CANNABIS 101

Cannabis legality has been a hot topic for debate for the last 100 years or so. Cannabis was completely legal in the United States up until the 1930’s when racism and the great depression played a large role in its prohibition. Harry Anslinger became the commissioner of the newly formed FBN after his last job as a alcohol prohibitionist was no longer required. Anslinger was a well known racist as well as an advocate for harsh penalties for drug convictions. Anslinger went on a lengthy propaganda campaign targeting marijuana with the goal of demonizing the substance and calling for the total prohibition of cannabis. With the Marijuana Tax Act of 1937 and the Controlled Substance Act in 1970, cannabis went from being one of the most prescribed medications in the United States to being quoted in the New York Times in 1934 as:

“Marijuana perhaps now most insidious of our narcotics, a direct by-product of unrestricted immigration. Mexican peddlers caught distributing to school children”

The medical benefits of cannabis were completely ignored and the propaganda worked as expected. Marijuana was completely removed from the U.S. Pharmacopeia was listed as a schedule 1 narcotic, showing no medical benefit and carrying penalties for growing or possession of cannabis and the medical industry fell into the hands and pockets of big pharma.

Here's where everything gets interesting… Everything they told you was a lie. With medicinal legalization in California in 1996 a wave of research has turned medicine on its head. A new biological system was discovered inside the human body and it plays a critical role in providing balance in the human body and mind. The Endocannabinoid Sysyem was named and its function is critical to all around health and balance . Here's where it gets even better… The active ingredients in cannabis react with this system seamlessly, like a lock and key. The scientific community is only now opening a wide world of endocannabinoid therapies and applications.

Each state has been given the opportunity to vote on their own policies and New York has just adopted recreational marijuana but also recognizes medical marijuanna and its medicinal applications, as we have had a medicinal marijuana program in place since 2014. The list of approved medical diagnosis in NY is growing every day with new research coming to light. I am personally all for complete legalization and will explain my viewpoints in the following essay.

New York legalized medical marijuana in 2014 but only allowed oil; flowers could not be sold or used for any medicinal application. This was the first issue I had with our legalities. The research has shown that cannabis flower as a whole is more medicinal than any individual counterparts. This is known as the entourage effect, also known as the synergistic effect. So the fact that NY chose to do extracts rather than the entirety of the flower and plant decreased the medicinal effects provided to the patients.

I am particularly interested in cannabis as a treatment for opiate addiction, replacement and detox. The opiate epidemic can be attributed to poor research and greed in Big Pharma and millions of lives have been destroyed or lost due to a broken medical system who only cares about lining their pockets. The pain relieving properties of cannabis rival those of opiates, some studies showing a greater ability to mitigate pain than even high level opiates. Pain is a widespread condition that affects over 100 Million American, meaning that many millions of lives can be saved by prescribing the correct medication. 47,000 people died of opiate overdose in 2017 and the numbers only seem to be climbing unless you live in a state that has medical and recreational marijuana. Medicare data from 2010-2013 showed that once a state legalizes medical cannabis that state reports 25% lower opiate overdose rates. What's even better is that The brain stem, which controls breathing and heart rate, contains no endocannabinoid receptors, meaning that there is a 0% chance of overdose. It is literally the safest medicinal herb known to man.

Not only is it an amazing painkiller, but it also helps us forget when necessary. Research being done with cannabis as a treatment for PTSD is showing promise. Brain scans show that trauma literally changes the chemistry of your brain. PTSD actually affects the size and functioning of the amygdala, which is involved with emotional processing and sensory pain. When cannabis is introduced it provides dissociative effects which may be responsible for relieving the emotional or painful memories. CBD especially has been shown to mitigate maladaptive responses to trauma and reduces responses to aversive memories.

I believe that with the right combination of cannabinoids and terpenes found in cannabis we can end the opiate epidemic and return to a medical system who chooses to cure rather than treat. You need to understand that treatment means you come back, means more money, means you stay dependent. Certain combinations can be made to aid with the nausea associated with withdrawal from opiate. Its pain relieving properties can assist with the aches and pains associated with opiate dependence and withdrawal. The current opiate replacement therapies are also extremely addictive and deadly and only replace one high level opiate with another, and you still run the risk of overdose and accidental death. Cannabis has a 0% mortality rate as well as little to no withdrawal symptoms. Its dissociative effects can even assist with the mental trauma that usually comes with addiction to drugs and alcohol. All around I see cannabis as the most logical, fact and evidence based treatment for Opiate addiction/dependence in the world.

UNIT 2 The ECS and Fundamentals of Cannabis Botany (NOTES)

“Discovery of the ECS represents a significant paradigm shift in medicine. “

• (Late 1980’s) St. Louis University demonstrates that cannabinoids inhibit Adenosine Cyclate through G-Proteins, implying cellular signaling

• (1990) Matsuda clones the first receptor, CB1, proving that all mammals are equipped with an ECS. The CB2 receptor was discovered a few years after.

• Both CB1 and CB2 receptors are G-Protein Coupled Receptors (GPCR)

• G-Proteins - Intercellular molecules that transmit signals when the (coupled) receptor is activated

CB1 Receptors

• Mostly expressed in the brain, especially the cerebellum, amygdala, cortex, hippocampus, and the basal ganglia

(*occupy the synaptic terminals and axons of neurons)

CB1 receptors express widespread presence in:

• Peripheral Nervous System

• Adipose Tissue

• Skeletal Muscle

• Cardiovascular System

• GI Tract

• Reproductive System

• Cellular Mitochondria

CB1 receptors are NOT expressed in medulla oblongata (regulates breathing)

Composed of 472 amino acids.

Activation of the first class of receptors inhibits the neurotransmission of…

• Y-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) - main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain and spinal cord

• Glutamate - The brain's main excitatory neurotransmitter

• Acetylcholine - Facilitates neurotransmission in the central and peripheral nervous systems

• Norepinephrine - Hormone/ neurotransmitter catecholamine associated with “fight or flight” response, stress, and vasoconstriction

• 5-Hydroxytryptamine (5-HTP / Serotonin) - a GPCR/ Neurotransmitter implicated in stress and emotional regulation

• Dopamine - Hormone/ neurotransmitter catecholamine associated with the brains reward system. 5 types (D1-D5) and they help regulate memory, movement, cognition, impulsivity, and decision making

• Cholecystokinin (CCK) - Peptide hormone/ neurotransmitter that mediates the digestive enzymes, GI movement, and feeding behavior

• D-Aspartate - An amino acid neurotransmitter that affects hormone synthesis, release, and reproduction.

