This isn’t just research; this is reality.

These awesome awardees recognized by DaySavers’ Higher Potential Scholarship represent the future of cannabis research. At NAP we believe our community depends on people willing to ask better questions, challenge outdated systems, and build bridges between research, community, and real world application for impactful and immediately tangible results. Read more to learn about their research and how they are hoping to connect with other cannabis community advocates and leaders!

In the article Synthetic, Alternative, Rare? Different cannabinoids and where they come from, we began a very important discussion about different chemical components of the cannabis plant, cannabinoids! One up and coming cannabinoid of interest is Tetrahydrocannabivarin or THCV. This cannabinoid is reported to have some interesting effects compared to those that result from consuming Tetrahydrocannabinol or THC. 

We have been gathering real world data on a full plant extract of Mitragyna speciosa, often referred to as kratom, a botanical traditionally used for sustained energy and focus. In a three week observational study of 103 participants using a kratom-based energy shot formulated with Cordyceps militaris, we observed meaningful improvements in well-being, cognitive function, and productivity, alongside reductions in fatigue. Participants reported feeling more focused, energetic, and productive, with many noting better performance compared to other energy products and an average gain of over one additional productive hour per day. These findings suggest that thoughtfully formulated full plant products may support sustained energy and mental clarity while offering a potential alternative to conventional energy drinks.

A recent publication in The Lancet Psychiatry is adding to the growing body of peer-reviewed literature that stigmatizes cannabis and cannabinoid use for mental health, focusing on the lack of “high-quality” supporting research. While the authors and the mainstream media are interpreting this to mean there is no evidence to support the therapeutic benefits of cannabis for mental health, this could also be a direct result and relevant example of scientific bias. When viewed through a neurodiversity-affirming and patient-centered framework, the findings of this study clearly point towards a naive, biased, and discriminatory interpretation of one simple fact: the research world is not inclusive nor is it up to date on the lived experiences of the neurodivergent cannabis community. Scientific bias is a serious issue in cannabis research, contributing to unnecessary research barriers, perpetuating the stigma, and increasing risk of harm to the marginalized neurodivergent cannabis community.

Ever had a completely different experience with a cannabis drink and a cannabis brownie? Scientists think that there may be a reason and are working to better understand why.  An ongoing study at Johns Hopkins Cannabis Science Lab is investigating how different edible formulations may influence the way THC (the main psychoactive component in cannabis) is absorbed and metabolized in the body. This study goes beyond THC potency or dose, as it asks the question: Does the way a product is made change how it works in the body? Let’s dive into the background of the study!

When you consider the word “"cannabinoid,”" the first thought is usually something relating to cannabis. In fact, some might say that cannabinoids, in addition to hundreds of other chemical components, are what make cannabis, well, cannabis! With the ever-expanding cannabis industry, including specialties such as cannabinoid isolation, processing, and cultivation; members of the community are witnessing the introductions of many new alternative, rare, synthetic, and semisynthetic cannabinoids.