Grass Roots America Magazine - March 2020

MU LTI PLE SC LE ROS IS ISSU E

M A RC H 2 0 2 0

MONTEL WILLIAMS GETS BLUNT AMY HILTERBRAN A ME RI C A N ME D I C A L RE FUG E E FA MI LY

DR LISA ROARK PH YS I C I A N S H A RES MS D I AG N OS IS

WELCOME The United States government holds the patent on cannabinoids as antioxidants and neuroprotectants for their medicinal properties.

Let that sink in.

Montel Williams issued a call to action in our recent interview. He suggested that we read the patent abstract from United States Patent 6033507.

His call to action moved us to print the abstract from patent 6033507 on page 24.

The same government that claims marijuana has no medicinal use or value holds the patent on cannabinoids, because of their proven medicinal value. Their research proves cannabis is nontoxic and non lethal in its natural form.

Yet, daily, we hear comments like: “There isn’t any real science behind it,” and “There aren’t any good, current, longitudinal or sactioned studies,” or “They just want an excuse to get high,” even from within the industry.

Dr Lisa Roark’s advice is to “Get educated. Don’t accept what you’ve been taught or told to influence your opinion. Don’t buy into the ‘there isn’t enough research’ crap. There is a lot of research, you just have to read it.”

GRAM agrees with Montel and Dr Roark.

Education is how we overcome 80 years of lies about a plant.

GRAM pledges to bring you peer reviewed, published scientific studies about plant medicines. And to tell stories of people using those medicines to help themselves.

JOIN US ON THIS JOURNEY… - NANCY

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MARCH 2020 MONTEL WILLIAMS GETS BLUNT WITH GRAM

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DR LISA ROARK PHYSICIAN SHARES MS DIAGNOSIS

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EDUCATION + RESEARCH 2 RESEARCH CORNER 1 14 MEDICAL MINUTE WITH NURSE JORDAN

6 CBD + MS 1 8 NATURAL PLANT MEDICINE 1 DIS LIST 9 BLADDER HEALTH 2 31 MOOD SWINGS 33 SPASTICITY

AMY HILTERBRAN AN AMERICAN MEDICAL REFUGEE FAMILY

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THE USUAL 5 FITNESS + CANNABIS 3 37 CULTIVATION 39 COOKING WITH PLANT MEDICINE FEATURING JEFFTHE420CHEF

41 CELESTIAL EVENTS

REFERENCES 44 REFERENCE MATERIALS FOR EASY ACCESS

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NEW WRITER | KAITLIN DOMANGUE Kaitlin is an experienced writer in the cannabis space. Missouri transplants, Kaitlin and her husband were inspired to get involved in the state’s medical cannabis industry upon its legalization in 2018. With no formal higher education, her passion for sharing the science behind medicinal cannabis, her love for writing, and the innate desire to be at home with her children as she worked propelled her forward into the industry.

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DISCLAIMER: This publication is designed as a reference and is made available to the public with the knowledge and understanding that the publisher and the author are not rendering medical, legal or other professional advice. You should not use the information contained in this publication as a substitute for the advice of a licensed medical doctor. You should consult a medical doctor to address any health concerns specific to you. We suggest that you consult a legal professional to assess the legality of any described remedies.

Mention of specific products, companies, or organizations does not imply that the publisher and author of the publication endorse such products, companies, or organizations.

Nothing contained in this publication should be taken as an endorsement for any legislative action.

The author and publisher disclaim any liability whatsoever with respect to any loss, injury, or damage arising out of the use of the information contained in this publication or omission from any information in this publication.

Natural plant medicines and herbs can interact with medications or affect some medical conditions.

You should always check with your prescribing medical doctor before using any of the herbal remedies and natural plant medicines described in this publication.

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HOT TOPICS AMY DAWN BOURLON-HILTERBRAN AN AMERICAN MEDICAL REFUGEE FAMILY

BY HEATHER DEROSE Amy has a family of three sons, Austin, Nathaniel, and Freeman, and her husband, Jason. Five years ago, her family moved from their home in Oklahoma to Colorado in an attempt to save her son’s life.

“Austin has been on cannabis medicine for 5 years now. In 2012, the doctors gave him two years to live because of the damage the pharmaceuticals had done. He is still alive almost 8 years later, no longer has kidney or liver damage and lives almost seizure free because of his daily medical cannabis regimen.” Even though Austin has lived longer than they were told and has gained some quality of life, the family has encountered many challenges along their journey.

“We were giving up everything on the hope and prayer that a plant would save our son. It cost us friends; we had threats from strangers, online bullying...we couldn’t believe it. All we were trying to do was save our son. We were doing what we thought any parent would do: whatever it takes to save our child. We had a lot of doubters--us included. We had no idea if it would work. We didn’t believe wholeheartedly in the plant then, like we do now. Now, we KNOW. Now, we tell people, ‘cannabis saved our son’s life’ because it has. Not only does it prevent seizures, it stops them when he does have a breakthrough seizure. Cannabis saved our son’s life after a decade of varying pharmaceuticals couldn’t.”

MY THOUGHTS ON CANNABIS NOW ARE SIMPLE: END PROHIBITION; LET THE CANNABIS PLANT SAVE LIVES AND POSITIVELY IMPACT OUR WORLD.

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Photo | Nichole Montanez

“Austin is doing amazing. He will never escape his disease, Dravet Syndrome, the catastrophic form of epilepsy. Before cannabis, Austin was on numerous pharmaceuticals that never stopped his

seizures, had hideous side effects, and did damage to his organs.” The family was able to wean him off pharmaceuticals. “It took us 10 months, and some of the withdrawals were dangerous, but THC drops helped him make it through. We also utilize THC solely when stopping his seizures, either through drops, suppositories, or intranasal spray.”

“His success has come from utilizing the whole plant (a higher THC strain), THCa, THC, and CBN for his dystonia. Doctors initially were skeptical.

We were in Children’s Hospital with Austin on life support after a cold sent him into seizures and the local hospital administered Ativan and refused to let me give him his cannabis. By the time we were transported to Children’s, Austin had a collapsed lung, the other full of fluid, unresponsive with his vitals crashing, and the doctors were preparing us for the worst.

HOT TOPICS

Amy has consumed cannabis throughout her life.

However, her husband does not consume cannabis and is a former fireman. She says, “We have a unique household dynamic. It wasn’t until my research on cannabis and its potential use for seizures that I considered it ‘medicine.’ My thoughts prior to that were simple. It’s a plant and man’s law should never outlaw God’s creation. I also thought it was a great injustice to our veterans to force them to choose pills over a plant after serving our country. When I started researching cannabis as a medicine, I learned very quickly that it had medicinal value and certainly should be a legal, accessible option for anyone who needs it. So I have fought for the end of cannabis prohibition every day since.”

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I can remember being in the room, hearing doctors talking about which pharmaceutical to give him next to try and stop the seizures, and I screamed, ‘You’re going to kill my son - PLEASE STOP - PLEASE STOP - he was recently weaned off pharmaceuticals after a decade of daily use, his heart can’t take anymore, his body can’t take anymore - if you do this, my son will die.’ I was literally begging for my son’s life. Thank God the doctors listened (my husband and I are both licensed medical professionals), and they intubated him, giving him more time to get the Ativan out of his system. We worked hand-in-hand with the hospital leaders and board to get official policy for administration of cannabis medicine accepted. I was able to administer Austin’s cannabis medicine to him, in front of doctors, neurologists, nurses, and they were able to see--before their own eyes--when I would administer his cannabis, that it would stop his seizures. They saw firsthand that after 2 days with his cannabis medicine, Austin was able to be removed from the machines and breathe on his own, after pharmaceuticals had not helped him but caused him harm. We didn’t just change hospital policy, we changed hearts and minds and have had the respect and support from them ever since. Before cannabis, Austin was on varying pharmaceuticals, and still would

HIS SUCCESS HAS COME FROM UTILIZING THE WHOLE PLANT (A HIGHER THC STRAIN), THCA, THC, AND CBN FOR HIS DYSTONIA. have hundreds of seizures every day, in addition to the hideous pharmaceutical side effects. Now that Austin is a cannabis patient, he is no longer on pharmaceuticals that were shutting down his organs, his kidneys and liver have completely recovered, and we live with days, weeks, sometimes months with NO seizures at all.”

