Author: Hilary Macht
Hilary Macht
Hilary Macht is a longtime health writer and former health editor whose work has appeared in dozens of media outlets including Everyday Health, The New York Times, Prevention, Civil Eats, and the Columbia Journalism Review. Her work is distributed by the National Center for Health Research and the Foundation for Informed Medical Decision Making.
A single 800 mg dose of cannabidiol (CBD) significantly reduced alcohol cravings and dampened activity in a key brain region associated with addiction in individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD), according to a recent study. The findings, published in the journal Molecular Psychiatry, provide new insights into the neurobiological basis for CBD's potential as a treatment option for AUD. CBD is a non-intoxicating compound found in the cannabis plant that does not produce a "high" and has gained interest for its potential therapeutic properties, including reducing anxiety and seizures. This new study, led by author Sina Zimmermann, aimed to test whether…
In the first placebo-controlled study of its kind, researchers have found that vaporized marijuana can provide significant and sustained relief from acute migraine headaches. The study, presented at the American Headache Society’s annual meeting, revealed that participants who used either a THC-dominant cannabis product or a combination THC-CBD product were significantly more likely to report pain relief after two hours compared to those who received a placebo. The findings offer compelling new evidence for the potential of cannabis as a viable treatment for this often debilitating neurological condition. This research comes as conversations around alternative treatments for severe headaches are…
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has spurred researchers worldwide to search for novel therapies and preventive measures, especially for those who may not have access to vaccines or are experiencing breakthrough infections. In this context, a recent study led by the University of Chicago, in collaboration with the University of Louisville and other institutions, has shed light on a promising candidate: cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound derived from the cannabis plant. Understanding the Study The research team, in their study published in Science Advances, discovered that CBD can inhibit the infection of human cells by SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19,…
A new study from researchers at the University of California San Diego's Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science and Moores Cancer Center has found that e-cigarette use does not increase smoking cessation among smokers in the United States. In fact, the study suggests that vaping, especially on a daily basis, may actually make it harder for smokers to quit. The findings, published on March 5 in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), challenge the common belief that e-cigarettes can help people quit smoking. "Most smokers think vaping will help you quit smoking," said study…
Pregnancy is a crucial period for fetal development, and expectant mothers often take great care to ensure the health and well-being of their unborn children. While the dangers of traditional smoking during pregnancy are well-known, the rise of e-cigarettes (e-cigs) has led many to believe that vaping is a safer alternative. However, new research suggests that this perception may be misguided, as vaping during pregnancy can expose newborns to nicotine, toxic aerosols, and oxidative stress, potentially putting them at risk for lifelong lung issues. In this article, we'll explore the findings of a recent review published in the journal Antioxidants,…
As the sober-curious movement gains momentum and health concerns surrounding alcohol consumption rise, a new contender has emerged in the world of social beverages: THC-infused drinks. These cannabis-based concoctions, which have experienced a surge in popularity thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill declassifying hemp as a Controlled Substance, promise a buzz similar to alcohol without the associated side effects. But are they truly a healthier choice? Let's explore the risks and benefits of these trendy drinks, with insights from a medical doctor and three cannabis experts. Inside THC Beverages: A Closer Look THC drinks typically contain Delta-9, the cannabinoid responsible…
Cannabidiol (CBD), a naturally occurring compound found in the flowers and leaves of cannabis plants, has gained significant attention for its potential health benefits. Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it cannot produce a "high" regardless of the amount consumed. The effects of CBD can vary depending on the type and strength of the product used, as well as the dosing method. To better understand how long it takes to feel the effects of CBD and how long they last, we consulted with Boris Shcharansky, the Chief Operating Officer at Papa & Barkley, a leading cannabis wellness company. Shcharansky shared…
Cannabis has experienced a surge in popularity among older adults, with many individuals in their 60s and beyond turning to this versatile plant for medical reasons. From alleviating pain and improving sleep to reducing anxiety, cannabis offers a range of potential benefits that appeal to this growing demographic. However, as with any substance, it's crucial to understand the risks and take appropriate precautions, especially for those with chronic conditions or those taking certain medications. Understanding Cannabis and Its Components Cannabis, derived from the Cannabis plant, comes in various forms, including dried plant material, oils, vape pens, and edible products. The…
In a groundbreaking study published in the journal Exploration in Medicine, University of Colorado Cancer Center researcher Angela Bryan, PhD, uncovered a surprising finding: over-the-counter cannabis products not only help cancer patients cope with pain, anxiety, sleeplessness, and depression but also improve their cognitive function. Bryan, a former breast cancer patient who used cannabis to manage her pain during treatment, has focused her recent research on the effects of legalized cannabis in Colorado. This particular study aimed to investigate the potential benefits of over-the-counter cannabis products for cancer patients dealing with various symptoms. Unexpected Cognitive Improvement The study observed 25…
CBD and THC, both derived from the cannabis plant, are two distinct compounds with unique properties that affect the human body differently. While THC is known for its psychoactive effects, CBD is non-intoxicating and has gained recognition for its potential therapeutic benefits. What is CBD? Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring compound found in the cannabis plant. It is one of over 100 cannabinoids identified in cannabis, and it has gained significant attention for its potential health benefits. CBD can be extracted from both hemp and marijuana plants, but it is most commonly derived from hemp due to its low…