Cannabis, once relegated to the shadows of society, is making a significant push into mainstream America. However, the journey from prohibition to acceptance is faced with many challenges, particularly in the retail world. The stigma surrounding cannabis stems from historical, legal, social, and cultural factors, and lack of education, plays a role in shaping the stigma. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the roots of the stigma on cannabis and how the landscape is gradually changing.

The Historical Backdrop

The roots of cannabis stigma are deeply embedded in history. In the early 20th century, cannabis was criminalized in many parts of the world. The United States’ War on Drugs, which began in the 1970s, heavily penalized cannabis use, linking it to criminal behavior and societal decay. Media reports of cannabis users as lazy, unmotivated, or criminals; these negative stereotypes are what many believe to be true. 

However, alongside this negative portrayal, there exists a rich history of cannabis as a medicinal plant. For centuries, cannabis has been used to treat a variety of medical issues. Ancient cultures across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa utilized cannabis for its therapeutic properties, including pain relief and anti-inflammatory benefits.

In more recent times, cannabis has shown promise in helping cancer patients manage symptoms such as nausea, pain, and loss of appetite. Additionally, it has been found to fight inflammation, which is beneficial in treating conditions like arthritis and multiple sclerosis. This positive history of cannabis as a healing plant is often overshadowed by its criminalization and the stigma attached to its recreational use.

Legal and Regulatory Hurdles

One of the most significant barriers to cannabis acceptance in retail is the complex legal landscape. In the United States, for instance, cannabis remains illegal at the federal level, despite being legal in several different states. This legal ambiguity creates uncertainty and fear among businesses, banks, customers as well as B2B consumers.

Moreover, the reluctance of banks and financial institutions to work with cannabis-related businesses due to federal regulations results in limited access to financial services and funding. This financial exclusion makes it difficult for cannabis businesses to operate and expand, perpetuating the stigma. It also makes it challenging for funding purposes for these businesses to continue to operate efficiently. 

Social and Cultural Challenges

Public perception plays a crucial role in the acceptance of cannabis. Despite increasing acceptance, many still view cannabis use negatively and as a Schedule 1 drug, influenced by concerns about health impacts, addiction, and moral values. Workplace policies that maintain strict no-drug stances, regardless of legal status, also contribute to this negative perception. Enhancing education on cannabis can help mitigate this stigma within our culture, which in turn will aid in positioning the cannabis industry as a credible sector in the eyes of consumers, banks, and other business sources.

Retail Industry-Specific Issues

In addition, mainstream retailers are often hesitant to carry cannabis products due to fear of backlash from conservative customers or communities, which limits the visibility and availability of these products in the broader spectrum. 

Furthermore, stringent marketing and advertising regulations restrict cannabis businesses from effectively reaching new customers and normalizing their products. Social Media advertising is prohibited as well as certain television channels. 

Conclusion

Resolving the challenges surrounding the stigma of cannabis in the retail world requires a multifaceted approach. Firstly, education plays a pivotal role: increasing public awareness about the medicinal benefits of cannabis and dispelling myths through targeted campaigns can shift negative perceptions. Secondly, advocating for legislative reform to align federal and state laws can provide clarity and confidence for businesses to operate effectively. Moreover, fostering open dialogue among stakeholders, including policymakers, industry leaders, and the public, can promote understanding and acceptance. Lastly, mainstream retailers can be encouraged to embrace cannabis products through initiatives that demonstrate responsible consumption and highlight regulatory compliance, thereby normalizing its presence in the retail market. By addressing these aspects comprehensively, we can gradually reduce stigma and integrate cannabis as a legitimate and beneficial sector within the retail market.

By Cimone Casson, Cannas Capital Holdings

Social equity programs are designed to address historical and systemic inequalities but often face various specific and unique challenges that can impede their effectiveness. Despite many attempts across the country, social equity programs have yet to make the impact needed to change the trajectory of equity and equality in the commercial cannabis industry. To tackle social equity’s biggest hurdles, we have to understand two things: there is profit in diversity, and investing in minority companies is a long-term play. Although access to capital is one of the biggest obstacles that social equity awardees face, they are much bigger and divergent. Let’s discuss some of the reasons that social equity programs have not moved the needle or made an impact on emerging and sustainable minority ownership in cannabis.  