Now the entire family utilizes hemp products for wellness. She says both her other sons previously had seizures but have not had any at all since starting cannabis. She also uses her own organically grown cannabis medicine and gifts legal amounts to veterans and local cancer patients in need. “I am a cancer survivor (cervical), had seizures, and also utilize cannabis for PTSD and pain. Additionally, we make whole plant suppositories from highTHC cannabis, and I use hemp and CBD to make my own lotions and salves for our family and AMR (American Medical Refugees) patients. Our dogs also enjoy homemade hemp treats.”

Amy was part of a public service ad that was rejected air time during the 2019 Super Bowl. She says, “At first, it was disappointing, but when the ad went uber viral across the globe in minutes, we knew that our message and our family’s story was making an impact far greater than we had ever dreamed. People all over the world, billions of people, were learning that cannabis IS a medicine and that it saved our son’s life.” To help share education and awareness, Amy started a social media campaign to share the message about patent number 6630507 that the U.S. government holds on cannabinoids. “There are numerous patents that prove cannabis is medicinal and should be removed from the Controlled Substances Act, but this patent, which is held by several different arms of the U.S. government, also proves that cannabis is nontoxic and nonlethal in its natural form.”

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Amy and her husband founded the non-profit American Medical Refugees. “AMR hosts monthly events that are free to cannabis patients and their families who have relocated from another state or country to legally access medicine.” Amy’s experience as a medical refugee has driven her mission to help others. “People don’t realize that AMR families are moving out of desperation, many have been told by doctors there is nothing more that can be done (our family was one of those). Many of these patients, these children, are terminal, are fighting--literally--to stay alive another day.”

Amy continues to share her story and education. She founded Millennium Grown, which primarily hosted events for AMR, veterans, and the VIP’s of the cannabis industry, but also produced the world premiere showing of the documentary “The Legend of 420” in Denver. She is now producing a multi-state rollout of expos, starting with the Oklahoma Cannabis Expo, March 22-24, 2020 in Oklahoma City. Amy says she is collaborating with the hemp and cannabis industries’ finest to bring an interactive, invaluable resource for patients, entrepreneurs, and investors alike.

“To bring the OCE to our home state is truly one of the greatest honors of my life.”

Amy says she and her husband have both changed their minds. “He didn’t think marijuana should be legal at all, now he sees it as a medicine and a nonlethal recreational option. As a fireman, he saw first hand the destruction of the opioid epidemic and has done a complete 180 on where he stands about the cannabis plant. In his mind--and in fact--it is a safer option than most if not all the prescribed drugs, nicotine, and alcohol. My thoughts on cannabis now are simple: end prohibition; let the cannabis plant save lives and positively impact our world. In addition to its use as medicine and food, there are so many uses for it industrially, so many potentials as it requires less water to grow, is stronger, and more sustainable than cotton. I believe in my heart that cannabis, hemp, marijuana, weed, ganja, pot--whatever you want to call it--I believe that the potential in this plant could save lives, help our planet, and bring healthier, happier moments to people across the globe. I believe it in my soul, I live it daily.”

HOT TOPICS

www.americanmedicalrefugees.com www.oklahomacannabisexpo.com

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EDUCATION + RESEARCH

RESEARCH CORNER COLLECTED BY MATT JACKSON, PHD

When Combined, THC and CBD Reduced the Progression of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in an Experimental Mouse Model Research from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine, published in the Frontiers in Immunology journal in August 2019

STUDY DESIGN ● Researchers injected mice with compounds that caused brain inflammation and symptoms of MS, which began progressing about 8–10 days later. At that point, mice were treated with combined THC and CBD (THC+CBD) over the next week, each at 10 mg per kg body weight. ● Researchers rated MS progression from zero to five: zero (no symptoms), one (limp tail), two (weak hind legs), three (paralyzed hind legs), four (partially paralyzed front legs), then five (complete paralysis). ● Mice are typically euthanized if they maintain level four or reach level five, after which researchers examined brain tissue to understand how treatments affected neurological inflammation.

BOTH THC+CBD WERE REQUIRED TO PREVENT MS PROGRESSION, NOT JUST ONE OR THE OTHER ● THC+CBD treatments prevented about 80% of the mice from developing any symptoms of MS (level 0). This was a drastic improvement compared with treatments using only THC or CBD (but not both) and no treatment at all, where MS progressed the same in all cases, with 60% developing level 3–5 symptoms. ● The researchers repeated these experiments with mice specifically bred to genetically lack the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, and the THC+CBD treatments were no longer effective. This and other data showed THC+CBD activated the endocannabinoid system to prevent MS progression.

WHAT WAS THE BIOLOGICAL BASIS FOR SUCH ASTOUNDING RESULTS? ● MS is an autoimmune disorder where immune cells (specifically T-cells) cross into the brain, cause inflammation, and damage the brain tissue to cause symptoms of MS. ● When researchers examined tissue after THC+CBD treatments, they found fewer molecules that trigger inflammation, fewer T-cells infiltrating the brain, and less brain damage. ● The researchers connected the effectiveness of THC+CBD treatments with changes in genetic molecules called micro-RNAs, which prevented inflammation by causing T-cells to enter a process of controlled cell death.

IS THERE ANY CONNECTION TO CLINICAL TRIALS IN HUMANS? ● This study did not involve humans, but the researchers pointed to Sativex, a pharmaceutical cannabis extract that also has an equal ratio of THC+CBD and is approved in over 25 countries outside the U.S. for treating muscle spasticity in MS.

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BOTH THC+CBD WERE REQUIRED TO PREVENT MS PROGRESSION, NOT JUST ONE OR THE OTHER

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EDUCATION + RESEARCH

MEDICAL MINUTE WITH NURSE JORDAN

In this issue, we are learning all about Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and diseases that mimic its symptoms. The cause of MS is unknown. It is a disease that affects the central nervous system,1 which controls the majority of functions for the mind and body. Read on as we explore some commonly asked questions about using cannabis for MS. WHAT STATES HAVE APPROVED MS AS A QUALIFYING CONDITION? Qualifying conditions to receive your medical marijuana card vary from state to state. It is important to make sure your state has approved the condition you have. In the case of MS, some states specifically approve MS2 as a diagnosis and several states use the term “persistent muscle spasms or spasticity.” Since that is a primary symptom of MS, approval would most likely be provided.

MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS Alaska Arkansas Connecticut Florida Hawaii Illinois Louisiana Maine Massachusetts Missouri New Hampshire 14

New Jersey New Mexico New York North Dakota Ohio Pennsylvania Utah Vermont West Virginia

PERSISTENT MUSCLE SPASMS Arizona Montana California Nevada Colorado Oregon Delaware Rhode Island Maryland Utah Michigan Washington Minnesota

TREATING PHYSICIAN DECISION Oklahoma Washington D.C.

WHAT ARE THE BEST METHODS OF CONSUMPTION FOR MS PATIENTS? In my professional opinion, after working with several MS patients performing cannabis massage, I can say that one of the best methods of consumption for MS patients is high quality topicals, like the organic ones we designed for our patients.3 Because this condition can have a detrimental effect on the muscles, self application or application done by a licensed therapist can be a total game changer. The relief that is felt often takes place within minutes of application. Re-application can be done as needed.

Studies are showing that cannabis may be effective for the pain and spasticity felt by MS patients.4 Another method of consumption that can assist with the discomfort being felt is by using a cannabis oil or tincture. The difference in an oil and tincture is how

the plant is extracted: either by using alcohol as a solvent or by using an oil. Either method is great for internal absorption. Thanks to the body’s ECS,5 we have receptors throughout the body waiting to be activated by cannabinoids. THC and CBD bind to the body’s receptors and assist in relieving the spasms and pain felt by MS. If you are on other medications and you want to try using cannabis, speak with your doctor. Be honest in your desire to understand the plant and check to see if there are any contraindications of your medications. Safety first.

