Dr. Pepper Hernandez

Dr. Pepper Hernandez ND, Ph.D., CTC
Award-Winning Educational Speaker & Cannabis Educator
Board Certified Holistic Health Practitioner
​
Scientists are examining cannabis in recent research that is being published daily. Wouldn't it be fantastic to learn that cannabis can help brain activity and youthfulness? Not that cannabis' potent therapeutic abilities weren't sufficient on their own, but could it also demonstrate the ability to actually slow down the aging process? Please understand that I am only assembling a theory. But I think I've identified a few leads after doing the right amount of research. Because I love cannabis and am a neurogeek, I believe it is only appropriate to ask. The findings of a current experiment are encouraging and the finding should support cannabis research going forward.
A group of researchers completed a few experiments, according to a new study that was just published in the scholarly Journal Nature Medicine. Mice were used in these tests at three different life stages: two months, twelve months (mature), and eighteen months (old age). These researchers support the fact that THC activates the endocannabinoid system. This biochemical route runs through the central and peripheral nervous systems of mice (and other animals, including humans) that get less active with age. The study is based on the hypothesis that cognitive aging and decline are linked to the brain's endocannabinoid system. The functioning of this system slows down as we age, and the amount of naturally occurring endocannabinoids produced by our brains steadily decreases. It's unclear what this slowdown will do to things, but there’s enough evidence from animal models to suggest that it’s tied to memory loss and decreased learning ability.
And if this is not enough to make you choose whole plant cannabis daily, one of the study's authors, professor Andreas Zimmer, stated that as people age, the amount of naturally occurring cannabinoids in their brains decreases. Zimmer continued, "When the activity of the cannabinoid system falls, we detect rapid aging in the brain.” Lead researcher Andras Bilkei-Gorzo from Germany's University of Bonn said, "If we can regenerate the brain, everyone gets five to 10 additional years without needing extra care, then that is more than we could have dreamed.”  

So here is my question: what contributes to the aging of the body? Do you know what telomeres are? Well, the recent research has really captured my attention. The relatively recent discovery of telomeres fundamentally altered how scientists investigate aging and longevity. In fact, the researchers who discovered telomeres won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2009. 
By altering the cellular response to stress and growth stimulation based on prior cell divisions and DNA damage, telomeres play a crucial role in cell destiny and aging. To prevent the activation of DNA repair mechanisms, each chromosome end must have at least a few hundred nucleotides of telomere repeats. As the average telomere length declines, the likelihood of the latter rises. The germline cells, which normally express high quantities of telomerase, set and maintain the average telomere length.

There isn't much research on how cannabis affects telomeres and aging in the brain right now, but it won't be long. I fully believe researchers and academics will be able to discover the connection between the two. Considering this area of study, neuroscience is gaining ground. For those of us who are aging, which is everyone, the future is bright. To ascertain how cannabis affects the aging process of the brain, researchers from the University of Bonn collaborated with scholars from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Scientists discovered that cannabis slows down the aging process in mice's brains. Worldhealth.net We live in a fantastic period, and it is even more amazing that all the cannabis research is coming into focus.

The information in this article is provided solely for educational purposes. Research gathered from external sources has been used as a basis for the content. Before beginning any new diet or lifestyle change, check with your Cannabis Educated Physician or Cannabis Therapy Consultant.

Dr. Pepper Hernandez ND, CTC, CNHP is a Naturopathic Nutritionist, Cannabis Therapy Consultant, Founder and Education Director of the Cannabis Holistic Institute. To find out more about her private practice, educational programs, videos, and other offerings you can find her on the massive inter-webs, social platforms, or at drpepperhernandez.com.

It's planting season and if you have a few spots in your garden, you may want to plant some companion plants. Several common herbs work well for many different alignments and discomforts, but did you know that some of them work well with cannabis? The following are the top synergistic herbs I highly suggest using. 
Cannabis and Lavender
Lavender is known for its calming properties. Apart from having a pleasant scent, and being effective in aromatherapy and massage, lavender and cannabis have something else in common. Both are abundant in the terpene linalool. The word terpene refers to an aromatic molecule. In combination with THC, linalool can be used as a muscle relaxant, which would enhance the effect of lavender. Linalool increases CBD's anticonvulsant properties when combined with whole-plant medicine. It has anti-inflammatory effects on its own. Together, these compounds are known to reduce sensitivity to pain. 
In making cannabis topicals, adding lavender plant matter or oil may enhance the herb's relaxing and pain-relieving qualities. Lavender can also be added to edibles and cannabis tea for maximum benefits. And who doesn't love some raw cannabis lavender chocolate?

