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Fighting the Big C: Benefits of CBD Oil in Cancer Treatment

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CBD Oil and Cancer

Cancer is one of the dreaded diseases worldwide that has killed millions. But while this lethal disease has claimed millions of lives, survivors of this disease also amount to millions, thanks to the advancements in medical technology. One of the milestones in cancer therapy is the use of medical cannabis, especially CBD oil for cancer treatment. With the growing number of studies showing positive results, doctors and other healthcare professionals express their optimism that more people would survive this dreaded disease.

What Is Cancer?

Cancer is the word used in describing a collection of related diseases characterized by the abnormal and uncontrollable division and spreading of some of the cells in different parts of the body.

Naturally, human cells develop and multiply to form new cells depending on the needs of the body. When cells get old or damaged, they die. The new cells will then take their place.

However, in the case of cancer patients, this orderly process gets disrupted. Cells grow and divide at an abnormal level. Because of the irregularity, new cells grow when they are not required, and the old or damaged cells live on when they should die. These clumps of extra cells can multiply extensively and may develop into lumps known as tumors. Cancer in the breast, lungs, ovary and other body parts form solid tumors. Those with cancers of the blood, such as leukemia, usually do not grow dense lumps.

Cancerous or malignant tumors can invade the tissues near them. Moreover, as these lumps grow, some cancer cells can travel to faraway body parts through the blood or lymph nodes. New tumors can grow from these abnormal cells. Once these malignant tumors invade many parts of the body, affected organs start to malfunction.

Cancer Statistics

According to the WHO, it is the second leading cause of death all over the world. In 2018, the disease claimed an estimated 9.6 million lives.

While there are around 100 types of cancers, here are some body areas where malignant tumors usually develop:

  • Breast
  • Lung and bronchus
  • Prostate
  • Colon and rectum
  • Melanoma of the skin
  • Bladder
  • Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
  • Kidney and renal pelvis
  • Uterine
  • Blood (leukemia)
  • Pancreas
  • Thyroid
  • Liver

Risk factors

Cancer often comes from various causes. While doctors may know the factors that may increase your risk of acquiring this disease, most cancer types grow in people who have no identifiable risk factors. Here are some factors that are known to increase your risk of getting this disease:

Age

Most cancers take many years to develop. As such, most people diagnosed with the disease are 65 or older. But even though age is a huge factor, persons of any age can be diagnosed with this disease.

Habits and lifestyle

– Choices of habits and lifestyle can increase your risk. Smoking, drinking more than the acceptable levels, excessive exposure to the sun, being overweight and obese, and engaging in unsafe sex are some of the habits that contribute to cancer development.

Family history

Some cancers can be inherited. Hence, if it is common in your family, you might need to take genetic tests to find out whether you have inherited mutations which might raise your risk of some cancers. However, take note that if you have inherited genetic mutation does not mean you have a huge possibility to acquire the disease.

Environment

Your work or home environment may contain hazardous chemicals that may enhance your risk of cancer. Even if you don’t smoke cigarettes, you might inhale secondhand smoke if you work or live in a place where people are smoking. There are also chemicals, such as asbestos and benzene, that can boost your risk of having cancer.

Health conditions

Some health conditions you frequently encounter, such as ulcerative colitis, can increase your risk of getting certain types of cancer.

But while cancer is very deadly, the medical community found that the deaths because of this disease fall at effective rates. Recently, the National Cancer Institute released its latest data about the overall number of deaths because of cancer in the U.S. Mortality from this disease is dropping at annual rates of 1.8% for men, 1.4% for women and 1.4% for children.

Doctors believe that better prevention through lifestyle changes, earlier diagnosis, and the rise of knowledge on genetics and better treatments all play substantial roles.

CBD Oil for Cancer Treatment

Medical researchers across the world are developing treatments to fight this global killer. One source of cure is cannabis. Throughout the years, marijuana has been used to treat different medical conditions. Volumes of medical research found that this plant can cure a wide range of health problems from chronic pain, epilepsy, anxiety, heart disease and other types of ailments. Many medical experts attribute cannabis’ healing powers to its capacity to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system.

