Tag: Knowledge

The legalization of cannabis in Switzerland

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A step into the future

In recent decades, the debate about the legalization of cannabis in Switzerland has intensified. The Green Party actively campaigned for legalization 30 years ago. In their position paper, the Greens take a clear stance on what any legalization should look like. Members of the Green Party have been involved in the development of this groundbreaking paper through a constructive exchange with, among others, IG Hemp and other organizations, such as addiction associations. As a specialist store, we welcome this development and see it as an opportunity for a progressive and sensible drug policy in Switzerland.

The new position paper of the Green Group

After decades of political commitment and social change, a new chapter in Swiss drug policy is about to begin thanks to the implementation of the Siegenthaler parliamentary initiative. The Greens place particular emphasis on health protection and prevention in order to reduce the negative effects of prohibition and at the same time tap into the social, medical and economic benefits of cannabis.

The proposed benchmarks for the regulation of cannabis use emphasize youth and health protection as well as the prevention of addiction. These include bans on advertising and sponsorship, sales only to adults, strict requirements for cultivation and product quality, and an earmarked prevention levy to finance addiction prevention and therapy services. The Greens advocate a moderate incentive tax and the introduction of statistical monitoring of cannabis consumption.

Politicians are called upon to approach cannabis use with more realism and less moralism. The Greens are committed to regulating cannabis use in the ongoing legislative process, with a focus on public health and finding a middle ground between an unregulated black market and an unregulated legal market.

The future of cannabis regulation in Switzerland therefore promises a change that will not only affect the way society perceives cannabis, but also minimize the impact on health, youth and the black market.

  • Find out more about the PI Siegenthaler initiative from September 2020 – here!
  • Position paper of the Green parliamentary group on cannabis legalization – here!

Herba di Berna’s position on legalization

As one of the leading companies in the hemp industry, Herba di Berna takes a differentiated position on the legalization of cannabis. While we support efforts to regulate the market and protect young people and consumers, we advocate dispensing in certified specialist stores, in addition to cannabis social clubs. We believe that state-run outlets could increase the risk of monopolies.

Furthermore, we consider the entry hurdle to be relatively high:

  • Personal data, consumer behavior and driving license situation must be provided.
  • We consider the idea of drying up the black market through state sales outlets to be wishful thinking.
  • The requirements and production standards will be high, which will inevitably have an impact on prices.
  • We advocate a regulated market with high production standards, similar to alcohol, which we believe can be managed by the private sector.

A differentiated view of the market

The legalization of cannabis in Switzerland is undoubtedly a step in the right direction, but it is important to take a differentiated view of what is happening on the market. A regulated market characterized by competition and high standards will benefit both consumers and the industry in the long term.

What do you think; where do you want to buy your weed in the future?

The survey by the Swiss Hemp Association

directly to the survey

Higher shipping costs in 2024

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Versand Packete, grün, braun und abstrakte Pflanzen

The year 2024 promises a wave of financial changes for Herba di Berna and the entire hemp industry. These changes are due to numerous factors such as rising government levies (VAT), higher insurance costs, price increases for packaging materials, energy and rents.

These factors are like an unstoppable tide that presents companies with the challenge of adapting their strategies. At Herba di Berna, we don’t just want to react, we want to act proactively and inform you transparently about how we are dealing with these challenges. And what adjustments are necessary in the shipping area to maintain the quality of our products and your shopping experience. It should be emphasized that we are maintaining our proven strategy regarding product prices and will continue to offer you the opportunity to purchase CBD and hemp products at unbeatable prices. Therefore; don’t worry, there will be no price increases for the products. Nevertheless, these financial adjustments are shifting. However, we have now decided to transfer this to the shipping area. This is how we ensure that you can continue to benefit from unbeatable offers.

Advantages of the change: tracking and secure parcel delivery

Despite the initial inconvenience, the new shipping costs also open up opportunities for Herba di Berna and, above all, for our valued customers. By adjusting the fees, we can track your parcels and they can be found anywhere at any time.

Conclusion: Together on new paths – hemp shipping at Herba di Berna

The year 2024 promises changes for the hemp industry, accompanied by a number of challenges. Rising government levies, higher insurance costs and other burdens affect not only us, but also our customers. In this context, we at Herba di Berna have decided to deal transparently with the upcoming challenges and to inform you about our adjustments in shipping and that our product prices will remain the same. We understand that budgets sometimes have to be juggled, but rest assured, we do our best to offer high quality hemp products at fair prices. Visit our specialist store on Scheibenstrasse not only to enjoy the savings on shipping, but also to benefit from personal, no-obligation advice and to discover our wide range of products with all your senses.