ARE THERE ANY MS SUPPORT GROUPS OR ORGANIZATIONS OFFERING GUIDANCE OR MORE RESOURCES? A quick google search for “multiple sclerosis local support groups” will provide you with any groups near you. The National MS Society6 offers guidance for patients. You can find this information by visiting their website - www.nationalmssociety.org click on the tab that says treatment, then where it says “Complementary and Alternative Medicines.” You will see several alternative treatments listed and Marijuana (Cannabis) is the second. They provide comprehensive information about cannabis plant medicine as a whole.7

With no surprise, “there’s an app for that.” If you are a tech savvy person and you and/or your caregiver prefer that route, there is an interactive application from Healthline called MS Buddy:Multiple Sclerosis.8 It can be found in the app store on any smartphone.

This is another great resource for patients. Members can communicate with fellow patients for inspiration and advice. It is important to note, this is not a medical app. This is a platform designed for support, not medical answers. Those types of questions should still be asked of your primary care physician.

DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS FOR NURSE JORDAN? Please submit any questions to info@getgramnow.com Your question may be published in an upcoming issue.

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EDUCATION + RESEARCH

CBD + MS

BY BEN OWENS

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a disease that affects more than 2.5 million people worldwide.1 Typically treated with prescriptions for symptoms, many living with MS seek alternative treatments. As CBD has become more accessible, many MS patients are looking to this non-psychotropic cannabinoid as an option for easing the impact of symptoms like fatigue, spasticity, and emotional anxiety and depression that stems from living with the disease. Studies have started to show CBD is effective in aiding in the treatment of the symptoms of MS, helping to improve the quality of life.2,3,4

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CBD + MS: STUDIES SHOW PROMISE FOR CANNABINOID TREATMENTS Studies are showing that CBD has a variety of applications and can be helpful with symptom management, helping with fatigue, pain, spasticity, and mobility, making it a potential alternative to pharmaceutical symptom management. One of the most common and most distressing symptoms to MS patients is spasticity, or involuntary, uncontrollable movements of the body. Cannabis products containing significant amounts of CBD have been shown to be effective at reducing muscle spasticity in addition to pain and other symptoms.9,10,11,12

Another common symptom of MS is a change in emotional and mental state, often as a result of stress and social anxiety about the condition that can even lead to bouts of depression. In fact, CBD has been found to prevent “long-lasting anxiogenic effects.”13 Preliminary reports on an anxiolytic effects of CBD for social anxiety disorders report “CBD was associated with significantly decreased subjective anxiety.”14 Trials involving CBD administration to mice found CBD to be a quick-acting antidepressant, helping to combat depressive actions.15,16

In small preliminary trials, CBD has actually been tested on MS patients and has been found to improve neurogenic symptoms that are typically unresponsive to standard treatments.10 Additionally, CBD has been found to be an effective anti-inflammatory,11 which could prove helpful not only with painful symptoms of MS, but also in the treatment of inflammation in the CNS before damage is done.

As more studies are done on the efficacy of CBD in MS treatment, the more comfortable physicians will be offering advice and insight to patients. Currently, the preliminary body of evidence suggests CBD could be an effective treatment option for symptom management of MS. If you have access to CBD and are considering adding a CBD supplement to your treatment regimen, talk with your doctor or consult a health professional who is familiar with your condition.

He or she may recommend specific products and offer advice on titrating a dose to fit your needs.

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EDUCATION + RESEARCH

PLANT MEDICINE POWERFUL PLANTS FOR MS

BY HEATHER DEROSE

Cannabis is a powerful plant medicine that has been shown to help MS patients, but it’s not the only tool in the toolbox. There are several plants shown to produce anti-inflammatory effects, which can be beneficial to help reduce symptoms like fatigue, muscle pain and stiffness, spasms, improve sleep quality, and improve depression. Obtaining phytonutrients from plants can help improve the quality of life for those living with MS. Most strategies for the treatment of MS focus on reducing inflammation within the central nervous system.

Many plants offer benefits without the side effects associated with synthetic treatment options and can effectively help patients.

Ginkgo is among the oldest living tree species in the world and has been found to reduce fatigue in some MS patients.1 Vitamin D has sufficient evidence to support its use with patients living with MS.2 Vitamin D is a nutrient found in some foods, it helps nerves to transmit messages between the brain and the entire body.3 Another powerful plant is green tea. Green tea polyphenols are antioxidants and contain both anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory effects.4 Saffron has been shown to reduce oxidative stress in MS patients and has pharmacological effects such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.5

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Many patients living with MS develop depression.

Studies have shown herbal remedies, such as saffron, have positive effects on relieving depressive symptoms and may be an alternative to synthetic antidepressants.6 Another plant medicine is psilocybin, which a growing number of cities in the U.S. are decriminalizing, and it’s being studied at John’s Hopkins. In January, a UK pharmaceutical company announced it received a U.S. patent for a “preparation of psilocybin” in the treatment of depression.7 Another plant medicine shown to improve the quality of life in MS patients is evening primrose oil. The oil contains the fatty acid, gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), and has been shown to improve cognitive function, vitally and overall life satisfaction. MS patients who have used evening primrose oil have shown improved quality of life and reduced fatigue, although it did not prevent the progression of the disease. One study indicated that MS patients may find relief from fatigue and positively improve their quality of life with ginseng as well.8

Utilizing plant medicines may provide less undesirable side effects and produce more therapeutic benefits to patients with MS. Many patients are finding relief when they reduce processed foods and incorporate more plant-based foods which offer anti-inflammatory benefits, like fruits and vegetables. The potential benefits of natural antioxidants found in food, on neurodegenerative diseases, and the roles they perform have been evaluated and may be effective at reducing oxidative stress in individuals.9 Many individuals experience symptoms that may be treated and prevented by utilizing plant medicines and plant foods to obtain these nutrients. With most strategies of treatment focusing on reducing inflammation, plants may provide relief without the list of negative side effects from synthetic medication.

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MON T E L WI LL IA MS GETS BLUNT WITH GR AM

BY HEATHER DEROSE

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MS

The GRAM team was inspired after seeing Montel Williams’ powerful keynote presentation at the Cannabis Science Conference last year. The Emmy Award winning television star, decorated veteran, and fitness enthusiast was diagnosed with MS (multiple sclerosis) in 1999. Montel explains, “I had been trying opioids for about a year and a half, and they weren't really giving me sufficient relief.” His doctor then gave him a recommendation for cannabis. “I think when the doctor first recommended it, I really didn't understand the full research and medical implications of cannabis. I literally dug in and tried to see if I could find some printed materials. Back then the internet wasn't as robust as it is today, so, it took a long time searching and finding information. But even back in 2000 and 2001, I was starting to get information that was coincident with the information that's in our government’s own patent for cannabinoids which identifies cannabinoids as having anti-inflammatory properties. Recognizing the fact that inflammation is one of the biggest nemeses of MS, I decided to see if I could gain any anti-inflammatory relief from using cannabis and did so really first kind of trying it to see if I got anything out of it. I'd also been down a pretty heavy pathway of opioid prescriptions. I had doctors who were willing to write me prescription after prescription after prescription of opioids, and I wanted to see if I could break that cycle. It really helped me break that cycle.”

I USE A HIGHER THC IN THE MORNINGS TO START MY DAY, AND I SHIFT OVER TO A HIGHER CBD IN THE EVENING. Montel tells us how he went ahead with his recommendation and sought out cannabis to try and find a couple strains. However, this wasn’t Montel’s first experience with cannabis. “I used cannabis when I was in high school. I'm a child of the 70’s, so cannabis was around, and I probably used it, I would say back then recreationally, but not on a regular basis.