Cannabis and Rosemary
Did you know that rosemary, cannabis, and black pepper all contain the terpene beta-caryophyllene? Several studies have found that this terpene binds to cannabinoid receptors. Black pepper is one of the ingredients some companies are using to help CBD to get absorbed into the body more readily. When beta-caryophyllene is added to a cell receptor called the cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) it has been known to help regulate immune function and inflammation. 
There is research and evidence that BCP can relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety. We all know rosemary is good for mood, stress, blood flow, and memory. Can you imagine the potency of mixing them? So, maybe try adding plenty of rosemary and black pepper into your infused goodies. It is a great way to amplify the therapeutic effects of all three of these herbs.
Cannabis and Holy Basil
Another stress-relieving plant is Tulsi. Sometimes known as Holy Basil. Cannabis with high THCA content and Holy Basil have been shown to help with anxiety and stress reduction.  Both have the terpene Eugenol. Holy Basil has been proven to contain properties that lower cortisol (the stress hormone). As humans, we can all benefit from developing a stress-relieving self-care routine.
You may manufacture a simple extract of this herb by heating it in oil in the same way that cannabis oil is made. If you make a salve out of it, you can use it topically to relieve pain. Use avocado oil as the base for a delicious salve.
Cannabis and Echinacea
Echinacea, another fantastic herb, contains chemicals similar to cannabis in some ways. N-acylethanolamines (NAEs) which are chemicals that interact with the enzyme that breaks down endocannabinoids in the body. As a result, a cannabis combination can help to enhance endocannabinoid tone. Echinacea contains N-alkylamines that bind to the CB2 receptor. Which in my opinion, is a huge plus. These substances are cannabimimetic. These chemicals resemble cannabinoids and interact with the endocannabinoid system.
Echinacea is commonly used to stimulate the immune system during the common cold, and we now know that cannabis has the potential to do the same. Increasing your immune system's strength can help you fight infection. Echinacea is historically known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The herb may also have analgesic properties. So combining it with a nice whole-plant cannabis tincture sounds like a perfect match. 

Cannabis and Black Cohosh
Black Cohosh, like cannabis, has the ability to alleviate mood swings and hot flashes associated with menopause. This plant is known to help maintain hormonal balance in the endocrine system. If you are looking for a natural hormone regulator, you should look into the research and ask your primary care.
Black cohosh includes a phytoestrogen that is thought to help women restore some of the estrogens they lose during menopause. Black Cohosh can be a great addition to your favorite cannabis medicine.
In closing, I hope I have given you some ideas of what to try right out in the garden. Many other herbs work well with cannabis, so do some fun investigating. As always choose organic and microdose anything and everything. 
Go forth, Go Cannabis…
All information in this article is for educational purposes only. The information provided is derived from research gathered from external sources. Please check with your Cannabis Educated Primary Health Care Physician or Cannabis Therapy Consultant before beginning any new diet or lifestyle change. It would be smart to check with a herbalist or naturopathic doctor before experimenting with that herb combination. 
Dr. Pepper Hernandez ND, CTC, CNHP is a Naturopathic Nutritionist, Cannabis Therapy Consultant, and the Founder and Education Director of the Cannabis Holistic Institute. To find out more about her private practice, educational programs, videos, and other offerings you can find her on the massive inter-webs, social platforms, or at drpepperhernandez.com. 

To begin with, there are endocannabinoids, which are substances produced organically in the brain. Anandamide (AEA) is an endocannabinoid, commonly known as "the happiness” molecule. Your brain already produces a certain amount of anandamide but consuming more of certain foods and cannabis cultivars can help increase those levels in the body. These foods would include dark chocolate, cacao & black truffles, which are among my favorites of course.

