Impact of Marijuana Use on Postoperative Outcomes in Reduction Mammaplasty: Risks, Complications, and Considerations
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1748681526002664

For cannabis use disorder, a review of it as a disorder of motivational dysregulation
Cannabis Use Disorder as a disorder of motivational dysregulation: a systematic review of clinical, neurocognitive, and treatment evidence
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10550887.2026.2667987

On drugs for cannabis use disorder, a book chapter
Pharmacotherapy for Cannabinoid Use Disorder
https://link.springer.com/rwe/10.1007/978-3-031-57159-6_77-1

For synthetic cannabinoid abuse, a Russian analysis of rehabilitation models
Ethno-territorial features of psychotherapy rehabilitation models in addictive communities abusing synthetic cannabinoids
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/15332640.2026.2657005

A case report of a stroke induced by synthetic cannabinoids
When high turns harmful: Synthetic cannabinoid-induced stroke in a patient with cryptogenic risk factors
https://institutionalrepository.aah.org/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2766&context=advocategme

For synthetic cannabinoids, a case report of memory loss & multisystem toxicity
Synthetic Cannabinoid Use Complicated by Multiorgan Dysfunction
https://scholarlyworks.corewellhealth.org/corewellhealth_west_research_posters/159/

For the synthetic cannabinoid HHC, a case report of acute kidney injury
Hexahydrocannabinol-induced rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney injury: a case report combining comprehensive toxicokinetic and metabolomic investigations
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s42238-026-00435-7

For vaping, a negative review on oxidative stress, inflammation & endothelial damage
The Cardiopulmonary Complications of Vaping
https://journals.lww.com/cardiologyinreview/fulltext/9900/the_cardiopulmonary_complications_of_vaping.833.aspx

📑 Reviews 📑

For the runner’s high, a review of the endocannabinoids as a neuromodulatory mechanism
The Neurochemical Orchestra of the Runner’s High: A Narrative Review of Neuromodulatory Mechanisms with a Focus on Endocannabinoids
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/10738584261440907

For substance use disorders, a commentary on the benefits of California Sober
Redefining Recovery: The Expanding Cannabis Landscape and Its Implications for the California Sober Approach in Addiction
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11469-026-01660-0

In brain scans of cannabis users, a review of neuroimaging studies
What Do Thirty Years of Neuroimaging Research Tell Us About Recreational Cannabis Use and Brain Integrity? A Narrative Review of the Multimodal Neuroimaging Evidence to Date
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.2147/SAR.S584766
“Consistent evidence showed that acute intoxication with delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) was associated with greater brain activity in fronto-striatal pathways. For regular cannabis users compared to controls, there was consistent cross-sectional evidence of lower hippocampal volumetry and white matter microstructure of the superior longitudinal fasciculus, and of different fronto-striatal activity and connectivity during cue-reactivity tasks and resting-state. In cannabis users, there was emerging evidence from Positron Emission Tomography studies of altered neurochemistry in fronto-striatal pathways (eg, lower N-acetyl aspartate); lower glucose metabolism in the frontal cortex; and lower density of cannabinoid receptors, which may reverse with abstinence.”

In people with gastroparesis (delayed gastric emptying), a review of 38 studies found cannabinoids improved total symptom scores & caloric intake even while paradoxically slowing gastric emptying
Cannabis-Based Medicines in Gastroparesis and Related Syndromes
https://www.atlanticare.org/sites/default/files/pdf/2026-ResearchDay/Cannabis-Based%20Medicines%20in%20Gastroparesis%20and%20Related%20Syndromes-Poster-Dave%20Che.pdf

In wound healing, a review of 18 studies found topical cannabis or CBD hydrogels improved collagen formation, the development of new blood vessels & wound closure
Cannabis sativa (Vijaya) in Wound Healing: A Systematic Review of Preclinical and Clinical Evidence
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/404394344_Cannabis_sativa_Vijaya_in_Wound_Healing_A_Systematic_Review_of_Preclinical_and_Clinical_Evidence

For autoimmune diseases, a review of the potential of cannabinoids
Cannabinoids in autoimmune diseases: mechanistic insights and translational challenges
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0006295226003655

For adolescent psychiatry, a review on using CBD
Integrating Cannabidiol into Adolescent Psychiatry: Clinical Applications and Safety-Risk Profile for Treatment of Anxiety, Depression, and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
https://www.benthamdirect.com/content/journals/aps/10.2174/0122106766389534251023105458

For neurodegenerative diseases, a review of the cannabinoids helping via the microglia (guardian immune cells of the brain)
Cannabidiol and other non-psychotropic cannabinoids from Cannabis sativa as therapeutics for microglial-mediated neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s42238-026-00445-5

In traumatic brain injury, a review on modulating the endocannabinoid system
Molecular and Genetic Mechanisms of Traumatic Brain Injury: The Endocannabinoid System as a Modulatory Axis
https://www.preprints.org/frontend/manuscript/b07e18656f4edcc62608db2a1557ce49/download_pub

In sepsis (an immune system overreaction to an infection), a review of targeting the endocannabinoid system for the dysfunctions of the microvascular system (small blood vessels)
Microvascular Effects of Endocannabinoid Signaling in Sepsis: A Mechanistic and Systematic Review
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/micc.70062

In neuropathy from chemotherapy, a review of 3 trials found no improvements
Cannabinoids in the Treatment of Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/15360288.2026.2664668

For inflammation & oxidative stress, a review on the potential of the cannabinoids (nice chart)
Harnessing Cannabinoids to Target Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Translational Medicine
https://jintb.org/index.php/jintb/article/view/30

For memory impairment from cannabinoids, a review of the molecular mechanisms
Memory impairment and chronic high-dose Δ9-THC/cannabis exposure: a narrative review of molecular mechanisms underlying neurotoxic effects
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00213-026-07070-3

For the GPR18 receptor, a review of its function & unclear links to the endocannabinoid system (nice charts)
Targeting GPR18: Structural modelling, ligand discovery, and therapeutic potential in neuroinflammatory disorders
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006295226003710

For the phospholipase enzyme superfamily, on how it implements many of its wideranging changes via endocannabinoids
The Phospholipase A2 Superfamily in Health and Disease: From Lipid Signaling to Inflammation, Cancer, and Neurodegeneration
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/404326543_The_Phospholipase_A2_Superfamily_in_Health_and_Disease_From_Lipid_Signaling_to_Inflammation_Cancer_and_Neurodegeneration

🐁 Preclinical 🐁

In a rat model of phantom limb pain, the combination of CBD, THC & beta-caryophyllene lowered immune system reactivity, lessened inflammation & decreased pain via inhibition of GABA (the brain’s most common inhibitory neurotransmitter) in the spinal cord
Targeting Phantom Limb Pain with Cannabinoids in a Rat Model
https://scholarship.miami.edu/esploro/outputs/journalArticle/Targeting-Phantom-Limb-Pain-with-Cannabinoids/991033050794802976

In a rat model of PTSD, in males, THC disrupted fear memory reconsolidation (a good thing), but in females, this only occurred at estrus & diestrus, not at proestrus
Sex-specific role of microglia in Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol-induced disruption of fear memory reconsolidation
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41386-026-02434-x

In a mouse model of diet-induced obesity, THC as well as cannabis extracts reduced body weight & fat mass & normalized adipokines (cytokines from fat cells), while cannabis extracts (but not THC) also normalized glucose clearance
Δ9 Tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabis extracts differentially improve adipoinsular dysfunction in diet‐induced obesity
https://physoc.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdfdirect/10.1113/JP290431

In a mouse model of intestinal stem cells damaged by radiation (as in cancer treatment), CBD rescued the dysregulation of their fatty acids & enhanced their proliferation
Cannabidiol triggers fatty acids β-oxidation mediated by Stat2 to facilitate intestinal stem cells regeneration post radiation
https://www.nature.com/articles/s12276-026-01711-5

In a rat model of spinal cord injury, vaping THC altered breathing parameters
THC exposure alters ventilation after cervical spinal cord injury
https://journals.physiology.org/doi/abs/10.1152/physiol.2026.41.S1.2300460

In a rat model of Alzheimer’s disease, the combination of intense exercise & CBD improved cognitive impairment
Combating cognitive decline in a rat model of Alzheimer’s disease: The role of high-intensity interval training and cannabidiol administration in modulating microRNA-124, BACE1, and nestin
https://cjn.tums.ac.ir/article_40594.html

In a mouse model of metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (formerly known as fatty liver disease), this thesis project found that both CBD & CBG decreased liver fatness via the synthesis of lipids & the reduction of oxidative stress
Cannabinoid Modulation of Metabolic Dysfunction Associated Steatotic Liver Disease in a Mouse Model
https://digscholarship.unco.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1133&context=honors