• Glycine - Secondary neurotransmitter inhibitor found mostly in the spinal cord

CB2 Receptors

• 360 amino acids in human CB2 receptors and mainly focused in immune cells, specifically macrophages, monocytes, T-cells, B-cells, and Neutrophils

• Can also be found in peripheral tissues such as adidose, cardiovascular, liver, bone, and GI

• CB2 receptors generally reduce immune activity and down regulate inflammation

In human tissues have been shown to:

• Reduce antibody formation on splenocytes

• Inhibit T-cell proliferation

• Reduce T-cell and neutrophil migration

• Increase B-cell and monocyte migration

• Suppress inflammatory cytokine signaling

Bodies Endogenous Cannabinoids

• Anandamide (AEA) - synthesized from hydrolysis of Phospholid N-Archiodionoylphose (NAPE)

• 2-Arachidonoyl Glycerol (2-AG)- synthesized from hydrolysis of DAG

Endocannabinoid Synthesis

• Intercellular calcium (Ca+) influx is the main trigger for synthesis of endocannabinoids

• Calcium likely activates Transacylase, a first step enzyme that catalyzes NAPE

• Once produced, AEA and 2-AG travel backwards (retrograde inhibition) from the postsynaptic site of synthesis to the presynaptic cannabinoid receptor. There they act as retrograde messengers to reduce inflammatory signals and neurotransmission.

• Once activated, cannabinoid receptors modulate Adenylyl Cyclase, an enzyme for other neurotransmitter receptors. They also inhibit calcium influx and calcium is essential for neuron release

• CB1 act on potassium channels, but CB2 does not

• CB receptors are NOT present in the brain stem's cardiac and respiratory centers, so the ECS does not effect breathing or heart rate (no overdose)

• Cannabinoids also interact with non-ECS receptors

NON-ECS Receptors

• AEA is a full agonist of TRPV1, usually by capsaicin

• TRPV1 is involved in pain pathways, particularly neuropathic pain and the heat/ burning sensation

• Cannabinoids also act on PPARa and G-protein coupled receptor 55 (GPR55)

• Cannabinoids on PPARa appear to elicit an anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective effect

• Cannabinoids on GPR55 play a role in anxiety and inflammation

• Agonist activity and upregulation of 5-HTP (serotonin) receptors explain anxiety reducing properties of cannabinoids

• 2-AG plays a more important role in CNS compared to AEA

• Both are degraded by enzymes shortly after synthesis

AEA degraded by fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH)

2-AG degraded by monoacylglycerol Lipase (MAGL)

Physiology of the ECS

• Overall the ECS manages homeostasis and restores balance upon circumstances of cellular stress

• Encompasses most physiological functions, including the immune system, pain, feeding, neuroprotection, and the reward system

• A regulator of neurotransmission having many uses in neurological and CNS diseases

• Safeguards synaptic plasticity (ability for your brain to adapt) which has huge implications for emotional regulation and psychiatric disorders

• Uses in PTSD

• CB1 and CB2 receptors in the GI tract explain treatment for colitis

“Relax, eat, sleep, forget, and protect” - ECS summed up

• In reality the ECS may have the potential to affect EVERY DISEASE affecting human beings!

• ECS found in all mammals except insects

Phytocannabinoids

• The leaves and flowers produce a vast range of medicinal phytocannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids (Phenolic compounds)

• Phytochemicals collect in trichomes and serve as a defense mechanism (weather/ UV)

Cannabis produces at least 100 phytocannabinoids

• Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid (THCA)

• Cannabidiolic Acid (CBDA)

• Cannabichromenic Acid (CBCA)

• Cannabigerolic Acid (CBGA)

• Cannabinolic Acid (CBNA)

• Cannabinodiolic Acid (CBNDA)

• Olivetolic Acid (OLA) follows Polyketide pathway to synthesis CBGA

• CBGA is pretty much the parent of several other cannabinoids

• Heat decarboxylates THCA and CBDA into neutral forms THC and CBD

THC

• High affinity partial agonist of the CB1 receptor, which produces psychotropic effects including relaxation, euphoria, and perceptive time

• Visual and auditory hallucinations are possible

• Effects on cognitive function are mixed (individualized medicine)

• Partial agonist of CB2 receptors as well, showing analgesic properties of THC

• 20X anti-inflammatory power of aspirin

• Anti-oxidant properties documented by protecting against excess Glutamate release

• THC prevented typical neurotoxic damage associated with MDMA

• Also a novel bronchodilator

• Being used in medicina states to the point of replacing opioids

CBD

• Non psychotropic compound does not show affinity to either CB receptor

• CBD modulates the CB1 receptor by reducing the bInding affinity of ligands at natural sites

• CBD inhibits uptake of AEA and reduces FAAH hydrolysis, increasing AEA concentration “augmenting endocannabinoid tone”

*many therapeutic benefits to this augmentation

• In schizophrenia patients, CBD enhanced AEA signaling and reduces psychotic symptoms

• Allosteric modulator at various other receptors including GPR55, dopamine, GABA, and opioid receptors

• Enhances Adenosine, may explain anti-inflammatory effects

• Pre-clinical research supports the efficacy of CBD for chronic pain, anxiety, substance use disorder, and auto-immune disorders. Anticonvulsant properties proven

TERPENES

• The aromatic, volatile molecules that impart unique flavor and odor to a given strain

• Synthesized along the same pathways as cannabinoids but prior to conversion to CBGA, they meet terpene synthase

• Most terpenes in cannabis are monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, indicating 2 or 3 isoprene units

Common Terpenes

• Limonene -(monoterpene) Lemon scent - may reduce anxiety and stimulate the immune system

• B-Myrcene - (monoterpene) Hops scent - may reduce inflammation and sedate

• Linalool- (monoterpene) Lavender scent - may reduce anxiety and sedate

• B-Caryophyllene (sesquiterpene) Pepper scent - a CB2 agonist (only terpene with this quality)

Synergy of these phytochemicals and unique effects based on specific combinations is likely.

Ultimately cannabis is a kingdom of potentially therapeutic chemicals

UNIT 2 DISCUSSION

(Question 1)

The aromatic compounds found in nature and in cannabis are known as terpenes. There are approximately 245 different terpenes and scent molecules in the cannabis plant. Each strain has different combinations of these scent and flavor molecules, giving each strain its distinct flavor and scent.

These terpenes do much more than produce unique scents and flavors, as they have been found to have a host of medicinal properties as well. Cannabinoids and terpenes act on the same chemical pathways in the human body, and therefore illicit similar medicinal effects. Cannabinoid and terpene based medicine is where I see medicine moving in the future and so do many medical professionals. The combinations of cannabinoids and terpenes are ever changing and evolving, making infinite possibilities for different cannabinoid and terpene products all eliciting unique sets of medicinal properties.

The issue many medicinal and recreational cannabis users are having is finding a combination that works for the individual's set of issues. This can be daunting with literally thousands of different combinations to choose from. To aid in assisting consumers make an educated decision, the long list of terpenes have been summed up and simplified into 4 major scent types. Each grouping has similar medicinal properties to help guide consumers in finding what terpenes can be of use for individual ailments.

The 4 scent types are Fuel, Earth, Fruit, and Floral. Each grouping can be distinguished by the terpenes present. The Fuel types are Pinene dominant strains, so they smell of pine and its effects are energetic and euphoric. The Earth types are Linalool dominant strains with earthy scents producing relaxing and sedative effects. The Fruit types are Limonene dominant strains and have a fruity scent that produces an uplifting and energetic effect. The Floral types have varying dominant terpenes such as B-Caryophyllene and Ocimene, but produce a fresh floral scent whose effects include contemplation and some of the most complex chemical reactions once ingested.

