{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/epilepsy/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_3058-markdown","title":"Synthetic CBD: A Cheaper, Safer Epilepsy Medicine?","slug":"synthetic-cbd-a-cheaper-safer-epilepsy-medicine","content":"Epilepsy affects more than 65 million people around the globe. It’s a general term for a number of conditions that cause seizures, which are disturbances in the brain’s electrical signaling.  \n\nEpileptic seizures can be infrequent or nearly constant. And they can range from mild episodes that resemble a moment of inattention to severe grand mal seizures that need hospital treatment. \n\nAlthough epilepsy can take many forms, research shows that the cannabis compound cannabidiol (CBD) can be effective at reducing epileptic seizures. Unfortunately, there are legal and practical obstacles that make it hard for epilepsy patients to get their hands on the pure, high-quality CBD products that could help them.\n\nNow, though, this could change. In early 2019, [a team from the University of California, Davis announced that they’d developed a synthetic version of CBD](https://newatlas.com/synthetic-cbd-effective-seizures-study-uc-davis/59889). This synthetic CBD appears to ease epilepsy symptoms as does the natural version of the cannabinoid. \n\nWhat’s more, this synthetic CBD, called H2CBD, is purer than that of CBD from plant sources and far more cost-effective to produce. And because it doesn’t contain actual cannabis molecules, it bypasses legal restrictions on cannabis in many parts of the world. \n\nFor people with epilepsy, especially children, [H2CBD is a breakthrough](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-019-44056-y) that could make CBD treatment more accessible—and economical—than ever before.\n\n### What Exactly Is Epilepsy & What Causes It? \n\nThere are actually [many different epilepsies](https://www.epilepsysociety.org.uk/what-epilepsy?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI89eBnKTE4wIVA6rsCh0VYAEPEAAYASAAEgIPxPD_BwE#.XTNyYpNKhm8), but they’re all characterized by seizure activity in the brain. There are about 40 different kinds of seizures that cause a variety of symptoms, too, and some of these seizure types mimic other conditions like fainting or stroke.  \n\nGenerally, though, the causes of epilepsy can include:\n\n* Genetic tendencies passed through families or by changes in a person’s own genes\n* Structural problems in the brain, such as a tumor, stroke or other conditions that cause abnormal growths in the brain\n* Events such as a blow to the head\n* Exposure to toxins\n\nAll of these circumstances disrupt the electrical signaling among neurons in affected parts of the brain. A variety of factors can trigger seizures, like: \n\n* Flashing lights\n* Repeating patterns\n* Stress\n* Diet\n\nBut in many cases, the causes aren’t clear. And although most people associate epilepsy with the full-body grand mal seizure in which a person convulses and passes out, many seizures can be hard to recognize. Someone may simply stare into space for a brief moment or have a twitch in their hand. \n\nDepending on the cause, epilepsy sufferers can address their symptoms with:\n\n* Medications\n* Dietary regimens \n* Surgery \n\nBut for a considerable number of epilepsy patients, standard treatments simply don’t work. This is especially true for children who have forms of very severe epilepsy called Dravet’s syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. \n\nRELATED: [HOW HEMP CBD OIL CAN HELP KIDS WITH SEIZURES](https://hellomd.com/articles/how-hemp-cbd-oil-can-help-kids-with-seizures/)\n\n### The Problems With Plant-Derived CBD for Medical Use\n\nMany independent studies have shown that CBD is a powerful neuroprotectant that can help regulate brain signaling and promote resistance to seizure activity. \n\nIn particular, research revealed that CBD could reduce the number and intensity of epileptic seizures in children with Dravet’s and Lennox-Gastaut syndromes. This led to the development of [Epidiolex, an FDA-approved medication](https://www.rxlist.com/epidiolex-drug.htm) whose active ingredient is CBD extracted from natural cannabis. \n\nBut Epidiolex isn’t available to everyone with epilepsy. Plus, [it comes with a list price of $32,500 per year](https://www.fiercepharma.com/marketing/epidiolex-launch-official-first-cbd-approved-by-fda-shelves-but-high-price-spurs-some). Most patients pay much less than this for the drug, of course, but the list price does reflect the costs of bringing medications like Epidiolex to market.\n\nDeveloping CBD products from natural hemp and cannabis sources can be slow and costly. Cultivating cannabis plants is a resource-intensive process that requires considerable amounts of:\n\n* Land\n* Water \n* Labor\n* Time  \n\nCBD extracted from natural plant sources can also contain impurities and toxins absorbed from soil or water, even with the best extraction technology available.  \n\nAnd in some areas, products containing natural cannabis of any kind are subject to restrictive laws on sales and use. All of these factors contribute to a growing interest in synthetic cannabinoids—chemical constructs that don’t contain natural plant extracts at all.\n\n### H2CBD: The Cannabis-Free CBD Solution\n\nIn February 2019, a UC Davis research team reported the successful production of a completely synthetic CBD analog. (For decades, researchers across the globe have been working to create synthetic versions—aka analogs—of cannabis compounds.) The result is a formulation called 8, 9-dihydrocannabidiol, or H2CBD, which the scientists created from relatively inexpensive, commercially available chemical sources. \n\nResearchers can also create synthetic CBD using new biosynthesis technologies that produce natural precursors to CBD. But these products do contain natural cannabis elements. \n\nSo, the UC Davis team aimed to create a true synthetic—a chemical stand-in that can mimic the effects of CBD on the endocannabinoid system (ECS), the network of cannabis receptors found in the body and brain. And it can do so  without the legal restrictions that affect natural cannabis extracts.\n\nThe result? A pure CBD analog that [works just like natural CBD to reduce seizure activity in early animal testing](https://www.ucdavis.edu/news/synthetic-version-cbd-treats-seizures-rats/).  \n\nBecause H2CBD is entirely chemical based, it’s virtually free of toxins and impurities—and scientists can produce it faster and cheaper than naturally cultivated cannabis. Plus, since it doesn’t contain any cannabis molecules, it isn’t detectable on drug screenings.  \n\nSynthetic cannabinoid analogs are making it easier than ever to bring the benefits of CBD and other cannabis compounds to people coping with a multitude of health issues. With H2CBD, UC Davis researchers hope to make the healing properties of CBD available to people with all kinds of epilepsy.\n\nPhoto credit: Mitch M/Shutterstock.com\n\nWant to try CBD, but don’t know where to start? [Shop our selection of high-quality, lab-tested CBD products](https://hellomd.com/) and have them shipped to your door. And if you have questions about CBD, [ask them](https://hellomd.com/questions-and-answers/) and our community will answer.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/979e236184f66d6f7e44ed5feff90ac8/14b42/f6f8c9bd73ff264694a6b7a330f69329.jpg","srcSet":"/static/979e236184f66d6f7e44ed5feff90ac8/f836f/f6f8c9bd73ff264694a6b7a330f69329.jpg 200w,\n/static/979e236184f66d6f7e44ed5feff90ac8/2244e/f6f8c9bd73ff264694a6b7a330f69329.jpg 400w,\n/static/979e236184f66d6f7e44ed5feff90ac8/14b42/f6f8c9bd73ff264694a6b7a330f69329.jpg 800w,\n/static/979e236184f66d6f7e44ed5feff90ac8/47498/f6f8c9bd73ff264694a6b7a330f69329.jpg 1200w,\n/static/979e236184f66d6f7e44ed5feff90ac8/0e329/f6f8c9bd73ff264694a6b7a330f69329.jpg 1600w,\n/static/979e236184f66d6f7e44ed5feff90ac8/391cf/f6f8c9bd73ff264694a6b7a330f69329.jpg 1772w","srcWebp":"/static/979e236184f66d6f7e44ed5feff90ac8/58556/f6f8c9bd73ff264694a6b7a330f69329.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/979e236184f66d6f7e44ed5feff90ac8/61e93/f6f8c9bd73ff264694a6b7a330f69329.webp 200w,\n/static/979e236184f66d6f7e44ed5feff90ac8/1f5c5/f6f8c9bd73ff264694a6b7a330f69329.webp 400w,\n/static/979e236184f66d6f7e44ed5feff90ac8/58556/f6f8c9bd73ff264694a6b7a330f69329.webp 800w,\n/static/979e236184f66d6f7e44ed5feff90ac8/99238/f6f8c9bd73ff264694a6b7a330f69329.webp 1200w,\n/static/979e236184f66d6f7e44ed5feff90ac8/7c22d/f6f8c9bd73ff264694a6b7a330f69329.webp 1600w,\n/static/979e236184f66d6f7e44ed5feff90ac8/edb99/f6f8c9bd73ff264694a6b7a330f69329.webp 1772w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2765-markdown","title":"FDA Approves Epidiolex, First CBD-Based Drug for Epilepsy","slug":"fda-approves-epidiolex-first-cbd-based-drug-for-epilepsy","content":"Medical marijuana users take note: [The FDA has just approved a new drug containing cannabidiol (CBD)](https://www.cbsnews.com/news/fda-approves-epidiolex-first-marijuana-based-drug-for-seizures/). Its aim is to treat two rare, severe forms of childhood epilepsy.