In a mouse model of pain, CBD inhibited the ion channel Piezo2 to mediate its painkilling effects
Piezo2 mediates cannabidiol-induced analgesia of mechanical allodynia
https://langtaosha.org.cn/lts/en/preprint/view/197

In rats taking THC, different strains of rats experienced different effects
An Assessment of THC-Associated Physiological Effects in HS and WKY Rats (Abstract ID: 269631)
https://jpet.aspetjournals.org/article/S0022-3565(26)01019-0/abstract

In rats, CBG (at high doses) reduced locomotor activity but not anxiety-like behavior
Cannabigerol reduces locomotor activity but not anxiety-like behavior in naive rats
https://journals.physiology.org/doi/abs/10.1152/physiol.2026.41.S1.2344445

In a zebrafish model of type II diabetes, CBD did not significantly lower blood glucose levels but did increase performance on optomotor responses
The impact of cannabidiol (CBD) in hyperglycemic zebrafish (Danio rerio)
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0348975

In a zebrafish model of seizures, on characterizing a series of CBD analogues
In Vivo Characterization of Synthetic Cannabidiol Analogs for Seizure Suppression in Zebrafish
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acschemneuro.6c00205

In a mouse model of inflammation due to obesity, the terpene citral (from lemongrass) caused painkilling partially via the CB2 receptor
Citral exerts a more pronounced antinociceptive effect in obese adult male C57BL/6J mice mediated through the CB2 receptor
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0014299926003766

In a mouse model of atherosclerosis (hardened arteries), the gut bacteria Akkermansia muciniphila helped via the CB2 receptor
Akkermansia muciniphila attenuates high-fat diet-induced atherosclerosis through regulation of the endocannabinoid system
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464626001751

In a mouse model of depression, the combination of gastrodin (a component of orchids popular in Traditional Chinese Medicine) & transcranial magnetic stimulation helped partially via the gut-brain axis & the endocannabinoid system
Synergistic antidepressant effects of gastrodin combined with repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation: Mediation by the gut-brain axis and endocannabinoid system
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022395626002566
One more for a list of exotic treatments that help via the endocannabinoid system…

🆕 Novel Studies 🆕

(a grab bag section for cool & new stuff)

For the toxicity of a vaping device vs a pre-roll, this white paper found pre-rolls to have a much higher toxicity (exceeding the EPA threshold by 2 orders of magnitude), though the vapes had markedly higher levels of nickel (via this post by author Arnaud Dumas de Rauly) (#ingestion)
Comparative Toxicity of Emissions: Electronic Cannabis Delivery Systems (ECDS) versus Combustion of Un-Infused Cannabis Pre-Rolls. A Screening-Level Hazard Characterization White Paper
https://ecdsvspreroll.com/

For the metabolites produced when CBD is burned, 86 compounds were detected, with several known to have adverse health effects
Detection and identification of small-molecule cracking products formed on pyrolysis of cannabidiol part 1: C3–C10 compounds
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s42238-026-00442-8

In a tobacco plant, on genetically inserting the full CBD biosynthesis pathway of 128 genes from 5 cannabinoid synthesis families
Reconstitution of cannabidiol biosynthesis pathway in Nicotiana benthaminana through multigene synthetic engineering
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0926669026007065

In today’s edition of ‘who approved this research?’…
For cannabis use, public health data showed the levels were higher in states that legalized
Cannabis Legalization and Emerging Adult Risk: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/abs/10.1161/cir.153.suppl_1.TU138
And for young adults taking a survey, changing out the word “marijuana” for “cannabis” did not change their responses
Assessing Reliability of a Change in Survey Item Terminology from “Marijuana” to “Cannabis” Among a Sample of U.S. Adolescents and Young Adults
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10826084.2026.2650106

Lex’s roundup of fav newsletters:
#Canna: Marijuana Moment, Cannabis Law Report, Cultivated, Cannabis Musings (oy vey), Talking Joints Memo, Sticky Bits, Highly Objective, Cannabitch, Indigenous Cannabis Industry Association, Dr. Peter Grinspoon, Doctor Approved, Medical Marijuana Memory Blog (by Dame Alice O’Leary Randall)
#DrugWar: InSight Crime, Marshall Project, Students for Sensible Drug Policy
#HarmReduction: Filter, Drug Data Decoded, International Drug Policy Consortium, National Harm Reduction Coalition, Canadian Drug Policy Coalition
#Psychoactives: Psychedelic Alpha, Ecstatic Integration, ICEERS, Substance, The Microdose

📰 US Headlines & Fav Articles

The TSA clarified that they’re not looking for cannabis, but it’s up to the individual security officer if an illegal substance is found
https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/items/medical-marijuana
While the DOT clarified that truckers & pilots still can’t use medical cannabis despite the new reclassification to Schedule III
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/truckers-and-pilots-still-cant-use-medical-marijuana-even-though-trump-reclassified-it-transportation-department-says/
And the US Army reminded soldiers that all cannabis products are banned, even CBD lotions
https://www.marijuanamoment.net/army-reminds-soldiers-of-zero-tolerance-marijuana-policy-warning-that-even-cbd-lotion-remains-banned/

On cannabis rescheduling, a legal & ethical analysis through a Biblical Worldview
Cannabis Reclassification: Economic, Legal, and Ethical Implications of Executive Order 12866
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1266&context=hsgppconference
I have to say, though this isn’t the lens I use to view the world, they had some fairly reasonable conclusions concerning the benefits of medical cannabis versus the dangers of normalized substance use, though they did lose points with me for quoting professional POS Jerry Falwell.

In Colorado, Wanda James sued her fellow CU regents for their longest-ever sanction against her after she opposed a cannabis public health campaign that she deemed racist
https://www.westword.com/news/colorado-university-regent-sues-peers-sanctions-40888152/

🌐 International Updates 🌐

In France, new strict food regulations will limit CBD edible levels to ~2 mg per day
https://cannabislaw.report/france-to-restrict-cbd-edibles-under-stricter-eu-novel-food-enforcement/
Meanwhile, the country is emerging as Europe’s dominant exporter of industrial hemp raw materials
https://hemptoday.net/france-emerges-as-europes-dominant-exporter-of-industrial-hemp-raw-materials/
“Until the 2021-22 marketing year, French hemp exports were almost nonexistent, totaling just 415 metric tons, mainly to Canada. But export opportunities opened sharply beginning in 2022-23, with shipments rising to 47,950 metric tons in 2023-24 and holding at 47,765 metric tons in 2024-25. About 72% of exports now go to EU member states.”

In Nepal, a review of their current cannabis laws & its traditional uses
Current Nepalese Legislative Framework, Pharmacology and Chemistry of Medicinal Cannabis: A Comprehensive Review
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/1934578X261451344

In Nigeria, a review of skoochies, an “unregulated concoction that commonly mixes codeine-based cough syrups, cannabis extracts, alcohol, tramadol, and sometimes benzodiazepines”
Skoochies as a Multi-Substance Psychoactive Cocktail: Pharmacological and Public Health Implications
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Olamide-Fasakin-2/publication/404291399_Skoochies_as_a_Multi-Substance_Psychoactive_Cocktail_and_Its_Review_Article_Pharmacological_and_Public_Health_Implications/links/69f1ecd5db00ec75d02e2b85/Skoochies-as-a-Multi-Substance-Psychoactive-Cocktail-and-Its-Review-Article-Pharmacological-and-Public-Health-Implications.pdf

⚖️ Business, Laws & Education ⚖️

The first ever bankruptcy protection for a cannabis MSO
https://cannabislaw.report/delaware-court-grants-cannabist-first-ever-chapter-15-bankruptcy-protection-for-a-cannabis-mso/

For labeling inaccuracy & contamination, this thesis project tested 70 products & found 30% not containing a listed cannabinoid, 74% containing a cannabinoid not listed, residual solvents in more than half the samples & microbial contamination on almost every flower product
Labelling Inaccuracy and Contamination in Commercial Cannabis Products: A Chemical and Microbiological Surveillance
https://scholarscompass.vcu.edu/frsc_projects/142/

After 5 years of legalization in Ontario, an analysis of the products available & the trend of decreasing prices
An update on cannabis products, cannabinoid content, plant type, and prices five years after legalization in Ontario, Canada
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42093040/

In cannabis retailers in 5 US cities, an analysis of their noncompliance for youth-appeal marketing, health claims, discounts & required warning signage
Cannabis retailers’ marketing practices and compliance with state regulations: A 2025 point-of-sale audit in 5 U.S. Cities
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306460326001437

In Florida gun laws, a federal lawsuit on medical cannabis users prohibited from owning firearms
High-Caliber Tensions: Implications of Florida’s Medical Marijuana Program on the Right to Keep and Bear Arms
https://repository.law.miami.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=4821&context=umlr

