Author: Peter Grinspoon
Peter Grinspoon
Dr. Peter Grinspoon is a primary care physician, educator, and cannabis specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital; an instructor at Harvard Medical School; and a certified health and wellness coach. He is the author of Seeing Through the Smoke: A Cannabis Specialist Untangles the Truth About Marijuana, as well as the groundbreaking memoir Free Refills: A Doctor Confronts His Addiction. He is a board member of the advocacy group Doctors for Cannabis Regulation. He is also a TedX speaker and commonly lectures on the topics of cannabis, psychedelics, addiction, opioids, and physician health.
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open has investigated the potential of cannabidiol (CBD) to alleviate anxiety among breast cancer patients, particularly in the context of scan-related anxiety, also known as "scanxiety." While the findings indicated that a single dose of CBD did not significantly reduce scanxiety, the study suggested that CBD could effectively decrease overall anxiety levels in these patients. Collaborative Research Effort Researchers from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Mass General Brigham Hospital joined forces to assess the efficacy of CBD in managing anxiety. The randomized clinical trial involved 50 women aged 18 years or older with advanced…
Chronic pain is a debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide, leading to a constant search for safer and more effective ways to manage pain. One treatment option that has gained increasing attention in recent years is CBD oil. But what exactly is CBD oil, and can it truly help alleviate chronic pain? Let's dive in and explore this topic in-depth. Understanding CBD and CBD Oil To grasp the potential of CBD oil for pain management, it's essential first to understand what CBD is and how it differs from other compounds found in the cannabis plant. CBD, short for…
Cannabidiol, more commonly known as CBD, has taken the world by storm, popping up in everything from drinks and pet products to lotions and chewable gummies. Even major drugstore chains have announced plans to start carrying CBD products in certain states. But with the marketing hype and enthusiasm for CBD products far outpacing the scientific evidence, many consumers find themselves confused and unsure about the true nature and potential benefits of this ubiquitous compound. In this comprehensive guide, we will dive deep into the world of CBD, addressing the most common questions and concerns surrounding this popular cannabinoid. By the…
Imagine walking into your local health food store and seeing shelves lined with CBD-infused products. From oils to gummies, lotions to coffee, it seems like CBD has taken over the wellness world overnight. But what's the real story behind this cannabis compound that's causing such a buzz? Let's dive into the world of CBD and separate fact from fiction. What Exactly is CBD? CBD, short for cannabidiol, is one of the many compounds found in cannabis plants. Unlike its famous cousin THC, CBD won't get you high. Instead, it's making waves for its potential health benefits without the psychoactive effects.…
The legalization of recreational marijuana in New York state has sparked a renewed interest in understanding the various terms and nicknames associated with the cannabis plant. With the signing of the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act by Governor Andrew Cuomo on March 31, 2021, adults aged 21 and older can now legally possess up to three ounces of marijuana or 24 grams of marijuana concentrate in the Empire State1. The Many Names of Cannabis Marijuana, weed, marihuana, pot, cannabis, and numerous other terms all refer to the same plant species: Cannabis sativa. This plant contains naturally occurring, complex cannabinoids such…
As marijuana legalization gains momentum across the United States for both medical and recreational purposes, it is crucial to examine the complex relationship between the drug and mental health conditions, particularly depression. While the increased accessibility of marijuana has led to a rise in its use among the general population, the growth is even more significant among individuals with depression1. This article aims to provide a comprehensive, evidence-based overview of the interplay between depression and marijuana use, exploring the potential risks, benefits, and the importance of seeking professional treatment. The Prevalence of Marijuana Use Among Individuals with Depression Numerous studies…
As marijuana use becomes increasingly prevalent due to growing acceptance and decriminalization, it is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of the potential risks and side effects associated with its consumption. This article aims to provide an in-depth, evidence-based overview of the physical, mental, and long-term effects of marijuana use, drawing from authoritative sources and research findings to ensure readers have access to accurate and reliable information. Marijuana: Forms and Prevalence Marijuana, derived from the Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica plant, is used in various forms, including smoking (joints, pipes, bongs, or blunts), ingesting (edibles or tea), and extracts (hash…