The medical industry is opening up to the idea of cannabis medicine, and with research comes more push to federally legalize cannabis. The medicinal effects of phytocannabinoids and terpenes is vast with little to no dependency or addiction, a no brainer if you ask me. Moving forward I see terpene and cannabinoid preparations being used for most of today's most highly prescribed diseases. Some products we may see in the future might include a preparation that is high in Pinene and THC, to be used for its pain relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. A preparation high in Linalool and CBD could be used for its anti-anxiety properties. If a patient is suffering from depression a preparation high in CBD and Limonene could be used. In patients suffering from Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome, a combination of CBG and B-Caryophyllene could be used as they both are gastroprotective.

The list of combinations and preparations is endless and I recognize the importance of cannabinoid and terpene therapies. Can you come up with a preparation that may help a condition that has affected you or someone you know?

(Question 2)

Consistent effects are a major selling point for medication on today's market. Rigorous testing must be done to ensure that the medication provided is indeed the medication listed but also the strength and chemical structures are also equivalent. Consistent input equates to consistent output. The pharmaceutical industry is required to do chemical structure testing as well as use a uniform amount of medication throughout to ensure consistent results. This is known as standardized composition testing and its purpose is to provide a consistent result with a consistent product/ medication. Having set amounts of active ingredients is the key.

Using standardized composition testing in the cannabis industry is a major talking point. If cannabis is to be used in any medicinal application, we must first be able to provide consistent results with a consistent product or preparation. To truly map cannabis and its medicinal potential we must first make sure that we are testing the same compounds and not being misled. According to a recent study done in California, 30% of the Jack Herer that was tested was not Jack Herer at all. Any consumer looking to get the medicinal effects associated with Terpinolene, which gives Jack Herer its characteristic smell and medicinal effects, would be misinformed, and therefore misdiagnosed. The proper medical preparation was not administered and the consumers' needs were not met.

Standardized testing is a must when dealing with cannabis at any level. The ability for frauds and fakes to mislead the public for a profit is the driving force. Any food consumed by Americans must pass certain tests to ensure it is safe for consumption, and I believe the same should be done for cannabis. Requiring each crop to be lab tested and the chemical compounds listed on packaging will help consumers and the medical industry as well. Consumers will have peace of mind knowing what they are ingesting and will be able to more accurately medicate themselves. Consumers can then navigate their journey with medical cannabis by following specific terpenes and compounds that they found to be effective. The medical industry then has a more educated patient and a more consistent product to treat with.

I personally like to know what I'm putting into my body, especially medication. Do you think standardized composition testing should be required for cannabis products and would you be more willing to buy a product or take a medication if you knew exactly what was in it?

UNIT 3 Agriculture and Cultivation (NOTES)

The Vegative Cycle

• Light cycle 18/6

• Spectrum of light contains abundant blue light, some red light, and the correct ratio of red light and far-red light. Generally more blue spectrum during vegative cycle

• Temperature can be higher in vegative cycle than any other cycle. Ideal temperature is 75-80

• Relative Humidity 60-75% (early veg) 50-60% (late veg)

Nutrients in Vegative Cycle

Macronutrients (N) nitrogen, (P) phosphorous, (K) potassium

• Nitrogen (N) - Most important and heavily utilized macronutrient. An essential component of chlorophyll and many amino acids. Vital for stem, shoot, and leaf growth

• Phosphorus (P) - Second most important macronutrient. An essential part of DNA and RNA. Mainstains stem and branch strength, stimulates root growth, and assists in photosynthesis.

• Potassium (K) - Third most important macronutrient. Regulates water and CO2 uptake, assists in photosynthesis, builds cellulose, and improves resistance to stress, drought, and pests

Secondary Nutrients

• Calcium (Ca) - Essential for stabilizing cell walls, regulate enzyme and hormone activity, strong root growth and resistance to pests

• Magnesium (Mg) - Essential building block of chlorophyll and is needed to regulate enzyme activity and synthesize proteins

• Sulfur (S) - Assists with nitrogen processing, catalyzes photosynthesis, is an essential building block of many proteins and helps regulate hormones

Micronutrients

• Iron (Fe) - Assists in synthesis of chlorophyll

• Zinc (Zn) - Building block of “Auxin” hormones, and regulates internodal length

• Boran (B) - Root growth and transportation of sugars

• Copper (Cu) - Production of lignin and building blocks of proteins

Pruning and Trimming In Veg

*Important to strengthen principle branches and “weed out” the weak

Pruning - removing select branches or leaves to allow light to penetrate more evenly into the canopy. Nutrients will then be channeled to “principal” branches and will later produce the biggest flower

• Remove lower branches and leaves that don't get light. Avoid dead matter and pests

Training - Bending or tieing down branches sp plant grows laterally rather than up (space management)

Supercropping (knuckling)- Bending a branch to the point of breaking inner cell walls but exterior fibers are still intact. The branch will repair itself stronger

Topping - Pinching off terminal shoots (end of branches) so secondary shoots take dominance

*Manipulating the light spectrum and nutrient cycle will have an effect on internodal spacing.

Pests

Implement regular, solid program of preventative foliar sprays and additives to avoid the use of pesticides

Natural options: Lady Bugs (eat mites and thrips), Mint (Natural pesticide), Bacillus (Microbes)

*Should have before going onto flowering cycle:

• Strong healthy plants with thick branches

• No weak lower branches

• Well spaced internodes

• Lush, green growth with no pests or disease

• Well developed root system

• Thriving ecosystem of soil microbes

The Flowering Cycle

• Light cycle 12/12

• Spectrum of light higher in red

• Temperature begins around 70-80℉ , and drops gradually towards end of flower cycle

• *Night Time Temperature drop - small differences at first (5-6℉) increasing to around a 10℉ difference later in flower

• Relative Humidity around 40-50%

Nutrients in Flowering Cycle

* Amount of Nitrogen (N) needed during flowering cycle drops drastically (still necessary for life functions and enzyme production, just utilized less)

*Plants will now benefit from Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) supplements

• Phosphorous (P) - Essential for maintaining branch and stem strength, flower formation, root growth and health, as well as increasing resistance to disease.

• Potassium (K) - Crucial regulator of water transport between cells and CO2 uptake via photosynthesis, and is involved in the activity of dozens of enzymes

Secondary Nutrients

• Magnesium (Mg) - Essential to chlorophyll production and regulation of hormones and production of proteins

• Calcium (Ca) - Key regulator of pistil formation and continues to regulate essential enzymes and hormonal processes

• Sulfur (S) - Regulates hormones and enzymes, is a key building block of proteins, and a catalyst for photosynthesis.