Scientists found that humans and many animals have an endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is made up of endocannabinoids and their receptors that are located all over the body. The cannabinoid system performs various tasks in each organ. However, the chief goal is always to maintain a stable internal environment, also known as homeostasis, despite changes and fluctuations in the external environment.

Compounds found in cannabis such as cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) can interact with the ECS. With this property, these compounds, also known as cannabinoids, can influence the release of hormones and neurotransmitters, chemicals inside the body that regulate the functions of organs in the body.

But what about cancer cells? Recent studies revealed that taking CBD oil together with THC and other cannabinoids delays the development, or even kills some types of cancer cells that scientists had grown in a laboratory. Researchers take a step farther by studying the effects of cannabinoids on animals with cancerous cells.

In these studies, they found that CBD oil from hemp and medical marijuana have the following properties in fighting cancer:

  • CBD depletes malignant tumors of oxygen and nutrients

To survive, tumors need a constant supply of oxygen and other nutrients to survive. After cancerous lumps develop, the body will form new blood vessels and capillaries to support their progression, a process known in the medical community as angiogenesis.

Scientists have discovered that CBD and THC can starve the cancer tumors by blocking the supply of blood to them. These substances also found to stunt the development of new blood vessels that surround the tumors.

In a 2018 study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology, researchers found that that CBD prevents angiogenesis through different mechanisms.

  • CBD prevents the spread of cancer cells

Cannabinoids stop the cancer cells from metastasizing or multiplying and spreading. They also reduce the development of tumors that have developed away from where it originated. Most of the studies that show the ability of cannabinoids to hinder metastasis have focused on THC and anandamide and not CBD. But a 2005 study discovered that CBD prevented the spread of glioma cells, type of tumor that originates in the glial cells located in the brain or the spine. Researchers also found that cannabidiol also boosts the anti-tumor properties of THC.

In 2011, researchers studied CBD’s impact on breast cancer. They found that the compound not only reduced the size of tumors but also lowered the spread of cancer cells.

  • CBD promotes the death of cancer cells

Researchers are currently targeting the stimulation of programmed cell death, also known as apoptosis, of cancer cells. Unlike healthy cells that can undergo apoptosis if they become dysfunctional or are exposed to toxic materials, cancer cells do not self-destruct. These can reproduce even in the unhealthiest conditions. Scientists are currently researching the use of medical cannabis as an agent to promote apoptosis of cancer cells.

  • CBD relieves side effects patients experience during cancer treatments

Even the National Cancer Institute acknowledges the potential of CBD and THC and other cannabinoids in curing the side effects of cancer such as the pain caused some common cancer treatments like chemotherapy. Doctors from the medical organization also said that the impact of CBD oil and THC oil could also include blocking cell growth; prevention of the growth of vessels that supply blood to tumors; and boosting of the immune system during cancer therapy.

Scientists have also unlocked the healing potential of combining CBD and chemotherapy. One study showed that laboratory mice with pancreatic cancer survived nearly three times longer when treated with a combination of CBD and chemotherapy than those treated with chemotherapy alone.

Patients can consume CBD for cancer treatment in several ways. They can take CBD capsules, drop CBD tinctures under their tongues or consume edibles. They can also inhale CBD vape oil. For different types of pain, they can apply CBD oil or topicals on the affected parts.

While treating cancer using cannabinoids is still at its infancy, scientists are hopeful that these early clinical trials can provide better cure against this deadly disease. For now, the best use of CBD is to provide relieve patients from the side effects of traditional treatments against the dreaded big C.

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Having the Talk: A Parent’s Guide to Discussing Pot with Kids

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Parents have the difficult task of raising their children to be humane, well-adjusted and reasonable human beings, among other things. With all the discussions regarding marijuana use and its legality, this topic has become part of the ‘talk’ alongside sex and reproductive health. If you are looking for ways to talk to your children about this plant, here tips you can follow:

Talk About the Facts

As a parent, you want to make sure that your children know about what cannabis is all about. After all, one of the most powerful things in assuring safe usage is knowledge. Here are some marijuana facts you need to talk about:

  • It’s Different Names

It is understandable that you want to prevent your kids from consuming this plant until you know that they are of legal age and are responsible enough to guarantee responsible usage. This is why one of the first things your kids should be aware of is the other names attached to marijuana. Aside from being called marijuana, cannabis and hemp, some of the most common names include weed, pot, dope, hash, ganja, kaya and Mary Jane.

