A comprehensive study recently revealed the efficacy of medical cannabis in alleviating neuropathic pain, showcasing not only its rapid and long-lasting therapeutic effects but also a better side-effect profile compared to traditional medicines.
The research, undertaken collaboratively by University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE Hamburg) and telehealth platform Algea Care, delved into the therapeutic impacts of cannabis on patients grappling with chronic neuropathic pain. As reported in the reputable Medical Cannabis and Cannabinoids journal, the study encompassed 99 German participants, aged 20-81.
Medical specialists provided these patients with cannabis prescriptions, and the predominant form consumed was the cannabis flower, containing THC levels ranging from 12-22%. Each patient's daily intake peaked at 1g.
The study methodically assessed several parameters over six follow-up interviews, including pain intensity, sleep quality, overall health, side effects, and treatment tolerance. Comparison metrics used the non-parametric Wilcoxon Rank Sum Test.
Key findings include:
Rapid Pain Reduction: Most patients reported severe pain (average score of 7.5/10) at the onset. Remarkably, within a mere six weeks of commencing cannabis therapy, the average pain score plummeted to 3.75.
Improvements in Overall Health: At their first revisit, 90% of patients noticed their general health improving. This trend persisted, with 99% of the participants (97 individuals) reporting improvements at some point during the six-month study duration.
Positive Response to Treatment: 91% of patients, totaling 279 out of 307 across all follow-ups, expressed a positive reaction to the cannabis regimen.
Minimal Side Effects: The study did not record any severe side effects. Mild side effects mentioned were dry mouth (5.4%), fatigue (4.8%), and an uptick in appetite (2.7%).
Interestingly, despite the promising findings, Algea Care highlights that a mere 2% of Germany's doctors prescribe medical cannabis. Dr. Julian Wichmann, Algea Care's CEO, emphasized the study's significance, stating, "Medical cannabis has not just showcased its efficiency but has also proven to have notably fewer side effects in comparison to conventional medicines."
Dr. Wichmann further noted the unfortunate societal stigma associated with medical cannabis in Germany. Nevertheless, an estimated 250,000 individuals across the country have availed of its numerous benefits, ranging from relief for conditions like migraines, depression, ADHD, and chronic pain, to name a few.
Abstract Snapshot: The study affirms medical cannabis as a potent and safe treatment option for chronic neuropathic pain and associated sleep disturbances. Initial pain and sleep scores saw substantial reductions within six weeks, and these positive effects were sustained throughout the study's six-month span. Minimal side effects were reported, with an overall therapy tolerance of 91%.
For the third consecutive Greenville City Council meeting, Shawnee Bonner, co-owner of Green Medicine Shop—the sole medical marijuana center in the city—has passionately spoken on behalf of adult-use marijuana sales.
Shawnee and her husband, Matt Bonner, launched the Green Medicine Shop earlier this year. On Tuesday, the pair stood before the council with a familiar request: "We urge you to place adult-use cannabis sales on the council's agenda."
Greenville's City Council approved medical marijuana centers in February 2022 after almost a year of diligent planning by the Greenville Planning Commission. This led to the creation of the North Lafayette Zoning District on Lafayette Street, permitting medical marijuana centers to function on properties along M-91.
It was in 2019 when the Bonners first petitioned the council for marijuana provisioning centers. They celebrated the recent transformation of their business, GMS, into a medical marijuana center this past May. Now, their eyes are set on getting the city's approval for adult-use dispensaries, hoping to pivot their business model accordingly.
Despite sanctioning medical marijuana, the council opted out of permitting adult-use sales in 2019, even after the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act was ratified in 2018.
Shawnee emphasized the dynamic landscape of Michigan's marijuana industry since their initial plea. "Medical cannabis in Michigan is dwindling, while adult-use demand rises," she asserted. Furthermore, she mentioned that in Montcalm County, medical cardholders have dropped from 2,000 to 1,000 since 2019. This, she argues, further justifies the need to consider the transition to adult-use sales.
"Why not Greenville?" Shawnee questioned. "By amending the ordinance, the city could reap economic benefits and cater to a demand that a significant majority of the Greenville residents have voted for."
Notably, the 2018 Marijuana Act received a 58% approval rate in Greenville, which surpassed the statewide 56%.
Highlighting the economic angle, Shawnee cited data from neighboring towns that earned substantial tax revenues from adult-use marijuana. If Greenville follows suit, she believes it could mirror the success of municipalities like Sand Lake, Crystal, and Cedar Springs, to name a few.
Backing her argument with statistics, she mentioned that about $52,000 in tax funds was allocated per dispensary in the previous year. Furthermore, the nearby Belding City Council's recent approval of two adult-use dispensaries strengthens her case.
Appealing to the council's sense of community, Shawnee challenged lingering prejudices and misconceptions about marijuana. She stressed the dangers of prohibition, suggesting it strengthens illegal markets.