Micronutrients

• Zinc (Zn) - Increases flower number and weight

• Boran (B) - Transports sugars to flower sites, increases calcium metabolism

• Iron (Fe) - Optimum levels can accelerate flowering

Pruning and Trimming in Flower

*Big concerns in flower are managing the stretch, supporting buds, and selective defoliation

Pruning - can continue to trim lower branches that will not produce significant flowers. May remove large fan leaves to allow light to penetrate lower into the canopy. Strategic defoliation can significantly increase the size and density of lower buds.

Training - Nets, cages, poles, yoyos, etc. are used to support and space flowers

Supercropping (Knuckling) - great technique to increase the strength of branches supporting bud

Understanding the “Stretch”

• When plants initially go from 18/6 to 12/12, the hormonal changes can take some time

• Plant growth and flower formation is encoded by a complex set of genetic instructions and controlled by the actions of hormones When the light changes, it can take some time for the hormones circulating to get the message out

• Different varieties have different genetic backgrounds and therefore every strain has individualized results

Spectrum of light overall composition received during autumn months gradually becomes more red over time, so a switch from a blue dominant light to a red spectrum at start of flower is suggested

UNIT 3 DISCUSSION

(Question 2)

“Biodynamic farming” defines a garden as a single organism consisting of plants, soils, compost, creatures(microbes, insects, etc), and human interaction. The goal is to achieve and maintain total health of the entire organism without the aid of fertilizers. The biodynamic farm must be conscious of what and where they plant crops to avoid depleting the soil's natural balance. Corn for example is an extremely environmentally harmful crop, which consumes large quantities of nutrients from the soil, but does not deposit any back into soil when composted. The implementation of crop rotation has been used for thousands of years to avoid this problem from affecting productivity.

To assist in maintaining this balance farmers use what are known as “dynamic accumulators.” Dynamic accumulators are plants that gather certain nutrients and minerals from deep within the soil and store them within their tissues in high concentrations. Once the plant material decomposes and is composted it can be used as a fertilizer to replace important nutrients in the soil to be used for the next crop. Not only do dynamic accumulators restore poor soil, but their deep rooting systems restore soil vitality on many levels, providing aeration and preventing erosion. They have even been found to detoxify soil of harmful chemicals and heavy metals in a process called “Phytoremediation.” The plant pulls the harmful nutrients from the soil and therefore can clean the terrain from heavy metals, purify sewage water, and restore polluted air. There are many plants that have been found to be dynamic accumulators and are being used today including apple trees, birch trees, chicory, clover, but also HEMP!

Hemp and cannabis have been found to be perfect candidates for the biodynamic farm! Not only does cannabis have deep rooting systems that can recover minerals lost deep in the soil, but it has the ability to detoxify terrain and purify sewage water This is a huge selling point for those trying to do business in the Syracuse area. Onondaga Lake is listed as the most polluted lake in the country, at one point being polluted by unchecked industry and dumping of raw sewage for decades. The levels of heavy metals and other harmful residuals continue to keep residents away from what could be a thriving beach. I believe that the city and state as a whole would benefit tremendously by using hemp in their cleanup effort along Onondaga Lake and surrounding bodies of water. Research has shown that the use of hemp is very effective at phytoremediation, and was even used at the site of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster to dispose of contaminated materials.

The use of Hemp and Cannabis as a biodynamic crop in Syracuse NY has the potential to do many great things for our area. Not only the increased tax revenue, but the potential for health and balance on a totally unthought of level. This plant can break the cycle of destruction and start us on one of regeneration. The power to restore is this plant's main purpose. It is medicine for mental and physical health as well as nature. I believe cannabis can play a very positive role in the Onondaga Lake cleanup, as well as in restoring the soil in the area.

*Do you think that cannabis would be a good addition to the Onondaga Lake cleanup and what other possible uses does Cannabis have in the biodynamic farm?

UNIT 4 - ENTERPRISE (NOTES)

*The cannabis industry is ripe with potential, with several different sectors or avenues of business.

EXTRACTION AND CONCENTRATES

*Estimated $5.3 Billion in 2018 (dab and full spectrum oil)

*Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of over 20% valued at $14 Billion by 2026

*Extracts can be used to infuse edibles

SOLVENT BASED VS. SOLVENTLESS

Solventless Extraction

• Heat and pressure - ( Rosin press ) Machine combine heat, pressure, and time in different ratios to get desired product (SHO)

• Dry sieve / sift - Manually agitate flowers and trim to separate trichomes through a series of filters

• Ice water - Agtates flowers and trim in an ice bath prior to filtration and collection (Bubble Hash)

Solvent-based Extraction

• Carbon Dioxide (CO2) - CO2 acts as a solvent at supercritical state

• Hydrocarbons (Butane) - Butane forced through material to extract cannabinoids.

Produces dab/wax/shatter (BHO)

• Ethanol - Used to draw out compounds, but also pulls unwanted compounds (Chlorophyll) unless at sub zero temperatures (winterization)

*Challenges are Safety in facilities, fire safety, as well as contamination of concentrate products (JUUL)

RETAIL AND DISTRIBUTION

Storefront and non- storefront (delivery services)

Storefront

Non Storefront (Delivery Only)

• 
  Purchase and receive product from licensed distributors

• Age requirement

• Employment / Training staff

• Safe packaging requirements

• Inventory

• Financial Records

• 
  Similar responsibilities

• Proper storage

• DPS technology

• Special receipts

RETAIL

*Retailers are generally required to be licensed by respective states. States and municipalities may set a limit of the number of retail licenses issued.

• Dispensaries - physical location which sells legal pot ($1.5 Billion in sales 2018)

• Consumption lounges - serves edibles and/or permit smoking

• Cannabis themed restaurants - combine unique elements to enhance customers

experience, such as an art gallery, educational activities, and creative themes

• Software - developers create apps to help find retailers and dispensaries and establish delivery services.

*Retailers rely on Distributors. Distributors transport cannabis across the supply chain delivering to retailers and test facilities. Distributors connect manufacturers to retailers

DISTRIBUTOR

• May specialize in certain areas of cannabis, such as vaping cartridges and cartridges or they may provide full service one stop shop for cannabis retailers

• Distributors are required to hold distribution licenses and transport licenses.

• HIGH DEMAND but black market and cost to run are major challenges

VENDING

*Generally cultivators, brand owners, brand representatives, and/or manufacturers who sell to dispensaries

*Vendors can set up informational booths and educate consumers about their product

Cultivators - serve as raw material providers who select seeds, grow, harvest, and cure medicinal and recreational cannabis. State licenses and permits with municipalities are required.

• Cultivators face similar challenges as any agricultural venture, weather, yield, pest management, and quality. Cost and regulation of utilities also problematic

• Cultivators can sell dried flowers directly to retailers.

Product manufacturers process and package raw cannabis material (1st step extraction company)

*Cannabis vendors face many challenges, most significantly with supply and demand, restricted intellectual property rights (No federal trademark), and compliance.

