Cannabis Nurse Truths

In our previous episode, we considered the most recent evidence that indicates a trend is starting to pick up momentum: Cannabis is Medicine. From seizures to autism, sleep to eczema, research is indicating that cannabinoids like CBD and CBG have important roles in human health and wellness. Although the US government does not publish just how much of our tax revenue is spent on cannabis research (isn’t that interesting?), legislation has been enacted to ensure “an adequate and uninterrupted supply of marijuana for research purposes,” meaning that we are now in the business of growing cannabis using federal monies.
In this episode of Cannabis Nurse Truths, we consider trends that suggest cannabis will be legalized to some degree in the near future. With taxpayers investing in cannabis research and development, it’s time to change the most difficult thing of all - public perception. Prepare to engage the paradigm shift from cannabis as a drug of abuse to a drug of wellness as we consider how the trends behind the scenes are set to normalize cannabis use. Welcome to the Stoned Age!
EPISODE RESOURCES
AAAFoundation.org. (2025, March). Development and Validation of Messaging to Deter Cannabis Impaired Driving. Retrieved from https://aaafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/202503-AAAFTS-Cannabis-Education-PIRE.pdf        
Adlin, B. (2025, April 8). Patients Are Largely ‘Comfortable’ With Their Doctors Using Marijuana Outside Of Work, Study Shows. Retrieved from https://www.marijuanamoment.net/patients-are-largely-comfortable-with-their-doctors-using-marijuana-outside-of-work-study-shows/  
Adlin, B.. (2025, March 31). Using CBD-Infused Pillowcases Leads To Improved Sleep Quality For Nurses, New Study Finds. Retrieved from https://www.marijuanamoment.net/using-cbd-infused-pillowcases-leads-to-improved-sleep-quality-for-nurses-new-study-finds/  
Bonilla Muniz, L. (2025, April 1). Indiana Lawmakers Weigh Widespread Ban On All Marijuana Advertising, Not Just On Billboards. Retrieved from https://www.marijuanamoment.net/indiana-lawmakers-weigh-widespread-ban-on-all-marijuana-advertising-not-just-on-billboards/  
Burczyk, D.D., Wcisło - Dziadecka, D., Olczyk, P., Chełmecka, E., & Burczyk, W. K. (2025). Evaluation of biophysical parameters of the skin of patients with atopic dermatitis after application of an ointment containing 30% cannabidiol and 5% cannabigerol. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 18, 649–662. https://doi.org/10.2147/CCID.S472746  
Cross, A., Mahmoud, M., Ozdag, Y., Koshinski, J.L., Garcia, V. C., Dwyer, C.L., Klena, J.C., & Grandizio, L.C. (2025). Perceptions of patient and surgeon marijuana use: A survey study of upper-extremity patients. Journal of Hand Surgery Global Online, 7(2), 167–172. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsg.2024.11.010  
de Oliveira, V.G., de Almeida, N.B., Radmann, G.C. et al. (2025). The efficacy of cannabidiol for seizures reduction in pharmacoresistant epilepsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Acta Epileptologica, 7, 20. https://doi.org/10.1186/s42494-024-00191-2 
Door Dash. (2025, January 9). DoorDash Expands Offerings to Include Hemp-Derived Products in Select States. Retrieved from https://about.doordash.com/en-us/news/doordash-launches-hemp-derived-category       
Jaeger, K. (2025, April 9).  Hemp Industry Expert Tells Congress Businesses Are ‘Begging’ For Federal Regulations At FDA-Focused Committee Hearing. Retrieved from https://www.marijuanamoment.net/watch-live-hemp-industry-expert-testifies-before-congressional-committee-on-fda-inaction-around-cbd-and-intoxicating-cannabinoid-products/  
Jaeger, K. (2025, March 11). Majority Of Americans Say Alcohol Is More Harmful Than Marijuana, Poll Finds. Retrieved from https://www.marijuanamoment.net/majority-of-americans-say-alcohol-is-more-harmful-than-marijuana-poll-finds/  
Jaeger, K. (2025, March 18). Three In Four Young Adults Say They Use Marijuana As An Alcohol Alternative At Least Once A Week, Survey Finds. Retrieved from https://www.marijuanamoment.net/three-in-four-young-adults-say-they-use-marijuana-as-an-alcohol-alternative-at-least-once-a-week-survey-finds/    
Marijuana Moment. (2025, April 10). Florida Senate Passes Bill To Restrict Hemp Products Like Delta-8 THC. Retrieved from https://www.marijuanamoment.net/florida-senate-passes-bill-to-restrict-hemp-products-like-delta-8-thc/  
PR Newswire. (2025, March 20). Edible Brands Launches Edibles.com - A Delivery Marketplace for the Nation's Leading Hemp Products. Retrieved from https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/edible-brands-launches-ediblescom--a-delivery-marketplace-for-the-nations-leading-hemp-products-302406764.html         Rocha, A. (2025, April 9). Alabama Lawmakers Approve Bill Directing Alcohol Regulators To Oversee Consumable Hemp Products. Retrieved from https://www.marijuanamoment.net/alabama-lawmakers-approve-bill-directing-alcohol-regulators-to-oversee-consumable-hemp-products/ 
Skillman, D.J.M., McMillin, B., Norwinski, E.J., Bickerton, S., & Gorak, L. (2022, December 7). President Biden Signs Bill Clearing the Way for Medical Cannabis Research. Retrieved from https://www.arnoldporter.com/en/perspectives/advisories/2022/12/medical-cannabis-research  
The Unshakeables Podcast. (2025, January 21). Jamie Dimon: America’s Strength in Small Business. Retrieved from https://www.chase.com/business/podcast  
 

Cannabis is on the move in the United States. From the DEA holding up rescheduling efforts to triple AAA crafting recommendations for policies that affect public health, cannabis is now in the spotlight of American health. With more scientific research indicating that cannabis is indeed a medicine, more public health institutions are taking note that it must be integrated into the delivery of healthcare. With over 75% of Americans having access to legal cannabis, the trends related to messaging and education all must revolve around public safety and our number one goal in cannabis as medicine - harm reduction.
On this episode of Cannabis Nurse Truths, we take a look at the significant trends related to health and public safety that are now driving cannabis into the mainstream. Cannabis is here to stay; we now have to figure out how it safely fits into our society.
