Since the early days of COVID-19 and even up to the present day, some people still struggle with its long-term symptoms. While infection rates have decreased, traditional treatment plans from health providers are unfortunately still not enough for those who suffer. However, surprising results from pre-clinical and early clinical studies show possible efficacy by a maybe not-so-surprising source–cannabis. 

What is Long COVID and What Are the Symptoms?

The hard-to-shake illness known as long COVID or “post-COVID conditions” (PCC) includes a vast spectrum of ongoing, relapsing, or new symptoms and is defined by the Centers for Disease Control as “a chronic condition that occurs after SARS-CoV-2 infection and is present for at least 3 months”. Evidence from a sample size of 17,418 adults published in June 2024 estimates that around 7% in the U.S. have had long COVID. 

Just like its original variation, long COVID affects breathing, heart, and brain functions, but also adds the unfortunate dynamic of long-term physical and mental disabilities. According to a comprehensive meta-analysis by researchers, the five most common symptoms long COVID patients face are: 

• Fatigue or exhaustion
• Shortness of breath
• Difficulties performing everyday tasks
• Loss of taste
• Inability to sense smells 

There is also widespread physical evidence of organ damage (e.g., brain, lungs, etc.) and impaired gaseous exchange.

The Possibility of Cannabis to Help Relieve Long COVID

Many people have unofficially accepted cannabis as having therapeutic potential, despite the lack of robust research on how cannabinoids interact with SARS-CoV-2, acute vs. long COVID, and the body’s endocannabinoid system. 

However, its acceptance in similar inflammatory conditions is why so many medical patients and recreational consumers alike use cannabis as their preferred choice of how to get potential relief from chronic pain, muscle spasms, nausea, insomnia, and anxiety. In addition, gastrointestinal, neurological, and oxidative stress are common among medical marijuana patients and people who must deal with the destructive, multipronged horns of long COVID.  

Cannabis-Based Medicinal Products (CBMPs)

Emerging clinical research conducted in a small sample (n=28), with more currently underway, suggests that cannabis, specifically “cannabis-based medicinal products” (CBMPs), may effectively relieve many symptoms experienced by long COVID sufferers. CBMPs, along with their active ingredients, can interact with the endocannabinoid system as prescription medicines like Sativex (1:1 THC:CBD isolate) or as full-spectrum, plant-based oils and tinctures with varying cannabinoid, terpene, and flavonoid content. 

Note that this new clinical research is highly limited and actively being investigated further to determine any efficacy. It is quite small and only single-blinded so far, meaning it is not robust enough to recommend cannabis as a treatment yet. Cannabinoid-based prescriptions like Sativex and Epidiolex are not FDA-approved to treat COVID or PCC and aren’t being studied for this yet, but full-spectrum CBMs and high-CBD extracts are in early, experimental phases. Nevertheless, these early studies are promising.

In vitro (lab-based) and in silico (computer-based) studies show that CBMPs are able to neutralize and prevent SARS-CoV-2 entry in cellular and organ tissues by attaching themselves to the infamous spike proteins that give COVID its other infamous name–coronavirus.  

The Entourage Effect vs. Long COVID

Researchers also determined that the possibility of multiple cannabinoid concentrations and ratios could have a more increased effect on preventing COVID as compared to acting individually. For many folks already in the know, this phenomenon is known as the entourage effect, a result of synergy between ratios of whole-plant compounds like cannabinoids, terpenes, and more.  

The lab studies here largely emphasize cannabinoid acids CBGA, THCA, and CBDA as being the most promising antivirals against COVID, with neutral cannabinoids having some but less binding activity. These acidic compounds appear to be more reactive and antiviral than their neutral forms we are more familiar with, which we speculate below.

Further research into synergies with other, neutral cannabinoids like CBG, THCV, and CBDV could also prove useful to help create an even more potentially medicinal entourage effect for long COVID patients. 

CBD Shows Great Potential Efficacy

The anti-inflammatory benefits that CBD reportedly provides pose great potential for long COVID patients. Although researchers are still conducting more group-based clinical studies, one placebo-controlled, single-blind crossover study has already found correlations suggesting that CBD-rich CBMPs may improve symptoms of long COVID. Other studies also highlight CBD’s antioxidant potential and name it a leading candidate for providing antiviral protection against long COVID.

Meanwhile, a preclinical study from 2022 finds that prolonged inflammation present in mice infected with COVID also leads to anxiety. CBD is long known for its potential to provide relief from inflammation and anxiety in multiple other settings. Similar studies also suggest CBD’s efficacy in reducing respiratory inflammation and lung scarring. Such chronic conditions reflect the same types of difficulties that long COVID sufferers must deal with regularly, and how CBD can lend some possible relief.  

READ: What Is THCA and What Are the Benefits of This Cannabinoid? 

The Dynamic Nature of CBG 

CBG is another cannabinoid that has great potential for helping long COVID patients as well. This particular cannabinoid is fast becoming more popular not only for its anti-inflammatory potential but also for its antioxidant, neuroprotective, and gastrointestinal capacities. CBG already has a solid reputation for reducing neuroinflammation caused by Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases in animal models, so it could prove useful for those suffering from similar neurological and psychiatric issues from long COVID. 

Antiviral capabilities in combination with CBD and THC are also demonstrated by the precursor to all cannabinoids, specifically CBGA, which is also the precursor to CBG. CBG may also be more effective at relieving anxiety than CBD, using smaller doses and without the intoxication of THC. The fact remains that researchers need to conduct more clinical studies on the many possibilities of relief that CBG could unlock in the future. 

THC: A Top Member of the Entourage

CBMP compounds rich in THC also show some potential in being able to help with symptoms of long COVID. Formulas rich in THC were shown in vitro to attach to the spike proteins of COVID and neutralize them as an antiviral, but in several orders less than its raw form, THCA. 

As far as clinical studies go, there aren’t any that examine THC for COVID. Still, THC in combination with other cannabinoids like CBD and CBG shows an ability to alleviate chronic inflammation and could be used for long COVID therapy as well. These findings all cement the important status that THC and THCA have as main members of the “entourage”.  

It’s also important to note THC’s psychoactive nature compared to its non-psychoactive cannabinoid counterparts—THCA (acidic THC), CBD, and CBG—as this can be a key psychological factor for patients who may be more sensitive. As we all know, everybody handles THC differently, and patients dealing with long COVID are no exception.

Utilizing Cannabinoids for Long COVID Patients

Cannabinoids like CBDA, CBGA, and THCA can directly target coronavirus 2 proteins, showing antiviral effects. Preclinical and clinical studies also suggest these cannabinoids may help long COVID patients more effectively than other experimental treatments have so far.

CBDA, CBGA, and THCA–plus their neutral forms individually and cooperatively–already lend a helping hand to a variety of medical patients who suffer from many of the same symptoms as long COVID patients. It is natural to assume that they could similarly help people with long COVID by extension, but the clinical data needs to catch up before making any treatment conclusions.

Further research is necessary on the synergy of other less-known cannabinoids, even just in general. Clinical trials currently underway regarding the ability of cannabinoids to fight long COVID can hopefully be the key to getting patients the right care they still desperately seek. 

The post Studies on the Effects of Cannabis & Long COVID appeared first on Cannabis Central.

Anecdotal and scientific evidence highlighting cannabis medical and therapeutic benefits is plentiful, boosting the plant’s reputation as a wonder herb. Some even consider the marijuana plant the closest we may ever get to a fountain of youth. But is that true? Can cannabis really help you live longer or reverse the effects of aging? Willie Nelson would probably say yes, but let’s look at the science.

What Happens As You Age?

As we age, the physical and mental components we rely on start breaking down. Cell regeneration slows, muscles and bones weaken, mental sharpness drops, and the immune system becomes less effective. The longer you live, the more severe these changes become, and the more they impact your quality of life.

According to a 2023 study aging increases the risk of various diseases, like osteoarthritis, diabetes, and dementia. These diseases impair mobility, cognitive function, and overall well-being. Hearing and vision also typically decline as you age, limiting your ability to socialize and interact with the world around you.

How Aging Affects the ECS and How Cannabis Might Support It

Your endocannabinoid system (ECS) controls several critical bodily functions, including learning, memory, sleep, temperature regulation, pain response, immune function, digestion, and more. A complex network of receptors and naturally occurring compounds called endocannabinoids make up the system. These endocannabinoids are quite similar to the cannabinoids found in cannabis.

Your ECS is active throughout life, but starts to flag as you age. Fortunately, since the ECS works by interacting with various receptors, especially CB1 and CB2 receptors throughout your body, cannabis may help revitalize it.

How?

Cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) interact with the same receptors your ECS works with to keep your body operating optimally. For example, THC binds to CB1 receptors in the brain to help with pain relief and relaxation, and with CB2 for anti-inflammatory and immune-modifying effects. 

CBD, on the other hand, interacts with ECS enzymes and non-ECS targets to produce anti-inflammatory and mood-stabilizing effects. CBD works primarily by increasing endocannabinoids and interacting with the larger endocannabinoidome (eCBome). The eCBome is an expansion pack of cannabinoid-sensitive targets that aren’t originally labeled as cannabinoid receptors (e.g., PPAR, TRP, and other receptor families).

Making cannabis part of your life may help boost your body’s natural endocannabinoid tone with whole plant-based compounds like cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and more. The widened net of the eCBome may also improve the gut-brain microbiome axis, and fight inflammation and oxidation at the cellular level, targeting key components of age-related decline and chronic disease. Plant-based cannabinoid supplementation could support your ECS and eCBome as you age to protect your health and quality of life, ultimately helping you live longer and better.

Can Cannabis Reverse or Slow Aging?

