{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/thc/5","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_3170-markdown","title":"The Essential Holiday Gift Guide: 4 Experience-Based Gifts to Celebrate the End of 2020","slug":"the-essential-holiday-gift-guide-4-experience-based-gifts-to-celebrate-the-end-of-2020","content":"As the holidays approach, we're entering the gift-giving season. But 2020 has been such an odd year, and it got us talking around the office, the Zoom office, that is. We asked ourselves what kind of gifts would be best for our friends and family? \n\nWe collectively thought it should be something with significance, especially since we may be celebrating at a distance. Our answer is to give experience-based gifts, something that will bring a smile to our loved one's faces and perhaps a lasting positive impact.\n\nWe published [4 Experience-Based Holiday Gift Ideas for An Unusual Holiday Season](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/4-experience-based-holiday-gifts-for-an-unusual-holiday-season), and we follow with some additional ideas to get your holiday gift-giving juices flowing.\n \nHere are 4 more \"Experiential\" celebratory gifts to bring 2020 to a resounding close:\n\n\n\n### 1. Give the Gift of a [Yoga Practice](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-and-yoga-a-match-made-in-heaven)\n\nSince the start of the pandemic, in-person yoga classes have been a thing of the past. If you miss the community vibe of getting your downward dog on, you can get the next best thing. Online yoga classes with a teacher who gets to know you. \n\nIt may not be the same as going to the yoga studio, but some yoga teachers, like [Nat Kendall](https://www.natkendall.com/), have the ability to create connections, busting down the Zoom barrier and create community.\n\nNat is a recording artist (he gets a good chant on in every class) and a devoted student of yoga. He shares his wisdom about yoga in a heartfelt and grounded practice that is accessible for beginners and challenging enough for long-time practitioners. \n\nNat's teachings pour through online practices in an inspired way. He also teaches the necessary techniques for good yogic form with insights that enlighten your spiritual path and yogic journey. \n\n\n\n### 2. Give the Gift of Microdosing: One-on-One Personal Coaching\n\n[Microdosing](https://www.hellomd.com/tag/microdosing) is all the rage for both cannabis and [psychedelics](https://www.hellomd.com/tag/psychedelics). It's the practice of consuming small amounts of a substance in a \"[sub-therapeutic, or sub-threshold](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/microdosing-a-better-way-to-take-cannabis), amounts so low that they wouldn’t produce the whole-body effect of a full dose, but high enough that a cellular response could be observed.\"\n\nNumerous health benefits come from microdosing cannabis or psychedelics. These benefits vary based on the substance. For cannabis, microdosing may help with **chronic pain**, **anxiety**, and **sleep**. With psychedelics, people have anecdotally reported that it helps **alleviate depression** and **anxiety** and may increase the feeling of **focus** and **creativity**. But, if you're new to either, how do you get started? \n\n[We think a personal coach](https://www.bliss-theory.com/) is a good entry point and a safe way to explore unchartered territory.\n\nAt different times, Pamela Hadfield, co-founder of HelloMD, [transformed her physical and mental health](https://www.bliss-theory.com/blog/tales-of-a-suburban-mom-microdosing-cannabis-for-my-migraines-and-then-lsd-for-depression) microdosing cannabis and then psychedelics. She's a well-known educator and advocate for alternative paths of wellness and has been featured in **Rolling Stone** and **Forbes magazine**.\n\nPamela is also the Founder of [Bliss Theory](https://www.bliss-theory.com/) where she offers [one-to-one coaching for women](https://www.bliss-theory.com/whats-bliss-theory). The Bliss Theory coaching philosophy is based on transformational thinking principles and step-by-step personalized guidance on microdosing cannabis and/or psychedelics. \n\n\nChani's best-seller \"You Were Born for This\"\n\n### 3. Give the Gift of a Self Guided Astrological Reading\n\n[Chani Nicholas](https://chaninicholas.com/) is a Los Angeles-based, New York Times best-selling astrologer and author of You Were Born For This: Astrology for Radical Self-Acceptance (HarperOne, January 2020). She is AWESOME, and we love her book, which is the guide to all-things astrological.\n\nOK, here's the cool and the gift-giving part. You can go onto Chani's site and [input the birthdate details of the person](https://chart.chaninicholas.com/) you want to gift-give, and it pulls up all the relevant information for that specific chart. \n\nIn her book, \"Chani shows how your birth chart -- a snapshot of the sky at the moment you took your first breath -- reveals your unique talents, challenges, and opportunities.\" Fun! \n\n\n\n### 4. Give the Gift of Self Knowledge and Growth\n\n[One Commune](https://ww2.onecommune.com/) is the online spot for personal growth. Their online courses feature some of the most enlightened thinkers of our time, including Deepak Chopra, Russell Brand (an amazing thought leader on addiction and recovery), Marianna Williamson, and more. Whether you're looking for spiritual growth, optimal health, or a way to impact the world, there's a fascinating course waiting.\n\nHappy gift-giving from the HelloMD Team!\n\n### Get a Medical Marijuana Card Online\nIt's easy to get your medical marijuana document with the online [Telehealth service HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/get-started/). Register, pay, and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed practitioner and purchase medical cannabis today. You don't pay unless you're approved!","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/02c6940835d162ce4e59ecc89e84b9c7/14b42/9ed3ef914499f27c5c312e8c541347a1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/02c6940835d162ce4e59ecc89e84b9c7/f836f/9ed3ef914499f27c5c312e8c541347a1.jpg 200w,\n/static/02c6940835d162ce4e59ecc89e84b9c7/2244e/9ed3ef914499f27c5c312e8c541347a1.jpg 400w,\n/static/02c6940835d162ce4e59ecc89e84b9c7/14b42/9ed3ef914499f27c5c312e8c541347a1.jpg 800w,\n/static/02c6940835d162ce4e59ecc89e84b9c7/47498/9ed3ef914499f27c5c312e8c541347a1.jpg 1200w,\n/static/02c6940835d162ce4e59ecc89e84b9c7/2d2b9/9ed3ef914499f27c5c312e8c541347a1.jpg 1254w","srcWebp":"/static/02c6940835d162ce4e59ecc89e84b9c7/58556/9ed3ef914499f27c5c312e8c541347a1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/02c6940835d162ce4e59ecc89e84b9c7/61e93/9ed3ef914499f27c5c312e8c541347a1.webp 200w,\n/static/02c6940835d162ce4e59ecc89e84b9c7/1f5c5/9ed3ef914499f27c5c312e8c541347a1.webp 400w,\n/static/02c6940835d162ce4e59ecc89e84b9c7/58556/9ed3ef914499f27c5c312e8c541347a1.webp 800w,\n/static/02c6940835d162ce4e59ecc89e84b9c7/99238/9ed3ef914499f27c5c312e8c541347a1.webp 1200w,\n/static/02c6940835d162ce4e59ecc89e84b9c7/3c324/9ed3ef914499f27c5c312e8c541347a1.webp 1254w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3169-markdown","title":"DIY Recipe: Immune-Boosting Sweet & Spicy Pineapple Wellness Shots","slug":"diy-recipe-immune-boosting-sweet-and-spicy-pineapple-wellness-shots","content":"The winter season brings the holidays and festive fun, but along with that, it's the season for colds and flu. And this year, we have COVID-19 added into the mix.\n\nAs we move into colder, darker days, staying healthy is a must. The good news: you can give your immune system an extra advantage with today's hottest health trend: [wellness shots](https://lcrhealth.com/wellness-shots-juice/). Sipping these tiny, tasty \"shots\" of nutrient-rich juices, spices, and herbs will give you immune-boosting vitamins and herbs. Added to your daily wellness routine, it's a powerhouse immunity boost.\n\nCommercially prepared wellness shots can cost more than $4 (and we've seen them cost as much as $8) for a two-ounce bottle. But you can make a big batch of your favorite wellness shots at home for a fraction of that price using healthy, natural ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. \n\nWhat's more, you can power up your wellness shots with immune-boosting additives like high-quality CBD. Below is a guide to making your CBD-infused wellness shots by mixing and matching popular ingredients from your supermarket or natural food store.\n\n### What's a Wellness Shot?\n\nWellness shots are taking the health and fitness world by storm. They're very small, highly concentrated concoctions made from an array of nutrient-rich ingredients, and they're [widely praised by fitness and wellness advocates](https://minimalistbaker.com/lemon-ginger-turmeric-wellness-shots/) for their ability to deliver a potent brew of vital vitamins, minerals and other nutrients, without racking up a lot of extra calories.\n\nThe current wellness shot craze builds on the popularity of an old wellness staple, nutrient \"shots\" made from wheatgrass, and a few other ingredients added for taste. Now, though, wellness shots come in all kinds of flavors and nutrient combinations, although most of them are built around a core set of ingredients that includes apple cider vinegar, turmeric, and pepper. \n\nWellness shots sound healthy, [but are they](https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/blog/are-wellness-shots-effective#:~:text=Wellness%20shots%20are%20typically%20small,cider%20vinegar%2C%20turmeric%20and%20ginger.&text=Ginger%20can%20help%20reduce%20nausea%20and%20bloating%20of%20the%20stomach.)? Some nutrition experts say that wellness shots are too small to make a considerable contribution to your overall daily nutrient intake, but they can pack a more powerful nutritional punch, more than an equivalent glass of fortified juice. \n\nA wellness shot can have significantly fewer calories than that glass of juice, too, but these little drinks aren't calorie free – and depending on ingredients, some two-ounce wellness shots can contain over one hundred calories a 2 ounce serving!\n\nOther wellness experts point out that an extra boost of vitamins and minerals is never a bad idea, especially during times of stress. Wellness shots aren't a substitute for a healthy diet that's rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy oils, but they are usually made with these and other ingredients that have documented health properties, so they can add nutrients that you might otherwise be missing. \n\n### How to Build Your Best Wellness Shot\n\nTo make your own wellness shots, you'll need a few basics and a willingness to try different combinations of fruits, veggies, and spices. \n\nWe think a juicer works best to blend your ingredients because it immediately produces a pulp-free drink, but you can also use a blender and strain the resulting mixture to eliminate pulp and other materials. Other useful tools include a grater and pepper grinder.