In hospitality establishments, on the willingness to pay for cannabis edibles
The Roles of Motivation, Opportunity, and Ability on Willingness-To-Pay for Cannabis-Infused Edibles in Hospitality Establishments and the Mediating Role of Involvement
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/402269463_The_Roles_of_Motivation_Opportunity_and_Ability_on_Willingness-To-Pay_for_Cannabis-Infused_Edibles_in_Hospitality_Establishments_and_the_Mediating_Role_of_Involvement

🚗 Driving 🚗

For driving, the combination of cannabis edibles & alcohol produced greater impairment & subjective intoxication than either substance alone, but cannabis by itself or with a small amount of alcohol did not significantly impair performance
Impact of Cannabis Edibles Combined With Alcohol on Driving, Field Sobriety Performance, and Subjective Effects: A Within-Participant Crossover Trial
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2848548

For driving & problematic cannabis use, a survey found that those with likely cannabis dependence reported greater psychological symptoms & driving inattention
Beyond just intoxication: An exploration of the potential links between problematic cannabis use, self-reported psychological dysfunction, and subjective driving capabilities
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022437526000733

For driving performance in medical cannabis users with chronic pain, they had better reaction times in a divided attention simulation, but the overall findings were tainted by a lot of simulator sickness
Medical Marijuana Initiation and Simulated Driving Performance Among Mid-to-Late-Life Adults With Chronic Pain: Prospective Observational Feasibility Cohort Study With Matched Controls
https://formative.jmir.org/2026/1/e79735

🚓 The War on Drugs 🚓

The Inspector General of the Pentagon said it will review the “established targeting framework” for the dozens of attacks on alleged drug-smuggling boats, though it will not examine their legality
https://apnews.com/article/boat-strike-pentagon-inspector-general-evaluation-targeting-72e9006c57aa2c695744402934e4ca66

In Vietnam, four people sentenced to death for narcotics trafficking & heavy sentences for the remaining 12 defendants
https://vietnamnews.vn/society/1781332/four-sentenced-to-death-in-major-laos-viet-nam-drug-trafficking-bust.html
And a female DJ sentenced to death for narcotics trafficking
https://vietnamnews.vn/society/1780931/a-female-dj-sentenced-to-death-for-drug-trafficking.html

In Singapore, a 73-year-old’s death sentence appeal for a charge of carrying 43 g of heroin was dismissed because the judge concluded the defendant did know he was carrying drugs
https://mothership.sg/2026/05/man-heroin-trafficking-death-sentence-appeal-dismissed/

In California, a man charged with tax evasion of $7.1M for allegedly hiding $80M in contraband cannabis sales
https://cannabislaw.report/a-southern-california-man-pin-hsien-hsu-has-been-arrested-and-charged-with-evading-7-1-million-in-state-sales-tax-after-allegedly-hiding-80-million-in-contraband-marijuana-sales/
In law enforcement, that’s what they call the Al Capone method…

In India, the bust of several cartels has pushed local narcotics labs underground
https://ommcomnews.com/india-news/indias-drug-war-pushes-cartels-underground-sparks-rise-of-local-narco-labs/
And their first large-scale bust of Captagon (a synthetic amphetamine-based stimulant, popular in the Middle East)
https://argusenglish.in/national/operation-ragepill-how-indias-first-captagon-bust-signals-a-new-narco-terror-transit-threat
And the home minister announced that the country will be drug-free by 2047
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-will-wipe-out-narcos-be-drug-free-by-2047-shah/articleshow/131129372.cms

In the Philippines, 11 narcotics officers were dismissed for kidnapping & murdering 2 local cockfight enthusiasts
https://www.philstar.com/nation/2026/05/02/2525009/napolcom-dismisses-11-drug-war-cops

In South Africa, a bust of 2 Audis led to “17 compressed dagga bales”, with one of the arrested parties being a constable
https://www.cannabiz-africa.com/blog/da-calls-for-ipid-to-investigate-saps-involvement-in-illicit-cannabis-dealing

WoD Research

For the synthesis of illegal drugs, an analysis from Dutch court rulings on how it’s done
A crime script analysis of synthetic drug production
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12117-026-09596-6

In Bolivia, on the torture & state violence practiced under their drug policy
https://idpc.net/publications/2026/4/forbidden-voices-torture-and-cruel-inhuman-or-degrading-treatment-under-drug-policy-in-bolivia

In Ontario, cannabis legalization did not substantially change trends for drug-related offenses
Impact of cannabis legalization on drug possession offences among people who experience incarceration in Ontario, Canada
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S095539592600157X

For online drug trafficking, a comparative analysis of Iran vs Switzerland, with the latter adopting a 4-pillar policy of prevention, treatment, harm reduction & law enforcement
A Comparative Analysis of Cyber Police Capacity in Preventing Online Drug Trafficking in Iran and Switzerland
https://csiw.qom.ac.ir/article_4382_en.html?lang=en

On drug trafficking in Mexico, a book on routes through protected environmental areas
Drug Trafficking and Protected Areas in Mexico
https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-032-18218-0

For the drug trafficking over the Myanmar/NE India border, interviews with prisoners on the size & nature of the drug smuggling
Facets of Cross-Border Drug Trafficking in Manipur–Myanmar Borderland
https://usiofindia.org/pdf/USI_Journal_Jan_March_2026.pdf

In Myanmar, on their opium boom after World War II
Opium Pathways: Mountains, Mules and Resource Extraction in Shan State, Myanmar
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/dech.70066

For narco-outlaw figures in Colombia & Central America, a thesis project on their literary representation
Where Anomie Meets Neoliberalism: Narco and Organized Crime Outlaw Figures in Post-1989 Colombian and Central American Northern Triangle Literature
https://www.proquest.com/openview/ed91f9e33231d104014c18c1fe4ea658/1

🛡️ Harm Reduction News 🛡️

In Ireland, approval for their first supervised drug injection facility to become permanent
https://www.thejournal.ie/irelands-first-supervised-drug-injection-facility-to-become-permanent-7045976-May2026/

The National Association of EMS Physicians & their position statement on the importance of offering opioid use disorder treatments for harm reduction
The Role of Emergency Medical Services in Addressing Opioid Use Disorder—A Position Statement and Resource Document of NAEMSP
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/10903127.2026.2668009

An editorial against designating fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction
Fentanyl Is Not a WMD
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11606-026-10499-z

Harm Reduction Research

For overdose prevention centers in the US, a retrospective model found that increased availability could have saved thousands of lives & tens of billions of dollars
County by county estimation of possible deaths averted, infections averted, and cost savings of overdose prevention centers in the United States from July 2019-June 2025
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13131708/

In Canadian safer supply programs, on their rise & fall
The Rise and Fall of Safer Supply Programs in Canada
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama-health-forum/fullarticle/2848523

For safer supply programs, interviews on the disruptions & harm from their discontinuation
A continuum of disconnection: the impacts of safer supply program closures on continuity of care, transition, and total loss of service access
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12954-026-01469-z

At Insite (Vancouver’s supervised consumption site), a case report of prescribed fentanyl leading to the reduced usage of unregulated drugs, more site engagement & increased retention on oral opioid agonist therapy
Safe Supply at Insite, North America’s First Supervised Consumption Site: A Case Report of Reduced Harms From the Toxic Drug Supply in a Client Prescribed Powdered Fentanyl Alternative
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/dar.70175

In people who smoke crack in England, interviews on the importance of safer smoking materials
Innovation, respiration and drug paraphernalia policy: a mixed methods study of crack pipe practice and respiratory harm in England
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12954-026-01470-6

On nyaope (the highly addictive street drug of South Africa), a chemical profiling found multiple opiates & adulterants
Chemical Profiling of Nyaope and Its Public Health Implications
https://www.mdpi.com/2305-6304/14/5/410

For the opioid crisis, a legal analysis of it as unjust enrichment for the pharmaceutical companies
The Opioid Crisis as Unjust Enrichment
https://scholarship.law.unc.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=7079&context=nclr

For the opioid crisis, a thesis project comparing the public health approaches of the United States versus Portugal
Catching Up with Death The Opioid Crisis in the United States vs. Portugal’s Public Health Approach
https://spiral.lynn.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1220&context=studentpubs

🍄 Psychoactives, Psychedelics & Plant Medicines 🍄

In Amanita muscaria mushrooms (the red-capped kind used by Siberian shamans), a review of clinical evidence & self-experimentation
Amanita muscaria in the evolving novel psychoactive substances landscape - toxicological risks and clinical implications: a narrative review
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2026.1838212/abstract

Psychedelics & MDMA

In people with a traumatic brain injury, ibogaine microdosing caused progressive neurological recovery, with 2 of the 3 cases achieving complete symptom remission (#ibogainebrain)
Clinical Improvement Following an Integrative Iboga Microdosing Protocol in Post-Concussive and Hypoxic Brain Injury Syndromes: A Case Series
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2026.1840956/abstract

