Your Endocannabinoid System on Cannabis: How CBD and THC Help Restore Balance
Medically reviewed by Katherine Golden, RN, Founder and CEO of Leaf411
Do you know about your endocannabinoid system, or ECS? This health system helps keep your body in balance as a sort of master regulatory system. While our understanding of the ECS is relatively new, scientists agree it is as important as other more well-known systems like the endocrine system, circulatory system, and nervous system.
Facts about your body’s endocannabinoid system
The ECS maintains balance (also called homeostasis) using CB1 and CB2 receptors found throughout your body and brain. Your body produces chemicals called endocannabinoids that interact with these receptors to maintain balance.
Your ECS regulates a wide range of body functions. For example, the ECS regulates appetite by interacting with CB1 receptors in areas of the brain that control hunger. It also helps modulate pain signals through CB1 receptors in the nerve cells. This regulation depends in large part on the endocannabinoids produced by your body.
How plants and medications work with your ECS
What’s interesting is that some plant compounds and medications can interact with the ECS in beneficial ways. For example, black pepper contains piperine which interacts with CB2 receptors, leading to reduced inflammation. Caffeine and nicotine interact with CB1 receptors in the brain resulting in more focus and alertness while reducing appetite. When it comes to medications, iIbuprofen and aspirin also influence endocannabinoid levels in ways that help reduce pain and inflammation. These are only a few examples you might be familiar with when it comes to how your ECS is affected by different medications and plant compounds.
Cannabis is another plant compound that can support your ECS in many different ways. Cannabis contains cannabinoids like CBD and THC that directly attach to ECS receptors, helping to bring your system back into balance when it’s not functioning properly.
What happens when your ECS is out of balance?
Genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors all play a major role in how well your ECS functions. Potential sources of imbalance include chronic stress, poor diet, lack of sleep and aging. Autoimmune disorders and chronic inflammation can also overwhelm the ECS.
When your ECS falls out of balance, you might notice issues like:
- Increased pain or inflammation
- Trouble sleeping
- Changes in appetite
- Anxiety or sadness
- Problems with memory or concentration
How CBD and THC support your ECS
Fortunately, you can take simple steps to help bring your ECS back into balance. Getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and reducing stress through exercise, mindfulness, or other stress-reducing activities may benefit your ECS.
Cannabis can also help restore balance to a struggling ECS. How does this work? The cannabis plant produces chemicals called cannabinoids that are a lot like the natural chemicals your ECS makes. The two most well-known cannabinoids are CBD and THC, though cannabis plants may contain over 100 different cannabinoids, many in trace amounts. When you use cannabis or hemp products, the CBD, THC and other cannabinoids interact with your ECS to support a return to homeostasis.
CBD and THC work by connecting directly with your ECS receptors:
- THC attaches mostly to CB1 receptors in your brain and nerves. This can help with pain, nausea, appetite issues and more.
- CBD interacts more with CB2 receptors throughout your body. This helps reduce inflammation and improves immune system functioning.
Everyone’s ECS is different
Everyone’s ECS is just a little bit different, much like everyone’s metabolism is different. That’s one of many reasons that your experience using cannabis or hemp may differ from your friend’s experience, or even your sibling’s experience.
Finding the right product and the right dose can take some trial and error, which is where our Leaf411 nurses can help. We’ve provided guidance to people who are brand new to cannabis, as well as experienced users, helping them find the best cannabis dosage and product formulations for their needs. If you’re here reading this, we’re guessing you might have some questions. Let us help! Go to our homepage at leaf411.org and click on the “Let’s Talk” button to get started scheduling your guidance call.
What is the ECS? An Intro to the Endocannabinoid System
Medically reviewed by Katherine Golden, RN, Founder and CEO of Leaf411
If you haven’t come across the term “endocannabinoid system” or ECS before, you’re not alone. Many of us didn’t learn about it in school. But it’s a vital part of our body, and it’s especially significant when considering using cannabis and hemp to support wellness or provide relief.
How the ECS was discovered
The ECS was discovered quite recently. In 1988, scientists found special receptors in rats’ brains that responded to THC, a component in cannabis. From there, we learned more:
- The ECS isn’t just in rats. It is found in all animals with spinal cords, including humans.
- The main role of the ECS? Maintaining balance in our bodies.
- The ECS is crucial for aspects like mood, sleep, metabolism, and immunity.
Learning about your CB1 and CB2 Receptors
The human body’s ECS has two main receptors, CB1 and CB2.
- CB1 receptors are primarily in our brain and spine. They’re linked with memory, behavior, appetite, movement, and pain sensation.
- CB2 receptors are spread throughout the body and play a role in managing inflammation and immune response.
Our body produces molecules called endocannabinoids that bind to these receptors. This binding signals the ECS to act, maintaining our internal balance. Sometimes, though, the ECS might need support, and that’s where cannabis and CBD hemp might come in.
The role of cannabis in supporting the ECS
If you’re interested in a deeper dive, Dr. Dustin Sulak has created an easy-to-understand video about how cannabis interacts with the ECS.
Think of the relationship between cannabis and the ECS like this: Our body has its natural ways to manage pain. Sometimes, however, we might take additional medicine for relief. In the same way, our body creates endocannabinoids, but there are occasions where it benefits from the cannabinoids in cannabis, due to their similarity.
Leaf411 can help answer your questions about cannabis and your endocannabinoid system
If this information feels a bit complex, don’t worry. Our Leaf411 nurses have in-depth knowledge of the ECS and can help guide you on the potential benefits of CBD hemp or cannabis based on your health objectives. Please reach out to us by clicking on the “Let’s Talk” button on our leaf411.org homepage to get started.