\n\nCreated by U.K. giant GW Pharmaceuticals, Epidiolex is a CBD-based syrup to treat seizures associated with [Lennox-Gastaut syndrome](https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/lennox-gastaut-syndrome) and [Dravet syndrome](https://www.dravetfoundation.org/what-is-dravet-syndrome/) in patients as young as two years old.\n\nResearchers studied Epidiolex’s effectiveness in three randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials involving 516 patients with either syndrome. Epidiolex, taken with other medications, was effective in reducing the frequency of subjects’ seizures.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nThis is the first time that the U.S. government has given the green light to a drug derived from CBD. Though CBD is a cannabis compound, it’s non-psychoactive, unlike the other famous cannabinoid, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).  \n\n“This approval serves as a reminder that advancing sound development programs that properly evaluate active ingredients contained in marijuana can lead to important medical therapies. And, the FDA is committed to this kind of careful scientific research and drug development,” [says FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb in a news release](https://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm611046.htm).\n\nThe announcement has led to speculation among experts that a new wave of approved cannabis-based medications may be coming. \n\n“This is a very good development, and it basically underscores that there are medicinal properties to some of the cannabinoids,” [says Dr. Igor Grant, director of the Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research at the University of California San Diego](https://www.nytimes.com/2018/04/19/health/epidiolex-fda-cannabis-marajuana.html), in a _New York Times_ interview about Epidiolex.\n\n### Epidiolex Pushes CBD Legalization\n\nEpidiolex may become available this fall, but it still has hurdles to clear. One potential roadblock is an investigation into its potential side effects. Also, despite the FDA approval, CBD remains federally illegal. The DEA classifies it as a Schedule 1 drug, defined as “drugs with no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.” \n\nRELATED: [MARIJUANA LEGALIZATON IS GOING GLOBAL](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/588f897cd5e9e1000c153b31/marijuana-legalization-is-going-global)\n\nBut with Epidiolex’s FDA approval, the DEA may reclassify CBD over the next three months. This will make it possible for patients to purchase the drug with a doctor’s prescription. Already, some drugstore chains such as Rite Aid say they’ll carry it.\n\n### But Does This Mean Cannabis Could Become Legal?\n\nIf CBD gets DEA approval and is put under a new schedule, that doesn’t mean cannabis as a whole will get the green light any time soon. Federal authorities seem to be sticking to a policy of marijuana prohibition, even though a majority of Americans are in favor of legalizing the plant.\n\nThe government only seems to be considering and testing individual cannabis compounds one at a time. Marijuana has so many different compounds and strains that with the government’s current stance, it’s hard to imagine whole cannabis receiving a general stamp of approval.\n\nCBD got FDA approval because it’s an isolated extract that’s been thoroughly studied and tested. It underwent even more testing during the development of Epidiolex, and the drug will meet strict manufacturing standards. \n\nIn fact, Gottlieb warns against other cannabis-based medications making similar claims without this kind of disciplined development: “We’ll continue to support rigorous scientific research on the potential medical uses of marijuana-derived products and work with product developers who are interested in bringing patients safe and effective, high-quality products. But, at the same time, we are prepared to take action when we see the illegal marketing of CBD-containing products with serious, unproven medical claims.”\n\nIt’s worth noting that once given the final go-ahead, Epidiolex will be treated like a traditional pharmaceutical. It will be available through licensed pharmacies, but not at dispensaries where many people currently get their medical marijuana. \n\n### Exploring New Medical Applications of Cannabis \n\nCaution aside, researchers are keen to explore the medical uses of CBD, as well as the potential of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and the other 400 or so compounds found in cannabis. There’s already a growing library of research that shows CBD’s potential in treating:\n\n* [Pain](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5ae222cb049b4f000a64e8eb/how-cbd-can-help-relieve-endometriosis-pain) \n* [Parkinson’s disease](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a1c9b13eea891000897e271/marijuanas-role-in-helping-parkinsons-disease-patients)\n* [Multiple sclerosis](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5936cf68a81c05002adae2f7/new-studies-indicate-cannabis-helps-with-multiple-sclerosis)\n* [Tourette’s syndrome](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59e53141d652260aa3917b7d/studies-show-cannabis-may-help-with-tourette-syndrome)\n* [Glaucoma](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5acd032ff24d1300077ccbc8/how-does-cannabis-affect-your-eyes)\n* [Schizophrenia](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/596d4c6768ca41512d3fe146/cbd-helps-alleviate-symptoms-of-schizophrenia)\n* [Inflammation](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5abeac04f24d1300077ccbae/how-cannabis-can-help-ease-arthritis-pain-and-inflammation)\n* [Anxiety]( https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a99f400f24d1300077ccb72/finding-success-with-cannabis-to-reduce-anxiety) \n\nThe list of potential applications for diseases and conditions is nearly endless.\n\nFor its part, GW Pharmaceuticals has also [developed a new CBD-based nasal spray, Sativex, that relieves pain and has been approved by the British government](http://www.businessinsider.com/what-is-cbd-in-marijuana-2018-2).\n\n“Advancing sound development programs that properly evaluate active ingredients contained in marijuana can lead to important medical therapies,” says Gottlieb.\n\n### Not All CBD Medications Are Created Equal\n\n“Sound development” is the key here. Gottlieb and other medical experts warn that not all CBD-based medications are created equal. \n\nIn states where cannabis is legal, or in ones that have laws legalizing CBD only, CBD-infused oils and salves are sold through dispensaries. A 2017 study published in the _Journal of the American Medical Association_ found that [the levels of CBD contained in products from 31 different sellers were often different than the amounts shown on labels](https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/2661569). And in some cases THC was present, even though it wasn’t listed.\n\nThat said, you can’t put the genie back in the bottle. The testimony of people who have successfully used non-prescription CBD to treat childhood epilepsy and other conditions is hard to ignore. And given the choice between paying to go see a doctor for an expensive prescription or getting CBD from their usual supplier, people will often go with what they know and trust. Hopefully, Epidiolex is just the beginning of regulated, effective CBD medicine that will be made available to those who need it. \n\nPhoto credit: [Annie Spratt](https://unsplash.com/@anniespratt)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/c41316ddb83ad71f6afa997fe85218ea/14b42/7a2086394acad1ffab0c9a3bbb00cdd8.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c41316ddb83ad71f6afa997fe85218ea/f836f/7a2086394acad1ffab0c9a3bbb00cdd8.jpg 200w,\n/static/c41316ddb83ad71f6afa997fe85218ea/2244e/7a2086394acad1ffab0c9a3bbb00cdd8.jpg 400w,\n/static/c41316ddb83ad71f6afa997fe85218ea/14b42/7a2086394acad1ffab0c9a3bbb00cdd8.jpg 800w,\n/static/c41316ddb83ad71f6afa997fe85218ea/47498/7a2086394acad1ffab0c9a3bbb00cdd8.jpg 1200w,\n/static/c41316ddb83ad71f6afa997fe85218ea/0e329/7a2086394acad1ffab0c9a3bbb00cdd8.jpg 1600w,\n/static/c41316ddb83ad71f6afa997fe85218ea/e0e30/7a2086394acad1ffab0c9a3bbb00cdd8.jpg 3660w","srcWebp":"/static/c41316ddb83ad71f6afa997fe85218ea/58556/7a2086394acad1ffab0c9a3bbb00cdd8.