For psilocybin mushrooms in the Sierra Mazateca, on their extractive disappearance
From Agents to Earth Beings: Sacred Mushrooms and New Extractivism in the Sierra Mazateca
https://brill.com/view/journals/wo/30/1/article-p61_4.xml

For the wounded healer narrative in psychedelic therapists, a thesis project of interviews
Alchemy of the Wounded Healer: A Narrative Inquiry into the Lived Experiences of Psychedelic Use Among Licensed Healthcare Professionals Across Spiritual, Personal, and Professional Domains
https://www.proquest.com/openview/1844cffae9d9a86fc247d0cbf157112c/1

In people with psychosis, case reports of potential benefits from psychedelics
Variability in outcomes and subjective effects of psychedelic use in psychotic populations: Case-based evidence from naturalistic settings
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2950484826000147

In young people who had difficult psychedelic experiences, interviews on their experiences & harm reduction strategies
Adolescents’ and Young Adults’ Integration Processes for Extended Difficulties Following Challenging Psychedelic Experiences: A Qualitative Investigation
https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-9668424/v1/8ead3bf5-9495-4369-abf9-983acdb615a5.pdf

In people taking ayahuasca, their resilience predicted their response to challenging experiences as well as meaning-making in psychospiritual outcomes
Baseline Resilience as a Predictor of Ayahuasca Acute Effects and Moderator of the Relationship between Acute Effects and Psychospiritual Outcomes
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/28314425261448756

In a comparison of ayahuasca users vs meditators, the meditators had a higher score on their “‘Delusion of Me’ (DoM) index, a unidimensional self-report measure comprising three domains: acceptance, decentering, and non-attachment”
Investigating Hypo-Egoic Features: Ayahuasca’s Psychedelic Path Versus Meditation’s Mindful Journey
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42083787/

For the effects of psychedelics on authoritarian attitudes, a meta-analysis across 3 studies found no significant changes
Effects of psychedelic use on authoritarian attitudes revisited
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/02698811261443677

In people with cancer, interviews found them open to the idea of psychedelic therapy
Anything that helps: cancer patient and carer perspectives on psychedelic-assisted therapy
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42080906/

For anorexia, on the potential models with psilocybin
Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy for Adolescent Anorexia Nervosa: Clinical Considerations and Emerging Models of Care
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11920-026-01679-z

A new book on psychedelics & the development of our religious practices
The Role of Psychedelics in the Development of Human Religious Practices: The Innate Human Quest for Transcendence
https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-032-20214-7_4

For psychedelic therapy, on the synergy with music
The Harmonious Dance: A Narrative Review on Psychedelics and Music in Therapeutic Settings
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42083530/

For ibogaine & psychiatric disorders, a review of the 3 trials
From monotherapy to sequential models: An updated scoping review on ibogaine’s role in treatment for psychiatric disorders
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/02698811261443674

In a mouse model of fibromyalgia, low-dose LSD improved pain & mood
A New Use for an Old Compound: Microdosing LSD to Reduce Fibromyalgia Symptoms
https://drugrepocentral.scienceopen.com/hosted-document?doi=10.14293/iDR.26.001SA

In older mice, this thesis project found that psilocybin caused a shift in their gut microbiome
Psilocybin Induces Shifts in Gut Microbial Composition of Aged Mice
https://www.proquest.com/openview/a1416a58462672ef3ce5918dc824fe1c/1

Ketamine

For new ketamine analogues, a report from the French addictovigilance network
Emerging new psychoactive ketamine analogues: patterns of use and health risks identified by the French Addictovigilance Network
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0955395926001787

In young people using ketamine, a review of their problems with urinary tract damage & addiction
Ketamine: an emerging epidemic in young people - implications for primary care
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42134962/

For postpartum depression, a meta-analysis of ketamine found therapeutic promise & minimal transfer into breastmilk
Ketamine and esketamine for the prevention of postpartum depression: A systematic review and network meta-analysis, with an integrated evidence synthesis
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0165178126002829

In adults with suicidal ideation, 4 weeks of ketamine injections showed beneficial effects
Suicidal Ideation Effectiveness and Safety Outcomes from the Ketamine for Adult Depression Study (KADS)
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13811118.2026.2669779

In people using ketamine for depression, brain scans found non-responders had higher brain network density
Changes in depression symptom network structure following ketamine treatment in treatment-resistant depression
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0165032726008165

In people taking ketamine for depression, AI analysis of brain scans found that greater gray matter volume in frontal regions predicted treatment response, while greater volume of the cerebellum (brain region of voluntary movement, motor learning & balance) predicted non-response
Structural imaging predictors of ketamine response in treatment-resistant depression: a machine learning approach
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41398-026-04085-4

For people with tobacco use disorder, a single dose of ketamine had little impact on their cravings or withdrawals
Effects of a Single Sub-Anesthetic Dose of Ketamine in Tobacco Use Disorder: An Active-Placebo, Randomized Crossover Study
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3425/16/5/496

For helping with speech in adolescent autism, a hypothesis of using ketamine infusions
Rewiring Speech in Autism: A Ketamine Infusion Hypothesis
https://esmed.org/MRA/mra/article/view/7464

For depression & suicidal symptoms, a meta-analysis of 26 trials with ketamine found it helped acutely, though longer-term outcomes were not well established
Ketamine Infusions and Rapid Reduction of Suicidal and Depressive Symptoms in Major Depressive Episode: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/article-abstract/2848531

In people with depression & bipolar disorder, a review of 26 ketamine studies found it helped with sleep & circadian rhythm
Effects of ketamine on sleep and circadian rhythmicity in major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder: A systematic review
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0165032726007676

For treatment-resistant depression, a review of 21 studies on ketamine
Cognitive effects of intravenous Ketamine in treatment-resistant depression: A systematic review
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42100880/

For ketamine, a review of how it interacts with glutamate (the brain’s most common excitatory neurotransmitter)
Ketamine and the glutamatergic system: A systematic review of NMDA receptor modulation
https://publicacoes.cespu.pt/index.php/sl/article/view/484

Kratom

For kratom, a review of its alkaloids & their properties
A review on Mitragyna alkaloids pharmacology, biosynthesis and biotechnological insights
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1687157X26000545

For kratom & pigment problems, a case report of kratom use for lower back pain leading to blue-gray pigmentation of the face, neck & hands
Photodistributed Hyperpigmentation in a Chronic Kratom User: Histologic and Elemental Characterization
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/cup.70126

Kava

For kava, a survey on consumption patterns found reported effects to include reduced anxiety, improved mood & sedation, with only 12% reporting it to be habit-forming & more than half finding it to be a substitute for alcohol
Kava (Piper methysticum) consumption patterns and conceptualizations: results from an online survey
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s13011-026-00728-3

Cathinones

A storytelling essay on the cathinone 3-MMC
On 3-MMC: A Cathinone I Have Come to Know and Love
https://philpapers.org/rec/OSTOMA-2

🍃 The Plant & its Products 🍃

🌱 Growing 🌱

For cultivating medical cannabis, on the feasibility of using reclaimed municipal water
Feasibility of medicinal cannabis cultivation in outdoor conditions using municipal reclaimed water
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s42238-026-00433-9

For hemp growing in Turkey, interviews with farmers on the effects of efficiency on their carbon balance
Assessing the relationship between technical efficiency and net carbon balance in industrial hemp production systems in Turkey
https://acsess.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/jeq2.70192

For planting density in the southeastern United States, higher planting density reduced stem height & diameter but improved bast fiber yield
Plant population effects on fiber hemp growth and yield in Southeastern United States
https://acsess.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/agj2.70427

For cannabis fertilization, on the interplay of phosphate availability & nitrogen balance
Phosphate availability shapes source–sink dynamics and nitrogen balance in dual-purpose hemp (Cannabis sativa L.): Insights from physiological and transcriptomic analyses
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0926669026007727

In salt-stressed hemp, phosphorus-solubilizing bacteria & phosphorus-enriched biochar enhance growth & yield
Phosphorus-solubilizing bacteria and phosphorus-enriched biochar enhance growth, cannabinoid content, and essential oil yield in salt-stressed hemp (Cannabis sativa L.)
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0168945226002360

In different cannabis cultivars, on the effects of methyl jasmonate & insecticides on yield
Interactive Effects of Methyl Jasmonate, Cultivar, and Insecticide Treatments on Agronomic and Phytochemical Traits of Cannabis sativa L.
https://journals.ashs.org/view/journals/hortsci/61/5/article-p900.xml