The Ultimate Beginner's Guide to Cannabis: Understanding Flower, Concentrates, Edibles, Topicals, and More
Check out our comprehensive breakdown of popular cannabis product types before you head to the dispensary
If you’re new to the world of cannabis, the wide range of options on dispensary shelves can be exciting… and overwhelming! Even with cannabis flower (bud) which is typically smoked in bongs or pipes or rolled into joints, you’ll find all kinds of strains and options available in legal cannabis dispensaries these days.
While exploring new cannabis products can be a lot of fun, it can also be frustrating when you end up with a product that’s way too strong or not a good match for your needs. That’s one reason the Leaf411 hotline exists — to save you money and time by helping you find the best options for your cannabis experience level and wellness goals.
As a first step, though, it can be helpful to see what types of cannabis products are available today. This is easy to do using online dispensary members. Take a look at our fully-vetted Leaf411 Cannabis Dispensary Members list and pick an option in your state, then click through to the dispensary website to find their online menu.
Whether you’re looking at online menus or preparing to visit a dispensary in-person, our guide below can help you understand the potency, pros and cons of various product types:
Cannabis flower
Description: Flower is the dried cannabis plant buds that are typically ground up and then smoked in a pipe, bong or rolled joints. This is the most traditional form of cannabis consumption. Cannabis flower can also be consumed using specialized dry herb vape devices which is the route most clinicians would suggest for inhalation since, with some devices, you can control the temperature for optimal results
Average THC: 10-30%
Beginner-friendly: Yes
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Wide variety of strains available
- Immediate effects
Cons:
- Requires additional accessories like a pipe, bong, rolling papers or dry herb vaporizer
- Smoking may be irritating to the lungs
- Smoking may create carcinogenic byproducts as a result of combustion
- Odor may be strong
Cannabis pre-rolls
Description: Pre-rolls are pre-packaged, ready-to-smoke joints containing ground cannabis flower, usually rolled in a paper cone. Recently, there’s been a lot of innovation in this category, with live resin or hash added to pre-rolls, offering a higher-potency alternative with more pronounced effects.
Average THC: 10-30%
Beginner-friendly: Yes
Pros:
- Convenient and portable
- No rolling skills required
- Immediate effects
- More brands are offering 0.5 gram pre-rolls in addition to the standard 1 gram size. The 0.5 gram pre-rolls are ideally sized for single use
Cons:
- Some (but not all) pre-rolls are made from shake, which is lower quality than flower
- Limited strain selection compared to flower
- Can be irritating to the lungs
- Smoking may create carcinogenic byproducts as a result of combustion
- Infused pre-rolls may be overwhelming for beginners due to higher THC levels
- Odor may be strong
Cannabis vape cartridges and specialty pods
Description: Vape cartridges and speciality pods are pre-filled containers of cannabis oil. Most vape cartridges, or “carts,” require a separate battery heating element that the cart or pod attaches to, making up the parts of the vape pen.
Average THC: 60-90%
Beginner-friendly: Yes (start with a low dose, taking only 1-2 puffs)
Pros:
- Discreet and portable
- Can be less irritating to the lungs than smoking
- Wide variety of flavors and strains
Cons:
- High THC content may be overwhelming for beginners
- Requires a compatible battery
- Cartridges can be expensive
Cannabis concentrates
Description: Concentrates are highly potent extracts of cannabis, such as shatter, wax, sugar, and rosin, which can be consumed through methods like dabbing or vaporizing. Some concentrates can also be added to joints before smoking to boost potency.
Average THC: 60-90%
Beginner-friendly: No
Pros:
- Extremely potent
- Long-lasting effects
- Variety of textures and consistencies
Cons:
- Can be overwhelming for beginners
- Requires specialized equipment
- High cost per gram
Cannabis edibles
Description: Cannabis edibles are food products infused with THC. These may include gummies, chocolates, baked goods and even popcorn.
Average THC: 5-20 mg per serving
Beginner-friendly: Yes (start with a low dose)
Pros:
- Discreet and easy to consume
- Easy to cut or section into smaller doses (start low, go slow!)
- Wide variety of flavors and products
- Most have long-lasting effects
- Some fast-acting edibles like Wana Quick gummies use nanotechnology to deliver a faster, shorter high that’s similar to smoking cannabis
Cons:
- Most have slow onset of effects (30 minutes to 2 hours)
- Easy to accidentally overconsume
- Effects may vary widely from person to person. A 5 mg gummy may be just right for one person, but too much for another.
Cannabis topicals
Description: Topicals are creams, balms, and lotions infused with cannabis, designed for direct application to the skin.
Average THC: 1-10 mg per application
Beginner-friendly: Yes
Pros:
- Targeted relief for localized pain and inflammation
- Non-psychoactive
- Discreet and easy to use
Cons:
- Limited to external use
- Can be expensive
How to choose the best cannabis product for your needs
Understanding the different kinds of cannabis products is just the beginning when it comes to finding the best option for you. You should also think about things like your tolerance level, what kind of effects you want, and what you personally like. If you’re new to cannabis, always start low, using a small amount, and slowly add more until you get the feeling you want.
Not sure where to begin? Don’t worry! Our friendly, fully licensed, cannabis-trained RNs are here to help you. They can provide guidance on picking the right products, doses, and ways to use cannabis, all based on what you need and like. Also, if you have concerns about how using cannabis might affect your health or if you just want to find relief without lots of trial and error, they can answer your questions and guide you in the right direction.
To get started setting up your consultation with one of our cannabis-trained RNs, visit this link.
The Leaf411 cannabis nurse hotline provides education and directional support to the general public about the safe use of legal cannabis. We partner with select business members who meet our rigorous standards to extend our education and outreach efforts.
