Cannabis

Here in Canada, we are well into our second year of legalized cannabis. There have been lots of ups and downs for the industry, but I have enjoyed great experiences working on farms, having my own cannabis plants grow in my garden alongside other herbal medicines, formulating products, and helping my patients navigate medical cannabis.

One topic that seems to be off the radar, is the use of pesticides and other chemical contaminants in commercially grown cannabis, and the impact they have on our health.

We are concerned about the health risks associated with pesticides in our foods and agricultural products, and these are regulated by governing bodies. We have also seen that heating pesticides can change their composition and can decompose into very dangerous toxins (ie: chemicals used with tobacco).

To make matters worse, for those using cannabis medically (common conditions include palliative care, chemotherapy, pain, insomnia, anxiety, arthritis, glaucoma, gastrointestinal system disorders like IBS, IBD) vulnerability to these contaminants is often higher, increasing risk of health complications when exposed to these toxins.

So why isn't this talked about or researched more?

One major reason is that the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration considers cannabis to be a schedule 1 drugs, the same as heroin. Due to this, researchers need a special license to study it. With legalization in Canada, my hope is that this will open up opportunity for more research, to not only study the benefits of cannabis, but also complications that may be associated with contaminants.

Until that happens, I encourage those using cannabis to research companies that offer organic herb and products, or even better, take the opportunity to grow your own and get connected to this incredible plant. Legalization of cannabis was such an amazing feat, so embrace the opportunity to grow your own medicine.

Dr. Cristina Allen ND