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c41316ddb83ad71f6afa997fe85218ea/61e93/7a2086394acad1ffab0c9a3bbb00cdd8.webp 200w,\n/static/c41316ddb83ad71f6afa997fe85218ea/1f5c5/7a2086394acad1ffab0c9a3bbb00cdd8.webp 400w,\n/static/c41316ddb83ad71f6afa997fe85218ea/58556/7a2086394acad1ffab0c9a3bbb00cdd8.webp 800w,\n/static/c41316ddb83ad71f6afa997fe85218ea/99238/7a2086394acad1ffab0c9a3bbb00cdd8.webp 1200w,\n/static/c41316ddb83ad71f6afa997fe85218ea/7c22d/7a2086394acad1ffab0c9a3bbb00cdd8.webp 1600w,\n/static/c41316ddb83ad71f6afa997fe85218ea/46196/7a2086394acad1ffab0c9a3bbb00cdd8.webp 3660w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2729-markdown","title":"Controlling Epilepsy With Cannabis & the Keto Diet","slug":"controlling-epilepsy-with-cannabis-and-the-keto-diet","content":"In early 2018, Illinois sixth-grader Ashley Surin won a major legal victory: [the right to have access to medical marijuana at school](http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/ct-met-suburban-student-medical-marijuana-hearing-20180112-story.html). The middle schooler had been suffering daily seizures since undergoing treatment for leukemia. And standard antiseizure medications hadn’t worked well for her. \n\nBut Ashley’s parents say that since starting a regimen of cannabis drops combined with the ultra-restrictive ketogenic diet, her seizures have dwindled to about one a month. Research reveals that for people like Ashley, marijuana and the keto diet may be better at controlling severe seizures than mainstream pharmaceuticals are. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### What Causes Seizures?\n\nSeizures can have a variety of causes, and people of any age can experience just one or many seizures. Common conditions that can contribute to seizures include: \n\n* Abnormal levels of sodium (salt) or glucose (sugar) in the blood\n* Congenital brain defects that predispose a person to lifelong seizures\n* Head injuries\n* High fevers\n* Stroke\n* Very high blood pressure\n* Toxin accumulation in the bloodstream\n* Withdrawal from alcohol or drug use—including some prescription drugs\n\nEpilepsy is the term used for a variety of disorders that are characterized by recurring seizures. Epileptic seizures can range from very minor episodes that cause symptoms like sudden blinking, all the way to the very debilitating grand mal seizures that have a severe impact on all aspects of a person’s life.\n\nIn all of these cases, [seizures have a common cause: abnormal electrical signaling in the brain](https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003200.htm), particularly the hippocampus. A number of medications have been developed to control seizures and stop the disruption of electrical impulses within the brain. But these medications can have serious side effects, and in some cases, they simply don’t work. \n\nRELATED: [EPILEPSY RELIEF POSSIBLE THROUGH MEDICAL CANNABIS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55c28a2c65663200065c0000/epilepsy-relief-possible-through-medical-cannabis)\n\n### The Ketogenic Diet Protects the Brain\n\nIn the early 1930s, doctors noted that fasting—extended periods without food— could reduce seizure activity. Until the widespread development of today’s antiseizure medications, diet was widely used to treat epilepsy.\n\nNow, research supports these early protocols. There’s evidence that the ketogenic diet—a highly restrictive diet that gets most of its calories from fat—[can reduce the incidence of seizures in children by at least half](https://www.epilepsy.com/learn/treating-seizures-and-epilepsy/dietary-therapies/ketogenic-diet). The keto diet also has benefits for adults with epilepsy.\n\n[The keto diet gets its name from the result it produces](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2898565/). Normally, the body gets most of its energy from protein and carbohydrates. The body needs some fats, but the typical “healthy” diet usually restricts them, especially the saturated fats that come from animal products.\n\nBut the ketogenic diet turns these recommendations upside down. For those following the diet, 90% of their calories come from saturated and other kinds of “unhealthy” fats. Carbohydrates are virtually nonexistent on the keto diet.\n\nWhen the body burns fat for energy, it produces molecules called ketone bodies. It’s these bodies that hold the key to the antiseizure properties of the ketogenic diet. Research on the antiseizure effects of ketones suggests that [ketone bodies can increase the number of mitochondria in the brain’s hippocampus](https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2005/11/051114220938.htm). Mitochondria are responsible for energy production on a cellular level. And increasing energy output in the hippocampus appears to help stabilize neurons and strengthen neural pathways. In this way, the brain can better withstand episodes of abnormal electrical activity that are associated with seizures.\n\n### Cannabis Supports the Brain’s Own Seizure Control\n\nThe cannabis compound responsible for supporting seizure control in the brain appears to be cannabidiol (CBD). Some studies indicate that the psychoactive compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) can actually stimulate seizure activity, especially in people who already have a seizure disorder. But CBD has a long list of properties that support cellular and neural health throughout the body. \n\nResearch has revealed that CBD:\n\n* Can be a powerful neuroprotectant that can help preserve brain cells even in cases of head trauma and stroke\n* [Supports endogenous, or natural, brain chemicals that inhibit seizure activity](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5767492/)\n* Increases the production of gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA, a powerful inhibitory neurotransmitter that suppresses seizure activity \n* [Supports the production of adenosine](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3577085/), a natural anticonvulsant brain chemical that’s activated by the abnormal electrical activity that marks a seizure\n\nThis research hasn’t been lost on the Federal Drug Administration (FDA), which has cautiously granted approval to a distillate of pure CBD oil called Epidiolex. This is meant as a last resort when all other treatments fail. \n\nLooking at all of this data, it’s no wonder that epilepsy patients turn to both cannabis and the keto diet to help treat their seizures. With the keto diet, the ketones produced kick-start a process that raises energy in the hippocampus, stabilizing the brain and neural pathways. Meanwhile, cannabis supports other chemicals that inhibit seizures and supports good cell health.\n\nFor epilepsy patients who consume cannabis and a keto diet, it means they’re taking a two-pronged treatment approach: altering body chemistry to protect the brain and supporting the brain’s own defenses against seizures. \n\n### Standard Epilepsy Medications Can Reduce Seizures\n\nThat said, standard medical treatments for epilepsy such as [antiseizure drugs also appear to work well](https://www.epilepsysociety.org.uk/how-anti-epileptic-drugs-work#.WyVvHhJKi_U). These medications usually:\n\n* Target the various pathways that regulate energy\n* Affect transmission between neurons\n* Boost the activity of natural anticonvulsants like GABA\n\nSimilar to cannabis and the ketogenic diet, these drugs affect the same mechanisms that trigger—or inhibit—seizures. But these medications can have severe side effects, and for many epilepsy patients, they aren’t effective. For these individuals and others like Ashley, nonpharmaceutical alternatives like cannabis and the ketogenic diet offer a different route to the same result: fewer seizures and better health.\n\nPhoto credit: [Markus Spiske](https://unsplash.com/@markusspiske)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/89bf8ecb95a86cda3fee22d727203ffe/14b42/2abd77b26a0c768f9252709eb9c67b18.jpg","srcSet":"/static/89bf8ecb95a86cda3fee22d727203ffe/f836f/2abd77b26a0c768f9252709eb9c67b18.jpg 200w,\n/static/89bf8ecb95a86cda3fee22d727203ffe/2244e/2abd77b26a0c768f9252709eb9c67b18.jpg 400w,\n/static/89bf8ecb95a86cda3fee22d727203ffe/14b42/2abd77b26a0c768f9252709eb9c67b18.jpg 800w,\n/static/89bf8ecb95a86cda3fee22d727203ffe/47498/2abd77b26a0c768f9252709eb9c67b18.jpg 1200w,\n/static/89bf8ecb95a86cda3fee22d727203ffe/0e329/2abd77b26a0c768f9252709eb9c67b18.jpg 1600w,\n/static/89bf8ecb95a86cda3fee22d727203ffe/43576/2abd77b26a0c768f9252709eb9c67b18.jpg 3653w","srcWebp":"/static/89bf8ecb95a86cda3fee22d727203ffe/58556/2abd77b26a0c768f9252709eb9c67b18.