Of course, the elephant in the room is access to capital issues. This is a major problem. Many social equity programs are underfunded, which limits their ability to provide the necessary resources and support to the target populations. More states have adopted state-funded cannabis grants and limited lending programs, but this structure lacks the investment resources to credit sustainable businesses. Grants and small-scale forgivable loans under $200,000 are a great steppingstone but these businesses need to establish consistent fundable business credit profiles. More banks and financial institutions have entered the cannabis space (under U.S. Department of Treasury guidelines established in 2014 and Federal Reserve Bank guidance established in 2015) and are considering lending opportunities but they need creditworthy businesses to give them more of an incentive to offer loans. Additionally, once the banking regulatory climate changes, which it will, commercial cannabis companies must be ready to take advantage of capital opportunities. 

Next, many programs are designed with short-term goals in mind and may not address the root causes of inequality, which require long-term and sustained efforts. Investing in minority businesses is a long-term play. We expect minority businesses to be an overnight success, despite deeming them economically, socially, or geographically disadvantaged or to have somehow magically overcome racial and gender-based structural barriers to business entry, scaling, and sustainability that still exist. These expectations are unrealistic, the success of this industry is in inclusion. Achieving this will take the adoption of joint venture programs, supplier diversity initiatives, public and private partnerships, and strategic business planning, that have worked in other industries. We must accept the reality of social economics, in which every culture has a relationship with money. Persistent economic disparities undermine the efforts of social equity programs, as economic inequality often intersects with other forms of social inequality. Understanding the habits, views, and relationships with funds for these disadvantaged communities’ groups can aid in establishing stronger pathways to leveling the playing field and developing general wealth. 

If we truly wish to overcome the many roadblocks failed social equity programs face, we have to reexamine creditworthiness. Current underwriting metrics create additional hurdles for minority businesses. Many Community Deposit Financial Institutions, banks, and lenders will have to think about credit differently and set up various avenues and pools of capital to assist diverse businesses. I suggest adopting a socio-economic underwriting system such as Cannas Capital Holdings’s Bank Black Program. Our mission is to bridge the wealth gap via four pillars Social Equity, Social Economics, Social Entrepreneurship, and Social Enterprise. We have designed an AI operating system that will perform underwriting solutions developed with unique metric criteria that consider the disadvantages and advantages of offering provisions for diverse business owners to develop social enterprises in our communities.  In addition to many traditional underwriting requirements such as Management Team, Payment History, and Collateral Support, we also employ Community & Demographic Analysis, Social Capital Assessment, Institutional Support, Risk Mitigation Strategies, Long-Term Sustainability, Regulatory Compliance, and Continuous Monitoring as underwriting standards.

Improving the effectiveness of social equity programs often requires addressing these challenges through better funding, streamlined processes, robust data collection, community engagement, and a commitment to long-term, systemic change.

We are calling on the DEA reschedule, without delay and to issue guidance to federal agencies to ensure state-based cannabis programs are not disrupted by inappropriate federal enforcement.

Download our full comments here.

Moving cannabis to Schedule III would be a historic step forward and a significant relief for the industry, as the unfair tax burden of 280E would no longer apply to state-legal businesses. However, rescheduling is not the end of the road. As an industry, we must continue to advocate for federal legalization and sensible regulations for marijuana and hemp-derived cannabinoid products.

During the DOJ’s sixty-day public comment period on rescheduling, nearly 40,000 comments were submitted by various agencies, organizations, academics, and concerned citizens. An overwhelming 91% were submitted in favor of moving cannabis to a less restrictive Schedule or making it legal under federal law, according to an analysis of the data conducted by NCIA member and leading market intelligence and consumer trends platform, Headset.

The analysis found that among those supporting a change 56% advocated for complete descheduling of cannabis and 35% supported rescheduling to a less restrictive category.