We need more research to fully understand the long-term effects of cannabis on aging. However, early studies indicate that cannabis might be a natural way to protect your ECS, eCBome, and support overall health as you age.

Of course, this depends on how you use cannabis. If you smoke or vape, you could endanger your lungs and airways, potentially causing chronic lung disease  – although it remains to be proven whether cannabis smoke shortens lifespan. Also, high doses of THC may do more long-term harm than good.

On the other hand, low-dose, long-term use of THC may help slow or even reverse brain aging. According to research published in the ACS Pharmacology & Translation Science, older mice treated with THC experienced improved cognitive function. Similarly, another recent mice study finds that THCA and CBDA improves memory and fights Alzheimer’s pathology. 

While these study findings are interesting, further testing on humans is needed to verify THC’s effectiveness for battling cognitive decline. So far, it appears that its nonintoxicating parent, THCA, is more tolerable and suitable. Along with nonintoxicating relatives, CBDA and CBD, which also have several anti-aging properties in early lab studies. 

Beyond cannabinoids, certain cannabis terpenes like beta-caryophyllene and pinene may also help reverse age-associated memory impairments in early studies. Flavonoids are also being explored as promising neuroprotective agents in the fight against aging and chronic disease. Whole-plant compounds like these boost the entourage effect, increasing the effectiveness of all the components involved and inclining us to seek whole-plant formulations over isolates.

There’s also a 2020 survey involving 568 elderly humans. 15% of the patients admitted to using cannabis within the past three years, while 53% stated they used it regularly. Most of these people primarily used it to improve the quality of life by treating pain, sleep disturbance, anxiety, and depression. Studies generally find that cannabis use is becoming more frequent in older age, and is associated with better brain health.

Lastly, research published in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience finds that regular cannabis users between 60 and 88 years old experienced some anti-aging benefits. For example, older and regular cannabis users in the study showed healthier connections within parts of the brain that control attention and memory. Plus, these individuals performed better in memory and executive function tasks, indicating that cannabis may help support cognitive health as you age.

Does Everyone Agree?

No, some researchers argue that cannabis could cause more long-term harm than good. One study of the Lifetime Marijuana Use and Epigenetic Age Acceleration suggests that cannabis might even speed up aging in people who smoke it, primarily because of the act of smoking itself that creates pro-aging, radical hydrocarbons. Fortunately, these effects can be avoided through non-inhalational routes or minimized via dry herb vaporizing.

There’s also the Interaction of Cannabis Use and Aging: From Molecule to Mind study, which discusses how cannabis and aging affect similar brain systems. According to the research, excessive cannabis may contribute to cognitive decline by damaging the same brain systems that aging affects. For example, the systems that govern memory and executive functioning, although they acknowledge the data are conflicting, confounded by alcohol and tobacco, and not long-term conclusive.

However, as mentioned, they also acknowledge how controlled, low-dose cannabis may support healthy aging, as aforementioned studies find. This means more robust research is needed to fully understand the positive and negative long-term effects of cannabis on human aging. Generally, it seems low-dose THC and higher amounts of cannabinoid acids and whole-plant formulations are the way to go.

Cannabis and Age-Related Conditions

Even if cannabis can’t reverse aging, it might make growing old less scary and damaging by potentially alleviating these common age-related conditions:

• Alzheimer’s and Dementia: Cannabis’ neuroprotective properties may help combat neurodegenerative diseases like dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. It could potentially do this by reducing inflammation, supporting brain cell health, and interacting with the ECS and other targets to regulate processes like memory, mood, mitochondrial function, and neural communication.
• Wrinkling: CBD can protect your skin from sun and pollution damage, which can cause wrinkling and other skin issues that make you look older. Topical CBD can also soothe inflammation to keep your skin smooth and help you maintain a youthful look as you age.

• Arthritis and Chronic Pain: Chronic pain relief is the most common use of cannabis among older individuals, especially boomers. This includes relief from pain caused by arthritis, injuries, and many other issues.
• Sleep Disorders: Insomnia is more prevalent among older adults. Fortunately, multiple studies indicate that cannabinoids and terpenes may help improve sleep quality.  
• Glaucoma: While glaucoma can affect people of all ages, it’s more common in adults over 40. Cannabinoids like THC can help reduce intraocular pressure to minimize glaucoma’s effects.
• Appetite Loss: Getting the munchies after cannabis use may be a big help if you’re an older adult battling reduced appetite.
• Depression and Anxiety in Seniors: Low doses of cannabis, or even better, hemp products, may help the elderly regulate their mood. However, its effects on depression and anxiety may vary between individuals and dosing sensitivity.

READ: Medical Cannabis for Older Patients: How Cannabis Therapy Can Benefit Senior Citizens

Cannabis Risks, Side Effects, and Concerns for Older Adults

Cannabis can help improve the elderly’s quality of life, but correct usage is key to experiencing desired effects and minimizing unwanted effects. For instance, using high-THC cannabis increases the risk of overwhelming impairing effects, which may cause more harm than good. 

However, non-intoxicating hemp is naturally low in THC and rich in beneficial acidic cannabinoids, terpenes, and other whole-plant compounds that support healthy aging. CBD and CBG hemp oils are prime choices for daytime and evening use and relief without impairment.

Also, cannabis may interact poorly with some of the medications you use as you age, such as blood thinners, sedatives, antidepressants, and medications for heart conditions or diabetes. As such, before using cannabis as an older adult, talk to your doctor to ensure it’s safe and won’t interfere with your current treatments.

Dos and Don’ts of Using Cannabis as You Age

Dos

• Do use full-spectrum cannabis products as they offer more whole-plant compounds and balanced effects than pure THC or CBD isolates.
• Do consult your doctor to confirm that cannabis won’t interact poorly with the medications you’re taking.
• Do start low and go slow, avoiding high doses that may lead to unwanted or overwhelming effects.
• Do choose products tailored to your needs, such as CBD or CBG-dominant strains for inflammation or edibles for longer-lasting effects.
• Do keep track of how cannabis affects your sleep, appetite, mood, and cognitive function to identify if it’s working or not.
• Do stay updated on cannabis laws and new medical findings to ensure you’re using it safely and legally. Remember that hemp is federally legal in all 50 states, but local laws may vary.

Don’ts

• Don’t self-medicate for conditions or replace prescribed treatments with cannabis unless approved by your doctor.
• Don’t mix cannabis with alcohol or sedatives, as this can increase drowsiness and the risk of falls or other side effects.
• Don’t assume all cannabis products are the same, as potency, strain, and delivery methods can vary widely.
• Don’t ignore it if you feel dizzy, disoriented, uncomfortable, or anxious after using cannabis. Instead, stop and consult a healthcare provider.

Other Things You Can Do to Slow Aging

1. Eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet to support brain and body health.
2. Exercise regularly to improve circulation, mobility, and cognitive function.
3. Stay mentally active by reading, solving puzzles, or learning new skills.
4. Get quality sleep to support cellular repair and cognitive health.
5. Stay socially connected to boost mood and protect against cognitive decline.
6. Use sunscreen daily to protect your skin from UV damage, skin cancer, and premature aging.
7. Stay hydrated to maintain skin elasticity and support bodily functions.
8. Limit alcohol and avoid any smoking to prevent harming your body.
9. Take supplements recommended by your doctor, such as omega-3s or vitamin D.
10. Keep up with regular checkups to monitor your health and catch issues early.

The post Is Medical Marijuana The Key To A Longer Life? Cannabis & Reverse Aging appeared first on Cannabis Central.

Despite several studies proving cannabis’ therapeutic and medical benefits, the United States still classifies the herb as a Schedule I substance. This designation means the federal government considers cannabis a drug with no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.

In reality, cannabis has several medical and therapeutic uses, including alleviating chronic pain, chemotherapy-induced nausea, sleep disorders, and multiple sclerosis (MS). These benefits were identified by a 2017 systematic review of the Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids by the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine.

Regarding “potential for abuse,” it would be dishonest to say cannabis has none. A 2024 Cannabis Use Disorder clinical review defines abuse as using large amounts of cannabis often, for longer than planned, and continuing despite harm to your body or mind. This may occur due to cannabis addiction, but not everyone is at risk. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the risk is higher if you use high-THC cannabis often or start during your teen years.

Let’s now look at substances and habits that are less regulated than cannabis, despite being more addictive and offering little to no medical value:

Nicotine

If you’re under 50, you’ve probably heard that cigarettes are dangerous since childhood. But despite health warnings, graphic pictures on cigarette boxes, and overwhelming anecdotal and scientific evidence, tobacco remains a $900 billion industry. Why? Because tobacco’s nicotine content feels good.

Tobacco smokers report feeling relaxed, less anxious, and more focused shortly after smoking. This is because nicotine triggers the release of dopamine in the brain, causing temporary feelings of happiness and satisfaction. These effects contribute to tobacco and nicotine’s addictiveness.

According to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA), “Tobacco products are addictive because they contain nicotine. Nicotine keeps people using tobacco products, even when they want to stop.” Also, “Using any tobacco product can lead to nicotine addiction. This is because nicotine can change the way the brain works, causing cravings for more of it.”

Signs of Nicotine Addiction

• Strong nicotine cravings
• Inability to quit tobacco or nicotine products despite knowing the health risks
• Withdrawal symptoms like irritability, anxiety, restlessness, sleeplessness, trouble concentrating or sleeping
• Weight gain
• Needing more nicotine over time to feel the same effects
• Continuing use despite health, relationship, or social issues

Alcohol

It’s hard to find a person who doesn’t drink at least some alcohol. In fact, according to a 2023 survey, 79.1% of Americans aged 12 and older have consumed alcohol. Its widespread use makes alcohol one of the most socially accepted vices.