\n\n### Start With the Essentials\n\nWellness shots can taste sweet, spicy, or tart – or any combination of these. But just about all of them [are built around three nutrient-rich, natural ingredients](https://greatist.com/eat/recipe/diy-wellness-shots):\n\n### 1. Apple Cider Vinegar\n\nApple cider vinegar, or ACV, has been a home remedy staple for years, and now it's one of the stars of the modern wellness movement. ACV is made from fermented apples that have been further treated with friendly bacteria to create acetic acid, the ingredient that seems to be responsible for its [health benefits](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/6-proven-health-benefits-of-apple-cider-vinegar). \n\nACV contains potassium and some amino acids and antioxidants, and research suggests it can help balance blood sugar levels and lower cholesterol. ACV may also help the skin by destroying surface bacteria and balancing skin pH.\n\n### 2. Turmeric\n\n\n\nTurmeric, especially its main active ingredient curcumin, has plenty of [documented health benefits](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-10-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-turmeric). This golden spice is a natural anti-inflammatory that can be as effective as some prescription medications, and it can boost the activity of natural antioxidants.\n\nAlong with those benefits, turmeric can boost heart health and elevate levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, or BDNF, a chemical that supports memory and cognition. That's why some research suggests turmeric can help delay or reverse dementia and other kinds of memory loss. Turmeric may also play a key role in preventing or slowing the development of certain cancers. \n\nTurmeric is a potent natural healer on its own, but black pepper can boost curcumin absorption by 2000 percent!\n\n### 3. Black or Cayenne Pepper\n\nPepper has been called the king of spices, and with good reason. Ordinary black pepper has a [long list of health benefits](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/black-pepper-benefits). \n\nIt's rich in piperine, a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound that appears to improve brain function, help balance blood sugar, support digestive health, and even fight cancer. Piperine is the ingredient that boosts the body's absorption of curcumin.\n\nCayenne pepper is another pepper variety with [plenty of health benefits](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/8-benefits-of-cayenne-pepper). It's rich in capsaicin, a compound that boosts metabolism, improves digestive health, and may even lower the risk of some cancers. Capsaicin is also a powerful pain reliever often found in topical ointments and balms for sore muscles and joints.\n\n### Add Fresh Vegetables or Fruits\n\nTo build your wellness shot, start with fresh fruits or vegetables – or a combination of these – to suit your taste. Create a tangy, citrusy shot with Vitamin C-rich lemons or oranges, or blend with cranberries, blueberries, or other vitamin-rich fruits. Adding fruits will deliver a huge shot of immune-boosting terpenes, like the essential oil limonene, from lemons.\n\nBlend pineapples or apples with turmeric or apple cider vinegar, or combine antioxidant-rich spinach or celery with lemon and green apples for a green shot base. Try sweeter veggies like beets and carrots for plenty of Vitamin C and A. \n\n### Experiment With Herbs and Spices\n\nBoost the health benefits of your homemade wellness shots with a variety of immune-boosting herbs and spices that can blend well with fruits, veggies, and the Big Three of ACV, turmeric and pepper. Grate fresh ginger into your wellness blend for digestive health and cold relief, or add immune-boosting cinnamon to a sweeter shot. \n\nAdd a little honey or maple syrup to taste if you like, but avoid artificial sweeteners and plain sugar.\n\n### Consider Adding CBD\n\nCBD, or cannabidiol, can [add an extra boost](https://emilykylenutrition.com/ginger-turmeric-shots-infused-with-cbd/)\nto the benefits of your DIY wellness shots. This compound, which is derived from hemp or marijuana, works with the body's natural system of cannabinoid receptors to balance the body's many subsystems, [support the immune system](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/supporting-the-immune-system-during-cold-and-flu-season-with-plant-based-supplements) and regulate mood.\n\n[](https://www.curednutrition.com/)\n\nAdd a few drops of high-quality CBD oil or a balanced ratio of THC to CBD from a tincture. Add this to any wellness shot recipe to [support your immune system](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/can-cannabis-fight-superbugs-and-keep-you-healthy), relieve anxiety, and promote overall wellness. If you choose to add a tincture with THC, mind your dosage!\n\nIndividual responses to CBD and THC can vary, so start small and gradually increase the amount you add until you reach the desired effects. Look for pure tinctures and concentrates without added ingredients from quality retailers and brands.\n\n### Our Signature\n\n\nThis DIY recipe will make 4 shots. For the holidays, I'm making this wellness shot and leaving it on several neighbor's doorsteps in a cute mason jar with a holiday note.\n\n### Ingredients\n\n- 1/2 a ripe pineapple\n- 2 small lemons\n- 1/4 cup chopped, peeled fresh tumeric (much tastier than the ground spice!)\n- 1/4 cup chopped fresh ginger\n- a pinch of cayenne (or to your taste)\n- 2 full droppers of CBD tincture\n- 4 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar (I like the [Bragg](https://www.amazon.com/Bragg-Organic-Apple-Cider-Vinegar/dp/B001I7MVG0) brand)\n- 5 tablespoons of raw, local, organic honey\n\nBlend or juice all ingredients together. Strain out pulp and other solids. Most wellness shot recipes don't require added liquids, but you may want to add some sparkling water if the result is too concentrated or filtered water.\n \nRefrigerate the mixture in a sealed container, or decant it into smaller shot-size bottles for a consistent serving size.\n\nIt's always best to eat your veggies and take your vitamins. But as we move into the winter season, a zesty, spicy wellness shot can kick-start your day – and give your immune system that extra boost for the holidays and beyond.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.4705882352941178,"src":"/static/af3e73f1de203d1780c7b2b65bed6989/ee604/5f623df050c3418d0ea276d9010859c3.png","srcSet":"/static/af3e73f1de203d1780c7b2b65bed6989/69585/5f623df050c3418d0ea276d9010859c3.png 200w,\n/static/af3e73f1de203d1780c7b2b65bed6989/497c6/5f623df050c3418d0ea276d9010859c3.png 400w,\n/static/af3e73f1de203d1780c7b2b65bed6989/ee604/5f623df050c3418d0ea276d9010859c3.png 800w,\n/static/af3e73f1de203d1780c7b2b65bed6989/95330/5f623df050c3418d0ea276d9010859c3.png 1063w","srcWebp":"/static/af3e73f1de203d1780c7b2b65bed6989/58556/5f623df050c3418d0ea276d9010859c3.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/af3e73f1de203d1780c7b2b65bed6989/61e93/5f623df050c3418d0ea276d9010859c3.webp 200w,\n/static/af3e73f1de203d1780c7b2b65bed6989/1f5c5/5f623df050c3418d0ea276d9010859c3.webp 400w,\n/static/af3e73f1de203d1780c7b2b65bed6989/58556/5f623df050c3418d0ea276d9010859c3.webp 800w,\n/static/af3e73f1de203d1780c7b2b65bed6989/7baf6/5f623df050c3418d0ea276d9010859c3.webp 1063w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3134-markdown","title":"4 Experience-Based Holiday Gift Ideas for An Unusual Holiday Season ","slug":"4-experience-based-holiday-gift-ideas-for-an-unusual-holiday-season","content":"It's the holiday season, and maybe you're thinking about gift-giving. But, this is not an ordinary year. The regular Black Friday specials, well, perhaps that just doesn't cut it. \n\nI don't know about you, but I look in my closet and maybe 80% of what's there - I don't wear at the moment. Ditto - for a lot of my life. This year is well, different. What you give to people in the age of COVID, matters. Why? Because, it's so unique and frankly, a lot of us are having a hard time.\n\nWe think this is a gift-giving season of self-care, for gifts that benefit our overall body, mind, and spirit. I might propose that every gift we give has a socially positive impact on the receiver. Maybe that's too ambitious, but let's give it a go!\n\n### 4 Experiential Gifts for the Holidays\n\n\n\n### 1. The Oura Ring\n\nThe [Oura Ring](https://ouraring.com/?utm_campaign=brand-us&g_acctid=553-919-5922&g_campaign=Brand%20-%20US&g_campaignid=1016078591&g_adgroupid=70823106696&g_adid=451501039328&g_keyword=oura%20ring&g_keywordid=aud-314758640118:kwd-305035554360&g_network=g&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&gclid=Cj0KCQiAk53-BRD0ARIsAJuNhpvPsHlLJnYyH1_Mr3i24T6k_ZlqdDLtcq-oqCv33VNTjEt4_paOZ5YaAurAEALw_wcB), if you haven't heard, is all the rage. From Prince Harry to Jack Dorsey to my favorite gal pal down the street, it seems I've heard a lot about how tracking sleep is the route to wellness and whole-being.\n\nWhat is the Oura Ring? They say on their site, \"The Oura Ring tracks key signals from your body, delivering critical insights to help you build good habits and harness your body's potential every day.\" \n\nBasically, it tracks your sleep. And sleep is important!\n\nAccording to [Fast Company](https://www.fastcompany.com/90408868/jack-dorsey-biz-stone-and-marc-benioff-use-oura-rings), \"The Oura ring is lined with sensors that measure heart rate and body temperature. Every morning, the Oura app gives you a \"readiness score,\" informed by your resting heart rate, physical activity, and quality of sleep the night before.\"\n\nThe Oura ring weighs in at $299, but the Oura ring implies it is the \"secret weapon for personal improvement.\" \n\n\n\n### 2. Luxury-Infused Cannabis Edibles by Herve\n\nIf you live in Nevada or California, you're in for a treat with [Herve's luxurious cannabis macarons](https://hervedibles.com/welcome/). Handmade using the finest ingredients, these tasty morsels rival the best french pastries, yet these contain 10mg of THC per cookie. A perfect gift for the holidays, they come in Peppermint, Sour Green Apple, Sour Peach, and Sour Cherry flavors. Gluten-free and vegan, a box of three macaron cookies will make a splash at any holiday gathering, no matter how small it may be during the pandemic. One box of three cookies can be purchased directly from the [Herve site](https://shop.hervedibles.com/) for $20.\n\n\n\n### 3. Genetic Testing\n\nWhen you land on the [23 & Me site](https://www.23andme.com/?dch=br), the tagline says \"Give your family a more complete picture of their health with DNA insights.\" It's about knowing your personal story in the way they deliver it, based on your DNA, which is kind of cool. But, beware, no matter what your results say \"F.D.A.-approved\" does not necessarily mean \"clinically useful.\" However, it seems to be the go-to genetic test for wellness.\n\nWith their [Ancestory & Traits Service](https://www.23andme.com/dna-ancestry/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=search_generic&utm_campaign=US_evergreen_sales_prs_beta&gclid=Cj0KCQiAk53-BRD0ARIsAJuNhpuQ4nUQ9lfVm78qmnh_5ZCU1LXiDPZ9rTqzEDZyKuGSCuF36MFVWNIaAgUzEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds), you will receive a comprehensive ancestry breakdown. Apparently, this will allow you to find your genetic ancestry and narrow it down from some 2,000 regions. \n\nAre you looking for family origins? If that's your end game, AncestryDNA may be the right solution for you. The health report generates the Ethnicity Estimate report, which shows what regions in the world your ancestors were most likely linked to.