We know how to increase yield and cannabinoid production, for example, but there hasn’t been any real research done on how cultivation techniques or delivery methods affect the smokeability of the product from the consumer standpoint. 

Until now, that is. 

The cannabis industry is entering a new era of scientific rigor and consumer-focused research with the launch of a groundbreaking study called The Science of Smokeability (SOS). This multi-year research project, spearheaded by Custom Cones USA and the DaySavers brand in partnership with the Cannabis Research Coalition and The Network of Applied Pharmacognosy (NAP), aims to revolutionize our understanding of cannabis cultivation, processing and consumption. 

Unlike previous research that primarily focused on things like cannabinoid percentages, the SOS study seeks to establish clear links between cultivation and manufacturing practices and the end-user experience. By doing so, it has the potential to transform product quality, consistency and safety across the industry. 

A Comprehensive Approach 

One of the most innovative aspects of the SOS study is its comprehensive approach. It combines controlled laboratory experiments with consumer research, creating a holistic view of the smoking experience. This methodology allows researchers to analyze various factors that influence cannabis quality, including mineral content, nutritional content (flushing), nitrosamines (potential carcinogens), moisture content, and their effects on ash color, smoke composition, and overall smoke quality. 

On the lab side, the SOS will be led by conducted by qualified researchers from various organizations including The Cannabis Research Coalition (CRC), an academic cultivation research group that is developing advanced cultivation techniques aimed at optimizing yield and quality of medicinal cannabis, and The Network of Applied Pharmacognosy (NAP), a nonprofit organization focusing on providing quality cannabis materials and tracking the experience of users.  

Dr. Allison Justice and Dr. Markus Roggen, two of the top researchers on the study are previously known for their groundbreaking work in exploring the color change of ash in cannabis smoking. The SOS study has also partnered with Controlled Chemistry, experts in cannabis smoke and inhalation studies for cannabis, leveraging cutting-edge technologies and methodologies. 

“This cross-departmental research collaboration extends beyond mere acquisition of sustainable and profitable cultivation and post-harvest metrics; we are actively establishing the benchmarks for ensuring the highest standards in producing flower intended for combustion” said Justice, founder of the Cannabis Research Coalition.  

To gain consumer insight, DaySavers will be paying 200 lucky people, drawn at random, to receive and smoke two pre-rolls and then provide feedback on the experience. That data will be combined with the lab work to create the final reports. 

This unique and consumer-centric approach and focus on “smokeability” aligns with the industry’s growing focus on end-user satisfaction and, we hope, could lead to products that better meet consumer preferences. 

Developing Standards 

The first phase of findings is expected to be published in the coming months and will demonstrate how to optimize cultivation metrics to save time, money and resources while enhancing product quality. 

The study will also include experiments on infused pre-rolls, testing different infusion processes and their effects on temperature and cannabinoid/terpene delivery.  

We think the implications of this research for the cannabis industry will be far-reaching. By understanding how different cultivation and processing variables affect the final product, growers and manufacturers can fine-tune their practices to create superior cannabis products. This could lead to more consistent, higher-quality pre-rolls and other cannabis products in the market.  

The findings from the SOS study will also be shared with ASTM International, an organization that establishes industry standards. The hope is that it leads to the development of new benchmarks for quality and safety in cannabis cultivation and product manufacturing. Moreover, by providing solid scientific data on cannabis smoke composition and quality, the study could influence cannabis policy decisions. This is particularly significant for states that are hesitant to permit smokable flower due to uncertainties about the substances produced in cannabis smoke. 

For cultivators, the study could provide valuable insights into optimizing their growing techniques for better quality. Manufacturers could use the findings to improve their processing methods and create more appealing products. Retailers and budtenders could leverage the research to provide more informed recommendations to consumers. 

Plus, the study’s focus on safety and quality could help address concerns about the health impacts of cannabis smoking. By identifying factors that contribute to a “safer” smoking experience, the industry could potentially mitigate some of the health risks associated with cannabis use.  