How Cannabis May Help with Different Types of Pain
From acute to chronic pain, cannabis can be a path towards restored function
By Katherine Golden, RN – Founder and CEO of Leaf411
Much like any other medicine, cannabis is not a magic pill, it is a tool. From the available research and our own experiences working with patients, we have found that the cannabis plant may be an effective alternative or adjunct therapy to potentially lower the doses of opiates or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and acetaminophen that can cause unwanted side effects.
Cannabis Can Be a Powerful Tool For Pain
When it comes to pain, everyone is different. How you experience pain, as well as your pain tolerance level, is shaped by a lot of different factors. In the same way, people respond to medicines differently.
Cannabis is emerging as a different option, proving to be a powerful new tool for managing pain. The cannabinoids in the cannabis plant, especially cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), have been shown to reduce inflammation and pain. Other cannabinoids (CBDa, THCa and CBG) plus plant compounds like terpenes may also play a role in reducing pain.
Federal restrictions in the United States continue to limit research on how cannabis impacts pain. However, other countries such as Israel have completed considerable research on cannabis’s therapeutic benefits.
What Are the Different Types of Pain?
Understanding the different types of pain and their sources can help you find the best cannabis options.
- Acute pain usually comes about as the result of an injury, overuse, or medical procedure. While the initial pain can be mild or severe, it gets better over time as your body heals. Slamming your finger in a door results in acute pain. Post-workout soreness, broken bones and surgery recovery also fit into this category.
- With chronic pain, “the pain itself becomes the disease,” explains Eduardo Fraifeld, MD. Doctors typically categorize pain lasting over 3-6 months as chronic pain. Chronic pain can be associated with arthritis, migraines, diabetes or multiple sclerosis (MS), among other conditions. It can also be a side effect of chemotherapy or other long-term medical treatments. In addition, when an injury heals yet the pain remains, that fits the description for chronic pain.
Pain can also be broken down into the following categories:
- Nociceptive pain: Pain in soft tissues, tendons or joints caused by injury, overuse, stress or illness. Arthritis and other types of inflammatory pain also fit in this category. Nociceptive pain tends to get better over time, except for arthritis. With this type of pain, inflammation triggers nearby nerves, resulting in aching or throbbing pain.
- Neuropathic pain: Neuropathic pain, or nerve pain, originates in the nervous system. This type of pain is chronic in nature. It often feels like pins and needles, an electric shock, or a burning sensation. Some common causes of neuropathic pain are carpal tunnel syndrome, sciatica, diabetes, and chemotherapy.
- Nociplastic pain: Is a relatively new category for pain that doesn’t fit well into the other two categories. Fibromyalgia, non-specific low back pain and irritable bowel syndrome are a few examples. Also, pain associated with and exacerbated by centralized and peripheral sensitization is an example of nociplastic pain.
THC or CBD? It Depends on the Person and the Type of Pain
Cannabis plant compounds (cannabinoids) work on the CB1 and CB2 receptors in your body’s endocannabinoid system.
Everyone’s endocannabinoid system is different, just like everyone has their own pain tolerance levels. Keep this in mind if a product ends up not working for you, there may be a better product or dose for you. You can always call our registered nurses at Leaf411 for guidance.
CBD: Many people successfully use CBD products to reduce inflammation-based pain. Full spectrum products containing all the plant compounds, including some amount of THC (including CBD hemp that has THC, tend to be the most effective. Primarily because minor cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids and essential fatty acids work together to create the “entourage effect.”
By helping to reduce inflammation, CBD may indirectly help reduce pain. However, it doesn’t bind directly to the receptors that control pain like an opioid does. For that, you need a different cannabinoid, THC.
THC: A lot of people immediately rule out products with THC because they’re concerned they will become impaired or “high.”
It’s important to know that small amounts of THC may have little to no impairing effects. At the same time, THC—even small amounts—can be a gamechanger when it comes to pain.
THC can act on the same receptors in your body that opioids do. However, you don’t get some of the problematic side effects that opioids can bring—nausea, constipation, and risk of physical addiction.
Cannabis plant compounds (cannabinoids) work on the CB1 and CB2 receptors in your body’s endocannabinoid system.
Everyone’s endocannabinoid system is different, just like everyone has their own pain tolerance levels. Keep this in mind if a product ends up not working for you, there may be a better product or dose for you. You can always call our registered nurses at Leaf411 for guidance.
CBD: Many people successfully use CBD products to reduce inflammation-based pain. Full spectrum products containing all the plant compounds, including some amount of THC (including CBD hemp that has THC, tend to be the most effective. Primarily because minor cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids and essential fatty acids work together to create the “entourage effect.”
By helping to reduce inflammation, CBD may indirectly help reduce pain. However, it doesn’t bind directly to the receptors that control pain like an opioid does. For that, you need a different cannabinoid, THC.
THC: A lot of people immediately rule out products with THC because they’re concerned they will become impaired or “high.”
It’s important to know that small amounts of THC may have little to no impairing effects. At the same time, THC—even small amounts—can be a gamechanger when it comes to pain.
THC can act on the same receptors in your body that opioids do. However, you don’t get some of the problematic side effects that opioids can bring—nausea, constipation, and risk of physical addiction.
Cannabis Compared to Opiates
Ironically, long-term use of opioids for chronic pain can make you more sensitive to pain—an effect called opioid-induced hyperalgesia. What’s the recommended protocol in response to opioid-induced hyperalgesia? To wean off of opioids(with help from your prescribing physician) and find a safer alternative for managing pain. Interestingly, cannabis has shown promise on this front, based on emerging research.
