From Anxious to Zen: The Best Cultivars for Relaxation

As the world becomes increasingly fast-paced and stressful, many individuals are seeking natural remedies to help them relax and unwind. Cultivars, also known as cannabis strains, have gained popularity for their potential to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. In this article, we will delve into the realm of cultivars and explore the best options for achieving a state of zen. From understanding the science behind how cultivars interact with the body to practical tips on choosing the right strain for relaxation, we will guide you on a journey from anxious to zen through the world of cultivars.

Understanding the Role of Cultivars in Relaxation

In the world of cannabis, cultivars play a key role in determining the effects and experiences users may have. Cultivars, also known as strains, come in a variety of types, each with its own unique characteristics and potential benefits for relaxation.

The Basics of Cultivars and Their Effects

Cultivars are essentially different varieties of cannabis plants that have been bred to exhibit specific traits. These traits can include various levels of cannabinoids like THC and CBD, as well as different terpene profiles, which contribute to the overall effects of the cultivar. Understanding the basics of cultivars can help users find the right one for their desired relaxation experience.

How Cultivars Interact with the Endocannabinoid System

When cannabis cultivars are consumed, the active compounds interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, a complex network of receptors and neurotransmitters that help regulate various physiological processes. The interaction between cultivars and the endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in determining the effects users may experience, including relaxation, mood enhancement, and pain relief.

Exploring Indica vs. Sativa: Which Cultivar is Best for Relaxation?

Two main categories of cultivars are Indica and Sativa, each known for producing distinct effects. When it comes to relaxation, understanding the characteristics of these cultivars can help users choose the best option for their needs.

Characteristics of Indica Cultivars for Relaxation

Indica cultivars are often associated with relaxing and sedating effects, making them ideal for unwinding after a long day or promoting restful sleep. These cultivars are known for their calming properties and are popular choices for those seeking relaxation and stress relief.

Characteristics of Sativa Cultivars for Relaxation

Sativa cultivars, on the other hand, are typically associated with uplifting and energizing effects. While Sativa cultivars may not be as sedating as Indica varieties, they can still offer relaxation by promoting a sense of well-being and creativity. Sativa cultivars are favored by those looking to relax without feeling too sleepy or lethargic.

Top Cultivars Known for Their Relaxing Effects

Certain cultivars have gained a reputation for their potent relaxation-inducing properties. Whether you’re a seasoned cannabis user or new to the scene, exploring these popular cultivars can help you find the perfect match for your relaxation needs.

Popular Cultivars for Relaxation

From classics like OG Kush to newcomers like Granddaddy Purple, there are plenty of cultivars known for their relaxing effects. These cultivars have garnered praise for their ability to calm the mind and body, making them go-to choices for relaxation.

Cultivar Profiles: Effects and Benefits for Relaxation

Delving into the specific effects and benefits of cultivars can provide valuable insight for users seeking relaxation. By understanding the unique profiles of different cultivars, individuals can make informed choices based on their preferences and desired outcomes.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Relaxation Cultivar

When selecting a cultivar for relaxation, several factors come into play that can influence the overall experience. From cannabinoid content to terpene profiles, understanding these key factors can help users make educated decisions.

CBD vs. THC: Understanding the Difference

CBD and THC are two primary cannabinoids found in cannabis, each with its own set of effects. While THC is known for its psychoactive properties, CBD is non-intoxicating and often associated with relaxation and stress relief. Understanding the differences between CBD and THC can guide users in choosing the right cultivar for their relaxation goals.

Terpenes and Their Role in Relaxation

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in cannabis that contribute to its unique scent and flavor profile. Beyond sensory appeal, terpenes also play a role in influencing the effects of cultivars, including relaxation. By considering the terpene profiles of different cultivars, users can tailor their experiences to suit their relaxation preferences and needs.

Vaping vs. Smoking Cannabis: Navigating the Choices for a Safer Experience

Users of recreational cannabis often debate around the different ways to consume cannabis. With the rise of vaping as an alternative to traditional smoking, understanding the key differences between the two methods when it comes to cannabis is crucial for making informed decisions based on individual preferences and health considerations.