I had gone away from cannabis for almost 20 years because of my time in the military. So, when I started using it again on a regular basis, I'd already started my career in Hollywood and been to a couple of parties where cannabis was available.” He says, even then, he was only an every other month type of consumer. He explains how after reading the literature and learning it works better when you use it consistently and on a regular basis, he started a more consistent routine. “I started doing so and after about only two months, I started getting more relief.”

“Early on, I found that using the higher CBD, the more relief I started getting. But then, I started noticing that after, I'd say about two years, I started noticing that I needed to include some THC and that and the fuller spectrum, the better the relief. So for me, I now use varied forms throughout the day. I use a higher THC in the mornings to start my day, and I shift over to a higher CBD in the evening.” He explains although 21

he’s used cannabis and been an activist for over two decades, he has been a non-flower consumer for a couple decades. “I have been a non-flower user for almost 20 years, and I shifted over to using kief in about 2001, long before it was vogue. I found that, for me, I get better relief out of kief than I do out of flower.

So, I've kind of shifted away from flower, but on some rare occasions I now use flower. I like to mix kief with flower to give a broader spectrum.”

Montel explains how he’s not only found cannabis benefits his MS, but he’s found benefits in the gym, in addition to restful recovery after training sessions.

"I definitely, for close to 20 years, I have used cannabis before workouts. Number one, I think some of the relief I've gotten out of it is there's less joint pain and less amount of post-workout tension. So, it's an easier way to relax and calm down. I also use it for sleep.”

Although he consumes cannabis for many beneficial reasons, he explains how it can be considered a powerful tool in the toolbox for health. “I think that no one should look at cannabis as if it is the end to all. It's just like when we go to war, a war uses multiple branches of the service, Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps.

We fill our quiver of weaponry with every weapon we

can utilize to the best advantage for whatever it is that we're trying to overcome. Cannabis is just another arrow in that quiver. It's another weapon in the arsenal that should be looked at being used and respected, when it actually has an effect that is giving people relief.” After Montel’s diagnosis, he has researched extensively other ways to help fight against MS and found that cannabis isn’t the only plant medicine that could help. “I tried my best to seek out a diet that was more filled with anti-inflammatory foods. I eat a lot of fruits and vegetables and try to reduce my intake of processed foods.” Food is medicine and many fruits and vegetables provide other health benefits in addition to their anti-inflammatory properties.

Montel Williams was one of the first people to step out back in 2001 and openly discuss his cannabis use as it related MS. “People thought I was crazy for having even acknowledged the fact that I was doing so [using cannabis], and I didn't get the support that we have right now. In the last three years, everything has changed. But before that, people really looked at it like a joke. Oh, yeah right. You use it for ‘medicine.’

The truth of the matter is, yes, I was, I was doing exactly what the U.S. government was doing back then.

IN THE LAST THREE YEARS, EVERYTHING HAS CHANGED. BUT BEFORE THAT, PEOPLE REALLY LOOKED AT IT LIKE A JOKE, OH, YEAH RIGHT. YOU USE IT FOR MEDICINE. 22

MS

WHEN I READ THAT THE U.S. GOVERNMENT LITTERALLY GAVE ITSELF A PATENT FOR RESEARCH THAT IT DID THAT PROVES THE ANTI-INFLAMMATORY PROPERTIES OF CANNABIS, THAT CHANGED MY MIND IMMEDIATELY Nobody was willing to discuss it.

I'm glad that now the industry and attitudes in the country are starting to change, but people have to remember, 18 years ago, it was entirely different.”

One discovery that has been hypocritical to the scheduling of cannabis in the United States is the patent 6630507 that the government has held since 2003 on cannabinoids. Montel says, “When I read that the U.S. government literally gave itself a patent for research that it did that proves the anti-inflammatory properties of cannabis, that changed my mind immediately. I really would suggest people take the time to pull up the U.S. patent 6630507. All you have to do is read what our government says. We believe them when it comes to so many other things, we should be believing them when it comes to the money that we've spent taxpayer dollars to research and come up with discoveries.

Why not believe it when the government itself has a patent? If the United States government has written out specific properties that it believes cannabinoids have, and it has done so. It states unequivocally, ‘Cannabinoids have been found to have antioxidant properties unrelated to NMDA receptor antagonism. This newfound property makes cannabinoids useful for the treatment and prophylaxis of a wide variety of oxidation associated diseases, such as ischemic, age-related, inflammatory and au-

toimmune diseases. The cannabinoids are found to have particular applications as neuroprotectants, for example in limiting neurological damage following ischemic insults, such as stroke and trauma, or in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's

disease, Parkinson's disease and HIV dementia. Non-psychoactive cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol, are particularly advantageous to use because they avoid toxicity that is encountered with psychoactive cannabinoids at high doses.’ There are so many elected officials who will stand on television and lie right through their teeth, not acknowledging the fact that it was Congress and the Senate that paid for the research that came up with this.” Montel suffered a rare stroke in 2018 and is lucky to have survived. He has since undergone physical therapy recovery. There are only 13 ambulances in the U.S. equipped with certain technology to access stroke patients and one of them was only 2 blocks from where he suffered his rare form of stroke. Knowing about the neuroprotectant properties and other benefits of cannabis, he believes there may be a connection between his survival and recovery and his cannabis use.

Montel is well known for his accomplishments in the military and feels that veterans should absolutely have access to cannabis as an option. “The VA will not deny veterans their rights at the VA hospital if they actually are found to have used cannabis, but the hospitals still will not allow doctors to recommend or discuss. I think it's absolutely absurd that we have something that is here, that we know not only works for anti-in-

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flammation, but we have now seen studies that have come out talking about its effect over PTSD and other things. So there's no reason why we shouldn't allow those who do so much for us to get the minimal benefits from a medication that does no harm.”

After seeing the potential of cannabis as medicine firsthand and understanding the uses of industrial hemp, Montel knows the plant has the power to improve so many lives around the world. He continues his journey to educate the world about the plant and to share the knowledge he’s gained along his path to help others. “I have a brand of cannabis that I've had in the marketplace, that I intend to reintroduce in the market in the next couple of months and have been working diligently and trying my best to produce the safest and most efficacious medicine that I can.” He’s also continuing his mission to share education with those about cannabis through his podcast, Let’s Be Blunt with Montel. He interviews a wide variety of people to discuss their knowledge about cannabis, to share his message, and educate others about a plant that was so deeply ingrained in our history for centuries, until the 1930’s. “I really think that the cat is way out of the bag. I mean, we’re down the road now where the only thing that really should be being done is more research to validate the efficaciousness of this plant rather than people trying to do research to see if they can knock down the plant. They should be trying to do research to see what benefits we can get out of it and pursue ensuring that people have access to the most beneficial properties of cannabis. I think the only reason why we don't do that is because of its impact.

We’ve seen data come out recent-

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MS

ly about the fact that now, millennials and xennials seem to be gravitating more towards cannabis than they are alcohol. It's really pissing off an entire industry that really is going to fight the fight, hook and nail. They're going to fight as hard as they can to ensure that they can vilify this so that their industry is not hurt financially, and it's really ridiculous. I think now people should step up to the plate and honestly support something that if you take a look back in history, the number of deaths, suicides, injuries and look at the adverse effects of alcohol on societies worldwide for thousands of years, and you take a look at the adverse effects of cannabis, you find none.

No one has died from an overdose of cannabis. Recently, there has been a reported death by a person who was using cannabis that may have been fungus related, but they didn't die because of the cannabis or cannabinoids. So why are we not trying to push more people to use a product that is less detrimental to mankind?”

I REALLY WOULD SUGGEST PEOPLE TAKE THE TIME TO PULL UP THE U.S. PATENT 6630507. ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS READ WHAT OUR GOVERNMENT SAYS.

US PATENT NO. 6630507

The government of the United States is the owner of this patent for: Cannabinoids as antioxidants and neuroprotectant

Abstract Cannabinoids have been found to have antioxidant properties, unrelated to NMDA receptor antagonism.

