SELF-CARE
Cannabis Wellness and Utility
While self-care encompasses inheriting the Kingdom of Heaven, springing living waters from us, Cannabis use has accompanied mankind since our recorded history and greatly benefited our wellness and prosperity. Actually, the practice of prohibitory discouragement and temperance from it instead of lawful moderation, has fostered an epidemic of health dysfunctions from Clinical Endocannabinoid System Deficiency that can grieve our Holy Temples.
We encourage all to identify their own honoring of the great commandments, and how well it serves us, as well as respects Christ Jesus. We understand the public and spiritual dangers of an evil leadership and influence in our lives, and to overcome unrighteous yokes. Proverbs 22:24-25 teaches us to not go with a furious man, like Harry Anslinger and Richard Nixon, lest we can learn his ways and have our soul become ensnared.
Judgements of condemnation for Cannabis have been disgracefully too common in our generations, overshadowing the actualities of our God-given herb that is not the "men-ace". Cleansing ourselves from Cannabis misinformation, prejudice, and bias, ensuring we have firm foundations, circumcised (non-hardened) hearts, and unbounding clarity fosters our ability to lead righteously and come together for the greater good.
Over the past century, so much has been "sacrificed" to support the establishment of this unethical governance, and mercy is what Jesus tells us we need to understand instead (Matthew 9:13). With 70% of Americans believing we should end adult Cannabis offenses, and our president proclaiming we should end its incarceration, we have the unprecedented opportunity to show how we can build when we start at mercy for ourselves and others.
Cannabis and Self-Care
To help others overcome bias, prejudice, and stigma surrounding marijuana for social and self-preservation, especially given its prohibition's origin in myth and xenophobia, as well as it's official War's origin of prejudice and bigotry over science and public wellbeing, enjoy the following exhibits.
Cannabinoid Related Products
Non-Cannabinoid Products
Cannabis is not only valuable for its cannabinoids but also for its diverse range of non-cannabinoid products that offer significant nutritional, environmental, and industrial benefits. By embracing the full potential of cannabis, we can create an open market that supports sustainable practices, fosters innovation, and provides essential resources for a variety of needs.
Nutritional Powerhouse: The raw components of cannabis—sprouts, leaves, stems, stalks, and seeds—are packed with nearly all essential nutrients, including nine essential amino acids, dietary fiber, enzymes, vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, protein, fat, water, and trace minerals. Cannabis seeds, in particular, are an excellent source of protein, containing similar amounts by weight as beef and lamb, making them a perfect plant-based alternative. They also provide gamma-linolenic acid, which is associated with various health benefits, and are rich in vitamin E and minerals such as phosphorus, potassium, sodium, magnesium, sulfur, calcium, iron, and zinc. Cannabis seed milk and flour offer nutritious, dairy-free alternatives for those seeking to enhance their diets with essential nutrients, fatty acids, and vitamins.
Sustainable Materials for Industry and Construction: Beyond its nutritional value, cannabis can be processed into a wide array of sustainable materials. Hemp fiber is a renewable resource that can be used to produce paper, offering a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional wood pulp. Hemp plastic, which produces nanocellulose as a byproduct, is incredibly strong—surpassing even steel in resilience. In construction, hempcrete, made from hemp hurd, water, and lime, provides a lightweight and effective alternative to conventional concrete, offering excellent insulation and heat regulation for buildings. These materials not only reduce our reliance on non-renewable resources but also promote sustainable building practices.
Versatile Biofuels and Skincare Solutions: Cannabis also contributes to the renewable energy sector with its potential as a biofuel. Hemp can be processed into biodiesel from its seed oil and ethanol or methanol from stalk cellulose, providing biodegradable and less combustible alternatives to fossil fuels. This transition to cannabis-based biofuels could significantly reduce our carbon footprint and reliance on environmentally damaging fossil fuels. Additionally, hemp oil's anti-inflammatory properties make it a popular choice in skincare products, providing natural solutions for those seeking to enhance their skincare routines without synthetic chemicals.
A Comprehensive Approach to Cannabis Utilization: By recognizing the value of cannabis beyond its cannabinoids, we can create a more inclusive and open market that leverages the plant's full potential. From providing essential nutrients and sustainable materials to offering renewable energy solutions and natural skincare products, cannabis serves a multitude of purposes that can benefit individuals and communities alike. This comprehensive approach not only enhances economic opportunities but also promotes environmental stewardship and public health.
In conclusion, the versatility of cannabis extends far beyond its cannabinoid content, encompassing a wide range of non-cannabinoid products that support sustainable living, innovation, and wellness. By making cannabis lawful and accessible, we can unlock these opportunities and create a thriving market that benefits everyone, fostering a more sustainable and prosperous future.