Vaping Cannabis

Vaping cannabis involves inhaling vapor produced by a vaporizer or similar device. These devices heat the cannabis at a lower temperature compared to combustion, releasing cannabinoids without creating the harmful byproducts associated with smoking. Vaping offers a smoke-free experience, eliminating the inhalation of combusted plant material.

Smoking Cannabis

Traditional smoking of cannabis involves combustion, where the dried flower is burned, releasing a myriad of compounds, including tar and carcinogens. This combustion process has been linked to respiratory issues and other health risks. Smoking cannabis is also associated with the production of strong odors and the release of secondhand smoke.

Health Implications

The primary difference between vaping and smoking cannabis lies in their health implications. Vaping eliminates the harmful byproducts of combustion, potentially reducing the risk of respiratory issues associated with smoking. While research on the long-term effects of vaping cannabis is ongoing, current evidence suggests that it may be a safer alternative to traditional smoking.

Addiction and Cannabinoid Content

Similar to nicotine in tobacco, cannabis contains cannabinoids, including THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is responsible for the psychoactive effects. Vaping allows users to control the temperature and, consequently, the release of cannabinoids, providing a more customizable experience. This can be advantageous for those seeking to manage their THC intake or gradually reduce dependence.

In contrast, traditional smoking of cannabis involves the rapid combustion of the plant material, making it challenging to control the dosage of cannabinoids. Vaping offers a more controlled and measured approach to cannabis consumption, providing users with the ability to tailor their experience to their desired effects.

Environmental Impact

The environmental impact of cannabis consumption through smoking is also a consideration. Traditional smoking produces ash and emits secondhand smoke, contributing to air pollution. Vaping eliminates these environmental concerns, offering a cleaner and more sustainable method of cannabis consumption.

Conclusion

Choosing between vaping and smoking cannabis is a personal decision that should take into account health implications, addiction factors, and environmental impact. Vaping cannabis presents itself as a potentially safer alternative to traditional smoking, offering a smoke-free experience and the ability to control cannabinoid intake.

As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, users should stay informed about emerging research and regulations surrounding these consumption methods. Whether for medicinal or recreational purposes, individuals should consider their unique circumstances and preferences when deciding between vaping and smoking cannabis, with an emphasis on promoting a healthier and more sustainable approach to consumption.

Sweet Dreams: Best Cannabis Strains for Your Nighttime Ritual

The quest for a good night’s sleep is a universal pursuit. For some, the ideal solution may be nestled in the leaves of the cannabis plant. When used responsibly and thoughtfully, certain strains of cannabis can help to promote relaxation, ease stress, and encourage a restful night’s sleep. So, let’s explore some of the best cannabis strains for your nighttime ritual.

Understanding the Role of Cannabis in Nighttime Relaxation

Cannabis carries a rich history of medicinal and relaxing uses. The key to its diverse effects lies in its various compounds, primarily THC and CBD. THC is a psychoactive element that gives users a feeling of euphoria, while CBD, being non-psychoactive, can provide a sense of calm and anxiety relief. The magic happens when these compounds interact in different ratios in various cannabis strains. This diversity allows users to experience a spectrum of effects, from mild relaxation to deep sleep. By selecting the right strain, you can harness the power of cannabis to promote restful sleep and tranquility at night.

Blue Dream: A Balanced Hybrid for Relaxation

If you’re seeking a harmonious mix of physical tranquility and mental stimulation, Blue Dream is the go-to choice. This sativa-forward hybrid has a reputation for reducing stress and calming an overactive mind, thanks to its generous THC content and moderate CBD levels. As the day’s worries melt away, you’re left with a gentle sense of relaxation that doesn’t overbear. Adding to its appeal, this strain boasts a delightful taste profile; imagine savoring the sweet hint of blueberry and soft whisper of vanilla before bed. Truly, Blue Dream is a satisfying finish to your evening ritual.

Northern Lights: A Classic Indica for Deep Sleep

Craving a potent sleep-inducing strain? Look no further than Northern Lights, a pure indica breed. Known for its substantial THC content and minimal CBD levels, Northern Lights offers a euphoric sensation that can send you into a deep, restful slumber. The calming experience is further enhanced by its rich aroma palette – a blend of earthy pine with a hint of sweet spice. This well-loved strain is perfect for those seeking a soothing end to their day, offering a fast-track ticket to dreamland.