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/89bf8ecb95a86cda3fee22d727203ffe/61e93/2abd77b26a0c768f9252709eb9c67b18.webp 200w,\n/static/89bf8ecb95a86cda3fee22d727203ffe/1f5c5/2abd77b26a0c768f9252709eb9c67b18.webp 400w,\n/static/89bf8ecb95a86cda3fee22d727203ffe/58556/2abd77b26a0c768f9252709eb9c67b18.webp 800w,\n/static/89bf8ecb95a86cda3fee22d727203ffe/99238/2abd77b26a0c768f9252709eb9c67b18.webp 1200w,\n/static/89bf8ecb95a86cda3fee22d727203ffe/7c22d/2abd77b26a0c768f9252709eb9c67b18.webp 1600w,\n/static/89bf8ecb95a86cda3fee22d727203ffe/35449/2abd77b26a0c768f9252709eb9c67b18.webp 3653w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2614-markdown","title":"Cannabis: A Better Alternative to Benzodiazepines","slug":"cannabis-a-better-alternative-to-benzodiazepines","content":"While the opioid epidemic has been grabbing headlines nationwide for its staggering impact on lives and productivity, [prescriptions of benzodiazepines, another class of potent drugs, have also been soaring](https://psychnews.psychiatryonline.org/doi/full/10.1176/appi.pn.2016.PP3b2?code=psychnews-site). Between 1996 and 2013, the number of adults filling a prescription for some type of benzodiazepine, or benzo, jumped by 67%. These powerful medications for anxiety, insomnia and a number of other conditions are implicated in roughly 8,000 overdose deaths a year. But just as it does for opioids, cannabis could be an exit drug out of benzodiazepine dependency and abuse, because of its ability to affect the same neural pathways in the brain.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### What Are Benzodiazepines?\n\nBenzodiazepines are a large [class of lab-synthesized drugs](https://www.rxlist.com/benzodiazepines/drugs-condition.htm) that includes:\n\n* Diazepam (Valium) \n* Lorazepam (Ativan) \n* Clonazepam (Klonopin)\n* Alprazolam (Xanax)\n\nThese [medications are widely prescribed](https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/demystifying-psychiatry/201505/how-many-people-take-benzodiazepines) for conditions such as:\n\n* Anxiety \n* Insomnia \n* Nervousness \n* Panic disorders \n* Seizures \n* Muscle spasms \n\nSometimes they’re also used for sedation during surgery, and to treat premenstrual syndrome and the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. \n\n### The Many, Sometimes Deadly Side Effects of Benzodiazepines\n\nLike opioids, benzodiazepines are intended largely for short-term use, because they act relatively quickly. This means they’re prescribed for acute situations, such as calming a patient before a surgical procedure or easing the anxiety of a traveler before a flight. But also, similar to opioids, these drugs are frequently prescribed for long periods of time, which can lead to a number of serious side effects and addiction. \n\nBenzodiazepines alone are only rarely responsible for overdose deaths. But because they depress the central nervous system, which controls respiration, heart rate and other autonomous functions, they can contribute to death by overdose when they’re taken along with other kinds of central nervous system depressants such as alcohol or opioids.  \n\nThough they’re not likely to be fatal, these drugs do have a long list of side effects. The more minor of these include:\n\n* Dizziness\n* Confusion\n* Problems with memory and concentration\n* Gastrointestinal problems\n* Poor balance\n* Fatigue \n\nBut serious effects can also occur, such as:\n\n* Jaundice\n* Severe low blood pressure\n* Elevated heart rate\n* Musculoskeletal problems\n* Cognitive decline and dementia (especially in older people who take them for long periods of time)\n\n### How Do Benzodiazepines Work?\n\nScience still hasn’t clearly established the exact reasons benzodiazepines work, but recent research points to their ability to affect a network of receptors in the brain related to the body’s production and use of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), an amino acid that inhibits the transmission of nerve impulses in the central nervous system. Because GABA slows neural activity, and benzodiazepines have been shown to enhance the effects of GABA, this relationship appears to account for benzos’ calming, slowing effects that reduce anxiety and promote sleep and muscle relaxation. \n\nMalfunctions in the GABA receptor system seem to play a role in a number of psychological and neurological conditions such as:\n\n* Anxiety\n* Panic\n* Insomnia\n* Epilepsy\n\nSome research suggests that schizophrenia and other psychoses might be related to GABA deficiency. Though GABA receptors are found in many areas of the brain, they’re especially prevalent in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus and amygdala, areas related to managing emotion, cognition and coordination.  \n\nBenzodiazepines can bind to GABA receptors to boost their inhibitory activity. But so can cannabis—and the relationship between the GABA receptor system and the body’s large network of endocannabinoid receptors reveals why cannabis products can be safe and effective alternatives to benzodiazepines for just about every condition these drugs are used to treat.\n\n### The Cannabis/GABA Connection\n\nEndocannabinoid receptors are found in organs and tissue throughout the body, binding both to cannabinoids produced internally and to those from outside sources such as spices and cannabis. The [cannabinoid receptor CB1 occurs widely in the \nbrain](http://www.jneurosci.org/content/21/23/9506?utm_source=TrendMD&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=JNeurosci_TrendMD_0), especially in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus and amygdala—areas that are also rich in GABA receptors.  \n\n[Anandamide](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a949d06f24d1300077ccb66/eating-anandamide-the-bliss-molecule) and 2-AG, the body’s natural cannabinoids, also promote feelings of calm and relaxation—and recent research indicates that [they can affect processes\nthat reduce the release of GABA](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs00213-017-4648-z), just as benzodiazepines do. And because cannabinoids from cannabis, particularly cannabidiol (CBD), bind to the same receptors as natural cannabinoids do, they support those processes, too. \n\n### Cannabis Offers Benzo Benefits—Without the Risks\n\nCannabis products of all kinds, especially those high in CBD, can be effective—and far safer—alternatives for benzodiazepines. Although endocannabinoid receptors are found in relatively large numbers in many areas of the brain, they’re notably absent in the brainstem—unlike receptors for both opioids and GABA. For that reason, cannabis is extremely unlikely to cause or contribute to an overdose death.   \n\nRELATED: [TOP 10 HIGH-CBD MARIJUANA STRAINS FOR ANXIETY](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/57f2b7f12b1e99000a671ac3/top-10-high-cbd-marijuana-strains-for-anxiety)\n\nWhen used for long periods of time, benzodiazepines can override the body’s own expression of GABA. These medications can become addictive, and when stopped, they can trigger a series of potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms. The risk of benzodiazepine addiction is so high that a majority of drug rehab programs now include treatment for them alongside protocols for opioids and other kinds of drugs.\n\nBut stopping cannabis causes few, if any, physical withdrawal symptoms. And because cannabis affects all of the functions of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), it brings with it other positive effects such as immune system support and relief from pain and the symptoms of a long list of health conditions.\n\nRecent research on cannabis as a substitute for prescription medications reveals that an [overwhelming majority of cannabis consumers were able to reduce or stop using not only opioids, but also other medications](https://arstechnica.com/science/2017/06/survey-pain-patients-overwhelmingly-prefer-medical-marijuana-over-opioids) including benzodiazepines, by using cannabis. \n\nThe documented benefits of cannabis include relief from anxiety, insomnia and depression, as well as the symptoms of epilepsy and other disorders that are currently treated with benzodiazepines. In all its forms, cannabis works with the brain’s GABA pathways just as benzos do—and it just might be an exit drug from this burgeoning addiction epidemic, too.