Cannabis

A new study has identified a pattern of brain activity that seems to correlate with impairment from cannabis intoxication. The researchers suggest this novel brain-based biomarker could be a way to accurately measure THC impairment.

From the first published data out of large clinical trials testing MDMA and psilocybin, to some incredible work investigating what psychedelics actually do to a mammalian brain, here are the highlights from a truly landmark year in psychedelic science.

A study is outlining strategies that should be employed by cannabis growers to mitigate the plant’s ability to absorb heavy metals from soil. The study indicates it is possible cannabis contaminated with heavy metals could lead to chronic diseases.

A study has found epileptic children treated with whole plant cannabis products displayed reductions in seizure frequency. The researchers call for clinical trials to test whether whole plant products are better at treating epilepsy than CBD alone.

A new meta-study has concluded blood or saliva THC concentrations are not effective ways to measure cannabis-induced driving impairment. The findings indicate impairment tests should be developed instead of looking to develop a marijuana breathalyzer.

A new study has explored the impacts of exercise on sufferers of arthritis, and shown how the gut microbiome and cannabis-like substances produced by the body play an important mediatory role in driving anti-inflammatory effects.

A study is offering one of the most comprehensive investigations ever conducted into the origins of cannabis' unique “skunk-like” smell, discovering an entirely new family of sulfur compounds that are chemically similar to compounds found in garlic.

New research systematically investigating the anticonvulsant effects of a number of rare compounds in cannabis is reporting cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), known as the “mother of all cannabinoids”, may be more effective at reducing seizures than CBD.

New research lends support to a controversial hypothesis dubbed the entourage effect, which claims the medical benefits of cannabis are not due to single cannabinoids such as THC or CBD, but rather the interactions between various compounds in the plant.

A new study presents results from one of the first placebo-controlled trials exploring the influence of CBD on sensations of acute pain. The mixed results suggest CBD may reduce feelings of unpleasantness, helping one tolerate pain more effectively.

How long is a person’s ability to safely drive impaired after consuming cannabis? A meta-analysis suggests intoxication spans anywhere from three to 10 hours, raising questions over some roadside tests detecting traces of THC days after consumption.

New research suggests cannabis use can be linked to higher rates of "rebound headaches" in migraine sufferers. The research is observational and retrospective, but it is yet another finding questioning how helpful cannabis is for chronic migraine patients.