Granddaddy Purple: Unwind with This Fruity Indica

Meet Granddaddy Purple, a popular indica strain recognized for its efficacy in relieving stress. Its potent psychoactive effects are paired with a uniquely complex taste that’ll send your senses on a journey – think notes of luscious grape, juicy berry, and the soft sweetness of marshmallow. As your body succumbs to relaxation, your mind will follow, easing the transition into a peaceful sleep. Whether you’ve had a long day or simply need to unwind, Granddaddy Purple is your ticket to serenity. After all, who can resist the lure of a strain that offers both comfort and a delightful flavor experience?

Cannatonic: A CBD-Rich Strain for Anxiety Relief

Cannatonic is your pick if you’re aiming to alleviate anxiety without the potent psychoactive kick from THC. This beautifully balanced hybrid shines with its high CBD content, known for its stress-dissolving powers, gentle relaxation, and sleep-enhancing qualities. It tantalizes your taste buds with its earthy undertones and sweet citrus highlights, creating a soothing harmony perfect for your nighttime ritual. The Cannatonic strain is not just about promoting restful sleep, but also about embracing a calm, serene end to your day.

Understanding Your Personal Tolerance and Preferences

Remember, cannabis affects everyone uniquely. Your personal tolerance, body chemistry, and even the specific product can influence the overall experience. Therefore, a cautious approach is key. Begin with a lower dose, observe the effects, and adjust accordingly until you identify your ideal quantity. Don’t feel pressured to keep up with experienced users. Your body, your rules. The goal is to find the perfect strain and dosage that complements your nighttime routine, ensuring a restful slumber. Experiment, explore, and enjoy the journey of discovering the right cannabis strain for you. Remember, this is about enhancing your sleep and relaxation, so patience is essential. You’re on a quest for better sleep, after all.

The Importance of Responsible Cannabis Use

While cannabis can serve as an excellent aid for relaxation and sleep, it’s crucial to prioritize responsible use. Overindulgence can pave the way to dependency, increased tolerance, and potential health concerns. As such, always seek professional medical advice before incorporating cannabis into your wellness routine. Use it in moderation, and remember, it’s not a race – there’s no need to keep pace with more experienced users. Your journey with cannabis is about finding what works best for you in fostering a tranquil and restful night. So, relax, take your time, and allow cannabis to gently guide you into the realm of peaceful sleep.

By: PhoKing Staff

States Where Marijuana Is Illegal Typically See Higher Rates Of Treatment Admissions, Federal Study Says

Despite fears by critics that marijuana legalization would lead to sharp increases in problematic use, newly published data from the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) shows that states where cannabis sales remained illegal typically had the highest rates of treatment admissions for the drug.

The data, which was published last week and covers 2021, show admissions to substance use treatment services among people aged 12 and older who go to state-licensed facilities. All told, the SAMHSA report presents findings from nearly 1.5 million admissions nationwide over the course of the year.

Of all the tallied admissions nationwide in the new Treatment Episode Data Set (TEDS), 10.2 percent were for marijuana or hashish as the primary substance, according to the SAMHSA data. That’s the fourth most common substance after alcohol (34.8 percent of all admissions), heroin (20.2 percent) and methamphetamine (13.5 percent). It’s just above “other opiates/synthetics” such as pain medications or fentanyl (9.1 percent) and cocaine (5.6 percent).

In terms of states with the highest admissions rates where marijuana was the primary substance, on a per capita basis, the top 10 states were South Dakota (151 per 100,000 residents), Iowa (144), Connecticut (141), South Carolina (119), Minnesota (110), New York (95), Wyoming (85), Georgia (84), North Dakota (81) and New Jersey (80).

While all those states except South Carolina and Wyoming permitted medical marijuana use, none of the top 10 states had legal recreational sales at the start of 2021. New York, New Jersey and Connecticut all legalized adult-use cannabis at some point in 2021, but retail sales didn’t begin until subsequent years.