In response, council members Jeanne Cunliffe and Larry Moss vocalized their support. Moss, doubling as a Planning Commission member, detailed the meticulous process that green-lit medical marijuana in the past and vouched for its economic promise.
During the council's last meeting on September 5th, Mayor Jeff Scoby hinted at a gradual progression towards considering an adult-use marijuana ordinance.
No further comments were made by other council members or staff.
In 2018, Michigan citizens cast a decisive vote, allowing legal marijuana use for adults. Since then, there's been growing anticipation about how the cannabis industry could blend seamlessly with Michigan's rural economic fabric.
The Northern Michigan towns of Gaylord, Kalkaska, and Mackinaw City have already tapped into this potential, embracing cannabis as an economic driver.
Adding to this list is the village of Wolverine in Cheboygan County. The latest entrant in the local cannabis market is The Corner Farmacy, strategically located on South Straits Highway beside the Wolverine Cabinet Co. This venture is the brainchild of Scott Mann, who secured the location with the help of Brian O'Connor of Wolverine Cabinet.
In a conversation about his venture, Mann stated, "Brian and I have forged a strong partnership. I believe our establishment can contribute significantly to Wolverine, both in terms of job creation and tax inflow."
The placement of The Corner Farmacy, just off I-75, holds significant potential according to Mann. "Given our closeness to I-75, we're in a prime position to attract customers, especially those heading downstate. With our current competitive offers, I believe many will stop by," he expressed.
Highlighting the shop's strategic location, Mann added, "Wolverine is nestled about 20 miles from Gaylord and in close proximity to Harbor Springs, Petoskey, and the Mackinac Bridge. Given our position in this recreational hub, there's a substantial audience to cater to, from daily commuters to those enjoying local recreational activities."
Recounting the journey of The Corner Farmacy, Mann revealed that the idea was initially proposed two years ago. Although he had also considered a consumption lounge, Mann prioritized the retail store. After collaborative discussions with village officials and addressing concerns of a few residents, Wolverine granted the project a thumbs-up.
"We envisioned a venture that would integrate seamlessly into the community, offering employment, and enhancing the local tax base," Mann commented.
Customers can expect a diverse product range at The Corner Farmacy, from widely recognized brands to locally-sourced 'mom-and-pop' goods. Presently, the store welcomes patrons from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. throughout the week, with considerations to expand the hours based on demand.
On a personal note, Mann admitted that he was unfamiliar with marijuana's benefits until a tragic car accident in 2015. Battling immense pain post the accident, Mann turned to marijuana as a therapeutic aid, averting the need for opioids. "A mere half joint before my physical therapy sessions made a world of difference. It was a game-changer for me," he concluded.
Nestled amid the breathtaking beauty of Michigan's Upper Peninsula lies a gem not just for nature enthusiasts, but for cannabis aficionados as well. The region, spanning a massive 16,000 square miles, is a beacon for those seeking the tranquil embrace of unspoiled wilderness.
But besides its natural allure, the Upper Peninsula is evolving into a hotspot for cannabis enthusiasts. Post the 2018 legalization, the region now hosts over four dozen licensed dispensaries, accompanied by numerous cultivation and processing facilities. A stark contrast to just a few years ago when Northern Specialty Health was the lone dispensary serving both locals and over a million annual tourists.
Celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, Northern Specialty Health stands as a testament to family-owned business success amid burgeoning competition. Owner Penny Milkey, in an exclusive with Michigan Marijuana News, delves deep into the journey of their "Mom and Pop Cannabis Shop."
Unlike many in the industry, Penny didn't set out with dreams of cannabis entrepreneurship. She came from a teaching background, while her husband Ryan was an electrician. Their foray into cannabis was born out of necessity after Ryan suffered a severe four-wheeler accident in 2007. Discovering the therapeutic potential of cannabis, they started as medical marijuana caregivers before taking the reins of Northern Specialty Health in 2013. Their mission? Ensuring patients had reliable access to their medicinal needs.
For Penny, entering an emerging industry wasn't without its hurdles. Advocating for cannabis acceptance involved attending numerous City Council and Planning Commission meetings. But the effort was worth it. A decade later, with their unflinching commitment to patient welfare over profit, and a strong focus on locally-sourced quality products, the Milkeys have carved out a niche for themselves.
Cannabis in the Upper Peninsula, Penny notes, is distinct from Lower Michigan. Trends take longer to trickle up, maintaining a unique marketplace dynamic. And what's flying off the shelves? Unsurprisingly, flower remains a top choice among Yoopers.
As for personal favorites, Penny is a fan of pre-rolls. Particularly, the infused pre-rolled joints by Element, and strains like Mango Haze by Forté and Mafia Funeral by Redemption.
When asked about quirky strain names, Penny recalls the amusingly named "Adios, Motherf—ers," though she ensures they steer clear of anything too controversial.
This December promises to be a month-long celebration for Northern Specialty Health's decade-long journey, with exciting promotions on the horizon.