At Custom Cones USA and DaySavers, we’re known for our commitment to transparency and the rigorous testing of our pre-rolled cones, as well as other products like blunt cones and the Smoke Temple Cross Cone, for pesticides, heavy metals and microbials. We do this, despite it not being required, because we believe it makes a better, safer final product for the end user. Our hope is that by focusing this study on “smokeability,” others in the industry will put the consumer first as well. 

A New Kind of Study 

The Science of Smokeability study marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of the cannabis industry. As the cannabis market continues to mature and evolve, research like the SOS study will be crucial in establishing cannabis as a legitimate, well-understood, and responsibly produced consumer product.  

By bringing together scientific rigor, consumer experience and industry expertise, it has the potential to drive innovation, improve product quality, shape the future of cannabis cultivation and consumption. 

The SOS promises to enhance our scientific understanding of cannabis as both a medicinal and recreational product, potentially revolutionizing how we approach cannabis cultivation, processing and consumption in the years to come. 

And we’re excited to be a part of it. 

As public opinion shifts and state and federal policies on cannabis continue to evolve, more banks and credit unions are venturing into this market. With competition intensifying, financial institutions must offer products and services that meet the changing needs of the industry.

Shield Compliance, a leading compliance platform for cannabis banking, is conducting a survey of licensed cannabis operators regarding their satisfaction with the banking partners, products, and services available to them. The survey allows licensed operators to offer valuable insights and shape financial institutions’ services going forward.

Shield welcomes all licensed cannabis operators to participate. The survey consists of short, multiple-choice questions and should only take about ten minutes to complete. You may answer the survey anonymously, or you may provide your contact information to be entered to win an Amazon gift card worth $200.

To participate in the survey, please click here or copy and paste it into your browser. Additionally, we encourage you to share this survey link with other cannabis operators within your network who may be interested in contributing to this study. The more diverse responses we receive, the more comprehensive our findings will be.

The survey will be available until August 9th.

Thank you for your participation.

If you’re pregnant or trying to conceive, you may have heard of the potential benefits of CBD during pregnancy. Alternatively, you may already take CBD oil regularly and are unsure whether you should continue. Here, the team at Goodray’s explores the latest information around CBD in pregnancy and whether it is a safe supplement during this time.

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a natural compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD does not produce a high or any level of intoxication. CBD has become known for its therapeutic benefits, which include reducing anxiety and improving sleep. With these benefits, it’s clear why you might consider using it during pregnancy. However, it is crucial to understand the research around CBD before making a decision.

Is CBD Safe to Use During Pregnancy?

Currently, there is not enough research on CBD in pregnancy to determine whether it is a safe supplement. While research shows that CBD may have potential benefits for a range of medical conditions, its effects on fetal development and pregnancy are unknown.

Many healthcare professionals advise against using CBD during pregnancy due to this lack of research. If you are considering using CBD for the first time or continuing to use it, you should speak directly with your healthcare team. This allows you to make an informed decision based on your individual circumstances.

Potential Benefits of CBD During Pregnancy

CBD oil has many therapeutic benefits, particularly in stress and anxiety relief. During pregnancy, some mothers-to-be may experience heightened levels of anxiety and stress. CBD oil has the potential to treat anxiety and promote relaxation during this time.

Additionally, sleep issues are common during pregnancy, and CBD oil may help improve sleep quality. Some expectant mothers may find it difficult to get a good night’s sleep due to discomfort or hormonal changes. CBD’s calming properties might offer some relief and better sleep.

Despite these potential benefits, it’s important to remember that the research supporting the use of CBD during pregnancy is not yet available. Therefore, it is crucial to be mindful and consider whether it is the best choice for you.

Potential Risks of CBD During Pregnancy

Much like the benefits, the risks of using CBD during pregnancy are largely unknown. While there is no research to suggest that CBD causes any problems, there is also no research to the contrary. Some health professionals argue that CBD could potentially interact with other medications or supplements required during pregnancy, impacting fetal development.

Moreover, the quality and purity of CBD products can vary significantly. If not sourced from reputable places, CBD products can contain other substances, including THC or other cannabinoids, which you would not want to ingest while pregnant. Ensuring you source pure CBD oil should be a priority if you choose to use it.