Cannabis does not cause pain sensitization but in fact can help treat it. THC and other cannabinoids work through the same receptors that opioids do. However, the way that they reduce pain (their chemical process) is different.
Neuropathic pain is difficult to treat even with conventional pharmaceuticals. Generally, opioid use for chronic neuropathic pain is ineffective. One study considered the risk and benefits of opioids for the treatment of neuropathies. It stated that “long-term opioid therapy didn’t improve the functional status but rather was associated with a higher risk of subsequent opioid dependency and overdose.”
The Goal: To Restore Function
We wish that we could tell you that CBD or THC products will completely eliminate all pain. However, that is not the case. If there were a magic one-size-fits-all cure for pain, the pharmaceutical companies would have discovered and patented it!
Instead, we always set the goal to reduce pain to a manageable level and restore function. When you restore function, you open the possibility of adding on additional supportive activities such as exercise and relaxation that further promote healing.
Can’t wait to get started? Our Leaf411 quick question hotline and one-on-one scheduled nurse guidance calls are available now to answer your questions about using cannabis to manage pain. Call us at 844-LEAF411 (844-532-3411).
The Leaf411 cannabis nurse hotline provides education and directional support to the general public about the safe use of legal cannabis. We partner with select business members who meet our rigorous standards to extend our education and outreach efforts.
Timing Your Dose: How Different Cannabis Products Reduce Pain
by Katherine Golden, RN – Founder and CEO of Leaf411
You have options when it comes to cannabis dosing
Whether you’re looking at CBD hemp or cannabis containing higher levels of THC, you have several different routes of administration to choose between:
- Inhalation (smoking, vaping): Takes effect immediately and lasts 2-4 hours. This is a great choice for instant relief and for treating breakthrough pain (a flare-up in pain). You can also layer inhaled cannabis with a longer-acting method to help get you through the night.
- Transdermal (patches, gels): Extended release option that takes effect quickly, since the cannabinoids are absorbed directly into your bloodstream. The time of onset is rapid, sometimes within 20 minutes. Transdermal products provide a consistent dose of medicine for up to 12 hours. The transdermal patch or gel is used on an area where the veins are near the skin’s surface—like the inside of your wrist or on your ankle.
- Sublingual (placed under the tongue): Sublingual administration can provide rapid relief, however, there are few true oromucosal (sublingual) products on the market. Cannabinoids are fat-soluble and, in their natural state, do not absorb well into the oral mucosa. Moreover, cannabis products are often extracted into oils, and these products are not water-soluble. Patients often expect rapid onset when using tinctures, only to wait 1-3 hours for the dose to take effect. Many products marketed as tinctures will end up being swallowed and absorbed via the digestive system, regardless of how long they are held under the tongue. A true sublingual (a product in which the cannabinoids are formulated to be more water-soluble) absorbs rapidly into the mouth. The effects can be perceived in 15-20 minutes and can last 4-6 hours.
- Edibles (gummies, capsules): Edibles take effect in between 30 minutes and 2 hours. You’ll feel their effects between 5-8 hours. They provide a discreet, portable long-acting option.
- Topicals (creams, salves): Topicals provide short-term localized relief. They can take effect within minutes, and may last for up to an hour.
It may take some trial-and-error to determine just which type of product works for you. In fact, you may discover that there are different routes of administration for different symptoms you are experiencing. For assistance identifying what works for you, contact a cannabis-trained nurse at Leaf411.
The Leaf411 cannabis nurse hotline, chat and scheduled nurse guidance call services provide education and directional support to the general public about the safe use of cannabis. We partner with select business members who meet our rigorous standards to extend our education and outreach efforts.
How to Dose Cannabis: Start Low and Go Slow
Dose sizing can be complicated
by Katherine Golden, RN – Founder and CEO of Leaf411
You may remember when the U.S. government sought to simplify food labeling. This was done to make the connection between serving sizes and calories more clear. Confusion around serving size was causing many people to eat or drink a lot more calories than they realized.
Today, we are at a similar spot when it comes to cannabis products, especially edibles. Some manufacturers put the per-dose strength on the product label and some do not. For example, the package might say “10mg CBD/5mg THC.” However, other manufacturers may put the total amount of THC and/or CBD for the entire package instead.
Also, laws restricting the amount of THC per edible vary between states that have legalized cannabis. Limits may also be different depending on whether the product is designed for recreational or medical consumer sales. For example, Colorado’s suggested serving size for an edible is 10mg which would be far too much THC to consume for a first time user.
How do you get the dose you want?
- If you are unsure about the product strength, ask your budtender for help understanding the amount that is in the product before purchasing. Does the package labeling show the amount of THC and CBD per dose, or does it show the amount in the entire package?
- Check in with our Leaf411 nurses. We’ll help answer your questions about product labels and doses. We can also suggest a good starting point based on your individual needs and goals.
- Start low and go slow when trying any new product. The Leaf411 nurses always suggest starting with an amount below the suggested serving size for safe consumption. You may not feel an immediate change or symptom relief. However, starting low and moving up slowly will ensure you do not over consume for your body’s tolerance or specific needs.
- Understand that some product types act more quickly than others. For example, vaping provides more immediate short-term impact, while edibles can take a few hours to take effect. We’ll explain this in detail as we review different types of products below.
It may take some exploring for you to find your favorite method of consuming cannabis or CBD hemp.
How to Use Cannabis
From Edibles to Vapes, Leaf411 Has Your Questions Covered
by Katherine Golden, RN – Founder and CEO of Leaf411
You have options when using cannabis
When we first started taking calls on the hotline, one of the biggest surprises was hearing how many people thought cannabis has to be smoked to be effective. In fact, we even featured this misconception as our first Question of the Month back in 2019!