*License restrictions are required for a healthy market

FINANCE

Investors face great opportunity and significant risk

*Even with state to state legalization, banks refuse to do business due to federal prohibition

GENERAL EXPECTATION FOR APPLICANTS

• Operational status of at least 6 months

• A business plan

• Minimum gross monthly sales

• Business bank account

*The Secure And Fair Enforcement (SAFE) Banking Act of 2019

(proposed to protect banks)

• Federal bank shall not prohibit or penalize cannabis operators

• Legitimate transactions now legal

• Insurers cant penalize insurance companies

*****Federal legalization would open tremendous opportunities *****

HUMAN RESOURCES

• Involves the strategic employment, training, compensation, and management of professionals in an organization

• HR specialists work to boost productivity and retention, which in turn increases profits

• Understand employment law, talent management, and leadership

BOTTOM LINE: Projected $30 Billion by 2025 “GREEN RUSH”

UNIT 4 DISCUSSION

( Question 1)

The world of cannabis is extremely fluid at this point in time with legalization federally gaining favor and much more attention day by day. Cannabis and its unique set of medicinal properties and wide range of applications are gaining much attention, and being put to work for the first time in several decades. Patents are even being issued to secure different cannabis formulations, delivery methods, as well as genetics themselves. People are going as far as to patent their specific strain to protect their “creation”. I believe this could have great implications for the industry.

U.S. law provides 3 avenues for petenting cannabis, each having its pitfalls. Plant patents, Utility patents, and PVPA Certificates. Plant patents are very difficult to obtain because of the terminology used in the Plant Patent act of 1930. The act listed “asexually produced plants” as eligible and plants were largely thought to be unpatentable products of nature. Regardless U.S. Patent # PP27,475 issued in 2016 for “Cannabis plant Ecuadorian Sativa”. Plant patents require large amounts of funding and testing to obtain and only account for less than 1% of the patents in the cannabis realm.

Utility patents offer protection to both sexually and asexually reproduced cannabis plants, as well as formulations and other products made from the plant. Utility patents provide broader protection, but face much more rigorous written description requirements. U.S. patent # 9095554 was rejected for failing to satisfy enablement requirements. The number of seeds required by the USPTO also posed a problem, requiring at least 2,500.

Plant Variety Protection Act of 1970 (PVPA) was implemented by the USDA and issues certificates that provide breeders with protection for sexually reproduced plants . The issue again is federal legality. Currently the act requires the applicant submit 3000 seeds to a depository in Colorado. Unfortunately cannabis remains a Schedule 1 drug under federal law and the risk of handling a substance for a federal agency is too great. For this reason not a single PVPA certificate has been issued for a cannabis variety to date.

One World Cannabis Ltd. holds U.S. Patent # 20180042890A1 for cannabis based extracts and topical formulations for use in skin disorders. They have presented an invention of a pharmaceutical topical formulation with a THC/CBD ratio of 1:1 that has been found to be useful for the treatment or prevention of skin disorders. The mixture is their own formulation including glycerin, niacinamide, salicylic acid, and B-Caryophyllene. This company patented their formulation as well as the delivery method intended, and now have a patented product to be sold in the industry. This is one way a patent can grant you access to the cannabis industry.

MedPharm Holdings is a cannabis researcher and manufacturer who were granted a patent for their unique cannabis product. U.S. Patent # 10980743 is one of the company's many patents and involves a process that creates a water-soluble powdered cannabinoid and terpene extract. This patent is particularly appealing to me because this has been an issue making edibles and infusions for years, and allows your oils and concentrates to be used in powder form. This allows tablets, capsules, injectables, dry powder inhalers, edibles, beverages, and powdered mixes.

The uses for this technology in the industry are vast, and as you can see opportunity is ripe. I believe that with federal legalization the doors will be open to all types of formulations and delivery methods. The landscape is still unclear but the ultimate goal will allow endless opportunity to contribute to the growth of the Cannabis industry. Do you think the requirement for plant based patents to be strict?

UNIT 5 - Law and Policy (Notes)

Quality Control

• Regulation is complex and uncertain since Controlled Substance Act of 1970 (CSA), listing marijuana as a Schedule 1 substance

• 91% of Americans believe medical and adult use cannabis should be legal at a federal level (PEW Research Center survey 2019)

• Late 2019 House passes Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act (MORE) which was the first step in federal decriminalization

*2018 Farm Bill (exempt hemp)

• Legal to market CBD as a additive or dietary supplement

• FDA does not evaluate CBD products

• FDA continues to investigate cannabis compounds and how to regulate them

*California implemented product testing requirements (most rigorous requirements)

• Cannabinoids

• Pesticides

• Microbes

• Mycotoxins

• Fungi

• Solvents

• Terpenoids

• Heavy metals

**3rd Party certificates of analysis from licensed labs are fundamental to protect consumers

Quality Assurance Protocols

• Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMP) covers the minimum standard of safe production expected for pharmaceuticals. FDA do inspections and enforce policies

• American National Standards Institute (ANSI) accredits organizations and facilities with International Organization for Standardization (ISO) status.

*States also usually require seed to sale (track and trace) compliance as a general quality control regulation

Payroll and Taxes

Banks and large companies prohibit payroll and data processing services for cannabis operators at ANY stage in the supply chain.

• May also drop operators during terms of service

• A bank accepting money from a federally illegal business may lose its Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) coverage and may even be prosecuted

• CASH ONLY BUSINESS

*Also shown to curb crime 17% reduction in crime when dispensary opens in the area

Tax

• Operators must pay federal taxes to the IRS, but do not receive any business expense deductions

• US Code 280E - bars deductions for “controlled substances, schedule 1 and 2” due to federal prohibition

• Operators must rely on cost of goods sold (COGS)to reduce taxable income

*Formula to date: Beginning Inventory + Current Year Production Cost-Ending Inventory

• This route forces operators to either write off the initial cost of inventory or wait until it is sold.

• States also impose taxes

(California State Tax 2018)

• Cultivation Sales - $9.25/oz. Or $148/pound

• Excise Tax - 15% of the “average market price” for purchases (60% markup of wholesale)

• Sales Tax - 8% applied to product after adding excise tax

*Municipalities additionally collect taxes

(Los Angeles municipal tax 2019)

• Medicinal Sales - $50 per $1000 gross

• Adult Use Sales - $100 per $1000 gross

• Cannabis Transport - $10 per $1000 gross

• Cannabis Cultivation - $20 per $1000 gross

***Operators must understand all taxation and compliance obligations to avoid license revocation, fines, and possible criminal charges

Intellectual Property (IP)

• Refers to legal/ financial ownership of inventions and innovations in the industry

• Cannabis operators do not enjoy IP protection rights due to federal prohibition

Trademarks - protect and identify the specific source (producer/creator) of a service or product. Trademarks may relate to word, symbol, or device and include…

• Common Law Trademark - involves using the trademark symbol without registration and requires proof of original ownership and limited to geographic location

• State Trademarks - Individual states may approve a product/ service and protect the holders rights (Do not protect outside state)

• Federal Trademark - are the highest form of protection, but federal prohibition refuses any applicants