\n\n\n\n### 4. Peloton Bike\n\nPre-Covid, I was a cardio addict and went to class after class, in addition to hiking and yoga. Post-Covid I've tried to keep up my fitness level, but it's been difficult. I've been working full time and homeschooling 3 kids and dealing with the ups and downs of uncertainty and stress. I knew I needed a new solution to get my ultra-self on and keep my muffin top at bay. \n\nSince day 1 of COVID, my best gal pals screamed at me to get a Peloton stationary bike. We did Soul Cycle together weekly and yes, Soul Cycle, has its own version of at-home cycling now. But ultimately, [Peloton](https://www.onepeloton.com/bike) is the answer to my exercise blues and has gotten me back in shape during the rolling lockdowns. Even if I have nowhere to wear my holiday dress, at least I can fit into it!\n\nWhatever your holiday season may look like, we wish you health and happiness during this season!\n\n\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/9408a8e1e69e68c0979bf1c114a929ad/14b42/915fbe3ca267d1ab50ceead61dc170a1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9408a8e1e69e68c0979bf1c114a929ad/f836f/915fbe3ca267d1ab50ceead61dc170a1.jpg 200w,\n/static/9408a8e1e69e68c0979bf1c114a929ad/2244e/915fbe3ca267d1ab50ceead61dc170a1.jpg 400w,\n/static/9408a8e1e69e68c0979bf1c114a929ad/14b42/915fbe3ca267d1ab50ceead61dc170a1.jpg 800w,\n/static/9408a8e1e69e68c0979bf1c114a929ad/47498/915fbe3ca267d1ab50ceead61dc170a1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/9408a8e1e69e68c0979bf1c114a929ad/58556/915fbe3ca267d1ab50ceead61dc170a1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/9408a8e1e69e68c0979bf1c114a929ad/61e93/915fbe3ca267d1ab50ceead61dc170a1.webp 200w,\n/static/9408a8e1e69e68c0979bf1c114a929ad/1f5c5/915fbe3ca267d1ab50ceead61dc170a1.webp 400w,\n/static/9408a8e1e69e68c0979bf1c114a929ad/58556/915fbe3ca267d1ab50ceead61dc170a1.webp 800w,\n/static/9408a8e1e69e68c0979bf1c114a929ad/99238/915fbe3ca267d1ab50ceead61dc170a1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3133-markdown","title":"Can Cannabis Effectively Fight COVID-19?","slug":"can-cannabis-effectively-fight-covid-19","content":"With its mysterious array of symptoms and unpredictable effects, [COVID-19, the illness caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV2](https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus#tab=tab_1), continues to puzzle scientists around the globe. \n\nAs researchers work to develop vaccines and life-saving treatments, new studies are revealing some [intriguing connections](https://www.healtheuropa.eu/medicinal-cannabis-may-play-a-significant-role-during-covid-19/103093/)\n between cannabis and the processes driving some of COVID-19's most devastating outcomes. \n\nHere's what we know so far about the potential for cannabis compounds and terpenes to ease this new and challenging disease's symptoms.\n\n### Unraveling the Mystery of COVID-19\n\nSince the world first learned of a new, or novel, coronavirus in early 2020, researchers have been struggling to understand how it works- and why it can cause symptoms ranging from mild loss of smell to severe respiratory distress and even death. \n\nAlthough this coronavirus is new to humans, it belongs to a larger family of viruses that we already know all too well. Coronaviruses are responsible for many of the colds and flu that make the rounds every year. \n\nCOVID-19 is a relative of another virus that caused widespread illness a few years ago, called SARS – an acronym for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome. That's why it has the official name of SARS-CoV2. And the illness it causes is called COVID-19, for Coronavirus Disease 2019.\n\nIn the early days of the pandemic, scientists believed that COVID-19 was mainly a respiratory disease. But now, research has shown that SARS-CoV2 affects processes that control many different systems throughout the body. \n\nThis information helps explain why it can damage the heart, lungs, and other organs and why it can also cause circulation problems, brain fog, and a loss of taste and smell. These symptoms all arise from the virus's interaction with a single protein on many cells' surface – the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, better known as ACE2.\n\n### ACE2: the Gateway to COVID-19\n\nACE2 is an enzyme [that plays a major role](https://theconversation.com/what-is-the-ace2-receptor-how-is-it-connected-to-coronavirus-and-why-might-it-be-key-to-treating-covid-19-the-experts-explain-136928) in the health of the cardiovascular system and lungs. It's formed from a chain of activity in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, which plays a crucial role in regulating the body's blood volume and vascular resistance. \n\nThese factors [work together](https://www.cvphysiology.com/Blood%20Pressure/BP01) to influence the heart's pumping output and pressure in blood vessels throughout the body. That's why many people with hypertension and other circulatory problems take medications known as [ACE2 inhibitors](https://www.cebm.net/covid-19/angiotensin-converting-enzyme-ace-inhibitors-and-angiotensin-receptor-blockers-in-covid-19/), which may offer some protection against COVID-19 infection. \n\nBut ACE2 is also the entry point for SARS-CoV2, which takes over receptors on the surface of ACE2 cells. ACE2 cells are found in many parts of the body, but they're especially abundant in the lungs and small intestine, which accounts for the many respiratory and digestive symptoms of COVID-19. \n\nThey're also common in the vascular endothelium, a cell layer that lines the arteries and veins' walls. That helps to account for the many cardiovascular symptoms associated with COVID-19.\n\n### COVID and the Endocannbinoid System\n\nSARS-CoV2 enters the body by way of the ACE2 receptor cells, but it's helped along by a protein on the surface of ACE2 called [transmembrane serine protease 2, or TMPRSS2](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7359420/). This protein enables the virus to enter ACE2 cells and bind to their cell membranes so that the virus can increase within the lungs, cardiovascular system, and other organs. This process is the target of many studies on the treatment and prevention of COVID-19.\n\nNew research by scientists in Israel and the US indicates a [potential connection](https://www.preprints.org/manuscript/202004.0315/v1) between the activity of these proteins and the endocannabinoid system, a large network of cell receptors that respond both to cannabinoid chemicals produced by the body and compounds in the cannabis plant. That connection explains why cannabidiol, or CBD, and other cannabis compounds and terpenes may have the potential to treat symptoms of COVID-19.\n\n### The Endocannabinoid System: A Key to Fighting COVID-19?\n\nThe endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis or balance, among the body's many subsystems. Endocannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 are found in the brain, central nervous system, and many other tissues and organs. \n\nThey respond to the expression of natural cannabinoids 2AG and anandamide to support immune function, healthy cell development, and much more. And because they respond in similar ways to cannabis compounds, some researchers think that [cannabis could play a major role](https://jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-020-00030-4) in the fight against COVID-19.\n\n### Cannabis Could Prevent COVID-19 Infection\n\nA Canadian study found that CBD extracts appear to \"downregulate\" or slow the activity of TMPRSS2. This is the protein that helps the novel Coronavirus enter ACE2 cells. In that way, CBD could prevent SARS-CoV2 proteins from infecting cells at all. Researchers speculate that this discovery could point to the development of simple CBD-based preventatives such as a mouthwash or throat rinse.\n\n### Cannabis Might Fight the Cytokine Storm\n\nCannabis also has [anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting properties](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/the-powerful-anti-inflammatory-effects-of-cannabis), and some research suggests that it could play an essential role in fighting one of the most serious complications of COVID-19 – the [cytokine storm](https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2020.01446/full).\n\nCytokines are proteins released by the immune system in response to an infection or inflammation. Generally, that's essential for healing. But in some situations, the immune system goes into overdrive, releasing a flood of cytokines into the bloodstream too quickly. Along with attacking the virus, these cytokines attack the body's cells and tissues, causing more inflammation and potentially shutting down the kidneys, liver, and other organs.\n\nBut recent research from Israel suggests that cannabis might inhibit cytokines' production, which could reduce the intensity of the immune response without the side effects of strong immunosuppressant medications. Terpenes can [boost the effects of cannabis compounds](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/terpene-and-cannabinoid-combos-that-boost-cannabiss-effects). Scientists from Tel Aviv University and the private sector found that a combination of CBD and terpene extracts could be as effective as dexamethasone, a steroid currently used to treat severe COVID-19 symptoms.\n\n### Conflicting Evidence Clouds Outcomes\n\nAlthough a number of studies suggest cannabis can have considerable benefits for treating COVID-19, some scientists caution that this research is limited and preliminary – and [there are also indications](https://www.forbes.com/sites/emilyearlenbaugh/2020/08/11/cannabis-shows-potential-to-help-and-harm-in-coronavirus-cases-experts-explain-why/?sh=5a97525633ea) that cannabis could be harmful to COVID-19 patients, especially when smoked.\n\nInhaling heated smoke of any kind can cause inflammation in the lungs and respiratory system cells, making them more vulnerable to infection with SARS-CoV2. Several studies have noted that in general smokers with COVID-19 are more prone to respiratory complications than non-smokers, including people who smoke cannabis. Likewise, some researchers suggest that vaping could also increase the risk of more severe respiratory symptoms of COVID-19.\n\nResearch on the benefits of cannabis for COVID-19 is still in the early stages. But recent studies suggest that this ancient remedy could be a powerful weapon against a very new disease.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.4705882352941178,"src":"/static/516b09d15999e091bb7e631390764a03/ee604/8f2f3ce04a0a88575aab64081801c7d7.png","srcSet":"/static/516b09d15999e091bb7e631390764a03/69585/8f2f3ce04a0a88575aab64081801c7d7.png 200w,\n/static/516b09d15999e091bb7e631390764a03/497c6/8f2f3ce04a0a88575aab64081801c7d7.png 400w,\n/static/516b09d15999e091bb7e631390764a03/ee604/8f2f3ce04a0a88575aab64081801c7d7.png 800w,\n/static/516b09d15999e091bb7e631390764a03/f3583/8f2f3ce04a0a88575aab64081801c7d7.png 1200w,\n/static/516b09d15999e091bb7e631390764a03/5707d/8f2f3ce04a0a88575aab64081801c7d7.png 1600w,\n/static/516b09d15999e091bb7e631390764a03/7620c/8f2f3ce04a0a88575aab64081801c7d7.png 2054w","srcWebp":"/static/516b09d15999e091bb7e631390764a03/58556/8f2f3ce04a0a88575aab64081801c7d7.