Many different types of cannabis and CBD hemp products are available today. These different products are designed to fit a wide variety of needs. You should consider factors such as how quickly a product will take effect, how long the effect will last, and what issues you’re targeting.
Our cannabis-trained registered nurses are always happy to answer your questions. Give us a call at 844-LEAF411 (844-532-3411) or schedule a one on one call through our scheduling link.
In our guide below, we provide information on different options for using cannabis and CBD products. You’ll also find tips for getting the right dose of this plant-based medicine.
Tinctures
CBD hemp oil tinctures contain full spectrum, broad spectrum or CBD isolate in a plant-based carrier oil. If you’re purchasing a tincture through a dispensary, read the label. Some of these tinctures may contain the medical yet psychoactive cannabinoid THC.
Tinctures are available in different strengths and typically come in dropper bottles, making it easy to adjust your dose. They can be used by placing drops under your tongue. Some of the plant compounds will be absorbed directly into your bloodstream as a sublingual if the product is designed that way. That being said, most of the product is absorbed through swallowing. Tinctures also work well mixed into already prepared foods like sauces and soups, or warm beverages like coffee or tea. Tinctures are only for oral consumption.
When it comes to tinctures, think of the carrier oil as the vehicle that the cannabinoids travel in to enter your system.
Coconut or palm medium chain triglyceride (MCT) oil are both highly effective. These are the most common carriers for tinctures because they contain smaller fatty acid molecules which are easily absorbed.
Myriam’s Hemp Tincture (MCT oil carrier)
Tablets & Capsules
Tablets and capsules containing THC or CBD provide a discrete, highly portable option. Soft gel capsules contain THC and CBD hemp in carrier oil, similar to tinctures. The carrier oil becomes especially important in these products, impacting how much of the CBD will be absorbed after the soft gel enters the digestive system. Capsules containing MCT oil or olive oil are especially effective.
Tablets are another popular option for using cannabis or CBD. This option is great because it resembles medications that patients are used to, like ibuprofen. Tablets and capsules are easy to use, discreet and familiar.
There are also sublingual tablets that dissolve under your tongue. Sublingual tablets work faster than swallowed pills since they are designed to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream.
Edibles
Edibles are a broad category containing anything…edible. This includes gummies, mints, chocolate, infused beverages and more.
Edibles face challenges moving through our digestive system. The THC, CBD and other plant compounds in edibles take time to reach the endocannabinoid’s CB1 and CB2 receptors via the intestinal tract.
When someone eats THC, only 4% to 12% gets into their bloodstream. Eating a meal also affects the absorption of cannabinoids. A study from pharmacologists at the University of Minnesota examined how eating a meal affects the absorption of CBD.
Also, edibles take longer to kick in. Many new users quickly decide that a single dose didn’t work and eat more. This can lead to an unwanted “high” several hours later when multiple doses suddenly take effect. We suggest that you wait at least two hours after eating an edible dose before deciding whether you need more.
Also, double-check the product label for dosage. In the non-cannabis realm, we’re used to the idea that one candy bar equals one serving. However, when it comes to products containing THC or CBD, the serving size is often a lot smaller.
Topicals
Topicals encompass a rapidly growing category that includes creams, gels, salves, and beauty products. The name implies that they are topically applied to your skin.
CBD topicals may work well for you if you are concerned about medication interactions. It’s also a popular option for people with arthritis who are seeking spot relief, as well as athletes looking for post-workout recovery.
Topicals that combine CBD and THC are a popular choice, as well as THC-only products. These are only available at dispensaries in states that have legalized cannabis.
Many of these products include a blend of essential oils and plant terpenes designed for localized pain relief, inflammation or improved pleasure with intimacy. THC topicals may include bath salts, massage oils, and creams. The cannabinoids in topical products interact with CB2 receptors in your skin but are not absorbed deeply enough to impact CB1 receptors. This means that they are very unlikely to deliver impairing effects. One exception to this is when topicals containing THC are considered “transdermal” or applied to mucous membranes. This includes mouth, nostrils, vulva or rectal tissues. Read more on transdermal products below.
Transdermal Patches and Pens
You might think that transdermal patches or gels are topical, since the medicine is absorbed into your skin. However, transdermal products provide a unique delivery through the skin. This method provides controlled release of cannabinoids directly into the bloodstream over a set period of time.
Transdermal drug delivery has a great advantage over oral administration. It avoids digestion and absorption of the gastrointestinal tract. As a result, transdermal delivery largely reduces drug toxicity and bypasses the first effect of drug absorption. This means more cannabinoids make their way into your bloodstream.
Inhaling cannabis and CBD Hemp Flower
For many people, the first image that comes to mind when they hear “cannabis” is the plant flower that is smoked. In fact, the odds are that if you’re over the age of 30, your first experience with cannabis was smoking plant flower.
The cannabis plant has been smoked by humans since ancient times. Its status as an illegal substance in the United States is a tiny blip in time, when compared to its use throughout history. For many people, cannabis or CBD hemp flower remain their top choice for consumption.
Cannabis flower and CBD hemp flower is minimally processed and provides a range of plant benefits. Many different flower strains are available in the states with legal cannabis. Cannabis strains (chemovars) offer different ratios of THC, CBD and other cannabinoids. In addition, cannabis and hemp flower strains provide a range of terpene profiles that can add to the plant’s synergistic entourage effect.
Inhaling cannabis or CBD hemp flower, whether through smoking or vaping, provides a quick onset of the plant’s benefits. Smoking is also an integral part of cannabis culture used as a ritual for communities to come together socially.
Flower can be smoked with a bong or water pipe, with the flower placed into a bowl and ignited by flame. The smoke then passes through water, which cools it before being inhaled. Flower may also be smoked with a pipe.
