This week’s newsletter covers the aftermath of California’s cannabis testing scandal, a tribute to Florida medical cannabis advocate Cathy Jordan, undisclosed conflicts of interest in vaping research, and new studies on psychedelics, CBD, and neurodegenerative diseases.
Noteworthy Read
Former Law Enforcement Officers Open CBD and THC Store in Dundas (Leader Telegram)
Two former Hennepin County law enforcement officers have opened Natreum Milltown, a CBD and THC retail store in Dundas. They offer a range of products, including edibles, tinctures, oils, beverages, balms, and salves, to help with various health issues. The store is part of a chain with locations in several Minnesota cities.
Cathy Jordan, Advocate for Medical Cannabis in Florida, Leaves a Lasting Legacy for Patients (Florida Phoenix)
Cathy Jordan, credited with helping to legalize medical cannabis in Florida, passed away on July 4 at her home in South Florida. Diagnosed with ALS in 1986, she lived 38 years beyond her prognosis, advocating for cannabis as a treatment. Jordan served as president of the Florida Cannabis Action Network and was a key figure in the state’s cannabis legalization efforts.
NYU Professors’ Undisclosed Ties to Juul Revealed Amid Youth Vaping Crisis (Stat News)
Two New York University professors, David Abrams and Ray Niaura, collaborated with Juul executives without disclosing these relationships to academic journals or Congress, a STAT investigation reveals. During the peak of the youth vaping crisis, Abrams and Niaura defended vaping as a public health strategy, coordinating closely with Juul on public messaging and academic publications without transparency.
More Noteworthy Reading
Study Finds Psychedelic Experiences May Help Moderate Habitual Cannabis Use (PubMed)
A recent study explored the effects of psychedelic experiences on cannabis use and psychological flexibility among 152 cannabis users. The findings showed that after a significant psychedelic experience, participants had a notable and lasting reduction in cannabis use and improvements in psychological flexibility. The intensity of the mystical experience was linked to these positive outcomes, suggesting that psychedelic-assisted therapy could be helpful for those seeking to reduce cannabis use frequency or habitual consumption.
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Research Round-Up
Cannabinoids and Vitamin B12: Promising Treatment for Neurodegenerative Diseases (PubMed)
Medical cannabis is gaining attention for its potential to help with diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Compounds in cannabis, especially CBD, show promise in reducing inflammation and protecting brain cells. Researchers are also exploring the benefits of combining CBD with vitamin B12 to boost brain health. While more studies are needed, this combination could lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.
CBD Shows Promise in Protecting Brain Cells from Alzheimer’s Damage (PubMed)
Alzheimer’s disease, a leading cause of dementia, is linked to harmful proteins in the brain. A recent study found that cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound from cannabis, may protect brain cells from this damage. CBD improved cell health and reduced stress and damage in neurons affected by Alzheimer’s-related proteins. This suggests CBD could be a valuable addition to treatments for Alzheimer’s disease.
A heartfelt thank you to all of the CBD brands whose generous support makes it possible for Project CBD to shine a light on the latest plant medicine research and bring these important stories to our community.