  • The Plant

Once you introduce the various names for weed, you can proceed to tell them what exactly the plant is. You might want to talk about its two major species namely sativa and indica, as well as the two major chemical compounds found in the plant, cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Then, point out that CBD is a highly medicinal component of the plant, whilst THC has the psychoactive and sedative effects.

  • Marijuana Laws

Due to the medical properties of this herb, it is now legal in most of the United States, Canada, Uruguay and Thailand, while some countries are still deliberating its legality. If you live in a place where medical and/or recreational marijuana is legal, then make sure to talk about the regulatory laws enforced in your place of residence.

  • Hemp Oil and Other Cannabis Products

Children and teenagers are naturally curious and you can bet that they will try unfamiliar products presented to them. Because of this, it is important to inform them that while they might avoid actual dried weed, it is still possible for them to consume the herb   unknowingly. This can be done through cannabis-infused products such as edibles and drinkables.

Expose them to Child-Friendly Materials

Now, once you discuss some of the highlight talking points about cannabis, you want to make sure that they maintain an objective view of this wonderful plant. This is important so as not to create a bias for or against the plant, and to let them decide for themselves whether or not to consume this plant. To encourage independent thinking whilst ensuring that they get safe information regarding this matter, giving them materials that tackle this herb.

For children, why not get “It’s Just a Plant” by Ricardo Cortes and “What’s that Weed” by Ross Hudson? These children’s books help involve children in the marijuana conversation by presenting easily understandable facts. Aside from this, make sure to give them an objective source, such as those informational materials you can get from the educational institutions.

By doing this, you are empowering your children by enriching their knowledge, while also giving them the chance to do some learning and thinking themselves.

Parents’ guidance is some of the most important factors in shaping the lives of children. By objectively discussing cannabis with your kids, you are making sure that they get their information from a source that has their best interest in mind.

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Weed the Best: Essential Spring Cannabis Accessories to Have

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Weed Spring Accessories

Spring has always been a time for hope and all that springs eternal. However, for most individuals such as college students and even working professionals, spring is a time when they can relax and have the time of their lives. After all, with spring break just around the corner, more and more people are looking to experience a much-deserved break, particularly after a stressful period in their lives.

Individuals who are looking forward to this once a year occasion usually have plans in mind. Many times, people have already pencilled in parties left and right. Meanwhile, other people who are new to the allures of spring break tend to chill at home or even prefer to hang out with a select group of friends, especially with a bag of weed in hand.

Since 4/20 and spring break are only a few weeks away, preparing for this momentous occasion is only but important. Apart from preparing your ever reliable stash of ganja, you might also want to stock on some of your favorite CBD oil edibles and your preferred brand of CBD oil.

However, if you are interested in elevating this celebration, why not switch it up and replace all of your old pieces with some new ones? Whether you are looking to try CBD vape juice or looking for some fresh accessories to cop for this season, this article will surely help you get the best weed-themed spring essentials. From fashion to food to home goods, this list will have everything you need and more.

Below are some goods you can get for yourself or for your beloved friends and family. Who knows, these items might just spark their interest in collecting weed spring accessories and essentials.

For the Weed Enthusiast

There is nothing better than giving a weed enthusiast new strains and novel items on the market. To help get their excitement flowing, giving them unrefined rolling papers or even raw ore-rolled tips can greatly help to avoid the dreaded joint rolling process. With this in your (or your friend’s) arsenal, you can enjoy continuous smoking pleasure all throughout the day.

To accompany your rolled joints, get yourself or your best buds some of the finest lighters on the market. Zippo has an iridescent lighter available on their collection, perfect for 4/20 and your spring break happenings. This trippy color will certainly evoke feelings of the best dreamlike state you won’t want to miss out on.