\n\nPhoto credit: [Thought Catalog](https://unsplash.com/@thoughtcatalog)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/14b42/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/f836f/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.jpg 200w,\n/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/2244e/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.jpg 400w,\n/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/14b42/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.jpg 800w,\n/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/47498/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.jpg 1200w,\n/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/0e329/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.jpg 1600w,\n/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/0cde8/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.jpg 3671w","srcWebp":"/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/58556/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/61e93/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.webp 200w,\n/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/1f5c5/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.webp 400w,\n/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/58556/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.webp 800w,\n/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/99238/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.webp 1200w,\n/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/7c22d/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.webp 1600w,\n/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/2bed0/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.webp 3671w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2193-markdown","title":"New Study Proves Efficacy of CBD for Children’s Epilepsy","slug":"new-study-proves-efficacy-of-cbd-for-childrens-epilepsy","content":"### Medical Cannabis & Epilepsy\r\n\r\nProviding children with epilepsy accessibility to medical cannabis, particularly high CBD varieties, has often been a rallying cry to make medical cannabis legal in many states. Children with epilepsy have anecdotally responded very well to CBD treatment, which even spawned the creation of the famous cannabis strain Charlotte’s Web. Charlotte’s Web was created for a young Colorado girl named Charlotte who found a great reduction in seizures after using CBD products. The young girl and her family were featured on [Sanjay Gupta’s Weed](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-SZzgfyXhJI), a CNN mini series on medical marijuana, which exposed many Americans, for the first time, to the modern day science behind medicinal cannabis. \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\nIn a recent case, [Mark Zartler](https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2017/02/28/there-is-no-other-medicine-texas-father-breaks-law-to-treat-self-harming-autistic-daughter-with-marijuana/?utm_term=.92cdb628d655), a father from Texas admitted to illegally buying cannabis in order to provide his daughter with relief from her severe epilepsy. His admission was part of a plea for the legalization of medical cannabis in Texas, so his daughter and other children could have reliable access to treatment in the form of medical cannabis. Zartler, who’s daughter has suffered from severe epilepsy almost her whole life, has found that no treatment has work as effectively as cannabis has to help his daughter. A new [study out of the New England Journal of Medicine](http://www.thecannifornian.com/cannabis-health/research-studies/marijuana-extract-helps-kids-epilepsy-study-says/) has provided more evidence, in the form of a formal clinical trial, for how much cannabis can help children with epilepsy. \r\n\r\n###  CBD Proves Most Effective\r\n\r\nThe new study found that children who took a liquid form of CBD saw an average of a 39% decrease in seizures. The study was a double blind randomized placebo controlled trial that tested the efficacy of Epidolex, a liquid CBD medication created by the British company GW Pharmaceuticals. The patients featured in the study all have Dravets Syndrome, a severe form of epilepsy that is often associated with developmental issues. Many children with Dravets Syndrome do not find relief through typical anti-seizure medications. The study included 120 participants from ages two to eighteen who lived in the United States and Europe. The patients who participated in the study experienced between 4 and 1,717 seizures in a month before receiving treatment. \r\n\r\nThe patients either received a placebo or a dose of Epidolex, in association with their normal anti-seizure medications. Patients who received Epidolex saw an average of a 39% decrease in their seizures over the course of the study, compared to the placebo group who saw no change. Most of the active medication group did see some mild side effects, like fatigue, stomach discomfort and sleep problems. CBD, in most of the participants, had similar effects to other anti-seizure medications. \r\n\r\nThe study is based in a long record of using cannabis to aid people with epilepsy. There are even a few historical mentions of cannabis being used to help treat epilepsy. There is evidence that cannabis was used in Sumeria in 1000 BC to treat epilepsy and it was also used in the Victorian era as a treatment for epilepsy in Europe. Dr. Orrin Devinsky, lead author of the study and director of NYU Langone's Comprehensive Epilepsy Center [said about the study](http://www.cnn.com/2017/05/24/health/cannabidiol-epilepsy-study/), \"After 3,800 years of cannabis use for epilepsy ... we finally have solid evidence..CBD is an effective drug for this type of rare epilepsy but was not a panacea (or cure-all) for these children.” This study provides a true clinical trial that points to the benefits of cannabis for children with epilepsy, though the evidence is still relatively preliminary.\r\n\r\n### Synthetic Cannabinoids\r\n\r\nThe medication used in the trial, Epidolex, was created by GW Pharmaceuticals, a British company on the cutting edge of cannabinoid therapies. This is the same company that created Sativex, a leading drug for multiple sclerosis that has been approved for use in 29 countries. The company conducts large amounts of cannabis research and focuses on isolating cannabinoids, rather than whole plant cannabis treatment. Their products, however, are made to be prescribed in a traditional setting, rather than distributed in a dispensary. \r\n\r\nThough the company has branch of operations within the United States, their products are not currently available within the country. Dr. Brenda Porter, an associate professor of neurology at the Stanford School of Medicine, who was not a researcher in the study, has said about the legality of the treatment option, \"Hopefully, the FDA will see this as a sign it should be moved off of Schedule I. If it stays on Schedule I, we will have trouble getting it to our patients when it does become available.” The potential for prescription cannabis to be available in a regular pharmacy could make it more appealing to the FDA as an option for legalization and in turn, the continued normalization of cannabis related treatments. \r\n\r\nMany families have found themselves moving to states with legal cannabis to provide their children with relief. [The Epilepsy Foundation of Colorado](https://www.epilepsycolorado.org/news-research/medical-marijuana/) supports access of cannabis for children with epilepsy, making it a location that many people look to bring their children to find relief. A changing in the classification of cannabis on a federal level, however, could make products like Epidolex available to people across the United States and would not limit children from relief based on their physical location. \r\n\r\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/382e3440abfda9bc0748154bf1f4da74/14b42/9dba12cd45dc72e27f666de055f555a2.jpg","srcSet":"/static/382e3440abfda9bc0748154bf1f4da74/f836f/9dba12cd45dc72e27f666de055f555a2.jpg 200w,\n/static/382e3440abfda9bc0748154bf1f4da74/2244e/9dba12cd45dc72e27f666de055f555a2.jpg 400w,\n/static/382e3440abfda9bc0748154bf1f4da74/14b42/9dba12cd45dc72e27f666de055f555a2.jpg 800w,\n/static/382e3440abfda9bc0748154bf1f4da74/47498/9dba12cd45dc72e27f666de055f555a2.jpg 1200w,\n/static/382e3440abfda9bc0748154bf1f4da74/54ac5/9dba12cd45dc72e27f666de055f555a2.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/382e3440abfda9bc0748154bf1f4da74/58556/9dba12cd45dc72e27f666de055f555a2.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/382e3440abfda9bc0748154bf1f4da74/61e93/9dba12cd45dc72e27f666de055f555a2.webp 200w,\n/static/382e3440abfda9bc0748154bf1f4da74/1f5c5/9dba12cd45dc72e27f666de055f555a2.webp 400w,\n/static/382e3440abfda9bc0748154bf1f4da74/58556/9dba12cd45dc72e27f666de055f555a2.webp 800w,\n/static/382e3440abfda9bc0748154bf1f4da74/99238/9dba12cd45dc72e27f666de055f555a2.webp 1200w,\n/static/382e3440abfda9bc0748154bf1f4da74/5e0b8/9dba12cd45dc72e27f666de055f555a2.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2042-markdown","title":"Cannabis as a Sleep Aid for Insomnia: An Interview with Pianta Tinta","slug":"cannabis-as-a-sleep-aid-for-insomnia-an-interview-with-pianta-tinta","content":"Due its lack of psychoactivity and for its ability to effectively treat a variety of medical conditions, CBD (Cannabidiol) is the rising star among the cannabis plant’s cannabinoids. [Pianta Tinta Collective](http://www.piantacbd.com/), a new manufacturer within the cannabis marketplace, focuses on high CBD tinctures, oils and rubs ‘to enable others to live a higher quality of life.’ Their tinctures target [insomnia](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55e5c6573236300006350000/medical-marijuana-could-help-insomniacs-sleep-better) and chronic pain as well as other common conditions people often face. Co-founders Elizabeth Knight and Dr. Kathy Acquistapace feel they have found their niche with a more medically oriented customer base and pride themselves on ongoing customer consultations with Dr. Acquistapace, the in-house Naturopath. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_/?hl=en) \n\nPianta Tinta is also representative of the booming artisanal marketplace within California. Smaller product manufacturers often focus on sourcing the highest quality outdoor grown cannabis for unique offerings, such as CBD tinctures, that may or may not be found in your local dispensary. Elizabeth Knight took time to speak to us about Pianta Tinta and the growth of their business over the past year.\n\n**What was the inspiration for starting Pianta Tinta?**\n\nPianta Tinta means ‘plant tincture’ in Italian. We chose that name because we focus on the cannabis plant as well as more natural modalities of healing. We founded our business based on Dr. Kathy Acquistapace’s research on CBD and the newly found applications for it as a medicine. \n\nAs a naturopath, Dr. Acquistapace was looking for more alternative natural medicines for her patient base. As she learned more and more about CBD, we became excited about the possibilities but also became aware of the lack of CBD alternatives in the market, especially within dispensaries. \n\nAs a business, we were most interested in entering the cannabis marketplace with products that were high CBD and very low THC. When you visit a dispensary as a first time medicinal marijuana patient, it is not that easy to find high CBD products. When a senior citizen enters a dispensary today they will most likely be presented with products that are very high in THC. Even a 1:1 ratio of CBD to THC may be too much THC for a first time cannabis patient. Ultimately, we decided to make tinctures as this is a very easy way to ingest cannabis. \n\n**What high CBD cannabis strain do you favor for your product lines?**\n\nWe work with ACDC as our favored strain. It is a hybrid strain that is bred to have very high CBD content and very low THC content. It is not the easiest strain to grow but we think it works very well for the high CBD products that we produce. Our grower grows the ACDC strain outdoors, in organic soil; he uses grow pots without the use of pesticides/fungicides which we feel is very important. \n\nWe also test our products at [Steep Hill Halent](http://steephill.com/) and [CW Analytical labs](http://www.cwanalytical.com/). We first test the ACDC flower to know the cannabinoid ratios, the terpene profiles and to make sure it is free of any microbes, fungus or molds. After we go through making the tinctures we test again to get the final cannabinoid content, which is what we print on our labels. We strive to represent our product as accurately as possible.\n\n**Other than the ACDC flower, what other ingredients do you put within your cannabis tinctures?**\n\nOur tinctures are very straightforward. All of our labels list the ingredients, which include the ACDC flower/leaves and ethyl alcohol. We do not flavor or put any additional chemicals in our products. We pride ourselves on providing our customers with very ‘clean’ products.\n\n**Are you targeting a particular segment of the population with your product line?**\n\nThe people we want to reach represent a wide range of ages and demographics. We believe that we are able to reach these people because our products positively address a wide variety of symptoms that affect almost all age groups. We often find that senior citizens are looking for alternatives from a regime that is far too heavy with opioids, so they are open to trying cannabis as an alternative. We see that younger people are far too stressed out and can use some anxiety relief, which CBD is also good for. Our products are for anyone who is seeking to use marijuana medicinally, and to receive the benefit from CBD.\n\n**Do your products target specific medical conditions?** \n\nWe are not able to make claims as we do not have any clinical studies to back these up. However, anecdotally we have seen great success across a variety of conditions including adults with seizure disorders. For instance, we had a patient, a man in his fifties, who was having 4-6 seizures a month, and since taking our Super High CBD tincture he has had a total of 5 seizures since January. That is a huge reduction of seizures and in addition he was able to drop many of his pharmaceutical medications. \n\nWe have also seen a lot of people who have [chronic pain](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/562150d03232620006450000/top-14-marijuana-strains-for-different-kinds-of-pain), whether that be arthritis, pain from previous injuries, general inflammation, etc. This topic of pain covers a wide swath of medical conditions and can encompass so much, but we have found that many people have found relief with our Super High CBD product. We also have members of our collective with cancer who have added our Super High CBD as well as our High THC tincture and oil to their treatment regime.\n\nSince virtually all pharmaceutical products carry unwanted side effects, CBD offers the alternative of providing the positive benefits without the negative side effects.\n\n**On your website, I see that you are promoting a new high THC tincture for sleep. Is this tincture good for treating [insomnia](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55e5c6573236300006350000/medical-marijuana-could-help-insomniacs-sleep-better)?**\n\nWe recently produced a high THC tincture that we feel is particularly good at relieving insomnia. As we all know, insomnia can be difficult to overcome. Not everyone has insomnia for the same reasons. For instance, one person may not be sleeping because they have pain related to inflammation. If you bring the inflammation down with a high CBD product, they may be able to get a good night’s sleep every night. In other instances, a high THC tincture will help relax a person who struggles to get to sleep and also help them to stay asleep longer. \n\nOur newest tincture contains a high percentage of THC and almost no CBD. THC tends to relax people, however everyone is different. Some people find that CBD may relax them and others may find that a combination of THC and CBD may be best for them. As we are all unique, we recommend that people try our new high THC tincture for their sleep issues and see if their sleep improves. Some people may find that it works well and others may find that adding CBD to the THC may work best for them. We suggest that a person starts with a small amount before bedtime and keep a sleep log. This way, they can find what works best for them based on their own body.\n\n**You offer members of your collective consultations with your in-house Naturopath. What should a patient expect to gain from a consultation?**\n\nDr. Acquistapace is our Naturopath. She has over 25 years of healthcare experience and her focus is on alternative and natural healing. She works with people who are wanting to reach their highest level of heath and explains to them how Pianta Tinta tinctures can be a part of their health plan.  At Pianta Tinta, she often works with people, many first timers to marijuana, to better understand cannabis and how to integrate it into their lives. She is also available to answer more general health questions as well.\n\nPeople are often overwhelmed by the amount of information they are given, especially those new to cannabis, so Dr. Acquistapace is there to help guide and consult with people along the way. Our customer base is often looking for answers and wondering how medical marijuana interacts with their body and possibly with their existing medications. [Dr. Acquistapace consults in 15-minute increments](http://www.piantacbd.com/consultations/) over the phone, over Skype and in-person. We want to be flexible based on the patients needs.\n\n**What general advice would you give to people that are new to cannabis?**\n\nRead your labels!  A lot of products are mislabeled or misrepresent the medicine. This is especially true for many of the high CBD hemp-based products that are sold over the internet. Hemp is different from cannabis and the products made from it is sourced differently as well. Make sure that the products are lab tested and make sure you know how much of the medicinal cannabinoids CBD and THC is in the products. Ratios are popular but it does not tell you specifically how much cannabinoids are actually in the product. It is important to educate yourself or consult with someone who can give quality advice before ingesting your medicine. Also read the label for any additional harmful or unnecessary ingredients such as residual solvents like, butane, naphtha, isopropyl alcohol, propylene glycol, dyes, artificial flavoring and fragrances.