The states with the lowest rates of admissions primarily for marijuana, meanwhile, were New Hampshire (2 per 100,000 residents), New Mexico (3), West Virginia (3), Montana (4), Puerto Rico (5), Hawaii (10), Arizona (15), Illinois (16), Maine (15), Massachusetts (21) and Pennsylvania (21).

Notably, two states where recreational marijuana sales were legal in 2021, Washington State and Oregon, did not report figures for the SAMHSA report.

Treatment admissions overall were down nationally between 2020 and 2021, during the height of the coronavirus pandemic.

As noted by the prohibitionist group Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM), admissions for cannabis treatment in 2021 fell by more than 10,000 since the year before, dropping from 141,091 to 129,343, even as more states enacted legalization. Proportionally, treatment admissions for heroin fell by a larger degree over the same period.

While the admissions numbers provide some indication of substance use disorders, they’re a messy measurement. Other factors affecting treatment admissions, such as sufficient space and resources, as well as how people are referred to treatment, also impact who receives services and for what substances.

or example, the most common way for people to be referred to treatment in 2021 was “self or individual.” But the second-most common was through the criminal justice system, and procedures for referring defendants to drug treatment vary significantly by state.

A study published in September that was based on SAMHSA data, for example, found that referrals for marijuana-related treatment declined more rapidly after states legalized cannabis, a trend authors said was “likely due to falling cannabis-related arrests” among people 18 to 24 years old.

That study, which looked at data from 2008 to 2019, found that criminal justice referrals to treatment for cannabis use disorder are already falling nationally, both proportionally and in terms of raw numbers, even in states where marijuana isn’t legal. But in states that legalized marijuana for adults, the proportion of referral rates from the criminal justice system fell faster after legalization.

While that trend indicates fewer admissions fueled by the drug war, it also worried the researchers, who said admissions rates were falling even as risk factors for problem marijuana use were rising. Rather than seek to increase criminal justice referrals, however, the report recommended that primary care physicians and other healthcare professionals play a greater role in recognizing cannabis use disorder and referring people to treatment.

In a separate study published in August, researchers found that referrals to foster care also fell after marijuana legalization, but only following the adoption of medical cannabis laws. States that legalized adult-use marijuana, that study found, saw “no corresponding change in the number of foster care entries related to parental or teenage drug abuse relative to control states.” Drug misuse is the second most common reason that a child is placed into foster care.

While that study didn’t identify a meaningful link between adult-use legalization and foster care drug misuse cases, a report published last year did. Researchers at the University of Mississippi found that recreational legalization was associated with at least a 10 percent decrease in foster care admissions on average, including reductions in placements due to physical abuse, neglect, parental incarceration and misuse of alcohol and other drugs.

Another study published earlier this year found that marijuana is “significantly” associated with reduced opioid cravings for people using them without a prescription, suggesting that expanding access to legal cannabis could provide more people with a safer substitute.

By: Ben Adlin, MarijuanaMoment

Cinematic Adventures in the Clouds: Top Movies to Watch When You’re High

Embarking on a cinematic journey while riding the green wave can turn a movie night into a kaleidoscopic adventure. From uncontrollable laughter to mind-bending visuals, we’ve handpicked 5 movies covering the trifecta of comedies, visually stimulating masterpieces, and deep-thinking wonders to enhance your high.

Comedies

1. “Pineapple Express” (2008): Because nothing pairs better with cannabis than a hearty dose of laughter. Follow the misadventures of Seth Rogen and James Franco in a hilarious escapade involving a rare strain of marijuana.

2. “Super Troopers” (2001): If you’re in the mood for irreverent humor and absurdity, this film about quirky highway patrol officers engaging in pranks and shenanigans is your golden ticket.

3. “This Is the End” (2013): Join an ensemble cast of comedians, including Seth Rogen and James Franco, in this apocalyptic comedy that takes a hilarious look at the end of the world.

4. “Step Brothers” (2008): Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly star in this comedy about two grown men becoming unlikely stepbrothers, resulting in a series of laugh-out-loud situations.

5. “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy” (2004): Enter the world of broadcast journalism with Will Ferrell as Ron Burgundy in this iconic comedy that delivers absurdity and wit.