*Cannabis brands must rely on state-level trademarks

*Cultivators and Producers may instead seek protection in the form of Patents which protect others from duplicating an invention for 20 years

*USPTO approves 3 types of patents

1. Utility Patents - for processes, machines, chemical compositions, and improvements on said items

2. Design Patents - for ornamental designs relating to manufactured goods

3. Plant Patent - for the asexual creation of distinct/ unique varieties of plants (specific strains)

*2018 GW Pharmaceuticals holds 10 cannabis patents

*US government held patent on cannabinoids as antioxidants until 2019

Insurance

*KEYSTONE TO RISK MANAGEMENT

1. Liability Insurance - covers damage to 3rd party that result from policyholders negligence (Commonly exclude damages to non-prescription controlled substances)

2. Property Insurance - Covers property holders property damages.

*Operators required to contribute through taxation towards workers compensation and unemployment

UNIT 5 Discussion

(Question 1)

The Civil Rights Act of 1964 outlawed discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, required equal access to public places and employment, and enforced desegregation of schools and the right to vote. Title VII was a provision of the act which protects against employment discrimination specifically and establishes a Commission on Equal Employment Opportunity. With the implementation of Title VII came the need for drug-free work policies. The Drug-free Workplace Act of 1988 enacted laws that were designed to target workplace substance use, legally compelling certain types of employers to take action against drug use in the workplace. Due to manipulations by employers, the U.S. government enacted The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA). The ADA prohibits all employers from discriminating against qualified job applicants due to a physical disability. The physical symptoms of intoxication could be misinterpreted, as they can also be the result of serious physical disabilities or mental health issues, which are protected under the ADA. This is the hinge point of the argument today. At what point does a medication become an intoxicant, and how much power should an employer have in terminating an employee for the out of work behaviors.

Adult use of recreational and medicinal cannabis was legalized on March 31 2021 in the State of NY, meaning that it is now legal to consume and possess cannabis if you are over the age of 21. The Cannabis/Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act ( MRTA) also instituted employment protections for cannabis users. Section 201-d of the New York Labor Law (NYLL) has long prohibited NYS employers from discriminating against lawful off-duty work activities, but this new act amends the original order to include “cannabis in accordance with state law” to lawful outside work activity. The act also provides private right of action for employees to sue their employers for any violation, and created The New York State Cannabis Control Board and the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). The OCM has been handed the responsibility to implement a regulatory framework for the adult use industry.

The legal framework of the Cannabis industry is still in creation and many variables remain unknown. As of now a set of crude policies protect the employees of New York, but nothing is set in stone and there are no guarantees. Until this substance is federally recognized as a medicine and not a drug, the landscape will always be rocky. I am happy with the progress NY has made in their effort to recognize this amazing substance and to protect the many who use it. I personally think cannabis should be removed completely from a drug screen, as it stays in your system for much longer than its intoxicating effects, many times longer than alcohol which has a much more devastating effect on the human body and health.

*Who else believes that Cannabis should be removed from a drug screen completely and why?

(Question 3)

Intellectual property is a category of property that includes intangible creations of the human intellect. Intellectual Property is any idea that you can protect under the law. There are several different forms of IP such as trademarks, trade dress, patents on formulation as well as plant patents themselves. A brand or certain type of production processes can also be IP, and with a brand and product comes product liability. Product liability is an area of law in which manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, retailers, and others who make products available to the public are held responsible for the injuries those products cause.

Intellectual property and product liability are both challenges for the cannabis industry, mainly due to federal prohibition. Patents and Trademarks are issued and managed by the U.S. Patents and Trademark Office (USPTO) which is a federal entity. The fact that cannabis is a federally illegal drug deters all applications from being accepted. There are also state trademarks, which protect the individuals rights in that respective state, but federally they are still not protected. Unfortunately cannabis operators do not receive IP protections due to federal prohibition. Cannabis brands are left to rely on state trademarks to protect at a state level, and Cultivators and producers can seek protection in the form of plant patents.

Product liability also becomes an issue for cannabis operators due to insurance companies refusal to do business with cannabis businesses. Again, federal prohibition is to blame. Banks can lose their FICO rating and Insurance companies face major risks when accepting money obtained “illegally.” Liability insurance policies commonly exclude damages to non-prescription controlled substances, and insurance companies run the risk of losing money.

*Federal legalization will open the gates at the patent office for cannabis related products. How important do you think Intellectual property in the cannabis industry will be on this day?

UNIT 6 - Cannabis Medicine and Healthcare (NOTES)

Determining Factors for Selecting Products

Understanding patients goals for using cannabis:

• What made interest

• Expectations

• Treatment or symptom management

• Concern about side effects

• Lifestyle restrictions

*Provider-Patient confidentiality does not protect cannabis industry staff

Patient Demographic

• Everybody reacts differently, internal and external factors can affect the way your body responds

• Qualities like sex, age, and past experience with cannabis play a role in choosing a product

Male Vs. Female

• Cannabis affects both males and females differently

• Females are more likely to develop anxiety

• Males are more likely to experience an increase in appetite

Females (Effects of cannabis)

• More sensitive to high THC products especially in days leading to ovulation

• Develop tolerance quicker than men, increasing likelihood of dependance

• Decrease in appetite

• Increase desire to clean

• More likely to report sexual gratification (aphrodisiac)

• **Men and woman may even experience pain management with cannabis differently

Men (Effects of cannabis)

• More likely to experience sedative effects from THC

• Increase in appetite stimulation

• Increased likelihood of insomnia and improved memory

• Increased enthusiasm

• Increase musicality

• Increase in sexual dysfunction

Age

• ESC changes with age and is fully developed in adulthood

• High dose required in pediatrics

• Low doses required in elderly

• Pediatrics show increased tolerance due to an underdeveloped ECS

Medical Cannabis in Adults

• Adults are more likely to benefit from cannabis medicine (due to highly developed ECS)

• Ages 24-28 report sensitivity to the sedative effects of cannabis

• Increase chance of short term memory impairment

• Speculated that as age increases, tolerance decreases

• Recommended start with CBD or Non-THC products to start

• Start low and titrate, to optimum therapeutic dose

• Increased precaution needs to be exercised in teens and young adults due to increased likelihood of dependence (best practice is to use THCA - non-psychoactive)

*Capsules/Edibles/Tinctures - Sustained relief

*Vaporizer - Breakthrough symptom relief

Medical Cannabis in Seniors

• Most sensitive to the psychoactive effects of THC dominant cannabis due to more highly developed ECS

• Increased potential for high risk accidents (falling down, confusion, dizziness, overly tired) with THC rich products and strains

• Recommended to start very low when starting

• Capsules, Tinctures, and Topicals are the 3 easiest delivery methods

• Low THC products recommended for daytime use

• ECS is shown to be vital in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the aging brain.

