This week’s newsletter covers groundbreaking findings on CBD as a mosquito larvicide, updates on pharmaceutical CBD for epilepsy, regulatory action against delta-8 THC copycat products, the environmental toll of drug trafficking in Central America, and new research on CBD for wound healing, psychedelics and the gut-brain axis, and alcohol’s effects on cannabinoid receptors.
Noteworthy Read
CBD Surprisingly Effective Against Deadly Mosquitoes (SciTech Daily)
New research has found that cannabidiol (CBD) from hemp leaf extract is highly effective in killing pesticide-resistant mosquito larvae. In a study, CBD eliminated 100% of mosquito larvae within 48 hours, including those resistant to common insecticides. The findings suggest that hemp-derived products could offer a natural, sustainable alternative for mosquito control.
More Noteworthy Reading
Pharmaceutical CBD Shows Promise Beyond Seizure Reduction (Green Market Report)
Jazz Pharmaceuticals will present new data on its CBD-based epilepsy treatment, Epidiolex, at the European Epilepsy Congress. A survey of caregivers found that 87% reported fewer seizures in patients with Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) or Dravet syndrome (DS), while 81% noted less severe seizures. Additionally, 84% saw improvements in non-seizure-related areas, such as alertness and cognition.
FDA and FTC Crack Down on Delta-8 THC Copycat Products (Knobbe Martens)
The FDA and FTC are taking action against companies selling delta-8 THC edibles that resemble popular snack brands, raising concerns over accidental ingestion, particularly among children. These products, which mimic familiar treats like Oreos® and Jolly Ranchers®, have led to hospitalizations due to their psychoactive effects. The agencies have issued warnings to stop using child-appealing packaging and improve labeling. Proposed changes to the Farm Bill aim to address the legal loophole around intoxicating hemp products, which could impact the growing market for delta-8 THC.
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Drug War in Central America Worsens Deforestation, Threatening Bird Species (The Conversation)
A new study highlights how cocaine trafficking threatens two-thirds of vital habitats for 196 bird species in Central America, including migratory species like the Baltimore oriole. Drug-related deforestation, driven by activities like clearing forests for airstrips and ranches, is damaging crucial winter habitats. This issue, known as “narco-deforestation,” exacerbates forest loss and harms wildlife. The study underscores the need for improved conservation efforts, suggesting that empowering local communities to protect their land could help address both environmental and socio-economic challenges.
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View more in Psychedelics
Research Round-Up
CBD for Diabetic Wound Healing (PubMed)
This review examines how wounds heal and explores the potential of cannabidiol (CBD) to aid in the healing of diabetic skin wounds. Researchers tested CBD on both healthy and diabetic mice, finding that CBD initially slowed wound closure in healthy mice but improved wound healing in diabetic mice by increasing key growth factors. The study suggests that CBD may have beneficial effects on wound healing, particularly for diabetic wounds, and calls for further research on its role in regulating inflammation and growth factors involved in the healing process.
Microbial Mindscapes of Psychedelics and the Gut-Brain Axis (PubMed)
This review examines how wounds heal and explores the potential of cannabidiol (CBD) to aid in the healing of diabetic skin wounds. Researchers tested CBD on both healthy and diabetic mice, finding that CBD initially slowed wound closure in healthy mice but improved wound healing in diabetic mice by increasing key growth factors. The study suggests that CBD may have beneficial effects on wound healing, particularly for diabetic wounds, and calls for further research on its role in regulating inflammation and growth factors involved in the healing process.
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View more in Psychedelics
Alcohol Activates Cannabinoid Receptors (PubMed)
This study looks at how alcohol use disorder (AUD) affects lung health, focusing on the role of cannabinoid receptors in inflammation. The researchers found that alcohol exposure changes the activity of these receptors, leading to increased lung inflammation, especially when combined with infection. In adolescent mice, binge drinking made the lungs more vulnerable to infections later in life, but using cannabinoid blockers reduced this effect.
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View more in Endocannabinoid System
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