This new found property makes cannabinoids useful in the treatment and prophylaxis of wide variety of oxidation associated diseases, such as ischemic, age-related, inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. The cannabinoids are found to have particular application as neuroprotectants, for example in limiting neurological damage following ischemic insults, such as stroke and trauma, or in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and HIV dementia. Nonpsychoactive cannabinoids, such as cannabidoil, are particularly advantageous to use because they avoid toxicity that is encountered with psychoactive cannabinoids at high doses useful in the method of the present invention. A particular disclosed class of cannabinoids useful as neuroprotective antioxidants is formula (I) wherein the R group is independently selected from the group consisting of H, CH.sub.3, and COCH.sub.3. ##STR1##

DR . LISA ROARK PHYSICIAN SHARES ABOUT MS DIAGNOSIS

BY ANTONIO DEROSE

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Missouri officially legalized medical cannabis in November 2018, with the passing of Amendment 2. The state first started accepting applications from qualifying patients and caregivers for medical cannabis cards on June 28th, 2019. Since then, the state’s list of registered medical patients has quickly grown into the tens of thousands, with the approval of qualified recommending physicians, like Missouri’s own, Dr. Lisa Roark.

Her clinic, Roark Family Medicine, was the first in the state to offer telehealth options, where patients could meet with her office remotely. Because of this, Lisa quickly became one of Missouri’s leading recommending physicians.

“We were the first clinic to offer telehealth in Missouri, so we became very busy, very fast. I already had a full patient panel, so I had to do a lot of scheduling adjustments, work more hours, and adjust as needed.” It was during this exciting time of growth and expansion when Lisa was officially diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, which she first shared publicly on social media in October of last year. “For my birthday, I got a diagnosis. I have multiple sclerosis.

I’ll follow up at Barnes next week to discuss options to help with my vision. Sucky birthday present, but better than not knowing.”

She may have MS, but she’s not letting it stop her, and she’s grateful for the incredible support she continues to receive. Lisa is a local doctor, with local values. Raised in Exeter, MO, she graduated from Exeter High School before moving to Kansas City, MO, where she completed her medical training at the University of Missouri-Kansas

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MS

City School of Medicine. Afterwards, she completed her medical residency at Cox Family Medicine Residency in Springfield, MO, where she trained in all areas of primary care, including obstetrics, pediatrics, chronic illness management, women’s health, geriatrics, and many outpatient procedures.

Now she lives on a small farm with

DON’T BUY INTO THE ‘THERE ISN’T ENOUGH RESEARCH’ CRAP. her husband and four children in Cassville, MO, where Lisa tells us they “Enjoy spending time outside tending to the animals, gardening, hunting, playing and making memories. We are fortunate to have a large number of family members in the Cassville area.” This is also where her practice is located, which she loves for many reasons.

“I love taking care of entire families, from babies to great-grandparents. It is very fulfilling to not just know a single patient, but to also understand their home and family dynamics. Family practice allows me to know my patient as a person, not just a body. I also love that I actually have time for my family and community. I worked several years for a large health system, got paid well, but missed my kid’s par-

ties at school. I didn’t get to take them to school or pick them up, and had absolutely no community involvement. Now my office is one block from the school. I can walk up the street and have lunch with my kids, or they can even walk to the clinic after school. I also enjoy how much time I get to spend with my patients. As a Direct Primary Care practice, I have no billing/ insurance/coding and can spend significantly more time with my patients.”

Lisa was inspired to become a physician by her role as a middle child and problem solver in her family. “This led me to medicine in general. I view most medical cases as a jigsaw puzzle, and I just have to figure out how to put it back together.” This passion for helping solve medical problems for her patients lead to her becoming a recommending physician in Missouri’s new medical program.

“Prior to Amendment 2 making it on the ballot in Missouri, I had a patient ask me to help treat her child’s seizure disorder with CBD. I had to admit, I had absolutely no knowledge regarding cannabis or hemp, so I agreed to do research.

The more I read, the more I realized physicians have been duped.

I found significant research showing the medical benefits of cannabis and many therapeutic uses for this safe, effective plant. The more I learned, the more I wanted to know. I attended several conferences, met Dr. Sue Sisley on several occasions, did medical education credits related to cannabis, and joined several physician groups who have helped educate me, so that I can help educate patients. I became a recommending physician because I believe that all

people should have the right to utilize cannabis as medicine.”

“The process of choosing to do physician certifications was easy, the implementation not so much. With this being a new program in Missouri, I’ve had to spend more time educating patients than doing the actual certification. I try to educate them regarding the law, medical uses, as well as the process of getting their medical card.

There have been A LOT of changes in our clinic in the last year.”

Lisa’s advice for other physicians in states who have yet to legalize, and those who now find themselves in newly legalized states is, “Get educated. Don’t accept what you’ve been taught or told to influence your opinion. Don’t buy into the ‘there isn’t enough research’ crap. There is a lot of research (much from Israel), you just have to read it.” She tells medical students

interested in medical cannabis to “Talk to patients. Learn how this plant has helped people for millions of years. Learn everything you can about it, and don’t forget to ask why. Why was it taken away from patients in the 1930’s? Why was it replaced with expensive, dangerous, opiate medications?

And why can’t patients pick it up in a pharmacy?”

As far as her MS goes, she was reluctant to share any updates since first making the announcement last year. “Mostly because I didn’t have anything nice to say. I was formally diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in October, 2019.

Since then, I’ve been on Tecfidera (crazy expensive MS med) with the hopes of keeping my disease in remission. Unfortunately, I haven’t seen any slowing in the progression (just fantastic side effects like hives, hot flashes, and heat intolerance). I’ve had steroid shots in

my eye sockets, also in my eyeball, IV steroids, by mouth steroids for Trigeminal neuralgia (crazy painful). Physical therapy for weakness in my left leg, a muscle stimulator to try to keep my muscles working. I’ve only been working part time and sleeping excessively. I’ve cut out wheat, dairy, sugar and go to yoga as much as possible.

I’ve been exhausted constantly, depressed, tearful and have felt hopeless,” she bravely shared, “for accountability. I choose to no longer be miserable or fearful. I have scheduled a stem cell transplant for March in Mexico. I will go through chemo, lose my hair, and Griff will have to go with me to care for me the entire month. I am hopeful this will put this monster in remission, and I will again be a functional mother, doctor, and wife. I am thankful to have a supportive family to help care for my babies, coworkers who will take

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care of my patients for the month, and a husband that will hold me up when I’m ready to fall.”

In the meantime, she is including cannabis as part of her treatment plan. “I am currently using cannabis as medicine. I make a cannabis smoothie for breakfast every morning, (no THC, so no concerns about working under the influence) and then treat myself before bed. It has been immensely helpful with my pain (especially trigeminal neuralgia), muscle spasms, nausea, insomnia and anxiety. It hasn’t cured my MS but it has given me reprieve.”

In her plan to help patients by becoming a recommending physician, Lisa never imagined also becoming a patient. “I didn’t plan to get my card, due to the risk of losing my medical license, until my MS diagnosis. There isn’t really a law that physicians can’t use cannabis in Missouri. It’s really up to the state licensing board. I took a huge risk, got my card, and have been very verbal about it. I believe it takes risks, as well as people questioning the system, to make change.”

GRAM couldn’t agree more with taking risks and asking tough questions to change the system.

We also believe in the power of sharing personal stories to normalize cannabis and those who consume it, and we want to give a special thank you to Dr. Lisa Roark for choosing to share her powerful story with us. From everyone at GRAM, we wish you the quickest and most healing journey.

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MS

BLADDER HEALTH + MS

DIS-LIST

BY MATT JACKSON, PH.D.

For most, when we hear the words multiple sclerosis (MS), we think about vision problems, muscle spasms, or dizziness, but how about bladder health? Urination probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind, but 90% of people with MS experience symptoms from poor bladder function.1,2 We’re not just talking about incontinence either. People with MS are 6 times more likely to get a urinary tract infection (UTI), and one study reviewed death certificates of people with MS and found that almost 10% died from a UTI.1 So, when it comes to important health complications from MS, it is worth talking about bladder health.