However, that doesn’t change the fact that alcohol consumption is a dangerous and highly addictive habit. So dangerous that over 178,000 die from alcohol abuse each year in the U.S. alone. Despite causing nearly as many deaths as cigarettes, alcohol remains completely legal, while cannabis, which has no direct fatalities and far fewer associated fatalities, is still federally restricted.

In 2023, 28.9 million U.S. residents over 12 had alcohol use disorder, which typically develops when uncontrolled drinking rewires the brain’s reward system. It does this by boosting dopamine production and reinforcing the desire to drink, making it harder to quit. Fortunately, alcohol addiction recovery is possible, but it can be a very difficult journey.

Signs of Alcohol Addiction

• Repeatedly drinking more than intended
• Inability to reduce or quit drinking
• Strong cravings or urges to drink
• Feeling guilty about drinking
• Irritability, difficulty concentrating, mood swings 
• Anger around being asked about drinking
• Having “eye-openers”, morning or daytime drinking
• Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home to drink
• Continuing to drink despite health, relationship, or legal issues
• Needing more alcohol to feel the same effects
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking, like shaking, anxiety, or nausea
• Dangerous or severe withdrawal symptoms include seizures, delirium tremens, or altered mental status – these are considered a medical emergency and may be life-threatening

Caffeine

Caffeine is the active compound in coffee that perks you up. The stimulant can help you feel more alert, energized, and focused. However, excessive caffeine consumption can cause physical dependence. How? Consuming caffeine regularly can cause your body to become more reliant on its stimulating effects to perform.

As this happens, your caffeine tolerance will increase, leading to needing more and more to get the same boost. If you don’t get your caffeine hit, you may feel tired, irritable, or headachy, which are classic signs of physical dependence.

Studies report caffeine is the most commonly used drug in the world, and that there are instances of humans experiencing caffeine withdrawals. Patients who report problematic caffeine use often have withdrawal symptoms like headaches, fatigue, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, and flu-like symptoms. If other criteria are present, they may be diagnosed with caffeine use disorder. This just goes to show that your morning cups of joe may not be as harmless as you thought.

Signs of Caffeine Addiction

• Needing more caffeine to feel alert
• Increasing caffeine tolerance or taking it for longer than intended
• Craving caffeine throughout the day
• Feeling irritable or fatigued without it
• Struggling to cut back on consumption despite the consequences
• Relying on caffeine to stay functional

Binge Eating

Don’t be surprised. After all, delicious food is hard to resist, and without self-discipline, you might keep eating even after you’re full and your stomach hurts. Those who can’t stop even though it hurts or makes them feel sick may have unfortunately slipped into food addiction or a binge-eating disorder.

A 2022 University of Michigan national survey discovered that 1 in 8 U.S. adults over 50 had signs of food addiction. Almost 1 in 4 of the participants also admitted to having an overwhelming and obsessive urge to eat highly processed foods at least once a week. Even scarier, 17% said they experienced withdrawal symptoms at least once a week, and 12% mentioned that their eating behavior caused them a lot of distress.

Signs of Binge Eating Disorder

• Craving highly processed or unhealthy foods
• Eating in secret or hiding food
• Loss of control over eating, even when not hungry
• Eating larger quantities of food than intended
• Emotional distress caused by eating behavior
• Withdrawal symptoms (headaches, irritability, or fatigue) when not eating certain foods
• Repeated failed attempts to cut back or control eating
• Eating to cope with stress, emotions, or boredom

Social Media

If you own a smartphone, you’ve probably caught yourself doomscrolling at some point. Endlessly scrolling through social media may seem harmless. But if you do it for hours and feel the urge to pick up your phone seconds after dropping it, you might have developed a habit. The habit may cause chronic stress, anxiety, depression, sleep disruption, and trouble focusing.

According to Stanford psychiatrist, Dr. Anna Lembke, “social media apps cause the release of large amounts of dopamine into our brains’ reward pathway all at once, just like heroin, or meth, or alcohol. They do that by amplifying the feel-good properties that attract humans to each other in the first place.” This leads to excessive social media use and potential addiction.

Signs of Social Media Addiction

• Constant urge to check notifications
• Spending more time than intended scrolling
• Neglecting responsibilities or relationships for screen time
• Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to access social media
• Using social media to cope with stress, boredom, or loneliness
• Trying and failing to cut back on usage

Shopping

If you can’t stop shopping on Amazon or Temu, even though you’re racking up debt buying stuff you don’t need, you might have an addiction. Otherwise known as compulsive buying disorder (CBD), the condition typically involves excessive shopping even though it causes distress or other issues.

According to a study, about 5.8% of the U.S. population has CBD. The study also identified possible causes of CBD, which include mood and anxiety disorders, substance use, family history of mental illness, and cultural pressures. Later studies also identify ADHD, depressive mood, female gender, earlier adult impulse buying, and illicit drug use as associated factors, too. Another underlying potential cause is imbalances in brain chemicals like dopamine and serotonin, which can lead to impulsive spending.

Signs of Shopping Addiction

• Frequent, impulsive purchases you didn’t plan or need
• Feeling a “high” or rush when shopping
• Shopping to cope with stress, anxiety, or depression
• Lying about purchases
• Financial problems due to excessive spending
• Guilt or regret after shopping
• Failed attempts to cut back on shopping

Video Gaming

There’s nothing wrong with playing your favorite first- or third-person shooters, adventure games, or other games, unless you find yourself obsessing over them. If you can’t stop gaming or thinking about it when other responsibilities need your attention, you might have an addiction.

Video, online, and mobile games often incorporate mechanisms that trigger dopamine production, making them more pleasurable and hard to stop. What’s truly frightening is that, unlike most addictive vices, which only adults can access, games are available for all ages. The most engaging of these games carries at least some risk of addiction, especially if not played in moderation.

Signs of Video Gaming Addiction

• Playing at the expense of sleep or responsibilities
• Gaming even when it causes problems in work, school, or relationships
• Feeling anxious or irritable when not gaming
• Losing interest in other hobbies or activities
• Lying about how much time you spend gaming
• Gaming to escape stress or negative emotions
• Struggling to cut back or stop

READ: Combining Caffeine and THC: Benefits, Downsides, and Effects

Porn

Like many of the habits on this list, pornography is habit-forming because it triggers the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine. Pleasure from the dopamine tempts you to watch porn again to chase the same feeling, reinforcing the behavior. Next thing you know, you are visiting porn sites even when in public or battling intense urges to watch it every time you try to quit.

According to a 2019 study published in the Journal of Behavioral Addictions, 11% of American men and 3% of American women believe they are addicted to pornography. This means about 1 in 9 U.S. men has a porn addiction.

Signs of Porn Addiction

• Loss of interest in real-life intimacy or sexual relationships
• Wanting to stop but can’t
• Desensitization to porn or actual sex
• Spending lots of time watching or thinking about porn
• Escalating pornographic content
• Watching in risky or inappropriate settings, such as at work or school
• Feeling guilty or ashamed after viewing, but still repeating the behavior

Gambling

At least, gambling is more regulated than other habits that made this list. Nonetheless, gambling addiction is a widespread problem, with people losing their livelihoods, families, and even their lives to it. It usually starts as simple fun, but becomes a trap as you become hooked on the rush of gambling or the thrill of chasing a win.

Gambling addiction doesn’t have to happen at a casino or racetrack. It can happen online, thanks to mobile betting apps, or even with friendly wagers that spiral out of control. According to the National Council on Problem Gaming, 2.5 million U.S. adults have severe gambling problems. That’s not counting the kids who’ve inadvertently become hooked while playing games on their mobile devices.

Signs of Gambling Addiction

• Constantly thinking about gambling
• Lying about gambling habits
• Chasing losses by gambling more
• Feeling restless or irritable when trying to cut back
• Gambling to escape stress or negative emotions
• Relationships, jobs, or finances falling apart due to gambling
• Repeated failed attempts to stop or control gambling

Masturbation

Saying masturbation has no medical value may be a bit unfair, considering a Harvard study discovered otherwise. According to the study, men who ejaculated at least 21 times per month had a lower risk of developing prostate cancer. Another study found that masturbation may help women relieve stress and boost their general well-being.

However, while self-pleasuring may be beneficial, it becomes a problem when you can’t control when you do it or find yourself doing it at awkward places and times. This is called compulsive masturbation, and it can interfere with daily life, careers, relationships, and mental health. The problem is more likely to occur if you frequently indulge, as it can become habit-forming and harder to control over time.

Signs of Masturbation Addiction

• Frequent urges that feel uncontrollable
• Masturbating in inappropriate places or times
• Feeling guilt or shame afterward, but continuing the behavior
• Using it to cope with stress, boredom, or negative emotions
• Failed attempts to cut back or stop

Do you have experience with an addictive habit that seemed worse than cannabis? Don’t be shy about sharing it with us in the comments. 

The post These Habits Are More Addictive Than Cannabis appeared first on Cannabis Central.

With more people turning to cannabis for medical relief, many wonder if it’s safe to combine weed with prescription medications like prednisone. Prednisone is a potent corticosteroid that helps combat inflammation and regulate the immune system.

Cannabis also has well-documented anti-inflammatory properties, making the idea of combining the two appealing for people managing chronic pain, autoimmune diseases, and flare-ups. 

But because both substances interact with the body in complex ways—including being processed by the same liver enzymes—it’s essential to understand the potential risks and benefits before using them together.

What is Prednisone?

Prednisone is a corticosteroid that helps manage a variety of immune-related health conditions. Doctors prescribe corticosteroids, also known as glucocorticoids or steroids, to reduce inflammation throughout the body. It can help people who have low or even normal levels of corticosteroids.