Visually Stimulating

1. “Doctor Strange” (2016): Prepare to have your mind blown and your senses elevated with the psychedelic visuals of this film starring Benedict Cumberbatch as a neurosurgeon turned sorcerer.

2. “Avatar” (2009): Immerse yourself in the visually stunning world of Pandora with this epic sci-fi adventure that transcends the boundaries of the ordinary.

3. “Inception” (2010): Christopher Nolan’s masterpiece takes you on a visually mesmerizing journey through dreams within dreams, challenging your perception of reality.

4. “Blade Runner 2049” (2017): A visually stunning sequel to the iconic original, this film explores the relationship between humans and artificial intelligence in a dystopian future.

5. “Interstellar” (2014): Join Matthew McConaughey on a visually breathtaking space exploration, where time dilation and relativity play a crucial role in the narrative.

Deep Thinking

1. “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” (2004): Dive into the complexities of love, memory, and the human experience with Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet in this thought-provoking film.

2. “The Matrix” (1999): Unplug from reality and ponder the nature of existence with Keanu Reeves as Neo in this iconic sci-fi masterpiece.

3. “Her” (2013): Explore the emotional and philosophical implications of artificial intelligence in this film starring Joaquin Phoenix and Scarlett Johansson.

4. “Donnie Darko” (2001): A mind-bending cult classic that combines elements of science fiction, psychological drama, and time travel, inviting viewers to contemplate the nature of reality.

5. “The Tree of Life” (2011): Terrence Malick’s visually stunning and introspective film explores the meaning of life, the universe, and everything in between.

So, whether you’re in the mood for uproarious laughter, mind-bending visuals, or existential musings, these movies are the perfect companions for your cannabis-fueled movie night. Just remember, friends don’t let friends choose dull films when high, opt for these cinematic delights and elevate your movie-watching experience to new heights.

Enjoy the ride!

By:  PhoKing Staff

How to Hold a Memorable Thanksgiving (and Survive the Aftermath)

Ah, Thanksgiving – a time for gratitude, family, and extra helpings of turkey.

But this year, I decided to spice things up a bit by introducing something different: my “TTF” … also known as my Tetrahydrocannabinol Thanksgiving Feast. Buckle up because this tale is about to get higher than grandma’s pumpkin pie.

Now, before you start thinking I’ve lost my cranberries, let me assure you that this was a well-thought-out plan. I enlisted the help of Mary Jane to elevate our Thanksgiving experience to new heights. And no, I didn’t just sprinkle some CBD on the mashed potatoes – we went full gourmet with an assortment of creative cannabinoid recipes.

The adventure began with the appetizers – THC-deviled eggs (extra devilish), pot-infused spinach and artichoke dip (why not make your veggies a little more enticing?), and marijuana bruschetta that had everyone forgetting about the turkey for a moment.

As the evening progressed, so did our menu. The turkey, marinated in a special herb blend, left everyone feeling thankful and relaxed. And don’t even get me started on the stuffing – it was a stuffing to remember, with an added twist that left us all reaching for seconds (and thirds).

Of course, we couldn’t forget about dessert. The pumpkin pie was now a “puffkin” pie, and there was a vigorous debate about whether we were eating apple pie or pecan pie. It didn’t matter. The special whipped cream was the pièce de résistance, turning the dessert table into a veritable cannabinoid paradise.

As the evening wore on, laughter echoed through the house, and the conversations took unexpected, yet delightful, turns. Uncle Bob became an esteemed philosopher, Aunt Edna discovered her hidden talent for beatboxing, and Grandma decided to become a UFC fighter.

The traditional post-Thanksgiving slump? Nonexistent. Instead, we had a post-feast meditation session, led by cousin Billy who insisted he could communicate with the spirit of the turkey we just devoured.

As the evening drew to a close, I couldn’t help but reflect on how our Thanksgiving transformed from a sleepy, tryptophan-induced haze to an unforgettable, laughter-filled extravaganza.

So, if you’re ever considering adding some interest to your next Thanksgiving celebration, just remember: moderation is key, and always have a plan for the post-feast activities. Who knows, it might just become the talk of the town. At least the talk of your family.

Until next year! Cheers to a high-spirited Thanksgiving, my friends!