Anandamide was the first endocannabinoid to be discovered. It participates in the body's endocannabinoid system by binding to cannabinoid receptors, the same receptors that the psychoactive compound THC in cannabis acts on. Anandamide is a neurotransmitter derived from arachidonic acid which is a long-chain essential fatty acid.  

Anandamide activates the cannabinoid receptors in your brain cells. These particular receptors can boost your memory, potentially increase your motivation, help with both movement control and chronic stress. It functions as a messenger molecule and is involved in pain, depression, appetite, memory, and fertility. It serves as a regulator that maintains homeostasis, also known as balance, in the brain and body.  Anandamide accomplishes this by assisting in the regulation of inflammation as well as neuron signaling. It can help reduce inflammation as well as support the immune system. This is the reason some believe increasing your anandamide intake can lead you to higher levels of blissful feelings.

This particular molecule has also been said to help your brain “detox” if you will, from bad memories and irrelevant information. This information is stored in the area of the brain known as the hippocampus. This is where the largest amount of anandamide is found. And because anandamide can contribute to regulating behavior, I can see the correlation.

The word anandamide is derived from the Sanskrit words ananda and amide, which signify "joy, bliss & enjoyment." So next time you are feeling blissful after enjoying the consumption of your organic cannabis chocolate, remember that anandamide and all its benefits were created for you to enjoy. Educate before you medicate.

Please remember that not all cannabis cultivars are alike. Choose organic, full sun-grown outdoor for your anandamide medicine. All information in this article is for educational purposes only. The information provided is derived from research gathered from external sources. Please check with your Cannabis Educated Primary Health Care Physician or Educated & Trained Cannabis Therapy Consultant before beginning any new diet or lifestyle change.

Written by Dr. Pepper Hernandez ND, Ph.D., CTC, CNHP in ECS & Naturopathic Medicine, Cannabis Therapy Consultant, The Founder and Education Director of the Cannabis Holistic Institute. To find out more about her Telemedicine Consultations, Educational Programs, YouTube videos, and other creative content, you can find her on the massive inter-webs on all platforms or at drpepperhernandez.com. 

​

World of Cannabinoids and Terpenes 
What is Sabinene?
Written by Dr. Pepper Hernandez ND, Ph.D. & CTC

By now many of you have heard of terpenes and may or may not know what they are. They are naturally occurring chemical compounds found in plants and some animals. They are responsible for the aromas, flavors and even colors associated with various types of vegetation. In terms of cannabis, terpenes are what make certain cultivars smell or taste different from others. Which may be the reason why you gravitate towards a certain flower to smoke. 

This month we will be discussing the wonderful terpene Sabinene. Sabinene is a secondary monoterpene, it may not be one that you see all that often. This terpene may flavor your food and offer a smell to numerous sorts of edibles. It is a natural component found in a wide variety of essential oils and various cannabis plants and cultivars.

Sabinene is the chemical responsible for the spicy, lemony, and piney aromas found in some cannabis cultivars. Sabinene is found in higher amounts in hazy cannabis cultivars, enhancing woody, citrus, and mint-like aromas. Its smell is reminiscent of pines, oaks, and oranges, with spicy hints of black pepper.

Sabinene has been used for wound healing in several branches of traditional medicine from around the world. The characteristics of this amazing terpene are also used in Western medicine. Sabinene, found in essential oils, serves as an antioxidant renowned for its efficacy due to its strong radical scavenging properties.

Not only does it smell good but it also has a wide range of biological and pharmacological activities. For example after much research they have have found it to be anti-fungal, antiviral, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-parasitic, antioxidant, and antimicrobial. Sabinene demonstrates that it has enormous potential by inhibiting oxidation, which contributes to skin aging.

Sabinene is helpful with:

• Muscle Cramps
• Physical Pain
• Bacteria Infections
• Range of Viruses
• Digestion Issues
• Detoxication Process

Cultivars that contain Sabinene:

• Harlequin
• Tsunami
• Super Silver Haze
• Super Lemon Haze
• Grand Master Kush
• Mimosa
• Chocolate Thai
• Mendo Purps

Not all cannabis cultivars are alike, and as organic farmers continue to breed their specific genetics, users need to know what a cannabinoid profile is. Knowing the flower, they are sampling can bring the best experience and outcome, and help to make an educated decision on what will be the best product for their medical ailment. Please check with your cannabis therapy consultant for more guidance. 