What else might interest you:

Delivery conditions and payment methods
to the AGBs
Data protection declaration

Hemp tofu Thai curry recipe

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Hanftofu Thai-Curry

The weather in January greets us with an icy chill and playful winds. We at Herba di Berna have the perfect answer: a warming Thai curry with hemp tofu! After all, what could be better than facing the cold with a delicious spoonful of flavors? Our insider tip for coziness and enjoyment in any weather!

Hemp tofu from Harmonius

For 4 servings you need:

  • 400 g hemp tofu
  • 0.5 lt coconut milk. The best is the Chaokoh, (available in international stores) which is a bit thicker
  • 2 tsp ground coriander seeds
  • 2 tsp cumin powder
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 2 tsp tomato puree
  • 5 cm of a fat and fresh ginger root (Lidl usually has fresh and nice ones) – we prefer the ginger and garlic grated (Bircher grater)
  • 4 large cloves of garlic – grated1 bunch of green onions – cut into rings
  • 2 x a shot of the fine rum or whisky
  • ½ – 1 tsp chili powder or fresh chili (I use 4 – 6) 1-2 chilies would be mild
  • When in season, one sprig each of white and blue grapes
  • 1 large onion – finely chopped (you can also use shallots and cut them into rings for decoration)
  • 10 cherry tomatoes – cut into 4 pieces – (for decoration, add 10 yellow and differently colored cherry tomatoes)
  • Here’s another hot tip: ½ -1 teaspoon of garam masala powder
  • A bunch of fresh coriander – leaves plucked
  • Himalayan salt very fine – or any other fine salt
  • Ground white pepper
  • A fine vegetable oil – we prefer olive oil or coconut oil

The preparation:

  1. Heat the frying pan to full heat. Only add oil to the pan when it is hot
  2. Sauté the ginger, chili and spring onions together in the hot oil. Depending on the hob or induction, reduce the heat slightly. Add the garlic after 3 to 4 minutes. Steam for another 2 minutes
  3. Then sprinkle over the spices and sauté for another 3 – 4 minutes
  4. Then use the rubber spatula to push the whole thing to the edge. Now add the tomato purée to the frying pan and allow the aroma to develop as it begins to burn into the bottom. However, be careful that it does not turn black. Always stir with the rubber spatula. 3 – 5 minutes
  5. Now add a large shot (50 – 80 ml) of rum or whisky and stir well with a whisk. Take the rubber spatula again and make sure it doesn’t burn on the bottom. Now add 300 ml of coconut milk and bring to the boil. Once it has bubbled, you can reduce the temperature by 50% – 70% and leave to simmer gently. Meanwhile, stir slowly along the base with a spatula to prevent splattering and burning
  6. Simmer for approx. 15 minutes
  7. Now pour the mixture into a sauce pan and puree with a hand blender. Then leave to simmer on a low heat. Depending on the thickness of the curry, you can now add a little more coconut milk. I always need 5 dl. However, you will then need to bring the sauce to the boil again. Reduce the heat again and – if in season – add the grapes
  8. Set aside
  9. Wash out the frying pan with a sponge and put it back on the stove. Return to full heat. Fry the hemp tofu with a little olive oil or coconut oil until a light crust (golden-brown) forms. This takes about 8 – 10 minutes
  10. Carefully stir the curry and tofu with a ladle and serve
  11. Garnish with the cherry tomatoes, shallots, peperoncini and coriander

    En Guete! 😉

Buy hemp tofu directly

Source recipe: Harmonius, hemp tofu masala Goa style https://www.harmonius.ch/

Cannabis and gastrointestinal tract

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Magen-Darm-Harmonie mit Cannabis unterstützen

The festive season is a feast of food and drink, from one meal to the next, from cookies to chocolate, mandarins and the festive roast. While we usually enjoy the winter festive season with vacations, celebrations and gluttony, our intestines have to work overtime. Cannabinoids can support our intestines in their daily functions and contribute to gastrointestinal harmony and well-being. Learn all about how cannabis and the gastrointestinal tract harmonize in this blog post.

