This week’s newsletter covers a VICE investigation into a death at a psychedelic retreat in Costa Rica, along with a roundup of recent research on hemp agriculture, the endocannabinoid system, cannabis and lung health, cannabinoid-like compounds in non-cannabis plants, Ayurvedic cancer treatment, and medical cannabis for pain and mental health.
Noteworthy Read
Death at a Psychedelic Retreat in Costa Rica (VICE)
VICE reports on the death of 40-year-old Lauren Levis at the Soul Centro psychedelic retreat in Costa Rica after consuming iboga, a potent African root bark known for its intense psychoactive effects. The incident raises concerns about the safety and regulation of such retreats, as well as the qualifications of individuals administering these powerful substances.
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Research Round-Up
Industrial Hemp Negatively Affected by Herbicide Drift from Other Crops (PubMed)
A study highlights how herbicide drift from neighboring agricultural crops can harm industrial hemp yields, raising concerns about agricultural zoning and crop compatibility.
How Dysregulation of the Endocannabinoid System Contributes to Obesity (PubMed)
This review explores how an imbalanced endocannabinoid system may drive obesity and metabolic dysfunction, pointing to potential cannabinoid-based interventions.
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Impact of Marijuana on Lung Health (PubMed)
A review examines the effects of marijuana use on lung health, showing mixed results, including airway irritation and possible anti-inflammatory effects, depending on consumption methods.
Cannabinoid-Like Compounds in Non-Cannabis Plants (PubMed)
A study identifies cannabinoid-like compounds in non-cannabis plants, suggesting alternative sources for cannabinoids and expanding their potential applications.
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Ayurvedic Concept of Cancer Diagnosis and Its Management with Cannabis-Based Herbal Drugs (African Journal of Biomedical Research)
This paper reviews Ayurvedic approaches to cancer diagnosis and treatment, emphasizing the use of cannabis-based herbal drugs for their therapeutic potential.
Longitudinal Study: Changes in Pain & Mental Health Symptoms with Prescribed Medical Cannabis Use (Journal of Pain & Palliative Care Pharmacotherapy)
A longitudinal study reports significant reductions in pain and improvements in mental health symptoms among patients using prescribed medical cannabis over time.
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