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MS is an autoimmune disease that damages the central nervous system and forms pockets of scar tissue called plaques. It typically takes about 6 to 8 years after an MS diagnosis1 for plaques to form on the upper spinal cord, disrupt communication between the brain and bladder, and cause spasms in the bladder muscles.3 The urges to urinate can be frequent, intense, and uncontrollable, especially at nighttime.1–3 The first treatments are typically antimuscarinic drugs that reduce muscle spasms in the bladder, such as oxybutynin (Ditropan).3 For some, these drugs may alleviate bladder symptoms altogether, but for others, side effects may be intolerable— dry mouth, constipation, drowsiness, and memory problems—especially when using these drugs for years.3 Also, some people with MS could have more severe side effects. Antimuscarinic drugs are widely prescribed by doctors, and there have been many trials detailing safety and side effects.

But only a few small studies have tested side effects in people with neurological disorders such as MS.3 If prescription drugs don’t relieve symptoms, what are the other options? You could inject Botox into the bladder every three months or surgically implant an electrical device into the spine, but both options carry serious risks with limited evidence of effectiveness.3 Another option is to insert a catheter through the urethra and into the bladder four to six times per day, but this can introduce bacteria and cause tissue damage.3 It’s no wonder that some people with MS are turning to cannabis as an alternative.

In the 1990s, anecdotes claimed cannabis could treat bladder symptoms in MS. In response, researchers investigated these claims with two placebo-controlled, randomized clinical studies in the 2000s.4,5 The results showed that cannabis extracts reduced bladder overactivity,5 nighttime urination,5 and episodes of incontinence4 with few adverse side effects.4,5 Cannabis extracts were twice as effective as placebo,4,5 and patients taking cannabis were three times more likely to say their overall bladder health improved.5 These clinical studies puzzled scientists, and research in the past decade has tried to explain how cannabis could possibly alleviate bladder symptoms. Scientists have studied human tissues and found cannabinoid receptors throughout the nervous system and the bladder. Then by introducing drugs into rats that activate those receptors, we have discovered that the ECS can regulate bladder capacity, bladder pressure, urination volume, and urination frequency;6 all detailed evidence that supports the use of cannabis extracts.4,5 Unfortunately, we cannot reverse neurological damage and cure MS. Instead, our immediate focus is treating bladder symptoms, minimizing complications, and improving quality of life. However, 60% of people with MS have said that conventional treatments did not improve their quality of life whatsoever.2 There are few alternatives on the horizon except for cannabis,3 and we have a collection of clinical studies and scientific research that support using cannabis for bladder symptoms in MS.

DIS-LIST

THE RESULTS SHOWED THAT CANNABIS EXTRACTS REDUCED BLADDER OVERACTIVITY, NIGHTTIME URINATION, + EPISODES OF INCONTINENCE WITH FEW ADVERSE SIDE EFFECTS.

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MOOD SWINGS

BY KAITLIN DOMANGUE

DIS-LIST

LOOKING AT ALL OF THE EVIDENCE WE HAVE PROVING THAT MOOD DISORDERS ARE A CRISIS IN THE UNITED STATES SHOULD GIVE US ENOUGH OF A REASON TO DEMAND THAT THERE BE MORE RESEARCH ON THE MENTAL HEALTH FRONT.

Synthetic cannabinoid agents have been used in several small studies to gain insight into cannabis’ potential efficacy in treating mood disorders. The results showed great promise. At the time of publication, according to the published review, “There are currently no studies which have examined the effects of the cannabis plant on anxiety and related disorders,”1 only synthetic cannabinoids.

Marinol is a drug approved by the FDA in 1985, and its active ingredient is Dronibal, the synthetic version of THC. The creation of Marinol was originally intended for cancer patients who suffer from nausea and vomiting as a result of chemotherapy. According to a study, there is “Considerable evidence demonstrat[ing] that manipulation of the endocannabinoid system regulates nausea and vomiting in humans and other animals,”2 which explains why it works so well for those who are battling nausea and vomiting while going through chemotherapy.

The active ingredient Dronibal, however, has also been reported in two case studies to have shown “Improvement in quality of life, mood stability, and severity of mood and comorbid conditions,”1 signaling its potential efficacy in treating mood disorders.

Ten experienced cannabis users were studied for a period of 23 days to determine its effectiveness on increasing performance in the workplace.

Those tested worked non-standard shifts, meaning rotating from day to night shifts. Cannabis was shown to reduce mood disruption in these individuals. Though the case of mood disruption was because of the abrupt change in schedule, the balancing effect cannabis had on their mood indicates promising results in treating mood disruptions.5 Nabilone is another synthetic derivative of THC, and its involvement in studies generated a success as a possible treatment option for mood disruptive disorders. “Nabilone was associated with a 26.5% improvement in ‘generalized anxiety scores’”1 in a small study of patients also taking an antidepressant medication for mixed anxiety and mood disorders.

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According to the National Institute of Mental Health, it is “Estimated 21.4% of U.S. adults experience any mood disorder at some time in their lives,” while “an estimated 9.7% of U.S. adults had any mood disorder in the past year.” Of those 9.7%, it is thought that 45% of people had a serious impairment.3

disorders. While a few of these various treatment plans help patients, a lot of people go through life never securing a solid mental health treatment plan.

In other words, there are plenty of people that are suffering, and even dying, at the hands of their mental health conditions. Looking at all of the evidence we have proving that mood disorders are a crisis in the United States should give us enough of a reason to demand that there be more research on the mental health front.

DIS-LIST

Research shows that mood disorders are the leading cause of those aged 13-17 to undergo hospitalization, while roughly 16 million Americans reported having at least one major depressive episode in the last year. Research also shows that If synthetic cannabinoids are showing potential 90% of people who die by suicide have an under- in improving mood disorders, it is worth it to take lying mood disorder.4 the necessary steps to explore the raw cannabis Extensive research has provided modern medi- plant, in addition to synthetic cannabinoids, as a cine with proven cures for various diseases, but viable and respected option for treating those disthere is a multi-faceted approach to treating mood orders.

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S PA S T I C I T Y

BY BEN OWENS

Spasticity is one of the most common symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) and can also be caused by diseases and conditions such as cerebral palsy and strokes or as a result of nerve trauma.1 Spasticity causes muscle stiffness and spasms that can be debilitating and affect quality of life.

THC and CBD have been shown to be an effective treatment for spasticity in early studies.2,3

According to NINDS, symptoms include “Hypertonicity (increased muscle tone), clonus (a series of rapid muscle contractions), exaggerated deep tendon reflexes, muscle spasms, scissoring (involuntary crossing of the legs), and fixed joints (contractures).”1 These symptoms can lead to negative emotional issues, make regular tasks difficult and make social settings hard to handle. Spasticity “often interferes with daily activities.”1

DIS-LIST

Spasticity is defined by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) as “A condition in which there is an abnormal increase in muscle tone or stiffness of muscle, which might interfere with movement, speech, or be associated

with discomfort or pain.”1 It is typically a result of brain and/or spinal nerve damage like that caused

by MS, and is one of the most common symptoms of MS.