The body as a habitat for viruses, fungi and bacteria

When our gastrointestinal system is exposed to various stresses such as stress, lack of exercise, an unhealthy diet and sweet and alcoholic drinks, the gut suffers. We are adaptable and also quite tough, as evidenced by the fact that modern homo sapiens can live on fast food, sweet drinks and overly spicy food for their entire lives. And yet the gut suffers in these moments of unhealthy food intake. For thousands of years, it has been common worldwide to take cannabis with food. And today we can use the latest technologies to specifically investigate what is going on in detail and provide relief for many people. The intestine shows clear reactions to overeating and does not suffer silently like the liver. The most common symptoms of an overloaded bowel are diarrhea, nausea and constipation, and many of us are very familiar with the recommended remedies. In addition to hemp, countless home remedies, chemical preparations and therapeutic approaches are circulating for a healthy start to the New Year, all of which are aimed at balancing the so-called “gut microbiome*”. This refers to bacteria and fungi as well as certain virus strains, the effects of which do not make us humans ill, but keep us vital. In the course of evolution, tiny creatures, i.e. various microorganisms, have colonized the gastrointestinal tract and form a symbiotic relationship that is beneficial for everyone involved. They support each other in digestion as well as in the absorption of nutrients that are essential for the survival of both humans and microorganisms. The influence of healthy intestinal flora on our nervous system has now been proven by science. Numerous farmer’s sayings support the saying: “You are what you eat”, and the effect of cannabis as a remedy is similarly widely confirmed in the laboratory.

* Definition: The microbiome is the totality of all microorganisms(bacteria, archaea, viruses, fungi and protozoa) that colonize a macroorganism (human, animal, plant). Microbiomes can influence the immune system, the metabolism and the hormone system of their host.

Importance of the intestinal flora

Unlike toxic substances or supposedly magical remedies, cannabis binds to the organism via precisely fitting receptors. Yoghurt mixed with cannabinoids in the supermarket is still a dream of the future, but the intestinal flora can generally be stimulated by many foods or food supplements. There are countless products on the market that promote powerful microbial strains and feed them sufficiently so that unwanted pathogens quickly perish when they enter our bodies. The problem is that even the most expensive capsules, pills and tinctures barely make it to the intestinal flora if we continue with the sins of the modern lifestyle and disregard our gastrointestinal harmony.

You can find out exactly how and where cannabinoids affect our body in the previous blog post: https://www.herbadiberna.ch/starkes-immunsystem-durch-cbd-tropfen/

How hemp affects our gastrointestinal tract

While CB1 receptors are found in the brain, CB2 receptors are found in the intestine. Both are the so-called docking sites for cannabinoids in the hemp plant. A full-spectrum preparation influences these receptors and triggers a variety of positive effects in the body. Cannabinoids can activate anti-inflammatory processes via the gastrointestinal system, stimulate the immune system and also reduce stress levels.diseases such as multiple sclerosis could be treated by medical cannabis, as it has an anti-inflammatory effect and even affects a specific bacterium called “Akkermansia muciniphila”. (Source: Study by Charles M. Skinner)

Full spectrum CBD oil and hemp capsules to support the gastrointestinal tract

Research on therapeutic cannabis and gut flora is not yet as extensive as in other areas, but medical and therapeutic professionals are beginning to recommend it for certain treatments.The method of consumption affects the effect of cannabis on the gastrointestinal system; smoking or vaporizing works faster and more intensely, while oral ingestion may be better tolerated and have a longer effect.There are beneficial aspects of hemp products, but potential drug interactions and possible side effects must be considered. It is best to discuss this with a medical professional, as according to current research, cannabis can help with irritable bowel syndrome, heartburn or constant constipation in many cases without complications, but can sometimes have side effects. Prudent consumption is still the best choice when trying hemp for yourself, even for the gastrointestinal system, until research has clarified the situation.

Conclusion

When we indulge in culinary delights, our intestines work hard. Cannabis as a full-spectrum preparation can help to support our gut and its function, especially in the New Year after the Christmas feasts. Our digestive system is sensitive: stress, lack of exercise and an unhealthy diet can affect it. The gut microbiome, consisting of bacteria, fungi and viruses, plays an essential role in our health and even influences our nervous system. Cannabinoids can have an anti-inflammatory effect via the CB2 receptors in the intestine, strengthen the immune system and reduce stress. Medical hemp shows promising approaches, especially for diseases such as multiple sclerosis. However, research into therapeutic cannabis and intestinal flora is still in its infancy. Although there are many benefits, interactions with medication and possible side effects must also be taken into account and clarified with medical professionals. Cannabis could be a natural alternative for gastrointestinal complaints, but it is also advisable to consult with specialists and stay up to date with the latest research.