For hemp cultivars in Puerto Rico, on the agronomy for the best yield
Flower yield, cannabinoid and terpene content of selected hemp cultivars
https://revistas.upr.edu/index.php/jaupr/article/view/23101

In waterlogged hemp, on the effects on growth & yield
Industrial hemp response to waterlogging stress: Influence of duration and growth stage on physiological performance and yield
https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-9546420/v1/05746efd-2a1c-498b-8db1-d3d425703909.pdf

For cannabis with a dual-stress event (nutrient lockout & growth chamber failure), on trying to create a recovery protocol
Physiological Recovery and Morphological Reversion of Cannabis sativa Following Environmental Stress and Nutrient Lock Out
https://minds.wisconsin.edu/handle/1793/97340

On hemp fiber degumming with a novel natural thermal-cooling cycle
A novel natural thermal-cooling cycle treatment for hemp fibers degumming
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0959652626010280

In 5 cultivars of northern Morocco, an analysis of their morphological traits
Morphological traits characterization of five Cannabis sativa L. cultivars from the Rif Mountains, northern Morocco
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s42535-026-01715-6

For a decarboxylated extract of Gorilla Glue, on its profile & the stability of its CBD
Gorilla Glue Cannabis Extracts: Cannabinoid Profiling and CBD Hydrolysis Investigation
https://publicacoes.cespu.pt/index.php/sl/article/view/495

Profiling the Z-face cultivar
Cannabinoid Profiling of Z-Face Cannabis Cultivar Extracts
https://publicacoes.cespu.pt/index.php/sl/article/view/493

In a genetic analysis of hemp, a new control region found for flowering time
Identification of a major QTL and candidate gene for photoperiodic flowering in industrial hemp via BSA-seq and fine mapping
https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-9403686/v1

On dehydrating & oxidizing cannabis leaves with a hybrid solar-electric method
Hybrid solar-electric thermal dehydration and oxidation of Cannabis sativa L. leaves. Prospecting of CBD, THC and CBN concentration
https://scielo.iics.una.py/scielo.php?pid=S2409-87522026000100073&script=sci_abstract&tlng=en

⚙️ Extracting, Analyzing & Formulating ⚙️

During the processing of cannabis flower, on the changing cannabinoid profile during decarboxylation, extraction & purification
Exploring cannabinoid profile changes during cannabis flower decarboxylation, extraction, and purification
https://publicacoes.cespu.pt/index.php/sl/article/view/506

On cannabinoid extraction via ohmic heating (aka Joule heating, a technique of heating material by passing an electric current through it)
Evaluation of Cannabinoid Extraction from Cannabis Flowers Using Ohmic Heating
https://publicacoes.cespu.pt/index.php/sl/article/view/468

For creating hemp extracts that are protein-rich but cannabinoid-free, on combining solvent-free ultrasound & microwave-assisted extraction
Production of Protein-Rich and Cannabinoid-Free Extracts from Industrial Hemp by Combined Solvent-Free Ultrasound- and Microwave-Assisted Extraction
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acsfoodscitech.6c00123

For detecting CBD in beverages, on using surface-enhanced infrared absorption
Reduced Graphene Oxide for Surface-Enhanced Infrared Absorption Detection of Cannabidiol in Beverages
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acsanm.6c00649

On analyzing neutral cannabinoid levels using HPLC-DAD
A sustainable approach to analyzing neutral cannabinoids using HPLC-DAD
https://publicacoes.cespu.pt/index.php/sl/article/view/505

For analyzing cannabinoid levels, on a liquid chromatography photo-diode array (LC–PDA) method
Innovative Framework for Blinded Evaluation of Methods: Application to Cannabinoid Quantification in Hemp
https://watermark02.silverchair.com/qsag039.pdf

On optimizing terpene profiling using a GC-MS
GC-MS Terpene Profiling in Cannabis extracts: Method Optimization and Analytical Validation
https://publicacoes.cespu.pt/index.php/sl/article/view/491

For CBD nanosystems, a patent review
Unraveling approaches for cannabidiol delivery nanosystems: A patent review
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0753332226005457

On creating complexes of cannabinoids & terpenes in 3D-printed films
3D-Printed Mucoadhesive Hydrogel Buccal Films Based on HPMC and Carbopol Bioinks Incorporating Cyclodextrin–Cannabinoid Complexes and Terpenes
https://www.mdpi.com/2310-2861/12/5/386

On crystallizing CBD into crystals & microgels for better bioavailability
Hydrophilic carriers for encapsulation of hydrophobic drug cannabidiol: Vaterite CaCO3 crystals and multilayer microgels made of sustainable polymers
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772950826002049

🍞 Food & Nutrition 🍞

For gluten-free baked goods, on optimizing hemp seed oil extraction
Optimization of hemp seed oil extraction and functional testing of its by-product in gluten-free baked goods
https://www.scielo.br/j/bjft/a/vVkyLxcp55ysdzPwnXTXCvR/

For bottled water infused with CBD, on the efficacy of an aseptic bottling process
Refreshing Innovation: Quality, Safety, and Chemistry of CBD-Infused Bottled Water
https://www.preprints.org/frontend/manuscript/cc6305871ce3da70dde0da164ef99389/download_pub

For hempseed proteins, a review on their use as a food ingredient
Hempseed proteins as novel food ingredients: a review
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00217-026-05128-2

For hemp seeds, on an ethanol extraction & the extract’s efficacy for inhibiting nitric oxide
Establishment of Ethanol Extraction Conditions for Hemp Seed and Evaluation of Nitric Oxide Inhibitory Activity of Its Extract
https://www.e-jkfn.org/journal/view.html?doi=10.3746/jkfn.2026.55.4.311

For hemp protein isolate extracted by an alkaline method, an analysis of its water holding & fat absorption capacity
Investigating the Water Holding Capacity and Fat Absorption Capacity of Hemp Protein Isolate (Cannabis sativa L.) Extracted by Alkaline Method
https://fsct.modares.ac.ir/article_28581_en.html

From hemp seeds, on the properties of the novel polysaccharide HSP-Ia
Structural characterization and in vitro evaluation of the hypolipidemic activity of the HSP-Ia, a bioactive polysaccharide derived from hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) seeds
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0144861726005564

In feeding hemp to sheep, their digestibility decreased for dry matter, organic matter & crude protein
Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol resist rumen microbial metabolism but impair feed digestibility and alter VFA profiles
https://connectsci.au/an/article/doi/10.1071/AN25332/272633/9-tetrahydrocannabinol-and-cannabidiol-resist

🏗️ Industrial Uses & Fiber 🏗️

For cannabis removing forever chemicals from the soil, a thesis project on improving uptake via microbial inoculations
IMPROVING CANNABIS SATIVA’S PHYTOREMEDIATION CAPABILITIES OF FOREVER CHEMICALS THROUGH MICROBIAL INOCULATIONS
https://commons.nmu.edu/theses/921/

For removing copper from water, on using a hemp hydrogel
Synthesis and Characterization of Hemp Oil-Impregnated Chitosan-Polyvinyl Alcohol Hydrogels for Synergistic Copper (II) Ions Removal from Water
https://www.preprints.org/frontend/manuscript/56d90d6dc6d9a03abf239038dbc05b87/download_pub

For brake pads, on combining hemp, flax, bamboo & coconut shell
Investigation of the Usability of Agricultural and Biomass Wastes in Brake Pad Composites
https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-9618636/v1/c36052ac-c1c6-4194-bd96-4b3fffb114e9.pdf

For automotive interiors, on a biocomposites based on hemp seed oil
Hemp seed oil-based bio-composites as a sustainable alternative for automotive interior applications
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13726-026-01647-7

For vinyl ester composites (often used in airplanes), on improving properties with hemp & agave fiber
Mechanical and drilling studies on interfacial adhesion improved hemp and agave hybrid fibre & biosilica reinforced vinyl ester composite
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/00219983261449598

On reinforcing polyethylene with hemp to improve wear resistance
Studies on Wear Behavior of Hemp Fiber-Reinforced High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Composites Using Taber Abrasion Test
https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.1201/9781003471844-5/studies-wear-behavior-hemp-fiber-reinforced-high-density-polyethylene-hdpe-composites-using-taber-abrasion-test-kondusamy-samsudeensadham-sriram-sriguhan-sudeep

In polymer composites with hemp fiber, on predicting roughness
Integrating AWJ Process Parameters with Ensemble Learning Techniques (RF & XGBoost) for Accurate Surface Roughness Prediction in Hemp Fibre Polymer Composites
https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/11508321

For creating a plastic composite with pineapple leaf & hemp fibers
Enhanced polylactic acid composites reinforced with pineapple leaf and hemp fibers
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13726-026-01668-2

On a biocomposites film made with starch, agar & hemp fiber
Structure–property relationships in multifunctional starch/agar biocomposite films reinforced with alkaline–peroxide treated hemp fibers for sustainable applications
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2468217926000791