\n\n**How do you people find Pianta Tinta Tinctures?**\n\nWe do not currently sell through storefront dispensaries. We have chosen to be a collective and produce and manufacture our own cannabis tinctures for our members. We are located in Vallejo and people pick up their products from us directly by [appointment only](http://www.piantacbd.com/contact/). Before seeing us you will need to obtain your medical marijuana recommendation, which you can do through [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/). To obtain our products you must first go online to the [Pianta Tinta](http://www.piantacbd.com/membership/) website and fill out our short membership form, which requires a valid medical marijuana recommendation and photo ID. You can contact us to schedule an appointment or we are also able to deliver for a small additional fee. \n\n\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/da1f7390a43833ca5da353d0f2babe7b/ee604/72cc47d427e475f7a5041838f91e1d4b.png","srcSet":"/static/da1f7390a43833ca5da353d0f2babe7b/69585/72cc47d427e475f7a5041838f91e1d4b.png 200w,\n/static/da1f7390a43833ca5da353d0f2babe7b/497c6/72cc47d427e475f7a5041838f91e1d4b.png 400w,\n/static/da1f7390a43833ca5da353d0f2babe7b/ee604/72cc47d427e475f7a5041838f91e1d4b.png 800w,\n/static/da1f7390a43833ca5da353d0f2babe7b/f3583/72cc47d427e475f7a5041838f91e1d4b.png 1200w,\n/static/da1f7390a43833ca5da353d0f2babe7b/f90fa/72cc47d427e475f7a5041838f91e1d4b.png 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/da1f7390a43833ca5da353d0f2babe7b/58556/72cc47d427e475f7a5041838f91e1d4b.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/da1f7390a43833ca5da353d0f2babe7b/61e93/72cc47d427e475f7a5041838f91e1d4b.webp 200w,\n/static/da1f7390a43833ca5da353d0f2babe7b/1f5c5/72cc47d427e475f7a5041838f91e1d4b.webp 400w,\n/static/da1f7390a43833ca5da353d0f2babe7b/58556/72cc47d427e475f7a5041838f91e1d4b.webp 800w,\n/static/da1f7390a43833ca5da353d0f2babe7b/99238/72cc47d427e475f7a5041838f91e1d4b.webp 1200w,\n/static/da1f7390a43833ca5da353d0f2babe7b/5e0b8/72cc47d427e475f7a5041838f91e1d4b.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1940-markdown","title":"Epilepsy Relief Possible Through Medical Cannabis","slug":"epilepsy-relief-possible-through-medical-cannabis","content":"As many as three million Americans experience epileptic seizures each\r\nyear, a noteworthy portion of the population. Epileptic seizures happen\r\nwhen abnormal electrical activity occurs in the brain. The seizures that\r\nresult can fall into\r\n[categories](http://www.webmd.com/epilepsy/guide/types-of-seizures-their-symptoms),\r\nincluding:\r\n\r\n-   **Grand Mal or Tonic/Clonic --** feature convulsions, collapse and\r\n    sometimes loss of consciousness. This is the type most people\r\n    imagine when they think of seizures.\r\n-   **Tonic** -- known for muscles suddenly stiffening and potentially\r\n    remaining stiffened for a long time\r\n-   **Clonic --** characterized by jerking motions outside of patient\r\n    control\r\n-   **Myoclonic --** a milder form of clonic seizures with more\r\n    intermittent jerking motions\r\n-   **Atonic** -- recognizable in epilepsy patients who lose all muscle\r\n    tone at the start of a seizure and essential become rag dolls for\r\n    the duration of the seizure\r\n-   **Absence --** identifiable as seizures that cause a short loss of\r\n    consciousness absent of any other cause\r\n\r\nEpilepsy sufferers may also experience seizures that are a mix of\r\nvarious types or are partial -- not as severe or as long-lasting.\r\nEpilepsy is a major disruptor of life, particularly when traditional\r\nmedication fails to prevent or reduce the frequency of seizures.\r\nSeizures can lead to terrible injury or even death should they disrupt\r\nnormal bodily function and activity during certain activities, including\r\nmanual labor or driving a vehicle.\r\n\r\nHope on the Horizon\r\n-------------------\r\n\r\nMedical cannabis may bring relief to epilepsy patients who have not been\r\nadequately treated by traditional medications or who suffer from\r\nintractable forms of seizures. In [study\r\nresults](http://nyulangone.org/press-releases/medical-marijuana-extract-curbs-seizure-frequency-in-early-trial-of-epilepsy-patients)\r\nreleased for presentation at the 2015 American Academy of Neurology\r\nannual meeting, patients who took liquid forms of cannabidiol (CBD)\r\nmarijuana experienced unprecedented improvement.\r\n\r\nThe study, conducted at NYU's Langone Medical Center, looked at patients\r\nsuffering from the most severe forms of epilepsy, including\r\nLennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome. Among study participants\r\nwho completed the trial, more than 50 percent had reductions in seizure\r\nfrequency.\r\n\r\nHope Already in Motion\r\n----------------------\r\n\r\nIn [Colorado](http://www.epilepsycolorado.org/index.php?s=10907),\r\ncannabidiol forms of medical marijuana are already in use and helping\r\nmany patients, particularly pediatric epilepsy patients. Known as\r\n\"Charlotte's Web,\" a particular strain of cannabis capitalizes on the\r\nproperties of the plant that help reduce seizure frequency. Charlotte's\r\nWeb has a high concentration of the component called CBD, which does not\r\nresult in psycho-activity when taken, making it safe for consumption by\r\nchildren. The Realm of Caring Foundation, the organization that grows\r\nand distributes this medication -- similar to the formulation used in\r\nthe NYU study -- reports that up to 85 percent of patients experience\r\nseizure frequency reductions. It is worth noting that \"Charlotte's Web\"\r\nis currently only made available to patients who have very severe\r\nepilepsy.\r\n\r\nMedical cannabis, like any other medicinal substance, may not be the\r\nright fit for every patient. It has shown, however, to have an amazing\r\nimpact on epilepsy patients who have found no relief from other\r\ntreatments.\r\n\r\n[Photo Credit.](https://www.flickr.com/photos/claytonfilpo/16967143769/in/photolist-rRk3Hx-rRk1yx-rRjSrk-rbYsHR-s8CE5Y-rRbtrC-rRjDJg-rRbrAo-kn4moA-kn4kss-kn1RJg-kn28hv-kn2RmP-kn2QeD-kn2JuH-5Rf5Zz-rRjwtV-rRcwQS-rRjsYD-s8LCpa-kn3218-kn2X2r-kn4rD5-adUKfH-iPNUa-ae1dgw-adXkAD-ae18pY-ae17c5-adXfYT-ae143f-adXbap-adXa3i-adX81K-adX6ck-adX4Bt-adZRSh-adX1Tp-adWZuF-adWYdk-adWX8a-adZJKs-adZGAJ-adZErd-adWPec-adZANN-adZyoE-adZwcq-adWEUt-adZsYq)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.4285714285714286,"src":"/static/0632e0cd546e1c75f9f6c36e09859bdc/14b42/40c21229c372df3a30f04426ed56d6c3.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0632e0cd546e1c75f9f6c36e09859bdc/f836f/40c21229c372df3a30f04426ed56d6c3.jpg 200w,\n/static/0632e0cd546e1c75f9f6c36e09859bdc/2244e/40c21229c372df3a30f04426ed56d6c3.jpg 400w,\n/static/0632e0cd546e1c75f9f6c36e09859bdc/14b42/40c21229c372df3a30f04426ed56d6c3.jpg 800w,\n/static/0632e0cd546e1c75f9f6c36e09859bdc/47498/40c21229c372df3a30f04426ed56d6c3.jpg 1200w,\n/static/0632e0cd546e1c75f9f6c36e09859bdc/a62a2/40c21229c372df3a30f04426ed56d6c3.jpg 1465w","srcWebp":"/static/0632e0cd546e1c75f9f6c36e09859bdc/58556/40c21229c372df3a30f04426ed56d6c3.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0632e0cd546e1c75f9f6c36e09859bdc/61e93/40c21229c372df3a30f04426ed56d6c3.webp 200w,\n/static/0632e0cd546e1c75f9f6c36e09859bdc/1f5c5/40c21229c372df3a30f04426ed56d6c3.webp 400w,\n/static/0632e0cd546e1c75f9f6c36e09859bdc/58556/40c21229c372df3a30f04426ed56d6c3.webp 800w,\n/static/0632e0cd546e1c75f9f6c36e09859bdc/99238/40c21229c372df3a30f04426ed56d6c3.webp 1200w,\n/static/0632e0cd546e1c75f9f6c36e09859bdc/572b2/40c21229c372df3a30f04426ed56d6c3.webp 1465w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1924-markdown","title":"Methods of Administering Medical Marijuana","slug":"methods-of-administering-medical-marijuana","content":"The number of methods of administration for cannabis can be daunting to patients who are new to the medication, but the availability of various methods of administration helps set medical marijuana apart from traditional pharmaceuticals.  Each administration method can be used for different condition or desired effect. \r\n\r\nSmoking\r\n-------------\r\nSmoking is the traditional method of marijuana administration.  Different strains can be chosen based on the desired outcome, but all products, when smoked, provide an almost immediate effect.  Due to the quick onset, it is easy to control the dosing when marijuana is smoked because the patients are able to feel the effect quickly and adjust dosing accordingly.  There are some concerns that have been sparked about smoking, due to the potential negative effects on the respiratory system when any product is smoked.  