Our recommendation for optimal gastrointestinal harmony

12% Full spectrum OIL
24% Full spectrum oil

Source: https://l1nq.com/ugfNr

CBD oil and the immune system

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Buy 24% Full Spectrum CBD oil to boost the immune system

Introduction: Learn how CBD oil can provide powerful natural support for a strengthened immune system, especially during the cold season when the body’s defenses are challenged.

The role of the immune system and its strengthening with CBD oil The article begins with an explanation of how the immune system is challenged in winter and how CBD oil can specifically help to strengthen the body’s defenses and support the immune system.

CBD oil and its anti-inflammatory properties Here we go into detail about the anti-inflammatory effects of CBD oil and how this has a direct impact on strengthening the immune system. Studies and research results on the effects of CBD oil on inflammation are highlighted.

Targeted uses of CBD oil for immune boosting This section highlights the specific uses of CBD oil for promoting a healthy immune system. Specific examples are given of how CBD oil can help with various health challenges.

Dosage and application of CBD oil for optimal results Practical tips on the dosage and application of CBD oil to maximize the strengthening effects on the immune system are presented here.

Conclusion: The conclusion summarizes the key points of the article and underlines the importance of CBD oil as a natural support to strengthen and improve the immune system.

Source: Hanfmagazin, https://rb.gy/us2vym

CBD oil range
our purchase recommendation 24 % Full Spectrum

CBD and its effect on the immune system

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In winter, when temperatures drop below zero and we protect ourselves from the cold with warm blankets, we tend to neglect our defenses and our immune system. At the same time, our protective mechanisms are running at full speed during this cold season, while we are so anxious to keep warm on the outside.

A strong immune system is essential for staying healthy and full of energy through the snowy season. An intact immune defense is therefore essential.

Our immune system plays a crucial role in the defense against foreign substances and microorganisms that want to colonize our body. It prevents potentially harmful processes that could affect our health. The immune system acts against intruders such as foreign substances and defective cells in order to eliminate them from our body and expel damaged tissue. This process contributes significantly to our ability to stay healthy.

It seems as if nature has provided for us and gifted us with a plant that we can use to fight winter from the inside out and support our immune system in the battle against the virus.

Strengthen your immune system with CBD: natural anti-inflammation and health support with cannabidiol

Prepared for the winter with 12% Full Spectrum oil

Our recommendation

How does our immune system work?

Our immune system is responsible for ensuring that no foreign substances or microorganisms can colonize the body and thus trigger any negative processes. It thus ensures our health by targeting these foreign bodies, damaged cells and dead tissue and freeing our body from them.

Every time the immune system becomes active, it triggers inflammatory reactions in the body. We often think of inflammation as a bad thing, but that’s not entirely true. In fact, these inflammations show us that the immune system is active and working effectively. A weak immune system, on the other hand, can lead to an excess of inflammatory reactions, which can develop into chronic inflammation. This in turn causes pain and disturbs the balance of our body. A lack of endocannabinoids can disrupt this balance and throw the system out of healthy homeostasis.

And where does CBD come into play now?

CBD can have an anti-inflammatory and regulating effect on the system and the body.

When the immune system is activated, it releases certain proteins. These proteins are responsible for triggering certain inflammatory reactions in the body, which are necessary to combat these foreign organisms, damaged cells, etc.

If CBD is now involved, cannabidiol can modulate or even prevent the release of these proteins. CBD therefore attacks before an inflammatory reaction occurs in the body.

In autoimmune diseases such as osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, rheumatism, MS and others, the immune system overreacts and fights its own body. CBD can help to dampen or reduce this overreaction without impairing the basic functions of the immune system. In contrast, conventional immunosuppressants prescribed by doctors suppress the entire immune system – which is not ideal, as the immune system is also responsible for fighting off harmful external substances. Cannabinoids merely regulate without completely eliminating the immune defense.