EPISODE RESOURCES
AAAFoundation.org. (2025, March). Development and Validation of Messaging to Deter Cannabis Impaired Driving. Retrieved from https://aaafoundation.org/development-and-validation-of-messaging-to-deter-cannabis-impaired-driving/ 
Adlin, B. (2025, April 8). Patients Are Largely ‘Comfortable’ With Their Doctors Using Marijuana Outside Of Work, Study Shows. Retrieved from https://www.marijuanamoment.net/patients-are-largely-comfortable-with-their-doctors-using-marijuana-outside-of-work-study-shows/  
Adlin, B.. (2025, March 31). Using CBD-Infused Pillowcases Leads To Improved Sleep Quality For Nurses, New Study Finds. Retrieved from https://www.marijuanamoment.net/using-cbd-infused-pillowcases-leads-to-improved-sleep-quality-for-nurses-new-study-finds/  
Bonilla Muniz, L. (2025, April 1). Indiana Lawmakers Weigh Widespread Ban On All Marijuana Advertising, Not Just On Billboards. Retrieved from https://www.marijuanamoment.net/indiana-lawmakers-weigh-widespread-ban-on-all-marijuana-advertising-not-just-on-billboards/  
Burczyk, D.D., Wcisło - Dziadecka, D., Olczyk, P., Chełmecka, E., & Burczyk, W. K. (2025). Evaluation of biophysical parameters of the skin of patients with atopic dermatitis after application of an ointment containing 30% cannabidiol and 5% cannabigerol. Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 18, 649–662. https://doi.org/10.2147/CCID.S472746  
Cross, A., Mahmoud, M., Ozdag, Y., Koshinski, J.L., Garcia, V. C., Dwyer, C.L., Klena, J.C., & Grandizio, L.C. (2025). Perceptions of patient and surgeon marijuana use: A survey study of upper-extremity patients. Journal of Hand Surgery Global Online, 7(2), 167–172. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhsg.2024.11.010  
de Oliveira, V.G., de Almeida, N.B., Radmann, G.C. et al. (2025). The efficacy of cannabidiol for seizures reduction in pharmacoresistant epilepsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Acta Epileptologica 7, 20. https://doi.org/10.1186/s42494-024-00191-2  
Door Dash. (2025, January 9). DoorDash Expands Offerings to Include Hemp-Derived Products in Select States. Retrieved from https://about.doordash.com/en-us/news/doordash-launches-hemp-derived-category       
Jaeger, K. (2025, April 9).  Hemp Industry Expert Tells Congress Businesses Are ‘Begging’ For Federal Regulations At FDA-Focused Committee Hearing. Retrieved from https://www.marijuanamoment.net/watch-live-hemp-industry-expert-testifies-before-congressional-committee-on-fda-inaction-around-cbd-and-intoxicating-cannabinoid-products/  
Jaeger, K. (2025, March 11). Majority Of Americans Say Alcohol Is More Harmful Than Marijuana, Poll Finds. Retrieved from https://www.marijuanamoment.net/majority-of-americans-say-alcohol-is-more-harmful-than-marijuana-poll-finds/  
Jaeger, K. (2025, March 18). Three In Four Young Adults Say They Use Marijuana As An Alcohol Alternative At Least Once A Week, Survey Finds. Retrieved from https://www.marijuanamoment.net/three-in-four-young-adults-say-they-use-marijuana-as-an-alcohol-alternative-at-least-once-a-week-survey-finds/    
Marijuana Moment. (2025, April 10). Florida Senate Passes Bill To Restrict Hemp Products Like Delta-8 THC. Retrieved from https://www.marijuanamoment.net/florida-senate-passes-bill-to-restrict-hemp-products-like-delta-8-thc/  
PR Newswire. (2025, March 20). Edible Brands Launches Edibles.com - A Delivery Marketplace for the Nation's Leading Hemp Products. Retrieved from https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/edible-brands-launches-ediblescom--a-delivery-marketplace-for-the-nations-leading-hemp-products-302406764.html          Rocha, A. (2025, April 9). Alabama Lawmakers Approve Bill Directing Alcohol Regulators To Oversee Consumable Hemp Products. Retrieved from https://www.marijuanamoment.net/alabama-lawmakers-approve-bill-directing-alcohol-regulators-to-oversee-consumable-hemp-products/  
The Unshakeables Podcast. (2025, January 21). Jamie Dimon: America’s Strength in Small Business. Retrieved from https://www.chase.com/business/podcast  
 
 
 
 
 
 

As our country shifts its perspectives in so many paradigms, we are now recognizing how harmful pharmaceutical drugs can be for the human body.  Previous research has indicated that autism spectrum disorder affected 1 in 36 children in the US.  However, with Robert F. Kennedy as our new Secretary of Health & Human Services, it was recently reported that that number had changed - we now consider the prevalence of ASD to be 1 in 31 children, a sharp increase in not only the number of children affected, but also the effects these new diagnoses have on families and communities at large.  We want to bring you an update on how cannabis can be used effectively and safely for the treatment of ASD, and since April is Autism Awareness Month, this is the place to share the latest research about autism.
In this episode of Cannabis Nurse Truths, we examine the latest research that suggests non-intoxicating cannabinoids, like CBD, can play a role in moderating the symptoms of ASD while also improving the quality of life for children with ASD and their families.  This episode will also bring in concepts that we presented in Episode 12 - Autism & Cannabis: A Promising Potential.  With our updated evidence, it really does seem that cannabis has a potential benefit for children with autism.