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Current treatment for spasticity largely involves managing the symptoms as best as possible using a variety of drugs. Some question the lack of evidence supporting effectiveness and the undesirable side effects of these drugs. Some drugs are known to increase muscle weakness and fatigue in an attempt to manage spasticity, two symptoms of MS that would be worsened if affected by these side effects.4 “There is no cure for motor neuron disease, so improved symptom control and quality of life are important for patients,” Dr. Nilo Riva from the San Raffaele Scientific Institute in Milan, Italy, told Science Daily. Dr. Riva’s research has since shown promising results for alternative treatment options such as cannabis products.4,5

DIS-LIST

Researchers like Dr. Riva are finding cannabinoids are an effective treatment for spasticity in motor neuron diseases like MS, ALS and PLS.3,4,5,6,7 It should come as no surprise then that spasticity is a qualifying medical condition in almost every state with a medical cannabis program.8 Literature reviews that have been conducted on the topic of cannabis’ role in managing spasticity associated with MS concluded that the existing body of research on endocannabinoids and cannabinoids “Could lead to the development of promising models for the therapy and management of disabling symptoms of the disease.”7 Research has shown that oral sprays containing mixtures of THC and CBD, the main cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, can be effective when administered to patients with MS.2 One study reported more than 80% of participants experienced a 20% or greater improvement in their spasticity, with 40% of participants reporting greater than 30% improvement in their condition.3 Another study concluded that

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CBD may prove viable for patients with MS to “Reduce fatigue, pain, spasticity, and ultimately improve mobility,”6 helping to manage not only spasticity but other symptoms associated with MS. All of the research to date reiterates the need for future studies on spasticity, MS, and cannabinoids. Currently, studies show that if you have access to cannabis products, specifically those high in THC and CBD, they could help with managing the symptoms of spasticity and conditions like MS.3,4,5,6,7 Depending on where you live, spasticity may qualify you to have access to medical cannabis if it is legal in your area. If you’re considering adding cannabis to your treatment plan, talk with your physician or care specialist about specific recommendations unique to your medical needs.

MORE THAN 80% OF PARTICIPANTS EXPERIENCED A 20% OR GREATER IMPROVEMENT IN THEIR SPASTICITY, WITH 40% OF PARTICIPANTS REPORTING GREATER THAN 30% IMPROVEMENT IN THEIR CONDITION.

FITNESS + CANNABIS CAN CANNABIS ENHANCE PERFORMANCE IN ATHLETES?

BY ANTONIO DEROSE

THE USUAL

As an athlete who consumes cannabis and educates about the science behind its athletic benefits, I get this question a lot. Is cannabis a PED (Performance Enhancing Drug)? Performance enhancing drugs are any prohibited substances used by athletes to improve athletic performance.

Although cannabis has many health and wellness benefits for athletes, it is technically not a performance enhancing drug. CBD was even officially removed from WADA’s (World Anti-Doping Association) list of prohibited substances, starting on January 1, 2018.

ALTHOUGH CANNABIS HAS MANY HEALTH AND WELLNESS BENEFITS FOR ATHLETES, IT IS TECHNICALLY NOT A PERFORMANCE ENHANCING DRUG. 35

In 2017, there was a systematic review published in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, focused on the research available regarding cannabis and exercise performance in sports. At the time, it concluded “Only 15 published studies have investigated the effects of THC in association with exercise protocols. Of these studies, none showed any improvement in aerobic performance”, and that “THC does not enhance aerobic exercise or strength.”1 Despite this, THC still remains on WADA’s prohibited substance list.

THE USUAL

There have also been studies on the effects of cannabis in relation to athletic performance.

One study, published in 2018, in the American Thoracic Society Journals included a randomized controlled trial of people with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). Part of their objective was “To test the hypothesis that inhaled vaporized cannabis would alleviate exertional breathlessness and improve exercise endurance.”2 This clinical trial only had 16 participants, but after measuring single inhalation doses of vaporized cannabis against breathlessness intensity during exercise, it was concluded “Cannabis had no clinically meaningful positive or negative effect on air-

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way function, exertional breathlessness, and exercise endurance in adults with advanced COPD.”2 A more recent literary review of research, concerning the relationship between cannabis use and athletic performance, was published in the Clinical Journal of Sports Medicine in 2018. It too, concluded cannabis doesn’t enhance athletic performance. “Although cannabis use is more prevalent in some athletes engaged in high risk sports, there is no direct evidence of performance enhancing effects in athletes.”

However, they also suggested, “The potential beneficial effects of cannabis as part of a pain management protocol, including reducing concussion related symptoms, deserve further attention.”3 This ties right back into the several health and wellness benefits athletes can get from consuming cannabis, but at the same time, further solidifies cannabis is not a PED. With more research being conducted every year, it’s only a matter of time before WADA removes cannabis from its prohibited substance list as the world continues to recognize the natural benefits of cannabis for athletes.

CULTIVATION THE SOUL OF THE SOIL

BY RACHAEL CARLEVALE A single teaspoon of soil can hold up to one billion bacteria, several yards of fungal filaments, several thousand protozoa, and thousands of nematodes, the essential factor separating soil from dirt— Life! To build living soil for your garden, use high quality organic ingredients from sustainable sources to create a stable ecosystem that will model nature’s rhythms. The soil food web powers the growth of the plants by making nutrients available and creates a regenerative closed loop system.

Natural soil systems allow for the organic cycling of nutrients from the diversity of microbes present. Once you have created a living organic soil, you, in essence, can just plant a seed and water it. Plants have and do grow all the time without the use of pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, and chemicals to motivate pH levels.

It happens in nature everyday. When humans interrupt these natural systems, like trying to bypass the soil food web for example, it can lead to a dependance on varying methods of agriculture based in synthetic models known to harm the environment and, potentially, the plant and end user.

One solution is to observe natural patterns and model them (both indoors and out). When seeds fall, they are covered with a mulch. The soil receives a protective layer of dried leaves to create an inhabitable environment for the life beneath our feet to thrive. We mock this particular autumn seasonal flow in our gardens by including cover crops, top dressing with compost, and mulching. There are many examples of soil building and methods to farming that one may explore.

THE USUAL

THERE ARE MANY EXAMPLES OF SOIL BUILDING + METHODS TO FARMING THAT ONE MAY EXPLORE.

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RECOMMENDED SOIL RECIPE.

May vary depending on your ecosystem and materials available.

1 PART SPHAGNUM PEAT MOSS: A natural, organic resource from bog ecosystems that is predominantly harvested for water retaining properties, and it is naturally pathogen free. Peat moss improves soil structure, drainage, and retains nutrients.

1 PART COMPOST: Decomposing organic matter; it can be made of up to 50% earthworm castings. Depending on your needs, making a worm bin at home may interest you to ensure product quality. Whatever the animal eats, the compost will become, so be sure to check the source.

1 PART AERATION: Pumice stones, volcanic rock, and/or rice hulls (that have a low germination rate) are added to create aeration. In a no-till system, these natural spaces serve to allow water and nutrients to flow, and are also home for microbes.

Worms are another example of aeration. As they move through the soil, their bioslime binds soil particles together, which, in turn, allows for water retention!

AMENDMENTS: per cubic foot of total soil volume, consider adding ½ cup of each: Kelp Meal: Known to enrich the soil.

Alfalfa Meal: Natural fertilizer

Crustacean Meal: High in calcium carbonate, crab and shrimp combined.

The shells are made of chitin and break down into chitenaise.

It contains nitrogen and phosphorous.

NeemCake: High azardaractin count, natural fertilizer.

THE USUAL

Karanja Cake: Organic fertilizer, high in nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.

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If the aspect of building soil from scratch feels overwhelming, there are companies who offer pre-mixed living soil for your convenience. Tracking all of your inputs and following a grow cycle that supports a living system will create the best case scenario for your gardening success. No-till container gardening is a simple solution to both indoor and outdoor farms with the end goal of closing loops, so we can best preserve the earth and create harmonious systems which produce safe and clean plants.

COOKING WITH PLANT MEDICINE FEATURING JEFFTHE420CHEF

Author of The 420 Gourmet; The Art of Elevated Cannabis Cuisine (Harper Wave, 2016) cookbook, JeffThe420Chef is the inventor of Culinary Cannabis, odorless smokable cannabis flower and “tasteless” canna-oil and cannabutter. Jeff rose to prominence as one of the world’s top cannabis chefs by using molecular gastronomy and culinary deconstruction to reinvent the cannabis consumption experience. Jeff is also the Executive Chef of Monica’s House, a cannabis edibles consumption lounge in West Hollywood. Through his creations, Jeff is revolutionizing the cannabis consumption experience.

