Cannabis Science Inc (fka CBIS)

[planetaryfuture]

"The Benefits and Limits Of Medical Marijuana" link is of vital importance. Thanks, Pollux, for posting this PBS presentation. One begins to grasp the reasons for delays, and lack of progress concerning MMJ implementation since the man-in-charge appears to come to the table with unsupported unscientific perceptions. I admit, his views must have some semblance of validity to him. At least, Dr. Voth recognizes the existence of an endocannabinoid system. What a relief. However, he appears enamored by the "magic-bullet" theory which alleges a particular cannabinoid may be sufficient to trigger the desired effect. Dr. Voth's approach ensures patents can be issued. His apparent short-sighted theory excites Big Pharma to no end since they are lined-up hoping to reap big profits. On the other hand, Dr. Melamede has spoken extensively about the shortcomings of "magic-bullet" tunnel vision.

For guidance, I look toward Newton's third law: "For every action there is an equal, and opposite reaction." This particular law places a focus on the importance of natural balance. Why did our planetary evolution produce the biochemical constituents of the cannabis plant the way we find them today? Why do all vertebrates have an endocannabinoid system? Is it wise to minimize the importance of the full-spectrum of phytocannabinoids before we really understand how they work together?

So...you mean we are all biochemically oriented to respond to the full-range of phytocannabinoids found in the cannabis plant? It sure looks that way. And the psychoactive effects of cannabis tends to frighten certain personality types, even though many people are totally comfortable with the psychoactive experience.

I just want to say that, "When one alters biochemical balance for any reason, there will be a noticeable, and measurable reaction." Here's where I appreciate Newton's Third Law. And sometimes synthetic medicines are medically impressive, but don't forget about the long list of side-effect symptoms for all drugs. Some of the FDA wonder-drugs have caused irreparable damage resulting in loss of life. It is wonderful to realize modern science is "trying" to help humanity. Does this mean all people have the capacity to access beneficial critical thinking skills to help themselves or others?


Let's take a glance at Dr. Voth:


Dr. Voth's argument against marijuana in the PBS piece is prefaced with his opinion that because the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not proven the plant to be safe and effective, it is not a real medicine.

In the mind of Dr. Voth and conventional medicine, only an "active component" that has been individually tested and shown to produce a specific, measurable effect by itself is considered a valid medical treatment. Consuming a whole herb or plant to treat disease, on the other hand, is a foreign concept to people like Dr. Voth who simply cannot comprehend the idea that the multitude of components found in medicinal foods and herbs work in tandem with one another to produce a synergistic benefit. And such components might not be as effective -- and may even be harmful -- if they are removed from the others and isolated, or created synthetically.

I feel certain Dr. Melamede would relish an opportunity to have a scientifically-based discussion concerning the merit or cautions raised by taking a "magic-bullet approach" to fighting cancer with the cannabis plant. Are we sufficiently gifted as a country to face this degree of scrutiny, and moral maturity?

You find the link to the ten-minute video below.

http://video.pbs.org/video/2103797319

Best Wishes