(3 min read) The practice of smoking cannabis has probably been around since pre-historic times. There is strong evidence that the plant was extensively cultivated about 6,000 years ago in North Eastern Asia, primarily used for its fiber. Records of medicinal use and physiological effects are found in the earliest pharmacopoeia in existence, attributed to Emperor Shen Nung (2,000 BC).

(1 min read) A brief commentary on cannabinoid receptors and acetominophen from a 2009 research article.

Research from 2009 suggest tea may stimulate the endocannabinoid system.

A quick view of on the smell of cannabis.

A short discussion of a 2009 article on cannabinoids and the skin.

In the journal of Clincal Pyschopharmacology, a research team reports on the improvement of schizophrenic symptoms in a small group of patients who were treated with pure Delta9-THC (Marinol AKA Dronabinol). The doctors sought out patients who had chronic refractory schizophrenia and had a documented history of cannabis use. After going through about 200 patients, the doctors found a total of 6 that met the criteria.

Two reviews (one & two) published this month (July 2009) highlight the emerging role of the Endocannabinoid system (ECS) as one of the most important mediators of our stress response, and further research into ECS could bring us new antidepressants and anxiolytic drugs—a few drugs are already a success in animal models! There are two approaches to exploiting the ECS against depression and anxiety.

(One minute read) The Journal of Neuroendocrinology published a review last year, which suggests that oral THC may significantly reduce plaque development in diseases associated with obesity, such as atherosclerosis.

(One minute read) Cannabinoid receptors are linked to migraines in this article.

(One minute read) An announcement from a Pharma company about their application for a cannabis extract.

(One minute read) Several studies have already shown that maternal deprivation results in a vulnerability to opiate dependence, in both humans and lab animals. Now, the journal of Neuropharmacology has published a study suggesting that cannabis use may prevent opiate dependence among maternally deprived test subjects.

(One minute read) On the first day of the 2009 ICRS meeting held near Chicago, IL, Dr. Nagarkatti presented exciting research that demonstrates THC can reduce organ donor rejection by reducing “Graft vs. Host Diseases.”

In an attempt to “record something as close as possible to the ‘pure’ experience of being a cannabis user,” this month Health (London) published a study entitled “Diaries from Cannabis Users: An Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis.” The study was conducted with 6 participants who were recruited to smoke cannabis and keep a diary for 15 days. They were instructed to write in the diary immediately after smoking cannabis.