The Science of Cannabis: Does It Help or Hurt With Anxiety? Is It Addictive? What's the Safest Way To Use It? | Dr. Riley Kirk

Overview

This episode dives deep into the science, history, and practicalities of cannabis use with Dr. Riley Kirk, a cannabis research scientist. Topics include the endocannabinoid system, health benefits, risks, and the complex cultural and legal history of cannabis. The conversation also explores how to safely and effectively use cannabis for various purposes, from anxiety relief to creativity enhancement.

Notable Quotes

- Cannabis is not a pharmaceutical product; it’s a living plant with 400 compounds, making it both fascinating and complex to navigate. – Dr. Riley Kirk

- If you’re using cannabis every day and it’s improving your quality of life, that’s not addiction—that’s medicine. – Dr. Riley Kirk

- The stigma around cannabis is rooted in racism and propaganda, and we still see its effects today with people in prison for something that’s now a multi-billion-dollar industry. – Dr. Riley Kirk

🌿 The Science of Cannabis and the Endocannabinoid System

- The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a natural regulatory system in the body that helps maintain balance (homeostasis) in areas like sleep, mood, appetite, and pain.

- Cannabis interacts with this system through compounds like THC (psychoactive) and CBD (non-psychoactive), which bind to cannabinoid receptors in the body.

- THC can help with chronic pain and appetite stimulation, while CBD is effective for anxiety, inflammation, and seizures.

📜 The History and Stigma of Cannabis

- Cannabis has been used medicinally for centuries, starting with traditional Chinese medicine and later in cultures like Jamaica for spiritual purposes.

- In the U.S., cannabis became stigmatized through racist propaganda targeting African Americans and Mexican Americans, leading to its criminalization during the war on drugs.

- Despite legalization in many states, cannabis remains a Schedule 1 drug federally, and people are still imprisoned for cannabis-related offenses.

⚠️ Risks and Misconceptions

- High doses of THC can cause anxiety, paranoia, and panic attacks, especially in new or sensitive users.

- Cannabis does not cause schizophrenia but can exacerbate symptoms or lower the age of onset in those genetically predisposed.

- Adolescents face unique risks, including potential impacts on brain development and the dangers of high-THC vape products.

🛠️ Safe and Effective Use

- Start low and go slow: Begin with small doses, especially for THC, and adjust based on your body’s response.

- Delivery methods vary: Smoking and vaping provide quicker effects, while edibles and tinctures offer longer-lasting but delayed results. Dry herb vaporizers are a healthier inhalation option.

- Sourcing matters: Purchase from legal dispensaries or grow your own to ensure product quality and safety.

💡 Cannabis for Wellness and Creativity

- Cannabis can enhance creativity and productivity by helping users enter a flow state, though effects vary by strain and dosage.

- It’s increasingly used for specific health challenges like menopause, where it helps regulate mood, sleep, and hormonal imbalances.

- Exercise enthusiasts are also using cannabis as a pre-workout to improve focus and blood flow.