EPISODE RESOURCES
Avalos, L.A., Shenkute, M., Alexeeff, S.E., Oberman, N., Croen, L.A., Davignon, M., Adams, S.R., Ansley, D., Castellanos, C., & Young-Wolff, K.C. (2024). Maternal prenatal cannabis use and child Autism Spectrum Disorder. JAMA Network Open, 7(10), e2440301. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.40301  
Campos, M.G., China, M., Cláudio, M., Capinha, M., Torres, R., Oliveira, S., & Fortuna, A. (2024). Drug–cannabinoid interactions in selected therapeutics for symptoms associated with epilepsy, Autism Spectrum Disorder, cancer, multiple sclerosis, and pain. Pharmaceuticals, 17(5), Article 5. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17050613  
da Costa, M. de A., Fernandes, G.Z., Maiochi, E., Ebs, M.F.P., Darós, F. da S., Bolan, S.J., Costa, R.R.N., de Rezende, V. L., da Silva, G.C., Bitencourt, R.M., & Gonçalves, C.L. (2025). Effects of cannabidiol isolated or in association with risperidone in an animal model of autism. Developmental Neurobiology, 85(1), e22955. https://doi.org/10.1002/dneu.22955  
Dallabrida, K.G., De Oliveira Bender, J.M., Chade, E.S., Rodrigues, N., & Sampaio, T. B. (2024). Endocannabinoid system changes throughout life: Implications and therapeutic potential for autism, ADHD, and Alzheimer’s Disease. Brain Sciences, 14(6), 592. https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14060592  
Ibsen, E.W.D., & Thomsen, P.H. (2024). Cannabinoids as alleviating treatment for core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder in children and adolescents: A systematic review. Nordic Journal of Psychiatry, 78(7), 553–560. https://doi.org/10.1080/08039488.2024.2381541  
Jana, A., Nath, A., Sen, P., Kundu, S., Alghamdi, B.S., Abujamel, T.S., Saboor, M., Woon-Khiong, C., Alexiou, A., Papadakis, M., Alam, M.Z., & Ashraf, G.M. (2024). Unraveling the endocannabinoid system: Exploring its therapeutic potential in Autism Spectrum Disorder. NeuroMolecular Medicine, 26(1), 20. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12017-024-08781-6  
Jawed, B., Esposito, J.E., Pulcini, R., Zakir, S.K., Botteghi, M., Gaudio, F., Savio, D., Martinotti, C., Martinotti, S., & Toniato, E. (2024). The evolving role of cannabidiol-rich cannabis in people with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A systematic review. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 25(22), Article 22. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252212453  
Pedrazzi, J.F.C., Hassib, L., Ferreira, F.R., Hallak, J.C., Del-Bel, E., & Crippa, J.A. (2024). Chapter 8—Therapeutic potential of CBD in Autism Spectrum Disorder. In E. Del-Bel, F.V. Gomes, & S.F. Lisboa (Eds.), International Review of Neurobiology (Vol. 177, pp. 149–203). Academic Press. https://doi.org/10.1016/bs.irn.2024.05.002  
Pereira, D.A., Cheidde, L., Megiolaro, M.D. R., Camargo, A.E.F., Weba, E.T.P., Soares, V.G., Silva, A.M.P. da, Cheidde, L., Júnior, P.P.L., Amaral, D.C., Triaca, R., Fernandes, M.A.N., Mimura, P.M.P., Pereira, D.A., Cheidde, L., Sr, M.D.M., Camargo, A.E., Weba, E., Soares, V., … Mimura, P.M.P. (2025). Efficacy and safety of cannabinoids for Autism Spectrum Disorder: An updated systematic review. Cureus, 17(3). https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.80725  
Rice, L.J., Cannon, L., Dadlani, N., Cheung, M.M.Y., Einfeld, S.L., Efron, D., Dossetor, D.R., & Elliott, E.J. (2024). Efficacy of cannabinoids in neurodevelopmental and neuropsychiatric disorders among children and adolescents: A systematic review. European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 33(2), 505–526. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00787-023-02169-w  
da Silva Junior, E.A.D., Medeiros, W.M.B., Santos, J.P.M.D., Sousa, J.M.M.D., Costa, F.B.D., Pontes, K.M., ... & Albuquerque, K.L.G.D.D. (2024). Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of cannabidiol-rich cannabis extract in children with autism spectrum disorder: randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled clinical trial. Trends in Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, 46, e20210396. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35617670/  
 

It is almost 420, and for stoners around the world, that means a day of celebration because legend has it that 420 brought 4 teenagers together at a certain time in the afternoon after school to partake. So we can celebrate on one hand that we have come a long way since the 1970s, but we still have a long way to go when we consider how cannabis is still considered illegal at the federal level, and in many cases, in certain aspects of jobs and other lifestyle perspectives.
I’m very fortunate to have encountered a fire fighter named Brandon Beltaine, and he is here with us today to share his story as a fire fighter who had an encounter that has changed his life.  As a wonderful advocate for cannabis now, we are happy to discuss how cannabis has affected both the fire fighting aspects in communities that are charged with keeping individuals safe as well as how he himself has experienced extreme changes in relation to his use of cannabis. 
 
 
 

Cannabis has been used by humans for over 6,000 years and is considered to be one of the first plants specifically cultivated for human use. In industrial uses, cannabis can be made into fibers, paper, oil, biofuel, animal bedding and feed, and construction materials, like hempcrete, hemp lumber, and hemp insulation.
As a medicine, cannabis can be specifically tailored to treat a disease by targeting the two major actions of cannabinoids, which are anti-oxidation and neuroprotection.  That means that the cannabinoids found in cannabis can be used to treat every disease known to man, as we now recognize inflammation in the body and brain as the major driver of chronic disease states.
But cannabinoids can also offer protection and reversal of disease; some studies even suggest cannabinoids can reverse aging, especially in the brain as some of the compounds target sensitive cells in the central nervous system to protect, repair, and regrow new neurons that mimic young brains, even in older adults.
In this episode of Cannabis Nurse Truths, we examine the neuroprotective and reparative effects of cannabinoids, and studies to date have indicated that these compounds have incredible potential for treating - and reversing - a host of neurodegenerative diseases, like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, seizures, and even aging. 
After all, it’s why the Department of Health and Human Services slapped a patent on cannabinoids as antioxidants and neuroprotectants back in 2003, indicating our government is heavily invested in research using cannabis to treat these disorders. Welcome to the Stoned Age!
EPISODE RESOURCES
Al-Khazaleh, A.K., Zhou, X., Bhuyan, D. J., Münch, G.W., Al-Dalabeeh, E.A., Jaye, K., & Chang, D. (2024). The neurotherapeutic arsenal in cannabis sativa: Insights into anti-neuroinflammatory and neuroprotective activity and potential entourage effects. Molecules, 29(2), 410. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules29020410 
Arkell, T.R., Manning, B., Downey, L.A., & Hayley, A.C. (2023). A semi-naturalistic, open-label trial examining the effect of prescribed medical cannabis on neurocognitive performance. CNS Drugs, 37(11), 981–992. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40263-023-01046-z 
Bilkei-Gorzo A. (2024). The endocannabinoid system in normal and pathological brain ageing. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B, 367, 3326-3341.  https://doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2011.0388 