Doctors may prescribe prednisone alone or with other medications to replace missing corticosteroids in people whose bodies don’t produce enough. It works by reducing inflammation and altering the immune system’s response throughout the body. In people with low steroid levels, prednisone acts as a substitute for the natural hormones their bodies lack.

For example, they may combine prednisone with antacids to prevent ulcers, or with antibiotics to manage a specific type of pneumonia in people with AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). Prednisone also manages several conditions in people with normal corticosteroid levels. These include:

• Certain types of arthritis (e.g., inflammatory, rheumatoid, etc.)

• Severe allergic or asthmatic reactions

• Multiple sclerosis (a nerve disorder)

• Lupus (an autoimmune disease)

• Certain types of cancer (to help manage symptoms)

Doctors also use prednisone to help manage immune and inflammatory conditions that affect the:

• Lungs

• Skin

• Eyes

• Kidneys

• Blood

• Thyroid

• Stomach

• Intestines

Prednisone comes in several forms taken by mouth, such as the following:

• Tablets

• Delayed-release tablets

• Liquid solution

• Topical 
• Nasal
• IV or injection (i.e., IM or SQ)

You’ll usually take prednisone with food one to four times a day, or sometimes every other day. Your doctor will instruct you on exactly when and how often to take it, based on your specific condition and your response to treatment. There are specific forms and times of day when it’s best to take them to maximize effectiveness, so be sure to closely follow all their instructions.

Are There Risks Associated With Prednisone?

Before starting prednisone, share your health information with your doctor and pharmacist to reduce the risk of complications. Inform them of any allergies, including steroid medications or ingredients in the preparations. 

Also, tell them about all current or planned medications, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products. Any of these can interact with prednisone, potentially causing or increasing prednisone’s side effects.

The side effects of prednisone can be serious if stopped abruptly. Your doctor will give you a taper plan to come off the medicine safely, so don’t stop taking it unless they tell you to. While on the medicine, you may have temporary side effects that include:

• High blood sugar

• Trouble sleeping

• Headaches
  

• Increased hunger and weight gain

• High blood pressure

• Bone loss (osteoporosis)

• Mood swings
  
• Swelling (edema)

• Weakened adrenal gland function

• Cataracts

Tell any healthcare provider—including your dentist—if you are currently taking prednisone or recently stopped, especially before surgery or emergency medical treatment. If you are taking any medications or supplements that may interfere with prednisone, your doctor or other healthcare provider may need to adjust your medications or monitor you closely for side effects. 

It’s a good idea to wear a medical alert bracelet or carry a card indicating that you take prednisone, in case of an emergency. Also, before taking this prescription drug, it’s crucial to let your doctor know if you currently have or have ever had:

• Eye infections (especially recurring ones)

• Threadworms (a type of parasite)

• Diabetes

• High blood pressure

• Mental health conditions or emotional issues

• Myasthenia gravis (a condition that causes muscle weakness)

• Osteoporosis (brittle bones)

• Seizures

• Tuberculosis (TB)

• Stomach ulcers

• Liver, kidney, intestinal, heart, or thyroid disease

• If you’re pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding

Keep in mind that prednisone can weaken your immune system and may even prevent symptoms from appearing if you do contract an infection. To stay safe, be sure to:

• Wash your hands often
• Wear a mask in public

• Stay away from people who are sick

• Avoid anyone with chickenpox or measles

• Call your doctor right away if you think you’ve been exposed to either of these illnesses

READ: How Marijuana Can Help You Live a Healthier Lifestyle

THC and Antibiotics

As both weed and antibiotics are also widely used, many people wonder about the safety of combining the two. While so far they appear safe together, the main thing is that THC is also an immunosuppressant. This means cannabis makes it harder for your body to fight infections, which may be counterproductive.

Smoking weed while taking antibiotics might not altogether cancel out the medication, but it’s still important to talk to your doctor before using both at the same time. Completing the full course of antibiotics is also crucial for preventing the development of resistance and effectively clearing the infection.

Below are some of the most commonly used antibiotics:

• Amoxicillin

• Azithromycin

• Cephalexin

• Clindamycin

• Amoxicillin and Clavulanate (combination)

• Sulfamethoxazole and Trimethoprim (combination)

• Doxycycline

• Erythromycin

• Metronidazole

• Levofloxacin

As cannabis use becomes more common, it’s essential to understand how it interacts with medications like antibiotics. Hundreds of antibiotics can potentially interact with medical cannabis. Similarly, antifungal medicines like amphotericin B, ketoconazole, and more can also interact with corticosteroids and THC in ways that increase or decrease levels of the medicine.

However, a study compiled by Penn State College of Medicine identified 139 common pharmaceutical drugs that may have a higher likelihood of causing adverse reactions when consuming marijuana. While the survey identified only 139 medications, this doesn’t mean there is no risk of negative interactions with other medications – but so far the others don’t appear to be clinically significant enough to be reported yet. 

Medical Marijuana and Prednisone: Benefits and Risks

When using prednisone and marijuana together, it’s essential to consider both the potential benefits and risks. 

Prednisone is a potent anti-inflammatory medication, while marijuana  – with particular active ingredients THC and CBD – is also known for its anti-inflammatory effects. Due to the way these substances interact in the body, combining them requires careful consideration. Importantly, they can both reduce your ability to fight infections. 

Benefits of Combining Medical Marijuana and Prednisone

Using marijuana with prednisone may offer extra anti-inflammatory benefits, particularly for people with chronic conditions like arthritis, asthma, or inflammatory bowel disease. This is because cannabis may help reduce inflammation by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which can work alongside prednisone’s effects. 

Research shows that cannabinoids, the active compounds in cannabis, can also influence the immune system. Cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, affecting the activity of immune cells and cytokine production. This interaction may help manage chronic inflammatory conditions by reducing symptoms such as pain, swelling, and tissue damage.​

For example, CBD may reduce symptoms in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn’s disease by lowering the production of inflammation-causing substances. Additionally, cannabis is reported to reduce opioid use in chronic pain patients, suggesting its potential as an adjunctive therapy.

For patients using prednisone for short-term flare-ups, cannabis may also ease pain and discomfort, providing a more holistic and on-demand approach to managing symptoms. Additionally, cannabis may reduce the need for higher doses of prednisone, helping to minimize some of the side effects often linked to steroids.

However, it’s always essential to consult with a healthcare provider before combining marijuana with prednisone, as each person’s body response can vary, and potential interactions should be carefully considered.

Risks of Combining Medical Marijuana and Prednisone

Combining prednisone and THC may offer some benefits, but it also carries some risks, which vary based on the individual. Both cannabis and prednisone are processed by the same enzyme system in the liver. This leads to a buildup of prednisone in the body, increasing the risk of steroid toxicity and possibly prolonging the steroid taper.

Research suggests this interaction can heighten the chances of experiencing side effects from prednisone. Combining medical marijuana and prednisone can also cause increased drowsiness, confusion, and other side effects due to their interactions.

Can I Smoke While Taking Prednisone?

Heavy cannabis smoking can reduce bone density when using steroids, which increases the risk of fractures and osteoporosis. For patients at higher risk of these conditions, consuming cannabis edibles or vaporizing cannabis may be a safer alternative to smoking.

While smoking cannabis or tobacco doesn’t significantly change how prednisone works in the body, doctors still typically recommend avoiding it while taking the medication. 

Prednisone weakens the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections. Since it’s an immunosuppressant, combining it with smoking, which can have a negative impact on lung health, potentially further increases your risk of respiratory diseases and other complications.

Instead, consuming cannabis in other forms may be a better alternative to smoking marijuana. 

Key Takeaways

While we still need more research to understand how weed and prednisone work together fully, current evidence suggests they can be strong allies in fighting inflammation. However, their interaction does come with some moderate risks that you should discuss with your healthcare provider, and it may affect the dose they prescribe. 

Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medication, especially steroids. Remember that steroids must be taken exactly as directed, including time of day, frequency, and any dosage tapering plans to prevent serious side effects – which can take weeks. This helps you avoid unwanted side effects or serious issues from increased steroid exposure or suddenly stopping corticosteroid treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Have Weed While on Prednisone?

Some people use cannabis to manage pain or inflammation while taking prednisone. However, since both substances affect the immune system and are processed by the liver, it’s advisable to consult your doctor first to avoid increased infection risk, potential side effects, and harmful interactions.

What Medicine Should You Not Mix With Weed?

Weed can interact with many prescription medications, especially those that are broken down by the liver. This includes blood thinners, sedatives, antidepressants, antifungals, and certain antibiotics. Always check with a healthcare provider before combining weed with any new medication.

What Cannot Be Mixed With Prednisone?

Avoid mixing prednisone with NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or aspirin), some vaccines, certain antifungal medications, and supplements like St. John’s wort without medical advice. These combinations may increase the risk of side effects like ulcers, infections, or reduce prednisone’s effectiveness.

Can You Smoke While Taking Steroids?

Doctors do not recommend smoking in general or while taking steroids, depending on the individual. Smoking—especially heavy cannabis or tobacco use—can damage the lungs and immune system. Since prednisone already suppresses immune function, smoking may raise your risk of infections and respiratory complications. Vaporizing or using edibles and tinctures are safer alternatives.

What Organ is Prednisone Hard On?

Prednisone can impact several organs due to its immunity effects, but it’s tough on the bones (risk of osteoporosis), eyes (risk of cataracts), and adrenal glands. Long-term use may also affect the liver and raise blood pressure. Your doctor will carefully plan out how long you should be on steroids for, and any co-medications needed to avoid side effects (i.e. antacids to prevent peptic ulcers).

