Canadian statistics revealed that more than 5 million individuals met the diagnostic criteria for mental disorders. While numerous treatment regimens exist for each disorder, not everyone has the opportunity to avail themselves of these options.
A subset of the population resistant to conventional treatments necessitates alternative therapeutic approaches. Researchers are now delving into the potential benefits of alternative options, such as edibles weed, in addressing mental health challenges.
Key Takeaways:
- Cannabis has a diverse impact on various regions of the brain, often intersecting with key areas associated with mental health concerns.
- The endocannabinoid system, intrinsic to the human body, experiences the influence of both THC and CBD found in cannabis.
- Beginners must start consuming small doses of edibles.
What is Treatment-Resistant Mental Health?
The characterization of treatment resistance varies across different mental health disorders. A comprehensive investigation, as outlined in a research article featured in the esteemed Journal of World Psychiatry, establishes that the standard categorical delineation for individuals grappling with depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia entails an inadequate response to at least two distinct treatment episodes.
Each of these episodes involves the administration of separate medications, carefully selected in terms of appropriateness and dosage, with a requisite duration of at least six weeks.
Edibles Weed & Mental Health: Case Study Analyses
Depression
Depression stands as a pervasive mental health challenge. This formidable medical condition significantly impacts an individual’s emotions, behaviours, and cognitive processes.
Depression stems from various factors, with medical investigations delving into the atypical brain functions observed in individuals grappling with this condition. A compelling study highlighted in the Journal of Pharmacopsychiatry underscores the significance of anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), revealing a noteworthy decline in these substances among medication-free women diagnosed with major depression.
Reduced levels of 2-AG during depressive episodes and low concentrations of AEA linked to anxiety symptoms underscore the relationship between endocannabinoids and mental health. THC and anandamide, despite their similar chemical structures, diverge in their interaction with CB1 receptors. While both act as partial agonists, THC distinguishes itself by essentially “hijacking” these receptors, leading to a significantly amplified CB1 response.
Delving deeper, THC’s impact extends to brain regions, such as the hippocampus, orbitofrontal cortex, cerebellum, and basal ganglia. THC induces a heightened release of dopamine, surpassing natural production levels and contributing to its psychoactive effects.
Bipolar Disorder
As anticipated, research at PLOS ONE, individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) experienced improvements in various clinical aspects following the use of marijuana (MJ).
Upon direct analysis of BPD patients who smoked marijuana (MJBP) before and after usage, significant alleviation of symptoms occurred within a four-hour timeframe. Post-MJ consumption, the MJBP group reported markedly lower scores in anger, tension, and depression, accompanied by heightened levels of vigour. This positive shift substantially reduced Total Mood Disturbance (TMD) scores, dropping from 22.39 to 11.15.
Anxiety
In a study conducted by Crippa et al., a modest trial involving a single dose of 400 mg CBD showcased consistent efficacy in reducing state anxiety. A double-blind clinical trial by Bergamaschi et al. delved into the effects of an acute 600 mg CBD dose on drug-naive subjects with social anxiety disorder. It reveals a significant reduction in subjective anxiety induced by simulated public speaking.
The calming influence of CBD stems from its potential impact on the intricate interplay within the limbic and paralimbic cortices of the brain. Both brain parts are responsible for navigating the complex landscape of emotions and feelings.
PTSD
Wayne State University in Detroit researchers conducted an in-depth exploration into how cannabis usage affects the amygdala response in individuals with PTSD. In a meticulously conducted study utilizing a randomized, double-blind procedure, 71 participants received either a low dose of THC or a placebo. The findings revealed that individuals exposed to THC exhibited a noteworthy reduction in threat-related amygdala reactivity.
This indicates that those who consumed low doses of THC displayed tangible indicators of diminished fear and anxiety when confronted with situations engineered to elicit fear. The authors of the study assert that their research indicates that THC modulates threat-related processing in trauma-exposed individuals with PTSD and go on to suggest that it may be useful as a pharmacological method for treating stress- and trauma-related psychopathology.
How to Use Cannabis Edibles
- Edible cannabis products can offer significant relief for individuals grappling with specific health conditions. However, these solutions may not be universally suitable. Contemplate the desired outcomes of your cannabis experience conscientiously. Seek help from your healthcare professional or a specialized expert to discern whether opting for an edible is the most effective path.
- Both CBD and THC can influence specific enzymes engaged in the metabolism of various medications.
- Start with a conservative dosage and progress at a measured pace (see table below).
