Medical Marijuana and Cannabis Research Suppressed

Medicinal Drugs

Valuable information regarding Cannabis

Posted on:

Thursday, October 18th 2018 at 4:00 pm

Written By:

Dr. Jeffrey Dach, MD

Originally published on www.jeffreydachmd.com

Although cannabis was a medicinal plant for thousands of years, its medical use was suppressed and banned throughout most of the 20th century. 

Banned in England, Canada and the US in the 1930’s, medical cannabis represents the first casualty in a war against natural medicine waged by the pharmaceutical industry. Even today research efforts are suppressed by our own government. Over the last two decades, there have been major scientific breakthroughs in cannabis research outside the US in Israel, Spain, Italy and Brazil. These breakthroughs have made cannabis “the wonder drug of the 21st century”.

The Father of Medical Cannabis Research
The greatest cannabis researcher is unquestionably Raphael Mechoulam from Israel. He discovered THC in 1964, the psycho-active component of cannabis. Mechoulam also discovered the first endogenous endo-cannabinoid in 1992, Anandamide, a sanskrit word translated as “bliss”.
Left Image: Raphael Mechoulam





A Treasure Trove Waiting for Discovery
Left image: his book.
When asked why he devoted his entire lifetime studying the biochemistry of cannabis, Dr. Raphael Mechoulam said the following:
“The three major illicit drugs derived from plants were then (at the beginning of my career), and still are, opium, coca and cannabis. Morphine had been isolated from opium early in the 19th century and structure elucidated in the 1920s by Robert Robinson. Cocaine was isolated from coca leaves in the middle of the 19th century and structure described by Richard Willstatter in the last decade of the 19th century. I believe that the cannabinoids represented a medicinal treasure trove which waits to be discovered.”





Just Like the Opiate Receptor Story
Left Image: Cannabis Sativa Leaf courtesy of Wikimedia commons
In a story very similar to the discovery of opiate receptors in the brain, cannabinoid receptors have been discovered along with their endogenous cannabinoids, representing the largest neurotransmitter system in the brain and immune system. This neurotransmitter system went undetected for decades because it involves an unheard of concept, retrograde transmission, or reversed flow of information from the post synapse to the pre-synapse.
The Cannabinoid Receptor Story
In the 1970s, Morphine was isolated from the poppy and found to bind to opiate receptors in the brain. Scientists eventually discovered that people make their own opioids, called enkephalins and endorphins. Morphine simply hijacks the receptors for the brain’s opioids. It seemed likely that something similar was happening with THC and the cannabinoid receptors in the brain and the immune system. The health implications of the endo-cannabinoid system are staggering. Cannabinoids act as a bioregulatory mechanism for most life processes.

Medical Uses of Cannabinoids:
Relieves Chronic Pain
Reduces need for narcotics in chronic pain or Narcotics Addiction
Anti-Cancer (Breast, Colon, Pancreas, Brain-Glioma)
Relieves Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Phobias
Relieves Nausea and Vomiting associated with Chemotherapy
Improves Appetite in Wasting Syndromes
Relieves Migraine Headache
Relieves Glaucoma
Relieves Bladder incontinence
Used as Anti-convulsant
Used as Anti-depressant
Used as Atypical anti-psychotic
Used for Bi-Polar Syndrome
Used for Multiple Sclerosis, ALS