Does Weed Act as an Anti-Inflammatory?

Yes, weed is a natural anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive agent. Cannabis contains cannabinoids like THC and CBD that interact with the endocannabinoid system to help reduce inflammation. This makes it potentially helpful in managing symptoms of autoimmune, inflammatory, and painful conditions.

Can I Smoke After Taking Tablets?

Technically, yes, but it depends on what the tablets are used for. If you’re taking prednisone or other medications that affect the immune system or liver, smoking (weed or tobacco) may increase your risk of complications. Always check with your doctor to ensure it’s safe and review your alternative options.

Note: The content on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be professional medical advice. Do not attempt to self-diagnose or prescribe treatment based on the information provided. Always consult a physician before making any decision on the treatment of a medical condition. 

The post Can You Safely Combine Weed and Prednisone? appeared first on Cannabis Central.

According to a report by Science Direct, 55% of people have experienced one or more lucid dreams in their lifetime. A meta-analysis of 50 years of research on lucid dreaming spanning from 1966 to 2016 finds that 23% of people experience lucid dreams at least once a month. 

A lucid dream is one in which the individual becomes aware that they are dreaming while they are still asleep. In some cases, they can even affect the course of the dream, gaining control over its content. 

Lucid dreaming likely dates back to the dawn of time. Aristotle referenced it in his 4th-century BCE treatise On Dreams. As virtual reality and other immersive media have grown, interest in lucid dreaming is surged in recent years. Those wanting to induce more lucid dreaming try all types of things, from meditation to external triggers to techniques like “wake back to bed,” to increase their chances of experiencing regular lucid dreams. 

But what about tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) intake? Can that help regulate or enhance the lucid dreaming experience? We have the answers.

The Science Behind Lucid Dreaming 

Let’s start with some of the science behind lucid dreaming. While experts are still unsure exactly what causes lucid dreaming (hence, the variety of ways people try to induce it), research has given us a vague idea of what’s happening in the brain during dreams. 

Lucid dreaming typically happens in REM sleep (the stage of sleep where most dreaming, lucid or otherwise, occurs). It’s also more likely to happen during the last hours of the night or naps, points when the body is teetering between fully asleep and awake. A study published in Sleep suggests that lucid dreaming might be more of a dissociated state (where the brain is exhibiting both signs of wakefulness and sleep) rather than a fully unconscious one.

This dissociated state theory stems from the discovery that, unlike in typical REM sleep, the lateral prefrontal cortices, specifically the DLPFC, appear to be active during lucid dreams. And our lateral prefrontal cortices are responsible for functions like self-awareness, planning, reasoning, and decision-making— all things that play a role in lucid dreaming.

The Impact of THC

Many people include cannabis in their nighttime routines. Many people praise its anti-anxiety and relaxation benefits, saying it helps them unwind after a long day or switch from prescription medications.

But studies, like this one published by the Canadian Pharmacists Journal, show that THC has mixed effects on our sleep. At low doses, it can help you fall asleep faster and easier, can improve slow-wave sleep, and can increase overall sleep time. High doses, on the other hand, are shown to reduce deep sleep, with fewer REM sleep cycles and lower REM sleep density.

Given that lucid dreams are thought to happen during REM sleep, it’s reasonable that increased cannabis use could have a negative effect on lucid dreaming. If you aren’t ever entering REM sleep, or are only having short, shallow REM cycles, it simply may not be possible for your brain to reach that dissociated state required for lucid dreaming.

But all is not lost for those who simply aren’t interested in giving up their nightly dose of THC. Another study finds that heavy cannabis users (defined here as those who consume 10mg of THC or more a day) may build up a tolerance to the adverse effects of high THC use on their sleep. Meaning that it’s still possible for lower-dose, regular cannabis users to have lucid dreams. 

READ: What Happens When You Sleep High? Debunking Cannabis & Dreams

The CBD Effect

Interestingly, all the studies we looked at for this report agreed that a combination of low-dose THC and CBD likely has a positive effect on sleep.

Cumulative data on clinical sleep studies find that high doses of CBD can improve insomnia on its own and mitigate the negative effects of THC on sleep. It appears that high doses of CBD can increase slow-wave sleep time and lessen the number of waking events when compared to those given low doses of CBD or no CBD. 

The 2023 clinical review also highlights that 4 out of 7 CBD-dominant studies showed positive results for insomnia. Meanwhile, 12 of 16 studies report positive results when using a nearly equal ratio of THC to CBD. The authors suggest that “…CBD alone or with equal quantities of THC may be beneficial in alleviating the symptoms of insomnia.” While also addressing how more robust, validated research is needed here. 

Furthermore, the 2022 report in the Canadian Pharmacists Journal also notes that THC and its derivatives, whether used alone or with CBD, improve self-reported sleep scores. It’s likely, then, that a combination of low THC and high CBD could put you in the sweet spot for lucid dreaming— REM cycles that aren’t too deep, but are long enough for your mind to relax into a dream state.

The Bottom Line

Researchers do not yet fully understand how THC and CBD affect sleep, but they appear to work best when balanced together. They also appear to be quite nuanced, meaning individuals will have different reactions based on several factors, including length and frequency of cannabis use, the existence of previously existing sleep disorders (like insomnia), and underlying conditions like anxiety or depression.

Self-reported data found online on places like Reddit or cannabis forums reflect this. Many users say that cannabis use has negatively affected their ability to have lucid dreams, while others swear it’s an essential part of their lucid dreaming practice. So far, it appears that dose, tolerance, and individual factors can influence these experiences. 

Perhaps the only way to know whether to regulate or enhance your lucid dreaming occurrences is to try it. If nothing else, cannabis users report that their dreams are more wild and inventive after consuming THC than before. If you want immersive, impossible-in-real-life experiences, start with a THC-induced dream where you walk underwater or talk to an animal.

The post Cannabis & Lucid Dreaming: Can THC Enhance the Dream Experience? appeared first on Cannabis Central.

One of the best things about cannabis is that it offers several benefits. However, most people use it strictly for fun – recreational purposes. But what if you could make another enjoyable activity even more pleasurable with cannabis? Well, according to multiple anecdotal and scientific reports, cannabis might help men put the ram in their rods for more sensual and explosive intimate experiences.

The Cannabis Effect

Cannabis gets you high mainly because of its tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content, with terpenes enhancing these effects. The more THC, terpenes, and whole-plant components there are in your cannabis, the stronger its euphoric effects will be. This mood-altering effect can help ease stress, anxiety, and nervousness.

However, THC does more than cause mind-altering effects. It also triggers vasodilation, meaning it causes blood vessels to expand, increasing blood flow. It’s why your eyes turn red after consuming cannabis – the blood vessels in your eyes widen, becoming engorged and more visible.

This phenomenon occurs throughout your body’s extremities once THC enters your bloodstream, including in the male reproductive organs. Now, if you didn’t know, being able to get and maintain an erection depends on healthy blood flow to your penis.

When aroused, your brain sends signals that cause blood vessels in the penis to relax and widen, causing more blood to flow into the organ. The blood flow inflates your penis like a balloon and is then trapped inside to keep you erect. Staying hard requires keeping that blood trapped until your climax or arousal ends.

How Cannabis Might Affect Male Sexual Performance

Medications like sildenafil (Viagra®, Revatio®) and tadalafil (Cialis®, Adcirca®, etc.) help men have and maintain erections by improving penile blood flow. Cannabis, especially its THC cannabinoid, may have the same effect by causing vasodilation. According to research into The Impact of Marijuana on the Cardiovascular System, THC can relax blood vessels by boosting nitric oxide levels and certain antioxidant activities.

Besides helping you stay hard, increased penile blood flow may improve sensitivity, enhance pleasure, and lead to stronger, more satisfying orgasms. How? More blood flow leads to livelier nerve endings in your genitals, making them more responsive to touch. This heightened sensitivity can intensify pleasure from physical contact, leading to a more explosive climax.

Also, THC and cannabidiol (CBD) help lower anxiety, stress, and depression, which are states of mind that typically interfere with male sexual performance. Anxiety or stress can raise the levels of stress hormones that disrupt the blood flow required for getting and maintaining an erection.

THC triggers feelings of relaxation and euphoria, while CBD reduces anxiety and stress by interacting with serotonin receptors in the brain. CBD’s effect helps regulate mood, reduce fear responses, and promote a sense of calm.

The more relaxed you are before or during sex, the less anxious, stressed, and distracted you’ll be. This can help you enjoy the moment and perform better both mentally and physically. The reduced tension may also help you last longer, as anxiety is a common cause of premature ejaculation.

Is There Proof of Cannabis Helping Men in Bed?

Oh yes! A 2019 survey-based study titled How Cannabis Alters Sexual Experience: A Survey of Men and Women provided some proof. It had 216 participants, including mostly females, males, and 2 transgender people. Here are the insights from their questionnaire responses:

• 112 participants, or 52.3%, admitted to using cannabis to alter their sexual experience
• 82 participants, or 38.7%, said sex was better with cannabis
• 52 participants, or 24.5%, said sex was sometimes better with cannabis

Out of 202 participants, 119 (58.9%) reported an increased desire for sex, while 149 (73.8%) claimed increased sexual satisfaction. Also, 132 of 201 participants (65.7%) said they had more intense orgasms, while 144 of 199 (74.3%) reported heightened sensitivity to touch.

In another study on The Influence of Cannabis on Sexual Functioning and Satisfaction, 70% of male and female participants reported increased sexual desire. The men also reported higher sexual satisfaction and functioning, especially those who intentionally used cannabis before sex.