For plastic composites, on enhancing its properties with torrefied (roasted) hemp hurd
Hemp hurd torrefaction as an effective strategy to enhance PLA-based composite mechanical and tribological properties
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-026-51164-z

On creating a renewable plastic using hemp as a filler
EFFECT OF HEMP FILLER ON THE MECHANICAL AND PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF PLA/PBAT COMPOSITE FILMS
https://icntcconference.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/ICNTC-2026-BOOK-OF-ABSTRACTS.pdf

On improving hemp & jute fiber moisture resistance & mechanical properties with a mild calcium carbonate treatment
A Mild Calcium Carbonate Treatment Improves Moisture Resistance and Mechanical/Interfacial Properties of Jute and Hemp Fibers
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acsomega.6c00108

For hemp pressing cake (residue), on comparing combustion via heat & power vs anaerobic bacterial digestion
Energy Valorization of Industrial Hemp Pressing Residues (Cannabis sativa L.) - Combustion, Anaerobic Digestion and LCA using OpenLCA
https://www.epj-conferences.org/articles/epjconf/pdf/2026/25/epjconf_jiama2026_01008.pdf

For hempcrete, a review of advances & techniques
Advancements in hempcrete as a bioresource-based material for sustainable and low-carbon construction
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s41062-026-02665-3

For walls, on using a hemp-clay composite with gum arabic
Assessment of the possibility of using a clay-hemp mixture modified with gum arabic as a wall material
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352710226010570

For sustainable concrete, on the synergy between waste rubber & hemp fibers
Eco-Friendly Structural Solutions: The Synergy of Waste Rubber and Hemp Fibers in Sustainable Concre
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/15440478.2026.2665745

For hemp lime concrete, an AI to predict its compressive strength
Machine learning prediction of compressive strength of hemp lime concrete for sustainable and resilient infrastructure
https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s43621-026-03262-1_reference.pdf

For composite panels, a lifecycle assessment of their carbon footprint
Cradle-to-gate life cycle assessment of advanced composite panels incorporating CO2-derived multi-walled carbon nanotubes and hemp fiber for sustainable building applications
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2352710226011009

🌿 THE CANNA-SCIENCE ARCHIVE 🌿

On delivering cannabinoids to rodents, a review of the many ingestion methods
Pharmacokinetics of Cannabinoids Delivered by Diverse Routes in Rodents
https://karger.com/mca/article-pdf/doi/10.1159/000551979/4535029/000551979.pdf

🏥 Public Health & Bioassays 🏥

In older adults using cannabis edibles, on their reasons for using them for pain, sleep & mental health
Edible Cannabis and Pain, Sleep, and Mental Health Management in Older Adults
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2848773

In a palliative care practice, on lessons for implementing medical cannabis
Cannabis in the Clinic: How to Implement an Embedded Medical Cannabis Program in an Academic Palliative Care Practice
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0885392426003015

In a genetic analysis of Moroccan people, on their novel variant of the CB1 receptor
Genomic and structural analysis of the endocannabinoid system in Moroccans: A novel CNR1 variant (V392A) impairs CB1 receptor stability
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0347606

In Iranian healthcare students, they had therapeutic awareness of medical cannabis but operational hesitancy
Healthcare students’ knowledge and attitude toward medical cannabis: a cross-sectional study in southeastern Iran
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s42238-026-00424-w

In oral fluid, a review on detecting THC with mass spectroscopy
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol detection times using mass spectroscopy in oral fluid: a systematic review using a 5 ng/mL cut-off value
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00414-026-03805-1

In a breath sampling device, on the factors associated with recovering THC, CBD & CBN
Factors influencing the recovery of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabidiol, and cannabinol from a breath sampling device
https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1752-7163/ae6d2c/pdf

In dried blood spots vs drawn blood, a comparison of measuring THC levels & its metabolites
Determination of THC and THC-COOH in Dried Capillary Blood Spots and Comparison to Venous Blood of Recreational Cannabis Consumers in a Pilot Study
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42120005/

In canine urine, on identifying rare cannabinoid metabolites using GC-MS
Characterization of unusual Immunoassay Cross-Reactive Cannabinoid Metabolites in Canine Urine via Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/15376516.2026.2665315

🧒 Adolescents & Young Adults 🧒

In US adolescents, cannabis use surpassed tobacco use for the first time (#teenuse)
Changing Norms, Changing Risks: Adolescent Cannabis Use Surpasses Tobacco in the United States
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306460326001413

In California adolescents, a survey found they considered cannabis to be less harmful than cigarettes, nicotine vapes & alcohol, with harm perceptions declining with age (unlike for other substances)
Adolescents view cannabis as less harmful than cigarettes, nicotine vapes, and alcohol: Findings from two California school surveys
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0376871626001365

In US college students, on their rates of problematic cannabis usage
Operationalizing ASSIST-based indicators to estimate the prevalence and correlates of problematic cannabis involvement among U.S. college students
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s42238-026-00446-4

In college students with high levels of psychological stress, they had higher odds of co-using alcohol & cannabis as well as co-occurring alcohol & cannabis use disorders
Psychological Distress, Unmet Need for Mental Health, and Associated Simultaneous Alcohol and Cannabis Use, and Co-Occurring Disorders Among College Students
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10826084.2026.2670608

In young people with problematic cannabis use, interviews on the factors that promoted or hindered their help-seeking
Help-Seeking for Problematic Cannabis Use Among Young People: A Qualitative Study with Professionals and People with Lived Experience
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10826084.2026.2670615

In adolescents with cannabis use disorder, motivational interviewing helped reduce their scores & decrease anxiety & depression levels
Effectiveness of Motivational Interviewing in the Treatment of Cannabis Use Disorder Among Adolescents Attending Public Schools
https://ajoeijournal.org/sys/index.php/ajoei/article/view/1137

In Asian & Latinx college students, a younger age of immigration was linked to higher levels of cannabis use
Age at Immigration Linked to Cigarette and Marijuana Use in Asian and Latinx U.S. College Students
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10903-026-01917-9

Among Andalusian adolescents attending school, those testing positive for COVID were ~ 3x more likely to have used cannabis in the last month
Association between cannabis use and result of COVID-19 testing among scholarised adolescents in Andalusia: A cross-sectional study
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0347098

In youth with pain, public health data showed females having lower levels of the endocannabinoid 2-AG & males with sleep problems having higher levels of anandamide & oleoylethanolamide (though no link between pain levels & endocannabinoids)
427 Endocannabinoids and pain: Exploring sex differences and pain risk factors in youth
https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/journal-of-clinical-and-translational-science/article/427-endocannabinoids-and-pain-exploring-sex-differences-and-pain-risk-factors-in-youth/A7FD991859ED4FC3BB9131C58BFFECB7

In early adolescence, the endocannabinoid 2-AG & the related lipid 2-oleoylglycerol were associated with behavioral urgency, while anandamide was associated with higher-order functions like perseverance
Associations of endocannabinoid serum concentrations with behavioral impulsivity and substance use in late childhood to early adolescence
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0376871626001651

In an adolescent rodent model of THC use, they had elevated levels of anxiety & anhedonia (lack of pleasure)
Adolescent THC-Induced Changes in Behavior and Synaptic Plasticity (Abstract ID: 230707)
https://jpet.aspetjournals.org/article/S0022-3565(26)00205-3/abstract

🧠 The Brain & Neurological Disorders 🧠

In a genetic analysis of people with Alzheimer’s disease, a certain variant of the enzyme FAAH (which breaks down anandamide) preserved brain volume & slowed cognitive decline
Cognitive and Neuroanatomical Effects of Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase Polymorphism rs324420 in Aging and Alzheimer Disease
https://journals.lww.com/alzheimerjournal/abstract/9900/cognitive_and_neuroanatomical_effects_of_fatty.196.aspx

In rat brain wave scans, on the changes caused by THC & CBD
Effects of THC, CBD, and Their Combination on EEG Dynamics in Rats
https://www.biomed.cas.cz/physiolres/pdf/2026/75_385.pdf

In a mouse model of temporal lobe epilepsy, CBD did not alter seizure activity & THC only increased sedation
Behavioral, electrophysiological, and epigenetic characterization of acute cannabinoid treatment during pilocarpine-induced status epilepticus in mice
https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-9569465/v1

In a mouse model of stroke, activating the CB2 receptor decreased damage, loss of neuronal dendrites & hypertrophy of the astroglia (brain immune support cells)
CB2R Agonist Reduces Astroglial and Microglial Reactions and Attenuates the Impact of Focal Cerebral Ischemia in Mice
https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-9533706/v1