You can roll cannabis flower into joints or buy pre-rolled joints. Pre-rolls provide a cheaper, easier option for sampling different strains.
Pay attention to any added ingredients as well. Some pre-rolls include added hash oil or kief to increase potency.
When you put a flame on a joint or bowl, you heat the flower to a point where the plant cannabinoids and terpenes combust into smoke so they can be inhaled. However, you’re also creating other combustion byproducts that carry their own side effects. While smoking is effective, it carries more risks and side effects than other methods of consumption.
What is CBN and Can it Help With Sleep?
by Katherine Golden, RN – Founder and CEO of Leaf411
As sleep research advances, so does the understanding of how various cannabinoids like CBD and THC may support improved rest. Below, we’re sharing a quick primer on sleep. Then we will take a look at CBN, a cannabinoid that’s being widely talked about as beneficial for sleep.
Understanding sleep cycles is important
Sleep should be simple, right? Lay down, close your eyes and naturally drift into restful, rejuvenating sleep.
Unfortunately, sleep is a battle for many of us. From tossing and turning to experiencing physical discomfort as we settle down for the night. Even once asleep, some people struggle to stay asleep long enough to get the benefits of a good night’s rest.
A basic understanding of major sleep cycles can help when it comes to choosing the best hemp or cannabis products for your needs.
- Non-REM sleep: This takes up the first three phases of sleep. Non-REM sleep occurs when you drift into a light sleep then move into deeper rest.
- REM sleep: This follows non-REM sleep. Most dreaming occurs at this stage of sleep. However, REM sleep’s importance goes well beyond good dreams. REM sleep is also connected to overall brain health and is believed to boost the immune system.
For treatment, clinicians often start by identifying where a patient is encountering difficulty. Is there difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep for the desired length of time? That information can provide valuable clues into the hemp or cannabis product -formulation that may work best. It can also help identify the specific cannabinoids to focus on.
So what exactly is CBN?
Cannabinol (CBN) is created from THC that has been exposed to UV light and oxygen. This exposure leads to a chemical breakdown that transforms the THC into CBN. As cannabis flower ages, its THC will slowly and naturally convert to CBN. Cannabis extractors have also created processes for speeding up the conversion of THC into CBN oil.
Recently, consumers have reported CBN is a useful nighttime remedy. This has fuelled its use in more and more products. Now, cannabis and hemp manufacturers are creating new products that feature CBN because of CBN’s potential natural sedative effects.
But does CBN actually work for sleep?
At Leaf411, we believe the anecdotal research supports many manufacturers’ claims about CBN.
For example, one of our members, Myriam’s Hope Hemp, shared anecdotal data with us based on their customer feedback. Their customers found higher doses of CBN (between 15-40mg) to be helpful for falling and staying asleep. This is just one of many reports Leaf411 has found around CBN’s value.
Tips for finding the right CBN, CBD, or other cannabis product for falling asleep and staying asleep
Falling asleep is one challenge. Staying asleep is another.
Difficulty falling asleep?
Consider using a fast-acting product. You’ll want to use the product about 30 minutes before you want to fall asleep. Examples of fast-acting products from our members include Wana Optimals Fast Asleep Gummies with THC, CBD, CBN, CBG and melatonin. Also, Impact Naturals Rest capsules with CBD, CBN and melatonin.
Difficulty staying asleep?
Consider taking a longer-acting product that is not labeled as fast-acting. Elixinol’s Sleep Good Night capsules containing CBD and melatonin are a great example. These hemp capsules are longer lasting with a slower onset. While these products take longer for effects to kick in, those effects also last longer through the night.
Find the combination that works for you
You may find it helpful to layer CBD or CBN with different natural over-the-counter sleep products. In fact, many products like those listed above already stack several different beneficial compounds.
Always ask your doctor about prescriptions
If you’re already taking prescription medications that make you drowsy as a side effect, talk to your doctor. We strongly recommend you check in with your prescribing clinician before adding CBD or THC products to the mix, to avoid any unwanted effects. This also includes sleep medications like Lunesta (eszopiclone), Sonata (zaleplon), or Ambien (zolpidem).
CBN is only one of several cannabinoids that may help with sleep. Both CBD and THC as well as plant terpenes can also play an important role in your sleep routine. Check out our past blog on THC, CBD and sleep to learn more, as well as our blog on finding the best cannabis product to support sleep goals.
Finding sleep-focused hemp and cannabis products you can trust
Our Leaf411 business members have all been through our vetting process, which includes ensuring their products are fully tested and reliable. We’ve included a list of our members below. Most of them offer products geared toward a good night’s rest, including some who offer products which contain CBN.
Keep in mind that effects may vary due to individual differences in people’s endocannabinoid systems. If you don’t get the result you’re seeking, please reach out to our Leaf411 nurses. Our nurses are knowledgeable about how different cannabinoids may impact sleep onset and duration. You can schedule a guidance call at this link.
Leaf411 can help with your questions about using hemp and cannabis
Our Leaf nurses can guide you to new approaches for improving restfulness and achieving your sleep goals. Whether you’re brand new to hemp or cannabis or an experienced user, we are here to help
Get started by scheduling a low-cost guidance call with one of our Leaf411 nurses at this link. We understand cost may be a barrier for some. That’s why we’ve collaborated with our business supporting members to offer a special code to offset the cost. Just click on any of our Vetted Members’ logos to go to their website and call their customer service number. Then, their agents will provide a special Leaf411 code for you.
The Leaf411 cannabis nurse hotline, chat and scheduled nurse guidance call services provide education and directional support to the general public about the safe use of legal cannabis. We partner with select business members who meet our rigorous standards to extend our education and outreach efforts.