Bilkei-Gorzo, A., Albayram, O., Draffehn, A., Michel, K., Piyanova, A., Oppenheimer, H., Dvir-Ginzberg, M., Rácz, I., Ulas, T., Imbeault, S., Bab, I., Schultze, J. L., & Zimmer, A. (2017). A chronic low dose of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) restores cognitive function in old mice. Nature Medicine, 23(6), 782–787. https://doi.org/10.1038/nm.4311 
Breivogel, C.S., & Childers, S.R. (1998). The functional neuroanatomy of brain cannabinoid receptors. Neurobiology of Disease, 5(6), 417–431. https://doi.org/10.1006/nbdi.1998.0229 
Cammarota, M., Ferlenghi, F., Vacondio, F., Vincenzi, F., Varani, K., Bedini, A., Rivara, S., Mor, M., & Boscia, F. (2023). Combined targeting of fatty acid amide hydrolase and melatonin receptors promotes neuroprotection and stimulates inflammation resolution in rats. British Journal of Pharmacology, 180(10), 1316–1338. https://doi.org/10.1111/bph.16014 
da Cruz Guedes, E., Erustes, A.G., Leão, A.H.F.F., Carneiro, C.A., Abílio, V.C., Zuardi, A. W., Hallak, J.E.C., Crippa, J.A., Bincoletto, C., Smaili, S.S., Reckziegel, P., & Pereira, G.J.S. (2023). Cannabidiol recovers dopaminergic neuronal damage induced by reserpine or α-synuclein in Caenorhabditis elegans. Neurochemical Research, 48(8), 2390–2405. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11064-023-03905-z 
Dregan, A., & Gulliford, M.C. (2012). Is illicit drug use harmful to cognitive functioning in the midadult years? A cohort-based investigation. American Journal of Epidemiology, 175(3), 218–227. https://doi.org/10.1093/aje/kwr315 
Dussy, F.E., Hamberg, C., Luginbühl, M., Schwerzmann, T., & Briellmann, T.A. (2005). Isolation of Δ9-THCA-A from hemp and analytical aspects concerning the determination of Δ9-THC in cannabis products. Forensic Science International, 149(1), 3–10. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.forsciint.2004.05.015 
Evans, A.T., Formukong, E.A., & Evans, F.J. (1987). Actions of cannabis constituents on enzymes of arachidonate metabolism: Anti-inflammatory potential. Biochemical Pharmacology, 36(12), 2035–2037. https://doi.org/10.1016/0006-2952(87)90505-3 
Fernández-Ruiz, J., Sagredo, O., Pazos, M.R., García, C., Pertwee, R., Mechoulam, R., & Martínez-Orgado, J. (2013). Cannabidiol for neurodegenerative disorders: Important new clinical applications for this phytocannabinoid?: Cannabidiol and neurodegenerative disorders. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 75(2), 323–333. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2125.2012.04341.x 
Goldberg, T., Redlich, Y., Yogev, D., Fay-Karmon, T., Hassin-Baer, S., & Anis, S. (2023). Long-term safety of medical cannabis in Parkinson’s disease: A retrospective case-control study. Parkinsonism & Related Disorders, 105406. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.parkreldis.2023.105406 
Gruber, S.A., Sagar, K.A., Dahlgren, M.K., Racine, M.T., Smith, R.T., & Lukas, S.E. (2016). Splendor in the grass? A pilot study assessing the impact of medical marijuana on executive function. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 7. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2016.00355  
Gruber, S.A., Sagar, K.A., Dahlgren, M.K., Gonenc, A., Smith, R.T., Lambros, A.M., Cabrera, K. B., & Lukas, S. E. (2017). The grass might be greener: Medical marijuana patients exhibit altered brain activity and improved executive function after 3 months of treatment. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 8, 983. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2017.00983
Hermann, D., & Schneider, M. (2012). Potential protective effects of cannabidiol on neuroanatomical alterations in cannabis users and psychosis: A critical review. Current Pharmaceutical Design, 18(32), 4897–4905. https://doi.org/10.2174/138161212802884825 
Javed, H., Azimullah, S., Haque, M.E., & Ojha, S.K. (2016). Cannabinoid Type 2 (CB2) receptors activation protects against oxidative stress and neuroinflammation associated dopaminergic neurodegeneration in rotenone mModel of Parkinson’s Disease. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 10. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2016.00321 
Kale, M.B., Umare, M.D., Wankhede, N.L., Deshmukh, R., Abbot, V., Anwer, M.K., Taksande, B.G., Upaganlawar, A.B., Umekar, M.J., Ramniwas, S., Gulati, M., Arora, R., & Behl, T. (2025). Decoding the therapeutic potential of cannabis and cannabinoids in neurological disorders. Current Pharmaceutical Design, 31(8), 630–644. https://doi.org/10.2174/0113816128318194240918113954 
Kojoma, M., Seki, H., Yoshida, S., & Muranaka, T. (2006). DNA polymorphisms in the tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) synthase gene in “drug-type” and “fiber-type” Cannabis sativa L. Forensic Science International, 159(2–3), 132–140. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.forsciint.2005.07.005 
Mammana, S., Cavalli, E.; Gugliandolo, A.Silvestro, S., Pollastro, F., Bramanti, P., Mazzon, E. (2019). Could the combination of two non-psychotropic cannabinoids counteract neuroinflammation? Effectiveness of Cannabidiol Associated with Cannabigerol. Medicina, 55, 747. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina55110747 
Marchalant, Y., Brothers, H.M., Norman, G.J., Karelina, K., DeVries, A.C., Wenk, G.L. (2009). Cannabinoids attenuate the effects of aging upon neuroinflammation and neurogenesis. Neurobiology of Disease, 34(2), 300-307. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nbd.2009.01.014
Marchalant, Y., Cerbai, F., Brothers, H.M., & Wenk, G.L. (2008). Cannabinoid receptor stimulation is anti-inflammatory and improves memory in old rats. Neurobiology of Aging, 29(12), 1894–1901. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2007.04.028 
McKetin, R., Parasu, P., Cherbuin, N., Eramudugolla, R., & Anstey, K.J. (2016). A longitudinal examination of the relationship between cannabis use and cognitive function in mid-life adults. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 169, 134–140. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2016.10.022 
Ming, G.-L., & Song, H. (2011). Adult neurogenesis in the mammalian brain: Significant answers and significant questions. Neuron, 70(4), 687–702. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neuron.2011.05.001 
Murray, C.J., Vecchiarelli, H.A., & Tremblay, M.-È. (2023). Enhancing axonal myelination in seniors: A review exploring the potential impact cannabis has on myelination in the aged brain. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 15. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnagi.2023.1119552  
Nadal, X., del Río, C., Casano, S., Palomares, B., Ferreiro‐Vera, C., Navarrete, C., Sánchez‐Carnerero, C., Cantarero, I., Bellido, M. L., Meyer, S., Morello, G., Appendino, G., & Muñoz, E. (2017). Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid is a potent PPARγ agonist with neuroprotective activity. British Journal of Pharmacology, 174(23), 4263–4276. https://doi.org/10.1111/bph.14019 
Patel, V., Abu-Hijleh, F., Rigg, N., & Mishra, R. (2023). Cannabidiol Protects Striatal Neurons by Attenuating Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 8(2), 299–308. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2022.0090
