Whole–plant compounds like cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids may increase the absorption and effectiveness of certain chemo meds to kill cancer cells in vitro while protecting organs like the central nervous system, heart, kidneys, and liver from chemotoxic effects.
Notably, there is some concern that immunotherapy and checkpoint inhibitors may work less effectively with cannabis. This stems from a notable 2020 study suggesting there may be an association between cannabis use and poor clinical outcomes in immunotherapy patients.
However, the cannabis-using patients were already in more advanced stages or 2nd-line immunotherapy than non-users, to begin with. Most were smoking cannabis (not advisable), and yet they still had a better quality of life. Also, there is conflicting 2023 data on the checkpoint inhibitor pembrolizumab that doesn’t show this deleterious effect. A new 2024 study also shows that low-dose THC may increase survival time for palliative patients, although immunotherapy isn’t mentioned.
Another insight from Dr. Kogan’s article is the comparative cost-effectiveness of over-the-counter, natural high-THC oil over morphine and pharmaceutical, synthetic cannabinoids. Ironically, the cost of FDA-approved, lab-made cannabinoids like dronabinol (synthetic THC isolate) starts at $1K and runs as high as $10K per month! This is simply out of financial reach for hospices and patients alike, making natural, whole-plant options even more appealing.
Instead of isolates, whole-plant formulations contain hundreds of beneficial cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and much more. Together, their synergistic effects against cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, pain, inflammation, anxiety, and more, are likely stronger and more therapeutic than any component alone. For these reasons, plus affordability, I always choose high-quality, full-spectrum products for my patients.
Cannabis offers a simple, effective, and holistic way to regain some of the time spent on dealing with symptoms and side effects. It gives us another chance to spend precious time and energy with our loved ones when it counts the most.
Cannabis and nature, however, are a pairing that can deepen and enhance the experience of outdoor activities. Even simple nature outings can be transformed into immersive and unforgettable moments because of the way cannabis affects the human mind.
People are naturally drawn to new experiences, but when you add cannabis into the mix, it enhances that sense of novelty to any experience—even ones not new to us. Cannabis activates the body’s natural endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a big role in how we respond to new things.
The ECS affects the amygdala, the part of the brain that picks up on new experiences. When you use cannabis, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) stimulates those receptors more intensely than your body’s natural endocannabinoids, causing even familiar experiences to feel new and exciting again. THC and CBD also have short-term effects on our audio and visual processing centers, altering and enhancing our senses.
Experiencing nature after consuming cannabis is a prime example of how this works. Many cannabis users find they suddenly notice details in nature they’d usually overlook, like the way sunlight comes through the trees or how vibrant flowers seem. It’s almost like the natural world is turned up a notch, and suddenly, even the simplest things feel incredibly mesmerizing.
In the last couple of decades, people have become increasingly disconnected from nature compared to the past because of the advancements in technology. However, research suggests that cannabis can serve as a bridge to rekindle this lost connection with nature. A study exploring how teens experience nature while using cannabis found that it often enhances their sense of freedom, relaxation, and awe.
Cannabis can also enhance your outdoor experiences, whether you’re exploring solo or with friends. This is because of the way cannabis helps you feel more connected, open, and present. Another research study shows that cannabis boosts prosocial behaviors like empathy and kindness, making group nature experiences more fun, engaging, and meaningful.
Including cannabis during your nature adventures with others can spark deep conversations and strengthen bonds. Even if you decide to explore nature alone, cannabis can make nature feel more immersive by heightening your senses, deepening your thoughts, and increasing your sense of peace and wonder.
Cannabis also offers several physical benefits for outdoor activities, such as pain relief, which can make long hikes and camping trips more comfortable. It also promotes muscle relaxation after a day of strenuous activity, helping to reduce soreness and speed up recovery.
These research studies reinforce what many experienced cannabis consumers already know—that cannabis can deepen one’s connection to the outdoors, allowing for richer, more immersive experiences. Whether it’s hiking, camping, or simply relaxing under the stars, cannabis may help unlock a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Beach or Lake Days: Enjoying a day at the beach or lake with cannabis can elevate this experience by making the sounds of the waves, the warmth of the sun, and the cool breeze coming off the water feel even more calming and invigorating. Sativa and sativa-dominant hybrid strains are ideal here, offering uplifting and energizing effects that can enhance mood and creativity, making you more in tune with your surroundings by the water.
Hiking and Nature Walks: Pairing cannabis with a nature hike or walk is an easy way to enhance your appreciation of the outdoors. A hybrid or sativa strain, depending on your level of activity, is ideal for hikes. Hybrids offer a balance of relaxation and focus, while a sativa-dominant strain energizes nature walks, making them more exciting. Cannabis heightens sensory awareness, helping you notice the finer details on your hike, like sunlight filtering through trees, turning your outdoor experience into an unforgettable adventure.
Picnics: Adding cannabis to a picnic turns an ordinary outdoor meal into a more enjoyable or sociable experience—and a fun way to enjoy the munchies. Cannabis-infused snacks or better enjoying the flavors of your regular food are two ways cannabis can help amplify picnics. A hybrid strain is great for this activity, as it offers a balance of relaxation and mild euphoria. It can also make outdoor games and activities before and after the picnic more enjoyable.
Sunrise or Sunset Watching: Watching the sunrise or sunset is already an immersive experience that can be even more awe-inspiring with the help of cannabis. A Sativa-dominant or hybrid strain can amplify the colors of the sky and the landscape around it. Since cannabis can intensify the emotional connection you feel to these natural moments, it makes the experience feel even more profound.