💭 Mental Health, Addiction & Cannabis Use Disorder 💭

In women with PTSD, positive beliefs about the antianxiety & antidepressant effects of cannabis mediated both their duration of use & psychological outcomes
Cannabis Expectancies as a Mediator in the Relationship Between Cannabis Use and Psychiatric Symptoms in Women With Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms
https://assets.cureus.com/uploads/original_article/pdf/442695/20260505-124906-hea997.pdf

In brain scans of people with cannabis use disorder, they had differences in responses to reward functions in certain brain regions (the bilateral insula & right putamen)
Brain reward function in people with moderate-to-severe cannabis use disorder who tried to cut down or quit: an fMRI study
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-026-50870-y

In males & females with first-episode psychosis, compared to healthy controls, males had lower CB1 levels while the levels did not differ in females
The Brain Endocannabinoid System is Differentially Regulated in Male and Female Patients with First-Episode Psychosis
https://academic.oup.com/schizophreniabulletin/article/52/3/sbag038/8667491

In the genetics of cannabis use disorder & psychosis, a meta-analysis found overlapping genetic clusters “including intracellular signaling, synaptic function, and neuronal development”
Genetic Pathways Point to the Biology Underlying the Association Between Cannabis Use Disorder and Psychosis
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2667174326000248

In brain scans of chronic cannabis users, abstinence was associated with increased levels of the FAAH enzyme (which breaks down anandamide)
PET imaging of FAAH in chronic Cannabis users: longitudinal assessment during short-term abstinence
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41386-026-02438-7

In people with alcohol use disorder, on the factors associated with using cannabis or CBD to help
Cannabis for Harm Reduction: Exploring Mental Health and Other Motivational Factors among Adults at Risk for Alcohol Use Disorder in Florida
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10826084.2026.2670620

In people with methamphetamine use disorder (but not opioid use disorder), a certain genetic variant of the enzyme FAAH (which breaks down anandamide) was protective against methamphetamine use disorder
FAAH rs324420 Polymorphism in People With Opioid and Methamphetamine Use Disorders: Psychological Associations
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42135911/

In people with hypersomnolence (an inability to stay awake), cannabis use had little effect on their time to sleep
0719 Much Ado About Nothing? Cannabinoids Do Not Impact Multiple Sleep Latency Test Variables in Suspected Central Disorders of Hypersomnolence Patients
https://academic.oup.com/sleep/article/49/Supplement_1/A320/8674340

In a rat model of ADHD, increasing their levels of the endocannabinoids anandamide & 2-AG lessened defensive behavior in a gendered manner
Acute elevation of anandamide and 2-AG levels modulates defensive behavior in a sex- and strain-dependent manner in an animal model of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0091305726000559

In a rat model of autism, in males, activating the PPAR-α nuclear receptor (that regulates genetic transcription) increased levels of the endocannabinoid PEA, normalized brain levels of FAAH (the enzyme that breaks down anandamide) & reinstated social behaviors, while in the females, it did not alter their social reward or change their endocannabinoids
PPAR-α activation in a model of autism modulates social reward and endocannabinoid signaling selectively in male rats
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0028390826001693

In a mouse model of genetic risk for schizophrenia, activating the CB1 receptor suggested a comorbidity between schizophrenia & cannabis use disorder
Genetic risk for schizophrenia modulates WIN 55,212-2 reward: Evidence from a heterozygous transmembrane domain neuregulin 1 mutant mouse model
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00213-026-07080-1

In a mouse model of alcohol intoxication, they had increased heart levels of the endocannabinoid anandamide, which mediated dysfunction of the mitochondria (powerhouse of the cell)
Anandamide is a key mediator of alcohol-induced cardiac mitochondrial dysfunction
https://journals.physiology.org/doi/abs/10.1152/physiol.2026.41.S1.2300878

In a rat model of risky decision-making driven by punishment, a thesis project on the role of the cannabinoid receptors
The Role of Cannabinoid Receptors in Punishment-Driven Risky Decision-Making
https://www.proquest.com/openview/951d1ec22bac8c3d1ba9cd7d49949391/1

🦠 The Immune System & Microbial 🦠

In people with HIV, frequent cannabis use was associated with more frequent HIV clinic visits
Longitudinal analysis of symptoms and healthcare utilization among daily cannabis-using persons living with HIV: impact of co-occurring cocaine use
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s42238-026-00443-7

In people with chronic fatigue, cannabinoids had differential effects on the respiration of their mitochondria (powerhouse of the cell)
Cannabinoid-based personalized therapeutic approach to ameliorate mitochondrial function in patients with chronic fatigue (Abstract ID: 269335)
https://jpet.aspetjournals.org/article/S0022-3565(26)01014-1/abstract

In immune cells, on the effects of CBD, cocaine & a drug to activate the CB1 receptor
Cannabidiol and Cocaine Induce Heterogenous and Donor-Dependent Inflammatory Responses in Primary Human Peripheral Immune Cells (Abstract ID: 230793)
https://jpet.aspetjournals.org/article/S0022-3565(26)00235-1/abstract

For extracts of hemp seed, compared to black rice & oat, hemp seed extract had the most significant antimicrobial effects against 3 foodborne pathogens
Comparison of Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities of Hemp Seeds, Black Rice, and Oats by Extraction Conditions
https://www.e-jkfn.org/journal/view.html?doi=10.3746/jkfn.2026.55.4.340

🦴 Pain, Musculoskeletal, Inflammation & Surgeries 🦴

In people with spinal cord injuries, higher levels of cannabis use were associated with greater pain interference in mood & life enjoyment but not increased depression severity
Self-reported Opioid and Marijuana Use in a Clinical SCI Setting and Impact on Pain Interference and Depression
https://www.archives-pmr.org/article/S0003-9993(26)00190-5/abstract

In people with fibromyalgia using medical cannabis, it typically took 3 months of tinkering with dosages & formulations to find their best levels
REAL-WORLD TITRATION PATHWAYS AND THERAPEUTIC INTEGRATION OF MEDICAL CANNABIS IN FIBROMYALGIA: INTERIM ANALYSIS OF A REFRACTORY CLINICAL COHORT
https://www.ahr-journal.org/site/article/view/181

For surgery on extra bone growth in the hips, cannabis users had no significant differences in postoperative outcomes
Does preoperative marijuana use influence postoperative outcomes following arthroscopic treatment for femoroacetabular impingement syndrome? A prospective cohort analysis
https://academic.oup.com/jhps/advance-article/doi/10.1093/jhps/hnag020/8667552

In a rat model of pain, the inflammation was mediated by crosstalk between the endocannabinoids & the glucocorticoids in the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray (a brain region for modulating pain as well as defensive & aversive behaviors)
Glucocorticoid–endocannabinoid crosstalk in the ventrolateral periaqueductal gray (vlPAG) promotes pain resolution
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC13142447/

In mice with growth impairment due to a mutation in pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A2 (PAPPA2), it worked via the cannabinoid receptors for bone formation
Sex-specific hormonal rescue of bone growth in PAPPA2-deficient mice
https://boneandjoint.org.uk/article/10.1302/2046-3758.155.BJR-2025-0563.R1

On drugs to inhibit both the enzymes FAAH (that breaks down anandamide) & soluble epoxide hydrolase (involved in pain & inflammation)
Synthetic and Pharmacological Studies on Polynitrogen-Containing Leads to the Identification of New Dual sEH/FAAH Inhibitors (Abstract ID: 220628)

https://jpet.aspetjournals.rg/article/S0022-3565(26)00319-8/abstract
Pharmacological Investigations and Structure Activity Relationships of Polynitrogen Dual FAAH and sEH Inhibitors (Abstract ID: 229956)
https://jpet.aspetjournals.org/article/S0022-3565(26)00344-7/abstract
Effects of Dual Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase and Soluble Epoxide Hydrolase Inhibitors on Anxiety-Like Behavior in Rats (Abstract ID: 221485)
https://jpet.aspetjournals.org/article/S0022-3565(26)00354-X/abstract
Dual Inhibition of Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase and Soluble Epoxide Hydrolase Reduces Inflammatory and Orofacial Pain in Rats (Abstract ID: 221469)
https://jpet.aspetjournals.org/article/S0022-3565(26)00307-1/abstract

❤️ The Heart & Blood ❤️

In adolescents with high blood pressure, they had higher levels of the endocannabinoid 2-AG
Neuropeptides and endocannabinoid system as regulators of blood pressure in adolescents with primary hypertension
https://journals.lww.com/md-journal/fulltext/2026/05010/neuropeptides_and_endocannabinoid_system_as.60.aspx

In a rat model of high blood pressure, CBD lowered a cardiovascular reflex, probably via the GPR18 receptor
Cannabidiol attenuates visceral sympathoexcitatory cardiovascular responses through GPR18 receptors in rats
https://journals.physiology.org/doi/abs/10.1152/physiol.2026.41.S1.2297969