All information in this article is for educational purposes only. The information provided is derived from research gathered from external sources. Please check with your Cannabis Educated Primary Health Care Physician or Educated & Trained Cannabis Therapy Consultant before beginning any new diet or lifestyle change.
​
Written by Dr. Pepper Hernandez ND, Ph.D., CTC, BCHP in ECS & Naturopathic Medicine, Cannabis Therapy Consultant, The Founder and Education Director of the Cannabis Holistic Institute. To find out more about her Telemedicine Consultations, Educational Programs, YouTube videos, and other creative content, you can find her on the massive inter-webs on all platforms or at drpepperhernandez.com. 
Go forth, Go Cannabis...

Telomeres and Brain Health by Dr. Pepper Hernandez

With all the new research coming to light every day, scientists are diving into cannabis. Wouldn't that be wonderful to find out right now in this time of life. Not saying that the powerful healing properties of cannabis alone were not enough but now…could it also prove to reverse aging? Let it be known that I am simply putting together a theory. But with the correct digging, I seem to have found a few leads. I am just such a neuro-geek and cannabis enthusiast, I suppose it only seems correct to inquire. So, a recent study is leading us to question even more than ever before. The results add to a promising list of findings that should continue encouraging cannabis research.

According to new research published recently in the scientific journal Nature Medicine,
a team of researchers carried out a few experiments. These tests include low doses of THC on mice at three different life stages: two months, 12 months (mature) and 18 months (old age). These scientists believe the THC stimulates the endocannabinoid system, a biochemical pathway throughout the central and peripheral nervous system that becomes less active as mice (and other animals, including humans) get older. The study builds from a theory that the brain’s endocannabinoid system is related to cognitive aging and decline. The older we get, the more the activity in this system slows down; our brains gradually produce fewer naturally occurring endocannabinoids. The outcomes from this slowdown aren’t entirely understood, but there’s enough evidence from animal models to suggest that it’s tied to memory loss and decreased learning ability.

According to professor Andreas Zimmer, one of the study’s authors, "With increasing age, the quantity of the cannabinoids naturally formed in the brain reduces," Zimmer continued, "When the activity of the cannabinoid system declines, we find rapid aging in the brain."
“If we can rejuvenate the brain so that everybody gets five to 10 more years without needing extra care then that is more than we could have imagined,” lead author Andras Bilkei-Gorzo at Germany’s University of Bonn said.

So what actually causes the body to age then? Have you ever heard of Telomeres? Well, I have been fascinated by the studies that have been done recently. The relatively recent discovery of telomeres completely changed the way researchers study longevity and the process of aging. In fact, the researchers who discovered telomeres won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2009.


Telomeres are basically compound structures at the end of a chromosome. In the nucleus of each of the billions of cells that compose our bodies, chromosomes make up DNA. At the end of every chromosome, you can find small structures called telomeres. They progressively get shorter with time, and their length can be linked to age. Each time a cell divides, the DNA unwraps, and the information within is copied. Because of how cells divide, that very last bit of a chromosome, the telomere, cannot be completely copied. It is thought that, as a cell divides, the telomeres become shorter and shorter each time until they are gone. This would cause aging in individuals because the cell simply ages and is no longer able to replicate. Researchers have found that older people have shorter telomeres. Most cells can replicate approximately 50 times before the telomeres become too short. Some researchers believe that telomeres are the supposed "secret to longevity" and that there are circumstances in which telomeres will not shorten.  (www.news-medical.net)

Telomeres play a central role in cell fate and aging by adjusting the cellular response to stress and growth stimulation on the basis of previous cell divisions and DNA damage. At least a few hundred nucleotides of telomere repeats must “cap” each chromosome end to avoid activation of DNA repair pathways. The chance of the latter increases as the average telomere length decreases. The average telomere length is set and maintained in cells of the germline which typically express high levels of telomerase.