Real-Life Experiences and Testimonials from Redditors

Here are some testimonies from men on the Reddit thread, Marijuana Improves Sex and Could Help Close ‘Orgasm Inequality Gap’ Between Men And Women, New Study Indicates.

• “Anecdotally, as a guy, I can attest that orgasming while high on THC makes the orgasm more ‘complete’ — longer, warmer, more satisfying. But I’m a data point of one.”
• “After some edibles, I thought im gonna have a stroke, orgasm was mind-shattering. It also lasted so long, my thought was “so that’s what it’s like to be a pig” (they are known for long-lasting climax for those who don’t know).

Here are quotes from another Reddit thread titled, “Men who smoke marijuana, what’s your experience with sex/orgasm combined with the devil’s lettuce?”

• “I get max hard and last about 50% longer when I’m high, but the best thing about it is sex sessions that last an hour or longer, my mind is 100% sex focused. Of course, usually during those sessions it is anyway, but occasionally I have to fight away the “damn cat doing zooms” thoughts or something, but if I’m stoned, naw, 100% focused and into it 100% of the time.”
• “For me, personally, it’s 50/50 depending on how I smoke or just how I handle the high. It can either be some really great sex, or I’m too stoned or paranoid and have a bad time.”

Within the same thread, a Redditor had a less satisfying experience to share, which makes sense since cannabis affects everyone differently.

• “All seem to be positive comments, but I’ll go against the grain and say I don’t like it. I find myself to be a lot less interested in sex when high. It is a lot more difficult for me to stay hard, and I have trouble finishing. The physical sensations from intimacy are better, but the actual orgasm is the same, if not slightly muted.”

A Double-Edged Sword

While cannabis has helped multiple men become better lovers, others don’t respond well to it. Take, for example, this feedback from Melonqualia, a Redditor, “I really envy what normal people must experience with THC, because even a tiny microdose sends me into an endless pit of combined anxiety, exhaustion, and random hallucinations that leave me in no shape to even think about sex.”

If you’re one of the few men who don’t respond well to cannabis, using it for sex won’t help. In fact, it might worsen things. In fact, the 2019 questionnaire mentioned above notes how 10 respondents (4.7%) said it made sex worse.  Cannabis may also negatively impact your sexual performance if you use too much or consume a high-THC product.

Instead of lowering stress and anxiety, high doses of THC can cause or exacerbate such issues, which can frustrate lovemaking. In worse cases, it may even lead to paranoia, which completely takes sex off the table.

According to the International Society for Sexual Medicine, men who use high doses of cannabis or consume it frequently may be more likely to experience sexual problems. These problems may include erectile dysfunction, reduced sexual desire, and difficulty reaching orgasm. They may also experience premature ejaculation caused by elevated dopamine levels and anxiety. On the flip side, some men may experience reduced anxiety and improved ejaculatory control after using cannabis.

READ: 5 Cannabis Strains Guaranteed to Get You Hot and Steamy

How to Use Cannabis for Better Sex

You can roll cannabis flower into a joint and enjoy it the old-fashioned way before sex. Alternatively, you could vape it. Both methods are fast-acting, letting you feel cannabis’ effects within minutes. However, if smelling like a stoner will turn your partner off, then joints are off the table. Smoking or vaping is also unsafe if you have pre-existing respiratory issues.

An alternative that works just as fast but without respiratory or odor risks is a cannabis tincture applied under your tongue. If you want a more discreet consumption method, ingesting cannabis oils, pills, or edibles is a good choice.

Just keep in mind that ingesting cannabis typically takes longer to kick in (30 to 90 minutes), and its effects are stronger and last longer. You can also use a cannabis lube topically on your member to minimize friction and enhance sexual stimulation.

Whether you’re smoking, vaping, or ingesting cannabis for sex, it’s best to start with a small dose. You can then gradually work your way up until you find the dosage that delivers your desired results.

If you take too much, you may experience increased anxiety, reduced sensitivity, trouble focusing, and other issues that make it harder to perform. You should also experiment with different strains to find one that fits your sexual goals. Highly recommended strains for sex include:

1. Blue Dream: A balanced hybrid for a relaxing body high and gentle cerebral buzz. It may help you enhance intimacy without causing couch-lock.
2. Strawberry Cough: An uplifting and euphoric strain with a smooth, berry flavor. It may help enhance your mood and lower your inhibitions, turning you into a more relaxed and open-minded lover.
3. Blueberry Lambsbread: A sativa-dominant hybrid ideal for those prone to anxiety. It calms the mind while keeping energy levels steady, both of which may help you perform better.
4. Green Crack: It’s energizing and mentally stimulating. These effects may help you stay present, alert, and engaged during sex.
5. ACDC: A high-CBD, low-THC strain for first-timers who want to lower the risk of getting too high to perform. Its calming effect may help reduce performance anxiety and boost relaxation without impairing focus or arousal.

Dos and Don’ts for Men Using Cannabis to Elevate Sexual Experiences

Dos

• Do start with a small dose, especially if it’s your first time mixing weed and sex.
• Do choose the right strain, such as hybrid strains, for relaxation, mood elevation, and body euphoria.
• Do set the mood by making your space comfortable, safe, and not distracting to enhance both the high and the intimacy.
• Do stay hydrated to avoid uncomfortable and distracting cottonmouth.
• Do slow down, so cannabis can heighten sensation and you can enjoy every touch.

Don’ts

• Don’t overdo doses because too much cannabis can cause anxiety, numbness, or distraction, which can kill the vibe.
• Don’t assume cannabis affects everyone the same because what works for one man may not work for you.
• Don’t mix with alcohol or other substances, as this may dull arousal or cause unwanted side effects.
• Don’t ignore your body’s signals – If you feel too high or uncomfortable, pause and take a break.
• Don’t rely on it every time, as frequently using cannabis to enhance performance may affect natural arousal over time.

Men Who Shouldn’t Use Cannabis for Sex

If you don’t respond well to THC, you may experience increased anxiety, reduced sensitivity, or difficulty reaching orgasm – all of which can ruin intimacy. Also, if you’re on medications that interact poorly with cannabis, such as antidepressants and sedatives, you should avoid using cannabis for sex.

Lastly, some studies indicate that cannabis may worsen heart disease. So, if you have a history of hypertension or other cardiac issues, using cannabis may be unsafe. To stay on the safe side, talk to your doctor before using cannabis.

Can CBD Isolates or Distillates Improve Male Sexual Performance?

There’s no conclusive evidence that just the CBD cannabinoid can help improve male sexual performance. In fact, a study of the Effects of Cannabidiol on Male Reproductive System suggests that CBD may negatively affect male fertility and sex drive.

However, since CBD can help with relaxation, the right dose may reduce performance anxiety that gets in the way of intimacy. But using too much may lead to adverse effects like fatigue and sedation that interfere with sexual desire and performance.

Another consideration about any isolate or distillate, whether THC or CBD, is the fact that those exclude other beneficial, synergistic whole-plant compounds like terpenes. Terpenes work alongside THC to increase highs, relieve anxiety, pain, and more, so you should ideally pick whole-plant formulations to maximize benefits. With respect to sexual performance, one terpene known as beta-caryophyllene is shown to improve sexual performance in rats – both alone and in combination with sildenafil, a common ED medication – but we still have much to learn about how it affects humans.

Are you a man who’s tried cannabis to improve intimacy? Don’t be shy to share how it went in the comments.

The post For the Boys – Can Cannabis Improve Male Sexual Performance? appeared first on Cannabis Central.

Glaucoma is no joke. The condition increases pressure in the affected eye, causing discomfort and damaging the optic nerve. If left untreated, it can eventually lead to blindness. Don’t believe it? Just ask Fetty Wap, who lost an eye to the condition.

But it’s not just Fetty. Over 3 million Americans have glaucoma, and about half of them don’t even know it. Fortunately, glaucoma is manageable if caught early, making routine eye exams important not to miss. If diagnosed, one of the ways you can manage it is with medical cannabis.

Cannabis and Glaucoma

Glaucoma comes from fluid building up in the eye, causing elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). The fluid, called aqueous humor, naturally drains from healthy eyes. When it doesn’t, it accumulates, increasing pressure within the eye until it damages the optic nerve. This damage can lead to partial or complete vision loss, since the optic nerve transmits visuals from the eye to the brain.

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in cannabis helps lower IOP by: 

• Relaxing the eye’s blood vessels 
• Reducing the production of aqueous humor 
• Increasing trabecular and uveoscleral outflow 

Pausing fluid production temporarily decreases pressure in the eye, providing short-term glaucoma relief. THC also helps drain the eye fluid at the same time, decreases inflammation and oxidative stress, and confers neuroprotective effects. Similarly, its oxidized form known as cannabinol (CBN) shows similar effects in mice models, but not yet in humans.

It’s important to note, however, that CBD may have an opposing effect on eye pressure. In a small clinical study, 20mg of CBD had no effect on IOP, but 40mg of CBD increased eye pressure. If you have glaucoma, it may not be wise to add CBD oil to your regimen.

Even though THC-dominant cannabis offers short-term relief, many medical organizations and practitioners don’t consider it a primary treatment for glaucoma. Instead, they recommend FDA-approved medications like latanoprost and bimatoprost eye drops, which provide 24-hour relief with a single daily dose. However, if you’re allergic to these eye drops or simply can’t get them, cannabis may be a suitable alternative. 

Keep in mind that THC’s effects on glaucoma are short-lived, with 5mg oral THC lasting around 2–4 hours, according to the same small clinical study. This means you’d need to get high around the clock, day and night, to manage the condition with THC alone, which is not practical nor healthy for most people.