Timeline for Cannabinoids and Receptor System
2,000 BC to 1,800 AD Medicinal Cannabis used in Ancient China, Egypt, India, ancient Greeks.
800 AD to 1,800 AD Medical Cannabis was used extensively in the medieval Islamic World.
Image: An advertisement for cannabis americana New York 1917.
1800-1900 Medical Cannabis commonly used entire world as primary pain reliever until the invention of aspirin.
1925, England bans cannabis with Dangerous Drugs Act, and non-medicinal cannabis made illegal in Britain.
1927 Canada bans all forms of cannabis.
1937 Even though there are 28 cannabis pharmaceuticals on the American market, Cannabis banned in US with federal law, the 1937 Marijuana Tax Act.
1964 THC, tetra hydro cannabinol, the psycho-active component of cannabis, isolated by Raphael Mechoulam at Weizmann Institute in Israel.
1970 Marijuana fully outlawed in US by Controlled Substances Act of 1970.
1975 Munson shows anti cancer effects of cannabis in Lewis Lung Tumors.
1980-2000 Cannabis research banned in US (de facto).
1985 FDA approves Marinol drug, a pure THC drug.
1992 First endo-cannabinoid isolated by Hanuš and Devane in Raphael Mechoulam’s lab at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. This new substance is named Anandamide.
1990 endo-cannabinoid CB1 receptors cloned and found in brain.
1993 endo-cannabinoid CB2 receptors cloned and found in the immune system.
1998 Di Marzo’s in Naples Italy group found that cannabinoids (anandamide) inhibit breast cancer cell proliferation.
1999, Marinol (THC) was rescheduled from Schedule II to III of the Controlled Substances Act,
2000 Guzman’s group in Spain found that cannabinoids inhibit the growth of C6 glioma cells.
2005 Sativex approved in Canada. Sativex is a whole cannabis plant extract, mouth spray approved for multiple sclerosis patients to alleviate neuropathic pain and muscle spasticity.
2006 Cannabindiol found useful as anti-psychotic drug São Paulo, Brasil.
2007 Sean D. McAllister – Cannabidiol inhibits aggressive breast cancer cells.
2008 Acomplia, Rimonabant (also known as SR141716) first CB1 receptor blocker suspended from the UK market because of adverse effects of suicidality, depression. This agent blocks the endo-cannabidiol receptors.
2009 Two components of cannabis plant identified. THC which is psychoactive, and the non-psychoactive Cannabidiol “CBD” represents up to 40% of extracts of the medical cannabis plant. Cannabidiol relieves convulsion, inflammation, anxiety, nausea, and inhibits cancer cell growth. Cannabidiol as effective as atypical antipsychotics in treating schizophrenia.
2009 – 10 million people arrested for marijuana since 1967. In the US, 13 states have approved medical use of cannabis.
Safety of Marijuana: There has never been a documented human fatality from marijuana. The respiratiry depression from opiates does not happen with cannabinoids.
Below image: Cannabidiol, the non-psychoactive main medicinal ingredient in Cannabis courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
Left Image: Cannabidiol made by hemp plants.



Anandamide which is made by the human body (below).

The active ingredient in cannabis is Cannabidiol, a Schedule I drug in the USA, despite having no psychoactive effects and no known abuse potential. Cannabidiol kills cancer cells, relieves pain, serves as an anti-depressant, and has numerous other medical uses.
See the video below, which was filmed in 2006.
Dr. Robert Melamede, Professor of Biology at the University of Colorado, explains how the body’s Endo-Cannabinoid system kills cancer cells and inhibits tumor growth.

Here is the interview:
 

A Cancer Cure in the Back Yard Garden,

Watch this amazing story below:

This is the first 10 min. segment, part 1 of 7 parts.

What happens when people realize they can grow plants in their own back yard yielding cancer medicine that works? This is story of Rick Simpson, a man from Nova Scotia Canada who did exactly that. He grew hemp in his garden, extracted the hemp oil and rediscovered a medicine that cures cancer. Watch the entire 50 minute movie here.
Reform the Laws, Legalize Medicinal Use of Cannabis
In the US, 14 states that have passed laws legalizing medicinal cannabis. Join the movement to legalize the medicinal use of cannabis. Call or write your congressman today.
Warning and Disclaimer:
Marijuana is an illegal drug in many US states and other countries. It is illegal to grow or possess the marijuana plant, also known as the hemp plant. Even when used as a prescribed medicine, marijuana use may result in arrest, fines or imprisonment. Only use marijuana as a drug if it has been legally prescribed by a licensed physician in a state or country that has legalized the use of medical marijuana.