Marijuana And Opioids Are ‘Equally Efficacious’ In Reducing Pain, With Cannabis Offering Additional ‘Holistic’ Benefits, Study Shows

Medical marijuana and opioids are “equally efficacious” at mitigating pain intensity in patients with chronic pain, according to a new study in the Journal of Cannabis Research, but cannabis also provided more “holistic” relief, such as by improving sleep, focus and emotional wellbeing.

Researchers said their findings support the hypothesis that medical cannabis (MC) “alleviates pain through holistically altering the pain experience” rather than “only targeting pain intensity.”

“The results of the present study support the hypothesis that the effects of MC on pain experience are more holistic than those of opioids,” their report says. “MC may alleviate pain through affecting a broad range of pain-related experience experiential factors such as relaxation, improved sleep and mood, being able not to react to the pain, as well as a sense of control.”

The nine-person Finnish team, led by Åbo Akademi University psychology professor Jussi Jylkkä, looked at a sample of 201 chronic pain patients, 40 of whom used medical marijuana and 161 of whom used opioids to treat pain. There was some crossover, with about 45 percent of medical marijuana patients reporting also using opioids for their pain and about 4.3 percent of opioid users having used medical cannabis.

Subjects completed retrospective surveys on the “positive and negative phenomenological effects of the medicine,” and researchers then compared scores from the two groups.

“Neither MC nor opioids are first-line treatments for chronic pain, but both are commonly used when other treatments fail to provide sufficient pain relief,” authors note, adding that recreational users of cannabis or opioids, along with people who used the substances to treat conditions other than chronic pain, “were explicitly asked not to partake in the study.”

The researchers concluded from the self-reported data that medical marijuana and opioids “were perceived to be equally efficacious in reducing pain intensity, but MC additionally positively affected broader pain-related factors such as emotion, functionality, and overall sense of wellbeing.”

“Both MC and opioids were perceived to reduce pain intensity equally well,” the study says. Participants said the two treatments “did not differ” in terms of side effects, but they rated the overall effects of medical cannabis as more positive.

The strongest differences between the two groups, the study says, were deeper relaxation, better sleep, improved mood and being able to feel pain without reacting to it, which were more commonly reported in the medical marijuana group.

“In sum, the results lend support to the notion that the psychoactive effects of MC are relevant to its therapeutic effect on pain, in line with suggestions in previous literature,” the authors said. “However, by ‘psychoactive’ in this case we do not mean something that produces an altered state of consciousness in the sense of distorting one’s perception of reality and cognitive processes, but instead something that holistically alters consciousness to a more positive direction, or towards ‘normality.’”

Further, they noted, there were “no indications that MC, despite its holistic effects on consciousness, was experienced to distort cognitive processes, but instead was perceived to improve memory, focus, and clarity of thought.”

Researchers said their findings align with past research showing additional benefits for medical cannabis patients using marijuana to treat chronic pain, for example a 2017 study that found medical marijuana users “experienced substantially less depression and anxiety than opioid users.” A separate 2018 study, meanwhile, found that “cannabis did not affect perceived pain intensity, but instead made the pain feel less unpleasant and more tolerable.”

“The use of MC in chronic pain has also been associated with improved physical and social functioning and overall quality of life,” the study says, pointing to research from 2016, 2017 and 2022.

“This previous research thus supports the hypothesis that MC may exert its therapeutic effect on pain through altering the pain experience in a more holistic way than traditional analgesics,” it says. “That is, in addition to having an antinociceptive effect (i.e., removing pain or lessening its intensity), MC may affect the pain experience more broadly, influencing factors such as mood and emotion, pain tolerance, functionality, and overall well-being.”

Notably, authors said the outcomes appeared to be more positive in past studies for patients who consumed whole cannabis flower rather than synthetic THC or isolated cannabinoids. Looking at literature reviews from 2021 and 2022, for example, they noted that “only six of the 20 studies that were included in the review dealt with whole plant-based products, all superior to placebo. By contrast, in both studies, the results concerning isolated and synthetic cannabinoids were mixed.”

“Thus,” they conclude, “the present results contribute to the cumulating evidence that whole-plant cannabis flower may be an effective analgesic.”