Currently, there is limited research on cannabis effects on the brain and aging when it comes to telomeres but it is only a matter of time. As the studies and research advance, they will be able to find the link between the two. Neuroscience is gaining momentum when it comes to this topic of research. There is a bright future for all of us aging, which is everyone by the way. University of Bonn scientists teamed up with academicians at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem to determine the impact of cannabis on the brain's aging process. The researchers determined cannabis reverses aging processes within the brains of mice. Worldhealth.net   We are in a brilliant time of life and having all the research on cannabis coming to the forefront is even more amazing.

​Go forth, Go Cannabis…

World of Cannabinoids and Terpenes 
What is Octanol?
Written by Dr. Pepper Hernandez ND, Ph.D. & CTC

There are over 150 different types of terpenes in the cannabis plant. Although most terpenes are present in trace amounts, the most prominent ones work together to give different cannabis cultivars their distinct aroma profiles.
Octanol is a rare terpene in cannabis and produces a pleasant floral aroma. Octanol is found in frankincense, which is an aromatic resin used in incense and perfumes. This terpene is also common in celery seeds, so that gives you a faint idea of the aroma.
Primary terpenes are abundant in cannabis and are responsible for the fragrance created by cultivars. Secondary terpenes are present in modest concentration and contribute to the cultivar’s effects. Octanol is a secondary terpene. 
Terpenes have a variety of biological effects. Octanol is known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, according to scientists. It has a potent anti-inflammatory in its molecular synergy when combined with pinene and linalool.

Octanol is known to be helpful with:

• Anti-inflammation
• Neurological Issues
• Essential Tremors
• Antioxidant Benefits

Not all cannabis cultivars are alike, and as organic farmers continue to breed their specific genetics, users need to know what a cannabinoid profile COA is. Knowing the flower, they are sampling can bring the best experience and outcome, and help to make an educated decision on what will be the best product for their medical ailment. Please check with your cannabis therapy consultant for more guidance. 

All information in this article is for educational purposes only. The information provided is derived from research gathered from external sources. Please check with your Cannabis Educated Primary Health Care Physician or Educated & Trained Cannabis Therapy Consultant before beginning any new diet or lifestyle change.
Written by Dr. Pepper Hernandez ND, Ph.D., CTC, BCHP in ECS & Naturopathic Medicine, Cannabis Therapy Consultant, The Founder and Education Director of the Cannabis Holistic Institute. To find out more about her Telemedicine Consultations, Educational Programs, YouTube videos, and other creative content, you can find her on the massive inter-webs on all platforms or at drpepperhernandez.com. 

Go forth, Go Cannabis...

There are over 200 chemicals in the cannabis plant. We have already discovered upwards of some of the 100+ cannabinoids found in cannabis at this time. The vital role of terpenes in cannabis is very important as there can be over 200+ of those alone. But now there are flavonoids to research and understand as well. They account for about 20 of the 200 compounds, so it's worth spending time to understand how they can affect our cannabis consumption. These three components: the terpenes, cannabinoids and flavonoids are the holy trinity of the cannabis world when looking at a cultivar profile.

What are flavonoids? Flavonoids are one of the most well-known nutritional groups in plants. They are nutrient-dense while also providing health advantages to humans and the plants from which they are derived. They aid seed development and growth by performing critical processes such as cell cycle advancement. Flavonoids also serve as a plant defense system, limiting damage from the environment. Flavonoids are members of the largest nutritional family that scientists are aware of. To date, over 6,000 flavonoids have been found. Many foods we eat every day, such as citrus fruits, blueberries, chocolate, and herbs, contain them

Much like terpenes, flavonoids contribute to plant flavor and scent. But the pigment variances, make it unique. By giving each cannabis cultivar its own distinct color. Because of the hue and flavor they offer, cannabis flavonoids play an important role in how you perceive the plant with your senses, and of course, they also have therapeutic effects. Flavonoids interact with chemical receptors via the endocannabinoid system, which also includes cannabinoids and terpenes. Flavonoids, like the other two chemicals, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Furthermore, there are Cannflavins which are a type of flavonoid found only in the cannabis plant. They belong to the flavone class of flavonoids. These flavonoids have been demonstrated to be neuroprotective, antioxidant, and anti-cancer. Most research has been done on cannflavin A, which is thought to inhibit COX-2 and reduce inflammation. “Cannflavins demonstrate a number of promising therapeutic properties” PubMed.gov
​
 Quercetin is a Cannflavins and is the most abundant flavonoid in the human diet. These are a few plants that it can be found including:

