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The health benefits of cannabis and hemp plants have been gaining in popularity and support from both legislation and the medical community in recent years. The research showing how CBD helps with pain management, inflammation, mental health, neurodegenerative disorders, and more are abundant and clear.
Janice Newell Bissex is a holistic cannabis practitioner who is joining me today to take a deep dive on all things cannabis and how it can be used to help us age better. Janice is a registered dietician, cookbook author, and nutritionist. Her journey exploring cannabis started when her dad, who suffered with severe pain from spinal fractures, found pain relief for the first time with cannabis. It was all the proof she needed to go deep into learning everything possible about it and pivot to a new career.
In this episode we’re answering real questions and concerns about cannabis so you no longer have to wonder, but will have the information you need to make an informed decision.
“It’s promoting healing. It’s not masking it, it’s helping your body, your tissues heal.” -Janice Newell Bissex
What is CBD?
CBD is a cannabinoid in cannabis and hemp plants that is much higher in the hemp plant. It has the potential to decrease agitation in Alzheimer’s patients and decrease those tangles in amyloid plaques.
Cannabis Fun Fact:
It wasn’t made illegal because of medical or science reasons, it was political (you can read up on the history of cannabis in Janice’s terrific book — “Simple Guide to CBD“.
3 Common Reasons for CBD use:
- Pain
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
Downside of CBD
Various forms of cannabis have shown to be beneficial for things like menopause and bone health, but there are downsides to anything that sounds too good to be true. Janice explains how she’s found drug interactions with certain blood thinners. It doesn’t totally dismiss the use of CBD, but just means that you need to know when and how to use it safely and in what doses, and of course, always check in with your healthcare provider.
Janice explains why you’ll want to be cautious using CBD if you have low blood pressure or known gastro issues. She also shares how vivid dreams and fatigue are side effects for some people, though not all, and these side effects are short-term as your body is adjusting. The big thing she warns to be careful with is THC, which will give you that “high” feeling. Microdosing THC however, according to Janice, can be super helpful.
Cannabis Fun Fact:
Cannabis has been used medicinally for thousands of years.
“CBD […] is psychoactive because it affects the brain, but it’s calming versus intoxicating” -Janice Newell Bissex
Busting CBD Myths
- CBD will get you stoned
- Medicinal cannabis makes you tired
- State laws about cannabis
- Age group with biggest increase in cannabis use
- Medical cannabis is addictive
- Smoking cannabis increases risk of lung cancer
Cannabis Fun Fact:
The government got a patent in 2003 on CBD as a neuro protectant and antioxidant.
Janice Newell Bissex’s 3 Episode Takeaways:
- Cannabis can help a LOT of people
- When looking for CBD products, look for a COA (Certificate of Analysis)
- You will not understand the benefits until you or someone you love experiences the relief cannabis offers.
JANICE IS OFFERING GRUFFTALK LISTENERS A 15% DISCOUNT ON HER LINE OF CBD PRODUCTS. USE THE CODE ‘CALM’ AT CHECKOUT.
Connect with Janice Newell Bissex
Connect with Barbara:
Love Your Age: The Small-Step Solution to a Better, Longer, Happier Life
Barbara Hannah Grufferman website
Instagram @Barbara Hannah Grufferman
Facebook @BarbaraHannahGruffermanAuthor
If you’d like to submit your questions for a future episode send and email to grufftalkpodcast@gmail.com