In a rat model of high blood pressure, blocking both the CB1 receptor & the nitric oxide-synthesizing enzyme helped to lower blood pressure
Chronic simultaneous inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and peripheral cannabinoid CB1 receptors blockade ameliorates pulmonary hypertension in monocrotaline-induced rat model
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2026.1831802/abstract

🩸 The Liver, Drug Interactions & Cannabinoid Metabolism 🩸

In liver cells, on the different effects of CBD & CBG on the AhR/CYP1A pathway
Cannabigerol and cannabidiol differ in their ability to affect the AhR/CYP1A pathway in vitro
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0278691526002309

🍽️ The Guts, Nutrition & the Microbiome 🍽️

For obesity, a hypothesis on CB1 receptors in the liver being a key driver
Is Hepatic Cannabinoid 1 Receptor a Key Driver of Obesity? Implications of the Weight-Reducing Efficacy of the Hepatotropic Inverse Agonist TM38837
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42135988/

In a rat model of metabolic syndrome, inhibition of the FAAH enzyme (which breaks down anandamide) reversed memory impairments but did not improve spatial memory performance
Chronic intranasal URB597 treatment reverts short-term memory deficits in a rat model of metabolic syndrome
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0024320526002547

In a mouse model of Crohn’s disease, the CB2 receptor was found to promote the immune system’s T cells to go to the guts & increase inflammation
CB2R promotes T cell gut homing and exacerbates ileitis in a murine Crohn’s model
https://academic.oup.com/ibdjournal/advance-article/doi/10.1093/ibd/izag066/8678283

🎗️ Cancer & Chemotherapy 🎗️

In someone with advanced cancer, on the long bureaucracy to allow her to use medical cannabis
Rolling It Out: Operationalizing Inpatient Use of Medical Cannabis for Symptom Management in Advanced Cancer
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0885392426003349

For combining cannabinoids with chemotherapy cancer treatment, a meta-analysis of the preclinical evidence found a significant effect in a number of tumor types
Antitumor Activity of Cannabinoids and Their Interaction with Chemotherapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Preclinical Evidence
https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8247/19/5/768

For CBD & cancer, this review found it caused antitumor effects via a variety of mechanisms
Cannabidiol-Induced Tumor Cell Death: Molecular Mechanisms and Translational Perspectives in Cancer
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.2147/DDDT.S597740

In a mouse model of neuropathy from chemotherapy, the synthetic cannabinoid KLS-13019 combined with the treatment paclitaxel reduced tumor size while significantly lessening neuropathy
KLS‑13019, A Synthetic Cannabidiol Analogue Reverses Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy while Preserving Chemotherapeutic Efficacy in Tumor-Bearing Models (Abstract ID: 273334)
https://jpet.aspetjournals.org/article/S0022-3565(26)01040-2/abstract

In melanoma cells, CBD-loaded nanoparticles reduced cell viability & caused antitumor activity
Lipid nanoparticle-encapsulated cannabidiol enhances selective cytotoxicity in melanoma cells
https://publicacoes.cespu.pt/index.php/sl/article/view/470

In canine breast cancer cells, they had overexpression of endocannabinoid-related receptors & CBD downregulated key inflammatory genes
Modulation of the endocannabinoid system reduces inflammatory signalling in canine mammary carcinoma cells
https://bvajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdfdirect/10.1002/vro2.70034

In colorectal cancer cells, cannabis stem extracts caused cytotoxicity
Phytochemical profiling, selective cytotoxicity, and FoldX-assisted molecular interaction analysis of Cannabis sativa L. stem extract
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0254629926002450

In breast cancer cells, resistance to the treatment trastuzumab is driven by the CB2 receptor, suggesting it as a target to overcome resistance
Cannabinoid CB2 receptor drives trastuzumab resistance and predicts durable anti-HER2 response
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41388-026-03814-9

💊 Synthetic Cannabinoids & Hemp-Derived Cannabinoids 💊

For derivatives of the synthetic cannabinoid JWH-018, on their effects on body temperature, painkilling, locomotor activity & catalepsy
In vivo evaluation of synthetic cannabinoid JWH018 derivatives as potential new psychoactive substances
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-026-51639-z_reference.pdf

In mice, on co-administering a benzodiazepine with the synthetic cannabinoid 5F-APINACA
Behavioral and Pharmacokinetic Implications of Synthetic Cannabinoid Receptor Agonist and Benzodiazepine Co-Administration in C57BL/6 Mice (Abstract ID: 221452)
https://jpet.aspetjournals.org/article/S0022-3565(26)00476-3/abstract

In synthetic cannabinoids, those with a valinamide or tert-leucinamide head moiety had activity at the 5-HT2A serotonin (psychedelic ) receptor
5‐HT2A receptor agonism by tert‐leucinamide and valinamide synthetic cannabinoids: In vitro and in vivo evidence
https://bpspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdfdirect/10.1111/bph.70457

For screening synthetic cannabinoids, on an optical method
Analyte-templated aggregate remodeling for broad-spectrum visual screening of synthetic cannabinoids
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0039914026006168

🔬 Biochemical Discoveries & Research Tools 🔬

In tissue cultures, how CBDA interacts with the translation initiation factor EIF2A
The study of the molecular mechanism of action of cannabidiol in 2D and 3D in vitro cell models reveals new insights about the translation factor EIF2A
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/404624106_The_study_of_the_molecular_mechanism_of_action_of_cannabidiol_in_2D_and_3D_in_vitro_cell_models_reveals_new_insights_about_the_translation_factor_EIF2A

For this CB1 receptor & the phosphorylation of ERK, it seems to be driven by downstream G proteins
G proteins rather than arrestin drive ERK phosphorylation downstream of the cannabinoid CB1 receptor
https://www.authorea.com/doi/full/10.22541/authorea.15003148/v1

For the structures of the CB1 & CB2 receptors, a review on how these alter the binding of ligands
Structural Insights into Cannabinoid Receptors CB1 and CB2: Determinants of Ligand Selectivity
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/chemical-biology/articles/10.3389/fchbi.2026.1830007/abstract

For the CB2 receptor, a structure analysis on positive allosteric regulation (binding to a side site to alter binding strength at the main binding site)
Structural basis for positive allosteric regulation of CB2 receptor
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-026-72923-6_reference.pdf

On the behavioral effects from dual inhibitors of the FAAH enzyme (which breaks down anandamide) & the enzyme MAGL (which breaks down the endocannabinoid 2-AG)
Dual Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (FAAH) and Monoacylglycerol Lipase (MGL) Inhibitors Produce Ratio-Dependent Cannabinoid Activity In Vivo (Abstract ID: 225992)
https://jpet.aspetjournals.org/article/S0022-3565(26)00477-5/abstract

On new inhibitors of the MAGL enzyme (which breaks down 2-AG)
Covalent Inhibitors of Monoacylglycerol Lipase Induce Conformational Changes and Proteasomal Degradation
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/jacs.5c22859

For creating novel endocannabinoid analogs, a thesis project on their design, synthesis & biological evaluation
Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of novel endocannabinoid analogs
https://repository.library.northeastern.edu/files/neu:ms35v287s

Thanks.
- lex

PS: For this week’s heavenly singing from South Africa, the album ‘Shaka Zulu’ by Ladysmith Black Mambazo. This 1987 album was produced by Paul Simon after the men’s choral group Ladysmith Black Mambazo sang on his album Graceland. First founded in 1960 by Joseph Shabalala, he began with a group of relatives who grew up singing together on the farm & named them Ladysmith Black Mambazo (the name of his hometown + black for the black oxen, strongest of all farm animals + the Zulu word for a chopping axe, a symbol of the group’s vocal ability to clear the path to success). They wrote songs of hope & peace, protesting against South Africa’s system of apartheid. Later, when Nelson Mandela was released from prison in 1990, he said that he listened to their music to help him through & upon his release, declared them to be South African cultural ambassadors to the world. When Mandela won the Nobel Peace Prize, Ladysmith Black Mambazo accompanying him to the ceremony.
In their first years, they were not known outside their hometown, but after winning choral competitions from Durban to Johannesburg, they were eventually banned from competitions so that other groups would have a chance to win. Their first album came out in 1973 & it was the first record from a South African group of Black musicians to go gold. When Shabalala converted to Christianity, new religious material entered the group’s repertoire, especially Methodist hymns. The group became so popular that in 1981, the apartheid government even allowed them the travel to Germany as part of a South African music festival. Then Paul Simon came to South Africa in 1985 to collaborate with African musicians & he flew Ladysmith Black Mambazo to London for the recording of ‘Graceland’. He later brought them to New York City to perform on Saturday Night Live to promote the album. After this, their popularity never waned & they’ve been touring at least 6 months of the year ever since.

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