Palomares, B., Ruiz-Pino, F., Garrido-Rodriguez, M., Eugenia Prados, M., Sánchez-Garrido, M. A., Velasco, I., Vazquez, M. J., Nadal, X., Ferreiro-Vera, C., Morrugares, R., Appendino, G., Calzado, M. A., Tena-Sempere, M., & Muñoz, E. (2020). Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid A (THCA-A) reduces adiposity and prevents metabolic disease caused by diet-induced obesity. Biochemical Pharmacology, 171, 113693. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bcp.2019.113693
 
Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid A (THCA-A) reduces adiposity and prevents metabolic disease caused by diet-induced obesity. Biochemical Pharmacology, 171, 113693. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bcp.2019.113693
 
Pozo, A. D., Hoz-Rivera, M. de, Romero, A., Villa, M., Martínez, M., Silva, L., Piscitelli, F., Di Marzo, V., Gutiérrez-Rodríguez, A., Hind, W., & Martínez-Orgado, J. (2024). Cannabidiol reduces intraventricular hemorrhage brain damage, preserving myelination and preventing blood brain barrier dysfunction in immature rats. Neurotherapeutics: The Journal of the American Society for Experimental NeuroTherapeutics, 21(2), e00326. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neurot.2024.e00326
Shapira, G., Israel-Elgali, I., Grad, M., Avnat, E., Rachmany, L., Sarne, Y., & Shomron, N. (2023). Hippocampal differential expression underlying the neuroprotective effect of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol microdose on old mice. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 17, 1182932. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2023.1182932 
Shoyama, Y., Tamada, T., Kurihara, K., Takeuchi, A., Taura, F., Arai, S., Blaber, M., Shoyama, Y., Morimoto, S., & Kuroki, R. (2012). Structure and function of ∆1-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) synthase, the enzyme controlling the psychoactivity of Cannabis sativa. Journal of Molecular Biology, 423(1), 96–105. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmb.2012.06.030 
Silva, M.H. (2024). Chapter 36—Neurotoxicity and neuroprotection induced by plant-derived cannabinoids. In M. R. de Oliveira (Ed.), Natural Molecules in Neuroprotection and Neurotoxicity (pp. 831–873). Academic Press. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-443-23763-8.00071-3 
Tadijan, A., Vlašić, I., Vlainić, J., Đikić, D., Oršolić, N., & Jazvinšćak Jembrek, M. (2022). Intracellular molecular targets and signaling pathways involved in antioxidative and neuroprotective effects of cannabinoids in neurodegenerative conditions. Antioxidants, 11(10), Article 10. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11102049 
Valeri, A., & Mazzon, E. (2021). Cannabinoids and neurogenesis: The promised solution for neurodegeneration? Molecules, 26(20), 6313. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26206313 
Verhoeckx, K.C.M., Korthout, H.A.A.J., van Meeteren-Kreikamp, A.P., Ehlert, K.A., Wang, M., van der Greef, J., Rodenburg, R.J.T., & Witkamp, R.F. (2006). Unheated cannabis sativa extracts and its major compound THC-acid have potential immuno-modulating properties not mediated by CB1 and CB2 receptor coupled pathways. International Immunopharmacology, 6(4), 656–665. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.intimp.2005.10.002 
Watson, K.K., Bryan, A.D., Thayer, R.E., Ellingson, J.M., Skrzynski, C.J., & Hutchison, K. E. (2022). Cannabis use and resting state functional connectivity in the aging brain. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 14, 804890. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnagi.2022.804890 
 

The human body is an amazing physiological machine. The old adage, “you are what you eat,” has proven time and again to be true, as our body takes what we ingest and turns it into energy and nutrients, while protecting us against harmful bacteria and supporting our nervous system.  
There is increasing evidence that our body’s gut microbiota - bacteria, fungus, and other intestinal microbes - have a beneficial symbiotic relationship to support our metabolism and regulate inflammation in not only the gut but in other organs such as the brain. When the human body undergoes alterations in gut health due to factors such as stress, nutrition, environmental factors, and pharmaceuticals, it responds through the gut by changing the body’s metabolism as it increases its inflammatory response. These changes also affect our immune health, as chronic inflammation can trigger depletion of immune cells, increasing the risk of infection. 
In this episode of Cannabis Nurse Truths, we consider the major role that the endocannabinoid system plays in not only digestive health but also in maintaining homeostasis by interacting with the gut microbiota. In other words, we need a healthy endocannabinoid system to maintain gut health, and research has indicated that cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, are major players in regulating the gut microbiome itself.  It seems that individuals who use cannabis are also supporting their gut health as it protects against both inflammatory and immune disorders as well as helping to repair damage done by these conditions. 
EPISODE RESOURCES
Ahmed, W., & Katz, S. (2016). Therapeutic use of cannabis in inflammatory bowel disease. Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 12(11), 668–679. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28035196/ 
Al-Khazaleh, A.K., Jaye, K., Chang, D., Münch, G.W., & Bhuyan, D.J. (2024). Buds and bugs: A fascinating tale of gut microbiota and cannabis in the fight against cancer. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 25(2), 872. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25020872 
Barbash, B., Mehta, D., Siddiqui, M., Chawla, L., & Dworkin, B. (2019). Impact of cannabinoids on symptoms of refractory gastroparesis: A single-center experience. Cureus, 11(12). https://www.cureus.com/articles/25832-impact-of-cannabinoids-on-symptoms-of-refractory-gastroparesis-a-single-center-experience 
Boehm, E., Droessler, L., & Amasheh, S. (2023). Cannabidiol attenuates inflammatory impairment of intestinal cells expanding biomaterial-based therapeutic approaches. Materials Today Bio, 23, 100808. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mtbio.2023.100808 
Borra, V., Borra, N., Bondi, G., Yartha, S.G.R., Machineni, N.V., Agarwal, C., Ramasahayam, K., Kuchipudi, P.R., Mundla, S.R., Bansal, P., Bathija, S.A., Ogbu, I.R., & Desai, R. (2024). Is dependent cannabis use in adult hospitalizations with inflammatory bowel disease associated with major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events? Insights from National Inpatient Sample Analysis. Current Medical Research and Opinion, 1–7. https://doi.org/10.1080/03007995.2024.2321328 
Borrelli, F., Fasolino, I., Romano, B., Capasso, R., Maiello, F., Coppola, D., Orlando, P., Battista, G., Pagano, E., Di Marzo, V., & Izzo, A.A. (2013). Beneficial effect of the non-psychotropic plant cannabinoid cannabigerol on experimental inflammatory bowel disease. Biochemical Pharmacology, 85(9), 1306–1316. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bcp.2013.01.017 
Brown, K., Funk, K., Figueroa Barrientos, A., Bailey, A., Shrader, S., Feng, W., McClain, C. J., & Song, Z.-H. (2024). The modulatory effects and therapeutic potential of cannabidiol in the gut. Cells, 13(19), 1618. https://doi.org/10.3390/cells13191618 
Camilleri, M. (2018). Cannabinoids and gastrointestinal motility: Pharmacology, clinical effects, and potential therapeutics in humans. Neurogastroenterology & Motility, 30(9), e13370. https://doi.org/10.1111/nmo.13370 