Cannabis Chemical Makeup

• Chemical makeup is the most important thing to consider when recommending a cannabis product

• Cannabinoid Content to be specific is the most important variable having the most notable effects

THC-Dominant

• Many tolerate THC well but THC dominant products are recommended for patients with prior cannabis experience

• Often recommended for night time or evening consumption

• Increase drowsiness

• Increased appetite stimulation

• Severe medical conditions may require high THC products for desired effects

Hemp CBD

• Contains mostly CBD and less than 03% THC

• Hemp CBD is more accessible due to less legal barriers

• Often the only form of cannabis therapy available in non-legal states

CBD-Dominant Chemovars

• Contains high CBD and a THC content greater than 0.3%, which allows for greater cannabinoid synergy and amplified benefits

• Highly effective in treating the young and elderly (may experience negative effects from high THC)

• MAY BE MORE BENEFICIAL IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS

Mixed Chemovars

• Products that contain mixed chemovar ratios are ideal for a majority of medicinal patients

• Mixed chemovars allow a patient to reap the benefits of a wide variety of therapeutic effects

• Mixing THC and CBD together can enhance the medicinal effects of each cannabinoid while reducing overall side effects

• CBD decreases the intoxicating effects of THC

• Mixing CBD and THC makes THC treatment more tolerable for patients seeking high THC therapies

Alternative Cannabinoids

• Little to no research to date

• Products high in CBN, THCV, CBG, THCA are becoming more popular

• THCV has been shown to be effective treatment for diabetes

Terpene Content

• Also important in determining products

• Terpene aroma molecules and cannabinoids work synergistically to produce unique effects

• Current research shows terpenes found in cannabis resin produce sedative, calming, alerting, and anti-inflammatory effects

• If familiar with the effects of terpenes, guiding a patient becomes easier when selecting chemovars.

Raw (Acidic) Vs. Decarb

• Young adults, teens, or pediatrics may benefit from raw cannabis (THCA) - will not intoxicate

• Antiemetic, analgesic, neuroprotectant, and anti-inflammatory properties

• Useful to patients looking for symptom relief without the psychoactive effects

Cannabis Input Material

Hemp - CBD oils made from hemp containing less than 0.3% THC

Full Flower - Most therapeutically valuable products available

• More expensive

• Rich terpene/cannabinoid content

Trim - Lower quality but still contains phytocannabinoids

Extraction Methods

• Concentrates available to patients in need of high-dose cannabis therapies

• Chemical make-up of cannabis extracts will differ substantially depending on which solvent is used in extraction

• Different extracts have distinct benefits for individual patients

CO2 Extraction

• Most common oil used to fill vape pens

• Safest solvent for extracting, but significantly alters the chemical makeup of finished product

• Many of the terpene molecules found in dried cannabis are destroyed in the extraction process

• Loss of myrcene, pinene, linalool, and other

• Possibly save B-Caryophyllene

Ethanol

• Contains higher amounts of waxes, flavonoids, and chlorophyll

• Maintain higher levels of terpenes and flavonoids

• Recommended for patients who may benefit from full spectrum medical cannabis experience

BHO (Butane Hash Oil)

• Most popular but controversial

• Popular in high dose therapies

• Greater terpene concentration than CO2 extract, but not considered full spectrum

Hash

• Least processed and least expensive

• All forms are solventless and may be preferable

• Closely resembles original chemical make-up of original plant

Deciding Potency

• Young = high dose THC

• Old = Low dose THC

• “Ideal dose” varies with individual

• Gradually “titrate”

Medicine and Healthcare

• Cannabis still illegal federally (hemp recently legalized)

• Schedule 1 substances are not allowed to be researched by scientists without permission by the FDA and DEA (making cannabis research difficult)

• Regardless of federal legal restrictions, 33 states have legalized some form of medicinal cannabis

• Since 2014, Congress has established temporary and limited protections against Department of Justice interference in medical cannabis states

• Early 2019 - Legislation proposed to permanently protect medical cannabis companies and patients (still awaits legislative approval)

Medicinal Vs. Recreational

• In terms of consumer rights, medical cannabis patients are awarded certain privileges that recreational consumers are not.

• Medicinal patients have different rights in product amounts, home cultivation, and overall dosage

Medical Cannabis

• Written recommendation required

• Qualifies conditions required

• Can designate a caregiver

• Lower taxes on cannabis products

• May grow greater number of plants in home cultivation

• More legal protections

• Access to higher potency products

• Legally possess large quantities

Recreational Cannabis

• No recommendation required

• 21+ in age

• Limit on amounts

• Limit on potency

• Possible home cultivation allowed

• Higher taxes on cannabis products

Cannabis Vs. Hemp

• Cannabinoids derived from hemp have been removed from the list of controlled substances, only if product passes regulatory standards set by 2018 Farm Bill

• As of 2019, the FDA prohibits CBD infused food and marketing as a dietary supplement

International Landscape

• Only 2 countries have legalized cannabis fully (Canada, and Uruguay)

• Many countries have adopted medical cannabis

• However some parts of the world still punish heavily (death penalty in singapore)

Medical Professionals

• Knowledge is power, yet as of 2017 only 9% of medical schools included the therapeutic potential of cannabis in curriculum

• Physicians cannot write recommendations on prescription pad because the FDA does not classify cannabis as a prescription drug

• Formal document and letter templates are used

Cannabis Professional

• Assist patients in selecting products and consult on relevant matters

• Caregivers act as guides or coaches

• Legally required to check I.D.

Caregiver

• Allowed to grow, dispense, transport, medical cannabis on the patient's behalf

• Purchase, possess, transport, grow cannabis on behalf of patient and assist patient in use

UNIT 6 Discussion

(Question 3)

The U.S Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act of 1938 (FD&C) is a set of laws giving authority to the FDA to oversee the safety of foods, drugs, medical devices, and cosmetics. Its purpose is to prohibit adulterated and misbranded food, drugs, devices, and cosmetics from entering interstate commerce. Under the FD&C, cosmetic products and ingredients are not subject to premarket approval by the FDA. A cosmetic is defined in 201(i) as :

“(1) Articles intended to be rubbed, poured, sprinkled, or sprayed on, introduced into, or otherwise applied to the human body or any part thereof for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering the appearance, and

(2) Articles intended for use as a component of any such articles: except that the term shall not include soap.”

*Certain cosmetic ingredients are prohibited, yet cannabis currently faces no restrictions and does not need FDA approval.

The EU has a different perspective when it comes to cannabinoids in cosmetics. Cannabis and cannabis extracts are prohibited from use in cosmetics, but CBD is not specifically mentioned in the original Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs of 1961. Recently the European Commission added both plant derived and synthetic CBD to the list of approved cosmetic ingredients with stipulations.

The United Kingdom has its own set of regulations governed by the Misuse of Drug Act of 1971, which declares cannabis seeds legal, and also oils and extracts with no THC for use in cosmetics. They even designate that preparations cannot involve the flowering tops of plants.

To date U.S laws show similarities with other countries around the globe, but also differences. Overall the use of CBD in cosmetics is “allowed” yet the use of other cannabinoids is prohibited. Federal legalization will open the doors to federally recognized research and hopefully a much more regulated system in the United States and around the globe.