Understanding the Research and Expert Opinions

The current body of research on CBD use during pregnancy is limited, and most studies are either in early stages or conducted on animals. This makes it challenging to draw definitive conclusions about the safety and efficacy of CBD for expectant mothers.

Healthcare professionals generally take a cautious approach due to the lack of comprehensive human studies. Organizations such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists advise against the use of cannabis and its derivatives, including CBD, during pregnancy. This caution is primarily due to the potential unknowns and the precautionary principle of “first, do no harm.”

Consulting with Your Healthcare Provider

Given the uncertainties surrounding CBD use during pregnancy, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider. Your doctor can provide personalized advice based on your health history and current condition. They can also help monitor any potential interactions with other medications you may be taking.

If you and your healthcare provider decide that using CBD is appropriate, it’s crucial to source high-quality products from reputable suppliers. Look for products that have been third-party tested for purity and potency. Avoid products with additives, contaminants, or THC.

Alternatives to CBD for Managing Pregnancy Symptoms

If you are looking for natural ways to manage anxiety, stress, or sleep issues during pregnancy, there are several alternatives to consider:

1. Exercise: Regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga, can help reduce stress and improve sleep.
2. Mindfulness and Meditation: Practices like mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing exercises can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.
3. Diet and Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients can support overall well-being and help manage stress.
4. Herbal Teas: Some herbal teas, such as chamomile, can promote relaxation and improve sleep. However, always consult with your healthcare provider before trying new herbal remedies.
5. Support Networks: Building a support network of family, friends, or support groups can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation.

Final Thoughts

CBD oil is a natural product with potential therapeutic benefits, but whether you choose to take it during pregnancy is a personal decision. Given the lack of substantial research, it is essential to weigh the potential benefits against the unknown risks carefully.

Discussing your options with your healthcare team is the best way to make an informed decision that prioritizes your health and your baby’s well-being. Goodrays crafts and sells high-quality CBD oils and products designed to complement your lifestyle, free of any potentially harmful substances. However, it is crucial to ensure any CBD product you consider is sourced from a reputable provider and meets high standards of purity and quality.

In conclusion, while CBD may offer potential benefits, the safety of its use during pregnancy remains uncertain. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare provider and make choices that align with your health needs and pregnancy journey.

The nutritional demands of cannabis are still not well understood. Due to the legal status of the plant, intense studies on cannabis nutrition have been limited. The subtleties of plant nutrition are not well understood, particularly in cannabis. Nickel was not recognized as a plant essential nutrient until 2004. The presence of a single micronutrient deficiency can decrease the production of fruit and some flowers in excess up 30%.

The Presence of Physical Symptoms

The physical symptoms of plant deficiencies and toxicities typically don’t manifest from anywhere between three and nine weeks. Usually, by the time these physical symptoms appear visually, the damage has already begun to occur. Physical symptoms of plant nutrition vary considerably and there’s substantial overlap between the visual characteristics of symptoms. Nutritional deficiencies can sometimes be caused by the toxicity of another element. For example, an excess of magnesium can inhibit the plants’ ability to uptake calcium.

The Importance of Soil and Growing Media

The soil/growing media used during the cultivation process can impact nutrient absorption in several ways, primarily depending on its physical and chemical characteristics. Cannabis prefers well-draining media with a pH range of 5.8-6.2. The pH of the media itself can enhance or reduce the plants’ ability to absorb certain nutrients. For example, iron becomes decreasingly soluble at higher pH levels. The drainage of the media is highly dependent on the growing style and environment, but generally, a well-draining growing media allows for healthy roots and maximum nutrient absorption. The media acts as a sort of nutrient reservoir for the plant’s roots.  