Cani, P.D., Plovier, H., Van Hul, M., Geurts, L., Delzenne, N.M., Druart, C., & Everard, A. (2016). Endocannabinoids—At the crossroads between the gut microbiota and host metabolism. Nature Reviews Endocrinology, 12(3), 133–143. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrendo.2015.211  
Cohen, G., Gover, O., & Schwartz, B. (2023). Phytocannabinoids reduce inflammation of primed macrophages and enteric glial cells: An in vitro study. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(19), Article 19. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241914628 
Couch, D.G., Maudslay, H., Doleman, B., Lund, J.N., & O’Sullivan, S.E. (2018). The use of cannabinoids in colitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, 24(4), 680–697. https://doi.org/10.1093/ibd/izy014 
Dalavaye, N., Erridge, S., Nicholas, M., Pillai, M., Bapir, L., Holvey, C., Coomber, R., Rucker, J.J., Hoare, J., & Sodergren, M.H. (2023). The effect of medical cannabis in inflammatory bowel disease: Analysis from the UK Medical Cannabis Registry. Expert Review of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 17(1), 85–98. https://doi.org/10.1080/17474124.2022.2161046 
De Filippis, D., Esposito, G., Cirillo, C., Cipriano, M., De Winter, B.Y., Scuderi, C., Sarnelli, G., Cuomo, R., Steardo, L., De Man, J.G., & Iuvone, T. (2011). Cannabidiol reduces intestinal inflammation through the control of neuroimmune axis. PLoS ONE, 6(12). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0028159 
Hasenoehrl, C., Taschler, U., Storr, M., & Schicho, R. (2016). The gastrointestinal tract – a central organ of cannabinoid signaling in health and disease. Neurogastroenterology and Motility : The Official Journal of the European Gastrointestinal Motility Society, 28(12), 1765–1780. https://doi.org/10.1111/nmo.12931 
Kafil, T.S., Nguyen, T.M., MacDonald, J.K., & Chande, N. (2020). Cannabis for the treatment of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis: Evidence from Cochrane Reviews. Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, 26(4), 502–509. https://doi.org/10.1093/ibd/izz233 
Karoly, H.C., Mueller, R.L., Bidwell, L.C., & Hutchison, K.E. (2020). Cannabinoids and the microbiota-gut-brain axis: Emerging effects of cannabidiol and potential applications to alcohol use disorders. Alcoholism, Clinical and Experimental Research, 44(2), 340–353. https://doi.org/10.1111/acer.14256 
Lahat, A., Lang, A., & Ben-Horin, S. (2012). Impact of cannabis treatment on the quality of life, weight and clinical disease activity in inflammatory bowel disease patients: A pilot prospective study. Digestion, 85(1), 1–8. https://doi.org/10.1159/000332079 
Lal, S., Prasad, N., Ryan, M., Tangri, S., Silverberg, M.S., Gordon, A., & Steinhart, H. (2011). Cannabis use amongst patients with inflammatory bowel disease. European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 23(10), 891–896. https://doi.org/10.1097/MEG.0b013e328349bb4c 
Langat, R., Chakrawarti, A., & Klatt, N.R. (2025). Cannabis use in HIV: Impact on inflammation, immunity and the microbiome. Current HIV/AIDS Reports, 22(1), 19. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11904-025-00729-0 
Lee, Y., Jo, J., Chung, H.Y., Pothoulakis, C., & Im, E. (2016). Endocannabinoids in the gastrointestinal tract. American Journal of Physiology. Gastrointestinal and Liver Physiology, 311(4), G655–G666. https://doi.org/10.1152/ajpgi.00294.2015 
Leinwand, K.L., Jones, A.A., Huang, R.H., Jedlicka, P., Kao, D.J., de Zoeten, E.F., Ghosh, S., Moaddel, R., Wehkamp, J., Ostaff, M.J., Bader, J., Aherne, C.M., & Collins, C.B. (2017). Cannabinoid receptor-2 ameliorates inflammation in murine model of Crohn’s Disease. Journal of Crohn’s & Colitis, 11(11), 1369–1380. https://doi.org/10.1093/ecco-jcc/jjx096 
Lo, B.D., Chen, S.Y., Stem, M., Papanikolaou, A., Gabre-Kidan, A., Safar, B., Efron, J.E., & Atallah, C. (2024). Prevalence of cannabis use disorder and perioperative outcomes in adult colectomy patients: A propensity score-matched analysis. World Journal of Surgery, 48(3), 701–712. https://doi.org/10.1002/wjs.12085 
Martin, C.R., Osadchiy, V., Kalani, A., & Mayer, E.A. (2018). The brain-gut-microbiome axis. Cellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 6(2), 133–148. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcmgh.2018.04.003 
Naftali, T., Bar-Lev Schleider, L., Dotan, I., Lansky, E.P., Sklerovsky Benjaminov, F., & Konikoff, F.M. (2013). Cannabis induces a clinical response in patients with Crohn’s Disease: A prospective placebo-controlled study. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 11(10), 1276-1280.e1. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cgh.2013.04.034 
Naftali, T., Lev, L.B., Yablecovitch, D., Yablekovitz, D., Half, E., & Konikoff, F.M. (2011). Treatment of Crohn’s disease with cannabis: An observational study. The Israel Medical Association Journal: IMAJ, 13(8), 455–458. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21910367/ 
Naftali, T., Mechulam, R., Lev, L.B., & Konikoff, F.M. (2014). Cannabis for inflammatory bowel disease. Digestive Diseases, 32(4), 468–474. https://doi.org/10.1159/000358155 
Rossi, G., Gioacchini, G., Pengo, G., Suchodolski, J.S., Jergens, A.E., Allenspach, K., Gavazza, A., Scarpona, S., Berardi, S., Galosi, L., Bassotti, G., & Cerquetella, M. (2020). Enterocolic increase of cannabinoid receptor type 1 and type 2 and clinical improvement after probiotic administration in dogs with chronic signs of colonic dysmotility without mucosal inflammatory changes. Neurogastroenterology & Motility, 32(1). https://doi.org/10.1111/nmo.13717 
Uranga, J.A., Vera, G., & Abalo, R. (2018a). Cannabinoid pharmacology and therapy in gut disorders. Biochemical Pharmacology, 157, 134–147. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bcp.2018.07.048 
Uranga, J.A., Vera, G., & Abalo, R. (2018b). Cannabinoid pharmacology and therapy in gut disorders. Biochemical Pharmacology, 157, 134–147. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bcp.2018.07.048 
Varsha, K.K., Nagarkatti, M., & Nagarkatti, P. (2022). Role of gut microbiota in cannabinoid-mediated suppression of inflammation. Advances in Drug and Alcohol Research, 2, 10550. https://doi.org/10.3389/adar.2022.10550 
Velez-Santiago, A., Alvarez-Torres, E., Martinez-Rodriguez, R., Candal-Rivera, E., Muniz-Camacho, L., Ramos-Burgos, L., & Torres, E. A. (2023). A survey of cannabis use among patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 20(6), 5129. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20065129 
Zhang, X., Gao, X., Yi, X., Yu, H., Shao, M., Li, Y., & Shen, X. (2024). Multi-targeting inulin-based nanoparticles with cannabidiol for effective prevention of ulcerative colitis. Materials Today Bio, 25, 100965. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mtbio.2024.100965 
 

To date, cannabis has been legalized or decriminalized in 23 states, and 32 states have passed medical marijuana laws. This means that 74% of Americans live in a state where marijuana is legal for either recreational or medical use, and 54% live in a state where the recreational use of marijuana is legal. Yet within each state lies a hidden population: a group of gun owners who are now considered criminals by the federal government because they choose to use a plant as their medicine. Gun dealers are also confused about their ability to sell firearms to cannabis users, as they too are considered criminals if they allow guns to be bought by known cannabis consumers.