If you find yourself always running out of lighter fluid when you need it, getting a compact, rechargeable lighter might just do the trick. Tetra has a wide range of sleek and affordable lighters you can give everyone you know.

For the Purist

On the other hand, if you want pure unadulterated pleasure, getting yourself one of the best grinders on the market will surely enhance your use. If you plan on going from different houses or venues to celebrate the coming of spring, a nifty yet durable grinder-keeper is your best bet.

The Combie grind and roll accessory allows you to freshly grind your herbs. At the same time, this travel-safe tool helps you keep your essentials in place and organized than ever before. With built-in compartments inside, this weapon of choice can hold your papers, filters, lighters, and many more. The best part? It can fit your pocket, allowing you to bring it everywhere you go.

For the Accessory Fiend

There’s always that one friend who values aesthetics over functionality. More often than not, these individuals are always drawn to cute, unique, quirky, and one-of-a-kind pieces that help them stand out from the crowd.

Some of these pieces include crystal clear pipes and uniquely shaped bongs designed to complement your lifestyle and personality. Coming in different shapes, sizes, and colors, adding one of these to your collection will definitely make your circle of friends green with envy. Some even come in pastel shades that will fit right in your coffee table, making a perfect conversation starter when you have guests over.

Another one of these timeless and elegant pieces is the ruby and diamond encrusted CBD vape pen from the ultra-luxe Beverly Hills Cannabis Club, retailing for about $196,000. If you have money to spare, this might just be the ultimate accessory you can get not only for the season but also for your everyday use.

However, if you find that this purchase is a little out of your budget, you can opt for a more modest, yet eye-catching gold weed leaf grinder from Blunted Objects that also doubles as a necklace. These are particularly made for women who love their weed yet still want casual but elegant pieces that can go with their everyday looks.

For the Fashion Forward

Gone are the days when ganja goddesses are wearing tacky prints that are obviously inspired by weed. Today, more and more individuals are being provided options that are not only subtle but also ones that appear professional. Even better, these items can be used on a daily basis and with numerous clothing pieces that can be taken from day to night.

One of these important and perhaps much-needed pieces on the market is leather clutches and bags to store cannabis essentials. Toronto-based company, Milkweed, has ventured into making these leather goods so that women – and men – can store their goods in a more natural and organic way, one that they can use without feeling ashamed.

Meanwhile, Seattle-based business, Van der Pop, makes an equally sleek and fantastic stash bag. Their secret weapon? The bag is said to conceal odor, allowing you to go on your errands and meetings without fearing like you will reek of this herb anywhere you go.

Speaking of bags, Alexander Wang previously released a blush pink bucket bag that’s peppered with weed leaf prints. Finished with a silver chain, this will surely elevate any outfit you have on. Plus points for this seemingly dainty bag since it can fit your CBD oil vape pen starter kit, smartphone, and many more.

Finish off your look with a vintage-looking cannabis-themed watch and you’re all set. The very face of this watch will remind you that spring is just around the corner and that 4/20 is not just a state of mind.

For the Homebody

Decorating homes have become a big thing over the past couple of years. Websites, television shows, and even YouTube channels are created to cater to audiences who have long been raring to renovate and enhance their own spaces. If you are one of these individuals, spring break is the best time to overhaul your space. You can even replace some of the decors in your house with weed-friendly pieces.

A ceramic tray trio will definitely fit right into your home, especially in your bathroom, bedroom, or living room areas. Complete with an ashtray, rolling tray, and stash jar, you can keep your ganja and your CBD hemp oil all in one place. You can even display your CBD beauty products using this tray from Lux Eros, leaving guests gushing about your gorgeous addition.

To add depth and dimension into your space, putting up frames is a great idea, especially when you are not blessed with a green thumb. A botanical cannabis diagram print from Etsy can easily be hung in your foyer or in your dining area. Such a subtle print will go with spaces that exude Scandinavian and minimalist vibes.

