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!
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:
Heat the frying pan to full heat. Only add oil to the pan when it is hot
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
Then sprinkle over the spices and sauté for another 3 – 4 minutes
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
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
Simmer for approx. 15 minutes
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
Set aside
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
Carefully stir the curry and tofu with a ladle and serve
Garnish with the cherry tomatoes, shallots, peperoncini and coriander
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.
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.
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)
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
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.
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.
Prepared for the winter with 12% Full Spectrum oil
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.
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 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 has a long tradition as a medicinal plant in Switzerland as well. With the 1951 ban, this application was also lost. No, it was not lost. It was criminalized and withdrawn from the attention of the general public – because medical hemp was and is still used. The MEDCAN association has set itself the goal of putting an end to this criminalization of patients.
We want to give you a detailed picture of the current situation regarding medical hemp. To this end, Franziska Quadri, honorary president of the MEDCAN association, has come to our aid with her expertise. Franziska herself is paraplegic since a paragliding accident in 2009 and found out very soon that cannabis is the best solution for her to improve her quality of life again.
Medical cannabis in Switzerland – where do we stand?
Last summer, a long-cherished dream of many patients came true: medical cannabis has been legal since August 2022 and no longer requires a license. Doctors can prescribe cannabis on their own. Or could – because so far, many doctors are shying away from addressing the issue of medicinal hemp. Franziska told me an exemplary episode from her own story: “I myself recently went to see my neurologist, who knows exactly how I treat myself with cannabis. Nevertheless, I was met with complete disinterest: I would now have to tell the neurologist what to write in my prescription. The responsibility is quite brazenly shifted to me instead of doctors finally addressing the issue.”
We have no choice but to train the doctors and pharmacists on our own.
Franziska Quadri, cannabis patient and president of the MEDCAN association
Stories like Franziska’s show that last year’s law change is far from solving the problems. “Almost a year after the law was changed, patients still have no access to medical cannabis. There are hardly any doctors who prescribe cannabis – and if they do, the health insurance companies still don’t pay for it, and the therapy becomes almost unaffordable,” Franziska tells us. This poor implementation of legalization threatens to create a two-class society: the rich patients buy prescriptions and legal medicine, while the less well-off are criminalized.
The political work of MEDCAN
This stocktaking shows that although a political milestone has been reached with the legalization of medicinal hemp, the problem is still far from being solved. Thus, for the MEDCAN association, it is clear that their commitment will be needed for a long time to come.
Currently, inspired by the Cancer League, we aim to become a high-profile organization that can educate both the general population and those directly affected about the issue. As a first step, this means bringing together as many as possible of the approximately 100,000 cannabis patients who are already self-medicating in our association.
Franziska Quadri
In order to advocate for an effective implementation of legalization, the people of MEDCAN are in regular exchange with politicians, doctors, pharmacists and, if possible, also with the health insurance companies. This commitment at all levels seems to be the only option at the moment. Politicians think they have already solved the problem with legalization, doctors lack the expertise and health insurers naturally do not want to pay for expensive cannabis medicinal products on their own. Responsibility is passed back and forth like a hot potato, and the ultimate sufferers are the patients who cannot legally obtain their medications.
Panel at the CannatradeMEDCAN Cannatrade booth
Are the pilot tests helping?
With the pilot trials, thousands of people will get legal access to cannabis, and at prices deliberately aligned with those of the black market. This is much closer to the idea of legal access to cannabis flower than the completely inadequately implemented legalization of medical hemp. What does this trigger in patients* who must continue to fight for affordable access to cannabis flower? “That honestly makes me pissed off,” comes Franziska’s answer as if shot out of a pistol. Of course, legal access to cannabis is certainly to be welcomed by the study participants. The problem is not only that not all patients can get one of the places in the pilot tests: They are even explicitly excluded from participation!
MEDCAN patient meetings
As a patient organization, MEDCAN is not only concerned with political work. Regular “patient meetings” are held in the cities of Zurich and Bern. The idea of these meetings is for patients to exchange ideas with the MEDCAN association and with like-minded people. Experiences are shared, people stand by each other and together they try to find a way to legal medicine. In short, those affected are once again taking the reins into their own hands so that they are at least not alone with their problems.