Cannabis, known in ancient texts as "kaneh bosem" and revered as the "Good Plant" in Tibetan traditions, is a holy plant gifted by God for the edification and healing of humanity. This sacred herb, long misunderstood and stigmatized, contains a remarkable array of unique compounds, including phytocannabinoids, flavonoids, carotenoids, terpenes, and phytocannabinoid acids. These components, found nowhere else in the plant kingdom, offer unparalleled benefits for health maintenance and restoration. As we move towards understanding cannabis as a divine gift, it is crucial to overcome misconceptions about its psychoactive properties and recognize its true potential for promoting wellness and healing.
Understanding Cannabinoids and Their Benefits: The cannabis plant produces various cannabinoids in both their neutral (activated) forms, like THC and CBD, and as acid precursors, such as tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA). THCA, found abundantly in raw cannabis, is a non-intoxicating compound that converts to THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, when exposed to heat through processes like drying and decarboxylation. Despite common fears surrounding THC's psychoactivity, it is important to note that THC's therapeutic benefits are substantial and can be harnessed without inducing a "high." Research has demonstrated that THCA itself has significant anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antiemetic properties without the intoxicating effects of THC, making it a valuable component of the plant's therapeutic arsenal.
The Entourage Effect: A Holistic Approach to Therapy: The concept of the entourage effect highlights the synergistic relationship between cannabinoids like THC and CBD and other compounds in cannabis, such as terpenes and flavonoids. This theory posits that these compounds work together to enhance the overall therapeutic effects of cannabis, allowing for effective pain management, reduced inflammation, and other health benefits with lower doses and fewer psychoactive effects. By embracing the entourage effect, we can develop targeted therapies that utilize the full spectrum of cannabis compounds, providing holistic and natural relief for various conditions.
Debunking Myths About Psychoactivity and Addiction:
Cannabis is often misunderstood due to its psychoactive component, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). While THC can induce a "high," it is important to differentiate between the psychoactivity of cannabis and that of other substances. For example, alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that impairs motor skills, judgment, and reaction times, often leading to accidents and risky behaviors. Unlike alcohol, THC does not typically cause aggression or lead to violent behavior. In fact, many users report feelings of relaxation and enhanced focus.
Prescription medications, especially opioids, have potent psychoactive effects that can lead to physical dependence, addiction, and even overdose. Opioids act by binding to specific receptors in the brain, dulling pain but also producing euphoria and profound sedation. Cannabis, by contrast, has never been conclusively linked to overdose fatalities. Even with its psychoactive properties, cannabis has a significantly lower risk profile in terms of acute toxicity.
Addiction and Dependence:
The risk of addiction with cannabis is also often exaggerated. Studies indicate that cannabis has a lower potential for addiction compared to substances like tobacco, alcohol, and opioids. According to research, about 9% of people who use cannabis may develop a dependency, a figure that is significantly lower than the dependency rates for alcohol (15%) and tobacco (32%). Additionally, withdrawal symptoms from cannabis are generally mild and temporary, typically involving symptoms like irritability, insomnia, and reduced appetite. These are far less severe than the withdrawal symptoms associated with alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines, which can be life-threatening without medical supervision.
Neurotoxicity and Cognitive Effects:
Cannabis also stands out for its relatively low neurotoxicity. While excessive use of any substance can lead to negative health outcomes, long-term studies have not conclusively shown that cannabis causes significant long-term cognitive decline. This contrasts sharply with substances like alcohol, which is known to cause brain damage with chronic use, particularly in heavy drinkers. Similarly, tobacco use is linked to a range of neurological impairments and conditions, including stroke and cognitive decline due to its harmful effects on the cardiovascular system.
Safety and Physical Health:
In terms of physical health, cannabis is generally safer than many other substances. Smoking anything, including cannabis, can have adverse respiratory effects, but cannabis users do not seem to have an increased risk of lung cancer, as studies have shown no conclusive link between heavy cannabis use and lung cancer. This is a stark contrast to tobacco, which is the leading cause of preventable death worldwide, responsible for various cancers, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses. Additionally, cannabis is not associated with liver disease, unlike alcohol, which can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, and other serious health conditions with long-term use.
Cannabis and Harm Reduction:
Beyond its safety profile, cannabis is often cited as a harm reduction tool, especially in the context of opioid addiction. Research has demonstrated that cannabis can serve as an "exit drug" for individuals struggling with addiction to opioids and alcohol. It offers a safer alternative for pain management, reducing reliance on more dangerous substances. Unlike opioids, which have a high potential for fatal overdose, cannabis has been shown to help manage pain and other symptoms with significantly lower risk.
Cannabinoid Acids and Non-Psychoactive Therapies: Beyond THC and CBD, the acidic precursors in cannabis, such as THCA and CBDA, offer unique therapeutic potential without psychoactive effects. These cannabinoid acids can provide anti-inflammatory and analgesic benefits, making them suitable for individuals seeking relief without the "high" associated with traditional cannabis use. This highlights the versatility of cannabis as a therapeutic agent, capable of meeting diverse health needs and preferences.