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/516b09d15999e091bb7e631390764a03/61e93/8f2f3ce04a0a88575aab64081801c7d7.webp 200w,\n/static/516b09d15999e091bb7e631390764a03/1f5c5/8f2f3ce04a0a88575aab64081801c7d7.webp 400w,\n/static/516b09d15999e091bb7e631390764a03/58556/8f2f3ce04a0a88575aab64081801c7d7.webp 800w,\n/static/516b09d15999e091bb7e631390764a03/99238/8f2f3ce04a0a88575aab64081801c7d7.webp 1200w,\n/static/516b09d15999e091bb7e631390764a03/7c22d/8f2f3ce04a0a88575aab64081801c7d7.webp 1600w,\n/static/516b09d15999e091bb7e631390764a03/83639/8f2f3ce04a0a88575aab64081801c7d7.webp 2054w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3131-markdown","title":"5 Killer Stress-Busting Combos - Popular Cannabis Strains Paired with Vitamins and Herbs","slug":"5-killer-stress-busting-combos-popular-cannabis-strains-paired-with-vitamins-and-herbs","content":"According to the American Psychological Association’s [2020 Stress in America Survey]( https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2020/sia-mental-health-crisis.pdf), the US is in the midst of a national mental health crisis. From an intractable pandemic to economic uncertainty and political turmoil, a long list of unprecedented events is adding new stressors to an already stressed-out world. \n\nTo cope with a near-constant barrage of stressors large and small, mental health professionals and wellness advocates [recommend a variety of strategies](https://www.helpguide.org/articles/stress/stress-symptoms-signs-and-causes.htm#:~:text=Causes%20of%20stress,on%20you%20can%20be%20stressful.) including exercise, meditation, better sleep and a healthy diet. Severe stress, anxiety and depression can also be helped with medications that calm anxiety and boost the uptake of the brain’s natural “feel good” chemicals serotonin and dopamine. \n\nBut a growing body of research suggests that [cannabis can relieve stress and anxiety](https://www.healthline.com/health/marijuana-and-anxiety)\nwithout the side effects of many medications – and pairing it with stress-relieving supplements like valerian and kava kava might amplify its stress-busting powers. Below we list 5 stress-busting killer combos of popular cannabis strains paired with vitamins and herbs.\n\n### 5 Popular Marijuana Strains Combined with Herbs & Vitamins \n\nAlong with cannabis, a number of [herbs and vitamins](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vitamins-for-stress)\ncontain ingredients that can help to relieve symptoms of stress, and [many of these supplements](https://takecareof.com/articles/best-vitamins-supplements-for-stress-and-anxiety) can be combined with cannabis for an extra boost of calming chemicals during stressful times. Here’s a list of five cannabis and supplement combinations that can calm stress and relieve anxiety. Mix and match them as you like, since there are no known negative interactions between cannabis and any of these natural substances.\n\n### 1. ACDC and Kava Kava\n\nACDC is a very high CBD strain that has virtually no THC. It’s evenly balanced between indica and sativa, and it’s often used to “take the edge off” experiences that can cause stress or anxiety. Kava Kava derives from the root of the Kava (piper methysticum) plant and contains kavalactone, a substance that interferes with the breakdown of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a chemical that calms activity in the central nervous system and promotes feelings of relaxation and comfort. \n\n### 2. Grandaddy Purple and Rhodolia\n\n[Grandaddy Purple]( https://www.hellomd.com/strains/granddaddy-purple) promotes a relaxed, happy feeling along with relieving insomnia and pain. This high-indica strain is regularly used for easing the symptoms of stress and anxiety. It can be paired with rhodolia (rhodolia rosea), an herb whose roots work as an [adaptogen](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/adaptogens-what-are-they-and-how-to-combine-them-with-cbd) – a substance that boosts the body’s natural responses to \\stress. Wellness advocates say that rhodolia can also help with insomnia, chronic fatigue and stress-related burnout.\n\n### 3. OG Kush and Melatonin\n\nThe venerable [OG Kush](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/og-kush) ranks among the best cannabis strains for stress relief. This high-THC strain causes relaxation and an uplifting euphoria, and it may also help with insomnia, anxiety and migraines. Melatonin is a hormone made naturally in the pineal gland, and it’s typically released after dark to prepare the body for sleep. But melatonin may also relieve symptoms of stress. A recent study found that melatonin could reduce stress and anxiety before surgery as well as the prescription sedative midazolam.\n\n\n### 4. Girl Scout Cookies and Valerian\n\n[Girl Scout Cookies](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/gsc) is a potent indica dominant hybrid strain that may relieve stress, reduce pain and combat symptoms of depression. Valerian (from the root of the Valeriana officinalis plant) has been called “nature’s Valium” for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety, and it also supports sleep. Research indicates that, like Kava Kava, it helps to inhibit the breakdown of GABA in the brain. Valerian also contains compounds that seem to inhibit excessive activity in the amygdala, a part of the brain associated with fear and other strong emotional responses.\n\n\n### 5. Jack Herer and B-Complex Vitamins\n\n[Jack Herer](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/jack-herer) is a classic combination of indica and sativa strains that’s known for its ability to boost concentration and focus, but users also say it helps to reduce stress and symptoms of anxiety. B-Complex vitamins include the full range of 8 B vitamins, which are essential for transforming food into energy and keeping the brain and heart healthy. But B vitamins can also lower levels of homocysteine, an amino acid associated with stress that also plays a role in the development of blood clots and artery damage. \n\n### Understanding Stress\n\nStress is often described as the natural “fight or flight” response to a perceived threat of some kind. It’s a protective response that keeps us energized, alert and aware of our surroundings during a crisis, a dangerous situation – or even an exciting, pleasant event like getting married or moving to a new city. The stress response can also help people rise to meet challenges like making a speech, playing a competitive game or studying for a difficult exam. \n\nWhen the brain perceives a threat or recognizes a new challenge, the nervous system releases excitatory hormones including adrenaline (epinephrine), norepinephrine and cortisol. These hormones act on multiple systems throughout the body to prepare it for meeting the threat. The heart beats faster, pumping blood to the muscles, blood pressure rises, and sensory systems become hyper-acute. \n\nUnder normal circumstances, once the stressful event is past, stress levels would decrease and the body would relax and return to a more normal state. But in this modern world, especially one affected by the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic and multiple other crises, the body’s stress responses may remain in high gear virtually all the time. When stress responses are always “on,” the flood of excitatory hormones can disrupt health in a variety of ways.\n\nChronic stress can exacerbate existing health problems or create new ones such as insomnia, weight loss or gain, digestive problems and “brain fog” or trouble with concentration and memory. High stress levels can accelerate the aging process and raise the risk of heart attack or stroke. Stress can also contribute to mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.\n\nA variety of self-care options can help to reduce stress, such as exercising more or trying relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation. Prescription medications such as Prozac, Xanax or Celexa can also help to manage symptoms of stress and anxiety. \n\nBut some research indicates that the relaxing properties of cannabis or cannabis compounds combined with calming [herbal and vitamin supplements](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/5-natural-supplements-to-boost-your-mental-health) can offer relief for many people struggling with chronic stress.\n\n### Cannabis Relieves Stress and Anxiety\n\nOne reason for the enduring popularity of cannabis is its calming, relaxing and lightly euphoric effect. Compounds in the cannabis sativa plant, mainly cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, act on the brain’s neurological pathways to promote the expression of mood-boosting chemicals such as serotonin, dopamine and the body’s natural calming cannabinoid anandamide. \n\nA [recent study](https://www.healtheuropa.eu/cannabis-combats-stress/93193/) from Washington State University found that inhaling cannabis could lower stress levels. That’s a key change from previous studies, which used cannabis in pill form in a laboratory setting, rather than exploring the effects of cannabis as it’s normally consumed. \n\nIn this study, researchers found that the largest reduction in stress came from 10 or more puffs of cannabis strains high in both CBD and THC, while just two puffs of any kind of cannabis could reduce symptoms of anxiety.\n\nIt’s important to note that for some people, cannabis can also cause feelings of paranoia and anxiety, particularly when it’s high in THC, the chemical responsible for the euphoric high. But the Washington State study provides solid scientific support for the stress relieving benefits of [certain kinds of cannabis](https://topscannabis.com/6-of-the-best-weed-strains-for-stress-anxiety/).\n\n\nStress affects just about everyone, although in very different ways. But the “killer combo” of the most relaxing cannabis strains and supplements can give stressed-out people a new and natural way to cope.\n\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.492537313432836,"src":"/static/dba6481db20bf5fdd73c77f61d618bfc/ee604/9dc05d4f2c5901a43ac125af873a7cf7.png","srcSet":"/static/dba6481db20bf5fdd73c77f61d618bfc/69585/9dc05d4f2c5901a43ac125af873a7cf7.png 200w,\n/static/dba6481db20bf5fdd73c77f61d618bfc/497c6/9dc05d4f2c5901a43ac125af873a7cf7.png 400w,\n/static/dba6481db20bf5fdd73c77f61d618bfc/ee604/9dc05d4f2c5901a43ac125af873a7cf7.png 800w,\n/static/dba6481db20bf5fdd73c77f61d618bfc/f3583/9dc05d4f2c5901a43ac125af873a7cf7.png 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/dba6481db20bf5fdd73c77f61d618bfc/58556/9dc05d4f2c5901a43ac125af873a7cf7.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/dba6481db20bf5fdd73c77f61d618bfc/61e93/9dc05d4f2c5901a43ac125af873a7cf7.webp 200w,\n/static/dba6481db20bf5fdd73c77f61d618bfc/1f5c5/9dc05d4f2c5901a43ac125af873a7cf7.webp 400w,\n/static/dba6481db20bf5fdd73c77f61d618bfc/58556/9dc05d4f2c5901a43ac125af873a7cf7.webp 800w,\n/static/dba6481db20bf5fdd73c77f61d618bfc/99238/9dc05d4f2c5901a43ac125af873a7cf7.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3129-markdown","title":"THCP and CBDP: Two New Cannabinoids Discovered by Scientists","slug":"thcp-and-cbdp-two-new-cannabinoids-discovered-by-scientists","content":"Modern research on cannabis dates back decades, to when Professor Raphael Mechoulam from Israel discovered the first isolate phytocannabinoid, THC, in the early 1960s. This followed the discovery of a long list of isolate compounds ranging to over hundred potential cannabinoids. \n\nOver the years, we discovered that it’s possible to have two versions of the same cannabinoid compounds, as in the case of THCA and THC. The difference between the two is that THC holds its carboxyl acid group, meaning it only exists in raw plants that have not combusted. THCA loses the carboxyl acid upon exposure to high temperature, and it becomes THC.