Furthermore, inflammatory reactions in the body produce free radicals, which have been shown to cause diseases such as cancer. One of the positive properties of cannabinoids, especially CBD, is to neutralize these free radicals and remove their harmful properties that can trigger negative processes in the body. CBD therefore acts against both the enzymes that cause inflammation and the processes that can occur after inflammation.

Our conclusion

Anyone wishing for a functioning immune system this year who has sworn off pharmaceutical health suppositories and cough syrups containing codeine could benefit from the golden hemp drops and possibly experience a better functioning immune system.

High-quality CBD oil from Herba di Berna:

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Your CBD dosage calculator:

CBD Calculator

Cannabis and migraine

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Migräne Symbolbild

In Switzerland, an estimated one million people suffer from migraine. 1 Given this high incidence, it is shocking how little we know about migraine. In addition, many people have great difficulty finding an effective therapy. At the same time, there are many blog posts, testimonials, or even simply advertising copy that advocate cannabis as a treatment method. This raises the question: does cannabis really help against migraine? And if so: how?

Study situation on cannabis against migraine

Meanwhile, there are some studies that have investigated whether cannabis works against migraines. However, as with almost all cannabis issues, there are still quite few that have also often studied small groups. This leads to the fact that there are some well-founded theses, but absolute knowledge is hardly to be found. In addition, there are countless possibilities for how much and how strong cannabis is taken and in what form. But let’s take a look at what study results are out there:

In principle, many studies point to a positive effect of cannabis. 2 For example, a 2016 study of 121 patients from Colorado found a positive effect on migraine in 85% of the study participants. On average, the number of monthly migraine days decreased from 10.4 to 4.6. A 2020 Israeli study with 145 participants points in the same direction: 61% of patients were able to reduce monthly migraine attacks by 50% or more. A 2019 U.S. study also reached a similar conclusion, with 88% of 316 patients* reporting improvement. In this study, the average decrease in monthly migraine days was 42.1%.
These figures are all impressive and promising. However, they should still be taken with caution: most of the data are based on patients’ self-assessments and there was no placebo comparison group – to name two examples where the studies do not meet the scientific “gold standard”.

Which helps better: THC or CBD?

The 2019 US study mentioned above has another important finding to offer: The effect of THC-dominated cannabis was significantly more successful in reducing migraine attacks. Thus, there seems to be evidence that for the treatment of migraine, THC-containing cannabis is better than balanced or THC-free products. But the lack of robust results on this question is even greater than on the general efficacy of cannabis against migraine.

Conclusion

The existing study results are hopeful. It seems that the cannabis plant can help a large number of migraine patients. However, many unanswered questions remain. How effective is cannabis really? Which intake forms bring the best results? For whom is it the right therapy method – and for whom not? Particularly relevant seems to be the question of whether CBD products can also make a contribution, or whether affected individuals have to fight for their access to medicinal cannabis products in order to receive a therpaie.

More interesting facts about cannabis in our blog

The discovery of the endocannabinoid system

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The discovery of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) marks a critical milestone in medical research and has revolutionized our understanding of health and wellness. In this article, we will follow the fascinating journey to discover the ECS and take a closer look at its importance to our lives.

The ECS: A Surprising Revelation

The existence of the ECS went largely unnoticed until the late 20th century. It was not until 1964 that Israeli researcher Dr. Raphael Mechoulam isolated the cannabinoid THC, which is found in the cannabis plant. This breakthrough led to the suggestion that a similar system might exist in the human body.

The building blocks of the endocannabinoid system

Raphael Mechoulam, discoverer of the endocannabinoid system
Raphael Mechoulam(wikipedia)
Lumír Ondřej Hanuš(wikipedia)
William Anthony Devane(wikipedia)

The endocannabinoid system consists of three main components: Endocannabinoids, receptors and enzymes. Endocannabinoids are endogenous molecules found in various parts of the body. The two main endocannabinoids are anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). Receptors, such as CB1 and CB2, are located on the surface of cells and respond to endocannabinoids as well as cannabinoids from the cannabis plant. Enzymes are responsible for the breakdown of endocannabinoids and thus regulate their concentration in the body.

The role of the endocannabinoid system in the body

The endocannabinoid system plays a critical role in maintaining homeostasis in the body. It regulates a variety of processes, including sleep, pain perception, the immune system, mood, and appetite. When this system is out of balance, various health problems can occur.