On the safety side of gun ownership, prohibitionists claim that cannabis use leads to increased suicide ideation and completed suicides, which is another argument to prohibit cannabis users from owning firearms.  While there is limited research on the concerns related to gun ownership and cannabis use, robust evidence suggests that the rates of both suicide ideation and completed suicides decrease after states legalize regulated access to cannabis.  In this episode of Cannabis Nurse Truths, we explore the issues surrounding this untenable choice: Cannabis or Guns, You Can’t Have Both.
EPISODE RESOURCES
Anderson, D. M., Rees, D. I., & Sabia, J. J. (2014). Medical Marijuana Laws and Suicides by Gender and Age. American Journal of Public Health, 104(12), 2369–2376. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2013.301612
Andreuccetti, G., Ye, Y., Kang, J., Korcha, R., Witbrodt, J. A., Carvalho, H. B., & Cherpitel, C. J. (2017). The Effects of Acute Cannabis Use on Nontraffic Injury Risk: Reviewing the Available Literature and Identifying Ways Forward. Contemporary Drug Problems, 44(2), 147-158. https://doi.org/10.1177/0091450917710763
Bartos, B. J., Kubrin, C. E., Newark, C., & McCleary, R. (2020). Medical Marijuana Laws and Suicide. Archives of Suicide Research, 24(2), 204–217. https://doi.org/10.1080/13811118.2019.1612803
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). (2019, May 2).  Information and Examples of the Application of Title 18, United States Code (U.S.C.),Section 922, Subsection (g)(3):PERSONS WHO ARE UNLAWFUL USERS OF OR ADDICTED TO ANYCONTROLLED SUBSTANCE. Retrieved from  https://www.justice.gov/tribal/media/1135246/dl?inline= 
Grucza, R. A., Hur, M., Agrawal, A., Krauss, M. J., Plunk, A. D., Cavazos-Rehg, P. A., Chaloupka, F. J., & Bierut, L. J. (2015). A reexamination of medical marijuana policies in relation to suicide risk. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 152, 68–72. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2015.04.014
Jaeger, K. (2023, December 8). Medical Marijuana Growers And Caregivers Can Own Guns, But Patients Can't, FBI Says In Little-Noticed Memo. Retrieved from https://www.marijuanamoment.net/medical-marijuana-growers-and-caregivers-can-own-guns-but-patients-cant-fbi-says-in-little-noticed-memo/ 
Marijuana Policy Project. (n.d.). Marijuana Policy Reforms and the Second Amendment. Retrieved from https://www.mpp.org/policy/federal/secondamendment/ 
Rylander, M., Valdez, C., & Nussbaum, A. M. (2014). Does the legalization of medical marijuana increase completed suicide? The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse, 40(4), 269–273. https://doi.org/10.3109/00952990.2014.910520
Schanie, A. (2024, Dec. 11). Starting Jan. 1, Kentuckians will have to choose between medical marijuana or firearms. Retrieved from https://www.wdrb.com/news/starting-jan-1-kentuckians-will-have-to-choose-between-medical-marijuana-or-firearms/article_730a16b6-b80c-11ef-9721-93daace5ff86.html 
Small, C. (2023, April 17). The Intersection Between Marijuana and the 2nd Amendment: What Gun Owners Need to Know. Retrieved from https://www.clarkhill.com/news-events/news/the-intersection-between-marijuana-and-the-2nd-amendment-what-gun-owners-need-to-know/ 
Times Observer. (2025, February 24). DA to not seek re-election, admits marijuana use and eyes shift to advocacy. Retrieved from https://www.timesobserver.com/news/local-news/2023/12/da-to-not-seek-re-election/ U.S. v. Cooper, 224 F. App'x 537 (7th Cir. 2007). Retrieved from https://ecf.ca8.uscourts.gov/opndir/25/02/241998P.pdf 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Approximately 40 million people worldwide are living with HIV, and more people are living longer because of advances in medicine and pharmaceuticals.  Developed in the late 1980s, antiretroviral therapy is credited with providing better viral control, but these pharmaceuticals are not without their downside, as they are expensive, complex in action, and have many adverse effects. 
As we continue to expand our knowledge about cannabis and its interactions with the endocannabinoid system, new studies indicate that medical marijuana is an effective treatment for the symptoms of HIV as well as a way to manage the adverse effects of antiretroviral therapy.  Adding cannabinoids, such as CBD and THC, to the HIV treatment plan specifically targets the body’s endocannabinoid system, which in turn lessens the adverse symptoms associated with inflammatory and nervous system dysfunction found in HIV.  
In this episode of Cannabis Nurse Truths, we examine how these cannabinoids can improve the quality of life by decreasing not only the symptoms associated with antiretroviral therapy, but also reduce HIV viral load and complement the prescribed drugs that are helping people live longer with HIV. 
EPISODE RESOURCES 
Bruce, D., Kahana, S.Y., Bauermeister, J.A., Nichols, S.L., Hightow-Weidman, L.B., Heinze, J.E., Shea, J., & Fernández, M.I. (2015). Neighborhood-level and individual-level correlates of cannabis use among young persons living with HIV/AIDS. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 151, 173–180. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2015.03.017
Cabral, G.A. (2001). Marijuana and cannabinoids: Effects on infections, immunity, and AIDS. Journal of Cannabis Therapeutics, 1(3–4), 61–85. https://doi.org/10.1300/J175v01n03_06
Chu, L., Shu, Z., Gu, X., Wu, Y., Yang, J., & Deng, H. (2023). The endocannabinoid system as a potential therapeutic target for HIV-1-associated neurocognitive disorder. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, can.2022.0267. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2022.0267
Costiniuk, C.T., & Jenabian, M.-A. (2019). Cannabinoids and inflammation: Implications for people living with HIV. AIDS, 33(15), 2273–2288. https://doi.org/10.1097/QAD.0000000000002345 
Costiniuk, C.T., Saneei, Z., Salahuddin, S., Cox, J., Routy, J.-P., Rueda, S., Abdallah, S.J., Jensen, D., Lebouché, B., Brouillette, M.-J., Klein, M., Szabo, J., Frenette, C., Giannakis, A., & Jenabian, M.-A. (2019). Cannabis consumption in people living with HIV: Reasons for use, secondary effects, and opportunities for health education. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 4(3), 204–213. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2018.0068
de Jong, B.C., Prentiss, D., McFarland, W., Machekano, R., & Israelski, D.M. (2005). Marijuana use and its association with adherence to antiretroviral therapy among HIV-infected persons with moderate to severe nausea. JAIDS Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes, 38(1), 43.