- When exploring cannabis edible, consider incorporating it into your evening routine for the initial experience. This approach guarantees its seamless accommodation in case the need for rest arises.
- The effects of edibles take time, so wait two hours before consuming more.
- Store your edibles safely to avoid the degradation of their active components and the growth of molds.
| AMOUNT | EFFECTS |
| 1 to 2.5mg | Note: For Beginners or low tolerance * Reduce pain (minimal) * Decrease stress and anxiety * Improves energy and productivity |
| 2.5 to 15mg | * Manages insomnia and anxiety * Pronounced pain relief * Euphoria (THC) |
| 15 to 50mg | Note: For experienced users * Strong euphoria * Affect coordination |
| 50 to 100mg | * Helps manage symptoms suffered by patients with cancer and inflammatory conditions. * Hallucinations * Numbness * Heavy sedation |
Delectable Edibles Weed to Explore
Gummies
| OneStop Gummies | ||
| Cannabinoid: THC | Amount: 500mg | Flavour: Sour Green Apple |
| Potluck Extracts 1:1 Gummies | ||
| Cannabinoid: THC and CBD (1:1) | Amount: 100mg | Flavour: Grapes |
Jelly Bomb
| Twisted Extracts – 1:1 Halley’s Comet Jelly Bomb | ||
| Cannabinoid: THC and CBD (1:) | Amount: 40mg | Flavour: Watermelon |
Chocolates
| Potluck – Infused Chocolate | ||
| Cannabinoid: THC | Amount: 300mg | Flavour: Milk Chocolate |
| Cannamo – CBD Chocolate Isolate | ||
| Cannabinoid: CBD | Amount: 450mg | Flavour: Toasted Coconut |
Conclusion
Advancements in our comprehension of mental health are empowering scientists to explore alternative treatment approaches for conditions that have proven resistant to traditional methods.
Cannabis has notable effectiveness in addressing mental health concerns. Examining cannabis enables individuals to cultivate a more profound understanding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do weed edibles expire?
Edibles can provide a lasting high, extending from 3 to 6 months if stored properly. Beyond this timeframe, the delectable treats may lose their freshness, and the THC potency might experience a decline.
Recognize that various edibles come with distinct shelf lives. Opting for products from a dispensary ensures that you receive items with clearly marked expiration dates.
When it comes to specific treats, such as brownies and cookies, their delectable charm might diminish within a mere week. On the other hand, gummies possess an impressive ability to maintain freshness for an extended period—sometimes lasting for months.
What is the onset and duration when consuming cannabis edibles?
The timeframe for experiencing the effects can range from 30 minutes to two hours after ingestion. Eating edibles on an empty stomach may result in a quicker onset of effects.
THC levels tend to peak in the bloodstream approximately 2 to 3 hours post-ingestion. While some users find that the effects gradually wane within 2 to 4 hours, others report a lingering high persisting for an extended period, sometimes 12 to 24 hours following consumption.
Is it better to make or buy edibles?
The choice between creating homemade marijuana edibles and choosing commercially available options involves a distinctive array of factors. Crafting your own edibles not only adds a personalized touch but also proves to be a financially savvy endeavour. However, DIY edibles have a few drawbacks.
- Time-consuming
- Wrong dosage
- Can only make one type of edible
- Other edibles require complicated recipes to follow
Purchasing edibles offers a blend of convenience, safety (verified through lab testing), and an extended shelf life resulting from meticulous handling during production.
While the online prices of edibles may exceed those available through alternative channels, they remain reasonably affordable.
Engaging in mixed-and-match promotions provides an opportunity to explore diverse flavours and types of edibles while managing costs effectively.
How does edible cannabis work?
Upon consumption, these edibles undergo digestion in the liver and stomach. THC will change into a distinct compound known as 11-OH-THC.
Note that 11-OH-THC remains a form of THC, albeit with a chemically distinct structure. This alteration enhances its ability to traverse the blood-brain barrier and optimize its efficacy in delivering the desired effects.
Do edibles retain the distinctive flavor of marijuana?
In reality, such occurrences are infrequent. Although one might stumble upon an occasional brownie exhibiting an earthy essence, most manufacturers employ strategies to obscure any discernible aroma.
Some go the extra mile by introducing terpenes seamlessly harmonizing with the herbal profile. A prime illustration of this ingenuity is evident in Potluck’s product line. They offer a spectrum of flavours such as raspberry, pineapple, orange, and various other tantalizing options.