The impact on medicine

The discovery of ECS has revolutionized medical research. It has helped to better understand the role of cannabinoids in relieving pain, inflammation and other symptoms of numerous diseases. Drugs that target the ECS are increasingly being used to treat conditions such as epilepsy, chronic pain, and even mental disorders.

Conclusion

The discovery of the endocannabinoid system has expanded our understanding of health and medicine. It has paved the way for innovative therapies and shown us how closely interconnected our bodily processes are. Research on ECS will undoubtedly continue, offering us even deeper insights into how our bodies work and what medicine can do. In a world that is constantly changing, the discovery of ECS has undoubtedly changed our world.

Cannabis and psychosis: what is true?

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In discussions about cannabis and especially cannabis legalization, one question is asked again and again: Does cannabis lead to psychosis disorders? The answers are often unclear, different or even contradictory. We are trying to provide some clarity. However, there are no absolute truths to be read here either, as these hardly exist as things stand today.

The known connections

A link between psychosis and cannabis has been demonstrated in several studies. [1] In studied groups of patients with schizophrenic psychosis, cannabis use was more common than in society as a whole, and conversely, cannabis users developed psychotic disorders more often and earlier. To deny this connection per se would be absurd in view of the available data. To what extent the cannabis plant should be demonized because of this, however, is another question – more about that later…

Special risk of psychosis disease for young people

The process of brain maturation in humans lasts until the early 20s. Thus, young adults continue to live with an unfinished brain for a long time. If substances such as alcohol or cannabis are consumed during this time, it also seems to have an impact on brain development. For example, there is a correlation between regular cannabis use by adolescents and the thickness of the cerebral cortex. (Those areas of the brain that have high numbers of CB1 receptors are particularly affected).

With regard to psychosis, it can be stated that consumption at a young age, in particular, is a determining factor in the frequency and timing of psychosis. [2] While cannabis use is hardly the sole culprit, it is definitely one factor among others.

Influence of THC content on the risk of psychosis

Meanwhile, the studies also identified some factors that make consumption particularly risky. Besides the frequency or the amount consumed, the potency, i.e. the THC content, of the cannabis plant plays an important role. Higher THC levels appear to increase the likelihood of psychosis. From this perspective, the massive increase in THC content in recent decades must be viewed at least critically. In 1993, cannabis seized in the U.S. had an average of 3.4% THC. In 2008, this figure was 8.8% and at 17.7% in 2017, the figure has doubled again in just 10 years. [3] At the same time, such high potency cannabis flowers often have very low CBD content. We will show why this is relevant in the next section.

CBD for deeper psychosis risk

CBD is also an important agent in the context of psychosis. The fascinating thing is that cannabis seems to work the other way around. For example, one study showed that significantly fewer psychoses occurred when subjects took CBD beforehand. Currently, CBD is even being tested as a potential drug to treat psychotic episodes in people with schizophrenia – and some studies suggest that the prospects for success are real.

What remains unclear?

So are all these studies now saying that cannabis causes psychosis? It’s not that simple. While there is undeniably a connection, and certain patterns of consumption exacerbate the problem. At the same time, however, it has not really been proven that THC by itself causes a psychotic disorder in a perfectly healthy person. Often, those affected already have a genetically predisposed risk – and cannabis use then acts in part as a specific trigger. [4] Further, the question arises whether it does not also run the other way around to a certain degree: People with a psychotic predisposition might show an increased tendency to use cannabis, e.g. in the sense of self-medication.

Furthermore, there are many risk factors that favor the onset of psychosis: Depression, sleep disorders, living with a male body, migration history or living in urban areas – to name a few. What is striking about this list is that many of these factors also increase the likelihood that a person will come into contact with cannabis. Of course, scientists try to calculate these factors out of their studies – but it is hardly ever possible to do so perfectly.

What does this mean for legalization

All in all, then, it seems entirely plausible that cannabis use carries significant risk under certain circumstances. So are the opponents of legalization right and we should definitely continue to ban this dangerous substance? You guessed it: of course not. First, we live in a society that tolerates diverse risks in quite a few areas. Second, even without legalization, much cannabis is consumed, often under riskier circumstances.