*Do you know any other country who is ahead of the US when it comes to rules and regulations in cannabis based cosmetics?

(Question 4)

Cannabis medicine is gaining popularity across the nation, with 33 states enacting some form of medicinal or recreational cannabis program. Federal prohibition has posed many obstacles to the advancement of cannabis companies and cannabis medicine as a whole. The FDA is a federal agency whose objective is to approve or disapprove clinically researched preparations for human consumption or use in medications. Unfortunately this means that Cannabis being a federally illegal drug is lacking in the research needed for the FDA to approve any cannabinoid formulation. Until federal prohibition is lifted, medical cannabis will remain understudied and will lack any credible research in the eyes of the federal government and the FDA.

States have enacted their own medical cannabis programs and have been doing research at state universities on several compounds found in cannabis. Over the past 12 months several reports have been published from universities across the country, demonstrating several possible medicinal applications for cannabinoids and terpenes. Some of the studies show extreme promise and are discussed below.

1. A study in Scientific Reports by the University of Arizona claims that cannabis terpenes have shown to provide pain relief in mice studies. The study can be found (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-87740-8) and focused on 4 terpenes and their effects on pain sensitivity. In their experiments they found that all the terpenes activated CB1R cannabinoid receptors similarly to THC, and all four terpenes lowered pain sensitivity, pain sensation, and body temperature.

2. A new study published by the journal of Epilepsy and Behavior reports better quality of life in epilepsy patients. The study can be found at (https://www.epilepsybehavior.com/article/S1525-5050(21)004662/fulltext#%20) and claims epilepsy patients using CBD report better quality of life, including less anxiety and better sleep than patients who didn't use cannabinoid therapies.

3. CBD has also been found to be useful in the treatment of Psoriasis. A 2020 study (https://www.karger.com/Article/Abstract/510896) found that a shampoo containing D could reduce scalp inflammation, itching, and burning in patients with scalp psoriasis.

4. Researchers at the University of California begin clinical trials to test CBD in autism, as well as another trial being run by GW Pharmaceuticals (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03202303) that focuses on children and teenagers with autism. They are trying to identify if CBD reduces problems with behaviors and in turn improve the patient's ability to function.

5. 20 cannabis experts across the globe have reached a consensus on dosing cannabis for chronic pain. The study was published in the Journal for Cannabis Research (https://jcannabisresearch.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s42238-021-00073-1) in which the experts designed 3 treatment protocols to dose patients. With this comes the first unified guide to dosing and pain management with cannabis, as much research is still anecdotal and there isn't any real guide to cannabis medicine at this time.

UNIT 7 Activity

Journal Entry

The cannabis industry is one of the fastest growing industries in history and still shows the potential for unprecedented growth. Even with federal prohibition at the current moment, the 2020 Forbes list reported $17.5 Billion in sales in the 14 states that have legal markets open! That's a 46% increase from 2019. With more and more states creating legal markets, that number is only going to increase. Cannabis is also one of the most versatile plants on the planet, having countless applications which lead to several avenues into the industry.

An individual with no knowledge of the botany or horticulture of cannabis could gain access to the industry through accounting, government relations, or maybe public relations. If an individual likes to be creative, maybe they would choose marketing and branding of cannabis companies. Someone could potentially gain access through the understanding of cannabis laws and policies, and could assist a client in the complex legal landscape.

Every single avenue Ive explained so far would not exist without people who specialize in the horticulture and agriculture of the cannabis plant itself. Knowing and understanding the plant's genetics, growth cycles, and necessities as well as having the knowledge to troubleshoot when necessary will prove VITAL in the entire cannabis industry. Without a product and a producer who understands the many benefits as well as the pitfalls that may arise in their production, all other cannabis industries would be without a product to either promote, brand, or represent. In my eyes the Cultivator is the most important individual in the entire system. Without a good cultivator producing a premium high quality product , no other industry will have the active ingredient of all cannabis based businesses. Cannabis is the key, and understanding how to grow, maintain, and harvest cannabis and hemp will be the most important field of expertise and practice to master.

Being a cannabis cultivator requires much more time, energy, and work than many people may realize. Maintaining an indoor garden, as many underground cultivators here in NY do, requires a great deal of attention and cleanliness to avoid any pests or diseases. To prevent the use of pesticides, preventative measures such as Ultraviolet lamps, ventilation systems, fans, microbes, and foliar sprays are used. First a medium needs to be chosen, and depending on your preferred grow method you could grow in several different substrates such as soil or hydrotone. An entire feeding schedule and nutrient line must be chosen and understood to provide the correct balance of nutrients for growing plants to flourish. Nutrient additives such as enzymes and basilius root inoculants need to be used to maintain a healthy root environment as well. Special attention needs to be invested in fresh air intakes, and carbon filters to mask the smell coming out and purify air coming into the grow environment. PH meters and TDS meters need to be purchased and used regularly to ensure the water you provide your crop is not too acidic or too highly fertilized. Air pumps and air stones should be incorporated into your feeding cycle, to aerate nutrient reservoirs and to prevent bacterial growth. Many hours are spent trimming and defoliating female plants, to ensure light penetrates into the canopy and to remove small “popcorn” nuggets that form on the lower branches. This may sound counter productive, but the small flowers on the lower branches will be lower quality and will take precious energy and nutrients from other more highly developed flowers. Air conditioners and dehumidifiers need to be incorporated to control the temperature and humidity of your grow environment, especially in the flowering cycle. Fans need to be strategically placed to provide optimum air flow into and under your canopy. This will decrease your chances of mold or mildew issues.

All this work and not a single flower has been produced yet…

Long story short, much more time and energy is put into producing a quality flower than anyone knows. It's not just as easy as plant and water, there are many opportunities to ruin an entire crop. This is the reason I believe a good cultivator to be the most important individual in the entire cannabis industry.

A cannabis cultivator in NYC makes anywhere from $80,000 to $150,000 a year as of November 2020. That breaks down to about $1600 a week. NYC is surprisingly one of the top ten highest paying states for a cannabis cultivator. The cannabis industry is one of the fastest growing industries in history. With $17.5 Billion in sales last year and more than ⅔ of the United States still to join the legal marketplace, there is a large window for growth. To date cannabis is still federally prohibited but marijuana legalization is gaining much conversation and popularity in the federal landscape as well. A new poll shows around 70% of Americans support the legalization of cannabis at a federal level. As the transfer of power gradually funnels down to a newer generation of legislative decision makers, and as a younger generation enters congress, I believe the federal legalization of cannabis is a guarantee. With federal legalization comes stability for the cannabis cultivator. The most exciting aspect of being a cultivator is the impact my work can have on people's lives. YOU have the ability to become the next Jack Herer. As a cannabis cultivator you can cross breed, and create your own genetics. A cultivator can discover the next medical strain that possibly saved somebody's life. You could create the next opiate replacement preparation, and return millions of lives to equilibrium. The opportunity to heal is the biggest impact a cannabis cultivator has on the industry, which is why I have chosen to pursue my dream of being a Cannabis Cultivator in Syracuse NY.