• Apples
• Berries
• Citrus fruits
• Cacao (chocolate)
• Ginkgo biloba
• Green tea
• Kale
• Red onions
• Red wine
• St. John’s wort

In addition to the vegetables listed above, Quercetin can be found in a variety of other brightly colored, nutrient-dense foods. This rich flavonoid functions as a pigment that gives plants their color and is found primarily in the skins and leaves. It also has numerous health benefits as a potent antioxidant that aids in the fight against free radicals by inhibiting and down-regulating inflammatory pathways. Quercetin is also an anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antimicrobial and antiviral compound that has been shown to boost physical and mental function.

All information in this article is for educational purposes only. The information provided is derived from research gathered from external sources. Please check with your Cannabis Educated Primary Health Care Physician or Cannabis Therapy Consultant before beginning any new diet or lifestyle change.

Dr. Pepper Hernandez ND, CTC, CNHP is a Naturopathic Nutritionist, Cannabis Therapy Consultant, the Founder, and Education Director of the Cannabis Holistic Institute. To find out more about her private practice, educational programs, videos and other offerings you can and find her on the massive inter-webs, social platforms or at drpepperhernandez.com.

Go forth, Go Cannabis...
​

As many of us are aware of the nation’s baby boomers age, they are facing a multitude of health-related ailments and costs. One of the most prominent concerns is the prevalence of chronic arthritis, an ailment that affects 52.5 million adults today and that number is expected to increase to 67 million by 2030.

One alternative that is quickly gaining popularity among the aging population is the use of cannabis to get full-bodied pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties. Although there is a lack of data and research behind the effectiveness of cannabis as a treatment alternative for arthritis, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis specifically I can tell you it has worked with my family, friends, personally and clients. It is being looked at more and more everyday. Which is great new opportunity for our golden population. And for future generations that are aging.

• Arthritis symptoms can include but not limited to these:
• Injuries that don’t heal properly
• Carpal tunnel
• Tingling or numbness in extremities
• Persistent joint pain
• Locked joints
• Morning stiffness

So what is actually happening with the nerves during inflammation? The nerves are like wires that have been stripped of their coating. They are bare, can feel raw and this is responsible for feeling pain. What is hypothesize is that by locally administering these cannabis-like molecules to those nerves, it could actually repair them and reduce the pain of arthritis. Because the Endocannabinoid system is found within the body, every single cell and when using the correct cannabis fingerprint we are going to see amazing results.

A recent study published in the journal Rheumatology from Dr. Sheng-Ming Dai of China’s Second Military Medical University found that CB2 receptors are found in unusually high levels in the joint tissue of arthritis patients. The use of cannabis is shown to fight inflammation in the joints by activating the pathways of CB2 receptors. This is an amazing discovery for the   scientific community and for the Endocannabinoid enthusiasts.

Also happening in Canada, a researcher Dr. Jason McDougall, a professor of pharmacology and anesthesia at Dalhousie University in Halifax, has undertaken a new study to find out if medical marijuana can help repair arthritic joints and relieve pain. The study is supported by the Arthritis Society and is awarding a grant for a comprehensive, three-year study working to see if inflammation can repair the joint itself.  McDougall’s research is focused on non psychoactive cannabinoids, but so far, his findings has shown that cannabis molecules can attach themselves to nerve receptors and control the firing of pain signals in the joint.
​
As a Health Care Provider and Cannabis Therapist I suggest working with cannabis as a dietary supplement. Healthy choices would be begin with juicing raw cannabis, blending it into a smoothie and consuming the whole raw plant. Another option would be eating is without adding heat. Or doing a full spectrum, flower only CBD concentrate or tincture. I personally use it topicality and have seen amazing results. With the right strain for my body make up its a perfect fit. We could eliminate the need for synthetic pharmaceuticals, wouldn't that be amazing for humans.