THE USUAL

Dubbed “The Julia Child of Weed” by The Daily Beast, The Ganja Gourmet by Newsweek, The King of Edibles by Elite Daily, one of the world’s top cannabis chef’s by Culture Magazine, and a legendary cannabis chef by Cheddar.com, JeffThe420Chef, works with cannabis in ways that no other cannabis chef in the world does. Jeff has been redefining the cannabis consumption experience since 2012 with his “tasteless” cannabutter and canna-oils, edible culinary cannabis, which mimic herbs like oregano, rosemary and thyme and infused cooking oils devoid of the herbaceous cannabis taste.

Jeff is also a culinary instructor and teaches a series of classes called “The Art of Cooking with Cannabis” in medical and recreational states. The goal of his class is to help people understand the nuances of the various strains of cannabis, the differences and importance of THC & CBD, how to select the right strain for the individual needs, how to gauge and manage the potency of housemade cannabutter and oils, how to “dose” edibles properly and how to make his “light tasting” cannabutter and canna-oils.

Photo: Leela Cyd

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ASIAN FUSION SESAME CANNA- CHICKEN SALAD WITH STRAWBERRY CANNA-SESAME DRESSING Preparation Time: 40 mins | Cooking time: 8-10 minutes Number of servings: 12 side salad / 6 entrée APPROXIMATE DOSE PER SERVING: CBD @ 20%: 4/8mg THC @ 10%: 2/4mg | THC @ 14%: 2.5/5mg

*Approximate dose per serving is based on using 5 grams of cured/dried/decarbed Cannatonic (high CBD strain) 20% CBD/ 10% THC (2:1) .

MARINADE INGREDIENTS: • 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (organic) • ¼ cup Hoisin sauce (low sugar/ low sodium) • ¼ cup Barbecue sauce (low sugar/ low sodium) • ½ teaspoon Celtic Sea salt • 2 tablespoons sesame oil (plain) For the dressing • ½ Cup of Water

DRESSING INGREDIENTS: • ½ cup strawberries (muddled) • ¼ cup canna-sesame oil • ¼ cup sesame oil • 3 Tablespoons rice vinegar • ¼ teaspoon dry mustard • 1 teaspoon minced garlic • ½ tablespoon strawberry jam • ½ cup of orange juice • Pinch of salt and pepper to taste

INGREDIENTS FOR THE SALAD: • 3 cups kale, torn into pieces or chiffonade • 1 cup broccoli florets • 3 cups baby greens • ¾ cup strawberries, sliced • 1 cup green cabbage, shredded • 1 mango, diced • 1 cup red cabbage, shredded • 1 cup snow peas • 2 blood oranges, sectioned and deskinned, • 1 Italian cucumber, sliced thin OR one small can of low sugar mandarin oranges • 3 teaspoons toasted sesame seed • 1 cup brussel sprouts, shredded

Marinate the chicken: 1. Pound chicken breasts until the sides are even.

2. Mix the hoisin sauce, barbecue sauce, kosher salt, and plain sesame oil into 1⁄2 cup of water and stir well.

3. Pour the mixture into a 1-gallon Ziploc bag along with the chicken and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

To cook the chicken: 1. Grill for 4 to 5 minutes on each side. I like to rotate each side 45° halfway through cooking time.

2. Remove from the grill and let cool for 5 minutes.

3. Cut chicken breasts into bite size pieces.

Make the dressing: Make the dressing by mixing all the ingredients together in a small bowl. Set it aside to let the flavors develop.

THE USUAL

To finish the salad: 1. Toss kale, baby greens, green cabbage, red cabbage, brussel sprouts, and broccoli.

2. Top with the marinated chicken, orange slices, strawberries, mango, snow peas, and cucumber.

3. Drizzle with salad dressing and sprinkle with crushed ramen noodles and sesame seeds.

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This colorful grilled chicken salad is a perfect entree for anyone suffering from MS,” says JeffThe420Chef of his easy, healthy, and hazy modern Asian creation. This low fat, high fiber salad, is chock full of fresh fruit, vegetables, and organic chicken.

M XINE TAYLOR’S

CELESTIAL EVENTS Maxine Taylor became America’s First Licensed Astrologer after mounting a legal challenge to legitimize astrology in the 1960’s Bible Belt state of Georgia. She became CNN’s Original On-Air Astrologer when the network launched.

MARCH 2020 ARIES (MARCH 21 - APRIL 19) Use the first part of the month to pull back, retreat, and tie up the loose ends of unfinished projects. After the 20th, leap forward and do what you want, when you want, how you want because you can. Lovely Venus enhances your finances, and passionate Mars puts a fire under you that encourages you to advance in your career.

TAURUS (APRIL 20 - MAY 20) Enjoy the company of friends the first part of the month.

After the 20th, you will want to pull back and retreat in order to recharge your batteries. Venus, the planet of beauty encourages you to be your own beautification project. A new outfit or hair style can do wonders to improve your outlook and fall in love with you! If you have a chance to travel, go for it!

GEMINI (MAY 21 - JUNE 20) Your career is your focus in March, so check out all opportunities to advance, expand, and move upward. Your popularity grows, which is great for your career, but can be physically draining. A great antidote is to spend time with your friends – or simply to pull back and spend time alone.

Sometimes that’s all it takes to recharge. By the 24th, you’ll be ready to socialize once again.

CANCER (JUNE 21 - JULY 22) Use the first part of the month to reach out and explore new options. Travel if you can. After the 20th, your attention will be on your career, so prepare for leadership. Turn to friends for emotional support and fun, and if there is no special person in your life right now, get out there and let the world know that you are available!

THE USUAL

LEO (JULY 23 - AUG 22) This can me a month of major changes in your ideas and outlook. You are looking ahead at a larger picture, especially where money is concerned. You may have to explain yourself in simple terms for others to understand. Venus enhances your popularity, so take advantage of this in your career, and throw yourself into the details. This will pay off financially on the Full Moon on the 9th.

VIRGO (AUG 23 - SEPT 22) You may be torn between focusing on joint financial ventures and doing things your way, especially the first part of the month. You are willing and ready to speculate, but others may be holding back. Wait till the last week of March to reach for the stars. This will give the other person/people in your life a chance to come around to your way of thinking. In the meantime, party!

LIBRA (SEPT 23 - OCT 22) Focus on your job the first part of March. Pull back and work behind the scenes. After the 20th, get out there and be with others, especially that one particular person. Give them your attention and let them know how important they are to you.

Joint financial ventures can be win/win, so be open to new opportunities when they surface. Real estate looks pretty good right now…

SCORPIO (OCT 23 - NOV 21) This is the month to mix work and pleasure or at least divide your time between the two. Let the significant others in your life know how important they are to you. Lovely Libra enhances all your relationships and can bring someone special into the picture. And don’t forget about your friends.

They are a source of fun and enjoyment.

SAGITTARIUS (NOV 22 - DEC 21) This is the month to divide your time between three areas: your family, your social life, and your career. While home and hearth look good all month, the Full Moon on the 9th says there is more recognition for you from your superiors, Venus indicates more enjoyment for you at work, and Mars tells you to throw yourself into money-making ventures. By the end of March, you are ready to enjoy yourself.

CAPRICORN (DEC 22 - JANUARY 19) Travel early in the month so you can spend time at home with family members the rest of the time. Venus enhances your social life and relationship with your children, while Mars tells you to take the lead rather than waiting for others to get on board. Your impatience will propel you forward and you’ll have no choice but to take action.

AQUARIUS (JANUARY 20 - FEBRUARY 18) Money is the name of the game, so focus on creating more of it. Remember: whatever you put your attention on grows.

You always march to your own drummer, and this month is no exception. Venus beautifies your home and creates a loving family environment. Nevertheless, you will require lots of time alone to recharge and regroup.

PISCES (FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 20) Do it your way, Pisces. It’s your turn now. Do what you want, how you want, if you want. Your outlook is happy and positive, so share your ideas. People will be able to hear you now. Throw yourself into group activities, especially if they are based on philanthropic or humanitarian concepts.

On the 9th, spend time with the special people in your life; around the 24th, focus on increasing your finances.

MAXINETAYLOR.COM youtube.com/c/MaxineTaylorAstrologer

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facebook.com/starmaxinetaylor

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