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Cannabis Science​

Know that Cannabis works in the body through the endocannabinoid system (ECS).  The most notable roles of the ECS are to help us relax, eat, sleep, forget, and protect.

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The Endocannabinoid System (ECS)

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a communication system that regulates stasis in the body. The ECS is composed of endocannabinoids, which are neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors, and cannabinoid receptor proteins that are expressed throughout the central nervous system (including the brain) and peripheral nervous system.

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  • Found in all mammals, including humans.

  • Regulates functions such as memory, digestion, motor function, immune responses, inflammation, appetite, blood pressure, bone growth, and protection of neural functions.

  • Cannabinoids like THC and CBD interact with the ECS to produce physiological effects.

  • Everyone’s physiology and ECS are different, which means that while most people have a similar experience, our specific experience is unique to us.

 

The Entourage Effect

The entourage effect refers to the theory that various chemical compounds within the plant, including cannabinoids and terpenes, work together to enhance or modulate each other's effects, potentially creating a more beneficial or effective outcome than if those compounds were used in isolation.This synergistic interaction is thought to be more potent than the effects of individual components acting alone.

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  • Whole plant and full/broad spectrum plant products (with THC, CBD, minor cannabinoids and terpenes) work synergistically.

  • THC, CBD, minor cannabinoids and terpenes interact to create more balanced, enhanced and nuanced effects than isolated compounds alone can produce.

  • The whole is more than the sum of it’s parts.

  • Encourage full or broad-spectrum products for a balanced experience.​​

Cannabis is Not One-Size-Fits-All​

Cannabis is not appropriate for everyone. Cannabinoids affect how your body metabolizes pharmaceuticals and alcohol. 

  • Cannabis can trigger seizures in a small percentage of patients.

It’s always good idea to discuss any botanicals use with a cannabis-informed health care practitioner.

  • Cannabis can trigger seizures in a small percentage of patients.

  • Combustible forms (smoking) and consumables (edibles) affect your body differently. When consumed orally, THC is converted by the liver into 11-Hydroxy-THC which is five times more psychoactive than Delta 9 THC.

Use with caution or avoid altogether if you:

  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding

  • Have a history of psychosis, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia

  • Live with heart conditions (tachycardia, arrhythmia, angina)

  • Are under 25 (frontal lobe still developing)

  • Have chronic lung disease (especially if smoking)

  • Have a history of substance use disorder

  • Are immunocompromised – contaminants like mold or heavy metals can be harmful

 

Common Drug Interactions

Cannabis may interact with*:

  • Benzodiazepines (e.g., Valium, Ativan)

  • Antidepressants (e.g., Amitriptyline, Fluvoxamine)

  • Antipsychotics (e.g., Haloperidol, Clozapine)

  • Beta-blockers (e.g., Metoprolol, Atenolol) and other Antihypertensives (Hydralazine, Amilopipine)

  • Opiates (e.g., Oxycodone, Oxycontin)

  • Barbiturates (e.g., Phenobarbital, Pentobarbital)

  • Blood thinners (e.g., Warfarin)

  • Alcohol 

  • Cancer immunotherapies

  • Immune disorders

*This is not a full list. Always consult your healthcare provider.

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Did You Know?

  • CBD affects how your body metabolizes up to 60% of pharmaceuticals.

  • Cannabis may exacerbate seizures in a small percentage of patients.

  • Combustible forms (smoking) and consumables (edibles) affect your body differently.

Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) occurs in about 9% of the adult population. This will likely increase as more states legalize adult use. CUD is characterized by a problematic pattern of use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress.  Signs and symptoms of psychological withdrawal include cravings, interference with social obligations, development of tolerance, and withdrawal (irritability, anxiety, insomnia, lack of appetite, and unease.  Though not as common, CUD may include physiological symptoms such as headache, abdominal pain, sweating, fever, chills, or shakiness.

 

Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) characterized by cyclical nausea and vomiting, accompanied by abdominal pain.  The underlying mechanism remains unclear.  There are several theories on the causes of CHS.  Some of these include: chronic high-dose cannabis use, genetic factors, ECS dysregulation and synthetic cannabis.  Hot baths/showers and applying capsaicin to the abdomen may help relieve symptoms.  Symptoms usually resolve within a few weeks after cessation of cannabis.  

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The information provided on this website is for educational and harm reduction purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have about cannabis use, health concerns, or medical conditions. Cannabis remains regulated under both state and federal laws. Ensure that your activities comply with all applicable regulations in your jurisdiction. The Minnesota Craft Cannabis Guild (MNCCG) and its affiliates make no guarantees regarding the safety, efficacy, or legal status of cannabis products.

Use cannabis responsibly, mindfully, and in accordance with the law.

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