While you may be tempted to invest on some marijuana-themed throw pillows for your couch or for your bed, bear in mind that these accessories can easily mess up the balance of your place. Unless you are going for an eclectic look, opt for neutral-colored pillows that can work with different parts of your house.

For the Food Lover

Whether you are a foodie at heart or just know someone who loves food and weed as much as you, investing in some CBD hemp oil edibles for you and your friends to snack on is important. Betty Khronic has vegan energy bars that contain 50 milligrams of CBD, perfect for snacking at home or while you are on the go.

If you are worried about bad breathtaking a toll on you, worry not. Plus Gum has spearmint-flavored gum that refreshed your breath and even helps you relax, especially with its 25 milligrams of THC.

Fond of making your own version of sweets and edibles? The Magical Butter dark chocolate mix is specially formulated so that you can add herbal butter as well as ingredients and pure cannabidiol oil in. With this in your kitchen pantry, 4/20 and spring break will definitely be a magical experience for each and every one. As a matter of fact, you can just imagine making weed-infused brownies, cakes, cookies, and more.

Cannabis essentials and accessories don’t have to be boring, not ever and especially not during spring break. With these beautiful pieces, you can make your home, fashion, personality, and overall experience one for the books.

 

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Music that Let You Experience the Feeling of Being High

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Cannabis Inspired Music

For some people, getting high with marijuana is an easily achievable feat because they have the means and access to the wonderful plant. However, there are individuals who cannot get their hands on the herb, making them wonder what it feels like to be high. If you are one of these people, worry not because you can listen to songs that let you experience that particular feeling given by marijuana.

What to Listen to for a Taste that Feeling

Purple Haze by Jimi Hendrix

First on our list is the legendary Jimi Hendrix’s Purple Haze. Named after the cannabis strain, this song literally talks about the effect of the THC-rich marijuana variety. As tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is known for being the psychoactive component of weed, this strain is sure to give the consumer a sense of euphoria and enhanced creative energies. Purple Haze is so THC-rich that its highest recorded THC-content is 20%.

This must be the reason why Hendrix was talking about ‘acting funny’ and ‘kissing the sky.’ Whilst this variety gave the singer an extraordinary sense of happiness, he also tackled other effects of this type such as confusion (‘Don’t know if it’s night or day’). Well, there is no wonder because THC can give a body high that locks you in the couch and gives you a sedated feeling.

I Am the Walrus by The Beatles

With the immense popularity of The Beatles, it could be safe to assume that nobody has not heard of this illustrious band. And if you are familiar with this band, you may recognize their use of wit and humor, evident in their song I Am the Walrus. Listening to this song is really a trippy experience, especially as it was written while they were riding a high from another substance.

With lyrics such as ‘sittin’ on a cornflake’ and ‘I am the egg man, they are the egg men,’ you get a taste of how it is to be high, especially with the added creativity and otherworldly feeling given by weed. If you think this is everything that this song offers, try watching its music video to witness a whole new level of high.

Youforia by Mac Miller

Aside from the lyrics, other important elements in songs are the melody, beats and instruments found in the background. The backing track in Mac Miller’s Youforia has this fascinating quality to it that resembles the feeling of being high. From the pulsating and buzzing synthesizer sounds to soothing beats, this song can lull you into a gentle sense of relaxation which marijuana can help achieve. The title even plays with the word ‘euphoria,’ which is commonly experienced by tokers once they take a hit or two,

Binaural Beats

Commonly called audio or digital drugs, these types of tracks are used to induce a feeling of being high. Some even claim that it actually gets you high. If you are wondering what these are, binaural tracks are digitally created audio tracks that have a trippy quality to them. These tracks concentrate frequencies that tap your brain to achieve the desired effect. So, basically, listening to these tracks allow you to achieve different purposes. You can find that improves concentration, relaxation and sleep, just like the effects of CBD and THC to our bodies.

Nothing beats the feeling of actually consuming cannabis but in the event that you do not have a joint to enjoy, listening to these tracks can do the trick. Better yet, try listening to them while blazing up if you have the means to truly indulge on the plant, as well as the pleasure these pieces of art have to offer.

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