Leaf Tissue Analysis

Leaf tissue analysis has been a long-utilized tool in traditional agriculture. Its presence in cannabis is limited primarily due to the long-standing illegality of the plant. However, there has been major interest recently in using this tool in cannabis cultivation. The basic premise is that fan leaves are removed from the plant, dried to completion, and analyzed at an analytical laboratory for primary, secondary, and micronutrients. One of the main advantages of this is the guesswork is taken out of the identification of the toxicity or deficiency. Visual symptoms of toxicities and deficiencies can have overlapping visual cues. The nutritional issues may be far more complex than an issue with a single element. By having empirical data, it allows the cultivator to compare the analytical results to established target values. From there, the cultivator can adjust the fertilization program to mitigate any potential toxicities or deficiencies. Regular monitoring of nutrient levels allows for proactive adjustments of the fertilization program. This, in turn, can lead to optimization of quality and yield.

Fertilizer

Fertilization is one of the most important aspects of any cultivation. A dialed in nutrient program optimizes the speed of growth, quality of the product, and overall yields. Fertilization can be a complex puzzle and no two cultivators grow in the exact same way. By analyzing the fertilizer, nutrient solution, plant tissue, water, and growing media the cultivator can trace back to the source of any potential issue. A common issue in cannabis cultivation is iron deficiency, this can be caused by an excess of manganese as cannabis will selectively absorb manganese over iron. The iron levels may be completely sufficient in the nutrient solution, but the excess manganese mitigates absorption. A typical response to an iron deficiency would be to add more iron, by using plant tissue and nutrient data, it can be discerned that the solution to the problem is a reduction in manganese and not the addition of more iron.

Water

Water quality is one of the foundations to successful cannabis cultivation. Testing water prior to planting and throughout the growing season can help prevent issues before they occur. If the source water for the nutrient solution originates from a well, it is important to understand the mineral content of the water so that fertilization can be adjusted accordingly. If the water is filtered, it is a useful tool to monitor the life of the filters. As reverse osmosis (the most common type of filtration used in cannabis cultivation) filters age, the boron concentration in the filtered water begins to rise considerably. In addition to this, the presence of excess chlorine or chloramine can create issues with nutrient absorption.

Environmental Conditions

Environmental conditions play a significant role in nutrient absorption and overall plant health. Nutrient levels can be optimized in the fertilizer solution, but environmental effects can prevent optimized nutrient absorption. Humidity, temperature, light, CO2, etc. can all greatly impact the plants’ ability to uptake nutrients. Optimization of these conditions is critical to a successful cultivation.

Conclusion

While the nutritional demands of cannabis are still not fully understood, leaf tissue, water, soil, and fertilizer analysis can assist immensely in the identification and mitigation of nutritional deficiencies and toxicities. These tools allow cultivators to make data driven decisions and prevent issues before they occur. Optimizing nutritional levels in cannabis maximizes the quality and yield of the plants.

Understanding the Importance of Effective Public Comments on Cannabis Rescheduling Proposals

The cannabis industry is abuzz with anticipation over the rescheduling proposals. From industry groups to advocacy organizations, companies, and activists, discussions on submitting effective public comments are in full swing. This marks a significant moment as the federal government proposes to reclassify cannabis for the first time, moving it from Schedule I to Schedule III. This move acknowledges cannabis’s medical value, a recognition long sought after. Amidst this pivotal moment, it’s crucial to ensure that your public comments on cannabis rescheduling are not only heard but are also meaningful and impactful.

For a comprehensive toolkit to assist in crafting your public comment, visit NCIA’s resource page here.

Tips for Crafting Effective Public Comments on Cannabis Rescheduling Proposals

1. Be Respectful

While it may seem obvious, maintaining respectful language is crucial. Emotions can run high when discussing cannabis regulation, but name-calling or using foul language can undermine your message. Ensure your comments are taken seriously by maintaining a professional tone.

2. Stay on Topic

Focus your comments narrowly on the specific cannabis rescheduling issue at hand. Whether addressing the DEA or local city council, avoid including unrelated grievances. For example, if discussing zoning laws affecting cannabis businesses, refrain from delving into tax issues or home grow regulations. This clarity strengthens your argument and prevents your message from appearing scattered.

3. Clearly State Your Requests

Ensure your asks are explicit and easy to identify. Begin and conclude your letter with a clear statement like, “I am asking you to…”, followed by the action you want. Decision-makers review numerous letters daily, so clarity on your stance and desired action is essential for your public comment on cannabis rescheduling to be counted.