Risk is part of our society

Even if cannabis triggers psychosis and thus greatly complicates the lives of some affected people, the current discussion is quite absurd. Of course, it is important to know about the risks of a substance. However, the side effects of cannabis use are quite harmless compared to those of many other substances, such as alcohol, tobacco, or sugar. With all of these substances, we know that they cause significant harm to human health when consumed in excess – and yet they are legal and widely available. There are many people who suffer significant psychological damage from problematic alcohol consumption, and again, there are studies that say that the brains of adolescents in particular suffer greatly from excessive alcohol consumption. Nevertheless, we can buy beer in any supermarket. Our society tolerates many risks and often leaves the decision to what extent people want to expose themselves to these risks to the individual. Therefore, while it is important that we know as much as possible about the risks of substances like cannabis – at the same time, these risks alone are far from a reason for an extremely elaborate and hardly successful prohibition policy.

Transparency & prevention is important

In the current situation, many people buy cannabis regularly. Since this is illegal, it happens in hiding (stress is harmful!) and without any quality standards. With black market flowers, you have no way of knowing what the THC content of that cannabis plant actually is now. And the dealer is usually hardly interested in whether the clientele is still young and therefore more at risk.

In contrast, clear transparency and quality requirements could be enforced in a legal, regulated market. This would allow consumers to decide what level of THC and CBD they want to consume. In addition, the tax revenue could be used for effective prevention work for young people – instead of the money flowing into the pockets of criminal organizations. With such options, the risk of developing psychosis would not have disappeared. However, it would be a risk that could be assessed and controlled – and one that needs to be explored further.

More about the advantages of legalization

CBD Utilization Study 2023

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CBD-Produkte der Herba di Berna

“CBD is popular with older people” was the headline in various Swiss newspapers in recent weeks. The reason for this was a new study by the market research institute LINK, which took a close look at the cannabis market in Switzerland. Thus, what has been known for some time in the USA has now also been proven for Switzerland: Older people increasingly view the use of CBD products positively. Read more about the background to this development here:

Why seniors want CBD

Who uses cannabis?

Basically, it can be said that very different people of all ages use cannabis. About 6 out of 10 people know CBD products at least by name. Of these “connoisseurs”, 25% have already used CBD products. Among young people under thirty, the figure is around 30%. Also exciting: in Ticino, the overall figure is only 20% (instead of 25%).

Results from the LINK study

Who will get excited about CBD in the future?

In addition to people who already consume CBD products, there is also a not insignificant group that is fundamentally open to its use. These are especially women and older people. For both groups, almost one third of the surveyed experts can imagine using them.

Results from the LINK study

What puts people off?

Among non-users, there are various reasons for their reluctance. For about 3/4, lack of need is one of the reasons. About a quarter of the non-users surveyed are reluctant to become dependent (among other things). Too bad this myth is still so widespread! There is no evidence of addictive potential with cannabidiol (CBD). On the contrary, there is research that suggests it is a good way to break free from another addiction (e.g., to opioids or cocaine).[1]

The lack and poor quality of available information is a big problem. Thus, about 10% of the respondents in each case state that the lack of information or also lack of clarity about the legality is the reason for restraint. While the first problem can only be solved step by step, the situation with the second is much simpler: CBD is legal. Item. (In Switzerland, cannabis becomes illegal at a THC content of 1% or more).

Two other reasons: Potential side effects (24%) and difficulty with dosing (5%). The connection between these two aspects? With proper dosing, there is nothing to fear with CBD products. Only mild side effects are known, such as nausea, drowsiness, diarrhea, or loss of appetite – and even these occur mainly when the dose is too high. Caution is of course advisable if other medications are being taken – asking the doctor or pharmacist is certainly a good idea in this case. For everyone else, find your dose and pay attention to your body’s signals – then you have nothing to worry about.

Instructions for the correct dosage of CBD oils
Dosage calculator for CBD oils

What do users value about CBD?

Finally, let’s take a look at those people who use or have used CBD. What did they hope to gain from consumption?

Overall, stress (40%), sleep disturbances (34%), and pain (31%) are the most commonly cited reasons. Together with a general positive sense of well-being, these same points also top the list of the most important reasons for use. Among older people, the focus is increasingly on medical reasons, while among younger people it is more often on psychological well-being.

CBD oils in the store

It is always interesting for us to find out in detail what our (potential) customers are concerned about. Do you have something to share with us as well? Then stop by our specialty store or connect with us on social media. We would be happy to hear your story or provide you with good advice.