\n\nRecently two more cannabinoids have been discovered within the cannabis plant, showing that the book has yet to close on cannabinoid discovery The first, Tetrahydrocannabiphorol (THCP), imitates the same rough structure as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). \n\nTHC is one of the main compounds in cannabis, which is responsible for the mind-altering psychoactive effects. Though THCP has a similar structure to THC, studies show that THCP is 30 times more powerful than the psychoactive THC.\n\nThe second cannabinoid, identified as cannabidiphorol (CBDP), links to CBD and may have additional benefits as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-convulsant. \n\nFurthermore, it’s does not create heavy psychoactivity, similar to its close cousin CBD. The main difference between these four compounds is that while THCP and CBDP have seven links each in their side-chain, the other two THC and CBD only contain five links.\n\n### What are Cannabinoids?\n\nCannabis strains vary from plant to plant and these differences are due to the chemicals cannabinoids and terpenes. Most people believe that cannabinoids, as well as terpenes, are responsible for the difference in levels of different strains and effects on the body. \n\nThere are more than a hundred [cannabinoids](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5938896/), but researchers believe that only the THC causes the “high” feel linked with the use of marijuana. \n\nThe discovery of two new cannabinoids begs to differ with this claim as one of these compounds is psychoactive, as stated above. This discovery shows that we are just starting to scratch the surface behind the science of marijuana. \n\n### How THCP works?\n\nThe newly discovered cannabinoids could be the answer to the use of specifically targeted properties and aspects of marijuana. It could be possible to grow a strain of cannabis that has THCP as the primarily dominant strain. Therefore, we can derive the compound for creating cannabis-infused products that allow users to enjoy its therapeutic and medical benefits.\n\nAccording to the group of researchers, as they described in their [report in the journal Nature](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-019-56785-1), they isolated the two cannabinoids whereby the THCP can interact with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system found in the human body.\n\nTypically a cannabinoid needs to have at least three rings for it to bind with CB1; THC has five of these rings. A cannabinoid with more than five rings would connect smoothly with the body's receptors. Eight carbon rings would be an absolute wonder capable of producing a strong biological response. Unfortunately, no such compound was known until THCP, which boasts of seven carbon rings.\n\n### Medical Implications of Discovery\n\nIt’s not yet clear if CBDP holds any extra therapeutic values. On the other hand, THCP could be the next big promise to enter medical cannabis research.\n\nTHC only requires three links to interact with cannabinoid receptors. However, scientists realized that the ability to bind peaks when it’s at eight links, then this ability starts to reduce. THCP is much closer to this peak than any other known cannabinoid.\n\nIf this is the case, the medical benefits of THC can rise tremendously with the addition of THCP. This possible booster could help THC deliver benefits such as relief for pain, nausea, and more.\n\nScientists believe that this discovery can help them understand how different cannabis strains cause diverse effects. They claim that they are not aware of any other naturally occurring phytocannabinoid with such a structure, they hope to use it to understand different results caused by cannabis and to use the same to promote healing and wellness.\n\nWith such a discovery, more and more people can benefit from the therapeutic and medical benefits of marijuana in a higher and more potent dose. It also shows that we still have a lot more to learn about cannabis.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/1b94d8aeb6e35bcb7ce366d8443a1cb8/6de1f/8e58f3c478a99da955fff73e91798484.png","srcSet":"/static/1b94d8aeb6e35bcb7ce366d8443a1cb8/69585/8e58f3c478a99da955fff73e91798484.png 200w,\n/static/1b94d8aeb6e35bcb7ce366d8443a1cb8/497c6/8e58f3c478a99da955fff73e91798484.png 400w,\n/static/1b94d8aeb6e35bcb7ce366d8443a1cb8/6de1f/8e58f3c478a99da955fff73e91798484.png 778w","srcWebp":"/static/1b94d8aeb6e35bcb7ce366d8443a1cb8/cdd77/8e58f3c478a99da955fff73e91798484.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/1b94d8aeb6e35bcb7ce366d8443a1cb8/61e93/8e58f3c478a99da955fff73e91798484.webp 200w,\n/static/1b94d8aeb6e35bcb7ce366d8443a1cb8/1f5c5/8e58f3c478a99da955fff73e91798484.webp 400w,\n/static/1b94d8aeb6e35bcb7ce366d8443a1cb8/cdd77/8e58f3c478a99da955fff73e91798484.webp 778w","sizes":"(max-width: 778px) 100vw, 778px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3127-markdown","title":"HelloMD Launches Telehealth Service for Medical Cannabis in New York","slug":"hellomd-launches-telehealth-service-for-medical-cannabis-in-new-york","content":"### HelloMD Launches Telehealth Service for Medical Cannabis in New York \n\n\nHelloMD, a digital health platform for non-traditional care, announced its return to the US with a flagship launch in the state of New York. For the last few years, HelloMD has operated its Telehealth business exclusively across Canada. However, since the COVID pandemic, it is clear the Telehealth is the healthcare delivery model of the future. \n\nWe are excited to announce that we have expanded our Telehealth service to the state of New York. People across the state now have unlimited access to experienced healthcare practitioners who can advise them on the use of medical cannabis. New Yorkers can now easily and efficiently use the HelloMD live video platform from the comfort of their home or office.\n\n[GET YOUR NEW YORK MEDICAL CARD](https://newyork.hellomd.com/) \n\n### Why Use Telehealth for Cannabis?\n\nAlong with California and Nevada, New York allows for qualifying Telehealth consultations between patients and doctors, for medical cannabis. Telehealth is particularly important for medical cannabis consultations because it allows for private consultations where:\n\n- Patients feel the stigma of investigating medical marijuana\n- A Primary GP or doctor doesn't feel comfortable prescribing or advising cannabis\n- People are too sick to travel to see a doctor EG: undergoing chemo\n\n### New York's Qualifying Conditions\n\nThe following are qualifying conditions for getting a medical card in the state of New York:\n\n- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)\n- Cancer\n- Chronic pain\n- Damage to the nervous tissue of the spinal cord with an objective neurological indication of intractable spasticity\n- Epilepsy\n- HIV /AIDS\n- Inflammatory bowel disease\n- Huntington's disease \n- Multiple sclerosis\n- Neuropathy\n- Opioid use disorder (only if enrolled in a treatment program pursuant to article 32 of the mental hygiene law.)\n- Opioid replacement\n- Parkinson's disease\n- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)\n\nNew York has recently expanded the list of qualifying conditions to include (among others) chronic pain. This category is important as its broadly defined as any pain lasting longer than 12 weeks, and can include very common conditions such as migraines, back pain, fibromyalgia, sciatica, arthritis, and others (all of which cannabis has shown to be an effective treatment for.\n\n### Help Spread the Word\n\nHaving launched in New York, we need the assistance of HelloMD members to help spread the awareness of the service to friends they have in New York. If you have friends in New York you feel might benefit from the use of medical cannabis, please have them visit HelloMD and see a doctor or nurse today. The process takes about an hour to complete, and doctors are available 7-days per week.\n\n[GET YOUR NEW YORK MEDICAL CARD](https://newyork.hellomd.com/)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/0bb6eb17c3ca9a7095724b74fdd0f1f7/ee604/f09562fdad522e8dbd32e8383dc81984.png","srcSet":"/static/0bb6eb17c3ca9a7095724b74fdd0f1f7/69585/f09562fdad522e8dbd32e8383dc81984.png 200w,\n/static/0bb6eb17c3ca9a7095724b74fdd0f1f7/497c6/f09562fdad522e8dbd32e8383dc81984.png 400w,\n/static/0bb6eb17c3ca9a7095724b74fdd0f1f7/ee604/f09562fdad522e8dbd32e8383dc81984.png 800w,\n/static/0bb6eb17c3ca9a7095724b74fdd0f1f7/f3583/f09562fdad522e8dbd32e8383dc81984.png 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/0bb6eb17c3ca9a7095724b74fdd0f1f7/58556/f09562fdad522e8dbd32e8383dc81984.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0bb6eb17c3ca9a7095724b74fdd0f1f7/61e93/f09562fdad522e8dbd32e8383dc81984.webp 200w,\n/static/0bb6eb17c3ca9a7095724b74fdd0f1f7/1f5c5/f09562fdad522e8dbd32e8383dc81984.webp 400w,\n/static/0bb6eb17c3ca9a7095724b74fdd0f1f7/58556/f09562fdad522e8dbd32e8383dc81984.webp 800w,\n/static/0bb6eb17c3ca9a7095724b74fdd0f1f7/99238/f09562fdad522e8dbd32e8383dc81984.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3123-markdown","title":"The Health Benefits of Breathwork for the Body and Mind","slug":"the-health-benefits-of-breathwork-for-the-body-and-mind","content":"When someone is tense or angry, we often say, \"Take a deep breath.\" And when we've escaped a bad situation, we can \"breathe easier.\" Breathing is an automatic process that keeps us alive, and most of the time, we take it for granted. \n\nBut research suggests that breathwork, a practice of mindful, disciplined breathing, could have far-reaching implications for the health of both mind and body.\n\n### What is Breathwork?\n\nMany people know that deep breathing can be calming and relaxing, and deep breathing routines are part of various yoga and meditation practices. But today's breathwork movements take conscious control of the breath even further.\n\n Breathwork is [broadly defined](https://www.healthline.com/health/breathwork#types) as any breathing techniques or exercises that claim to improve mental and physical health in significant ways. Breathwork practitioners claim that the various breathing practices they teach can improve concentration, boost mood, relieve pain, and open doors to profound insights about the self and the world. \n\nFor all those reasons, advocates of breathwork claim that these disciplines have applications for spiritual practices and therapeutic ones – and recent research supports some of those claims.\n\nBreathwork practices focus on controlling the breath to achieve specific goals, and that can take several forms. Some breathwork techniques emphasize the rate of breathing for different results. Slow, regular breaths can promote relaxation and reduce stress, while rapid breathing may increase alertness and focus. \n\nOther practices focus on the breathing process itself, such as breathing through the nose, rather than the mouth, or alternating nostrils and mouth breathing in patterns such as inhaling through the nose and exhaling through the mouth, or vice versa.