Just 10% of users consumed a third of all the cannabis used in Canada in 2018, according to a study headed by a Northern Medical Program professor.

Dr. Russ Callaghan and his team looked at data from the 2018 National Cannabis Survey, which assessed patterns of cannabis use among Canadians at least 15 years old.

"The findings are similar to those in the alcohol field, where we have found that a small subgroup of drinkers usually consumes the majority of alcohol in the population," Callaghan said.

The team also found that males reported consuming 60 per cent of the cannabis consumed and males 15-34 years old disproportionately represented in the heaviest-using subgroups.

"This is the first study to identify this pattern, and it may be important for public-health strategies in designing interventions to reduce cannabis-related harms," Callaghan said.

He said future studies will look at characteristics of the heaviest-using cannabis user group, as well as assess how cannabis-related harms are distributed in Canadian society across individuals using different quantities.

In alcohol-related studies have found that five to 10 per cent of drinkers consume a majority of the volume.

There is also some evidence that most of the alcohol-related harms in societies are not found in the group of heaviest-drinking individuals, but rather in the much more numerous low-to-moderate-drinking groups.

The finding has been used as the basis for developing interventions for the entire population rather than on strategies designed for the heaviest-using subgroups.

"At this time, we don't know if the same pattern exists in relation to cannabis as it does for alcohol," Callaghan said.

The team was made up of researchers from UNBC, the University of British Columbia, the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and the Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research at the University of Victoria.

The demand for topical cannabis products has risen in the U.S., especially products that contain only cannabidiol (CBD). But what, exactly, does it do for skincare?

Topical cannabis products are ideal for localized relief, and in recent years, sales of these products have significantly grown. Specifically, topical cannabis product sales in Colorado, Oregon, and Washington increased from $14.2 million in 2015 to $26.39 million the next year. Since then, the demand for topical cannabis products has risen in the U.S., especially products that contain only cannabidiol (CBD). What’s the purpose and functionality of CBD’s presence in skincare products though?

Reasons For CBD’s Presence In Topical Cannabis Products

Due to CBD’s plethora of medicinal properties, more people are interested in trying forms of it, especially topical products like lotions, creams, oils, salves, and balms. To achieve localized relief, it’s common for cannabis users to administer topical CBD products to the areas of their body that need the most help. Fortunately, since CBD is non-psychoactive, it can be consumed or applied at anytime during the day or evening without worrying about feeling cerebrally high after usage.

Thus far, it has been found that CBD works to effectively relieve pain, muscle spasms, anxiety, inflammation, epilepsy, skin disorders, different neurological diseases, etc. Due to this cannabinoid’s known medicinal value, last month a CBD-based drug was approved by the U.S. FDA. The drug is called Epidiolex, and its purpose is to help treat epilepsy and seizure disorders. Since the U.S. FDA publicly acknowledged CBD’s medically beneficial profile via the approval of Epidiolex, the usage of CBD is becoming more accepted. This is one reason why CBD is used in different skincare and beauty products to this day.

Functionality Of CBD In Topical Products

So far, CBD is present in countless skincare creams, serums, oils, and gels with the intention of moisturizing the body’s skin, relieving pain caused by different skin disorders, smoothing out wrinkles, and preventing breakouts and acne. How does this cannabinoid really work in skincare products though, and is it truly effective? One board-certified dermatologist, Jeanette Jacknin who specializes in topical cannabinoids used in different skincare products expressed that several studies have discovered CBD’s impact on the body’s endocannabinoid system, which results in the skin often looking rejuvenated and youthful. The study that Jacknin referred to was one that focused on visible signs of aging in mice in which it was found that CBD could effectively slow down the aging process.

Furthermore, Tamás Bíró—professor, department chair of Immunology at the University of Debrecen in Hungary, and director of applied research at Phytecs shared his knowledge on CBD’s value, especially regarding the treatment of skin issues. Bíró mentioned that CBD possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which can be useful in treating conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and acne. Bíró then conducted cell model research in which it was found that CBD inhibited sebum production while also normalizing overactive sebaceous gland cells, which is known as one major cause of acne. Thus, there’s a significant potential in CBD not only treating various skin disorders but also relieving inflamed and dry skin and preventing acne.

The Growth Of Mislabeled Online CBD Products

Now, let’s touch on the growing issue of mislabeled online CBD products. According to a Journal of the American Medical Association study, it was discovered that there’s an extensive amount of mislabeled online CBD products. Bíró expressed the following about this matter, “…at this moment, CBD and marijuana products are totally unregulated and the ingredients in the jar don’t have to be the same as on the packaging because no one is checking.”