A separate study recently found that the so-called “entourage effect” of whole-plant marijuana produces a stronger and longer-lasting psychoactive effect than pure THC.

The Finnish team acknowledged that the narrow availability of marijuana in the country was an obstacle to the research.

“A central limitation of the present survey study pertains to the special status of MC in Finland. Although legal in principle, prescription for MC is very difficult to attain,” the study explains, citing recent research that illustrates the trend: “Medical cannabis prescription rates have decreased in Finland from about 370 in 2017 to 240 in 2020 and to around 160 in 2021.”

The new study, “The holistic effects of medical cannabis compared to opioids on pain experience in Finnish patients with chronic pain,” comes as more research examines the possibility of using cannabis, or specific derivatives of the plant, as safer alternatives to opioids in some settings.

For example, another study published this month in the Journal of Dental Research, found that pure CBD could alleviate acute dental pain about as well as an opioid formula commonly used in dentistry.

“Our results indicate that a single dose of CBD is as potent as current analgesic regimens and can manage emergency dental pain effectively,” the authors wrote in that study, adding that their work appears to be “the first randomized clinical trial testing CBD for managing emergency dental pain” and could eventually lead to FDA approval of CBD for dental pain.

A separate study last month found that letting people buy CBD legally significantly reduced opioid prescription rates, leading to 6.6 percent to 8.1 percent fewer opioid prescriptions.

Another study, published this summer in the journal Cannabis, linked medical marijuana use to lower pain levels and reduced dependence on opioids and other prescription medications. Participants reported reduced pain and anxiety, improved physical and mental functioning, better sleep quality and mood and less reliance on prescription medications, including opioids and benzodiazepines.

By: Ben Adlin, Marijuana Moment

Traffic Death Rates Fell In States That Legalized Marijuana, New Study Finds, While Those That Kept Criminalization Saw ‘Slight Increase’

States that legalized marijuana in 2016 saw meaningful declines in traffic fatalities during the years immediately following the policy change, according to a new study by Quartz Advisor. Takeaways were less clear, however, over a longer period of time that included years the report describes as “anomalies” nationwide.

Ultimately, the paper concludes, motor vehicle safety “should not be a significant concern for marijuana legalization initiatives,” especially when measured against alcohol.

“As of yet, studies have failed to show that legalization of cannabis has resulted in any significant increase in traffic fatalities in the places where it has been legalized,” it says. “However, the same cannot be said for alcohol, an intoxicant that remains legal, widely-available, and deeply ingrained in our culture.”

In states that legalized marijuana, “traffic fatalities declined or remained the same in the three years that followed, compared to a slight increase in states where it remained illegal.”

The findings, which are not peer-reviewed, examined traffic fatality data from four states that legalized adult-use cannabis in 2016: California, Maine, Massachusetts and Nevada. Quartz Advisor then compared those states’ vehicle death rates to the national average as well as to rates in five states where marijuana remained illegal during that period: Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Nebraska and Wyoming.

In the three years following the change, the report says, none of the four legalized states saw an increase in traffic deaths. Most, in fact, saw declines.

“Three of four the four states saw a significant decrease in vehicle deaths over that span,” the paper says, “while the rate in Maine showed no change. Massachusetts saw the biggest drop, as rates fell 28.6 percent in the three years following legalization.”Combined, the four states that legalized marijuana saw an 11.6 percent drop in traffic death rates from 2016 to 2019. That’s a sharper decline than the national average, which fell 10.6 percent over the same period.

That’s a far better outcome than in the five states the report examined where marijuana remained illegal, which together experienced a 1.7 percent increase in their combined traffic death rate from 2016 to 2019.

What might seem like a clear picture, however, gets muddier when researchers expanded the analysis to include data from 2020 and 2021, the most recent years for which National Safety Council (NSC) numbers were available. Over that period of time, the vehicle death rate in fact rose in states that legalized marijuana, although less than in the U.S. as a whole. The states where cannabis was illegal, meanwhile, saw vehicle fatality rates dip.