Ellis, R.J., Toperoff, W., Vaida, F., van den Brande, G., Gonzales, J., Gouaux, B., Bentley, H., & Atkinson, J.H. (2009). Smoked medicinal cannabis for neuropathic pain in HIV: A randomized, crossover clinical trial. Neuropsychopharmacology, 34(3), 672–680. https://doi.org/10.1038/npp.2008.120
Ellis, R.J., Wilson, N., & Peterson, S. (2021). Cannabis and inflammation in HIV: A review of human and animal studies. Viruses, 13(8), 1521. https://doi.org/10.3390/v13081521
Langat, R., Chakrawarti, A., & Klatt, N.R. (2025). Cannabis use in HIV: Impact on inflammation, immunity and the microbiome. Current HIV/AIDS Reports, 22(1), 19. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11904-025-00729-0 
Liu, Z., Julius, P., Himwaze, C.M., Mucheleng’anga, L.A., Chapple, A.G., West, J.T., & Wood, C. (2024). Cannabis use associates with reduced proviral burden and inflammatory cytokine in tissues from men with Clade C HIV-1 on suppressive antiretroviral therapy. Journal of Infectious Diseases, jiad575. https://doi.org/10.1093/infdis/jiad575 
Marini, S., Huber, A., Cash, M.N., Salemi, M., Cook, R.L., Borsa, P., & Mavian, C.N. (2024). Oral cannabidiol treatment is associated with an anti-inflammatory gene expression signature in myeloid cells of people living with HIV. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 9(4). https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2023.0139 
Mboumba Bouassa, R.-S., Needham, J., Nohynek, D., Singer, J., Lee, T., Bobeuf, F., Samarani, S., Del Balso, L., Paisible, N., Vertzagias, C., Sebastiani, G., Margolese, S., Mandarino, E., Klein, M., Lebouché, B., Cox, J., Brouillette, M.-J., Routy, J.-P., Szabo, J., … Costiniuk, C. T. (2022). Safety and tolerability of oral cannabinoids in people living with HIV on long-term ART: A randomized, open-label, interventional pilot clinical trial (CTNPT 028). Biomedicines, 10(12), 3168. https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines10123168
Pagano, C., Navarra, G., Coppola, L., Avilia, G., Bifulco, M., & Laezza, C. (2022). Cannabinoids: Therapeutic use in clinical practice. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 23(6), Article 6. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23063344
Saloner, R., Campbell, L.M., Serrano, V., Montoya, J.L., Pasipanodya, E., Paolillo, E.W., Franklin, D., Ellis, R.J., Letendre, S.L., Collier, A.C., Clifford, D.B., Gelman, B.B., Marra, C.M., McCutchan, J.A., Morgello, S., Sacktor, N., Jeste, D.V., Grant, I., Heaton, R.K., & Moore, D.J. (2019a). Neurocognitive superaging in older adults living with HIV: Demographic, neuromedical and everyday functioning correlates. Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society: JINS, 25(5), 507–519. https://doi.org/10.1017/S1355617719000018
Williams, A., Khatkar, P., Branscome, H., Kim, Y., Erickson, J., Jenabian, M.-A., Costiniuk, C. T., & Kashanchi, F. (2023). The use of CBD and its synthetic analog HU308 in HIV-1-infected myeloid cells. Pharmaceuticals, 16(8), 1147. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16081147
Yadav-Samudrala, B. J., & Fitting, S. (2021). Mini-review: The therapeutic role of cannabinoids in neuroHIV. Neuroscience Letters, 750, 135717. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neulet.2021.135717 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Welcome to an emerging post-prohibition world, where cannabis is legal around the globe and consumers are using cannabis in everyday living. Hemp fibers and seeds are used for construction and food, while the compounds that are extracted from cannabis - the cannabinoids - are used as medicine. The industry is growing at a rapid pace, driven by consumer demand which has ignited an unprecedented body of research, innovation and technology. The post-prohibition society is here, ready to intensify.
Don’t believe it? Well, get ready for the Stoned Age, where past arguments against the use of the plant are no longer effective. Prohibitionists insist that cannabis use is dangerous and deadly, and pharmaceutical corporations spend a lot of money to ensure cannabis never comes to market, as it will quickly put them out of business. Yet almost every one of the 45,000 published studies does not support the arguments that cannabis is dangerous and deadly; in fact, almost all cannabis studies indicate that cannabis works very well as a medicine when it is treated as such. Here’s an idea - how about we practice evidence-based medicine and help our patient population achieve wellness in mind, body and spirit?  That’s what we expect in the Stoned Age, the Era of Wellness.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

At the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley lies Elkton, Virginia, a town composed of 1.4 square miles and populated with just under 3000 residents.  But there is a secret operation in this sleepy little rural town - a hemp company run by the Johnson family.  Pure Shenandoah is a true seed-to-sale company, with its three brothers serving as foundational members to provide hemp for not only industrial uses, such as construction and fibers, but also in processing wellness products.
Pure Shenandoah grows their own hemp, from which they process into cannabinoid oils, cannabis beverages and smokable hemp flowers. They also offer cultivation classes for people to learn how to grow cannabis. In today's episode of Cannabis Nurse Truths, we are excited to speak with our special guest, Abner Johnson, Chief Operating Officer of Pure Shenandoah. Abner shares insights into what it's like to be a hemp farmer in the last chapter of cannabis prohibition, because even small hemp companies like Pure Shenandoah have faced their own challenges as a cannabis business. 
EPISODE RESOURCESPure Shenandoah: https://pureshenandoah.com 
Pure Shenandoah Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pureshenandoah  
Pure Shenandoah Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pureshenandoah/  
Pure Shenandoah YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqhQXkMBMoaPWeoI-yqd8rA  
Welcome to the Town of Elkton: https://www.elktonva.gov/ 
Jojack, B. (2024, June 27). Competition’s fierce for Shenandoah medical marijuana permit. Virginia Business. https://virginiabusiness.com/competitions-fierce-for-shenandoah-medical-marijuana-permit/  
Urenko, C. (2022, April 12). Pure Shenandoah opens its doors in Elkton. WHSV3. https://www.whsv.com/2022/04/13/pure-shenandoah-dispensary-opens-its-doors-elkton/