\n\nThe idea of manipulating the breath for better emotional and physical health has led to the creation of several breathwork movements that combine cutting-edge science, ancient spiritual practices, and holistic and alternative wellness. Recent, high profile examples include:\n\n### Shamanic Breathwork\n[Shamanic breathwork](https://www.shamanicbreathwork.org/shamanic-breathwork)\n is a part of today's modern shamanism movement, which incorporates a variety of breathing practices into rituals for journeying to other realms of consciousness. In shamanic practice, breathwork helps connect with spirit animals and other entities for enlightenment and spiritual growth.\n\n### Transformational Breathwork\n[Transformational Breathwork](https://www.transformationalbreath.com/breathwork.aspx) is a holistic breathwork practice endorsed by leading figures in the world of natural wellness including Deepak Chopra and Christiane Northrup. Proponents of this meditative breathing practice claim that it can improve circulation, balance the body's energy flow, and support better immune system functioning.\n\n### Holotropic Breathwork\n[Holotropic Breathwork ](https://www.verywellmind.com/holotropic-breathwork-41754) was conceived in the mid-1970s as a drug-free way to achieve altered consciousness. This movement centers on \"quickening\" or rapid breathing patterns that, according to its founders, have both spiritual and therapeutic benefits. \n\n### How Does Breathwork Effect Mind and Body?\n\nControlled breathing practices [can have a considerable impact](https://www.parsleyhealth.com/blog/breathwork-does-it-work/)\n on the health of both the mind and the body, because we can not live without it. However, because breathwork artificially alters natural breathing patterns, it isn't safe for everyone, and many of its supposed benefits aren't backed by science.\n\nMost research on the effects of breathwork focus on disciplines that involve deep, slow breathing of the kind that's often associated with yoga and meditation. Studies on this kind of breathwork [reveal a range of measurable benefits](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6137615/) for mental and physical health.\n\nDeep breathing practices can lower blood pressure and reduce blood levels of cortisol, a stress hormone. Deep breaths can also increase oxygenation in the blood and brain, with benefits for focus and concentration. Deep breathing also activates muscles and nerves that stimulate the [parasympathetic nervous system](https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/parasympathetic-nervous-system#:~:text=The%20parasympathetic%20nervous%20system%20is%20responsible%20for%20the%20body's%20rest,heart%20rate%20and%20increases%20digestion), which is responsible for relaxation responses and healthy digestion. \n\nOther research has [focused on the effects of breathwork practices](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7457013/) that emphasize nostril breathing, or ones that alternate nostril and mouth breathing. These studies reveal that breathing through the nose can activate receptors in the olfactory bulb that are not activated when breathing through the mouth.\n\nReceptors in the olfactory bulb stimulate the olfactory nerve, which leads to the brain's limbic system, an ancient part of the brain associated with memory, mood, and emotion. That connection explains why smells can immediately trigger vivid memories and emotions, and it also explains why breathing through the nose could affect emotions such as anger and anxiety.\n\nSome studies have also examined the effects of [practices such as Holotropic Breathwork](https://www.healthline.com/health/holotropic-breathwork#safety) that center on rapid breathing, or hyperventilation. Quick, shallow breathing eliminates more carbon dioxide, which makes blood pH more alkaline. That stimulates the firing of neurons in the central nervous system and triggers epinephrine release, an excitatory hormone.\n\nBreathwork can also lead to a constriction in blood vessels and reduce the flow of oxygen to the brain. Just one minute of hyperventilation can reduce oxygen delivery by as much as 40 percent. This reduction accounts for the feelings of dizziness and even euphoria that brief periods of hyperventilation can cause.\n\nFor these reasons, healthcare professionals warn that these breathwork practices may not be safe for people with cardiac arrhythmia, a history of heart problems, or those taking certain antipsychotic medications. Although deep breathing can reduce anxiety, rapid breathing practices can trigger it, most likely because that kind of breathwork stimulates the release of epinephrine. Generally, though, certain kinds of breathwork can be a useful part of treatment for mood disorders such as depression and PTSD, but they should be practiced under a qualified therapist's guidance.\n\n### Enhancing the Effects of Breathwork\n\nA variety of enhancements can boost the effects of various breathwork practices, primarily when breathwork is used to boost mental and emotional health or as a spiritual practice.\n\nRituals can help to create an atmosphere that boosts the effectiveness of breathwork. Things like setting an intention, creating a sacred space, or performing ritual activities associated with a particular spiritual practice can support a breathwork practice.\n\nIncense or candles can help enhance a breathwork practice by creating a relaxing and soothing atmosphere that promotes calm and relaxation. Scents such as lavender or lemongrass can trigger positive associations in the brain.\n\nMusic or nature sounds can also enhance breathwork. Calming music can support breathwork for meditation and relaxation. Other rhythmic sounds can help to sustain the rhythm of a breathwork discipline.\n\nAlthough there's no research to support the claim, some users say [cannabis can enhance various breathwork practices](https://docmj.com/ohio/2019/09/14/combining-meditation-breathing-techniques-with-cannabis/) by helping to expand consciousness and [intensify the effects](https://cannabismagazine.com/5-ways-boost-psychedelic-high/)\n of the practice. But marijuana can also trigger feelings of paranoia and anxiety, so it's wise to use caution when pairing cannabis and breathwork.\n\nBreath is the key to life – and today's breathwork practices blend ancient traditions and modern science in the quest for a healthier mind and body.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/468c6956cb84cd9c7b9996c023dd94d7/ee604/19c7d05b3008fabab7edb9fe6b541b70.png","srcSet":"/static/468c6956cb84cd9c7b9996c023dd94d7/69585/19c7d05b3008fabab7edb9fe6b541b70.png 200w,\n/static/468c6956cb84cd9c7b9996c023dd94d7/497c6/19c7d05b3008fabab7edb9fe6b541b70.png 400w,\n/static/468c6956cb84cd9c7b9996c023dd94d7/ee604/19c7d05b3008fabab7edb9fe6b541b70.png 800w,\n/static/468c6956cb84cd9c7b9996c023dd94d7/42c55/19c7d05b3008fabab7edb9fe6b541b70.png 974w","srcWebp":"/static/468c6956cb84cd9c7b9996c023dd94d7/58556/19c7d05b3008fabab7edb9fe6b541b70.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/468c6956cb84cd9c7b9996c023dd94d7/61e93/19c7d05b3008fabab7edb9fe6b541b70.webp 200w,\n/static/468c6956cb84cd9c7b9996c023dd94d7/1f5c5/19c7d05b3008fabab7edb9fe6b541b70.webp 400w,\n/static/468c6956cb84cd9c7b9996c023dd94d7/58556/19c7d05b3008fabab7edb9fe6b541b70.webp 800w,\n/static/468c6956cb84cd9c7b9996c023dd94d7/fccb4/19c7d05b3008fabab7edb9fe6b541b70.webp 974w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3122-markdown","title":"Supporting the Immune System During Cold and Flu Season with Plant-Based Supplements ","slug":"supporting-the-immune-system-during-cold-and-flu-season-with-plant-based-supplements","content":"Although you can get sick any time of the year, [cold and flu season](https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/it-cold-or-flu-prevention-symptoms-treatments) typically lasts from as early as October through as late as May. Each year, [millions of people contract](https://www.cdc.gov/dotw/common-cold/index.html) these two common viruses, with the average adult getting around 2-3 colds annually. \n\nWe can all recognize the symptoms — runny nose, sore throat, coughing, sneezing, and body aches — as soon they start appearing. With the weather changing, it’s essential to stay in good health and keep our immune system strong. Luckily, there are ways to support your immune system so that you are less susceptible to getting sick. \n\n### Your Immune System\n\nThe immune system is responsible for protecting your body from bacteria, viruses, and other toxins that may enter the body. Though the immune system functions automatically, there are ways we can weaken it or boost its ability to defend us against germs. \n\n- A few ways to boost the immune system are: \n- Eating a nutrient dense diet \n- Committing to a more consistent sleep schedule \n- Staying active with exercise and body movement\n\nStress also plays a significant role in weakening our immunity. When the body is stressed, its ability to fight off pathogens is reduced. Normal levels of day-to-day stress are manageable, but [chronic stress can significantly impact immune function](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4465119/) and can cause headaches, ulcers, and other conditions. \n\nFinding ways to reduce stress in your life is a good place to start, but if you find it difficult, then incorporating plant-based foods and supplements may be useful. Certain herbs and plants help boost your immunity system by helping your body respond better to stress. These types of substances are called adaptogens. \n\n### What Are Adaptogens?\n\nAdaptogens are a class of herbs and mushrooms that support the body’s physical, chemical, or biological ability to adapt to stress. There are some that you can take as supplements and others you can eat, or that can be brewed to make tea or tinctures. \n\nThese herbs have been consumed by various cultures throughout history to help prevent and fight off illnesses. Studies have shown that adaptogens [offer a stress-protective effect](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3991026/). This aids our central nervous system by encouraging neuroprotective, anti-fatigue, and even antidepressive activity. \n\nAdaptogens also influence [hormone production](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6240259/) and other physiological responses to stress, including energy levels. Similar to adaptogens, cannabis may provide cold and flu relief via immune system modulation system along with other plant medicines like mushrooms\n\n### How Cannabis May Help the Immune System\n\nMany studies have demonstrated cannabis’ potential to support the immune system. Both THC and CBD have been shown to possess [antiviral and antifungal properties](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3165946/). Antiviral substances work by inhibiting the development of target pathogens instead of merely killing them, like antibiotics. \n\nCBD in particular, can help with bacteria that are not responding to medication and studies have even shown CBD can address [antibiotic resistance](https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/03/200324131833.htm). Cannabis may also have immunosuppressive power. A recent study showed that phytocannabinoids “deeply influence immune functions, thereby regulating inflammation, autoimmunity, antitumor...responses.” \n\nCannabis can also manage [stress and anxiety](https://www.hellomd.com/tag/anxiety). One study found that cannabis may help regulate stress and depression symptoms, which helps improve your immune function. In [another study](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0165032718303100?via%3Dihub), scientists demonstrated that inhaling cannabis can positively impact your body’s stress response. \n\nResearch has revealed that patients inhaling cannabis experienced a notable reduction in their stress symptoms in 89.3% of sessions. The study also found that women perceived a more significant reduction in symptoms of anxiety than men.