“Among the states that legalized marijuana in 2016, the vehicle death rate increased by 6.0 percent between 2016 and 2021,” the report says. “While this is an increase, it is slightly less of an increase than the national average, which saw a 6.2 percent increase in the traffic fatality rate over the same period. The vehicle death rate dropped by an average of 0.7 percent in the five states that have not legalized cannabis during this period.”

Why consider ignoring two entire years of data? The report explains:

“In many ways, 2020 and 2021 were anomalies, and this remains true in the vehicular accident trends. After decades of declining accident rates in the U.S., traffic fatalities picked up in 2020 and stayed high through 2021. The U.S. as a whole saw traffic fatality rates spike 18.9 percent from 2019 to 2021. States that legalized marijuana in 2016 saw a similar increase of 19.9 percent. States that have not legalized, and are notably more rural than ones that did, saw the vehicular death rate fall 2.3 percent over that period.”

“Because of this, we thought it was important to see what rates looked like with 2020 and 2021 removed from the data set,” it continues. “And it turns out, they look quite different.”

Quartz Advisor called the set of observations “interesting and nuanced, but ultimately limited.” So the publication talked to Judi Watters, public information and consumer outreach for the Maine Bureau of Insurance, who cited a Casualty Actuarial Society report from December 2022 that examined data from the U.S. and Canada from 2016 to 2019.

“The tests for the decriminalization effect on fatalities failed to detect a statistically significant change,” the 2022 report says about its U.S. findings. Similarly, the analysis “showed no statistically significant changes in the average cost per claim and claim frequency after marijuana legalization in Canada.”

The new Quartz Advisor report says that “while there is no evidence to suggest that legalizing or decriminalizing marijuana makes roads more dangerous, that is not to say that it is safe to drive while under the influence of cannabis.” It references a 2010 meta-analysis published in The American Journal of Addictions that found marijuana “causes impairment in every performance area that can be reasonably connected with safe driving of a vehicle.”

Oddly, however, that doesn’t always seem to make driving behavior commensurately more dangerous.

The 2022 Casualty Actuarial Study found that while marijuana use does affect driving, “the behavior is not always riskier; for example, slower speeds and longer following distances of impaired drivers have been reported.”

The American Journal of Addictions report includes a similar caveat:
“Surprisingly, given the alarming results of cognitive studies, most marijuana-intoxicated drivers show only modest impairments on actual road tests,” it says. “Experienced smokers who drive on a set course show almost no functional impairment under the influence of marijuana.”

Looming over popular concerns about cannabis-impaired driving is the fact that there exists no reliable test to screen for cannabis impairment specifically. Standard drug tests make it difficult or impossible to know whether someone is under the influence of marijuana or consumed it days or even weeks ago.

This summer, a report in Congress for the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (THUD) bill said that the House Appropriations Committee “continues to support the development of an objective standard to measure marijuana impairment and a related field sobriety test to ensure highway safety.”

In February, the head of the American Trucking Association (ATA) discussed the problem with a congressional committee, arguing that lawmakers need to “step up” to address the conflict between state and federal cannabis policy as the industry faces shortages.

Tens of thousands of commercial truckers are testing positive for marijuana as part of the federally mandated screenings, data from the Department of Transportation (DOT) show.

Sen. John Hickenlooper (D-CO) sent a letter to DOT last year seeking an update on that status of a federal report into research barriers that are inhibiting the development of a standardized test for marijuana impairment on the roads. The department is required to complete the report by November under a large-scale infrastructure bill that President Joe Biden signed.

Experts and advocates have emphasized that evidence isn’t clear on the relationship between THC concentrations in blood and impairment.

A study published in 2019, for example, concluded that those who drive at the legal THC limit, which is typically between two to five nanograms of THC per milliliter of blood, were not statistically more likely to be involved in an accident compared to people who haven’t used marijuana.

Separately, the Congressional Research Service in 2019 determined that while “marijuana consumption can affect a person’s response times and motor performance … studies of the impact of marijuana consumption on a driver’s risk of being involved in a crash have produced conflicting results, with some studies finding little or no increased risk of a crash from marijuana usage.”

Another study from last year found that smoking CBD-rich marijuana had “no significant impact” on driving ability, despite the fact that all study participants exceeded the per se limit for THC in their blood.

By:  Ben Adlin, MarijuanaMoment.com