How To Buy CannabisCamping: Taking cannabis along on a camping trip can make your time in the wilderness feel even more magical. Indica strains are ideal for camping during the evening, as they promote deep relaxation and can help you unwind by the campfire or as you drift off to sleep under the stars. During the day, a sativa strain can boost energy and enhance any daytime outdoor experiences.
Stargazing: Stargazing is an activity that naturally evokes wonder, and cannabis can heighten the experience by making the stars feel even more mesmerizing. Indica-dominant strains are perfect for this, as they enhance relaxation and focus, allowing you to truly be in the moment and appreciate the vastness of the universe. The heightened sensory perception of cannabis may make the stars seem more brilliant or deeply meditative.
Fishing: Fishing becomes even more tranquil and enjoyable when enhanced by cannabis. A hybrid strain can be a great choice for fishing, as it combines relaxation with mental clarity, allowing you to stay calm and focused while you wait for a catch. Cannabis can help you fully immerse yourself in the peacefulness of nature, from the sounds of the water to the sights of wildlife, enhancing the overall serenity of the experience.
Cycling: Cycling through scenic nature routes can become even more exhilarating when enhanced by cannabis. A sativa strain can offer the perfect balance of energy and relaxation, keeping you engaged and focused as you pedal through beautiful landscapes.
Birdwatching: Enhancing a birdwatching experience with cannabis can improve focus and patience, which are key to observing wildlife. A hybrid strain can provide a balanced effect, offering both relaxation and heightened sensory awareness. Cannabis can also help you tune into the subtleties of nature, making the experience feel more rewarding.
Snow Sports and Winter Landscapes: Even in the winter, you can still experience the combination of cannabis and nature! Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, or just enjoying the winter landscape, cannabis can amplify these activities. A sativa-dominant strain can provide an energizing boost during snow sports, and the enhanced focus and awareness can also improve your enjoyment of the beautiful snowy surroundings.
Kayaking or Canoeing: Cannabis can help enhance the tranquility of kayaking or canoeing. A hybrid or Indica strain is perfect for this, as both promote relaxation and help you connect with the peacefulness of being on the water. Cannabis may also heighten your appreciation for the other natural sights and sounds around you.
Open Flames: Be mindful of open flames. Whether it’s a lighter or a burning joint, in dry areas, these can easily start a fire or cause injury. Consider opting for non-flame consumption methods, like vaporizers, tinctures, and edibles, especially in very dry regions with high risks of fires.
Hydrating and Snacking: Hydration is key during any nature outing—but especially when consuming cannabis. Cannabis can lead to dry mouth, so bring plenty of water, electrolytes, or a water filtration device for longer trips. If you plan to be out in nature for a while, consider packing snacks like trail mix to keep your energy up and for when the munchies hit!
Choose Your Nature Experience Wisely: When choosing a trail to hike, a body of water to enjoy, or whatever natural environment you plan to explore, be sure that the activity matches your experience level. It’s also vital to know how long or complex the activity is, such as a long challenging hiking trail versus an easy one that loops around, and have a plan before consuming cannabis. Having a map or GPS handy is also a good idea in case something goes wrong, you get lost, or you “flew a little higher” than you anticipated. It might also be helpful to explore nature with someone else, especially if you’re consuming cannabis, for safety and assistance in case of emergencies. For added safety, bring a buddy or, when venturing out alone, be sure to tell someone else about your trip, timeframe, and intended route so they can check in later to see you made it home safely.
Respect Others and Nature: Be sure to respect the people around you wherever you decide to go—some people may not appreciate the smell of cannabis, so avoid smoking in areas where it could disturb others. If it’s a new nature experience, do a little research and have a plan of where to smoke; that should be your method of consumption. Always follow the “Leave No Trace” rule—pick up all waste, including cannabis remnants like roaches or edible wrappers, to keep nature the way you found it.
Just be sure to respect both your surroundings and others while enjoying these experiences, and have a plan to stay safe and prepared. Whether you’re with friends or solo, incorporating cannabis into your outdoor activities is a surefire way to elevate anything you do outdoors.
The European Union (EU) consists of 27 member states that are located primarily in Europe, and while the EU doesn’t set specific cannabis laws, it helps member countries work together on drug policies. This leads to varying cannabis laws across Europe, with some countries decriminalizing or partially legalizing cannabis and others strictly prohibiting it.
Germany: Germany’s cannabis laws have been complex over the years. While laws mostly banned possession and cultivation, lawmakers legalized medical cannabis in 2017 for patients with severe illnesses. Despite recreational cannabis being illegal, enforcement varied. Some regions, like Berlin, were more lenient with small amounts of cannabis. This inconsistency and confusion in enforcement ultimately led Germany to reconsider its policies and remove cannabis from the list of narcotic substances. Germany legalized recreational cannabis on April 1, 2024. Under the new law, adults (18+) can now possess up to 50g of cannabis at home, 25g in public, and cultivate up to three plants for personal use. People can consume cannabis in public, except within 100 meters of schools, playgrounds, and sports grounds. Additionally, medical cannabis rules have changed—patients no longer need narcotic prescriptions.
Unlike the U.S. dispensary model, Germany began introducing non-profit cannabis clubs starting July 1, 2024. These clubs, limited to 500 members, will allow adults to cultivate and distribute cannabis among themselves, with strict regulations. Members must participate in the cultivation and processing of cannabis, but they cannot consume it on-site.
Netherlands: The Netherlandsis often associated with a relaxed approach to cannabis, but its laws remain more complex than they appear. While the country has decriminalized the possession of small amounts for personal use, strict regulations still govern the sale, production, and transportation of cannabis.