\n\n### Medicinal Mushrooms Role in Immune Support\n\nMedicinal mushrooms have been used throughout history in traditional and folk medicines to aid in treating many ailments. These non-psychoactive powerhouses have found their place in modern science, as they have shown to improve the body’s immune response. \n\nMushrooms work in the body by [modulating the immune system](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4684115/) to fight against viral, bacterial, and parasitic pathogens. Some of the best mushrooms for boosting your immune system include maitake, cordyceps, shiitake, reishi, turkey tail, and lion’s tail. \n\nThese mushrooms can be included in your diet and eaten off the stem or you can look for products, such as capsules and powders, that contain them. \n\n### Other Plant-Based Supplement\n\nOther adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha, Siberian ginseng, rhodiola, and schisandra may also help reduce stress levels and help to [modulate stress responses](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4296439/). There’s also research that shows holy basil or tulsi is an immunomodulating herb that may play an important role in supporting cells involved in immune defense. This herb can be added into recipes when cooking or made into a tea. \n\n\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.4814814814814814,"src":"/static/893c7fe338748069031199ebcdd470f7/ee604/468599726e7903701405b8044b8e9b9b.png","srcSet":"/static/893c7fe338748069031199ebcdd470f7/69585/468599726e7903701405b8044b8e9b9b.png 200w,\n/static/893c7fe338748069031199ebcdd470f7/497c6/468599726e7903701405b8044b8e9b9b.png 400w,\n/static/893c7fe338748069031199ebcdd470f7/ee604/468599726e7903701405b8044b8e9b9b.png 800w,\n/static/893c7fe338748069031199ebcdd470f7/d7d2a/468599726e7903701405b8044b8e9b9b.png 902w","srcWebp":"/static/893c7fe338748069031199ebcdd470f7/58556/468599726e7903701405b8044b8e9b9b.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/893c7fe338748069031199ebcdd470f7/61e93/468599726e7903701405b8044b8e9b9b.webp 200w,\n/static/893c7fe338748069031199ebcdd470f7/1f5c5/468599726e7903701405b8044b8e9b9b.webp 400w,\n/static/893c7fe338748069031199ebcdd470f7/58556/468599726e7903701405b8044b8e9b9b.webp 800w,\n/static/893c7fe338748069031199ebcdd470f7/bcd79/468599726e7903701405b8044b8e9b9b.webp 902w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3116-markdown","title":"8 Natural Ways to Combat Chronic Pain","slug":"8-natural-ways-to-combat-chronic-pain","content":"Anyone who suffers from chronic pain can understand the frustration of managing continuous discomfort. With nearly [20 million Americans](https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/67/wr/mm6736a2.htm) afflicted by the condition, it's quickly becoming an emerging public health issue. \n\nMany people can relate to the struggle of trying to find balance, especially when it comes to managing the tension between day to day life and the reality of being out of commission. Chronic pain can make daily tasks difficult, participating in the fun activities you used to enjoy and disrupt the entire way you live life. And taking opioids makes the pain worse when used over a long time; it makes sense why it feels so hard to keep things under control. \n\n### What Causes Chronic Pain?\n\nMany different factors cause chronic pain. These may include advanced age, disease, nerve damage, traumatic injury, excess strain on the back, or knees due to weight or improper posture. \n\nOpioids are most often prescribed to help treat chronic pain but often end up causing more harm. Some believe that opioids help build the body's resilience to pain; however it does the exact opposite. \n\nStudies have shown that extended use of pain medication can lead to [opioid-induced hyperalgesia](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21412369/), a condition marked by an increased sensitivity to external stimuli. It can also lead to a spread of pain to non-injured parts of your body beyond the original area and increase the amount of pain you feel over time.\n\nLuckily, several alternative treatments and therapies may aid in regulating the symptoms associated with chronic pain. Simple lifestyle choices easily incorporated into your routine may make living with chronic pain more manageable. Keep reading for a few suggestions that may make a big difference. \n\n### 1. CBD\n\nCBD is a well-known therapeutic cannabinoid from cannabis which has an analgesic effect. Research shows CBD reduces sensations like burning, prickling, tingling, and burning related to [neuropathic pain](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9653176/), often related to inflammation. Pain that's difficult to treat may respond well to CBD. The bonus for many chronic pain patients is that CBD is nonintoxicating. Popular methods of consumption include topical creams, tinctures and gel caps.\n\n### 2. THC\n\nAlthough CBD is a powerful pain reliever, THC within marijuana also plays a role in reducing discomfort as well. THC also has [anti-inflammatory properties](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0304395901004547) that may be particularly useful for pain resulting from tissue damage. It's suggested that a balanced consumption of both CBD and THC increase pain-relieving efficacy. Popular ways of consuming THC are by smoking strains of flower high in THC, vaping cannabis oils, and ingesting edibles. It's often recommended to eat edibles as pain relief may last anywhere from 6-8 hours.\n\n### 3. Natural Supplements\n\nSome studies have shown that things like turmeric, ginger and white willow bark may help reduce pain. Turmeric is a spice with [medicinal properties](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5664031/) and is an excellent anti-inflammatory. Similarly, ginger may also help reduce pain. Interestingly, these spices have been shown to work particularly well together. The medical center at Penn State indicates that [white willow bark](http://pennstatehershey.adam.com/content.aspx?productid=107&pid=33&gid=000281) may be nature's natural aspirin. This bark has been shown to be effective in combatting headaches, arthritis, tendonitis, and bursitis.\n\n### 4. Acupuncture\n\nAcupuncture is the ancient healing art of inserting extremely fine needles into the skin at specific points. Acupuncture is believed to release endorphins, the body's natural pain-killing hormones providing an [analgesic effect](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5676441/). Although it is sometimes considered a controversial treatment option, [studies continue to show](https://www.jpain.org/article/S1526-5900(17)30780-0/fulltext) that acupuncture's effects are measurable and cannot be explained only by placebo effects.\n\n### 5. Meditation\n\nAlthough meditation is often associated with stress management, using deep breathing to calm your mind can also soothe a body that is in pain. Studies have shown that mindfulness meditation can actually bypass the opioid receptors reducing pain intensity. This ability to relieve pain independently of [opioid neurotransmitter](https://www.nccih.nih.gov/research/research-results/mindfulness-meditation-relieves-pain-but-works-differently-than-opioids-in-the-body) mechanisms makes this method an often overlooked secret weapon in combatting pain. \n\n### 6. Regular Movement and Exercise\n\nPhysical movement and regular exercise plays a significant role in pain reduction. Adding movement into your daily routine helps to lubricate your joints, increase your body's natural fluids, improve mobility, and positively impacts your overall quality life. It's up to you to decide what makes the most sense for your body whether that's a gentle stretch or a vigorous walk. \n\n### 7. Hot or Cold Treatment\n\nDepending on the type of pain experienced, using a hot or cold compress could alleviate different muscle discomfort types. Cold treatments reduce blood flow and are useful for decreasing inflammation, while hot treatments relax muscles promoting blood flow. \n\n### 8. Eating a Healthy Diet\n\nChronic pain is often linked to systemic inflammation throughout the body. This can be alleviated by eating a healthy diet full of unprocessed food, fruits, vegetables and some proteins. According to [Dr. Fred Tabung, of Harvard's T.H. Chan School of Public Health](https://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/can-diet-heal-chronic-pain), \"Your diet can help support your immune system by having it turn on and turn off at the appropriate times,\" he says. \"Yet a poor diet can alter your immune system, so it acts abnormally, and can contribute to persistent low-grade inflammation.\"\n\nDr. Tabung suggests that you aim for variety in foods and avoid eating the same favorites day after day. His recommendations include:\n\nHalf your plate should be filled with whole grains such as brown rice, along with proteins, such as fish, poultry, beans, or nuts.\n\nThe other half should mostly be leafy green vegetables along with some fruit.\n\nConsume healthy oils such as olive and canola oils instead of butter\n\nChronic pain is a physical, emotional, and psychological ordeal that can be managed when employing various methods. Each person is unique when it comes to what may work. For some, incorporating CBD or THC into a medical regimen is enough. For others, it's yoga followed by mediation, or supplements to support a new acupuncture routine. Managing chronic pain is a personal journey but often, there is hope for living a pain-free life. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.4285714285714286,"src":"/static/1a1093f937a97db13e67e8c42dccd13f/ee604/78e78a1255f131483156a839c46aa0fd.png","srcSet":"/static/1a1093f937a97db13e67e8c42dccd13f/69585/78e78a1255f131483156a839c46aa0fd.png 200w,\n/static/1a1093f937a97db13e67e8c42dccd13f/497c6/78e78a1255f131483156a839c46aa0fd.png 400w,\n/static/1a1093f937a97db13e67e8c42dccd13f/ee604/78e78a1255f131483156a839c46aa0fd.png 800w,\n/static/1a1093f937a97db13e67e8c42dccd13f/f3583/78e78a1255f131483156a839c46aa0fd.png 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/1a1093f937a97db13e67e8c42dccd13f/58556/78e78a1255f131483156a839c46aa0fd.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/1a1093f937a97db13e67e8c42dccd13f/61e93/78e78a1255f131483156a839c46aa0fd.webp 200w,\n/static/1a1093f937a97db13e67e8c42dccd13f/1f5c5/78e78a1255f131483156a839c46aa0fd.webp 400w,\n/static/1a1093f937a97db13e67e8c42dccd13f/58556/78e78a1255f131483156a839c46aa0fd.webp 800w,\n/static/1a1093f937a97db13e67e8c42dccd13f/99238/78e78a1255f131483156a839c46aa0fd.