4. Provide Supporting Data and Stories

Back your arguments with relevant data and compelling anecdotes. This enriches your public comment on cannabis rescheduling and provides context for your requests. Ensure your evidence supports your advocacy effectively.

The Importance of Advocacy in Cannabis Rescheduling

Public support has been instrumental in progressing cannabis rescheduling reform. However, societal attitudes towards cannabis are dynamic, and advocacy efforts are crucial in maintaining momentum. Active participation in public processes, done respectfully and productively, is our best defense against potential setbacks in cannabis policy.

Advancing Change: Advocacy Through Effective Public Comments on Cannabis Rescheduling

Crafting effective public comments on cannabis rescheduling is a vital tool in advocating for cannabis rescheduling. By following these tips, you can ensure your voice is heard in the ongoing discussions. Remember to share this guide with fellow advocates to strengthen our collective impact in shaping cannabis rescheduling policy.

More recently, MSA has been exploring the impact of cannabis on sleep medication use. An estimated 30% of adults experience symptoms of insomnia, which can include difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early. Patients with insomnia often rely on various prescription and/or over the counter sleep aids to manage their conditions, which can result in adverse effects, including the risk of abuse and cognitive impairment, especially in older adults. Fortunately, the increased acceptance of medical cannabis has resulted in many patients exploring it as a potential alternative. 

Although previous studies have shed light on the impact of cannabis for insomnia, more research is needed to fully understand its potential and determine appropriate dosages and long-term effects. Using real-world data, MSA has conducted a study on patients diagnosed with insomnia to investigate the effectiveness of medical cannabis to reduce sleep medication use. 

Methodology

The study included adults aged 18 and over, diagnosed with insomnia disorders based on ICD-10 codes, who have purchased cannabis products through medical cannabis dispensaries in Minnesota from 2016 to 2020. Using MSA’s patented de-identification technology, we linked each patient’s electronic health records (EHRs) with medical cannabis dispensary transaction records while protecting patient privacy. 

We investigated the trends of cannabis products use in patients with insomnia, according to demographics, and quantified changes in sleep medication use over time, using the Defined Daily Dose (DDD) established by the World Health Organization (WHO) to obtain a ratio that reflects the patient’s daily medication intake in a standard measure. We analyzed the differences in medication use before and after cannabis use, and characterized the patients who experienced a reduction in sleep medication use.

Key findings included:

Demographics: The majority of insomnia patients participating in our study fall within the middle-aged bracket. Almost 50% of the participants were aged 35-50 years, closely followed by 44.4% within the 51-64 year age group.

Decrease in sleep medication usage: Our results showed an overall 26.7% decrease in the defined daily dose (DDD) of sleep medications after cannabis use. Patients using cannabis experienced notable decreases in sleep medication use, with the most substantial improvements seen in individuals aged 50 and older. Specifically, those over 65 years old saw a dramatic 60% reduction. Meanwhile, the 51-64 age group benefited from a 39% reduction, and those aged 35-50 observed a 25% decrease. Patients 35-50 years old were using higher doses of Sleep medications than other age groups.  Patients over 65 years old exhibited a more pronounced reduction in DDD ratios compared to other age groups. This suggests that older patients might benefit more significantly from cannabis use in terms of reducing their sleep medication intake.

Percentage Reduction of sleep medication by age category

Reduction by THC:CBD ratio: Although most patients with insomnia in this study were using cannabis products with a ratio of 19:1, the THC:CBD ratios that were most effective to reduce sleep medication use were 4:1. 20:1, and 1:1. 

Reduction by Type of sleep medication: In our analysis, we observed a significant reduction in the use of various sleep medications among patients who began using cannabis, with benzodiazepines showing a particularly notable decrease of approximately 50% of the daily dose. The group of patients that experienced a reduction of sleep medication during cannabis use were mostly using Benzodiazepines, among which the most used were Alprazolam, Lorazepam, Diazepam, and Clonazepam. 