READ: How to Get Rid of Stoned Eyes Fast: Quick and Easy Tips

Beyond Glaucoma: Other Eye Conditions Cannabis May Help

Glaucoma isn’t the only eye issue that cannabis may help with. Research suggests that cannabinoids like CBD and THC may also help with conditions like macular degeneration, uveitis, and diabetic retinopathy. Let’s take a look at each of these conditions and cannabis’ effects on them.

• Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetes causes diabetic retinopathy (DR) by damaging blood vessels in the retina. The damage can cause retina leakage, swelling, or blocked blood flow, leading to partial or complete vision loss. Initial symptoms of DR may include blurry vision, floaters, and difficulty seeing at night.

Currently, over 9 million people in the U.S. have DR, making it a leading cause of blindness in most adults. While prescription drugs can help manage DR’s symptoms, cannabis compounds like CBD have also shown promise.

One preclinical study, published in the World Journal of Diabetes, suggests that cannabidiol (CBD) might help protect against DR by reducing inflammation, inhibiting adenosine reuptake, and preventing nerve damage in animal models. It does this by boosting the eye’s natural defenses against oxidative stress and stopping the harmful processes that make DR worse.

Another study published in the American Journal of Pathology investigated how CBD affects DR in diabetic animal models. According to this older research, CBD may reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, and cell damage in the retina. The cannabinoid may also strengthen eye blood vessels to prevent leaks and improve overall eye health.

While these findings are promising, researchers still need to conduct clinical trials to confirm CBD’s effects on humans with diabetic retinopathy. Also, since cannabis affects everyone differently, CBD’s effects on DR may vary between individuals.

• Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration, or age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is the weakening of the central part of the retina, known as the macula. It causes blurry or reduced vision and is the leading cause of vision loss in older adults. In 2019, about 19.8 million Americans above 40 had AMD.

According to one study, compared to non-cannabis users, individuals who used cannabis more than 100 times were significantly less likely to develop AMD. Also, daily cannabis users had a lower risk of AMD than those who used it less than once a month.​ This effect may stem from cannabis’ anti-inflammatory properties slowing retinal damage or its neuroprotective properties preserving retinal cells.

However, the same study found that the heavy cannabis users who eventually developed AMD got AMD approximately eight years earlier than non-users. The mixed results indicate that cannabis’s effects on AMD aren’t yet fully understood and require further research. So, before using cannabis for AMD, you should consult your doctor or an optometrist.

Lastly, cannabis smoke produces tar that contains carcinogens, which may contribute to AMD later in life. As such, if you plan on using cannabis for AMD, ingesting it instead of smoking may be the safer choice.

• Uveitis

Uveitis causes inflammation inside the eye, specifically the uvea, which is the middle layer of your eye that includes the iris, ciliary body, and choroid. It may manifest as redness, pain, blurred vision, and light sensitivity and lead to loss of vision if untreated.

The condition may be due to an autoimmune disease, infection, or injury, and treatment typically involves steroids and anti-inflammatory drugs. To date, 2025 research indicates that endocannabinoids and certain synthetic cannabinoids produce beneficial results in animal models of uveitis. Additionally, 2005 preclinical research into the Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Cannabinoids in Endotoxin-Induced Uveitis showed that CBD may also help with uveitis.

In the study, rats with endotoxin-induced uveitis experienced reduced inflammation and less retinal cell death after doses of CBD. The cannabinoid also stopped the activation of proteins that contribute to inflammation and retinal cell damage. While these findings are promising, more research is needed to confirm CBD’s effectiveness as an alternative treatment for uveitis in humans.

How to Use Cannabis for Eye Health

Smoking or vaping cannabis gets cannabinoids into your system fast – within a few minutes. This may provide quick relief for glaucoma and other eye issues. However, smoke from burning cannabis contains tar and other irritants, which can irritate your eyes and worsen existing eye issues. Vaping, on the other hand, produces fewer irritants, making it safer for quick eye relief.

But note that the effects of smoking or vaping cannabis typically fade within 1 to 3 hours, depending on the dose, potency, and your metabolism. As such, you may need to smoke or vape cannabis every couple of hours to maintain eye relief.

For fast effects without inhaling cannabis, sublingual cannabis tinctures are an excellent alternative. However, if you want longer-lasting relief, ingesting cannabis is the way to go.

Swallowing cannabis edibles may take 2 to 4 hours to take full effect. But once it hits, the effect can linger for 4 to 12 hours, depending on your metabolism and dose. This lasting effect reduces how often you have to use cannabis for eye relief throughout your day.

On the downside, dosing can be tricky when ingesting cannabis. Accidentally take too much, and you could spend the whole day being uncomfortably high. Take too little, and you may not experience your desired eye relief.

What about cannabis-infused eye drops? For now, we don’t recommend it. One study found that THC-infused drops cause lid swelling and burning in patients without providing any noticeable relief for eye issues. Although THC eye drops are still sold in Jamaica and the Caribbean, their safety and efficacy remain undetermined.

Potential Risks and Considerations

While cannabis offers several therapeutic benefits, its effects can vary between individuals – and even between cannabinoids. That’s why it’s crucial to consult a doctor or eye specialist before using it for glaucoma or other eye issues. Your doctor may advise against it if you take certain medications or have a condition that could interact poorly with cannabinoids.

Also, using cannabis for eye health may cause temporary side effects like eye redness, dryness, and pressure changes. Lastly, if cannabis is illegal in your state, or you take regular drug tests, using it for your eyes could get you into trouble. So, check local laws and workplace policies before trying it.

The post Cannabis May Help With More Eye Issues Than Just Glaucoma appeared first on Cannabis Central.

The debate about the safety of cannabis rages on, with more studies indicating that the herb may not be completely harmless. One particular study published as a preproof in JACC: Advances suggests a link between cannabis use and cardiovascular disease (CVD) events in adults under 50. While you might be skeptical about this claim, the data are quite compelling.

Key Findings of the Study

The 2025 study, led by doctors Ibrahim Kamel, Benjamin Horn, and other medical practitioners, compared data from over 4.6 million adults under the age of 50. About 2% of these adults used cannabis, and the study discovered that compared to the non-cannabis users, these individuals had:

• 6x higher risk of heart attack (Average risk [AR], 0.558% vs 0.09%)
• 4x higher risk of ischemic stroke (AR, 0.405% vs 0.094%)
• 3x higher risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (AR, 1.187% vs 0.366%) 
• 2x higher risk of heart failure (AR, 0.861% vs 0.424%)
• 50% higher risk of dying from a cardiovascular or non-cardiovascular issue (AR, 1.262% vs 0.841%)

These shocking numbers suggest an association between cannabis use and an increased risk of cardiovascular events and mortality.  According to Kamel, “The striking thing is that we found that there were risks in every single cardiovascular endpoint that we looked at: myocardial infarction (MI), heart failure, all-cause mortality. Everything had a risk, with the highest [being for] MI.”

Because of his findings, Kamel strongly recommends that doctors screen younger patients with cardiovascular concerns for cannabis use. Doing so could help rule out cannabis for patients with preexisting CVD, at high risk of CVD or CV events, or identify it as a possible cause of a patient’s heart problems.

Two Sides to Cannabis’s Effects on Cardiovascular Health

Cannabis’ effect on heart health has never been a one-sided story. You have Kamel’s research and other studies, such as a 2022 Stanford Medicine report, that show smoking cannabis may increase the risk of experiencing heart issues, including a premature heart attack.

According to Kamel and his colleagues, cannabis negative effects on the heart likely stem from cannabinoids disrupting regular heart rhythm, causing arrhythmias. They also pointed out that cannabis use may trigger a surge in pro-inflammatory cytokines that damage blood vessels and prevent them from relaxing. Both can contribute to the reduced function of the heart’s small blood vessels.

Let’s not forget earlier studies like the Role of Cannabis in Cardiovascular Disorders and the Impact of Marijuana on the Cardiovascular System, which state that heavy cannabis use may cause:

• Blood pressure spikes
• Irregular heart rhythms and ventricular tachycardia
• Ischemic stroke
• Heart muscle disorders
• Blood artery inflammation

All of which may result in severe cardiac events.

Then you have the flip side of the research coin, which suggests other cannabinoids like CBD might help alleviate heart issues. Take, for example, the 2017 study of cannabidiol (CBD), which indicates that the cannabis compound could reduce blood pressure and arrhythmias in response to stress with a single dose. Test subjects in the study took 600 mg of CBD and experienced reduced resting systolic blood pressure and decreased stroke volume after cold stress.

Another study shows that CBD may help protect the heart in test animals by reducing irregular heartbeats and the size of heart damage if taken before a heart attack. Interestingly, these effects were stronger with higher doses. There’s also a 2015 lab study that revealed CBD’s potential for relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow by working with CB1 receptors and TRP channels.

Lastly, a 2019 preclinical investigation suggests that CBD is a vasodilator that expands blood vessels, reducing vascular resistance and improving blood flow. This effect may help the heart pump more efficiently to minimize high blood pressure, arrhythmia, and other cardiovascular disorders. However, clinical support for the role of CBD in CVD is just starting out.

The conflicting outcomes of these studies show that cannabis effect on the heart is complex and requires more research. Kamel even pointed out that while his study team screened out cigarette smokers, “Users of cannabis may also use cocaine and other substances that were not accounted for in the analysis.” Cannabis smoking also wasn’t assessed, and these other substances may also have played a role in why Kamel’s participants experienced cardiovascular issues.

Should You Just Avoid Cannabis?

You should always talk to your doctor before taking or stopping cannabis, as your situation and CV risk may vary. But you don’t necessarily have to quit cannabis altogether if it’s improving your quality of life. After all, you aren’t going to toss your smartphone because you heard it might be emitting cancer-causing radio waves. So, if cannabis helps relieve your stress, anxiety, pain, and other issues, quitting it may not be your best option. Instead, you should look into using cannabis in a way that’s less likely to hurt you, or other non-THC cannabinoids.