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3117-markdown","title":"Should Marijuana Be Part of Your Fitness Regimen","slug":"should-marijuana-be-part-of-your-fitness-regimen","content":"Consuming cannabis products to enhance a workout program is a hot topic these days. Amateur to professional athletes alike are claiming cannabis to have numerous beneficial properties for enhancing a fitness routine. Here, we'll sort through the information to allow you to make an informed decision about combining cannabis and exercise.\n\n### Weigh the Pros and Cons Carefully\n\nAny time you're considering a change in your workout regimen, it's important to carefully examine both sides of the equation. Even if a product is [naturally derived](https://theconversation.com/bad-medicine-why-natural-does-not-mean-safe-6410), there may be drawbacks. With that in mind, study up on the different points relating to cannabis products, and consider both the potential positive and negative effects on your health. With a solid foundation, you can make an informed decision.\n\n### Cannabis 101\n\nEven if you're comfortable with common cannabis-oriented terminology, you might be surprised by unfamiliar words and phrases. With that in mind, you can review our [cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/blogs/articles/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana), to be familiar with the basics. Learn the difference between THC and CBD, the importance of cannabinoids and how you may react based on the conditions or symptoms you wish to treat.\n\n### CBD or THC\n\nThere are two general product types available for cannabis users: THC and CBD. Both THC and CBD are [chemical compounds](https://hellomd.com/blogs/articles/quick-guide-to-finding-your-ideal-cbd-to-thc-ratio) with similar structures, but as Healthline explains, there are key differences. CBD products, why technically psychoactive, will not get you high, but THC products will. THC products also bind to receptors in your brain. CBD products will not bond with the receptors in your brain, and it appears they might inhibit THC products from doing so. \n\n### Methods of Consumption\n\nOnce you decide whether you would like to consume CBD, THC or a combination of both, there are numerous methods of consumption to consider. Other than smoking flower, there are many different ways to consume cannabis. Many athletes prefer edibles as they are easy to ingest and come in a prepackaged dosage. Typically an edible may take 1-2 hours to take effect, whereas a sub-lingual or tincture, take as little as 15-30 minutes. Other ways to ingest cannabis would be a gel capsules, topicals, transdermal patches, vaping and marijuana buds. It's important to know that the consumption method also affects how much cannabis your body may absorb.\n\n### Potential Positives\n\nAccording to some studies, cannabis has excellent anti-inflammatory properties. Cannabis compounds appear to engage with the immune system, reducing your chances of cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. It also seems to offset inflammation in the brain and help ward off Alzheimer's disease. Workout-wise, the anti-inflammatory effects can mean a [quicker recovery period](https://www.mensjournal.com/health-fitness/marijuana-can-relieve-pain-and-improve-athletic-recovery-so-why-isnt-it-legal/). \n\nMen's Health also notes there is a potential that using cannabis products within hours of exercising could enhance your workout in important ways, such as boosting focus and promoting a more enjoyable workout experience. Some products like CBD creams may even reduce exercise-induced pain . For some, it can make a difference in motivation for whether a workout plan is followed or not. \n\n### Potential Negatives\n\nThere are [negative aspects](https://vapingdaily.com/marijuana-side-effects/) to bear in mind if you're considering consuming vaping or smoking flower. The biggest drawback relates to lung health. The American Lung Association explains certain forms of cannabis can be particularly damaging to your lungs. Smoking marijuana can be especially harmful if it contains irritants, fungus, or mold, which many illicit products do.\n\nSome people think vaping is safer, but it can damage your health in a similar fashion to e-cigarettes. Additionally, many people are surprised to learn that hot dabbing also appears to have drawbacks, as it can contain lung-damaging toxins and pollutants. There is concern dabbing could expose users to carcinogens.\n\nIf you elect to add cannabis to your workout plan, be sure to examine both sides of the equation carefully. There are benefits and drawbacks, and it's best to make your decision with solid information. Education is power, especially when it comes to health and fitness. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.6666666666666667,"src":"/static/722cee043c3ef694421fd9fb8346ea13/ee604/bed15bccdf9e0c404a820d5b9ef73a29.png","srcSet":"/static/722cee043c3ef694421fd9fb8346ea13/69585/bed15bccdf9e0c404a820d5b9ef73a29.png 200w,\n/static/722cee043c3ef694421fd9fb8346ea13/497c6/bed15bccdf9e0c404a820d5b9ef73a29.png 400w,\n/static/722cee043c3ef694421fd9fb8346ea13/ee604/bed15bccdf9e0c404a820d5b9ef73a29.png 800w,\n/static/722cee043c3ef694421fd9fb8346ea13/f3583/bed15bccdf9e0c404a820d5b9ef73a29.png 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/722cee043c3ef694421fd9fb8346ea13/58556/bed15bccdf9e0c404a820d5b9ef73a29.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/722cee043c3ef694421fd9fb8346ea13/61e93/bed15bccdf9e0c404a820d5b9ef73a29.webp 200w,\n/static/722cee043c3ef694421fd9fb8346ea13/1f5c5/bed15bccdf9e0c404a820d5b9ef73a29.webp 400w,\n/static/722cee043c3ef694421fd9fb8346ea13/58556/bed15bccdf9e0c404a820d5b9ef73a29.webp 800w,\n/static/722cee043c3ef694421fd9fb8346ea13/99238/bed15bccdf9e0c404a820d5b9ef73a29.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3109-markdown","title":"Top 5 Marijuana Strains That'll Make Your Day Brighter","slug":"top-5-marijuana-strains-thatll-make-your-day-brighter","content":"The recent vaping crisis has injured thousands and killed as many as 52 people. Vaping Associated Pulmonary Illness (VAPI), is now known to be caused by illicit-market vapes that contain Vitamin E acetate. Shockingly, A recent study found [9 out 12 vape pens tested from the illicit market](https://www.businessinsider.com/timeline-of-vape-related-illnesses-and-deaths-2019-9) had high levels of vitamin E acetate and other pesticides.\n\nSince the crisis, there's generally been a lot of fear about vaping, even with vapes purchased on the legal market. For this reason, there is a renewed interest in the old fashioned way - smoking flower.\n\nBelow are 5 cannabis strains we've carefully curated, and we're sure they'll make your day brighter:\n\n**Bubba Kush - Indica**\n\nBubba Kush is an indica strain with a mix of terpenes ranging from peppery, citrus, and herbal. It stands around 23% THC content and is of Afghani descent, but it's origins are not entirely known. If you're looking to calm down after a hectic workweek, Bubba Kush may be the strain for you. It's so calming that some may say it's more akin to a horse tranquilizer. If you have chronic pain, battle with insomnia, or anxiety, this strain may help. Some claim that Bubba Kush creates a dreamy euphoria combined with a happy, albeit a somewhat sleepy, mood. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_us/?utm_medium=copy_link/)\n\n**Cannatonic - Hybrid**\n\nCannatonic is a hybrid strain with terpenes ranging from peppery, pine and herbal. The strain has around 25% THC content. It's a cross between Mendocino Purps, Skunk and Afghani. Cannatonic is well known for its balanced, mellow high. The balance between THC and CBD creates a powerfully relaxing strain that may produce a wave a calm over the body. Many people claim that it helps with pain, migraines, and soothes nausea, muscle spasms, anxiety, and depression.\n\n**Grape Ape - Indica**\n\nGrape Ape is an indica strain with a mix of terpenes ranging from herbal, pine, and pepper. It stands around 5.5% THC and 10%-17% CBD content and is a cross between Mendocino Purps, Skunk, and Afghani. The name Grape Ape comes from its grape-like smell. Visually it's distinct, and it yields a complex fruity flavor. Grape Ape's high comes on gradually, creating a weight-like sensation in the arms and legs. Many say the effect is a spacey-calmness which leads to a full-body stone. If you're suffering from muscle aches or pains or need to let go of your day, the strength of this indica may be in order.\n\nDOWNLOAD THE DAILY BONFIRE APP & WIN $420: \n[APPLE IOS](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/daily-bonfire/id1469226668) l [GOOGLE ANDROID](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.hellomd.appv1)\n\n**Tangerine Dream – Hybrid**\n\nTangerine Dream is a hybrid strain with a mix of terpenes ranging from herbal, pepper, and citrus. It stands around 17%-25% THC content. It's a cross between G13, Neville's A5 Haze and Afghani. Its flavor is bold with a strong citrus and clove-like undertone, while its flowers are forest green and chunky with trichomes. Consumers say that Tangerine Dream creates a clear-headed high that is both calming and fosters a sense of alertness. This strain may create an immediate head rush leaving the body with a sense of warmth and even making you a little wide-eyed. Due to the ability to develop focus, this may be the right strain for those that suffer from ADHD. It also can relax muscles and relieve stress and anxiety.\n\n**Super Lemon Haze - Sativa**\n\nSuper Lemon Haze is a sativa strain with a mix of terpenes ranging from fruity, peppery and minty. It stands around 18%-25% THC and 1% CBG content. It's a cross between Lemon Skunk and Super Silver Haze. Its flavor is bright and fresh with a lemony zing, with an almost candy-like quality. The aroma is citrusy and a little sweet. Super Lemon Haze is known for its happy effects, creating an uplifting and energetic high. Its euphoric effects are known to help with depression, anxiety, and pain. This strain is excellent if you need a boost to clean the house or go out for the night with friends.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.492537313432836,"src":"/static/5ba1164e6c634e03bdd0cab91d097a33/14b42/f59b2daed6a34c802654da97efd40ccf.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5ba1164e6c634e03bdd0cab91d097a33/f836f/f59b2daed6a34c802654da97efd40ccf.jpg 200w,\n/static/5ba1164e6c634e03bdd0cab91d097a33/2244e/f59b2daed6a34c802654da97efd40ccf.jpg 400w,\n/static/5ba1164e6c634e03bdd0cab91d097a33/14b42/f59b2daed6a34c802654da97efd40ccf.jpg 800w,\n/static/5ba1164e6c634e03bdd0cab91d097a33/47498/f59b2daed6a34c802654da97efd40ccf.jpg 1200w,\n/static/5ba1164e6c634e03bdd0cab91d097a33/b99f1/f59b2daed6a34c802654da97efd40ccf.jpg 1345w","srcWebp":"/static/5ba1164e6c634e03bdd0cab91d097a33/58556/f59b2daed6a34c802654da97efd40ccf.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5ba1164e6c634e03bdd0cab91d097a33/61e93/f59b2daed6a34c802654da97efd40ccf.webp 200w,\n/static/5ba1164e6c634e03bdd0cab91d097a33/1f5c5/f59b2daed6a34c802654da97efd40ccf.webp 400w,\n/static/5ba1164e6c634e03bdd0cab91d097a33/58556/f59b2daed6a34c802654da97efd40ccf.webp 800w,\n/static/5ba1164e6c634e03bdd0cab91d097a33/99238/f59b2daed6a34c802654da97efd40ccf.webp 1200w,\n/static/5ba1164e6c634e03bdd0cab91d097a33/8ea14/f59b2daed6a34c802654da97efd40ccf.webp 1345w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":48,"numPages":7,"currentPage":5,"id":5834,"name":"Thc","slug":"thc","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}