Generally, the most effective ways to find the best Cannabidiol companies on the market is to contact the company and inquire about the steps they take to ensure that their products are consistent and accurate to what’s displayed on their label. These companies should willingly release their up-to-date product’s test results. To avoid the time-consuming process of finding credible CBD products, several CBD-based skincare products are listed below thanks to recommendations from different experts within this cannabis sector.

Effective & Credible CBD Skincare Products

Charlotte’s Web Hemp Infused Cream: Natural Partners is one company that upon request is willing to provide an analysis certificate of any product that’s sold. Natural Partners sell CBD products including Charlotte’s Web body cream that includes Vitamin B, Aloe Vera, and shea butter to help soothe, relieve, and heal inflamed skin. Also, the production of Charlotte’s Web products follows the FDA’s good manufacturing practice guidelines to ensure that they produce safe yet high-quality products.

Myaderm CBD Blemish Control: Myaderm’s products aren’t only formulated by pharmacists, but Myaderm also undergo tests and attains results from Botanacor labs to ensure that each batch of CBD products are pure.

Cannuka CBD Calming Eye Balm: Cannuka uses a mixture of hemp-derived CBD isolate, manuka honey, and Vitamin E to deliver moisture and brightness to the skin near the eyes. The CBD isolate that’s used is tested by Botanacor, and in previous tests, it was found that the products are 99.7 percent pure, and they contain zero impurities.

Vertly CBD Infused Lip Balm: Vertly’s lip balm not only relives dry and chapped lips, but it moisturizes them and delivers anti-inflammatory properties. Vertly’s CBD is also extensively tested throughout the production stage by starting at the hemp farm and then when CBD is added into the product. Additionally, Vertly is partnered with Credo, a natural beauty store/spa that follows strict standards for the products they stock. Thus, Vertly’s products are held to the same standards.

CBD Skincare Co.Body Bar: These CBD body bars soothe dry and itchy skin while softening it after usage. According to Scott Rushton, a founding partner of The CBD Skincare Co., the following was stated about product testing: “We have a certificate of analysis that each soap actually contains what we say is in it.” The company even adheres to third-party SC Labs testing to confirm the CBD oil’s purity.

Overall, although there are numerous online CBD skincare products available, it’s crucial to find ones that undergo testing to ensure that they’re safe, pure, and high-quality. Next time you have a breakout, experience dry skin, or a skin issue of yours flares up, don’t worry because CBD can help in more ways than you could imagine.

A bipartisan medical cannabis bill was introduced to the Wisconsin legislature on Sept. 20 by Sen. Jon Erpenbach, D-Middleton, Rep. Chris Taylor, D-Madison and Sen. Patrick Testin, R-Stevens Point.

According to Testin, the bill would introduce a regulated process on both the patients’ end and production end. The bill requires a recommendation from the doctor as well as a registry system for said patients. On the production end, a licensing system would be put into place for growers, producers and sellers.

For Testin, the medical marijuana issue has had a personal impact on his life as his grandfather, Blair Testin, fought a terminal diagnosis of cancer. Testin said his grandfather made the choice to seek out medical marijuana illegally, and it was the only thing that provided much-needed relief during rounds of chemotherapy as well as helping him to gain back his fleeting appetite.

Testin pointed out that his family’s experience is not unique in any way.

“Conversations I’ve had from individuals from all across the 24 Senate Districts, because my family stories not unique, but stories of people who have used things like CBD oil, who have used other cannabinoid-derived products and eventually get them much needed relief,” Testin said.

Testin said that he is most impacted by stories of veterans who experience vast difficulties once they are home. Testin explained that they are suffering from physical conditions such as chronic pain as well as mental conditions such as PTSD from serving our country.

Testin said that for him, the bill boils down to patient choice. Testin feels that patients should have access to options besides opioids, which are associated with many horror stories among an opioid crisis.

“We’ve got people who have served our country, they’ve gone overseas, they’ve come home with scars that are visible and some that aren’t, and they have to go commit illegal acts and get the medicine that they need,” Testin said.

Testin thought that while recent conversations have started turning the stereotypes surrounding medical cannabis, many physicians remain skeptical. Testin believes that this is due to the fact that there is more research surrounding opioids and other similar drugs.

 Testin said that professionals often fall back on the argument that there is not enough research to back medical cannabis.

Testin, however, does not agree.