Product Form and Reduction of Sleep Medication: Patients who were using cannabis in capsules experienced the most reduction in sleep medication use. Capsules can have a high bioavailability, meaning more cannabis enters the bloodstream compared to tablets, which could make them more effective. Gummies were most used by patients using high dosages of sleep medications at baseline. 

Milligrams of THC: Cannabis products with higher amount of mg of THC were corelated with higher daily dose of sleep medications. This supports previous literature about the effect of THC on insomnia, where lower contents of THC being most effective to alleviate insomnia are reported.

Conclusion 

These preliminary findings suggest that cannabis has the potential to significantly reduce the use of traditional sleep medications, particularly among older adults. The preference for specific forms of cannabis in patients using high doses of sleep medications, and a higher effectiveness of capsules in reducing its use highlights important considerations for patient preferences and adherence. As MSA continues this research, we aim to further elucidate the mechanisms behind these trends and refine our understanding of how cannabis can be optimized for managing insomnia and sleep disturbances. 

Additionally, MSA aims to support the development of comprehensive guidelines to help clinicians incorporate cannabis safely into insomnia treatment plans. A high-level of evidence from real-world data can help regulatory bodies to update policies based on the latest research and implement educational programs for both healthcare providers and patients about the safe use of cannabis for sleep disorders.

If you are interested in learning more or getting involved with MSA by being a prominent leader in cannabis research, we’d love to hear from you. You can reach out to Madeline Grant at mgrant@msa.com to schedule an introductory call.

I heard someone say, ‘Great things in business are never done by one person. They’re done by a team of people.’ I would guess that if you have made it to the finish line, you’re likely to already have a team. Now it’s time to expand that team. As if the odds aren’t already stacked, in the fast-paced world of cannabis retail, turnover rates are hitting a staggering 55% within a year, per headset.io as of November 2023. I learned about this very early on when I began my research. I needed to know why and what I could do to avoid more than half my staff quitting within the first year. There were some common factors that led to employee attrition. I was a bit surprised to hear that pay wasn’t a top factor. What I learned was budtenders, in particular, didn’t feel the company provided any kind of staff development. Many instances described a poor management staff, and many felt unappreciated and overworked.

When we started this thing, it was important to make sure we could create opportunities for others. I’ve worked for both big and small businesses, some corporate and some non-corporate. I have had some good managers and some bad ones. I learned something from each job I’ve held. I vowed to make sure my staff never looked at our managers and our company and put us in the bad category. Trust is earned, and leadership can never be forced. I opened doors on April 22nd, and we hired 21 part-time employees. I will follow up in 12 months to see if I beat the odds. I’ve done it before.

It was through the NCIA network I met Carlo, and he had me go through a workshop. What I learned was, first, we needed to ask ourselves: What are our principles at Banyan Tree? My team is amazing, and we have been together so long we trust in each other’s expertise to maintain a harmonious environment. We want to make sure the staff feels the same way. So collectively, we created a list of principles. Next, we posted the job position. The response was overwhelming. Within 24 hours, we had close to 500 applications. We narrowed that down to 50. We scored the candidates based on their work experience and the video response they provided, aligning with our principles. Next, we scheduled the interviews. We called each candidate to share what they could expect during the interview. We sent them the list of our principles. We would be conducting the interview using the S.T.A.R. method: Specific, Task, Action, Result. That means the questions we ask will all be related to their work experience. We expect the answers you give to describe an experience that uses the S.T.A.R method response. It really helps us get to know the candidates during the interview, and you can tell someone is being genuine when they can recall an experience they had while working at previous jobs. There were about 21 of those interviews that went on for a full hour. We hired 21 amazing people. They all feel like they are part of something special. It’s my job to keep my promise.

It’s important to continue developing and educating the staff to help them get better at their skill. It is necessary to provide them with the tools they need to perform their job. Stuff like scanners and POS systems and card readers need to work. Technical issues disrupt the flow, but that’s controllable. Communication and trust are key. Without it, you’re doomed. Appreciation and praise go a long way. We need customers to stay in business, but we can’t do business without staff. My philosophy is that my employees are everything. As long as they love their job, our guests are going to reap the benefits.