Are You at Risk for Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome?
Get answers to questions about cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS), a rare yet concerning issue
Medically reviewed by Katherine Golden, RN, and Eloise Theisen, NP
Written by Denise Rustning
Many people rely on cannabis to help with overall wellness and health, even using cannabis as an alternative to opioids which carry risk of addiction and other unwanted side effects.
So with that in mind, what’s up with the scary-sounding condition called cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) that has been popping up in the news over the past year, where cannabis appears to make people sick?
What is cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS)?
CHS was officially recognized by medical professionals in 2004. It is a complex, poorly understood medical condition triggered by cannabis use that causes abdominal pain, extreme nausea and vomiting–basically the opposite of what you would expect when using cannabis!
CHS’s primary symptom is extreme, persistent nausea and vomiting that cannot be traced to a different medical cause, hence the word “hyperemesis.”
The progression of CHS includes three phases:
- In the prodromal phase, the patient experiences early morning nausea but does not find relief in hot showers/bathing.
- During the hyperemesis stage, vomiting becomes cyclic and is relieved with hot showers and bathing, though the only long-term solution appears to be to completely stop all cannabis use.
- Recovery starts when the patient stops using THC.
In general, CHS appears in a small number of people after long-term use of marijuana (weekly use over at least a one-year period). Some doctors have also reported seeing the condition in young people who are using a lot of high-THC concentrates, most often “dabbing” the product, even after short-term use.
One other challenge of diagnosing CHS is that the symptoms are very similar to those of cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) which is characterized by episodes of severe vomiting that have no apparent cause. CVS is not connected to cannabis use but can present in a similar way.
Because diagnosing CHS is often a process of elimination, ruling out other medical causes, the costs of diagnosis and care can run into tens of thousands of dollars.
Getting too high can make you nauseous – but it’s not CHS if it’s a one-time event
When it comes to cannabinoids like THC, the dose matters. Dr. Russo has discussed how many cannabinoids, including THC, have a biphastic effect. That means THC will do one thing at a low dose, and have the opposite effect at a higher dose.
For example, THC at a low dose may help with relaxation, but at a higher dose it can cause anxiety. While a low dose of THC often helps reduce feelings of nausea, a higher dose may trigger short-term nausea that goes away as the THC wears off. This short-term nausea from getting too high is different from CHS which is a chronic, long-term condition.
Are you at risk of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome?
You may be wondering if you’re at risk of developing CHS, especially if you use cannabis regularly as part of your daily wellness routine.
Thanks to the work of Dr. Ethan Russo and others, we do know some factors that appear to influence CHS:
- There is some evidence that repeatedly using high-dose THC may trigger CHS in some consumers, including newer users. It appears that persistent THC use causes CB1 downregulation and the receptors start to hide within the cells leaving more THC circulating and therefore causing increased side effects.
- Researchers have also looked at whether plant pesticides play a role in triggering CHS, zeroing in on NEEM in particular. However, based on a few unique CHS cases where researchers knew pesticides were not present, this hypothesis doesn’t hold water.
- Dr. Russo and others are looking more closely at genetic differences that may make some people more prone to develop CHS, focusing on specific genes. This promising research is in its early stages.
If you want to learn more, we suggest checking out Project CBD’s interview with Dr. Russo at this link.
Our Leaf nurses can help with your questions about cannabis and CHS
Curious whether your current cannabis use puts you at risk of CHS? We can review your current usage and goals and provide information based on the latest research.
A pattern our Leaf nurses have seen when talking to callers across the country is that most callers know something is very wrong but they’re in denial about the severity of their condition and delayed asking for guidance due to the fear that they would be told they needed to abstain from cannabis use. So what is the solution? When it comes to CHS, we believe that wide-scale education regarding the warning signs may help consumers avoid crossing that threshold into CHS.
At Leaf411, we hear from people every day whose lives have been improved with plant-based medicine. Our fully-licensed, cannabis-trained registered nurses also regularly review the research on cannabis’s therapeutic potential.
Our Leaf nurses are also honest about the fact that cannabis may not be the best option for everyone and that in some instances, it may even be contraindicated, which means that we would advise against using cannabis in those cases.
We are happy to help with your questions about CHS or any other questions about cannabis and hemp. We provide unbiased, nonjudgmental guidance tailored to your specific situation.
Live in a state where marijuana is illegal? We can provide guidance on hemp-based options.
Visit our homepage and click on the “Let’s Talk” button to get started scheduling your Leaf411 guidance call.
The Leaf411 cannabis nurse hotline provides education and directional support to the general public about the safe use of legal cannabis. We partner with select business members who meet our rigorous standards to extend our education and outreach efforts.
Rethinking RSO for Cancer or Other Health Concerns
If you’ve been researching cannabis for health, you’ve likely come across the term “RSO” but may wonder what exactly this less-common cannabis product is, and whether you should try it
Medically reviewed by Katherine Golden, RN, and Eloise Theisen, NP
Written by Denise Rustning
RSO, also known as Rick Simpson Oil, Phoenix Tears, full extract cannabis oil (FECO) or full spectrum oil (FSO) has gotten a lot of hype for its potential to treat cancer or other significant health issues. We sometimes get questions about RSO on the hotline, and our nurses are up-to-date on the research on RSO.
While RSO has its place in the world of cannabis therapeutics, it’s not a magic bullet and may not be the best option for your particular health concern. Today we’re going to provide some background information on RSO to help you assess whether it’s worth your time and money to seek out this potent cannabis extract.
What is RSO?