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Marijuana: The Future of PTSD Treatment

Marijuana: The Future of PTSD Treatment

 

 Interesting post in favor of Marijunana for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

 

PTSD: An Invisible Epidemic

Although quintessentially attributed to soldiers in combat, one out of ten men and nearly one out of five women is afflicted by post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (1). However, in certain vulnerable cohorts, such as low-income and inner-city populations as well as the armed forces, nearly forty percent of individuals are affected (1). This under-recognized and often stigmatized invisible illness, which often culminates in suicidal depression, is the fourth most common psychiatric disorder (1).
The high rates of PTSD among civilian populations are unsurprising in light of findings that one out of ten children in high-income countries are subject to psychological abuse or neglect (2). Further, one in four girls and one in six boys is the victim of sexual abuse, and one in five women are raped at some point in their lives (3, 4). Other adverse child experiences (ACEs), such as parental divorce, economic hardship, witnessing domestic violence, or the incarceration of a parent or guardian are also contributory factors, since nearly half of U.S. children have experienced at least one ACE, which are predictive of adverse health outcomes (5). Traumatic brain injury, which is common in the armed forces, is also correlated with PTSD (6, 7, 8).

Marijuana - An Experiment in Colorado

Legalized Weed

Here's an interesting report on legal-weed in Colorado which I thought was worth sharing............

In many ways, Rolling Papers is a documentary about journalism. The film, which was released on VOD earlier this month, captures the ambition and tenacity of editor Ricardo Baca’s team at the The Denver Post as they chase down stories about Colorado’s changing cultural landscape. What makes Baca and his crew different, however, is that they’re the first team at a traditional newspaper dedicated solely to covering marijuana. Rolling Papers, a feature-length documentary about their first year on the legal-weed beat in Colorado, is as much a portrait of their reporting efforts as it is an insightful look into how the cannabis industry is contending with a mass consumer base.

Prescription Drugs Now Factor in Higher Percentage of Car Crashes

 This video is an alarming show how we innocently take drugs and drive, not realising that they are more dangerous to our concentration than alcohol or other drugs.  Strictly speaking, anyone on medication should be vigilant about going behind a wheel or indeed operating machinery.

Prescription Drugs Now Factor in Higher Percentage of Car Crashes

Marijuana May Prevent Memory Loss

I have written about this study before and it is helpful to know as much about what may prevent Alzheimer.  As we know, pretty much every herb has a healing quality and I guess the various potions, or drugs as we like to call them all have their specific uses.

I hope the article below will shed some light on Memory Loss.  The more we can be aware of the causes and cures, the better for everyone.

 

With best wishes,

 

Adele Bantle

Marijuana May Prevent Memory Loss by Reducing Brain Inflammation

by Shelley M. White

Interestingly, but certainly not surprisingly, research has surfaced refuting the common notion that marijuana kills brain cells and impairs memory, a notion that has been hammered in our heads for decades. To think our public education system and organizations such as D.A.R.E deceived us would essentially be to not think. Thanks to the brave researchers and patients who continue to come forward with evidence proving the medical benefits of marijuana, one is only required to possess the minutest amount of comprehensive thinking ability in order to separate fact from fiction, and reality from conditioning. Here is a list of 20 Medical studies that prove cannabis can be an effective treatment, and possible cure for cancer. It doesn't stop there, all you have to do is look for it instead of continually believing what you are told.

Researchers at Ohio State University found certain components of marijuana to be beneficial for the aging brain, as they were proven to reduce brain inflammation and regenerate dead brain cells. Such information may come as an astounding fact to many, as it is the complete opposite of what we have been taught in regards to marijuana’s effect on the brain. The common notion that marijuana impairs memory function and kills brain cells is turning out to be quite contradictory to the truth, meaning public schools and organizations we trusted to help us were, in reality, harming us by robbing us of a truth that could save our lives in the future. Cannabis has shown to be a key to good health, even more so when we eat it rather than smoking it.

This research would be an especially exciting breakthrough for those affected by Alzheimer’s, as Alzheimer’s is thought to be the result of a chronically inflamed brain, if the government miraculously woke up and ceased to deny human beings of their rights to healthy lives by nationally legalizing marijuana. Furthermore, this research offers a potentially major breakthrough for those with late stage neurological Lyme disease (neuroborreliosis), as a vast majority of debilitating symptoms caused by the disease stem from inflammation of the brain.