For instance, smoking and vaping cannabis deliver therapeutic effects faster than other consumption methods. However, inhaling anything but fresh air into your lungs can cause respiratory problems. Fortunately, you may reduce the likelihood of such health troubles by ingesting instead of smoking cannabis. You can also try cannabis tinctures or even suppositories.

Furthermore, high-THC cannabis may be more likely to cause heart issues. One study of the Cardiovascular Effects of Marijuana showed that high THC doses can raise blood pressure and heart rate in the short term, while lowering these in the long term. However, repeated or prolonged cardiovascular strain from acute cannabis use may increase the risk of experiencing heart attacks, strokes, and other complications.  

A notable caveat to this study is that participants weren’t specifically asked about cannabis smoking. They just mention general cannabis use, which confounds these results. That’s because any kind of smoking can be harmful, decrease oxygen levels, increase carbon monoxide, provoke anginal symptoms, disrupt endothelial vasculature, clot blood, and generate other risky particles in the process that may contribute to CVD and related events.

Read: New Discovery: This Supplement Could Help Mitigate Cannabis Negative Impacts on the Heart

How Can You Use Cannabis with Fewer Health Risks?

Since cannabis affects everyone differently, it helps to consult your doctor before trying it. Your doctor may advise against it if you have a family history of heart disease, take certain medications, or have a condition that increases CV risk (e.g., diabetes, high blood pressure) or something else that interacts poorly with cannabis.

Even if your doctor gives the all-clear, you never know, so minimize health risks with these cannabis safety tips:

• Choose Low-THC or Hemp Products: If using cannabis recreationally, you don’t need over 90% THC to have a good time. Products with less than 10-20% THC are typically enough to cause euphoric effects and may be less likely to endanger your heart or mental health. You should also consider hemp products like CBD or CBG oils for even less THC (<0.3%) and non-impairing daytime use to truly minimize these risks.
• Eat More Soy: Genistein, a molecule found in soybeans and fava beans, is shown to lessen cannabis impact on the heart. Incorporate more tofu, soy milk, soy sauce, and other soy and fava bean products into your diet to protect your heart while using cannabis.
• Smoke and Vape Less: You can get your desired cannabis effects from edibles, tinctures, and other concentrates that won’t endanger your cardiovascular or respiratory health.
• Start Low, Go Slow: Taking too much cannabis can cause undesired effects, such as paranoia, anxiety, and palpitations, none of which are good for your heart. Avoid overdosing by starting with a small dose, especially if you’re new to cannabis.
• Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: Proper nutrition and hydration support cardiovascular health and may help minimize blood pressure fluctuations from cannabis use.
• Pay Attention: If you feel discomfort, dizziness, or chest pain after using cannabis, seek medical attention.

The post New Study Finds Yet Another Link Between Cannabis and Heart Disease appeared first on Cannabis Central.

If pain is an aspect of your cannabis journey, you might be interested in a Green Dragon tincture. This homemade creation will not turn you into a magic dragon, but it could make you feel on top of the world if you are dealing with chronic pain.

Pain can slow us down. When the body hurts, there is no way to deny it. Feeling sluggish and less productive, and having a desire to find a remedy that will help lift away the haze. When we find ways to alleviate pain, our productivity levels and feelings of happiness and wellness increase.

Green Dragon tincture can help those seeking deep relief and put a little more euphoria into their days with the formula to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

What Is A Green Dragon Tincture?

Green Dragon tincture is an alcohol-based cannabis tincture. Named for its intense green coloring, this remedy has attracted people for thousands of years who embrace its powerful medical properties.

This Green Dragon tincture uses high-proof alcohol. It is created by soaking the plant materials in alcohol for several days to develop a blend of cannabis and terpenes, creating a medicinal liquid.

Benefits Of DIY Cannabis Tinctures

This formula has the potential to help people feel relief from different forms of pain. These could include inflammation, migraines, menstrual cramps, and muscle spasms.

Many cannabis consumers prefer quick and easy methods over some more traditional uses, such as smoking or edibles. While most edibles can take around 30 minutes to 2 hours to feel the onset of effects, cannabis tinctures can take effect anywhere from 5 minutes to 20 minutes. 

For some, methods of smoking could be too harsh on a body that is already working through chronic pain conditions. Tincture users typically consume them by placing a dose under the tongue with an eyedropper. This method is simple and requires little effort.

There are many reasons why medical cannabis is preferred to be consumed through an herbal tincture:

• Fast Onset Effects. When consumed at a reasonable dosage, the effects of cannabis tincture can typically onset within 5 to 15 minutes.

• Easy Dosing. To simplify the process, tinctures are dispensed from a measured eyedropper for the utmost ease and accuracy of dosing.

• Long Shelf-Life. When developed and stored correctly, cannabis tinctures can last for over a year.

• Flexible Usage. In addition to dropping doses under the tongue, tinctures can be added to edibles, beverages, and cooking oils.

How Do You Make Green Dragon Tinctures?

Making a Green Dragon cannabis tincture is simple. The process requires nothing more than some cannabis flower, a canning jar, a cheesecloth, and pure-grain alcohol. 

Materials Needed:

• ⅛ of cannabis flower (decarboxylated)
• 2 oz of Everclear or comparable pure-grain alcohol.
• A glass canning jar, such as a Mason or Bell jar.
• Cheesecloth

Directions:

1. Fill your glass jar about ¾ of the way full with cannabis flower. You may pack down, but do not overpack it. 
2. Add Everclear to the jar until it completely covers the cannabis material. Generally, about a finger above the plant material is good coverage.
3. Put the lid on and give it a good shake.
4. Place the jar in a cool, dark place for storage.
5. Wait 20 days.
6. After 20 days, strain the mixture using a cheesecloth or a small strainer. Once separated, you now have a Green Dragon tincture!

The liquid can be stored in a small bottle or container. Preferably, you will want to use one with a measured dropper included. This method should produce about 1 oz of Green Dragon tincture.

When complete, the cannabis tincture should be a dark green or brown color.

THC Tincture Dosage Guide: Basic Principles

Understanding the level of dosage that you want to consume will be the next priority after you have successfully made your own Green Dragon tincture!

This dosage guide is based on a 500 mg cannabinoid content, one fl oz tincture.

Place the desired amount under the tongue and hold for about one minute when using a dropper. This method is called “sublingual consumption.” This allows for the cannabis to be absorbed into your bloodstream.

If this is your first tincture use, you may want to begin with a low dosage. Consider consuming less than 0.10 ml to understand the onset effects before proceeding.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Most Effective Way To Take A Tincture?

The most effective way to consume a cannabis tincture is through the use of a dropper to place the liquid under your tongue. Hold the tincture under your tongue for one minute.

This is known as “sublingual consumption,” which leads the cannabis tincture to be absorbed through the bloodstream instead of being directly digested. Through this consumption method, the onset time of the tincture can range from 5 minutes to 20 minutes.

What Is The Green Dragon Tincture Used For?

Green Dragon tincture is an alcohol-based cannabis tincture. It has been known for its medicinal properties, which may help consumers relieve pain.

The therapeutic benefits of THC and CBD tinctures are many and vary from person to person. Green Dragon tincture is known to relieve a range of conditions, including physical pain, inflammation, menstrual cramps, muscle spasms, depression, anxiety, migraines, and more.

How Fast Do Cannabis Tinctures Work?

When consumed in the most effective manner, dropping the tincture dosage under the tongue and holding for one minute, an onset time between 5 and 15 minutes can be expected.

The effects of cannabis tinctures can last for up to 4 hours.

What Is The Best Base For Cannabis Tinctures?

The best option for a stand-alone cannabis tincture base would be a food-grade ethyl ethanal. 

It instinctively binds with cannabinoids and has a neutral taste. Another option is food-grade glycerine, which is odorless, colorless, and widely used throughout the food industry.

Due to their high potency, Green Dragon tinctures require a different base type: Evergreen or comparable pure-grain alcohol.

How Do You Make A Strong Herbal Tincture?

Pure-grain alcohol is a standard option for making a potent herbal tincture. 

For most cannabis tinctures, using 80-proof alcohol, like vodka, or 190-proof like Everclear, can help make a potent mixture. The higher the alcohol proof, the stronger your herbal tincture will be.

Why Do People Like Green Dragon Tinctures?

Some people prefer a consumption method like Green Dragon tincture for various reasons. Green Dragon tinctures are highly potent, fast-acting, and easy to consume with little effort.

Some want to consume medical cannabis but, due to health conditions or chronic pain, may be unable to engage in smoking at the risk of inhaling, causing further issues for their bodies. This is an excellent choice for senior citizens who want to use medical cannabis.

Green Dragon tinctures are certainly appreciated for being strong and speedy.

How Does A Tincture Compare To CBD Oil?

Traditional cannabis tincture makers use specific bases like food-grade ethyl ethanol or food-grade glycerine to create tinctures with THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) or CBD (Cannabidiol). Tinctures made with higher potency, such as Green Dragon tincture, will use high-proof alcohol.

CBD oils have two ingredients: CBD and carrier oil, such as coconut oil. CBD oil can be used topically and usually contains minimal ingredients like vitamins and supplements.

How Long Does It Take For A Cannabis Tincture To Kick In?

The effects of a cannabis tincture can typically take up to 15 or 20 minutes to kick in.

Once effects have taken place, they can be ongoing for up to 4 hours in most cases.

The post A Medical Cannabis Tincture: How To Make Green Dragon Tincture appeared first on Cannabis Central.