As Penny fondly notes, visitors to the Upper Peninsula seeking a genuine, homegrown cannabis experience will find no better haven than Northern Specialty Health in Houghton. It's not just about the product; it's about the heart behind it.
In the ever-evolving landscape of the U.S. cannabis industry, two prominent players stand out - Michigan and Los Angeles. Their journeys, although intertwined in the broader narrative of marijuana legalization, present distinct challenges and opportunities.
Central to the vibrancy of the cannabis trade is the legal framework. Michigan welcomed legal cannabis for both medical and recreational purposes in 2018, following a public vote. The state prides itself on a structured regulatory system, ensuring organized operations from dispensaries to cultivators.
On the other hand, Los Angeles has been a key player in California's cannabis narrative. The state pioneered medical marijuana legalization in 1996 and expanded to recreational use by 2018. Yet, LA's labyrinthine local regulations, despite facilitating a rich marketplace, have often perplexed businesses and consumers.
In 2022, Michigan's cannabis trade soared, garnering sales of over $2 billion, as per the Michigan Marijuana Regulatory Agency. This underscores Michigan's unwavering appetite for cannabis products.
Contrastingly, Los Angeles, with its demographic advantage and early legalization, clocked a staggering $5.3 billion in cannabis sales in the same year. However, its industry faces fragmentation due to its competitive environment and intricate regulations.
Michigan's cannabis industry is marked by an influx of small, locally-owned businesses, mirroring the entrepreneurial spirit in new cannabis markets.
Conversely, Los Angeles showcases a spectrum of players - from budding businesses to industry titans. While this spells fierce competition, it also raises eyebrows over potential corporate monopolization.
Navigating the cannabis industry is no mean feat. Michigan's hurdles include equitable license distribution and environmental implications of cannabis farming. These reflect the teething problems of emerging cannabis economies.
Los Angeles grapples with its own set of challenges. A convoluted licensing procedure and an unchecked illegal market are primary concerns. Addressing these is crucial for a balanced industry catering to both entrepreneurs and consumers.
Yet, the horizon is bright. Both Michigan and Los Angeles are ripe for innovations in product design, user experience, and medicinal utility. Their potential to metamorphose into global cannabis epicenters is palpable.
Michigan and Los Angeles, while traversing their unique cannabis journeys, contribute significantly to the broader cannabis narrative. Michigan's orderly regulations and blossoming local enterprises hint at a promising, inclusive industry. Meanwhile, Los Angeles, with its monumental market presence, is poised to be a trendsetter in cannabis innovations.
The onward journey demands collaboration among policymakers, industry experts, and stakeholders. By addressing emerging challenges, Michigan and Los Angeles can maximize the socio-economic benefits of cannabis, ensuring their communities thrive in this green revolution.
Michigan proudly stands as one of the 38 states that have embraced medical cannabis legalization. Yet, a 2021 Journal of Cannabis Research study revealed a startling statistic: only 18% of Michigan's medical marijuana patients rate their primary care physician's insight on the subject as "very good" or "excellent." Interestingly, the majority have communicated their cannabis usage to their doctors. But feedback on physician knowledge is varied, and a significant portion sought their medical cannabis licenses from external doctors.
Dr. Evan Litinas sheds light on this by stating, "A vast segment of consumers utilizes cannabis for holistic well-being. If patients feel a disconnect discussing cannabis with their doctors, they often approach local cannabis dispensaries, hoping a budtender might provide clarity."
He cautions, however, "While many dispensaries are top-notch in assisting consumers, there are instances where they fall short in disseminating accurate information about this potent medicinal herb. This disparity can create a chasm between the consumer's understanding and expectations of cannabis."
Dr. Litinas is collaborating with Local Roots Cannabis on 'Medical Mondays' throughout September and October. Every Monday, between noon and 4 p.m., he'll be at the dispensary, addressing queries on THC, CBD, and beyond. Though he won't be providing personalized medical counsel, he aims to offer a holistic understanding of cannabis's medicinal applications, from interpreting lab outcomes to elucidating cannabis's impact on specific ailments. Moreover, he wishes to instigate a dialogue among consumers and their primary physicians about cannabis.
With a career spanning over a decade in the medical marijuana realm, including contributions to cannabis research at the University of Michigan and a pivotal role as the chief medical officer for Ann Arbor dispensary Om of Medicine (now Mission Ann Arbor) till 2020, Dr. Litinas is passionate about edifying the masses on cannabis. His endeavors culminated in a harmonious alliance with Local Roots owners, Roy and Ronda Liskey. The synergy was palpable, as Dr. Litinas remarked, "The Liskeys are genuine community pillars. Our collaborative efforts will surely elevate cannabis education."
Roy Liskey acknowledged Dr. Litinas' commitment, stating, "Though there's no definitive promise that products will universally aid medical conditions, a plethora of research-backed evidence exists. Dr. Litinas' engagement is a boon to our community. We're indebted to his expertise and dedication."
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