RSO is named after Rick Simpson, a Canadian medical marijuana activist who popularized the process for creating fully-extracted cannabis oil (FECO), using pure light aliphatic naphtha or 99% isopropyl alcohol as solvents to extract all of the plant’s cannabinoids, terpenes and other phytochemicals. At the time, Simpson used only high-THC strains, resulting in an extract with a high concentration of THC when compared to other cannabis products.
In other words, RSO is a product type, just like edibles or flower–it is not a brand or a specific strain.
When Rick Simpson first started making RSO, he also created treatment protocols for using RSO topically or orally. However, it’s important to note that Simpson was not a doctor and he was basing his protocol on the known science at the time in the early 2000s.
A lot has changed since then, and our Leaf nurses are up to date on the latest research around RSO. We encourage you to book a consultation with us before adding this high-potency product to your wellness regimen.
What RSO looks like
When you see an RSO product, the first thing that will stand out is its appearance which can be as a thick dark greenish-brown oil to a product that looks like honey, often packaged in syringes or capsules. Don’t get confused by the syringe! The syringe allows the thick liquid to push out slowly, though it can still be tricky to handle and precisely dose due to the thick, sticky nature of the oil.
RSO has been suggested online and by manufacturers to be used on the skin, taken by mouth, or mixed into edibles. Leaf411 nurses do not ever suggest applying a topical product to an open wound unless suggested by a wound care specialist and/or dermatologist. RSO should not be smoked or vaped.
How strong is RSO?
You’ll find different brands offering RSO, though RSO is not as popular as edibles, flower or other types of concentrates.
RSO products containing high THC concentrations can be found at some legal dispensaries. Each RSO syringe may contain 600mg or more of THC, but you’ll want to check the specific product label for cannabinoid test results since amounts may vary.
Depending on the concentration, each militer (ml) in the syringe may provide 100mg or more of THC. For comparison, many of our Leaf411 members’ cannabis edibles contain only 10mg THC per piece, which is 1/10th the amount you’ll likely find in a single ml of RSO.
Variations in today’s RSO products on the market
Since Rick Simpson first created his legendary extract, manufacturers have improved extraction processes. Also, product testing on the legal market provides more transparency around the amount of THC contained and other cannabinoids within each RSO syringe.
However, as the term “RSO” has become more popular, some brands have begun using the term more loosely for concentrates that are very different from what Simpson originally created.
Some manufacturers are now creating RSO ratio blends which feature THC plus significant amounts of CBD, CBG or other cannabinoids. Keep in mind that these high-powered options are different from the original RSO and may have very different effects. This doesn’t mean they are the wrong product for you, it just means to be aware of the ingredients in every product you purchase.
Also, the cannabis cultivar (strain) matters when it comes to RSO’s effects, since the extract’s power rests in a unique and potent combination of full-plant compounds. However, most manufacturers don’t provide this level of detail on their packaging or test results. Even the same brand’s RSO product can change over time due to variations between different plant harvests.
All this is to say that RSO can be a tricky product to buy, especially if consistency, accurate dosing, and potency are your top priorities.
Here are some examples of RSO/FECO products on the market today:
- Takoma Wellness RSO products (Washington, DC, medical dispensary)
- Herbiculture RSO products (Burtonsville, MD, medical dispensary)
- Peake Releaf RSO products (Rockville, MD, medical dispensary)
- A Therapeutic Alternative RSO products (Sacramento, CA, dispensary)
- Myriam’s Hemp Enhanced CBD FECO (Online hemp CBD retailer)
RSO is not a magic cure
RSO has gained a reputation for its powerful healing abilities, but unfortunately there is no evidence-based research on what types of conditions that RSO might help most with. In some cases, it may even do harm if someone delays research-backed treatment options while experimenting with RSO. Some research also suggests that RSO could contribute to more aggressive growth with certain cancers. To learn more about the challenges from an oncologist who has used cannabis as part of their patients’ treatment regimen, click this link.
How do you use RSO?
The cannabinoids in RSO have already been activated, so there’s no need to heat up the oil before using it. RSO can be added to food and beverages or used to make edibles, but remember that a very small amount goes a long way–RSO is very potent!
RSO can also be used topically on the skin, but only with the guidance of your clinical team that is providing care for your skin condition.
At Leaf411, we do not recommend RSO in a new, inexperienced user because of the potency and challenges with accurate dosing, especially with a concentrate as potent as RSO. Even increasing your dose by a little bit can make a big difference in the types of effects you feel. RSO’s high potency can lead to increased side effects like dry mouth, rapid heart rate, anxiety, paranoia and even hallucinations.
RSO is not designed for injecting–don’t be fooled by the syringe! We also recommend against vaping or smoking RSO due to the solvents used in its production, which can be damaging to lungs if vaped and explosive at high temperatures.
Store your RSO at room temperature away from light, and make sure it is secure and out of reach of pets and children.
Questions about RSO? Our cannabis-trained nurses can help!
Chances are that if you’re looking at RSO options, you are facing a serious health concern. The last thing you want to do is make things worse or complicate your treatment options.
While your primary care doctor and specialist team may not fully understand cannabis therapeutics, our Leaf nurses do. Our fully-licensed cannabis-trained RNs can help point you in the right direction when it comes to understanding the research and finding the right questions to bring to your medical treatment team. We don’t replace specialists like oncologists, but we are able to look at the evidence and provide general information on different cannabis options, including RSO. We can also connect you with cannabis-trained clinicians who can review your records and make specific recommendations based on your case.
Click this link for our online scheduling service and find a day and time for your Leaf nurse consultation call.
The Leaf411 cannabis nurse hotline provides education and directional support to the general public about the safe use of legal cannabis. We partner with select business members who meet our rigorous standards to extend our education and outreach efforts.