“For me, we’ve seen the opiate crisis run rampant throughout the state,” Testin said. “And oftentimes people who get addicted to more dangerous drugs, such as heroin or fentanyl, started off on legally prescribed drugs. So for me, taking a look at the big picture, and based on research, I’ve taken a look at other countries and … science [does] tend to point that medical cannabis can serve as a safer alternative.”

Testin said that one of the challenges to get this bill passed is uncertainties within the Republican party. Testin, while being very public about his support, has found that some of his Republican colleagues are not opposed to the idea of medical cannabis, but are weary of putting a robust framework in place to support it. 

Taylor felt that the bill is a “no brainer” and expressed frustrations with the Republican party’s hesitations, specifically with the Majority Party leadership.

Taylor, however, did have high praises for Testin.

“He is listening to the people of his district and of the state,” Taylor said.

Testin and Taylor both agreed that the implementation of the bill does face challenges. They cited the list of structures that need to be in place. Taylor did not let those challenges shake her confidence.

Taylor explained that this bill is not the first of its kind. Thirty-three other states — including the District of Columbia — have passed medical marijuana legislation. Taylor pointed out that there are states that have moved beyond that, and have passed recreational legislation as well — including Illinois.

“It’s going to take a little bit to get the whole system up and running,” Taylor said. “But 33 other states and the District of Columbia has done it. So, it’s not like we’re breaking new ground here.”

Testin and Taylor felt that if the bill is passed, Wisconsin would be positively impacted, including finding relief for patients as well as their families. With the legalization of medical marijuana, no patient will need to resort to criminal acts in order to get the medication they need, they said.

Testin and Taylor urged the importance of conversation surrounding the medical marijuana issue in order for everyone to gain perspective of those who would benefit. In regards to those who do not support the legalization of medical marijuana, Testin had a message of respect and understanding.

“I respect your opinion, and I understand why you may not support this position,” Testin said. “But I would encourage you to sit down with the people in your district and hear their stories and see how them using this as a form of medicine has directly benefited them.”

Testin and Taylor believe that constituents communicating with their representatives and senators is also vital for this bill. During the referendum last fall, Wisconsin showed widespread support for medical marijuana.

Taylor stressed that this bill would be difficult to pass, and that it needs the support shown in the referendum to be shown again — especially from younger voters.

“We really need the public to speak loudly to their senators and representatives, that this is important, and that they need to get on board and not block this bill,” Taylor said.

If cannabis investors were waiting for a sign that the beleaguered industry is turning the corner, Tuesday wasn’t that day.

Pot stocks came under pressure after U.S. cannabis operator MedMen Enterprises Inc. announced the termination of its all-stock takeover of PharmaCann LLC. The sector’s growing pains were also evident in Canada, as Aleafia Health Inc. ended a five-year supply agreement with Aphria Inc., citing a failure to meet obligations under the deal.

These developments come on the heels of a turbulent period in the cannabis space. Regulatory woes, disappointing earnings, ongoing problems getting pot stores up and running, and an emerging health crisis linked to vaping are casting dark clouds across the industry.

Legalizing cannabis has been “an unprecedented undertaking,” said David Wood, a Calgary-based partner at Borden Ladner Gervais LLP, in a phone interview.

“We haven’t really chosen to compete with black markets by regulating them before. There’s no playbook here,” he said.

It’s a far cry from a year ago when exuberance carried investors into the cannabis sector after Canada became the first developed nation to legalize recreational use of the drug. Constellation Brands Inc.’s $5-billion bet on Canopy Growth Corp. fueled optimism that not only is legal pot here to stay, but will be a valuable commodity in the pharmaceutical and consumer-packaged goods industries.

Since then, cannabis company valuations have tumbled.

The closely-watched Horizons Marijuana Life Sciences Index ETF is down about 50 per cent over the past year and individual stocks have suffered similar, if not more outsized, downturns. Canopy, for example, is down 28 per cent since it received its investment from Constellation and 59 per cent from its peak a year ago.

In fact, MedMen directly cited the decline in Horizons’ cannabis-focused ETF as one of the “market developments” that led the U.S. cannabis operator to call off the PharmaCann deal on Tuesday.

Investors bought into the cannabis hype, rather than acknowledging its legalization was about ensuring public safety and not industry profits, according to Laurence Booth, finance professor at the University of Toronto’s Rotman School of Business.  

“Fundamentally, cannabis is an agricultural product,” he said in a phone interview.  “We don’t go this crazy for wheat or soybeans.”