As we recognize the divine purpose of cannabis, we must also advocate for its lawful cultivation and use by individuals. Everyone should have the right to access and utilize this sacred plant, free from oppressive regulations and stigmatization. By fostering an open and incentivized market for cannabis, we can promote entrepreneurship, community well-being, and a deeper connection to this remarkable gift from God. This approach not only aligns with the principles of liberty and personal freedom but also honors the plant's role in edifying and uplifting humanity.
Wellness Practices
A Path to Homeostasis, Neurogenesis, and ECS Restoration
Cannabis has been used for centuries for its therapeutic properties, and modern wellness practices are increasingly recognizing its benefits in promoting balance and healing within the body. From supporting homeostasis to encouraging neurogenesis and addressing clinical endocannabinoid system (ECS) deficiency, cannabis has the potential to improve health outcomes and should be considered an inalienable right for every individual as part of their pursuit of life, liberty, and happiness.
The ECS plays a fundamental role in maintaining homeostasis, or the body's internal balance, by regulating pain, mood, appetite, immune function, and more. Cannabis interacts with the ECS to help restore this balance, making it a powerful tool for promoting overall well-being. Additionally, research indicates that cannabis supports necessary neurogenesis—the growth and development of new neurons—potentially offering benefits for neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
For over a century, cannabis prohibition and propaganda have overshadowed the importance of the ECS, leading to widespread clinical ECS deficiency. This deficiency has been implicated in over 8 billion incidents of conditions that could have been mitigated or prevented with proper ECS support. Twenty-five years ago, the U.S. government patented cannabinoids for their medicinal properties, yet access remains restricted under outdated regulations. By recognizing cannabis as a wellness practice rather than a controlled substance, individuals could use it to correct ECS deficiencies, reduce chronic pain, and manage various health conditions without reliance on pharmaceuticals or oligarchic control.
In modern wellness practices, cannabis is increasingly being incorporated into meditation, spa services, and nutraceuticals, serving as a tool for contemplation, relaxation, and healing. The Institute of Medicine has found that cannabis has medicinal value and is not a gateway drug. In fact, evidence shows that cannabis can act as an exit drug from addictions such as alcohol and opioids, providing a safer alternative to synthetic substances. It is time to recognize cannabis as a vital, natural nutraceutical that aligns with the best interests of humanity, supporting the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness through integral cannabis practices—whether in industry or homesteading.
By embracing cannabis as a lawful and accessible option for all, we can empower individuals to take control of their health and wellness, free from pharmaceutical dependence and societal stigma. It is a fundamental right to access the benefits of cannabis as a natural means to support the ECS, promote healing, and enhance overall quality of life.
Utilization and Entrepreneurship
Cannabis has historically been a versatile crop, providing fuel, food, fiber, paper, and wellness products. It was even once used as lawful tender for paying taxes, underscoring its economic significance. With cannabis now increasingly recognized for its vast potential, a legal and open market could transform it into a major economic driver. By making cannabis lawful and accessible, we can open up a multitude of opportunities for entrepreneurship and innovation. Individuals could grow cannabis at home, start small businesses, or engage in cooperative ventures, thereby fostering economic independence and community growth.
A Thriving Industry Awaits: The global industrial hemp market was valued at $6.63 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow to $31.98 billion by 2030. Meanwhile, the U.S. cannabis market was valued at $13.2 billion in 2022 and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of 14.2% from 2023 to 2030. These figures demonstrate the immense economic potential of the cannabis industry, which could be further unlocked by embracing a lawful and open market approach. By removing barriers to entry and encouraging a diverse range of business models—including co-ops, social clubs, LLCs, and nonprofits—we can ensure that the benefits of this growth are broadly shared.
In addition to its economic benefits, cannabis offers substantial potential for wellness and healthcare. Many states are already incorporating cannabis into nutraceutical plans, and public interest in cannabis products with cannabinoid profiles that elicit the entourage effect is growing. The wellness market is poised to boom, especially as cannabis oils and other wellness products gain mainstream acceptance. However, these opportunities could be undermined if cannabis is overly regulated and restricted to pharmaceutical control, as some policymakers propose. Instead, cannabis should be accessible to all, allowing individuals to take charge of their own health and well-being outside of pharmaceutical dependency.
Having Cannabis in an open and incentivized market not only promotes economic growth but also fosters social justice and community development. By supporting innovative and diverse cannabis enterprises, we can create a more inclusive industry that benefits everyone.
To ensure the success of this new paradigm, we have education and support for aspiring cannabis entrepreneurs. Offering preparatory courses, certificates, and consultation services will help build a knowledgeable and capable workforce ready to lead the cannabis industry into the future. By moving beyond stigma and embracing the full potential of cannabis, we can create a market that not only enhances economic opportunity but also promotes wellness and community empowerment.