Due to its ability to regrow brain cells and reduce brain inflammation, it is quite possible marijuana will be, and always has been, the perfect antidote to neurodegenerative diseases. One can only hope others will continue to bravely speak out about the benefits of marijuana in an effort to give future generations a shot at a health care system, and ultimately a quality of life, unparalleled to our own.

**Although you may know a habitual smoker who seems to suffer from memory loss, it is important to note that said benefits of marijuana were achieved using extremely low doses. Researchers discovered a single puff a day is enough to provide an individual with significant, long-lasting health benefits. As with anything else, it is not meant to be abused.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/science/science-news/3485163/Marijuana-may-improve-memory-and-help-fight-Alzheimers.html

http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2008/11/marijuana-could/

http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/your-brain-food/201007/maintaining-memories-marijuana

Shelley M. White | September 21, 2013 at 6:54 pm | URL: http://www.collective-evolution.com/?p=45878         

Marijuana May Prevent Memory Loss

 Found the following article on the use of Marijuana.  These drugs although harmful if they lead to addiction, they also have beneficial healing qualities.  As they say, there is a herb for every ailment and I guess these drugs can be considered herbs.  Enjoy!

Marijuana May Prevent Memory Loss by Reducing Brain Inflammation
by Shelley M. White

greenbrain.img_assist_custom-250x172Interestingly, but certainly not surprisingly, research has surfaced refuting the common notion that marijuana kills brain cells and impairs memory, a notion that has been hammered in our heads for decades. To think our public education system and organizations such as D.A.R.E deceived us would essentially be to not think. Thanks to the brave researchers and patients who continue to come forward with evidence proving the medical benefits of marijuana, one is only required to possess the minutest amount of comprehensive thinking ability in order to separate fact from fiction, and reality from conditioning. Here is a list of 20 Medical studies that prove cannabis can be an effective treatment, and possible cure for cancer. It doesn't stop there, all you have to do is look for it instead of continually believing what you are told.

Researchers at Ohio State University found certain components of marijuana to be beneficial for the aging brain, as they were proven to reduce brain inflammation and regenerate dead brain cells. Such information may come as an astounding fact to many, as it is the complete opposite of what we have been taught in regards to marijuana’s effect on the brain. The common notion that marijuana impairs memory function and kills brain cells is turning out to be quite contradictory to the truth, meaning public schools and organizations we trusted to help us were, in reality, harming us by robbing us of a truth that could save our lives in the future. Cannabis has shown to be a key to good health, even more so when we eat it rather than smoking it.

This research would be an especially exciting breakthrough for those affected by Alzheimer’s, as Alzheimer’s is thought to be the result of a chronically inflamed brain, if the government miraculously woke up and ceased to deny human beings of their rights to healthy lives by nationally legalizing marijuana. Furthermore, this research offers a potentially major breakthrough for those with late stage neurological Lyme disease (neuroborreliosis), as a vast majority of debilitating symptoms caused by the disease stem from inflammation of the brain.

Due to its ability to regrow brain cells and reduce brain inflammation, it is quite possible marijuana will be, and always has been, the perfect antidote to neurodegenerative diseases. One can only hope others will continue to bravely speak out about the benefits of marijuana in an effort to give future generations a shot at a health care system, and ultimately a quality of life, unparalleled to our own.

**Although you may know a habitual smoker who seems to suffer from memory loss, it is important to note that said benefits of marijuana were achieved using extremely low doses. Researchers discovered a single puff a day is enough to provide an individual with significant, long-lasting health benefits. As with anything else, it is not meant to be abused.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/science/science-news/3485163/Marijuana-may-improve-memory-and-help-fight-Alzheimers.html

http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2008/11/marijuana-could/

http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/your-brain-food/201007/maintaining-memories-marijuana
Shelley M. White | September 21, 2013 at 6:54 pm | URL: http://www.collective-evolution.com/?p=45878