During the pandemic, patient meetings took place online for the first time. In addition to the on-site meetings, there is since then also the possibility to participate in a meeting from home. “We certainly want to keep that up to reach as many people as possible,” Franziska says.
Infected by her commitment, I wanted to know from Franziska how we can best support the work of MEDCAN. “The most important thing is that you send patients* to us so we can inform them – and they can get involved in our association.” However, there are, of course, support options for people like me who do not rely on medical hemp. Let’s inform ourselves and talk about the topic, let’s give a platform to those directly affected like Franziska, Simòn, Roger, Sabi and all others who want to bring their story to the public. Their expertise and commitment have incredible power to drive change for the better. What also helps to make the MEDCAN association more heard are donations. Up to now, the work in the association has rested on the shoulders of a few volunteers. In order to professionalize the work and unite as many patients as possible, a paid secretariat, for example, would be a huge asset. And to make the 10th anniversary in 2024 as big as possible with great events, financial resources are needed.
“The more resources we have, the faster we achieve our goals. And maybe even general legalization of cannabis, including home cultivation?”
Franziska Quadri
Also important: if outsiders show solidarity with the MEDCAN association and the cannabis patients, this will not only benefit those affected. Experience from abroad also shows that medical use is the perfect precursor to much-needed general legalization. The abuses in the medical sector are so obvious that many cannot simply close their eyes. At the same time, the current situation shows us that the legalization of medical hemp has reached a dead end. The easiest way out of this predicament? Legalization for all. “Only when home cultivation is legal will all affected people really get access to the cannabis flowers they need,” Franziska says.
2-Arachidonylglycerol (2-AG) is an important substance in the endocannabinoid system (ECS) of the human body. The ECS is a complex network in the body that regulates a variety of biological processes. In this article, we will take a closer look at the role and effect of 2-arachidonylglycerol in the ECS.
2-Arachidonylglycerol, or 2-AG, is an endocannabinoid produced by the body itself. It belongs to the group of lipids and is formed from a fatty acid, arachidonic acid. The endocannabinoid is found in various tissues and organs of the body, including the brain. It is a natural ligand (molecule that binds to a receptor) for CB1 and CB2 receptors, the main receptors of ECS. Therefore, 2-AG is thought to be the “original” messenger in ECS.
What is an endocannabinoid?
The term phytocannabinoid is used for the plant cannabinoids that appear in the hemp plant. In contrast, there are the "endocannabinoids": cannabinoids produced by our bodies that exert their effects in the ECS (endocannabinoid system).
The role of 2-AG in the endocannabinoid system.
2-AG plays a crucial role in the regulation of various processes in the body. It is primarily responsible for signal transmission in the ECS. When certain stimuli occur, such as inflammation or pain, 2-AG is released and binds to the CB1 and CB2 receptors. This triggers various cellular responses that help maintain homeostasis, the balance in the body.
The effect on the body
Activation of CB1 receptors by 2-AG in the brain may have several effects. For example, it can stimulate the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which can affect mood and the reward system. In addition, 2-arachidonylglycerol may also have an anti-inflammatory effect by reducing the release of pro-inflammatory substances.
Therapeutic potential of 2-AG
Because of its role in ECS and its multiple effects, 2-AG has great therapeutic potential. Research suggests that the endocannabinoid may be useful in treating a variety of conditions, including pain syndromes, inflammation, anxiety, and neurodegenerative diseases. Targeting activation of processes in the ECS could open new opportunities for drug development.
Conclusion
2-Arachidonylglycerol is an important component of the endocannabinoid system and plays a crucial role in the regulation of various physiological processes. Its action on CB1 and CB2 receptors has effects on the brain, immune system and other organs. The study of 2-AG and its function in the ECS opens new avenues for the development of therapeutic approaches for the treatment of various diseases. It remains exciting to gain further insights into this fascinating endocannabinoid.
The endocannabinoid system is a fascinating network of receptors and molecules that plays an important role in maintaining balance in the body. One of the key components of this system is the type 2 cannabinoid receptors (CB2 receptors for short). In this article, we will take an in-depth look at these receptors and their importance in the endocannabinoid system.
What are CB2 receptors?