This concern can be decreased when patients use high potency products so less smoking is necessary to get the desired benefits of the medication. \r\n\r\nVaporization\r\n-----------------\r\nVaporization has quickly gained traction as a healthy alternative to smoking marijuana.  Vaporizing is less harmful than smoking because there are less byproducts due to the lower temperature used in the vaporizer. Vaporization provides the same quick relief as smoking because the product can enter the blood stream quickly. Vaporization is similar to the administration of an inhaler.  Both smoking and vaporization are good options for patients who need instant relief from issues such as pain from PMS, chronic pain, Fibromyalgia, and many other conditions.\r\n\r\nCannabis Oil/Tinctures\r\n------------------------------\r\nCannabis oils and tinctures are concentrates of marijuana that can either be added to products, such as food or drink, or be consumed on their own. Some oils are added to pill capsules and are swallowed like traditional medication.  Quality is very important in concentrates, particularly in oils. Until recently, methods for oil extraction often contaminated the oils with harmful products.  Now the cleanest method of oil extraction uses CO2, which results in a pure cannabis oil product.  Oils tend to be the method used to give high CBD medications to people with conditions like epilepsy because they can be very accurately dosed if they are properly made.  Tinctures, a concentration made with an alcohol base, tends to be slightly less potent than oils.  Tinctures and oils can be helpful for quick relief, accurate dosing, and to get the medication more directly to the gastrointestinal tract without consuming an edible. \r\n\r\nEdibles \r\n--------------------\r\nEdibles can be a tricky method of administration for medical cannabis.  It can be as long as one to two hours after consumption for the effects of a edible to be felt. Due to the slow onset time, and inaccurate labeling of products, edibles can be very hard to dose.  Most edibles do not contain the percentage of THC/CDB that is listed on the package, so edibles should be dosed in small amounts and patients should be cautious about consuming more of the edible if they do not feel effects as rapidly as they expect. Edibles, however, do tend to have longer lasting effects than other administration methods.  Edibles are often used for people with loss of appetite in Cancer, Anorexia, or AIDS to promote appetite. \r\n\r\nTopical\r\n-------------------\r\nTopicals are one of the lesser known forms of medical marijuana on the market, but they are very helpful for people with inflammation and pain.  Topicals are absolutely free from any physco-active properties, making them a great choice for first time users.  Topical products allow people to experience the pain relief from cannabis without the potential side effects of ingesting too much of a cannabis product. Topicals are particular helpful for people who have Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, or similar pain issues.  \r\n\r\n[Photo Credit.](https://www.flickr.com/photos/46434953@N07/8617919882/in/photolist-e8x6ky-4fQ6Jq-92P4iu-948wrL-tCmafT-aYS9JR-9cWQdE-fs5xq-7ZrYJi-5qyoom-pXUKSd-jSDaqu-5QVWPQ-fsA5BG-nXTjv9-hiiggS-p5Su1e-9jjEYG-b6C4ZR-4ntqiQ-gVfpJw-fQwnYj-mckKnT-dNgyA5-oaQebG-9Bcfce-6ysF1-nQMNQC-7LFiK8-t1QbRT-sG4B-67Jrva-agXYLE-aRuzG-8WGDYA-4AZ1nY-auuTZD-agXYPL-baSgkD-4HbUS-8t8jA4-qEW2J7-ox93kw-iYrqbE-6kTS1G-cs8HdL-sVb1u-4dzSTz-mtVXTR-b1DMqP)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/04fe4f63053246345a2c57e2f06b0ccb/14b42/f0e7ff81ac2c98bc31814c39127602d9.jpg","srcSet":"/static/04fe4f63053246345a2c57e2f06b0ccb/f836f/f0e7ff81ac2c98bc31814c39127602d9.jpg 200w,\n/static/04fe4f63053246345a2c57e2f06b0ccb/2244e/f0e7ff81ac2c98bc31814c39127602d9.jpg 400w,\n/static/04fe4f63053246345a2c57e2f06b0ccb/14b42/f0e7ff81ac2c98bc31814c39127602d9.jpg 800w,\n/static/04fe4f63053246345a2c57e2f06b0ccb/47498/f0e7ff81ac2c98bc31814c39127602d9.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/04fe4f63053246345a2c57e2f06b0ccb/58556/f0e7ff81ac2c98bc31814c39127602d9.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/04fe4f63053246345a2c57e2f06b0ccb/61e93/f0e7ff81ac2c98bc31814c39127602d9.webp 200w,\n/static/04fe4f63053246345a2c57e2f06b0ccb/1f5c5/f0e7ff81ac2c98bc31814c39127602d9.webp 400w,\n/static/04fe4f63053246345a2c57e2f06b0ccb/58556/f0e7ff81ac2c98bc31814c39127602d9.webp 800w,\n/static/04fe4f63053246345a2c57e2f06b0ccb/99238/f0e7ff81ac2c98bc31814c39127602d9.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1865-markdown","title":"Life Changing Relief: Medical Marijuana is Tackling Epilepsy","slug":"life-changing-relief-medical-marijuana-is-tackling-epilepsy","content":"It may come as a surprise to some that a growing number of people have\r\nturned to medical marijuana as a recourse for managing epilepsy.\r\nEpilepsy, which is a brain disorder that causes people to have recurring\r\nseizures, is the fourth most common neurological condition after\r\nAlzheimer's, stroke and migraine. A [2007\r\nstudy](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17261678) by the National\r\nInstitute of Health (NIH) conducted to estimate the prevalence of\r\nselected neurological disorders in the United Sates, put the occurrence\r\nof epilepsy in the general population at 7.1 per 1,000.\r\n\r\nDravet Syndrome, a type of childhood epilepsy which typically starts in\r\ninfancy, has received a lot of attention due to the story of Charlotte\r\nFigi of Colorado. Prior to using medical marijuana, Figi, who suffers\r\nfrom Dravet Syndrome, had up to 300 grand mal seizures per week. The\r\nStanley brothers, owners of a marijuana grow business, developed a\r\nspecialized strain of medical marijuana that was high in cannabidiol\r\n(CBD), the substance believed to reduce epileptic seizures, but low in\r\ntetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound known to induce marijuana's\r\npsycho-activity. After ingesting a tincture of it, Figi's seizures were\r\nreduced to about two or three a month. Afterwards, the Stanley brothers\r\nnamed the strain \"Charlotte's Web\" in Figi's honor.\r\n\r\nA [2010 study](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19906779) by the NIH\r\nexamined the anti-seizure properties of cannabidiol and demonstrated\r\nthat CBD reduced the frequency of seizures in human trials. Due to how\r\nwell cannabis helps manage epilepsy, many families with young sufferers\r\nhave moved to states where medical marijuana is legal so that their\r\nchildren can get some relief from the condition. Alongside others who\r\nhave used medical marijuana to relieve the symptoms of various diseases,\r\nthese \"medical refugees\" continue to lobby their elected representatives\r\nto facilitate legal access to marijuana.\r\n\r\nCurrently, medical marijuana is listed as a Schedule I controlled\r\nsubstance, which is the highest ranking reserved by the U.S. Drug\r\nEnforcement Administration for dangerous drugs with no medicinal value.\r\nWith this classification, those who want to study medical marijuana face\r\na lot of bureaucratic bottlenecks, while those who are caught with it\r\nmay face stiff federal penalties.\r\n\r\nDue to limited scientific trials, the exact mechanism whereby medical\r\nmarijuana aids in the reduction of seizures is not specific, although\r\nits cannabidiol content has shown positive effects on body systems and\r\ncould help in the management of seizures.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/369676a1c94b646aa30f24d8d0499045/14b42/e0f519a22272a0d0fe58c72f4072f715.jpg","srcSet":"/static/369676a1c94b646aa30f24d8d0499045/f836f/e0f519a22272a0d0fe58c72f4072f715.jpg 200w,\n/static/369676a1c94b646aa30f24d8d0499045/2244e/e0f519a22272a0d0fe58c72f4072f715.jpg 400w,\n/static/369676a1c94b646aa30f24d8d0499045/14b42/e0f519a22272a0d0fe58c72f4072f715.jpg 800w,\n/static/369676a1c94b646aa30f24d8d0499045/47498/e0f519a22272a0d0fe58c72f4072f715.jpg 1200w,\n/static/369676a1c94b646aa30f24d8d0499045/a6974/e0f519a22272a0d0fe58c72f4072f715.jpg 1536w","srcWebp":"/static/369676a1c94b646aa30f24d8d0499045/58556/e0f519a22272a0d0fe58c72f4072f715.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/369676a1c94b646aa30f24d8d0499045/61e93/e0f519a22272a0d0fe58c72f4072f715.webp 200w,\n/static/369676a1c94b646aa30f24d8d0499045/1f5c5/e0f519a22272a0d0fe58c72f4072f715.webp 400w,\n/static/369676a1c94b646aa30f24d8d0499045/58556/e0f519a22272a0d0fe58c72f4072f715.webp 800w,\n/static/369676a1c94b646aa30f24d8d0499045/99238/e0f519a22272a0d0fe58c72f4072f715.webp 1200w,\n/static/369676a1c94b646aa30f24d8d0499045/d5052/e0f519a22272a0d0fe58c72f4072f715.webp 1536w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":1,"currentPage":1,"id":5237,"name":"Epilepsy","slug":"epilepsy","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}