CB2 receptors belong to the cannabinoid receptor family and are mainly found in the cells of the immune system. In contrast to CB1 receptors, which are mainly found in the brain and central nervous system, type 2 receptors are mainly found in immune cells such as macrophages, lymphocytes and natural killer cells. They play an essential role in the regulation of the immune system.
Function of receptors in the immune system
Type 2 receptors in the immune system act as modulators and regulate a variety of immunological processes. Through their activation, they may have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. This is particularly interesting with regard to inflammatory diseases such as arthritis or neuroinflammation. Activation of CB2 receptors can help relieve inflammation and help the immune system maintain a healthy balance.
CB2 receptors and pain perception
The receptors also play a role in the regulation of pain sensation. By activating them, they can attenuate pain stimuli and thus contribute to pain relief. This property of CB2 receptors makes them potential targets for the development of new therapies to treat chronic pain.
Conclusion
CB2 receptors are important components of the endocannabinoid system and play a critical role in regulating the immune system, pain perception, and possibly fighting cancer. Their activation may have anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and analgesic effects. Research into CB2 receptors and their role in the body opens up new possibilities for the development of therapies to treat various diseases. Further studies are needed to understand and exploit its full potential. Overall, CB2 receptors are a fascinating area of research that offers promising prospects for medicine and wellness.
More and more senior citizens report using cannabis. Medical reasons are often in the foreground.
In July 2023, a study was published that examined the potential of CBD products in Switzerland. It showed that senior citizens in particular are increasingly interested in CBD products. Thus, 30% of the surveyed person over 60 years said they “could imagine using CBD products.” This figure was not as high in any other generation.[1]
Why do senior citizens want cannabis?
There are several reasons why older people ingest cannabis. One of them is the increasing acceptance in society. More and more people believe that the medical benefits of cannabis should at least be better studied, while concerns are currently on the back burner.[2] This leads to the fact that seniors* can consume cannabis with a clear conscience, sometimes even as a pure stimulant.
Medical use of cannabis
Finally, the focus is also on medical use: many older users state that they use cannabis for medical purposes. Since problems such as chronic pain are more common in old age, it stands to reason that many seniors – hoping to endure as few unpleasant side effects as possible – would be interested in cannabis medicine.[3]
In addition to social and political change, scientific findings are also leading to an increase in the medical use of cannabis. For example, the Journal of Clinical Medicine published a study in 2019 that demonstrated high efficacy of cannabis with low risks. There are also studies from Europe, such as this 2018 study, which concluded that the use of medical cannabis products in seniors* was safe and effective.
Nevertheless, as in many other areas, more meaningful studies are needed for seniors and medical applications. Until then, it is difficult for many physicians and dispensary staff to make a recommendation for medical cannabis products.
After the Council of States unanimously approved a bill to amend the Narcotics Act (BetmG) with regard to cannabis medicines at the beginning of March, the bill passed through the National Council relatively uncontested. This amendment is intended to finally facilitate access to cannabis medicines.
Until now, physicians had to obtain a special permit from the FOPH in order to prescribe medical cannabis products to their patients. This intermediate bureaucratic step was disproportionately burdensome for both the medical practices and the FOPH, which had to process nearly 3000 “exception” requests in 2019 alone. Since many physicians understandably shy away from this effort, the current regulation has had a delaying or even preventing effect on access to useful cannabis medicines.
With the revision, this access is now to be greatly facilitated. Cannabis medicines may now be prescribed without an exemption permit, finally ensuring freedom of therapy. Medical cannabis products are now under the control of Swissmedic, as is normally the case for medical products.
For non-medical cannabis, nothing has changed with the passage of this bill. Besides the symbolic value of each urgently needed step towards more coherent legislation, the regulation nevertheless offers new opportunities for a company producing and distributing hemp products: the commercial export of medical cannabis products is now to be permitted, and in parallel the seed and planting material law is to be adapted to enable the cultivation of medical hemp on a larger scale in the first place.
As a company from the cannabis industry (and member of IG-Hanf), we are pleased that the legal and political situation is now also developing positively in Switzerland, as the EU has moved forward in recent months with sometimes unusually largesteps.
Ordered by 15:00, shipped the same day!
